Irish journal of medical science
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Retracted Publication
The efficacy and safety of cryoballoon catheter ablation in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.
Electrical isolation of pulmonary vein ostia is an established therapy for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. ⋯ It was concluded that in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, with normal left atrium anatomy and no risk factors, it can be controlled with single pulmonary vein isolation without additional atrial substrate modification.
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Otolaryngology (ENT) is a craft surgical specialty, which presents significant challenges for the novice surgical trainee (NST), when managing patients with potentially life-threatening conditions. We assess current evidence behind intensive, simulation-rich training programmes or "boot camps". We outline an ENT emergency-safe boot camp for NSTs and the impact this can have on trainees' competence when dealing with ENT emergencies. ⋯ Study participants expressed an increase in confidence when dealing with specific ENT emergencies, following boot camp training. This correlates with published data. Patient safety should be enhanced, as a result of participation in this dedicated ENT emergency-safe boot camp.
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International studies show that dizziness and vertigo are a significant burden on the general population, with 20-30% experiencing symptoms over a lifetime. There are no Irish studies indicating prevalence. The aim of this study was to review primary care referrals for patients with dizziness and vertigo to an otolaryngology tertiary centre. ⋯ This study demonstrates that a significant number of patients referred to an otologist from primary care are referred with dizziness and vertigo and supports the need for the establishment of multi-disciplinary vestibular/balance centres to address and manage these patients.
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Limited data exists on the outcomes of COVID-19 patients presenting with altered mental status (AMS). Hence, we studied the characteristics and outcomes of hospitalized COVID-19 patients who presented with AMS at our hospital in rural southwest Georgia. ⋯ Patients with COVID-19 presenting with AMS are less likely to have typical COVID-19 symptoms, and AMS is an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality, need for ICU admission, and need for mechanical ventilation.
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The Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS) is a widely used retrospective scale in adults presenting for ADHD evaluations which features items relating to childhood symptoms. ⋯ There is an association between certain childhood behaviours and risk for later development of personality disorders, and psychoactive substance use. There is overlap of childhood symptoms to those who later diagnosed in adulthood with ADHD, personality disorders, and substance abuse.