Impact of Pneumatic Transport System on Preanalytical Phase Affecting Clinical Biochemistry Results.

Introduction PTS (pneumatic transport system) is extensively being used in modern hospitals for rapid transportation of blood samples and other specimens. However, it has a potential impact on blood components, which should be investigated and nullified accordingly. This study was part of a correction program aimed at reducing hemolysis. It was done by comparing paired samples transported manually and by PTS. Materials and Methods This study was initiated to monitor the impact of PTS on hemolysis of clinical biochemistry blood samples. It was performed in two phases-before and after the corrective action taken. Phase I: done after PTS installation but before the corrective action was taken. Duplicate samples from 100 healthy individuals were collected, one set transported by PTS and the other by human carriers. Both sets were assessed for 25 biochemistry analytes, hemolysis index (HI), and acceleration profiles using a data logger. Corrective measures were then taken, followed by phase II of the study. In phase II, the sample size and study design remained the same as phase I. All the test results of PTS and hand-carried samples were statistically analyzed for any significant difference. Result In phase I, all the hemolysis-manifesting parameters, LDH (lactate dehydrogenase), potassium, AST (aspartate transaminase), and phosphorus, were raised in PTS samples as compared with the manual samples. Their differences were significant as the p -values were 0.001, 0.000, 0.025, and 0.047, respectively. The differences for LDH and potassium were clinically significant as well. HI (9%) and peak acceleration (15.7 g) were high in PTS samples. In phase II, no statistically significant difference between paired samples was found for all biochemistry parameters except for a few which were clinically nonsignificant. For PTS samples, HI was 2.5% and the peak acceleration was 11.2 g, whereas for manual samples, HI was 2%. Conclusion Evidence of hemolysis was found in PTS samples as compared with handheld samples, which was resolved after several corrective actions were taken. Thereafter, PTS became reliable for sample delivery in a routine biochemistry laboratory. Hence, each hospital should scrutinize their PTS for its effects on sample integrity to get rid of PTS-induced preanalytical errors.

Visual and refractive outcomes of new intraocular lens implantation after cataract surgery.

To report the visual and refractive outcomes of new aspheric hydrophobic acrylic monofocal intraocular lens (IOL). Retrospective case series. This study included eyes of patients who underwent routine cataract surgery for uncomplicated age-related cataract with implantation of a Aktis SP (NS-60YG; Nidek Co. Ltd., Japan) IOL and attended regular follow ups at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 12 months. At each post-operative visit, ophthalmological evaluation included measurement Uncorrected (UCVA) and Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), contrast sensitivity, posterior capsular opacification (PCO), optical aberrations, analysis of point spread function (PSF) and modulation transfer function (MTF). The study included 2102 eyes of 1358 patients aged 45 to 75 years (mean age 62.6 years ± 5.6 SD). The mean preoperative BCVA was 0.56 ± 0.26 logMAR. At 1 year follow up, the mean postoperative UCVA and BCVA were 0.11 ± 0.09 and 0.02 ± 0.03 logMAR, respectively. At the end of 6 months, around 1487 (93%) eyes had BCVA of 20/20 and better than 20/30 in 100% of the eyes. Mild posterior capsule opacification (PCO) was observed in 56 patients, but none required Nd YAG laser capsulotomy. There was reduction in ocular spherical aberration and Higher order aberrations (HOAs) as compared to pre operative. This explains better contrast sensitivity obtained by MTF and PSF values. The study shows that the Aktis SP IOL is safe, effective, and stable lens that could be inserted through 2.2 mm incision with satisfactory visual and refractive outcomes, even in late post-operative period.

Nephrotic syndrome leading to recurrent pulmonary embolism: A report of two cases.

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Impact of a Preoperative Exercise Program on General Fitness in Patients Awaiting Bariatric Surgery: A Pilot Randomized Trial.

Background Evidence supports the association between exercise and outcomes following bariatric surgery. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the short-term benefits of preoperative exercise. Objectives The objective of this pilot study was to evaluate the feasibility and functional benefits of a 12-week preoperative exercise program in patients awaiting bariatric surgery. The primary aim was the six-minute walk test (6MWT). The secondary aim of this study included anthropometric measures, strength, and quality of life. Methods A total of 54 patients were enrolled in this pilot randomized controlled study. Of them, 29 patients received standard multidisciplinary preoperative care, while 25 patients participated in a 12-week supervised exercise program in addition to standard preoperative care consisting of strength and aerobic exercises three times per week in a fitness facility. The primary outcome was improvement in 6MWT. Secondary outcomes included other functional outcomes, quality of life, and anthropometric measures. Results Average attendance for the intervention group was 27.2 (75.6%) of 36 sessions. There was a mean improvement of 27 ± 10 meters in the intervention group compared with a reduction of 5 ± 10 meters in the control group (p = 0.003). Patients in the intervention group had significant improvement in all self-reported quality-of-life domains, particularly in the variables related to symptoms, hygiene, and emotions. Conclusions A 12-week preoperative exercise intervention was feasible and showed association with a statistically significant improvement in 6MWT and quality-of-life measures in patients awaiting bariatric surgery. The results of this study will inform sample size calculations and recruitment planning for a future study that will assess the longer-term benefits of a pre-surgical fitness intervention.

Vitrector-assisted anterior capsulorhexis in adult intumescent cataract.

Performing capsulorhexis in white intumescent cataracts during phacoemulsification surgery is challenging for cataract surgeons because of high intralenticular pressure and reduced red reflex. Capsulorhexis extension to the periphery of the lens is a common occurrence due to lens intumescence. We used a vitrectomy cutter to create an initial tear in the anterior capsule and simultaneously remove a part of milky fluid coming out of the intumescent lens. Once the lens was decompressed, capsulorhexis was completed using capsulorhexis forceps. This technique helped in controlling capsulorhexis in eyes with intumescent cataracts by reducing the intralenticular pressure and thereby preventing unexpected radial capsular tear.

Risk Factors and Outcome Analysis in Rupture of Gravid Uterus: Lessons for Obstetricians.

Objective This study was conducted to determine the risk factors and feto-maternal outcomes in uterine rupture at a tertiary care centre, with the goal to assess the delays or gaps in management, in order to avert associated morbidity and mortality. Material and methods This study was conducted from June 2018 to May 2020 in Vardhman Mahavir Medical College & Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, wherein all women diagnosed with uterine rupture, either at the time of admission or during the course of hospital stay, were included after taking written informed consent. The primary outcome measured was the incidence of uterine rupture, whereas the secondary outcomes assessed were clinical features, risk factors, per-operative findings, management, and feto-maternal outcomes. Results The total number of deliveries during the study period was 67005. Out of these, 12985 women underwent LSCS, whereas others delivered vaginally. A total of 61 cases of uterine rupture occurred among them. The majority of these women were unbooked (62.29%), having a gestation age >37 weeks (65.57%). The most common risk factor identified was a history of previous LSCS (91.80%). Around 80.33% of women had rupture of the lower segment of the uterus. Maximum cases were managed by repair with ligation (63.93%), while 26.22% underwent hysterectomies. Bladder injury occurred in 11.48% of women. While most of the women required blood transfusion (93.44%), only three maternal deaths occurred. Conclusion Rupture of a gravid uterus can be a lethal surgical catastrophe with potentially grave feto-maternal consequences. Alacrity in diagnosis and referral to a tertiary centre, along with facility-level preparedness to respond to this emergency, apart from optimal care around birth, are critical determinants for feto-maternal survival.

An unusual presentation of uveo-meningeoencephalitic syndrome.

INTRODUCTION: Unilateral uveo-meningeoenchephalitic syndrome is a relatively rare entity. Our case highlights the importance of keeping this entity in mind when a unilateral picture suggestive of Vogt Koyanagi Harada syndrome crops up. CASE: A 34-year-old male came with chief complaints of blurring of vision in the right eye since two days with a prodrome of intense headache and redness in the right eye. On examination, the vision in the right eye was counting fingers close to face and 20/20 in the left eye. Clinical examination suggested unilateral uveo-meningeoenchephalitic syndrome which was confirmed on multimodal imaging. OBSERVATIONS: This case highlights the fact that though uveo-meningeoenchephalitic syndrome is bilateral, by definition; the initial presentation may still be unilateral and a prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent the involvement of the other eye. CONCLUSION: Any case presenting with signs of symptoms suggestive of Vogt Koyanagi Harada should be treated as Vogt Koyanagi Harada even though the initial presentation may be unilateral. A prompt diagnosis and early treatment will ensure that the other eye does not get involved. Early Vogt Koyanagi Harada may just present with choroidal hyperpermeability and multiple septate pockets of SRF without any vitreous cells or anterior segment inflammation.

Endotracheal Intubation with Laryngeal Mirror in Simulated Difficult Direct Laryngoscopy: Comparison of Gum Elastic Bougie Versus Styleted Endotracheal Tube.

Laryngeal mirror (LM) is an inexpensive, portable, readily available device which can help visualize the vocal cords in difficult airway (DA) situations. We evaluated its use in improving glottic view prior to placing the airway adjuncts in simulated difficult airway.Eighty patients scheduled to undergo elective surgery under general anaesthesia with endotracheal intubation were allocated- Bougie group (Group B) and Stylet group (Group S). Direct laryngoscopy was performed and CL grade III simulated. The glottic view was obtained using laryngeal mirror and Gum Elastic Bougie (GEB)/ Styleted Endotracheal Tube (ETT) inserted under mirror view. Time taken to obtain glottic view in LM and time for successful intubation were noted.Significant improvement in glottic view with LM was observed, with the view improving to Grade I in 76.25% and grade II in 23.75% of patients. Both groups were comparable with respect to number of attempts and success rate (p = 0.55).The success rate was 90% in group B and 95% in group S. Time taken for intubation was less in Group S (52.44 ± 14.23 s vs. 62.805 ± 20.74 s) [p = 0.01]. Hence, overall stylet proved to be a better adjunct with mirror guided intubation.We recommend stylet assisted rather than GEB assisted ET intubation under LM guidance in emergency scenarios. Also, further controlled trials are recommended to know the exact location of the mirror in relation to bulb of the laryngoscope as well as different angles at which it is placed to improve the view and stabilize the assembly.

Role of blood urea nitrogen and serum albumin ratio in predicting severity of community acquired pneumonia (CAP).

Blood urea nitrogen and serum albumin levels are independent risk factors for poor clinical outcome in CAP. However, there is a paucity in the literature on the role of Blood urea nitrogen and albumin ratio(B/A) in CAP. This was a prospective observational study in which 112 admitted patients with the diagnosis of CAP underwent routine blood examinations, ABG, procalcitonin and Chest X-ray. Univariate analysis among various risk factors, CURB-65 scores, blood parameters including B/A ratios and clinical outcomes were carried out followed by multiple logistic regression. Cox regression was done to look at B/A values and time to mortality. In the logistic regression, age, CURB -65 score, B/A ratio and procalcitonin came out to be independent risk factors for ICU admission and mortality. Odds ratio of B/A in predicting mortality and ICU admission came out to be 67.8 (49.2-95.4) and 11.2 (8.4-14), respectively. Cox regression showed B/A values were also found to have a statistically significant relationship with time to mortality (p=0.001). B/A ratio has the potential to become a veritable predictor of poor clinical outcomes in patients with CAP.

Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty as a Treatment Modality for Recalcitrant Post-Laser in situ Keratomileusis Epithelial Ingrowth.

The purpose is to present the outcomes of anterior lamellar keratoplasty for a case of post-laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) epithelial ingrowth. A 40-year-old male patient presented with epithelial ingrowth 14 years after primary LASIK with a microkeratome blade in the right eye following trauma. Multiple stromal bed washing was done over a period of 3 years, but recurrence of epithelial ingrowth was seen every time. Femtosecond laser-assisted anterior lamellar keratoplasty was performed in the right eye. Twelve months after the procedure, the patient's corrected distance visual acuity improved to 6/9, and no recurrence was noted. Femtosecond laser-assisted anterior lamellar keratoplasty is an effective treatment modality in cases of recurrent recalcitrant epithelial ingrowth seen after LASIK.

Progressive Disseminated Histoplasmosis in an Immunocompetent Host: A Rare Presentation of an Uncommon Disease.

Disseminated Histoplasmosis, a systemic fungal infection caused by Histoplasma capsulatum is predominantly seen in immunocompromised cases. It is usually endemic, although sporadic cases have been reported. Following initial infection to the lungs, it disseminates to various organs by lymphatic and hematogenous routes. Clinical features are non-specific and depend on the extent and severity of organ involvement. A Biopsy is required for diagnosis and timely intervention decreases morbidity and mortality. Our case report describes an atypical association of progressive disseminated Histoplasmosis with bone marrow involvement in an immunocompetent adult from a non-endemic region and alerts the clinicians to a rare yet life-threatening mycosis.

A novel method of tunnel creation using intraoperative optical coherence tomography-guided deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty.

The big bubble technique has become the technique of choice for performing deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) since its inception in 2002. The main challenge with this technique is in achieving a big bubble while preventing inadvertent perforation of the Descemet's membrane. Although femtosecond lasers have increased the safety, accuracy, and predictability of corneal dissection in DALK, the challenge of achieving a big bubble still exists. To overcome this challenge, Zeimer Z8 Femto LDV has launched a new software module for DALK, which has an added advantage of real-time optical coherence tomography-assisted femtosecond tunnel creation for achieving a big bubble.

Paraquat lung - a rare cause of diffuse parenchymal lung disease.

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Bilateral Toric Phakic Intraocular Lens Implantation for Correction of High Myopic Astigmatism in a Patient with Marfan Syndrome with Lens Coloboma: A Case Report.

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is known to cause significant refractive error. Treatment options are limited in this condition for correcting refractive error. Clear lens exchange is done in these cases, but complication rates are high. Loss of accommodation is another concern in these young adults. We report toric phakic intraocular lens (pIOL) implantation in improving the uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) in a known case of MFS with lens coloboma. A 22-year-old female patient with MFS with inferior lens coloboma underwent bilateral toric pIOL implantation in the same sitting. Pre- and post-operative UCVA and best-corrected visual acuity were assessed. Central and peripheral vaulting of the pIOL in relation to the natural lens was also assessed. UCVA improved from 20/500 to 20/20 in the right and 20/550-20/20 in the left eye. Marked central vaulting with partial peripheral vaulting was achieved. There were no post-operative complications. Phakic IOL implantation surgery could be an effective approach to achieve excellent uncorrected refractive outcome in patients with MFS to treat high myopia.

Clinico-radiological profile of connective tissue disease related-interstitial lung diseases from a tertiary care centre of India: a cross sectional study.

Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are a frequently occurring pulmonary manifestation in patients of connective tissue diseases (CTD). Detailed understanding of this subset of lung diseases is vital, hence the study was conducted to analyze the clinico-radiological characteristics of CTD-ILD. The present study was conducted between March 2017 to February 2018 at a tertiary care teaching hospital from western India. A total of 100 patients having respiratory symptoms suggestive of ILD, who were either diagnosed cases of CTD or had clinical manifestations of underlying CTD, were included in the study.  27% of patients belonged to age group 41-50 years and 78% were females. Chief respiratory complaints were dyspnea and cough. Clubbing was present in 29% patients. The most common CTDs were rheumatoid arthritis [RA] (26%), systemic sclerosis [SSC] (21%), mixed connective tissue disorder [MCTD] (19%) and Sjogren's syndrome [SS] (16%). Restrictive defect on spirometry was seen in 58% cases and was most significant among patients with RA (65%) and SS (62%). Pulmonary arterial hypertension was seen in 40% cases and was most evident in MCTD (78%) and SSC patients (58%). Chest radiograph was normal in 47% of subjects. Most common radiological pattern on high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) thorax was non-specific interstitial pneumonia (42%) followed by usual interstitial pneumonia (21%). ILD is a common manifestation of CTD. Work-up for an underlying CTD should be offered to all ILD patients and vice versa.

Precision Pulse Capsulotomy During Combined Penetrating Keratoplasty With Cataract Surgery and Intraocular Lens in Small Nondilating Pupil.

OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate precision pulse capsulotomy (PPC) in an open-sky procedure and to evaluate its use during triple procedure keratoplasty in small nondilating pupils. METHODS: This single-center retrospective case series study included 10 eyes (from 10 patients) with corneal opacity and poorly dilated pupils who were scheduled to undergo triple procedure keratoplasty. The main outcome measures were capsulotomy performance of the PPC device and intraoperative complications. Secondary outcome measures included postoperative best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and other postoperative complications. RESULTS: Complete free-floating capsulotomy was achieved in all 10 eyes. There were no cases of anterior capsule tears or tags. There were no postoperative complications that occurred in association with the PPC device. CONCLUSIONS: The PPC device facilitates creation of a smooth, round, and appropriately sized anterior capsulotomy in open-sky surgeries, particularly in presence of small nondilating pupils.

Hypermature Intumescent Cataract in Advanced Keratoglobus.

We report a rare case of bilateral keratoglobus with hypermature intumescent cataract in a 55-year-old woman. Clinical examination and corneal topography confirmed generalized corneal bulging and global corneal thinning. A Pentacam® (Oculus Optikgerate, Wetzlar, Germany) demonstrated bilateral diffuse corneal thinning (368 µm in the right eye and 371 µm in the left eye). Phacoemulsification was performed in the right eye after thorough workup and modification of the surgical technique. This case report helps in better understanding of the challenges of cataract surgery and intraocular lens selection in a keratoglobus patient, and stresses the need for both thorough preoperative planning and intraoperative surgical modifications.