Management of acute and chronic iliofemoral venous outflow obstruction: a multidisciplinary team consensus.

The aim of this manuscript was to establish a consensus for the management of acute and chronic venous obstruction among specialists in the UK. Specialist physicians representing vascular surgery, interventional radiology and hematology were invited to 3 meetings to discuss management of acute and chronic iliofemoral obstruction. The meetings outlined controversial areas, included a topic-by-topic review; and on completion reached a consensus when greater than 80% agreement was reached on each topic. Physicians from 19 UK hospitals agreed on treatment protocols and highlighted areas that need development. Potential standard treatment algorithms were created. It was decided to establish a national registry of venous patients led by representatives from the treating multidisciplinary teams. Technical improvements have facilitated invasive treatment of patients with acute and chronic venous obstruction; however, the evidence guiding treatment is weak. Treatment should be conducted in centers with multi-disciplinary input; robust, coordinated data collection; and regular outcome analysis to ensure safe and effective treatment and a basis for future evolvement.

Self-care behaviors of African American women living with HIV: a qualitative perspective.

Significant numbers of African American (AA) women have been diagnosed with HIV over the past decade. HIV may be viewed as a chronic condition that can be actively managed through the use of self-care behaviors, yet little is known about how these women define self-care (SC) for themselves, and still less is known about what facilitates and hinders SC behaviors among these women. This article highlights the results of a qualitative research study undertaken with AA women living with HIV in a metropolitan city in the southeastern United States. The objective of this study was to systematically collect data about the SC experiences of these women. Focus group methodology was used. Content analysis of the data was conducted. Two primary domains emerged: do what the doctor says and living healthy. SC activities included seeking social support, managing disclosure, engaging in pampering, taking part in religious customs, and maintaining recovery.