Retrospective Observational Study Research Articles

Assessment of reproductive outcomes of fresh versus cryopreserved ejaculated sperm samples-a retrospective analysis of 44423 oocyte donation ICSI cycles.

Does the use of frozen sperm affect live birth rate (LBR) and cumulative LBR (CLBR) compared to fresh sperm samples in oocyte donation ICSI cycles? Although there were slight decreases in pregnancy rates (PRs) and LBR, as well as CLBR per embryo replaced and per embryo transfer (ET), when frozen sperm samples were used compared to fresh ejaculates, their clinical impact was limited. Sperm cryopreservation is part of the daily routine in reproduction clinics worldwide because of its many advantages in cycle planning. Nonetheless, there is a lack of agreement in terms of its impact on the outcomes of ICSI cycles. Previous studies showed conflicting conclusions and focused on different populations, which makes reaching consensus on the impact of sperm freezing-thawing complicated. Moreover, classical parameters are used to assess cycle success: pregnancy, live birth and miscarriage rates per ET. This study reports those measurements plus CLBR, which more accurately reflects the impact of the technique on the likelihood of achieving a newborn. A retrospective multicenter observational cohort study, including data from 37041 couples and 44423 ICSI procedures from January 2008 to June 2022, was carried out. The group using frozen sperm included 23852 transferred embryos and 108661 inseminated oocytes, whereas the fresh sample group comprised 73953 embryos replaced and 381509 injected oocytes. Outcomes measured per first ET and per ET were compared between groups using Fisher's exact test and Chi-squared test, as appropriate. Binary-logistics regression models were used to adjust the analyses according to clinically relevant co-variables. Kaplan-Meier curves plotted the CLBR per oocyte inseminated, per embryo replaced and per ET, and compared between groups using the Mantel-Cox test. Cox regressions were employed for the multivariate analyses of CLBR. The frozen sperm group showed a slightly lower biochemical (3.55% and 2.56%), clinical (3.68% and 3.54%) and ongoing (3.63% and 3.15%) PR compared to the cycles using fresh sperm, respectively, both per first ET and per ET. LBR was 4.57% lower per first ET and 3.95% lower per ET in the frozen sperm group than the fresh sperm group. There was also a subtle increase of 2.66% in biochemical miscarriage rate per ET when using frozen versus fresh sperm. All these differences remained statistically significant after the multivariate analysis (adjusted P ≤ 0.001). There were statistically significant differences in CLBR per embryo replaced and per ET but not per oocyte used (adjusted P = 0.071). Despite the statistical significance of the differences between the groups, those using frozen sperm required only 0.54 more oocytes injected, 0.45 more embryos transferred and 0.41 more ET procedures, on average, to achieve a live birth compared to the fresh samples. The retrospective nature of the study subjects the data to biases or potential errors during annotation on the source clinical and cycle records. This study uses multivariate analyses to control biases as much as possible. Using the oocyte donation model also contributes to reducing heterogeneity in the oocyte quality factor. The large sample sizes included in this study allowed for the detection of small changes in cycle success rates between groups. Although statistically significant, the decrease in PRs, LBR, and CLBR when using frozen sperm can be clinically overlooked in favor of the many benefits of sperm cryopreservation. None declared. Not applicable.

Feasibility of a Telemedicine-Based Principal Illness Navigation (PIN) Service for Complex Populations Following Hospital Discharge After Acute Stroke

Background Principal Illness Navigation (PIN) services may play an important role in helping patients through important transitions in care following acute hospitalization. We evaluated a novel PIN telemedicine approach to understand the feasibility of providing these services to diverse patient cohorts. Methods A single-arm, retrospective observational study of Kandu Health’s post-acute PIN service was conducted in patients experiencing ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke in California and New Jersey. The technology-enabled program offered remote healthcare support led by occupational therapists and licensed clinical social workers that was tailored to individual patient needs to facilitate transition to community settings post-discharge. Barriers to recovery were addressed through patient education, one-on-one guidance, and specialized referrals. Patient outcomes were assessed through in-app assessments and clinician-assessed modified Rankin Scores conducted via video consultation. Readmissions were monitored through both patient reporting and admission/discharge/transfer feeds from health information exchanges. Results A total of 111 patients were enrolled between June 22, 2022 and January 11, 2024. Patients were onboarded an average of 29 ± 40 days (median 18, IQR 8-32) after acute care hospital discharge and spent an average of 81 ± 21 days (median 90, IQR 75-90) in the program. During that time, the average enrollee spent 333 ± 156 minutes (median 350, IQR 205-435) of 1:1 time interacting with their dedicated navigator, and navigators spent an additional 113 ± 87 minutes (median 95, IQR 61-140) per patient on care coordination and curriculum curation. Patients with 5 or more social determinants of health (SDOH) needs required over 50% more navigator time than those without any SDOH needs. Within 6 weeks of hospital discharge, 8.5% experienced an inpatient hospital all-cause readmission that was not associated with race, ethnicity, or SDOH. Conclusions High rates of enrollment and extensive patient engagement in both navigator-facilitated and self-directed program elements can be achieved using the Kandu program. Our findings indicate that telemedicine facilitated, app-supported PIN is feasible to deliver following acute stroke discharge across diverse ages, races, ethnicities, functional status (mRS), and social needs.

Clinical characteristics, complications and in-hospital mortality in patients in the coronary care unit requiring invasive mechanical ventilation

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Introduction Mechanical ventilation (MV) is one of the most widely used life support techniques in critically ill patients and, due to the increasing number of coronary care units (CCU), adequate management of this technique is essential. Purpose The aim of our study was to describe the profile of patients requiring invasive MV (IMV) in our CCU, as well as the mode of ventilation, complications and in-hospital mortality. Methods Single-center retrospective observational study of a cohort of patients admitted to a CCU between January 2018 and March 2023 who required IMV. Baseline characteristics, reason for admission and intubation, as well as evolution and complications during admission were analyzed. Results A total of 157 patients were included, 113 (72%) men. The mean age was 66.9 years (SD 12.2). Table 1 summarizes the history and baseline characteristics of the patients. Image 1 summarizes the reasons for admission. Regarding the causes of oro-tracheal intubation, the most frequent was cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) (49.7%), followed by respiratory failure (32.5%) and cardiogenic shock (CS) (16.6%). Regarding left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) on admission, 69.4% had LVEF<52%, with 32.5% of all patients having LVEF below 30%. The most used ventilation mode as initial mode was volume-controlled mode (VC/AC), used in 71.3% of patients. The mean stay in CCU was 11 (min 1-max 78, SD 12) and of orotracheal intubation was 5 days (min 1-max 64, SD 7). Mean days to weaning from VMI was 2 (min 0-max 8, SD 2). Failure on extubation occurred in 38 patients (19.1%), the most frequent reasons being need for reintubation (12.7%), need for noninvasive MV (8.9%) and self-extubation (2.5%). Only 7 patients (4.5%) required tracheostomy. Regarding complications, 49% developed sepsis, 61.1% had CS, and 7% required renal replacement therapy. In-hospital mortality was 38.2% (60 patients). Conclusions IMV is a technique that is increasingly used in our environment. Patients who require it are usually complex, with multiple comorbidities, with a high percentage of CPA and CS. These patients usually have prolonged stays in the CCU, with an average of more than 10 days, frequent complications and a high in-hospital mortality of almost 40%. It is essential to gather series as large as possible of these patients to improve our knowledge of their management and characteristics.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist (relugolix) for treatment of uterine adenomyosis with symptomatic endometriosis

Objective: To determine the effects of relugolix administration for uterine adenomyosis on uterine volume and subjective symptoms. Methods: This retrospective observational study included 30 patients with clinical symptoms of endometriosis complicated with uterine adenomyosis who were treated with 40 mg/day of relugolix orally for >16 weeks. The uterine volume was calculated pre- and post-administration, and the volume percentage post-administration. Furthermore, the presence or absence of subjective post-administration symptoms and adverse effects were also examined. Results: The median (interquartile range) long diameter, short diameter, width, and volume of the patients’ uteri pre- and post-administration of relugolix significantly decreased from 9.63 (9.02–11.00) to 8.00 (6.84–9.12) cm, 6.47 (5.58–8.02) to 5.00 (4.26–5.63) cm, 6.91 (5.68–8.46) to 5.49 (4.58–6.00) cm, and 221.04 (146.52–390.26) to 111.90 (71.59–165.84) cm3, respectively ( p < 0.001 for all four items). Additionally, the uterus volume post-administration was 48.30% (33.88–62.54%) of that pre-administration. Heavy menstrual bleeding, dysmenorrhea, and chronic pelvic pain occurred in 23 (76.7%), 21 (70.0%), and 13 (43.3%) of the 30 patients, respectively; however, all patients experienced resolution of all symptoms. Nine, three, and one patients had hot flashes, mild arthralgia, and a mild headache, respectively. No cases of persistent irregular or heavy bleeding were observed during treatment. Conclusions: Relugolix contributes to volume reduction and eliminates subjective symptoms of uterine adenomyosis, suggesting that it is an effective treatment for uterine adenomyosis.

Differences in mortality between patients with cardiogenic shock due to STEMI treated with PCI vs thrombolysis

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Introduction STEMI is complicated with cardiogenic shock (CS) in approximately 5-10% of cases and mortality is about 40% at 30-day and 50% at 1 year worldwide. In Mexico the incidence of CS in STEMI that received revascularization therapy (PCI or thrombolysis) is between 4.4-4.8%. In our country, pharmacoinvasive strategy (PIs) is the preferred modality due to the lack of PCI centers and demographics. Purpose To demonstrate differences in total ischemia time and 30-day in-hospital mortality in patients treated with PIs or PCI. Methods This was a retrospective observational study of patients that arrived to the emergency room and coronary care unit of the National Institute of Cardiology from January 2018 to March 2023 with CS due to STEMI at presentation, who received reperfusion therapy (PCI or PIs) during the first 12 hours of symptom onset. Results We included 61 patients with CS due to STEMI at presentation, 60.7% received PIs and 39.3% underwent PCI. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes was 38%, hypertension was 28% and obesity was 10% with no significant differences between groups, however the presence of CKD differed significantly with approximately 3% in PCI group versus 0% in PIs group. 21% were smokers and 13% previous smokers. Only 8 patients (13.1%) had a previous MI, 5 patients (8.2%) had previous angioplasty and 4 patients (6.6%) had previous HF. The first medical contact (FMC) occurred at a median of 120 minutes (IQR 75-240 min) overall. For patients undergoing PIs, the FMC was 120 minutes (IQR 70-185 min), whereas for those undergoing PCI, it was 185 minutes (IQR 87-300 min). The total ischemia time was 270 minutes (IQR 180-470 min) overall, with a median of 229 minutes (IQR 163-405 min) for PIs and 396 minutes (IQR 267-592 min) for PCI. The 30-day in-hospital mortality rate was 27.9% overall, significantly lower at 18.9% in the PIs group compared to 41.7% in the PCI group (p=0.01). The average length of hospital stay was 8 days for the PIs population, slightly longer than the 6.5 days observed in the PCI group (p=0.09). Conclusion In this real-world retrospective analysis conducted in our center in a middle-income country showed that PIs impacted positively in 30-day in-hospital mortality of patients who arrived with CS due to STEMI at presentation compared to those that underwent PCI. This effect seems to be secondary to shorter ischemic times since symptom onset due to the use of a prompt reperfusion therapy.

Daily compliance of the ABCDEF liberation bundle for patients in the intensive care unit: A retrospective descriptive study

Implementing the ABCDEF bundle has demonstrated improved outcomes in patients with critical illness. This study aims to describe the daily compliance of the ABCDEF bundle in a Chilean intensive care unit. Retrospective observational study of electronic clinical records of nursing, physiotherapy, and medical professionals who cared for patients over 18 years of age, admitted to an intensive care unit for at least 24 hours, with or without mechanical ventilation. Daily bundle compliance was determined by considering the daily records for each element: Assess pain (element A), both spontaneous awakening trials (element B1) and spontaneous breathing trials (element B2), choice of sedation (element C), delirium assessment (element D), early mobilization (element E), and family engagement (element F). 4165 registered bundle elements were obtained from nursing (47%), physiotherapy (44%), and physicians (7%), including 1134 patient/days (from 133 patients). Elements E and C showed 67 and 40% compliance, while D, A, and B2 showed 24, 14 and 11%, respectively. For B1 and F, 0% compliance was achieved. Compliance was higher in patients without mechanical ventilation for A and E, while it was similar for D. Early mobilization had the highest compliance, while spontaneous awakening trials and family engagement had absolute non-compliance. Future studies should explore the reasons for the different degrees of compliance per bundle element in clinical practice.

Acute-on-chronic heart failure leading to cardiogenic shock: any role for intra-aortic balloon pump? Results from a multicenter retrospective data collection

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Background Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) implantation has been significantly reduced since IABP-SHOCK II trial did not show any clinical benefit in acute myocardial infarction (AMI)-related cardiogenic shock (CS)(1). For a long time, AMI has been recognized as the first cause of CS; however, in the last years, acute-on-chronic heart failure (HF)-CS has become predominant. We hypothesized that in HF-CS population the IABP may decrease mortality having a role in decreasing left ventricular afterload and improving peripheral perfusion(2). Purpose To investigate whether, in this phenotypical category of cardiogenic shock, IABP could improve 28-days mortality. Methods Multicenter retrospective observational study including adult HF-CS patients admitted in cardiac or general intensive care units in 3rd level centers. Hemodynamic variables before (T0) and after IABP implantation (T1), pharmacological support and outcome data were collected. Independent samples t-test was applied to assess any difference between IABP and non-IABP group; Kaplan-Meier and Cox’s regression (forward stepwise method) were performed as survival analysis on 28-days mortality. Results 160 patients (35.6% female, 61 [47-74] years-old) were included from three centers; overall mortality was 42.5%. 50% received IABP support; amongst IABP patients, 24 received further MCS with VA-ECMO (p <0.001) and 4 with Impella (p 0.120). Patients’ baseline characteristics are shown in Figure 1-A. IABP patients had lower 28-days mortality. Patients who received IABP were younger, had lower systolic blood pressure (SBP), pulse pressure (PP) and lactate levels at T0. In reference to catecholaminergic drugs, patients supported with IABP had lower norepinephrine doses and vasoactive inotropic score (VIS) at baseline. After IABP implantation, no significant difference between the two groups in the time variation of these parameters was observed (Figure 1-B). Survival analysis graphs are shown in Figure 2. At Cox’s regression, a significant effect on 28-days mortality was found for IABP (HR 0.510 [0.293-0.887], p 0.017), SCAI classification-stage D (HR 2.582 [1.315-5.072], p 0.006), VIS-T0 above 15 (HR 2.348 [1.407-3.921], p 0.001) and SBP-T0 above 95 mmHg (HR 1.361 [1.016-1.823], p 0.039); no significant association was found for age above 61 years (overall median value) (p 0.091), mechanical ventilation (p 0.367), PP-T0 (0 0.081) and lactate-T0 (p 0.227). Conclusions Considering the specific pathophysiology of HF-CS, IABP may have a role in reducing mortality. These retrospective data need to be validated and compared with those deriving from ongoing randomized controlled trials(3).

Venoarterial ECMO in cardiogenic shock: a decade-long single-center analysis

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Introduction Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VA-ECMO) has emerged as a salvage intervention in refractory cardiogenic shock, offering both circulatory and respiratory support as a bridge to recovery, a bridge to transplant, or a bridge to decision. Purpose This study aimed to assess the demographics, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of VA-ECMO patients with cardiogenic shock in a tertiary center. Methods We conducted a retrospective observational study, encompassing patients admitted with cardiogenic shock and treated with VA-ECMO up to October 2023, marking the milestone of the 100th VA-ECMO patient in our unit. Key patient data, including demographics, clinical presentation, ECMO-related complications, and outcomes, were extracted from medical records. Summary statistics were employed for data analysis. Results From 2012 to October 2023, our hospital treated 100 patients in VA-ECMO. The mean age was 58.4 ± 11.9 years, with a male predominance (60%). Approximately 50% of patients were admitted from the emergency room after sudden cardiac arrest. Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) accounted for 39% of cardiogenic shock cases, followed by complicated post-valvular replacement surgery (13%), myocarditis (10%), and acute decompensated heart failure (9%). The median hospital stay was 12.5 days (range: 0 to 114), with a median of 4.0 days on ECMO (range: 0 to 52). All VA-ECMO reported in this cohort were percutaneous, with 39% requiring left ventricular unloading. In 11% cases VA-ECMO served as a bridge to transplant. When it comes to VA-ECMO-related complications, hematological complications, including anemia and thrombocytopenia necessitating transfusion, were observed in 53% of patients, and thromboembolic complications, such as acute limb ischemia, affected 28% of patients. Bleeding complications were notable, with 12% experiencing significant access bleeding, 16% gastrointestinal bleeding, 9% airway bleeding, and 2% intracerebral hemorrhage. Additionally, 39% necessitated renal replacement therapy due to acute kidney failure. The 5-day survival rate stood at 69% (95% CI, 0.61-0.79), declining to 36% at 30 days (95% CI, 0.27-0.48) (see Figure 1). Of the 100 patients, 41 died while on VA-ECMO, with 36 either discharged or undergoing transplantation. Conclusions Our single-center experience illustrates VA-ECMO's predominant use in younger patients following ACS or cardiothoracic surgery. Despite associated complications, particularly thromboembolic events and severe bleeding, our observed mortality rate is slightly lower than reported for refractory cardiogenic shock. New research has emerged from global VA-ECMO registries, as well as clinical trials, however real-world data is lacking. This analysis provides a foundational understanding of cohort characteristics and sets the stage for future comparative studies.Table 1.Patient CharacteristicsFigure 1.Surviving Curve

Examining the Beneficial Effect of Micronutrient Monitoring for Bariatric Surgical Patients: A Retrospective Observational Study

Examining the Beneficial Effect of Micronutrient Monitoring for Bariatric Surgical Patients: A Retrospective Observational Study

Comparison of Post PCI TIMI Flow Between Diabetic and Non-Diabetic Individuals

Background: Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, with diabetes significantly exacerbating the incidence and severity of coronary artery disease. Diabetic patients experience altered coronary blood flow dynamics, which can impact the efficacy of therapeutic interventions like percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Objective: This study aims to compare the post-PCI Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) flow grades between diabetic and non-diabetic patients to assess the impact of diabetes on the short-term outcomes of coronary revascularization. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases in Karachi, involving 3,000 patients who underwent primary PCI between January 2018 and December 2020. Patients were categorized into diabetic (1,500) and non-diabetic (1,500) groups. Data collected included demographics, coronary artery risk factors, TIMI flow grades before and after PCI, and the use of GPIIb/IIIa inhibitors. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, employing chi-square tests, t-tests, and Mann-Whitney U tests for comparative analysis, with a p-value of <0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The study found significant differences in postoperative TIMI3 flow rates, with non-diabetic patients achieving a higher rate of TIMI3 (59.4%) compared to diabetic patients (58.1%). The use of GPIIb/IIIa inhibitors was higher in diabetic patients (34.7%) than in non-diabetic patients (1.8%). Additionally, diabetic patients showed a higher incidence of multi-vessel disease and more severe lesion profiles, including higher rates of triple branch lesions (45.9% vs. 39.9%) and left main lesions (53% vs. 43.9%). Conclusion: Diabetic patients exhibit worse post-PCI TIMI flow grades and more complex coronary lesions compared to non-diabetic patients, suggesting that diabetes adversely affects the outcomes of coronary revascularization. These findings underscore the need for tailored therapeutic approaches to improve PCI outcomes in diabetic patients.

Reasons for switching oral antipsychotic medications and related patterns of care and costs in patients with schizophrenia initiating monotherapy treatment: Claims-linked chart study.

Antipsychotic switching is frequent in schizophrenia and is associated with poor clinical outcomes, increased health care resource utilization (HCRU), and increased health care costs. Research describing the reasons for antipsychotic switching in patients with schizophrenia and the associated impacts on HCRU and costs is limited. To explore the reasons for oral antipsychotic medication (OAM) switching and describe HCRU and costs associated with OAM switching, stratified by reasons for switching, in patients with commercial or Medicare Advantage insurance in the United States. This retrospective observational study used medical and pharmacy claims from the Optum Research Database linked to patient medical chart data. Adults with a diagnosis of schizophrenia who initiated OAM monotherapy between January 1, 2015, and June 30, 2021, and switched from their initial OAM monotherapy to a second one were included. Reasons for OAM switching were recorded from medical charts abstracted between 4 months preceding and 2 months following the patient's switch date. HCRU and costs incurred up to 3 months before and 3 months after the OAM switch were stratified and compared by reasons for switching among individuals who switched OAM monotherapy. Among 134 patients with valid, abstracted charts, the 2 most common reasons for switching were lack of efficacy (57.5% of switches) and at least 1 tolerability issue (41.8%). Mutually exclusive categories of switching reasons included lack of efficacy and no tolerability issues (56/134; 41.8%), tolerability and no efficacy issues (35/134; 26.1%), lack of efficacy and tolerability issues (21/134; 15.7%), and other or unknown (22/134; 16.4%). All-cause and schizophrenia-related HCRU and costs in any health services category did not appear to differ across the reason-for-switching cohorts, with costs for inpatient stays accounting for greater than half of the total costs, regardless of switching reason. These findings provide insight on patient experiences that contribute to OAM switching, with nearly half of patients switching because of lack of efficacy, more than one-fourth because of tolerability issues, and an additional one-sixth for reasons of both efficacy and tolerability. Health care providers should address patients' expectations regarding OAM effectiveness, symptom resolution, and side effect tolerability at treatment initiation to minimize switching before the medication has reached peak effectiveness. Prescribing access to a broad selection of antipsychotics with different side effect profiles may help physicians better match treatment to individual patients, fostering greater acceptance of therapy, increased medication adherence, and better long-term outcomes.

Effect of Tumor Regression Grade on Survival and Disease-Free Interval in Patients Operated on for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer

Introduction: Colorectal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in both men and women in our population. In this regard, rectal cancer accounts for more than half of colorectal cancer deaths, and its incidence is expected to increase in the coming years. There have been significant changes in neoadjuvant therapy regimens, with promising results, as demonstrated by the recent RAPIDO and PRODIGE23 studies. Around 40% of patients diagnosed with locally advanced rectal cancer show some degree of response to neoadjuvant treatment, with complete tumor regression observed in up to one in five patients. Materials and Methods: Retrospective observational study. A total of 181 patients with locally advanced rectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by surgery were analyzed. Clinical and pathological data were collected from the patients, including assessment of tumor regression through histopathological studies after surgery. The Mandard tumor regression grading system was used to categorize tumor response into different grades. Results: The results showed a significant association between the degree of tumor regression and several important clinical outcomes. Specifically, patients with higher tumor regression had significantly better disease-free survival than those with less regression (p = 0.004). In addition, tumor regression was also correlated with the incidence of local recurrence (p = 0.018) and distant metastasis (p = 0.032). These associations suggest that tumor responsiveness to neoadjuvant therapy may influence the long-term progression of the disease. Regarding tumor deposits and the presence of lymphadenopathy, these factors were also found to be significantly associated with clinical outcomes. Patients with tumor deposits had a higher incidence of local recurrence (p = 0.025) and distant metastases (p = 0.041), while the presence of lymphadenopathy increased the risk of local recurrence (p = 0.013). These findings highlight the importance of evaluating not only tumor regression but also other pathological markers to predict prognosis and guide clinical management. Conclusions: The degree of tumor regression was not an independent predictor of survival compared to other variables such as nodal stage and presence of tumor deposits. This indicates that while tumor regression is an important factor, other elements also play a crucial role in determining the prognosis of patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. This study provides additional evidence for the importance of tumor regression, tumor deposits, and lymphadenopathy as predictors of clinical outcomes in patients with rectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy.

Frequency of In-Stent Restenosis (ISR) in Diabetic Patients Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) for Stable Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) with Angina Pectoris Class III

Background: Coronary intervention with stenting is crucial for managing stable ischemic heart disease and acute coronary syndrome, but post-procedural complications such as stent thrombosis and in-stent restenosis (ISR) remain significant challenges. Diabetes mellitus has been identified as a key risk factor contributing to the increased incidence of ISR, thereby complicating long-term outcomes for these patients. Objective: This study aimed to compare the incidence of ISR between diabetic and non-diabetic patients who have undergone percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for stable ischemic heart disease, specifically angina class III. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at the Peshawar Institute of Cardiology, involving 180 patients who underwent PCI between January and July 2023. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of diabetes mellitus (90 in each group). ISR was defined using visual angiography as >50% diameter stenosis within the stent or its adjacent 5mm. The demographic and clinical variables collected included age, gender, BMI, smoking status, hypertension, and family history of coronary artery disease. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, employing Chi-square tests for categorical variables, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: The mean ages of the non-diabetic and diabetic groups were 50.01 ± 8.66 years and 44.26 ± 7.55 years, respectively. The incidence of ISR was significantly higher in the diabetic group (15 out of 90, 16.67%) compared to the non-diabetic group (3 out of 90, 3.33%), with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Diabetes mellitus significantly increases the risk of in-stent restenosis following PCI in patients with stable ischemic heart disease. This highlights the need for targeted strategies to manage and monitor diabetic patients more aggressively post-PCI to reduce the risk of ISR.

Assessment of inter- and intraobserver agreement for META score in distinguishing osteoporotic from multiple myeloma vertebral fractures.

To conduct an independent assessment of inter- and intraobserver agreement for the META score as a tool for differentiating osteoporotic vertebral fractures and multiple myeloma vertebral fractures. This is a retrospective observational study. The magnetic resonance imaging analysis was made by two independent spinal surgeons. We designated a Subjective assessment, in which the surgeon should establish a diagnostic classification for each vertebral fracture based on personal experience: secondary to osteoporosis, categorized as a benign vertebral fracture (BVF), or attributed to multiple myeloma, categorized a malign vertebral fracture (MVF). After a 90-day interval, both surgeons repeated the evaluations. For the next step, the observers should establish a diagnosis between BVF and MVF according to the META score system, and both observers repeated the evaluations after a 90-day interval. The intra and interobserver reliability of the Subjective evaluation was studied using the kappa (κ) test. Then, the META evaluations were paralleled using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). A total of 220 patients who had the potential to participate in the study were initially enrolled, but after applying the exclusion criteria, 44 patients were included. Thirty-three patients had BVF, and 12 patients presented MVF. Interobserver agreement for both Subjective evaluations moments (initial and 90-days interval) found a slight agreement for both moments (0.35 and 0.40 respectively). Kappa test for both META evaluations moments (initial and 90-days interval) found a moderate interobserver agreement for both moments (0.54 and 0.48 respectively). It was observed that the ICC calculated for the Initial evaluation using META score was 0.680 and that in the 90-days interval was 0.726, indicating regular to good agreement. Kappa test for intraobserver agreements for the Subjective evaluation presented moderate agreement for both Surgeons. On the other side, Kappa test for intraobserver agreements for the META evaluation presented substantial agreement for both Surgeons. The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient of the META score found presented an almost perfect agreement for both Surgeons. Intra and interobserver agreement for both surgeons were unsatisfactory. The lack of consistent reproducibility by the same observer discourages and disfavors the routine use of the META score in clinical decision making, when potentially cases of multiple myeloma may be present.

Establishment and Verification of an Artificial Intelligence Prediction Model for Children With Sepsis.

Early identification of high-risk groups of children with sepsis is beneficial to reduce sepsis mortality. This article used artificial intelligence (AI) technology to predict the risk of death effectively and quickly in children with sepsis in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). This retrospective observational study was conducted in the PICUs of the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from December 2016 to June 2019 and Shenzhen Children's Hospital from January 2019 to July 2020. The children were divided into a death group and a survival group. Different machine language (ML) models were used to predict the risk of death in children with sepsis. A total of 671 children with sepsis were enrolled. The accuracy (ACC) of the artificial neural network model was better than that of support vector machine, logical regression analysis, Bayesian, K nearest neighbor method and decision tree models, with a training set ACC of 0.99 and a test set ACC of 0.96. The AI model can be used to predict the risk of death due to sepsis in children in the PICU, and the artificial neural network model is better than other AI models in predicting mortality risk.

Surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome in patients with and without diabetes-Is there a difference in the frequency of surgical procedures?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs more often among individuals with diabetes. The aim of this retrospective observational registry study was to examine whether individuals with diabetes and CTS are treated surgically to the same extent as individuals with CTS but without diabetes. Data on CTS diagnosis and surgery were collected from the Skåne Healthcare Register (SHR). A total of 35,105 individuals (age ≥ 18 years) diagnosed with CTS from 2004-2019 were included. Data were matched to the Swedish National Diabetes Register (NDR. Cox regression models were used to calculate the risk of the use of surgical treatment. Of the 35,105 included individuals with a CTS diagnosis, 17,662 (50%) were treated surgically, and 4,966 (14%) had diabetes. A higher number of individuals with diabetes were treated surgically (2,935/4,966, 59%) than individuals without diabetes (14,727/30,139, 49%). In the Cox regression model, diabetes remained a significant risk factor for surgical treatment (PR 1.14 (95% CI 1.11-1.17)). Individuals with type 1 diabetes were more frequently treated surgically (490/757, 65%) than individuals with type 2 diabetes (2,445/4,209, 58%). There was no difference between the sexes and their treatment. The duration of diabetes was also a risk factor for surgical treatment in diabetes type 2, but high HbA1c levels were not. Individuals with diabetes are more likely to be treated surgically for CTS than individuals without diabetes. Individuals with type 1 diabetes are more likely to be treated surgically for CTS than individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Operative management of primary hyperparathyroidism in Europe.

Multicentre studies have previously reported on national outcomes of surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism, but not investigated whether management and outcome are uniform among countries. This study investigated whether there are differences among European countries in operative management and outcome of surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism. Using data from Eurocrine®, a pan-European registry for endocrine surgeries, a retrospective observational cross-sectional multicentre study with 99 participating centres in 14 European countries was performed. Data on age, sex, calcium levels, operative strategy, conversion rate and rate of failed exploration were analysed for patients who underwent initial surgery for sporadic primary hyperparathyroidism. Primary outcome measures were intention to perform limited parathyroidectomy and the rate of hypercalcaemia at first follow-up. A total of 9548 patients were registered between 2015 and 2020. There were 7642 (80%, range 74.5-93.2%) females. There was intention to perform limited parathyroidectomy in 7320 of 9548 (76.7%) operations, ranging from 498 of 1007 (49.5%) to 40 of 41 (97.6%) among countries. Hypercalcaemia at first follow-up (median time to follow-up 15 days) was found in 416 of 9548 (4.4%) operations, ranging from 0 of 119 (0%) to 3 of 38 (7.9%) among countries. This study demonstrated large differences in the intention to perform limited parathyroidectomy for primary hyperparathyroidism among European countries, as well as differences in the rate of postoperative hypercalcaemia. Future studies are needed to evaluate the impact of these different healthcare practices on patient outcomes.

A further update on mortality and morbidity in patients with very low hemoglobin levels who decline blood transfusion.

In the past two decades, researchers have published mortality and morbidity rates in patients with very low hemoglobin levels declining blood transfusion. The clinical knowledge and tools available for the management of patients who decline transfusions have grown since these publications. The aim of our study was to provide a further update on outcomes associated with severe anemia in these patients. A retrospective observational study of patients declining allogeneic blood transfusions with nadir hemoglobin levels ≤8 g/dL treated at The Institute for Blood Management, HELIOS Klinikum Gotha, Germany. Outcomes were in-hospital mortality within 30 days and composite morbidity or mortality, with morbidity events defined as acute myocardial infarction, cardiac failure, wound infection, arrhythmia, and pneumonia. Between June 2008 and June 2021, The Institute for Blood Management treated 2841 admissions of which 159 (5.6%) recorded nadir hemoglobin levels ≤8 g/dL. Of these, five (3.1%) patients died in hospital within 30 days, including four (4.8%) patients admitted for surgical procedures and one (1.4%) medical admission. There was a significant increase in the unadjusted proportion of composite morbidity or mortality events with severity of nadir hemoglobin, with each gram decrease in hemoglobin associated with a 1.48 (95% confidence interval = 1.05-2.09; p = .025) times increase. Our comparatively lower proportion of patients reaching hemoglobin levels ≤8 g/dL and lower mortality rates suggest outcomes in patients with severe anemia is modifiable with the application of current patient blood management and bloodless medicine and surgery strategies.

Extent to which weight loss contributes to improving metabolic dysfunction-associated and metabolic and alcohol related/associated steatotic liver disease: a study on Japanese participants undergoing health checkups

IntroductionThe incidence of steatotic liver disease has increased in recent years. Thus, steatotic liver disease is a major public health issue in Japan. This study investigated the association between weight reduction and the remission of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)/Metabolic and alcohol related/associated liver disease (MetALD) in Japanese individuals undergoing health checkups.MethodsThis retrospective observational study included 8,707 Japanese patients with MASLD/MetALD who underwent health checkups from May 2015 to March 2023. The participants were monitored for its remission at their subsequent visit. MASLD was diagnosed on abdominal ultrasonography and based on the presence of at least one of five metabolic abnormalities. The impact of body mass index (BMI) reduction on MASLD/MetALD remission was assessed via logistic regression analysis and using receiver operating characteristic curves.ResultsLogistic regression analysis revealed that weight loss was significantly associated with MASLD/MetALD remission. Other factors including exercise habits and reduced alcohol consumption were significant predictors of MASLD/MetALD remission in the overall cohort and in male patients. The optimal BMI reduction cutoff values for MASLD/MetALD remission were 0.9 kg/m2 and 4.0% decrease in the overall cohort, 0.85 kg/m2 and 3.9% decrease in males, and 1.2 kg/m2 and 4.5% decrease in females. In participants with a BMI of 23 kg/m2, the cutoff values were 0.75 kg/m2 and 2.7% BMI reduction.DiscussionWeight reduction plays an important role in both MASLD and MetALD remission among Japanese individuals. That is, targeting specific BMI reduction is effective. This underscores the importance of targeted weight management strategies in preventing and managing MASLD/MetALD in the Japanese population.

Insights into systemic lupus erythematosus: a retrospective observational study of clinical features, autoantibodies, and gender-related differences.

This study aims to analyze the clinical and immunologic features of SLE in Jordan, while also investigating the impact of age and gender on disease presentation. The study included 275 patients diagnosed with SLE. Data were collected through meticulous patient interviews and thorough examination of patient hospital records. The cohort exhibited a mean age of 36.8 ± 12.9years, with an average disease duration of 7.0 ± 7.8years. The mean age at diagnosis was 29.9 ± 12.1years, and the female to male ratio was 7.8:1. The most frequently observed symptoms were arthralgia (90.2%), fatigue (80.7%), hematologic manifestations (62%), photosensitivity (60.7%), Raynaud's phenomenon (53.5%), and malar rash (50.9%). The frequencies of various autoantibodies were as follows: ANA (96.7%), anti-dsDNA (39.6%), anti-SSA/Ro (32.8%), anti-Sm (21.8%), anti-U1-RNP (20.6%), and anti-SSB/La (15.5%). Male patients tended to receive a diagnosis at a younger age and exhibited a higher likelihood of experiencing severe manifestations compared to females. Additionally, juvenile onset patients demonstrated an increased likelihood of fever, photosensitivity, myositis, and anti-dsDNA autoantibodies, while adult onset patients were more predisposed to having anti-Ro, anti-La, and RF autoantibodies. This study reveals that the most prevalent manifestations of SLE in the Jordanian cohort encompassed arthralgia, fatigue, and hematologic manifestations. The prevalence of alopecia and Raynaud's phenomenon exceeded that observed in other published cohorts, while arthritis and discoid rash were less frequently encountered. The study highlights that males are more susceptible to developing severe manifestations of SLE compared to females.