J Formos Med Assoc
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The diameter and shape of the left atrial appendage (LAA) orifices may influence occluder selection and the outcomes of left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) procedure. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of LAA orifice diameter on the safety and efficacy of LAAC using the LAmbre device. ⋯ The findings suggest that the LAmbre device is a safe and feasible option for occluding the LAA, regardless of its orifice diameter. However, it is important to note that a larger LAA orifice diameter may increase the risk of PDL and delayed PE.
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The early diagnosis of acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) contributes to clinical outcomes since ALM can be mistaken for acral melanocytic nevus (AMN). ALM occurrence is reported to correlate with stress-bearing areas, which may assist in differential diagnoses. Our objective is to evaluate the distribution patterns of ALMs and AMNs on the palms and soles among Taiwanese patients. ⋯ Plantar ALMs were most commonly observed on the weight-bearing areas of the soles, distinct from the distribution of all AMNs and of non-atypical AMNs. The distribution features and anatomic mapping of ALMs may facilitate the early clinical diagnosis of ALM.
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/Purpose: To achieve the World Health Organization goal of eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030, a key strategy in resource-limited areas is to identify the areas with high prevalence and to prioritize screening and treatment intervention. We hypothesized that a hospital-based laboratory database could be used to estimate the township- and village-specific anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence. ⋯ The hospital-based database provided a framework for identifying the villages with high anti-HCV prevalence. Additionally, community-based universal screening should be prioritized for villages with high prevalence in hospital-based databases.