Significant Reduction In Visual Analog Scale Scores Research Articles

Acupuncture for the treatment of painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and purposeA growing number of studies have investigated the efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (PDPN), but the findings of these studies have generated conflicting results. This study therefore aimed to assess the efficacy of acupuncture for treating PDPN so as to offer more conclusive results. MethodsSeven databases were systematically searched for studies published up until December 1, 2023. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of acupuncture for PDPN with visual analog scale (VAS) for pain score were included. Study selection, data extraction, and evaluation were conducted independently by researchers. The Risk of Bias 2 (RoB2) tool was employed to assess the risk of bias. From this sample, the mean difference (MD), 95 % confidence intervals (CI), publication bias, and heterogeneity were then computed. ResultsThe manual acupuncture group exhibited a significant decrease in the VAS for pain score compared with the routine care group (p < 0.0001; MD = −1.45 [95 % CI, −1.97 to −0.93], I2 = 84 %). The real acupuncture group demonstrated a greater reduction in VAS scores than the sham acupuncture group (p = 0.004; MD = −0.97 [95 % CI, −1.63 to −0.31], I2 = 65 %). Additionally, the acupuncture group showed improvements in sensory nerve conduction velocity (SNCV, p < 0.0001; MD = 2.29 [95 % CI, 1.79 to 2.78], I2 = 14 %) as well as motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV, p < 0.0001; MD = 2.87 [95 % CI, 2.46 to 3.27], I2 = 0). Different durations of acupuncture treatment, including 6–10 weeks and 3–4 weeks, demonstrated a significant reduction in VAS scores compared with the routine care group. ConclusionThis meta-analysis provides preliminary evidence for the claim that acupuncture has the potential to alleviate PDPN symptoms and improve SNCV and MNCV. However, high-quality RCTs are needed to offer further evidence and thus better substantiate such a contention.

Safety and effectiveness of ultrasound-guided single injection of 5% dextrose for median nerve hydrodissection in carpal tunnel syndrome

Background: In carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), conservative management did not show satisfactory results, and some patients required revision surgery due to persistent or recurrent symptoms. Ultrasound (USG)-guided median nerve (MN) hydrodissection with a 5% dextrose injection is an advanced approach for treating symptoms of CTS. We prospectively investigated the patients to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of this approach. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the effect of USG-guided nerve hydrodissection using single injection of 5% dextrose on pain, MN conduction parameters, and functional status in patients with CTS of mild–to-moderate grade. The study also predicts about the safety of the procedure. Materials and Methods: A study was performed in the pain clinic of the tertiary care teaching institute of India for one year. The study included 15 patients diagnosed with mild-to-moderate CTS. The diagnosis was done on the basis of history, physical examination, and a nerve conduction velocity (NCV) study. Patients were given analgesics and NSAIDS and enrolled in the procedure. Parameters used for statistical analysis were Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, NCV study data (sensory conduction velocity [SNCV] and distal motor latency [DML]), and Boston carpal tunnel questionnaire (BCTQ) scores. Pre-injection parameters were compared with parameters 3 months after the injection to show the usefulness of this procedure. Results: A statistically significant reduction in VAS score was found in 74% of the cases (P&lt;0.05). The nerve conduction study parameters have shown significantly higher SNCV and lower DML latency in 60% of cases (P=0.001 and P=0.001, respectively). Improved BCTQ scores were found in 80% of cases (for the symptom severity scale, P=0.001 and for the functional status scale, P&lt;0.01). No complications such as allergic reactions, sensory loss, or paresis were recorded post-injection. However, transient injection site pain was present in all patients which did not last for more than 24 h. Conclusion: MN hydrodissection using a single injection of 5% dextrose under USG is a safe and effective approach offering pain relief, better MN conduction, and improved functional status in patients with CTS of mild-to-moderate grade.

Assessment of Pain in Endometriosis: A Radiologic Perspective on Disease Severity.

Background Endometriosis is a prevalent gynecological disorder characterized by extra-uterine endometrial-like tissue, causing substantial morbidity, including chronic pelvic pain and infertility. Little is known about the correlation between imaging findings and pain severity in endometriosis. Methods We conducted a prospective observational study, enrolling 150 women diagnosed with endometriosis. Clinical, imaging (MRI and transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS)), and histopathological criteria were used for diagnosis. Pain severity was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Statistical analysis included multivariate regression to identify predictors of pain severity. Results Imaging revealed common sites of endometriosis involvement, predominantly ovaries (73.3%) and rectovaginal septum (40%). Deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) was present in 30% of patients, predominantly affecting uterosacral ligaments (66.7% of DIE cases). Patients with ovarian endometriomas and DIE exhibited significantly higher VAS scores (7.6 ± 1.5 and 8.0 ± 1.2, respectively) compared to those without (6.5 ± 1.9 and 6.9 ± 1.8, respectively). Surgical intervention led to a significant reduction in VAS scores (from 7.4 ± 1.6 to 3.2 ± 1.7, p < 0.001), correlating with reductions in lesion size and extent observed in follow-up imaging. Conclusion Advanced imaging techniques, particularly MRI and TVUS, play a critical role in assessing pain severity in endometriosis. Ovarian endometriomas and DIE are independent predictors of increased pain severity, guiding personalized treatment strategies. Surgical excision of lesions, particularly in cases of DIE, offers substantial pain relief and improves quality of life, emphasizing the integration of imaging in clinical decision-making for optimal endometriosis management.

Revitalizing Post-Mastectomy Lives: Unveiling the Impact of Aerobic and Mobility with Strengthening Exercises in Improving Shoulder Pain, ROM, and Strength

Background: Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women globally, with Pakistan having one of the highest incidence rates in Asia. Post-mastectomy patients often suffer from shoulder pain, reduced range of motion (ROM), and muscle weakness, impacting their quality of life. This study investigates the efficacy of a comprehensive exercise regimen in alleviating these symptoms. Objective: To evaluate the impact of aerobic, mobility, and strengthening exercises on shoulder pain, ROM, and muscle strength in post-mastectomy patients undergoing chemotherapy. Methods: A six-month case-control study was conducted with 60 participants, aged 25-65, who had undergone radical mastectomy and were in the chemotherapy phase. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: the case group (n=30), which underwent an eight-week program of aerobic, mobility, and strengthening exercises, and the control group (n=30), which performed only aerobic exercises. Data collection tools included the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain assessment, a Goniometer for ROM measurement, and Manual Muscle Testing (MMT) for muscle strength evaluation. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25, with paired and independent t-tests applied to compare pre- and post-intervention scores. Results: The case group showed a significant reduction in VAS scores (mean difference = 2.93333, p&lt;0.001) compared to the control group (mean difference = 0.40000, p=0.028). MMT results indicated significant improvements in muscle strength for the right deltoid (mean difference = -0.40000, p=0.009) and left pectoralis major (mean difference = -0.73333, p&lt;0.001) in the case group. ROM improvements were significant for right shoulder extension (mean difference = -0.80000, p&lt;0.001) and left shoulder external rotation (mean difference = -1.73333, p&lt;0.001) in the case group. Conclusion: A comprehensive exercise regimen, including aerobic, mobility, and strengthening exercises, significantly improved shoulder pain, ROM, and muscle strength in post-mastectomy patients. These findings support the integration of multifactorial physiotherapy into rehabilitation protocols for breast cancer survivors to enhance their long-term health and quality of life. Keywords: Breast cancer, mastectomy, shoulder pain, range of motion, muscle strength, aerobic exercises, mobility exercises, strengthening exercises, rehabilitation, physiotherapy, post-mastectomy recovery.

Modified Surgical Treatment for Achilles Tendon Rupture Secondary to Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy Using Midline Dorsal Approach

Objective: To assess the pain relief and functional outcomes of patients who undergo surgical management of Achilles tendon rupture secondary to insertional Achilles tendinopathy and associated conditions using a midline dorsal approach.Methods: This prospective observational study included 30 patients diagnosed with Achilles tendon rupture secondary to insertional Achilles tendinopathy. We recorded risk factors, predisposing factors, and co-morbidities for all cases. Pain relief and functional improvement were assessed by comparing Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores and American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS) at the time of presentation and at the final follow-up. We conducted statistical analysis using SPSS 21.0 software, with a significance level of p&lt;0.05.Results: Of the participants, 17 (56.67%) were male and 13 (43.13%) were female, resulting in a male-to-female ratio of 1:0.76. The mean age of male and female patients was comparable (p=0.7515). The majority of patients (60%) were overweight, while 9 (30%) were obese, and 3 (10%) had a normal body mass index. We observed a significant reduction in pain and functional improvement in the studied cases, as evidenced by a statistically significant reduction in VAS scores and improvements in AOFAS. Eight (26.66%) patients experienced minor complications that could be managed conservatively, but no major complications were observed.Conclusion: Modified surgical treatment of Achilles tendon rupture secondary to insertional Achilles tendinopathy using a midline dorsal approach leads to significant improvements in pain and functional outcomes, with an acceptable complication rate.

Effectiveness of betahistine as an add‐on therapy to epley maneuver for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

AbstractObjectiveEpley maneuver is the most effective treatment for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Betahistine has been shown to be effective in treating BPPV. This systematic review aims to compare the effectiveness of Epley maneuver with betahistine to Epley maneuver alone in reducing residual dizziness in BPPV.Data SourcesMedline, Embase, and CENTRAL.MethodsWe included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared Epley maneuver with betahistine to Epley maneuver alone for treating BPPV. We evaluated the effectiveness of this intervention using Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for vertigo, and provocation maneuvers. We used the standardized mean difference (SMD) for continuous outcomes and the odds ratio (OR) for the dichotomous outcomes.ResultsA total of eight RCTs that enrolled 516 participants were deemed eligible. Administration of betahistine with Epley maneuver showed no clinically significant difference over Epley maneuver alone in DHI score (SMD: −0.11, 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.57 to 0.34, p = 0.63, I2 = 79%), VAS scores (SMD: −0.57, 95% CI, −1.57 to 0.43, p = 0.26, I2 = 89%), or on provocation maneuvers (OR: 1.84, 95% CI, 0.92 to 3.68, p = 0.08, I2 = 0%) after 1 week of betahistine administration. However, participants who received betahistine combined with Epley maneuver showed a statistically significant reduction in VAS scores after 4 weeks of betahistine administration (SMD: −0.89, 95% CI, −1.30 to −0.49, p &lt; 0.0001, I2 = 33%).ConclusionCombining betahistine with Epley maneuver could improve the outcomes of BPPV in the long term. However, clinical trials with longer follow‐up periods are needed to unravel its efficacy.

Comparative Evaluation of Analgesic Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Pericapsular Nerve Group Block and Femoral Nerve Block During Positioning of Patients With Hip Fractures for Spinal Anesthesia: A Prospective, Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled Study.

Hip fractures cause severe pain during positioning for spinal anesthesia (SA). Intravenous systemic analgesics can lead to various complications in elderly patients, hence peripheral nerve blocks are emerging as a standard of care in pain management for hip fractures, among which femoral nerve block (FNB) is widely known and practiced. Pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block is a recently described technique that blocks the articular nerves of the hip with motor-sparing effectsand is used to manage positional pain in hip fractures. This study aims to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of PENG block over FNBin managing pain during positioning before SA in hip fractures. This was a prospective, randomized, double-blinded study. After ethical clearance, 70 patients undergoing hip fracture surgery under SA in a tertiary-care hospitalwere recruited and randomized to receive either ultrasound-guided PENG block or FNB with 20 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine before performing SA. We compared pain severity using the visual analog scale (VAS) 15 and 30 minutes after the block and during positioning. The sitting angle, requirement of rescue analgesia for positioning, and anesthesiologist and patient satisfaction scores were also analyzed. Continuous data were analyzed with an unpaired t-test while the chi-square test was used for categorical data. There was a significant reduction in VAS scores after PENG block (PENG: 0.66 ± 1.05 and FNB: 1.94 ± 1.90; p= 0.001) with lesser requirement of rescue analgesia for positioning compared to FNB. The anesthesiologist and patient satisfaction scores were also significantly better in the PENG group. PENG block offers better analgesia for positioning before SA than FNB without any significant side effects, and improves patient and anesthesiologist satisfaction, thus proving to be an effective analgesic alternative for painful hip fractures.

The effect of pre-endoscopy maltodextrin beverage on gastric residual volume and patient’s well-being: a randomised controlled trial

Prolonged fasting prior to oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGDS) could be noxious to patients’ well-being. Strict fasting protocol has been used prior to OGDS with the concern of reduced visibility or suboptimal endoscopic assessment. Maltodextrin beverages were also commonly used as the pre-operative carbohydrate loading in enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol. Our study aimed to look for the effects of maltodextrin beverage 2 h before OGDS on gastric residual volume and patient’s well-being scores. This was a single-blinded, stratified randomised controlled trial, comparing control group (A, received 400 ml of plain water) and carbohydrate loading group (B, received 400 ml of Carborie). The primary objectives were to measure the gastric residual volume (GRV) and patient’s well-being scores using visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for hunger, thirst, anxiety, tiredness and general discomfort. Of 80 randomised patients, 78 completed the study (38 received plain water and 40 Carborie). The median (IQR) GRV was not significantly different between group A and B (5.0 ml (20) vs 4.0 ml (19), p = 0.777). Both groups showed significant reduction in VAS scores in all five parameters (p ≤ 0.001). There were no complications attributed to endoscopy in either group. Pre-endoscopy maltodextrin beverage is as safe as clear water with improved patient’s well-being in both groups.Clinical Trial Registration: NCT05106933.

Reducing Pain and Promoting Healing in Acute Anal Fissure with Individualised Homoeopathic Treatment: A Case Series

AbstractAnal fissure (AF) is a prevalent cause of severe anal pain and is among the most common anorectal issues encountered in clinical practice. This case series aims to evaluate the effectiveness of individualised homoeopathic medicine (IHM) prescriptions in patients with acute AF. The study included seven diagnosed cases of AF that were treated with personalised homoeopathic medicine. Pain was evaluated using a visual analogue scale (VAS), and the Outcome in Relation to Impact on Daily Life (ORIDL) score was used to assess treatment outcomes and fissure healing at baseline and during follow-up visits. The Modified Naranjo Criteria were used to evaluate the causal attribution of treatment effects. All seven cases showed a significant reduction in VAS scores from baseline to 3 months (mean score: 8.71 ± 0.95 to 0.143 ± 0.37) and ORIDL score at 1 to 3 months for main complaints and overall well-being was from 2.00 ± 0.00 to 3.00 ± 0.00, and 3.71 ± 0.756 to 3.85 ± 0.37 respectively. Complete healing of the fissure was observed in six cases, while partial healing was noticed in one case. The mean Modified Naranjo Criteria score was 8.71 ± 0.75. Therefore, IHM is useful in reducing pain and promoting healing of acute AF, but more research is needed to validate its efficacy with robust methodology. Additionally, future studies should also investigate the role of Paeonia in treating AF. Nonetheless, the findings offer a potential opportunity to improve treatment options for individuals with this painful condition.

Pain and Palliative Management in Advanced Gastrointestinal Malignancies – How Are We Doing?

Aims: The aim of the study is to study the different methods and their efficacy in pain management in advanced gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies. Methods: The study included patients with advanced and inoperable GI malignancies. Demographic data, laboratory parameters and radiological investigations, baseline visual analog scale (VAS) score, and subjective global assessment (SGA) were recorded on the first contact along with details of medical, endoscopic, and palliative interventions as performed. Analgesic pain step ladder approach was followed for pain management. Follow-up to assess response was done using VAS score and SGA at the end of 3 months or death within this period. Results: Seventy-one patients were included. Most of them were elderly males. Out of 7 malignancies noted, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was the most common tumor (41; 57.8%). Thirty-five patients (49.3%) had vascular invasion, while 29 (40.8%) had metastatic cancer. The most common vascular invasion was the portal vein (29; 40.8%). The liver was the most common metastatic site (12; 16.9%). The baseline mean VAS score was 5.13 ± 2.38 and the highest was in carcinoma gallbladder patients (8.0 ± 2.0). Most patients were having baseline SGA rating B (69%). Tramadol was the most commonly used analgesic (35.22%) followed by a combination of tramadol and fentanyl (26.76%). The most common palliation was transarterial chemoembolization in HCC (80.5%) and biliary self-expandable metallic stent in carcinoma pancreas (77.8%). There was a statistically significant reduction in VAS score in HCC (P &lt; 0.001), carcinoma pancreas (P = 0.009), and colorectal cancer (P = 0.022). One-sixth patients moved from SGA rating B to rating A, 9.9% moved from SGA rating B to rating C, and 9.9% moved from SGA rating C to rating B. Conclusion: There was an improvement in quality of life at 3-month follow-up. There was significant pain improvement in the studied patients. However, almost one-third patients did not get adequate pain relief.

Safety and efficacy of intra-articular injection of platelet-rich plasma for the treatment of ankle osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) intra-articular injective treatments for ankle osteoarthritis (OA). A systematic literature search was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane library until May 2022. Both randomized and non-randomized studies were included with the assessment of the risk of bias. We recorded the participant's age, gender, type of PRP, injection volume, the kit used, and activating agent. We subsequently assessed the short-term and long-term efficacy of PRP using the functional scores and visual analog scale (VAS). We included four studies with a total of 127 patients, with a mean age of 56.1years. 47.2% were male (60/127), according to eligibility criteria. There were three cohort studies and one randomized controlled trial (RCT) study, and no study reported severe adverse events. All included studies used the Leukocyte-poor PRP. Short-term follow-up results suggested significant improvement of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score in the PRP injection group compared to the control group (n = 87 patients; MD: 6.94 [95% CI: 3.59, 10.29]; P < 0.01). Consistently, there was a statistical difference in AOFAS score between PRP injection and control groups in the final follow-up (≥ 6months) (n = 87 patients; MD: 9.63 [95% CI: 6.31, 12.94]; P < 0.01). Furthermore, we found a significant reduction in VAS scores in the PRP groups at both the short-term follow-up (n = 59 patients; MD, - 1.90 [95% CI, - 2.54, - 1.26]; P < 0.01) and the ≥ sixmonths follow-up (n = 79 patients; MD, - 3.07 [95% CI, - 5.08, - 1.05]; P < 0.01). The improvement of AOFAS and VAS scores at ≥ sixmonths follow-up reached the minimal clinically important difference (MCID). Nevertheless, the treatment effect of AOFAS and VAS scores offered by PRP at short-term follow-up did not exceed the MCID. Substantial heterogeneity was reported at the ≥ sixmonths follow-up in VAS scores (I2: 93%, P < 0.01). This meta-analysis supports the safety of PRP intra-articular injection for ankle OA. The improvements of AOFAS and VAS scores in the PRP group at short-term follow-up do not exceed the MCID to be clinically significant. PRP injection provides significant improvement of AOFAS score and reduced pain at ≥ sixmonths follow-up. The efficacy of PRP should be interpreted with caution regarding the high heterogeneity and the scarcity of available literature, which urges large-scale RCTs with longer follow-up to confirm the potential efficacy of PRP injection for ankle OA.

Clinical efficacy of transforaminal endoscopic discectomy in the treatment of recurrent lumbar disc herniation: a single-center retrospective analysis

PurposeTo investigate the clinical efficacy of transforaminal endoscopic discectomy (TED) in treating recurrent lumbar disc herniation.MethodsClinical datal of 31 patients who were hospitalized in the Department of Pain Management, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, between 2015 and 2018 due to recurrent lumbar disc herniation were collected and analyzed retrospectively. Visual analogue scale (VAS) scores and Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scores were used to assess alterations of patients’ leg pain intensity and nerve function, respectively. The Modified MacNab criteria were used to evaluate patients’ excellent and good rates.ResultsCompared to clinical data before surgery, there was a significant reduction in VAS scores (P < 0.01) along with a significant improvement in JOA scores (P < 0.01) at 2 years after revision surgery. The patients’ excellent and good rates were 83.9% at the 2 years after surgery.ConclusionThe TED is safe and effective in the long term and is applicable to the treatment of recurrent lumbar disc herniation.

The Effectiveness of Osteochondral Autograft Transfer in the Management of Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) are common following ankle trauma. Operative treatment is often required, with osteochondral autografting frequently performed for large or cystic lesions, or following failed primary surgery. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the current evidence for osteochondral autograft transfer system (OATS) in the management of OLT. A systematic search of the PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases was performed based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) guidelines. Study quality was assessed using the modified Coleman Methodology Score (CMS). Meta-analysis was carried out using RevMan, version 5.4 (The Cochrane Collaboration, 2020). A total of 23 studies were included. The mean modified CMS was 48.1±7.47. Fourteen studies reported preoperative and postoperative Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Score (AOFAS). The aggregate mean preoperative and postoperative VAS scoreacross 14 studies was 6.47±1.35 and 1.98±1.18, respectively. Meta-analysis of seven studies on 210 patients found that OATS resulted in a significant reduction in VAS score compared to baseline (Mean Difference {MD} -4.22, 95% Confidence Interval {CI} -4.54 to -3.90, P < 0.0001). The aggregate mean preoperative and postoperative AOFAS scores across 14 studies were 56.41±8.52 and 87.14±4.8, respectively. Based on eight studies on 224 patients, OATS resulted in a significant improvement in AOFAS score compared to baseline (MD 29.70, 95% CI 25.68 to 33.73, P = < 0.0001). Donor site pain occurred in 9% of cases. Current evidence from low-quality studies suggests that OATS is a safe and effective treatment option for OLT, though it is associated with a risk of donor site morbidity.

Comparison of 0.12% Chlorhexidine and a New Bone Bioactive Liquid, BBL, in Mouthwash for Oral Wound Healing: A Randomized, Double Blind Clinical Human Trial.

Following surgery, healing within the oral cavity occurs in a hostile environment, and proper oral care and hygiene are required to accelerate recovery. The aim of the current study is to investigate and compare the bioreactivity characteristics of mouthwashes based on either chlorhexidine (CHX) or a novel bone bioactive liquid (BBL) in terms of oral healing within seven days application post-surgery. A randomized, double blind clinical trial was conducted in 81 patients, wherein the mouthwashes were applied twice a day for a period of 7 days. The visual analog scale (VAS) protocol was applied to determine pain index scores. Early wound healing index (EHI) score was determined for evaluating oral cavity healing progress. No adverse effects were observed using the mouthwashes, but CHX application resulted in stained teeth. Applications of both CHX and BBL were sufficient to reduce pain over a period of 7 days. However, the BBL group demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in VAS scores starting on day 4. The EHI scores were significantly higher in the BBL group compared with the CHX group, independent of tooth location. No differences in either VAS or EHI scores due to gender were observed. Compared with the commercially available CHX mouthwash, application of the BBL mouthwash reduced pain and accelerated oral cavity healing to a greater extent, suggesting it effectively improves the oral cavity microenvironment at the wound site in mediating soft tissue regeneration.

Is there a difference in outcomes between the first and second surgical procedures in patients who have bilateral shoulder operations?

Some patients who have shoulder surgery on 1 shoulder go on to have surgery on their contralateral shoulder. It is unclear whether the clinical improvements following the second surgical procedure are as significant as the improvements after the first surgical procedure. All patients who underwent surgery on both shoulders performed by a single surgeon between March 2013 and June 2018 were eligible for inclusion. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores were obtained preoperatively and at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years for both shoulders. Scores were then compared based on hand dominance and which shoulder was treated first. Complications were also recorded. Overall, 105 patients (210 surgical procedures) were included. Of the patients, 66 underwent bilateral open shoulder surgery and 39 underwent bilateral arthroscopic shoulder surgery. There was a significant reduction in VAS scores from preoperative to postoperative levels following surgery (5.9 before surgery vs. 1.7 after surgery). We found no difference in VAS scores at any time point when comparing whether the dominant or nondominant shoulder was operated on first. Significantly higher VAS scores were observed at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months following the first shoulder operation compared with the second; by 6 months and beyond, there was no longer a difference. Patients who undergo bilateral shoulder surgery have more pain in the first 3 months following their first shoulder operation compared with their second. However, there is no difference in pain scores at 6 months and beyond between shoulders.

Simple Manual Pressure with Ultrasound-Guided Femoral Nerve Block: A randomized single blind study.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of compression on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score following the application of 3-in-1 femoral nerve block (FNB), used for pain palliation in patients with hip fractures. This was a randomized controlled trial study on application of pressure versus no pressure following FNB in patients with hip fractures. Their VAS scores were recorded and an ultrasound-guided 3-in-1 FNB was performed as a standardized procedure. After the procedure, patients were randomized into two groups and a weight with 2 kg pressure was applied to the treated area in one group. After 30 min, VAS scores were recorded again. VAS scores of all patients recorded before and after the procedure, and post-procedural VAS scores of pressure-applied and no pressure-applied groups were statistically compared. 34 patients were included in this study with 17 patients falling in the compression group (group C), and the remaining half in the non-compression group (group NC). The pre-procedural mean VAS scores were 9.35 (95% CI; 8.95-9.76)), while the post-procedural mean VAS scores dropped to 2.35 (95% CI; 1.65-3.06) in group C. The pre-procedural mean VAS score was 9.12 (95% CI; 8.64-9.59), while the post-procedural mean VAS score was 5.06 (95% CI; 4.09-6.03) in group NC. When the average reductions in VAS score following the procedure were compared, the mean difference between the two groups was calculated to be 2.94 (95% CI; 1.69-4.19) which favours group C. This difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Our study shows that, the application of simple compression after 3-in-1 FNB in patients with hip fractures provides a significant reduction in VAS scores.

Comparison of Minimally Invasive Procedures to Treat Knee Pain Secondary to Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PurposeTo review and indirectly compare the outcomes of genicular artery embolization (GAE), radiofrequency (RF) ablation, and intra-articular (IA) injection for the treatment of knee pain secondary to osteoarthritis (OA). Materials and MethodsA literature review of the MEDLINE and Cochrane databases was conducted with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement in June 2020. The visual analog scale (VAS) was recorded at baseline and at all available time points for each therapy. Standard mean differences were calculated at each time point and compared between treatments to assess the magnitude of the treatment effect. ResultsAll 3 treatments demonstrated significant differences in VAS scores after therapy. RF ablation produced the greatest significant mean reduction in relative VAS score from baseline at 1 year of follow-up (mean, 0.49; 95% confidence interval, 0.4–0.59; P = .03). GAE reported the most significant reductions in VAS scores across all measured time points. Overall, the comparison did not demonstrate a significant difference in VAS scores among patients receiving IA injections, RF ablation, and GAE. ConclusionsThe current evidence does not suggest a significant difference in outcomes among IA injection, RF ablation, and GAE for knee pain secondary to OA.

Supra-inguinal fascia iliaca block in older-old patients for hip fractures: a retrospective study

BackgroundPain management in hip fracture patients is of great importance for reducing postoperative morbidity and mortality. Multimodal techniques, including peripheral nerve blocks, are preferred for postoperative analgesia. Older-old hip fracture patients with high ASA scores are highly sensitive to the side effects of NSAIDs and opioids. Our aim was to investigate the effectiveness of the recently popularized Supra-Inguinal Fascia Iliaca Block (SIFIB) in this population. MethodsForty-one ASA III...IV patients who underwent SIFIB...+...PCA (G-SIFIB) or PCA alone (Group Control: GC) after general anesthesia were evaluated retrospectively. In addition to 24-hour opioid consumption, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, opioid-related side effects, block-related complications, and length of hospital stay were compared. ResultsTwenty-two patients in G-SIFIB and 19 patients in GC were evaluated. The postoperative 24-hour opioid consumption was lower in G-SIFIB than in GC (p...<...0.001). There was a statistically significant reduction in VAS scores at the postoperative 1st, 3rd, and 6th hours at rest (p...<...0.001) and during movement (p...<...0.001 for the 1st and 3rd hours, and p...=...0.02 for the 6th hour) in G-SIFIB compared to GC. There was no difference in pain scores at the 12th and 24th hours postoperatively. While there was no difference between the groups in terms of other side effects, respiratory depression was significantly higher in GC than in G-SIFIB (p...=...0.01). ConclusionThe SIFIB technique has a significant opioid-sparing effect and thus reduces opioid-related side effects in the first 24 hours after hip fracture surgery in older-old patients.

Evaluation of Ozone Therapy in Endodontic Treatment of Teeth with Necrotic Pulp and Apical Periodontitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

IntroductionThe aim of this study was to compare the effect of different application techniques of ozone on the prevalence of postendodontic pain in patients undergoing single-visit root canal treatment. Methodshundred eight patients with necrotic pulp in single-rooted teeth and apical periodontitis participated in the trial. A standard single-visit endodontics protocol was followed with 5.25% sodium hypochlorite and rotary nickel-titanium files. After shaping and cleaning, patients were randomly allocated into the following groups: group 1 (n = 21), ozone treatment with no activation (NA); group 2 (n = 22), ozone treatment with manual dynamic activation (MDA); group 3, (n = 21), ozone treatment with passive ultrasonic activation (PUA); group 4 (n = 23), ozone treatment with sonic activation (SA); and group 5 (n = 21), no ozone treatment (the control group). Patient levels of discomfort were recorded at 6 different time intervals using the visual analog scale (VAS). Comparison of the mean difference between the groups and time intervals was performed using 2-way analysis of variance followed by a post hoc Bonferroni test. The level of significance was set at 5%. ResultsVAS scores were highest for the control > NA > MDA > SA > PUA groups. A statistically significant reduction in VAS scores was observed in the PUA and SA groups in comparison with the NA, control, and MDA groups. Timewise comparison showed a highly significant decline in VAS scores at all time intervals (P < .001). ConclusionsUltrasonic and sonic activation of ozone resulted in less pain in patients undergoing single-visit endodontics compared with no ozone treatment.

Efficacy and safety of thread embedding acupuncture combined with acupuncture for chronic low back pain: A randomized, controlled, assessor-blinded, multicenter clinical trial.

Background:Low back pain is a very common disease. Many patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) have been treated by complementary and alternative medicine such as acupuncture (AT) treatment. A type of AT, thread embedding acupuncture (TEA), consists of a thread that can continually stimulate at the AT points and has mechanical and chemical effects. Although TEA was widely used in clinical practice, there was little evidence of its efficacy and safety for CLBP.Methods:This clinical trial was randomized, controlled, assessor-blinded, two-armed, parallel, and conducted in multiple centers. Four Korean medical institutions recruited 38 outpatients with CLBP. The participants were randomly allocated to a treatment group (TEA combined with AT) or a control group (only AT) in a 1:1 ratio. All participants received conventional AT twice a week for 8 weeks (16 sessions) at 15 AT points (GV3 and bilateral BL23, BL24, BL25, BL26, BL40, BL60, and EX-B5) and the treatment group participants additionally received TEA once a week for 8 weeks (8 sessions) on 10 AT points in the multifidus, spinal erector, and lumbar quadrate muscles. The primary outcome measure of this study was the change of visual analog scale (VAS) from baseline (0 week) to the end of intervention (8 weeks). Secondary outcome measures included clinically relevant improvement (minimal clinically important difference) and 3% to 50% decrease on VAS, disability level (Korean version of Roland and Morris disability questionnaire), quality of life (Korean version of European quality of life 5dimension), global assessment (patient global impression of change), economic analysis, credibility test, and safety assessment.Results:The treatment group showed a significant reduction in VAS scores when compared with the control group (–33.7 ± 25.1 vs –15.6 ± 17.0, P = .013). As for the secondary outcome measures, the treatment group showed significant difference in 50% decrease on VAS and patient global impression of change. There was no serious adverse event associated with TEA and AT.Conclusion:This clinical trial documents the efficacy and safety of TEA combined with AT for the management of CLBP.