Impact of Syndesmotic Screw Removal on Quality of Life, Mobility, and Daily Living Activities in Patients Post Distal Tibiofibular Diastasis Repair.

Background and Objectives: While numerous studies have been conducted on syndesmotic screw management following distal tibiofibular diastasis repair, a clear consensus remains unclear. This research aims to evaluate whether the postoperative removal of syndesmotic screws leads to improved patient outcomes, specifically in quality of life, mobility, and daily living activities, and whether it offers a cost-effective solution. Materials and Methods: Patients with a history of unimalleolar or bimalleolar ankle fractures, classified according to the Danis-Weber and Lauge-Hansen systems, were included. Comprehensive evaluations were made via standardized questionnaires like the SF-36 Health Survey, HADS, and WHOQOL-BREF, distributed approximately 2 months post surgery. A total of 93 patients underwent syndesmotic screw removal while 51 retained the screws (conservative approach). Results: Patients who underwent screw removal reported superior satisfaction in mobility, with a score of 7.8, compared to 6.7 in the conservative approach (p = 0.018). Similarly, their ability to perform daily activities scored 8.1, higher than the 6.5 from the conservative cohort (p < 0.001). Pain levels were also more favorable in the screw removal group, with a score of 5.3 against 6.8 in the conservative group (p = 0.003). On the SF-36 physical domain, the screw removal group achieved a mean score of 55.9 versus 53.3 for the conservative group (p = 0.027). Notably, the HADS anxiety subscale highlighted reduced anxiety levels in the screw removal cohort with a mean score of 5.8 against 7.3 in the conservative group (p = 0.006). However, overall quality of life and recommendations to others showed no significant difference between the groups. Conclusions: Syndesmotic screw removal postoperatively leads to marked improvements in patients' mobility, daily activity abilities, and reduced postoperative pain and anxiety levels. However, overall quality of life was similar between the two approaches. The findings offer valuable insights for orthopedic decision making and patient-centered care concerning the management of syndesmotic screws after distal tibiofibular diastasis repair.

Total knee arthroplasty for neuropathic arthropathy in a patient with leprosy.

Patients with leprosy are known to tend to develop neuropathic arthropathy, known as Charcot joint. There are no case reports of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in patients with leprosy with polyarticular neuropathic arthropathy, and the results are unknown. In this study, we report a case of TKA in a patient with leprosy with polyarticular neuropathic arthropathy and discuss its outcomes and indications. Right TKA using the NexGen Legacy Constrained Condylar Knee implant was performed in a 62-year-old man with neuropathic arthropathy in multiple joints with clinical symptoms, particularly in the right knee. Seven years post-operation, the American Knee Society Score-knee and -function, which represent knee function and activities of daily living on a scale of 100 points, were significantly improved compared with preoperative values, from 30 to 99 points and 0 to 60 points, respectively. Indications for arthroplasty for neuropathic arthropathy should be carefully considered in each individual case. In this case, the patient had neuropathic arthropathy in multiple joints; however, TKA was performed because recovery of function in the right knee was expected to significantly improve the patient's activities of daily living, and a good mid-term clinical outcome was achieved. Therefore, indications for arthroplasty should be considered in patients with systemic neuropathic arthropathy such as leprosy, and with accurate assessment and appropriate implant selection, good long-term outcomes may be expected.

The two extremes of Hansen's disease-Different manifestations of leprosy and their biological consequences in an Avar Age (late 7th century CE) osteoarchaeological series of the Duna-Tisza Interfluve (Kiskundorozsma-Daruhalom-dulo II, Hungary).

To give an insight into the different manifestations of leprosy and their biological consequences in the Avar Age of the Hungarian Duna-Tisza Interfluve, two cases from the 7th-century-CE osteoarchaeological series of Kiskundorozsma-Daruhalom-dulo II (Hungary; n = 94) were investigated. Based on the macromorphology of the bony changes indicative of Hansen's disease, KD271 (a middle-aged male) and KD520 (a middle-aged female) represent the two extremes of leprosy. KD271 appears to have an advanced-stage, long-standing near-lepromatous or lepromatous form of the disease, affecting not only the rhinomaxillary region but also both upper and lower limbs. This has led to severe deformation and disfigurement of the involved anatomical areas of the skeleton, resulting in his inability to perform the basic activities of daily living, such as eating, drinking, grasping, standing or walking. The skeleton of KD520 shows no rhinomaxillary lesions and indicates the other extreme of leprosy, a near-tuberculoid or tuberculoid form of the disease. As in KD271, Hansen's disease has resulted in disfigurement and disability of both of the lower limbs of KD520; and thus, the middle-aged female would have experienced difficulties in standing, walking, and conducting occupational physical activities. KD271 and KD520 are amongst the very few published cases with leprosy from the Avar Age of the Hungarian Duna-Tisza Interfluve, and the only examples with detailed macromorphological description and differential diagnoses of the observed leprous bony changes. The cases of these two severely disabled individuals, especially of KD271 -who would have required regular and substantial care from others to survive-imply that in the Avar Age community of Kiskundorozsma-Daruhalom-dulo II there was a willingness to care for people in need.

Percepções de pessoas com sequelas pela hanseníase acerca do autocuidado / Perceptions of people with sequelae by leprosy about self-care / Percepciones de personas com sequelae por lepra sobre el autocuidado

Objetivo: o estudo teve como objetivo conhecer as percepções de pessoas com sequelas pela hanseníase acerca das ações de autocuidado, à luz do seu contexto cultural. Método: estudo descritivo, exploratório com abordagem qualitativa, realizado com 12 pessoas com sequelas pela hanseníase, atendidas em um hospital colônia no estado do Piauí. Foram utilizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas, que posteriormente foram submetidas à técnica do Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo, tendo como suporte neste processo o software Iramuteq versão 0.7. Resultados: evidenciou-se que as percepções das pessoas relacionadas ao autocuidado estão ligadas às práticas de higiene corporal e oral, necessitando de apoio ao autocuidado por meio da compreensão do seu universo cultural. Considerações Finais: o autocuidado abrange uma dimensão integral de cuidados que deve ser inserido no contexto cultural das pessoas, que realizado de forma eficiente, proporciona melhorias no bem-estar e na qualidade de vida. (AU)

Objective: The study aimed to know the perceptions of people with leprosy sequelae about self-care actions in the light of their cultural context. Methods: A descriptive, exploratory study with a qualitative approach, carried out with 12 people with leprosy sequelae, attended in a colony hospital in the state of Piauí. Semi-structured interviews were used, which were subsequently submitted to the Collective Subject Discourse technique, using Iramuteq software version 0.7 as support in this process. Results: It was shown that people's perceptions of self-care are related to body and oral hygiene practices, requiring support for self-care through the understanding of their cultural universe. Conclusion: Self-care encompasses an integral dimension of care that must be inserted in the cultural context of people, which performed efficiently, provides improvements in well-being and quality of life. (AU)

Objetivo: El estudio tuvo como objetivo comprender las percepciones de las personas con secuelas de lepra sobre las acciones de autocuidado a la luz de su contexto cultural. Métodos: Estudio exploratorio descriptivo con enfoque cualitativo, realizado con 12 personas con secuelas de lepra atendidas en un hospital de colonias en el estado de Piauí. Se utilizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas, que posteriormente se sometieron a la técnica de Discurso del sujeto colectivo, utilizando Iramuteq versión 0.7 como apoyo en este proceso. Resultados: Se demostró que las percepciones de las personas sobre el autocuidado están relacionadas con las prácticas de higiene bucal y corporal, lo que requiere apoyo para el autocuidado a través de la comprensión de su universo cultural. Conclusion: El autocuidado abarca una dimensión integral de la atención que debe insertarse en el contexto cultural de las personas, que se desempeña de manera eficiente, proporciona mejoras en el bienestar y la calidad de vida. (AU)

Activity limitations in leprosy and their association to cognition and neuropsychiatric symptoms.

OBJECTIVES: to analyze activity limitations in patients with leprosy and their association to cognition and neuropsychiatric symptoms. METHODS: this cross-sectional design study included sixty patients with multibacillary leprosy assisted at a reference center. Participants were divided according to their physical disability and submitted to instruments assessing daily activities (basic and instrumental), cognitive functions, and neuropsychiatric symptoms. The order of the instruments was random to avoid any interference of test sequence on the results. RESULTS: fifty-five percent of the participants presented physical disabilities. All patients were independent in performing basic activities but sixty-six percent presented difficulties in performing instrumental activities. Cognitive decline and neuropsychiatric symptoms were seen in advanced stages of the disease, but they were more associated to patient age than to leprosy. CONCLUSIONS: leprosy patients presented physical disabilities and difficulties in performing instrumental daily activities. Cognitive decline and neuropsychiatric symptoms were more associated to aging than to leprosy itself.

Activity limitations in leprosy and their association to cognition and neuropsychiatric symptoms / Limitaciones de tarea en la enfermedad de Hansen y su relación con cognición y síntomas neuropsiquiátricos / Limitações de tarefa na hanseníase e sua associação com cognição e sintomas neuropsiquiátricos

ABSTRACT Objectives: to analyze activity limitations in patients with leprosy and their association to cognition and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Methods: this cross-sectional design study included sixty patients with multibacillary leprosy assisted at a reference center. Participants were divided according to their physical disability and submitted to instruments assessing daily activities (basic and instrumental), cognitive functions, and neuropsychiatric symptoms. The order of the instruments was random to avoid any interference of test sequence on the results. Results: fifty-five percent of the participants presented physical disabilities. All patients were independent in performing basic activities but sixty-six percent presented difficulties in performing instrumental activities. Cognitive decline and neuropsychiatric symptoms were seen in advanced stages of the disease, but they were more associated to patient age than to leprosy. Conclusions: leprosy patients presented physical disabilities and difficulties in performing instrumental daily activities. Cognitive decline and neuropsychiatric symptoms were more associated to aging than to leprosy itself.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar limitaciones de tarea en pacientes con Lepra y su relación con cognición y síntomas neuropsiquiátricos. Métodos: este estudio transversal incluyó 60 pacientes con Lepra multibacilar atendidos en centro de referencia. Participantes fueron divididos segundo la disfunción física y evaluados cuanto a las actividades diarias (básicas y instrumentales), funciones cognitivas y síntomas neuropsiquiátricos. Orden de aplicación de los instrumentos aleatoria para evitar interferencia de la secuencia de tests sobre los resultados. Resultados: de los participantes, 55% presentaron disfunción física. Todos pacientes eran independientes en las actividades básicas, pero 66% mostraron dificultades en las actividades instrumentales. Declive cognitivo y síntomas neuropsiquiátricos fueron observados en etapas avanzadas de la enfermedad, pero estos estaban más relacionados a la edad del paciente que a la Lepra. Conclusiones: pacientes con Lepra evidenciaron disfunción física y dificultades en las actividades instrumentales. Declive cognitivo y síntomas neuropsiquiátricos están más relacionados al envejecimiento que a la Lepra.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar as limitações de tarefa em pacientes com hanseníase e sua associação com cognição e sintomas neuropsiquiátricos. Métodos: este estudo transversal incluiu 60 pacientes com hanseníase multibacilar atendidos em um centro de referência. Os participantes foram divididos segundo a disfunção física e avaliados quanto às atividades diárias (básicas e instrumentais), às funções cognitivas e aos sintomas neuropsiquiátricos. A ordem de aplicação dos instrumentos foi aleatória para evitar interferência da sequência dos testes sobre os resultados. Resultados: dos participantes, 55% apresentaram disfunção física. Todos os pacientes eram independentes nas atividades básicas, mas 66% mostraram dificuldades nas atividades instrumentais. Declínio cognitivo e sintomas neuropsiquiátricos foram observados em estágios avançados da doença, porém estes estavam mais associados à idade do paciente do que à hanseníase. Conclusões: pacientes com hanseníase evidenciaram disfunção física e dificuldades nas atividades diárias instrumentais. Declínio cognitivo e sintomas neuropsiquiátricos estão mais associados ao envelhecimento do que à hanseníase.

Limitação de atividade e restrição à participação social em pessoas com hanseníase: análise transversal da magnitude e fatores associados em município hiperendêmico do Piauí, 2001 a 2014 / Limitación de la actividad y restricción de la participatión social en personas con lepra: análisis transversal de la magnitud y factores asociados en un municipio hiperendémico de Piauí, 2001 a 2014 / Activity limitation and social participation restriction of people with leprosy: a cross-sectional analysis of magnitude and associated factors in a hyperendemic municipality in the state of Piauí, Brazil, 2001-2014

Objetivo: analisar a magnitude e os fatores associados à limitação de atividade e restrição à participação social em pessoas com hanseníase de 2001 a 2014, em Picos, Piauí. Métodos: estudo transversal com dados coletados por meio de entrevistas e exames físicos; foram utilizadas as escalas SALSA (Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness) e de participação social; calcularam-se razões de prevalência (RP) brutas. Resultados: participaram do estudo 263 pessoas com hanseníase; a limitação de atividade foi associada com grau de incapacidade I/II (RP=1,66; IC95% 1,14;2,41), idade ≥60 anos (RP=1,68; IC95% 1,09;3,02) e baixa escolaridade (RP=1,76; IC95% 1,26;2,45); observou-se correlação entre escore olho-mão-pé e limitação de atividade (r=0,29; p<0,001) e restrição à participação (r=0,27; p<0,001). Conclusão a limitação de atividade e a restrição à participação apresentaram alta prevalência no contexto estudado, e foram associadas a gravidade da doença, idade avançada e vulnerabilidade social.

Objetivo: analizar la magnitud y factores asociados con la limitación de actividad y restricción de la participación social en personas con lepra entre 2001 a 2014 en Picos/PI. Métodos: Estudio transversal con dados recopilados en entrevistas y exámenes físicos. Se utilizaron las escalas SALSA (Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness) y de participación social. Se calcularon las razones de prevalencia bruta (RP). Resultados: 263 personas con lepra participaron en el estudio. La limitación de actividad se asoció con el grado de discapacidad I/II (RP=1,66; IC95% 1,14;2,41), edad ≥ 60 años (RP= 1,68; IC95% 1,09;3,02) y baja escolaridad (RP=1,76; IC95% 1,26;2,45). Hubo una correlación entre la puntuación ojo-mano-pie y la limitación de actividad (r=0,29; p<0,001) y la restricción de participación (r=0,27; p<0,001). Conclusión: la limitación de la actividad y la restricción de participación mostraron una alta prevalencia en el contexto estudiado y se asociaron con la gravedad, la vejez y la vulnerabilidad social.

Objective: to analyse the magnitude and factors associated with activity limitation and social participation restriction of people with leprosy from 2001 to 2014 in Picos, Piauí, Brazil. Methods: this was a cross-sectional study with data collected through interviews and physical examinations; the SALSA Scale (Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness) and Social Participation Scale were used; crude prevalence ratios (PR) were calculated. Results: 263 people with leprosy participated in the study; activity limitation was associated with grade I/II disability (PR=1.66; 95%CI 1.14;2.41), age ≥60 years (PR=1.68; 95%CI 1.09;3.02) and low schooling (PR=1.76; 95%CI 1.26;2.45); correlation was found between eye-hand-foot score and activity limitation (r=0.29; p<0.001) and participation restriction (r=0.27; p<0.001). Conclusion: activity limitation and participation restriction had high prevalence in the context studied and were associated with disease severity, advanced age and social vulnerability.

Aplicabilidade do instrumento "Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness" em idosos com hanseníase / Aplicabilidad del instrumento "Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness" en personas de edad avanzada con lepra / Applicability of the instrument "Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness" in elderly with leprosy

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar a aplicabilidade da Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness (SALSA) para a avaliação da capacidade funcional de idosos com hanseníase. Método Pesquisa descritiva, transversal, desenvolvida com 77 idosos com hanseníase acompanhados no Centro de Referência em Dermatologia, em Fortaleza, Ceará, de junho a agosto de 2015, por meio da aplicação da SALSA e de outras duas escalas já validadas para uso em idosos. Para a análise, utilizou-se estatística descritiva e inferencial. Resultados Houve convergência entre as escalas (p=0,0000) na avaliação da capacidade funcional. As variáveis idade e sexo apresentaram maior número de associações com as atividades avaliadas, ao passo que, nas variáveis clínicas relacionadas à hanseníase, apenas o grau de incapacidade física apresentou relação com mais de duas atividades. Conclusão A SALSA contribuiu para a avaliação eficaz da capacidade funcional na população estudada, sendo mais influenciada pela idade do que pela hanseníase. Implicações para a prática: Assim, recomenda-se a sua aplicação nas consultas iniciais como instrumento de rastreio da capacidade funcional de idosos com hanseníase.

RESUMEN Objetivo Analizar la aplicabilidad del Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness (SALSA) para evaluación de la capacidad funcional de personas mayores con lepra. Método Investigación descriptiva, transversal, desarrollada con 77 personas mayores con enfermedad de Hansen acompañadas por el Centro de Referencia en Dermatología, en Fortaleza, Ceará, desde junio hasta agosto de 2015, mediante la aplicación de la SALSA y otras dos escalas ya validadas para uso en personas de edad avanzada. Para el análisis, se utilizó estadística descriptiva e inferencial. Resultados Hubo convergencia entre las escalas (p=0,0000) en la evaluación de la capacidad funcional. Los variables edad y sexo mostraron mayor número de asociaciones con las actividades evaluadas, mientras que en las variables clínicas relacionadas con la lepra, apenas el grado de incapacidad física presentó relación con más de dos actividades. Conclusiones La SALSA ha contribuido a la efectiva evaluación de la capacidad funcional en la población estudiada, siendo influenciada más por edad que por la enfermedad de Hansen. Implicaciones para la práctica: Su aplicación se recomienda en las consultas iniciales como una herramienta para la detección de la capacidad funcional de personas mayores con lepra.

ABSTRACT Objective To analyze the applicability of Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness (SALSA) for the evaluation of the functional capacity of the elderly with leprosy. Method Descriptive and transversal research, developed with 77 elderly people with Hansen's disease accompanied at the Reference Center in Dermatology, in Fortaleza, Ceará, from June to August 2015, through the application of SALSA and two other scales already validated for use in elderly. For the analysis, descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Results There was convergence between the scales (p=0.0000) on the evaluation of functional capacity. The variables age and gender showed a larger number of associations with the activities evaluated, whereas, in the clinical variables related to leprosy, just the grade of disability presented a relationship with more than two activities. Conclusion and Implications for practice The SALSA has contributed to the effective evaluation of functional capacity in the population studied, being more influenced by age than by leprosy. SALSA's application is recommended in the initial consultations as a tool for screening of the functional capacity of older people with leprosy.

Association between the Rosén and Lundborg Score and the Screening Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness scale in hand functional evaluation of patients with leprosy diagnosis.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the association of results from the Rosén and Lundborg Score and the screening activity limitation and Safety Awareness scale for the assessment of hand in patients diagnosed with leprosy. METHOD: An association between the Rosén and Lundborg Score and the Screening Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness scale for hand was evaluated in a cross-section study with 25 people of a mean age of 51 years old (SD 14), undergoing drug treatment for leprosy. RESULTS: The mean quantitative score in the Screening Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness scale was 27.9 (SD 10.5). Rosén and Lundborg Score for the median nerve were 2.43 (SD 0.38) on the right hand and 2.41 (SD 0.54) on the left hand whilst for the ulnar nerve, the scores observed were 2.33 (SD 0.42) for the right hand and 2.31 (SD 0.61) for the left hand. Significant correlations between the two instruments in assessment of the median and ulnar nerves on both hands were found. CONCLUSIONS: Due to the association found between the scales, the Rosén and Lundborg Score may be used in assessment of the hand in patients diagnosed with leprosy, as a tool to assist the result evaluation after the drug treatment, surgical treatment, rehabilitation and follow-up in the hand dysfunction in leprosy. Implications for Rehabilitation The leprosy inflammatory neuropathy may cause limitations and disabilities related to hand functions of patients. Instruments with quantitative scores provide a reliable basis for therapeutic intervention prognosis. New evaluation methods promote a better monitoring of treatment and hand function evolution of people with leprosy.

Limitação de atividade e consciência de risco em clientes acometidos pela hanseníase / Activities limitation and risk awareness in leprosy patients

Objetivo: Caracterizar a limitação de atividade e a consciência de risco entre pacientes com hanseníase e analisar a correla-ção entre os escores da escala SALSA para limitação com a Classificação Operacional, Forma Clínica, Reação Hansênica e Consciência de Risco. Material e Métodos: Estudo descritivo, seccional, quantitativo realizado com indivíduos com hanse-níase utilizando a Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awarenes (Escala SALSA) para diagnóstico situacional. Para análise dos dados adotou-se o software estatístico SPSS 20.0. Resultados: O perfil sociodemográfico da amostra aponta ele-vados índices de detecção da doença na população masculina (70,5%), com escolaridade de nível fundamental (58,8%), baixa renda, em faixa etária economicamente produtiva. A faixa etária oscilou entre 15 e 69 anos. Identificou-se leve limitação (escores 25 a 39) e baixa consciência de risco (escores 0 a 5), havendo forte significância estatística entre as mesmas (p=0,001). Ve-rificou-se correlação positiva da limitação de atividade com a reação hansênica (r=0,068) e a consciência de risco (r=0,801). Observou-se ainda que a consciência de risco foi baixa em to-dos os aspectos, contudo estiveram correlacionadas as formas mais graves da doença e aos clientes que já apresentavam alguma limitação. Conclusão: A existência de limitação para AVD's, embora em categoria leve, bem como nenhuma e baixa consciência de risco sinalizam para a necessidade de fortale-cimento de ações de prevenção das incapacidades, dentre as quais, a educação em saúde consolida-se como ferramenta relevante, mediadora de reversibilidade destas consequências. (AU)

Objective: To characterize activity limitation and risk awareness among leprosy patients and analyze the correlation between the SALSA scale scores for limitation with the Operational Classi-fication, Clinical Form, Hansen Reaction and Risk Awareness. Material and Methods: Descriptive, sectional, quantitative study carried out with individuals with leprosy using the Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness (SALSA Scale) for situational diagnosis. Data analysis was performed using the statistical software SPSS 20.0. Results: The sociodemographic profile of the sample shows high rates of detection of the disease in the male population (70.5%), with a low level of schooling (58.8%), in an economically productive age range. The age ranged from 15 to 69 years. A slight limitation was identified (scores 25 to 39) and low risk awareness (scores 0 to 5), with a strong statistical significance between them (p = 0.001). There was a positive correlation of the activity limitation with the leprosy reaction (r = 0.068) and risk awareness (r = 0.801). It was also observed that the risk awareness was low in all aspects, but the most severe forms of the disease were correlated with the clients that already had some limitation. Conclusion: The existence of limitations for ADLs, although in a mild category, as well as none and low risk awareness, point to the need to strengthen actions to prevent disabilities, among them, health education is consolidated as a relevant tool, mediator of reversibility of these consequences. (AU)

Assistive technologies for improving the oral hygiene of leprosy patients residing in a former leprosy colony in Betim, Minas Gerais, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: This study deals with management of a group of elderly patients with a history of leprosy and hand deformities by a multidisciplinary team of dentists and occupational therapists. Assistive technology devices have been developed to allow such patients to obtain independence in oral self-care and can be a cost-effective approach to improving oral care in this population. The objective of this study was to describe the development of assistive devices to facilitate daily oral hygiene in older people with enduring leprosy-related impairments. METHODOLOGY: Case study realized among elders with a history of leprosy residents in a former isolation colony in Betim, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The elders were evaluated for dependence on others for denture hygiene and mouthwash using the Daily Oral Hygiene Activity Index (ADOH). Those deemed partially or completely dependent on others were eligible for an intervention based on assistive technology. We adopted a personalized approach to each case, taking into account medical history, physical impairment and living environment. Six months after the intervention, the participants were assessed again using the ADOH and an unstructured interview about use of the devices. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Assistive devices for denture hygiene and mouthwash were developed for 16 elders. These devices facilitated oral hygiene in most patients and there was no worsening in any of the cases. Patients' report suggested they were satisfied with the devices provided. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that assistive devices can facilitate oral hygiene activities in leprosy patients. It also reinforces the importance of using a multidisciplinary team for the rehabilitation of these patients.

Percepção de pacientes com hanseníase acerca dos grupos de autocuidado / Perception of patients with lepra about the self-care groups

Objetivo: analisar a percepção dos pacientes com hanseníase acerca dos grupos de apoio ao autocuidado. Método: estudo qualitativo, descritivo, realizado em unidade de saúde de referência para tratamento da hanseníase com 11 pacientes. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevista semiestruturada, e realizada a Técnica de Análise de Conteúdo. Resultados: os achados foram classificados em duas categorias: << Importância do autocuidado para a prevenção de incapacidades físicas e psicossociais e << Contribuições dos grupos de apoio ao autocuidado no enfrentamento das dificuldades e limitações das pessoas atingidas pela hanseníase >>. Conclusão: os grupos de apoio ao autocuidado proporcionam a redução de incapacidades físicas, por meio de medidas de prevenção, educação em saúde, adesão ao autocuidado e tratamento. Além disso, esses grupos elevam a autoestima, proporcionam a superação de preconceito e possibilitam o vínculo terapêutico entre pacientes e profissionais. Este estudo auxilia no enfrentamento das dificuldades e limitações de pessoas atingidas pela hanseníase.(AU)

Avaliação da limitação das atividades, participação social e estratégias de enfrentamento em idosos na hanseníase / Evaluation of the limitation of activities, social participation and strategies for counseling in elderly people in leprosy

O modo como os idosos enfrentam os obstáculos após o diagnóstico da hanseníase (comprometimento funcional, participação social na vida familiar, profissional e comunitária) pode direcionar o planejamento das ações de prevenção de incapacidades e do programa de reabilitação a qual o idoso está inserido, de acordo com as necessidades individuais. Portanto, o objetivo deste estudo consiste em avaliar a limitação na realização de atividades de vida diária (AVDs), participação social e as estratégias de enfrentamento em idosos afetados pela hanseníase. Fizeram parte desse estudo 70 idosos afetados pela doença, em acompanhamento no Instituto Lauro de Souza Lima, com idade igual ou superior a 60 anos. Foram utilizados cinco instrumentos de avaliação, a saber: Questionário com dados sociodemográficos e clínicos, Avaliação do grau de incapacidade (GI), SALSA, Escala de Participação Social e Inventário de Coping. Foi utilizada análise estatística descritiva para a caracterização da casuística. Houve um predomínio de pacientes do sexo masculino (67,14%), multibacilares (87,14%), com tempo de diagnóstico maior de 20 anos (42,85%), GI 2 (64,28%), idosos com alguma limitação nas AVDs (91,43%), sem restrição significativa (51,43%) e com restrições a participação social de leve à grave (48,57%). Quanto às estratégias de enfrentamento, as estratégias positivas mais utilizadas foram “reavaliação positiva” (70%), “resolução de problemas” (65,7%) e “suporte social” (65,7%), e, as negativas mais utilizadas foram “autocontrole” (67,2%) e “afastamento” (62,9%). Embora tenham predominado GI 2 , limitações na realização das AVDs e restrição participação social, houve predomínio de estratégias de enfrentamento positivas, o que poderia ser justificado pelo tempo de convivência e evolução da doença, durante o processo de ressignificação da doença e das limitações adquiridas. A identificação das estratégias de enfrentamento em idosos pode auxiliar na investigação de fatores psicológicos e sociais que interferem no seu cotidiano e, com isso, todos os profissionais da saúde poderão planejar ações mais eficazes de prevenção e reabilitação em hanseníase, de posse a esses conhecimentos

The way in which the elderly face obstacles after diagnosis of leprosy (functional impairment, social participation in family, professional and community life) can guide the planning of the disability prevention actions and the rehabilitation program to which the elderly are inserted, according to individual needs. There for, the objective of this study is to evaluate the limitation of daily living activities (ADLs), social participation and coping strategies in elderly people affected by leprosy. This study included 70 elderly people affected by the disease, who were followed up at the Lauro de Souza Lima Institute, aged 60 or over. Five evaluation instruments were used: questionnaire with sociodemographic and clinical data, assessment of the degree of incapacity (GI), SALSA, Social Participation Scale and Coping Inventory. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to characterize the sample. There was a predominance of male patients (67,14%), multibacillary patients (87,14%), diagnosed over 20 years (42,85%), GI 2 (64,28%), elderly patients with some limitation in ADLs (91,43%), without significant restriction (51.43%) and with restrictions on social participation from mild to severe (48,57%). As for coping strategies, the most commonly used positive strategies were "positive reassessment" (70%), "problem solving" (65,7%) and "social support" (65,7%), were "self-control" (67,2%) and "remoteness" (62,9%). Although GI 2 predominated, limitations in performing ADLs and social participation restriction, there was a predominance of positive coping strategies, which could be justified by the time of coexistence and evolution of the disease, during the process of re-signification of the disease and acquired limitations. The identification of coping strategies in the elderly can help in the investigation of psychological and social factors that interfere with their daily life, and with this, all health professionals can plan more effective actions of prevention and rehabilitation in leprosy, in possession of this knowledge

Factors associated with the functional capacity of older adults with leprosy.

OBJECTIVE:: to investigate the association between socio-demographic and clinical factors and the functional capacity of older adults with leprosy. METHOD:: cross-sectional analytical study conducted in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil, with 77 older adult patients with leprosy in a referral service, through interview, medical records and application of the Katz Index and the Lawton and Brody Scale. RESULTS:: the mean age was 68.23 years, with prevalence of men, in stable union/married, with mean monthly family income of 2.04 minimum wages, positive bacillary index, clinical dimorphic form and grade zero disability. In the Lawton and Brody scale, independence (58.5%) was predominant and associated to the variables "living arrangement" and "educational attainment". Total independence (87.0%) was predominant in the Katz Index and statistically associated to the variable monthly family income. CONCLUSION:: most of the participants were classified as independent in the instruments used. Furthermore, the instruments pointed to a greater number of associations with socio-demographic and clinical factors not related to leprosy. OBJETIVO:: investigar a associação de fatores sociodemográficos e clínicos à capacidade funcional de idosos com hanseníase. MÉTODO:: estudo transversal, analítico realizado em Fortaleza, Ceará, com 77 idosos com hanseníase acompanhados em serviço de referência, através de entrevista, consulta ao prontuário e aplicação do Índice de Katz e Escala de Lawton e Brody. RESULTADOS:: a média de idade foi de 68,23 anos, com prevalência de sexo masculino, união estável/casado, renda familiar mensal média de 2,04 salários mínimos, índice baciloscópico positivo, forma clínica dimorfa e Grau de Incapacidade Física zero. Na escala de Lawton e Brody prevaleceu a independência (58,5%) com associação às variáveis "com quem reside" e "escolaridade". Destacou-se a independência total (87,0%) no índice de Katz, associando-se estatisticamente a variável renda familiar mensal. CONCLUSÃO:: a maioria dos participantes mostrou-se independente nos instrumentos utilizados. Ademais, os instrumentos apontaram mais associações a fatores sociodemográficos e clínicos não relacionados com a hanseníase.

Factors associated with the functional capacity of older adults with leprosy / Factores asociados a la capacidad funcional de las personas mayores con lepra / Fatores associados à capacidade funcional de idosos com hanseníase

ABSTRACT Objective: to investigate the association between socio-demographic and clinical factors and the functional capacity of older adults with leprosy. Method: cross-sectional analytical study conducted in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil, with 77 older adult patients with leprosy in a referral service, through interview, medical records and application of the Katz Index and the Lawton and Brody Scale. Results: the mean age was 68.23 years, with prevalence of men, in stable union/married, with mean monthly family income of 2.04 minimum wages, positive bacillary index, clinical dimorphic form and grade zero disability. In the Lawton and Brody scale, independence (58.5%) was predominant and associated to the variables "living arrangement" and "educational attainment". Total independence (87.0%) was predominant in the Katz Index and statistically associated to the variable monthly family income. Conclusion: most of the participants were classified as independent in the instruments used. Furthermore, the instruments pointed to a greater number of associations with socio-demographic and clinical factors not related to leprosy.

RESUMEN Objetivo: investigar la asociación de factores sociodemográficos y clínicos a la capacidad funcional de los ancianos con lepra. Método: estudio transversal, analítico, realizado en Fortaleza, Ceará, realizado entre 77 ancianos con lepra mediante entrevista, acompañados en servicio de referencia, consulta al prontuario y aplicación del Índice de Katz y de la Escala de Lawton y Brody. Resultados: la edad promedio era de 68,23 años, con prevalencia del sexo masculino, unión estable/casado, renda familiar mensual promedio de 2,04 salarios mínimos, índice bacteriológico positivo, forma clínica dimorfa y grado de incapacidad física cero. En la escala de Lawton y Brody prevaleció la independencia (58,5%) asociada a las variables "con quien reside" y "escolaridad". Se destacó la independencia total (87,0%) en el índice de Katz, asociándolo estadísticamente a la variable "ingreso mensual del hogar". Conclusión: la mayoría de los participantes demostró independencia de acuerdo con los instrumentos utilizados. Además, las escalas señalaron un número mayor de asociaciones a factores sociodemográficos y clínicos no relacionados con la lepra.

RESUMO Objetivo: investigar a associação de fatores sociodemográficos e clínicos à capacidade funcional de idosos com hanseníase. Método: estudo transversal, analítico realizado em Fortaleza, Ceará, com 77 idosos com hanseníase acompanhados em serviço de referência, através de entrevista, consulta ao prontuário e aplicação do Índice de Katz e Escala de Lawton e Brody. Resultados: a média de idade foi de 68,23 anos, com prevalência de sexo masculino, união estável/casado, renda familiar mensal média de 2,04 salários mínimos, índice baciloscópico positivo, forma clínica dimorfa e Grau de Incapacidade Física zero. Na escala de Lawton e Brody prevaleceu a independência (58,5%) com associação às variáveis "com quem reside" e "escolaridade". Destacou-se a independência total (87,0%) no índice de Katz, associando-se estatisticamente a variável renda familiar mensal. Conclusão: a maioria dos participantes mostrou-se independente nos instrumentos utilizados. Ademais, os instrumentos apontaram mais associações a fatores sociodemográficos e clínicos não relacionados com a hanseníase.

Assessment of the sensory and physical limitations imposed by leprosy in a Brazilian Amazon Population.

INTRODUCTION: Leprosy often results in sensory and physical limitations. This study aimed to evaluate these limitations using a quantitative approach in leprosy patients in Belém (Pará, Brazil). METHODS: This epidemiological, cross-sectional study measured the sensory impairment of smell and taste through the use of a questionnaire and evaluated activity limitations of daily life imposed by leprosy through the Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness (SALSA) Scale. Data were collected from 84 patients and associations between the degree of disability and clinical and epidemiological characteristics were assessed. RESULTS: The majority of patients were men (64.3%), married (52.4%), age 31-40 years old (26.2%), had primary education (50%), and were independent laborers (36.9%). The multibacillary operational classification (81%), borderline clinical form (57.1%), and 0 degrees of physical disability (41.7%) were predominant. SALSA scores ranged from 17 to 59 points, and being without limitations was predominant (53.6%). The risk awareness score ranged from 0 to 8, with a score of 0 (no awareness of risk) being the most common (56%). Evaluation of smell and taste sensory sensitivities revealed that 70.2% did not experience these sensory changes. Patients with leprosy reactions were 7 times more likely to develop activity limitations, and those who had physical disabilities were approximately four times more likely to develop a clinical picture of activity limitations. CONCLUSIONS: Most patients showed no sensory changes, but patients with leprosy reactions were significantly more likely to develop activity limitations. Finally, further studies should be performed, assessing a higher number of patients to confirm the present results.

Assessment of the sensory and physical limitations imposed by leprosy in a Brazilian Amazon Population

Abstract INTRODUCTION Leprosy often results in sensory and physical limitations. This study aimed to evaluate these limitations using a quantitative approach in leprosy patients in Belém (Pará, Brazil). METHODS This epidemiological, cross-sectional study measured the sensory impairment of smell and taste through the use of a questionnaire and evaluated activity limitations of daily life imposed by leprosy through the Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness (SALSA) Scale. Data were collected from 84 patients and associations between the degree of disability and clinical and epidemiological characteristics were assessed. RESULTS The majority of patients were men (64.3%), married (52.4%), age 31-40 years old (26.2%), had primary education (50%), and were independent laborers (36.9%). The multibacillary operational classification (81%), borderline clinical form (57.1%), and 0 degrees of physical disability (41.7%) were predominant. SALSA scores ranged from 17 to 59 points, and being without limitations was predominant (53.6%). The risk awareness score ranged from 0 to 8, with a score of 0 (no awareness of risk) being the most common (56%). Evaluation of smell and taste sensory sensitivities revealed that 70.2% did not experience these sensory changes. Patients with leprosy reactions were 7 times more likely to develop activity limitations, and those who had physical disabilities were approximately four times more likely to develop a clinical picture of activity limitations. CONCLUSIONS Most patients showed no sensory changes, but patients with leprosy reactions were significantly more likely to develop activity limitations. Finally, further studies should be performed, assessing a higher number of patients to confirm the present results.

Desempenho funcional de pacientes com deformidades visíveis na hanseníase / Functional performance of patients with visible deformities in leprosy

Esse estudo tem por objetivo avaliar a capacidade funcional da mão das pessoas atingidas pela hanseníase na realização das atividades básicas e instrumentais da vida diária. A amostra foi constituída por 50 pacientes, maiores de 18 anos, que estavam sendo acompanhados no ambulatório do Instituto Lauro de Souza Lima. Para avaliação das características sociodemográficas e clínicas foi elaborado um questionário próprio. As dificuldades manuais para realizar atividades nas áreas de vestuário, alimentação, higiene pessoal, cuidados com a casa, escrita e outros foram avaliados por meio da Avaliação Funcional das Mãos em Hanseníase. Os resultados demonstram que em todas as atividades houve algum grau de dificuldade, porém, a maioria dos pacientes as realiza com independência. As atividades consideradas mais difíceis de serem executadas pelos pacientes com garra ulnar foram: pegar objetos pequenos em superfície plana, abrir/fechar fecho de corrente e cortar unhas. Na população de pacientes com garra ulnar/mediano foram: pegar objetos pequenos em superfície plana, abotoar/desabotoar, dar laço/ amarrar cadarço e abrir/fechar fecho de corrente. As atividades são realizadas com algum grau de dificuldade, porém, com independência pela maioria dos indivíduos que tem ou tiveram hanseníase e apresentam deformidades visíveis. Muitas dessas dificuldades podem ser minimizadas por meio de transferências tendinosas ou pela indicação, confecção e uso de tecnologia assistiva(AU).

This study aims to assess the functional capacity of the hand of people affected by leprosy in carrying out basic and instrumental activities of daily living. The sample consisted of 50 patients, aged over 18, who were being followed up at the outpatient clinic of the Instituto Lauro de Souza Lima. A questionnaire was developed to assess sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Manual difficulties in carrying out activities in the areas of clothing, food, personal hygiene, home care, writing and others were assessed through the Functional Hand Assessment in Leprosy. The results show that in all activities there was some degree of difficulty, however, most patients perform them independently. The activities considered most difficult to be performed by patients with an ulnar claw were: picking up small objects on a flat surface, opening / closing the chain clasp and cutting nails. In the population of patients with an ulnar / median claw were: picking up small objects on a flat surface, buttoning / unbuttoning, looping / tying shoelaces and opening / closing chain fastening. The activities are performed with some degree of difficulty, however, independently by the majority of individuals who have or have had leprosy and have visible deformities. Many of these difficulties can be minimized by means of tendon transfers or by the indication, preparation and use of assistive technology(AU).

Desempenho funcional de pacientes com deformidades visiveis na hanseniase / Functional performance of patients with visible deformities in leprosy

Esse estudo tem por objetivo avaliar a capacidade funcional da mão das pessoas atingidas pela hanseníase na realização das atividades básicas e instrumentais da vida diária. A amostra foi constituída por 50 pacientes, maiores de 18 anos, que estavam sendo acompanhados no ambulatório do Instituto Lauro de Souza Lima. Para avaliação das características sociodemográficas e clínicas foi elaborado um questionário próprio. As dificuldades manuais para realizar atividades nas áreas de vestuário, alimentação, higiene pessoal, cuidados com a casa, escrita e outros foram avaliados por meio da Avaliação Funcional das Mãos em Hanseníase (AFMH). Os resultados demonstram que em todas as atividades houve algum grau de dificuldade, porém, a maioria dos pacientes as realiza com independência. As atividades consideradas mais difíceis de serem executadas pelos pacientes com garra ulnar foram: pegar objetos pequenos em superfície plana, abrir/fechar fecho de corrente e cortar unhas. Na população de pacientes com garra ulnar/mediano foram: pegar objetos pequenos em superfície plana, abotoar/desabotoar, dar laço/amarrar cadarço e abrir/fechar fecho de corrente. As atividades são realizadas com algum grau de dificuldade, porém, com independência pela maioria dos indivíduos que tem ou tiveram hanseníase e apresentam deformidades visíveis. Muitas dessas dificuldades podem ser minimizadas por meio de transferências tendinosas ou pela indicação, confecção e uso de tecnologia assistiva.

This study aims to evaluate the functional capacity of the hand of people affected by leprosy in performing basic and instrumental activities of daily living. The sample consisted in 50 patients, older than 18 years, who were being treated at the Lauro de Souza Lima Institute’s ambulatory. A questionnaire was developed to assess sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. The manual difficulties to perform activities in the areas of clothing, food, personal hygiene, home care, writing and others were evaluated according to the Functional Assessment of Leprosy Hands (AFMH).The results shows that in all activities there were some degrees of difficulty, however, most patients perform them independently. The activities considered more difficult to perform by ulnar claw patients were: to pick up small objects on a flat surface, to open / close chain closure and to cut nails. In the population of patients with ulnar / median claws were: pick up small objects on a flat surface, button / unbutton, tie / tie shoelace and open / close chain closure. The activities are performed with some degree of difficulty, however, independently by most individuals who have or have had leprosy and have visible deformities. Many of these difficulties can be minimized by means of tendinous transfers or the indication, confection and use of assistive technology.

A lesão social da hanseníase em mulheres curadas / The social lesion of leprosy in cured women

Introdução: O Brasil é o segundo país no mundo em número de casos novos de hanseníase, doença infecciosa, com alto poder incapacitante e historicamente ligada preconceito, estigma e castigo e à exclusão social pela política sanitária de contenção da doença até meados do século passado. Avanços tecnológicos e mudanças na política de controle da doença conduziram a possibilidade de tratamento ambulatorial, alta por cura e experiências de participação em grupos de apoio, entretanto, questiona-se como pacientes que receberam alta por cura percebem, o processo de adoecimento, atribuem significado à cura e vivenciam marcas do estigma e do preconceito relacionado à doença. Objetivos: Identificar relações que mulheres que tiveram hanseníase estabelecem entre essa enfermidade e suas implicações para a vida cotidiana de cada uma; identificar significados atribuídos, por mulheres que tiveram hanseníase, ao processo de adoecimento; identificar tipos de relações das mulheres com a participação em um grupo de apoio; desvelar sentidos atribuídos pelas mulheres à experiência da cura da hanseníase e às consequentes lesões sociais. Metodologia: Foram realizadas entrevistas com quinze mulheres, ex-pacientes e membros do Grupo de Apoio a Mulheres Atingidas pela Hanseníase- GAMAH que desenvolve atividades educativas de autocuidados, profissionalização e geração de renda. Resultados: Os relatos das mulheres estão relacionados à hanseníase no cotidiano, com as narrativas sobre a complexidade do diagnóstico, apresentando a dor como marca mais significativa. Outra categoria resgata o retardo no diagnóstico e se explica por ser dado por profissionais não especialistas, pelo desconhecimento dos sintomas da doença pelas mulheres, ou ainda pela negação de estar doente. O apoio social encontrado no GAMAH configura outro agrupamento de ideias, mostrando o apoio na forma de assistencialismo, a forma que conheceu o GAMAH, e o mesmo como espaço de compartilhamento de vivências. Outro grupo de respostas se refere às sequelas permanentes, como complicações depois da hanseníase, sobre o tratamento e o cotidiano, e também sobre os cuidados com o corpo. E o ultimo agrupamento de respostas, refere-se aos processos de alta e os significados da cura da hanseníase, a crença na cura em contraponto com a descrença na cura, com uso de alguns indicadores para justificar as respostas, e ainda relatos de estigmas e preconceitos como representação da lesão social. Considerações Finais Diante do significado da vivência das mulheres com a hanseníase e dos desafios das mesmas na vida cotidiana para superar o que se chamou de lesões sociais, desvelou-se a questão que parece relacionada não somente a insuficiente implementação de políticas públicas, mas igualmente a problemas de acolhimento para a multiplicidade de cuidados que a hanseníase exige em termos clínicos e sociais, com ações que vão além da perspectiva de contenção da doença

Brazil is the second country in the world in terms of number of new cases of leprosy, an infectious disease, with high incapacitating power and historically linked to prejudice, stigma and punishment, and to social exclusion by the health politics to contain the disease until the middle of the last century. Technological advances and changes in the control politics of the disease have led to the possibility of outpatient treatment, high cure and experiences of participation in support groups, however, it is questioned how patients who were discharged by cure perceive, the process of illness, give meaning To cure and experience marks of stigma and prejudice related to the disease. To identify relationships that women who had leprosy establish between this disease and its implications for the daily life of each one; To identify meanings attributed, by women who had leprosy, to the process of illness; Identify types of women's relationships with participation in a support group; Reveal the senses attributed by women to the experience of the cure of leprosy and the consequent social injuries. Interviews were conducted with fifteen women, former patients and members of the Support Group for Women Affected by Leprosy - GAMAH - who develop educational activities of self-care, professionalization and income generation. The reports of women are related to leprosy in daily life, with narratives about the complexity of the diagnosis, presenting pain as the most significant brand Another category rescues the delay in diagnosis and is explained by being given by non-specialists, by the lack of knowledge of the symptoms of the disease by women, or by the denial of being sick. The social support found in GAMAH sets up another grouping of ideas, showing the support in the form of assistance, the form that knew the GAMAH, and the same as space of sharing of experiences. Another group of responses portrays permanent sequelae, such as complications after leprosy, treatment and daily life, and body care. And the last grouping of responses refers to discharge processes and the meanings of the cure of leprosy, belief in cure versus disbelief in cure, use of some indicators to justify responses, and reports of stigma and Prejudices as a representation of the social injury. In view of the significance of women living with leprosy and their daily challenges in overcoming what has been called social injury, the issue that seems to be related not only to the insufficient implementation of public policies, but also to the Problems of reception for the multiplicity of care that leprosy requires in clinical and social terms, with actions that go beyond the perspective of containment of the disease