Longitudinal associations between bilateral versus unilateral knee osteoarthritis and physical performance measures
Jennifer S. Hanberg, Faith Selzer, Elena Losina
et al.
Background: Bilateral knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is common, but evidence for the effect of bilateral versus unilateral KOA on functional outcomes is conflicting. We aimed to examine the association between bilateral versus unilateral KOA and physical performance measures over two years. Methods: Our cohort included adults with symptomatic, radiographic KOA. Study assessments at baseline, 12 and 24 months included the 30-s chair sit-to-stand task (CST) and 40-m walk (40 MW). We defined bilateral KOA as Kellgren-Lawrence grade ≥2 and Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Pain Scale ≥17/100 in both knees. We used linear mixed models to (1) assess the cross-sectional association between the presence of bilateral versus unilateral KOA at each timepoint and performance measures, and (2) assess the association between bilateral versus unilateral KOA at baseline and longitudinal changes in performance measures. Models were adjusted for clinical and demographic covariates. Results: 101 participants were included. At baseline, 43/101 (43 %) had bilateral KOA. In adjusted models, bilateral, versus unilateral, KOA was associated with 1.0 fewer stands on the CST (95 % CI: 2.2–0.1), and a 0.03 m/s slower 40 MW (95 % CI: 0.10–0.04). Average 2-year change in CST was −0.6 stands in those with baseline bilateral KOA and −0.7 in those with unilateral KOA (between-group difference, 0.1 stands (95 % CI: 1.7–1.8)). The baseline bilateral KOA group had greater worsening in 40 MW time (between-group difference −0.10 m/s (95 % CI: -0.20–0.00)). Conclusions: We did not find clinically significant associations between bilateral vs unilateral KOA and performance on two physical performance tasks over two years of follow-up in this cohort study.
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
Custom Distal Humeral Replacement With Locked Flange To Manage Massive Distal Humeral Bone Loss In Re-Revision Total Elbow Arthroplasty
Mohammed Shaath, Mark Falworth, William Rudge
et al.
Orthopedic surgery, Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
Correction: Single versus two-stage management of long-bone chronic osteomyelitis in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Ali Lari, Ali Esmaeil, Matthew Marples
et al.
Orthopedic surgery, Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
Kawasaki disease (KD) and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) in a Middle Eastern patient cohort
Lemis Yavuz, Sarmad AlHamdani, Samah Alasrawi
et al.
Abstract Objective This is a comprehensive characteristic study of Kawasaki disease (KD) and Multi system inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) in the Middle East that creates a formula to differentiate between the two. Methods We conducted a descriptive comparative study of KD and MIS-C in the United Arab Emirates. Retrospective MIS-C and KD cohorts were recruited between January 2017 until August 2021.We compared clinical and laboratory characteristics between both groups. Our data were compared with 87 patients with KD or MIS-C from the literature. Results We report on123 patients. Sixty-seven (54%) met the criteria for KD (36 male, 43 Arab), and fifty-six (46%) met the criteria for MIS-C (28 male, 35 Arab). The median age was 2.2 years range (0.15–10.7) in the KD group and 7.3 years (0.7–15.2) in the MIS-C group (P < 0.001). The clinical features on admission showed an increase in gastrointestinal manifestations in MIS-C compared with KD (84% vs. 31%, P < 0.001). Laboratory tests on admission revealed a significant increase in the following tests in KD compared with MIS-C; white blood cells (mean 16.30 10(3) µcL vs. 11.56 10(3) µcL, P < 0.001), absolute neutrophils (mean 10.72 10(3) µcL vs. 8.21 10(3) µcL, P 0.008), absolute lymphocytes (mean 3.92 10(3) µcL vs. 2.59 10(3) µcL, P 0.003), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (mean 73 mm/hr vs. 51 mm/hr, P < 0.001) and platelets (median {390 10(3) µcL vs. 236 10(3) µcL, P < 0.001}). In contrast, procalcitonin and ferritin were increased in the MIS-C group (2.4 )ng/mL, 370 ng/mL; P < 0.001). Cardiac dysfunction and admission to the pediatric intensive care unit were higher in MIS-C than in KD (21% vs. 8% and 33% vs. 7.5%, respectively, P < 0.001). Conclusion This study showed vast similarities between KD and MIS-C, suggesting that they lie along the same clinical spectrum. However, there are several differences between the two disease entities suggesting that MIS-C most likely represents a new severe variant of KD. Based on our findings in this study, we created a formula to differentiate between KD and MIS-C.
Pediatrics, Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
Feasibility and Utility of a Pilot Peer Education Program to Improve Patient Engagement in Lupus Clinical Trials: Implementation and Evaluation in a Multisite Model Within a Lupus Clinical Trials Network
Saira Z. Sheikh, Caroline Donovan, Carla Menezes
et al.
Objective To assess outcomes related to Lupus Therapeutics’ Patient Advocates for Lupus Studies (LT‐PALS), a peer‐to‐peer lupus clinical trial (LCT) education program designed to improve representation of diverse groups in LCTs. Patients with lupus and clinical trial participation experience were trained as peer educators (PALs) providing trial‐agnostic education to trial‐naive patients with lupus. Methods We used a two‐arm, randomized pretest/posttest study design to evaluate outcomes related to LCT participation: knowledge, attitudes, self‐efficacy, and intentions to participate in an LCT. Five academic medical centers piloted the program. The intervention group (IG) individually received peer‐to‐peer education sessions with trained PALs, primarily via telephone; the control group (CG) received a 3‐week waiting period. We conducted within/between‐group t‐tests and multiple linear regressions with posttest scores as dependent variables and participation in LT‐PALS as the exposure variable. Results The sample (n = 136) included 64 IG and 72 CG participants, with 67.7% identifying as Black. At posttest, IG participants had higher knowledge (P < 0.01) scores than the CG participants. Regression models controlling for participant characteristics showed higher IG posttest scores for knowledge (P < 0.001) and intentions (P < 0.05). From pretest to 3‐month follow‐up, IG self‐efficacy scores increased (P < 0.01). About half (46.9%) of IG participants reported engagement with an LCT at 1‐year follow‐up. Black and Hispanic participants rated higher overall program satisfaction compared with White (P < 0.01) and non‐Hispanic (P < 0.05) participants. Conclusion Findings demonstrated feasibility of LT‐PALS and showed promise in increasing engagement from groups underrepresented in LCTs.
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
What is the patient acceptance when only scapulectomy is possible in case of malignant tumor? A case series
Hugo Barret, MD, Olivier Bozon, MD, Guillaume Fassot, MD
et al.
Background: Scapulectomy is one of the surgical options in the case of malignant lesions in the scapula with an indication of surgical removal. Very few series in the literature have looked at postoperative quality of life and emotional acceptance, particularly in the case of scapulectomy without reconstruction. The objective is to assess the midterm results of scapulectomies in terms of function, quality of life, and acceptance for the patient. Methods: With a mean follow-up of 85 months (range 42 months-180 months), 11 scapulectomies for malignant tumors were performed with a mean age of 50 years: 5 partial scapulectomies, 4 total scapulectomies, and 2 subtotal scapulectomies. There were 6 chondrosarcomas, 2 high-grade osteosarcomas, 1 malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor, and 1 low-grade atypical epithelioid sarcoma. The radio-clinical analysis was focused on functional results and mental health evaluation. Results: The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score of 11 scapulectomies was 20 ± 5 at 66% of normal, with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score of 35 ± 26, and the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score of 76%. Patients had controlled pain (mean visual analog scale 1/10). Mobilities of the 11 scapulectomies were correct: average active anterior elevation of 89.5 ± 43 degrees, average abduction of 81 ± 42 degrees, average external rotation of 30 ± 25 degrees, and average internal rotation was at L5. Scapulectomy results in impaired physical and mental health compared with the general population (PCS-12 = -9; MCS-12 = -7). Partial scapulectomy, compared to total scapulectomy, gave better results: Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score (14 ± 1 vs. 24 ± 1 P = .0175), acceptance (45 ± 9 vs. 92 ± 16, P = .0184), mental health (MCS-12: 29 ± 1 vs. 55 ± 4, P = .0175), and Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (84 ± 5 vs. 68 ± 7, P = .0195). Partial and subtotal scapulectomies were better accepted (45 ± 9 vs. 86 ± 23, P = .0323) and tolerated (MCS-12: 29 ± 1 vs. 52 ± 6, P = .0099) by the patient compared to total scapulectomy. Conclusion: Total or partial scapulectomies without scapula reconstruction remain a disabling procedure performed with consequences on the physical and mental health of the patients. Partial or subtotal scapulectomy should be performed whenever possible because it seems to be associated with a better functional prognosis as well as less poor mental health and emotional acceptance of the patients, even though total scapulectomy may be necessary to obtain a complete curative tumor resection, which is the main goal.
Orthopedic surgery, Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
A criteria-based rehabilitation program for chronic mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Colin Griffin, Katherine Daniels, Caroline Hill
et al.
Abstract Background Achilles tendinopathy (AT) is a common overuse injury in running-related sports where patients experience pain and impaired function which can persist. A graded rehabilitation program has been successful in reducing pain and improving function to enable a return to sport. The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of a criteria-based rehabilitation program including strength and reactive strength targets, with a previously successful rehabilitation program on changes in pain and function using the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) questionnaire. Secondary aims will be to assess changes in calf strength, reactive strength, and lower limb running and forward hop biomechanics over the course of a 12-week rehabilitation program, and long-term follow-up investigations. Methods Sixty eligible participants with chronic mid-portion AT who train in running-based sports will be included in this study. They will be randomly assigned to a group that will follow an evidence-based rehabilitation program of daily exercises with progression guided by symptoms or a group performing 3 high-intensity rehabilitation sessions per week with individualised load targets progressing to reactive strength exercises. Testing will take place at baseline, week 6 and 12. Plantar flexor peak torque will be measured using isokinetic dynamometry, reactive strength will be measured using a drop jump and lower limb biomechanical variables will be measured during a single leg forward hurdle hop test and treadmill running using 3D motion analysis. Follow-up interviews will take place at 6, 12 and 24 months after beginning the program which will assess patient participation in sport and possible re-injury. Discussion This is the first study to propose an individualised criteria-based graded rehabilitation program in patients in with chronic mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy where progression is guided by strength and reactive strength outcome measures. This study will provide a comprehensive assessment of plantar flexor strength, reactive strength and lower limb biomechanical variables in running and forward hopping with the VISA-A questionnaire as the primary outcome measure and long term post-intervention follow-up assessments performed. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT04384874 ). Registered retrospectively on April 23rd 2020.
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
Multiple drilling is not effective in reducing the rate of conversion to Total hip Arthroplasty in early-stage nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head: a case-control comparative study with a natural course
Zunhan Liu, Xuetao Yang, Yuhan Li
et al.
Abstract Background To determine whether multiple drilling is effective in postponing the need for total hip arthroplasty (THA) in early-stage nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). Methods We identified 514 patients who were diagnosed with early-stage ONFH between January 2008 and December 2018. One hundred ninety-six patients underwent multiple drilling, and 318 patients had a natural course of progression. One hundred fifty-nine patients were selected for each group after case-control matching for preoperative demographics and modified Ficat and Arlet stage. The rates of THA conversion were compared. We also performed Cox regression to identify risk factors associated with THA conversion in patients who underwent multiple drilling. Results Kaplan-Meier survivorship with an endpoint of THA for nontraumatic reasons were not significantly different between the multiple drilling group (75.6, 95% confidence interval 67.8–83.4%) and the natural course group (72.2, 95% confidence interval 64.8–79.6%) at 5 years (log-rank, P = .191). In the Cox regression model, a larger extent of necrotic lesion, bone marrow edema (BME), and higher postoperative work intensity significantly increased the risk of THA conversion (P < .05). Among patients treated with autogenous bone grafting, there was a lower risk of failure in patients with necrotic lesion less than 15% (P < .05). Conclusions Multiple drilling is not effective in reducing the rate of THA conversion in early-stage nontraumatic ONFH. The risk of conversion to THA after multiple drilling is increased by a larger extent of necrotic lesion, presence of BME, and higher postoperative work intensity in patients with early-stage ONFH. Trial registration The trial was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ( ChiCTR2000035180 ) dated 2 August 2020.
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
Factors predicting failure of internal fixations of fractures of the lower limbs: a prospective cohort study
Barbara Prediger, Thorsten Tjardes, Christian Probst
et al.
Abstract Background We assessed predictive factors of patients with fractures of the lower extremities caused by trauma. We examined which factors are associated with an increased risk of failure. Furthermore, the predictive factors were set into context with other long-term outcomes, concrete pain and physical functioning. Methods We performed a prospective cohort study at a single level I trauma center. We enrolled patients with traumatic fractures of the lower extremities treated with internal fixation from April 2017 to July 2018. We evaluated the following predictive factors: age, gender, diabetes, smoking status, obesity, open fractures and peripheral arterial diseases. The primary outcome was time to failure (nonunion, implant failure or reposition). Secondary outcomes were pain and physical functioning measured 6 months after initial surgery. For the analysis of the primary outcome, we used a stratified (according fracture location) Cox proportional hazard regression model. Results We included 204 patients. Overall, we observed failure in 33 patients (16.2 %). Most of the failures occurred within the first 3 months. Obesity and open fractures were associated with an increased risk of failure and decreased physical functioning. None of the predictors showed an association with pain. Age, female gender and smoking of more than ≥ 10 package years increased failure risk numerically but statistical uncertainty was high. Conclusions We found that obesity and open fractures were strongly associated with an increased risk of failure. These predictors seem promising candidates to be included in a risk prediction model and can be considered as a good start for clinical decision making across different types of fractures at the lower limbs. However, large heterogeneity regarding the other analyzed predictors suggests that “simple” models might not be adequate for a precise personalized risk estimation and that computer-based models incorporating a variety of detailed information (e.g. pattern of injury, x-ray and clinical data) and their interrelation may be required to significantly increase prediction precision. Trial registration NCT03091114 .
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
Does vitamin D deficiency predict tumour malignancy in patients with bone tumours? Data from a multi-center cohort analysis
Konstantin Horas, Ulrike van Herck, Gerrit S. Maier
et al.
Vitamin D deficiency is a global health concern that is estimated to afflict over one billion people globally. The major role of vitamin D is that of a regulator of calcium and phosphate metabolism, thus, being essential for proper bone mineralisation. Concomitantly, vitamin D is known to exert numerous extra-skeletal actions. For example, it has become evident that vitamin D has direct anti-proliferative, pro-differentiation and pro-apoptotic actions on cancer cells. Hence, vitamin D deficiency has been associated with increased cancer risk and worse prognosis in several malignancies. We have recently demonstrated that vitamin D deficiency promotes secondary cancer growth in bone. These findings were partly attributable to an increase in bone remodelling but also through direct effects of vitamin D on cancer cells. To date, very little is known about vitamin D status of patients with bone tumours in general. Thus, the objective of this study was to assess vitamin D status of patients with diverse bone tumours. Moreover, the aim was to elucidate whether or not there is an association between pre-diagnostic vitamin D status and tumour malignancy in patients with bone tumours.In a multi-center analysis, 25(OH)D, PTH and calcium levels of 225 patients that presented with various bone tumours between 2017 and 2018 were assessed. Collectively, 76% of all patients had insufficient vitamin D levels with a total mean 25(OH)D level of 21.43 ng/ml (53.58 nmol/L). In particular, 52% (117/225) of patients were identified as vitamin D deficient and further 24% of patients (55/225) were vitamin D insufficient. Notably, patients diagnosed with malignant bone tumours had significantly lower 25(OH)D levels than patients diagnosed with benign bone tumours [19.3 vs. 22.75 ng/ml (48.25 vs. 56.86 nmol/L); p = 0.04).In conclusion, we found a widespread and distressing rate of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency in patients with bone tumours. However, especially for patients with bone tumours sufficient vitamin D levels seem to be of great importance. Thus, we believe that 25(OH)D status should routinely be monitored in these patients. Collectively, there should be an increased awareness for physicians to assess and if necessary correct vitamin D status of patients with bone tumours in general or of those at great risk of developing bone tumours.
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system, Neoplasms. Tumors. Oncology. Including cancer and carcinogens
Association of health-related private transfers with treatment compliance of musculoskeletal disorders in the rural elderly: evidence from an underdeveloped region of China
Chaoyang Yan, Aichun Li, Qin Xiang
et al.
Abstract Background The prevalence and economic burdens of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are serious in rural China. In addition to formal support, health-related private transfers (HRPTs), including adult children transfers (ACTs), as well as relatives and friends transfers (RFTs), are very common in rural China. We explored the relationship between HRPTs and MSD treatment compliance and the heterogeneity of this relationship in terms of family socioeconomic status. Methods A questionnaire survey was carried out in Enshi, Hubei, China by stratified random sampling in July 15–25,2018. A total of 2679 questionnaires on the economic burden of chronic diseases were collected. We deleted two questionnaires with missing data. The data was described using the mean and proportion. The Chi-square test and one-way ANOVA was used to compare each independent variable in the three groups, and ordered probit regression was used to analyse the relationship between each factor and treatment compliance. The heterogeneity of the effect was examined by group regression analysis of the samples with or without poverty. Results In total, 853 samples with MSD were included in the analysis. The age was 70.27 ± 6.97 (mean +/− sd) years old, and the ADL was 11.64 ± 0.12, with more respondents being female (56.15%), partnered (73.51%), primary school educated (45.96%), working (57.91%), feeling poor in health (55.69%), lived alone or with a spouse (54.75%). Respondents with both ACTs and RFTs had better treatment compliance, and this was significant only in poor populations (p < 0.05). Under the same HRPTs’ condition, respondents who more compliant with MSD treatment were female (p < 0.01), had primary school education (p < 0.05), has self-reported poor (p < 0.01) and very poor (p < 0.05) health, had a high level of physical disability (p < 0.01), and were living with their children and grandchildren (p < 0.05). Respondents with more chronic diseases had poorer treatment compliance (p < 0.05). Conclusions Only those in poverty who both have ACTs and RFTs are likely to have better treatment compliance for MSD. Promoting a culture of filial piety and fostering harmonious interpersonal relationships, policies that focus on groups that lack social support, and general formal support are essential for sustained access to treatment for MSD.
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
Correction to: The impact of shoe flexibility on gait, pressure and muscle activity of young children. A systematic review
Simone Cranage, Luke Perraton, Kelly-Ann Bowles
et al.
After publication of our article [1] we were notified that Figure 1 was incorrectly published as a duplicate of Table 1.
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
Diagnostic criteria of periprosthetic joint infection: a prospective study protocol to validate the feasibility of the 2018 new definition for Chinese patients
Haitao Guan, Chi Xu, Jun Fu
et al.
Abstract Background Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a challenging complication following total joint arthroplasty (TJA), and the diagnostic criteria remains controversial. The 2018 new definition proposed in May 2018 consists of new diagnostic criteria for PJI. We conducted a retrospective study and demonstrated that the new definition could improve the diagnostic efficiency in Chinese patients. However, missing data led to bias in the previous retrospective study. Therefore, this prospective study is designed to further validate the feasibility of 2018 new definition (and its modified version) for Chinese patients. Methods/design This is a single-centre, prospective diagnostic study with 1 year of follow-up. The patients enrolled in the trial will be divided into a PJI group and an Aseptic group based on the eligibility criteria. We will recruit at least 70 patients for each group from October 2019 to October 2020. Blood samples, synovial fluid samples and intraoperative variables of all the included patients will be collected to assess various indicators. We will integrate the results of the various tests and examine the diagnostic efficiency (sensitivity and specificity) of five diagnostic criteria. Discussion We design the prospective study in the hope of reducing the bias caused by missing data. Therefore, the prospective study will further support the conclusion of our preceding retrospective study. The results of this study will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal for publication. Conclusion Through this prospective study, we will validate the feasibility of the 2018 new PJI definition (and its modified version) for Chinese patients and determine the optimal method of PJI diagnosis. Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1900025395. Registered on 25 August 2019.
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
Training with Hybrid Assistive Limb for walking function after total knee arthroplasty
Kenichi Yoshikawa, Hirotaka Mutsuzaki, Ayumu Sano
et al.
Abstract Background The Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL, CYBERDYNE) is a wearable robot that provides assistance to patients while walking, standing, and performing leg movements based on the intended movement of the wearer. We aimed to assess the effect of HAL training on the walking ability, range of motion (ROM), and muscle strength of patients after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and to compare the functional status after HAL training to the conventional training methods after surgery. Methods Nine patients (10 knees) underwent HAL training (mean age 74.1 ± 5.7 years; height 150.4 ± 6.5 cm; weight 61.2 ± 8.9 kg), whereas 10 patients (11 knees) underwent conventional rehabilitation (mean age 78.4 ± 8.0 years; height 150.5 ± 10.0 cm; weight 59.1 ± 9.8 kg). Patients underwent HAL training during 10 to 12 (average 14.4 min a session) sessions over a 4-week period, 1 week after TKA. There was no significant difference in the total physical therapy time including HAL training between the HAL and control groups. Gait speed, step length, ROM, and muscle strength were evaluated. Results The nine patients completed the HAL training sessions without adverse events. The walking speed and step length in the self-selected walking speed condition, and the walking speed in the maximum walking speed condition were greater in the HAL group than in the control group at 4 and 8 weeks (P < 0.05). The step length in the maximum walking speed condition was greater in the HAL group than in the control group at 2, 4, and 8 weeks (P < 0.05). The extension lag and knee pain were lower in the HAL group than in the control group at 2 weeks (P < 0.05). The muscle strength of knee extension in the HAL group was greater than that in the control group at 8 weeks (P < 0.05). Conclusion HAL training after TKA can improve the walking ability, ROM, and muscle strength compared to conventional physical therapy for up to 8 weeks after TKA. Since the recovery of walking ability was earlier in the HAL group than in the control group and adverse events were not observed in this pilot study, HAL training after TKA can be considered a safe and effective rehabilitation intervention. Trial registration UMIN, UMIN000017623. Registered 19 May 2015
Orthopedic surgery, Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
Large intradural craniospinal arachnoid cyst: A case report and review of literature
Souvagya Panigrahi, Sudhansu Sekhar Mishra, Srikant Das
et al.
Presence of an arachnoid cyst at craniospinal junction is not very common. This is a very rare anatomic site, with only seven other cases reported in the literature. We report a case of large intradural craniospinal arachnoid cyst presenting with obstructive hydrocephalus and cranial nerve palsy. A 39-year-old male presented with 8-month history of neck pain, headache, vomiting, visual disturbances, diminished taste sensation, and numbness of face. He had bilateral papilledema on ophthalmoscopy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a posterior fossa arachnoid cyst extending down to the lower border of C5 vertebra. Posterior decompression was done through C5 laminectomy. He made a full recovery and was asymptomatic at 6-month follow-up examination. The clinical features, diagnosis, and management of these rare craniospinal arachnoid cysts are discussed.
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
Deep Brain Stimulation for the Treatment of Tremor and Ataxia Associated with Abetalipoproteinemia
Antonios Mammis, Michael Pourfar, Andrew Feigin
et al.
<p><strong>Background: </strong>Abetalipoproteinemia is a rare disorder of fat absorption, characterized by vitamin deficiency, acanthocytosis, and neurologic symptoms including ataxia and tremor.</p><p><strong>Case Report: </strong>A 41-year-old male with abetalipoproteinemia is presented. He underwent staged bilateral thalamic deep brain stimulation (DBS) for the treatment of his tremors. After DBS, the patient achieved significant improvements in his tremors, ataxia, and quality of life.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>Thalamic DBS proved to be both safe and efficacious in the management of ataxia and tremors in a patient with abetalipoproteinemia. This is the first report of DBS in abetalipoproteinemia in the literature.</p><p> </p>
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system, Neurology. Diseases of the nervous system
Efficacy of customised foot orthoses in the treatment of Achilles tendinopathy: study protocol for a randomised trial
Menz Hylton B, Landorf Karl B, Munteanu Shannon E
et al.
<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Achilles tendinopathy is a common condition that can cause marked pain and disability. Numerous non-surgical treatments have been proposed for the treatment of this condition, but many of these treatments have a poor or non-existent evidence base. The exception to this is eccentric calf muscle exercises, which have become a standard non-surgical intervention for Achilles tendinopathy. Foot orthoses have also been advocated as a treatment for Achilles tendinopathy, but the long-term efficacy of foot orthoses for this condition is unknown. This manuscript describes the design of a randomised trial to evaluate the efficacy of customised foot orthoses to reduce pain and improve function in people with Achilles tendinopathy.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>One hundred and forty community-dwelling men and women aged 18 to 55 years with Achilles tendinopathy (who satisfy inclusion and exclusion criteria) will be recruited. Participants will be randomised, using a computer-generated random number sequence, to either a control group (sham foot orthoses made from compressible ethylene vinyl acetate foam) or an experimental group (customised foot orthoses made from semi-rigid polypropylene). Both groups will be prescribed a calf muscle eccentric exercise program, however, the primary difference between the groups will be that the experimental group receive customised foot orthoses, while the control group receive sham foot orthoses. The participants will be instructed to perform eccentric exercises 2 times per day, 7 days per week, for 12 weeks. The primary outcome measure will be the total score of the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment - Achilles (VISA-A) questionnaire. The secondary outcome measures will be participant perception of treatment effect, comfort of the foot orthoses, use of co-interventions, frequency and severity of adverse events, level of physical activity and health-related quality of life (assessed using the Short-Form-36 questionnaire - Version two). Data will be collected at baseline, then at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. Data will be analysed using the intention to treat principle.</p> <p>Discussion</p> <p>This study is the first randomised trial to evaluate the long-term efficacy of customised foot orthoses for the treatment of Achilles tendinopathy. The study has been pragmatically designed to ensure that the study findings are generalisable to clinical practice.</p> <p>Trial registration</p> <p>Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry Number: ACTRN12609000829213.</p>
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
Perspectives of Quality of Life improvement in patients with rheumatoid arthritis with administration of fully human anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha monoclonal antibodies
V N. Amirdjanova
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
Mean platelet volume is decreased in adults with active lupus disease
Guillermo Delgado-García, Dionicio Ángel Galarza-Delgado, Iris Colunga-Pedraza
et al.
ABSTRACT Background: Only a few biomarkers are available for assessing disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Mean platelet volume (MPV) has been recently studied as an inflammatory biomarker. It is currently unclear whether MPV may also play a role as a biomarker of disease activity in adult patients with SLE. Objective: We investigated the association between MPV and disease activity in adult patients with SLE. Methods: In this retrospective study, we compared two groups of adult patients divided according to disease activity (36 per group). Subjects were age- and gender-matched. Results: MPV was significantly decreased with respect to those of inactive patients (7.16 ± 1.39 vs. 8.16 ± 1.50, p = 0.005). At a cutoff level of 8.32 fL, MPV has a sensitivity of 86% and a specificity of 41% for the detection of disease activity. A modest positive correlation was found between MPV and albumin (r = 0.407, p = 0.001), which in turn is inversely associated with disease activity. Conclusions: In summary, MPV is decreased in adult patients with active lupus disease, and positively correlated with albumin, another biomarker of disease activity. Prospective studies are needed to evaluate the prognostic value of this biomarker.
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
Prova para título de Especialista
Saul Schaf
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system