EARLY COMPLICATIONS OF SURGICAL TREATMENT OF CERVICAL SPONDYLOTIC MYELOPATHY.

Objective: To evaluate the early postoperative complications associated with the surgical approach of the cervical spine of patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), comparing the anterior surgical, the posterior surgical, and the combined approaches. Methods: This is a retrospective study based on a database with 169 patients. Demographic data, such as gender and age, and surgical data, such as surgical approach, number of segments with arthrodesis, surgical time, and complications, were evaluated. Complications were divided into major (deep surgical wound infection, intercurrence with the implant, early new compression, and heart failure) and minor (dysphagia, superficial infection, pain, urinary intercurrence, neuropraxia of the C5 root, acute confusional state, and surgical wound hematoma). Results: This included 169 patients, 57 women (33.7%) and 112 men (66.2%). Age ranged from 21 to 87 years, with a mean of 56.48 (± 11) years. Of these, 52 (30.8%) underwent the anterior approach; 111 (65.7%), the posterior approach; and 6 (3.5%), the combined approach. Conclusion: As in the literature, we evinced dysphagia, pain, and superficial infection of the surgical wound as the most frequent postoperative complications. However, it was impossible to establish a statistical relationship between the incidence of complications and surgical time, access route, and number of fixed segments. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective Comparative Study.

Objetivo: Avaliar as complicações pós-operatórias precoces associadas à abordagem cirúrgica da coluna cervical de pacientes portadores de mielopatia cervical espondilótica (MCE), comparando a abordagem cirúrgica anterior, a abordagem cirúrgica posterior e a abordagem combinada. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo baseado em um banco de dados com 169 pacientes. Foram avaliados dados demográficos, como gênero e idade, e dados cirúrgicos, como abordagem cirúrgica realizada, número de segmentos artrodesados, tempo cirúrgico e complicações. As complicações foram divididas em maiores (infecção profunda da ferida operatória, intercorrência com o implante, nova compressão precoce, insuficiência cardíaca) e menores (disfagia, infecção superficial, dor, intercorrência urinária, neuropraxia da raiz de C5, estado confusional agudo, hematoma de ferida operatória). Resultados: Foram incluídos 169 pacientes, sendo 57 do sexo feminino (33,7%) e 112 do masculino (66,2%). A idade variou de 21 a 87 anos, com média de 56,48 anos (± 11). Destes, 52 (30,8%) foram submetidos à abordagem anterior, 111 (65,7%) à abordagem posterior e 6 (3,5%) à abordagem combinada. Conclusão: Assim como na literatura, evidenciamos a disfagia, a dor e a infecção superficial da ferida operatória como as complicações pós-operatórias mais frequentes. No entanto, não foi possível estabelecer uma relação estatística da incidência de complicações com o tempo cirúrgico, a via de acesso e o número de segmentos fixados. Nível de Evidência III, Estudo Retrospectivo Comparativo.

Early complications of surgical treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy / Complicações precoces do tratamento cirúrgico de mielopatia cervical espondilótica

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the early postoperative complications associated with the surgical approach of the cervical spine of patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), comparing the anterior surgical, the posterior surgical, and the combined approaches. Methods: This is a retrospective study based on a database with 169 patients. Demographic data, such as gender and age, and surgical data, such as surgical approach, number of segments with arthrodesis, surgical time, and complications, were evaluated. Complications were divided into major (deep surgical wound infection, intercurrence with the implant, early new compression, and heart failure) and minor (dysphagia, superficial infection, pain, urinary intercurrence, neuropraxia of the C5 root, acute confusional state, and surgical wound hematoma). Results: This included 169 patients, 57 women (33.7%) and 112 men (66.2%). Age ranged from 21 to 87 years, with a mean of 56.48 (± 11) years. Of these, 52 (30.8%) underwent the anterior approach; 111 (65.7%), the posterior approach; and 6 (3.5%), the combined approach. Conclusion: As in the literature, we evinced dysphagia, pain, and superficial infection of the surgical wound as the most frequent postoperative complications. However, it was impossible to establish a statistical relationship between the incidence of complications and surgical time, access route, and number of fixed segments. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective Comparative Study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar as complicações pós-operatórias precoces associadas à abordagem cirúrgica da coluna cervical de pacientes portadores de mielopatia cervical espondilótica (MCE), comparando a abordagem cirúrgica anterior, a abordagem cirúrgica posterior e a abordagem combinada. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo baseado em um banco de dados com 169 pacientes. Foram avaliados dados demográficos, como gênero e idade, e dados cirúrgicos, como abordagem cirúrgica realizada, número de segmentos artrodesados, tempo cirúrgico e complicações. As complicações foram divididas em maiores (infecção profunda da ferida operatória, intercorrência com o implante, nova compressão precoce, insuficiência cardíaca) e menores (disfagia, infecção superficial, dor, intercorrência urinária, neuropraxia da raiz de C5, estado confusional agudo, hematoma de ferida operatória). Resultados: Foram incluídos 169 pacientes, sendo 57 do sexo feminino (33,7%) e 112 do masculino (66,2%). A idade variou de 21 a 87 anos, com média de 56,48 anos (± 11). Destes, 52 (30,8%) foram submetidos à abordagem anterior, 111 (65,7%) à abordagem posterior e 6 (3,5%) à abordagem combinada. Conclusão: Assim como na literatura, evidenciamos a disfagia, a dor e a infecção superficial da ferida operatória como as complicações pós-operatórias mais frequentes. No entanto, não foi possível estabelecer uma relação estatística da incidência de complicações com o tempo cirúrgico, a via de acesso e o número de segmentos fixados. Nível de Evidência III, Estudo Retrospectivo Comparativo.

Formação ética de profissionais de saúde: contribuições de uma vivência interprofissional / Ethical education of health professionals: the contributions of an interprofessional experience / Formación ética de profesionales de salud: contribuciones de una vivencia interprofesional

Pesquisa qualitativa que objetivou compreender as influências de uma vivência acadêmica interprofissional e extracurricular na formação ética de estudantes da saúde. Realizaram-se entrevistas narrativas com participantes do Programa Vivências e Estágios na Realidade no Sistema Único de Saúde (VER-SUS). As narrativas das entrevistas foram submetidas à Análise de Conteúdo Temática e analisadas à luz de teorias de educação moral. Emergiram as seguintes categorias analíticas: "intencionalidade das atividades", "relações interpessoais e características do processo educativo" e "reflexões éticas". Os resultados evidenciaram que os valores que fundamentaram a intencionalidade e caracterizaram as atividades foram essenciais para a reflexividade que influencia a construção de identidades morais e éticas. Apontam ainda direcionamentos à universidade comprometida não apenas com a formação profissional, mas também com a educação integral do ser humano, propondo a manutenção do VER-SUS e o estímulo para a implantação/ampliação da educação interprofissional em saúde. (AU)

We conducted a qualitative study aimed at understanding the influence of an extracurricular interprofessional academic experience on the ethical education of health students. Narrative interviews were conducted with participants of the Experiences and Internships in Reality Program in the Brazilian National Health System (VER-SUS). We performed a thematic content analysis of the interview narratives, drawing on moral education theories. The following analytical categories were identified: "intentionality of activities"; "interpersonal relations and features of the educational process"; and "ethical reflections". The findings show that the values underpinning intentionality and characterizing the activities are essential for the reflexivity that influences the construction of moral and ethical identities. The findings also indicate directions for a university committed not only to professional education, but also to the integral education of the human being, proposing the maintenance of the VER-SUS and promotion of the implementation/expansion of interprofessional health education. (AU)

Investigación cualitativa con el objetivo de entender las influencias de una vivencia académica interprofesional y extracurricular en la formación ética de estudiantes del área de la salud. Se realizaron entrevistas narrativas con participantes del Programa Vivencias y Pasantías en la Realidad en el Sistema Brasileño de Salud (VER-SUS). Las narrativas de las entrevistas se sometieron al Análisis de Contenido Temático y se analizaron a la luz de teorías de educación moral. Surgieron las siguientes categorías analíticas: "intencionalidad de las actividades", "relaciones interpersonales y características del proceso educativo" y "reflexiones éticas". Los resultados pusieron en evidencia que los valores que fundamentaron la intencionalidad y caracterizaron las actividades fueron esenciales para la reflexividad que influye en la construcción de identidades morales y éticas. También señalan direcciones para la universidad comprometida no solo con la formación profesional, sino con la educación integral del ser humano, proponiendo el mantenimiento del VER-SUS y el incentivo para la implantación/ampliación de la educación interprofesional en salud. (AU)

PROXIMAL HUMERAL FRACTURES TREATED WITH OSTEOSYNTHESIS USING THE ANTEROLATERAL APPROACH.

OBJECTIVE: The main surgical approach in proximal humeral fractures is the deltopectoral approach. Many surgeons avoid the anterolateral approach, fearing its complications, especially axillary nerve injury. The objective of this study is to evaluate shoulder function and complications in patients with proximal humeral fractures treated using an anterolateral approach with direct observation of the axillary nerve. METHODS: Retrospective study with postoperative radiological and functional evaluations (Constant and DASH scores) and review of the complications. The associations between fracture classification and the difference in Constant scores among the subjects and the final angle of consolidation were analyzed using Fisher's test or analysis of variance (ANOVA). The Constant scores were compared among the shoulders using the paired t-test. RESULTS: The study evaluated 35 patients. Shoulder function was decreased, compared with the contralateral side (p<0.005). The only factor related to functional worsening was the Neer IV fracture. The main complication was malunion. There were no clinical changes related to the axillary nerve. CONCLUSION: The treatment using the extended anterolateral approach produced good functional results, although the function was decreased (Neer IV fractures). The main complication was malunion. There were no side effects due to exposure of the axillary nerve. Level of evidence III, Retrospective Study.

OBJETIVO: A via de acesso mais utilizada na osteossíntese das fraturas de úmero proximal é a deltopeitoral. A via anterolateral sofre resistência, pois muitos temem suas complicações, principalmente lesão do nervo axilar. Objetivo é avaliar a função do ombro e as complicações nas fraturas de úmero proximal, tratados pela via anterolateral com observação direta do nervo axilar. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo com avaliação radiológica e funcional (Constant e DASH scores) pós-operatórios e complicações. A associação entre a classificação da fratura e a diferença dos escores entre os membros, bem como o ângulo final de consolidação, foram analisados pelo Teste de Fisher ou Anova. A comparação dos escores Constant entre os membros foi conduzida pelo teste t pareado. RESULTADOS: foram avaliados 35 pacientes. Houve diminuição da função do ombro em relação ao contralateral (p<0,005). O único fator relacionado à piora funcional foi fratura Neer IV. A principal complicação foi consolidação viciosa. Não se observou alterações clínicas relacionadas ao nervo axilar. CONCLUSÃO: A osteossíntese das fraturas do úmero proximal realizada pela via de acesso anterolateral estendida, apesar da diminuição da função do ombro (fraturas Neer IV), evoluiu com bom resultado funcional e mostrou-se segura na proteção do nervo axilar. Nível de evidência III, Estudo Retrospectivo.

ANTEROLATERAL APPROACHES FOR PROXIMAL HUMERAL OSTEOSYNTHESIS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW.

OBJECTIVE: Anterolateral approaches for proximal humerus osteosynthesis have great advantages because they allow direct exposure of the lateral aspect of the humerus without the muscular retraction seen in the deltopectoral approach. However, much resistance is found among surgeons due to the potential risk of iatrogenic injury to the axillary nerve. To identify the incidence of axillary nerve iatrogenic lesions and evaluate the functional results of proximal humerus osteosynthesis with locking plates using anterolateral approaches. METHODS: The literature review followed the PRISMA protocol. RESULTS: A total of 23 articles were selected from 786 patients submitted to anterolateral approaches. Three cases (0.38%) of iatrogenic axillary nerve lesions were confirmed. The results of the functional tests were similar to those of the deltopectoral approach. CONCLUSION: Anterolateral approaches are a viable and safe alternative for proximal humerus osteosynthesis with locking plate. Subacromial impingement was the most frequent complication. Level of Evidence II, Systematic Review.

OBJETIVO: As vias de acesso anterolaterais para a osteossíntese do úmero proximal permitem a exposição direta do aspecto lateral do úmero sem necessitar das retrações musculares da via deltopeitoral. Contudo, há grande preocupação com a possibilidade de lesão iatrogênica do nervo axilar e consequente piora no resultado funcional pós-operatório. Identificar a incidência de lesões iatrogênicas do nervo axilar e avaliar os resultados funcionais da osteossíntese do úmero proximal com placas bloqueadas, utilizando as vias anterolaterais. MÉTODOS: Revisão da literatura seguindo o protocolo PRISMA. RESULTADOS: Foram selecionados 23 artigos do total de 786 indivíduos submetidos às vias de acesso anterolaterais. Foram confirmados 3 casos (0,38%) de lesões iatrogênicas do nervo axilar. Os resultados dos testes funcionais foram semelhantes aos da via deltopeitoral. CONCLUSÃO: As vias de acesso anterolaterais são uma alternativa viável e segura para a osteossíntese do úmero proximal com placas bloqueadas. Nível de Evidência II, Revisão Sistemática.

EVALUATION OF DISTAL FOREARM FRACTURES USING THE AO 2018 CLASSIFICATION.

OBJECTIVE: Distal forearm fractures are among the most common upper limb fractures in all ages, and many classifications have been proposed to describe them. Recently, a new version of AO/OTA classification was proposed. The aim of this study is to use the AO/OTA 2018 classification to report the epidemiology of distal forearm fractures in adults treated at a single center. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of the initial radiographs obtained from cases of distal forearm fractures in an orthopedic emergency room at a single tertiary hospital. RESULTS: Three hundred twenty-two cases were studied, aged 50.35 ± 18.98 years, 55.3% were female and 44.7% were right-sided. Type 2R3A, 2R3B and 2R3C fractures corresponded to 32.3%, 18.0% and 48.4% of the cases, respectively. Distal ulnar fracture was present in 41.9%. There was a correlation between age and sex: 78.3% of the subjects aged under 30 years were male, and 80.6% of those aged over 60 years were female (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The most common type of radial fractures was 2R3C, and the most common type of ulna fracture was 2U3A1.1. There was a correlation between age and sex. Level of evidence IV, Case-series.

OBJETIVO: As fraturas distais do antebraço são uma das mais comuns do membro superior em todas as idades, e muitas classificações foram propostas para descrevê-las. Atualmente, uma nova versão da classificação AO/OTA foi proposta. O objetivo deste estudo foi utilizar a classificação AO/OTA 2018 para descrever a epidemiologia das fraturas distais do antebraço no adulto tratadas em um único centro. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo, em que se avaliaram as radiografias obtidas no primeiro atendimento dos casos de fraturas da extremidade distal do antebraço de esqueletos maduros, atendidas no pronto-socorro ortopédico de um único hospital terciário. RESULTADOS: Foram estudados 322 casos, com média da idade de 50,35 ± 18,98 anos, 55,3% do sexo feminino e 44,7% do lado direito. As fraturas do tipo 2R3A, 2R3B e 2R3C corresponderam a 32,3%, 18,0% e 48,4%, respectivamente. A ulna distal foi envolvida em 41,9%. Houve correlação entre a idade e o sexo, de modo que, no grupo etário com idade até 30 anos, 78,3% eram do sexo masculino e, acima dos 60, 80,6% do sexo feminino (p<0,001). CONCLUSÃO: As fraturas do tipo 2R3C foram as mais comuns do rádio, e as 2U3A1.1 foram as mais comuns da ulna. Houve correlação entre idade e sexo. Nível de evidência IV, Série de casos.

Evaluation of distal forearm fractures using the ao 2018 classification / Avaliação das fraturas da extremidade distal do antebraço pela classificação ao 2018

ABSTRACT Objective: Distal forearm fractures are among the most common upper limb fractures in all ages, and many classifications have been proposed to describe them. Recently, a new version of AO/OTA classification was proposed. The aim of this study is to use the AO/OTA 2018 classification to report the epidemiology of distal forearm fractures in adults treated at a single center. Methods: A retrospective analysis of the initial radiographs obtained from cases of distal forearm fractures in an orthopedic emergency room at a single tertiary hospital. Results: Three hundred twenty-two cases were studied, aged 50.35 ± 18.98 years, 55.3% were female and 44.7% were right-sided. Type 2R3A, 2R3B and 2R3C fractures corresponded to 32.3%, 18.0% and 48.4% of the cases, respectively. Distal ulnar fracture was present in 41.9%. There was a correlation between age and sex: 78.3% of the subjects aged under 30 years were male, and 80.6% of those aged over 60 years were female (p<0.001). Conclusion: The most common type of radial fractures was 2R3C, and the most common type of ulna fracture was 2U3A1.1. There was a correlation between age and sex. Level of evidence IV, Case-series.

RESUMO Objetivo: As fraturas distais do antebraço são uma das mais comuns do membro superior em todas as idades, e muitas classificações foram propostas para descrevê-las. Atualmente, uma nova versão da classificação AO/OTA foi proposta. O objetivo deste estudo foi utilizar a classificação AO/OTA 2018 para descrever a epidemiologia das fraturas distais do antebraço no adulto tratadas em um único centro. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo, em que se avaliaram as radiografias obtidas no primeiro atendimento dos casos de fraturas da extremidade distal do antebraço de esqueletos maduros, atendidas no pronto-socorro ortopédico de um único hospital terciário. Resultados: Foram estudados 322 casos, com média da idade de 50,35 ± 18,98 anos, 55,3% do sexo feminino e 44,7% do lado direito. As fraturas do tipo 2R3A, 2R3B e 2R3C corresponderam a 32,3%, 18,0% e 48,4%, respectivamente. A ulna distal foi envolvida em 41,9%. Houve correlação entre a idade e o sexo, de modo que, no grupo etário com idade até 30 anos, 78,3% eram do sexo masculino e, acima dos 60, 80,6% do sexo feminino (p<0,001). Conclusão: As fraturas do tipo 2R3C foram as mais comuns do rádio, e as 2U3A1.1 foram as mais comuns da ulna. Houve correlação entre idade e sexo. Nível de evidência IV, Série de casos.

DOES SURGEON SPECIALIZATION CHANGE THE PROXIMAL HUMERAL OSTEO-SYNTHESIS APPROACH?

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the choice of surgical approach among Brazilian orthopedists and whether shoulder surgery specialty training or duration of experience influences the decision-making. METHODS: A questionnaire on the preferred approach and complications was administered to orthopedic surgeons with and without shoulder specialization training. The chi-square test or Fisher's exact test was applied. RESULTS: We interviewed 114 orthopedists, 49 (43.0%) traumatologists, 36 (31.5%) specialist surgeons, and 29 (25%) shoulder surgery specialist residents. In cases of fracture without dislocation, specialized training and duration of experience did not influence the approach used (primarily deltopectoral). In cases of fracture/dislocation, 97.2% of the specialists versus 82.1% of the traumatologists opted for the deltopectoral approach (p = 0.034). In cases of fractures/dislocation, 92.5% of surgeons with more than 5 years of experience and 78.7% with less than 5 years of experience opted for the deltopectoral approach (p = 0.032). CONCLUSION: Specialization in shoulder surgery did not influence surgeons' approaches to manage fractures without dislocation. In cases of fracture/dislocation, shoulder surgery specialization training and duration of experience were associated with selection of the deltopectoral approach. Level of Evidence V, Expert opinion.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a via de acesso de escolha entre os ortopedistas brasileiros e se a formação de especialista em cirurgia do ombro e/ou tempo de experiência influenciam nessa decisão. MÉTODOS: Realizou-se questionário entre ortopedistas, com e sem especialização em ombro, sobre qual a via de acesso preferida e as complicações observadas. Aplicou-se o teste do qui-quadrado ou o teste exato de Fisher. RESULTADOS: Foram entrevistados 114 ortopedistas, 49 (43,0 %) traumatologistas, 36 (31,5 %) cirurgiões especialistas e 29 (25 %) residentes de especialização em cirurgia do ombro. Nas fraturas sem luxação a formação especializada e o tempo de experiência não influenciaram na escolha (maioria deltopeitoral). Na fratura/luxação, 97,2% dos especialistas optaram pela deltopeitoral, comparado com 82,1% dos traumatologistas (p=0,034). Nas fraturas/luxação, cirurgiões com experiência superior a 5 anos optaram pela deltopeitoral (92,5%) e aqueles com menos de 5 anos optaram pela via deltopeitoral (78,7%) (p=0,032). A diminuição do arco de movimento (ADM) foi a complicação mais relatada. CONCLUSÃO: A especialização em cirurgia do ombro não influenciou na escolha nas fraturas sem luxação. Na fratura/luxação, a especialização e o tempo de experiência associaram-se à escolha da via deltopeitoral. A complicação mais frequente foi a diminuição do ADM, principalmente entre os cirurgiões do Ombro. Nível de Evidência V, Opinião de especialistas.

Does surgeon specialization change the proximal humeral osteo-synthesis approach? / A especialização muda a escolha da via de acesso para a osteossíntese de úmero proximal?

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the choice of surgical approach among Brazilian orthopedists and whether shoulder surgery specialty training or duration of experience influences the decision-making. Methods: A questionnaire on the preferred approach and complications was administered to orthopedic surgeons with and without shoulder specialization training. The chi-square test or Fisher's exact test was applied. Results: We interviewed 114 orthopedists, 49 (43.0%) traumatologists, 36 (31.5%) specialist surgeons, and 29 (25%) shoulder surgery specialist residents. In cases of fracture without dislocation, specialized training and duration of experience did not influence the approach used (primarily deltopectoral). In cases of fracture/dislocation, 97.2% of the specialists versus 82.1% of the traumatologists opted for the deltopectoral approach (p = 0.034). In cases of fractures/dislocation, 92.5% of surgeons with more than 5 years of experience and 78.7% with less than 5 years of experience opted for the deltopectoral approach (p = 0.032). Conclusion: Specialization in shoulder surgery did not influence surgeons' approaches to manage fractures without dislocation. In cases of fracture/dislocation, shoulder surgery specialization training and duration of experience were associated with selection of the deltopectoral approach. Level of Evidence V, Expert opinion.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a via de acesso de escolha entre os ortopedistas brasileiros e se a formação de especialista em cirurgia do ombro e/ou tempo de experiência influenciam nessa decisão. Métodos: Realizou-se questionário entre ortopedistas, com e sem especialização em ombro, sobre qual a via de acesso preferida e as complicações observadas. Aplicou-se o teste do qui-quadrado ou o teste exato de Fisher. Resultados: Foram entrevistados 114 ortopedistas, 49 (43,0 %) traumatologistas, 36 (31,5 %) cirurgiões especialistas e 29 (25 %) residentes de especialização em cirurgia do ombro. Nas fraturas sem luxação a formação especializada e o tempo de experiência não influenciaram na escolha (maioria deltopeitoral). Na fratura/luxação, 97,2% dos especialistas optaram pela deltopeitoral, comparado com 82,1% dos traumatologistas (p=0,034). Nas fraturas/luxação, cirurgiões com experiência superior a 5 anos optaram pela deltopeitoral (92,5%) e aqueles com menos de 5 anos optaram pela via deltopeitoral (78,7%) (p=0,032). A diminuição do arco de movimento (ADM) foi a complicação mais relatada. Conclusão: A especialização em cirurgia do ombro não influenciou na escolha nas fraturas sem luxação. Na fratura/luxação, a especialização e o tempo de experiência associaram-se à escolha da via deltopeitoral. A complicação mais frequente foi a diminuição do ADM, principalmente entre os cirurgiões do Ombro. Nível de Evidência V, Opinião de especialistas.

Low-Activity Kidney Transplant Center, A Single-Center Experience: Early Care as a Major Challenge.

OBJECTIVES: In many countries, some kidney transplants are performed in small centers, from which clinical data are rarely specifically reported. The aim of this study was to describe patient and graft survival rates and their correlates in a low-activity kidney transplant center. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a retrospective cohort study of all patients who underwent transplant between January 2002 and May 2012 at a university hospital. Patient, graft, and death-censored graft survival rates were assessed with Kaplan-Meier analyses and compared by log-rank test, with associated factors analyzed by Cox proportional hazards modeling. RESULTS: Among a total of 162 patients, the mean age was 41.8 ± 13.5 years, and 92% received a living-donor graft. At 1, 3, and 5 years, patient survival was 88.6%, 86%, and 82.9%. Graft survival was 86.9%, 83%, and 77%, and death-censored graft survival was 98.1%, 96.6%, and 92.9% at the same time points. Most graft losses were due to patient death from infection and occurred within the first year after transplant. After adjustment, age over 42 years (hazard ratio of 3.94; 95% confidence interval, 1.39-11.13), deceased donor graft (hazard ratio of 11.41; 95% confidence interval, 1.2-108.35), and higher average education (hazard ratio of 4.96; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-24.32) were independently associated with graft loss. CONCLUSIONS: The observed patient and graft survival rates were similar to those described in large databases; however, early mortality remains a major challenge. Improving posttransplant care is a key issue to increasing survival in small transplant centers.

Low-Activity Kidney Transplant Center, A Single-Center Experience: Early Care as a Major Challenge.

OBJECTIVES: In many countries, some kidney transplants are performed in small centers, from which clinical data are rarely specifically reported. The aim of this study was to describe patient and graft survival rates and their correlates in a low-activity kidney transplant center. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a retrospective cohort study of all patients who underwent transplant between January 2002 and May 2012 at a university hospital. Patient, graft, and death-censored graft survival rates were assessed with Kaplan-Meier analyses and compared by log-rank test, with associated factors analyzed by Cox proportional hazards modeling. RESULTS: Among a total of 162 patients, the mean age was 41.8 ± 13.5 years, and 92% received a living-donor graft. At 1, 3, and 5 years, patient survival was 88.6%, 86%, and 82.9%. Graft survival was 86.9%, 83%, and 77%, and death-censored graft survival was 98.1%, 96.6%, and 92.9% at the same time points. Most graft losses were due to patient death from infection and occurred within the first year after transplant. After adjustment, age over 42 years (hazard ratio of 3.94; 95% confidence interval, 1.39-11.13), deceased donor graft (hazard ratio of 11.41; 95% confidence interval, 1.2-108.35), and higher average education (hazard ratio of 4.96; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-24.32) were independently associated with graft loss. CONCLUSIONS: The observed patient and graft survival rates were similar to those described in large databases; however, early mortality remains a major challenge. Improving posttransplant care is a key issue to increasing survival in small transplant centers.

Self-efficacy beliefs, locus of control, religiosity and non-adherence to immunosuppressive medications in kidney transplant patients.

AIM: Adherence to immunosuppressive medication is essential for favourable kidney transplant outcomes. The present study aims to investigate how self-efficacy beliefs, health locus of control and religiosity are associated with adherence to immunosuppressives in post kidney transplant recipients. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study with 88 recipients with more than 1 year after transplantation. Three methods were used to classify patients as adherent or non-adherent: Basel Assessment of Adherence Scale for Immunosuppressives - BAASIS, the collateral report and blood levels of immunosuppressive medications. Self-efficacy, health locus of control, and religiosity were evaluated applying General Perceived Self-Efficacy Scale, Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale and Duke University Religion Index, respectively. Non-adherence was modelled by uni- and multivariated analysis. RESULTS: Sixty-three percent of the patients were male, age 47.2 ± 12.9 years, and median post-transplant time 108.71 (49.0-266.0) months. We found 70.5% of patients were non-adherent through at least one method. Adherent patients presented higher self-efficacy scores (45.1 ± 4.9 vs 38.3 ± 8.6; P < 0.001) and higher intrinsic religiosity (14.0 ± 1.6 vs. 12.8 ± 2.5; P = 0.016) compared to the non-adherents. Organizational and non-organizational religiosity did not differ between these groups. By logistic regression, non-adherence was associated with lower self-efficacy (OR 0.81, IC 0.70-0.92, P = 0.002), chance locus of control (OR 1.23, IC 1.04-1.45, P = 0.016) and lower intrinsic religiosity (OR 0.56, IC 0.38-0.84, P = 0.006). CONCLUSION: Our study showed that self-efficacy, chance locus of control, and intrinsic religiosity were associated with non-adherence to immunosuppressives. A broader perception of the kidney transplant patient´s integrality can help health professionals to design strategies to promote adherence in this population.

Comparative study between physical examination, electroneuromyography and ultrasonography in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome

Objective: To evaluate the sensitivity of electromyography and ultrasonography in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), in comparison with physical examination, which is considered to be the gold standard. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the medical files of 56 patients with 70 hands affected by CTS who were attended between March 2010 and June 2012 were reviewed. The study included patients with a clinical diagnosis of CTS. The sensitivity of the complementary examinations was analyzed and compared with physical examination. Results: Nocturnal symptoms were found in 96.4%, thenar atrophy in 62.5% and abnormal sense of touch in 50%. The sensitivities found were: ultrasonography, 67.1% (95% CI: 55.7%–78.6%); an association of physical examination tests, 95.7% (95% CI: 90.0%–100%); and electromyography, 98.6% (95% CI: 95.7%–100%). The presence of atrophy, abnormalities of the sense of touch and longer-duration symptoms increased the sensitivity of ultrasonography and physical examination. Conclusion: The sensitivity of ultrasonography for CTS was lower than that of electromyography and physical examination...

Objetivo: Avaliar a sensibilidade da eletroneuromiografia (ENMG) e da ultrassonografia (USN) no diagnóstico de síndrome do túnel do carpo (STC) comparada com a do exame físico, considerado padrão-ouro. Métodos: Estudo seccional pela análise de prontuários de 56 pacientes com 70 mãos acometidas com STC entre março de 2010 e junho de 2012. A sensibilidade dos exames complementares foi analisada e comparada com a do exame físico. Resultados: Constataram-se sintomas noturnos em 96,4%, hipotrofia tenar em 62,5% e alteracão do tato em 50%. A sensibilidade da USG foi de 67,1% (95% IC, 55,7%-78,6%); a da associacão dos testes do exame físico, de 95,7 (95% IC, 90,0%-100%); e a da ENMG, de 98,6% (95% IC, 95,7%-100%). A presenca de hipotrofia, de alteracões no tato e o maior tempo dos sintomas aumentaram a sensibilidade da USG e do exame físico. Conclusão: A sensibilidade da USG para a STC foi inferior à da ENMG e à do exame físico...

The quality of life of Brazilian adolescents with asthma: associated clinical and sociodemographic factors.

OBJECTIVE: Asthma is the most common chronic disease among adolescents. This study assessed the quality of life (QOL) related to health in adolescents with asthma and its determining factors (demographic, socioeconomic, and clinical). We also separately evaluated each of the parameters that comprised the asthma control classification. METHODS: This was an observational, cross-sectional study of 114 adolescents who had doctor-diagnosed asthma. QOL was assessed using a version of the Pediatric Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (PAQLQ) that was adapted and validated for Brazil, and higher scores indicated a better QOL. The level of asthma control was assessed using the rating system proposed by the Global Initiative for Asthma, and sociodemographic factors were evaluated. RESULTS: When the averages of the PAQLQ domains and overall scores were compared to the potentially explanatory variables, significantly lower average PAQLQ scores were obtained for individuals with an inadequate level of asthma control (p < 0.001). Of the control components, daytime symptoms, nighttime symptoms, and limited physical activity were related to QOL. However, the use of the ß2 agonist and the peak flow functional parameter were not related to QOL. CONCLUSIONS: The level of asthma control was related to QOL, but this association manifested mainly in the subjective control domains, such as nighttime and daytime symptoms and physical activity limitations. The objective domain for control classification, represented by pulmonary function, was not an independent predictor or determinant of the QOL of adolescent asthma patients.

Comparative study between physical examination, electroneuromyography and ultrasonography in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the sensitivity of electromyography and ultrasonography in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), in comparison with physical examination, which is considered to be the gold standard. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, the medical files of 56 patients with 70 hands affected by CTS who were attended between March 2010 and June 2012 were reviewed. The study included patients with a clinical diagnosis of CTS. The sensitivity of the complementary examinations was analyzed and compared with physical examination. RESULTS: Nocturnal symptoms were found in 96.4%, thenar atrophy in 62.5% and abnormal sense of touch in 50%. The sensitivities found were: ultrasonography, 67.1% (95% CI: 55.7%-78.6%); an association of physical examination tests, 95.7% (95% CI: 90.0%-100%); and electromyography, 98.6% (95% CI: 95.7%-100%). The presence of atrophy, abnormalities of the sense of touch and longer-duration symptoms increased the sensitivity of ultrasonography and physical examination. CONCLUSION: The sensitivity of ultrasonography for CTS was lower than that of electromyography and physical examination.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a sensibilidade da eletroneuromiografia (ENMG) e da ultrassonografia (USN) no diagnóstico de síndrome do túnel do carpo (STC) comparada com a do exame físico, considerado padrão-ouro. MÉTODOS: Estudo seccional pela análise de prontuários de 56 pacientes com 70 mãos acometidas com STC entre março de 2010 e junho de 2012. A sensibilidade dos exames complementares foi analisada e comparada com a do exame físico. RESULTADOS: Constataram-se sintomas noturnos em 96,4%, hipotrofia tenar em 62,5% e alteração do tato em 50%. A sensibilidade da USG foi de 67,1% (95% IC, 55,7%-78,6%); a da associação dos testes do exame físico, de 95,7 (95% IC, 90,0%-100%); e a da ENMG, de 98,6% (95% IC, 95,7%-100%). A presença de hipotrofia, de alterações no tato e o maior tempo dos sintomas aumentaram a sensibilidade da USG e do exame físico. CONCLUSÃO: A sensibilidade da USG para a STC foi inferior à da ENMG e à do exame físico.