Cultural and linguistic adaptation of the Oxford Cognitive Screen to the Spanish population.

INTRODUCTION: Stroke is the sixth leading cause of disability in Spain. Patients may present motor, sensory, or cognitive sequelae, which can be minimised with early treatment. To this end, there is a need for quick-to-administer assessment tools to evaluate deficits in these areas. The Oxford Cognitive Screen (OCS) is a brief test specifically designed to assess cognitive function in patients with stroke. Our aim in this study is to report the linguistic and cultural adaptation of a Spanish-language version of the test (OCS-S). METHODS: The linguistic validation was conducted with a process of double translation and 10 consensus meetings of the multidisciplinary research team. We also performed 3 pilot studies, with 5 potential users, 23 healthy individuals, and 23 patients with stroke (ischaemic in 61% of cases and haemorrhagic in 39%), respectively; participants were aged between 31 and 88 years. RESULTS: The OCS-S includes the 10 subtests, the coding of responses, and the scoring system from the original version. We modified and extended the instructions for administration in order to ensure the reliability of the content and its application. Five tasks were modified (images, numbers, and sentences) and the praxis subtest was modified to evaluate both hands. The pilot studies confirmed comprehension in the target population, independently of any cognitive problems. CONCLUSION: The OCS-S is conceptually and linguistically equivalent to the original test, enabling psychometric assessment and application of the test in the Spanish population. The OCS-S may be a useful screening tool for quickly assessing cognitive function after stroke.

Prospective cohort study on the management and complications of peripheral venous catheter in patients hospitalised in internal medicine.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse compliance with the recommendations on the insertion-maintenance of peripheral venous catheter (PVC) and the incidence of complications according to the healthcare department that inserted the PVCs. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted a prospective cohort follow-up study of PVCs, from their insertion in the emergency or internal medicine (IM) department until their withdrawal. RESULTS: We monitored 590 PVCs, 274 from the emergency department and 316 from IM. In terms of compliance with the process indicators, there was a cannulation rate in the antecubital fossa of 3.5 and 1.6 per 100 catheters-day (p < .001) in the emergency and IM departments, respectively. The sterile placement rates were 1.6 and 12.4 (p < .001), and the rate for transparent dressing was 2.1 and 11.5 (p < .001) per 100 catheters-day in the emergency and IM departments, respectively. The complications rates showed no differences between the departments. The most common complication was phlebitis (95 cases, 16.1%). CONCLUSIONS: Compliance with the insertion-maintenance recommendations for PVC showed differences between the departments; however, the incidence of complications was similar.

Osseointegration around dental implants biofunctionalized with TGFß-1 inhibitor peptides: an in vivo study in beagle dogs.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of biofunctionalization with two TGF-ß1 inhibitor peptides, P17 and P144, on osseointegration of CP-Ti dental implants. A total of 36 implants (VEGA, Klockner®) with 3.5 × 8 mm internal connection were used in this study, divided in three groups: (1) control group (n = 12), (2) implants which surfaces were biofunctionalized with P17 peptide inhibitor (n = 12), (3) implants with surfaces biofunctionalized by P144 peptide (n = 12). Three implants, one from each group, were inserted in both hemimandibles of 6 beagle dogs, 2 months after tooth extraction. Two animals were sacrificed at 2, 4 and 8 weeks post implant insertion, respectively. The samples were analyzed by Backscattering Scanning Electron Microscopy (BS-SEM) and histological analysis. Histomorphometric analysis of bone to implant contact (BIC), peri-implant bone fraction (BF) and interthread bone (IB) were carried out. Bone formation around implants measured by quantitative analysis, BS-SEM, was significantly higher in the P17-biofunctionalized implants, 4 and 8 weeks after the implantation. Histomorphometric analysis of BIC, BF and IB showed higher values in the P17-biofunctionalized group at initial stages of healing (2 weeks) and early osseointegration both at 4 and 8 weeks. For P144 biofunctionalized implants, the histomorphometric values obtained are also higher than control group. Accordingly, better results in the experimental groups were proven both by the quantitative and the qualitative analysis. Surface biofunctionalization with TGF-ß1 inhibitor peptides, P17 and P144, resulted in better quantitative and qualitative parameters relative to implant osseointegration.

Prospective cohort study on the management and complications of peripheral venous catheters in patients hospitalised in Internal Medicine. / Estudio de cohortes prospectivo sobre el manejo y las complicaciones del catéter venoso periférico en pacientes ingresados en Medicina Interna.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse compliance with the recommendations on the insertion-maintenance of peripheral venous catheters (PVC) and the incidence of complications according to the healthcare department that inserted the PVCs. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We conducted a prospective cohort follow-up study of PVCs, from their insertion in the emergency or internal medicine (IM) department until their withdrawal. RESULTS: We monitored 590 PVCs, 274 from the emergency department and 316 from IM. In terms of compliance with the process indicators, there was a cannulation rate in the antecubital fossa of 3.5 and 1.6 per 100 catheters-day (P<.001) in the emergency and IM departments, respectively. The sterile placement rates were 1.6 and 12.4 (P<.001), and the rate for transparent dressing was 2.1 and 11.5 (P<.001) per 100 catheters-day in the emergency and IM departments, respectively. The complications rates showed no differences between the departments. The most common complication was phlebitis (95 cases, 16.1%). CONCLUSIONS: Compliance with the insertion-maintenance recommendations for PVC showed differences between the departments; however, the incidence of complications was similar.

Cultural and linguistic adaptation of the Oxford Cognitive Screen to the Spanish population. / Adaptación lingüística y cultural del Oxford Cognitive Screen (OCS) en población española.

INTRODUCTION: Stroke is the sixth leading cause of disability in Spain. Patients may present motor, sensory, or cognitive sequelae, which can be minimised with early treatment. To this end, there is a need for quick-to-administer assessment tools to evaluate deficits in these areas. The Oxford Cognitive Screen (OCS) is a brief test specifically designed to assess cognitive function in patients with stroke. Our aim in this study is to report the linguistic and cultural adaptation of a Spanish-language version of the test (OCS-S). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The linguistic validation was conducted with a process of double translation and 10 consensus meetings of the multidisciplinary research team. We also performed 3 pilot studies, with 5 potential users, 23 healthy individuals, and 23 patients with stroke (ischaemic in 61% of cases and haemorrhagic in 39%), respectively; participants were aged between 31 and 88 years. RESULTS: The OCS-S includes the 10 subtests, the coding of responses, and the scoring system from the original version. We modified and extended the instructions for administration in order to ensure the reliability of the content and its application. Five tasks were modified (images, numbers, and sentences) and the praxis subtest was modified to evaluate both hands. The pilot studies confirmed comprehension in the target population, independently of any cognitive problems. CONCLUSIONS: The OCS-S is conceptually and linguistically equivalent to the original test, enabling psychometric assessment and application of the test in the Spanish population. The OCS-S may be a useful screening tool for quickly assessing cognitive function after stroke.

The anterior tibiofibular ligament has a constant distal fascicle that contacts the anterolateral part of the talus.

PURPOSE: The anterior tibiofibular ligament (ATiFL) and its distal fascicle have been the subject of numerous studies, mainly due to the involvement of this ligament in anterolateral soft-tissue impingement of the ankle. There is currently no firm evidence related to the incidence of the distal fascicle or the frequency with which it is in contact with the talus, or whether this is a constant anatomic finding. In addition, the terminology used to refer to this structure is not accurate and varies widely in previous studies. The purpose of this study was to perform an anatomic study on a large number of specimens to clarify the anatomy of the anterior tibiofibular ligament, and specifically its distal fascicle, and its possible role in anterior ankle impingement syndrome. METHODS: During a 7-year period (2010-2016), cadaveric ankle specimens dissected at our Anatomy Department were included in this study, accounting for a total of 154 ankles. The incidence of the distal fascicle and its contact with the talus were documented. RESULTS: One hundred and seventeen ankles were included [78 men, 39 women, with a median age of 79.3 years (range 51-100 years)]. The ATiFL was found to have a distal fascicle in 100% of ankles, contacting the anterolateral part of the talus in all cases. The contact was increased in plantarflexion and reduced in dorsiflexion and finally disappeared completely in maximum dorsiflexion. CONCLUSIONS: The ATiFL has a constant distal fascicle that is in contact with the talus in the neutral position and in plantar flexion. Contact disappears in maximum dorsiflexion.

The lateral ankle ligaments are interconnected: the medial connecting fibres between the anterior talofibular, calcaneofibular and posterior talofibular ligaments.

PURPOSE: A deep knowledge of lateral ankle ligaments is necessary to understand its function, pathophysiology and treatment options. The ankle lateral collateral ligament is formed by the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), the calcaneofibular (CFL) and the posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL). Although previous studies have reported connections between these ligaments on its lateral side, no studies have specifically assessed connections on the medial side. The aim of this study was to assess the morphology and consistency of the medial connections between the components of the lateral collateral ligament complex of the ankle. METHODS: Forty fresh-frozen ankle specimens were dissected to look for connections between the three lateral ankle ligaments. After visualization of the lateral ligaments was achieved, the fibula was amputated and ligament insertions were released at the talar and calcaneal insertion points. Observation of the connections and video analysis of the dynamic relationships of ligament connections were performed. RESULTS: Connections were found in all cases between the ATFL and PTFL, the ATFL and CFL, and the CFL and PTFL. Connections between ATFL and PTFL were not homogeneous. Although connections between the ATFLif and PTFL were noted in all cases (40), only 17 ankles (42.5%) had connections between the ATFLsf and PTFL. The amount of fibres of connection was also variable. CONCLUSION: Connections between the three components of the lateral collateral ligament of the ankle may be observed from the medial aspect of the ankle, and this may have important implications for arthroscopic lateral ligament repair.

Prevalence of potential drug-drug interactions in outpatients on treatment with parenteral antineoplastic drugs.

Background As live expectancy and cancer incidence growing, polypharmacy in oncology patients is also increasing, raising the risk of developing potential drug-drug interactions.Objective To assess the prevalence of clinically relevant potential drug-drug interactions among cancer patients who receive parenteral treatment at our outpatient clinic. Method Retrospective observational study which included randomly selected patients who had received parenteral treatment from November 1st 2016 to January 31st 2017. Interactions were checked in 3 databases, and classified as clinically relevant or not and in three categories of severity: contraindicated, consider modification or monitor. Results A total of 273 patients were included; of which seventy three (26.7%) had at least one clinically relevant potential drug-drug interaction. Amongst them, 54 (74%) had at least one classified as monitor treatment, 50 (68.5%) as contraindicated and 26 (35.6%) as consider modification. The number of chronic prescriptions was associated with a higher risk of drug interactions. Conclusion Around one in four patients on treatment with parenteral antineoplastic drugs presented a clinically relevant potential drug-drug interaction. A systematic assessment of drug-drug interactions should be implemented to reduce the risk of clinically relevant drug-drug interactions.

The Incidence of Dental Needs During Isolated Missions Compared to Non-isolated Missions: A Systematic Review and Implications for Future Prevention Strategies.

INTRODUCTION: Dental emergencies in isolated groups have always been difficult to treat. Especially in people or groups who cannot be evacuated and who need urgent dental assistance: long-term submarine missions, long-term spaceship trips, military or non-governmental organizations deployments in conflict areas, military maneuvers, etc. The dental and evacuation problems could put the success of the mission at risk, with relevant associated economic and strategic costs. Our study summarizes current evidence about dental problems in isolated personnel (submarines and Antarctic missions) compared to other non-isolation conditions (military deployment in conflict area, military maneuvers) with the objective to assess the need for specific dental equipment in special long-term isolation conditions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We searched Medline, Cochrane Library, and Dentalgate between 1960 and 2017 for studies reporting dental disease in long-term isolation conditions (minimum 1 month) versus non-isolation conditions. We conducted the systematic review with all studies fitting the inclusion criteria. The comparison of the incidence rate was performed fitting a Poisson regression model to see the effect of the individual's condition on the incidence of dental event. RESULTS: Thirty-eight studies were included in the systematic review. Antarctic missions showed a higher dental incidence rate compared to non-isolation conditions, but submarine missions showed the lowest dental incidence rate. In the sub-analysis of acute dental events, those with great impact on unit effectiveness, the incidence rates were higher. Caries and secondary decay events were the most prevalent dental problem in all conditions, followed by periodontal pathology and fractures of teeth or tooth problems not due to tooth decay in isolation conditions, and then by molar problems and endodontic problems in non-isolation conditions. The most common acute dental events were third molar problems and endodontic problems in all conditions. CONCLUSION: This systematic review shows that the incidence of dental pathology in long-term isolation conditions may seem relatively infrequent but it exists and is relevant. Dental events are unpredictable, unrelated to trauma, and caused mainly by poor dental status. Preventive measures considerably reduce dental prevalence.

Characterization of a bipartite medial cuneiform: micro-CT and anatomical study / Caracterización de un cuneiforme medial bipartito: micro-CT y estudio anatómico

A bipartite medial cuneiform is an anatomical variant consisting in a horizontal division of the bone. Previous descriptions of the joint type, obtained from archaeological material or clinical reports, are unclear. This study was conducted in a fresh-frozen left foot, which allowed studying the morphology of the ligaments after anatomical dissection. In addition a Micro-CT analysis was performed to elucidate the osseous structure supporting the articular surfaces. A complex ligamentous system was found between the two halves of the bipartite medial cuneiform. Two articular surfaces were observed between the two components. Hyaline cartilage was observed at the posterior surface, while fibrous tissue was found at the anterior surface. Micro-CT analysis revealed different osseous structures for each articular surface, thus proving the existence of two joint types. The finding of a bipartite medial cuneiform in a fresh-frozen specimen allowed us to perform an analysis of the soft-tissues and articular surfaces that shows the presence of hyaline cartilage and articular ligaments in the diarthrodial joint as well as the fibrous component of the synfibrosis. Micro-CT analysis further reinforces our morphological findings. Our results prove that two different joint types exist, which could help explaining the disparity of descriptions in the literature.

El cuneiforme medial bipartito es una variación anatómica que consiste en una división horizontal del hueso. Las descripciones previas del tipo de articulación entre los dos fragmentos, obtenidas de material arqueológico o de reportes clínicos, son heterogéneas. Este estudio se llevó a cabo en un pie izquierdo disecado en fresco, lo que permitió analizar la morfología de los ligamentos. Adicionalmente se llevó a cabo un análisis con Micro-CT a fin de aclarar la estructura ósea de soporte de las superficies articulares. Un sistema ligamentoso complejo une las dos mitades del cuneiforme medial bipartito. Se observaron dos superficies articulares uniendo ambos componentes. En la superficie posterior se encontró cartílago hialino, en tanto que la superficie anterior presentaba tejido fibroso uniendo las superficies articulares. El análisis por Micro-CT mostró que la estructura ósea de soporte de cada una de las superficies articulares es diferente, confirmando la existencia de dos articulaciones distintas. El hallazgo de un cuneiforme medial bipartito en un espécimen fresco ha permitido el estudio de las partes blandas y superficies articulares, demostrando la presencia simultánea del cartílago hialino y los ligamentos propios de una diartrosis y del tejido fibroso propio de una sinfibrosis, lo que ha sido posteriormente corroborado por el análisis por Micro-CT. Nuestros resultados demuestran por tanto que se trata de dos articulaciones distintas, lo cual explica la disparidad de las descripciones en la literatura.

X-shaped inferior extensor retinaculum and its doubtful use in the Bröstrom-Gould procedure.

PURPOSE: The inferior extensor retinaculum (IER) is an aponeurotic structure located in the anterior aspect of the ankle. According to the literature, it can be used to reinforce a repair of the anterior talofibular ligament in ankle instability. Despite its usual description as an Y-shaped structure, it is still unclear which part of the retinaculum is used for this purpose, or if it is instead the crural fascia that is being used. The purpose of this study is to define the anatomical characteristics of the IER to better understand its role in the Broström-Gould procedure. METHODS: Twenty-one ankles were dissected. The morphology of the IER and its relationship with neighbouring structures were recorded. RESULTS: Seventeen (81%) of the IER in this study had an X-shaped morphology, with the presence of an additional oblique superolateral band. This band, by far the thinnest of the retinaculum, is supposed to be used to reinforce the repair of the anterior talofibular ligament. The intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerve (lateral branch of the superficial peroneal nerve) was found to cross the retinaculum in all cases. CONCLUSIONS: The IER is most commonly seen as an X-shaped structure, but the fact that the oblique superolateral band is a thin band of tissue probably indicates that it may not add significant strength to ankle stability. Furthermore, the close relationship of the retinaculum with the superficial peroneal nerve is another factor to consider before deciding to perform a Broström-Gould procedure. These anatomical findings advise against the use of the Gould augmentation.

Is coracohumeral distance associated with pain-function, and shoulder range of movement, in chronic anterior shoulder pain?

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was twofold: (i) to assess the intrarater reliability of coracohumeral distance; (ii) to investigate the level of association between coracohumeral distance measured by ultrasonography, and pain-disability and shoulder range of movement, in patients suffering from chronic anterior shoulder pain. METHODS: An observational, cross sectional study was carried out. A convenience sample comprised of 87 patients with chronic anterior shoulder pain was assessed from 3 primary care centres. Main outcomes as pain and function were measured through the shoulder pain and disability index. Furthermore, shoulder range of movement-free of pain in shoulder elevation, as well as coracohumeral distance at both 0 and 60 degrees, were collected. RESULTS: Absence of any correlation was found between coracohumeral distance and shoulder pain and disability index at both 0 and 60 degrees of shoulder elevation. Furthermore, absence of any correlation was found between coracohumeral distance measurements and active shoulder range of movement -free of pain. CONCLUSIONS: There was poor association between coracohumeral distance and shoulder pain and function, as well as with shoulder range of movement, in patients with chronic anterior shoulder pain. Hence, clinicians should consider, not only increasing this space, but also other possibilities in their therapies, when patients with anterior shoulder pain are treated. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ACTRN12614000144617 . Registered: 1st March 2014.

Anatomy of the ankle ligaments: a pictorial essay.

Understanding the anatomy of the ankle ligaments is important for correct diagnosis and treatment. Ankle ligament injury is the most frequent cause of acute ankle pain. Chronic ankle pain often finds its cause in laxity of one of the ankle ligaments. In this pictorial essay, the ligaments around the ankle are grouped, depending on their anatomic orientation, and each of the ankle ligaments is discussed in detail.

[Prevalence of inappropriate prescription to polymedicated patients over 65 years old in a rural health area]. / Prevalencia de prescripción inapropiada en polimedicados mayores de 65 años en un área de salud rural.

OBJECTIVE: Describe the inappropriate prescription to polymedicated patients over 65 years old in rural areas. MATERIAL AND METHOD: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted in health care units in the Guadalhorce Valley, a rural area of Malaga, Spain. The district has a catchment population of about 144,993 inhabitants. This study is focused on the population that is older than 65 years, and who use 10 or more medications (4.344 patients). The study has as a primary variable: the rates of inappropriate prescription. These are classified using the Screening Tool of Older Persons' potentially inappropriate Prescriptions (STOPP) criteria, as well as the criteria of the strategy of the approach to polymedicated of the Andalusian Health System. An application was used to create individualised forms that identified inappropriate prescribing criteria. For each patient, we used variables, such as the unit, drug group, medications, dose, and use of the STOPP and Andalusian Health System criteria were recorded for each patient. RESULTS: More than one-third (35.5%) of all patients have inappropriate prescription, according to STOPP criteria, related to some health problem (direct problems). The large majority (94%) have potentially inappropriate prescription according to the criteria of the Andalusian Health System. If the criteria directly related to prescribing medication for people over 65 (general) is taken into account, 100% of patients have some form of inappropriate or potentially inappropriate prescribing. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of polypharmacy and inappropriate prescription is a real problem in the population over 65 years old. An informatics tool provides us with the facilities to identify and approach inappropriate prescribing.

Fibroblast Migration in 3D is Controlled by Haptotaxis in a Non-muscle Myosin II-Dependent Manner.

Cell migration in 3D is a key process in many physiological and pathological processes. Although valuable knowledge has been accumulated through analysis of various 2D models, some of these insights are not directly applicable to migration in 3D. In this study, we have confined biomimetic hydrogels within microfluidic platforms in the presence of a chemoattractant (platelet-derived growth factor-BB). We have characterized the migratory responses of human fibroblasts within them, particularly focusing on the role of non-muscle myosin II. Our results indicate a prominent role for myosin II in the integration of chemotactic and haptotactic migratory responses of fibroblasts in 3D confined environments.

Facial biotype and mandibular growth adaptation in maxillary lateral incisors agenesis / Biotipo facial y adaptación del crecimiento mandibular en agenesia de los incisivos laterales maxilares

To verify the eventual relationship between maxillary lateral incisor agenesis (MLIA) and one of the clinically established facial biotypes. The analysis was performed in and between 3 groups: individuals with MLIA, their relatives and a control population defined as "normal" or unaffected. Among these, a comparison between adults and growing individuals was also carried out. The dolicofacial biotype was mainly found in children with bilateral agenesis, while the unilateral agenesis as well as the control population of unaffected children showed mainly a mesofacial pattern. The braquiofacial biotype was prevalent in children without agenesis but (family) related to patients with agenesis. This is the case also for all the adults studied, even if the frequency of the braquiofacial is similar to the one attained by the mesofacial biotype when found in unaffected individuals related with agenesis patients. The notable variability found, evidenced by the high values of the standard deviations calculated for each group, makes difficult to definitely establish a positive correlation between the MLIA and one of the facial biotypes with the present data.

El objetivo fue verificar la eventual relación entre la agenesia de los incisivos lLaterales maxilares (AILM) y los biotipos faciales establecidos en clínica. Se realizó un análisis en tres grupos de sujetos: (i) pacientes afectos de AILM, (ii) sus familiares y (iii) una población control no afecta, definida como normal. Entre los grupos también se comparó a los sujetos en periodo de crecimiento con los adultos. El biotipo dolicofacial fue descrito principalmente en niños con agenesias bilaterales, mientras que los pacientes con agenesias unilaterales y la población control presentaban mayoritariamente un patrón mesofacial. El patrón braquifacial fue prevalente en niños no afectos de agenesia pero miembros de la familia de pacientes afectos de agenesia. Lo mismo se observó en todos los pacientes adultos, aunque la prevalencia del biotipo braquifacial resultó similar a la del biotipo mesofacial en pacientes no afectos de agenesia, pero con relación familiar a pacientes afectos. La notable variabilidad en el grupo sometido a estudio, evidente por los elevados valores de DE obtenidos en cada grupo, no permite establecer de manera definitiva una correlación positiva entre la AILM y un biotipo morfológicos facial, al menos con los datos hasta ahora disponibles.

A pilot study on the effect of Basic Body Awareness Therapy in patients with eating disorders: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the feasibility of Basic Body Awareness Therapy in people with eating disorders. DESIGN: A randomized controlled trial; the assessors were not blinded to the group allocation. SETTING: The eating disorders department within a hospital setting. SUBJECTS: Twenty-eight outpatients with eating disorders for less than five years. INTERVENTION: All patients received standard outpatient treatment. The intervention group (n = 14) also received Basic Body Awareness Therapy for seven weeks. MAIN MEASURES: Eating Disorder Inventory, Eating Attitude Test, Body Attitude Test and Quality of Life Scale SF-36. RESULTS: Analysing the differences between both groups, significant differences were found in Eating Disorder Inventory (mean difference: 26.3; P = 0.015) and in its subscales 'drive to thinness' (P = 0.003), 'body dissatisfaction' (P = 0.025) and 'ineffectiveness' (P = 0.014). Also in Body Attitude Test (mean difference: 33.0; P = 0.012), Eating Attitude Test-40 (mean difference: 17.7; P = 0.039) and SF-36 in the section 'mental health' (mean difference: 13.0; P = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS: This study has shown some effectiveness of Basic Body Awareness Therapy in improving some symptoms in outpatients with eating disorders. Further studies should include larger samples, double-blinded and placebo methodologies, and should focus on questions such as which eating disorder diagnoses benefit most from physical therapy.

Anatomy of the ankle ligaments: a pictorial essay.

Understanding the anatomy of the ankle ligaments is important for correct diagnosis and treatment. Ankle ligament injury is the most frequent cause of acute ankle pain. Chronic ankle pain often finds its cause in laxity of one of the ankle ligaments. In this pictorial essay, the ligaments around the ankle are grouped, depending on their anatomic orientation, and each of the ankle ligaments is discussed in detail.

Perception of dental aesthetics in paediatric dentistry.

AIM: Assessing the perception of the aesthetic components of the oral health by paediatric patients at different stages of the child psychological development of Piaget. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty children aged between 21 months and 11 years, of both sexes, patients of a private clinic, were selected. The present study group consisted of patients treated for oral pathologies. A set of similar supplies was given to all children and they were asked to do a drawing, whose theme was "beautiful teeth and ugly teeth". The drawings were evaluated according to the classification of the cognitive development of Piaget. RESULTS: Children of all ages clearly represent their perception of what "beautiful teeth" and "ugly teeth" are. These representations provide the dental professional a clear vision of the child's feeling about dental aesthetics. CONCLUSION: The drawings are a useful source of information for assessing the aesthetic perception of paediatric patients. The knowledge of the children's aesthetic perception is relevant to paediatric dentists because children are conscious about their dental aesthetic appearance and that of the other children.