Patient Questionnaire Research Articles

Implementing Change Through an Outpatient Antibiotic Stewardship Program.

We sought to implement a multi-pronged behavioral intervention to reduce and tailor antibiotic use for two common urologic outpatient procedures. This study was a non-blinded intervention study that consisted of a pre-intervention phase (11/2018-1/2019), an intervention phase (1/2020-12/2020) in which a multi-pronged behavioral intervention was implemented, and a post-intervention phase (1/2021-3/2021). We examined antibiotic use for cystoscopy and transrectal prostate biopsy at three separate urologic outpatient clinics. A multi-pronged behavioral intervention consisted of formal physician education, modification of the electronic health order sets, clinic staff education, literature review, development and introduction of patient questionnaires, and individual audit feedback. The primary outcome was 30-day infections. Secondary outcomes were adherence to the recommended antibiotic protocols, questionnaire completion, and Escherichia coli outpatient antibiograms. A total of 2374 patients underwent 3047 cystoscopies and 547 patients underwent 559 prostate biopsies. The proportions of cystoscopy patients receiving antibiotic prophylaxis and prostate biopsy patients receiving augmented antibiotic prophylaxis decreased 33% and 35%, respectively. The odds of post-cystoscopy infection were not different between the pre-intervention and intervention phases and were lower in the post-intervention phase. The odds of post-biopsy infection were not changed between the pre-intervention and intervention or between the pre-intervention and post-intervention phases. Implementing a multi-pronged behavioral intervention reduced and tailored antibiotic use without an increase in 30-day infections. These findings suggest that outpatient antibiotic stewardship and facilitating rapid adoption of guidelines can be accomplished via this approach.

Bilateral Ultrasound-Guided External Oblique Intercostal Block Vs. Modified Thoracoabdominal Nerve Block Through Perichondrial Approach for Postoperative Analgesia in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Study.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate morphine consumption and pain scores 24h postoperatively to compare the effects of a bilateral External Oblique Intercostal (EOI) block with those of a Modified Thoracoabdominal Nerve Block Trough Perichondrial Approach (M-TAPA) block in laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Fifty-eight patients aged between 18 and 65years of with American Society of Anesthesiologists class II-III were included in this randomized, double-blinded study. Patients were assigned into two groups either EOI block or M-TAPA block. The primary outcome was cumulative morphine consumption within the first postoperative 24h. Secondary outcomes were numerical rating scale (NRS) scores at rest and during activity, QoR-15 Patient Questionnaire scores, incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), number of patients requiring rescue analgesic and antiemetics drugs, and complications. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of morphine consumption in the first 24h (EOI block; 10.74 ± 3.94mg vs. M-TAPA block; 11.67 ± 4.66mg, respectively). In addition, no significant difference between the two groups in the NRS and PONV scores, total QoR-15 scores, and the number of patients requiring rescue analgesics and antiemetics. EOI block and M-TAPA block showed similar effectiveness for morphine consumption within 24h postoperatively and in pain scores in LSG.

WP2.6 - Improving theatre utilisation and reducing waiting list times – could ‘standby’ patients be the answer?

Abstract Aims With the NHS waiting list at a record high of over 7.3 million patients, it has never been more important to maximise theatre productivity. We piloted a ‘standby patient’ initiative for patients awaiting elective day-case procedures, with the aim of optimising theatre utilisation, reducing waiting lists, improving hospital revenue and ultimately patient care. Methods The principle of a ‘standby’ patient is to reduce the rate of ‘on the day’ cancellation and utilise theatre time. Suitable patients were offered the opportunity to be on ‘standby’ for selected day case lists. If list capacity allowed, the patient was called in. If postponed, they were offered a dedicated date. A patient questionnaire was also conducted to gain an understanding of the ‘standby’ patient experience. Results Between May and November 2023, 12 ‘standby' patients were identified, average waiting list time of 44 weeks. Cases included hernia repairs and laparoscopic cholecystectomies. 6/12 were operated on their standby slot, 1 patient cancelled, and 5/12 were postponed but had surgery within an average of 6 weeks. This earnt the trust approximately £15240 in additional tariff. 10/12 patients responded to the patient questionnaire with all reporting either good or excellent experience of the initiative. Positive comments included ‘good communication’ and ‘excellent standard of care’. Conclusion The standby patient initiative is well received by patients, and provides a cost-effective solution to optimise theatre utilisation, reduce waiting list times, and improve patient care. Following this successful pilot, we plan to introduce the standby patient across further surgical lists within the trust.

SP5.6 - Sleep Quality and Barriers to Sleep on a Postoperative Surgical Ward

Abstract Aim Sleep is an essential part of recovery post-operatively and poor sleep quality has been linked to increased patient pain, increased rates of post-operative complications such as delirium and to longer hospital stays. It is widely accepted that adults need at least seven hours of sleep at night. Surgery can induce a degree of insomnia and thus we sought to identify quality of sleep on a postoperative general surgical ward and to identify common barriers to sleep and reasons patients experience interruptions to sleep. Methods Using patient questionnaires, we investigated quality of sleep and explored factors, both intrinsic and extrinsic, which influenced patients both falling asleep and being woken throughout the night. Results Average age of participants was 73yrs. Average length of sleep was only 5.4 hours. 89% patients reported having sleep interrupted throughout the night and on average patients were awoken 2.4 times throughout the night. Only 11% reported feeling refreshed in the morning after sleep. Noise and pain were the most common barriers identified to falling asleep affecting 73% of patients. The predominant reasons for being awoken from sleep were noise (94%), interruptions for observations/bloods (67%) and thirst (33%). Conclusions This study has identified a high prevalence of poor sleep quality in postoperative surgical patients. Common factors influencing this are noise, pain and interruptions by medical staff. Many of these can be addressed through simple interventions to promote better recovery of patients by recognising and supporting the need for high quality sleep.

FP6.7 - Assessing knowledge and effective utilisation of incentive spirometer across surgical floor

Abstract Aim to assess the level of knowledge of healthcare workers providing incentive spirometer and instruction provided to patient. Methods Snapshot audit between 25&28/05/23 assessing the knowledge and practice using two for patient and staff questionnaires. Inclusions criteria were all adult patients in surgical wards, all healthcare staff. Exclusion criteria were patients who did not receive a spirometer and patients or staff who were not willing to participate in the study. Results 75% of staff provided incentive spirometers, 84% of them never received formal education or training in the use of incentive spirometer. Only one staff member (1.85%) answered all the questions correctly. 83% of patients were not given the correct instructions and approximately 16% were instructed to exhale. Implemented Changes A video created with e-link; explaining the use of incentive spirometer. Training of medical and nursing staff by presenting the project in our local departmental meeting, the results and poster emailed to health professionals. A new patient leaflet was created containing clear instructions, the video link, and a table to record their usage. Random sampling showed significant improvement. The Second cycle will be conducted at beginning of the new year and the results will be presented at the conference Conclusion The lack of training led to incorrect instructions being given to patients. This could lead to false reassurance to the senior medical staff, by assuming that patients are using spirometers correctly which could delay recovery and discharge. Simple training has resulted in significant increase in knowledge and correct use of a spirometer. Checking the staff knowledge is recommended, especially in common daily practice

FP7.19 - PIXEL: Patient Information and eXplanation following Emergency Laparotomy

Abstract Aims 80% of patients that survive an emergency laparotomy (EmLap) report that they would have preferred more information on “what to expect” during their recovery; information is often delivered on a variable adhoc inpatient basis. This work aims to assess the robustness of a multi-disciplinary prepared patient information leaflet (PIL), by use of a patient questionnaire, and the Ensuring Quality Information for Patients (EQIP) toolkit. Methods A 21-page PIL was prepared by the EmLap MDT at our institute. The PIL’s objective was to outline common issues encountered during recovery, factors that could aid recovery, and signpost relevant resources. POLO enrolled patients (ClinicalTrials.Gov:NCT05281627) were asked their opinion by completion of an 8-point questionnaire at their 12-month follow-up. The PIL was also scored using the EQIP tool by an independent healthcare professional. Results 30 patients took part. 66.6% were female; average age was 63 years. 100% patients felt the PIL was easy to understand; 96.6% felt it covered all appropriate content. When asked about the length of the PIL: 93.3% felt the length of the leaflet was just right; 6.7% felt that the leaflet was too long. The PIL was found to be 93.3% compliant with the EQIP tool. Conclusions This is the first study to demonstrate the robustness of a PIL concerning EmLap recovery, suggesting it can be applied to a national audience. It is accepted that the leaflet is long; future iterations may benefit from being in a different format e.g. visuo-audio.

Environmental Risk Factors for Visceral Leishmaniasis: An Analysis of Housing Types and Behavioral Factors in Baringo County, Kenya.

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is endemic in Baringo County, Kenya, and contributes significantly to the burden of disease in the region. Housing structures and other environmental risk factors contribute to transmission dynamics, but these have not been specifically studied in Baringo. The aim of this study was to increase understanding of VL transmission in the region through determining relationships between VL infection, housing, and other environmental factors. Data collection occurred from February 1 to May 31, 2023 at Chemolingot Sub-County Hospital and patients' homesteads via questionnaires of primary VL patients being treated and VL follow-up patients who were still residing in the same house as when the infection occurred. Factors assessed were housing structures, proximity to vector breeding and resting sites, and prevention and control measure practices. A baseline assessment of housing types was conducted through direct ethnographic observation and used in the analysis. Forty-one patients were included in the study. A χ2 analysis and Fisher's test were used to determine association between VL infection and housing materials, where VL patient housing data were compared with the regional baseline assessment. Significant associations with VL infection were found between mud and stick walls (P <0.001); mud walls (P <0.001); mud, stick, and grass combination walls (P = 0.02); and stick and grass walls (P <0.001). Behavior comparison showed that most VL-protective behaviors were practiced by follow-up patients after infection. Results showed an increased need for VL prevention focusing on environmental factors.

Effect of Risk Factors on Blood Pressure Using Multivariate Model amongst Adult Tribal Population in a District of India

Abstract Background: This research study uses multivariate model to analyse the effect of various risk factors on blood pressure (BP) levels amongst adults in the tribal communities. Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional observational study with adult tribal population residing in Lohandiguda, Bastar district, Chhattisgarh, India. A multistage sampling was followed and the modified World Health Organization questionnaire for hypertensive patients was used. Results: Three hundred and thirty adults were included. Positive moderate-weak correlation in all three groups shown by body mass index (BMI) (0.208, 0.214 and 0.287) and waist–hip ratio (WHR) (0.223, 0.240 and 0.359) with systolic BP and (BMI = 0.223, 0.240 and 0.240; WHR = 0.166, 0.198 and 0.288) diastolic BP, respectively, was found. The Pearson correlation coefficient shows that the highest predictor of high BP was BMI (0.226) followed by WHR (0.198), age (0.182), number of bidi/cigarette use per day (0.131) and smokeless tobacco frequency per day (0.114). The multivariate general linear model is moderately distinguishable (0.529) amongst all study subjects and (0.543) amongst addicted study subjects with BP having strong significance (0.000) each for addicted and overall study subjects. Conclusion: These findings call for careful consideration in the development of dietary recommendations, quitting addictions, increased attention on physical activities and public health policies tailored to tribal communities.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the quality of care for juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients: insights from Thailand

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted individuals with chronic conditions. This investigation assessed the quality of care provided to pediatric and adolescent patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) during the pandemic in Thailand.MethodsThis cross-sectional analysis enrolled JIA patients aged ≤ 18 years at an academic tertiary care facility from April 2022 to March 2023. Retrospective reviews were performed, complemented by patient and caregiver questionnaires to assess the pandemic’s impact on care quality.ResultsSeventy JIA patients (37 males, 33 females) with a mean age of 13.5 ± 3.1 years were included. A total of 41.4% of the caregivers reported negative impacts on JIA care due to the pandemic and the lockdown, and 31.4% of the patients experienced pandemic-related anxiety. A comparison between the pandemic and prepandemic periods revealed a higher incidence of active disease, although the difference was statistically nonsignificant (37.1% vs 14.2%, p = 0.106). Nonadherence significantly predicted active disease status (adjusted OR 15.04, 95% CI 2.48–91.15, p = 0.03). COVID-19 vaccinations were administered to 85.7% of patients; 52.8% of whom contracted mild COVID-19. Most patients (71.4%) postponed clinic visits; 36% due to lockdowns and 28% due to concerns about COVID-19 exposure in healthcare settings. The majority of patients received telephone JIA management advice from rheumatologists during the lockdown (91.4%).ConclusionsThe COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdown measures affected the care of JIA patients, impacting both physical and mental health. Nonadherence was a critical factor in disease flare-ups. Telemedicine is indispensable for patient care.

Septal Perforation Quality of Life questionnaire (SEPEQOL): validation of a new instrument to assess patients undergoing endoscopic repair of a nasal septal perforation

PurposeNasoseptal perforations (NSP) are a clinically heterogeneous group of disorders with a wide range of available treatments. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) can provide valuable insights for assessing clinical and surgical outcomes. This study aims to develop and validate a novel-specific questionnaire for patients with NSP.MethodsA multi-centre prospective observational study was conducted at two tertiary referral hospitals. “Septal Perforation Quality of Life” (SEPEQOL) was developed by a committee of experts. The psychometric properties, including reproducibility, reliability, validity, and responsiveness, were assessed.ResultsThe study included 96 symptomatic NSP patients and 30 healthy controls. SEPEQOL internal consistency was satisfactory [Cronbach´s α = 0.7843; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.702–0.856]. Test-retest reliability was excellent, demonstrated by the absolute intraclass correlation (ICC = 0.974; 95% CI, 0.935–0.989, P-value < 0.001) and Bland-Altman plot (line bias = 1.6 ± 4.57; 95% CI -0.54–3.74, P-value < 0.001). The mean total SEPEQOL score was higher before surgery (25.16 ± 1.65) compared to 6-months after the procedure (13.72 ± 11.39), with a mean difference of 12.19 [standard deviation (SD) 10.76], P-value < 0.001.ConclusionsSEPEQOL is reliable, consistent, valid, and sensitive to change over time. SEPEQOL assesses the impact of health-related quality of life on NSP and its management in clinical practice. Moreover, it is easy to apply in clinical settings with minimal burden.

Development and Content Validity of Cervicogenic Headache Patient Questionnaire: New Tool for Assessing Severity and Impact.

Cervicogenic headache (CGH) is a complicated and common headache disorder that may present itself with cervical spine dysfunction, irritation of the nerves, central sensitization, and muscular tension. Theoretically, this diagnosis should be an exclusionary diagnosis, considering the fact that it requires extended clinical assessment of the cervical spine and an evaluation for other primary headache types. CGH represents a clinical challenge as they habitually present with an array of nonspecific manifestations highly variable among patients. Management of CGHs is properly based on accurate diagnosis and sound understanding of the complaints of the individual. The development of CGH still carries with it a palpable gap in meaningful literature related to really effective assessment tools for the condition. The aim of the current study was to develop and investigate the validity of the content of the Cervicogenic Headache Patient Questionnaire. This questionnaire is designed especially to measure pain intensity, its impact on daily activities, disturbance in sleep, and the overall quality of life in subjects with CGHs. The content validity ratio (CVR) and Content Validity Index (CVI) have been used to thoroughly examine the content validity. Each item was rated by 10 experts for relevance and clarity. The scale consists of two main parts: demographic information and symptoms. Under the demographic section, the patient is asked for their age, sex, occupation, and any relevant medical history. The Symptom Checklist contains 10 questions concerning headache frequency, intensity, duration, location, and contributing factors, as well as how headaches affect daily activities, sleep, and quality of life. Item-CVI scores ranged from 0.60 to 1.00, and Scale-CVI/Ave was 0.95, which indicates strong overall content validity. The Scale-CVI/Universal Agreement was 0.83, meaning that most items are of high relevance. The clarity assessments resulted in I-CVI ratings of 1.00 for the majority of items. Using CVR analysis, items 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, and 10 all had a CVR of 1.00, whereas all the rest ranged from 0.40 to 0.80, suggesting unanimous agreement among the experts. Theresults underline the strength of the questionnaire in covering all the critical dimensions of cervicogenic headaches, such as pain, daily functioning, sleep, and quality of life. The scores provided by experts for content validity and clarity were high; hence, it is suitable for use as a comprehensive tool both in clinical and research applications.

Prognostic Impact of Each Item of the SARC-F Questionnaire in Patients Undergoing Major Surgery for Urologic Cancer.

We aimed to evaluate the association between scores on each item of the SARC-F questionnaire and life expectancy in patients undergoing major surgery for urologic cancer. This retrospective study included 1018 patients undergoing elective major urologic cancer surgery. All patients completed the SARC-F questionnaire preoperatively. Demographic and clinical data were collected. The primary endpoint was an association between SARC-F scores and overall survival (OS). Of the 1018 patients, the median age was 72 years and 920 (90%) were male. Multivariate analysis revealed four factors significantly and independently associated with shorter OS: assistance with walking score ≥1 (Hazard ratio: HR=2.18, P=0.044), cancer stages ≥ III (HR=7.98, P<0.001), high blood loss ≥78 ml or blood transfusion during surgery (HR=4.53, P=0.007 and HR=2.41, P=0.037, respectively). This study found that among the items of the SARC-F questionnaire, assistance with walking was a strong predictor of life expectancy. Incorporating such a simple screening tool into the preoperative assessment would help to ensure more appropriate perioperative care for urologic cancer patients.

Assessing Chronic Ear Symptoms in Bone-Conduction Hearing Implant (BCHI) Patients Using the Chronic Otitis Media Benefit Inventory (COMBI) Score.

This study aimed to determine improvement in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) using a validated disease-specific patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) questionnaire in patients undergoing bone-conduction hearing implant (BCHI) insertion. A mixed retrospective and prospective correlational study. Single tertiary referral center in the United Kingdom. All adult patients undergoing their first BCHI over 6 years (April 1, 2017, to March 3, 2023). The Chronic Otitis Media Benefit Inventory (COMBI) score (postintervention) and the Glasgow Health Status Inventory (GHSI) (pre-and post-BCHI questionnaire). Improvements were seen across all COMBI domains. The mean total COMBI score was 46.3 (standard deviation = 5.3). Although expected significant improvements were seen in hearing and social domains, there were also notable gains in ear symptoms and reduced medical intervention post-BCHI. There was a statistically significant improvement in all GHSI scores post-BCHI (median total difference 67.1, p < 0.0001). This study reports very favorable outcomes for BCHI patients using two different PROMs: COMBI and GHSI. Although these PROMs complement each other, they also offer different perspectives on the same cohort of patients, with COMBI providing a unique insight into specific ear symptoms. This is the first reported study using this complement of PROMS in BCHI patients and offers further evidence for the wide-reaching improvements BCHI can have for patients.

Time-efficient consultation hours in the department of gynecological endocrinology

Background The aim was to conduct a benchmark pilot study to find the best practice for consultation hours in the field of gynecological endocrinology. Suitable benchmarking participants were found in China, Germany, Greece, and Switzerland. Specifically, the study aimed to find the most time-efficient and beneficial consultation type in gynecological endocrinology focused on menopause and whether a shorter face-to-face consultation correlates with lower patient satisfaction. Methods This was an observational study. To analyze the processes of all benchmarking participants three tools were used: a measurement of time needed for the different consultation types, a questionnaire for patients and one for physicians. The primary endpoint was the time measurement of first consultations. Secondary endpoints were the time measurements of follow-up consultations and phone consultations and patient satisfaction. Results The mean overall duration of a first consultation differed from 20.4 min to 39.7 min (p = 0.003), mainly based on differences of the mean time to acquire the patient history, 5.6 to 21.6 min (p < 0.001). The percentage of patients who felt they had enough time to discuss questions ranged from 70% to 100% (p < 0.001). The percentage of patients who felt fully understood by their physician ranged from 62.5% to 92% (p = 0.006). The duration of a first consultation did not correlate with patients feeling well consulted (r=-0.048, p = 0.557). Conclusions A concise patient history that concentrates on the most relevant points can reduce the total consultation time. Reducing consultation time can be made without compromising how well patients feel consulted.

Correlation between Respiratory Symptoms Questionnaire and Pulmonary Function Test in Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease Patients: A Tertiary Care Hospital Study

Abstract Objective: This study aimed to investigate the correlation between respiratory symptoms assessed by the Respiratory Symptoms Questionnaire (RSQ) and pulmonary function test (PFT) results in patients diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) at a tertiary care hospital. Methods: This analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted at Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, involving 130 COPD patients presenting with symptoms of breathlessness, chronic cough, and wheeze. Data collection instruments used were: (1) RSQ: The RSQ was utilized to assess respiratory symptoms, including breathlessness, cough, and wheeze, (2) PFT: PFT assessments, including spirometry, were performed to measure lung function impairment objectively. Participants completed the RSQ under supervision, followed by PFT assessments conducted by trained respiratory technologists using standardized procedures. Results: Descriptive statistics were computed for demographic variables and questionnaire scores. Pearson correlation analysis was employed to assess the association between respiratory symptoms measured by RSQ and PFT parameters. The Chi-square analysis determined the overall association between symptom scores and PFT results across the COPD severity groups. Significant correlations were observed between severe COPD and St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire, moderate COPD and Clinical COPD Questionnaire, and moderate-to-severe COPD and COPD Assessment Test (P &lt; 0.05). Nonsignificant correlations were found between mild COPD and symptom scores (P &gt; 0.05). The Chi-square analysis confirmed a strong association between respiratory symptoms and PFT results (P = 0.04). Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of comprehensive symptom assessment alongside the objective measures of lung function in COPD management. Integrating tools such as RSQ with PFTs enables clinicians to obtain a holistic understanding of patients’ disease status and tailor treatment strategies accordingly.

Three Patient-Reported Outcomes Questionnaires in Japanese Patients Undergoing Cataract Surgery with Trifocal IOL Implantation.

To analyze the patient-reported-outcomes obtained after trifocal intraocular lens (IOL) bilateral implantation in Japanese patients using three different validated questionnaires. Fifty-three patients implanted with the FineVision HP IOLs (Beaver-Visitec International, Inc. USA) were enrolled in this prospective-study. At 3-months, refraction (spherical equivalent [SE] and cylinder), logMAR uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) were obtained. Specifically, patient-reported-outcomes were evaluated using the NEI VFQ-25, the Catquest-9SF, and the PRSIQ questionnaires. The mean SE and refractive cylinder were 0.00±0.22D and -0.07±0.23D, respectively. A 98.11% of eyes were within ±0.50D and 100% were within ±1.00D of the SE. A 93.40% of the eyes showed equal or less than 0.50D of astigmatism and 100% of eyes equal or less than 1.00D. The mean value for monocular UDVA was -0.05±0.07 logMAR and the mean value for monocular CDVA was -0.07±0.06 logMAR. 87.74% and 92.45% of the eyes showed 20/20 or better monocular UDVA and CDVA, respectively, with 97.17% and 98.11% showing 20/25 or better for UDVA and CDVA, respectively. The NEI VFQ-25 outcomes showed very high scores across all categories, with mean general vision, distance and near activities values of 86.70±6.35, 96.23±7.72 and 92.14±10.74, respectively. The outcomes for the Catquest-9SF questionnaire showed that 90.57% of patients did not report difficulty in their everyday-life with their sight, and 100% of them were "very or quite satisfied" with their sight at present. The PRSIQ outcomes revealed that 100%, 98.11% and 98.11% of patients did not need glasses or contacts for far, intermediate and near vision, respectively. The results of the patient-reported-outcomes questionnaires indicated that patients implanted bilaterally with the FineVision HP IOL have high vision and health related quality-of-life scores, with a high spectacle independence rate and high patient satisfaction.

Motor Vehicle Driving-Related Anxiety in Patients Undergoing Cardioverter Defibrillator Implantation and Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy With Defibrillators.

Reducing anxiety about motor vehicle driving in patients receiving implantable cardioverter defibrillators and cardiac resynchronization therapy with defibrillators is important not only for improving quality of life but also for preventing vehicle collisions owing to driver distraction. This study aimed to clarify the driving-related anxiety of patients with these defibrillators and the factors that predict such anxiety. We conducted a cross-sectional survey using a self-administered questionnaire of patients who had been driving a vehicle after device implantation at a general hospital between August 2018 and November 2019. The mean age was 60.8 ± 12.6 years. The reasons for implantation were primary prevention in 47 patients and secondary prevention in 30 patients. A total of 16 patients experienced anxiety about driving and 61 did not. Significantly more younger patients (mean age of 50.4 vs. 63.6 years, p < 0.001) and those with implantable cardioverter defibrillators had anxiety (100% vs. 73.8%, p = 0.02). Multivariable analysis indicated that age was the only independent factor that predicted driving-related anxiety (odds ratio, 0.937; 95% confidence interval, 0.883-0.993). Identifying and addressing driving-related anxiety in patients (particularly young patients) with defibrillators is important in preventing motor vehicle collisions and improving quality of life.

Increased Activity Level Following Total Ankle Replacement Results in Improved Patient Reported Outcomes

While evidence highlights increased activity levels following total ankle replacement (TAR), the correlation between postoperative activity changes and ankle-surgery-specific patient-reported outcomes is unexplored. This retrospective cohort study investigates the effect of activity level changes on patient-reported outcomes, including the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) and patient satisfaction following TAR. Patient records from a single center performing TARs between January 2014 and February 2023 were reviewed alongside patient questionnaires completed preoperatively and at a mean follow-up of 44±31 months postoperatively (range 6-134 months). Activity participation pre- and postoperatively was assessed and correlated with MOXFQ scores. Data from 89 patients was available for analysis (mean age 72.3±8.9 years [range, 48-92]). Postoperatively, 31 patients (35%) increased, 42 (47%) maintained, and 16 (18%) decreased their activity levels. The mean time to return to regular activity was 23.4 weeks. Preoperative MOXFQ scores were similar across all groups (increased: 74.03±14.00; maintained: 73.6±13.9; decreased: 77.0±15.5; p=0.71). All groups showed significant improvements in MOXFQ scores from preoperative to postoperative assessments (p<0.05). Patients with increased activity levels showed greater MOXFQ improvements (-61.6±19.0) compared to those with decreased activity levels (-38.3±26.6) (p<0.01). Following TAR, 82% of patients maintained or increased their activity levels. Patients with increased postoperative activity exhibited superior improvements in MOXFQ scores. These findings underscore the importance of promoting physical activity for optimal outcomes following TAR. Level of Clinical EvidenceLevel 3, retrospective cohort study.

Surgical Treatment Strategies for Ankylosing Spondylitis with “Folded Man” Deformity: A Single-Center Retrospective Case Series Study

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) combined with severe kyphotic deformity can cause the trunk to collapse, pressing tightly against the front of the thighs and forming a "folded man" deformity. The purpose of this article is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a treatment strategy for correcting the "folded man" deformity. A retrospective study was conducted to analyze 12 AS patients with "folded man" deformity treated at our hospital with staged kyphosis correction in the lateral position, followed by total hip arthroplasty, from May 2018 to July 2021. Global kyphosis (GK), thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, sagittal vertical axis, chin-brow vertical angle, and Scoliosis Research Society-22 Patient Questionnaire scores were compared preoperation and postoperation. Surgical duration, positioning time, blood loss, and complications were also recorded and analyzed. All patients demonstrated a correction of the "folded man" deformity, achieving sagittal balance and horizontal gaze with mild complications. Postoperatively, there were significant improvements in spinal sagittal parameters (GK, thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, and sagittal vertical axis) and chin-brow vertical angle compared to preoperative values (P < 0.05). The preoperative GK of 139.6 ± 9.1° was corrected to 55.3 ± 5.7° postoperatively, with a mean correction of 84.3°. The standardized treatment strategy involving staged correction of spinal kyphosis in a lateral position, followed by subsequent total hip arthroplasty, offers a safe and effective solution for managing AS with "folded man" deformity.

Translation and Validation of the Persian Version of the Wisconsin Stone Quality of Life Questionnaire.

Patients with kidney stones have a lower quality of life (QOL) than healthy patients; however, treatment guidelines neglect their QOL. Wisconsin stone QOL test (WIS-QOL) is the first specific questionnaire for urolithiasis patients. This study evaluated the reliability and validity of the translated Persian version of the WIS-QOL questionnaire in patients with kidney stones. All patients (> 18 years old) with a history of urolithiasis were included in this cross-sectional. The WIS-QOL questionnaire was translated depending on Hutchinson's guideline. Effects of urolithiasis on the patient's social activity, emotions, disease, and vitality were evaluated. Pearson Correlation and Cronbach's alpha test were used to assess the validity and reliability of the questionnaire. All data were analyzed by SPSS software version 26.0. Among 154 urolithiasis patients, 94 (61%) were males, and 60 (39%) were females. The mean age was 50.4 years (SD: ± 13.6), and the mean QOL score was 84.7 (SD: ±21.8). For each question, the numerical value of the Pearson Correlation Coefficient has been compared with the numerical value, and the validity of the questionnaire was confirmed. The overall Cronbach's alpha was 0.94 for all four areas of the questionnaire, so the reliability of the questionnaire in Persian was confirmed. The present study showed the reliability and validity of the Persian version of the WIS-QOL questionnaire in symptomatic urolithiasis patients. The present study showed the status and impact of urolithiasis on QOL however, longitudinal and prospective studies should be done to specify changes over time.