Irish medical journal
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Aortic stenosis is common in the elderly. Basal systolic murmurs are also common. We studied 512 patients over the age of 65 years to ascertain the prevalence of basal systolic murmurs and by using echocardiography on those with basal murmurs to determine the prevalence of significant aortic stenosis. 29% (148) of patients had basal systolic murmurs. 81 (55%) patients of this group had echocardiography carried out and 21 (25.9%) had a gradient across the aortic valve of 30 mmHg or more.
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Irish medical journal · Mar 1996
Patient's evaluation and recall of the preoperative anaesthetic visit.
We have looked at the ability of 104 patients to recall their preoperative anaesthetic visit. 26.9% of those seen could not remember ever being assessed by an anaesthetist. We think this has important medical, medico legal and manpower implications which need to be addressed.
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Irish medical journal · Jan 1996
EditorialPatient treatment preference in metastatic prostate cancer.
40 male patients with metastatic prostate cancer given a choice of medical castration with the LHRH Analogue Goserelin (Zoladex) or surgical castration chose medical treatment. During a 15 month follow up only one patient decided to have an orchidectomy and this was because of treatment expense.
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This study involves a review of 178 patients on a strictly monitored methadone maintenance programme. All patients had a minimum of 9 years of intravenous drug misuse. 35.7% were HIV positive, 55.7% males and 29% females had previous prison sentences. ⋯ Long history of misuse, multiple custodial sentences, previous unsuccessful rehabilitation and positive HIV status were associated with acceptance for maintenance. Frequency of urinalysis, and results triggering dose change can effectively reduce illicit drug use.