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Are pretreatment serum albumin and cholesterol levels prognostic tools in patients with colorectal carcinoma?

The purpose of this study was to determine if pretreatment serum albumin and cholesterol levels are prognostic factors in patients with colorectal carcinomas.MATERIAL/ Ninety-nine patients with colorectal carcinoma were included in this study. Retrospective data analysis included the clinicopathological parameters of age and gender; emergent surgical intervention; stage at presentation; tumor location, size, and differentiation; lymph node metastases; lymphatic, venous and perineural invasion; preoperative serum albumin, cholesterol, hemoglobin, and CEA levels; the presence of preoperative and postoperative metastases; and tumor recurrence. Low levels of serum albumin, advanced TNM stage, presence of venous invasion, and high CEA levels were independently correlated with prognosis in multivariate analysis. Advanced stage and low levels of serum cholesterol were found to be a statistically significant parameter for disease free survival. Mean serum albumin levels were found to be decreased in patients with advanced stage, which correlated with increased tumor burden. Although not statistically significant for cholesterol levels, the patients with low serum albumin and low cholesterol levels had shorter overall survival than patients with normal serum albumin and normal cholesterol levels.

These results suggest that a preoperative low level of serum albumin can be an indicator for the malignant potential of the tumor and represents an unfavorable prognosis for patients with colorectal carcinoma.

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Should the thyroid bed be drained after thyroidectomy?

Although routine drainage of the thyroidectomy bed is not an evidenced-based practice, most surgeons still employ routine drainage with an effort to monitor postoperative bleeding. The aim of this study is present our experience on draining and not draining the thyroidectomy bed. Records of 1,066 patients who underwent thyroid surgery were evaluated retrospectively. The rates of the re-operations due to life-threatening postoperative hemorrhage and wound infections were higher in the drained group. The average postoperative hospital stay of the drained group was significantly longer than that of the non-drained group.

Routine drainage of the thyroidectomy bed is not effective in decreasing the rate of postoperative complications after thyroid surgery, and it causes a prolonged hospital stay and surgical site infection.

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Does nutrition play a role in the quality of life of patients under chronic haemodialysis?

In patients with chronic renal failure under haemodialysis, we investigated the inter-relationships and relative contributions of disease, haemodialysis and of nutrition related factors on the patients' Quality of Life. Collected data in 60 adult patients comprised: co-morbidities (multiple medicines, other chronic diseases), duration of renal failure and of haemodialysis (in months), % weight loss since haemodialysis, nutrient intake derived from diet history analysis (DIETPLAN5 2003, UK). The EuroQoL instrument that includes 5 dimensions, mobility, self-care, activities, pain/discomfort, anxiety/depression, and an overall health visual analogue scale evaluated QoL. Estimates of effect size attributed to each variable included in the general linear model revealed that 47% of patients' mobility/self-care scores were worsened by deficient protein/energy intake and 30% by weight loss =10%. Poor performance of usual activities was attributed in 45% to duration of haemodialysis and of disease, 70% to protein/energy/vitamin B12/zinc/iron deficits, and 20% to weight loss =10%. Pain/discomfort were worsened in 45% by the duration of haemodialysis and of disease, and in 15% by co-morbidities. Higher anxiety/depression were related in 43% to protein/energy/selenium&vitamin C deficits, in 40% to the duration of haemodialysis and of disease, in 10% to weight loss =10%, and in 3% to co-morbidities. Likewise, 47% of poor overall health was determined by protein/energy/vitamin B12/ zinc/selenium&vitamin C deficits, 25% by weight loss =10%, 10% by disease duration, and 7% by co-morbidities.

Protein, antioxidants and key micronutrients involved in protein metabolism, did exert a major effect on patients' Quality of Life. Given the prevalence of nutrient deficits, the ensuing impaired functional capacity is likely to compromise QoL, timely nutrition is thus warranted.

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Ghrelin and bone: is there an association in older adults?

Laboratory studies suggest that ghrelin is involved in bone metabolism, but studies of ghrelin and bone in humans are limited. We studied sex-specific associations of ghrelin with BMD, NTX, and bone loss. Ghrelin was not associated with BMD or bone loss in either sex. There was a significant inverse association with NTX in men but not in women. Ghrelin is a gastric hormone recently shown to be associated with bone metabolism in animal and in vitro studies. Studies in humans are limited. We investigated the association of ghrelin with BMD, the bone resorption marker N-telopeptide (NTX), and bone loss in older men and women. Participants were 977 community-dwelling men and non-estrogen-using postmenopausal women, 50-91 years of age. Plasma ghrelin was measured by radioimmunoassay from blood obtained between 1984 and 1987. Between 1988 and 1991, BMD was measured at the midshaft radius by single photon absorptiometry and at the femoral neck, total hip, and lumbar spine by DXA. Axial BMD measurements were repeated an average of 4 years later in 544 participants. Bone turnover was assessed by NTX in urine obtained at the same time as the initial BMD. Multiple regression analyses were used to test sex-specific associations of ghrelin with BMD, NTX, and bone loss in both sexes. No significant ghrelin-BMD or ghrelin-bone loss associations were observed in either sex, after adjusting for age and body mass index (BMI). Ghrelin was inversely associated with NTX in men and positively associated with NTX in women, independent of age. After adjusting for both age and BMI, this association reached statistical significance in men and was weakened in women.

Ghrelin may be associated with bone turnover, but there is no evidence for an association with BMD or short-term change in BMD in older adults.

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Identification of isochromosome 1q as a recurring chromosome aberration in skull base chordomas: a new marker for aggressive tumors?

The authors conducted a study of 22 skull base chordomas. A series of 22 skull base chordomas was analyzed with G banding. Subsequently, metaphase cells obtained from three tumors were reexamined using multicolor spectral karyotyping. Clonal chromosome aberrations were identified in 11 cases, all of which were recurrent tumors. Three tumors showed a remarkable similarity in cytogenetic features, and these features appear to characterize a recurring combination of nonrandom chromosome aberrations, including isochromosome 1q, gain of chromosome 7, and monosomy for chromosomes 3, 4, 10,13, and 18. Isochromosome 1q was identified as the sole recurring structural chromosome rearrangement in these tumors. The pattern of chromosome loss reported in the progression of lumbosacral chordoma also appears to be true of skull base chordomas with the additional findings of isochromosome 1q, gain of chromosome 7, and loss of chromosome 18.

Skull base chordomas characterized by isochromosome 1q and monosomy 13 provide support for the concept of the loss of putative tumor suppressor loci on 1p and 13q and aggressive tumor behavior.

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Do differences in age specific androgenic steroid hormone levels account for differing prostate cancer rates between Arabs and Caucasians?

Factors responsible for the low incidence of clinical prostate cancer in the Arab population remain unclear, but may be related to differences in androgenic steroid hormone metabolism between Arabs and other populations, especially as prostate cancer is believed to be androgen dependent. We therefore measured the levels of serum androgenic steroids and their binding proteins in Arab men and compared results obtained with values reported for Caucasian populations to determine if any differences could at least partially account for differences in incidence of prostate cancer rates between the two populations. Venous blood samples were obtained from 327 unselected apparently healthy indigenous Arab men (Kuwaitis and Omanis) aged 15-79 years. Samples were also obtained from 30 Arab men with newly diagnosed prostate cancer. Serum levels of total testosterone (TT), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), derived free androgen index (FAI); adrenal C19 -steroids, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) and androstenedione (ADT) were determined by chemiluminescent immunoassay. Age specific reference intervals, mean and median for each analyte were determined. Frequency distribution pattern for each hormone was plotted. The reference range for hormones with normal distribution was mean +/- 2SD and 2.5-97.5% for those with non-normal distribution. The mean serum levels of the hormones in Arab men with prostate cancer were compared with values in healthy age-matched Arab men. There was a significant decrease between the 21-29 years age group and the 70-79 years age group for TT (-38.77%), DHEAS (-70%), ADT (-36%) and FAI (-63.25%), and an increase for SHBG (+64%). The calculated reference ranges are TT (2.73-30.45 nmol/L), SHBG (6.45-65.67 nmol/L), FAI (14.51-180.34), DHEAS (0.9-11.0 micromol/L) and ADT (0.54-4.26 ng/mL). The mean TT, SHBG, DHEAS and ADT in Arab men were significantly lower than those reported for Caucasians especially in the 21-29 years age group. Arab men with newly diagnosed prostate cancer had higher serum TT (P<0.7), ADT (P<0.2), SHBG (P<0.2) and lower DHEAS (P<0.008) compared to aged matched controls.

Serum TT, SHBG, DHEAS and ADT levels are significantly lower in Arab men compared to those reported for Caucasian men, especially in early adulthood. Arab men with newly diagnosed prostate cancer have higher circulating androgens compared to healthy controls. We suggest that low circulating androgens and their adrenal precursors in Arab men when compared to Caucasians may partially account for the relatively lower risk for prostate cancer among Arab men.

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Can a GP be a generalist and a specialist?

Primary care practitioners have a potentially important role in the delivery of specialist care for people with long-term respiratory diseases. Within the UK the development of a General Practitioner with Special Interests (GPwSI) service delivered within Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) involves a process of 'transitional change' which impacts on the professional roles of clinicians who may embrace or resist change. In addition, the perspective of patients on the new roles is important. The objective of the current study is to explore the attitudes and views of stakeholders to the provision of a respiratory GPwSI service within the six PCTs in Leicester, UK. Using a qualitative design, GPs, nurses, secondary care doctors, nurse specialists, physiotherapists, a healthcare manager and patients with respiratory disease took part in focus groups and in-depth interviews. The 25 participants expressed diverse opinions about the challenge of integrating specialist services with generalist care and the specific contribution that GPs might make to the care of people with chronic respiratory disease. A range of potential roles for a respiratory GPwSI, working as part of a multi-disciplinary team, were suggested, and a number of practical issues were highlighted. Success of the GPwSI role is deemed to be dependent on having the trust of their primary and secondary care colleagues as well as patients, credibility as a practitioner, and being politically astute thereby enabling them to act as a champion supporting the transition process within the local health service.

The introduction of a respiratory GPwSI service represents a challenge to traditional roles which, whilst broadly acceptable, raised a number of important issues for the stakeholders in our study. These perspectives need to be taken into account if workforce change is to be successfully negotiated and implemented.

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Are reviewers suggested by authors as good as those chosen by editors?

BioMed Central (BMC) requires authors to suggest four reviewers when making a submission. Editors searching for reviewers use these suggestions as a source. The review process of the medical journals in the BMC series is open--authors and reviewers know each other's identity--although reviewers can make confidential comments to the editor. Reviews are published alongside accepted articles so readers may see the reviewers' names and recommendations. Our objective was to compare the performance of author-nominated reviewers (ANR) with that of editor-chosen reviewers (ECR) in terms of review quality and recommendations about submissions in an online-only medical journal. Pairs of reviews from 100 consecutive submissions to medical journals in the BMC series (with one author-nominated and one editor-chosen reviewer and a final decision) were assessed by two raters, blinded to reviewer type, using a validated review quality instrument (RQI) which rates 7 items on 5-point Likert scales. The raters discussed their ratings after the first 20 pairs (keeping reviewer type masked) and resolved major discrepancies in scoring and interpretation to improve inter-rater reliability. Reviewers' recommendations were also compared. Reviewer source had no impact on review quality (mean RQI score (+/- SD) 2.24 +/- 0.55 for ANR, 2.34 +/- 0.54 for ECR) or tone (mean scores on additional question 2.72 ANR vs 2.82 ECR) (maximum score = 5 in both cases). However author-nominated reviewers were significantly more likely to recommend acceptance (47 vs 35) and less likely to recommend rejection (10 vs 23) than editor-chosen reviewers after initial review (p<0.001). However, by the final review stage (i.e. after authors had responded to reviewer comments) ANR and ECR recommendations were similar (65 vs 66 accept, 10 vs 14 reject, p = 0.47). The number of reviewers unable to decide about acceptance was similar in both groups at both review stages.

Author-nominated reviewers produced reviews of similar quality to editor-chosen reviewers but were more likely to recommend acceptance during the initial stages of peer review.

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Does experience influence perception of dyspnea?

The perception of somatic sensations like dyspnea can be influenced by such factors as an individual s personality, experiences, or ability to adapt to stimuli. Our aim was to determine whether the perception of acute bronchoconstriction is different for patients with asthma and patients who have never experienced an episode of airway obstruction. We studied 2 groups of patients. The first consisted of 24 subjects with intermittent rhinitis and asthma (10 females and 14 males) with a mean (SD) age of 25 (7) years. All reported not feeling dyspnea at rest on a Borg scale. The second group consisted of 24 subjects who only had rhinitis but no lung disease (no episode of asthma) or dyspnea at rest (12 females and 12 males) with a mean age of 27 (6) years. There were no significant differences between the groups with regard to sex, smoking, economic or educational level, anxiety (determined by the trait portion of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory), depression (Beck Depression Inventory), or spirometric parameters. All took a histamine bronchial provocation test in which the patient assessed dyspnea on a modified Borg scale after each histamine dose. The provocation dose needed to produce a 20% decrease (PD20) in forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) was calculated. We also recorded dyspnea perception score when FEV1 fell 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%. No dyspnea was perceived at PS20 by 12.5% of the asthmatics and by 45% of nonasthmatics (P<.0001). The mean PS20 was 2.4 (2.1) (range, 0-7) in the first group and 0.37 (0.48) (range, 0-3) in the second (P<.0001). More asthma patients than nonasthmatics perceived dyspnea at all degrees of bronchial obstruction. PD20 was different in the 2 groups (1.6 [2] vs 6.03 [5]for the first and second groups, respectively; P<.003), but there was no significant relation between PD20 and PS20 (Spearman s correlation coefficient, 0.19; P= .221).

Our findings support the hypothesis that appropriate perception of dyspnea is grounded in prior experience and learning.

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Are cerebral cavernomas truly nonenhancing lesions and thereby distinguishable from arteriovenous malformations?

The aim of this study was to determine whether cerebral cavernomas are truly nonenhancing lesions on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), whether they can be distinguished from arteriovenous malformations (AVM) on that basis and to evaluate the incidence of their association with developmental venous anomalies (DVA). Thirty-two patients who underwent neurosurgical operation for a cerebral vascular malformation and had a standard MRI conclusive of cerebral cavernoma were retrospectively evaluated for size of the lesions, contrast enhancement of the lesion and the coexistence of DVA. The contrast uptake of these lesions was investigated, and contrast enhancement was classified as none, moderate or marked. The incidence of an associated DVA was also investigated. The radiological findings were subsequently correlated with neurohistopathological findings. No difference was found between the contrast enhancement of cavernomas and AVMs. Cross tables were calculated for contrast enhancement and size, which demonstrated no statistically significant correlation. Cross tables were calculated for contrast enhancement and histopathological diagnosis, which revealed that both entities presented variable degrees of contrast enhancement and were thereby not distinguishable from each other on the basis of contrast enhancement. We found an association of cavernoma with DVA in 30% of cases.

Neither a correlation between the absence of contrast enhancement and the histopathological diagnosis of cavernoma nor the size and contrast enhancement was found. We conclude that cavernomas present with variable degrees of contrast enhancement on MRI and, thus, are definitely not distinguishable from AVM on the basis of contrast enhanced MRI. We found an association between cavernomas and DVA in approximately one third of patients.

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Estrogen receptor alpha and beta polymorphisms: is there an association with bone mineral density, plasma lipids, and response to postmenopausal hormone therapy?

A cross-sectional segregation analysis of polymorphisms in the estrogen receptor (ER) genes (Pvull and Xbal in ERalpha, and Alul in ERAbeta with bone mineral density in the lumbar spine and forearm and with lipid profile was performed in 1098 postmenopausal women. Additionally, in a subpopulation of 280 women, who completed 1 year of treatment with estrogen plus progestin, the association between genotypes and the response to treatment in both plasma lipids and bone was investigated. In another untreated subpopulation of 443 women, genotype influence on the prevalence of vertebral fractures and on annual rate of bone loss during a mean follow-up period of 11 years was estimated. Baseline plasma lipids, bone mineral density, annual rate of bone loss and prevalence of spinal fractures were not significantly associated with polymorphisms in the ERbeta gene. The ERA polymorphism was significantly associated with bone loss from the distal forearm (P = 0.04) but not with bone loss from the spine. After 1 year of treatment with hormone therapy there was also a significant association between the ERbeta polymorphism and the response in total cholesterol (P = 0.02); while the ERalpha gene polymorphisms did not significantly influence the response to hormone therapy.

In a large white population of postmenopausal women, ERalpha gene polymorphisms were not associated with bone mineral density or lipid profile at baseline or after hormone therapy. Conversely, the ERbeta genotype appeared to segregate with bone loss from the forearm and to modulate the decrease in total cholesterol during hormone therapy.

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Are targeted HIV prevention activities cost-effective in high prevalence settings?

The objective of this study was to estimate the cost-effectiveness of syndromic management, with and without periodic presumptive treatment (PPT), in averting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV in female sex workers (FSWs) participating in a hotel-based intervention in Johannesburg. Financial and economic providers' costs were estimated. A mathematical model, fitted to epidemiologic data, projected the HIV and STIs averted by the intervention. Cost per HIV infection and DALY averted were estimated for different general population HIV prevalences. Projections suggest 53 HIV infections were averted (July 2000-June 2001) and a 3.1% decrease in the FSW HIV incidence. Cost-effectiveness was US dollars 78 per DALY averted. Incremental cost of PPT was US dollars 31 per disability-adjusted life year (DALY) averted. Initiating the intervention at 15% general HIV prevalence would have improved cost-effectiveness by 35%. Expanding PPT coverage to mass-treat all FSWs (instead of<17%) and their clients could increase impact 14-fold.

The results highlight targeted interventions can be cost-effective at all stages of HIV epidemics and suggests PPT could improve the cost-effectiveness of targeted STI interventions.

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Can laparoscopically assisted sigmoid resection provide uncomplicated management even in cases of complicated diverticulitis?

Laparoscopically assisted sigmoid resection has become an accepted method for treating uncomplicated diverticulitis. This prospective study aimed to compare the results of laparoscopic sigmoid resection for uncomplicated and complicated sigmoid diverticular disease used to check the indication for the complicated stages of diverticulitis. All patients who underwent laparoscopic resection for sigmoid diverticulitis at the authors' hospital between 1999 and 2005 were divided into two groups: group 1 (uncomplicated diverticular disease) and group 2 (complicated diverticular disease). The exclusion criteria specified generalized peritonitis, signs of sepsis, and extensive previous abdominal surgery. Of the 203 patients (108 men and 95 women) who underwent laparoscopically assisted resection during the examination period, 112 were assigned to group 1 and 91 to group 2. Differences in favor of group 1 were found for the duration of surgery (154 vs 166 min), the conversion rate (1.8% vs 9.9%), the postoperative wound infections (2.7% vs 13.2%), and the postoperative hospitalization period (12.3 +/- 3.9 vs 15.0 +/- 5.6 days). No significant differences were seen in any other areas such as completion of nutritional buildup (4.6 vs 5.0 days) or time until the first postoperative bowel movement (2.8 vs 3.3 days). Total postoperative morbidity (16.1% vs 26.4%; p = 0.10) tended to be increased in group 2, but this difference was not statistically significant.

Laparoscopic sigmoid resection can be performed for patients who have complicated diverticulitis without significantly increasing their overall morbidity. This group of patients could benefit from the advantages of the minimally invasive procedure despite a longer operating time and a higher conversion rate.

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Portal hypertension: contraindication to liver surgery?

In recent decades liver resection has become a safe procedure, mainly because of better patient selection. Despite this progress, however, outcomes of hepatectomy in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension are still uncertain. The aim of this study was to elucidate early and long-term outcomes of liver resection in these patients. Between 1985 and 2003, a total of 245 cirrhotic patients underwent hepatectomy for HCC. Altogether, 217 patients were eligible for this analysis and were divided into two groups according to the presence of portal hypertension at the time of surgery: 99 patients with portal hypertension and 118 without it. Patients with portal hypertension had worse preoperative liver function (Child-Pugh A class patients: 66.7% vs. 94.9%; P<0.0001). No differences were encountered in terms of intraoperative and pathology data. Operative mortality was similar (11.1% vs. 5.1%; P=0.100), but patients with portal hypertension had higher morbidity (43.4% vs. 30.5%; P=0.049) and received a higher rate of blood and plasma transfusions (51.5% vs. 32.2%, P=0.004; 77.8% vs. 57.6%, P=0.0017). Considering only Child-Pugh A patients, short-term results were similar in the two groups in terms of mortality, morbidity, and transfusion rates. The 5-year survival rate was significantly higher in patients without portal hypertension (39.8% vs. 28.9%; P=0.020), although when considering only Child-Pugh A patients no difference of survival was encountered. Multivariate analysis identified Child-Pugh classification, tumor diameter, and vascular invasion as independent predicting factors for survival.

Portal hypertension should not be considered an absolute contraindication to hepatectomy in cirrhotic patients. Child-Pugh A patients with portal hypertension have short- and long-term results similar to patients with normal portal pressure.

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Is routine preoperative ultrasonographic mapping for arteriovenous fistula creation necessary in patients with favorable physical examination findings?

Preoperative ultrasonographic mapping (PUSM) is widely used for arteriovenous fistula creation in end-stage renal disease patients, and some authors even advocate that it be used routinely. To date, however, there are no prospective randomized data to support this suggestion. This prospective, randomized, controlled study compared PUSM and physical examination in relation to short-term outcome after AVF creation. Data sets from 70 hemodialysis patients who were deemed eligible for AVF surgery-according to specific physical examination (PE) criteria for vessel anatomy-were analyzed. The patients were randomly divided into two groups. In the PE group, no other investigation was performed, and the patient underwent AVF creation. The other patients (M group) underwent PUSM, and the AVF was created according to the mapping results. Early AVF success was defined as clinical detection of thrill (immediately and on postoperative day 1). Ultrasonographic parameters were recorded on the first postoperative day and at 1 and 6 months postoperatively. The need for intervention and intervention-free AVF survival and cumulative AVF survival were also noted. The PE and M groups showed similar rates of early AVF success: immediate thrill, PE 24/35 (68.6%) vs. M 26/33 (78.8%), P=0.340; postoperative day 1, PE 20/34 (58.8%) vs. M 24/32 (75%), P=0.164. The groups' results for ultrasonographic parameters of AVF function were also similar on postoperative day 1 and at 1 month after surgery. The groups had similar intervention-free AVF survival (P=0.770) and cumulative AVF survival as well (P=0.916). After an average follow-up of 217.7+/-239.7 days, the two groups also had similar proportions of patent AVFs: 23/35 (65.7%) vs. 23/35 (65.7%) for PE vs. M, respectively; P=1.0).

The results indicate that PUSM offers no advantage over PE with regard to AVF function in patients with favorable forearm anatomy. The authors do not advocate routine use of PUSM in patients with favorable PE findings scheduled for forearm AVF creation.

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Migraine in childhood: a trivial condition?

Migraine is seen as being a trivial disease, and more so in childhood, but in many cases it has a detrimental effect on the patient's quality of life. Prospective study. All the patients were evaluated by the same neuropaediatrician and all of them satisfied diagnostic criteria for migraine. 127 children were examined. The mean age was 9.4 years, with an interval of 3-14 years; there were no differences between sexes. 67 males and 60 females. The mean length of time the episodes lasted was 22.5 h. The most frequently observed clinical features were: hemicranial localisation, 44.4%; throbbing, 74.4%; photophobia, 74.8%; phonophobia, 83.5%; nausea-vomiting, 63.5%; and aura, 14.3%; with predominance of acutely intense visual and sensory symptoms (74%), functional repercussions in 87% and absence from school in up to 36.9% of cases. 16% of patients have had episodes of status migrainous. At the time of the visit 46% had several attacks a week; 13.7% once a week; 16.1% fortnightly; 13.7 % monthly; 5.6% every three months; and others, 4.8%. 48.7% of the patients were given preventive treatment, which was wholly effective in 48%, partially effective in 35% and not at all effective in 15.4%.

Migraine in childhood is not a trivial pathology. It is disabling: it interferes with their daily life in 85% of cases, causes them to miss school in almost 40% of patients and nearly 50% of them have several episodes a week. A similar figure required prophylactic treatment that was seen to be very effective.

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Is it possible to use modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD) equation in a Brazilian population?

Accurate assessment of kidney function level is the key to the identification and management of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is the best measure of overall kidney function in health and disease. There is no consensus about the method to be used routinely to measure and/or estimate GFR. The objectives of this study were to assess which method correlates better with creatinine (Cr) clearance, extensively used in medical practice, as well as assessing the efficacy of the modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD) equation, in our population. We studied 262 adult out-patients with stable CKD on conservative treatment. GFR was evaluated by Cr clearance, Cockcroft-Gault (CG) formula, the mean of urea and Cr clearances (total clearance (TCl)), the MDRD study equation, with and without the variable for African-Americans (MDRD1) and the simplified one (MDRDs). Data were analyzed by Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) and Bland&Altman plot analysis. Pearson's correlation showed that all methods where similar when compared to Cr clearance. A high correlation was observed between CG and MDRD equations, and TCl and MDRD equations showed the worst correlation. Among the MDRD equations, no differences were found. Bland-Altman plot analysis indicated a concordance among the studied methods.

The CG formula could replace Cr clearance in our population, being simpler than and equally as sensitive as the MDRD equation.

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Unemployment in an underserviced specialty?

A recent report suggested that newly trained Canadian neurosurgeons are experiencing difficulty finding employment in Canada. Such occurrences, in combination with recent certification restrictions imposed in the US, have resulted in increasing concern that we will shortly be seeing a surplus of graduating neurosurgeons in Canada. The purpose of this study was to develop a better understanding of training and employment patterns in the Canadian neurosurgical workforce. Using a database provided by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, the current practice location of recent (1990-2002) neurosurgical certificants and a list of all neurosurgeons practicing in Canada were generated. From these data the number of surgeons per 100,000 patient population, and the number of residents required to maintain this workforce were determined. Practice location could be identified for 183/189 individuals who passed their qualifying examination in neurosurgery during this time. Only 45% of them are currently practicing in Canada. The current service ratio for this specialty is 0.65 per 100,000 population overall. Although 14.6 residents/year are being trained, only 6.5/year are required to maintain the existing neurosurgical workforce.

Our data supports the concern about an imminent employment crisis for young neurosurgeons in Canada with more than twice the required number of residents being trained. However, this shortfall of staff positions is at a time when the specialty may be underservicing the country's population. These results highlight the necessity for more cohesive workforce planning in Canada, and in particular, ensuring the appropriate balance between training and need.

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Do current indications for surgery of primary gastric lymphoma exist?

To analyze the results of our series in order to assess whether surgical excision is still a valid therapeutic option in case the patient needs surgery. Secondarily, to analyze Helicobacter pylori infection rate. A retrospective study of 69 consecutive patients having stage IE-IIE primary gastric lymphoma; of these, 65 were treated by gastrectomy between 1974 and 1999. Mean age: 62.6 years (28-85). New staining of paraffin-embedded samples from the surgical specimen were carried out (hematoxiline-eosine, Giemsa, immunohistochemistry) and reviewed. The histological classification was performed according to Isaacson's criteria. The statistical analysis was done by Chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests, as well as Kaplan-Meier and Log-Rank tests. Mortality was 9.2%. There were non-fatal complications in 10.8%. Helicobacter pylori was identified in 62.7%. Seven patients (11.9%) suffered a relapse. The 5-year survival probability was 87%. The statistical analysis did not show any influences of Ann Arbor stage, gastric wall invasion, Helicobacter pylori infection, histological type, or margin resection involvement on survival.

Surgical excision provides a high rate of complete remissions and excellent long-term survival with acceptable mortality. Therefore it appears to be a valid treatment in case of emergency surgery, incidental finding, or lack of histological diagnosis.

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Attendance of paediatricians at elective Caesarean sections performed under regional anaesthesia: is it warranted?

We performed a population-based cohort study in Tasmania using data collected between January 1998 and December 2003 inclusive. Data on all singleton births>or=37 weeks gestation was analysed from the Tasmanian Obstetric and Neonatal Audit database to determine the number and type of resuscitations, and the number of low 1-min Apgar scores for each mode of delivery. There were 31 820 singleton deliveries born at>or=37 weeks gestation over the 6-year period. Of these 21 733 (68.3%) were spontaneous unassisted vertex vaginal deliveries and 2918 (9.2%) were elective CSs performed under regional anaesthesia (2620 spinal and 298 epidural). The incidence of a 1-min Apgar score of<4 and a 1-min Apgar score of>or=4 and<7 for elective sections under spinal was significantly lower when compared with unassisted, spontaneous, vertex vaginal delivery at 0.57% and 11.8% respectively. The relative risks when compared with unassisted, spontaneous, vertex vaginal delivery were 0.36 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.21-0.60, P<0.05) and 0.73 (95% CI 0.65-0.81, P<0.05), respectively. There was a small but statistically significant difference between unassisted, spontaneous, vertex vaginal delivery and elective CSs performed under regional anaesthesia in the requirement for resuscitation in the form of bag and mask ventilation. The relative risk for the need for bag and mask ventilation was 1.33 (95% CI 1.11-1.58, P<0.05) for spinal anaesthesia and 1.99 (95% CI 1.33-2.96, P<0.05) for epidural anaesthesia. There was no difference in the need for bag and mask ventilation or low 1-min Apgar scores between non-cephalic and cephalic presentation at elective CS under regional anaesthesia.

Elective CSs performed under regional anaesthesia are low-risk deliveries. The slight increased requirement for bag and mask ventilation is not practically significant. Such deliveries do not require the routine attendance of experienced paediatric medical staff.

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Does glutamate influence myocardial and peripheral tissue metabolism after aortic valve replacement for aortic stenosis?

Glutamate plays an important role for myocardial metabolism in association with ischaemia. Patients with coronary artery disease characteristically demonstrate increased uptake of glutamate. Improved recovery of myocardial metabolism and haemodynamic state after coronary surgery has been reported in patients treated with glutamate infusion. However, the effect of glutamate has not been studied after other cardiac surgical procedures. In addition, the effects of glutamate on peripheral tissue metabolism remain to be described. Twenty patients undergoing surgery for aortic stenosis were studied after randomisation to blinded infusion of glutamate or saline during 1h immediately after skin closure. Myocardial and leg tissue metabolism were assessed with organ balance techniques. Postoperative glutamate infusion induced a marked increase in myocardial and leg tissue uptake of glutamate. This was associated with a significant uptake of lactate in the heart. The negative arterial-venous differences of amino acids and free fatty acids across the leg were significantly smaller in the glutamate group. Haemodynamic state remained stable and did not differ between groups.

The heart and peripheral tissues consumed the exogenously administered glutamate after surgery for aortic stenosis. Potentially favourable effects of glutamate on myocardial and peripheral tissue metabolism are suggested.

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Does splenectomy in cystic fibrosis related liver disease improve lung function and nutritional status?

To review the effect of total splenectomy on lung function and nutrition in children with cystic fibrosis related liver disease (CFLD) and associated portal hypertension. The stated indications for surgery and the short and long term risks of the procedure were also documented. Over a 25 year period from January 1980 to June 2005, approximately 650 patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) were treated at the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia. Nine patients with CFLD who underwent a splenectomy during that time were identified and their medical records were reviewed. FEV1% predicted dropped by -16+/-11% in the two years pre-splenectomy. This contrasts with the increase in FEV1% predicted of 2+/-16% in the two years post-splenectomy (p = 0.05). The cumulative gain in WAZ score (DeltaWAZ pre) over the two years prior to splenectomy of 0.045+/-0.69 was not significantly different from the cumulative gain in WAZ score (DeltaWAZ post) for the two years after splenectomy of 0.15+/-0.36 (p = 0.65). The average age at splenectomy was 14.8 years (SD = 3 years). The average weight of an excised spleen was 983 g (SD = 414 g). There were no deaths associated with splenectomy. The median length of follow up post-splenectomy was 6.0 years (range 0.7-15.8). There were no episodes of bacterial peritonitis or overwhelming sepsis.

Splenectomy may have a beneficial effect on lung function although this may not manifest itself until the second year post-splenectomy. Splenectomy in patients with CFLD appears to be a safe procedure.

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Is incomplete recovery from work a risk marker of cardiovascular death?

A chronic lack of recovery from work during leisure time is hypothesized to indicate a health risk among employees. We examined whether incomplete recovery from work predicted cardiovascular mortality. This prospective cohort study involved 788 industrial employees (534 men, 254 women, mean age 37.3, SD = 12.0) who were initially free from cardiovascular diseases. The baseline examination in 1973 determined cases of cardiovascular disease, cardiovascular risk factors, and the extent of recovery from work. Data on mortality in 1973 to 2000 were derived from the national mortality register. Sixty-seven cardiovascular deaths and 102 deaths from noncardiovascular causes occurred during the mean follow-up of 25.6 years. Employees who seldom recovered from work during free weekends had an elevated risk of cardiovascular death (p = .007) but not of other mortality (p = .82). The association between incomplete recovery and cardiovascular death remained after adjustment for age, sex, and 16 conventional risk factors, including occupational background, cholesterol, systolic pressure, body mass index, smoking, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, depressive symptoms, fatigue, lack of energy, and job stress. The association was not explained by deaths that occurred close to the assessment of recovery from work.

This study suggests that incomplete recovery from work is an aspect of the overall risk profile of cardiovascular disease mortality among employees.

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To "lump" or to "split" the functional somatic syndromes: can infectious and emotional risk factors differentiate between the onset of chronic fatigue syndrome and irritable bowel syndrome?

Recent academic debate has centered on whether functional somatic syndromes should be defined as separate entities or as one syndrome. The aim of this study was to investigate whether there may be significant differences in the etiology or precipitating factors associated with two common functional syndromes, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). We prospectively studied 592 patients with an acute episode of Campylobacter gastroenteritis and 243 with an acute episode of infectious mononucleosis who had no previous history of CFS or IBS. At the time of infection, patients completed a baseline questionnaire that measured their levels of distress using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale. At 3- and 6-month follow-up, they completed questionnaires to determine whether they met published diagnostic criteria for chronic fatigue (CF), CFS, and/or IBS. The odds of developing IBS were significantly greater post-Campylobacter than post-infectious mononucleosis at both 3- (odds ratio, 3.45 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.75-6.67]) and 6- (2.22 [95% CI, 1.11-6.67]) month follow-up. In contrast, the odds for developing CF/CFS were significantly greater after infectious mononucleosis than after Campylobacter at 3 (2.77 [95% CI, 1.08-7.11]) but not 6 (1.48 [95% CI, 0.62-3.55]) months postinfection. Anxiety and depression were the strongest predictors of CF/CFS, whereas the nature of the infection was the strongest predictor of IBS.

These results support the argument to distinguish between postinfectious IBS and CFS. The nature of the precipitating infection appears to be important, and premorbid levels of distress appear to be more strongly associated with CFS than IBS, particularly levels of depression.

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Laparoscopic adjustable gastric band versus laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: ends justify the means?

In the United States, the most frequently performed bariatric procedure is the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Worldwide, the most common operation performed is the laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB). The expanding use of LAGB is probably driven by the encouraging data on its safety and effectiveness, in contrast to the disappointing morbidity and mortality rates reported for RYGB. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of LAGB versus RYGB at a single institution. Between November 2000 and July 2004, 590 bariatric procedures were performed. Of these, 120 patients (20%) had laparoscopic RYGB and 470 patients (80%) had LAGB. A retrospective review was performed. In the LAGB group, 376 patients (80%) were female, and the mean age was 41 years (range, 17-65). In the RYGB group, 110 patients (91%) were female, and the mean age was 41 years (range, 20-61). Preoperative body mass index was 47 +/- 8 and 46 +/- 5, respectively (p = not significant). Operative time and hospitalization were significantly shorter in LAGB patients (p<0.001). Complications and the need for reoperation were comparable in both groups. Weight loss at 12, 18, 24, and 36 months for LAGB and RYGB was 39 +/- 21 versus 65 +/- 13, 39 +/- 20 versus 62 +/- 17, 45 +/- 25 versus 67 +/- 8, and 55 +/- 20 versus 63 +/- 9, respectively.

The current study demonstrates that LAGB is a simpler, less invasive, and safer procedure than RYGB. Although mean percentage excess body weight loss (%EBWL) in RYGB patients increased rapidly during the first postoperative year, it remained nearly unchanged at 3 years. In contrast, in LAGB patients weight loss was slower but steady, achieving satisfactory %EBWL at 3 years. Therefore, we believe that LAGB should be considered the initial approach since it is safer than RYGB and is very effective at achieving weight loss.

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Young adults born small for gestational age: is reduced baroreceptor sensitivity a risk factor for hypertension?

BACKGROUND. Adults born small for gestational age (SGA) are at increased risk for the metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. Impaired short-term blood pressure regulation may contribute to the development of hypertension in patients born SGA. In all, 43 patients born SGA (18 female, age 19.4 +/- 0.3 years) were evaluated by beat-to-beat blood pressure and heart rate registration during rest and mental and orthostatic stress. The study group was divided into Group 1 with normal resting blood pressure (n=32) and Group 2 with slightly elevated blood pressure (n=11). Baroreceptor sensitivity (BRS) was calculated. Fasting insulin as well as lipid levels were correlated with hemodynamic parameters. Eleven of the 43 study patients (25%) had a slightly elevated resting systolic blood pressure (SBP) rising during mental and orthostatic stress. Body mass index (BMI) and fasting insulin levels correlated strongly with SBP in Group 2. Baroreceptor sensitivity was lower in Group 2 at rest (p<0.05).

Three components of metabolic syndrome (elevated BP, high BMI, elevated insulin levels) correlate strongly in young adolescents born SGA; BRS is reduced in prehypertensive patients. Close follow-up is warranted during adult life as they are predisposed for developing a metabolic syndrome with elevated cardiovascular risk.

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Do selective cyclo-oxygenase-2 inhibitors and traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs increase the risk of atherothrombosis?

To assess the effects of selective cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX 2) inhibitors and traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on the risk of vascular events. Meta-analysis of published and unpublished tabular data from randomised trials, with indirect estimation of the effects of traditional NSAIDs. Medline and Embase (January 1966 to April 2005); Food and Drug Administration records; and data on file from Novartis, Pfizer, and Merck. Eligible studies were randomised trials that included a comparison of a selective COX 2 inhibitor versus placebo or a selective COX 2 inhibitor versus a traditional NSAID, of at least four weeks' duration, with information on serious vascular events (defined as myocardial infarction, stroke, or vascular death). Individual investigators and manufacturers provided information on the number of patients randomised, numbers of vascular events, and the person time of follow-up for each randomised group. In placebo comparisons, allocation to a selective COX 2 inhibitor was associated with a 42% relative increase in the incidence of serious vascular events (1.2%/year v 0.9%/year; rate ratio 1.42, 95% confidence interval 1.13 to 1.78; P = 0.003), with no significant heterogeneity among the different selective COX 2 inhibitors. This was chiefly attributable to an increased risk of myocardial infarction (0.6%/year v 0.3%/year; 1.86, 1.33 to 2.59; P = 0.0003), with little apparent difference in other vascular outcomes. Among trials of at least one year's duration (mean 2.7 years), the rate ratio for vascular events was 1.45 (1.12 to 1.89; P = 0.005). Overall, the incidence of serious vascular events was similar between a selective COX 2 inhibitor and any traditional NSAID (1.0%/year v 0.9%/year; 1.16, 0.97 to 1.38; P = 0.1). However, statistical heterogeneity (P = 0.001) was found between trials of a selective COX 2 inhibitor versus naproxen (1.57, 1.21 to 2.03) and of a selective COX 2 inhibitor versus non-naproxen NSAIDs (0.88, 0.69 to 1.12). The summary rate ratio for vascular events, compared with placebo, was 0.92 (0.67 to 1.26) for naproxen, 1.51 (0.96 to 2.37) for ibuprofen, and 1.63 (1.12 to 2.37) for diclofenac.

Selective COX 2 inhibitors are associated with a moderate increase in the risk of vascular events, as are high dose regimens of ibuprofen and diclofenac, but high dose naproxen is not associated with such an excess.

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One dose of varicella vaccine does not prevent school outbreaks: is it time for a second dose?

The implementation of a routine childhood varicella vaccination program in the United States in 1995 has resulted in a dramatic decline in varicella morbidity and mortality. Although disease incidence has decreased, outbreaks of varicella continue to be reported, increasingly in highly vaccinated populations. In 2000, a varicella vaccination requirement was introduced for kindergarten entry in Arkansas. In October 2003, large numbers of varicella cases were reported in a school with high vaccination coverage. We investigated this outbreak to examine transmission patterns of varicella in this highly vaccinated population, to estimate the effectiveness of 1 dose of varicella vaccine, to identify risk factors for vaccine failure, and to implement outbreak control measures. A retrospective cohort study involving students attending an elementary school was conducted. A questionnaire was distributed to parents of all of the students in the school to collect varicella disease and vaccination history; parents of varicella case patients were interviewed by telephone. A case of varicella was defined as an acute, generalized, maculopapulovesicular rash without other apparent cause in a student or staff member in the school from September 1 to November 20, 2003. Varicella among vaccinated persons was defined as varicella-like rash that developed>42 days after vaccination. In vaccinated persons, the rash may be atypical, maculopapular with few or no vesicles. Cases were laboratory confirmed by polymerase chain reaction, and genotyping was performed to identify the strain associated with the outbreak. Of the 545 students who attended the school, 88% returned the questionnaire. Overall varicella vaccination coverage was 96%. Forty-nine varicella cases were identified; 43 were vaccinated. Three of 6 specimens tested were positive by polymerase chain reaction. The median age at vaccination of vaccinated students in the school was 18 months, and the median time since vaccination was 59 months. Forty-four cases occurred in the East Wing, where 275 students in grades kindergarten through 2 were located, and vaccination coverage was 99%. In this wing, varicella attack rates among unvaccinated and vaccinated students were 100% and 18%, respectively. Vaccine effectiveness against varicella of any severity was 82% and 97% for moderate/severe varicella. Vaccinated cases were significantly milder compared with unvaccinated cases. Among the case patients in the East Wing, the median age at vaccination was 18.5 and 14 months among non-case patients. Four cases in the West Wing did not result in further transmission in that wing. The Arkansas strains were the same as the common varicella-zoster virus strain circulating in the United States (European varicella-zoster virus strain).

Although disease was mostly mild, the outbreak lasted for approximately 2 months, suggesting that varicella in vaccinated persons was contagious and that 99% varicella vaccination coverage was not sufficient to prevent the outbreak. This investigation highlights several challenges related to the prevention and control of varicella outbreaks with the 1-dose varicella vaccination program and the need for further prevention of varicella through improved vaccine-induced immunity with a routine 2-dose vaccination program. The challenges include: 1-dose varicella vaccination not providing sufficient herd immunity levels to prevent outbreaks in school settings where exposure can be intense, the effective transmission of varicella among vaccinated children, and the difficulty in the diagnosis of mild cases in vaccinated persons and early recognition of outbreaks for implementing control measures. The efficacy of 2 doses of varicella vaccine compared with 1 dose was assessed in a trial conducted among healthy children who were followed for 10 years. The efficacy for 2 doses was significantly higher than for 1 dose of varicella vaccine. This higher efficacy translated into a 3.3-fold lower risk of developing varicella>42 days after vaccination in 2- vs 1-dose recipients. Of the children receiving 2 doses, 99% achieved a glycoprotein-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay level of>or =5 units (considered a correlate of protection) 6 weeks after vaccination compared with 86% of children who received 1 dose. The 6-week glycoprotein-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay level of>or =5 units has been shown to be a good surrogate for protection from natural disease. Ten years after the implementation of the varicella vaccination program, disease incidence has declined dramatically, and vaccination coverage has increased greatly. However, varicella outbreaks continue to occur among vaccinated persons. Although varicella disease among vaccinated persons is mild, they are contagious and able to sustain transmission. As a step toward better control of varicella outbreaks and to reduce the impact on schools and public health officials, in June 2005, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended the use of a second dose of varicella vaccine in outbreak settings. Early recognition of outbreaks is important to effectively implement a 2-dose vaccination response and to prevent more cases. Although the current recommendation of providing a second dose of varicella vaccine during an outbreak offers a tool for controlling outbreaks, a routine 2-dose recommendation would be more effective at preventing cases. Based on published data on immunogenicity and efficacy of 2 doses of varicella vaccine, routine 2-dose vaccination will provide improved protection against disease and further reduce morbidity and mortality from varicella.

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Severe fatigue in adolescents: a common phenomenon?

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of severe fatigue in adolescent boys and girls, to explore the role of lifestyle factors in fatigue, and to investigate whether severe fatigue in a healthy population is associated with depression, anxiety, and comorbid factors also observed in chronic fatigue syndrome patients. In a sample of 1718 boys and 1749 girls, fatigue severity and duration were measured using a multidimensional questionnaire (Checklist Individual Strength). In addition, self-reports of depressive symptoms, anxiety, chronic fatigue syndrome-related symptoms, and lifestyle characteristics were assessed by means of questionnaires. Prevalence rates of severe fatigue and severe fatigue for>or =1 month, based on a clinical cutoff score of the Checklist Individual Strength, were determined for boys and girls separately, and gender-specific predictors of fatigue were identified by multiple regression analysis. The data showed high prevalence rates of severe fatigue in adolescents. Remarkable differences between boys and girls were observed: 20.5% of girls and 6.5% of the boys scored above the clinical cutoff score on the Checklist Individual Strength. Of these subjects 80.0% of the girls and 61.5% of the boys reported severe fatigue for>or =1 month. Of the examined lifestyle characteristics, only sleep characteristics and the participation in sports played a role in predicting fatigue in both genders. Moreover, in girls, fatigue was associated with higher age, an early menarche, medication use, and the absence of an additional job. Overall, girls scored higher on depression, anxiety, and chronic fatigue syndrome-related symptoms. However, the relation between fatigue and these comorbid symptoms did not differ between genders. In both girls and boys, the duration of fatigue was positively related to fatigue severity, severity of depression and anxiety, and the number of chronic fatigue syndrome-related symptoms.

Fatigue prevalence among adolescents is high, especially in girls. Adolescent girls seem to be more vulnerable to symptoms of fatigue and comorbidity than boys. Interestingly, despite a female predominance in complaints, the relation between fatigue and depression, anxiety, and chronic fatigue syndrome-related symptoms was not gender specific and emerged as a cluster. In both genders, fatigue duration was associated with the severity of fatigue and the level of psychological comorbidity and chronic fatigue syndrome-related symptoms, and we, therefore, hypothesize that enduring severe fatigue may form a risk factor for the development of chronic fatigue syndrome.

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Can school income and racial/ethnic composition explain the racial/ethnic disparity in adolescent physical activity participation?

Our goal was to determine if racial/ethnic disparities in adolescent boys' and girls' physical activity participation exist and persist once the school attended is considered. We performed a cross-sectional analysis of 17,007 teens in the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. Using multivariate linear regression, we examined the association between adolescent self-reported physical activity and individual race/ethnicity stratified by gender, controlling for a wide range of sociodemographic, attitudinal, behavioral, and health factors. We used multilevel analyses to determine if the relationship between race/ethnicity and physical activity varied by the school attended. Participants attended racially segregated schools; approximately 80% of Hispanic and black adolescent boys and girls attended schools with student populations that were<66% white, whereas nearly 40% of the white adolescents attended schools that were>94% white. Black and Hispanic adolescent girls reported lower levels of physical activity than white adolescent girls. There were more similar levels of physical activity reported in adolescent boys, with black boys reporting slightly more activities. Although black and Hispanic adolescent girls were more likely to attend poorer schools with overall lower levels of physical activity in girls; there was no difference within schools between black, white, and Hispanic adolescent girls' physical activity levels. Within the same schools, both black and Hispanic adolescent boys had higher rates of physical activity when compared with white adolescent boys.

In this nationally representative sample, lower physical activity levels in Hispanic and black adolescent girls were largely attributable to the schools they attended. In contrast, black and Hispanic males had higher activity levels than white males when attending the same schools. Future research is needed to determine the mechanisms through which school environments contribute to racial/ethnic disparities in adolescent physical activity and will need to consider gender differences in these racial/ethnic disparities.

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Is routine magnetic resonance imaging justified for the early detection of resectable liver metastases from colorectal cancer?

This study was designed to determine whether routine follow-up by magnetic resonance imaging improves the detection of resectable liver metastases from colorectal cancer and patients' survival. Patients who underwent curative surgery for colorectal cancer were included in a program of liver surveillance by routine magnetic resonance imaging, in addition to the standard follow-up protocol consisting of clinical examination and biochemical tests. The median follow-up was 41 (interquartile range, 30-53) months, with a median magnetic resonance imaging surveillance period of 20 (interquartile range, 12-27) months. Cases were analyzed for mode of diagnosis, resectability, and overall survival. Liver metastases were found in 37 (13 percent) of 293 patients studied. Magnetic resonance imaging diagnosed hepatic metastases with 84 percent sensitivity and 90 percent specificity. In 28 (76 percent) patients, carcinoembryonic antigen and/or liver function tests were abnormally elevated and 5 patients (14 percent) were symptomatic. Hepatic resection was possible in only nine patients (24 percent). Magnetic resonance imaging detected all resectable cases, whereas traditional follow-up would have missed three (33 percent) cases suitable for surgery.

Although magnetic resonance imaging surveillance increased the number of patients suitable for liver resection by 50 percent, these represented only 1 percent of the patients included in the study. Whether these results are enough to justify the allocation of expensive resources is controversial.

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PSA velocity in conservatively managed BPH: can it predict the need for BPH-related invasive therapy?

To study the value of PSA velocity (PSAV) to predict benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) progression in patients managed with alpha(1)-blockers or watchful waiting (WW). Nine hundred and forty two BPH patients treated with alpha(1)-blocker or WW were reviewed. PSAV was defined as: (PSA(t)-PSA(b))/(t/12); where PSA(t) = PSA at time of follow-up (t, in months), PSA(b) = PSA at baseline. PSA(t) was taken from the 1 year follow-up visit or, if not present, from the next available visit with a maximum of 24 months. Five hundred and ninety five patients (234 alpha(1)-blocker, 361 WW) were included in the analyses. PSAV range was -5.24 to 43.06 ng/ml/year in alpha(1)-blocker patients and -6.11 to 19.55 ng/ml/year in WW patients (median: 0.01 ng/ml/year). PSAV was stratified into tertiles (Stable/Decrease/Increase). There were no significant differences in retreatment-free survival and the risk of BPH-related invasive therapy between the tertiles in both treatment groups.

PSAV did not predict BPH progression in either alpha(1)-blocker treated patients or WW group.

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Pulmonary hypertension in children with Down's syndrome and congenital heart disease. Is it really more severe?

To compare the hemodynamic state, the severity and reversibility of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in patients with Down's syndrome and congenital heart disease (CHD) with respect to those without chromosomal pathologies. 30 patients with congenital heart disease and left to right shunt were studied, corroborated by echocardiography; 16 patients had Down's syndrome and CHD and the control group was constituted by 14 patients without chromosomal abnormalities and with CHD. The age was R = 4.7 +/- 5.8 years for the Down's syndrome group and x = 5.3 +/- 4.5 years for the control group. All patients were subjected to a complete hemodynamic study, as well as to structural analysis by pulmonary wedge angiography (PWA), tested with oxygen administration. The most frequent diagnosis was ventricular septal defect for the control group and common atrioventricular canal for the Down's group. The systolic and mean pulmonary pressure depicted very similar values in both groups, with an average of 84.87 +/- 13.16 mm Hg for the Down's group and 84.21 +/- 22.05 for the control group. After oxygen administration, a tendency of increased Qp/Qs was found with a drop in pulmonary resistance in both groups, but being more important in the control group. During PWA assessment no quantitative differences were observed in PAH between both groups nor after the angiography with oxygen administration.

Although patients with Down's syndrome present CHD with greater predisposition to develop irreversible pulmonary arterial hypertension like common atrioventricular canal, the hemodynamic behavior of pulmonary hypertension and during the challenge with oxygen was similar in both groups.

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Occult cystobiliary communication presenting as postoperative biliary leakage after hydatid liver surgery: are there significant preoperative clinical predictors?

Occult cystobiliary communication (CBC) presents with biliary leakage, if the cystobiliary opening cannot be detected and repaired at operation. We investigated the clinical signs associated with the risk of occult CBC in the preoperative period by studying patients who developed biliary leakage after hydatid liver surgery. We analyzed the records of 191 patients treated for hydatid liver cyst. Postoperative biliary leakage developed in 41 patients (21.5%). Independent predictive factors were established by logistic regression analysis using clinical parameters, whose cutoff values were determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Postoperative biliary leakage presented as external biliary fistula in 31 (75.6%) of 41 patients, as biliary peritonitis in 6 (14.6%) and as cyst cavity biliary abscess in 4 (9.8%). Independent clinical predictors of occult CBC, represented by biliary leakage, were alkaline phosphatase>250 U/L, total bilirubin>17.1 micromol/L, direct bilirubin>6.8 micromol/L, gamma-glutamyl transferase>34.5 U/L, eosinophils>0.09 and cyst diameter>8.5 cm. Multilocular or degenerate cysts increased the risk of biliary leakage (p = 0.012). Postoperative complication rates were 53.7% in the patients with biliary leakage, and 10.0% (p<0.001) in those without. The mean postoperative hospital stay was longer in patients with biliary leakage (14.3 [and standard deviation {SD} 1.9] d) than in those without (7.3 [SD 2.3]d) (p<0.001). Nineteen (61.3%) of 31 biliary fistulae closed spontaneously within 10 days. The remaining 12 (38.7%) fistulae closed within 7 days after endoscopic sphincterotomy.

Factors that predict occult CBC due to hydatid liver cyst were identified. These factors should allow the likelihood of CBC to be determined and, thus, indicate the need for additional procedures during operation to prevent the complications of biliary leakage.

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Quality of diagnosis and surgical management of breast lesions in a community hospital: room for improvement?

We aimed to examine both the diagnostic modalities used to identify breast lesions and their surgical management in an Ontario community hospital. We conducted a retrospective chart review of the preoperative diagnostic tools used by 6 general surgeons for palpable and nonpalpable breast lesions and considered the types of surgical procedures performed. Patients who underwent noncosmetic breast surgery in the year 2000 were included in the study (n = 180). Of the 182 breast lesions, 89 (49%) were malignant. Of the 100 palpable lesions removed, fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) was performed on 48. Positive FNABs in this study were highly predictive of malignancy (100%). Only 1 core needle biopsy was performed on a palpable lesion. Of the 78 mammograms obtained for nonpalpable lesions, the PPV (positive predictive value) of malignancy for "suggestive" lesions was 100%, 75% for "suspicious" lesions, 40% for "probably benign" lesions, 0% for "benign" lesions and 37% for lesions categorized as "needs additional imaging." Other preoperative diagnostic tools used were ultrasonography (n = 44) and stereotactic biopsies (n = 3). Of the initial operations performed, 76 were lumpectomies and 88 were needle-localized biopsies. Only 15 patients underwent initial definitive procedures, and of these 5 had positive margins and 8 had close (<or = 1-mm) margins. Positive margins were found in 35% of the needle-localized lumpectomies (61% had a close margin), in 60% of lumpectomies (75% had a close margin) and in 2 of the 5 lumpectomies with axillary node dissections done as first operations. Six frozen sections were obtained. Only 11% of surgical specimens were oriented for pathology. Reoperations were performed on 91% of women with malignancies (or 67% with a close margin).

Considerable variation existed between surgeons with regard to the types of preoperative diagnostic procedure used and operations performed. The rate of positive margins was high, which resulted in many reoperations.

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Urodynamics after TURP and HoLEP in urodynamically obstructed patients: are there any differences at 1 year of follow-up?

To compare urodynamic findings after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) and transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia-related bladder outlet obstruction. From January to October 2002, 100 consecutive patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia with obstructive lower urinary tract symptoms were randomized to surgical treatment with either HoLEP (group 1, n = 52) or TURP (group 2, n = 48). All patients were preoperatively assessed using the International Prostate Symptom Score and quality-of-life question, total serum prostate-specific antigen measurement, transrectal ultrasonography, and complete urodynamic study. The operative time, catheterization time, and overall hospital stay were also recorded for both groups. All patients were assessed at 1, 6, and 12 months postoperatively using a complete urodynamic evaluation. All patients were obstructed preoperatively (Schäfer grade greater than 2). Both groups were comparable in terms of age, total serum prostate-specific antigen level, International Prostate Symptom Score, and urodynamic results. At 1, 6, and 12 months of follow-up, no statistically significant differences were recorded in terms of detrussor pressure at maximal urinary flow rate, Schäfer grade (linear passive urethral resistance relation), maximal urinary flow rate, International Prostate Symptom Score, and quality-of-life score. In the HoLEP group, the catheterization time and hospital stay were significantly shorter. Transitory lower urinary tract symptoms after 3 months of follow-up and dysuria were more frequent in the HoLEP group than in the TURP group, although at 12 months of follow-up, the results were comparable.

Both HoLEP and TURP were equally effective in relieving bladder outlet obstruction. Although associated with greater early self-resolving irritative symptoms, HoLEP can guarantee a shorter catheterization time and hospital stay with longer operative times, proposing itself as an attractive alternative to standard TURP.

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Is pelvicaliceal anatomy a risk factor for stone formation in patients with solitary upper caliceal stone?

To investigate the effect of pelvicaliceal anatomy on stone formation in patients with solitary upper caliceal stones. The records of patients with solitary upper caliceal stones between 1996 and 2004 were reviewed. After the exclusion of patients with hydronephrosis, major anatomic abnormalities, noncalcium stones, metabolic abnormalities, history of recurrent stone disease, multiple stones, and previous renal surgery, 42 patients (24 male, 18 female) and 42 healthy subjects (22 male, 20 female) with normal results on intravenous pyelography (IVP) were enrolled into the study. With a previously described formula, upper pole infundibulopelvic angle (IPA), infundibular length (IL) and width (IW), and pelvicaliceal volume of the stone-bearing and contralateral normal kidney of patients and bilateral normal kidneys of healthy subjects were measured from IVP. Forty-two stone-bearing and 126 normal kidneys (42 contralateral, 84 healthy) were assessed. The mean stone size was 153.47 mm2 (range, 20 to 896 mm2). There were no statistically significant differences in terms of upper caliceal specifications between stone-bearing and normal kidneys. The mean (+/- standard deviation) pelvicaliceal volume of 42 stone-bearing and 126 normal kidneys was 2455.2 +/- 1380.2 mm3 and 1845.7 +/- 1454.8 mm3, respectively (P = 0.019). These values were 2114 +/- 2081.5 mm3 (P = 0.34) and 1709.5 +/- 989.1 mm3 (P = 0.001) for contralateral normal kidneys (n = 42) and normal kidneys of healthy subjects (n = 84), respectively.

Explanation of the etiology of the upper caliceal stone by the anatomic features is very difficult, and these caliceal anatomic variables (IPA, IL, IW) seem not to be a significant risk factor for stone formation in the upper calyx.

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Are BPI and BPII suicide attempters distinct neuropsychologically?

It is not clear if bipolar disorder I (BPI) and bipolar disorder II (BPII) represent the same disorder on a continuum of severity or two distinct syndromes. Neuropsychological functioning is a means of understanding similarities and differences between diagnostic groups. To compare the neuropsychological functioning of depressed suicide attempters with BPI or BPII and healthy controls. Fifty-one individuals with bipolar disorder (BPI n=32, BPII n=19) and a history of suicide attempt were compared with 58 healthy controls with respect to neuropsychological functioning in the following domains: motor functioning, psychomotor performance, attention, memory, working memory, impulsiveness and language fluency. Participants with BPI and BPII performed significantly more poorly than healthy controls on tests of Digit Symbol Test of psychomotor functioning, the N Back Test of working memory and the Go-No-Go Test of impulsiveness. Participants with BPI were significantly worse than controls but not those with BPII on the Test of Verbal Fluency. Participants with BPII performed significantly worse than either controls or those with BPI on the Simple Reaction Time Motor Test and the Stroop Test of attention.

While participants with both BPI and BPII performed more poorly than healthy controls, individuals with BPII also performed more poorly than those with BPI on some tests suggesting that they may have a unique syndrome. The findings have implications for assessment and treatment in bipolar disorder.

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Clinicopathologic analysis of extracapsular extension in prostate cancer: should the clinical target volume be expanded posterolaterally to account for microscopic extension?

We performed a complete pathologic analysis examining extracapsular extension (ECE) and microscopic spread of malignant cells beyond the prostate capsule to determine whether and when clinical target volume (CTV) expansion should be performed. A detailed pathologic analysis was performed for 371 prostatectomy specimens. All slides from each case were reviewed by a single pathologist (N.S.G.). The ECE status and ECE distance, defined as the maximal linear radial distance of malignant cells beyond the capsule, were recorded. A total of 121 patients (33%) were found to have ECE (68 unilateral, 53 bilateral). Median ECE distance=2.4 mm [range: 0.05-7.0 mm]. The 90th-percentile distance = 5.0 mm. Of the 121 cases with ECE, 55% had ECE distance>or=2 mm, 19%>or=4 mm, and 6%>or=6 mm. ECE occurred primarily posterolaterally along the neurovascular bundle in all cases. Pretreatment prostrate-specific antigen (PSA), biopsy Gleason, pathologic Gleason, clinical stage, bilateral involvement, positive margins, percentage of gland involved, and maximal tumor dimension were associated with presence of ECE. Both PSA and Gleason score were associated with ECE distance. In all 371 patients, for those with either pretreatment PSA>or=10 or biopsy Gleason score>or=7, 21% had ECE>or=2 mm and 5%>or=4 mm beyond the capsule. For patients with both of these risk factors, 49% had ECE>or=2 mm and 21%>or=4 mm.

For prostate cancer with ECE, the median linear distance of ECE was 2.4 mm and occurred primarily posterolaterally. Although only 5% of patients demonstrate ECE>4 to 5 mm beyond the capsule, this risk may exceed 20% in patients with PSA>or=10 ng/ml and biopsy Gleason score>or=7. As imaging techniques improve for prostate capsule delineation and as radiotherapy delivery techniques increase in accuracy, a posterolateral CTV expansion should be considered for patients at high risk.

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Is HCV infection associated with liver steatosis also in children?

Prevalence and significance of steatosis in children with chronic hepatitis C are not well defined. We analysed the prevalence of steatosis in children with chronic hepatitis C and its relationship with clinical, laboratory features and response to interferon. Sixty-four consecutive children with CHC undergoing liver biopsy were retrospectively evaluated. Twenty-five percent of children showed mild to moderate steatosis. Only one child was infected by genotype 3. Body mass index did not significantly differ between children with and without steatosis. Although no significant difference in necroinflammatory and fibrosis scores between children with and without steatosis was found, 3 (18.7%) of 16 patients with steatosis and only one (2.1%) of 48 patients without steatosis had a fibrosis score>2 (P<0.05). Forty-seven children (13 with steatosis) received interferon after liver biopsy. A sustained response was observed in 3 (23%) children with steatosis and in 18 (53%) without steatosis.

Histological evidence of steatosis is detectable in a quarter of children with CHC. Differently from adults, genotypes other than 3 may be associated with steatosis independently from classical metabolic risk factors. Children with steatosis seem to have more severe fibrosis and lower rates of sustained response to interferon therapy compared to children without steatosis.

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Is saliva as reliable as urine for detection of cytomegalovirus DNA for neonatal screening of congenital CMV infection?

There are no studies on the detection of cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA by molecular methods in the saliva of newborn infants in large scale screening programs. To evaluate the usefulness of saliva as a sample for the neonatal screening of congenital CMV infection as compared to urine when processed by a PCR. Saliva and urine samples were obtained during the first week of life. Both samples were attempted to be obtained from the first 2816 neonates. Subsequently, only saliva was obtained from other 1623 infants. Urine and saliva were processed by DNA-PCR. Confirmation of positive results was done by PCR and virus isolation by 3 weeks after birth. A urine sample was not obtainable from 893/2816 (31.7%) infants. Both saliva and urine samples were obtained from the remaining 1923 infants. Of these, 28 (1.45%) were CMV-infected. There was 99.7% agreement between the results with both samples. CMV excretion was similar when PCR was applied to urine (1.3%) or to saliva (1.2%) samples. Among the subsequent 1623 infants for whom only a saliva sample was planned for screening, 16 (0.98%) were CMV-infected.

Saliva samples are as useful as urine for the identification of CMV-DNA in large use for screening programs.

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Magnetic resonance imaging of haemorrhage within reperfused myocardial infarcts: possible interference with iron oxide-labelled cell tracking?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been proposed as a tool to track iron oxide-labelled cells within myocardial infarction (MI). However, infarct reperfusion aggravates microvascular obstruction (MO) and causes haemorrhage. We hypothesized that haemorrhagic MI causes magnetic susceptibility-induced signal voids that may interfere with iron oxide-labelled cell detection. Pigs (n = 23) underwent 2 h occlusion of the left circumflex artery. Cine, T2*-weighted, perfusion, and delayed enhancement MRI scans were performed at 1 and 5 weeks, followed by ex vivo high-resolution scanning. At 1 week, MO was observed in 17 out of 21 animals. Signal voids were observed on T2*-weighted scans in five out of eight animals, comprising 24 +/- 22% of the infarct area. A linear correlation was found between area of MO and signal voids (R2 = 0.87; P = 0.002). At 5 weeks, MO was observed in two out of 13 animals. Signal voids were identified in three out of seven animals. Ex vivo scanning showed signal voids on T2*-weighted scanning in all animals because of the presence of haemorrhage, as confirmed by histology. Signal voids interfered with the detection of iron oxide-labelled cells ex vivo (n = 21 injections).

Haemorrhage in reperfused MI produces MRI signal voids, which may hamper tracking of iron oxide-labelled cells.

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Does better access to primary care reduce utilization of hospital accident and emergency departments?

Availability of primary care emergency facilities has been improved to help curb heavy growth in the use of Accident and Emergency Departments (A&EDs). The aim of this paper is to analyse the relationship between time series for visits to hospital A&EDs and primary care centres. Using a co-integration time series we analyse the visits to the emergency services of the county hospital and seven healthcare primary centres in the healthcare district of Mieres, Asturias, España, during the period 1992-1999. The main outcome measured is the relationship between the time series for emergency visits to the primary care centres and the hospital A&ED, for groups aged 0-14 years, over 14 years and the total. A total of 506,158 visits to the emergency services of the primary care centres (62.4%) and hospital A&ED (37.6%) have been studied. Emergency visits rose by 40.9% during the period studied (50.3% in primary care centres and 26.5% in the hospital). The gross rise in visits was higher for adults (51.2%) than for 0-14 year olds (6.6%). The co-integration time-series analysis showed that in both age groups and in the total, there was a significant and positive relationship between the primary care and hospital series, indicating that the use of both services had grown simultaneously. The use of the hospital services did not decrease as a result of the increase in primary care services.

The rise in use of primary care emergency services did not reduce use of the hospital A&ED.

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Do snacks of exercise lower blood pressure?

Single blind randomised crossover trial of three 'exercise' regimes in general practice. 35 hypertensive adults without complications. Regimes included 4x10-minute episodes of brisk walking per day, 40 minutes continuous brisk walking per day, and no brisk walking. Each regime lasted 4 days with 10 days of no exercise in between. Change of systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Mean age 53 years and mean baseline blood pressure 166/103 mmHg. Systolic blood pressure changed by: -7.5 mmHg (95%CI: -8.9, -6.0) with 40-minutes regime; -7.3 mmHg (95%CI: -8.7, -5.8) with 4x10-minutes regime; and +1.0 mmHg (95%CI: -0.4, 2.5) with 'no brisk walking' regime (p<0.001). Diastolic blood pressure reduced by -4.0 mmHg (95%CI: -5.0, -3.0) with 40 minutes regime; -5.4 mmHg (95%CI: -6.4, -4.4) with 4x10 minutes regime; and -0.2 mmHg (95%CI: -1.2, 0.8) with 'no brisk walking' regime (p<0.001).

Four 10-minute snacks of brisk walking were as effective as 40 minutes of continuous brisk walking per day at reducing blood pressure. This has implications for public health messages and advice to patients with hypertension.

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Do Ureaplasma urealyticum infections in the genital tract affect semen quality?

To investigate the relationship between Ureaplasma urealyticum (UU) infection and semen quality. From 2001 to 2003, 346 eligible patients aged 20-45 years were invited from two hospitals in Shanghai, China, to participate in an investigation which included questionnaires about general and reproductive health, an external genital tract examination, UU culture and semen analysis. Multiple linear regression models were used to examine whether UU had a significant effect on semen quality after adjustment for confounding factors. Findings suggested that UU infection was associated with higher semen viscosity and lower semen pH value. Sperm concentration was lower in UU positive subjects than that in UU negative subjects (54.04 X 10(6)/mL vs.70.58 X 10(6)/mL). However, UU did not significantly affect other semen quality indexes.

UU infection of the male genital tract could negatively influence semen quality.

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Axillary lymph node metastases in patients with small carcinomas of the breast: is accurate prediction possible?

To find out whether macroscopic classification of the tumour margin is predictive of axillary lymph node metastases and to identify a combination of clinical and pathological findings by which axillary node status can be predicted accurately in small carcinomas (T1) of the breast. Retrospective study. Municipal referral centre, Japan. All 1003 patients with T1 invasive carcinoma of the breast who had axillary lymph node dissection between January 1970 and December 1996 as part of their treatment. The association between the incidence of axillary lymph node metastases and 10 clinical and pathological factors (age, palpability and size of tumour, macroscopic classification of tumour margin, clinical axillary status, radiating spiculation on a mammogram, histological type, lymphatic invasion, oestrogen and progesterone receptor status) were analysed. Clinical axillary node status, macroscopic classification of tumour margin, lymphatic invasion, and age of the patient were significant predictors of axillary lymph node metastases (p<0.01 in each case). Among 47 patients aged 65 or more whose tumours had well-defined margins and with a clinical N0 status in the axillae, the incidence of histological axillary lymph node metastasis was only 6% (n = 3) whereas it was 65% in 57 patients with tumours of ill-defined margins whose axillae were N1 or N2.

Macroscopic classification of tumour margins is an independent predictor of axillary lymph node metastases for patients with small carcinomas of the breast. However, even with combinations of the examined predictors of axillary node metastases, the subgroup of patients at minimal risk of metastasis was less than 5% in T1 breast cancer, whereas three-quarters of the patients had clear axillary lymph nodes. Most patients with T1 breast cancer will need surgical staging of the axillae by methods such as sentinel node biopsy.

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Antibiotic prescribing patterns in primary health care. Do pediatricians use antibiotics rationally?

To determine antibiotic prescribing patterns in the pediatric (infants and children) population attended to at a primary health care centre in the community of Madrid. We also wanted to determine the necessity or otherwise of antibiotic therapy and whether the selected antibiotic drug was appropriate for the pathology diagnosed. Retrospective study of all infectious or respiratory processes diagnosed during 1 year and of the respective antibiotic cycles prescribed in all patients under the age of 4 years. The prescribing physician and the appropriateness of all therapeutic decisions, including those where the decision was not to treat with antibiotic drugs, were analyzed. We evaluated 910 children under the age of 4 years with a total of 3, 847 processes (mean of 4.55 +/-3.6 processes per child per year). Sixty-three percent of the children received at least one cycle of antibiotic drugs per year (mean 1.63+/-1.69 cycles of treatment per child per year). Of all therapeutic decisions, 85.2% were considered appropriate. In 36% of the processes antibiotics were prescribed (1,386 cycles), 46% of which were considered inappropriate either because no antibiotic therapy should have been given (71.6%) or because the chosen drug was not appropriate for the pathology (28.4%). There were significant differences among the evaluated physicians. The most correct decisions were taken by the pediatrician in the outpatient clinic, especially when compared with physicians in the emergency ward (p<0.0001). The most frequently prescribed antibiotic drugs were amoxicillin (41.2%) and amoxicillin combined with clavulanic acid (33%). Cephalosporin accounted only for 6.9% of the prescriptions.

Antibiotic therapy is overprescribed in children, a situation that should be corrected.

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Tuberculous meningitis: a disease in regression in our country?

Our aim was to analyse clinical, diagnostic, therapeutical and evolutionary features in a pediatric population with tuberculous meningitis. The medical records of thirteen children with this diagnosis admitted to Hospital Infantil Virgen del Rocío from Seville (Spain) between 1984 and 1999 were reviewed. The mean age was 2,35 +/- 2,3 years. The symptoms upon admission were: fever in 11 children, anorexia and vomiting in 8, disturbance of the consciousness in 7. Meningeal signs in 6, all of them older than 20 months, the remaining seven showed irritability and four of these ones hypertense fontanelles. Three patients were in the first stage of the disease, 9 in the second and 1 in the third, according to the Medical Research Council. CSF findings were indicative in all the cases. Five children had bacilloscopy positive and Mycobacterium tuberculosis was isolated in 6 patients, sometimes in CSF others in gastric juice. Mantoux skin test was positive in 11. Radiographic studies demonstrated abnormal chest findings in 8 patients (hiliar adenopathy, 1; miliary pattern, 2; and infiltrates, 5). Pathology cranial computed tomography showed in all the cases and the electroencephalogram was slowed down in the initial phases in 11. Two children died and the neurological complications were the most frequent, appearing in 9 patients. Without consequences cured 4 patients, the rest presented cognitive, visual and motor deficits, sensibility skin disturbance and late seizures. No case has been observed during the last 5 years.

Fast diagnosis tests used for M. tuberculosis identification were useful to begin an antituberculous treatment in a high suspicion of meningeal affectation by this German patient. The early treatment will decrease complications and consequences by this disease. A decrease in the incidence looks to be in spite of the VIH infection increase nowadays.

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Treatment of very low birth weight infant: is it evidenced-based?

The management of 80 very low birth weight infants admitted to our neonatal unit during 1998 was retrospectively reviewed. For each clinical diagnosis e.g. respiratory distress syndrome, patent ductus arteriosus or chronic lung disease all interventions were recorder. Each intervention was then categorised according to the level of supporting evidence. Level I was supported by evidence from randomised controlled trials or meta-analysis of multiple trials. Level II included interventions backed by convincing non-experimental evidence where randomised controlled trials would be unnecessary or unethical. Level III were treatments in common use without substantial supporting evidence. These categorizations were made after extensive researching of Medline, The Cochrane Database and the Randomised Controlled Trial Register, detailed hand-searching of the literature as well as using local expertise and knowledge. 943 separate interventions were recorded in the charts of the 80 babies. Overall 91.3% were shown to be evidence-based of which 58.7% were level I, 32.6% were level II and only 8.7% were level III.

91.3% of interventions for very low birth weight infants in our neonatal intensive care unit were evidence-based and only 8.7% had no substantial supporting evidence. Care of the very low birthweight infants is largely evidence-based.

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Suppression of inflammation in primary systemic vasculitis restores vascular endothelial function: lessons for atherosclerotic disease?

Chronic inflammatory rheumatic disorders are associated with excess cardiovascular mortality. This may result from arteriosclerosis following inflammatory damage to the vessel wall by vasculitis. Our hypothesis that vasculitis results in arteriosclerosis by causing vascular endothelial dysfunction was tested in patients with primary systemic necrotizing vasculitis (SNV). Endothelial function was assessed in cross-sectional and longitudinal studies of patients with primary SNV by measuring flow-mediated, endothelium-dependent brachial artery vasodilatation. These patients exhibited marked endothelial dysfunction compared with controls. Remission induction in patients with active primary SNV restored endothelial function.

Endothelial function is significantly impaired in adults with primary SNV, supporting the hypothesis that premature arteriosclerosis in chronic inflammatory rheumatic disorders results from endothelial dysfunction secondary to vasculitis. Normalization of endothelial function after the treatment of primary SNV suggests that early suppression of disease activity in chronic inflammatory rheumatic disorders may reduce long-term vascular damage. The role of inflammation in atheroma formation is increasingly appreciated; this work raises questions regarding the potential for anti-inflammatory therapy in atherosclerosis itself.

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Is MIB-1 proliferation index a predictor for response to neoadjuvant therapy in patients with esophageal cancer?

The overall survival rate for patients with an esophageal cancer remains poor. As a consequence, preoperative chemoradiation was introduced for patients with tumor stage T>1 M0 regardless of tumor histology or localization. However, factors predicting response to this therapy pretherapeutically are largely unknown. Clinical results of preoperative chemoradiation were investigated. The rates of proliferation and apoptosis were determined in pretherapeutic tumor samples and correlated with tumor response and long-term survival after surgery. A complete tumor response due to chemoradiation (n = 42; cervically localized tumors excluded) was achieved in 11 patients (26%) after resection. Five-year survival rate was significantly improved in these patients compared with those who did not respond to chemoradiation (48% versus 5.5%; P = 0.003). Chemoradiation was performed without benefit in 43%. Perioperative hospital mortality rate was 14.3% in all patients. No correlation of apoptosis with response to chemoradiation or postoperative long-term survival was observed. However, there was a clear correlation between the proliferation rate as determined by MIB-1 immunohistology. Five-year survival rate of patients with a proliferation index (PI)>/=39% was 38% compared with 0% in tumors with a PI<39%. Tumors with a PI>/=39% responded to chemoradiation in 71.4%, but 100% of tumors with a PI<39% did not. Mean survival time of these patients was 33 months and 11 months, respectively (P = 0.015).

The results indicate that the PI may be used for stratification of patients treatment prior surgery. However, these results need further validation in larger patient numbers in the search for factors indicating response pretherapeutically to preoperative chemoradiation in esophageal cancer.

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Do potential patients prefer tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) over streptokinase (SK)?

In patients with acute myocardial infarction, TPA (compared to SK), has been shown to reduce the 30-day mortality rate at the expense of an increased rate of stroke. The assumption in the literature is that were it not for cost issues, all patients presenting with a myocardial infarction would choose TPA. Our hypothesis is that, for many informed individuals, regardless of cost, the increased risk of stroke may deter them from selecting TPA over SK. To assess which thrombolytic drug informed patients would prefer and to explore the clinical and economic implications of such preferences. Prospective survey. Tertiary care hospital. 120 hospitalized patients with cardiac disease who would be "at risk" for a myocardial infarction. Face-to-face interviews utilizing a decision instrument. To minimize bias in soliciting patients' preferences and to standardize the presentation of information we developed a decision instrument which portrays a case scenario of a myocardial infarction, describes treatment outcomes (survival and stroke rate), and displays the likelihood of these outcomes with SK and TPA using three scenarios: a base stroke risk (all patients data), a lower stroke risk (<75 years old data), a higher stroke risk (>75 years old data). Outcome data were derived from the published literature (GUSTO study). When presented the overall results of the GUSTO study, 60/120 (50%) expressed a preference for SK. When presented the outcome data for the subgroups of patients<75 years old (lower stroke rate), 37/120 (31%) preferred SK. When presented the subgroup data for patients>75 years old (higher stroke risk), 67/120 (56%) preferred SK.

Regardless of the scenario that individuals were presented with, a substantial proportion of individuals (31-56%) who could potentially require thrombolytic therapy chose SK over TPA. This study should be repeated in other settings to establish the generalizability of our results. Assuming that these results will be consistent, considering the patient's perspective has significant implications on clinical decision making as well as from an economic perspective.

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Do cerebral potentials to magnetic stimulation of paraspinal muscles reflect changes in palpable muscle spasm, low back pain, and activity scores?

Previous studies have shown that cortical-evoked potentials on magnetic stimulation of muscles are influenced by muscle contraction, vibration, and muscle spasm. This study was carried out to determine whether these potentials correlate with palpatory muscle spasm, patient symptoms, and disability in patients with low back pain. A prospective observational study was performed on 13 subjects with a history of low back pain visiting an orthopedic hospital-based clinic. Patients were screened for serious pathologic conditions by an orthopedic surgeon. The patients were then evaluated for the presence of muscle spasm by one of the investigators who was blinded to the results of the evoked potential studies. Patients were asked to complete a low back pain visual analogue scale (VAS) and a Roland-Morris Activity Scale (RMAS). Cortical-evoked potentials were recorded with a magnetic stimulator placed over the lumbar paraspinal muscles with the patient in the prone position. The palpatory examination, VAS, RMAS, and the cortical potentials were repeated after 2 weeks of therapy commonly used to reduce muscle spasm. The patients demonstrated a significant decrease in low back pain VAS and RMAS scores after treatment compared with before treatment. There was a reduction in the amount of palpatory muscle spasm in 11 of 13 cases. The cortical potentials before treatment were attenuated compared with previously reported controls and showed a significant increase before and after treatment in the amplitude of these potentials with multivariate analysis of variance. There was significant correlation between the changes in cortical potentials after treatment and the changes noted in paraspinal muscle spasm and VAS and RMAS scores.

This study confirms the previous report that the amplitude of cerebral-evoked potentials on magnetic stimulation of paraspinal muscles is depressed in the presence of palpable muscle spasm. The close correlation among these potentials, paraspinal muscle spasm, and clinical symptoms suggests that the measurement of muscle activity may be more important in the assessment of low back pain than is commonly accepted.

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Questionnaires of accident and emergency departments: are they reproducible?

Questionnaires are commonly sent to accident and emergency (A&E) departments to determine common practice and are often extrapolated to best practice. To determine if questionnaire based studies have a defined population of A&E departments and whether studies are reproducible. All questionnaires in the Journal of Accident and Emergency Medicine were reviewed and assessed for inclusion criteria, departments studied and study design. 30 questionnaires were detected, 22 were postal, six telephone and two did not state method of contact. Sample sizes ranged from 15 to 740 and inclusion of A&E departments was highly variable according to geographical area, size of department or consultant status. Seventeen (54.8%) did not state the source of A&E department listings. Response rates ranged from 55-100%. Only three studies undertook subset analysis according to either size or locality.

Questionnaire of studies A&E departments have poor methodology descriptions, which means that many are not reproducible. Inclusion criteria are highly variable and failure to analyse important subsets may mean that individual departments cannot apply recommendations. Questionnaire studies relating to A&E do not use a consistent well defined population of A&E departments. Information in the studies is usually inadequate to allow them to be repeated.

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Does technique of anastomosis play any role in developing late perianal abscess or fistula?

This study examines the risk factors for developing perianal abscess or fistula formation after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis procedure for chronic ulcerative colitis or familial adenomatous polyposis. A total of 1,457 patients with J-pouch, 1,304 (89.5 percent) with chronic ulcerative colitis and 153 (10.5 percent) with familial adenomatous polyposis who had a two-stage procedure without any evidence of previous perianal disease were included in the study. The effect of pouch-to-anal anastomosis type on perianal abscess or fistula formation was evaluated. A total of 108 patients (7.4 percent) had a perianal abscess or fistula after the ileal pouch-anal anastomosis procedure after at least one year of follow-up. No statistically significant difference was identified in fistula formation regarding the age and gender of the patients (P>0.05), nor did the risk of fistula formation differ significantly between the patients with handsewn vs. stapled anastomoses (P>0.05). However, patients with a diagnosis of chronic ulcerative colitis, compared with patients with familial adenomatous polyposis, had a statistically higher risk of developing abscess or fistula (P = 0.012).

The most important risk factor in developing perianal sepsis in long-term patients with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is the initial disease type. After excluding patients without Crohn's disease, the risk of developing an abscess or fistula was found to be significantly greater in patients with chronic ulcerative colitis compared with patients with familial adenomatous polyposis, and this risk is independent of anastomotic technique.

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Is adjuvant radiotherapy necessary after positive lymph node dissection in head and neck melanomas?

Postoperative radiotherapy (PR) has been recommended in patients with advanced head and neck melanomas to improve regional control. This study examined the incidence of cervical recurrence among patients who did not receive PR after surgical management of node-positive head and neck melanomas. A computerized search of a database listing more than 10,000 patients with melanoma prospectively acquired between 1971 and 1998 identified 217 patients with pathologically positive nodes who had undergone regional lymph node dissection (RLND). Of these patients, 21 had received PR and 196 had not. Median follow-up after RLND was 20 months for nonsurvivors and 32 months for survivors. The overall incidence of cervical recurrence was 14% (27/196). The 5-year cervical recurrence-free survival rate was 83%. Five-year cervical recurrence-free survival rates were 69% vs. 87% for patients with vs. without extranodal disease (P = .004), 96% vs. 81% for patients with nonpalpable vs. palpable nodes (P = .0761), and 82% vs. 91% for patients with one to three positive nodes vs. more than three positive nodes (P = .256). Multivariate analysis, which included the timing of nodal disease presentation and the effect of systemic adjuvant therapy, identified extranodal disease as the only independent predictor of cervical recurrence (P = .034). Cervical recurrence was significantly related to the subsequent occurrence of distant relapse.

The low incidence of cervical recurrence after RLND in patients with node-positive head and neck melanomas does not justify the routine use of PR. The only subset of patients who may benefit from PR are those with extranodal disease.

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Risk classification systems for drug use during pregnancy: are they a reliable source of information?

In several countries, risk classification systems have been set up to summarise the sparse data on drug safety during pregnancy. However, these have resulted in ambiguous statements that are often difficult to interpret and use with accuracy when counselling patients on drug use in pregnancy. The objective of this study was to compare and analyse the consistency between and the criteria for risk classification for medications used during pregnancy included in 3 widely used international risk classification systems. All 3 systems use categories based on risk factors to summarise the degree to which available clinical information has ruled out the risk to unborn offspring, balanced against the drug's potential benefit to the patient. Drugs included in the risk classification systems from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Australian Drug Evaluation Committee (ADEC) and the Swedish Catalogue of Approved Drugs (FASS), were reviewed and compared on basis of the risk factor category to which they had been assigned. Agreement between the systems was calculated as the number of drugs common to all 3 and assigned to the same risk factor category. In addition, evidence on teratogenicity and adverse effects during pregnancy was retrieved using a MEDLINE search (from 1966 up to 1998) for common drugs classified as teratogenic. Differences in the allocation of drugs to different risk factor categories were found. Risk factor category allocation for 645 drugs classified by the FDA, 446 classified by ADEC and 527 classified by FASS was compared. Only 61 (26%) of the 236 drugs common to all 3 systems were placed in the same risk factor category. Analysis of studies on the safety of common drugs during pregnancy of drugs classified as X by the FDA indicated that the variability in category allocation was not only attributable to the different definitions for the categories, but also depended on how the available scientific literature was handled.

Differences in category allocation for the same drug can be a source of great confusion among users of the classification systems as well as for those who require information regarding risk for drug use during pregnancy, and may limit the usefulness and reliability of risk classification systems.

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Do present damage and health perception in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus predict extent of future damage?

To study whether either initial damage, disease activity, disease duration, age, a drug score, or health status would predict an increase in damage in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) within the next three years. A three year prospective longitudinal study of a cohort of 141 consecutive patients with SLE attending a specialist lupus outpatient clinic from their first assessment between July 1994 and February 1995. Disease activity was assessed using the BILAG system, health status by the Medical Outcome Survey Short Form 20 with an extra question about fatigue (SF-20+), and damage by the SLICC/ACR Damage Index (SDI). Damage was reassessed three years later. Statistical analysis was carried out using logistic regression analysis (logXact). 133 female and 8 male patients with SLE (97 white subjects, 16 Afro-Caribbeans, 22 Asians, and 6 others) were included. Their mean (SD) age at inclusion was 41.1 (12.5) years and their disease duration 10.2 (6. 3) years. The mean measures at inclusion were: total BILAG 5.2 (range 0-17), total SDI 1.2 (0-7), drug score 1.2 (0-3); SF-20+: physical 58 (0-100), role 54 (0-100), social functioning 71 (0-100), mental health 64 (16-100), health perception 44 (0-100), pain 53 (0-100), fatigue 59 (0-100). Four patients were lost to follow up because they had moved. At three years in 33 patients the total SDI had increased to a mean of 1.5 (0-7) (n=130). Moreover, seven patients had the maximum damage as they had died during the follow up period. The only variables with an independent and significant contribution in predicting damage at three years were the total damage score (odds ratio (OR)=1.46; 95% CI 1.04 to 2.05), and health perception (OR=0.96; 95% CI 0.93 to 0.99) at inclusion.

Of all the variables at inclusion only the total damage score and SF-20+: health perception, significantly predicted an increase in damage, for patients with SLE, three years later.

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Tobacco use among Massachusetts youth: is tobacco control working?

This paper examines whether the Massachusetts Tobacco Control Program is affecting the rates of smoking and smokeless tobacco use among Massachusetts' youth. School survey data from the Massachusetts Prevalence Study were analyzed to estimate differences between 1993 and 1996 rates of youth cigarette and smokeless tobacco use, attitudes toward smoking, and awareness of cigarette ads and promotions of antismoking messages. Lifetime and Current Smoking rates declined significantly among middle school males, contrasting with stable national trends. Among girls in this age group, Lifetime and Current Smoking did not change significantly. Hispanic middle school students exhibited a significant decline in Lifetime Use. There were no significant changes in Lifetime or Current Smoking rates among high school students. Lifetime use of smokeless tobacco declined among middle school students while Current Use declined among both middle and high school students. Students reported declines in awareness of cigarette ads or promotions and increases in awareness of antismoking messages.

These results provide evidence for cautious optimism regarding the impact of tobacco control, but indicate that these efforts should begin earlier and that additional research is needed to understand and address the problems of tobacco use by girls.

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Ultrastructural and molecular analysis of Bowman's layer corneal dystrophies: an epithelial origin?

Two mutations (R555Q and R124L) in the BIGH3 gene have been described in anterior or Bowman's layer dystrophies (CDB). The clinical, molecular, and ultrastructural findings of five families with CDB was reviewed to determine whether there is a consistent genotype:phenotype correlation. Keratoplasty tissue from each patient was examined by light and electron microscopy (LM and EM). DNA was obtained, and exons 4 and 12 of BIGH3 were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction and single-stranded conformation polymorphism/heteroduplex analysis. Abnormally migrating products were analyzed by direct sequencing. In two families with type I CDB (CDBI), the R124L mutation was defined. There were light and ultrastructural features of superficial granular dystrophy and atypical banding of the "rod-shaped bodies" ultrastructurally. Patients from three families with "honeycomb" dystrophy were found to carry the R555Q mutation and had characteristic features of Bowman's dystrophy type II (CDBII).

There is a strong genotype:phenotype correlation among CBDI (R124L) and CDBII (R555Q). LM and EM findings suggest that epithelial abnormalities may underlie the pathology of both conditions. The findings clarify the confusion over classification of the Bowman's layer dystrophies.

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Multifactorial approach to the prevention of coronary heart disease: from computer to paper and pencil?

In Europe the multifactorial clinical approach to the prevention of coronary heart disease is based on the Framingham equation presented in graphical form including age, sex, level of total serum cholesterol, systolic blood pressure and smoking. To propose a straightforward paper-and-pencil score (Global Coronary Risk Score) including level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol for the Belgian or more broadly western European population derived from 10-year follow-up mortality of a Belgian national population sample. This score has the same predictive power as the Framingham equation both for men aged 35-74 years and for women aged 50-74 years. It gives a ranking of subjects into four groups according to their relative risks.

Coronary Risk Score is user friendly and probably has pedagogical virtues.

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Hyperlipidaemia and primary prevention of coronary heart disease: are the right patients being treated?

In 1997, the Standing Medical Advisory Committee report suggested that patients with a coronary heart disease risk of 3% per year or greater should be considered appropriate for lipid-lowering medication. The report stated that cholesterol concentration alone is a poor predictor of absolute risk of coronary heart disease and recommended the Sheffield table as a method of estimating the coronary heart disease risk. To assess the impact of the Standing Medical Advisory Committee report on the management of patients with hyperlipidaemia in the primary prevention of coronary heart disease in primary care. A survey questionnaire giving the clinical details of 20 patients with various coronary heart disease risk factors was sent to 200 general practitioners in the West Midlands, UK. Forty-eight percent of the respondents used clinical assessment/perception as the sole means of risk assessment and 26% used the Sheffield table. In patients who did not require treatment, 40.1% of the decisions were inappropriate and, in patients who required treatment, 35.1% of the decisions were inappropriate. Overall, inappropriate decisions were made in 37.9% of the responses. Despite the clear advice in the Standing Medical Advisory Committee report on the importance of incorporating multiple risk factors in estimating absolute coronary heart disease risk, only total cholesterol and triglycerides were significant in influencing treatment decisions.

The Standing Medical Advisory Committee recommendations on the management of hyperlipidaemia in primary prevention of coronary heart disease are not widely used. Large savings could be made by correctly identifying and treating individuals at high risk. We recommend use of the full Framingham risk score in assessment of coronary heart disease risk in primary care.

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Do male sex hormones protect from irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is more common in women and it is frequently assumed that being female may predispose to the development of this disorder. Alternatively, being male could offer some degree of protection and if so, this might be mediated by testosterone. The aim of this study was to assess whether male patients with IBS have lower levels of testosterone and related gonadotrophins than their unaffected counterparts and if this relates to rectal sensitivity. Fifty secondary care, male outpatients with IBS (aged 19-71 yr) were compared with 25 controls (aged 22-67 yr). Each subject had serum testosterone, free testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin, follicle stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone (LH) measured, together with rectal sensitivity to balloon distension. Anxiety and depression were also assessed. The only difference in the hormone levels between patients and controls that reached statistical significance was the lower value for LH in the IBS patients (p = 0.014). Although patients were more anxious and depressed than the controls (p<0.001), this could not solely account for the reduced level of LH, as adjusting for these (analysis of variance) still tended to show that LH values were lower in men with rather than without IBS [F(1,70) = 2.74; p = 0.10]. Men with IBS were more sensitive to balloon distension of the rectum, with the distension volumes required for "urgency" (p<0.001) and "discomfort" (p = 0.001) significantly lower than controls. Paradoxically, the patient's sensory thresholds negatively correlated with levels of testosterone (p<0.05) and free testosterone (p<0.002), and positively with levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (p<0.05). Finally, there was a tendency for IBS symptomatology to be inversely related to testosterone levels (p = 0.15).

These results support the need for further exploration of the role of male sex hormones in the pathophysiology of IBS.

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Is urinary drainage necessary during continuous epidural analgesia after colonic resection?

Postoperative urinary retention may occur in between 10% and 60% of patients after major surgery. Continuous lumbar epidural analgesia, in contrast to thoracic epidural analgesia, may inhibit urinary bladder function. Postoperative urinary drainage has been common in patients with continuous epidural analgesia, despite the lack of scientific evidence for its indication after thoracic epidural analgesia. This study describes 100 patients who underwent elective colonic resection with 48 hours of continuous thoracic epidural analgesia and only 24 hours of urinary drainage. This is a prospective, uncontrolled study with well-defined general anesthesia, postoperative analgesia, and nursing care programs in patients with a planned 2-day hospital stay, urinary catheter removal on the first postoperative morning, and epidural catheter removal on the second postoperative morning. Follow-up in the outpatient clinic was on days 8 and 30. Nine patients needed bladder recatheterization, 8 as a single procedure and 1 patient a second recatheterization with removal on day 7. This patient had urinary infection on day 10 and was readmitted for 5 days because of urosepsis and, subsequently, for cystitis and left-sided epididymitis. Three patients had uncomplicated urinary infection. No patients had urological complaints at 30 days follow-up (95% confidence limit, 0% to 3.6%).

The low incidence of urinary retention (9%) and urinary infection (4%) suggests that routine bladder catheterization beyond postoperative day 1 may not be necessary in patients with ongoing continuous low-dose thoracic epidural analgesia.

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Can peer-comparison feedback improve patient functional status?

To determine whether providing physicians with peer-comparison feedback can improve patient functional status. Randomized, controlled, comparative study. Forty-eight primary care physicians at Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills, a group-model health maintenance organization in southern California, were randomly assigned to an intervention group or a control group. All physicians were informed that their elderly patients (randomly selected patients aged 65 to 75) would be monitored. Physicians in the intervention group received aggregated peer-comparison feedback data (physician "report cards") on the functional status of their elderly patients. Physicians in the control group received only general information that their patients' functional status would be monitored. The effect of the intervention on patients' functional status was determined by comparing responses to surveys completed by the patients at baseline and after the intervention. Patients in both the control and intervention groups had a statistically significant decrease in functional status, including decreases in their ability to complete daily activities and increases in pain. In addition, patients in the control group reported a significant decrease in social activities, physical fitness, and feelings. In the intervention group, patients also experienced a significant decrease in social support.

Educational interventions, including peer-comparison feedback, did not result in improvements in patient functional status. Research is desperately needed to identify interventions that can lead to improved health for elderly patients.

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Is routine use of the intensive care unit after elective infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm repair necessary?

Postoperative care after infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair has traditionally involved admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). With the advent of endovascular AAA repair, the management of open procedures has received increased scrutiny. We recently modified our AAA clinical pathway to include selective use of the ICU. Consecutive elective infrarenal AAA repairs performed by members of the vascular surgery division at a university medical center from 1994 to 1999 were analyzed retrospectively with a computerized database, the Medical Archival Retrieval System. Group I consisted of 245 patients who were treated in the ICU for 1 or more days, and Group II included 69 patients admitted directly to the floor. Ruptured, symptomatic, suprarenal, endovascular, and reoperative repairs were excluded. Outcome variables were compared over the 6-year period. Floor admissions increased over the study period with 0%, 0%, 3.3%, 16.3%, 48.6%, and 43.6% of patients admitted directly to the surgery ward from 1994 to 1999. The average ICU length of stay declined from 4.6 to 1.2 days, whereas the hospital length of stay decreased from 12.5 to 6.8 days from 1994 to 1999. The change in ICU use had no effect on death (2.4% in Group I vs 0% in Group II). Major and minor morbidity was comparable. Hospital charges were significantly lower for patients in Group II.

A policy of selective utilization of the ICU after elective infrarenal AAA repair is safe. It can reduce resource use without a negative impact on the quality of care.

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Does the endovascular repair of aortoiliac aneurysms pose a radiation safety hazard to vascular surgeons?

Endovascular aortoiliac aneurysm (EAIA) repair uses substantial fluoroscopic guidance that requires considerable radiation exposure. Doses were determined for a team of three vascular surgeons performing 47 consecutive EAIA repairs over a 1-year period to determine whether this exposure constitutes a radiation hazard. Twenty-nine surgeon-made aortounifemoral devices and 18 bifurcated devices were used. Three surgeons wore dosimeters (1) on the waist, under a lead apron; (2) on the waist, outside a lead apron; (3) on the collar; and (4) on the left ring finger. Dosimeters were also placed around the operating table and room to evaluate the patient, other personnel, and ambient doses. Exposures were compared with standards of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). Total fluoroscopy time was 30.9 hours (1852 minutes; mean, 39.4 minutes per case). Yearly total effective body doses for all surgeons (under lead) were below the 20 mSv/y occupational exposure limit of the ICRP. Outside lead doses for two surgeons approximated recommended limits. Lead aprons attenuated 85% to 91% of the dose. Ring doses and calculated eye doses were within the ICRP exposure limits. Patient skin doses averaged 360 mSv per case (range, 120-860 mSv). The ambient (>3 m from the source) operating room dose was 1.06 mSv/y.

Although the total effective body doses under lead fell within established ICRP occupational exposure limits, they are not negligible. Because radiation exposure is cumulative and endovascular procedures are becoming more common, individuals performing these procedures must carefully monitor their exposure. Our results indicate that a team of surgeons can perform 386 hours of fluoroscopy per year or 587 EAIA repairs per year and remain within occupational exposure limits. Individuals who perform these procedures should actively monitor their effective doses and educate personnel in methods for reducing exposure.

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Avascular necrosis of the femoral head in chronic myeloid leukemia patients treated with interferon-alpha: a synergistic correlation?

The objectives of this study were to describe cases of avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH) observed in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients who were treated with interferon-alpha and to review the literature. The authors undertook a case review of the M. D. Anderson experience with ANFH occurring in CML patients who were managed with interferon-alpha-based therapy. MEDLINE (from 1966 to November 1999) and CancerLit (from 1983 to November 1999) searches were conducted to identify cases of avascular necrosis (AVN) associated with either CML or interferon-alpha. Three patients with ANFH were identified from the authors' experience. No common features related to the disease or therapy were seen among them, except for the presence of thrombocytosis and loss of response. A literature review revealed seven cases of ANFH associated with CML with or without interferon-alpha-based therapy. ANFH was not reported in association with interferon-alpha use for indications other than the treatment of patients with CML.

ANFH may be the result of an interaction between CML and interferon-alpha therapy. ANFH that occurs in patients with CML who are treated with interferon-alpha should be recognized for treatment implications. Thrombocytosis with consequent microvascular thrombi and avascular necrosis manifesting in susceptible vascular or weight-bearing areas (e.g., the femoral head) may be an associated finding along with loss of response to interferon-alpha therapy.

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Do new roles contribute to job satisfaction and retention of staff in nursing and professions allied to medicine?

Studies have suggested that job dissatisfaction is a major factor influencing nurses' and occupational therapists' intention to leave their profession. It has also been related to turnover of qualified nurses. However, literature relating to these factors among nurses and professions allied to medicine in innovative roles is scarce. This paper considers the views of 452 nurses and 162 professionals allied to medicine (PAMs) in innovative roles, on job satisfaction, career development, intention to leave the profession and factors seen as hindering and enhancing effective working. A self-completion questionnaire was developed as part of a larger study exploring new roles in practice (The ENRiP Study). Overall there was a high level of job satisfaction in both groups (nurses and PAMs). Job satisfaction was significantly related to feeling integrated within the post-holder's own professional group and with immediate colleagues, feeling that the role had improved their career prospects, feeling adequately prepared and trained for the role, and working to protocol. Sixty-eight percent (n = 415) of respondents felt the role had enhanced their career prospects but over a quarter of respondents (n = 163; 27%) said they would leave their profession if they could. Low job satisfaction was significantly related to intention to leave the profession.

The vast majority of post-holders in innovative roles felt that the role provided them with a sense of job satisfaction. However, it is essential that the post-holders feel adequately prepared to carry out the role and that the boundaries of their practice are well defined. Career progression and professional integration both being associated with job satisfaction.

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Can information technology help ward sisters become ward managers?

Successive governments in the 1990s have provided considerable funds to introduce decision support systems for ward management, but few have been evaluated rigorously. This paper reviews the approaches to systems' evaluation that have been developed. Measuring instruments were designed to define and measure management decisions and those organizational factors which affect decision making. The resulting difficulty index was validated in a before-and-after study of ward decision making. Changes in decision making, after the implementation of a decision support system, were found to relate to the identified organizational factors.

The evaluation methodology described in this paper showed that the potential benefits of a computerized management system would not be realized unless managers, doctors and nurses carried out an organizational review before implementation and then took joint ownership of the system.

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Is access to a standardized neonatal intensive care possible?

This paper aims to determine the factors which impact on the issue of availability and access to a standard quality of neonatal intensive care provision in order to clarify strategies for change. New targets set within the NHS reforms have highlighted quality and fair access to services. Current frameworks for the provision of neonatal services may not be in place to support a standardized quality service provision. The paper examines the historical and political basis for current models of service, giving a grounding for recommendations for change in an attempt to achieve a more standardized, equitable level of care. Changes within health care policy in the late 1980s and 1990s have led to confusion within the service and a lack of the definition needed to provide universally accepted criteria on which to base a regional service provision.

The organization of services will need to be reviewed to include the introduction of national and regional data collection and analysis, and national definitions standardizing service criteria to be used to support variations in regional models of care. In conjunction with these recommendations independent auditing processes must exist to allow for accreditation of services.

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Referral of children with otitis media. Do family physicians and pediatricians agree?

To determine factors influencing family physicians' and pediatricians' decisions to refer children with recurrent acute otitis media (RAOM) and otitis media with effusion (OME) to otolaryngologists for an opinion about tympanostomy tube insertion. Mailed survey. Physicians' practices in Ontario. Random sample of 1459 family physicians and all 775 pediatricians in the province. Physicians' reports of the influence of 17 factors on decisions to refer (more likely, no influence, less likely to refer) and number of episodes of otitis media, months with effusion, level of hearing loss, or months of continuous antibiotics without improvement prompting referral. Physicians agreed (>80% concordance) on six out of 17 factors as indications for referring children with RAOM or OME. Opinions about the importance of other factors varied widely. Family physicians would refer children with otitis media after fewer episodes of illness, fewer months of effusion, lower levels of hearing loss, and fewer months of prophylactic antibiotic therapy than pediatricians (all P<.001). Pediatricians would prescribe continuous antibiotics longer (11.8 weeks) than family physicians (8.9 weeks, P<.0001), which correlated with lower referral thresholds for family physicians.

Family physicians' and pediatricians' self-reported referral practices for surgical opinions on children with otitis media varied considerably. These observations raise questions about the consistency of care for children with otitis media and whether revised clinical guidelines would be helpful.

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Is respite care available for chronically ill seniors?

To determine family physicians' perceptions of how available respite care is and how easy it is to refer chronically ill older people to it, and to examine their opinions of respite care. Mailed survey to family physicians on the Thames Valley Family Practice Research Unit's mailing list. London, Ont, and surrounding area. Of the 448 surveys mailed to eligible physicians, 288 were completed and returned for a response rate of 64.3%. Respondents' perceptions of how available respite care is and how easy it is to refer chronically ill older people to it and their opinions on the effectiveness of respite care. More than half the respondents reported that outpatient respite care is always available, but how available depended on practice location. Inpatient respite care was reported as less available. More than half the respondents found referral to respite care difficult. Respondents were very positive about the role of respite services in long-term care and in lowering caregiver stress. Respondents' perceptions varied according to where they had attended medical school. Their perceptions of respite care's role in long-term care and in helping patients remain at home were influenced by whether they thought respite care was available.

Family physicians need education in the value of respite services for their chronically ill older patients and their families. Physicians also need information on the respite services available and strategies for accessing them. Our findings suggest a need for greater attention to regional discrepancies in availability of services.

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Can continence function after rectal resection be prognostically estimated?

Patients who had undergone rectal resection (n = 65, of whom 24 had had radiochemotherapy) were evaluated by clinical examination, anorectal manometry and orthograde contrast enema before ileostomy closure. Continence was evaluated by clinical findings 91 +/- 52 weeks after stoma closure with the help of standardized questionnaires and classified according to the Wexner continence score. The relationship between findings before stoma closure and continence score was calculated with Pearson's correlation coefficient. Correlations were found to be significant between the continence score and the level of anastomosis (r = -0.58, p<0.001), median resting pressure (r = -0.52, p<0.001), rectal compliance (r = -0.43, p<0.001). Additionally, radiochemotherapy impairs continence (p = 0.0001). Correlations were not significant between continence and functional sphincter length, squeeze pressure, threshold for perception, urge and maximal tolerable volume, and continence for semiliquid contrast medium.

Incontinence after rectum resection is multifactorial: the level of anastomosis, resting pressure, rectal compliance and radiochemotherapy all play a dominant role. Based on these findings, the continence score can be calculated before closure of a diverting ileostomy by applying multivariate analysis with the help of the following formula: Continence score = 18.23 - 0.94 x level of anastomosis - 0.18 x resting pressure + 3.72 x radiochemotherapy.

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Is Na+Ca(2+) exchanger expression altered in the endomyocardium of patients with chronic heart valve diseases parallel to myocardial dysfunction?

Na(+)-Ca2+ exchanger (EXCH) is an important regulator of intracellular calcium homeostasis. To maintain a normal intracellular Ca2+ concentration, EXCH expression may be upregulated before the onset of end-stage heart failure. We tested for a correlation between the EXCH transcription level and the degree of myocardial dysfunction as well as the suitability of EXCH transcription as a molecular marker for early detection of a transition from adequate to inadequate myocardial adaptation to chronic pressure and/or volume overload in valvular heart disease (VHD). The level of EXCH transcription was analyzed in myocardial biopsies from eleven patients with aortic stenosis (AS), five with aortic regurgitation (AR) and six with primary mitral regurgitation (MR) of different hemodynamic severity and myocardial impairment using the quantitative rt-PCR technique. In addition, endomyocardial tissue from thirteen explanted hearts with end-stage heart failure and biopsies from seven individuals without heart disease were investigated. The mean level of EXCH transcription in patients with AS was: 1.8 +/- 1.4 amol/ng total RNA, with AR: 1.9 +/- 0.8 amol/ng and with MR: 2.2 +/- +2.1 amol/ng. This was not from different controls (2.6 +/- 1.2 amol/ng total RNA). However, in myocardium from end-stage heart failure, EXCH transcription was increased fourfold amounting to 8.9 +/- 1.9 amol/ng total RNA. No difference in the EXCH transcription was found in VHD with respect to the degree of myocardial dysfunction: cardiac index (CI)>3.5 l/min/m2 (EXCH 1.4 +/- 1.1 amol/ng total RNA); CI 3.5-2.4 (EXCH 2.5 +/- 1.8); CI<2.4 (EXCH 1.8 +/- 1.0); EF-angio>50% (EXCH 1.9 +/- 1.8); EF-angio<or = 50% (EXCH 1.9 +/- 0.9); EF-RNV>50% (EXCH 2.4 +/- 1.8), EF-RNV<or = 50% (EXCH 1.7 +/- 1.0).

Myocardial EXCH transcription does not change parallel to the degree of myocardial dysfunction in VHD. Consequently, myocardial EXCH transcription does not appear to be suitable as a parameter indicating the transition from adequate to inadequate myocardial adaptation to chronic volume and/or pressure overload.

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Should postmenopausal women with rheumatoid arthritis who are starting corticosteroid treatment be screened for osteoporosis?

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of different strategies for preventing corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis. Simulated cohorts of postmenopausal women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) starting corticosteroid treatment were examined. A Markov decision analysis model was developed to compare different management strategies, including watchful waiting, screen and treat, and empirical treatment. Treatment thresholds for the screen and treat strategy were varied from bone mineral density (BMD) T scores<-1.0 to BMD T scores<-4.0. Compared with a watchful waiting approach, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for a strategy of screen and treat with alendronate at a BMD T score of<-1.0 was $92,600 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained. This result was sensitive to the cost and efficacy of osteoporosis therapy and, importantly, to the treatment threshold. At a treatment threshold of a BMD T score<-2.5, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of screening and treating was $76,100 per QALY. None of these results differed substantially for women taking estrogen replacement therapy.

The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of a strategy of screening and treating postmenopausal female RA patients with BMD T scores of<-1.0, compared with watchful waiting, was greater than that of other well-accepted medical interventions. The cost-effectiveness ratios were more acceptable when a T score treatment threshold of<-2.5 was used. These conclusions are limited by the lack of data on fracture and treatment efficacy in corticosteroid-treated patients.

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Chlorpromazine induces apoptosis in activated human lymphoblasts: a mechanism supporting the induction of drug-induced lupus erythematosus?

Drug-induced lupus erythematosus is a serious side effect of certain medications, such as procainamide, quinidine, hydralazine, chlorpromazine, and isoniazid, the underlying pathogenesis of which is unresolved. In this study, we examined the influence of these drugs on the regulation of apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in quiescent and activated human lymphocytes. We also discuss the dysregulation of apoptosis as a pathogenetic factor in systemic lupus erythematosus. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells or activated lymphoblasts from normal donors were incubated with different concentrations of each of the above-mentioned drugs. We did not find induction of apoptosis in quiescent cells over a broad concentration range. In contrast, lymphoblasts readily underwent apoptosis when cultured with chlorpromazine, but not any of the other drugs, after stimulation with interleukin-2 (IL-2) in a dose-, time- and cell cycle-dependent manner. By several lines of evidence, toxicity was ruled out. Characteristic features of apoptosis-like incorporation of propidium iodide (PI), such as increased annexin V binding, changes in mitochondrial membrane potential, and induction of DNA breaks (as evidenced by TUNEL techniques), could be induced in lymphoblasts after chlorpromazine treatment. Chlorpromazine did not cause apoptosis by inhibition of cytokine binding or blockade of early intracellular signaling. The protease inhibitor Z-VAD and the ceramide inhibitor sphingosine 1-phosphate effectively blocked chlorpromazine-induced apoptosis (by PI staining and by externalization of phosphatidylserine), in contrast to the caspase 3/CPP32 inhibitor DEVD, which had only minor effects. Western blot analysis revealed IL-2-mediated phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase, which was sensitive to chlorpromazine. Using lymphoblasts from a patient with Canale-Smith syndrome, we found that chlorpromazine-mediated apoptosis is Fas/ APO-1 independent.

These data suggest that chlorpromazine mediates apoptosis in human lymphoblasts through specific activation of intracellular proapoptotic signaling cascades. This mechanism might lead to an unsynchronized inflow of apoptotic break-down products and thereby to the induction of (auto)immunity against nuclear components.

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Products of hemolysis in the subarachnoid space inducing spreading ischemia in the cortex and focal necrosis in rats: a model for delayed ischemic neurological deficits after subarachnoid hemorrhage?

The pathogenesis of delayed ischemic neurological deficits after subarachnoid hemorrhage has been related to products of hemolysis. Topical brain superfusion of artificial cerebrospinal fluid (ACSF) containing the hemolysis products K+ and hemoglobin (Hb) was previously shown to induce ischemia in rats. Superimposed on a slow vasospastic reaction, the ischemic events represent spreading depolarizations of the neuronal-glial network that trigger acute vasoconstriction. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether such spreading ischemias in the cortex lead to brain damage. A cranial window was implanted in 31 rats. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) was measured using laser Doppler flowmetry, and direct current (DC) potentials were recorded. The ACSF was superfused topically over the brain. Rats were assigned to five groups representing different ACSF compositions. Analyses included classic histochemical and immunohistochemical studies (glial fibrillary acidic protein and ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule) as well as a terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick-end labeling assay. Superfusion of ACSF containing Hb combined with either a high concentration of K+ (35 mmol/L, 16 animals) or a low concentration of glucose (0.8 mmol/L, four animals) reduced CBF gradually. Spreading ischemia in the cortex appeared when CBF reached 40 to 70% compared with baseline (which was deemed 100%). This spreading ischemia was characterized by a sharp negative shift in DC, which preceded a steep CBF decrease that was followed by a slow recovery (average duration 60 minutes). In 12 of the surviving 14 animals widespread cortical infarction was observed at the site of the cranial window and neighboring areas in contrast to findings in the three control groups (11 animals).

The authors conclude that subarachnoid Hb combined with either a high K+ or a low glucose concentration leads to widespread necrosis of the cortex.

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Mild ductal atypia after large-core needle biopsy of the breast: is surgical excision always necessary?

The aim of the current study was to identify a select group of patients with mild atypia who do not need surgical excision after large-core needle biopsy (LCNB) of the breast. Nineteen (70%) of 27 patients with ductal atypia found on LCNB had subsequent surgical excision. These 19 patients were retrospectively assigned to 3 groups according to the severity of the atypia found, which was compared with the final pathologic specimen after surgical biopsy. Cancer was identified through surgical biopsy in 6 (32%) of 19 patients. The severity of atypia seen on the LCNB specimen strongly correlated with subsequent cancer identification (P<.01). Two (33%) of 6 patients in group 2 (true atypical ductal hyperplasia [ADH]) and 4 (80%) of 5 patients in group 3 (severe ADH, borderline ductal carcinoma in situ) had cancer after surgical biopsy. No cancer was found after surgical biopsy in 8 patients in group 1 (mild atypia, not meeting criteria for ADH).

The results of this study suggest that surgical excision can be avoided after LCNB of the breast in patients with only mildly atypical lesions that do not meet criteria for ADH. Patients with true ADH should continue to have surgical excision.

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Can clinical parameters predict fractures in acute pediatric wrist injuries?

Fractures around the wrist are common in pediatric patients presenting to the emergency department (ED). This pilot study was aimed at identifying clinical variables that are most likely to be associated with a fracture. This was a prospective blinded case series of patients 3-18 years of age presenting with an acute (<3 days) wrist injury, without obvious deformity. A team of five investigators blinded to the eventual radiographic findings evaluated patients. Physical examination variables included range of motion (ROM), site of maximal tenderness, and functional deficit. The latter was determined objectively, by recording any difference in grip strength between the injured and noninjured hands. Diagnostic radiographs were obtained for all patients. Univariate analysis using Wilks' log likelihood ratio test was performed to identify clinical variables associated with confirmed wrist fractures. Sample size was determined based on the ability to detect a difference of 15 degrees in the ROM variables, 20% point differences in grip strength, and 30% proportion differences in categorical variables using a power of 0.8 and a two-tailed of 0.05. The ROMs were not significantly different between the fracture (Fx) and nonfracture (NFx) group. There was significant change in the grip strength between the Fx and NFx groups (t = 3.3, p = 0.0019). Tenderness over the distal radius was also associated with a greater likelihood of a fracture (G(2) = 5.0, p = 0.02). Sensitivity of clinical prediction was found to be 79%, and specificity was 63%. The false-negative rate was 0.21 and the false-positive rate was 0.37, while the positive predictive value was found to be 0.68 and negative predictive value 0.75.

Distal radius point tenderness and a 20% or more decrease in grip strength were predictive of fractures.

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Isolated large third-trimester intracranial cyst on fetal ultrasound: fact or fiction?

To distinguish the fact from artifact of an isolated, large, intracranial cyst on prenatal sonography (PSG). The use of PSG is rapidly increasing with most obstetric ultrasounds occurring in general community settings like small hospitals and clinics with personnel who have variable training, experience, and interest levels. In contrast, most PSG articles and books are produced in large subspecialty centers with concentrated referral bases plus both highly-trained and experienced personnel.DESIGN/ We report a series of 2 normal newborn patients who had a large prenatal unilateral intracranial cyst diagnosed by PSG in the 10 years between July of 1989 and 1999 at a rural community hospital. The newborns had imaging studies at birth and their neurodevelopmental progress was followed for several years. Textbook, bibliography and computerized Medline (1966-present) searches including prenatal ultrasound, observer variation, diagnostic errors, reproducibility of results, sensitivity and specificity, accuracy, central nervous system, false-positive, prenatal diagnosis, and brain were examined starting in August 1996 for reports. There were 4079 obstetric ultrasounds performed in 3.5 years, January 1996 through July 1999 at this rural community facility. This rate extrapolates to a total of 11 654 obstetric ultrasounds over the 10-year study period in which the 2 cases of intracranial cyst artifact occurred. Thus, the incidence of 2 intracranial cyst artifacts was estimated as 2/11 654 PSG, a .0002% false-positive rate.

This is the first report of the occurrence of PSG artifacts in a community facility. Artifact is a real problem and needs to be specified in differential diagnoses. There are ways to decrease sonographic artifact-or at least to recognize it-so our estimates at a community hospital for its occurrence are presented with the relevant technical and ethical issues. None of these issues have been previously reported in the pediatric literature. Our false-positive rate for large intracranial cyst compares favorably with other reports. Our estimate may inflate our denominator by reporting scans rather than the number of fetuses scanned, and our numerator may miss cases that moved from the community. Confusion differentiating PSG artifact from reality often occurs when interpreting static or frozen real-time images. The signs that sonogram images may be artifacts include defects that: extend outside the fetal body; change shape, size and echogenecity with different scan planes; are not seen on all examinations; and are isolated in an otherwise normal fetus. Failure to offer quality PSG in clinical settings where it is available restricts access of pregnant women to the diagnosis of fetal anomalies, and therefore restricts access to the options of pregnancy termination, fetal therapy like fetal surgery, and delivery options of timing, setting, and mode. We suggest a multidisciplinary approach to prenatal abnormalities like isolated third trimester unilateral intracranial cyst in both primary and tertiary care settings aids interpretation followed by expectant conservative management without elaborate, risky, or terminal interventions.

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Academic performance of medical students: a predictable result?

Traditionally, medical schools demand their students a high dedication in time, responsibility and integrity.AIM: To assess the predictive capacity of several specific variables, on the academic performance of medical students. All students who entered during 1984-1995 period were studied. The academic performance was assessed using two indices: an overall evaluation of successfulness as determined by the approval rate in different courses and grade-point average obtained during the first three years at the Medical School. The variables used to predict academic performance were year of enrollment, high school grades, university admission test scores, biomedical and demographic characteristics. All these were measured at the time when the student was enrolled. Eight hundred and eight students were studied at the end of the third year. The most important predictive variables selected for both performance indices were: high school grades, admission biology test scores, place were high school studies were done, and previous university studies. In addition verbal and mathematics admission academic performance tests scores were selected for grade-point average index. Although, the overall admission score and high school academic performance were significantly associated with the two outcomes, they were not selected in the final models.

The best predictors of an optimal academic performance in these medical students were high school grades, admission biology test scores, residing in Metropolitan Santiago and previous university studies.

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Are bilateral superior vena cavae a risk factor for single ventricle palliation?

Performing superior vena cava-to-pulmonary artery anastomosis, in the presence of bilateral superior vena cavae, can be technically challenging. Our clinical observation has been that bilateral superior vena cavae are a risk factor for poor outcome in children needing single ventricle palliation. Detailed operative, angiographic, and follow-up data were analyzed in 39 children undergoing bilateral cavopulmonary anastomosis (b-CPA). Overall outcome was compared to 274 children having a unilateral cavopulmonary anastomoses (u-CPA). Nine patients (23%) with bilateral superior vena cavae were found to have thrombus in the cavopulmonary circulation after the b-CPA. Postoperative mean arterial oxygen saturation was significantly lower in those who had thrombus [69%+/-10% versus 82%+/-7%, (p<0.01)]. Thrombus formation was associated with mortality. The indexed superior vena cavae size was not a risk factor for thrombosis. In follow-up studies the connecting pulmonary artery segment between the two cavopulmonary anastomosis was smaller than the pulmonary arteries adjacent to the hilum. Survivors of a b-CPA were less frequently converted to a Fontan circulation at 5 years of follow up (Kaplan-Meier 5-year estimates, 39% for b-CPA versus 74% for u-CPA [p = 0.02]).

Bilateral superior vena cava-to-pulmonary artery anastomosis is associated with an increased risk of thrombus formation and unfavorable growth in the central pulmonary arteries. Modifications of surgical technique may alter flow patterns, thereby optimizing growth and diminishing the risk of thrombus formation. Anticoagulation therapy may be an important adjunct in children undergoing a b-CPA.

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Is low ejection fraction safe for off-pump coronary bypass operation?

Does the manipulation of the heart during off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) procedure further compromise the hemodynamic stability of a patient with depressed left ventricular function compared with the conventional coronary artery bypass (CCAB) approach? Does this manipulation induce a more dramatic hypoperfused state that may contribute to an increase in the incidence of related complications or mortality? This retrospective review of data attempted to answer the above concern. Between January 1, 1998, and June 30, 1999, 177 patients with ejection fractions of 30% or less underwent full sternotomy coronary artery bypass grafting at our institution. Of these patients, 45 underwent OPCAB procedures and 132 patients underwent CCAB. Pre-, intra-, and postoperative variables as identified by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons National Cardiac Surgery Database were compared using univariate and logistical regression analysis. Despite recognized hemodynamic derangement during cardiac displacement, these groups of OPCAB patients appeared to tolerate the procedure well. Univariate analysis of cardiac enzyme leak and blood loss was statistically significant in the OPCAB patients. Utilizing regression analysis, cardiopulmonary bypass was the only predictor for all postoperative complications.

Multivessel coronary artery bypass utilizing the OPCAB approach in patients with depressed left ventricular function of equal to or less than 30% is appropriate and applicable. Analysis of CCAB and OPCAB variables was nonsignificant except for operative and postoperative blood loss and peak cardiac enzyme leak. Attention to intraoperative detail and hemodynamic management could be credited for the success with OPCAB.

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Is smoking associated with the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease?

To determine whether smoking is associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Analyses were conducted using three Canadian data sets: the University of Western Ontario Dementia Study (200 cases, 163 controls), the Canadian Study of Health and Aging (258 cases, 258 controls), and the patient database from the Clinic for Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders at the Vancouver Hospital and Health Sciences Centre (566 cases, 277 controls). The association between smoking and AD was investigated using bivariate analyses and multiple logistic regression models adjusted for the potential confounders age, sex, educational level, family history of dementia, head injury, and hypertension. The results of bivariate analyses were inconsistent across the three data sets, with smoking status a significant protective factor, a significant risk factor, or not associated with AD. The results of multiple logistic regression models, however, were consistent: any association between smoking status and AD disappeared in all three data sets after adjustment for confounders.

Smoking status was consistently not associated with AD across all three data sets after adjustment for confounders. Failure to adjust for relevant confounders may explain inconsistent reports of the influence of smoking on AD. Any protective effect of smoking may be limited to specific AD subtypes (e.g., early onset AD).

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An Ontario-wide study of vitamin B12, serum folate, and red cell folate levels in relation to plasma homocysteine: is a preventable public health issue on the rise?

Plasma homocysteine has been reported to be useful in the evaluation of patients with suspected vitamin B12 or folate deficiency. In November 1998, Canada began its mandatory fortification of all flour, and some corn and rice products, with folic acid. We evaluated the status of folate and vitamin B12 in Ontario since this fortification program began, and also studied the role of plasma homocysteine in the assessment of vitamin B12 deficiency since that time. A retrospective cross-sectional study design was performed using a community database of all Ontario samples analyzed by MDS Laboratories, a major provider of diagnostic laboratory services in Canada. All consecutive single-patient fasting samples for plasma homocysteine collected between January 1 and September 30, 1999 were included, as well as corresponding red cell folate and serum B12 concentrations. Data for serum folate were included when available. Descriptive statistics included the arithmetic and geometric means for each measure, as well as the lower and upper centile values. After excluding cases with a concomitant serum creatinine>120 micromol/L or red cell folate<215 nmol/L, we established the test properties of a plasma homocyteine level of 15 micromol/L or greater for the diagnosis of "low" (<120 pmol/L) or "indeterminate" (i.e., between 120 and 150 pmol/L) serum vitamin B12 concentrations. The mean age of all subjects was 58.4 years (95% CI 57.4 to 59.4). Plasma homocysteine samples were obtained from 403 males (56.7%) and 308 females. The geometric mean homocysteine concentration for the entire population was 8.3 micromol/L, and was significantly higher among males (9.3 micromol/L) than females (8.3 micromol/L) (unpaired t-test: 2-p<0.0001). The geometric mean serum folate concentration was significantly higher in females (35.8 nmol/L) than males (33.6 nmol/L) (2-p<0.0001), as were the mean red cell folate levels (females 966.8 nmol/L, males 949.3 nmol/L; 2-p<0.0001). Serum vitamin B12 concentrations were available for 692 subjects, with a geometric mean of 322.0 pmol/L. Again, mean vitamin B12 was higher in females (332.5 pmol/L) than males (314.3 pmol/L) (2-p<0.0001). The fifth centile for vitamin B12 was 134.6 pmol/L. A plasma homocysteine concentration>15 micromol/L did not discriminate between cobalamin concentrations below versus above 120 pmol/L (positive and negative predictive values 7.4% and 97.2%, respectively), nor did it discriminate "indeterminate" B12 levels between 120 and 150 pmol/L (positive and negative predictive values 6.3% and 94.0%, respectively).

In a large select group of Ontarians, serum and red cell folate concentrations appear to be higher than expected, possibly due to a recent national folate fortification programme; cobalamin levels are no higher than expected. Given our inability to detect mild B12 deficiency using such indicators as plasma homocysteine, and considering the substantial growth in the elderly segment of the Canadian population, occult cobalamin deficiency could become a common disorder. Accordingly, we recommend either consideration of the addition of vitamin B12 to the current folate fortification programme, and/or the development of better methods for the detection of cobalamin deficiency.

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Does holiday hypoglycaemia exist?

To determine whether an excessive, prolonged and, above all, unusual physical exertion could be associated with episodes of mild hypoglycaemia in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) patients treated with glibenclamide. 11 months of observation with retrospective analysis of patient personal diaries to determine the hypoglycaemic risk. Diabetic Unit-Department of Medicine and Aging-Chieti University School of Medicine. We enrolled 340 NIDDM outpatients adjusted for sex, age, body mass index, alcohol intake and oral treatment regimen with glibenclamide. PATIENTS were tested monthly for circadian blood glucose profiles and glycosylated hemoglobin. Mild hypoglycaemia was defined on the basis of blood glucose values<2.8 mmol/l associated with mild autonomic symptoms, without requiring external assistance. Each diabetic patient filled personal diary indicating the therapy regimen and the characteristics of eventual hypoglycaemic episodes occurring during the observation period. 21.8% of NIDDM patients experienced one or two episodes of mild hypoglycaemia during the observation period. The analysis of the patients' diaries showed that 60% of the hypoglycaemic episodes was associated with excessive, prolonged and unexpected physical exertions. Within this group, about 70% of the episodes occurred during a holiday ("holiday hypoglycaemia"). After analyzing the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of the diabetic patients reporting hypoglycaemic events, we found a higher risk for "holiday hypoglycaemia" in patients with a lower educational level, with a sedentary occupation or among the ex-farmers.

As resulted in the present study, unexpected physical exertions may represent a relevant cause of mild hypoglycaemia in diabetic patients receiving oral antidiabetic therapy. However, this hypoglycaemic cause may have been underestimated in the literature. Educational programs conducted by general practitioners or diabetologists could be useful for the patients in reducing the number of mild hypoglycaemic episodes.

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The characteristic pattern of aminoaciduria in patients with aristolochic acid-induced Fanconi syndrome: could iminoaciduria be the hallmark of this syndrome?

In Japan the patients with Chinese herbs nephropathy (CHN), aristolochic acids-(AAs) associated renal failure, often present Fanconi syndrome. The aim of this study was to investigate the pattern of aminoaciduria in patients with AAs-induced Fanconi syndrome and to clarify whether it is different from other Fanconi syndromes reported in the literature. The subjects consisted of 4 patients with Fanconi syndrome due to AAs. We studied biochemical data and urinary excretion of amino acids in the 4 patients. Amino acids in their urine were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Three out of 4 patients showed in common very increased excretion ofproline, hydroxyproline and citruline. Last patient showed the very increased levels of proline and valine. Regarding glycine, which is considered to belong to the same group as imino acid and to be shared with high-affinity transport system ofproline, there was not very increased excretion.

These findings suggest that AAs would predominantly affect the low-affinity transport system of proline in the brushborder membrane of proximal tubules because the low-affinity system is considered not to be shared with glycine transport.

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Are vacations good for your health?

The objective of this study was to determine the risk for various causes of posttrial death associated with vacation frequency during the Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial (MRFIT). Middle-aged men at high risk for coronary heart disease (CHD) were recruited for the MRFIT. As part of the questionnaires administered during the first five annual visits, men were asked whether they had had a vacation during the past year. For trial survivors (N = 12,338), the frequency of these annual vacations during the trial were used in a prospective analysis of posttrial all-cause and cause-specific mortality during the 9-year follow-up period. The relative risk (RR) associated with more annual vacations during the trial was 0.83 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.71-0.97) for all-cause mortality during the 9-year follow-up period. For cause of death, the RRs were 0.71 (95% CI, 0.58-0.89) and 0.98 (95% CI, 0.78-1.23) for cardiovascular and noncardiovascular causes, respectively. The RR was 0.68 (95% CI, 0.53-0.88) for CHD (including acute myocardial infarction). These associations remained when statistical adjustments were made for possible confounding variables, including baseline characteristics (eg, income), MRFIT group assignment, and occurrence of a nonfatal cardiovascular event during the trial.

The frequency of annual vacations by middle-aged men at high risk for CHD is associated with a reduced risk of all-cause mortality and, more specifically, mortality attributed to CHD. Vacationing may be good for your health.

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Do panic symptom profiles influence response to a hypoxic challenge in patients with panic disorder?

This study examined how panic symptom profiles affect response to a hypoxic laboratory challenge in patients with panic disorder. Seven patients whose naturally occurring panic attacks were characterized by prominent respiratory symptoms (Resp subgroup) were compared and contrasted with seven patients who did not report respiratory symptoms during panic attacks (NonResp subgroup). All were administered a novel 12% O2 challenge and assessed with measures of tidal volume, respiratory rate, end-tidal CO2, anxiety, and panic symptoms. Although the Resp and NonResp subgroups showed equivalent increases in anxiety and panic symptoms, the Resp subgroup showed greater fluctuation in tidal volume during and after the challenge as well as overall lower levels of end-tidal CO2.

Our results suggest the importance of panic symptom profiles in determining respiratory responses to a hypoxic challenge in patients with panic disorder. These findings are discussed in light of current theories of panic disorder, with particular attention to respiratory disturbances in this disorder.

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Unplanned readmissions of patients with congestive heart failure: do they reflect in-hospital quality of care or patient characteristics?

To determine if early unplanned readmissions of patients hospitalized for heart failure are associated with suboptimal in-hospital care or with the clinical and demographic characteristics of the patient. We performed a case-control study among patients discharged with a principal diagnosis of heart failure. Cases included all patients unexpectedly readmitted within 31 days of discharge; controls were randomly selected from among those not readmitted. Quality of care was measured using explicit criteria reflecting the admission work-up, evaluation and treatment, and readiness for discharge. Ninety-one cases and 351 controls were included. There was no significant association between early unplanned readmissions and the scores for quality of the admission work-up or evaluation and treatment during the stay. There was a significant association between readiness for discharge and subsequent early readmission: for each 10% decrease in the proportion of fulfilled criteria, the odds of readmission increased by 14% (95% confidence interval [CI] 1. 01 to 1.28, P = 0.04) for all-cause readmissions and by 19% (95% CI: 1.04 to 1.36, P = 0.01) for heart-failure-related readmissions. In a multiple logistic regression model, previous diagnosis of heart failure (odds ratio [OR]= 2.9, 95% CI: 1.7 to 4.8, P<0.001), age (OR = 3.3, 95% CI: 1.3 to 8.5, P = 0.01 for patients aged 65 to 79 years and OR = 4.1, 95% CI: 1.6 to 11, P = 0.004 for patients aged 80 years and older), and history of cardiac revascularization (OR = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.2 to 3.9, P = 0.01) showed a stronger association with early unplanned all-cause readmissions than the readiness-for-discharge score (OR = 1.16, 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.31, P = 0.02). Similar findings were seen for heart failure-related readmissions.

Among patients with heart failure, early unplanned readmissions were not associated with suboptimal admission work-up or evaluation and treatment but were weakly associated with readiness for discharge. However, they were strongly associated with the patients' clinical and demographic characteristics.

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Does nimesulide induce gastric mucosal damage?

In this study, it was aimed to examine the effect of nimesulide, a selective inhibitor of cox-2 enzyme, to the gastric mucosa and to correlate its effect with aspirin. This study was planned as double-blind, randomized and placebo-controlled. Mean age of voluntary persons (n = 32) was 42.3 +/- 2.7. Divided into 3 groups of volunteers were given randomized placebo (n = 10), aspirin (n = 10) (500 mg aspirin, Bayer) and nimesulide (n = 12) (100 mg mesulid, Pfizer) with 50 mL of water after 12 hours fasting period at 08.00 am. Gastroduodenoscopy was performed to the volunteers 3 hours after each therapy. Endoscopic scores of groups were; placebo: 0.20 +/- 0.13, aspirin: 2.8 +/- 0.46, nimesulide: 1.41 +/- 0.51. Lesion scores both in the aspirin group when compared with nimesulide and placebo groups (P<0.00002,<0.03), and in the nimesulide group when compared with the placebo group (P<0.01) were significantly high. The positivity of Helicobacter pylori of groups was found; 67% in placebo, 72% in aspirin, 71% in nimesulide and there was no statistically significant difference in the groups.

It was shown that nimesulide causes significantly serious gastric mucosal lesion when compared with placebo. The lesion score of nimesulide was found less than aspirin. According to the findings, nimesulide should be given carefully just as other analgesics due to the probability of causing gastric lesion.

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The use of interprofessional peer examiners in an objective structured clinical examination: can dental students act as examiners?

To assess whether final year dental students could act as reliable examiners within an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) by comparison with results obtained by an experienced member of staff. A station testing examination of the mouth was included in the second year medical undergraduate summative OSCE examination. Concurrently run in three different examination venues on the Ninewells Hospital campus. 147 medical students and 3 pairs (A, B, C) of examiners. Each examining pairing consisted of one member of staff and one dental student (blind to each other's marking). A checklist of 13 tasks to be performed was provided to the examiners. One mark awarded for a completed task, no mark for no attempt at the task, and half a mark for attempt at task. Paired results were available for 125 medical students. Using Mann-Witney analysis, the non-parametric 95% confidence intervals for the difference in scores between the 3 paired teams were group A (-0.5, 0), group B (-0.5, 0.5), group C (-0.5, 0). In only 4 students (out of 125) did the difference between the individual pair differ by 2 or more marks.

On the basis of this pilot study final year dental students may be used as examiners in OSCEs where basic technical skills are to be evaluated. This development from peer group teaching provides further evidence supportive of interprofessional education.

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Pancreatic cancer and diabetes: is there a relationship?

There is controversy about whether diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for pancreatic cancer or an epiphenomenon of the cancer. The present study aims to determine if long-term diabetes is a risk factor for pancreatic cancer. The study undertook to determine the prevalence of diabetes among three matched (age/gender) patient groups (pancreatic cancer (PaC), colorectal cancer (CRC), and fracture neck of femur (NOF)) at the date of diagnosis of cancer or fracture as well as 1 and 5 years prior to this. A retrospective review of the medical records of the three groups of patients was undertaken. Patients identified with PaC in the period July 1994 to February 1998 were age (+/- 5 years)- and gender-matched to patients identified in the same time period with NOF and with CRC. The data were then analysed using McNemar's test for discordant pairs. Over a 44-month period 116 patients with PaC were identified of which 24% had diabetes at the time of diagnosis of their malignancy (NOF, 8%; CRC, 9.5%). There was a statistically significant difference (PaC and NOF, P<0.01; PaC and CRC, P<0.01). For a duration of diabetes of>5 years the prevalence of diabetes fell to 7.8% in the PaC group, to 6% in the NOF group and to 6.9% in the CRC group, with no significant difference between the groups.

There is no increase in the prevalence of long-standing diabetes mellitus in patients with PaC compared to age- and gender-matched controls with NOF and CRC. The relationship of PaC and diabetes may be an epiphenomenon, rather than diabetes being a risk factor for pancreatic malignancy.

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Do patients wish to be involved in decision making in the consultation?

To determine patients' preferences for a shared or directed style of consultation in the decision making part of the general practice consultation. Structured interview, with video vignettes of acted consultations. 5 practices in Lothian, Scotland. 410 patients (adults and adults accompanying children) attending surgery appointments. Preference for shared or directed form of video vignette for five different presenting conditions. Patients varied in their preference for involvement in decision making in the consultation. Under multiple regression analysis, patients' preference was found to be independently predicted by the problem viewed (patients presented with physical problems preferred a directed approach), patients' age (patients aged 61 or older were more likely to prefer the directed approach), social class (social classes I and II were more likely to prefer the shared approach), and smoking status (smokers more likely to prefer the shared approach). Those patients who were able to answer (or who thought their doctor's style similar to those in the vignettes) were more likely to describe their own doctor's style as similar to their preferred style. No major association in preference was found with sex, frequency of attendance, or perceived chronic ill health.

Patients may vary in their desire for involvement in decision making in consultations. Although this variation seems to depend on the presenting problem, age, social class, and smoking status, these associations are not absolute, with large minorities in each group. Doctors need the skills, knowledge of their patients, and the time to determine on which occasions, with which illnesses, and at which level their patients wish to be involved in decision making.

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GP job satisfaction in 1987, 1990 and 1998: lessons for the future?

Job satisfaction is an important determinant of physician retention and turnover, and may also affect performance. Objective. Our aim was to investigate changes in GP job satisfaction from 1987 to 1998, covering a period of major change in the organization of British general practice. Postal surveys of random national samples of GPs were carried out by separate groups of investigators in 1987, 1990 and 1998. In each survey, the questionnaire contained a standardized job satisfaction scale and a list of 14 job stressors. The final samples consisted of 1817 GPs in 1987 (response rate 45%), 917 GPs in 1990 (response rate 61%) and 1828 GPs in 1998 (response rate 49%). For both men and women, overall job satisfaction declined from 1987 to 1990 and then improved from 1990 to 1998, although satisfaction in 1998 remained below that in 1987. Women tended to report higher levels of satisfaction than men in all 3 years. Satisfaction with nine specific aspects of work showed dissimilar patterns of change over time. From 1987 to 1990, reported levels of stress increased for eight of 14 job stressors. Of these, three subsequently declined in 1998, two remained unchanged and three continued to increase. Of the six job stressors which showed no change from 1987 to 1990, five subsequently increased as sources of stress. Men and women differed in their sources of stress, but the differences were not consistent over time.

The results suggest that GP job satisfaction has improved significantly from the low point reached following the introduction of the 1990/1991 NHS reforms, although reported levels of stress in relation to many aspects of work have continued to increase. The changes are discussed within the context of wider research into the determinants of GP job satisfaction in order to anticipate the likely effects on GPs of future organizational reforms.

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From analgesic intolerance to analgesic induced asthma: are there some determinants?

Analgesic intolerance (AI) sometimes appear alone and sometimes with bronchial asthma affecting about 10% of asthmatics and sometimes before and the other times after asthma. We investigated the possible clinical risk factors which might be affecting the transition from isolated AI to analgesic induced asthma (AIA). A total of 344 patients admitted to Hacettepe University Hospital Adult Allergy Unit between January 1991 and March 1999 and diagnosed with AI were enrolled in this survey. Patients having AIA (group I) (n = 191) were compared with the patients having AI without asthma (group II) (n = 153). The diagnosis of AI and AIA were made by history and oral provocation tests. A standard questionnaire was filled-in for all the patients. The risk of AIA was increased with nasal polyp, and rhinosinusitis via OR's of 2.75 (95% CI: 1.09, 6.91), and 18.58 (95% CI: 9.86, 35.01), respectively. Having a pet, and ever smoking decreased the risk of AIA in the patients with AI via OR's of 0.53 (95% CI: 0.24, 1.17), and 0.37 (95% CI: 0.17, 0.80), respectively. The association of AIA and smoking was slightly modified by food intolerance (OR for ever smoked and food intolerance: 1.31, 95% CI: 0.40, 4.30).

There may be two different phenotypes of AI with different clinical features: one developing AIA (having nasal polyp and/or rhinosinusitis, and smoking if food allergy/intolerance is present), and the other AI without asthma (having pet, and could smoke). Findings of this study should be confirmed by further investigations.

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Is it permissible to omit mediastinal dissection for peripheral non-small-cell lung cancers with tumor diameters less than 1.5 cm?

Recently the pros and cons of limited surgery for small-sized peripheral non-small-cell lung cancers (PNSCLCs), such as omission of mediastinal dissection, etc., have been vigorously debated. We analyzed whether hilar/mediastinal lymph node metastases were present in 30 small-sized PNSCLCs. In the nine years from 1990 to 1998, 294 lung cancer patients underwent lobectomy or pneumonectomy combined with hilar/mediastinal dissection in the Tokai University Hospital. Thirty of these patients diagnosed as having cT1N0M0 PNSCLC with tumor diameters of 1.5 cm or less by computed tomography, are evaluated in this article. The 30 PNSCLC patients consisted of 14 males and 16 females with a mean age of 61 +/- 9 years. Twenty six patients (87%) had no hilar nor mediastinal lymph node metastases (pN0), one patient (3%) had a hilar lymph node metastasis (pN1), and three patients (10%) had mediastinal lymph node metastases (pN2).

Mediastinal lymph node metastases were histologically observed in 3 (10%) of 30 PNSCLC patients with tumor diameters of 1.5 cm or less. Our results show that mediastinal dissection is still necessary even for small-sized lung cancers.

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Is fasting insulin associated with blood pressure in obese children?

We tested whether fasting insulin levels are associated with blood pressure in a large sample of obese children. Three hundred and fifty obese children (F:M ratio = 1.03) of 10.1 +/- 2.7 y of age (mean +/- SD) were consecutively enrolled at an Outpatient Paediatric Clinic. Obesity was diagnosed on the basis of a relative weight for age>120% and hypertension on the basis of a systolic (SBP) or diastolic (DBP) blood pressure>95th percentile for age after adjustment for height (Ht). Insulin was significantly higher in hypertensive (n = 202, 58%) than normotensive (n = 148, 42%) children (16 vs 14 microU mL(-1), geometric mean, p<0.01, ANOVA) but the difference was not clinically relevant. Moreover, (log-transformed) insulin explained only 7 and 4% of SBP and DBP variance, respectively (p<0.0001 for both) and this contribution disappeared after the confounding effects of age, weight or other anthropometric dimensions were taken into account (p = ns, ANCOVA).

This study does not support the hypothesis of a clinically relevant association between fasting insulin and blood pressure in obese children.

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Is suprapubic cystostomy an optimal urinary management in high quadriplegics?

Long-term outcome of spinal cord injury (SCI) patients was compared between those managed by suprapubic cystostomy (SPC) and clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) with particular emphasis on an incidence of urinary tract complications and patients perception for urinary management. The study comprised 61 SCI patients; 34 patients managed with SPC (group A), while 27 with CIC (group B). After stabilization of their condition, all were followed annually on an outpatient basis with clinical history, urinalysis, urinary imaging and renal function studies. Mean follow-up periods were 8.6 and 9.9 years for groups A and B, respectively. Between groups, a comparative study was performed on the incidence of urinary complications such as renal dysfunction, hydronephrosis, vesicoureteral reflux, symptomatic genitourinary infection and urinary stone. Satisfaction with urinary management was also estimated using the questionnaires during follow-up. Renal dysfunction, hydronephrosis and vesicoureteral reflux were not found in either group. Symptomatic genitourinary infection was seen in 4 (12%) of group A and 7 (26%) of group B, respectively. The incidence of renal stone was 3 (9%) in group A and 1 (4%) in group B. A significant difference was not found between two groups in these urinary complications. On the contrary, bladder stone was seen more frequently in group A (65%) than in group B (30%) with a significant difference (p<0.001). The degrees of incontinence, bother score of daily activities, and overall satisfaction showed no significant difference between the two groups.

Except for bladder stones, SPC is a valuable option of urinary management for quadriplegic patients, the results of which were comparable to paraplegic SCI patients managed with CIC.

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