Latest Articles
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Radiographic evaluation of the presumed lower instrumented vertebrae (LIV) is crucial for determining the optimal fusion level for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) with main thoracolumbar/lumbar curves. However, few studies have examined its variations intraoperatively. This study aims to investigate the radiographic variations of the presumed LIV during fluoroscopic positioning to aid surgeons in decision-making. ⋯ This study firstly reports the radiographic variations of the presumed LIV using intraoperative positioning fluoroscopy for Lenke 5/6 AIS and establishes the correlation with baseline measurements. This information may assist surgeons in selecting the optimal LIV, but long-term follow-up is needed to evaluate its outcomes.
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Ambulance diversion has emerged as a strategy to address Emergency Department (ED) overcrowding, but the question of when or whether diversion should be triggered is widely debated. Although the positive and adverse impacts of diversion have been primarily studied using quantitative data, little is known about the experience and perceptions of key stakeholders involved in diversions. Our study aims to explore the challenges and impacts of ambulance diversion as experienced by key stakeholders and their suggestions for improving the diversion process. ⋯ This study highlights that while diversions may offer temporary relief for overwhelmed hospitals, they also pose challenges and negative impacts on receiving hospitals and EMS operations. Our findings underscore the need for systemic improvements to address the root causes of ED overcrowding and enhance understanding among stakeholders involved in diversions.
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Group-delivered programs for chronic pain are evidence-based and frequently used. The contribution of group factors to outcomes is unclear and there are no integrated findings on consumer perceptions of the group itself in programs for people with chronic pain. The aim of this systematic review was to search and synthesise qualitative data specifically related to the group itself in studies investigating group-delivered programs for people with chronic pain (PROSPERO, CRD42023382447). ⋯ PERSPECTIVE: This review demonstrates that many consumers valued peer interaction and used comparison-based cognitive processing within group-delivered programs for chronic pain. Dialogue-based interactions with similar others promoted cognitive, affect and behaviour changes. Group factors may have been underestimated and outcomes could be influenced if peer interactions within programs were optimised.
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Review
The economic burden of diabetes in spinal fusion surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
This study aimed at comparing the costs of spinal fusion surgery between patients with and without diabetes. ⋯ Patients with diabetes undergoing spinal fusion surgery had increased costs, prolonged LOS, increased 30-day/90-day readmission rates, and more frequent non-routine discharges.
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The advancements in cardiovascular imaging over the past two decades have been significant. The miniaturization of ultrasound devices has greatly contributed to their widespread adoption in operating rooms and intensive care units. The integration of AI-enabled tools has further transformed the field by simplifying echocardiographic evaluations and enhancing the reproducibility of hemodynamic measurements, even for less experienced operators. ⋯ Once cumbersome devices displaying basic numerical data in tabular form, they now feature sleek, touch-screen interfaces integrated with visual decision-support tools. These tools synthesize hemodynamic data into intuitive graphical formats, allowing clinicians to quickly grasp the determinants of circulatory shock. This visual clarity supports more efficient and accurate decision-making, which may ultimately lead to improved patient care and outcomes.