Single-blind Randomized Study Research Articles

Effects of Nanofat and PRP on Type I Collagen Production in Striae Distensae: Preliminary Findings from a Prospective, Randomized Single-Blind Study.

Striae distensae (SD) appear clinically as parallel striae, lying perpendicular to the tension lines of the skin. SD evolve into two clinical phases, an initial inflammatory phase in which they are called "striae rubrae" (SR) and a chronic phase in which they are called striae albae (SA). This study investigates the synergistic effect of nanofat and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections on collagen production in fibroblasts derived from SA (SAF). A prospective, randomized single-blind study was conducted in fifty women presenting with SA in the abdominal region who had voluntarily sought a conventional abdominoplasty procedure and accepted to test an autologous treatment for their SDs. SA were treated using: PrP 10ml; PrP 2ml (20%) + nanofat 8ml (80%); nanofat 10ml. Following the abdominal dermolipectomy, biopsies from treated and untreated SDs were taken and analyzed for type I collagen quantification. Results were processed through statistical analysis models using the Student's t test. Collagen concentration in untreated SA biopsies was significantly lower than in healthy skin. Both PRP and nanofat treatments significantly increased collagen biosynthesis compared to controls, with the combined PRP-nanofat treatment showing the highest increase in collagen levels (p < 0.0001). A superior clinical improvement was observed in the areas that received the combined treatment of PRP and nanofat (p = 0.001). Our findings indicate that both PRP and nanofat treatments effectively enhance collagen production in SA, with the combined PRP-nanofat treatment showing a synergistic effect. This combined therapy holds promise for effectively treating SA, providing a new potential treatment avenue for SMs and similar skin conditions. Further studies are needed to validate these results and explore clinical applications. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Ultrasound-Guided Quadratus Lumborum Block Using Bupivacaine versus Bupivacaine–Magnesium Sulfate as Postoperative Analgesia in Open Appendectomy in Middle Age Group

Abstract Background The QLB is an effective analgesic technique for various abdominal wall incisions. The QLB covers T7 to L1 dermatomes by the spread of LA drugs either into the paravertebral space or in the thoracolumbar plane, through iliohypogastric and ilioinguinal nerves, A and C fiber nociceptors, mechanoreceptors and high-density network of lumbar sympathetic fibers. Objective To assess the analgesic sparing effect of adding magnesium sulfate to Bupivacaine in Quadratus lumborum block in patients undergoing open appendectomy under general anesthesia. Patients and Methods After approval of the anaesthesiology department and scientific and ethical committees, this prospective single blind randomized clinical trial study was conducted in Ain Shams University Hospitals. Sixty patients scheduled for open appendectomy under general anaesthesia were included in this study. Patients were randomized using a random number table and the use of a closed envelopes technique to receive quadratus lumborum either magnesium sulphate and bupivacaine or bupivacaine only, each group constitutes of 30 patients. Results We found that the addition of magnesium sulfate to bupivacaine in QLB in open appendectomy in middle age group provides a prolonged duration of postoperative analgesia, with reduced analgesic requirements, a better quality of analgesia in terms of NRS compared to bupivacaine alone group. Conclusion The addition of magnesium sulfate to Bupivacaine in lateral QLB in open appendectomy surgery provides a prolonged duration of postoperative analgesia, with reduced analgesic requirements, a better quality of analgesia in terms of NRS compared to bupivacaine alone group.

Comparison of the Efficacy Between Ultrasound-Guided Paravertebral Block and Erector Spinae Block for Postoperative Analgesia in Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy Using Levobupivacaine: A Prospective and Randomized Study.

Introduction Various techniques have been developed in the current era of regional anesthesia practice. With the advent of ultrasound, the visualization of needle and pleura in real time enables a better outcome with negligible adverse events. This study was designed to compare the efficacy between ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block (ESPB) and paravertebral block (PVB) in percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for the duration of postoperative analgesia with levobupivacaine, a local anesthetic with higher lipid solubility, making it more potent and resulting in a longer duration of action. Methods This prospective randomized single-blinded study enrolled 50 patients of ASA grades I and II, aged between 20 and 60 years, who were scheduled for PCNL under general anesthesia. Patients were divided into two groups of 25 each: group ESPB andgroup PVB, and 25 mL of 0.25% levobupivacaine was administered to both groups. They were primarily evaluated for the duration of postoperative analgesia. Total rescue analgesic requirements, hemodynamic parameters, and any adverse effects were also assessed. Results Both ESPB and PVB provided a significant duration of analgesia postoperatively. Demographic characteristics in both groups were comparable. The duration of postoperative analgesia in group ESPB was 746 ± 58.6 minutes when compared to group PVB, which is 768 ± 68.6 minutes (p = 0.08). Intravenous (IV) paracetamol was used as a rescue analgesic. The doses used were also comparable in both groups, with the visual analog score (VAS) being high after around 12 hours of surgery. The total rescue analgesic requirement was similar in both groups (group ESPB, 2.0 ± 1.6; group PVB, 2.2 ± 1.4; p = 0.51). There were no significant hemodynamic or other adverse effects in either group. Conclusion We conclude that both ESPBand PVB using isobariclevobupivacaine 0.25% as a local anesthetic are equally efficacious in providing effective postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing PCNL under generalanesthesia.

Comparison of the effect of dydrogesterone and natural micronized progesterone for luteal-phase support in assisted reproductive technology cycles: A single-blind randomized clinical trial study.

One of the causes of preterm labor and recurrent abortion is progesterone deficiency in the luteal phase. The aim of the study was a comparison of the effect of oral dydrogesterone and vaginal progesterone for luteal-phase support (LPS) in assisted reproductive technology cycles (ART). This randomized clinical control trial study was conducted on 207 infertile women. Samples were randomly divided into two groups. The first group received a natural micronized vaginal progesterone (MVP) of 400 mg once daily and the second group received dydrogesterone (Duphestone) 20 mg twice daily. Then chemical pregnancy, abortion, and live births were compared in two groups. The results of the study showed that the vaginal form of the drug could increase the chance of pregnancy (positive β-human chorionic gonadotropin) versus the oral form. According to the results of multiple logistic regression analysis after adjusting for other variables, the live birth rate in the vaginal group was more than five times that of the oral group (odds ratio = 5.07; 95% confidence interval = 1.24-20.65; p = 0.023). The vaginal form of the progesterone could increase the chance of pregnancy and the outcome of fertility (live birth). Thus, vaginal progesterone is effective for LPS in women undergoing fresh embryo transfer.

The effect of use of alpha-blockers in posterior urethral valve pediatric patients postvalve ablation in the absence of further outlet obstruction.

The objectives of this study were to detect whether the use of alpha-blockers in posterior urethral valve (PUV) pediatric patients after valve ablation will improve the persistent obstructive symptoms despite the absence of obstruction and if there are associated side effects of its use. Methods: A prospective, single-blinded randomized study was conducted at the urology department of two hospitals on 50 male children between September 2019 and June 2021 with PUV. All children were treated by endoscopic ablation of PUV using the cold knife and were followed clinically for voiding symptoms and with ultrasonography and laboratory tests. All patients underwent second-look cystoscopy 1 month after primary valve ablation to see residual valves as a routine procedure confirming no remnant of the valve and still complaining of obstructive symptoms. They were divided into two equal groups 25 patients each. Group A was given alpha-blockers and Group B placebo for 1 month. Marked improvement of obstructive symptoms in Group A reaching about 90% (21 patients), whereas no mentioned improvement in Group B was noticed with no side effects of both medication the alpha-blocker and the placebo during its use. The use of alpha-blockers improves the obstructive symptoms in pediatric patients with PUV after valve ablation and in the absence of any further urethral obstruction with no side effects noticed during the period of its use.

Assessment of the Impact of Technical Incidents in Critical Situations Using High-Fidelity Simulation Techniques in Pediatric Intensive Care.

Introduction In certain fields such as anesthesia and critical care, technical incidents are rare events; however, when they occur, they disrupt workflow, optimal patient care, and survival, with human factors often implicated. In pediatric resuscitation, the impact of these incidents on patient care has not yet been thoroughly explored through simulation. Consequently, we investigated how healthcare teams integrate technical incidents in critical situations and whether this interferes with the adequate management of patients. Materials & methods In a single-blind randomized study utilizing high-fidelity simulation, we incorporated a pediatric scenario involving hypoxemia in an intubated and ventilated infant where the endotracheal tube (ETT) was obstructed. A technical incident (disconnected oxygen supply) was either present (TI+) or absent (TI-) in the scenario. We compared reaction times for "removal of the obstructed ETT" between the two groups (TI+ and TI-). Additionally, we recorded and analyzed reaction times for "bagventilation" and "repair of the technical incident" in the TI+ group. To assess the scenario's credibility, we conducted an analysis comparing the medians of evaluation forms that were anonymously completed by participants at the end of the sessions. Results In total, 10 simulation sessions were conducted, five TI+ and five TI-. The time required for removal of the obstructed ETT in the presence of a technical incident was significantly prolonged compared to controls (Mann-Whitney test, p=0.03). Furthermore, bagventilation precedes tube removal in the TI+ group, a contrast to the TI- group, which quickly removes the obstructed ETT before stabilizing the patient with bag-mask ventilation. Conclusion Technical incidents in simulated pediatric scenario adversely affect urgent care in ventilated children. Developing and validating a procedural response to these situations through further simulation is imperative.

Effect of vertical implant position on marginal bone loss: a randomized clinical trial

ObjectivesOne of the most important factors that has influence on dental implants success rate is marginal bone loss. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of the implant’s vertical position and the soft tissue’s thickness on the rate of marginal bone loss of the dental implant.Materials and methodsIn this single-blind randomized clinical trial study, 56 implants placed in the posterior region of mandible of 33 patients (19 women, 14 men) were divided into two groups. The group of crestal (28 implants) and subcrestal (28 implants) implants, each group was divided into two sub-groups with soft tissue thickness of 2 mm and less than 2 mm (14 implants) and more than 2 mm (14 implants). The amount of marginal bone loss was measured by Scanora 5.2 program with radiographs Digital parallelism based on the effect of the vertical position of the implant, soft tissue thickness, three months after placement, and three months after loading implants (six months after implant placement).ResultsThe results showed that marginal bone loss in subcrestal implants is significantly more than crestal implants (p-value = 0.001), and also marginal bone loss in the soft tissue thickness group of 2 mm and less is significantly more than the group of soft tissue thickness more than 2 mm (p-value < 0.001). The amount of marginal bone loss three months after implant loading was significantly higher than three months after implant placement (p-value < 0.001).ConclusionThe implant’s vertical position and the soft tissue’s thickness around the implant are effective factors in the amount of marginal bone loss. Marginal bone loss is more in subcrestal implants and in cases with less soft tissue thickness. The time factor significantly affects the amount of marginal bone loss.Trial registrationthis clinical trial was registered at Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials, registration number IRCT20120215009014N415, registration date 20,220,110, (https//en.irct.ir/trial/60,991)

Comparison of Greater Occipital Nerve Blockade and Sphenopalatine Ganglion Blockade in Patients with Episodic Migraine.

Objectives: Compare the effects of greater occipital nerve (GON) and sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) blocks on headache intensity and duration, number of headache days, and disability in patients with episodic migraine. Methods: In this prospective single-blind randomized study, patients with episodic migraine were randomly divided into two groups: GON and SPG block groups. Patients received blocks once a week for 4 weeks, and once a month for 2 months. The number of headache days, the headache duration, numeric rating scale (NRS) scores, and number of acute medical treatments were assessed before the procedures and 1 month, 2 months, and 3 months after the procedures. Disability was evaluated using the migraine disability assessment (MIDAS) questionnaire at baseline and 3 months after treatment. This study protocol is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06243874.). Results: 19 patients in the GON block group and 18 patients in the SPG block group were evaluated. Significant improvements in pain severity, headache duration, number of headache days, and the need for acute medical treatment were observed in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd months compared to baseline in the two groups (p < 0.001). There were significant improvements in the MIDAS scores in the third month (p < 0.001). The GON block group showed a greater reduction in headache intensity, duration, number of headache days, and MIDAS scores compared to the SPG block group in the 3rd month (p < 0.001). Conclusions: GON block reduces headache duration, intensity, the number of headache days, and the need for acute medical treatment much more than SPG block in patients with episodic migraine.

Avoiding pain during propofol injection in pediatric anesthesia: Hypnoanalgesia of the hand versus intravenous lidocaine.

Pain related to injection of propofol during induction of anesthesia decreases from 66.8% without prevention, to 22-31% of cases when lidocaine is associated. Hypnoanalgesia of the hand is currently used for painful procedures in children but has never been evaluated in this indication. The primary aim of this prospective randomized single-blind study was to evaluate the efficacy of hypnoanalgesia of the hand for the prevention of moderate to severe pain during intravenous injection of propofol alone in comparison to lidocaine admixture. The secondary aim was to compare the global satisfaction of children in both methods. One hundred patients aged 7-14 years, ASA 1-2, admitted for scheduled surgery under general anesthesia were randomized into two groups. Group L received a mixture of 1% propofol (3 mg/kg) and 1% Lidocaine (0.3 mg/kg). Group H received 1% propofol (3 mg/kg) after hypnoanalgesia of the hand realized by a single experimented operator. A video was made in order to evaluate the pain related to propofol injection by a blinded observer using the 4-point score of Cameron (painful ≥ 2). The global satisfaction of children was evaluated in postanesthesia care unit and documented if visual analog score was <7/10. Ninety-six patients were analyzed. The rate of painful patients did not differ significantly between groups (8.5% in group H [n = 47] vs 6.1% in group L [n = 49], OR= 0.70; 95% CI [0.13-3.35], p = 0.65), nor did the rate of nonsatisfied patients (10.6 in group H vs. 12.2% in group L, OR = 0.85; 95% CI [0.19-3.65], p = 1). Our results suggest that hypnoanalgesia of the hand alone is effective to prevent the pain related to propofol injection in children. No significant difference was found in comparison with lidocaine admixture nor for pain or satisfaction.

Effect of intermittent hypoxia on glucose tolerance in adults with type 2 diabetes

Hypoxia stimulates glucose uptake through an insulin-independent pathway. The purpose of this single-blind randomized study was to determine the acute effect of intermittent hypoxia, consisting of alternating short bouts of breathing hypoxic and normoxic air, on glucose and insulin concentrations during an oral glucose tolerance test in adults with type 2 diabetes. It was hypothesized that intermittent hypoxia would attenuate the increase in glucose and insulin concentrations during an oral glucose tolerance test. Six adults with type 2 diabetes (5 men, age: 51±15 years, HbA1c: 7.3±1.5%) visited the laboratory on two occasions. On both visits, a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test was performed, with venous blood samples collected 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 min after ingestion of a high-glucose drink. Following ingestion of the drink, participants were exposed to either an intermittent hypoxia (IH) protocol, consisting of eight 4-min hypoxic cycles at a targeted arterial oxygen saturation of 80% interspersed with breathing room air to resaturation, or an intermittent normoxia (IN) protocol consisting of eight 4-min normoxic cycles interspersed with breathing room air. By design, oxygen saturation was lower during intermittent hypoxia than intermittent normoxia (81±3 vs. 97±1%, p&lt;0.01). Relative changes in plasma glucose concentrations in response to the oral glucose tolerance tests were not different between conditions (IH vs. IN: 30: 42±15 vs. 35±15; 60: 57±26 vs. 65±30; 90: 73±32 vs. 88±30; and 120: 78±26 vs. 83±29 mg/dl, interaction effect: p=0.13). Similarly, the relative changes in insulin concentrations in response to the oral glucose tolerance tests were not different between conditions (IH vs. IN: 30: 14±17 vs. 25±17; 60: 42±36 vs. 48±35; 90: 70±58 vs. 86±60; and 120: 103±72 vs. 125±94 ulU/ml, main effect for condition: p=0.12). While these preliminary results did not reach statistical significance, the observed trends for reduced glucose concentrations in combination with lower insulin concentrations during intermittent hypoxia suggest that short bouts of hypoxia improve glucose tolerance by stimulating glucose uptake independently from the action of insulin. Data from a larger sample size of adults with type 2 diabetes are needed to confirm these preliminary findings. None. This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

Comparison of Propofol-Based Total Intravenous Anesthesia versus Volatile Anesthesia with Sevoflurane for Postoperative Delirium in Adult Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery: A Prospective Randomized Single-Blinded Study

ObjectiveDelirium and postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) are major causes of morbidity after coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Anesthetic agents such as propofol and sevoflurane potentially have a role in pathogenesis of cognitive dysfunction. There is scarce literature comparing these two agents in CABG with CPB despite the relatively high incidence of cognitive dysfunction in this patient population. The authors compared the incidence of delirium and early POCD (at one week) between propofol-based TIVA and volatile anesthesia with sevoflurane in adult patients undergoing elective CABG with CPB. DesignA prospective randomized single blinded study. SettingThis study was conducted at a single institution (Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, a Tertiary care Institute and a university level teaching hospital) ParticipantsSeventy two patients undergoing elective CABG under CPB participated in this study. InterventionsThis study was conducted on 72 adult patients (> 18 years) undergoing elective CABG under CPB who were randomised to receive propofol or sevoflurane. Anesthetic depth was monitored to maintain bispectral index between 40-60. Delirium was assessed using the Confusion-Assessment Method for the intensive care unit (CAM-ICU). Early POCD was diagnosed when there was a reduction of > 2 points in the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score compared to baseline. Cerebral oximetry changes using near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), atheroma grades and intraoperative variables were compared between the two groups. Measurements & Main ResultsSeventy-two patients were randomised to receive propofol (36) or sevoflurane (36). The mean age was 59.4 years (SD 8.6 years). The baseline and intraoperative variables including atheroma grades, NIRS values, hemoglobin, glycemic control, oxygenation were comparable between the two groups. Fifteen (21.7%) patients developed delirium and 31 (44.9%) had early POCD. The incidence of delirium was higher with sevoflurane (12, 34.2%) compared to propofol (3, 8.8%), OR 1.72 (95% CI: 1.13-2.62), p 0.027*. POCD was higher with sevoflurane (20, 57.1%) compared to propofol (11,32.3%), OR 1.63 (95% CI: 1.01-2.62), p value 0.038*. In patients age > 65 years, delirium was higher with sevoflurane (7/11,63.6%) compared to propofol (1/7, 14.2%), p 0.03*. ConclusionsPropofol based TIVA was associated with a lower incidence of delirium and POCD compared to sevoflurane in this cohort of patients undergoing CABG under CPB. Large scale, multi-centre, randomized trials with longer follow-up duration are needed to substantiate the clinical relevance of this observation.

Comparison of Dry Needling and Cold-Spray-Stretching Treatments by Ultrasonography and Electrophysiology: Prospective, Randomized Controlled Trial.

To compare the efficacy of dry needling (DN) and cold-spray-stretching treatments using surface electromyography (sEMG) and ultrasound (US) in the treatment of patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) with active trigger point (ATrP) in the upper trapezius muscle. This prospective randomized single-blind study included 60 MPS patients aged 18-65 years who have ATrP in the upper trapezius muscle. Patients were randomized into two treatment groups as DN and cold spray stretching. Both treatment groups received 1 treatment per week and totally 3 sessions. Evaluation parameters were pain level assessed by Numeric Rating Scale and algometer, neck range of motion angles, neck disability index (NDI). The effects of the treatments on ATrP were evaluated by sEMG and US histogram. All parameters were evaluated at the beginning of the treatment and at the end. Algometer and sEMG were performed also before and after the first and third sessions. There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding demographic data. The mean age of the participants was 39.7 ± 11.6 years. Fifty-one patients were female. Significant improvement in terms of pain level, functionality, sEMG, and US histogram were achieved in both groups (P < .05). When comparing the two groups, algometer scores and the NDI score were statistically higher in the cold-spray-stretching group than in the DN group (P < .008 and P < .028, respectively). Both treatment options should be preferred. The efficacy of both treatments was observed via sEMG and US histograms.

Comparison of the effects of two different styles of orally prescribing prednisolone on postoperative sequelae of surgical extraction of an impacted mandibular third molar: a single-blind randomized study.

Surgical intervention for removal of an impacted third molar can lead to significant pain and swelling. Corticosteroids show promise for mitigating postoperative sequelae across various surgical contexts. The use of corticosteroids following minor oral surgery, though controversial, has already been proven effective. However, little research has explored peroral prescription of corticosteroids despite its convenience for outpatients and for non-surgeons like implantologists and periodontists and others who don't have access to needle injections. The aim of this study was to address a void in the literature by comparing the effects of two styles of preoral administration of prednisolone after surgical removal of the mandibular third molar and to determine which style minimizes postoperative sequelae. A randomized, split-mouth clinical study was conducted to investigate the efficacy of two different styles of preoral prednisolone in mitigating postoperative sequelae following surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars. Fifteen participants were enrolled in the study. Random selection was used to determine the prescription style for the right and left mandibular arch. Group A included those who received a single dose of prednisolone 25 mg, while group B received prednisolone 5 mg postoperatively for a period of three days (5 mg three times/day on the first postoperative day, 5 mg twice/day on the second postoperative day; 5 mg once/day on the third postoperative day). There was a significant difference in the distance between the corner of the mouth and tragus, which decreased with the time interval with respect to group B when compared to group A. The present study showed that a three-day tapered dose of prednisolone postoperatively was more effective in reducing post-extraction sequelae than a single-dose regimen.

Diagnostic reliability and accuracy of the hydraulic contrast lift protocol in the radiographic detection of sinus lift and perforation: ex vivo randomized split-mouth study in an ovine model

ObjectivesAssessing the diagnostic reliability, validity, and accuracy of the hydraulic contrast lift protocol during transcrestal sinus floor elevation in detecting the lift and perforation of the sinus membrane before graft material application and assessing the effect of its use on the operator’s diagnostic confidence.Material and methodsA single-blind randomized split-mouth study on fresh refrigerated sheep heads. The first intervention consisted of injecting 0.5 ml iodinated contrast medium on the test side and 0.5 ml saline on the control side. In the second intervention artificial sinus membrane perforations were created followed by injecting 0.5 ml iodinated contrast medium on the test side and 0.5 ml saline on the control side. Intraoperative periapical radiographs were taken for both interventions. The resulting 40 radiographs were assessed by 10 examiners to provide interpretations and confidence ratings. The primary endpoints were diagnostic reliability, validity, accuracy, and perceived diagnostic confidence.ResultsIn the hydraulic contrast lift protocol, the detection rate was 99% for sinus elevations and 98% for perforations, the saline protocol yielded a detection rate of 28% and 20% respectively. The hydraulic contrast lift protocol demonstrated a high level of inter-rater agreement for the diagnosis of elevations (p < 0.001) and perforations (p < 0.001), strong diagnostic validity for the diagnosis of elevations (p < 0.001) and perforations (p < 0.001), high sensitivity and specificity (p < 0.001) and higher mean diagnostic confidence ratings for both interventions when compared to the saline protocol (p < 0.001). The difference between the predicted probability for correct diagnosis of the hydraulic contrast lift protocol and the saline protocol was significant (p < 0.001) for the detection of both elevations and perforations.ConclusionFollowing the hydraulic contrast lift protocol, the use of a radiographic contrast medium can reliably confirm sinus membrane lift and detect perforation during transcrestal sinus floor elevation prior to bone graft application in addition to improving the diagnostic confidence of the operator while relying on periapical radiographs.

Effects of the combination of pulsed electromagnetic field with progressive resistance exercise on knee osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial.

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common and disabling disease among the elderly population. The optimal conservative treatment for knee OA is not well established. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) combined with progressive resistance exercise (PRE) in improving physical function and pain in patients with knee OA. Thirty-four patients with knee OA (17 in each group) participated in a single-blind randomized control study. Patients were randomly assigned to receive 24 sessions of either combined PEMF and PRE (treatment group) or PRE only (control group). Patients were evaluated at pre-treatment, post-treatment (2 months), and at 3-month and 6-month follow-ups using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS); walking speed and 5-times chair stand test. Mixed ANOVA was used for statistical analysis with Bonferroni adjustments. There was no significant group-by-time interaction for any outcome (P> 0.05). However, both groups scored significantly higher on the NPRS and KOOS at post-treatment, 3-, and 6-month follow-up compared to their baseline. Further, both groups completed the 5-times chair stand test and walking speed test with significantly less time at all post-treatment time points than the pre-treatment. None of the study outcomes (NPRS, KOOS, walking speed, and 5 times chair stand) were significantly different between groups at any of the time points. Both treatment options, PRE only versus PRE with PEMF, were equally effective in decreasing pain and improving physical function in patients with knee OA. This would suggest that the optimal parameters for PEMF that may show beneficial effects for knee OA when added to PRE training need to be determined.

A single-blind randomised study comparing the efficacy of fluconazole and itraconazole for the treatment of Malassezia dermatitis in client-owned dogs.

No reports have compared the clinical therapeutic efficacy of fluconazole and itraconazole in canine Malassezia dermatitis. The study aimed to compare the clinical therapeutic efficacy of fluconazole and itraconazole and to evaluate the adverse effects of fluconazole in canine Malassezia dermatitis. Sixty-one client-owned dogs with Malassezia dermatitis. The enrolled animals were randomly divided into groups receiving 5 mg/kg fluconazole (5FZ), 10 mg/kg fluconazole (10FZ) or 5 mg/kg itraconazole (5IZ). The drugs were orally administered once daily for 28 days. Cytological examination, clinical index score (CIS), pruritus Visual Analog Scale (PVAS) evaluation and blood analysis (for 5FZ only) were performed on Day (D)0, D14 and D28. On D14, significant reductions in mean yeast count (MYC), CIS and PVAS were observed in the 5FZ (n = 20, p < 0.01), 10FZ (n = 17, p < 0.01) and 5IZ (n = 16, p < 0.05) groups. In all three groups, a significant reduction (p < 0.001) in MYC, CIS and PVAS expression was observed on D28. There was no significant difference in the percentage reduction of MYC, CIS and PVAS among the groups. Moreover, there was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in each group between D14 and D28, except for the percentage reduction in MYC in the 10FZ and 5IZ groups. No adverse effects of fluconazole were observed in the 5FZ or 10FZ groups. This study indicates that 5FZ and 10FZ are as effective as itraconazole in canine Malassezia dermatitis.

Parasagittal Interlaminar and Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injections for Radicular Low Back Pain; Which is More Comfortable?

This study aimed to compare parasagittal interlaminar (PS) and transforaminal (TF) epidural steroid injections for unilateral L5 and S1 radicular lower back pain in terms of patient comfort, efficacy, safety, contrast enhancement, and radiation exposure. This was a prospective randomized single-blind study. A total of 59 participants were included in this study. The visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were obtained. A comfort questionnaire was administered to all participants. The total fluoroscopy time and contrast distribution levels were recorded. Pre- and post-treatment VAS scores were similar between the groups. The ODI scores increased in favor of the PS group at week 2 (P < 0.041); however, there was no difference between the two groups at other times. The VAS and ODI scores improved significantly with treatment in both the groups (P < 0.001). Total fluoroscopy time was shorter in the PS group (P < 0.001). PS application was more comfortable (P < 0.001). While no complications were observed in the PS group, three complications occurred in the TF group. Anterior epidural contrast spread to three or more levels was observed in 57% of the participants in the PS group, whereas no spread to more than two levels was observed in the TF group. The PS epidural approach is superior to the TF approach in terms of a low incidence of side effects, less radiation exposure, better patient comfort, higher epidural contrast spread, and single-level needle access.

TARGETING HEALTH-PROMOTING ACTIVITY IN OLDER ADULTS WITH MULTIPLE CHRONIC CONDITIONS AND FUNCTIONAL LIMITATIONS

Abstract Nearly half of older adults in the U.S. have multiple chronic health conditions in addition to functional limitations (MCC + FL) that restrict health self-management activities. We tested an innovative combination of occupational therapy (OT) and behavioral activation (BA) to improve health self-management using the goal setting, scheduling/monitoring activities, and problem-solving components of the BA approach, as well as skill building, environmental modification, activity adaptation, and focus on daily routines from OT (BA+OT). BA+OT was delivered by occupational therapists over 10 sessions in the homes of participants. We present descriptive statistics from this single-blind randomized control pilot study of 11 older adults with MCC + FL who received BA+OT (n = 6) or enhanced usual care (UC; n = 5). Participants in both groups were given a Fitbit, and the UC group received a handout on managing chronic conditions. The BA+OT group was required to set at least one goal for improving physical activity. On average, participants were 73.1 years old (SD = 8.4), majority female (n = 8), and white (n = 1 Hispanic/Latino). They had an average of 3.9 chronic conditions (SD = 1.5), and 2.0 functional limitations (SD = 1.8). The most common chronic conditions were depression, high blood pressure, and arthritis. Aside from physical activity, the most common participant-identified goal areas were sleep hygiene and positioning, medication routines, and community access. This study is in progress (aiming for n = 40) but shows promise for improving health self-management by targeting meaningful, goal-directed, and health-promoting daily activity.

Dry needling versus muscle energy technique on shoulder adhesive capsulitis post mastectomy

Objectives. To compare the effect of dry needling and muscle energy technique on adhesive capsulitis post mastectomy. Design. A single-blinded randomized clinical study. Setting. Outpatient setting. Subjects. Fifty female patients diagnosed with shoulder adhesive capsulitis post mastectomy, ranging in age from 30 to 60 years, were randomly assigned to two groups. Participants in Group A were administered dry needling treatment, plus a traditional physical therapy program in the form of shoulder joint mobilization, shoulder muscle stretching, and ROM exercise; Group B received muscle energy technique, plus a traditional physical therapy program in the form of shoulder joint mobilization, shoulder muscle stretching, and ROM exercise. Intervention. Two sessions per week over five weeks. Outcome measures. Shoulder range of motion, pressure pain threshold, and shoulder dysfunction were measured pre-treatment and post-treatment. Results. There was no statistically significant difference observed in the age distribution between the groups (p &gt; 0.05). Following the treatment, there was a notable rise in the pressure pain threshold and a considerable decline in shoulder dysfunction when compared to the pre-treatment condition (p &lt; 0.001). There was a notable rise in the ranges of shoulder flexion, abduction, and external rotation after the treatment when compared to before the treatment in both group A and B (p &gt; 0.001). The percentage of change in flexion, abduction, and external rotation in group A was 125.03%, 76.43%, and 58.72%, respectively. In contrast, group B exhibited percentage changes of 137.48%, 97.51%, and 68.78% in flexion, abduction, and external rotation, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference seen between the groups prior to treatment, as shown by a p-value greater than 0.05. The analysis of the data after treatment demonstrated a statistically significant rise in the pressure pain threshold for group A in comparison to group B (p &lt; 0.001). However, there was no significant disparity observed in shoulder dysfunction between the two groups (p &gt; 0.05). Following the treatment, there was a notable rise in the range of motion (ROM) for flexion, extension, and abduction in group B when compared to group A (p &lt; 0.001). Conclusion. Application of either dry needling or muscle energy technique results in a notable enhancement in the severity of symptoms in adhesive capsulitis post mastectomy, with superiority for dry needling.

Inter-fragmentary compression using cannulated cancellous screws augmented with modified tension band wiring in transverse patella fractures

The classical Kirschner wires and tension band wiring technique, described by the AO foundation, has been the most widely used method for transverse patella fractures. In this study, we have adopted what we perceive to be an improved technique, the cannulated cancellous screws with modified tension band wiring. 20 patients with transverse patella fractures were included in our prospective single-blinded randomized control study with a duration of 3 years. All patients were operated on with modified tension band wiring with a 4 mm cannulated cancellous screw. Functional evaluation was made using the Tegner lysholm knee scoring scale. Roentgenograms were taken in AP and Lateral views to look for signs of radiological union and interfragmentary gap. The post-operative interfragmentary gap between fracture fragments with 65% of patients having a 0 mm gap, 25% of patients having a 1 mm gap, 5% of patients having a 2 mm gap, and 5% of patients having a 3 mm gap. The mean duration for the radiological union was 10 weeks. Mean Tegner lysholm score at 6 months was 88±4.7. We concluded that modified tension band wiring with cannulated cancellous screw is a safe, reliable, and better alternative method of fixation for transverse patella fractures with excellent union rate, range of motion, and functional outcome.