Saudi Med J
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To compare the quality of life (QOL) and frequency of hospital admission (FHA) in the past 4 months between congestive heart failure (CHF) patients involved in a structured heart failure program (HFP) compared with waitlisted controls. ⋯ Involvement by patients with CHF in a structured HFP at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is associated with significantly higher quality of life and lower likelihood of being hospitalized compared to CHF patients not involved.
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To characterize and compare the histopathological pattern of benign skin diseases in patients from Madinah region of Saudi Arabia. ⋯ A variety of benign skin lesions were seen in the present study in a wide age distribution range. The most common skin diseases observed in this study were skin appendage disorders, benign skin and adnexal tumors, pigmentation disorders, and papulosquamous lesions.
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Observational Study
Translation and cultural adaptation of an Arabic version of the patient scar assessment scale for thyroidectomy patients.
To translate and validate an Arabic version of the patient scar assessment scale (PSAS). The cosmetic appearance of a thyroidectomy scar can critically influence a patient's self-esteem. Moreover, scar evaluation tools are necessary for an evidence-based approach to scar management. ⋯ This Arabic version of the PSAS was reliable for use in Arabic-speaking communities. It will allow for comparisons between the results of investigations conducted in different countries, which aids in the exchange of information within the international scientific community.
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To investigate the effectiveness of wet cupping as alternative treatment on reducing bone pain and built a model that predicts the level of improvement for patients who suffer from bone pain. ⋯ Wet cupping has positive effects on reducing bone pain. We recommend the use of an ANN model in PMC to predict whether patients will benefit from the treatment to reduce pain. This is a recommendation for further study not a conclusion.
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Comparative Study
Evaluation of the diagnostic accuracy of smartphone electrocardiogram recorder compared to standard 12 lead electrocardiography in hospital settings.
To evaluate Smartphone-based Electrocardiogram Recorders (S-ECG-R) diagnostic accuracy compared to standard 12 lead ECG. ⋯ In this study 211 (52%) males and 192 (48%) females were included, with a mean age of 52±18 years. Of the included rhythms,149 (37%) were abnormal. The majority of which were atrial fibrillation 46 (11%), sinus tachycardia 35 (9%) and premature ventricular contractions 33 (8%). Analysis revealed an overall similar diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of S-ECG-R to the standard 12 lead ECG recording, sensitivity (97.3% versus (vs) 98%) and specificity (99.6% vs. 99.6%). However, cardiologists were more confident during interpreting standard ECG recordings in 91% of the recordings while in 71% of S-ECG-R recordings. Conclusion: The ECG rhythms produced by smartphone accessory have a good diagnostic accuracy in diagnosing arrhythmias. The utility of using S-ECG-R for out-patient is to be determined.