SF-36 Questionnaire Research Articles

Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) and Quality of Life (QoL) among the construction workers in the United Arab Emirates.

Background The United Arab Emirates (UAE) construction industry has rapidly expanded, but construction work, by its nature, poses a high risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). These disorders significantly impact quality of life (QoL) and productivity and lead to disability and absenteeism. Aims and Objectives The study aims to determine the prevalence of WMSDs among UAE construction workers using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) and assess their QoL using the Short-Form (SF-36) survey. Additionally, it aims to explore factors associated with WMSDs and QoL among construction workers in the United Arab Emirates. Methods This study is a cross-sectional, survey-based design conducted from July 2023 to May 2024 in the United Arab Emirates. The study included male construction workers aged 18-50 with at least 1 year of experience. Participants were recruited using a combination of convenience and purposive sampling methods. The data were collected via paper-based forms using the SF-36 and NMQ questionnaires. The study instruments were chosen after reviewing relevant literature to ensure minimal measurement bias. Statistical methods included descriptive statistics, tests for normality, and Pearson’s correlation test with a significance level of p <0.05. Results A total of 346 construction workers were accessed and the study found an 81.8% 12-month WMSD prevalence, most commonly affecting the lower back (44.8%), neck (45.1%), and shoulders (37.9%). Additionally, 70.5% reported pain-related limitations, and 63.6% experienced pain in the past week. SF-36 scores were lowest for role limitations due to physical health (30.33) and emotional problems (33.43), with an overall mean of 52.27 out of 100. Conclusion The study found a high prevalence of WMSD in construction workers and moderate quality of life scores. These findings highlight the urgent need to prioritize construction worker health through targeted interventions.

Effects of Physical Activity Level, Strength, Balance, and Body Composition on Perceived Health in Healthy Adults

Background: Nowadays, not only is a high, long life expectancy desired, but also longevity with quality. Quality of life in adulthood is a multidimensional construct related to the perception of one’s own health, psychological and socio-emotional factors, functionality for daily activities, and body composition. Objective: This study evaluates the effects of physical activity level (PAL), strength, balance, and body composition on perceived health in healthy adults. Methods: An observational, cross-sectional study with consecutive, non-probabilistic inclusion of cases was conducted. Body fat percentage (BFP) was measured by DXA. Physical activity level was assessed using accelerometry. The strength index (S_Index) was estimated using dynamometry. Postural control was assessed through posturography. The composite equilibrium score from the Sensory Organization Test (SOT_CES) was conducted to measure postural stability under various sensory conditions using dynamic posturography. Perceived health was calculated using the SF36 questionnaire, which detects health states, both positive and negative. A linear regression model was generated between each domain of SF36 with SOT_CES, BFP, PAL, and S_Index. Results: A total of 64 males with a mean age of 55 ± 5 years and a mean body mass index of 27 ± 4 kg/m2 were recruited. Results showed a negative correlation between physical function (ß = −0.7; t = −3.163; p = 0.003; R2 = 23.7%) and general health (ß = −0.227; t = −3.425; p = 0.001; R2 = 17.4%) with BFP. Also, it showed a negative correlation between physical function (ß = 0.047; t = −2.643; p = 0.011; R2 = 17.5%) and general health (ß = 0.016; t = −3.044; p = 0.004; R2 = 14.6%) with S_Index. On the other hand, no relation was observed between SF36 and SOT_CES. Finally, only the emotional role showed a positive correlation (ß = −0.02; t = −2.629; p = 0.011; R2 = 23.1%) with PAL. Conclusion: A lower BFP and higher S_Index are associated with increased physical function and general health. Also, the higher the PAL, the greater the emotional health. On the other hand, no relation was observed between SF36 and the balance detected from SOT_CES.

Association of Pulmonary Involvement at Baseline with Exercise Intolerance and Worse Physical Functioning 8 Months Following COVID-19 Pneumonia

Objectives: We aimed to describe the cardiopulmonary function during exercise and the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with a history of COVID-19 pneumonia, stratified by chest computed tomography (CT) findings at baseline. Methods: Among 77 consecutive patients with COVID-19 who were discharged from the Pulmonology Ward between March 2020 and April 2021, 28 (mean age 54.3 ± 8.6 years, 8 females) agreed to participate to the current study. The participants were analyzed in two groups based on pulmonary involvement (PI) at baseline chest CT applying a threshold of 25%. A consequent artificial intelligence (AI)-guided total opacity score (TOS) was calculated in a subgroup of 22 patients. A cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) was conducted on average 8.4 (±1.9) months after discharge from the hospital. HRQoL was defined using the short-form (SF-36) questionnaire. The primary outcome was exercise intolerance that was defined as a peak oxygen uptake (V′O2peak) < 80% predicted. Secondary outcomes were ventilatory limitation, defined as breathing reserve < 15%, circulatory limitation, defined as oxygen pulse predicted below 80%, and deconditioning, defined as exercise intolerance in the absence of ventilatory and circulatory limitations. Other secondary outcomes included the SF-36 domains. Results: In all, 15 patients had at least 25% PI (53.6%) at baseline chest CT. Exercise intolerance was observed in ten patients (35.7%), six due to deconditioning and four due to circulatory limitation; none had ventilatory limitation. AI-guided TOS was 30.1 ± 24.4% vs. 6.1 ± 4.8% (p < 0.001) at baseline, and 1.7 ± 3.0% vs. 0.2 ± 0.7% (nonsignificant) at follow-up in high and low PI groups, respectively. The physical functioning (PF) domain score of the SF-36 questionnaire was 66.3 ± 19.4 vs. 85.0 ± 13.1 in high and low PI groups, respectively (p = 0.007). Other SF-36 domains did not differ significantly between the groups. A high PI at baseline was inversely correlated with V′O2peak (standardized β coefficient = −0.436; 95% CI −26.1; −0.7; p = 0.040) and with PF scores (standardized β coefficient −0.654; 95% CI −41.3; −7.6; p = 0.006) adjusted for age, sex, body mass index and lung diffusion capacity. Conclusions: One-third of participants experienced exercise intolerance eight months after COVID-19 pneumonia. A higher PI at baseline was significantly associated with exercise intolerance and PF. Notwithstanding, the radiological PI was resolved, and the exercise intolerance was mainly explained not by ventilatory limitation but by circulatory limitation and deconditioning.

The burden of lymphedema on quality of life.

Background: Due to a lack of validated methodologies, this study aimed to evaluate the quality of life (QoL) among individuals affected by lymphedema and to compare them with the general population and common diseases. Patients and methods: Patients were recruited from October 2023 till March 2024. The SF-36 and LYMQOL questionnaires were administered. The Robert Koch Institute provided data from the survey for secondary evaluations of the DEGS1 study. Descriptive analysis of the patient's data was conducted, followed by an analysis of risk factors, a comparison with common diseases and a pairs matched analyses with the general population based on the parameters sex, age and Body Mass Index (BMI). A p-value below 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Among the 273 patients, 18 had primary lymphedema and 255 had secondary lymphedema due to cancer history. Staging revealed 28 patients in stage I, 137 in stage II, and 75 in stage III. The majority of patients (83%) were female and mostly the lower extremity was affected. Age, International Society of Lymphology (ISL)-stage, and BMI were significantly correlated with reduced QoL in seven, six, and eleven out of thirteen subscales of the respective scores. The LYMQOL analysis revealed, that patients with upper limb lymphedema (ULL) demonstrated higher QoL compared to those with lower limb lymphedema (LLL). When compared to the general population, individuals with ULL exhibited reduced QoL in five out of eight SF-36 domains (p<0.05). Conversely, LLL patients showed decreased QoL across all eight SF-36 subscales (p<0.01). In comparison to diseases like myocardial infarction or malignant diseases, patients with lymphedema experience a significant, diminished QoL. Conclusions: By 2024, lymphedema patients continue to experience significantly lower QoL compared to the general population or common diseases in Germany. LLL patients exhibit a reduced QoL compared to individuals with ULL.

Reliability and validity of the Londrina activities of daily living protocol in individuals with systemic sclerosis.

To investigate the validity and reliability of the Londrina ADL Protocol inpatients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). The study included 39 individuals with SSc and 30 healthy participants aged18-70 years. Performance-related ADL assessment was performed with the LondrinaADL Protocol which was performed twice by the same rater and energy expenditureduring the test with the Dynaport Move Monitor device. Functional capacity (6 MinuteWalk Test-6MWT), upper extremity muscle strength (hand-held dynamometer), handand finger grip strength (hand dynamometer and pinch meter), upper extremityfunctionality (Q-Dash Questionnaire and 9 Hole Peg Test), self-reported ADL (MillikenADL Scale (MAS)) and quality of life (SF-36 questionnaire) were evaluated. Upper extremity muscle strength, functional capacity, upper extremityfunctionality, and quality of life of individuals with SSc were found to be significantlylower and the time spent by individuals with SSc in the Londrina ADL Protocol was lower and the time spent by individuals with SSc in the Londrina ADL Protocol wassignificantly longer compared to the healthy group (p<0.05). Performance in the theLondrina ADL had high intraclass correlation coefficient ICC=0.813. A moderatenegative correlation was found between the time to complete the Londrina Protocoland 6MWT (p<0.05), and a weak negative correlation was found between dominantside hand grip strength (p<0.05) and MAS (p<0.05) in individuals with SSc. A moderatepositive correlation was found between the Londrina Protocol and the 9-Hole Peg Testfor the dominant side (p<0.05). The Londrina Protocol is a valid and reliable method, hence, this makes itappropriate for an objective, performance-based evaluation of ADL in SSc population. Key Points • The results obtained by reapplication the Londrina ADL Protocol under the same conditions showed that the Londrina ADL Protocol is a highly reliable assessment method in scleroderma patients. • Considering the activities and protocol content of the Londrina ADL Protocol, it is thought to show functional performance better than the Glittre ADL test and 6MWT. • The Londrina ADL Protocol is appropriate for objective and performance-based assessment of ADL in the SSc population for both research and clinical practice.

Long‑term physical and mental Health-Related Quality of Life in Italian patients post COVID-19 hospitalisation.

Prior evidence suggests that patients' Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) worsens after COVID-19. This study aimed to investigate HRQoL in Italian patients post-hospitalization for COVID-19, focusing on changes in physical and mental HRQoL over time since COVID-19 diagnosis. A cohort of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 at Molinette Hospital in Turin, Italy, was contacted post-discharge to assess HRQoL using the SF-36 questionnaire. Patients completed the questionnaire only once at a different time since diagnosis. This design allowed for the analysis of responses up to three years after diagnosis. Measured scores were compared with normative data from the Italian population using z-scores. HRQoL differences by gender, comorbidities, and self-perception of health status before and after COVID-19 were tested. The effect of time since diagnosis on physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) SF-36 scores was analysed using multiple linear models and stratified analyses. A total of 601 patients completed the questionnaire. HRQoL was significantly lower compared to the normative Italian population. Men and individuals without comorbidities had better HRQoL, and self-perceptions of health status before and after COVID-19 influenced HRQoL. Time since diagnosis was associated with improved PCS, but MCS remained unaffected. Mental health declined in patients using anxiolytics post-COVID-19, and increasing age negatively affected physical health. Our findings highlight the impact of time since diagnosis on HRQoL post-COVID-19 in an Italian population and suggest the need for further investigation into the pandemic's effects on HRQoL. Physicians should implement measures to improve mental HRQoL post-COVID-19.

Impact of a Long-Term Home-Based Rehabilitation Program on Quality of Life, Balance, and Autonomy in Adults with Disabilities

Background: Rehabilitation is a critical process for enhancing functionality, independence, and quality of life in individuals with disabilities. Grounded in the biopsychosocial model, it addresses physical, emotional, and social dimensions through personalized, evidence-based interventions. By integrating standardized assessments and continuous evaluation, rehabilitation has the potential to promote recovery and support active participation in society. Objectives: This study evaluated the impact of a long-term, multidisciplinary, home-based rehabilitation program on quality of life, balance, and functional autonomy in adults with neuromusculoskeletal disabilities. Methods: A total of 559 participants received individualized interventions from a team of physical therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and other health professionals. Functional independence, balance, depressive symptoms, and quality of life were assessed using the Barthel Index, Berg Balance Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, and SF-36 questionnaire, respectively. Results: A longitudinal analysis comparing pre- and post-intervention outcomes revealed statistically significant improvements (p &lt; 0.001) across all metrics. The Barthel Index median increased from 85 to 90 points, indicating greater functional independence, while the Berg Balance Scale improved from 39 to 47 points, reflecting reduced fall risk. Depressive symptoms decreased, with Beck Depression Inventory scores dropping from 12 to 9, and both physical and mental health components of the SF-36 showed marked enhancements. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate the program’s effectiveness in addressing both physical and emotional needs, emphasizing the value of extended, personalized, home-based care in improving health, autonomy, and overall quality of life for individuals with disabilities. This study underscores the potential of multidisciplinary approaches to support long-term rehabilitation in diverse populations.

Comparing quality of life difference between diabetics and non-diabetics during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and post-pandemic: A web-based cross-sectional study India

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has irreversibly altered the global landscape, with far-reaching consequences for individuals’ quality of life (QOL). In India, the series of lockdowns imposed to combat the pandemic presented unique challenges, exacerbating mental health concerns and amplifying anxiety and discontent among the population. Notably, the pandemic’s impact on QOL has been unevenly distributed, with diabetic individuals potentially facing distinct challenges compared to their non-diabetic counterparts. Existing research in India has primarily focused on the health-related concerns of diabetic individuals, leaving a significant knowledge gap regarding the QOL of non-diabetic individuals during and following the pandemic. A comprehensive understanding of QOL differences between diabetic and non-diabetic populations is crucial for developing targeted interventions and improving overall well-being. Objective: This study aims to address this gap by exploring and comparing the QOL of diabetic and non-diabetic individuals in India during and after COVID-19, providing valuable insights into the pandemic’s impact on this critical aspect of health. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional, comparative online-based survey study was conducted among 212 participants (diabetic and non-diabetic) aged 18 years and below 60 years visiting SRM General Hospital, between July and August 2021 during the COVID-19, and their self-reported scores were compared two years post-pandemic. A snowball sampling method was employed due to the pandemic's dynamic nature and online data collection feasibility. The RAND SF-36, a widely used 36-item quality-of-life questionnaire, was administered online via Google Forms and distributed through social media platforms and email invitations. Paired t-tests compared quality of life (QOL) during and after the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Multivariate regression analysis identified independent predictors influencing RAND SF-36 subscale scores. Results: The study involved the collection of responses from a total of 212 participants, with a mean age of 46.61±17.4 years. The RAND SF-36 questionnaire assessed the quality of life (QOL) during and after the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The results revealed significant differences in the general (45.8±13.0 vs 64.9±19.7; p=0.001) and mental health (53.5±12.3vs. 62.7±12.8, p&lt;0.001) between the two time periods.Furthermore, the study revealed age (β=-0.369, p=0.004, 95%CI [-0.608, -0.101]) and employment status(β=-2.11, p=0.041, 95%CI [ -0.083, -4.139]) showed significant negative association with physical health-related component. In addition, the duration of comorbidities (β=-5.326, p=0.047,95%CI [-11.408, -0.756] gravely affected the mental health component, respectively.&gt; Conclusion: Significant differences were noted in quality of life (QOL) between the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic period and after, with lower general health and mental health scores shown in diabetics as compared to non-diabetic individuals. Older age and unemployment were associated with worse physical health QoL, while the longer duration of comorbidities negatively impacted mental health QOL regardless of diabetes status. These findings suggest the pandemic substantially affected various aspects of QoL, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to support vulnerable populations.

Health-related quality of life following bisphosphonate therapy in individuals with Paget’s disease of bone – A study from a teaching hospital in Southern India

ABSTRACT Background: Paget’s disease of bone (PDB) is associated with considerable morbidity because of bony pains, fractures, and deformities. Remission, as assessed by reduction in alkaline phosphatase levels, does not necessarily correlate with improvement in quality of life (QoL). Health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) in affected individuals is not well-studied in India. This study attempts to describe the QoL in individuals with PDB. Methods: In this prospective observational study spanning 6 years (Jan 2017–Dec 2022), we included 29 treatment-naïve patients diagnosed with PDB based on clinical, biochemical, and radiographic features. All patients received treatment with antiresorptive agents. SF-36 questionnaire was administered before treatment and at review. Results: A total of 29 patients with PDB (20 males), with a mean (SD) age of 68.1 (9.8) years, were included. Symptomatic disease was seen in 23/29 (79.3%) and polyostotic disease in 25/29 (86%) subjects. The median duration of symptoms was 6 months (0–24 months). The most frequently involved skeletal sites were the pelvis (69%), vertebrae and sacrum (68%), followed by the skull (48%) and lower limb (48%). The subjects were treated with parenteral zoledronate (65.5%), oral alendronate (24.1%), and denosumab (6.9%). There was a significant improvement in all eight domains of QoL (P = 0.0001) as assessed by the SF-36 questionnaire. The maximum improvement (27.2%) was observed in the physical functioning domain (P = 0.0001). Conclusion: This study assessed various domains in QoL by using the SF-36 questionnaire at baseline and post-treatment with antiresorptive agents, and it was noted that there was a significant improvement in all domains of QoL.

Validation of Thyroid-Specific Quality of Life questionnaire Thypro-39 in Brazilian Portuguese

The purpose of the study is to validate ThyPRO-39 questionnaire to Brazilian Portuguese. The validated Portugal Portuguese version of ThyPRO-39, provided by the questionnaire developer, was used to adapt it to Brazilian Portuguese and these changes were validated by a translator. A cross-sectional study was carried out on people with thyroid disease, who were invited to participate in the research through the study author's social media. The study occurred between August 2020 and October 2020 and included 516 participants. Results obtained in both questionnaires, SF-36 and ThyPRO-39br, showed moderate correlation in all similar scales, Cronbach's alpha was higher than 0.7 in 10 of the 12 scales, and the clinical validation showed that results obtained were compatible with the expected for the patient diagnosis. Regarding the convergent validation between the ThyPro-39br and SF-36 questionnaires, the strongest correlations were found between the final composite score of ThyPRO-39br and SF-36 functional capacity (-0.591, p&lt;0.001), impact on daily life and physical aspects (-0.568, p&lt;0.001), and anxiety and mental health (-0.541, p&lt;0.001). The ThyPRO-39br version was satisfactorily validated through 3 different methods and is available for future thyroid diseases quality of life research in Brazil.

Transforaminal Lumbar Endoscopic Discectomy: A Novel Alternative for Management of Lumbar Disc Herniation in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Objective: Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) represents an increasingly encountered condition in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The aim of the present study is to assess the progress of health-related quality of life following transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy (TELD) for LDH in patients suffering from RA.Methods: Seventy-four patients, scheduled to undergo elective TELD for LDH, were prospectively enrolled in the study. Group A included 36 otherwise healthy individuals and group B 38 patients complementarily diagnosed with RA according to the 2010 ACR/EULAR (American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism) criteria. The Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short Form health survey (SF-36) was selected for the outcome assessment at baseline and postoperatively, at selected intervals at 6 weeks, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively.Results: Group A presented statistically significantly higher scores in all SF-36 domains and all selected intervals (p&lt;0.001), except for mental health parameter. All aspects of SF-36 questionnaire significantly improved postoperatively (p&lt;0.001) and in each group independently. Nevertheless, the absolute improvement between consecutive time intervals did not differ significantly between the 2 groups.Conclusion: Patients diagnosed with RA who undergo TELD for LDH demonstrate statistically significant improvement in their health status, as measured by SF-36 questionnaire, one year after the procedure. This improvement is comparable with normal individuals.

Application of a single series of Mulligan mobilization in a patient with hip joint degeneration – a case study

IntroductionOsteoarthritis is one of the most common diseases of the hip joint, resulting in significant pain and disability. One of the therapeutic methods that bring significant positive effects is mobilization with movement according to Mulligan.AimThe aim of the study was to examine the effect of the Mulligan mobilization with movement method on reducing pain, increasing hip joint mobility and improving the quality of life.Case studyA 60-year-old female patient who had been suffering from hip joint degeneration for 16 years, underwent 20 sessions using the Mulligan mobilization with movement method using a therapeutic belt with passive and active participation of the patient, low and high positions.DiscussionImprovement in the range of motion of passive flexion from 101° to 113°, extension from 12° to 18°, abduction from 29° to 35°, adduction from 11° to 18°, external rotation from 34° to 37°, internal rotation from 21° to 30° was observed. The patient's quality of life measured using the SF-36 questionnaire improved by 19 points, the pain sensations decreased by 0.5 points on the VAS scale. The hip joint function improved by 12 points according to the HHS questionnaire.ConclusionsThe use of the Mulligan mobilization with movement method in a patient suffering from degenerative disease of the hip joint improved the range of motion of the hip joint, improved the quality of life, reduced pain and improved the functionality of the hip joint.

Correlation between radiologic and clinical features with quality of life in knee osteoarthritis: A Literature Review

Osteotarthritis (OA) is one of the most common inflammatory joint diseases and rheumatic musculoskeletal conditions worldwide. OA is the 11th most disabling disease in the world. Knee OA is the most common joint condition, accounting for 83% of cases out of 4% of the global population. Diagnosing OA typically begins with history taking of patient, physical examinations, and supportive examination guided by the Indonesian Rheumatology Association. WOMAC index is a widely used patient-reported tool to assess pain, stiffness, and physical function in knee OA patients. Additionallly, knee OA is often evaluated using anteroposterior radiographs to identify osteophytes and joint space narrowing. The Kellgren-Lawrence scoring system is commonly employed to classify radiographis severity. Knee OA is a chronic condition that impairs daily activities and significantly diminishes quality of life (QoL). The SF-36 questionnaire is frequently used to evaluate QoL, providing a holistic view of health status and guiding patient management. Based on the high prevalence of knee OA, the variety of instruments used in determining the severity of OA both clinically and radiologically, the variety of risk factors for OA events, and the lack of research related to the relationship between clinical and radiological images with the quality of life of patients, researchers will analyse the correlation between radiological images (Kellgren-Lawrence) and clinical images (WOMAC) with QoL (SF-36). However, more extensive and in-depth study is still required to determine which risk factors have a significant impact on the correlation of this three components in knee OA patients.

Comparing Quality of Life and Psychological Changes in Benign and Malignant Lung Resections.

Background and Objectives: Pulmonary resections are critical interventions for treating various lung pathologies, both benign and malignant. Understanding the impact of these surgeries on patients' Quality of Life (QoL) is essential for optimizing care. This study aims to compare the Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) and psychological well-being in patients who underwent pulmonary resections for benign versus malignant etiologies. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 117 patients who underwent pulmonary resection between January 2022 and June 2023. Participants were divided into two groups: 51 patients with benign lung conditions and 66 with malignant lung tumors. HRQoL was assessed using the SF-36 and WHOQOL-BREF questionnaires. Anxiety and depression levels were evaluated using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Patients were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Results: Patients with malignant etiologies were older (58.7 vs. 54.2 years) and had lower FEV1% predicted (79.1% vs. 82.5%) compared to the benign group. Malignant patients reported significantly lower scores in physical functioning (68.1 vs. 75.4), role-physical (65.0 vs. 72.3), and general health domains of the SF-36 (62.4 vs. 70.2). WHOQOL-BREF scores indicated a lower overall QoL in the malignant group, particularly in the physical health (65.3 vs. 72.1) and psychological domains (68.0 vs. 74.5). HADS scores revealed higher anxiety (9.1 vs. 7.2) and depression levels (8.5 vs. 6.8) among malignant patients. Correlation analyses showed strong associations between lower QoL scores and higher anxiety and depression levels. Conclusions: Pulmonary resections for malignant conditions are associated with a significant decline in HRQoL compared to benign conditions. Patients with malignant etiologies experience higher levels of anxiety and depression, emphasizing that clinicians should integrate specialized mental health services and tailored physical rehabilitation programs for patients undergoing pulmonary resections for malignant lung conditions to address their significantly reduced quality of life and increased psychological distress.

Effect of taking a dietary supplement containing Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus on clinical manifestations of functional dyspepsia and patients’ quality of life

Background. Functional dyspepsia is a common disorder that is difficult to treat and has a significant negative impact on the quality of life of patients. There is growing evidence that small intestinal microbiota plays a certain role in the pathophysiology of functional dyspepsia. Research aim: to study the effect of a product containing lyophilized lactic acid bacteria Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus strain 9702 (IMV B-7085) and its metabolic products on the clinical manifestations of the disease and quality of life of patients with functional dyspepsia. Materials and methods. Thirty-seven patients (16 men and 21 women) with functional dyspepsia were included in the study, their average age was (45.9 ± 2.5) years. The score on the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale was analyzed before treatment, after completing a 15-day course of taking the probiotic additive, which contained Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, and 15 days after the end of the course. The dynamics of quality of life was evaluated based on the analysis of the SF-36 questionnaires, completed by patients before treatment and on day 30 of observation. Statistical calculations were performed using MedCalc® software, version 12.5.0.0. Results. On day 15 of taking the drug and 15 days after the end of the course, a significant (p &lt; 0.05) decrease in the severity of clinical manifestations on the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale was found compared to the baseline. The analysis of the dynamics of responses to the SF-36 questionnaire revealed a significant increase (p &lt; 0.05) on all scales of the physical component of health and a significant increase (p &lt; 0.05) in social functioning on all scales of the psychological component of health on day 30 of observation. Conclusions. Taking a dietary supplement containing Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus strain 9702 (IMV B-7085) improves the clinical manifestations of functional dyspepsia, as evidenced by a reduction in the severity of gastrointestinal symptoms and increased quality of life of these patients.

Late results of surgery for pilonidal disease with an assessment of the cosmetic effect after various options for wound closure

AIM: to improve late results of pilonidal disease treatment.PATIENTS AND METHODS: a multicenter retrospective cohort study included patients with pilonidal disease using the original new method — the main group (n = 31) and patients with Karidakis method as controls (n = 70). The recurrence rate was estimated. Six months after surgery, ultrasound, the Vancouver Scale and the SF-36 questionnaire assessed the postoperative scar, cosmetic result and quality of life.RESULTS: the cosmetic effect of the postoperative scar was evaluated and significant differences between groups were obtained. According to the Vancouver Scale, 12 (41.4%) patients of the main group and 11 (16.9%) patients from the control group had a normal color of the postoperative scar (0 points) (p = 0.02). When assessing the pigmentation of the scar, it was found that normal pigmentation (0 points) was found in 8 (28.0%) patients of the main group, and in the control group this indicator was only 5 (8.0%) cases (p = 0.02). The pressure-resistant scar density (2 points) was 17 (59.0%) patients in the main group and 22 (34.0%) patients in the control group (p = 0.04). The scar width in the group using the new method was 1–2 mm (1 point) in 20 cases (69%), whereas in the control group, a similar scar width was recorded in 18 (28.0%) patients (p &lt; 0.001). When evaluating the results of ultrasound of the soft tissue infiltration zone (p = 0.26) and the volume of infiltration (p = 0.36), as well as assessing the quality of life, no significant differences were found. There were no significant differences in the recurrence rate: in the main group it was 2 (6.45%), in the comparison group — 5 (7.14%) cases (p = 0.77).CONCLUSIONS: a new original method for pilonidal disease in comparison with the Karydakis method provides a better cosmetic result

Fully remote versus hybrid supervision of pulmonary telerehabilitation in COVID-19: a randomized clinical trial.

The restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic have impeded the traditional rehabilitation process, prompting the widespread adoption of remote programs for the recovery of survivors. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of a pulmonary telerehabilitation program (PTRP) in the exclusively remote modality versus the hybrid modality (remote and face-to-face) in patients with persistent respiratory dysfunction following hospitalization for COVID-19 pneumonia, and to compare the functional capacity of patients who participated in a PTRP with those who did not. A randomised, interventional, prospective clinical trial was conducted. In parallel, an observational cohort study was conducted. Outpatient rehabilitation clinic and home-based rehabilitation program. Thirty patients post-COVID-19 were randomised into two groups: G1 (fully remote supervision of PTRP) or G2 (hybrid supervision of PTRP). Thirty-seven post-COVID-19 patients were followed up without participating in PTRP (non-intervention group - NIG). Patients with persistent respiratory dysfunction and reduced functional capacity, as measured by the Six Minute Walk Test (6MWT), after hospitalization for COVID-19 pneumonia, were considered eligible for a PTRP. To assess the efficacy of the PTRP, the primary outcome (I) was distance walked on the 6MWT (6MWD) and the secondary outcome (II) was quality of life as assessed by the SF-36 questionnaire. Both G1 and G2 demonstrated similar improvement in 6MWD, P<0.001 and quality of life (P<0.05). The IG showed higher 6MWD than the NIG (P<0.001). The increase in 6MWD for the IG was 140.5 m, while for the NIG it was 16.8 m (P=0.002). The PTRP was found to be a feasible and highly effective intervention for restoring functional capacity and improving quality of life, regardless of the type of supervision. Furthermore, this functional gain was maintained over the long term. In patients with pulmonary dysfunction, participation in the PTRP improved functional capacity compared with those who were simply advised to resume physical activity during recovery. Telerehabilitation has been demonstrated to be a viable and efficacious alternative to traditional in-person programs in low-income contexts.

Качество жизни пациентов до и после хирургического удаления конкрементов мочевого пузыря различными способами

Background. The choice of treatments should be based on the impact on the psychological, functional, social and economic lives of patients. According to the 2023 European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines, transurethral cystolithotripsy is safe and effective, but is associated with an increased complication rate and operating time for large stones. Suprapubic percutaneous cystolithotripsy is a minimally invasive alternative for the treatment of bladder stones and obstructive causes of their formation. Cystolithiasis and its treatment significantly affect the quality of life (QoL) of patients, which is important to evaluate in patients with bladder stones and bladder outlet obstruction after percutaneous and transurethral cystolithotripsy. Aim of the study: to compare health-related quality of life after surgery with transurethral cystolithotripsy with litholapaxy (TUC) and percutaneous suprapubic cystolithotripsy (PCCL) and to evaluate factors influencing quality of life in patients with urolithiasis. Material and methods. A total of 85 patients who suffered from cystolithiasis secondary to bladder outlet obstruction and underwent surgical treatment (the main group was percutaneous puncture cystolithotripsy, n = 40; the control group was transurethral cystolithotripsy, n = 45). All patients were administered the Short-Form 36-item survey (SF-36) and Visual Analog Scale for Pain (VAS) to assess health-related quality of life at four timepoints: before and after surgery, 1 week after, and 1 month after lithotripsy. Stone-free rates, complications, and analgesic requirements were evaluated to compare the effects of the two procedures on HRQoL. Results. After treatment, in the main group there was a statistically significant decrease in the level of pain on the VAS scale compared to the control group (p&lt;0.05). According to the SF-36 questionnaire, statistically significant differences in the physical and psychological functioning of patients in different study groups were also revealed (p&lt;0.05), which confirms the effectiveness of the treatment used in the main group. Conclusion. Quality of life after lithotripsy was higher in PCCL compared with TUC in the dynamics of the study. The presence of postoperative complications and greater postoperative pain appeared to be determinants of lower quality of life in the TUC group.

Amitriptyline–perphenazine therapy for persistent idiopathic facial pain: translational perspectives from a retrospective study

BackgroundPersistent idiopathic facial pain (PIFP) can be challenging, both in its diagnosis, which appears to be purely exclusionary, and in its treatment, which currently lacks a gold standard. Amitriptyline is considered a first-line therapy, although not always effective. Recent insights into the role of dopamine in facial pain suggest that a novel therapeutic approach could target the dopamine system.MethodsThis study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the efficacy of treatment with amitriptyline–perphenazine association in patients with severe PIFP. Thirty-one patients were given a regimen dose of amitriptyline–perphenazine at dosages ranging between 10/2 and 20/4 mg and were then retrospectively analyzed. We evaluated the following outcomes, referred to the last week prior to follow-up visits: NRS score for pain intensity (minimum, maximum, and average), the number of attacks, and SF-36 questionnaire for quality of life. Comparisons were made between pre- and post-treatment.ResultsThirty-one patients over 35 were screened. At baseline, average NRS was 5 ± 0.93 (CI 95%: 4.6–5.3), and the median number of breakthrough episodes over last week was 5 ± 1.57 (CI 95%: 4–6) with a maximum NRS = 9 ± 0.89 (CI 95%: 8–9). After treatment, average NRS was 4.1 ± 0.93 (CI 95%: 3.8–4.5; p < 0.001), maximum NRS was 6.1 ± 1.60 (CI 95%: 5.5–6.6), and the median number of attacks was 4 ± 0.99 (IC 95%: 3–4) (p < 0.001). Regarding SF-36 questionnaire, the most improved parameters were quality of life related to pain (25.89 ± 12.48 vs 31.19 ± 13.44; p < 0.001) and physical function (69.56 ± 17.84 vs 84.17 ± 20.99; p < 0.001).ConclusionDespite limitations, the pain scores, the frequency of the attacks, and quality of life were found to be significantly improved after treatment. Although results are not broad based given the small sample size, the combination of amitriptyline and perphenazine may be an effective and well-tolerated treatment in patients with PIFP. It is abundantly clear that dopaminergic pathways play a key role in pain modulation, yet the underlying mechanisms have not been fully understood, requiring further investigation.

Antidepressant and anxiolytic efficacy and tolerability of agomelatine in the treatment of depression after COVID-19 in daily clinical practice (non-interventional study TELESPHOR)

Depression and anxiety are among the most common disorders observed in patients after COVID-19 coronavirus infection.Objective: to evaluate the antidepressant efficacy and tolerability of agomelatine in patients with a depressive episode (DE) after COVID-19 infection in everyday clinical practice.Material and methods. The multicenter observational study TELESPHOR included outpatients aged 18 to 65 years who developed DE (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17) score of 8–24) within 3 months of the resolution of a laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 infection and started monotherapy with agomelatine. Patients were assessed at enrolment and subsequently at weeks 2, 4 and 8 of the observation period. The primary endpoint was the change in HAMD-17 scores by week 8 of the observation in patients taking agomelatine as an antidepressant. The main secondary outcome variables were the dynamics of scores for items 10 (psychic anxiety) and 11 (somatic anxiety) of the HAMD-17 scale, the proportion of responders and remitters (according to the HAMD-17 scale) and the impact on quality of life (QOL) according to the SF-36 questionnaire. The tolerability of agomelatine was assessed at each visit. Data from all patients who participated in the study and took agomelatine at least once were included in the efficacy and safety analysis. The final analysis included data from 103 patients, including 73 women (70.9%).Results. Treatment with agomelatine was associated with a significant improvement in depression severity: the mean HAMD-17 total score decreased statistically significantly at weeks 2, 4 and 8 from 16.3±4.7 at study inclusion to 13.7±4.5, 9.5±4.9 and 5.4±3.6 points – by 2.6±3.3, 6.7±5.3 and 10.9±4.9 points, respectively, compared to baseline (p&lt;0.0001 for all time points). The average score for item 10 (psychic anxiety) and item 11 (somatic anxiety) of the HAMD-17 scale also decreased significantly from 1.4±0.9 and 1.3±0.8 at baseline to 0.5±0.6 and 0.6±0.6 points by the eighth week of observation (p&lt;0.0001). The indicators of the scales for physical functioning and mental health of the SF-36 questionnaire improved significantly compared to the initial values – from 39.7±8.4 to 50.5±5.7 points (p&lt;0.0001) and from 37.3±8.6 to 58.7±6.9 points (p&lt;0.0001) respectively, by the eighth week. The proportion of responders was 81.4 %, the proportion of remitters was 71.6%. Agomelatine was well tolerated during the entire observation period. No adverse events were recorded that led to discontinuation of the drug. One patient showed inefficacy of the treatment, so he discontinued participation in the study.Conclusion. The treatment of patients with DE after COVID-19 with agomelatine is characterized by significant antidepressant and anxiolytic efficacy, improved QOL and good tolerability.