Cost-effectiveness of robotic vs laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy. Results from the national prospective trial ROBOCOSTES.

INTRODUCTION: Although several studies report that the robotic approach is more costly than laparoscopy, the cost-effectiveness of robotic distal pancreatectomy (RDP) over laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) is still an issue. This study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of the RDP and LDP approaches across several Spanish centres. METHODS: This study is an observational, multicenter, national prospective study (ROBOCOSTES). For one year from 2022, all consecutive patients undergoing minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy were included, and clinical, QALY, and cost data were prospectively collected. The primary aim was to analyze the cost-effectiveness between RDP and LDP. RESULTS: During the study period, 80 procedures from 14 Spanish centres were analyzed. LDP had a shorter operative time than the RDP approach (192.2 min vs 241.3 min, p = 0.004). RDP showed a lower conversion rate (19.5% vs 2.5%, p = 0.006) and a lower splenectomy rate (60% vs 26.5%, p = 0.004). A statistically significant difference was reported for the Comprehensive Complication Index between the two study groups, favouring the robotic approach (12.7 vs 6.1, p = 0.022). RDP was associated with increased operative costs of 1600 euros (p < 0.031), while overall cost expenses resulted in being 1070.92 Euros higher than the LDP but without a statistically significant difference (p = 0.064). The mean QALYs at 90 days after surgery for RDP (0.9534) were higher than those of LDP (0.8882) (p = 0.030). At a willingness-to-pay threshold of 20,000 and 30,000 euros, there was a 62.64% and 71.30% probability that RDP was more cost-effective than LDP, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The RDP procedure in the Spanish healthcare system appears more cost-effective than the LDP.

Ocular effects of exposure to low-humidity environment with contact lens wear: A pilot study.

PURPOSE: To compare the ocular effects of exposure to a low-humidity environment with and without contact lens (CL) wear using various non-invasive tests. METHODS: Fourteen habitual soft CL wearers were exposed to controlled low humidity (5% relative humidity [RH]) in an environmental chamber for 90 min on two separate occasions. First, when wearing their habitual spectacles and then, on a separate visit, when wearing silicone hydrogel CLs that were fitted specifically for this purpose. All participants had adapted to the new CL prior to data collection. Three non-invasive objective measurements were taken at each visit: blinking rate, objective ocular scatter (measured using the objective scatter index) and ocular surface cooling rate (measured using a long-wave infrared thermal camera). At each visit, measurements were taken before the exposure in comfortable environmental conditions (RH: 45%), and after exposure to environmental stress (low humidity, RH: 5%). RESULTS: CL wearers showed increased blinking rate (p < 0.005) and ocular scatter (p = 0.03) but similar cooling rate of the ocular surface (p = 0.08) when compared with spectacle wear in comfortable environmental conditions. The exposure to low humidity increased the blinking rate significantly with both types of corrections (p = 0.01). Interestingly, ocular scatter (p = 0.96) and cooling rate (p = 0.73) were not significantly different before and after exposure to low humidity. There were no significant two-way interactions between correction and exposure in any of the measurements. CONCLUSIONS: CLs significantly increased the blinking rate, which prevented a quick degradation of the tear film integrity as it was refreshed more regularly. It is hypothesised that the increased blinking rate in CL wearers aids in maintaining ocular scatter quality and cooling rate when exposed to a low-humidity environment. These results highlight the importance of blinking in maintaining tear film stability.

A Portable Infrared System for Identification of Particulate Matter.

Occupational exposure to airborne dust is responsible for numerous respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Because of these hazards, air samples are regularly collected on filters and sent for laboratory analysis to ensure compliance with regulations. Unfortunately, this approach often takes weeks to provide a result, which makes it impossible to identify dust sources or protect workers in real time. To address these challenges, we developed a system that characterizes airborne dust by its spectro-chemical profile. In this device, a micro-cyclone concentrates particles from the air and introduces them into a hollow waveguide where an infrared signature is obtained. An algorithm is then used to quantitate the composition of respirable particles by incorporating the infrared features of the most relevant chemical groups and compensating for Mie scattering. With this approach, the system can successfully differentiate mixtures of inorganic materials associated with construction sites in near-real time. The use of a free-space optic assembly improves the light throughput significantly, which enables detection limits of approximately 10 µg/m3 with a 10 minute sampling time. While respirable crystalline silica was the focus of this work, it is hoped that the flexibility of the platform will enable different aerosols to be detected in other occupational settings.

Musculoskeletal Disorders Related to Upper Limb Disability after One-Year Lung Cancer Resection.

Lung resection represents the main curative treatment in lung cancer; however, this surgical process leads to several disorders in tissues and organs. Previous studies have reported cardiovascular, pulmonary, and muscular disturbances that affect the functional capacity of these patients in the short, mid, and long term. However, upper limb impairment has been scarcely explored in the long term, despite the relevance in the independence of the patients. The aim of this study was to characterize the upper limb impairment in survivors of lung cancer one year after pulmonary resection. In this observational trial, patients who underwent lung cancer surgery were compared to control, healthy subjects matched by age and gender. Upper limb musculoskeletal disorders (shoulder range of motion, pain pressure threshold, nerve-related symptoms) and functional capacity (upper limb exercise capacity) were evaluated one-year post-surgery. A total of 76 survivors of lung cancer and 74 healthy subjects were included in the study. Significant differences between groups were found for active shoulder mobility (p < 0.05), widespread hypersensitivity to mechanical pain (p < 0.001), mechanosensitivity of the neural tissue (p < 0.001), and upper limb exercise capacity (p < 0.001). Patients who undergo lung cancer surgery show upper limb musculoskeletal disorders and upper limb functional impairment after a one-year lung resection. This clinical condition could limit the functionality and quality of life of patients with lung cancer.

Effects of Dietary Supplementation in Patients with Restless Legs Syndrome: A Systematic Review.

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common neurological disorder. It disrupts sleep and well-being and is often associated with other conditions. This review examines the potential of dietary supplements to manage RLS symptoms and reduce reliance on medications. A total of 10 randomized clinical trials involving 482 participants were analyzed, focusing on the impact of various supplements on symptom severity, sleep quality, and daytime sleepiness. Findings suggest some supplements may have positive results. Magnesium oxide and vitamin B6 significantly improved sleep quality and RLS symptoms, with magnesium showing greater effectiveness. Vitamin D supplementation did not show significant benefits. Oral iron has promising results, indicating potential efficacy but issues related to compliance and absorption. Both vitamins C and E positively affect RLS symptoms, likely due to their antioxidant properties. Valerian improved RLS and sleep but did not show a statistically significant improvement. Despite these encouraging results, a high risk of bias was noted in half of the studies, emphasizing the need for more rigorous research. Overall, this review suggests that dietary supplements may be a promising approach to managing RLS. However, further investigation is required to confirm the efficacy and safety.

Neurophysiological pain education for patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of neurophysiological pain education in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis considering pain-related variables. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out according to the PRISMA guidelines. A search was conducted in PubMed, PEDro Database, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science. Only randomized controlled trials enrolling patients ≥ 18 years of age with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis were included. The Downs and Black quality assessment tool was used to assess the quality of the articles, and the risk of bias was evaluated with the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool. RESULTS: A total of 7 studies were included in the study. Most of the studies were rated as "fair" on the Downs and Black quality assessment tool, and in the category of "some concerns" according to the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool. Neurophysiological pain education was conducted alone or combined with exercise, joint mobilizations, or self-management programs. The number of sessions ranged from 1 to 10. The meta-analysis results showed significant differences in favor of the intervention group in pain (MD = -0.49; 95% CI = -0.66; -0.32; p < 0.001) and catastrophization (MD = -1.81; 95% CI = -3.31, -0.3; p = 0.02). CONCLUSION, PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Neurophysiological pain education interventions in isolation or combined with exercise, joint mobilizations, or self-management programs have proven to significantly improve pain and catastrophization in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. These findings could provide clinicians with more information regarding the management of patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis.

The Impact of Pain Education Interventions for Cancer Survivors and Caregivers: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Cancer-related pain is a global health-related problem associated with functional impairment, anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. The use of educational interventions for patients and their caregivers has been proposed as a promising tool for overcoming pain in cancer. The aim of this study was to summarize by means of a standardized methodological systematic revision the actual pain education intervention used in cancer patients and their caregivers and to analyze its effects on pain. METHODS: A search was conducted through PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Cinhal from their inception to September 2022. Randomized controlled trials which included pain education interventions were identified. Two reviewers performed independent data extraction and methodologic quality assessments of these studies. RESULTS: A total of seven studies was included in the study. The meta-analysis showed that pain education interventions have a significant effect on the worst pain; however, there was no effect on average pain. CONCLUSIONS: Pain education interventions addressed to patients and their caregivers could have positive effects on cancer-related pain. It is recommended that a minimum of three sessions of about one hour's duration be held once a week. Further research needs to be carried out and analyzed on the effects over the long term. Pain education interventions show positive results in improving pain in cancer patients regardless of etiology or extent of the cancer. Studies with better methodological quality should be carried out to address specific components related to education interventions.

Atomistic study of CoCrCuFeNi high entropy alloy nanoparticles: Role of chemical complexity.

High entropy alloy nanoparticles are envisaged as one of the most interesting materials compared to monoatomic materials due to their modulated properties in terms of their convenient surface-to-volume ratio. However, studies are still missing to unveil how composition or nanoparticle size can influence nanoparticle morphology. Based on molecular dynamics simulations, we perform a structural characterization as a function of nanoparticle size and the chemical composition of high entropy alloy nanoparticles subject to multiple annealing cycles. After the multiple thermal loads, we observe a substantial migration of copper atoms towards the np surface, consistent with the experimental results of Cu-based high entropy alloys. The resulting high entropy alloy nanoparticle behaves as a core-shell nanostructure with a rich fcc phase on the surface (50% of Cu) and 5% fcc phase in the nanoparticle core. Inspecting the nanoparticle surface, it is observed that high entropy alloy nanoparticles have a lack of surface facets, leading to a more spherical shape, quite different from mono-metallic nanoparticles with a high number of facets. Performing an average atoms simulation, it showed that nanoparticles are prone to form 111 surface facets independent of the nanoparticle size, suggesting that for high entropy alloy nanoparticles, the chemical complexity avoids the formation of surface facets. The latter can be explained in terms of the lattice distortion inducing tensile/compressive stress that drives the surface reconstruction. All in all our results match extremely well with experimental evidence of FeNiCrCoCu nanocrystalline materials, explaining the Cu segregation in terms of surface energy and mixing enthalpy criteria. We believe that our results provide a detailed characterization of high entropy nanoparticles focusing on how chemical complexity induces morphological changes compared to mono-crystalline nanoparticles. Besides, our findings are valuable for experimental works aimed at designing the shape and composition of multicomponent nanoparticles.

Respiratory training effects in Long COVID-19 patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: To date, it is unknown whether respiratory training interventions can benefit Long COVID-19 patients. The main objective was to analyze the effects of respiratory training on patients with Long COVID-19, concretely on respiratory muscle strength, lung function, dyspnea, and functional capacity. METHODS: We performed a systematic review following PRISMA statement using PubMed, Scopus, and PEDro (last search November 2023). The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool. We included randomized controlled trials testing the effect of respiratory training interventions in Long COVID-19 patients versus no intervention, control, or placebo intervention. The data was pooled, and a meta-analysis was complete. RESULTS: We selected 7 studies, which included 572 patients. Meta-analysis results show significant differences in favor of respiratory training in respiratory muscle strength (MD = 13.71; 95% CI = 5.41; 22; p = 0.001), dyspnea (SDM = 1.39; 95% CI = 0.33; 2.46; p = 0.01) and functional capacity (SDM = 0.90; 95% CI = 0.37; 1.43; p = 0.0009), but not in lung function (MD = 0.28; 95%CI = -0.27; 0.83; p = 0.32). CONCLUSION: The results of this systematic review with meta-analysis suggest that respiratory training improves respiratory muscle strength and functional capacity in Long COVID-19 patients, as well as dyspnea if combined with therapeutic exercise. However, respiratory training does not improve lung function in these patients. REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO IDENTIFIER: CRD42022371820.

The Effectiveness of Combined Exercise and Self-Determination Theory Programmes on Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review and Metanalysis.

Low back pain is a pervasive issue worldwide, having considerable prevalence and a significant impact on disability. As low back pain is a complicated condition with many potential contributors, the use of therapeutic exercise, combined with other techniques such as self-determination theory programmes, has the potential to improve several outcomes. The aim of this systematic review was to explore the effectiveness of combined exercise and self-determination theory programmes on chronic low back pain. This study was designed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines. A systematic search in three databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus) was conducted from September to November 2023. After screening, a total of five random control trials with patients with chronic low back pain were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The results showed significant differences in disability (SMD = -0.98; 95% CI = -1.86, -0.09; p = 0.03) and in quality of life (SMD = 0.23; 95% CI = 0.02, 0.44; p = 0.03) in favour of the intervention group versus the control group.

Routine Physical Therapy with and without Neural Mobilization in Chronic Musculoskeletal Neck Disorders with Nerve-Related Symptoms: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

No previous study has evaluated the effectiveness of routine physical therapy with and without neural mobilization for patients with chronic musculoskeletal neck disorders and cervical radiculopathy. The objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of routine physical therapy with and without neural mobilization on pain and mobility in patients with chronic musculoskeletal neck disorders and cervical radiculopathy. A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials involving the use of neural mobilization techniques for the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal neck disorders and cervical radiculopathy was conducted. Methodological quality was assessed by the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and PEDro scale. Data were pooled and a meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model with Review Manager 5 software. Seven articles were included in our review. Significant differences were found in mobility but not in pain in favor of using routine physical therapy with neural mobilization for the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal neck disorders and cervical radiculopathy. Our results show that routine physical therapy accompanied by neural mobilization is superior for improving mobility in comparison with routine physical therapy alone in patients with musculoskeletal neck disorders and cervical radiculopathy.

Early Effects of a Pain-Informed Movement Program in Patients with Post-COVID-19 Condition Experiencing Persistent Pain: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

(1) Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has generated 771 million confirmed cases. Of these patients, 60% have developed persistent symptoms including pain. This pain is a complex symptom that needs comprehensive therapeutic strategies to address it holistically. The main objective of this study will be to evaluate the early impact of the Pain Informed Movement (PIM) program in patients with post-COVID-19 conditions experiencing new-onset persistent pain. (2) Methods: A randomized, single-blind clinical trial will be performed. Patients will be randomly assigned (1:1) to the experimental or control group. The experimental group will undergo a PIM program consisting of low-intensity functional exercises, pain neuroscience education, and relaxation techniques. The control group will receive no intervention. (3) Results: The results will be published as a peer-reviewed article. (4) Conclusions: This study will provide a basis for future research to support the implementation of comprehensive therapeutic approaches in the care of patients with post-COVID-19 persistent pain.

Effectiveness of Self-Care Education for Chronic Neck Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Self-care programs for chronic neck pain are relevant to everyday life and can lead to long- term improvement. More studies on their effectiveness, key components and appropriate duration are needed. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of self-care programs for patients with chronic neck pain. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. After searching in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and ScienceDirect, eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Self-care education interventions typically consisted of education (i.e., pain neuro-science education or general educational concepts) accompanied by exercise or manual therapy. The most frequent components were addressing physical and psychological symptoms and engaging in self-care strategies. The least frequent ones were monitoring and recording symptoms and discussing with providers of medical care. The duration of the interventions ranged from three sessions to six months. Finally, individual and supervised modalities were the most frequent. After pooling the data, a meta-analysis was carried out according to four variables (i.e., pain, disability, kinesiophobia and catastrophization) and showed significant results (p < 0.05) in favor of self-care interventions. This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that self-education interventions improve pain, psychological pain-related variables and disability in patients with chronic neck pain. The most frequently used components were addressing physical and psychological symptoms and engaging in self-care strategies. Future trials should focus on including other components, such as discussing symptoms with providers of medical care or self-monitoring symptoms. Additional areas of focus include more homogeneous doses and comparator treatments, as well as studies with better evidence to reach more solid conclusions.

Musculoskeletal, Functional and Performance Impairment in Female Overhead Athletes with a Previous Shoulder Injury.

BACKGROUND: Shoulder injuries are substantial problems in overhead athletes, and more studies are necessary to deepen the knowledge on this type of injury. The objective of this study was to compare the overall function and performance of female overhead athletes with and without a previous history of shoulder injuries. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, female overhead athletes with and without a previous shoulder injury were included. Muscular impairment, the stability of the shoulder, strength, scapular dyskinesia, functionality and sports performance were evaluated. A total of 50 females were included. RESULTS: There were significant differences in strength (p = 0.046) and stability (p = 0.039) between groups, with a poorer score in the group with a history of shoulder injury. Regarding scapular dyskinesia, significant differences were also observed between groups (p = 0.048), with higher levels of dyskinesia in the group with previous shoulder injury. Also, muscular impairment showed significant differences between groups for the three muscles evaluated (p < 0.005). Additionally, the group without a previous shoulder injury presented with a significantly greater score in functionality (p = 0.046) and sports performance (p = 0.004). CONCLUSION: In conclusion, previous shoulder injuries are an important factor to take into account in female overhead athletes. Players with a history of shoulder injury present clinical impairments during the game, leading to poorer functional status and performance in sport.

Diagnóstico de salud en un barrio urbano como punto de partida de un proceso comunitario / Development of a participatory community prioritization's day in a urban neighbourhood

El diagnóstico de salud impulsado desde un equipo de Atención Primaria (EAP) supone una oportunidad para reorientar la atención comunitaria en los EAP. El objetivo de este trabajo es el desarrollo del diagnóstico de salud de los barrios atendidos por el EAP Congrés en la ciudad de Barcelona. Secundariamente, se detectaron activos para la salud del barrio que permitieron la creación posterior de grupos de trabajo intersectoriales orientados a la acción comunitaria conjunta. El estudio se inició caracterizando a la población mediante un examen preliminar en el que se utilizó metodología mixta (cuantitativa y cualitativa) y se obtuvo un listado de problemas de salud. Posteriormente, se celebró una jornada comunitaria participativa, siendo la soledad, el envejecimiento y el desconocimiento de los recursos comunitarios existentes en el barrio los problemas priorizados. Participaron en todo el proceso agentes comunitarios, profesionales y habitantes del barrio. El diagnóstico de salud impulsado por el EAP coincidió con un proceso de diagnóstico comunitario liderado por el Ayuntamiento que se inició en el barrio meses después. La simultaneidad de ambos procesos facilitó la interrelación de los activos para la salud favoreciendo la creación de cuatro mesas comunitarias (MC) intersectoriales: políticas sociales, de juventud, educativa y de gente mayor. Este trabajo pone de manifiesto que el desarrollo del DS impulsado por un EAP puede ser una oportunidad para conocer las necesidades de salud de la población del barrio, sus activos y, al mismo tiempo, generar un proceso comunitario en la zona

Health diagnosis driven by a Primary Care Team (PCT) is an opportunity to redirect community care in PCTs. The aim of this work is development of health diagnosis in neighbourhoods served by the PCT Congrés in the city of Barcelona. Secondly, neighbourhood health assets were detected which enabled subsequent creation of inter-sectoral working groups targeted at joint community action. The study started by characterizing the population by means of a preliminary examination in which mixed methodology (quantitative and qualitative) was used, thereby obtaining a list of health problems. In a second phase, a participatory community day was held. Loneliness, aging and lack of familiarity with existing community resources in the neighbourhood were priority problems. Community agents, professionals and neighbourhood residents all took part in the whole process. The health diagnosis promoted by the Primary Care Team coincided with a community diagnostic process spearheaded by the City Council that began in the neighbourhood months later. The simultaneous nature of both processes facilitated interrelation of health assets, which favoured the creation of 4 inter-sectoral community tables: Social Policies, Youth, Education and the Elderly. This work reveals that development of health diagnosis driven by a PCT can be an opportunity to get to know the health needs of the neighbourhood population, their assets and, at the same time, generate a community process in the area

Alendronato administrado en el foco de fractura: Estudio experimental en conejos / Alendronate administered at the fracture site. Experimental study in rabbits

Introducción: El objetivo de este estudio experimental fue evaluar el resultado radiológico e histológico del empleo de alendronato colocado localmente en el foco de fracturas de fémur en conejos. Materiales y Métodos: Se utilizaron 30 conejos a los cuales se les fracturó el fémur derecho y se los dividió en tres grupos de 10 animales cada uno. A los conejos del grupo 1 se les colocó una solución con alendronato en el foco de fractura; los del grupo 2 fueron sometidos al mismo procedimiento a los siete días de la fractura y el grupo 3 era de control. Se realizó la evaluación radiográfica en el momento de la fractura y a los 42 días del procedimiento. Se evaluaron las características del callo óseo mediante anatomía patológica, radiología y tomografía computarizada. Resultados: Se evaluaron 24 conejos (2 conejos del grupo 2 y 4 del grupo 3 murieron). El análisis histológico reveló moderada formación ósea en los tres grupos, sin diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p = 0,8336). Según los resultados de los estudios por imágenes, no existieron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en el tamaño del callo óseo entre los grupos para los dos estudios (radiografía: p = 0,777 y tomografía: p = 0,349). Conclusión: El alendronato colocado localmente en el foco de fractura, en la etapa aguda y luego de una semana, no alteró, de manera estadísticamente significativa, el proceso normal de consolidación, determinado por anatomía patológica y radiología, a las seis semanas de la fractura de fémur en conejos. Nivel de Evidencia: II

Introduction: The aim of this experimental study was to evaluate the radiologic and histological results of the use of alendronate administered locally at the fractures site in rabbits. Methods: The fractured right femur of 30 rabbits was used for evaluation. The animals were distributed in three groups of 10 rabbits each. A solution with alendronate was placed at the fracture site in group 1; the same procedure was performed 7 days after the fracture in group 2, and group 3 functioned as control. Radiographic evaluation was performed at the time of the fracture and at day 42. Radiological, PA and CT-scan evaluations of bone callus characteristics in each rabbit were performed. Results: Twenty-four rabbits were evaluated (2 rabbits in group 2 and 4 in group 3 died). Histological evaluation evidenced moderate bone formation in the three groups without statistically significant differences (p=0.8336). Concerning imaging studies, there were no statistically significant differences in the size of bone callus among groups for both studies (X-rays: p=0.777 and CT: p=0.349). Conclusion: The use of alendronate administered locally at the fracture site, in the acute period and after one week, did not alter the normal consolidation process determined by PA and radiology, six weeks after femur fracture in rabbits. Level of Evidence: II

Revisión femoral con tallo cónico de fijación distal / Femoral revision surgery with conical stem of distal fixation

Introducción: La pérdida de hueso proximal en la cirugía de revisión del vástago femoral es el principal desafío que enfrenta el cirujano al efectuar una revisión. El objetivo es obtener una fijación estable de los componentes, así como la restauración de la cinemática de la articulación. Materiales y Métodos: Evaluamos a 37 pacientes (39 revisiones femorales), entre 2010 y 2014, a quienes se les colocaron tallos cónicos no cementados de fijación distal (28 modulares y 11 no modulares). La edad promedio fue 63.5 años. Se incluyó a 18 (48,64%) mujeres y 19 (51,35%) hombres. Se intervinieron 14 (35,89%) casos de aflojamiento aséptico, 14 (35,89%) infecciones, 7 (17,94%) fracturas periprotésicas, 3 (7,69%) fracturas de vástago y una (2,56%) por inestabilidad. El seguimiento medio fue de 42 meses (rango 24-74). Resultados: El puntaje medio de Harris mejoró de 37 (rango 10-77) antes de la operación a 81 (rango 33-96) en el último seguimiento. Cuatro pacientes (10,2%) presentaron luxación, uno (2,5%) tuvo una infección profunda; otro (2,5%), una fractura intraoperatoria; en tres (7,6%) pacientes, se produjo un hundimiento y fue necesario revisar 2 (5,1%) implantes femorales. Conclusiones: Con el vástago cónico se han logrado resultados satisfactorios en 2-6 años de seguimiento, en varias condiciones de revisión femoral. Requiere de una técnica simple y reproducible, con una mejoría clínica ampliamente publicada. Nivel de Evidencia: IV

Introduction: Proximal bone loss at the femoral stem is the main challenge facing surgeons at the time of revision total hip arthroplasty. The aim of revision surgeries is to obtain a stable placement of components and to restore joint kinematics. Methods: Between 2010 and 2014, we evaluated 37 patients (39 hips) in whom non-cemented femoral stems were used (28 modular and 11 non-modular).The average age was 63.5 years. Study patients included 18 (48.64%) women and 19 (51.35%) men. Causes of reoperation included 14 (35.89%) cases of aseptic loosening, 14 (35.89%) infections, 7 (17.94%) periprosthetic fractures, 3 (7.69%) stem fractures and one (2.56%) for instability. Mean follow-up was 42 months (range 24-74). Results: The average Harris score improved from 37 (range 10-77) points before surgery to 81 points (range 33-96) at the last follow-up. Four patients (10.2%) presented dislocation, one (2.5%) suffered a deep infection, one (2.5%) had an intra-operative fracture; 3 (7.6%) patients presented subsidence and it was necessary to revise 2 (5.1%) femoral implants. Conclusions: Satisfactory results were obtained with the femoral stem in 2 to 6 years of follow-up in several conditions of femoral revision surgeries. It requires a simple and reproducible technique with clinical improvement that has been widely published in the literature. Level of Evidence: IV

Colgajos pediculados en defectos de tejidos blandos en niños / Pedicled flaps for coverage of soft-tissue defects in children

Introducción: El objetivo de este trabajo es evaluar los resultados obtenidos con la utilización de colgajos pediculados en la cobertura de defectos de tejidos blandos, en los miembros, en niños. Materiales y Métodos: Se evaluaron 13 niños que sufrieron pérdida o retracción grave de tejidos blandos, y requirieron de un colgajo pediculado para la adecuada cobertura del defecto, entre 2004 y 2013. La edad promedio fue de 7.9 años. El tiempo entre el trauma inicial y la realización del colgajo promedió 39 días. La cobertura se efectuó con colgajo sural (4 casos), colgajo en isla vasculonervioso (2 casos), colgajo radial (2 casos), colgajo inguinal (3 casos), colgajo abdominal (1 caso) y colgajo dorsal ancho (1 caso). En todos los pacientes, la reparación o la reconstrucción de las lesiones asociadas se llevaron a cabo en el mismo tiempo quirúrgico. Resultados: El seguimiento promedio fue de19 meses. En los 13 casos se obtuvo una buena cobertura del defecto. El tiempo de internación fue, en promedio, de 8.1 días. Hubo una infección, una necrosis superficial y dos pacientes con cicatriz hipertrófica. Dos pacientes necesitaron tenólisis y dos, zetaplastias. Conclusiones: Los colgajos pediculados permiten obtener una adecuada cobertura en la mayoría de estas lesiones en niños; la reconstrucción de las lesiones asociadas por debajo de ellos es posible sin inconvenientes. Algunas desventajas de estos colgajos en adultos son la inmovilización del miembro afectado, con una potencial rigidez y la formación de edema, pero esto no se observó en los niños.

Introduction: The aim of this study is to evaluate the results achieved using pedicle flaps for coverage of soft-tissue defects in children. Methods: Thirteen children who suffered trauma or burns of the extremities, with soft-tissue loss or severe retraction, requiring a pedicled flap for adequate coverage, treated between 2004 and 2013, were evaluated. Average age 7.9 years. Time between initial trauma and flap coverage averaged 39 days. Coverage was achieved using a sural flap (4 cases), a neurovascular island flap (2 cases), a radial forearm flap (2 cases), a groin flap (3 cases), an abdominal flap (1 case), and a latissimus dorsi flap (1 case). Associated lesions were repaired or reconstructed at the same surgical procedure in all patients. Results: Follow-up averaged 19 months. Adequate coverage was achieved in all 13 cases. Hospitalization time averaged 8.1 days. One patient developed infection, one flap had superficial necrosis and two patients developed hypertrophic scars. Two patients needed extensor tendon tenolisis and two requiredz-plasties. Conclusions: Pedicled flaps allow for an adequate coverage in most soft-tissues defects in children; it is possible to simultaneously reconstruct all associated injuries. The main disadvantage of these flaps in adults is immobilization of the affected limb, with potential stiffness and edema formation, butthis was not evident in the children included in this series.

Colgajo fasciocutáneo sural inverso para cobertura de defectos de partes blandas en pierna, tobillo y pie / Reverse fasciocutaneous sural flap for soft-tissue coverage in leg, ankle and foot

Introducción: El objetivo de este trabajo es evaluar los resultados obtenidos con la utilización del colgajo fasciocutáneo sural de base distal para la reconstrucción de defectos de partes blandas alrededor de la tibia distal, el tobillo y el pie. Materiales y Métodos: Se evaluaron, en forma retrospectiva, 20 colgajos pediculados fasciocutáneos surales inversos realizados entre 2007 y 2013. la edad promedio de los pacientes era de 42 años (rango 6-79); 14 hombres y 5 mujeres. las causas de los defectos fueron: postraumáticas (17 casos, un caso bilateral) y secundarias a resecciones oncológicas (2 casos). la muestra incluyó tres pacientes diabéticos, una mujer obesa y ocho pacientes tabaquistas. en 10 casos, las heridas presentaban exposición tendinosa y, en 10 casos, exposición ósea. el diámetro promedio de los defectos fue de 8,9 x 5,75 cm. Resultados: El seguimiento promedio fue de 16 meses. se logró una exitosa cobertura completa del defecto en los 20 casos. el tiempo promedio de internación fue de 3.15 días. tres colgajos presentaron necrosis parcial superficial, en un caso el colgajo sufrió necrosis en su tercio distal y, en un paciente, se decidió amputar la extremidad por persistencia de la osteomielitis. Conclusiones: Pese a que se han descrito múltiples opciones de cobertura en defectos de tejidos blandos alrededor de la tibia distal, el tobillo y el pie, el colgajo sural inverso es, en la actualidad, uno de los procedimientos más frecuentes para cubrir estos defectos. se evaluaron 20 colgajos surales inversos y se logró la cobertura completa de los defectos de tejidos blandos, tanto en defectos postraumáticos como en los resultantes de resecciones oncológicas.

Background: The objective of this paper is to evaluate the results after the use of distally-based reverse fasciocutaneous sural flap in the reconstruction of soft-tissue loss around the distal tibia, ankle and foot. Methods: Twenty fasciocutaneous pedicled reverse sural flaps performed between 2007 and 2013 were retrospectively evaluated. Average age of the patients: 42 years (range 6-79), 14 were male and 5 were female. soft-tissue loss was post-traumatic in 17 cases (one bilateral) and secondary to oncologic resections in two cases. the series included three diabetic patients, one obese woman, and eight smokers. ten cases had exposed tendons and ten had bony exposure. defect size averaged 8.9 x 5.75 cm. Results: Follow-up averaged 16 months. complete soft tissue defect coverage was achieved in all 20 cases. Hospital stay averaged 3.15 days. three flaps had superficial necrosis, one flap suffered necrosis of its distal third, and the lower extremity was amputated in a patient due to persistent osteomyelitis. Conclusions: Although multiple coverage options have been described for soft-tissue coverage around the distal tibia, ankle and foot, the reverse sural flap is one of the most frequently used procedures to cover these defects. We evaluated 20 reverse sural flaps, achieving complete soft-tissue coverage in post-traumatic lesions as well as in those defects resulting from oncologic resections.

Percepciones sobre el estudio de casos, como estrategia de aprendizaje, en estudiantes de enfermería / Perceptions about the case study, as learning strategy in nursing students

La presente investigación de enfoque cualitativo, basada en la compilación de información mediante la observación en el aula y sistematizada a través de algunos métodos e instrumentos derivados de la teoría fundamentada, tuvo como objeto analizar las percepciones de estudiantes de Enfermería sobre el 'estudio de casos', estrategia de aprendizaje utilizada por la carrera, en la Universidad del Mar. A partir de la información reunida se elaboraron categorías interpretativas, con el fin de comprender y explicar el valor pedagógico del proceso didáctico en estudio. Los sujetos investigados corresponden a un grupo de estudiantes de segundo año de la carrera, con quienes, uno de los docentes investigadores, trabajó la estrategia de aprendizaje, 'estudio de casos'. La información fue obtenida a través de: la observación participante, las entrevistas semiestructuradas, el grupo de discusión y la revisión de documentos. De los resultados obtenidos emergieron las siguientes 'categorías': aprendizaje, trabajo en equipo, mediación docente y formación profesional. Como conclusiones, los estudiantes revelaron que, mediante el 'estudio de casos', experimentaron un proceso fundamental en su formación profesional: fortalecer el trabajo en equipo y desarrollar cualidades para liderar un grupo. También haber desarrollado importantes cambios en la forma de aprender, transformándose en protagonistas activos que toman sus propias decisiones y que construyen aprendizajes significativos en la aplicación de situaciones reales, perfilando un rol profesional sólido que le permitirá un buen desempeño en la solución de problemas de su quehacer profesional.

The purpose of this research with a qualitative approach, based on information compiled during classroom observation and systematized through some methods and tools derived from grounded theory, was to analyze the perceptions of nursing students about the 'case study' learning strategy used by the nursing career, at the Universidad del Mar. In order to understand and explain the pedagogical value of the didactic process in study, interpretative categories were elaborated from the gathered information. The investigated subjects are a group of nursing students in their second year, with whom, one of the academic researcher, worked out the learning strategy. The information was gathered through: participant observation, structured interviews, group discussions and document review. From the reached results, the following 'categories' emerged: learning, teamwork, tutorial mediation and vocational training. Conclusion, the students revealed that, through 'case study', they experienced a fundamental process in their professional training: strengthening teamwork and developing skills to lead a group. They also recognize important changes in the way of learning, becoming active students making their own decisions and who construct significant learning in the application of real situations, outlining a strong professional role that will allow a good performance in solving their professional problems at work.