Medicinski glasnik : official publication of the Medical Association of Zenica-Doboj Canton, Bosnia and Herzegovina
-
Aim To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of serum C-reactive protein (CRP) in early and late total knee arthroplasty (TKA) infections. Methods Blood tests to determine CRP levels (cut-off 10 mg/L)were conducted before surgery, at 1st day, 7th day and 15th day after surgery and at 1, 3, 6,12, 24 and 36 months. Patients had routine follow-up visits and radiological evaluations at 14 days and at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24 and 36 months. ⋯ Fourteen patients had late chronic infection. Conclusion This study suggests that a synovial fluid aspiration should be performed in patients with persistent inflammation symptoms with or without radiographic signs of loosening. Moreover, it recommends the use of different serum and synovial tests for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) diagnosis.
-
Aim To evaluate patient satisfaction with primary healthcare services and determine effectiveness indicators within Kazakhstan's compulsory health insurance system. Methods An analytical observational study with cross-examination was conducted in Kazakhstan's primary healthcare (PHC) organizations. Patient satisfaction was assessed through a 35-item closed-question questionnaire. ⋯ Notably, males exhibited higher satisfaction levels with medical care and the availability of laboratory tests compared to females. The city polyclinics № 3 and № 14 in Almaty, Kazakhstan, achieved significant performance indicators, resulting in a 1.1-fold increase in the incentive component of per capital funding. Conclusion Within the framework of compulsory health insurance, primary healthcare organizations in Kazakhstan offer affordable and effective medical care, as attested by surveyed patients and the final result indicators of the polyclinics.
-
Aim To determine the success of endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) treatment and long-term occlusion of small saphenous vein (SSV), as well as factors and conditions that influence the effectiveness of EVLA treatment. Methods A total of 250 patients treated with EVLA method over a period of seven years were followed one year after treatment. The main factors monitored and recorded during EVLA treatment were laser power (W), amount of delivered energy (J), duration of treatment (sec), veins length (cm), diameter (mm) and reflux (sec). ⋯ The physician's assessment and selection of an adequate patient greatly improves the outcome of the treatment. It is important to treat larger branches and double SSV between two fascias. Successful and effective EVLA treatment greatly reduces the possibility of recanalization of the treated vein.
-
Aim Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are minimally invasive procedures used in bone augmentation following vertebral fractures when conservative management has failed. Cement injection could leak into surrounding structures leading to post-operative sequelae, which could be symptomatic. This study compared the rate and site of cement extravasation in vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty, and a combined approach. ⋯ Bone metastases were the aetiology with the highest cement leakage rate (27.5%). Conclusion The use of kyphoplasty alone or in conjunction with vertebroplasty decreases the risk of cement extravasation and subsequent complications compared to vertebroplasty alone. The use of pedicle screws appears to be safe and was not found to increase the risk of cement extravasation.
-
Aim Stroke treatment is a time-critical condition. Understanding the impact of timing and types of treatment on patient outcomes can help develop and optimize stroke management strategies. The study aimed to analyse the effect of different time intervals and mechanical thrombectomy methods on outcomes of stroke patients in Kazakhstan. ⋯ Our results demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in NIHSS, mRS after surgical treatment compared to baseline. The association between the extended time from stroke onset to hospitalization and reduced survival rates was observed. Conclusion Our findings indicate the essential role of timely intervention in managing stroke patients, as well as the need for a comprehensive and patient-centred approach to stroke care.