LASIK is associated with early cataract surgery in healthy patients.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the association between LASIK and early cataract phacoemulsification surgery (PE). METHODS: A matched case-control study was conducted. Cases were otherwise healthy adults with a history of LASIK. Groups were paired according to corrected-distance visual acuity (CDVA), axial length, and cataract grade. RESULTS: A total of 213 patients were included. 85 patients were classified as post-LASIK group and 128 as controls. The mean age at the time of LASIK was 42.32 ± 9.24 years. The mean CDVA before PE was 0.29 ± 0.19 Log MAR in post-LASIK group and 0.34 ± 0.22 Log MAR in controls (p = 0.07). The mean axial length was 23.99 ± 1.78 mm in post-LASIK group and 23.62 ± 0.98 mm in controls (p = 0.085). The mean nuclear cataract grading was 1.36 in post-LASIK group and 1.47 in controls (p = 0.34). The mean age at the time of PE was 60.18 ± 7.46 years in post-LASIK group and 67.35 ± 9.28 in controls (p < 0.0005). The difference between the mean age of LASIK and the mean age of PE was 17.85 ± 5.72 years. There was a positive association between the post-LASIK group and the age of PE ≤ 55 years (OR: 4.917, 95% CI: 2.21-10.90, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: LASIK may be associated with early PE. Patients with LASIK had a 7-year earlier PE compared to a matched control group.

Novel Management of Ocular Surface Inflammation in Patients With Ocular Graft-Versus-Host Disease in the Setting of Cataract Surgery.

PURPOSE: To report the outcomes of cataract surgery in patients with ocular graft-versus-host disease (oGVHD) using a novel preoperative immunomodulatory regimen in a collaborative subspecialty care setting. METHODS: Retrospective case series of patients with oGVHD who underwent cataract surgery using a novel preoperative immunomodulatory regimen in a collaborative care setting. A preoperative regimen consisting of pooled human immune globulin 1%, autologous serum 50%, and methylprednisolone 1% eye drops was prescribed. Outcome measures included visual acuity (VA), ocular surface disease index (OSDI) score, lissamine green staining, and complications with a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. RESULTS: Thirty-five eyes from 20 patients with oGVHD were studied. The mean age was 59 years (range 30-70 years). A healthy comparison group included 35 eyes from 24 patients with a mean age of 63 years (range 44-74 years). At the 2-year follow-up, the mean corneal staining score was 2.3/15, the mean OSDI score was 37.5, and the mean VA was 20/30 (logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution 0.17). The global complication rate was 2.8% at the last follow-up with no difference versus a healthy comparison group. CONCLUSIONS: A collaborative care model improving ocular surface health before cataract surgery with dry eye and cataract subspecialists can optimize outcomes in patients with oGVHD.

Effectiveness of pancreatic stent placement in pediatric patients with acute recurrent and chronic pancreatitis.

BACKGROUND: The use of pancreatic prostheses in children with acute recurrent pancreatitis (ARP) and chronic pancreatitis (CP) has evolved. The main established indication is the treatment of persistent abdominal pain. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of pancreatic stenting for refractory abdominal pain in pediatric patients with ARP and CP. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective case series study. We included patients under 16 years of age diagnosed with ARP and CP in the study. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was performed with the insertion of one and later two pancreatic stents. We evaluated abdominal symptoms before and after treatment, number of changes, duration of treatment, and complications with follow-up at 24 months and after withdrawal. RESULTS: Nine patients with ARP and CP were included in the study: six with undetermined etiology and three with pancreas divisum. The mean age was 12.4 years. Prosthesis placement relieved abdominal pain in 100% of cases, with 3.2 replacement sessions every 6.2 months for 27.4 months, and mild complications (15.7%). One patient experienced pain on removal of the prosthesis and required bypass surgery. CONCLUSION: Pancreatic stent placement in patients with refractory abdominal pain with ARP and CP proved to be effective and safe, providing medium-term symptom relief and minimal complications.

INTRODUCCIÓN: El uso de prótesis pancreáticas en niños con pancreatitis aguda recurrente (PAR) y crónica (PC) ha evolucionado. La principal indicación establecida es el tratamiento del dolor abdominal persistente. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la eficacia del uso prótesis pancreática para el dolor abdominal refractario en pacientes pediátricos con PAR y PC, sin respuesta a manejo conservador. MÉTODOS: Se llevó a cabo un estudio retrospectivo de serie de casos. Se incluyeron pacientes menores de 16 años con diagnóstico de PAR y PC. Se realizó una colangio pancreatografía retrograda endoscópica (CPRE) para introducir inicialmente una y posteriormente dos prótesis pancreáticas. Se evaluaron síntomas abdominales antes y después del tratamiento, número de recambios, duración del tratamiento y complicaciones con seguimiento a 24 meses y posterior a su retiro. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 9 pacientes con PAR y PC: seis de etiología no determinada y tres con páncreas divisum. La edad promedio fue de 12.4 años. La colocación de prótesis alivió el dolor abdominal en el 100%, con 3.2 sesiones de recambio cada 6.2 meses en 27.4 meses, y complicaciones leves (15.7%). Un paciente presentó dolor al retirar las prótesis y requirió cirugía derivativa. CONCLUSIONES: El uso de prótesis pancreática en pacientes con dolor abdominal refractario con PAR y PC demostró ser eficaz y seguro al aliviar los síntomas a mediano plazo con mínimas complicaciones.

Effectiveness of pancreatic stent placement in pediatric patients with acute recurrent and chronic pancreatitis / Eficacia de la prótesis pancreática en pacientes pediátricos con pancreatitis aguda recurrente y crónica

Abstract Background: The use of pancreatic prostheses in children with acute recurrent pancreatitis (ARP) and chronic pancreatitis (CP) has evolved. The main established indication is the treatment of persistent abdominal pain. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of pancreatic stenting for refractory abdominal pain in pediatric patients with ARP and CP. Methods: We conducted a retrospective case series study. We included patients under 16 years of age diagnosed with ARP and CP in the study. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was performed with the insertion of one and later two pancreatic stents. We evaluated abdominal symptoms before and after treatment, number of changes, duration of treatment, and complications with follow-up at 24 months and after withdrawal. Results: Nine patients with ARP and CP were included in the study: six with undetermined etiology and three with pancreas divisum. The mean age was 12.4 years. Prosthesis placement relieved abdominal pain in 100% of cases, with 3.2 replacement sessions every 6.2 months for 27.4 months, and mild complications (15.7%). One patient experienced pain on removal of the prosthesis and required bypass surgery. Conclusion: Pancreatic stent placement in patients with refractory abdominal pain with ARP and CP proved to be effective and safe, providing medium-term symptom relief and minimal complications.

Resumen Introducción: El uso de prótesis pancreáticas en niños con pancreatitis aguda recurrente (PAR) y crónica (PC) ha evolucionado. La principal indicación establecida es el tratamiento del dolor abdominal persistente. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la eficacia del uso prótesis pancreática para el dolor abdominal refractario en pacientes pediátricos con PAR y PC, sin respuesta a manejo conservador. Métodos: Se llevó a cabo un estudio retrospectivo de serie de casos. Se incluyeron pacientes menores de 16 años con diagnóstico de PAR y PC. Se realizó una colangio pancreatografía retrograda endoscópica (CPRE) para introducir inicialmente una y posteriormente dos prótesis pancreáticas. Se evaluaron síntomas abdominales antes y después del tratamiento, número de recambios, duración del tratamiento y complicaciones con seguimiento a 24 meses y posterior a su retiro. Resultados: Se incluyeron 9 pacientes con PAR y PC: seis de etiología no determinada y tres con páncreas divisum. La edad promedio fue de 12.4 años. La colocación de prótesis alivió el dolor abdominal en el 100%, con 3.2 sesiones de recambio cada 6.2 meses en 27.4 meses, y complicaciones leves (15.7%). Un paciente presentó dolor al retirar las prótesis y requirió cirugía derivativa. Conclusiones: El uso de prótesis pancreática en pacientes con dolor abdominal refractario con PAR y PC demostró ser eficaz y seguro al aliviar los síntomas a mediano plazo con mínimas complicaciones.

High-Frequency Low-Tidal Volume Ventilation Improves Long-Term Outcomes in AF Ablation: A Multicenter Prospective Study.

BACKGROUND: High-frequency, low-tidal-volume (HFLTV) ventilation is a safe and simple strategy to improve catheter stability and first-pass isolation during pulmonary vein (PV) isolation. However, the impact of this technique on long-term clinical outcomes has not been determined. OBJECTIVES: This study sought to assess acute and long-term outcomes of HFLTV ventilation compared with standard ventilation (SV) during radiofrequency (RF) ablation of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF). METHODS: In this prospective multicenter registry (REAL-AF), patients undergoing PAF ablation using either HFLTV or SV were included. The primary outcome was freedom from all-atrial arrhythmia at 12 months. Secondary outcomes included procedural characteristics, AF-related symptoms, and hospitalizations at 12 months. RESULTS: A total of 661 patients were included. Compared with those in the SV group, patients in the HFLTV group had shorter procedural (66 [IQR: 51-88] minutes vs 80 [IQR: 61-110] minutes; P < 0.001), total RF (13.5 [IQR: 10-19] minutes vs 19.9 [IQR: 14.7-26.9] minutes; P < 0.001), and PV RF (11.1 [IQR: 8.8-14] minutes vs 15.3 [IQR: 12.4-20.4] minutes; P < 0.001) times. First-pass PV isolation was higher in the HFLTV group (66.6% vs 63.8%; P = 0.036). At 12 months, 185 of 216 (85.6%) in the HFLTV group were free from all-atrial arrhythmia, compared with 353 of 445 (79.3%) patients in the SV group (P = 0.041). HLTV was associated with a 6.3% absolute reduction in all-atrial arrhythmia recurrence, lower rate of AF-related symptoms (12.5% vs 18.9%; P = 0.046), and hospitalizations (1.4% vs 4.7%; P = 0.043). There was no significant difference in the rate of complications. CONCLUSIONS: HFLTV ventilation during catheter ablation of PAF improved freedom from all-atrial arrhythmia recurrence, AF-related symptoms, and AF-related hospitalizations with shorter procedural times.

Selective laser trabeculoplasty is safe and effective in patients previously treated with prostaglandin analogs: An evidence-based review.

PURPOSE: Prostaglandin analogs (PGAs) are first-line treatments for ocular hypertension (OHT) and open-angle glaucoma (OAG). However, frequent side effects and high costs hinder patient's compliance resulting in disease progression. Evidence suggests selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) may be considered a first-line treatment for OHT and OAG due to its safety profile, minor side effects, and reduced costs. Considering that PGAs and SLT share action mechanisms, it is hypothesized that previous PGA therapy may affect subsequent SLT efficacy. Therefore, we analyzed if PGAs reduce SLT efficacy. METHODS: An evidence-based review was performed to assess the safety and efficacy of SLT in patients previously treated with PGAs. For this purpose, we performed an extensive literature search using the National Library of Medicine's PubMed and Google Scholar database for all English language articles published until May 2021. RESULTS: There is evidence of non-superiority of PGAs therapy versus SLT for OHT and OAG. A multicenter, randomized, observer-masked clinical trial (RCT) of untreated OHT and OAG patients concluded that SLT should be offered as the first-line treatment for these patients. This study was supported by a meta-analysis of RCTs, comparing SLT efficacy versus antiglaucoma drugs only, with the advantage of an SLT lower rate of adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS: Cost-effectiveness, patient compliance, and antiglaucoma drugs' side effects, including higher surgical failure, favor consideration of SLT as first-line therapy for OAG and OHT. Furthermore, SLT efficacy does not seem to be affected by prior PGA administration; however, larger cohort, comparative, multicenter RCTs are necessary to answer this question.

The evolution of the modified osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis, its reliability, and long-term visual rehabilitation prognosis: An analytical review.

An exhaustive search of the world's literature was performed to analyze all case reports and series on the modified osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis (MOOKP) published up to January 2022. The demographic profile, the primary indication for surgery, surgical technique variations, postoperative medical management, long-term functional and anatomical outcomes, and intra- and postoperative complications were analyzed and compared. Additionally, some of the authors' (GI, VP, and GA) unpublished MOOKP cases were studied. An extensive literature search yielded 37 case series and case reports. Overall, 958 patients were analyzed. The most common indication for surgery was autoimmune disease (39.1%), closely followed by chemical injury (38.8%). The most common intraoperative complications (21.67%) included maxillofacial, vitreous hemorrhage/vitritis, and mucosal. The most common postoperative complications (78.4%) were lamina and oral mucosa-associated, secondary glaucoma, and choroid/retinal detachment. Follow-up periods ranged from one to 364 months (median: 36.7 months). Altogether, 78% of patients achieved a visual acuity of 20/400 or better at the end of the follow-up period, and 91.2% improved at least temporarily after MOOKP surgery. Mean anatomic success at the end-of-follow-up for all patients was 88.25% (range, 50-100%). The long-term anatomic and functional success of the MOOKP makes it a reliable option for visual rehabilitation in patients with bilateral corneal blindness and end-stage ocular surface disease. This review aims to describe the evolution of the MOOKP procedure, analyzing all published case series for its long-term reliability, visual and anatomical outcomes, complications, and future directions.

Quality of life after the initial treatment of atrial fibrillation with cryoablation versus drug therapy.

BACKGROUND: The STOP AF First trial recently demonstrated that initial treatment with cryoballoon ablation (CBA) is safe and superior to antiarrhythmic drug (AAD) therapy for preventing atrial arrhythmia recurrence in patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF). OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the change in quality of life (QoL) and symptoms after first-line CBA vs AAD therapy. METHODS: Patients with symptomatic AF not previously receiving rhythm control therapy were randomized to AAD (class I or III) or CBA (Arctic Front Advance, Medtronic, Mounds View, MN). QoL was evaluated at baseline and at 6 and 12 months by using the Atrial Fibrillation Effect on QualiTy-of-Life (AFEQT) and the European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions questionnaires. A review of AF-associated symptoms was conducted at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. RESULTS: In total, 203 subjects received either CBA (n = 104 [51.2%]) or AAD therapy (n = 99 [48.8%]). Improvements in the AFEQT summary and subscale scores were significantly larger with CBA than with AAD therapy at 6 and 12 months (P < .02 for all). Clinically meaningful improvement (>5 points) in the AFEQT summary score from baseline to 12 months was observed in 96.0% (100) of patients in the CBA arm vs 72.2% (71) of patients in the AAD arm (P < .001). No significant between-group differences were observed in the change in the European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions index or visual analog scale scores. Overall, 54.4% (57) of the CBA group vs 29.7% (29) of the AAD group reported no AF-specific symptom recurrence after a 90-day blanking period (P = .0005). CONCLUSION: First-line CBA vs AAD therapy is associated with larger improvements in AF-specific QoL and a higher rate of symptom resolution.

Cryoballoon Ablation as Initial Therapy for Atrial Fibrillation.

BACKGROUND: In patients with symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation that has not responded to medication, catheter ablation is more effective than antiarrhythmic drug therapy for maintaining sinus rhythm. However, the safety and efficacy of cryoballoon ablation as initial first-line therapy have not been established. METHODS: We performed a multicenter trial in which patients 18 to 80 years of age who had paroxysmal atrial fibrillation for which they had not previously received rhythm-control therapy were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive treatment with antiarrhythmic drugs (class I or III agents) or pulmonary vein isolation with a cryoballoon. Arrhythmia monitoring included 12-lead electrocardiography conducted at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months; patient-activated telephone monitoring conducted weekly and when symptoms were present during months 3 through 12; and 24-hour ambulatory monitoring conducted at 6 and 12 months. The primary efficacy end point was treatment success (defined as freedom from initial failure of the procedure or atrial arrhythmia recurrence after a 90-day blanking period to allow recovery from the procedure or drug dose adjustment, evaluated in a Kaplan-Meier analysis). The primary safety end point was assessed in the ablation group only and was a composite of several procedure-related and cryoballoon system-related serious adverse events. RESULTS: Of the 203 participants who underwent randomization and received treatment, 104 underwent ablation, and 99 initially received drug therapy. In the ablation group, initial success of the procedure was achieved in 97% of patients. The Kaplan-Meier estimate of the percentage of patients with treatment success at 12 months was 74.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 65.0 to 82.0) in the ablation group and 45.0% (95% CI, 34.6 to 54.7) in the drug-therapy group (P<0.001 by log-rank test). Two primary safety end-point events occurred in the ablation group (Kaplan-Meier estimate of the percentage of patients with an event within 12 months, 1.9%; 95% CI, 0.5 to 7.5). CONCLUSIONS: Cryoballoon ablation as initial therapy was superior to drug therapy for the prevention of atrial arrhythmia recurrence in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Serious procedure-related adverse events were uncommon. (Supported by Medtronic; STOP AF First ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03118518.).

Braquimetacarpia: Alargamiento mediante callotasis con fijador externo. Reporte de caso / Brachymetacarpy: Lengthening by callotasis with external fixator. Case report

Introducción La braquimetacarpia es una falta de longitud normal de los metacarpianos. La causa puede deberse a un síndrome, puede ser adquirida a partir de enfermedades infantiles, o puede surgir de forma idiopática. La incidencia es inferior a 1 en 1000, y la tasa de ocurrencia en las mujeres es 5 veces mayor que en los hombres. Reporte de caso Paciente que consulta por 4° dedo de la mano izquierda+corto y dolor en AMCF del mismo dedo con limitación funcional. RX: Braquimetacarpia del 4° metacarpiano. Se realizó: alargamiento mediante callotasis con fijador externo monolateral tipo Orthofix. Resultados Obtuvimos un resultado favorable, con un alargamiento progresivo del metacarpiano de 15mm y con buen resultado funcional sin complicaciones a los 2 años posquirúrgicos. Discusión La corrección quirúrgica de la braquidactilia se realiza principalmente por razones estéticas. Se usan varios métodos para alargar los metacarpianos. Algunos autores recomiendan el alargamiento gradual mediante distracción, argumentando que con esta técnica es más posible, con alta tasa de éxito cosmético y baja tasa de complicaciones. Destacamos en la resolución de este caso, una cuidadosa planificación preoperatoria, montaje intraoperatorio seguro del fijador externo y el seguimiento postoperatorio estricto, son esenciales para evitar la aparición de complicaciones.

Background Brachymetacarpy is a lack of normal metacarpal length. The cause may be due to a syndrome, it can be acquired from childhood diseases, or it can arise idiopathically. The incidence is less than 1 in 1000, and the occurrence rate in women is 5 times higher than in men. Case report Patient who consulted for the 4th finger of the left hand short and pain in the left finger with functional limitation. RX: Brachymetacarpy of the 4th metacarpal. It was carried out: lengthening by callotasis with Orthofix-type monolateral external fixator. Results We obtained a favorable result, with a progressive lengthening of the metacarpal of 15mm and with a good functional result without complications at 2 postoperative years. Discussion Surgical correction of brachydactyly is performed primarily for cosmetic reasons. Various methods are used to lengthen the metacarpals. Some authors recommend gradual lengthening through distraction, arguing that this technique is more possible, with a high rate of cosmetic success and a low rate of complications. We emphasize in the resolution of this case, careful preoperative planning, safe intraoperative mounting of the external fixator and strict postoperative follow-up, are essential to avoid the appearance of complications.

General anesthesia during atrial fibrillation ablation: Standardized protocol and experience.

BACKGROUND: Most atrial fibrillation (AF) ablations are performed with general anesthesia (GA). The ideal GA protocol is unknown, but it affects ablation outcomes and laboratory utilization. We sought to report a GA protocol used at a high-volume center, with special consideration on efficiency and optimization of mapping and ablation conditions. METHODS: Our protocol consists of propofol as sole anesthetic agent and analgesia with Fentanyl. IV fluids are minimized. After transseptal access, the right phrenic nerve is tagged, rocuronium is given, and redosing avoided. Ventilation is modulated to optimize mapping and ablation. After ablation, isoproterenol is infused for 20 min. After 10 min, propofol is gradually decreased and ventilation set to SIMV 8 breaths/min to promote spontaneous breathing, and then switched to pressure support and propofol stopped. Paralysis is reversed and furosemide given. Patient is extubated once meeting standard criteria. RESULTS: A total of 1286 patients underwent AF ablation from January 2017 to December 2018 using the protocol. Mean age was 66 years (41% paroxysmal AF, CHADS2Vasc 2.6). Total procedure time was 86 min. Median time to extubation was 9 min (first and third quartile 6-16) after procedure completed, with total anesthesia time of 116 min. On average 370 mL of fluids were given by anesthesia. Only one patient who had heart failure required reintubation with no other anesthesia-related complications seen. CONCLUSION: Our GA protocol was specifically designed for AF ablation. It was safe and led to efficient recovery and extubation times. It maximizes laboratory utilization time without compromising safety.

General anesthesia (GA) has been shown to improve outcomes of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. However, the ideal anesthetic protocol is unknown. We describe a GA protocol developed by the anesthesiology and electrophysiology team. It considers each phase of the ablation procedure separately in choosing drugs to be used and also careful modulation of ventilator settings to improve mapping and ablation conditions. This GA protocol was then utilized in 1286 patients undergoing AF ablation and it was safe and produced very efficient median time to extubation (9 min).

Metabolic fingerprinting of banana passion fruits and its correlation with quorum quenching activity.

Banana passion fruit of the Passiflora genus, are commercially cultivated on a small to medium scale, mainly as edible fruits or as components of traditional herbal medicines. This subgenus comprises several species and hybrid specimens that grow readily in the wild. Due to their taxonomical complexity, many of these species have recently been reclassified (Ocampo Pérez and Coppens d'Eeckenbrugge, 2017), and their chemical profile has still to be determined. In this study, an 1H NMR-based platform was applied to the chemical profiling of seven wild species of the Passiflora subgenus, and UHPLC-DAD-MS was additionally used for the identification of phenolic compounds. A total of 59 compounds were detected including 26 O- and C-glycosidated flavonoids and polyphenols, nine organic acids, seven amino acids, GABA, sucrose, glucose, myo-inositol, and five other non-identified compounds. Two of the identified compounds are the previously undescribed C-glycosyl flavonoids, apigenin-4'-O-ß-glucopyranosyl, 8-C-ß-(6″acetyl)-glucopyranoside and apigenin-4-O-ß-glucopyranosyl-8-C-ß-neohesperidoside. These C-glycosyl flavonoids were isolated to confirm their proposed structures by NMR and LCMS analysis. The PCA score plots obtained from the 1H NMR data of the studied Passiflora samples showed P. cumbalensis and P. uribei as the species with the most distinguishable chemical profile. In addition, a correlation analysis using OPLS-DA was conducted between 1H-NMR data and the quorum quenching activity (QQ) of Chromobacterium violaceum ATCC 31532. This analysis revealed P. lehmannii, and P. uribei extracts to be the most active, and apigenin-4'-O-ß-glucopyranosyl, 8-C-ß-(6″acetyl)-glucopyranoside and apigenin-4-O-ß-glucopyranosyl-8-C-ß-neohesperidoside were identified as possibly responsible for the QQ activity. To confirm this, QQ activity of both compounds was tested against C. violaceum ATCC 3153. An inhibition of violacein production of 0.135 mM (100 µg/mL) and 0.472 mM (300 µg/mL) was observed for apigenin-4'-O-ß-glucopyranosyl,8-C-ß-(6″acetyl)-glucopyranoside and apigenin-4-O-ß-glucopyranosyl-8-C-ß-neohesperidoside respectively, while bacterial growth was unaffected in both cases. Furthermore, both compounds showed the ability to inhibit the production of the toxoflavin of the phytopathogen Burkholderia glumae ATCC 33617.

Tiempo de respuesta terapéutica al propranolol sistémico en el manejo de hemangiomas subglóticos pediátricos: serie de casos y revisión de la literatura / Therapeutic time of response of systemic propranolol in the management of pediatric subglottic hemangiomas: case series and review of the literature

Resumen: Introducción: Los hemangiomas de la vía aérea son neoplasias congénitas de baja incidencia. Su presentación clínica consiste en una obstrucción de la vía aérea superior con disnea progresiva y estridor, ocasionando una obstrucción grave, aguda y grave de la vía aérea. Los hemangiomas infantiles tienen una incidencia al nacimiento del 2%, incrementándose al 9% a los 12 meses de vida. Casi el 60% de los hemangiomas infantiles afectan la región de la cabeza y el cuello. Sin embargo, la localización en la vía aérea superior no es tan frecuente y solo se informa en el 1.8% de los pacientes con hemangiomas cutáneos. El tratamiento tradicional de los hemangiomas laríngeos ha sido la administración de corticoides sistémicos por periodos largos, la cirugía endolaríngea con láser de CO2, la cirugía abierta, la traqueostomía y, recientemente, el propranolol oral. Casos clínicos: Se presentan cinco casos de hemangiomas subglóticos tratados con propranolol sistémico y la evaluación del tiempo de respuesta terapéutica, definido como el control satisfactorio de los síntomas obstructivos y aseguramiento de la vía aérea. En estos casos, el propranolol mostró ser una opción efectiva y segura para el tratamiento de hemangiomas laríngeos, con un tiempo de respuesta terapéutica de 48 a 72 horas. Conclusiones: El tratamiento con propranolol oral se ha convertido en los últimos años en la primera opción terapéutica debido a su alta eficacia y su buen perfil de seguridad.

Abstract: Background: Airway hemangiomas are congenital neoplasms of low incidence. Its clinical presentation consists of obstruction of the upper airway with progressive dyspnea and stridor and the life of the patient at risk. Infantile hemangiomas have an incidence at birth of 2%, increasing to 9% at 12 months of life. Almost 60% of childhood hemangiomas affect the head and neck region. However, localization in the upper airway is not as frequent and it is only reported in 1.8% of patients with cutaneous hemangiomas. The traditional treatment of laryngeal hemangiomas has been the administration of systemic corticosteroids for long periods, endolaryngeal surgery with CO2 laser, open surgery, tracheostomy or, recently, oral propranolol. Case report: Five cases of subglottic hemangioma treated with systemic propranolol are presented. The therapeutic time of response with the satisfactory control of obstructive symptoms and assurance of the airway was evaluated. In these cases, propranolol was shown to be an effective and safe option for the treatment of laryngeal hemangiomas with a therapeutic response time of 48 to 72 hours. Conclusions: In recent years, the treatment with oral propranolol has become the first therapeutic option due to its high efficacy and safety profile.

[Tiempo de respuesta terapéutica al propranolol sistémico en el manejo de hemangiomas subglóticos pediátricos: serie de casos y revisión de la literatura]. / Therapeutic time of response of systemic propranolol in the management of pediatric subglottic hemangiomas: case series and review of the literature.

Background: Airway hemangiomas are congenital neoplasms of low incidence. Its clinical presentation consists of obstruction of the upper airway with progressive dyspnea and stridor and the life of the patient at risk. Infantile hemangiomas have an incidence at birth of 2%, increasing to 9% at 12 months of life. Almost 60% of childhood hemangiomas affect the head and neck region. However, localization in the upper airway is not as frequent and it is only reported in 1.8% of patients with cutaneous hemangiomas. The traditional treatment of laryngeal hemangiomas has been the administration of systemic corticosteroids for long periods, endolaryngeal surgery with CO2 laser, open surgery, tracheostomy or, recently, oral propranolol. Case report: Five cases of subglottic hemangioma treated with systemic propranolol are presented. The therapeutic time of response with the satisfactory control of obstructive symptoms and assurance of the airway was evaluated. In these cases, propranolol was shown to be an effective and safe option for the treatment of laryngeal hemangiomas with a therapeutic response time of 48 to 72 hours. Conclusions: In recent years, the treatment with oral propranolol has become the first therapeutic option due to its high efficacy and safety profile.

Introducción: Los hemangiomas de la vía aérea son neoplasias congénitas de baja incidencia. Su presentación clínica consiste en una obstrucción de la vía aérea superior con disnea progresiva y estridor, ocasionando una obstrucción grave, aguda y grave de la vía aérea. Los hemangiomas infantiles tienen una incidencia al nacimiento del 2%, incrementándose al 9% a los 12 meses de vida. Casi el 60% de los hemangiomas infantiles afectan la región de la cabeza y el cuello. Sin embargo, la localización en la vía aérea superior no es tan frecuente y solo se informa en el 1.8% de los pacientes con hemangiomas cutáneos. El tratamiento tradicional de los hemangiomas laríngeos ha sido la administración de corticoides sistémicos por periodos largos, la cirugía endolaríngea con láser de CO2, la cirugía abierta, la traqueostomía y, recientemente, el propranolol oral. Casos clínicos: Se presentan cinco casos de hemangiomas subglóticos tratados con propranolol sistémico y la evaluación del tiempo de respuesta terapéutica, definido como el control satisfactorio de los síntomas obstructivos y aseguramiento de la vía aérea. En estos casos, el propranolol mostró ser una opción efectiva y segura para el tratamiento de hemangiomas laríngeos, con un tiempo de respuesta terapéutica de 48 a 72 horas. Conclusiones: El tratamiento con propranolol oral se ha convertido en los últimos años en la primera opción terapéutica debido a su alta eficacia y su buen perfil de seguridad.

Sex differences in complications of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation: results on 85,977 patients.

PURPOSE: Catheter ablation (CA) is an effective treatment for atrial fibrillation (AF). The differences in complication rates and outcomes between women and men remain poorly studied. We aimed to study the sex differences in morbidity and mortality associated with CA in AF. METHODS: Using weighted sampling from the National Inpatient Sample database, women and men with a primary diagnosis of AF and a primary procedure of CA (2004-2013) were identified. We compared the following outcomes based on the sex: (1) major complications [post-procedure transfusion, cardiac drain or surgery, pulmonary embolism, cerebrovascular accident, major cardiac events, kidney failure requiring dialysis, and sepsis], (2) overall complications (minor and/or major complications), and (3) in-hospital mortality. RESULTS: Among 85,977 patients who underwent CA for AF, 27821 (32.4%) were women. Overall complications were more frequent among women versus among men (12.4% versus 9.0%; p < 0.001), as well as major complications (4.7% versus 2.7%; p < 0.001). However, there was no difference in mortality (0.3% versus 0.2%; p = 0.22). After adjusting for other factors, women were more likely than men to have major complication (odds ratio 1.48, 95% CI 1.21-1.82; p < 0.001). Prior CABG was associated with lower risk of major complications in both sexes (odds ratio in the overall cohort 0.27, 95% CI 0.12-0.61; p = 0.002), mostly driven by the reduction in tamponade and pericardial drain. CONCLUSIONS: Among patients who underwent catheter ablation for AF, the female sex was associated with higher rate of complications compared to male but no difference in mortality. Prior CABG was associated with a significant reduction of major complications in both sexes.

Características y resultados de la ingestión de cuerpos extraños en niños / Characteristics and outcomes of foreign body ingestion in children

Introducción: La ingestión de un cuerpo extraño (CE) es un accidente frecuente en el hogar en la edad pediátrica; su manejo oportuno por especialistas puede evitar complicaciones a corto y largo plazo. Objetivo: Describir características y complicaciones de los CE en el tubo digestivo en población pediátrica. Material y métodos: Estudio transversal, retrospectivo y prospectivo. Se incluyeron pacientes con diagnóstico de ingestión de un CE desde enero de 1971 a diciembre de 2016. Se recabaron características generales de los pacientes, tipo de objeto, métodos de extracción y complicaciones. Se realizó análisis descriptivo. Resultados: Durante 45 años, se extrajeron 2637 CE localizados en faringe (n= 118), esófago (n= 2410), estómago (n= 103) e intestino (n= 6). Predominaron en el sexo masculino (50,9%); 74% fueron en menores de 5 años. El 57% llegó en las primeras 24 horas; sialorrea, disfagia y vómito fueron los principales síntomas y un 16% estaba asintomático. La radiografía permitió localizar el CE en el 93%; el más ingerido fue la moneda (78%); la localización más común fue el tercio superior del esófago (79%); el 86% se extrajo con endoscopio rígido y las complicaciones se presentaron en el 7,8% de los casos. Conclusiones: La ingestión de un CE predomina en menores de 5 años, y los metales son los más frecuentes. La radiografía simple es el estudio de elección, que permite realizar el diagnóstico y la extracción es por vía endoscópica con endoscopio rígido o flexible según la experiencia del endoscopista.

Introduction: Foreign body (FB) ingestion is a common home accident during childhood; a timely management by the specialists may help prevent complications in the short and long term. Objective: To describe the characteristics and complications of FB ingestion located in the gastrointestinal tract in the pediatric population. Material and methods: Two phases, retrospective, and prospective study. Patients diagnosed with FB ingestion between January 1971 and December 2016 were included. The general characteristics of patients, FB type, removal method, and complications were registered. A descriptive analysis was performed. Results: Over 45 years, 2637 FBs were removed from the pharynx (n= 118), the esophagus (n= 2410), the stomach (n= 103), and the intestines (n= 6). Male patients predominated (50.9%); 74% were younger than 5 years. Besides, 57% arrived within the first 24 hours; ptyalism, dysphagia, and vomiting were the main symptoms; 16% of patients had no symptoms. It was possible to locate the FB using an X-ray in 93% of cases; the most common FBs were coins (78%); the most frequent location was the upper third of the esophagus (79%); 86% of FBs were removed using a rigid endoscope, and complications were observed in 7.8% of patients. Conclusions: FB ingestion predominated among children younger than 5 years; metal objects were the most common ones. A plain X-ray is the test of choice for diagnosis; removal is usually done with a rigid or flexible endoscope, depending on the endoscopist's experience.

[Characteristics and outcomes of foreign body ingestion in children] / Características y resultados de la ingestión de cuerpos extraños en niños

INTRODUCTION: Foreign body (FB) ingestion is a common home accident during childhood; a timely management by the specialists may help prevent complications in the short and long term. OBJECTIVE: To describe the characteristics and complications of FB ingestion located in the gastrointestinal tract in the pediatric population. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Two phases, retrospective, and prospective study. Patients diagnosed with FB ingestion between January 1971 and December 2016 were included. The general characteristics of patients, FB type, removal method, and complications were registered. A descriptive analysis was performed. RESULTS: Over 45 years, 2637 FBs were removed from the pharynx (n= 118), the esophagus (n= 2410), the stomach (n= 103), and the intestines (n= 6). Male patients predominated (50.9%); 74% were younger than 5 years. Besides, 57% arrived within the first 24 hours; ptyalism, dysphagia, and vomiting were the main symptoms; 16% of patients had no symptoms. It was possible to locate the FB using an X-ray in 93% of cases; the most common FBs were coins (78%); the most frequent location was the upper third of the esophagus (79%); 86% of FBs were removed using a rigid endoscope, and complications were observed in 7.8% of patients. CONCLUSIONS: FB ingestion predominated among children younger than 5 years; metal objects were the most common ones. A plain X-ray is the test of choice for diagnosis; removal is usually done with a rigid or flexible endoscope, depending on the endoscopist's experience.

Introducción: La ingestión de un cuerpo extraño (CE) es un accidente frecuente en el hogar en la edad pediátrica; su manejo oportuno por especialistas puede evitar complicaciones a corto y largo plazo. Objetivo: Describir características y complicaciones de los CE en el tubo digestivo en población pediátrica. Material y métodos: Estudio transversal, retrospectivo y prospectivo. Se incluyeron pacientes con diagnóstico de ingestión de un CE desde enero de 1971 a diciembre de 2016. Se recabaron características generales de los pacientes, tipo de objeto, métodos de extracción y complicaciones. Se realizó análisis descriptivo. Resultados: Durante 45 años, se extrajeron 2637 CE localizados en faringe (n= 118), esófago (n= 2410), estómago (n= 103) e intestino (n= 6). Predominaron en el sexo masculino (50,9%); 74% fueron en menores de 5 años. El 57% llegó en las primeras 24 horas; sialorrea, disfagia y vómito fueron los principales síntomas y un 16% estaba asintomático. La radiografía permitió localizar el CE en el 93%; el más ingerido fue la moneda (78%); la localización más común fue el tercio superior del esófago (79%); el 86% se extrajo con endoscopio rígido y las complicaciones se presentaron en el 7,8% de los casos. Conclusiones: La ingestión de un CE predomina en menores de 5 años, y los metales son los más frecuentes. La radiografía simple es el estudio de elección, que permite realizar el diagnóstico y la extracción es por vía endoscópica con endoscopio rígido o flexible según la experiencia del endoscopista.

Microlitiasis testicular múltiple bilateral asociado a hidrocele izquierdo en un joven de 26 años de edad. Informe de caso y revisión de la literatura / Multiple testicular microlithiasis bilateral associated with left hydrocele in a 26-year-old boy. Case report and literature review

La microlitiasis testicular (TM) es una patología que generalmente se diagnostica de manera incidental. En Ecuador, no existen reportes de esta entidad en adultos. Los informes científicos indican una mayor incidencia en individuos afroamericanos, sin especificar la etiología; La microlitiasis testicular se asocia con subfertilidad e infertilidad. Su relación con las neoplasias testiculares es controvertida. Aquí presentamos un caso clínico, sus diferentes asociaciones clínicas, y una posible conducta terapéutica.

Testicular microlithiasis (TM) is a pathology usually diagnosed incidentally. In Ecuador, there are not reports of this entity in adults. Scientific reports indicate a higher incidence in African-American individuals, without specifying the etiology; testicular microlithiasis is associated with subfertility and infertility. Its relationship with testicular neoplasms is controversial. Here we present a clinical case, it's different clinical associations, and a possible therapeutic conduct.

Tolerancia, seguridad y eficacia de la preparación intestinal con un día de PEG3350 + bisacodilo en comparación con 2 días de PEG3350 + bisacodilo en pacientes pediátricos / Tolerance, safety and efficacy of the one-day preparation of PEG3350 + bisacodyl compared to 2 days of PEG3350 + bisacodyl in pediatric patients

Resumen: Introducción: Múltiples preparaciones intestinales se han utilizado en niños sometidos a una colonoscopia, con limitación variable debido a la aceptación, tolerancia y la limpieza adecuada. El objetivo del estudio fue comparar la tolerancia seguridad y eficacia de la preparación intestinal para colonoscopia de 1 día con PEG 3350 (polietilenglicol) (4 g/kg/día) + bisacodilo y el tratamiento con 2 días de preparación con PEG 3350 (2 g/kg/día) + bisacodilo en pacientes pediátricos. Métodos: Se realizó un ensayo clínico, aleatorizado y ciego. Se incluyeron pacientes de 2 a 18 años, que ameritaron colonoscopia en forma programada. Los pacientes se asignaron de manera aleatoria en dos grupos: 1 día de preparación con PEG 3350 4 g/kg/día + bisacodilo y 2 días de preparación con PEG 3350 2 g/kg/día + bisacodilo. Por medio de un cuestionario, exploración física y valoración endoscópica (escala de Boston), se determinó la tolerancia, seguridad y eficacia de las 2 preparaciones a evaluar. Se realizó una prueba t de Student para variables cuantitativas y χ2 para variables cualitativas. Resultados: No hubo diferencias significativas en las tasas de cumplimiento, los efectos adversos y la extensión de la evaluación colonoscópica. Conclusiones: La tolerancia y seguridad entre la preparación intestinal para colonoscopia de 1 día con PEG 3350 (polietilenglicol) (4 g/kg/día) + bisacodilo y la preparación de 2 días con PEG 3350 (2 g/kg/día) + bisacodilo fue semejante. La calidad de la limpieza fue buena en ambos grupos, siendo parcialmente más eficaz en el grupo de 1 día con PEG 3350 (polietilenglicol) (4 g/kg/día).

Abstract: Background: Multiple intestinal preparations have been used in children undergoing colonoscopy, with variable limitation due to acceptance, tolerance, and proper cleaning. The objective of this study was to compare the tolerability, safety and efficacy of the colonoscopy preparation with 1 day with PEG 3350 (poliethylenglycol) (4 g/kg/day) + bisacodyl compared to 2 days of preparation with PEG 3350 (2 g/kg/day) + bisacodyl in pediatric patients. Methods: A clinical, randomized, and blind trial was performed. Patients aged 2 to 18 years scheduled for colonoscopy were included. Patients were randomized into two groups: 1 day of preparation with PEG 3350 4 g/kg/day + bisacodyl and 2 days of preparation with PEG 3350 2 g/kg/day + bisacodyl. Through a questionnaire, physical examination and endoscopic evaluation (Boston scale), the tolerance, safety and efficacy of the 2 preparations to be evaluated were determined. Student's t test was performed for quantitative variables and χ2 for qualitative variables. Results: There were no significant differences in compliance rates, adverse effects, and extent of colonoscopic evaluation. Conclusions: Tolerance and safety between the intestinal preparation for 1-day colonoscopy with PEG 3350 (4 g/kg/day) + bisacodyl and the 2-day preparation with PEG 3350 (2 g/kg/day) + bisacodyl were similar. The quality of cleanliness was good in both groups, being partially more effective in the 1-day group with PEG 3350 (4 g/kg/day).