An Artificial Intelligence Tool for Image Simulation in Rhinoplasty.

During rhinoplasty consultations, surgeons typically create a computer simulation of the expected result. An artificial intelligence model (AIM) can learn a surgeon's style and criteria and generate the simulation automatically. The objective of this study is to determine if an AIM is capable of imitating a surgeon's criteria to generate simulated images of an aesthetic rhinoplasty surgery. This is a cross-sectional survey study of resident and specialist doctors in otolaryngology conducted in the month of November 2019 during a rhinoplasty conference. Sequential images of rhinoplasty simulations created by a surgeon and by an AIM were shown at random. Participants used a seven-point Likert scale to evaluate their level of agreement with the simulation images they were shown, with 1 indicating total disagreement and 7 total agreement. Ninety-seven of 122 doctors agreed to participate in the survey. The median level of agreement between the participant and the surgeon was 6 (interquartile range or IQR 5-7); between the participant and the AIM it was 5 (IQR 4-6), p-value < 0.0001. The evaluators were in total or partial agreement with the results of the AIM's simulation 68.4% of the time (95% confidence interval or CI 64.9-71.7). They were in total or partial agreement with the surgeon's simulation 77.3% of the time (95% CI 74.2-80.3). An AIM can emulate a surgeon's aesthetic criteria to generate a computer-simulated image of rhinoplasty. This can allow patients to have a realistic approximation of the possible results of a rhinoplasty ahead of an in-person consultation. The level of evidence of the study is 4.

[Cross-cultural validation and telephonic reliability of modified "VIDA" questionnaire]. / Validación transcultural y confiabilidad telefónica del cuestionario "vida diaria del anciano" modificado.

Instrumental activities scales allow the assessment of the functional status of the elderly; however, those currently used have gender bias and insufficient cross-cultural validation. The main objectives of this study were to perform the cross-cultural validation of the modified "VIDA: Daily living of the elderly questionnaire", created in Spain, into the Spanish spoken language in the City of Buenos Aires, and to evaluate its telephonic reliability. The secondary objective was to assess the concurrent validity of the modified VIDA questionnaire with the Lawton and Brody scale. The experts discussion group assessed the questionnaire vocabulary and proposed modifications according to the local language. We performed a pilot study to evaluate its comprehension, vocabulary and length. Afterwards we interviewed patients in person and after 14 days by telephone. We analyzed the global, inter and intra-observer reliability in both, the in person and the telephonic questionnaire, obtaining intra-class correlation coefficients of 0.95 (CI 95% 0.91-0.99), 0.99 (CI 95% 0.97-1.00) and 0.94 (IC 95% 0.87-1.00) respectively. Additionally, we obtained a very good correlation in both modalities between the modified VIDA questionnaire and the Lawton and Brody scale, with no differences regarding the patient's gender. In conclusion, the modified VIDA questionnaire was cross-culturally adapted in Buenos Aires City. Its implementation is reliable and valid both in person and by telephone.

Do elderly patients call 911 when presented with clinical scenarios suggestive of acute stroke? A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Among patients with acute stroke symptoms, delay in hospital admission is the main obstacle for the use of thrombolytic therapy and other interventions associated with decreased mortality and disability. The primary aim of this study was to assess whether an elderly clinical population correctly endorsed the response to call for emergency services when presented with signs and symptoms of stroke using a standardized questionnaire. METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional study among elderly out-patients (≥60 years) in Buenos Aires, Argentina randomly recruited from a government funded health clinic. The correct endorsement of intention to call 911 was assessed with the Stroke Action Test and the cut-off point was set at ≥75%. Knowledge of stroke and clinical and socio-demographic indicators were also collected and evaluated as predictors of correct endorsement using logistic regression. RESULTS: Among 367 elderly adults, 14% correctly endorsed intention to call 911. Presented with the most typical signs and symptoms, only 65% reported that they would call an ambulance. Amaurosis Fugax was the symptom for which was called the least (15%). On average, the correct response was chosen only 37% of the time. Compared to lower levels of education, higher levels were associated to correctly endorsed intention to call 911 (secondary School adjusted OR 3.53, 95% CI 1.59-7.86 and Tertiary/University adjusted OR 3.04, 95% CI 1.12-8.21). CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest the need to provide interventions that are specifically designed to increase awareness of potential stroke signs and symptoms and appropriate subsequent clinical actions.

[Patients' Predisposition to Participate in Clinical Trials at Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study]. / Predisposición de los pacientes a participar en ensayos clínicos en el Hospital Dr. César Milstein: un estudio de corte transversal.

INTRODUCTION: Clinical trials are a fundamental tool in evidence-based medicine, with participant recruitment being a critical factor for their execution. Low participation in a study leads to inadequate sample size. Older adults constitute a minority in clinical trials, and various factors influence their level of participation and retention during the study process. Our objective is to determine the willingness of older adults to participate in clinical trials and identify their main barriers and facilitator. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out on outpatient adults over 60 years of age. The rate of desire for voluntary participation in clinical trials was determined and through a validated survey "National Health Information Trends Survey (HINTS 5, cycle 4)" the knowledge, rate of prior participation in CE and the influence of different factors that could be associated with a positive attitude to participate. These factors were analyzed using ordinal logistic regression. RESULTS: 251 older adults were surveyed. Of them, 171 (68%) reported not having any knowledge about clinical trials and 80 (31.87%) reported having it to some degree. 12 patients (5%) previously participated in a CS and up to 88 patients (35%) expressed that they would probably or definitely participate in one. It was observed that, the older the age, the less willingness to participate in CE [OR]: 0.55 (CI 95% 0.34-0.88). Likewise, male sex was associated with a greater desire to participate [OR]: 1.74 (CI 95% 1.06-2.84), respectively. The scenarios that were associated with a greater desire to participate in CE were knowing that by participating you could help others [OR]: 1.95 (95% CI 1.36-2.178), the possibility of receiving help for participating [OR]: 1.69 (95% CI 1.26-2.26) and the possibility of trying a new type of medical care [OR]: 1.71 (95% CI 1.20-2.42). CONCLUSIONS: The level of knowledge about CE among older adults is low and up to a third of them would participate as volunteers in a CE. The dissemination of information about ECs could encourage a higher participation rate.

[Disorders in plasmatic levels of potassium, magnesium, and calcium in elderly adults associated with colistin: time series]. / Trastornos en niveles plasmáticos de potasio, magnesio y calcio en adultos mayores asociados a colistina: serie de tiempo.

INTRODUCTION: Water and electrolyte disturbances associated with colistin are understudied adverse effects in the medical literature. We aim to evaluate their incidence in hospitalized older adult patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A longitudinal retrospective study of the interrupted time series type was conducted on patients admitted to Dr. César Milstein Hospital. We included adults aged 65 and older who received colistin with normal serum potassium, magnesium, and calcium at the outset. Electrolyte values were collected before, during and after suspending the antibiotic. Values were compared using non-parametric tests, and a multivariate linear regression model with robust intervals was performed to assess sociodemographic and clinical characteristics associated with serum concentrations. RESULTS: A total of 89 patients were included. The rate of hypokalemia was 77.5% (n=69), and factors associated with potassium decline included older age, increased creatinine levels, and longer colistin treatment duration. Serum magnesium disturbances were reported in 66 (79.5%) of the 83 patients evaluated. The decrease in both electrolytes was statistically significant in the measured times and both values normalized after 72 hours of stopping antibiotic therapy. The incidence of acute kidney injury during colistin treatment in patients with normal baseline creatinine was 63.6% (n = 42/66), and in those with abnormal baseline creatinine, it was 47.8% (n = 11/23). CONCLUSION: We report high rates of electrolyte disturbances in patients treated with colistin, with hypokalemia being the most frequent, showing resolution following discontinuation of antibiotic therapy. Continuous monitoring of electrolyte levels and renal function during colistin treatment is crucial.

Introducción: Los trastornos hidroelectrolíticos asociados a la colistina son efectos adversos poco estudiados en la literatura médica. Nos propusimos evaluar su incidencia en pacientes adultos mayores hospitalizados. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio longitudinal retrospectivo, del tipo serie de tiempo interrumpida, en pacientes internados mayores de 65 años que recibieron colistina, con potasio, magnesio y calcio séricos normales al inicio. Se recabaron valores de dichos electrolitos previo, durante y luego de suspender el antibiótico. Se compararon los valores mediante test no paramétricos y se realizó un modelo multivariado de regresión lineal con intervalos robustos para evaluar las características sociodemográficas y clínicas asociadas a las concentraciones séricas. Resultados: Se incluyeron 89 pacientes. La tasa de hipocalemia fue del 77.5% (n = 69) y las variables asociadas al descenso del potasio fueron mayor edad, aumento de creatininemia, y duración de tratamiento con colistina. Se informaron trastornos del magnesio en 66 (79.5%) de los 83 pacientes evaluados. El descenso de ambos electrolitos fue estadísticamente significativo en los tiempos medidos, y ambos normalizaron valores tras 72 horas de suspendida la antibioticoterapia. La incidencia de insuficiencia renal aguda en pacientes con creatinina basal normal fue del 63.6%, (42/66) y con creatinina basal anormal de 47.8% (11/23). Conclusión: En pacientes tratados con colistina, el trastorno más frecuente fue la hipocalemia, mostrando resolución tras la suspensión del antibiótico. Es importante la monitorización constante de los niveles de electrolitos y la función renal durante el tratamiento con colistina.

Functional Status in Older Adults following Hospitalization for COVID-19: A Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can cause multiple acute complications. This study evaluated the long-term functional status of older patients hospitalized for acute COVID-19. METHODS: We analyzed data from a multicenter ambispective cohort study on patients aged >60 years who were hospitalized for COVID-19 at two tertiary care hospitals in Argentina. The participants were contacted by telephone between November 2021 and September 2022 to collect data on their functional status. Ordinal logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with functional limitations after discharge. RESULTS: Among the 374 included patients, 205 (55%) showed functional limitations, including 58 (28%) who died during follow-up. The factors independently associated with functional limitations were low baseline functional status (odds ratio [OR]=9.19; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.35-25.17) and admission to the intensive care unit (OR=4.41; 95% CI, 2.28-8.53). Men had lower odds of functional impairment (OR=0.55; 95% CI, 0.35-0.86). CONCLUSION: Older patients had high mortality rates and poor functional status at 2 years post-discharge for COVID-19. Several factors at the time of discharge were associated with a higher risk of functional limitations and can be used to identify patients' long-term needs for support and rehabilitation services.

¿Cuáles son las brechas de conocimiento y qué priorizar en investigación en salud mental del adulto mayor? Estudio cuali-cuantitativo utilizando la matriz de estrategias combinadas para Argentina (MECA).

INTRODUCCIÓN: el envejecimiento poblacional es un fenómeno mundial. Los problemas de salud mental, altamente prevalentes en este grupo, impactan en la vida de los individuos, sus familias y la sociedad en su conjunto. OBJETIVO: identificar brechas de conocimiento y prioridades de investigación en salud mental del adulto mayor en Argentina. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: diseño cuali-cuantitativo, en tres etapas: (1) diagnóstico de situación, (2) evaluación global de necesidades de investigación y (3) ejercicio de priorización basado en la Matriz de Estrategias Combinadas validada para Argentina (MECA). RESULTADOS: con base en las primeras dos etapas del estudio se identificaron dos áreas temáticas investigar en el país y dimensiones priorizadas: (a) soledad-aislamiento y (b) deterioro cognitivo y demencia. Como resultado del ejercicio de priorización surgieron las siguientes dimensiones: en relación con soledad-aislamiento: 1. efecto de los programas, 2. falta de acceso a los recursos, 3. capacidad de adaptación a los contextos locales (integración social del adulto mayor) y 4. calidad de servicios. En relación con deterioro cognitivo y demencia: 1. impacto cuidadores y entorno, 2. barreras para la implementación de guías y capacitación, 3. estudios de costo-efectividad sobre intervenciones y calidad de vida, y 4. recolección y publicación de datos epidemiológicos. CONCLUSIÓN: se debe enfatizar la importancia de fortalecer la investigación en Argentina sobre la implementación y difusión de intervenciones de promoción, prevención y prestación de servicios en la salud mental del adulto mayor.

Neck masses in aged patients: etiology and semiological features associated with malignancy.

INTRODUCTION: The purposes of our study were to describe the distribution of diagnoses in a series of 273 patients over 65 years of age who presented for neck masses and to identify semiological features associated with malignancy. METHODS: Neck masses were categorized as congenital lesions (n = 7, 3%, 95% CI: 1%- 5%), inflammatory masses (n = 67, 25%, 95% CI: 19%- 30%), benign neoplasms (n = 77, 28%, 95% CI: 23%- 34%), and malignant neoplasms (n = 87, 32%, 95% CI: 26%- 38%). RESULTS: A group of patients had discontinued care and, consequently, a definitive diagnosis could not be reached (n = 35, 12%). Age (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.00-1.12), male sex (OR 2.35, 95% CI 1.11-4.96), prior history of cancer (OR 2.66, 95% CI 1.02-6.92), mass fixation to skin or deep tissues (OR 4.87, 95% CI 2.20-10.76), and the involvement of multiple cervical lymph node levels (OR 4.15, 95% CI 1.64-10.51) were identified as semiological features associated with malignancy. CONCLUSION: In the case of a neck mass in an elderly patient, its neoplastic origin should be strongly suspected.

Introducción: El objetivo de nuestro estudio fue describir la distribución de diagnósticos en una serie de 273 pacientes mayores de 65 años que consultaron por masas cervicales e identificar características semiológicas asociadas a malignidad. Métodos: Las masas cervicales fueron categorizadas como lesiones congénitas (n = 7, 3%, 95% CI: 1%- 5%), masas de origen inflamatorio (n = 67, 25%, 95% CI: 19%-30%), neoplasias benignas (n = 77, 28%, 95% CI: 23%- 34%) y neoplasias malignas (n = 87, 32%, 95% CI: 26%-38%). Resultados: Un grupo de pacientes discontinuó el tratamiento y en consecuencia no fue posible alcanzar un diagnóstico definitivo (n = 35, 12%). La edad (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.00-1.12), el sexo masculino (OR 2.35, 95% CI 1.11-4.96), los antecedentes de cáncer (OR 2.66, 95% CI 1.02-6.92), la fijación de la masa a los planos profundos o a piel (OR 4.87, 95% CI 2.20-10.76) y la afectación de más de un nivel ganglionar del cuello (OR 4.15, 95% CI 1.64-10.51) fueron identificados como características semiológicas asociadas a malignidad. Conclusión: En presencia de una masa cervical en un paciente adulto mayor debe existir una fuerte sospecha de origen neoplásico.

PULSE-HF: A Simple Clinical and Geriatric Score to Predict Systolic Dysfunction in the Elderly Without Heart Failure.

To develop a clinical score to determine preclinical predictors of systolic dysfunction in an outpatient elderly population without a diagnosis of heart failure (HF). PULSE-HF is a cross-sectional study in elderly at-risk (coronary artery disease, diabetes or hypertension) outpatients without a diagnosis of heart failure (HF). The objective in this population was to develop a clinical score to determine preclinical predictors of systolic dysfunction. Clinical and geriatric variables were analyzed; independent predictive factors in the logistic regression analysis were included for the score calculation. Of the 722 subjects enrolled, 47 (6.5%) had a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < 50%, and 15 (2.1%) a LVEF < 40%. Mean age was 76.5 years (5.18) and 445 (61.6%) were female. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified abnormal Q waves (odds ratio [OR]: 4.36; P = 0.003), cardiomegaly (OR: 3.32; P < 0.001), right bundle branch block (OR: 2.84; P = 0.011), cognitive dysfunction (OR: 2.14; P = 0.027) and NT-proBNP (OR 5.43; P < 0.001) as independent predictors of LVEF < 50%. Two prediction scores were built, without and with NT-proBNP inclusion; the area under ROC curves were 0.70 and 0.76, respectively. As the score increased, the sensitivity decreases but increases specificity, and accuracy (97.17% and 91.64% respectively in ≥6 points). NT-proBNP was associated with an increment in the performance (accuracy of 93.18% for score ≥10). We conclude that a simple score using clinical information might be useful to predicting asymptomatic systolic dysfunction in the elderly.

[Pneumatic lithotripsy vs Holmium: YAG Laser lithotripsy for the treatment of ureteral stones.] / Litotricia neumática vs. litotricia láser Ho: YAG en el tratamiento de la litiasis ureteral.

OBJECTIVE: Pneumatic lithotripsy (PL) and Ho: YAG laser lithotripsy (LL) are the most widely accepted methods in the endoscopic treatment of ureteral lithiasis. The objective is to compare efficacy and safety of pneumatic lithotripsy vs. Ho: YAG laser lithotripsy in the treatment of ureteral lithiasis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Prospective, single-blind, multicenter study. Adult patients were recruited from August 2017 to March 2019, in 23 institutions throughout Argentina. Patient demographics, stone characteristics, presence of double J stent prior to the intervention, stonefree rate (SF) and postoperative complications were evaluated and analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 366 patients with ureteral lithiasis were included, 204 in the PL group and 162 in the LL group. The SF rate was significantly higher in the LL group (77% vs. 92%), OR 3 .43 (1.76 to 6.70). The complication rate was significantly lower in the LL group (9.8% vs. 2.5%), OR 0.23 (0.07 to 0.71). In the multivariate analysis, the use of Ho: YAG energy, the location of the lithiasis in the distal ureter, and the preoperative placement of double J stent, were found to be predictors of SF status. CONCLUSIONS: Ho: YAG laser lithotripsy has a higher stone-free rate and a lower complication rate compared to pneumatic lithotripsy.

OBJETIVO: La litotricia neumática (LN) y láser Ho: YAG (LH) son los métodos más aceptados en el tratamiento endoscópico de la litiasis ureteral. El objetivo es comparar eficacia y seguridad de la litotricia neumática vs. litotricia láser Ho: YAG en el tratamiento de la litiasis ureteral.MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio prospectivo, simple ciego, multicéntrico. Se incluyeron pacientes adultos que se sometieron a tratamiento de litiasis ureteral, desde agosto de 2017 a marzo de 2019, en 23 instituciones nacionales. Las variables analizadas incluyeron: datos demográficos, tamaño y ubicación del lito, presencia de catéter doble J previo al procedimiento, tasa libre de litiasis (LL) y de complicaciones. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron un total de 366 pacientes con litiasis ureteral, 204 en el grupo LN y 162 en el grupo LH. La tasa libre de litiasis fue significativamente superior en el grupo LH (77% vs. 92%), OR 3,43 (1,76 a 6,70) y la tasa de complicaciones fue significativamente menor en el grupo LH (9,8% vs. 2,5%), OR 0,23 (0,07 a 0,71). En el análisis multivariado, la utilización de la energía Ho: YAG, la ubicación de la litiasis en uréter distal y la colocación preoperatoria de catéter doble J, resultaron ser factores predictores del estado LL.CONCLUSIÓN: La litotricia láser Ho: YAG presenta una mayor tasa libre de litiasis y una menor tasa de complicaciones, en comparación con la litotricia neumática.

[Adherence to treatment of multiple sclerosis in a health care program]. / Adherencia al tratamiento de la esclerosis múltiple en un programa de atención médica.

Adherence to prescribed treatment in chronic diseases, as occurs in multiple sclerosis (MS), is a critical factor for a successful therapeutic response. The objective of this study was to evalua te the association between demographic variables and adherence to treatment of the population of MS patients in Argentina. A retrospective cohort study of MS patients who received treatment with disease-modifying drugs, included in the drug dispensing database of the National Care Medical Program: PAMI (Programa Asistencia Médica Integral), was conducted. Optimal adherence was defined as an acquisition of the drug greater than 80% during a 9-month follow-up. A total of 648 patients were included, mean age 55 years (IQR 46-64), 59.4% women. The mean adherence to treatment was 67% (IQR 44-89) and optimal adherence was documented only in 35.5% of cases. Adherence to injectable medications was 10% lower than that of oral drugs (p = 0.0001) and the use of original brands was associated with 7.4% greater adherence than with generic drugs (p = 0.001). In conclusion, adherence to treatment has been suboptimal. In the Patagonian region, the use of injectables and generic drugs was associated with lower adherence to therapy. These data are very important in order to planning socio-sanitary programs that aim to increase therapeutic adherence.

La adherencia al tratamiento prescrito en enfermedades crónicas, como ocurre en la esclerosis múltiple (EM), es un factor crítico para una respuesta terapéutica exitosa. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la asociación entre las variables demográficas y la adherencia al tratamiento en una población de pacientes con EM en Argentina. Se realizó un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo de pacientes con EM que recibieron tratamiento con medicamentos modificadores de la enfermedad, incluidos en la base de datos de dispensación de medicamentos del Programa Nacional de Atención Médica: PAMI (Programa Asistencia Médica Integral). La adherencia óptima se definió como una adquisición del fármaco superior al 80% durante un seguimiento de 9 meses. Se incluyó un total de 648 pacientes, edad media 55 años (RIC 46-64), 59.4% mujeres. La adherencia media al tratamiento fue del 67% (RIC 44-89) y la adherencia óptima se documentó solo en el 35.5% de los casos. La adherencia a los medicamentos inyectables fue 10% menor que la de los medicamentos orales (p = 0.0001) y el uso de marcas originales se asoció con una adherencia 7.4% mayor que los medicamentos genéricos (p = 0.001). En conclusión, la adherencia al tratamiento ha sido subóptima. En la región patagónica, el uso de inyectables y de medicamentos genéricos se asoció con una menor adherencia terapéutica. Estos datos son muy importantes para planificar programas socio-sanitarios que tengan como objetivo aumentar la adherencia terapéutica.

Predictors of adherence and persistence to disease-modifying therapies in Multiple Sclerosis.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: In multiple sclerosis (MS), non-adherence/non-persistence is related to suboptimal response to treatment, including disease relapses and the need for more expensive healthcare. The aim of this study was to identify predictors related to adherence to disease modifying therapies (DMTs) in a cohort of Argentinian MS patients. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study at the National Medical Care Program from Argentina. MS patients with at least one claim for a DMT from 1 January 2017 to 1 October 2017 were identified. A telephone survey was performed to assess clinical and demographic factors. The medication possession ratio (MPR) was used to estimate adherence; MPR <80% defined non-adherence. Associations were studied using a logistic regression model. RESULTS: Our database included 648 MS patients. A total of 360 patients (60% females, mean age 55.3 years) accepted to participate. Of these, 308 (85.5%) patients were receiving DMT at the time of the survey. Some 198 (63.7%) were receiving injectable therapies. Optimal adherence was 47.7%. Adherence was associated with oral medication [odds ratio (OR) 1.83 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.13-3.00, p = 0.014]. A factor related to oral drugs was higher educational level (OR 2.86 95%CI 1.41-5.81, p = 0.004). CONCLUSION: This real-world study showed better adherence and persistence on treatment with oral therapies in MS patients in Argentina.

[Preoperative double J stent placement in the endoscopic treatment of ureteral and renal Stone: A multicenter, national study.] / Colocación preoperatoria de catéter doble J en el tratamiento endoscópico de la litiasis ureteral y renal: estudio multicéntrico, nacional.

OBJECTIVE: Aim of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the preoperative placement of JJ stent compared to not doing in patients undergoing ureteroscopy for ureteral and kidney stone. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective, observational, multicenter study. Adult patients, who underwent ureteroscopy treatment for ureteral and kidney stone, were recruited from August 2017 to March 2019, in 23 Argentine institutions. The variables analyzed included: demographic data, stone size and location, stone-free rate (SFR) and complications. RESULTS: 580 patients were included. 473 with ureteral stone (309 with and 164 without prior JJ stent) and 107 with kidney stone (77 with and 30 without prior JJ stent). The SFR was higher in the group with previous JJ stent, both in the treatment of ureteral stone (82.2% vs. 90.9%, OR 2.15 (1.17 to 3.96)), and in the treatment of kidney stone (73.3% vs. 89.6%, OR 3.14 (1.02 to 9.61)). No differences were established in the complication rate both in the treatment of ureteral stone (6.1 vs. 6.1%, OR 0.98 (0.45 to 2.19)) and in the treatment of kidney stone (6.7 vs. 5.2%, OR 0.76 (0.13 a 4.46)). CONCLUSIONS: The preoperative placement of JJ stent, increases SFR in the treatment of ureteral and kidney stone, but not decrease the complication rate.

OBJETIVO: El objetivo fue evaluar la efectividad y seguridad de la colocación preoperatoria del catéter doble J comparado con no hacerlo, en pacientes sometidos a ureteroscopía por litiasis ureteral y renal.MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio prospectivo, observacional, multicéntrico. Se reclutaron pacientes adultos, que se sometieron al tratamiento ureteroscópico para litiasis ureteral y renal, desde agosto de 2017 a marzo de 2019, en 23 instituciones Argentinas. Las variables analizadas incluyeron: datos demográficos, tamaño y ubicación de la litiasis, tasa libre de litiasis (LL) al finalizar el procedimiento y de complicaciones en el posoperatorio inmediato. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 580 pacientes. 473 con litiasis ureteral (309 con y 164 sin doble J previo) y 107 con litiasis renal (77 con y 30 sin doble J previo). La tasa LL fue mayor en el grupo con doble J previo, tanto en el tratamiento de la litiasis ureteral (82,2% vs. 90,9%, OR 2,15 (1,17 a 3,96)), como en el tratamiento de la litiasis renal (73,3% vs. 89,6%, OR 3,14 (1,02 a 9,61)). No se establecieron diferencias en la tasa de complicaciones tanto en el tratamiento de la litiasis ureteral (6,1 vs 6,1%, OR 0,98 (0,45 a 2,19)) como en el tratamiento de la litiasis renal (6,7 vs 5,2%, OR 0,76 (0,13 a 4,46)). CONCLUSIONES: La colocación preoperatoria del catéter doble J mejoró la tasa LL en el tratamiento de la litiasis ureteral y renal, pero no disminuyó la tasa de complicaciones.

RBD-specific polyclonal F(ab´)2 fragments of equine antibodies in patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 disease: A randomized, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, adaptive phase 2/3 clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: passive immunotherapy is a therapeutic alternative for patients with COVID-19. Equine polyclonal antibodies (EpAbs) could represent a source of scalable neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. METHODS: we conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to assess efficacy and safety of EpAbs (INM005) in hospitalized adult patients with moderate and severe COVID-19 pneumonia in 19 hospitals of Argentina. Primary endpoint was improvement in at least two categories in WHO ordinal clinical scale at day 28 or hospital discharge (ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT04494984). FINDINGS: between August 1st and October 26th, 2020, a total of 245 patients were enrolled. Enrolled patients were assigned to receive two blinded doses of INM005 (n = 118) or placebo (n = 123). Median age was 54 years old, 65•1% were male and 61% had moderate disease at baseline. Median time from symptoms onset to study treatment was 6 days (interquartile range 5 to 8). No statistically significant difference was noted between study groups on primary endpoint (risk difference [95% IC]: 5•28% [-3•95; 14•50]; p = 0•15). Rate of improvement in at least two categories was statistically significantly higher for INM005 at days 14 and 21 of follow-up. Time to improvement in two ordinal categories or hospital discharge was 14•2 (± 0•7) days in the INM005 group and 16•3 (± 0•7) days in the placebo group, hazard ratio 1•31 (95% CI 1•0 to 1•74). Subgroup analyses showed a beneficial effect of INM005 over severe patients and in those with negative baseline antibodies. Overall mortality was 6•9% the INM005 group and 11•4% in the placebo group (risk difference [95% IC]: 0•57 [0•24 to 1•37]). Adverse events of special interest were mild or moderate; no anaphylaxis was reported. INTERPRETATION: Albeit not having reached the primary endpoint, we found clinical improvement of hospitalized patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia, particularly those with severe disease.

Baseline Functional Status and One-year Mortality After Hospital Admission in Elderly Patients: a prospective cohort study.

INTRODUCTION: Hospitalization represents a major factor that may precipitate the loss of functional status and the cascade into dependence. The main objective of our study was to determine the effect of functional status measured before hospital admission on survival at one year after hospitalization in elderly patients. METHODS: Prospective cohort study of adult patients (over 65 years of age) admitted to either the general ward or intensive Care units (ICU) of a tertiary teaching hospital in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Main exposure was the pre-admission functional status determined by means of the modified "VIDA" questionnaire, which evaluates the instrumental activities of daily living. We used a multivariate Cox proportional hazards model to estimate the effect of prior functional status on time to all-cause death while controlling for measured confounding. Secondarily, we analyzed the effect of post-discharge functional decline on long-term outcomes. RESULTS: 297 patients were included in the present study. 12.8% died during hospitalization and 86 patients (33.2%) died within one year after hospital discharge. Functional status prior to hospital admission, measured by the VIDA questionnaire (e.g., one point increase), was associated with a lower hazard of all-cause mortality during follow-up (Hazard Ratio [HR]: 0.96; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.94-0.98). Finally, functional decline measured at 15 days after hospital discharge, was associated with higher risk of all-cause death during follow-up (HR: 2.19, 95% CI: 1.09-4.37) Conclusion: Pre-morbid functional status impacts long term outcomes after unplanned hospitalizations in elderly adults. Future studies should confirm these findings and evaluate the potential impact on clinical decision-making.

Introducción: La hospitalización representa un factor que puede favorecer la pérdida de la funcionalidad. El objetivo principal de este estudio fue determinar el efecto de la funcionalidad previa a la admisión hospitalaria sobre la sobrevida al año del egreso, en pacientes adultos mayores. Métodos: Este estudio de cohorte prospectiva incluyó pacientes de 65 años o mayores que fueron hospitalizados en la sala general o la unidad de terapia intensiva en un hospital universitario de la ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina. La funcionalidad basal fue medida a través del cuestionario VIDA modificado, el cual evalúa las actividades instrumentales de la vida diaria. Utilizamos un modelo multivariable de Cox para estimar el efecto de la funcionalidad basal sobre la sobrevida al año posterior al egreso, el cual permitió ajustar por potenciales confundidores. Además, analizamos el efecto de la funcionalidad luego del egreso hospitalario sobre la mortalidad al año del mismo. Resultados: Se incluyeron 297 pacientes, de los cuales 12.8% fallecieron durante la hospitalización, y 86 pacientes (33.2%) fallecieron dentro del año del egreso hospitalario. Un aumento de un punto en la escala de la funcionalidad basal (es decir, mejor funcionalidad), se asoció a una disminución en el riesgo de muerte al año del egreso (Hazard Ratio [HR]: 0.96; Intervalo de confianza [IC] 95%: 0.94­0.98). Por ultimo, la declinación funcional posterior al egreso hospitalario se asoció a un mayor riesgo de muerte durante el seguimiento (HR: 2.19, IC 95%: 1.09­4.37). Conclusión: La funcionalidad previa a la hospitalización de los adultos mayores impacta en los resultados a largo plazo luego de una hospitalización.

[Cross-cultural adaptation of the "barriers to incontinence care seeking questionnaire" in a elderly women population in an outpatient clinic.] / Adaptación transcultural del cuestionario "Barriers to Incontinence Care Seeking" en mujeres adultas mayores en el ámbito ambulatorio.

Introduction: Urinary incontinence is a very frequent pathology in the female population, however it remains a hidden health problem. The main objective of the work is to cross-culturally adapt the BISC-Q questionnaire to be use spanish speaking population. Material and method: The cross-cultural adaptation of the Questionnaire (BICS-Q) was carried out in the following stages: initial translation, synthesis of the translations, retro-translation, expert committee, pre-test and review of the adaptation process by the researchers. Then, a content validation was carried out through a survey looking for new barriers that were not part of the original questionnaire. The responses of the patients were unified and categorized within the 5 original domains. Women over 65 years of age were included in an outpatient specialized center for older adults. Results: The survey included 164 women, 56% reported urine losses in the last 12 months, of which 71% never consulted the doctor about this problem. The answers about the barriers to consult were predominantly related to ignorance of the disease, shame and misconceptions about the treatment. The responses of the patients were unified and categorized within the 5 original domains. The new questionnaire retains three of the five domains of the BICS-Q, the domain "costs" and "related to the site" was removed and a new one was added on "lack of information". Conclusions: The Argentine version of the BICS-Q questionnaire is an instrument adapted for the evaluation of barriers to medical consultation due to urinary incontinence in spanish speaking women over 65 years of age. Material and method: The cross-cultural adaptation of the Questionnaire (BICS-Q) was carried out in the following stages: initial translation, synthesis of the translations, retro-translation, expert committee, pre-test and review of the adaptation process by the researchers. Then, a content validation was carried out through a survey looking for new barriers that were not part of the original questionnaire. The responses of the patients were unified and categorized within the 5 original domains. Women over 65 years of age were included in an outpatient specialized center for older adults. Results: The survey included 164 women, 56% reported urine losses in the last 12 months, of which 71% never consulted the doctor about this problem. The answers about the barriers to consult were predominantly related to ignorance of the disease, shame and misconceptions about the treatment. The responses of the patients were unified and categorized within the 5 original domains. The new questionnaire retains three of the five domains of the BICS-Q, the domain "costs" and "related to the site" was removed and a new one was added on "lack of information". Conclusions: The Argentine version of the BICS-Q questionnaire is an instrument adapted for the evaluation of barriers to medical consultation due to urinary incontinence in spanish speaking women over 65 years of age. Results: The survey included 164 women, 56% reported urine losses in the last 12 months, of which 71% never consulted the doctor about this problem. The answers about the barriers to consult were predominantly related to ignorance of the disease, shame and misconceptions about the treatment. The responses of the patients were unified and categorized within the 5 original domains. The new questionnaire retains three of the five domains of the BICS-Q, the domain "costs" and "related to the site" was removed and a new one was added on "lack of information". Conclusions: The Argentine version of the BICS-Q questionnaire is an instrument adapted for the evaluation of barriers to medical consultation due to urinary incontinence in spanish speaking women over 65 years of age. Conclusions: The Argentine version of the BICS-Q questionnaire is an instrument adapted for the evaluation of barriers to medical consultation due to urinary incontinence in spanish speaking women over 65 years of age.

Introducción: La incontinencia urinaria es una patología muy frecuente en la población femenina, sin embargo permanece oculto por la falta de percepción de la entidad como un problema. El objetivo de este estudio es adaptar transculturalmente al español el cuestionario "Barriers to Incontinence Care Seeking" (BISC-Q). Material y método: Se realizó la adaptación transcultural del Cuestionario (BICS-Q) en las siguientes etapas: traducción inicial, síntesis de las traducciones, retro-traducción, comité de expertos, pre-prueba y revisión del proceso de adaptación por los investigadores. Luego se realizó una validación de contenido a través de una encuesta buscando nuevas barreras que no formaban parte del cuestionario original. Las respuestas de las pacientes fueron unificadas y categorizadas dentro de los 5 dominios originales. Se incluyeron pacientes mujeres de más de 65 años en un centro ambulatorio especializado en adultos mayores. Resultados: Se incluyeron 164 mujeres con una edad media de 72 años (DE 6.4), de ellas 92 (56%) refirieron pérdidas de orina en los últimos 12 meses, de las cuales 65 (71%) nunca consultó al médico. Las barreras más prevalentes para consultar al médico estuvieron predominantemente relacionadas con: desconocimiento de la enfermedad, vergüenza e ideas equivocadas sobre el tratamiento. El nuevo cuestionario conserva tres de los cinco dominios del BICS-Q, se eliminó "costos" y "relacionado al sitio" y se incorporó un nuevo dominio sobre "falta de información".Conclusiones: El cuestionario BICS-Q fue adaptado para la evaluación de barreras para la consulta médica por incontinencia urinaria en mujeres mayores de 65 años de habla castellana. Conclusiones: El cuestionario BICS-Q fue adaptado para la evaluación de barreras para la consulta médica por incontinencia urinaria en mujeres mayores de 65 años de habla castellana.

[Dual antiplatelet therapy for secondary stroke prevention in patients with acute ischemic stroke. CIERTO group recommendation]. / Doble terapia antiagregante en pacientes con accidente cerebrovascular isquémico agudo. Recomendación del grupo CIERTO.

One of the main pillars of acute ischemic stroke management is antiplatelet therapy. Different treatment schemes have been compared, suggesting that the combination of multiple antiplatelet drugs is associated with a reduced risk of stroke recurrence. However, it has also been associated with an increased risk of bleeding complications which, in the long term, surpass the mentioned benefits. However, considering that most stroke recurrences occur i n the short term, a time limited double antiplatelet scheme could result in significant benefits to patients with acute ischemic stroke. On this basis, we conducted a rapid systematic review of the literature in order to evaluate the effects of a short-term double antiplatelet therapy both on stroke recurrence and complications. All trials comparing double versus single antiplatelet therapy in patients with acute ischemic stroke were included. Results showed that double therapy reduces recurrence risk but probably marginally increases major bleeding complications. We suggest double antiplatelet therapy for the initial management of patients with minor (Score NIH < or equal to 3 or transient isquemic attack -TIA) acute ischemic stroke.

El inicio precoz del tratamiento con antiagregantes plaquetarios es considerado el estándar de cuidado para pacientes con accidente cerebrovascular isquémico agudo. Distintos esquemas de antiagregación se han comparado con resultados que sugieren que la combinación de múltiples antiagregantes se asocian a menor riesgo de recurrencia de accidente cerebrovascular (ACV) pero a expensas de un aumento en el riesgo de sangrado, lo que a largo plazo termina opacando dichos beneficos. Sin embargo, considerando que el riesgo de recurrencia de ACV es mayor en el periodo inmediato al evento, la indicación de doble tratamiento antiagregante por tiempos limitados podría asociarse a beneficios relevantes. Con este concepto, se realizó una revisión sistemática rápida con el objetivo de evaluar el efecto del tratamiento con doble antiagregación por un periodo corto intentando maximizar el beneficio y reducir al mínimo el riesgo de sangrado. Se incluyeron todos los estudios primarios identificados en los que se comparó un esquema de doble antiagregación, iniciado en el periodo agudo del evento índice (ACV o accidente isquémico transitorio - AIT), contra un esquema de simple antiagregación. El cuerpo de la evidencia mostró que la intervención (doble antiagregación) reduce el riesgo de recurrencia de ACV y probablemente se asocie a un aumento marginal en el riesgo de sangrado mayor. Sugerimos indicar doble esquema antiplaquetario para el tratamiento inicial de pacientes con ACV isquémico menor (Score NIH < o igual a 3 o AIT).

Outpatient minor oral surgery in patients with hemophilia: A case series of 23 patients.

Hemophilia is an inherited coagulation disorder characterized by deficiency of the coagulation factor VIII or IX. When the management of hemostasis is inadequate, these patients are at high risk of experiencing intra and postoperative bleedings after tooth extractions. Coagulation factor replacement therapy allows performing most surgical procedures safely, although the factor levels and length of treatment have not been clearly determined. In this study, we present our experience in a retrospective series of 112 ambulatory tooth extractions under local anesthesia in 23 patients with hemophilia using a coagulation factor replacement therapy in combination with tranexamic acid. The results obtained with this protocol were satisfactory and only one episode of mild postoperative bleeding occurred after seven days in a patient who did not have good treatment compliance. Key words:Hemophilia, factor replacement therapy, tooth extractions, postoperative complications.

Neck masses in aged patients: etiology and semiological features associated with malignancy / Masas cervicales en adultos mayores: Etiología y características semiológicas asociadas a malignidad

Abstract Introduction: The purposes of our study were to describe the distribution of diagnoses in a series of 273 patients over 65 years of age who presented for neck masses and to identify semiological fea tures associated with malignancy. Methods: Neck masses were categorized as congenital lesions (n = 7, 3%, 95% CI: 1%- 5%), inflammatory masses (n = 67, 25%, 95% CI: 19%- 30%), benign neoplasms (n = 77, 28%, 95% CI: 23%- 34%), and malignant neoplasms (n = 87, 32%, 95% CI: 26%- 38%). Results: A group of patients had discontinued care and, consequently, a definitive diagnosis could not be reached (n = 35, 12%). Age (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.00-1.12), male sex (OR 2.35, 95% CI 1.11-4.96), prior history of cancer (OR 2.66, 95% CI 1.02-6.92), mass fixation to skin or deep tissues (OR 4.87, 95% CI 2.20-10.76), and the involvement of multiple cervical lymph node levels (OR 4.15, 95% CI 1.64-10.51) were identified as semiological features associated with malignancy. Conclusion: In the case of a neck mass in an elderly patient, its neoplastic origin should be strongly suspected.

Resumen Introducción: El objetivo de nuestro estudio fue describir la distribución de diagnósticos en una serie de 273 pacientes mayores de 65 años que consultaron por masas cervicales e identificar características semiológicas asociadas a malignidad. Métodos: Las masas cervicales fueron categorizadas como lesiones congénitas (n = 7, 3%, 95% CI: 1%- 5%), masas de origen inflamatorio (n = 67, 25%, 95% CI: 19%-30%), neoplasias benignas (n = 77, 28%, 95% CI: 23%- 34%) y neoplasias malignas (n = 87, 32%, 95% CI: 26%-38%). Resultados: Un grupo de pacientes discontinuó el tratamiento y en consecuencia no fue posible alcanzar un diagnóstico defini tivo (n = 35, 12%). La edad (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.00-1.12), el sexo masculino (OR 2.35, 95% CI 1.11-4.96), los antecedentes de cáncer (OR 2.66, 95% CI 1.02-6.92), la fijación de la masa a los planos profundos o a piel (OR 4.87, 95% CI 2.20-10.76) y la afectación de más de un nivel ganglionar del cuello (OR 4.15, 95% CI 1.64-10.51) fueron identificados como características semiológicas asociadas a malignidad. Conclusión: En presencia de una masa cervical en un paciente adulto mayor debe existir una fuerte sospecha de origen neoplásico.