Curēus
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Introduction We report our initial series of patients treated with radiosurgery to the Centromedian (CM) and Parafascicular (Pfc) Complex (CM-Pf) of the contralateral thalamus mainly for trigeminal neuralgia that had failed most known forms of conventional treatments. The coordinates were co-registered to a three-dimensional atlas of the thalamus in order to have a better comprehension of isodose curves distribution. Methods A fully automated rotating gamma ray unit was used to deliver a high dose of radiation (140 Gy) using a 4-mm collimator to the CM-Pf of the contralateral thalamus in 14 patients suffering from refractory trigeminal pain and other complex pain syndromes. ⋯ Conclusion Radiosurgery to the CM-Pf of the thalamus was demonstrated to be a safe and relatively effective alternative to treat refractory trigeminal neuralgia. Further studies are needed to optimize target dimensions based on the three-dimensional studies of isodose curves as well as coordinates. Longer follow-up is necessary to evaluate recurrence rates that could not be reached.
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Pulmonary embolism has become a cause of great concern to health care professionals. Despite strides in research and availability of sensitive diagnostic tests, the mortality and morbidity related to this entity continues to cause tremendous economic burden. Patients present with an array of symptoms ranging from mild dyspnea to hemodynamic instability and even death. Prompt recognition of symptoms along with early risk stratification can be lifesaving. ⋯ In this article we will review catheter-directed thrombolytic therapy, specifically the EKOS® or the EkoSonic endovascular system. EKOS® uses ultrasound-facilitated catheter-directed thrombolysis. The rationale behind this therapy is using shorter infusion times and lower dosage of the thrombolytic therapy, thereby reducing the complications associated with their use.
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Introduction Pneumonia caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) carries a high rate of morbidity and mortality. Many clinicians empirically treat those at risk of developing MRSA pneumonia with vancomycin. Several studies have identified a high negative predictive value of the MRSA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) nasal swab test in lower respiratory tract infections, suggesting it can be used to guide the de-escalation of empiric anti-MRSA therapy. ⋯ Protocol implementation was associated with a reduction in the average length of hospitalization (8 versus 5.20 days, p=0.006). Neither group had a vancomycin-associated acute kidney injury or in-hospital mortality. Conclusion Among patients with suspected MRSA pneumonia, a pharmacist-driven MRSA PCR nasal swab protocol resulted in a significant reduction of empiric vancomycin duration of therapy without an adverse impact on clinical outcomes in a rural healthcare setting.
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Background Patients suffering from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) experience poor survival and neurological outcomes, with rates remaining relatively unchanged despite advancements. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), termed extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) in arrests, may offer improved outcomes. We developed local screening criteria for ECPR and then estimated the frequency of use by applying those criteria retrospectively to a cardiac arrest database. ⋯ Historically, 20.0% (95% CI 16.2-24.3%) of OHCA would be transported to the Emergency Department (ED), with 4.9% (95% CI 3.0% to 7.6%) qualifying for ECPR. Conclusion Despite conservative estimates based upon historically small numbers of select cardiac arrest patients meeting eligibility for transport and initiation of ECPR, a dedicated program may be feasible in our regional hospital setting. Patient care volumes suggest it would not be resource intensive yet would be sufficiently busy to maintain competency.
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Introduction Arthroereises implants mechanically block eversion and limit subtalar motion. They are used in children with pes planovalgus in order to correct the valgus deformity. In this study, we aimed to objectively assess children with flatfoot before and after the insertion of the Kalix II implant, clinically, radiologically and by kinematic pedobarographic analysis. ⋯ The first MTH: fifth MTH peak pressure ratio pre operatively was 4.53+/-2.78 which was found to reduce significantly post operatively to 1.35+/-0.97 (p=0.04), indicating a lateral shift of the foot pressures. Conclusion There were statistically significant improvements in the patient-reported MOXFQ, radiological improvements, and pedobarographic changes, indicating a lateral shift of the foot pressures. There were no complications.