RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: International guidelines recommend carotid revascularization within 14 days for patients with a symptomatic transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke event. However, significant delays in care persist, with only 9% of outpatients and 36% of inpatients in Ontario meeting this target. The study objective was to explore the influence of health system factors on carotid revascularization timelines. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective chart review of all symptomatic TIA/stroke patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy or stenting at The Ottawa Hospital (2015-2016). The primary outcome was time from TIA/stroke to carotid revascularization. Health system variables of interest included location and timing of patient presentation, timelines to vascular imaging, and same-day collaboration between key services such as emergency, neurology, and surgery. Descriptive statistics and univariate analysis were used to determine statistically significant differences between groups. RESULTS: A total of 228 records met the inclusion criteria. The median time from TIA/stroke to carotid revascularization was 10 days, with 58% of patients meeting the 14-day guideline. Prompt patient presentation to emergency demonstrated significantly shorter timelines to surgery (7 days; P < .001). Early vascular imaging was strongly correlated with early revascularization (4-5 days; P < .001). In addition, collaboration from two or more care services enhanced timelines to surgery ranging from 2.0 to 6.5 days (P < .001-.008). CONCLUSIONS: Early/emergency response to stroke symptoms was pivotal in achieving best practice recommendations for rapid carotid revascularization, emphasizing the need for ongoing public awareness. Emergency and ambulatory strategies to facilitate urgent vascular imaging, as well as mechanisms for same-day communication between teams require optimization to promote early revascularization.
Asunto(s)
Estenosis Carotídea/diagnóstico por imagen , Estenosis Carotídea/cirugía , Endarterectomía Carotidea , Ataque Isquémico Transitorio/diagnóstico por imagen , Accidente Cerebrovascular/diagnóstico por imagen , Tiempo de Tratamiento , Anciano , Canadá , Estenosis Carotídea/complicaciones , Femenino , Humanos , Ataque Isquémico Transitorio/etiología , Ataque Isquémico Transitorio/terapia , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Estudios Retrospectivos , Factores de Riesgo , Stents , Accidente Cerebrovascular/etiología , Accidente Cerebrovascular/terapiaRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: For optimal stroke prevention, best practices guidelines recommend carotid endarterectomy (CEA) for symptomatic patients within two weeks; however, 2013 Ontario data indicated that only 9% of eligible patients from outpatient Stroke Prevention Clinics (SPCs) achieved this target. The goal of our study was to identify modifiable system factors that could enhance the quality and timeliness of care among patients needing urgent CEA. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective chart review of transient ischemic attack/stroke patients assessed in Champlain Local Health Integrated Network SPCs between 2011 and 2014 who subsequently underwent CEA. Descriptive statistics were used to define patient characteristics, timelines from symptom onset to CEA, and system factors that contributed to delays or improvements in care. Multivariate analysis was used to determine statistically significant variations between groups. RESULTS: Seventy-five records were eligible for study inclusion. Median time from initial symptoms to CEA was 31 days, with 21.3% of patients undergoing surgery within 2 weeks. Significant delays were common in patient presentation and assessment following symptom onset, wait times for vascular imaging and neurological assessment, and time from surgical assessment to CEA completion. Rapid testing and triage, coupled with collaborative initiatives among SPC, surgical, and radiology teams were associated with significantly improved timelines. CONCLUSIONS: Success factors for rapid CEA are multifaceted, including system changes that address public awareness of stroke and 911 response, improvements in vascular imaging access, and redesign of clinical services to promote collaboration and fast-tracking of care. Implementation of performance measures to monitor and guide clinical innovations is recommended.
Asunto(s)
Endarterectomía Carotidea/métodos , Ataque Isquémico Transitorio/cirugía , Accidente Cerebrovascular/prevención & control , Anciano , Anciano de 80 o más Años , Bases de Datos Factuales/estadística & datos numéricos , Femenino , Estudios de Seguimiento , Humanos , Ataque Isquémico Transitorio/complicaciones , Masculino , Evaluación de Resultado en la Atención de Salud , Pacientes Ambulatorios , Estudios Retrospectivos , Accidente Cerebrovascular/etiología , Factores de TiempoRESUMEN
Erectile dysfunction is a common clinical entity that affects mainly men older than 40 years. In addition to the classical causes of erectile dysfunction, such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension, several common lifestyle factors, such as obesity, limited or an absence of physical exercise, and lower urinary tract symptoms, have been linked to the development of erectile dysfunction. Substantial steps have been taken in the study of the association between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. Erectile dysfunction is a strong predictor for coronary artery disease, and cardiovascular assessment of a non-cardiac patient presenting with erectile dysfunction is now recommended. Substantial advances have occurred in the understanding of the pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction that ultimately led to the development of successful oral therapies, namely the phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. However, oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors have limitations, and present research is thus investigating cutting-edge therapeutic strategies including gene and cell-based technologies with the aim of discovering a cure for erectile dysfunction.
Asunto(s)
Disfunción Eréctil , Disfunción Eréctil/tratamiento farmacológico , Disfunción Eréctil/etiología , Disfunción Eréctil/fisiopatología , Disfunción Eréctil/terapia , Humanos , Impotencia Vasculogénica/tratamiento farmacológico , Impotencia Vasculogénica/etiología , Impotencia Vasculogénica/fisiopatología , Masculino , Prótesis de Pene , Pene/fisiopatología , Inhibidores de Fosfodiesterasa 5/uso terapéuticoRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: There are several contraceptive methods to prevent pregnancy, reversible as well as nonreversible ones. The sexual satisfaction of couples is affected by many types of contraceptives used. AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate prospectively the effect of vasectomy on the sexual life and satisfaction of couples. METHODS: Seventy-six couples took part in this evaluation and filled out respective questionnaires before and after vasectomy. All the questionnaires were evaluated statistically for differences in the respective sexual domain scores. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Standardized questionnaires were used. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) as well as postoperative pain score were completed by men. Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was completed by the female partner. For statistical analysis, the T-Square Test was used. RESULTS: The average age of couples, who chose the vasectomy procedure, was 37 years for women and 39 years for men. The contraception method most frequently used prior to the vasectomy was the birth control pill. For the male partner, the IIEF showed no significant change in the respective domains. Out of the 76 couples, 93% of the males and 96% of their female partners would recommend and do vasectomy again. The postoperative pain score was 3.5 on 0-10 scale, and there were no postoperative complications reported. The best improvement of the sexual function was noticed for the female partners. The FSFI showed a significant improvement in the domains desire (P < 0.05), arousal (P < 0.05), orgasm (P < 0.05), lubrication (P < 0.05), and satisfaction (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: This is the first report to our very best knowledge that showed the positive impact of vasectomy on sexual satisfaction of couples. Vasectomy is a safe operation with minimal complication rates.
Asunto(s)
Composición Familiar , Satisfacción Personal , Conducta Sexual , Parejas Sexuales , Vasectomía , Adulto , Femenino , Humanos , Estudios Longitudinales , Masculino , Orgasmo , Dolor Postoperatorio , Erección Peniana , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Adulto JovenRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: There has been a long history of man's fascination with better and stronger sex drive and performance across different cultures. Several literature texts from the Hindu, Egyptian, Chinese and Roman civilizations document the human endless search for substances that can enhance sexual experiences and/or treat erectile dysfunction. AIM: This review will discuss the current research done on the most popular plant aphrodisiacs and provide evidence to support or discourage the use of any of them to enhance sexual desire and/or function in men. METHODS: We review the current evidence on the use of natural substances as aphrodisiacs. RESULTS: We found very little evidence to support the use of plant aphrodisiacs in the treatment of male sexual dysfunction. The vast majority of studies were conducted on animals with very few clinical studies. Available data suggest a beneficial effect of ginseng as a pro-sexual supplement and not an independent treatment for male sexual dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS: Trans-culturally, many herbal therapies show some potential benefits in improving men's sexual function; however, adequate studies on the specific benefits and health risks associated with their use are needed. We strongly recommend the design and execution of well-controlled clinical studies to determine the efficacy and safety of plant aphrodisiacs.
Asunto(s)
Afrodisíacos/farmacología , Libido/efectos de los fármacos , Plantas Medicinales/química , Conducta Sexual/efectos de los fármacos , Animales , Afrodisíacos/uso terapéutico , Humanos , Masculino , FitoterapiaRESUMEN
Our study included 280 patients complaining of small-sized penis. They were seen in the outpatient clinic of the Andrology Department, Kasr El Aini, Cairo University. Patients were collected from 2002 till 2008 and classified into 4 categories from an etiological point of view. Eleven patients (3.9%) were operated upon according to fine selection criteria; six patients were selected for lengthening procedures, while two patients were selected for increasing girth procedures and three patients for combined operation of lengthening and increasing girth techniques. Seven patients showed subjective satisfaction after lengthening procedures and four patients showed subjective satisfaction after increasing girth techniques. In conclusion, detailed analysis of short penis complaint with a proper diagnosis and patient education are required for accurate management of patients complaining of a short penis.
Asunto(s)
Pene/cirugía , Procedimientos de Cirugía Plástica , Procedimientos Quirúrgicos Urológicos Masculinos , Adulto , Egipto , Humanos , Masculino , Satisfacción del Paciente , Resultado del TratamientoRESUMEN
PURPOSE: Poststroke communication deficits (PSCD) are common following stroke. Early and intensive speech and language therapy is recommended to maximize outcomes. We wanted to test the feasibility of providing telerehabilitation for patients with PSCD using mobile tablet-based technology to bridge the gap between acute stroke care and outpatient speech-language therapy (SLT) services. METHOD: This was a prospective, randomized, open-label, blinded end-point design. Patients were randomized to either the treatment arm (mobile tablet) or the control arm (standard of care). The study duration was either 8 weeks or when the patient was called to start outpatient SLT services, whichever occurred first. The primary outcome was feasibility, while secondary objective was to assess patient engagement and to explore improvement in communication ability. RESULTS: We had a 38% recruitment rate, with a 100% retention rate for the treatment arm and a 50% retention rate for the control arm. Fifty percent of patients in the treatment arm adhered to the recommended 1 hr per day, whereas none of the control arm did. Patients were engaged in using the mobile tablet and feedback on the protocol was positive. CONCLUSIONS: SLT using telerehabilitation via mobile technology is feasible in the very early stages of acute stroke recovery. It is potentially an effective means of bridging the gap between discharge from the acute care setting to the start of outpatient SLT services. Our study supported proceeding to a clinical trial to assess efficacy of the intervention. SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL: https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.21844569.
Asunto(s)
Rehabilitación de Accidente Cerebrovascular , Accidente Cerebrovascular , Humanos , Estudios de Factibilidad , Estudios Prospectivos , Accidente Cerebrovascular/complicaciones , Rehabilitación de Accidente Cerebrovascular/métodos , Logopedia/métodosRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Cannabis (marijuana) is the most widely used illicit drug globally. Given the prevalence of nonprescription illicit drug abuse, there is a growing interest in the study of its potential effects on male sexual health. In this review, we discuss the effects of cannabis on male sexual health. OBJECTIVE: In this review, we discuss the effects of cannabis on male sexual health. METHODS AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Critical review of scientific literature examining the impact of cannabis use on male sexual health. RESULTS: Studies examining the effects of cannabis use on male sexual function have been limited in both quality and quantity. Most results of these studies are conflicting and contradictory. While some did outline the beneficial effects of cannabis in enhancing erectile function, others did not. However, recent animal and in vitro studies have identified potential links between cannabis and sexual health. It appears that cannabis may actually have peripheral antagonizing effects on erectile function by stimulating specific receptors in the cavernous tissue. CONCLUSIONS: Given the prevalence of cannabis use, and the potential relationships between use and the development of potentially hazardous effects on male sexual function, we encourage renewed use of research resources to determine in-depth mechanistic knowledge, and new clinically oriented studies examining the effect of cannabis on male sexual function.
Asunto(s)
Cannabis/efectos adversos , Disfunción Eréctil/inducido químicamente , Drogas Ilícitas/efectos adversos , Abuso de Marihuana/complicaciones , Conducta Sexual/efectos de los fármacos , Trastornos Relacionados con Sustancias/complicaciones , Humanos , Masculino , Prevalencia , Medición de RiesgoRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: The search for a remedy or a prescription that can enhance sexual function and/or treat male erectile dysfunction has been an obsession throughout known history. Whether it was an Eastern civilization or a Western one, religious or atheist, man's aspiration for a better or best "manhood" has been a history-time goal. AIM: This review will discuss the current research done on the most popular natural aphrodisiacs and examine the weight of evidence to support or discourage the use of any of these substances to enhance sexual desire and/or function. METHODS: Review of the current evidence on the use of natural substances as aphrodisiacs. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Efficacy of natural aphrodisiacs in enhancing sexual function in men and women. RESULTS: There is little evidence from literature to recommend the usage of natural aphrodisiacs for the enhancement of sexual desire and/or performance. Data on yohimbine's efficacy does not support the wide use of the drug, which has only mild effects in the treatment of psychogenic ED. Although there's a positive trend towards recommending ginseng as an effective aphrodisiac, however, more in depth studies involving large number of subjects and its mechanism of action are needed before definite conclusions could be reached. Data on the use of natural aphrodisiacs in women is limited. CONCLUSIONS: The current body of objective evidence does not support the use of any natural aphrodisiac as an effective treatment for male or female sexual dysfunctions. Potent men and men with ED will continue the search for natural aphrodisiacs despite the current disappointing data on their effectiveness. Care should be taken regarding the fraud addition of sildenafil analogues to natural aphrodisiacs.
Asunto(s)
Afrodisíacos/uso terapéutico , Medicina Tradicional , Fitoterapia , Disfunciones Sexuales Psicológicas/tratamiento farmacológico , Animales , Afrodisíacos/efectos adversos , Femenino , Humanos , Libido/efectos de los fármacos , Masculino , Panax , Erección Peniana/efectos de los fármacos , Extractos Vegetales/efectos adversos , Extractos Vegetales/uso terapéutico , Charlatanería , Conducta Sexual/efectos de los fármacos , Resultado del Tratamiento , Yohimbina/efectos adversos , Yohimbina/uso terapéuticoRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Genital morphology (especially male) among the animal kingdom is characterized by extensive differences that even members of closely related species with similar general morphology may have remarkably diverse genitalia. AIM: To present the sexual medicine specialist with a basic understanding of the current hypotheses on genital evolution with an emphasis on the sexual selection theories. METHODS: A review of current literature on the theories of genital evolution. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Analysis of the supporting evidence for the sexual selection theories of genital evolution. RESULTS: Several theories have been proposed to explain genital evolution. Currently, the sexual selection theories are being considered to present valid and solid evidence explaining genital evolution. However, other theories, including sexual conflict, are still being investigated. All theories of genital evolution have their own weaknesses and strengths. CONCLUSIONS: Given that many complex biological mechanisms, mostly unknown yet, are involved in the process of genital evolution, it is thus reasonable to conclude that not one theory can independently explain genital evolution. It is likely that these mechanisms may prove to have synergistic rather than exclusive effects.
Asunto(s)
Evolución Biológica , Genitales Femeninos/anatomía & histología , Genitales Masculinos/anatomía & histología , Preferencia en el Apareamiento Animal , Selección Genética , Animales , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Caracteres Sexuales , Especificidad de la EspecieRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Priapism describes a persistent erection arising from dysfunction of mechanisms regulating penile tumescence, rigidity, and flaccidity. A correct diagnosis of priapism is a matter of urgency requiring identification of underlying hemodynamics. AIMS: To define the types of priapism, address its pathogenesis and epidemiology, and develop an evidence-based guideline for effective management. METHODS: Six experts from four countries developed a consensus document on priapism; this document was presented for peer review and debate in a public forum and revisions were made based on recommendations of chairpersons to the International Consultation on Sexual Medicine. This report focuses on guidelines written over the past decade and reviews the priapism literature from 2003 to 2009. Although the literature is predominantly case series, recent reports have more detailed methodology including duration of priapism, etiology of priapism, and erectile function outcomes. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Consensus recommendations were based on evidence-based literature, best medical practices, and bench research. RESULTS: Basic science supporting current concepts in the pathophysiology of priapism, and clinical research supporting the most effective treatment strategies are summarized in this review. CONCLUSIONS: Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management of priapism are necessary to spare patients ineffective interventions and maximize erectile function outcomes. Future research is needed to understand corporal smooth muscle pathology associated with genetic and acquired conditions resulting in ischemic priapism. Better understanding of molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of stuttering ischemic priapism will offer new avenues for medical intervention. Documenting erectile function outcomes based on duration of ischemic priapism, time to interventions, and types of interventions is needed to establish evidence-based guidance. In contrast, pathogenesis of nonischemic priapism is understood, and largely attributable to trauma. Better documentation of onset of high-flow priapism in relation to time of injury, and response to conservative management vs. angiogroaphic or surgical interventions is needed to establish evidence-based guidance.
Asunto(s)
Priapismo , Disfunción Eréctil/epidemiología , Disfunción Eréctil/fisiopatología , Disfunción Eréctil/terapia , Hemodinámica , Humanos , Masculino , Pene/irrigación sanguínea , Examen Físico , Priapismo/epidemiología , Priapismo/fisiopatología , Priapismo/terapiaRESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: We report our own experience with the use of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) for the management of postradiation hemorrhagic cystitis. METHODS: We reviewed retrospectively 14 patients from 2001 to 2007 with different pelvic organ malignancies who developed radiation cystitis after irradiation. Patients received 100% oxygen in a hyperbaric chamber at a pressure of 2.5 atmospheres absolute, 60 min bottom time, once a day, 7 days a week for at least 1 month. In principle, 30 HBO treatments per course were performed. After every course of HBO treatments, therapeutic effect was evaluated. The mean duration of follow-up of all patients was 18 months (range: 1-6 years). RESULTS: Patients were divided into 2 groups, group 1 (treatment group, n = 10) and group 2 (without treatment, n = 4). The mean duration between the onset of hematuria and the beginning of HBO therapy was 8.9 months (range: 3-34). Group 2 did not receive HBO because they were not healthy enough. Only 2 patients (20%) of group 1 recovered from their hemorrhagic cystitis. Group 1 had a significantly lower cure rate of postirradiation hemorrhagic cystitis in comparison to group 2. CONCLUSIONS: Our experience with the use of HBO did not yield favorable results. Randomized well-controlled studies are needed.
Asunto(s)
Cistitis/terapia , Hemorragia/terapia , Oxigenoterapia Hiperbárica , Traumatismos por Radiación/terapia , Anciano , Anciano de 80 o más Años , Cistitis/etiología , Femenino , Hematuria/etiología , Hematuria/terapia , Hemorragia/etiología , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Pelvis , Traumatismos por Radiación/etiología , Radioterapia/efectos adversos , Estudios Retrospectivos , Factores de Tiempo , Resultado del TratamientoRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Recently there has been a growing interest regarding the role of carbon monoxide (CO) and its precursor, heme oxygenase (HO) in mediation of penile erection and their potential roles as molecular targets in treatment of erectile dysfunction. AIM: To review the available literature on the role of the HO/CO system in male sexual dysfunctions. METHODS: This review will begin by a discussion of the physiology of the HO/CO system followed by a detailed assessment of the literature examining the role of HO/CO system in male sexual dysfunctions. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The effect of HO/CO system on penile erection, ejaculation, and priapism. RESULTS: Most of the studies attempting to investigate the role of HO/CO in male sexual functions focused on penile erection. The majority of these studies did report a significant positive effect of the HO/CO system on penile erection. However, none of these studies examined the role of HO/CO system in aging animals; aging being considered the most important risk factor for ED. Furthermore, only one study tested the role of HO/CO system in erectile function. The important observation that HO-2 deficient mice have low bulbospongiosus muscle activity deserves extensive research on the value of HO inhibition in the treatment of premature ejaculation. Data from the only study on low-flow priapism and HO suggests that HO-1 is involved in the paradigm of low-flow priapism. CONCLUSIONS: The HO/CO system may have an important role in many male sexual functions. Extensive research is needed to precisely delineate the extent to which the HO/CO system plays in the physiology and pathophysiology of male sexual dysfunctions.
Asunto(s)
Monóxido de Carbono/fisiología , Hemo Oxigenasa (Desciclizante)/fisiología , Disfunciones Sexuales Fisiológicas/fisiopatología , Sistema Cardiovascular , Sistema Nervioso Central/fisiología , Disfunción Eréctil/fisiopatología , Humanos , Masculino , Sistema Urogenital/fisiologíaRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is the integration of best research evidence with clinical expertise and patient preferences and values. AIM: This narrative review aims to assist the physicians to make informed decisions based on the best available evidence in the area of male infertility and the patients' own preferences and values. METHODS: In this review we present the current state of knowledge and uncertainties about the medical management of male infertility. We describe the best available evidence from systematic reviews, randomized controlled studies and observational studies where appropriate. RESULTS: Data from the literature suggest that gonadotropin treatment of male infertility can lead to a significant increase in pregnancy rates, however larger studies are needed to confirm such findings. Studies including combinations of antiestrogens, antioxidants and androgens are promising but need confirmation with further research. CONCLUSIONS: Most current combination therapies consist of orphan medications without industry support. Andrology research centers and other dedicated departments and units need to conduct randomized controlled trials of sufficient duration, sample number and robust design for groups most likely to benefit from antiestrogens, L-carnitine, antioxidants, and combination therapy. The ease of administration, low cost and mild side effects of antiestrogens justify their utility despite insufficient evidence of effect as monotherapies. Randomized controlled trials assessing other forms of medical therapy and combination therapy are available but are still in the preliminary stages.
Asunto(s)
Fármacos para la Fertilidad Masculina/uso terapéutico , Infertilidad Masculina/tratamiento farmacológico , Andrógenos/uso terapéutico , Antioxidantes/uso terapéutico , Ensayos Clínicos como Asunto , Suplementos Dietéticos , Quimioterapia Combinada , Moduladores de los Receptores de Estrógeno/uso terapéutico , Medicina Basada en la Evidencia , Femenino , Fármacos para la Fertilidad Masculina/efectos adversos , Gonadotropinas/uso terapéutico , Humanos , Masculino , Derechos del Paciente , Embarazo , Índice de Embarazo , Proyectos de Investigación , Medición de Riesgo/ética , Resultado del TratamientoRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Stroke survivors frequently experience a range of post-stroke deficits. Specialized stroke rehabilitation improves recovery, especially if it is started early post-stroke. However, resource limitations often preclude early rehabilitation. Mobile technologies may provide a platform for stroke survivors to begin recovery when they might not be able to otherwise. The study objective was to demonstrate the feasibility of RecoverNow, a tablet-based stroke recovery platform aimed at delivering speech and cognitive therapy. METHODS: We recruited a convenience sample of 30 acute stroke patients to use RecoverNow for up to 3 months. Allied health professionals assigned specific applications based on standard of care assessments. Participants were encouraged to take home the RecoverNow tablets upon discharge from acute care. The study team contacted participants to return for a follow-up interview 3 months after enrollment. The primary outcome of interest was feasibility, defined using 5 facets: recruitment rate, adherence rate, retention rate, the proportion of successful follow-up interventions, and protocol deviations. We tracked barriers to tablet-based care as a secondary outcome. RESULTS: We successfully recruited 30 of 62 eligible patients in 15 weeks (48% recruitment rate). Participants were non-adherent to tablet-based therapy inside and outside of acute care, using RecoverNow for a median of 12 minutes a day. Retention was high with 23 of 30 patients participating in follow-up interviews (77% retention rate) and all but 3 of the 23 interviews (87%) were successfully completed. Only 2 major protocol deviations occurred: one enrollment failure and one therapy protocol violation. Barriers to tablet-based care were frequently encountered by study participants with many expressing the assigned applications were either too easy or too difficult. CONCLUSIONS: Acute stroke patients are interested in attempting tablet-based stroke rehabilitation and are easily recruited early post-stroke. However, tablet-based therapy may be challenging due to patient, device and system-related barriers. Reducing the frequency of common barriers will be essential to keeping patients engaged in tablet-based therapy.
Asunto(s)
Aplicaciones Móviles , Rehabilitación de Accidente Cerebrovascular/métodos , Accidente Cerebrovascular/terapia , Adulto , Anciano , Anciano de 80 o más Años , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Alta del Paciente/estadística & datos numéricos , Estudios ProspectivosRESUMEN
BACKGROUND/AIM: We previously reported the feasibility of RecoverNow (a mobile tablet-based post-stroke communication therapy in acute care). RecoverNow has since expanded to include fine motor and cognitive therapies. Our objectives were to gain a better understanding of patient experiences and recovery goals using mobile tablets. METHODS: Speech-language pathologists or occupational therapists identified patients with stroke and communication, fine motor, or cognitive/perceptual deficits. Patients were provided with iPads individually programmed with applications based on assessment results, and instructed to use it at least 1 h/day. At discharge, patients completed a 19-question quantitative and open-ended engagement survey addressing intervention timing, mobile device/apps, recovery goals, and therapy duration. RESULTS: Over a six-month period, we enrolled 33 participants (three did not complete the survey). Median time from stroke to initiation of tablet-based therapy was six days. Patients engaged in therapy on average 59.6 min/day and preferred communication and hand function therapies. Most patients (63.3%) agreed that therapy was commenced at a reasonable time, although half expressed an interest in starting sooner, 66.7% reported that using the device 1 h/day was enough, 64.3% would use it after discharge, and 60.7% would use it for eight weeks. Sixty-seven percent of patients expressed a need for family/friend/caregiver to help them use it. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that stroke patients are interested in mobile tablet-based therapy in acute care. Patients in the acute setting prefer to focus on communication and hand therapies, are willing to begin within days of their stroke and may require assistance with the tablets.
Asunto(s)
Computadoras de Mano , Rehabilitación de Accidente Cerebrovascular/métodos , Accidente Cerebrovascular/epidemiología , Adulto , Anciano , Anciano de 80 o más Años , Canadá/epidemiología , Cuidados Críticos , Femenino , Estudios de Seguimiento , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Aplicaciones Móviles , Evaluación de Resultado en la Atención de Salud , Participación del Paciente , Satisfacción del Paciente , Encuestas y CuestionariosRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Despite the major breakthroughs basic research in erectile physiology experienced in the last, most of the methods used for quantitative assessment of erectile function in longitudinal studies suffer many drawbacks. OBJECTIVE: This review will focus on radiotelemetric assessment of intracavernosal (ICP) and intraspongiosal (ISP) regarding the technique, data collection, interpretation, and overall benefits. RESULTS: Telemetric recording of ICP and ISP allows for qualitative and quantitative assessment of erectile responses in experimental animals, a characteristic that is not possible using other techniques. This technique has many advantages that can collectively lead to production of high quality data regarding erection. The system suffers two drawbacks, its high cost and the need for surgical implantation of the transmitter. CONCLUSION: The use of telemetric monitoring of ICP and ISP carries many advantages that will, hopefully, establish this technique as the gold standard method for assessment of erectile responses in the near future.
Asunto(s)
Erección Peniana/fisiología , Pene/fisiología , Presión , Telemetría/métodos , Animales , Endotelio Vascular/fisiología , Humanos , Masculino , Músculo Liso/fisiología , Programas InformáticosRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Currently there is no universally accepted gold standard diagnostic test to differentiate psychogenic from physical erectile dysfunction (ED). Instead, sexual health specialists rely on a detailed history, a focused physical examination, and specialized diagnostic tests, to decide if the etiology of the ED is mainly psychogenic or organically caused. Aim. In this review we point out the status of evidence-based principles in the area of diagnosis in Sexual Medicine. METHODS: We review the concepts of evidence-based medicine (EBM) in the area of medical diagnostic tests. We highlight four of the well-known diagnostic tests (penile duplex, pharmacoarteriography, pharmacocavernosometry/cavernosography [PHCAS/PHCAG], and nocturnal penile tumescence [NPT monitoring]) for ED evaluation within an evidence-based perspective. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Assessment of diagnostic tests for ED using principles of EBM. RESULTS: Several good diagnostic tests are useful in the evaluation of men with ED. However, modern evidence-based concepts-mainly the likelihood ratio-have not yet been applied to these tests to obtain their maximum clinical benefits. CONCLUSIONS: While penile duplex/color Doppler has good evidence of supporting its use in the diagnosis of arteriogenic ED, data supporting its diagnosis of a physical disorder associated with cavernous venous occlusion dysfunction are lacking. PHCAS/PHCAG's main drawback is an unknown positive predictive value and a possibility of frequent false-positive results. NPT has many advantages when differentiating psychogenic from organic ED, however, several questions related to its physiological mechanisms do exist. Ghanem H, and Shamloul R. An evidence-based perspective to commonly performed erectile dysfunction investigations.
Asunto(s)
Disfunción Eréctil/diagnóstico , Pene/diagnóstico por imagen , Disfunción Eréctil/diagnóstico por imagen , Disfunción Eréctil/fisiopatología , Disfunción Eréctil/psicología , Medicina Basada en la Evidencia , Encuestas Epidemiológicas , Humanos , Masculino , Pene/irrigación sanguínea , Pene/inervación , Factores de Riesgo , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , UltrasonografíaRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Sildenafil has been used successfully in the treatment of honeymoon impotence. However, no study investigated the potential effect of tadalafil in the treatment of honeymoon impotence. AIM: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of alternate-day tadalafil therapy in the management of unconsummated marriages. METHODS: This is a descriptive study comprised of a series of 45 patients. The time frame for the study was 2 years. Forty-five consecutive patients underwent a complete medical and sexual history as well as a focused physical examination. Education about the male and female genital anatomy and the sexual response cycle was carried out. Alternate-day tadalafil 10-mg therapy was administered for 2 weeks with the duration extended as needed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Primary efficacy endpoints were successful vaginal intromission and change in the abridged version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). RESULTS: Of 45 patients included in our study, 41 (91%) were able to achieve vaginal intromission and perform sexually. Thirty-four patients (76%) needed tadalafil for less than 1 month, five (11%) for up to 3 months, and two (4%) for more than 3 months. Four patients (9%) were unsuccessful. IIEF-5 improved significantly with alternate-day tadalafil treatment in this subgroup of patients (P < 0.001). Treatment failures were managed by intracavernous injection therapy, combined with psychosexual therapy, depending on the cause. CONCLUSIONS: Tadalafil therapy was safe and effective in the short-term management of this selected group of honeymoon impotence patients. Controlled studies are needed to further confirm these findings.