Patient Satisfaction with Nonopioid Postoperative Analgesia in Head and Neck Surgery: A Prospective Randomized Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate patients' satisfaction with opioid versus opioid-sparing postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing outpatient head and neck surgery. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective randomized trial. SETTING: Tertiary care academic hospital. METHODS: Adult patients undergoing outpatient head and neck surgery were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 analgesic regimens. First- and second-line medications were the following by group (1) Hydrocodone-acetaminophen with ibuprofen, (2) ibuprofen with hydrocodone-acetaminophen, and (3) ibuprofen with acetaminophen. Preoperative counseling was provided to patients regarding expected pain and proper medication use. Postoperative questionnaires were administered to assess satisfaction. RESULTS: One hundred three patients were enrolled in the study (mean age, 56.5 years; women, 75 [73%]). The mean satisfaction score with the pain regimen assigned was similar between the 3 groups (scale 0-10, [7.7, 8.3, 8.5, P = .46]). A similar percentage of patients in each group reported that surgery was more painful than anticipated (25%, 32%, 26%, P = .978), and a similar percentage of patients reported willingness to utilize the same analgesic regimen following future surgeries (75%, 83%, 76%, P = .682). Additional questions evaluating the side effect profile, maximum and minimum pain scores, and difficulty of recovery were not statistically different between the 3 groups. CONCLUSION: In the postoperative population for outpatient head and neck surgeries, there was no significant difference in patient satisfaction and pain control between the opioid and nonopioid arms. Providers should discuss opioid-sparing regimens preoperatively with patients and describe them as effective in providing adequate pain control without a significant impact on patient's perception of care.

Rewarding Effects of the Hallucinogen 4-AcO-DMT Administration and Withdrawal in Rats: A Challenge to the Opponent-Process Theory.

According to the opponent-process theory of drug addiction, the intake of an addictive substance initiates two processes: a rapid primary process that results in the drug's rewarding effects, and a slower opponent process that leads to the aversive motivational state of drug aftereffects. This aversive state is integral in the desire, pursuit, and maintenance of drug use, potentially leading to dependence and addiction. However, current observational and experimental evidence suggests that the administration of a 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors-type 2A (5-HT2A) agonist, while capable of inducing a positive mental state in humans, may not generate the behavioral patterns typically associated with drugs of abuse. In this study, we found that administering the 5-HT2A agonist 4-Acetoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine fumarate (4-AcO-DMT) did not result in place preference in male rats compared to control saline administration 24 h later, after the drug has been cleared from the organism. However, in a modified place preference test where only the acute motivational effects of the drug were evaluated (excluding withdrawal), 4-AcO-DMT was found to be rewarding. Furthermore, in another modified place preference test where only the motivational effects of drug withdrawal were evaluated (excluding the acute effects of drug administration), the 24-hour aftereffect of 5-HT2A agonist administration also resulted in a robust place preference. Therefore, while 4-AcO-DMT administration was able to induce place preference, its 24-hour aftereffect also produced a strong reward. In the counterbalanced test, this reward from the aftereffect effectively overshadowed its acute rewarding properties, which could potentially create a false impression that 4-AcO-DMT lacks motivational properties. This suggests that 5-HT2A agonist administration follows a different dynamic than that proposed by the opponent-process theory of motivation and implies that the administration of 5-HT2A agonists may lead to behavioral patterns less typical of drugs associated with addiction.

[Características demográficas y clínicas de los pacientes sometidos a artroscopia del manguito rotador del hombro: estudio observacional.] / Demographic and clinical characteristics of patients undergoing rotator cuff arthroscopy of the shoulder: an observational study.

OBJECTIVE: The most common cause of shoulder pain is clinical pictures related to rotator cuff problems. One of the most common treatments is arthroscopic surgery. The objective was to describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients undergoing this type of surgery in Spain. METHODS: A descriptive, observational and cross-sectional study with ninety participants was carried out. Data on age, sex, performance of work activity with overuse of upper limbs, body mass index (BMI), smoking habit, diagnosis of diabetes, performance of physical-sports activity and history of pre-surgical treatments were collected. Finally, a descriptive analysis of the variables and an analysis of correlations were carried out, using the Pearson and Spearman statistical test according to the type of variable. RESULTS: The mean age was 57.21 years with a standard deviation (SD) of 8.5 (95% CI, 55.41-59.00). Regarding their BMI, the mean was 28.49 with a SD of 4.9 (95% CI, 27.49-29.53), with 35.6% being obese (BMI greater than 30). The medical diagnosis of the subjects was 51.1% total rotator cuff tear. On the other hand, the intensity of physical activity was one hour or less per week in 87.8% of the sample. Finally, in relation to the previous physiotherapy treatment, 69.7% of the subjects had received some type of intervention. CONCLUSIONS: The demographic and clinical characteristics found are consistent with those of other previously studied populations, and the association factors between them endorse the previously mentioned risk factors, with advanced age gaining special importance.

OBJETIVO: La causa más común de dolor de hombro son los cuadros clínicos relacionados con problemas del manguito rotador. Uno de los tratamientos más habituales es la cirugía artroscópica. El objetivo del estudio fue describir las características clínicas y epidemiológicas de los pacientes sometidos a este tipo de cirugías en España. METODOS: Se realizó un estudio de tipo descriptivo, observacional y de corte transversal con noventa participantes. Se recogieron los datos de edad, sexo, realización de actividad laboral con sobreuso de miembros superiores (MMSS), índice de masa corporal (IMC), consumo de tabaco, diagnóstico de diabetes, realización de actividad física-deportiva y antecedentes de tratamientos prequirúrgicos. Finalmente, se realizó un análisis descriptivo de las variables y un análisis de correlaciones, mediante la prueba estadística de Pearson y Spearman según el tipo de variable. RESULTADOS: La media de edad fue de 57,21 años con una desviación estándar (DE) de 8,5 (Intervalo de Confianza [IC] del 95%, 55,41-59,00). En cuanto a su IMC, la media fue de 28,49 con una DE de 4,9 (IC del 95%, 27,49-29,53), siendo el 35,6% personas con obesidad (IMC mayor de 30). El diagnóstico médico de los sujetos fue en un 51,1% de rotura total del manguito rotador. Por otro lado, la intensidad de realización de actividad física fue de una hora o menos a la semana en el 87,8% de la muestra. Por último, en relación con el tratamiento previo de fisioterapia, el 69,7% de los sujetos habían recibido algún tipo de intervención. CONCLUSIONES: Las características demográficas y clínicas encontradas están en consonancia con las de otras poblaciones estudiadas previamente, y los factores de asociación entre ellas refrendan los factores de riesgo ya señalados previamente (edad, obesidad, sobreuso de MMSS), cobrando especial importancia la edad avanzada.

3D print model for surgical planning in a case of recurrent osteoblastic osteosarcoma of the left maxilla. A case report.

Osteosarcoma (OS) of the head and neck is a rare and aggressive disease characterized by the formation of osteoid by malignant osteoblasts. The mandible or maxilla are the most common sites of presentation. Radiologically, these tumors show considerable, destructive growth with periosteal reaction, which can suggest the diagnosis of OS. 3D printing, as an emerging technology, can play a role in orthopedic oncology by providing patient-specific 3D printed models to improve surgical planning and facilitate patient understanding. We present the case of a male in his early 30s with a final histological diagnosis of recurrent osteosarcoma of the left maxilla, where a 3D printed model was helpful for the diagnostic workup, surgical planning, and the procedure.

Case report: A combination of nitroglycerin and adenosine proves effective in repairing a cerebral arteriovenous malformation.

Hemorrhage secondary to rupture of a brain arteriovenous malformations (AVM) is one of the initial manifestations, and the main cause of, morbidity and mortality in patients with this condition. Current treatment strategies include endovascular embolization with the goal of AVM obliteration and neurological preservation. In the transvenous endovascular embolization procedure, adenosine is the preferred agent to induce temporary hypotension and allow adequate AVM embolization. We describe the intraoperative management of an adenosine-resistant 38 year-old male who underwent a successful intracranial AVM embolization after concomitant administration of gradually increasing doses of nitroglycerin. This report suggests that nitroglycerin infusion can be combined with adenosine boluses to create a pronounced and dose-dependent hypotension in patients partially unresponsive to adenosine alone.

Actitudes hacia el aborto deseado en estudiantes de ciencias de la salud chilenos / Attitudes towards wanted abortion among Chilean health sciences students

Introducción: La interrupción del embarazo mediando principalmente la voluntad de la mujer, es decir, cuando una mujer desea abortar para terminar su embarazo por cualquier razón, es un procedimiento controversial. Las actitudes individuales de los profesionales de la salud hacia este procedimiento influirían sobre la aceptación o el rechazo de realizarlo y, por ende, afectarían su acceso en el sistema de salud. Objetivo: Relacionar actitudes hacia la interrupción del embarazo con características sociodemográficas y académicas de estudiantes chilenos de enfermería, medicina y obstetricia y puericultura. Método: Estudio cuantitativo con diseño observacional, transversal y descriptivo. Reclutamos estudiantes universitarios con un muestreo no probabilístico. Recolectamos datos mediante cuestionarios virtuales autoadministrados. Preguntamos por la intención de realizar o asistir un aborto médico o quirúrgico frente a 15 escenarios distintos y creamos un índice con estas respuestas. Calculamos estadísticas descriptivas básicas y creamos modelos de regresión lineal. Consideramos significancia estadística si p < 0,05. Resultados: Participaron 229, 306 y 233 estudiantes de enfermería, medicina y obstetricia y puericultura, respectivamente (en total, 768). En el modelo de regresión lineal múltiple, declararse cristiano (β = −0,248) y afirmar que la religión es muy o totalmente importante en la vida (β = −0,269) se asociaron más fuertemente y de manera inversa y significativa con el índice de intención de realizar o asistir un aborto médico o quirúrgico. Conclusiones: La religión es un factor que influiría decisivamente sobre las actitudes hacia la interrupción del embarazo. Los escenarios más positivamente valorados podrían explicarse considerando que las leyes reflejarían los valores predominantes de una sociedad.

Introduction: Termination of pregnancy mediated primarily by the womans will, i.e., when a woman wishes to have an abortion to terminate her pregnancy for any reason, is a controversial procedure. The individual attitudes of health professionals towards this procedure would affect the degree of acceptance or rejection of performing this procedure and, therefore, would affect its accessibility in the health system. Objective: To relate attitudes towards abortion with sociodemographic and academic characteristics of Chilean nursing, medicine and midwifery students. Method: Quantitative study with observational, cross-sectional and descriptive design. We recruited university students with non-probabilistic sampling. We collected data through self-administered virtual questionnaires. We asked about the intention to perform an abortion in 15 different scenarios and created an index with these responses. We calculated basic descriptive statistics and created linear regression models. We considered statistical significance if p < 0.05. Results: 229, 306 and 233 students from nursing, medicine and midwifery participated, respectively (total: 768). In the multiple linear regression model, declaring oneself a Christian (β = −0.248) and stating that religion is very or totally important in life (β = −0.269) were inversely and significantly associated with the index of intention to perform an abortion. Conclusions: Religion is a factor that would decisively influence attitudes toward termination of pregnancy. The more positively valued scenarios could be explained by considering that laws would reflect the predominant values of a society.

Anesthetic Management Including Postoperative Regional Anesthesia in a Young Adult Patient With Von Willebrand Disease and Osteogenesis Imperfecta.

There are no established guidelines regarding anesthesia with a peripheral nerve block (PNB) in the young adult population with von Willebrand disease (vWD) type I. We present a case of a successful PNB outcome in a 20-year-old male patient with vWD type I, osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who underwent an intramedullary nailing surgery after suffering a left distal femur fracture secondary to a sports injury. Before the procedure, the patient was treated with HUMATE-P® [antihemophilic factor and von Willebrand factor (human)], ALPHANATE® (antihemophilic factor/von Willebrand factor complex), and aminocaproic acid for hematologic control. Left femoral and popliteal nerve blocks were performed for postoperative pain control. The patient was discharged home uneventfully three days after the surgery. In this case, PNB proved to be a safe and effective alternative in the management of a vWD type I young adult patient with comorbidities. Given the lack of established guidelines, a multidisciplinary team should be involved in the pre and perioperative management of these patients due to the risk of delayed bleeding.

An Update on Focal Therapy for Prostate Cancer.

Radical treatments and active surveillance are valid therapeutic approaches for low-risk prostate cancer. The oncologic effectiveness and morbidity of Radical Prostatectomy (RP) and radiotherapy have been broadly validated. Focal therapies pursue to reduce the morbidity observed after radical treatments, while preserving the oncologic effectiveness. This study aims to review the state-of-the-art about principles, oncologic effectiveness, morbidity, and side-effects associated with leading focal therapies. We review and summarize articles related with Cryotherapy, High-Intensity Focal Ultrasound (HIFU), Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), and Irreversible Electroporating (IRE) published in MEDLINE from 2000 to 2022. There is a wide heterogeneity in terms of the measurement of effectiveness and morbidity. Hence, comparing different energies, strategies and protocols seem to be unprecise and controversial. Cryosurgery and HIFU have reported more clinical experience than PDT and IRE. Biochemical recurrence rate after the first session varied from 4.5% to 23%, and up to 20% of patients underwent a salvage radical treatment. The reported incidence of erectile disfunction and urinary incontinence ranges from 3% to 50% and 0% to 34%, respectively. None randomized clinical trial comparing any focal therapy to any radical treatment has been published. We conclude that the expansion of focal therapies requires the consolidation of MRI-guided fusion biopsies in everyday clinical practice. Short-term oncologic effectiveness has been proved and supports their usefulness in low-risk patients unfit for surgical treatment. However, long-term effects and the clinical experience in intermediate and high-risk patients remains limited. Currently none of the focal therapies can be considered the Gold Standard for low-risk patients.

Incidence of Dysphonia and Dysphagia Exceeds Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Injury During Thyroid Surgery.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of separate and combined voice and swallowing impairments before and after total thyroidectomy and to delineate risk factors for these symptoms. METHODS: Retrospective review of 592 consecutive patients who underwent total thyroidectomy from July 2003 to August 2015. RESULTS: Combined voice and swallowing problems occurred preoperatively in 4.7% (11/234), 3.3% (3/92), and 6.0% (16/266) of patients with malignancy, hyperthyroidism, and benign euthyroid disease, respectively. Postoperatively, prevalence was 5.1%, 2.2%, and 1.9%, respectively. Benign euthyroid disease (20.7%) had the greatest risk of preoperative dysphagia (P = 0.003) and the largest glands (P < 0.001). Comparing before and after surgery, the cancer and benign euthyroid groups had decreased dysphagia (cancer: 11.5% vs. 6.0%, P = 0.034; benign: 20.7% vs. 3.8%, P < 0.001) but increased dysphonia (cancer: 19.2% vs. 28.6%, P = 0.017; benign: 15.8% vs. 27.1%, P = 0.002). Overall, 23/592 (3.9%) developed new dysphagia and 122/592 (20.6%) developed new dysphonia after surgery. Intraoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve transection occurred in 12 cases (2.0%). CONCLUSIONS: Total thyroidectomy resolved dysphagia but increased dysphonia in benign and malignant euthyroid patients. Voice and swallowing problems following thyroidectomy occurred more frequently than intraoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve transection, confirming symptoms often occur in the absence of suspected nerve injury.

Factores pronósticos de fallo de trombólisis en pacientes con diagnóstico de infarto agudo de miocardio / Prognostic factors of thrombolytic failure in patients diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction

RESUMEN Introducción: La medida terapéutica más importante en pacientes con infarto agudo de miocardio con supradesnivel del segmento ST es la reperfusión del territorio isquémico; la fibrinólisis es la estrategia primaria en muchos hospitales. El diagnóstico temprano de aquellos pacientes con riesgo de fallo de trombólisis es vital. Objetivo: Identificar los factores pronósticos de fallo de trombólisis en pacientes con diagnóstico de infarto agudo de miocardio con supradesnivel del segmento ST. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo y prospectivo que incluyó a pacientes atendidos en la Emergencia del Hospital Clínico-Quirúrgico «Joaquín Albarrán¼, con diagnóstico de la enfermedad antes mencionada, y tratados con estreptoquinasa recombinante, entre noviembre de 2018 hasta mayo de 2020. Fueron incluidos 66 pacientes en la investigación. Las variables analizadas fueron: Edad, sexo, hipertensión arterial, diabetes mellitus, tiempo entre inicio de síntomas y comienzo de fibrinólisis, localización del infarto, duración del complejo QRS, duración y profundidad de onda. Resultados: Hubo fallo de trombólisis en 27 pacientes (40,9 %). Las variables: Tiempo de realización de trombólisis, duración y profundidad de la onda Q, así como la duración del QRS mostraron valores con diferencias significativas entre ambos grupos (p<0,05). El análisis multivariado confirmó la duración y profundidad de la onda Q como factores independientes, predictores de fallo de trombólisis: (OR= 14,50; IC 95 % 1,58-132,33); (OR: 1,69; IC 95 % 1,27-2,26), respectivamente. Conclusiones: El análisis de la profundidad y duración de la onda Q en el electrocardiograma inicial de los pacientes estudiados, permite predecir a una subpoblación de pacientes con riesgo de fallo de trombólisis.

ABSTRACT Introduction: the most important therapeutic measure in patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction is reperfusion of the ischemic territory; fibrinolysis is the primary strategy in many hospitals. Early diagnosis of those patients with risk of failed thrombolysis is vital. Objective: to identify prognostic factors of thrombolytic failure in patients diagnosed with ST- segment elevation acute myocardial infarction. Methods: a descriptive and prospective study including patients treated in the Emergency department at "Joaquín Albarrán" Clinical and Surgical Hospital, who were diagnosed with the previously mentioned disease and treated with recombinant streptokinase, between November 2018 and May 2020. A number of 66 patients were included in the investigation. Age, gender, arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, time between onset of symptoms and onset of fibrinolysis, location of the infarction, QRS complex duration, duration and depth of the wave were the analyzed variables. Results: thrombolysis failed in 27 patients (40.9%). Time of performing thrombolysis, duration and depth of the Q wave, as well as the QRS duration showed values with significant differences between both groups (p<0.05). The multivariate analysis confirmed the duration and depth of the Q wave as independent factors, predictors of thrombolysis failure: (OR= 14.50; 95% CI 1.58-132.33); (OR: 1.69; 95% CI 1.27-2.26), respectively. Conclusions: the analysis of the depth and duration of the Q wave in the initial electrocardiogram of the studied patients allows us to predict a subpopulation of patients with risk of failed thrombolysis.

Spinal cord compression of neoplastic origin: surgical experience using a common clinical language.

PURPOSE: To assess the value of a common clinical language in a multidisciplinary tumour board for spinal metastasis, using both the Rades score and the Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score (SINS) for multidisciplinary decision-making. METHODS: Retrospective study of 60 consecutive patients treated surgically for MSCC. The indication for surgery was done in a multidisciplinary board, basically according to SINS and RADES scores. Three prognostic groups were defined according to the Rades score: poor (Rades 1: 20-30 points), intermediate (Rades 2: 31-35), and good (Rades 3: 36-45). RESULTS: The 2-year overall survival (OS) rate was 50%, with median survival of 19 months. By Rades prognostic group (1, 2, 3), median OS was 6 months, 15 months, and not reached, respectively. OS rates at 6 months (Rades 1, 2, 3) were 51, 69, and 74.1%, respectively. Within the Rades 1 group, 6-month survival in patients with new-onset cancer was 68 vs. 40% in those with a known primary. The overall complication rate ≥ grade 3 was 23.3% (n = 14). In patients who underwent urgent surgery (< 48 h), the complication rate was 45.5% (5/11) versus 18.3% (9/49) in the planned surgeries. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings supports the utility of using a common language in multidisciplinary tumour board for spinal metastasis. The 2-year OS rate in this series was 50%, which is the highest OS reported to date in this population. In the poor prognosis subgroup (Rades 1), OS at 6 months was higher in patients with new-onset cancer versus those with a known primary (68 vs. 40%). These findings suggest that surgery should be the first treatment option in patients with MSCC as first symptom of cancer although a predicted poor prognosis.

Administration of BDNF in the ventral tegmental area produces a switch from a nicotine-non-dependent D1R-mediated motivational state to a nicotine-dependent-like D2R-mediated motivational state.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been implicated in the transition from a non-dependent motivational state to a drug-dependent and drug-withdrawn motivational state. Chronic nicotine can increase BDNF in the rodent brain and is associated with smoking severity in humans; however, it is unknown whether this increased BDNF is linked functionally to the switch from a nicotine-non-dependent to a nicotine-dependent state. We used a place conditioning paradigm to measure the conditioned responses to nicotine, showing that a dose of acute nicotine that non-dependent male mice find aversive is found rewarding in chronic nicotine-treated mice experiencing withdrawal. A single BDNF injection in the ventral tegmental area (in the absence of chronic nicotine treatment) caused mice to behave as if they were nicotine dependent and in withdrawal, switching the neurobiological substrate mediating the conditioned motivational effects from dopamine D1 receptors to D2 receptors. Quantification of gene expression of BDNF and its receptor, tropomyosin-receptor-kinase B (TrkB), revealed an increase in TrkB mRNA but not BDNF mRNA in the VTA in nicotine-dependent and nicotine-withdrawn mice. These results suggest that BDNF signalling in the VTA is a critical neurobiological substrate for the transition to nicotine dependence. The modulation of BDNF signalling may be a promising new pharmacological avenue for the treatment of addictive behaviour.

Evaluación de la calidad de la asistencia pre hospitalaria de pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo / Quality Assessment of Prehospital Care for Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome

Introducción: La atención médica en el síndrome coronario agudo ha de ir encaminada a tratar, de manera inmediata, las situaciones que puedan comprometer la vida. Los servicios primarios de salud deben ser capaces de administrar una asistencia médica adecuada en la fase aguda prehospitalaria. Objetivos: Evaluar la calidad de la asistencia prehospitalaria de pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo, Métodos: Estudio descriptivo, transversal. Se incluyeron los pacientes atendidos en el Hospital Joaquín Albarrán, en el período enero 2018 - enero 2020, remitidos desde la atención prehospitalaria con el diagnóstico de síndrome coronario agudo. Los datos fueron obtenidos de la remisión del área de salud. Se emplearon 7 criterios para evaluar la calidad de la asistencia. Se utilizó análisis de distribución de frecuencias y fue calculado el porcentaje de cumplimiento de cada uno de los criterios utilizados. Resultados: Se incluyeron 427 pacientes, que tuvieron una edad promedio de 63,2 años. Hubo predominio del sexo masculino y el dolor precordial típico fue la forma de presentación más frecuente. De los siete criterios de calidad, cinco fueron cumplidos de forma satisfactoria. El porcentaje de cumplimiento en el caso de la realización de trombólisis resultó ser de 30,8 por ciento. Conclusiones: Aunque, de manera general, la calidad de la asistencia prehospitalaria que se brinda a pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo es satisfactoria, el uso de la trombólisis no fue óptimo(AU)

Introduction: Medical care in acute coronary syndrome must be aimed at treating, immediately, situations that may compromise life. Primary health services must be able to provide adequate medical care in the acute prehospital phase. Objectives: To assess the quality of prehospital care for patients with acute coronary syndrome, Methods: Descriptive and cross-sectional study carried out with patients treated at Joaquín Albarrán Hospital, in the period from January 2018 to January 2020, referred from prehospital care with a diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome. The data were obtained from the referral records from the health area. Seven criteria were used to assess the quality of care. Frequency distribution analysis was used and percentage of compliance with each of the criteria used was calculated. Results: The study included 427 patients, who had an average age of 63.2 years. There was a predominance of males and typical chest pain was the most frequent onset form. Of the seven quality criteria, five were met satisfactorily. The compliance percentage in the case of thrombolysis was 30.8 percent. Conclusions: Although, in general, the quality of prehospital care provided to patients with acute coronary syndrome is satisfactory, the use of thrombolysis was not optimal(AU)

Endonasal resection of orbital cavernous venous malformations with septal preservation.

PURPOSE: Multiple surgical approaches have been described to maximize visualization and accessibility for resection while minimizing morbidity in the patient with orbital intraconal tumors. Transnasal endoscopic approaches have become increasingly standard in select orbital cavernous venous malformations but often require a partial septectomy. The purpose of this manuscript is to communicate a septal preserving modified transseptal approach. METHODS: A 37-year old male was found to have an inferomedial intraconal orbital mass, measuring up to 2.6 cm on magnetic resonance imaging. Binarial transseptal access with septal preservation was obtained with a Killian incision on the right and a small incision in the midseptum on the left. RESULTS: Successful tumor delivery through the nasal cavity resulted in orbital relaxation. Postoperative evaluation of the septum demonstrated an intact septum with nearly no evidence of septal trauma from surgical manipulation. CONCLUSION: This technique is easily performed and affords adequate visualization and freedom of movement as traditional binarial transseptal approaches without the disadvantages of partial septal loss such as increased crusting, olfactory disturbance, and loss of nasoseptal flaps.

Empleo del ecocardiograma transtorácico en salas de emergencias / Use of the transthoracic echocardiography in emergency rooms

RESUMEN Introducción: la ecocardiografía ha significado una de las más espectaculares revoluciones en el campo de las ciencias médicas de los últimos cien años. Objetivo: describir algunas indicaciones del ecocardiograma transtorácico en enfermos críticos así como de los cambios terapéuticos inducidos por su resultado. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal, entre el 1 de noviembre de 2018 hasta el 31 de enero de 2020 en los servicios de emergencia del Hospital Docente Clínico-Quirúrgico Joaquín Albarrán, en la provincia de La Habana, Cuba. El universo de estudio estuvo constituido por los pacientes (89 en total) que arribaron al servicio de emergencia con inestabilidad hemodinámica en el período señalado; a todos se les realizó un ecocardiograma transtorácico. Resultados: se realizaron 106 ecocardiogramas transtorácicos, y la mayor parte de los pacientes presentaron enfermedades clínicas. En el 100 % de los pacientes fue posible adquirir imágenes útiles para el diagnóstico. En promedio, fueron utilizadas 1,9±1 ventanas acústicas por pacientes; después de la realización del ecocardiograma se realizaron 44 modificaciones terapéuticas (41,5 %). Los cambios más importantes estuvieron relacionados con el aporte de fluidos y el uso de dobutamina. Conclusiones: el ecocardiograma transtorácico, en el contexto de la emergencia, puede ofrecer información clave que conlleve a cambios importantes en la terapéutica.

ABSTRACT Introduction: echocardiography has meant one of the most spectacular revolutions in the field of medical sciences in the last hundred years. Objective: to describe some indications of the transthoracic echocardiography in critically ill patients as well as the therapeutic changes induced by its result. Methods: a descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out between November 1, 2018 and January 31, 2020 in the emergency services at "Joaquín Albarrán" Clinical and Surgical Teaching Hospital, Havana province, Cuba. The study universe consisted of patients (89 in total) who arrived at the emergency service with hemodynamic instability in the indicated period; all underwent a transthoracic echocardiography. Results: 106 transthoracic echocardiograms were performed, and most of the patients had clinical diseases. It was possible to acquire useful images for the diagnosis in 100% of the patients. On average, 1.9 ± 1 acoustic windows were used per patient; 44 therapeutic modifications were made (41.5%) after performing the echocardiogram. The most important changes were related to fluid intake and the use of dobutamine. Conclusions: the transthoracic echocardiography, in the emergency context, can offer key information that leads to important changes in therapy.

Distribución geográfica y colaboración internacional de las publicaciones científicas latinoamericanas y del Caribe sobre tuberculosis en PubMed / Geographical distribution and international collaboration of Latin American and Caribbean scientific publications on tuberculosis in Pubmed

RESUMEN Objetivo: Describir la cobertura geográfica de las publicaciones científicas de América Latina y el Caribe sobre tuberculosis y su colaboración internacional. Materiales y métodos: Los registros fueron recuperados de la base de datos bibliográfica PubMed (2009-2018), limitando la búsqueda a países latinoamericanos y del Caribe. Los artículos se analizaron en varias categorías, como número total, países participantes, instituciones, autores, colaboraciones y citas. Se utilizó el software UCINET y VOSviewer para representar las redes de colaboración. Resultados: Se recuperaron 2495 artículos, 4,2% de la producción mundial. Más de la mitad de las investigaciones proceden de Brasil (52,5%), México (16,6%) y Perú (10,5%). El 97,6% de la producción presenta coautoría, con una tasa de colaboración internacional del 24,5%. Los países con mayor producción en colaboración internacional son Brasil (39,1%), Perú (26,8%) y México (16%), además son los que presentan mejor centralidad, cercanía e intermediación. Estados Unidos (11,9%), Reino Unido (5,8%), Francia (2,1%), España y Suiza (1,7%), Sudáfrica (1,7%) e Italia (1,6%), son los principales colaboradores con Latinoamérica. Conclusión: Brasil, junto a Perú y México, es líder de la producción científica sobre tuberculosis en Latinoamérica y el Caribe, por el volumen de artículos y su posición en la red de colaboración. La erradicación de la tuberculosis pasa por continuar investigando en colaboración internacional, y así llevar a cabo políticas de salud más efectivas en tuberculosis.

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective of the study was to describe the geographical coverage of Latin American and Caribbean scientific publications on tuberculosis and its international collaboration. Materials and methods: The records were retrieved from the PubMed database (2009-2018), limiting the search to Latin American and Caribbean countries. Articles were analyzed in several categories, such as the total number, countries, institutions, authors, collaborations, and citations. The software UCINET and VOSviewer were used. Results: 2,495 items were recovered, 4.2% of world production. More than half of the research came from Brazil (52.5%), Mexico (16.6%) and Peru (10.5%). 97.6% of the production is co-authored, with a rate of international collaboration of 24.5%. The countries with the highest production in international collaboration are Brazil (39.1%), Peru (26.8%) and Mexico (16%); they are also the countries with the best OutDegree, OutCloseness and Betweenness. The United States (11.9%), United Kingdom (5.8%), France (2.1%), Spain and Switzerland (1.7%), South Africa (1.7%) and Italy (1.6%) are the main collaborators with Latin America. Conclusion: Brazil, together with Peru and Mexico, is the undisputed leader in Latin American and Caribbean tuberculosis production, due to the volume of articles and its position in the collaborative network. The eradication of tuberculosis requires continuing research in international collaboration, to carry out more effective health policies on tuberculosis.

Distribución geográfica y colaboración internacional de las publicaciones científicas latinoamericanas y del Caribe sobre tuberculosis en PubMed / Geographical distribution and international collaboration of Latin American and Caribbean scientific publications on tuberculosis in Pubmed

RESUMEN Objetivo: Describir la cobertura geográfica de las publicaciones científicas de América Latina y el Caribe sobre tuberculosis y su colaboración internacional. Materiales y métodos: Los registros fueron recuperados de la base de datos bibliográfica PubMed (2009-2018), limitando la búsqueda a países latinoamericanos y del Caribe. Los artículos se analizaron en varias categorías, como número total, países participantes, instituciones, autores, colaboraciones y citas. Se utilizó el software UCINET y VOSviewer para representar las redes de colaboración. Resultados: Se recuperaron 2495 artículos, 4,2% de la producción mundial. Más de la mitad de las investigaciones proceden de Brasil (52,5%), México (16,6%) y Perú (10,5%). El 97,6% de la producción presenta coautoría, con una tasa de colaboración internacional del 24,5%. Los países con mayor producción en colaboración internacional son Brasil (39,1%), Perú (26,8%) y México (16%), además son los que presentan mejor centralidad, cercanía e intermediación. Estados Unidos (11,9%), Reino Unido (5,8%), Francia (2,1%), España y Suiza (1,7%), Sudáfrica (1,7%) e Italia (1,6%), son los principales colaboradores con Latinoamérica. Conclusión: Brasil, junto a Perú y México, es líder de la producción científica sobre tuberculosis en Latinoamérica y el Caribe, por el volumen de artículos y su posición en la red de colaboración. La erradicación de la tuberculosis pasa por continuar investigando en colaboración internacional, y así llevar a cabo políticas de salud más efectivas en tuberculosis.

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective of the study was to describe the geographical coverage of Latin American and Caribbean scientific publications on tuberculosis and its international collaboration. Materials and methods: The records were retrieved from the PubMed database (2009-2018), limiting the search to Latin American and Caribbean countries. Articles were analyzed in several categories, such as the total number, countries, institutions, authors, collaborations, and citations. The software UCINET and VOSviewer were used. Results: 2,495 items were recovered, 4.2% of world production. More than half of the research came from Brazil (52.5%), Mexico (16.6%) and Peru (10.5%). 97.6% of the production is co-authored, with a rate of international collaboration of 24.5%. The countries with the highest production in international collaboration are Brazil (39.1%), Peru (26.8%) and Mexico (16%); they are also the countries with the best OutDegree, OutCloseness and Betweenness. The United States (11.9%), United Kingdom (5.8%), France (2.1%), Spain and Switzerland (1.7%), South Africa (1.7%) and Italy (1.6%) are the main collaborators with Latin America. Conclusion: Brazil, together with Peru and Mexico, is the undisputed leader in Latin American and Caribbean tuberculosis production, due to the volume of articles and its position in the collaborative network. The eradication of tuberculosis requires continuing research in international collaboration, to carry out more effective health policies on tuberculosis.

Consideration in Microvascular Reconstruction during Times of Social Crises: Perspectives on Resource Utilization.

Reconstruction of head and neck surgical defects can be a complicated, costly process. While the era of cost-effective medicine has begun to broadly question the necessity of high-cost care, times of extraordinary sociomedical demand bring increased scrutiny to even routine costs and resource utilization. Within this context, we reviewed the advantages, drawbacks, and financial costs of both regional and free flap reconstructions, namely the decreased costs and hospital resource utilization that may be associated with reconstruction using regional flaps. Although beset by reports of partial necrosis in certain regional flaps-particularly the submental island, cervicofacial advancement, and supraclavicular artery island flaps-many reports have demonstrated complication and flap failure rates equivalent to those of free flaps. Additionally, regional flaps have been associated with decreased costs for hospital stay, most notably in cases of postoperative complications. In cases necessitating free flap reconstruction, cost-savings strategies such as bypassing postoperative intensive care unit admissions have been shown to provide satisfactory, safe outcomes. As the head and neck surgeon continues to adapt to the medical pressures of a global pandemic, resource-sparing approaches to oncologic care will persist in their newfound importance.

Successful Implementation of a Quality Improvement Intervention Toward a QOPI-Certified Breast Cancer Center in Mexico.

INTRODUCTION: As part of a quality improvement (QI) project undertaken during the 2018 edition of the American Society of Clinical Oncology's Quality Training Program (QTP), we evaluated our practice's compliance to 70 measures regarding the Core, Symptom/Toxicity and Breast Cancer modules from the Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI) database. Thirteen measures were identified as being consistently low in documentation rate in our medical records (MR). METHODS: After establishing a multidisciplinary QI team, we defined to accomplish 100% documentation rate of these 13 QOPI measures in ≥ 80% of the monthly new patient MRs during the 6-month QTP. We designed a Microsoft Word MR template and implemented a new pre-consultation process. Monthly Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles were conducted to assess the performance of the intervention. RESULTS: After the 6-month QI intervention, > 80% of our monthly MRs achieved 100% compliance to the aimed-for 13 QOPI measures. Furthermore, our new pre-consultation process proved to be valuable in facilitating the documentation of data without interfering with the oncology appointment. CONCLUSION: The development of a systematic QI approach effectively enhanced our compliance to 13 QOPI measures over a 6-month period. These results led to the standardization of the current model of care at our institution. To our knowledge, Hospital Zambrano Hellion's Breast Cancer Center is the first Mexican cancer center to pursue a QOPI certified practice.

Short inter-pregnancy interval and pregnancy-associated breast cancer.

The relationship between pregnancy and breast cancer risk is not fully understood. Most of the literature has described this interaction in terms of the age at first pregnancy and the number of full-term pregnancies. During the prospective accrual of the "Joven & Fuerte: Program for young women with breast cancer in Mexico" cohort, a series of cases with pregnancy-associated breast cancer and a history of a short inter-pregnancy interval was identified. To date, there is a very limited number of descriptions about the interaction between a short inter-pregnancy interval and breast cancer, but none specifically regarding the association of a short inter-pregnancy interval and pregnancy-associated breast cancer. Based on findings from a prospective cohort of young Mexican breast cancer patients, we hypothesize that a short inter-pregnancy interval may increase the incidence of pregnancy-associated breast cancer, possibly by amplifying the effects of the pregnancy-associated factors involved in the development of breast cancer.