Increased overall survival after introduction of structured bedside consultation in Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia.

Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia (SAB) is a common and severe disease. In 2012, a structured bedside consultation (SBC) was introduced at Rijnstate Hospital. We analysed the effect of this SBC on the overall survival of patients with SAB and the effect on the diagnostic workup. We performed a retrospective cohort study, including all patients over 18 years with SAB from 2009 until 2017. The cases preceding versus those after implementation of SBC in 2012 were compared. In total, 613 episodes of SAB were analysed: 234 cases before and 379 cases since SBC. In 484 patients at risk for a complicated course, there was no significant difference in the 30-day survival (77 versus 82%, p = 0.18); however, an increase in 365-day survival was seen (56 versus 64%, p = 0.05). Overall, more patients received adequate therapy, both in the first 2 weeks (67.8 versus 86.7%, p < 0.001), as in complicated SAB (70.5 versus 93.2%, p < 0.001). In 21% of patients with transoesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) following a negative or inconclusive TTE, endocarditis was diagnosed. In patients at risk for complicated SAB, the PET scan revealed a metastatic infection which was not clinically suspected in 65% of positive PET scans. Structured bedside consultation is associated with a better 365-day survival in patients at risk for complicated SAB. Moreover, the additional value of TEE and the PET scan was shown. We strongly advise compliance to SBC in all patients at risk for complicated SAB and the use of both TEE and PET scans in these patients. Even in uncomplicated SAB, TEE or PET scan can reveal metastatic infections.

Rising incidence of celiac disease in the Netherlands; an analysis of temporal trends from 1995 to 2010.

OBJECTIVE: According to screening studies, celiac disease (CD) is prevalent in Western Europe. Actual prevalence tends to be much lower. The width of this actual gap is determined by the balance between disease symptoms and the "case-finding" capabilities of the healthcare system. Therefore, we conducted a nationwide study to determine the temporal trends in the incidence in the Netherlands including a focus on demographic aspects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a nationwide search in the Dutch Pathology Registry (PALGA) to identify all biopsy-proven cases of CD in five different years between 1995 and 2010. Furthermore, demographic profiles and socioeconomic status (SES) of patients were studied. RESULTS: The overall incidence of CD increased from 2.72 (confidence interval [CI] 2.46-2.99) in 1995 to 6.65 (CI 6.27-7.06) per 100,000 inhabitants in 2010. No significant regional differences were noticed. In men, rates increased from 2.28 (CI 1.95-2.65) to 4.71 (CI 4.25-5.20) per 100,000 in 2010. In women, the increase was from 3.27 (CI 2.88-3.70) to 8.66 (CI 8.04-9.31) per 100,000 in 2010. A trend toward leveling of incidence was observed from 2008 to 2010. Patients diagnosed during childhood live in areas with a higher SES compared with patients diagnosed at adult age. CONCLUSION: The incidence of biopsy-proven CD in the Netherlands increased almost threefold between 1995 and 2010. In areas with a higher SES, relatively more children were diagnosed.

Dose-Escalating (50-500 mg) Gluten Administration Leads to Detectable Gluten-Immunogenic-Peptides in Urine of Patients with Coeliac Disease Which Is Unrelated to Symptoms, a Placebo Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: To determine the applicability and sensitivity of a urine self-test to detect gluten-immunogenic-peptides (GIP) in daily-life for patients with coeliac disease and correlate the test results with reported symptoms. METHODS: We performed a prospective double-blinded placebo-controlled study, including adults with coeliac disease adhering to a strictly gluten-free diet. Patients were administered gluten in test-cycles of ascending doses of 50, 100, 200, and 500 mg alternated with placebo. Urine portions from 2, 5-17 h after the ingestion were collected and analyzed for GIP using the iVYCHECK-GIP-Urine rapid lateral flow test. Patients completed a diary mapping symptoms (nausea, bloating, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lower level of energy). RESULTS: We enrolled 15 patients and 7 received all 4 cycles with increasing gluten dosing. GIP was detected from urine in 47% of the patients receiving 50 mg gluten and in 86% with 500 mg gluten. We detected GIP in 20-50% of urine samples after placebo. There was no correlation between symptoms, gluten administration and/or GIP in urine. CONCLUSIONS: Gluten intake, even with a dose as low as 50 mg, leads to detectable urinary GIP concentrations. There is no correlation of coeliac disease ascribed symptoms with detection of urinary GIP.

Robot-Assisted Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy in Different Classes of Obesity: A Cohort Study.

Background and Objectives: Robot-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy is a safe and feasible approach in patients with higher body mass index (BMI). Slightly longer operating time in patients with high BMI did not result in higher complication or conversion rates. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether robot-assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomy is a feasible and safe surgical approach in different classes of obesity. Methods: A single center retrospective cohort study was performed in a large secondary teaching hospital in the Netherlands. All patients who underwent robot-assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomy between January 1, 2011 and January 31, 2019 were included. Results: Data regarding patient characteristics, complication rate, conversion rate, skin-to-skin time, robot console time, and operating room time were collected. Surgery specific data were compared in patients with several classes of obesity. In total 356 cases were included. Median BMI was 29 kg/m2 (range 18 - 59). Complication rate and conversion to laparotomy did not differ significantly in different classes of obesity. Robot console time and skin-to-skin time was significantly longer in women with a BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2 (n = 34) compared to patients with normal BMI. Conclusion: Robot-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy is a safe and feasible approach in women in different classes of obesity. The significantly prolonged operating time does not result in higher complication or conversion rates.

Video Consultation as an Adequate Alternative to Face-to-Face Consultation in Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Use for Newly Diagnosed Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: The effectiveness of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is dependent on the degree of use, so adherence is essential. Cognitive components (eg, self-efficacy) and support during treatment have been found to be important in CPAP use. Video consultation may be useful to support patients during treatment. So far, video consultation has rarely been evaluated in thorough controlled research, with only a limited number of outcomes assessed. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the superiority of video consultation over face-to-face consultation for patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) on CPAP use (minutes per night), adherence, self-efficacy, risk outcomes, outcome expectancies, expectations and experiences with video consultation, and satisfaction of patients and nurses. METHODS: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with an intervention (video consultation) and a usual care group (face-to-face consultation). Patients with confirmed OSA (apnea-hypopnea index >15), requiring CPAP treatment, no history of CPAP treatment, having access to a tablet or smartphone, and proficient in the Dutch language were recruited from a large teaching hospital. CPAP use was monitored remotely, with short-term (weeks 1 to 4) and long-term (week 4, week 12, and week 24) assessments. Questionnaires were completed at baseline and after 4 weeks on self-efficacy, risk perception, outcome expectancies (Self-Efficacy Measure for Sleep Apnea), expectations and experiences with video consultation (covering constructs of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology), and satisfaction. Nurse satisfaction was evaluated using questionnaires. RESULTS: A total of 140 patients were randomized (1:1 allocation). The use of video consultation for OSA patients does not lead to superior results on CPAP use and adherence compared with face-to-face consultation. A significant difference in change over time was found between groups for short-term (P-interaction=.008) but not long-term (P-interaction=.68) CPAP use. CPAP use decreased in the long term (P=.008), but no significant difference was found between groups (P=.09). Change over time for adherence was not significantly different in the short term (P-interaction=.17) or long term (P-interaction=.51). A relation was found between CPAP use and self-efficacy (P=.001), regardless of the intervention arm (P=.25). No significant difference between groups was found for outcome expectancies (P=.64), self-efficacy (P=.41), and risk perception (P=.30). The experiences were positive, and 95% (60/63) intended to keep using video consultation. Patients in both groups rated the consultations on average with an 8.4. Overall, nurses (n=3) were satisfied with the video consultation system. CONCLUSIONS: Support of OSA patients with video consultation does not lead to superior results on CPAP use and adherence compared with face-to-face consultation. The findings of this research suggest that self-efficacy is an important factor in improving CPAP use and that video consultation may be a feasible way to support patients starting CPAP. Future research should focus on blended care approaches in which self-efficacy receives greater emphasis. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04563169; https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT04563169.

Treatment of recurrent varicose veins of the great saphenous vein by conventional surgery and endovenous laser ablation.

OBJECTIVE: Varicose vein recurrence of the great saphenous vein (GSV) is a common, costly, and complex problem. The aim of the study was to assess feasibility of endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) in recurrent varicose veins of the GSV and to compare this technique with conventional surgical reintervention. METHODS: Case files of all patients treated for GSV varicosities were evaluated and recurrences selected. Demographics, duplex scan findings, CEAP classification, perioperative data, and follow-up examinations were all registered. A questionnaire focusing on patient satisfaction was administered. RESULTS: Sixty-seven limbs were treated with EVLA and 149 were surgically treated. General and regional anesthesia were used more in the surgery group (P < .001). Most complications were minor and self-limiting. Wound infections (8% vs 0%; P < .05) and parasthesia (27% vs 13%; P < .05) were more abundant in the surgery group, whereas the EVLA-treated patients reported more delayed tightness (17% vs 31%; P < .05). Surgically-treated patients suffered less postoperative pain (P < .05) but reported a higher use of analgesics (P < .05). Hospital stay in the surgery group was longer (P < .05) and they reported a longer delay before resuming work (7 vs 2 days; P < .0001). Patient satisfaction was equally high in both groups. At 25 weeks of follow-up, re-recurrences occurred in 29% of the surgically-treated patients and in 19% of the EVLA-treated patients (P = .511). CONCLUSION: EVLA is feasible in patients with recurrent varicose veins of the GSV. Complication rates are lower and socioeconomic outcome is better compared to surgical reintervention.

Changes in periacetabular bone mineral density five years after resurfacing hip arthroplasty versus conventional total hip arthroplasty.

INTRODUCTION:: We studied whether acetabular bone mineral density (BMD) is better preserved after resurfacing hip arthroplasty (RHA) versus small diameter metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasty (THA). METHODS:: This randomised controlled trial included 82 patients. BMD was measured in 5 periprosthetic regions of interest (ROI) with dual-energy absorptiometry (DEXA) preoperatively, at 3 and 6 months, 1, 2, 3 and 5 years postoperative. 34 RHA and 26 THA had a complete 5 years follow-up. 1 RHA and 1 THA were revised due to pseudotumour formation, 2 THA were revised because of recurrent dislocations and 1 RHA for avascular necrosis. RESULTS:: Overall an initial decrease in BMD was observed for both implants, stabilising after 2 years. 5 years after RHA a BMD change of +1% in upper cranial, -4% ( p < 0.01) in cranial, -8% ( p < 0.01) in craniomedial, -7% ( p < 0.01) in medial and +4% in caudal ROI compared to baseline values was seen. 5 years after THA a BMD change of -3% ( p = 0.01), -13% ( p < 0.01), -21% ( p < 0.01), -11% ( p < 0.01) and -2% for each respective ROI. The observed BMD decrease in different regions was structurally favouring the RHA-cup, with significantly higher levels in the cranial and craniomedial ROI. CONCLUSION:: Acetabular BMD is better preserved behind a rigid press-fit convex cup in RHA compared to a titanium threaded cup in conventional THA in the cranial and craniomedial ROI. Despite of a theoretical higher stress-shielding behind the stiff acetabular component in RHA, compared to the more elastic threaded titanium THA-cup, bone depletion behind the RHA component does not seem to be of major concern. REGISTRATION:: EudraCT (2006-005610-12).

Low yield for routine laboratory checks in follow-up of coeliac disease.

AIM: To evaluate the yield of routine laboratory tests and Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scans in coeliac disease. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of medical files of all followed-up patients with coeliac disease attending Rijnstate Hospital in 2016 was conducted with respect to blood tests of hemoglobin, vitamin B12, folate acid, iron status, calcium, vitamin D, glucose, thyroid function, DEXA-scans and related symptoms or signs of abnormalities. All patients had positive coeliac serology and/or biopsy-proven coeliac disease and attended regular visits after diagnosis. The chi-square test for trend was used for statistical analysis: a two-tailed probability of p < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: We analyzed 250 patients with a median follow-up of 7.8 (1-22) years. At diagnosis, we found anemia in 24.4%, iron deficiency in 38%, folic acid deficiency in 22.6% and vitamin B12 deficiency in 15.9%. All deficiencies recovered within 1-2 years with or without supplements. Deficiencies or autoimmune diseases occurred in 50 patients (37 possibly coeliac-related) during follow-up. Twelve cases of coeliac-related deficiencies or autoimmune diseases occurred in patients with normal values at diagnosis of whom 10 were asymptomatic (incidence 10/1000 patient years). Osteoporosis and osteopenia were present in 23.3% and 35% at diagnosis. In most patients bone mineral density (BMD) improved or stabilized during follow up (p < 0.05), 8% deteriorated. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of asymptomatic coeliac-related deficiencies or autoimmune diseases is low in patients with normal values at diagnosis. Therefore, routine laboratory screening is not necessary in this group: attending regular follow-up visits should be sufficient. DEXA scans are recommended.

The natural history of developmental dysplasia of the hip: sonographic findings in infants of 1-3 months of age.

The natural history of sonographic developmental dysplasia of the hip was determined in a population-based study in which 5170 infants were screened by ultrasound using Graf's method. Of the normal hips at the age of 1 month, 99.6% were still normal at the age of 3 months. Of the immature type IIa/IIa+ and type IIa- hips, if untreated, 95.3 and 84.4% had become normal, respectively. Of the infants with type IIc, D and III/IV hips at the age of 1 month 70, 58.3 and 90.9% were treated, respectively. This study shows that normal hips remain normal in nearly 100% of cases, but development to abnormality is possible. It shows also that most of the immature hips at the age of 1 month become normal without treatment. Although treatment seems to be indicated in the majority of sonographically abnormal hips, the occurrence of overtreatment could not be excluded in our study.

Use of diuretics and the risk of gouty arthritis: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To systematically review the literature investigating the relationship between use of diuretics and the risk of gouty arthritis. METHODS: PubMed (1950-October 2009), Embase (1974-October 2009), and the Cochrane Library (up to October 2009) were searched using keywords and MeSH terms diuretics, adverse effects, and gout. For this review, the technique of "best evidence synthesis" was used. Studies reporting frequency, absolute or relative risks, odds ratio, or rate ratio of gouty arthritis in diuretic users compared with nonusers were selected and evaluated. Studies had to be published in English. Checklists from the Dutch Cochrane Centre were used to assess the quality of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort, and case-control studies. RESULTS: Two RCTs, 6 cohort studies, and 5 case-control studies met the inclusion criteria. The overall quality of the studies was moderate. In a RCT the rate ratio of gout for use of bendrofluazide vs placebo was 11.8 (95% CI 5.2-27.0). The other RCT found a rate ratio of 6.3 (95% CI 0.8-51) for use of hydrochlorothiazide plus triamterene vs placebo. Three cohort studies and 4 case-control studies found higher risks of gouty arthritis in users compared with nonusers of diuretics. CONCLUSIONS: There is a trend toward a higher risk for acute gouty arthritis attacks in patients on loop and thiazide diuretics, but the magnitude and independence is not consistent. Therefore, stopping these useful drugs in patients who develop gouty arthritis is not supported by the results of this review.

A case-control study of determinants for the occurrence of gouty arthritis in heart failure patients.

AIMS: Gouty arthritis is a frequent and disabling complication in heart failure patients. This study aimed to investigate which factors are associated with the occurrence of gouty arthritis in these patients. METHODS AND RESULTS: A case-control study was performed in heart failure patients (February 2007 to October 2009). Cases were defined as patients with gouty arthritis. Factors that are possibly associated with gouty arthritis and/or heart failure were evaluated. Echocardiographic dimensions and laboratory values including glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and fractional excretion of uric acid (FEUA) were measured. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for possibly associated factors. In total, 188 patients (59 with gouty arthritis) were included. Spironolactone use was associated with a decreased occurrence of gouty arthritis (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.13-0.77). Independently associated with an increased occurrence of gouty arthritis were hypertensive heart failure (OR 3.6, 95% CI 1.6-8.2), New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III/IV (OR 4.5, 95% CI 1.8-11.0), lower GFR (P < 0.001), and FEUA <4% (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.4-7.9). Among the four age/gender groups, the strongest association with gouty arthritis was found in men <65 years. CONCLUSION: Our identification of factors that are associated with the occurrence of gouty arthritis makes it possible to develop strategies to improve further the quality of life in heart failure patients. The possible decreased occurrence of gouty arthritis in spironolactone users has to be confirmed in prospective studies.