Prospective, multi-centric, international, single-arm, cohort study to assess a synthetic polyamide suture material in oral surgery to close the mucosa - MUCODA study.

OBJECTIVES: The aim was to collect different clinical parameters systematically and proactively regarding safety, effectiveness, and performance of a nylon monofilament suture under routine clinical practice for oral surgery. METHODS: The study design was prospective, bicentric, international, single-armed, and observational. A non-absorbable suture was applied to close the mucosa after different dental surgical interventions. Main objective was the incidence of combined postoperative complications until suture removal. The 95 % Confidence Interval (Agresti-Coull method) was used to prove the non-inferiority with a pre-specified upper margin of 21.9 %. Secondary variables were intraoperative suture handling, patient pain and satisfaction, wound healing, aesthetic appearance, and bacterial contamination. RESULTS: 105 patients were enrolled. Complication rate was low (1.9 %), 2 swellings occurred. Pain was present for 1.61 days ± 1.42 after various dental interventions with an average pain level of 20.98 ± 22.60 (VAS). Patients with impacted third molar extraction showed the longest pain duration (6 days) combined with the highest mean pain level of 35.33 ± 30.45 (VAS). Intraoperative suture handling was very good to excellent. Suture removal was done after an average duration of 7.56 ± 2.09 days. Patient's satisfaction was high, and an excellent wound healing was reported by the dentists. Aesthetic appearance only performed in implant patients was rated by oral surgeons with an average of 96.19 ± 3.79 points [min. 80 - max. 100] at 5 months postoperatively. Thread bacterial analysis showed that F. nucleatum was the most present species. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate that the non-absorbable, nylon-based monofilament suture used is safe and quite suitable for oral mucosal closure after various dental surgical interventions such as tooth extraction, implant placement and impacted third molar extraction. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This study showed the safe use of a non-absorbable, nylon-based monofilament suture for different oral surgical interventions under daily routine clinical practice.

Comparative response to PDT with methyl-aminolevulinate and temoporfin in cutaneous and oral squamous cell carcinoma cells.

Cutaneous and Head and Neck squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC, HNSCC) are among the most prevalent cancers. Both types of cancer can be treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT) by using the photosensitizer Temoporfin in HNSCC and the prodrug methyl-aminolevulinate (MAL) in CSCC. However, PDT is not always effective. Therefore, it is mandatory to correctly approach the therapy according to the characteristics of the tumour cells. For this reason, we have used cell lines of CSCC (A431 and SCC13) and HNSCC (HN5 and SCC9). The results obtained indicated that the better response to MAL-PDT was related to its localization in the plasma membrane (A431 and HN5 cells). However, with Temoporfin all cell lines showed lysosome localization, even the most sensitive ones (HN5). The expression of mesenchymal markers and migratory capacity was greater in HNSCC lines compared to CSCC, but no correlation with PDT response was observed. The translocation to the nucleus of ß-catenin and GSK3ß and the activation of NF-κß is related to the poor response to PDT in the HNSCC lines. Therefore, we propose that intracellular localization of GSK3ß could be a good marker of response to PDT in HNSCC. Although the molecular mechanism of response to PDT needs further elucidation, this work shows that the most MAL-resistant line of CSCC is more sensitive to Temoporfin.

[Translated article] Reflectance Confocal Microscopy Terminology in Spanish: A Delphi Consensus Study.

The terminology used to describe reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) findings in both melanocytic and nonmelanocytic lesions has been standardized in English. We convened a panel of Spanish-speaking RCM experts and used the Delphi method to seek consensus on which Spanish terms best describe RCM findings in this setting. The experts agreed on 52 terms: 28 for melanocytic lesions and 24 for nonmelanocytic lesions. The resulting terminology will facilitate homogenization, leading to a better understanding of structures, more standardized descriptions in clinical registries, and easier interpretation of clinical reports exchanged between dermatologists.

Reflectance Confocal Microscopy Terminology in Spanish: A Delphi Consensus Study. / Consenso de terminología en microscopia confocal de reflectancia en español mediante método Delphi.

The terminology used to describe reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) findings in both melanocytic and nonmelanocytic lesions has been standardized in English. We convened a panel of Spanish-speaking RCM experts and used the Delphi method to seek consensus on which Spanish terms best describe RCM findings in this setting. The experts agreed on 52 terms: 28 for melanocytic lesions and 24 for nonmelanocytic lesions. The resulting terminology will facilitate homogenization, leading to a better understanding of structures, more standardized descriptions in clinical registries, and easier interpretation of clinical reports exchanged between dermatologists.

Quality of life and functional outcomes in tongue cancer patients: a long-term, prospective, comparative study.

BACKGROUND: The tongue has an indispensable role in communication, swallowing and breathing. Tongue cancer treatment involves direct resection of the tumor and surrounding tissue, which can limit many essential functions of the tongue. There are few patient-reported quality of life studies involving tongue cancer exclusively. There is also a lack of data on the outcomes of quality of life regarding different reconstructive methods, adjuvant non-surgical therapies and other predicting factors. Our objective is to assess the quality of life, functional status, and predicting factors in patients with tongue cancer up to one year after surgical resection. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty-six patients with tongue cancer were prospectively identified between October of 2017 and January 2021. Patients were examined before and one, three, six and twelve months after surgical resection with the validated University of Washington Quality of Life questionnaire (UW-QOL). Data collection included patient age, sex, TNM staging, size of resection, neck dissection, tracheostomy, reconstructive method and adjuvant therapies. Outcome scores were compared using the Friedman test. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify the predictors of quality of life and functional status. RESULTS: The use of UWQOL scores as dependent variables revealed the following predicting factors: age, tobacco use, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, reconstruction method and neck dissection. CONCLUSIONS: The most relevant findings in our study are that flap reconstruction becomes increasingly necessary when a glossectomy resection is over 45 mm, in order to maintain tongue function. We established that the reconstructive flap type does not influence quality of life in the long term. Also, we have found that cervical sentinel node biopsy provides better quality of life over neck dissection in the first 3 months after surgery.

Membranas amnióticas y su aplicación en el tratamiento de quemaduras: una revisión sistemática exploratoria

Las quemaduras son un problema de interés en salud pública ya que generan un alto índice de morbimortalidad a nivel mundial, las quemaduras térmicas son las más prevalentes y pueden alterar la integridad anatómica, funcional y estética de la piel, aspectos fundamentales para la autoestima del paciente y su capacidad para reintegrarse a la sociedad. Al revisar la literatura sobre el tratamiento de estas afecciones encontramos diversos tratamientos, entre ellos el uso de membrana amniótica humana, la cual ha tenido un impacto importante en el manejo de quemaduras al funcionar como andamio biológico con cualidades regenerativas y antiinflamatorias. El presente artículo tiene como objetivo sintetizar la información actual que describe las aplicaciones de membranas amnióticas humanas en quemaduras, realizamos una revisión exploratoria sistemática de la literatura desde 2010 hasta 2021.

Burns are a problem of interest in public health since they generate a high rate of morbidity and mortality worldwide, thermal burns are the most prevalent and can alter the anatomical, functional and aesthetic integrity of the skin, fundamental aspects for the patient's self-esteem and their ability to reintegrate into society. At review literature about the treatment of these conditions, we find various treatments, including the use of human amniotic membrane, which has had a significant impact on burn management by functioning as a biological scaffold with regenerative and anti-inflammatory qualities. The present article aims to synthesize the current information that describes the applications of human amniotic membranes in burns. We carry out a systematic exploratory review of the literature from 2010 to 2021.

Evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of combined oral and topical photoprotection with a standardized extract of Polypodium leucotomos (Fernblock®) in a Moroccan population with xeroderma pigmentosum.

BACKGROUND: Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a rare autosomal-recessive genodermatosis resulting from a DNA-repair defect syndrome. The purpose was to evaluate the prevention on new malignant lesions in patients taking a supplement with Fernblock® (Polypodium leucotomos extract [PLE]) and secondarily correlation with the photoprotective behavior. METHODS: A prospective, single-center and open cohort study was conducted over a 12-month period. The study was performed in Morocco. Optimal photoprotection behavior was recommended. Patients were instructed to take one capsule containing 480 mg of Fernblock® and 5 mcg vitamin D and to apply sunscreen with a SPF50+ and Fernblock® every 2 h during sun exposure. The demographic, clinical, and dermatoscopic patient data were collected at baseline (T0) and following visits at 3 months (T3), 6 months (T6), and 12 months (T12) when it was assessed: Investigator Global Assessment (IGA), Patient/Guardian Global Assessment (PGA), Patient/Guardian Satisfaction Questionnaire, and Photographic and Adverse Events Registration. Pertinent statistical study was performed. RESULTS: Eighteen patients completed the study. Eleven patients (61%) finished the study without new lesions. Seven patients developed new lesions by the end of the study. Among them, only 30% showed an ideal photoprotective behavior. The lack of an optimal photoprotective behavior increased the probability of developing lesions by 2.5 times with 95% confidence interval. CONCLUSIONS: In our study, more than 60% of patients taking a supplement with Fernblock® did not develop new lesions, and furthermore, we detected that patients following almost ideal photoprotection were 2.5 times less likely to develop NMSC lesions.

Bypassing the Need for Cell Permeabilization: Nanobody CDR3 Peptide Improves Binding on Living Bacteria.

Membrane interaction constitutes to be an essential parameter in the mode of action of entities such as proteins, as well as cell-penetrating and antimicrobial peptides, resulting in noninvasive or lytic activities depending on the membrane compositions and interactions. Recently, a nanobody able to interact with the top priority, multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii was discovered, although binding took place with fixed cells only. To potentially overcome this limitation, linear peptides corresponding to the complementarity-determining regions (CDR) were synthesized and fluorescently labeled. Microscopy data indicated clear membrane interactions of the CDR3 sequence with living A. baumannii cells, indicating both the importance of the CDR3 as part of the parent nanobody paratope and the improved binding ability and thus avoiding the need for permeabilization of the cells. In addition, cyclization of the peptide with an additionally introduced rigidifying 1,2,3-triazole bridge retains its binding ability while proteolytically protecting the peptide. Overall, this study resulted in the discovery of novel peptides binding a multidrug-resistant pathogen.

Intestinal intussusception in adults: Location, causes, symptoms, and therapeutic management.

OBJECTIVE: Intestinal intussusception is difficult to diagnose in adults because the symptoms are nonspecific. However, most have structural causes that require surgical treatment. This paper reviews the epidemiologic characteristics, imaging findings, and therapeutic management of intussusception in adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study identified patients diagnosed with intestinal intussusception who required admission to our hospital between 2016 and 2020. Of the 73 cases identified, 6 were excluded due to coding errors and 46 were excluded because the patients were aged <16 years. Thus, 21 cases in adults (mean age, 57 years) were analyzed. RESULTS: The most common clinical manifestation was abdominal pain, reported in 8 (38%) cases. In CT studies, the target sign yielded 100% sensitivity. The most common site of intussusception was the ileocecal region, reported in 8 (38%) patients. A structural cause was identified in 18 (85.7%) patients, and 17 (81%) patients required surgery. The pathology findings were concordant with the CT findings in 94.1% of cases; tumours were the most frequent cause (6 (35.3%) benign and 9 (64.7%) malignant). CONCLUSIONS: CT is the first-choice test for the diagnosis of intussusception and plays a crucial role in determining its aetiology and therapeutic management.

Impact of 3-dimensional anatomical changes secondary to orthognathic surgery on voice resonance and articulatory function: a prospective study.

An evaluation was made of the impact of orthognathic surgery (OS) on speech, addressing in particular the effects of skeletal and airway changes on voice resonance characteristics and articulatory function. A prospective study was carried out involving 29 consecutive patientssubjected to OS. Preoperative, and short and long-term postoperative evaluations were made of anatomical changes (skeletal and airway measurements), speech evolution (assessed objectively by acoustic analysis: fundamental frequency, local jitter, local shimmer of each vowel, and formants F1 and F2 of vowel /a/), and articulatory function (use of compensatory musculature, point of articulation, and speech intelligibility). These were also assessed subjectively by means of a visual analogue scale. Articulatory function after OS showed immediate improvement and had further progressed at one year of follow up. This improvement significantly correlated with the anatomical changes, and was also notably perceived by the patient. On the other hand, although a slight modification in vocal resonance was reported and seen to correlate with anatomical changes of the tongue, hyoid bone, and airway, it was not subjectively perceived by the patients. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that OS had beneficial effects on articulatory function and imperceptible subjective changes in a patient's voice. Patients subjected to OS, apart from benefitting from improved articulatory function, should not be afraid that they will not recognise their voice after treatment.

Identifying prognostic parameters related to surgical technique in patients treated by robotic radical prostatectomy.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: The most frequently studied factors in patients treated by robotic radical prostatectomy are PSA and pathological features of the biopsy and prostatectomy specimen. Studies on the factors associated with the surgical technique are scarce and with controversial results. The objective is to identify all possible surgical factors and their relationship with disease-free and metastasis-free survival. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Prospective study approved by the Ethics Committee, including patients who underwent robotic radical prostatectomy since January 2009 with a minimum follow-up of 5 years. Surgeon, surgical time, blood loss, fascial access, continence techniques, preservation of the fascia, neurovascular bundles, bladder neck, urethra, learning curve and surgical complications, were analyzed as possible prognostic factors. We performed univariate and matched comparisons of survival using Kaplan-Meier estimation and long-rank tests. The significance level for multiple comparisons was established with False Discovery Rate-adjustment (adjusted p). RESULTS: Cohort of 667 patients with a median follow-up of 69 months. In univariate analysis, surgeon (adjp=0.018), preservation of puboprostatic ligaments (adjp=0.02), preservation of endopelvic fascia (adjp=0.001) and performing periurethral suspension (adjp<0.001) are poor prognostic factors for disease-free survival. Fascia preservation also negatively affects metastasis-free survival (adjp=0.04). Previous abdominal surgeries, prostate, surgical time, blood loss, type of residual urethra, middle lobe, fascial access, fascia or bladder neck preservation, have no statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS: The surgeon and specific aspects of the surgical technique are determining factors in disease-free survival. Preservation of the fascia is the only factor that negatively affects metastasis-free survival.

Efecto condicional de las actitudes hacia pacientes con diagnósticos de salud mental sobre la toma de decisiones en contexto de urgencia según la autopercepción de conocimientos asociados al trabajo con pacientes de salud mental

Introducción: En la actualidad existen pocos estudios con respecto a la evaluación de actitudes y autopercepción de conocimientos de los profesionales de la salud hacia los pacientes con alguna condición de salud mental, y la relación de estas variables con la toma de decisiones respecto de estos pacientes. Desde la experiencia se conoce la dificultad que tienen médicos que no están relacionados con el área de salud mental de afrontar a pacientes con alguna patología psiquiátrica y más aún en las urgencias, ya sea porque reconocen falta de conocimientos del tema, instancias no adecuadas para evaluación además de la alta exigencia de estos servicios. Metodología: El estudio consistió en una encuesta online de carácter transversal aplicada a profesionales de la salud pertenecientes al Hospital Dr. Hernán Henríquez Aravena, ubicado en la ciudad de Temuco, Chile. La encuesta incluyó preguntas sociodemográficas, caracterización de experiencias asociadas a diagnósticos de salud mental, y escalas dedicadas a medir variables (autopercepción, actitudes y toma de decisiones). Resultados: A medida que la autopercepción de conocimientos es mayor, el efecto de las actitudes sobre la toma de decisiones también es mayor. Conclusiones: Tanto las actitudes de los profesionales de la salud hacia este tipo de pacientes, así como su autopercepción de conocimientos, son dos componentes fundamentales para asegurar un buen manejo clínico. Resulta importante que exista un balance en cómo se manejan ambas dentro de un servicio, con el fin de asegurar una atención apropiada y centrada en el bienestar del paciente.

Introduction: Currently there are few studies regarding the evaluation of attitudes and self-perception of knowledge of health professionals towards patients with some mental health condition, and the relationship of these variables with decision making regarding these patients. From experience, its known the difficulty that doctors who are not related to the area of mental health have in dealing with patients with some psychiatric pathology and even more so in emergencies, either because they recognize a lack of knowledge of the subject and instances that are not suitable for evaluation. in addition to the high demand of these services. Methodology: The study consisted of a cross-sectional online survey applied to health professionals belonging to the Dr Hernán Henriquez Aravena Hospital, located in the city of Temuco, Chile. The survey included sociodemographic questions, characterization of experiences associated with mental health diagnoses, and scales dedicated to measuring variables (self-perception, attitudes and decision making). Results: As self-perception of knowledge grows, the effect of attitudes on decision making also increases. Conclusions: Both the attitudes of health professionals towards this type of patients, as well as their self-perception of knowledge, are two fundamental components to ensure good clinical management. It is important that there is a balance in how both are managed within a service, in order to ensure appropriate care focused on the patient's well-being.

Descripción de las tasas de mortalidad por cáncer gástrico como causa básica entre los años 2017 a 2021 en Chile / Description of death rates due to gastric cancer as a basic cause between 2017 and 2021 in Chile

Introducción: El cáncer gástrico, en Chile, ocupa el primer lugar como causa de mortalidad por tumores malignos, por ello, es de suma importancia conocer la descripción demográfica de esta enfermedad en el país. El periodo en estudio 2017-2021 entrega información actualizada a la salud pública. Metodología: Estudio ecológico, observacional, transversal y descriptivo sobre defunciones por cáncer gástrico en el periodo 2017-2021 en Chile según sexo, grupo etario y regiones (n=15350). Se calculó la tasa de mortalidad (TM). Información obtenida del Departamento de Estadística e Información de Salud e Instituto Nacional de Estadísticas, por lo que no requiere comité de ética. Resultados: Durante el periodo 2017-2021 la TM general fue de 21,84, siendo 21,58 en hombres y 10,68 en mujeres. En edad, el mayor valor se presentó en el grupo de 80 y más años y el menor valor en el grupo de 15-19 años. La TM del periodo general más alta la obtuvo la Región Metropolitana. Discusión: Se evidenció una reducción de la TM entre los años 2017-2021, pudiéndose deber al aumento de tamizaje y tratamiento de Helicobacter pylori. Además, se observó que la TM es mayor en hombres, explicado por su mayor susceptibilidad genética a desarrollar cáncer. La menor TM se registró entre 15-19 años, y la mayor en el grupo 80 y más años, lo que concuerda con literatura internacional. Conclusión: Se necesitan más estudios nacionales para ahondar en los resultados encontrados que permitan darle continuidad a la investigación, y que determinen factores de riesgo específicos de la población chilena.

Introduction: Gastric cancer in Chile takes the first place as a cause of mortality from malignant tumors, therefore it is relevant to know the demographic description of this disease in the country. Studied years go from 2017-2021 in order to get updated data to the Chilean public health. Methodology: Ecological, observational, cross-sectional and descriptive study on deaths due to gastric cancer in 2017-2021 in Chile, according to sex, age group and regions (n=15350). The death rate was calculated. Data was obtained from the Department of Statistics and Health Information and the National Institute of Statistics. It did not require approval from an ethics committee. Results: During the 2017-2021 period the overall death rate was 21.84, 21,58 for men and 10,68 for women. The highest values were in the 80 and older age group and the lowest values in the 15-19 years age group. The highest death rate overall period was registered in the Metropolitan Region. Discussion: There was a reduction in the hospital death rate between 2017-2021, which could be due to the increase in screening and treatment of Helicobacter pylori. Death rate is higher in men, which could be explained because they are more genetically susceptible to developing cancer. The lowest values for death rate were found in the 15-19 years age group, and the highest values in the 80 years and older group, which is consistent with international literature. Conclusion: More studies are required in Chile to broaden the findings to allow investigation continuity and to determine specific risk factors present in the Chilean population.

Destructive strategies in treating cerebrovascular pathology: Review and treatment algorithm.

The goal of cerebrovascular pathology treatment is most often to angiographically eradicate a lesion with the lowest probability of morbidity. Destructive strategies using parent vessel occlusion are less commonly considered in the modern era. We review principles of parent vessel occlusion for treatment of cerebrovascular pathology and select cases to demonstrate these principles. Many common cerebrovascular conditions have been safely and effectively treated with destructive strategies including intracranial aneurysms, traumatic craniocervical vascular injuries, and oncologic indications such as carotid blowout. Avoiding procedural morbidity in these procedures involves assessment of collaterals distal to a planned parent vessel occlusion, determination of this arterial segment's eloquence, prevention of distal migration of endovascular devices or thrombus, and prevention of stump emboli. An algorithm for case selection and method of destructive technique versus a reconstructive approach can be used. Destructive strategies for treating cerebrovascular pathology are still relevant and can be applied safely in appropriately selected cases.

Extracellular miR-6723-5p could serve as a biomarker of limbal epithelial stem/progenitor cell population.

BACKGROUND: Dysfunction or loss of limbal stem cells can result in limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), a disease that cause corneal opacity, pain, and loss of vision. Cultivated limbal epithelial transplantation (CLET) can be used to restore stem cell niche homeostasis and replenish the progenitor pool. Transplantation has been reported with high success rate, but there is an unmet need of prognostic markers that correlate with clinical outcomes. To date, the progenitor content in the graft is the only parameter that has been retrospectively linked to success. METHODS: In this study, we investigate extracellular micro RNAs (miRNAs) associated with stem/progenitor cells in cultivated limbal epithelial cells (cLECs). Using micro RNA sequencing and linear regression modelling, we identify a miRNA signature in cultures containing high proportion of stem/progenitor cells. We then develop a robust RNA extraction workflow from culture media to confirm a positive miRNA correlation with stem/progenitor cell proportion. RESULTS: miR-6723-5p is associated with cultures containing high proportion of stem/progenitor cells, and is detected in the basal layer of corneal epithelium. CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that miR-6723-5p could potentially serve as a stem/progenitor cell marker in cLECs.

Clinical guide to perioperative management for videothoracoscopy lung resection (Section of Cardiac, Vascular and Thoracic Anesthesia, SEDAR; Spanish Society of Thoracic Surgery, SECT; Spanish Society of Physiotherapy).

The introduction of video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) techniques has led to a new approach in thoracic surgery. VATS is performed by inserting a thoracoscope through a small incisions in the chest wall, thus maximizing the preservation of muscle and tissue. Because of its low rate of morbidity and mortality, VATS is currently the technique of choice in most thoracic procedures. Lung resection by VATS reduces prolonged air leaks, arrhythmia, pneumonia, postoperative pain and inflammatory markers. This reduction in postoperative complications shortens hospital length of stay, and is particularly beneficial in high-risk patients with low tolerance to thoracotomy. Compared with conventional thoracotomy, the oncological results of VATS surgery are similar or even superior to those of open surgery. This aim of this multidisciplinary position statement produced by the thoracic surgery working group of the Spanish Society of Anesthesiology and Reanimation (SEDAR), the Spanish Society of Thoracic Surgery (SECT), and the Spanish Association of Physiotherapy (AEF) is to standardize and disseminate a series of perioperative anaesthesia management guidelines for patients undergoing VATS lung resection surgery. Each recommendation is based on an in-depth review of the available literature by the authors. In this document, the care of patients undergoing VATS surgery is organized in sections, starting with the surgical approach, and followed by the three pillars of anaesthesia management: preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative anaesthesia.