[Usefulness of ventricular function values obtained using post-stress gated-SPECT in a diabetic population with clinical suspicion of ischaemic heart disease]. / Utilidad de los valores de función ventricular obtenidos mediante gated-SPECT post-estrés en población diabética con sospecha clínica de cardiopatía isquémica.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the clinical usefulness of left ventricular function values obtained using post-stress myocardial perfusion gated-SPECT in diabetic patients with suspected ischaemic heart disease (IHD). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-one patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), with clinical suspicion of IHD and no previous history of heart disease were studied. Ergometric or pharmacological post-stress myocardial perfusion gated-SPECT was performed on all patients. The relationship between the ejection fraction values and ventricular volumes, and the perfusion study results, final diagnosis, severity of the perfusion defects and the clinical evolution was studied. The mean follow-up time was 14 months. RESULTS; All the ventricular function values independently showed significant differences between the groups with a normal and pathological perfusion study, and between groups with a final diagnosis of IHD and non-IHD. After multivariate logistic regression, the end-diastolic volume (EDV) was the only value which showed a statistical association with the pathological perfusion study, its severity and the final diagnosis of IHD. No statistical association was observed between the ventricular function values and the occurrence of cardiac events. CONCLUSIONS: All the ventricular function values obtained by gated-SPECT added diagnostic information to the post-stress myocardial perfusion study in the diabetic population with suspected IHD; however, only EDV showed a statistical association with the pathological perfusion study, severity of defects and the final diagnosis of IHD.

Utilidad de los valores de función ventricular obtenidos mediante gated-SPECT post-estrés en población diabética con sospecha clínica de cardiopatía isquémica / Usefulness of ventricular function values obtained using post-stress gated-SPECT

Objetivo. Evaluar la utilidad clínica aportada por los valores de función ventricular izquierda obtenidos mediante gated-SPECT (tomografía computarizada por emisión de fotón único) de perfusión miocárdica post-estrés en pacientes diabéticos con sospecha de cardiopatía isquémica (CI). Material y métodos. Se estudiaron 61 pacientes diagnosticados de diabetes mellitus (DM), con sospecha clínica de CI y sin antecedentes de cardiopatía. A todos se les realizó gated-SPECT de perfusión miocárdica post-estrés ergométrico o farmacológico. Se estudió la relación entre los valores de fracción de eyección y los volúmenes ventriculares con los resultados del estudio de perfusión, el diagnóstico final, la severidad de los defectos de perfusión y la evolución clínica. El tiempo medio de seguimiento fue de 14 meses. Resultados. Todos los valores de función ventricular mostraron, aisladamente, diferencias significativas entre los grupos con estudio de perfusión normal y patológico, y entre los grupos con diagnóstico final de CI y no CI. Tras regresión logística multivariante, el volumen telediastólico (VTD) fue el único valor que mostró asociación estadística con la obtención de un estudio patológico de perfusión, con la severidad del mismo y con el diagnóstico final de CI. No se observó asociación estadística entre los valores de función ventricular y la presencia de eventos cardíacos. Conclusiones. Todos los valores de función ventricular obtenidos mediante gated-SPECT añaden información diagnóstica al estudio de perfusión miocárdica post-estrés en la población diabética con sospecha de CI; sin embargo, sólo el VTD muestra asociación estadística con la obtención de un estudio patológico de perfusión, con la severidad del mismo y con el diagnóstico final de CI

Objective. To assess the clinical usefulness of left ventricular function values obtained using post-stress myocardial perfusion gated-SPECT in diabetic patients with suspected ischaemic heart disease (IHD). Materials and methods. Sixty-one patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), with clinical suspicion of IHD and no previous history of heart disease were studied. Ergometric or pharmacological post-stress myocardial perfusion gated-SPECT was performed on all patients. The relationship between the ejection fraction values and ventricular volumes, and the perfusion study results, final diagnosis, severity of the perfusion defects and the clinical evolution was studied. The mean follow-up time was 14 months. Results. All the ventricular function values independently showed significant differences between the groups with a normal and pathological perfusion study, and between groups with a final diagnosis of IHD and non-IHD. After multivariate logistic regression, the end-diastolic volume (EDV) was the only value which showed a statistical association with the pathological perfusion study, its severity and the final diagnosis of IHD. No statistical association was observed between the ventricular function values and the occurrence of cardiac events. Conclusions. All the ventricular function values obtained by gated-SPECT added diagnostic information to the post-stress myocardial perfusion study in the diabetic population with suspected IHD; however, only EDV showed a statistical association with the pathological perfusion study, severity of defects and the final diagnosis of IHD

[Study of physician satisfaction as a quality criterion in Nuclear Medicine]. / Estudio de satisfacción de facultativos como criterio de calidad en Medicina Nuclear.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the perception and satisfaction level of referring physicians requesting scans as final users of the Nuclear Medicine Department. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A self-administered questionnaire was designed; it was composed of 10 closed questions (5 categorised and 5 with numerical scale) and 3 open questions. The indicators evaluated were: physician's information about available tests, test indications and diagnostic information, accessibility, delay in the examination and reception of the diagnostic report, usefulness of diagnostic information and overall satisfaction with the department. Two hundred and fifteen questionnaires were sent. RESULTS: Seventy eight questionnaires were returned, so the response index was 36.3 %. The 44.6 % of physicians surveyed considered that they had sufficient information about the tests and 59.5 % were satisfied with the indications and diagnostic information. The accessibility was 7 or more out of 10 for 78.5 %. The 64.9 % of physicians considered the delay in performing examinations to be correct but the satisfaction was lower in the delay between performance and reception of the diagnostic report. The diagnostic information was considered useful by 81.9 % and relevant in the management of patients by 70.5 % of the participants surveyed. The overall satisfaction was > or = 7 out of 10 in 86.8 %. CONCLUSIONS: Overall satisfaction was high, although the level of knowledge about available tests and the delay between test performance and report reception could be improved.

Estudio de satisfacción de facultativos como criterio de calidad en Medicina Nuclear / Study of physician satisfaction as a quality criterion in Nuclear Medicine

Objetivo. Obtener un conocimiento de la percepción y grado de satisfacción de los facultativos peticionarios de pruebas gammagráficas como usuarios finales del Servicio de Medicina Nuclear. Material y métodos. Se confeccionó un cuestionario auto-administrado compuesto por 10 preguntas cerradas (5 categorizadas y 5 de escala numérica) y 3 preguntas abiertas. Se valoraron como indicadores: la información de los facultativos acerca de nuestra cartera de servicios, indicaciones e información diagnóstica de las pruebas, accesibilidad, demora en la realización de la exploración y recepción del informe diagnóstico, utilidad de la información diagnóstica emitida y grado de satisfacción global con el servicio. Se enviaron 215 encuestas. Resultados. Setenta y ocho encuestas fueron devueltas, lo que constituyó un índice de respuesta del 36,3 %. El 44,6 % de los encuestados opinó tener suficiente información acerca de las pruebas y el 59,5 % sobre las indicaciones e información diagnóstica de las mismas. El grado de accesibilidad de los facultativos del servicio fue de >= 7 puntos sobre 10 para el 78,5 %. El 64,9 % de los facultativos consideró correcta la demora en la realización de exploraciones pero la satisfacción fue menor (39,2 %) para la valoración de la demora entre la realización y la recepción del informe diagnóstico. El 81,9 % de los encuestados calificó la información diagnóstica aportada por nuestras pruebas como útil y el 70,5 % como relevante en el manejo de sus pacientes. El grado de satisfacción global fue >= 7 sobre 10 para el 86,8 %. Conclusiones. La satisfacción global fue alta, aunque el nivel de conocimiento de los facultativos peticionarios acerca de las técnicas disponibles y la demora percibida por los mismos entre la realización y la recepción del informe diagnóstico son aspectos mejorables

Objective. To determine the perception and satisfaction level of referring physicians requesting scans as final users of the Nuclear Medicine Department. Material and methods. A self-administered questionnaire was designed; it was composed of 10 closed questions (5 categorised and 5 with numerical scale) and 3 open questions. The indicators evaluated were: physician's information about available tests, test indications and diagnostic information, accessibility, delay in the examination and reception of the diagnostic report, usefulness of diagnostic information and overall satisfaction with the department. Two hundred and fifteen questionnaires were sent. Results. Seventy eight questionnaires were returned, so the response index was 36.3 %. The 44.6 % of physicians surveyed considered that they had sufficient information about the tests and 59.5 % were satisfied with the indications and diagnostic information. The accessibility was 7 or more out of 10 for 78.5 %. The 64.9 % of physicians considered the delay in performing examinations to be correct but the satisfaction was lower in the delay between performance and reception of the diagnostic report. The diagnostic information was considered useful by 81.9 % and relevant in the management of patients by 70.5 % of the participants surveyed. The overall satisfaction was >= 7 out of 10 in 86.8 %. Conclusions. Overall satisfaction was high, although the level of knowledge about available tests and the delay between test performance and report reception could be improved

La satisfacción del usuario como indicador de calidad en un servicio de Medicina Nuclear / Patient satisfaction as quality indicator in a nuclear medicine department

Objetivo. Valorar el grado de satisfacción e insatisfacción del paciente con el servicio de Medicina Nuclear. Material y métodos. Se diseñó un cuestionario compuesto por 9 preguntas cerradas, una de escala numérica y otra pregunta abierta que recogió comentarios y sugerencias. Las preguntas consideraron diferentes dimensiones de calidad del servicio relacionadas con el tiempo de espera en la realización de la exploración, información, instalaciones, trato recibido por el personal del servicio y satisfacción global (escala numérica 1-10). El grado de insatisfacción se estableció mediante el análisis de quejas escritas recibidas en los últimos 6 años. Resultados. Se obtuvieron 671 cuestionarios. El 58 % de los encuestados fueron mujeres. La edad media fue de 56,5 años (DE: 16,26). La información suministrada fue correcta para el 81,7 % de los encuestados. El equipamiento y las instalaciones fueron satisfactorios para el 74,5 % de los pacientes. La lista de espera y el tiempo de espera fueron correctos para el 70 % y el 66,4 % respectivamente. El trato correcto fue el parámetro más favorablemente valorado (98,7 %). La satisfacción global fue positiva (mas menos 7 sobre 10) para el 82,8 % de los pacientes. Se recibieron un total de 29 quejas. La mayoría se basó en aspectos relacionados con la lista de espera (12) y disconformidad con la asistencia (9). Conclusiones. El grado de satisfacción fue alto en la mayoría de los pacientes. El tiempo de espera constituyó el parámetro con menor satisfacción y, por lo tanto, subsidiario demejora. La principal queja espontánea referida por nuestros pacientes fue la lista de espera

Objective. To assess patient satisfaction and dissatisfaction with a Nuclear Medicine department.Material and methods. A questionnaire was designed with 9 closed questions, 1 with a numerical scale (1-10) and 1 with an open question for suggestions. The questions included different quality dimensions of the department related with waiting time for the scan, information, facilities, attention manner with department staff and global satisfaction (numerical scale, 1-10). Dissatisfaction was determined by analyzing the written complaints for the last 6 years. Results. A total of 671 questionnaires were obtained, 58% of those surveyed being women. The mean age of patients was 56.5 (mas menos 16.26). The information provided was correct in 81.7 % of cases. Equipment and facilities were correct for 74.5 % of patients. Waiting list and waiting time were correct for 70 % and 66.4% respectively. The attention manner of the department staff was the most satisfactory dimension (98.7 %). Global satisfaction was positive (7 out of 10) in 82.8 % of the patients. 29 complaints were received. Most of them were based on waiting list (12) and disagreement with assistance (9). Conclusions. Global satisfaction was high in most of patients. Waiting time was the dimension with the lowest level of satisfaction and subsidiary of improvement plans. The primary spontaneous complain by our patients was due to the waiting list

[Patient satisfaction as quality indicator in a nuclear medicine department]. / La satisfacción del usuario como indicador de calidad en un servicio de Medicina Nuclear.

OBJECTIVE: To assess patient satisfaction and dissatisfaction with a Nuclear Medicine department. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A questionnaire was designed with 9 closed questions, 1 with a numerical scale (1-10) and 1 with an open question for suggestions. The questions included different quality dimensions of the department related with waiting time for the scan, information, facilities, attention manner with department staff and global satisfaction (numerical scale, 1-10). Dissatisfaction was determined by analyzing the written complaints for the last 6 years. RESULTS: A total of 671 questionnaires were obtained, 58 % of those surveyed being women. The mean age of patients was 56.5 (+/- 16.26). The information provided was correct in 81.7 % of cases. Equipment and facilities were correct for 74.5 % of patients. Waiting list and waiting time were correct for 70 % and 66.4 % respectively. The attention manner of the department staff was the most satisfactory dimension (98.7 %). Global satisfaction was positive (> or = 7 out of 10) in 82.8 % of the patients. 29 complaints were received. Most of them were based on waiting list (12) and disagreement with assistance (9). CONCLUSIONS: Global satisfaction was high in most of patients. Waiting time was the dimension with the lowest level of satisfaction and subsidiary of improvement plans. The primary spontaneous complain by our patients was due to the waiting list.

[Utility of 123-I ioflupane SPECT in the assessment of patients with Parkinsonian syndrome and cerebral vasculopathy]. / SPECT con ioflupano I-123 en la catalogación de pacientes con síndrome parkinsoniano y vasculopatía cerebral.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the utility of 123-I Ioflupane SPECT (IS) in the identification of the origin of Parkinsonism (vascular or idiopathic) in patients with cerebral vasculopathy (CV) demonstrated by morphological imaging techniques. Also, to assess the therapeutic impact. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 42 patients (16 males and 26 females) with a Parkinsonian syndrome were studied. Average age was 78.7 years (50-88). A dose of 185 MBq of 123 I-Ioflupane was injected in all subjects. SPECT imaging was obtained 5 hours later. All patients had a CT and/or MRI. The final diagnoses, after a minimal follow-up of 12 months, was established by a neurologist expert in movement disorders, based on clinical and imaging features and response to treatment. RESULTS: 14 patients were diagnosed of functional vascular Parkinsonism by alteration of association pathways, 3 of structural vascular Parkinsonism (SVP) with anatomical and functional vascular lesion in striatum, 14 of Parkinson's disease (PD) with CV, 2 of mixed Parkinsonism (PD + SVP) and 9 with others diagnoses different to the previous. The result of IS changed the treatment in 7/42 patients. CONCLUSION: The IS can have a complementary role to clarify the etiology of Parkinsonism in patients with cerebral vasculopathy. Interpretation of functional and anatomical images within the clinical context of each patient is necessary.

[SPECT with 123I-IBZM: utility in differential diagnosis of degenerative Parkinsonisms and establishment of quantification method]. / SPECT con 123I-IBZM: utilidad en el diagnóstico diferencial de Parkinsonismos degenerativos y establecimiento de un método de cuantificación.

OBJECTIVES: To assess utility of SPECT with 123I-Iolopride ( 123I-IBZM) in the differential diagnosis of patients with Parkinsonian symptoms and try to establish an adequate quantification method. MATERIAL AND METHOD: We analyzed a total of 34 patients who underwent a study with 123I-IBZM SPECT. Studies were analyzed qualitatively (visually) and quantitatively, using different quantification methods. We used different sums of slices (2, 3, 4, and 7 slices) with different cortical regions as a reference (frontal and occipital regions). Results were analyzed statistically. The final diagnosis of patients was established by two neurologists, specialized in movement disorders. RESULTS: Studies were visually assessed as normal in 24 cases and as pathologic in the other 10 cases. Scintigraphic studies had an adequate diagnostic correlation in 33 of the 34 patients. Four of the 8 methods used in the quantification were statistically significant in the differentation between normal and pathological. The use of different cortical brain regions as reference did not improve differentation between normal and pathologic studies. Global quantitative assessment of the studies showed that normal studies had higher values than pathological ones, with important overlapping between both categories. CONCLUSIONS: 123I-IBZM SPECT is an effective diagnostic tool in the establishment of the differential diagnosis in patients with Parkinson's disease and Parkinson-Plus. Quantification of these studies had limited utility since the overlapping of index values between normal and pathological restricts their use in individual cases.

SPECT con 123I-IBZM: utilidad en el diagnóstico diferencial de parkinsonismos degenerativos y establecimiento de un método de cuantificación / SPECT with 123I-IBZM: utility in differential diagnosis of degenerative Parkinsonisms and establishment of quantification method

Objetivos: Valorar la utilidad de la SPECT con 123I-Iolopride ( 123I-IBZM) en el diagnóstico diferencial de pacientes con síntomas parkinsonianos e intentar establecer un método adecuado de cuantificación. Material y método: Hemos analizado un total de 34 pacientes a los que se les realizó un estudio de SPECT con 123I-IBZM. Los estudios fueron valorados de manera cualitativa (visual), y de manera semicuantitativa, utilizando diferentes métodos de cuantificación. Se emplearon diferentes sumas de cortes (2, 3, 4 y 7 cortes) así como diferentes regiones corticales (frontal y occipital) como referencia. Los resultados fueron analizados estadísticamente. El diagnóstico final de los pacientes fue establecido por dos neurólogos especialistas en trastornos del movimiento. Resultados: En 24 casos el estudio fue valorado visualmente como dentro de la normalidad, y patológico en los 10 casos restantes. Los estudios gammagráficos mostraron una adecuada correlación con el diagnóstico clínico final en 33 de los 34 pacientes. 4 de los 8 métodos utilizados en la cuantificación fueron estadísticamente significativos para diferenciar índices de normalidad respecto a patológicos. El uso de diferentes regiones corticales cerebrales de referencia no mejoró la diferenciación entre estudios normales y patológicos. La valoración cuantitativa global de los estudios mostró que los normales presentaban valores superiores a los patológicos, aunque con importante solapamiento entre ambas categorías. Conclusión: La SPECT con 123I­IBZM es una herramienta diagnóstica eficaz en el establecimiento del diagnóstico diferencial de pacientes con enfermedad de Parkinson (EP) y Parkinson-Plus. La cuantificación de estos estudios muestra una utilidad limitada, ya que el solapamiento de valores entre normales y patológicos limita su uso de manera individual

Objectives: To assess utility of SPECT with 123I-Iolopride ( 123I-IBZM) in the differential diagnosis of patients with Parkinsonian symptoms and try to establish an adequate quantification method. Material and method: We analyzed a total of 34 patients who underwent a study with 123I-IBZM SPECT. Studies were analyzed qualitatively (visually) and quantitatively, using different quantification methods. We used different sums of slices (2, 3, 4, and 7 slices) with different cortical regions as a reference (frontal and occipital regions). Results were analyzed statistically. The final diagnosis of patients was established by two neurologists, specialized in movement disorders. Results: Studies were visually assessed as normal in 24 cases and as pathologic in the other 10 cases. Scintigraphic studies had an adequate diagnostic correlation in 33 of the 34 patients. Four of the 8 methods used in the quantification were statistically significant in the differentation between normal and pathological. The use of different cortical brain regions as reference did not improve differentation between normal and pathologic studies. Global quantitative assessment of the studies showed that normal studies had higher values than pathological ones, with important overlapping between both categories. Conclusions: 123I-IBZM SPECT is an effective diagnostic tool in the establishment of the differential diagnosis in patients with Parkinson's disease and Parkinson-Plus. Quantification of these studies had limited utility since the overlapping of index values between normal and pathological restricts their use in individual cases

Fracturas supracondíleas de húmero infantiles: remodelación rotacional / Pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures: rotational remodelling

Objetivo. Determinar si en las fracturas supracondíleas de húmero en niños es posible cierto grado de remodelación rotacional y los factores que pueden influir en la misma. Material y método. Se revisaron un total de 62 niños intervenidos quirúrgicamente en nuestro hospital desde diciembre de 1988 hasta enero de 1999, por fractura supracondílea de húmero. De ellos, 52 fueron incluidos en el estudio. El tiempo medio de seguimiento fue de 9,1 años (rango 3-14años). Se estudió mediante análisis de regresión la evolución de la deformidad rotacional y su relación con diferentes parámetros: edad, sexo, tipo de fractura, tratamiento, tiempos de inmovilización y de rehabilitación, grado de movilidad, ángulo de transporte y complicaciones. Resultados. La deformidad rotacional disminuyó independientemente de la reducción obtenida, no existiendo relación significativa entre el componente rotacional en el postoperatorio inmediato y en el momento de la revisión, aunque existió cierta tendencia a tener menor rotación final cuanto mayor fue la reducción conseguida de este componente(p = 0,093). El sexo mostró relación significativa con la deformidad rotacional residual en el momento de la revisión en el análisis de regresión logística (p = 0,003).Conclusiones. La reducción obtenida es ciertamente importante en el tratamiento, pero existen probablemente otros factores todavía no bien conocidos que influyen en la remodelación de la fractura. Es posible esperar cierto grado de remodelación rotacional en este tipo de fracturas, según nuestro estudio. Las niñas presentaron una menor corrección espontánea del componente rotacional

Aim. To determine if a degree of rotational remodelling is possible in supracondylar fractures in children and influential factors. Materials and methods. A review was made of a total of 62children who underwent surgery at our hospital from December1988 to January 1999 for supracondylar fracture of the humerus. Of them, 52 were included in the study. The mean follow-up time was 9.1 years (range 3-14 years). Regression analysis was used to study the evolution of the rotational deformity and its relation with different parameters: age, sex, type of fracture, treatment, immobilization and rehabilitation times, degree of mobility, carrying angle, and complications. Results. The rotational deformity decreased independently of the reduction achieved, and there was no significant relation between the rotational component in the immediate postoperative period and at the time of review, although the final rotation tended to be smaller when reduction of this component was greater (p = 0.093). Sex was significantly related with residual rotational deformity at the time of review in logistic regression analysis (p = 0.003).Conclusions. The reduction achieved is important in treatment, but there are probably other, less known factors that influence fracture remodelling. Our study showed that a certain degree of rotational remodeling can be expected in supracondylar fractures. Girls had less spontaneous correction of the rotational component

[Additional utility of the ventilation scintigraphy and chest X-ray in the diagnosis of pulmonary thromboembolism]. / Utilidad adicional de la gammagrafía de ventilación y radiografía de tórax en el diagnóstico del tromboembolismo pulmonar.

AIM: To evaluate the utility of ventilation scintigraphy and chest X-ray in the assessment of the lung perfusion scintigraphy and to evaluate the utility of clinical findings in the diagnosis of pulmonary thromboembolism. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 100 patients who underwent a ventilation-perfusion scintigraphy due to suspicion of pulmonary thromboembolism were studied retrospectively. Three observers evaluated scintigraphic findings, blind to the other data on the patient. They consecutively added ventilation scintigraphy and chest X-ray to the perfusion study, making a consensus interpretation. Clinical findings were also evaluated. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and global value test were calculated, using the final diagnosis presented by the patients on discharge as the gold standard. The Kappa statistics index was used to evaluate the degree of agreement between the three observers and the correlation between clinical and scintigraphic findings. RESULTS: On adding the information of the ventilation to the perfusion study, specificity increased and sensitivity decreased. Kappa statistics between observers also increased. The chest X-ray did not significantly change the scintigraphic results. Little correlation was found between the clinical and scintigraphic findings, this association being greater in low probability studies. CONCLUSIONS: We think that the performance of the ventilation study has great value in the interpretation of perfusion studies. The chest X-rays did not significantly change the scintigraphic results. Clinical data are important to establish pre-test probability and in their integration with the scintigraphy information.

Three-day intravenous triple therapy is not effective for the eradication of Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with bleeding gastro-duodenal ulcer.

AIM: To test the efficacy of an ultra-short intravenous triple therapy against Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with bleeding peptic ulcer against standard oral 1-week triple therapy in a randomised, double-blind prospective trial. PATIENTS: (n = 75) with haemorrhagic peptic ulcer and H. pylori infection were randomised into: an Intravenous Group to receive omeprazole, clarithromycin and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid intravenously b.d. for 3 days followed by 7 days of oral omeprazole plus placebo of clarithromycin and amoxicillin; an Oral Group to receive intravenous omeprazole plus placebo of clarithromycin and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid followed by 7 days of oral omeprazole, clarithromycin and amoxicillin b.d. Gastric biopsies were obtained for urease test. A 13C-urea breath test was performed to check for H. pylori eradication. RESULTS: Intention-to-treat eradication was 50% (19/38) in the Intravenous Group and 78% (29/37) in the Oral Group (odds ratio 3.63; 95% confidence interval 1.32-9.94; P < 0.01; number needed to treat (NNT) = 4). Per protocol eradication was 50% (14/28) in the Intravenous Group and 86% (24/28) in the Oral Group (P < 0.005). There were no statistically significant differences in adverse events between the two treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS: An ultra-short, 3-day, intravenous, triple therapy containing omeprazole, clarithromycin and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid cannot be recommended as an effective eradication regimen for H. pylori infection related to haemorrhagic gastro-duodenal ulcer.

[Interictal basal brain SPECT versus interictal activated brain SPECT in temporal cryptogenic epilepsy]. / SPECT interictal basal frente a SPECT interictal activada en la epilepsia temporal criptogénica.

INTRODUCTION: Interictal epileptiform activity (IEA) is a common finding in temporal epileptic patients. The nature of the IEA is not entirely understood; it may be microseizures or just a negative phenomenon expressing brain inhibition mechanisms. In order to understand how brain metabolism is during interictal activity we studied a group of patients with SPECT HMPAO during basal condition no ictal activity - and when the same patients were having interictal activity. Temporal, thalamic and cerebellar perfusion were quantified by a digital method. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Two studies were performed in 24 epileptic patients: (9/15:M/F, 36,5 14,6 years). The MRI was normal or had minimal changes. Previous EEG had showed frontotemporal foci. The patients were studied by SPECT HMPAO performed with a STARCAM 3.200 equipment, the images being obtained by high resolution collimator with circular orbit 64 images, 30 s per image. The first study was performed when there was no anomaly in the EEG (basal study). In the second study (activated study) the radioligand was injected when the EEG showed at least 10 graphoelements (spike, polispikes, or sharp waves per EEG page). RESULTS: Thalamic, temporal and cerebellar perfusion decreased significantly in the activated state compared to the basal one (p < 0.001). The statistical relationship between these three locations was studied. There was a significant relationship (p < 0.001) between thalamic, temporal, and cerebellar perfusion, both in basal state and in the activated one. The correlation index was R2 > 0.9. CONCLUSIONS: For the cases studied, temporal epilepsy is associated to a significant decrease in thalamic, temporal and cerebellar perfusion in the basal state compared to the activated one. This finding may indicate that IEA expresses a post-ictal state.

SPECT interictal basal frente a SPECTinterictal activada en la epilepsiatemporal criptogénica / Interictal basal brain SPECT versus interictal activated brain SPECT in temporal cryptogenic epilepsy

Introducción: La actividad epileptiforme interictal (AEI) es un hallazgo frecuente en el EEG de pacientes epilépticos temporales. Su significado fisiopatológico no se halla enteramente aclarado, se duda entre que sea actividad propiamente ictal (microcrisis) o bien un fenómeno postictal inhibitorio. Con objeto de poder entender cómo es el metabolismo cerebral durante la AEI se han estudiado un grupo de pacientes con SPECT HMPAO, en una situación basal --no mostraban AEI-- y cuando esos mismos pacientes mostraban AEI en el EEG --estado activado--. Se cuantificó la perfusión cerebral, cerebelosa y talámica mediante un método digital. Pacientes y métodos: Se han realizado dos estudios SPECT HMPAO --con y sin AEI-- a 24 pacientes diagnosticados clínicamente de epilepsia temporal, 15 mujeres y 9 varones, con edad media de 36,5 ñ 14,6 años, sin lesiones en la RM, y un foco EEG a nivel frontotemporal previo. Las imágenes se obtuvieron mediante SPECT HMPAO realizado con un equipo STARCAM 3.200 a través de un colimador de alta resolución de órbita circular con 64 imágenes, a 30 seg por imagen. La primera SPECT se realizó en un período de registro del EEG que no mostraba AEI (estudio basal). En el segundo estudio (estudio activado) el radioligando se inyectó cuando el EEG mostraba más de 10 grafoelementos por página de registro. Resultados: La perfusión tálamica, de corteza temporal y de cerebelo, disminuyó significativamente del estado basal al estado activado (p > 0,001). Se estudió la relación entre corteza temporal, tálamo y cerebelo tanto en estado basal como en estado activado, hallándose un coeficiente de correlación R2 superior a 0,9.Conclusión: La epilepsia temporal se asocia, para los casos estudiados, a una disminución significativa de la perfusión tanto en la corteza cerebral temporal, como en el tálamo y en el cerebelo en el estado activado frente al basal: este hallazgo podría indicar que la AEI pone de manifiesto un estado postictal (AU)

[Spinal anesthesia: a protective factor in thromboembolic disease. A retrospective cohort study of 484 arthroplasties]. / Anestesia espinal, un factor protector en la enfermedad tromboembólica. Estudio de cohortes retrospectivo de 484 artroplastias.

OBJECTIVES: To compare general and spinal anesthesia in the context of thromboembolic disease after orthopedic surgery in patients receiving prophylactic therapy with low molecular weight heparins. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Of the 484 arthroplasties studied retrospectively, 209 involved total hip prostheses, 111 partial hip prostheses and 164 total knee prostheses. Spinal anesthesia (epidural or subarachnoid) was provided in 328 cases and general anesthesia in 156. Thromboembolic disease was diagnosed if the patient presented a compatible clinical picture or if there was confirmation by Doppler ultrasonography and/or venography for deep venous thrombosis or by scintigraphy for pulmonary embolism. Related factors studied were age; weight; prior fractures of the lower extremity; a history of thromboembolism, diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease; and medication. RESULTS: Twenty-one patients experienced thromboembolic complications, 12 after general anesthesia and 9 after spinal anesthesia, the incidence in the latter being significantly lower (p < 0.01, odds ratio 3.23, 95% CI). Multivariant analysis also showed a significant increase in thromboembolic disease (p = 0.05) among patients over 70 years of age (odds ratio 2.67, 95% CI). CONCLUSIONS: Spinal anesthesia provides some protection against thromboembolic disease in arthroplasty. Age is a risk factor.

Anestesia espinal, un factor protector en la enfermedad tromboembólica. Estudio de cohortes retrospectivo de 484 artroplastias / Spinal anesthesia: a protective factor in thromboembolic disease. A retrospective study of 484 arthroplasties

OBJETIVOS. Valorar la relación entre la anestesia general y espinal con la enfermedad tromboembólica en el postoperatorio de cirugía ortopédica de pacientes tratados profilácticamente con heparinas de bajo peso molecular. PACIENTES Y MÉTODO. Se realizó un estudio de cohortes retrospectivo sobre 484 artroplastias, de las que 209 fueron prótesis totales de cadera, 111 prótesis parciales de cadera y 164 prótesis totales de rodilla. En 328 casos se realizó anestesia espinal (epidural o subaracnoidea) y en 156 anestesia general. Se consideró que existía enfermedad tromboembólica cuando el paciente presentaba sintomatología clínica compatible con la misma, confirmada mediante eco-Doppler y/o venografía para la trombosis venosa profunda, y mediante gammagrafía para el embolismo pulmonar. Se estudió la relación con la edad, peso, fracturas previas del miembro inferior, tromboembolismo previo, diabetes, hipertensión arterial, enfermedad cardíaca y medicación. RESULTADOS. Se observaron complicaciones tromboembólicas en 21 pacientes, en 12 de ellos tras cirugía con anestesia general y en nueve tras anestesia espinal, siendo significativamente menor la incidencia en esta última (p < 0,01) (odds ratio de 3,23 e IC del 95 por ciento). El análisis multivariante también demostró un aumento significativo de la enfermedad tromboembólica (p < 0,05) en los pacientes mayores de 70 años (odds ratio de 2,67 e IC del 95 por ciento).CONCLUSIONES. La anestesia espinal se comporta como un factor de protección frente a la enfermedad tromboembólica en la cirugía artroplástica. La edad avanzada es un factor de riesgo (AU)

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Intravenous eradication therapy for bleeding gastroduodenal ulcer associated with Helicobacter pylori infection.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of an ultrashort intravenous triple therapy against Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with bleeding peptic ulcer. METHODS: Thirty patients with bleeding peptic ulcer were studied prospectively. At endoscopy, two corpus and antrum biopsies were obtained for urease testing and culture. If H. pylori infection was found (positive urease test), the patient was treated with omeprazole 40 mg bid, metronidazole 500 mg tid and ampicillin 2000 mg fid for three days and then with ranitidine 150 mg bid for 2 months until eradication. In all patients a [13C]urea breath test was done at 2-month intervals, and in patients with gastric ulcer an endoscopy was also done and biopsies for culture and urease testing were obtained. RESULTS: Eradication efficacy (intention-to-treat) was 86.6% (26 out of 30). All schedules were administered in full and no patient had any adverse reactions. No patients had rebleeding. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrashort three-day triple therapy can achieve an eradication rate greater than 80%, with good acceptance and compliance, and without adverse events.

Triple terapia erradicadora intravenosa de 3 días en pacientes con hemorragia por úlcera gastroduodenal asociada a infección por Helicobacter pylori / Intravenous eradication therapy for bleeding gastroduodenal ulcer associated with Helicobacter pulori infection

OBJETIVO: valorar la efectividad de una pauta erradicadora ultracorta de 3 días por vía intravenosa en pacientes afectos de úlcera péptica sangrante asociada a infección por H. pylori. DISEÑO EXPERIMENTAL: estudio prospectivo abierto de pacientes remitidos a la Unidad de Endoscopia del Hospital Universitario de Valme con hemorragia digestiva. PACIENTES Y MÉTODOS: se estudiaron 30 pacientes con hemorragia por úlcera péptica (24 hombres y seis mujeres), con una edad media de 52 ñ 12 años (entre 24 y 74 años): úlcera duodenal, 20 (67 por ciento), y gástrica, 10 (33 por ciento). Se investigó la existencia de infección H. pylori mediante test de la ureasa rápido de cuerpo y antro (Jatrox-test). Se instauró tratamiento con omeprazol, 40 mg/12 h; metronidazol, 500 mg/8 h, y ampicilina, 2.000 mg/6 h durante 3 días, y posteriormente ranitidina oral durante 8 semanas. Se valoraron los efectos indeseables y tasa de recidiva hemorrágica. Se comprobó la erradicación de H. pylori mediante test del aliento realizado a los 2 meses del tratamiento. En los pacientes con úlcera gástrica se realizó además una endoscopia de control de cicatrización con toma de muestras para cultivo y test de la ureasa. RESULTADOS: se consiguió erradicación de la infección H. pylori en 26 de los 30 pacientes (86,6 por ciento). En todos los pacientes se administraron las dosis previstas. Ningún paciente presentó efectos indeseables derivados de la medicación ni recidiva hemorrágica durante el estudio. CONCLUSIONES: una pauta triple ultracorta de 3 días por vía intravenosa obtiene una tasa de erradicación superior al 80 por ciento, con total cumplimiento y excelente tolerancia (AU)