Quantitative Volumetric Measurements of Bone Grafting Sites Within the Lower Extremity on Computed Tomography Scans.

The anterior iliac crest is one of the most used options; however, pain and other complications have been reported. Other options for bone harvest in the lower extremity, such as the proximal tibia and calcaneus, can be useful sites for bone grafting. Computed tomography angiography images of the lower extremity were analyzed using 3-D Slicer™ medical imaging software, creating an advanced 3-dimensional model. Bone volume (cm3) and bone mineral density (Hounsfield units) were measured from the cancellous bone in the anterior iliac crest, posterior iliac crest, proximal tibia, and the calcaneus. Fifteen studies were included. The total volume measured it was of 61.88 ± 14.15 cm3, 19.35 ± 4.16 cm3, 32.48 ± 7.49 cm3, 26.40 ± 7.18 cm3, for the proximal tibia, anterior and posterior iliac crest, and calcaneus, respectively. Regarding Hounsfield units, the densities were 116 ± 58.77, 232.4 ± 68.65, 214.4 ± 74.45, 170.5 ± 52.32, for proximal tibia, anterior and posterior iliac crest, and calcaneus. The intraclass correlation coefficients were in average >0.94. In conclusion, the proximal tibia has more cancellous bone than the anterior and posterior iliac crest. The calcaneus has more cancellous bone than the anterior iliac crest. Bone mineral density was highest in the anterior iliac crest and in proximal tibia was the lowest value.

The use of platelet-rich plasma in studies with early knee osteoarthritis versus advanced stages of the disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 31 randomized clinical trials.

INTRODUCTION: Reports have concluded that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an effective and safe biological approach to treating knee osteoarthritis (OA). However, the effectiveness of PRP in advanced stages of the disease is not entirely clear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the use of PRP would be as effective in studies with early-moderate knee OA patients compared to studies including patients with end-stage OA, based on the Kellgren-Lawrence classification. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A comprehensive search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effect of PRP injections versus other intra-articular treatments on pain and functionality. A meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model and the generic inverse variance method. RESULTS: We included 31 clinical trials that reported data of 2705 subjects. Meta-analysis revealed an overall significant improvement of both pain [MD, - 1.05 (95% CI - 1.41 to - 0.68); I2 = 86%; P ≤ 0.00001] and function [SMD, - 1.00 (95% CI - 1.33, to - 0.66); I2 = 94%; P ≤ 0.00001], favoring PRP. Subanalysis for pain and functional improvement showed a significant pain relief in studies with 1-3 and 1-4 Kellgren-Lawrence OA stages and a significant functional improvement in studies with 1-2, 1-3 and 1-4 knee OA stages, favoring PRP. CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that including patients with advanced knee OA does not seem to affect the outcomes of clinical trials in which the effectiveness of the PRP in knee OA is assessed.

Comparison of Anterior Iliac Crest Versus Proximal Tibia Autologous Bone Graft Harvesting: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Anterior iliac crest (AIC) is the preferred option for bone grafting; however, pain and complications are reported. Proximal tibia (PT) is a sourceful site for bone grafting with lower complications. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Scopus were searched to identify studies comparing AIC and PT autograft procedure. The main outcome was pain and complication rate. As well as cadaveric and cell-based studies were analyzed for quantity and quality of AIC and PT autograft. A meta-analysis was performed using the generic inverse variance method with random or fixed effects model depending on heterogeneity between studies. Heterogeneity was tested with the I2 statistic index. Fifteen studies were included in the meta-analysis. Six studies and 248 patients were included for clinical outcomes. A significant pain reduction favoring PT at 24 hours was detected after meta-analysis and corresponding sensitivity analysis. The estimated effect size ranged from -2.31 to -2.93 cm, with confidence intervals aligned to the left indicating a robust steady decrease in pain across studies. This effect was not observed after 1 month. A total of 18 complications were reported, 13 in the AIC group and 5 in the PT group. Four cadaveric studies were included, 3 favored PT on the quantity of bone graft harvested. Five cell-based studies were included, only one study favored AIC for quality of bone graft. Our study concludes that PT bone harvest is a reliable option for bone grafting regarding morbidity, complications, volume graft obtained, and cellular and molecular properties. However, the current evidence is still insufficient to draw definitive conclusions, especially in terms of bone healing. PROSPERO Register: CRD42020198150.

Effect of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists on renal function: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

AIMS: The objective of this meta-analysis was to examine the impact of the GLP-1 RA on renal function parameters in randomized controlled trials. METHODS: A systematic search was performed in PubMed-MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Google Scholar databases. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model and sensitivity analysis. RESULTS: Data from 18 randomized controlled trials involving 12 192 subjects, showed that treatment with GLP-1 RA had no effect on serum creatinine levels (weighted mean difference [WMD]: 0.00 mg/mL, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.01, 0.01, P = .83, I2 = 0%) and glomerular filtration rate (WMD: 1.01 mL/min/1.73 m2 , 95% CI: -1.61, 3.63, P = .45, I2 = 75%). On the other hand, a significant reduction in urinary albumin excretion (WMD: -18.01 mg/day, 95% CI: -31.20, -4.82, P = .007, I2 = 23%) and albumin-to-creatinine ratio (WMD: -6.74 mg/g, 95% CI: -12.64, -0.85, P = .03, I2 = 68%) was detected after GLP-1 RA therapy. CONCLUSION: Results of our meta-analysis revealed that GLP-1 RA treatment decreases urinary albumin excretion and albumin-to-creatinine ratio but it did not cause significant changes in creatinine levels and glomerular filtration rate.

Clinical Efficacy of Botulinum Toxin in the Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) for the treatment of plantar fasciitis through a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focusing on pain and functional outcomes since current literature has supported a potential benefit of BTX-A. DATA SOURCES: The MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched until December 2020 for RCTs reporting the effects of BTX-A injections on plantar fasciitis. The complementary literature search included Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Clinicaltrials.gov, and greylit.org. STUDY SELECTION: Only RCTs assessing the effect of BTX-A injections on pain, functional improvement, or plantar fascia thickness in patients with plantar fasciitis were included. Multiple researchers carried out the screening process of the 413 records. DATA EXTRACTION: Data were extracted independently and in duplicate using a standardized data extraction format. Information was contrasted by a third observer. DATA SYNTHESIS: BTX-A injections resulted in significant pain relief (mean difference, -2.07 [95% CI, -3.21 to -0.93]; P=.0004; I2=97%) and functional improvement (standardized mean difference, 1.15 [95% CI, 0.39-1.91]; P=.003; I2=87%). A subanalysis indicated that pain relief was sustained at 12 months while functional improvement remained significant after 0-6 months. The results were not affected by a single study after sensitivity analysis. The site of injection and the use or not of ultrasound-guided injections may account for potential sources of interstudy heterogeneity. CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis suggests both a statistically significant and a clinically meaningful improvement on plantar fasciitis symptoms after BTX-A treatment.

Distal radius fractures: Classifications concordance among orthopedic residents on a teaching hospital.

BACKGROUND: Several classification systems have been developed to support orthopedic surgeons regarding diagnostic, treatment, or prognostic outcomes of distal radius fracture (DRF). However, the best classification system for this fracture remains controversial. We aimed to identify the reliability of three different DRF classifications among orthopedists in training (medical residents). METHODS: Orthopedic residents (n = 22) evaluated thirty cases of DRF in anteroposterior and lateral projections in three different periods (0, 6, 12 months). Each radiography was sorted with three different classifications: Frykman, AO/OTA, and Jupiter-Fernandez. All assessments were blinded to the investigators. The inter- and intra-observer reliability was evaluated using the Cohen's kappa coefficient. An additional analysis was performed for a simpler sub-classification of the AO/OTA (27, 9, or 3 groups). RESULTS: Inter-observer agreement for AO/OTA, Frykman, and Jupiter-Fernandez classifications was slight (k = 0.15), fair (k = 0.31), and fair (k = 0.30), respectively. Intra-observer agreement showed similar results: AO/OTA, k = 0.14; Frykman, k = 0.28; and Jupiter-Fernandez, k = 0.28. When the AO/OTA classification was simplified (9 or 3 descriptions), the inter-observer agreement improved from slight (k = 0.16) to fair (k = 0.21 and k = 0.30, respectively). A similar improvement from slight (k = 0.14) to fair (k = 0.32 and k = 0.21) was detected for intra-observer agreement. CONCLUSIONS: The more complex the DRF classification system, the more complex is to reach reliable inter- and intra-observer agreements between orthopedic trainees. Senior residents did not necessarily show greater kappa values in DRF classifications.

Physical, Mechanical, and Biological Properties of Fibrin Scaffolds for Cartilage Repair.

Articular cartilage is a highly organized tissue that provides remarkable load-bearing and low friction properties, allowing for smooth movement of diarthrodial joints; however, due to the avascular, aneural, and non-lymphatic characteristics of cartilage, joint cartilage has self-regeneration and repair limitations. Cartilage tissue engineering is a promising alternative for chondral defect repair. It proposes models that mimic natural tissue structure through the use of cells, scaffolds, and signaling factors to repair, replace, maintain, or improve the specific function of the tissue. In chondral tissue engineering, fibrin is a biocompatible biomaterial suitable for cell growth and differentiation with adequate properties to regenerate damaged cartilage. Additionally, its mechanical, biological, and physical properties can be enhanced by combining it with other materials or biological components. This review addresses the biological, physical, and mechanical properties of fibrin as a biomaterial for cartilage tissue engineering and as an element to enhance the regeneration or repair of chondral lesions.

Normal saline injection produces a therapeutic effect in patients with plantar fasciitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: Injectable therapies have been increasingly investigated to treat plantar fasciitis in randomized controlled trials (RCT) where normal saline injections are frequently used as placebo. The purpose was to quantify the effect of saline injections and compared against available minimal clinically important difference (MCID) criteria specific for plantar fasciitis to assess if changes were clinically meaningful. METHODS: RCT including a placebo group (normal saline) and reporting changes in pain and functional outcomes in plantar fasciitis were identified through a search in MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus to February 2022. PRISMA guidelines and a registered protocol (PROSPERO: CRD42020214035) were followed to conduct the study. RESULTS: Pooled analysis of 13 RCT (379 subjects) included for analysis revealed a significant improvement on pain (P < .00001) and functional scores (P < .00001) after normal saline injections. These changes exceeded the established MCID criteria. CONCLUSIONS: Normal saline injections in plantar fasciitis showed a therapeutic effect with statistically and clinically meaningful improvement when administered in the setting of an RCT for up to 12 months. The control of potential confounders influencing the effect of saline injections is required for future research.

Effect of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors on hepatic parameters: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Previous studies have suggested that sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors may improve hepatic function; however, the evidence is scarce. Hence, we performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to evaluate the effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors on hepatic parameters. PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases were searched to identify randomized controlled trials examining the effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on hepatic parameters. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model and sensitivity analysis. Meta-analysis revealed that SGLT2 inhibitors therapy significantly lowered alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (WMD: -4.79 U/L, 95 % CI: -6.10, -3.47, I2 = 62 %, p < 0.00001), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (WMD: -2.49 U/L, 95 % CI: -3.30, -1.68, I2 = 54 %, p < 0.00001), alkaline phosphatase (AP) (WMD: -1.13 U/L, 95 % CI: -2.03, -0.22, I2 = 23 %, p = 0.02), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) (WMD: -7.77 U/L, 95 % CI: -9.33, -6.21, I2 = 5 %, p < 0.00001). Additionally, SGLT2 inhibitors showed a significant increase in bilirubin levels (WMD: 0.64 U/L, 95 % CI: 0.27, 1.00, I2 = 53 %, p < 0.0006. Finally, no significant changes were found on albumin levels (WMD: 0.13 U/L, 95 % CI: -0.06, 0.32, I2 = 53 %, p < 0.0006) after SGLT2 inhibitors treatment. In conclusion, our results suggest that treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors exerts a beneficial effect on liver function tests through decreased ALT, AST, AP, and GGT concentrations.

Impact of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists on adiponectin concentrations: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

AIMS: Previous studies have reported an elevation in adiponectin concentrations using glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA) therapy; however, this possible pleiotropic effect is still uncertain. Thus, the objective of this meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was to assess the impact of GLP-1 RA on adiponectin levels. METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis included randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of GLP-1 RA on circulating adiponectin concentrations. Studies from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases were included. A random-effects model and a sensitivity analysis using the leave 1-out method were conducted. RESULTS: A meta-analysis of 20 randomized controlled trials involving 1497 individuals demonstrated a significant increase in adiponectin levels after GLP-1 RA administration (weighted mean difference [WMD]: 0.59 µg/mL, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.10, 1.08, P = .02). Particularly, liraglutide had a significant effect on adiponectin (WMD: 0.55 µg/mL, 95% CI: 0.04, 1.06, P = .04), while exenatide did not affect these concentrations (WMD: 0.60 µg/mL, 95% CI: -0.23, 1.42, P = .16). CONCLUSION: GLP-1 RA treatment is associated with an increase in adiponectin levels.

Effect of hydroxychloroquine on glucose control in patients with and without diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials.

PURPOSE: The aim of this meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was to evaluate the effect of hydroxychloroquine on glucose control. METHODS: Randomized controlled trials examining the impact of hydroxychloroquine on glycemic markers were searched in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model and sensitivity analysis through the leave-one-out method. RESULTS: Meta-analysis revealed a significant reduction of fasting glucose (WMD: - 8.05 mg/dl; 95% CI: - 11.17, - 4.93; I2 = 75%; p ˂0.0001), 2-h postprandial glucose (WMD: - 15.52 mg/dl; 95% CI: - 20.61, - 10.42; I2 = 53%; p ˂0.00001), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) values (WMD: - 0.19%, 95% CI: - 0.37, - 0.02; I2 = 94%; p = 0.03) after hydroxychloroquine treatment. Otherwise, meta-analysis showed no significant effect of hydroxychloroquine on insulin levels (WMD: 16.52 µUI/ml; 95% CI: - 16.35, 49.40; I2 = 90%; p = 0.32) and HOMA-ß (WMD: - 14.62; 95% CI: - 45.84, 16.59; I2 = 0%; p = 0.36). CONCLUSION: The present meta-analysis revealed that treatment with hydroxychloroquine improves glucose control through the reduction of fasting glucose, 2-h postprandial glucose, and HbA1c values. Given that the effect of hydroxychloroquine on beta-cell function is based only on two clinical trials, it is not possible to draw definitive conclusions.

Beneficial Effects of Plant-Derived Natural Products on Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is becoming in one of the most prevalent liver diseases that leads to liver transplantation. This health problem is a multisystem disease with a complex pathogenesis that involves liver, adipose tissue, gut, and muscle. Although several pharmacological agents have been investigated to prevent or treat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, currently there is no effective treatment for the management of this chronic liver disease. Nonetheless, the use of natural products has emerged as a alternative therapeutic for the treatment of hepatic diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, insulin-sensitizing, antiobesity, hypolipidemic, and hepatoprotective properties. In the present review, we have discussed the evidence from experimental and clinical studies regarding the potential beneficial effects of plant-derived natural products (quercetin, resveratrol, berberine, pomegranate, curcumin, cinnamon, green tea, coffee, garlic, ginger, ginseng, and gingko biloba) for the treatment or prevention of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Double-Row Rotator Cuff Repair Enhanced With Platelet-Rich Therapy Reduces Retear Rate: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

PURPOSE: To assess retear rates in arthroscopic double-row rotator cuff repair (double-row RCR) with and without platelet-rich therapy (PRT). METHODS: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus databases were searched for RCTs involving use of PRT exclusively in arthroscopic double-row RCR. A random-effects model and the generic inverse variance method were used for quantitative data synthesis. Heterogeneity was tested with the I2 statistic index. RESULTS: The 9 RCTs included in the meta-analysis demonstrated a risk reduction of 49% for retears in patients receiving PRT (risk ratio [RR] 0.51; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.35 to 0.76; P = .0008; I2 = 0%). Divided by tear sizes, retear risk reduction of 47% (RR 0.53; 95% CI 0.30 to 0.95; P = .03; I2 = 0%) was found in small to medium tears and 51% (RR 0.49; 95% CI 0.29 to 0.84; P = .009; I2 = 0%) in large to massive tears. Linked double-row RCR resulted in risk reduction of 51% for retears in comparison with nonlinked repairs. CONCLUSION: Double-row RCR plus PRT significantly reduced retear rates in all sizes of rotator cuff tears. Linked double-row RCR and applying the PRT during the surgical procedure and in the tendon-bone interface reproduced the best outcomes. Clinically, all patients improved, and no statistically significant difference was seen in clinical and functional scores between the intervention groups. All patients achieved optimal values for patient-reported outcomes measures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: I, systematic review and meta-analysis of level I studies.

Comparison of open arthrotomy versus arthroscopic surgery for the treatment of septic arthritis in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of arthrotomy, when compared with arthroscopy, in the treatment of adults with septic arthritis of any joint. METHODS: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Scopus were searched to identify studies comparing arthrotomy and arthroscopy as therapeutic approaches in patients with septic arthritis of any joint. The main outcome was the re-infection rate. A meta-analysis was performed using the generic inverse variance method with random or fixed effects model depending on heterogeneity between studies. Heterogeneity was tested with the I2 statistic index. RESULTS: Twenty studies with 10,249 patients treated by arthrotomy or arthroscopy were evaluated. We observed a significant lower risk of re-infection (odds ratio [OR], 1.35 [95% CI, 1.16-1.58]; p = 0.0002) and complications (OR, 1.32 [95% CI, 1.12-1.55]; p = 0.001) rate as well as less hospital stay (mean difference [MD], 0.57 days [95% CI, 0.10-1.05]; p = 0.02) favouring arthroscopic intervention. The subanalysis indicated that patients with knee (OR, 1.50 [95% CI, 1.17-1.92]; p = 0.001) and shoulder (OR, 1.24 [95% CI, 1.00-1.53]; p = 0.04) septic arthritis intervened by arthrotomy had a higher risk of re-infection. A lower number of hospitalization days (MD, 0.89 days [95% CI, 0.31-1.47]; p = 0.003) and a lower risk for complications (OR, 1.26 [95% CI, 1.04-1.52]; p = 0.02) were observed in patients treated with arthroscopy after septic knee arthritis. CONCLUSIONS: Available evidence suggests that patients with septic arthritis of the knee and shoulder treated by arthroscopy have less risk of re-infection than those treated by arthrotomy. The quality of the body of evidence is still insufficient to reach reliable conclusions. PROSPERO TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42020176044. Date registration: April 28, 2020.

Effect of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors on lipid profile: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 48 randomized controlled trials.

Previous studies have suggested additional beneficial effects of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors including the lipid-lowering effect; however, results on lipid profile are controversial. Thus, this meta-analysis aimed to determine the effect of SGLT2 inhibitors treatment on lipid levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Randomized controlled trials assessing the impact of SGLT2 inhibitors on lipid parameters were searched in PubMed-MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. Meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model and generic inverse variance method. Meta-analysis of 48 randomized controlled trials revealed that SGLT2 inhibitors therapy had a significant increase on total cholesterol (WMD: 0.09 mmol/L, 95 % CI: 0.05, 0.13, I2 = 79 %, p < 0.0001), LDL-cholesterol (WMD: 0.10 mmol/L, 95 % CI: 0.07, 0.12, I2 = 94 %, p < 0.00001), HDL-cholesterol (WMD: 0.06 mmol/L, 95 % CI: 0.05, 0.08, I2 = 99 %, p < 0.00001), and non-HDL-cholesterol (WMD: 0.09 mmol/L, 95 % CI: 0.06, 0.12, I2 = 96 %, p < 0.00001). Additionally, SGLT2 inhibitors administration showed a significant decrease in triglyceride levels (WMD: -0.10 mmol/L, 95 % CI: -0.13, -0.07, I2 = 96 %, p < 0.00001). Finally, no significant alteration was found on LDL/HDL ratio after SGLT2 inhibitors treatment (WMD: -0.01 mmol/L, 95 % CI: -0.05, 0.03, I2 = 99 %, p = 0.65). In conclusion, SGLT2 inhibitors significantly increase total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, non-HDL-cholesterol, and HDL-cholesterol, and decrease triglyceride levels.

Effect of ursodeoxycholic acid on liver markers: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials.

AIM: The objective of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) therapy on serum liver function tests. METHODS: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar databases were searched to identify randomized placebo-controlled trials assessing the impact of UDCA on hepatic parameters. Meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model and sensitivity analysis through the leave-one-out method in the Review Manager statistical software version 5.3. RESULTS: After UDCA treatment, meta-analysis revealed a significant reduction of alanine aminotransferase (weighted mean difference [WMD]: -15.28 U/L, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -23.42, -7.15, P = 0.0002, I2 = 97%), aspartate aminotransferase (WMD: -16.13 U/L, 95% CI: -23.84, -8.42, P < 0.0001, I2 = 97%), gamma-glutamyl transferase (WMD: -23.29 U/L, 95% CI: -33.97, -12.61, P < 0.0001, I2 = 97%), alkaline phosphatase (WMD: -93.80 U/L, 95% CI: -126.36, -61.25, P < 0.0001, I2 = 95%) and bilirubin (WMD: -0.18 U/L, 95% CI: -0.35, -0.01, P = 0.04, I2 = 93%), but not significant changes in albumin levels (WMD: 0.10 U/L, 95% CI: -0.05, 0.24, P = 0.18, I2 = 80%). CONCLUSION: The results of the present meta-analysis suggest a hepatoprotective effect of UDCA by reducing serum liver parameters.

Treatment of lateral ankle sprain with platelet-rich plasma: A randomized clinical study.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to clinically evaluate the effect of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy in patients with acute lateral ankle sprain treated with rigid immobilization. METHODS: Patients with first-time grade II lateral ankle sprain clinically diagnosed were evaluated (n=21). A rigid immobilization was placed in all patients for ten days; previously, an application of PRP over the anterior talofibular ligament was performed in patients from the experimental group. The Visual Analogue Scale, the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score, and the Foot and Ankle Disability Index were applied at 3, 5, 8 and 24 weeks of follow-up period. RESULTS: The experimental group presented the highest reduction in pain and better functional scores than the control group at 8 weeks. At the end of follow-up period the results of both groups were similar. CONCLUSIONS: A similar evolution was observed in patients treated with rigid immobilization with or without PRP after 24 weeks. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Trials.gov with ID NCT02609308.

Impact of ursodeoxycholic acid on circulating lipid concentrations: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials was to examine whether ursodeoxycholic acid treatment is an effective lipid-lowering agent. METHODS: PubMed-Medline, SCOPUS, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases were searched in order to find randomized controlled trials evaluating the effect of ursodeoxycholic acid on lipid profile. A random-effect model and the generic inverse variance weighting method were used for quantitative data synthesis. Sensitivity analysis was conducted using the leave-one-out method. A random-effects meta-regression model was performed to explore the association between potential confounders and the estimated effect size on plasma lipid concentrations. RESULTS: Meta-analysis of 20 treatment arms revealed a significant reduction of total cholesterol following ursodeoxycholic acid treatment (WMD: - 13.85 mg/dL, 95% CI: -21.45, - 6.25, p < 0.001). Nonetheless, LDL-C (WMD: -6.66 mg/dL, 95% CI: -13.99, 0.67, p = 0.075), triglycerides (WMD: - 1.42 mg/dL, 95% CI: -7.51, 4.67, p = 0.648) and HDL-C (WMD: -0.18 mg/dL, 95% CI: -5.23, 4.87, p = 0.944) were not found to be significantly altered by ursodeoxycholic acid administration. In the subgroup of patients with primary biliary cirrhosis, ursodeoxycholic acid reduced total cholesterol (WMD: - 29.86 mg/dL, 95% CI: -47.39, - 12.33, p = 0.001) and LDL-C (WMD: -37.27 mg/dL, 95% CI: -54.16, - 20.38, p < 0.001) concentrations without affecting TG and HDL-C. CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis suggests that ursodeoxycholic acid therapy might be associated with significant total cholesterol lowering particularly in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis.

Effect of collagen supplementation on osteoarthritis symptoms: a meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials.

PURPOSE: Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of disability and a prevalent chronic disease. The use of collagen is growing due to the satisfactory results in the treatment of OA. However, the possible beneficial effects of collagen for the treatment of OA are currently controversial. The aim of the present meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of collagen-based supplements on OA symptoms. METHODS: PubMed-Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases were searched for randomized placebo-controlled trials evaluating the effect of orally administered collagen on OA symptoms using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scale and/or the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model and a generic inverse variance method. Heterogeneity was tested using the I2 statistic index. RESULTS: Collagen treatment showed a significant reduction in the score of total WOMAC index (WMD - 8.00; 95% CI - 13.04, - 2.95; p = 0.002). After subgroup analysis of the WOMAC subscores, the collagen supplementation revealed a significant decrease in the stiffness subscore (WMD - 0.41; 95% CI - 0.74, - 0.08; p = 0.01), whereas the pain (WMD - 0.22; 95% CI - 1.58, 1.13; p = 0.75) and functional limitation (WMD - 0.62; 95% CI - 5.77, 4.52; p = 0.81) subscores did not have significant differences. Finally, a significant reduction was found in the VAS score after collagen administration (WMD - 16.57; 95% CI - 26.24, - 6.89; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The results of this meta-analysis showed that collagen is effective in improving OA symptoms by the decrease of both total WOMAC index and VAS score.

Effect of ursodeoxycholic acid on glycemic markers: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials.

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is widely used to treat liver diseases; however, its potential effect on metabolic parameters has been poorly investigated. Additionally, owing to divergent data, the objective of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of UDCA on glycemic parameters in clinical trials. Clinical trials investigating the impact of UDCA treatment on glycemic markers were searched in PubMed-Medline, SCOPUS, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases (from inception to April 16, 2018). A random-effects model and generic inverse variance method were used for quantitative data synthesis. Sensitivity analysis was conducted using the leave-one-out method. A weighted random-effects meta-regression was performed to evaluate the impact of potential confounders on glycemic parameters. Meta-analysis of seven studies comprising eight treatment arms revealed a significant reduction of fasting glucose levels following UDCA therapy (WMD: -3.30 mg/dL, 95% CI: -6.36, -0.24, p = 0.034; I2 = 28.95%). Also, meta-analysis of two treatment arms indicated a significant reduction of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) concentrations (WMD: -0.41% mg/dL, 95% CI: -0.81, -0.01, p = 0.042; I2 = 0%). Additionally, meta-analysis of four treatment arms also revealed a significant reduction in plasma insulin levels (WMD: -1.50 mg/dL, 95% CI: -2.81, -0.19, p = 0.025; I2 = 67.90%) but not significant effect HOMA-IR (WMD: -0.20 mg/dL, 95% CI: -0.42, 0.01, p = 0.057; I2 = 85.34%). Results of this meta-analysis showed that UDCA significantly reduces fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, and insulin concentrations suggesting a positive impact on glucose homeostasis.