Irish journal of medical science
-
Estimating human stature is a major concern to formulate a biological profile which provides effective data for forensic identification. This research was aimed to generate a formula for estimating stature from human foot anthropometry. ⋯ In conclusion, it can be said that human stature can be successfully estimated by using foot measurements which can be applied in forensic investigation.
-
Patients' satisfaction reporting is important for assessing the quality of care in surgical practice. Post-discharge questionnaire reporting is considered best practice; however, the logistics of this method remains problematic. ⋯ There were no significant differences in reporting between pre- and post-discharge questionnaire responses. As pre-discharge reporting is more efficient, less costly and has a higher response rate, this should be considered the preferred practice in patient satisfaction assessments.
-
Application of evidence-based guidelines in the management of cellulitis is poorly studied in Ireland and it is observed that current admission and prescription practices in this country vary widely from internationally accepted standards of care. We aimed to examine the management of cellulitis with regard to hospital admission and initial antibiotic therapy. ⋯ There is a significant discrepancy between current clinical practice and international guidelines for the management of cellulitis in Ireland; local guidelines are not in keeping with newer evidence and there is a lack of national guidelines for this common condition. Closer adherence to international guidelines would significantly reduce costs by reducing unnecessary admissions and initial monotherapy would improve antibiotic stewardship. This study shows a clear need for local institutions to re-examine antibiotic guidelines to ensure the HSE provides effective evidence-based treatment in the correct setting.
-
Whiplash injuries result from an acceleration-deceleration injury of the cervical spine. The associated symptoms may include neck pain/stiffness; cervicogenic headaches; interscapular pain; upper limb pain, paraesthesia and weakness. Current treatment protocols recommend conservative management of low-grade whiplash. ⋯ Whiplash poses a significant societal economic burden in Ireland and was associated with prolonged symptoms including neck pain and upper limb neuropathic symptoms in this cohort. Associated low-back pain was common. Litigation was linked with presentation in all cases.
-
Despite recent medical advances, surgery remains the mainstay treatment in colon cancer. It is well established that better patient outcomes are achieved when complex surgery including pancreatic, oesophageal and rectal surgeries are carried out in high-volume centres. However, it is unclear as to whether or not colon cancer patients receive the same benefit. Lymph node adequacy is a key performance indicator of successful oncological colonic resection which impacts on patient outcome. ⋯ This study demonstrates that colonic cancer surgery can be safely performed in a non- specialist centre with technical outcomes comparable to nationally reported figures.