[Translated article] Closing wedge high tibial osteotomy: An old-fashioned technique? Survival, clinical and radiological outcomes of a case series analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Closing wedge high tibial osteotomy (CW-HTO) is a surgical option for active patients with medial knee pain and mild-moderate osteoarthritis with varus limb deformity. Despite its good reported results, this technique has been losing popularity. The aim of this study was to analyse the survival rate, clinical functional outcomes and radiological results of CW-HTO. METHODS: It is a retrospective case series study. Seventy patients with primary knee osteoarthritis, operated on between 2010 and 2020 in a single Spanish tertiary hospital using the CW-HTO technique and with a minimum follow-up of 2 years were analysed. RESULTS: Survival rate was 87.6% and 75.5% after a follow-up of 5 and 10 years respectively. Functional outcomes were good-to-excellent (KSS 77.7/100 and OKS 35.6/48) and good pain control (VAS 3.9/10) and high satisfaction (7.2/10) were achieved. Limb varus malalignment was significantly corrected (mean postoperative HKA angle 177.6° and MPTA 90.7°). However, 30% of patients presented hypocorrection, which was associated with inferior survival, functionality and satisfaction. CONCLUSION: CW-HTO technique can be useful for patients with knee osteoarthritis and varus limb. It allows to correct varus malalignment while achieving good-to-excellent functional outcomes, good pain control, high patient satisfaction and acceptable medium-long term survival rate. However, it is associated with a non-negligible risk of hypocorrection or medial hinge disruption.

Dispositivo de presión negativa empleado en pacientes pediátricos con abdomen hostil: serie de casos / Negative pressure device used in pediatric patients with hostile abdomen. Case series

Introducción: El abdomen hostil es una patología quirúrgica caracterizada por una pérdida de espacio entre los órganos y estructuras del abdomen. La terapia de presión negativa se ha descrito de manera extensa en adultos, pero no así en pacientes pediátricos. El objetivo de este estudio es presentar los resultados a corto plazo de la terapia de presión negativa en pacientes pediátricos con abdomen hostil debido a distintas etiologías. Material y métodos: Identificación y análisis retrospectivo de los pacientes pediátricos con abdomen hostil (< 18 años) tratados con terapia de presión negativa ABTHERA. Resultados: Se incluyó a 7 pacientes. La mediana de edad fue de 16 años (rango: 9-17). 5 (71,4%) eran niños y 2 (28,6%) niñas. 3 (43%) presentaban antecedentes médico-quirúrgicos de interés (lupus eritematoso sistémico, apendicectomía complicada y derivación ventriculoperitoneal). El dispositivo se empleó a presión constante, entre–50 y –125 mmHg. Los hallazgos preoperatorios y postoperatoriosse notificaron mediante la clasificación de Bjork. Los dispositivos sesustituyeron cada 4-7 días (mediana de 5 días). La cantidad total dereemplazos fue de 1-4 (mediana de 3). 5 (71,4%) pacientes precisaronventilación mecánica invasiva durante la terapia de presión negativadebido al estado clínico. 4 (57%) pacientes recibieron nutrición enteral.1 (14%) paciente requirió reintervención posterior al cierre definitivopor el desarrollo de un absceso retroperitoneal. El resultado, evaluadoen base a la tolerancia oral, el movimiento intestinal y la ausencia dedolor, fue favorable en todos los pacientes.Conclusión: Los dispositivos de terapia de presión negativa aportanresultados favorables en los pacientes pediátricos con abdomen hostil,aunque se necesita más información para evaluar los ajustes de presióny la frecuencia de reemplazo del dispositivo.(AU)

Introduction: Hostile abdomen is a surgical condition characterized by loss of space between organs and structures in the abdomen. Negative pressure therapy use has been widely described in adults; the case is not the same for pediatric patients. The goal of this study is to present short-term results of negative pressure therapy use in pediatric patients with hostile abdomen due to different etiologies. Materials and methods: Pediatric hostile abdomen patients (< 18 years) who were treated Negative pressure therapy using ABTHERA were identified and retrospectively reviewed. Results: 7 patients were included in this study. Median age was 16 (range: 9-17 yo). 5 (71.4%) were male and 2 (28.6%) females. 3 (43%) had significant past medical/surgical history (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, complicated appendectomy and ventriculoperitonealshunt). The device was set at a continuous pressure ranging from –50 to –125 mmHg. Pre and post-surgical findings were reported using Bjork’s classification. Devices were replaced every 4-7 days (median 5 days). Total amount of replacements was 1-4 (median 3). 5 (71.4%) patients required invasive mechanical ventilation during use of Negative pressure therapy based on clinical status. 4 (57%) patients received enteral nutrition. 1 (14%) patient required re-intervention posterior to definitive closure due to retroperitoneal abscess development. Outcome, evaluated by (oral tolerance, bowel movement and absence of pain), was favorable in all patients. Conclusion: Negative pressure therapy devices generate favorable results in hostile abdomen in pediatric population but further information is needed to assess pressure settings and device replacement frequency.(AU)

Negative pressure device used in pediatric patients with Hostile abdomen. Case series. / Dispositivo de presión negativa empleado en pacientes pediátricos con abdomen hostil: serie de casos.

INTRODUCTION: Hostile abdomen is a surgical condition characterized by loss of space between organs and structures in the abdomen. Negative pressure therapy use has been widely described in adults; the case is not the same for pediatric patients. The goal of this study is to present short-term results of negative pressure therapy use in pediatric patients with hostile abdomen due to different etiologies. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Pediatric hostile abdomen patients (< 18 years) who were treated Negative pressure therapy using ABTHERA were identified and retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: 7 patients were included in this study. Median age was 16 (range: 9-17 yo). 5 (71.4%) were male and 2 (28.6%) females. 3 (43%) had significant past medical/surgical history (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, complicated appendectomy and ventriculoperitoneal-shunt). The device was set at a continuous pressure ranging from -50 to -125 mmHg. Pre and post-surgical findings were reported using Bjork's classification. Devices were replaced every 4-7 days (median 5 days). Total amount of replacements was 1-4 (median 3). 5 (71.4%) patients required invasive mechanical ventilation during use of Negative pressure therapy based on clinical status. 4 (57%) patients received enteral nutrition. 1 (14%) patient required re-intervention posterior to definitive closure due to retroperitoneal abscess development. Outcome, evaluated by (oral tolerance, bowel movement and absence of pain), was favorable in all patients. CONCLUSION: Negative pressure therapy devices generate favorable results in hostile abdomen in pediatric population but further information is needed to assess pressure settings and device replacement frequency.

INTRODUCCION: El abdomen hostil es una patología quirúrgica caracterizada por una pérdida de espacio entre los órganos y estructuras del abdomen. La terapia de presión negativa se ha descrito de manera extensa en adultos, pero no así en pacientes pediátricos. El objetivo de este estudio es presentar los resultados a corto plazo de la terapia de presión negativa en pacientes pediátricos con abdomen hostil debido a distintas etiologías. MATERIAL Y METODOS: Identificación y análisis retrospectivo de los pacientes pediátricos con abdomen hostil (< 18 años) tratados con terapia de presión negativa ABTHERA. RESULTADOS: Se incluyó a 7 pacientes. La mediana de edad fue de 16 años (rango: 9-17). 5 (71,4%) eran niños y 2 (28,6%) niñas. 3 (43%) presentaban antecedentes médico-quirúrgicos de interés (lupus eritematoso sistémico, apendicectomía complicada y derivación ventriculoperitoneal). El dispositivo se empleó a presión constante, entre ­50 y ­125 mmHg. Los hallazgos preoperatorios y postoperatorios se notificaron mediante la clasificación de Bjork. Los dispositivos se sustituyeron cada 4-7 días (mediana de 5 días). La cantidad total de reemplazos fue de 1-4 (mediana de 3). 5 (71,4%) pacientes precisaron ventilación mecánica invasiva durante la terapia de presión negativa debido al estado clínico. 4 (57%) pacientes recibieron nutrición enteral. 1 (14%) paciente requirió reintervención posterior al cierre definitivo por el desarrollo de un absceso retroperitoneal. El resultado, evaluado en base a la tolerancia oral, el movimiento intestinal y la ausencia de dolor, fue favorable en todos los pacientes. CONCLUSION: Los dispositivos de terapia de presión negativa aportan resultados favorables en los pacientes pediátricos con abdomen hostil, aunque se necesita más información para evaluar los ajustes de presión y la frecuencia de reemplazo del dispositivo.

Closing wedge high tibial osteotomy: An old-fashioned technique? Survival, clinical and radiological outcomes of a case series analysis. / Osteotomía de sustracción lateral tibial: ¿una técnica pasada de moda? Análisis de supervivencia, resultados clínicos y radiológicos de una serie de casos.

INTRODUCTION: Closing wedge high tibial osteotomy (CW-HTO) is a surgical option for active patients with medial knee pain and mild-moderate osteoarthritis with varus limb deformity. Despite its good reported results, this technique has been losing popularity. The aim of this study was to analyse the survival rate, clinical functional outcomes and radiological results of CW-HTO. METHODS: It is a retrospective case series study. Seventy patients with primary knee osteoarthritis, operated on between 2010 and 2020 in a single Spanish tertiary hospital using the CW-HTO technique and with a minimum follow-up of 2 years were analysed. RESULTS: Survival rate was 87,6% and 75,5% after a follow-up of 5 and 10 years respectively. Functional outcomes were good-to-excellent (KSS 77.7/100 and OKS 35.6/48) and good pain control (VAS 3.9/10) and high satisfaction (7.2/10) were achieved. Limb varus malalignment was significantly corrected (mean postoperative HKA angle 177,6° and MPTA 90,7°). However, 30% of patients presented hypocorrection, which was associated with inferior survival, functionality and satisfaction. CONCLUSION: CW-HTO technique can be useful for patients with knee osteoarthritis and varus limb. It allows to correct varus malalignment while achieving good-to-excellent functional outcomes, good pain control, high patient satisfaction and acceptable medium-long term survival rate. However, it is associated with a non-negligible risk of hypocorrection or medial hinge disruption.

The burden of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among hospitalised women in a developing country.

BACKGROUND: The course of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is different in men and women. There are limited data in Latin America regarding COPD exacerbations (ECOPD) in women. This study aims to determine the sociodemographic and clinical profile of ECOPD adjusted by gender.METHODS: Cross-sectional analytical study of all patients hospitalised due to an ECOPD in a tertiary university hospital in Colombia between 2015 and 2019. A group comparison analysis was performed between male and female groups.RESULTS: A total of 81 patients met the inclusion criteria (35.8% were women). The mean age was 71.49 years. Most of the patients were GOLD (Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease) 3 and 4. A history of TB was present in 15% of our cohort. While the proportion of smokers was higher among men (OR 5.11; P = 0.013), exposure to wood smoke was significantly higher in women (OR 24; P < 0.001). Females were associated with a lower probability of having forced expiratory volume in 1 sec >0,87 L (OR 0.11; P = 0.013) and were associated with an increased probability of receiving inhaled corticosteroids during hospitalisation (OR 3.33; P = 0.023). No differences in terms of mortality or complications were found.CONCLUSION: Women with COPD are underrepresented in literature. This study was able to identify some factors related to female sex among patients hospitalised for severe ECOPD.

Motivos de derivación y características epidemiológicas de los pacientes atendidos en una consulta monográfica de dermatoscopia de un hospital terciario español / Reasons for Referral and Epidemiological Characteristics of Patients Seen at a Dedicated Dermoscopy Unit in a Spanish Tertiary Care Hospital

Las consultas monográficas de dermatoscopia digital están dirigidas a la población con alto riesgo de melanoma. Conocer los motivos de derivación a estas consultas, así como las características epidemiológicas de los pacientes permite optimizar los recursos sanitarios, y determinar qué pacientes se benefician más de esta técnica. Se analizaron los motivos de derivación y las características epidemiológicas de 413 pacientes atendidos en una consulta monográfica de dermatoscopia en un período de 10 años, y que presentaban al menos un criterio de alto riesgo de melanoma. También se analizó el número necesario de extirpaciones (NNE) por cada melanoma diagnosticado, sus características histológicas y las variables no ambientales se asociaron con su diagnóstico. Los motivos de derivación más frecuentes fueron: antecedentes de melanoma previo (21,5%), cambios detectados por el paciente o su familia (20%), hallazgos clínicos y/o dermatoscópicos sospechosos de malignidad (19,4%) y antecedentes familiares de melanoma (17,4%). Setenta y seis de las 178 lesiones extirpadas fueron melanomas, obteniendo un NNE de 2,34. La edad avanzada fue el único factor de riesgo que se asoció de forma estadísticamente significativa con el desarrollo de melanoma (AU)

Dedicated dermoscopy units assess individuals at high risk for melanoma. Understanding the reasons for referral to these units and the epidemiological profile of referred patients can help optimize health care resources and determine who benefits most from dermoscopic evaluation. We analyzed reasons for referral and epidemiological characteristics of 413 patients with at least 1 high-risk factor for melanoma seen at a dedicated dermoscopy unit over a period of 10 years. We also analyzed the number of necessary excisions (NNE) for each melanoma diagnosed, histologic features, and associations between nonenvironmental factors and diagnosis. The main reasons for referral were a past history of melanoma (21.5%), changes detected by the patient or a relative (20%), clinical and/or dermoscopic findings suggestive of malignancy (19.4%), and a family history of melanoma (17.4%). Seventy-six of the 178 excised lesions were melanomas (NNE per melanoma detected, 2.34). Older age was the only risk factor significantly associated with the development of melanoma (AU)

[Translated article] Reasons for Referral and Epidemiological Characteristics of Patients Seen at a Dedicated Dermoscopy Unit in a Spanish Tertiary Care Hospital / Motivos de derivación y características epidemiológicas de los pacientes atendidos en una consulta monográfica de dermatoscopia de un hospital terciario español

Dedicated dermoscopy units assess individuals at high risk for melanoma. Understanding the reasons for referral to these units and the epidemiological profile of referred patients can help optimize health care resources and determine who benefits most from dermoscopic evaluation. We analyzed reasons for referral and epidemiological characteristics of 413 patients with at least 1 high-risk factor for melanoma seen at a dedicated dermoscopy unit over a period of 10 years. We also analyzed the number of necessary excisions (NNE) for each melanoma diagnosed, histologic features, and associations between nonenvironmental factors and diagnosis. The main reasons for referral were a past history of melanoma (21.5%), changes detected by the patient or a relative (20%), clinical and/or dermoscopic findings suggestive of malignancy (19.4%), and a family history of melanoma (17.4%). Seventy-six of the 178 excised lesions were melanomas (NNE per melanoma detected, 2.34). Older age was the only risk factor significantly associated with the development of melanoma (AU)

Las consultas monográficas de dermatoscopia digital están dirigidas a la población con alto riesgo de melanoma. Conocer los motivos de derivación a estas consultas, así como las características epidemiológicas de los pacientes permite optimizar los recursos sanitarios, y determinar qué pacientes se benefician más de esta técnica. Se analizaron los motivos de derivación y las características epidemiológicas de 413 pacientes atendidos en una consulta monográfica de dermatoscopia en un período de 10 años, y que presentaban al menos un criterio de alto riesgo de melanoma. También se analizó el número necesario de extirpaciones (NNE) por cada melanoma diagnosticado, sus características histológicas y las variables no ambientales se asociaron con su diagnóstico. Los motivos de derivación más frecuentes fueron: antecedentes de melanoma previo (21,5%), cambios detectados por el paciente o su familia (20%), hallazgos clínicos y/o dermatoscópicos sospechosos de malignidad (19,4%) y antecedentes familiares de melanoma (17,4%). Setenta y seis de las 178 lesiones extirpadas fueron melanomas, obteniendo un NNE de 2,34. La edad avanzada fue el único factor de riesgo que se asoció de forma estadísticamente significativa con el desarrollo de melanoma (AU)

Reasons for Referral and Epidemiological Characteristics of Patients Seen at a Dedicated Dermoscopy Unit in a Spanish Tertiary Care Hospital. / Motivos de derivación y características epidemiológicas de los pacientes atendidos en una consulta monográfica de dermatoscopia de un hospital terciario español.

Dedicated dermoscopy units assess individuals at high risk for melanoma. Understanding the reasons for referral to these units and the epidemiological profile of referred patients can help optimize health care resources and determine who benefits most from dermoscopic evaluation. We analyzed reasons for referral and epidemiological characteristics of 413 patients with at least 1 high-risk factor for melanoma seen at a dedicated dermoscopy unit over a period of 10 years. We also analyzed the number of necessary excisions (NNE) for each melanoma diagnosed, histologic features, and associations between nonenvironmental factors and diagnosis. The main reasons for referral were a past history of melanoma (21.5%), changes detected by the patient or a relative (20%), clinical and/or dermoscopic findings suggestive of malignancy (19.4%), and a family history of melanoma (17.4%). Seventy-six of the 178 excised lesions were melanomas (NNE per melanoma detected, 2.34). Older age was the only risk factor significantly associated with the development of melanoma.

Analysis of results of open and percutaneous disc biopsy in the diagnosis of spondylodiscitis. / Análisis de los resultados de la biopsia discal abierta y percutánea en el diagnóstico de la espondilodiscitis.

INTRODUCTION: Spinal disc biopsy is a necessary tool in diagnosing and treating spondylodiscitis. Its profitability varies according to the technique, concomitant antibiotics therapy or causative germ. We studied the results of this procedure in our institution. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective analysis of all cases requiring disc biopsy due to possible spondylodiscitis over a 5year period, both percutaneous (26 cases) and open (13 cases). We collected filiation and clinical data, comorbidity, concomitant antibiotic therapy, imaging tests, biopsy type, cultures results and clinical evolution. RESULTS: 39 patients; 66.7% male, 66.9years of average age. 74% has known risk factors. The main symptom was pain (89.7%). Fever occurred in 5%. MRI performed in 87%. Lumbar involvement in 76.9%. 9 patients (23%) received antibiotic treatment simultaneously with biopsy. In these cases biopsy always yielded a negative result, but positive in patients without antibiotics at the time of the biopsy (53.3%), with statistical significance. Most frequent isolated microorganisms were gram-negative bacilli (31.2%) and gram-positive cocci (31.2%). We found 2 deaths during admission for sepsis (within the first month after diagnosis). Of the rest of patients, 5 died late during the follow-up: 3 due to new infections and 2 due to subsequent complications of previous pathologies. The remaining patients with final diagnosis of spondylodiscitis evolved satisfactorily with antibiotic therapy. CONCLUSIONS: Spondylodiscitis is potentially serious and requires an adequate diagnosis, with disc biopsy being a necessary procedure on occasions. Patients poor clinical condition can make it impossible to withdraw antibiotics, which drastically reduces the performance of the biopsy.

Analysis of results of open and percutaneous disc biopsy in the diagnosis of spondylodiscitis / Análisis de los resultados de la biopsia discal abierta y percutánea en el diagnóstico de la espondilodiscitis

Introduction: Spinal disc biopsy is a necessary tool in diagnosing and treating spondylodiscitis. Its profitability varies according to the technique, concomitant antibiotics therapy or causative germ. We studied the results of this procedure in our institution.Materials and methods: Retrospective analysis of all cases requiring disc biopsy due to possible spondylodiscitis over a 5year period, both percutaneous (26 cases) and open (13 cases). We collected filiation and clinical data, comorbidity, concomitant antibiotic therapy, imaging tests, biopsy type, cultures results and clinical evolution. Results: 39 patients; 66.7% male, 66.9years of average age. 74% has known risk factors. The main symptom was pain (89.7%). Fever occurred in 5%. MRI performed in 87%. Lumbar involvement in 76.9%. 9 patients (23%) received antibiotic treatment simultaneously with biopsy. In these cases biopsy always yielded a negative result, but positive in patients without antibiotics at the time of the biopsy (53.3%), with statistical significance. Most frequent isolated microorganisms were gram-negative bacilli (31.2%) and gram-positive cocci (31.2%). We found 2 deaths during admission for sepsis (within the first month after diagnosis). Of the rest of patients, 5 died late during the follow-up: 3 due to new infections and 2 due to subsequent complications of previous pathologies. The remaining patients with final diagnosis of spondylodiscitis evolved satisfactorily with antibiotic therapy. Conclusions: Spondylodiscitis is potentially serious and requires an adequate diagnosis, with disc biopsy being a necessary procedure on occasions. Patients poor clinical condition can make it impossible to withdraw antibiotics, which drastically reduces the performance of the biopsy.(AU)

Introducción: La biopsia discal es una herramienta necesaria en el proceso diagnóstico y terapéutico de las espondilodiscitis. Su rentabilidad es variable según condicionantes como la técnica utilizada, el uso concomitante de antibióticos o el germen causante. Estudiamos los resultados de este procedimiento en nuestro centro en un periodo de 5años. Material y métodos: Análisis retrospectivo de todos los casos que requirieron biopsia discal por posible espondilodiscitis en nuestro centro entre enero de 2015 y noviembre de 2019, tanto percutánea (26 casos) como abierta (13 casos). Recogemos datos de filiación y clínicos, comorbilidad, antibioterapia concomitante, pruebas de imagen, tipo de biopsia, resultado de cultivos y evolución clínica. Resultados: Treinta y nueve pacientes: 66,7% varones, 66,9años de edad media. El 74% con factores de riesgo conocidos. El síntoma principal es dolor mayoritariamente (89,7%) y fiebre en el 5%. La RMN en la prueba más frecuentemente realizada (87%). Los segmentos lumbares se afectaron en el 76,9%, por el 23% los dorsales. En 9 casos (23%) los pacientes reciben tratamiento antibiótico simultáneamente a la realización de la biopsia. En estos casos la biopsia siempre arrojó un resultado negativo. Los cultivos fueron positivos más frecuentemente en los pacientes sin antibióticos en el momento de la biopsia (53,3%), con significación estadística. Los microorganismos aislados de manera más repetida fueron los bacilos gramnegativos (31,2%) y los cocos grampositivos (31,2%). Constatamos 2 fallecimientos durante el ingreso por sepsis (dentro del primer mes tras el diagnóstico). Del resto de los pacientes fallecieron 5 de manera tardía durante el seguimiento: 3 por nuevas infecciones complicadas de manera tardía y 2 por complicaciones ulteriores de patologías previas. El resto de pacientes con diagnóstico final de espondilodiscitis evolucionaron satisfactoriamente con antibioterapia.(AU)

Análisis de los resultados de la biopsia discal abierta y percutánea en el diagnóstico de la espondilodiscitis / Analysis of results of open and percutaneous disc biopsy in the diagnosis of spondylodiscitis

Introducción: La biopsia discal es una herramienta necesaria en el proceso diagnóstico y terapéutico de las espondilodiscitis. Su rentabilidad es variable según condicionantes como la técnica utilizada, el uso concomitante de antibióticos o el germen causante. Estudiamos los resultados de este procedimiento en nuestro centro en un periodo de 5años. Material y métodos: Análisis retrospectivo de todos los casos que requirieron biopsia discal por posible espondilodiscitis en nuestro centro entre enero de 2015 y noviembre de 2019, tanto percutánea (26 casos) como abierta (13 casos). Recogemos datos de filiación y clínicos, comorbilidad, antibioterapia concomitante, pruebas de imagen, tipo de biopsia, resultado de cultivos y evolución clínica. Resultados: Treinta y nueve pacientes: 66,7% varones, 66,9años de edad media. El 74% con factores de riesgo conocidos. El síntoma principal es dolor mayoritariamente (89,7%) y fiebre en el 5%. La RMN en la prueba más frecuentemente realizada (87%). Los segmentos lumbares se afectaron en el 76,9%, por el 23% los dorsales. En 9 casos (23%) los pacientes reciben tratamiento antibiótico simultáneamente a la realización de la biopsia. En estos casos la biopsia siempre arrojó un resultado negativo. Los cultivos fueron positivos más frecuentemente en los pacientes sin antibióticos en el momento de la biopsia (53,3%), con significación estadística. Los microorganismos aislados de manera más repetida fueron los bacilos gramnegativos (31,2%) y los cocos grampositivos (31,2%). Constatamos 2 fallecimientos durante el ingreso por sepsis (dentro del primer mes tras el diagnóstico). Del resto de los pacientes fallecieron 5 de manera tardía durante el seguimiento: 3 por nuevas infecciones complicadas de manera tardía y 2 por complicaciones ulteriores de patologías previas. El resto de pacientes con diagnóstico final de espondilodiscitis evolucionaron satisfactoriamente con antibioterapia.(AU)

Introduction: Spinal disc biopsy is a necessary tool in diagnosing and treating spondylodiscitis. Its profitability varies according to the technique, concomitant antibiotics therapy or causative germ. We studied the results of this procedure in our institution.Materials and methods: Retrospective analysis of all cases requiring disc biopsy due to possible spondylodiscitis over a 5year period, both percutaneous (26 cases) and open (13 cases). We collected filiation and clinical data, comorbidity, concomitant antibiotic therapy, imaging tests, biopsy type, cultures results and clinical evolution. Results: 39 patients; 66.7% male, 66.9years of average age. 74% has known risk factors. The main symptom was pain (89.7%). Fever occurred in 5%. MRI performed in 87%. Lumbar involvement in 76.9%. 9 patients (23%) received antibiotic treatment simultaneously with biopsy. In these cases biopsy always yielded a negative result, but positive in patients without antibiotics at the time of the biopsy (53.3%), with statistical significance. Most frequent isolated microorganisms were gram-negative bacilli (31.2%) and gram-positive cocci (31.2%). We found 2 deaths during admission for sepsis (within the first month after diagnosis). Of the rest of patients, 5 died late during the follow-up: 3 due to new infections and 2 due to subsequent complications of previous pathologies. The remaining patients with final diagnosis of spondylodiscitis evolved satisfactorily with antibiotic therapy. Conclusions: Spondylodiscitis is potentially serious and requires an adequate diagnosis, with disc biopsy being a necessary procedure on occasions. Patients poor clinical condition can make it impossible to withdraw antibiotics, which drastically reduces the performance of the biopsy.(AU)

Effects of yoga in men with prostate cancer on quality of life and immune response: a pilot randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer is associated with anxiety, fear, and depression in up to one-third of men. Yoga improves health-related quality of life (QoL) in patients with several types of cancer, but evidence of its efficacy in enhancing QoL is lacking in prostate cancer. METHODS: In this randomized controlled study, 29 men newly diagnosed with localized prostate cancer were randomized to yoga for 6 weeks (n = 14) or standard-of-care (n = 15) before radical prostatectomy. The primary outcome was self-reported QoL, assessed by the Expanded Prostate Index Composite (EPIC), Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Prostate (FACT-P), Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-F), Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G) at baseline, preoperatively, and 6 weeks postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were changes in immune cell status and cytokine levels with yoga. RESULTS: The greatest benefit of yoga on QoL was seen in EPIC-sexual (mean difference, 8.5 points), FACIT-F (6.3 points), FACT-Functional wellbeing (8.6 points), FACT-physical wellbeing (5.5 points), and FACT-Social wellbeing (14.6 points). The yoga group showed increased numbers of circulating CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells, more production of interferon-gamma by natural killer cells, and increased Fc receptor III expression in natural killer cells. The yoga group also showed decreased numbers of regulatory T-cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, indicating antitumor activity, and reduction in inflammatory cytokine levels (granulocyte colony-stimulating factor [0.55 (0.05-1.05), p = 0.03], monocyte chemoattractant protein [0.22 (0.01-0.43), p = 0.04], and FMS-like tyrosine kinase-3 ligand [0.91 (-0.01, 1.82), p = 0.053]. CONCLUSIONS: Perioperative yoga exercise improved QoL, promoted an immune response, and attenuated inflammation in men with prostate cancer. Yoga is feasible in this setting and has benefits that require further investigation. TRIAL REGISTRATION: clinicaltrials.org (NCT02620033).

The association between sarcopenia and bladder cancer-specific mortality and all-cause mortality after radical cystectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective: To compare cancer-specific mortality (CSM) and all-cause mortality (ACM) between patients with and without sarcopenia who underwent radical cystectomy for bladder cancer. Materials and methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of original articles published from October 2010 to March 2019 evaluating the effect of sarcopenia on CSM and ACM. We extracted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for CSM and ACM from the included studies. Heterogeneity amongst studies was measured using the Q-statistic and the I 2 index. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model if heterogeneity was high and fixed-effects models if heterogeneity was low. Results: We identified 145 publications, of which five were included in the meta-analysis. These five studies represented 1447 patients of which 453 were classified as sarcopenic and 534 were non-sarcopenic. CSM and ACM were increased in sarcopenic vs non-sarcopenic patients (HR 1.64, 95% CI 1.30-2.08, P < 0.01 and HR 1.41, 95% CI 1.22-1.62, P < 0.01, respectively). Conclusions: Sarcopenia is significantly associated with increased CSM and ACM in bladder cancer. Identifying patients with sarcopenia will augment preoperative counselling and planning. Further studies are required to evaluate targeted interventions in patients with sarcopenia to improve clinical outcomes. Abbreviations: ACM: all-cause mortality; ASA: American Association of Anesthesiologists; BMI: body mass index; CCI: Charlson Comorbidity Index; CSM: cancer-specific mortality; CSS: cancer-specific survival; ECOG: Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group; HR: hazard ratio; NAC: neoadjuvant chemotherapy; NIH: National Institutes of Health; OS: overall survival; RC: radical cystectomy; RCT: randomised controlled trial; SMI: Skeletal Muscle Index.

[Surgical management of gait by internal tibial torsion in children]. / Manejo quirúrgico de la marcha por torsión tibial interna en niños.

INTRODUCTION: Identify the progress of patients who had internal tibial torsion and were treated with surgical correction, performing derotating tibial osteotomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study included patients diagnosed with abnormal gait-causing internal tibial torsion in which conservative treatment failed, between January/2016 and January/2019. RESULTS: 12 patients with an age range of 4.3-17.8 years of whom nine patients (75%) were female and three (25%) male; the weight range was 12.36-59.30 kg; among the associated pathologies were found myelomeningocele three patients (25%), cerebral palsy two patients (16.6%); the postoperative hospital stay of six patients (50%) one day, five patients (41.67%) stayed two days, and three days only one patient (8.33%); three patients (25%) minor complications and one patient (8.33%) major complications; progress was good in 11 patients (91.67%) and regular in one patient (8.33%). CONCLUSION: It is the first series communicated in Ecuador, where reference is made to the use of tibial osteotomy in the supramaleolar area, combined with Kirschner pin fixation, correcting internal tibial torsion in children where conservative treatment failed, resulting in a safe procedure and favorable results in the evolution of gait, including patients with neuromuscular disease and under five years of age.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Identificar la evolución en la marcha de los pacientes que presentaron torsión tibial interna y se les trató con corrección quirúrgica, realizándoles osteotomía tibial desrotadora. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio retrospectivo, se incluyeron pacientes con diagnóstico de torsión tibial interna causante de marcha anormal, en quienes fracasó el tratamiento conservador, entre Enero de 2016 y Enero de 2019. RESULTADOS: Se trataron 12 pacientes con rango de edad de 4.3-17.8 años, de los cuales nueve fueron femeninos (75%) y tres masculinos (25%); el rango de peso fue 12.36-59.30 kg; entre las patologías asociadas se encontraron mielomeningocele en tres pacientes (25%), parálisis cerebral infantil en dos pacientes (16.6%); por otra parte, la estancia hospitalaria postoperatoria de seis pacientes (50%) fue de un día, cinco pacientes (41.67%) permanecieron dos, y sólo un paciente tres días (8.33%); tres pacientes (25%) presentaron complicaciones menores y un paciente (8.33%) complicaciones mayores; la evolución de la marcha fue buena en 11 pacientes (91.67%) y regular en un paciente (8.33%). CONCLUSIÓN: Es la primera serie comunicada en el Ecuador en la que se hace referencia al uso de osteotomía desrotadora de la tibia en el área supramaleolar combinada con la fijación de clavo de Kirschner, corrigiendo la torsión tibial interna en niños en los que fracasó el tratamiento conservador, resultando un procedimiento seguro y con desenlaces favorables en la evolución de la marcha, incluyendo pacientes con enfermedad neuromuscular y menores de cinco años.

Outcomes of vertebroplasty in osteoporotic vertebral fractures with limited indication. / Resultados de la vertebroplastia en fracturas vertebrales osteoporóticas con indicación límite.

INTRODUCTION: Vertebroplasty has been shown to be effective for improving quality of life and pain of osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVF) without neurological deficit and not susceptible to conservative treatment. It is advisable to perform them on recent fractures with 50% crush and without the involvement of the canal, although there are no standard recommendations. In some cases these limits are exceeded. We analyse the outcomes of percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) in OVF with relative/limit indication. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective analysis of 88 patients (126 fractures) who underwent surgery by PVP; 95/126 were osteoporotic fractures. Thirty-four cases (35%) were included in the relative indication group, with at least one of the following: canal involvement,>50% collapse, and>12 months of evolution of the fracture. The rest of the cases were included in the standard indication group. We performed clinical-radiological follow-up, collected intraoperative data on techniques and complications, occurrence of leaks, postoperative clinical improvement (according to VAS), new adjacent fractures, and satisfaction. RESULTS: Most fractures were between D11-L2 (66%) with 6-8 months follow-up. No significant differences were observed regarding clinical improvement in either group. A higher percentage of leaks were detected in the relative indication group, 44% in comparison to 29.5% in the standard indication group, without statistical significance. All leakages were asymptomatic. There were 3new OVF after PVP in the relative indication group and 4in the standard group, without statistically significant differences. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: The use of cement in OVF with relative indication led to the same clinical benefit in our sample as those with standard indication. A higher number of leakages occurred in the relative indication group with no clinical consequences or adjacent fractures.

Riesgo de caídas y consumo de fármacos en los pacientes mayores de 65 años. Estudio PYCAF / Risk of falls and drug use in patients over 65 years of age. The PYCAF study

OBJETIVO: Evaluar el riesgo de caídas y su relación con el policonsumo de fármacos en ancianos no institucionalizados. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: El estudio PYCAF (Prevalencia Y Características del Anciano Frágil) es un estudio transversal, descriptivo y multicéntrico en pacientes > 65 años. Se consideró riesgo elevado de caídas cuando se tardó más de 20 s en realizar el test Timed Up and Go. Se consideró polimedicación el consumo entre 5 y 9 fármacos, y polimedicación extrema (PE) el consumo de 10 o más fármacos. Mediante modelos de regresión logística ajustados se valoró la asociación de la polimedicación y la PE con el riesgo de caídas. RESULTADOS: Se incluyó a 2.461 pacientes (57,9% mujeres), edad media +/- desviación estándar 76,0 +/- 7,0 años. El consumo medio de medicamentos fue de 6,6 +/- 3,7, rango 0-23. La polimedicación estaba presente en el 50,6% y la PE en el 19,2% de los pacientes. El 13,7% de los pacientes presentaron elevado riesgo de caídas. La prevalencia de riesgo elevado de caídas fue más de 2veces superior en los pacientes con PE (ORa = 2,07; IC del 95%, 1,27-3,38) y polimedicados (ORa =1,95; IC del 95%, 1,26-2,99). CONCLUSIONES: La polimedicación y la PE se asocian con un elevado riesgo de caídas en pacientes de más de 65 años. Debe valorarse el riesgo de caídas de los pacientes ancianos antes de prescribir medicación

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the risk of falls and its relationship with the multiple drug use in the non-institutionalised elderly. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The PYCAF study (Prevalence and Characteristics of the Fragile Elderly) is a cross-sectional, descriptive and multicentre study in patients> 65 years of age. A fall was considered high risk when it took more than 20seconds to perform the Timed Up and Go test. Consuming between 5 and 9 drugs is considered multiple drug (MD) use, and extreme multiple drug (EMD) use the consumption of 10 or more drugs. Adjusted logistic regression models evaluated the association between multiple drug use and EMD and the risk of falls. RESULTS: A total of 2,461 patients (57.9% women), with a mean age (SD) 76.0 (+/- 7.0) years, were included in the study. The mean consumption of medications was 6.6 +/- 3.7, range 0-23. Multiple drug use was present in 50.6%, and EMD in 19.2% of patients. A high risk of falls was observed in 13.7% of patients. The prevalence of high risk of falls was more than 2times higher in patients with EMD (ORa = 2.07, 95% CI = 1.27 - 3.38) and MD (ORa = 1.95, 95% CI = 1.26 - 2.99). CONCLUSIONS: MD and EMD are associated with a high risk of falls in patients over 65 years of age. The risk of falls in elderly patients should be assessed before prescribing medication

[Bronchodilator therapy in the prevention of COPD exacerbations]. / El tratamiento broncodilatador en la prevención de las exacerbaciones de la EPOC.

The natural course of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease usually includes exacerbations. chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients suffer from 1-4 exacerbations per year on average. These are associated with worsening quality of life and increased mortality. Reducing and controlling the number of exacerbations is one of the main goals of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease treatment. Among current treatments, tiotropium is the active substance with the strongest evidence in the reduction of moderate/severe exacerbations, together with a good safety and tolerability profile. The addition of olodaterol to tiotropium offers well-tolerated and effective double bronchodilation for improving lung function, quality of life, and decreased dyspnoea compared to its single components. This also reduces the annual rate of moderate/severe exacerbations vs. tiotropium by 7%, although not reaching the pre-specified statistical significance level of P<.01.