Irish journal of medical science
-
Cervical membrane sweep is a mechanical method of cervical ripening at term gestation with the aim of avoiding prolonged pregnancy and reducing the need for labour induction for this indication. There is no published data on obstetric outcomes following membrane sweep in an Irish obstetric population or any studies on patient perception/recommendation of membrane sweep in the international literature. ⋯ Cervical membrane sweep is associated with spontaneous onset of labour within 7 days in the majority of patients, more so in the presence of higher Bishop score and better quality sweep. It has a high level of acceptability among patients and is highly recommended by them to other patients. The need for more than one membrane sweep is associated with less likelihood of spontaneous onset of labour.
-
Gallbladder stone with symptom is an indication of cholecystectomy according to the current guideline. However, about 80% of gallstone patients are asymptomatic. The identification of gallbladder stone patients likely to develop symptomatic complications would be of benefit in clinical practice. ⋯ Diabetes, sludge, and lower blood HDL level are risk factors for symptomatic gallstone diseases.
-
Abnormal cholesterol profiles are a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and severe triglyceride disorders cause life threatening pancreatitis. Identification and treatment of these disorders are essential. ⋯ There are very limited resources available to manage lipid problems in the republic of Ireland relative to the under-resourced UK. Most services rely on interested physicians but ancillary resources are lacking. Where services are available, all drug treatments are utilised.
-
Acute appendicitis is a common surgical emergency in children. The majority of appendicectomies in children are performed by general surgeons, rather than specialist paediatric surgeons. ⋯ Children younger than 8 years undergoing appendicectomy in HVGHs or SPCs, or by HVSs, have marginally better outcomes. In older children, marginally shorter in-hospital stays and higher laparoscopic rates are seen in those looked after outside of high-volume or specialist units. Our results show that nonspecialist centres provide an essential, and safe, service to paediatric patients with acute appendicitis.