Increased serum vitamin B12 levels are associated with adult-onset Still's disease with reactive macrophage activation syndrome

BackgroundAdult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) can be complicated by reactive macrophage activation syndrome (rMAS). The objective of this study was to evaluate vitamin B₁₂ values in AOSD with and without rMAS.MethodsAll patients’ files with AOSD in one center were retrospectively reviewed. Hemophagocytosis was defined as phagocytosis of various hematopoietic cells by macrophages. Clinical data including fever, rash, sore throat, arthritis, lymphadenopathy were recorded. Laboratory tests included complete blood count, serum ferritin, transaminases, serum triglyceride and vitamin B₁₂ level. The control group was selected from our AOSD pool who had AOSD without rMAS.ResultsSeven patients (5 female) had AOSD with rMAS. Median age at the diagnosis of rMAS was 32 (range, 27–37) and median follow-up duration after rMAS diagnosis was 18 months (range, 2–60). All of the patients with rMAS had fever, sore throat, rash, arthritis, anemia and hyperferritenemia. Five of seven patients had hepatosplenomegaly and lymphadenopathy. Four of seven patients had normal or low leucocyte count, three of seven patients had increased triglyceride level. The patients with AOSD and rMAS mean ± standard deviation (S.D.) vitamin B₁₂ levels were significantly higher than without rMAS (1903 ± 960 vs 542 ± 328 pg/ml, p = 0.001). The specificity (75%) of increased vitamin B₁₂ level was high and sensitivity (100%) was excellent.ConclusionElevated vitamin B₁₂ levels seems to be a good marker for diagnostic marker in AOSD when complicated with rMAS.     

Anakinra effectiveness in refractory polyserositis: An Italian multicenter study

ObjectivesPolyserositis is an inflammatory condition involving different serosal membranes at the same time, specifically the pericardium, pleura, and peritoneum with exudates in the respective cavities. Treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), colchicine and glucocorticoids may be effective in patients with polyserositis, but relapses often occur when these drugs are tapered or discontinued. The interleukin (IL)-1 receptor antagonist anakinra has shown a beneficial effect in idiopathic recurrent pericarditis, mostly in unresponsive patients who develop steroid dependence and/or colchicine resistance. To date, there are no data suggesting the best therapy for managing acute episodes and/or relapses of polyserositis. On this basis, we performed a retrospective study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness and safety profile of anakinra in treating patients with refractory polyserositis.MethodsPatients with idiopathic polyserositis or rheumatic diseases presenting inflammation of 2 or more serous membranes were included. Serositis had to be confirmed by imaging tests comprising either echocardiography, abdominal ultrasound, chest or abdomen computed tomography and/or chest x-ray scan. We included patients with polyserositis who started anakinra from January 2011 to January 2019 due to a poorly controlled disease despite treatment with NSAIDs, conventional immunosuppressant drugs, or the need to minimize oral corticosteroids intake. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C reactive protein (CRP), and imaging tests, were recorded to monitor serositis at baseline and either at 3, 6 and 12-month follow-up. Patients with malignancies and infectious diseases were excluded from the analysis.ResultsForty-five patients with recurrent polyserositis (23 women) (mean age 43.2 ± 15.8 years and mean disease duration 23.1 ± 28 years) were analysed. Polyserositis was idiopathic in 26 (57.8%) patients. Thirteen patients suffered from autoinflammatory diseases, whereas 6 were affected by autoimmune diseases. Combination treatment with colchicine and NSAIDs at anakinra baseline was administered in 38/45 (84.4%) and 37/45 (82.2%) patients, respectively. After starting anakinra, 84.5% of patients experienced a resolution of serositis with a dramatic decrease in ESR and CRP (P < 0.001, for both) already at 3 months, furthermore the same beneficial effect was observed up to 12 months. No relapse was seen at 3 months, whereas the median number of relapses at 6 and 12 months was 0 (interquartile range 0-1). Glucocorticoids were discontinued in 22/45 (48.9%) patients already after 3 months (P < 0.001). After 12 months 32/37 (86.5%) patients were steroid-free. Similarly, NSAIDs use significantly was decreased at 3 months (7/45 [15.6%] patients, P < 0.001), whereas at 12-month follow-up no patient was on NSAIDs. Urticarial rashes at anakinra injection site occurring in 3 patients were the most common adverse events.ConclusionsAnakinra appeared to be a safe and useful therapeutic choice for patients refractory to optimal anti-inflammatory therapy (NSAIDs, colchicine and corticosteroids), allowing not only a dramatic reduction of recurrences but also of corticosteroids use. Anakinra was effective both in the idiopathic forms of polyserositis and in those with an underlying rheumatic disease, suggesting a common pathogenic pathway leading to serositis onset.     

The effects of caudal or intravenous dexmedetomidine on postoperative analgesia produced by caudal bupivacaine in children: a randomized controlled double-blinded study

Study ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to compare the effects of caudal and intravenous (IV) dexmedetomidine (1 μg/kg) on postoperative analgesia after caudal bupivacaine in pediatric patients undergoing lower abdominal and perineal surgeries.DesignA randomized controlled double-blind study.SettingUniversity-affiliated teaching hospital.PatientsSeventy-five American Society of Anesthesiologists I children, aged 1 to 6 years.InterventionPatients were randomly allocated to 3 groups. All patients received 1 mL/kg caudal 0.25% bupivacaine. In addition, those in group B (n = 25) received 10-mL IV saline, those in group B-D_cau (n = 25) received 1 μg/kg caudal dexmedetomidine and 10-mL IV saline, and those in group B-D_IV (n = 25) received 1 μg/kg IV dexmedetomidine in 10-mL saline.MeasurementsIntraoperative mean blood pressure, heart rate, peripheral oxygen saturation, end-tidal sevoflurane, and bispectral index as well as postoperative pain and behavior scores and time to first analgesia were assessed.Main resultsGroup B-D_cau had a significantly longer time to first rescue analgesia than groups B-D_IV and B, with mean (SD) values of 14.4 (7.5), 9.18 (2.7), and 6.6 (2.5) hours, respectively (P < .05). Fewer patients in group B-D_cau (n = 16) required rescue analgesia during the first 24 hours postoperatively compared to group B (n = 24) and group B-D_IV (n = 20) (P < .05).Groups B-D_cau and B-D_IV had lower pain and behavior scores than Group B. Eight patients Group B had agitation compared to 2 in Group B-D_IV and 0 in Group B-D_cau. Four patients in Group B-D_IV developed bradycardia and hypotension during surgery.ConclusionsCompared to IV administration, caudal administration of dexmedetomidine during caudal bupivacaine anesthesia provided prolonged postoperative analgesia and a greater analgesic sparing effect without significant side effects. This suggests a greater role of neuraxial compared to that of peripheral α-2 adrenoceptors in pain processing.     

Resultados preliminares de la implementación de la prostatectomía radical robótica en régimen de cirugía mayor ambulatoria

ObjectiveTo report our initial experience with robotic radical prostatectomy (RRP) as an outpatient procedure.Material and methodsRetrospective analysis of patients who underwent RRP as major ambulatory surgery (MAS) at our center between March 2021 and May 2022. We collected baseline patient characteristics, intraoperative outcomes and postoperative data (need for unplanned medical care and complications at one month after surgery). Oncologic characteristics at disease diagnosis (PSA, staging, ISUP, MRI) and postoperative pathologic outcomes were collected.ResultsWe identified a total of 35 patients with an average age of 60,8 ± 6,88 years and a BMI of 27 ± 2,9 kg/m². All patients had a low anesthetic risk and 25.71% had undergone previous abdominal surgery. The surgical time was 151,66 ± 42,15 minutes and the average blood loss was 301,2 ± 184,38 milliliters. Two patients (5.7%) were admitted for one night and 7 patients (20%) consulted the emergency department in the following month, of which 3 (8.57%) were readmitted. We recorded one intraoperative complication, 7 mild postoperative complications (Clavien I-II) and one severe complication (Clavien IIIb). The severe complication occurred on the eighth postoperative day and was not related to the procedure being ambulatory.ConclusionThe absence of serious complications in the immediate postoperative period supports RRP in MAS as a safe technique for selected patients.     

Outcome after Injections of Crushed Tablets in Intravenous Drug Abusers in the Helsinki University Central Hospital

ObjectiveTo retrospectively analyse injection drug users (IDUs) with complications after intra- or extra-vasal administration of dissolved tablets.DesignA retrospective study.MethodsThe hospital discharge registers were used to identify the patients admitted in different clinics in Helsinki University Central Hospital during 2000–2005. The patient demographics and social background were clarified. The type of the crushed drugs, the injection route and the timing of administration were registered. Medical interventions, examinations and surgical procedures were recorded.ResultsBetween January 2000 and December 2005, 24 patients had been treated on 30 occasions for manifestations caused by injecting crushed tablets. The main types of manifestations were acute limb ischaemia (16 patients) and infection (eight patients), and eight cases led to distal or proximal amputations. Men (19 of 24) were affected more frequently than were women (5 of 24). Their ages ranged between 20 and 39 years (mean: 26 years). All the patients had a previous history of intravenous drug abuse, and they lived in Greater Helsinki region. The incidence of seropositivity for hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was 33% (n = 8), 88% (n = 21) and 4% (n = 1), respectively. The time between injection and presentation to the Emergency Department varied between 3 h and 10 days (mean: 62 h). Buprenorphine was the most commonly used drug in 10 of the 24 patients, and benzodiazepine derivatives were also used in 11 of the 24 patients.ConclusionsIntra- or extra-vasal administration of dissolved tablets leads to serious consequences, including limb amputations. Vascular and soft-tissue imaging may be helpful in the diagnosis. Prompt drainage of any abscess and fasciotomies for compartment syndrome treatment are essential. Controversy exists over the best medical therapy.     

Erythromycin improves gastric emptying half-time in adult cystic fibrosis patients with gastroparesis

BackgroundGastrointestinal manifestations are frequently encountered in cystic fibrosis patients. Gastroparesis evidenced by a variety of diagnostic methods has been described in patients with cystic fibrosis, predominantly in children and in individuals with advanced lung disease. The presence of gastroparesis in adult patients with different degrees of lung involvement and its response to the acute and chronic administration of macrolides have not been reported.MethodsUsing the University of Florida Cystic Fibrosis database we identified symptomatic patients who had gastroparesis confirmed by a prolonged half-time during gastric emptying scintigraphy.ResultsOf 86 cystic fibrosis patients, periodically followed in our institution, we found five who had classical symptoms and prolonged gastric emptying half-time. Age 25.2 ± 8 years, 80% females, BMI 22 ± 9 kg/m², HbA1c 5.8 ± 0.6 g/dl, FEV1 53.2 ± 15% of predicted. Gastric emptying half-time was 191.4 ± 91.4 min (range 100–300 min) and decreased to 12.2 ± 6 min (range 5–20 min) after IV administration of erythromycin (p = 0.043). Patients were followed up for 3 ± 2.1 years. All patients but one, who was taking opiods, had good clinical response to PO macrolides.ConclusionsGastroparesis occurs in patients with cystic fibrosis, even in patients with relatively preserved lung function and in those without cystic-fibrosis related diabetes. Macrolides may be an effective therapy in cystic fibrosis patients with gastroparesis when administered acutely or chronically.     

Efficacy of anakinra for refractory acute calcium pyrophosphate crystal arthritis

Acute synovitis induced by deposition of calcium pyrophosphate (CPP) and monosodium urate crystals involves interleukin-1β production and activation. The efficacy of blocking interleukin-1β activity (with an interleukin-1 receptor antagonist [anakinra] or interleukin-1β antibody) is well documented for gout attacks but has only been reported in two single-case reports of CPP crystal-induced acute arthritis. Here we report on five cases (four males, mean age 71 ± 27) of CPP crystal-induced inflammatory arthritis refractory and/or intolerant to usual drug therapy and efficiently treated with anakinra. Diagnosis of CPP crystal-induced arthritis was confirmed by identification of crystals in synovial fluid. CPP crystal-induced oligo-arthritis (n = 4) and polyarthritis (n = 1) were refractory to conventional treatments, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, colchicine and steroids (systemic administration or intra-articular injection). After latent infection was ruled out, anakinra, 100 mg/day, was administered subcutaneously for 3 days. Four patients showed rapid clinical and biological responses at a mean of 3 days after treatment. Anakinra provided good joint pain relief (baseline 0–100 mm visual analog scale score 60 ± 17 mm, outcome 10 ± 10 mm) and decreased serum C-reactive protein level (58 ± 43 to 5 ± 2 mg/L). Anakinra was well tolerated. One injection-site skin reaction was observed but no infection. Anakinra was effective and safe in this small series of patients with refractory arthritis due to acute CPP crystal deposition.     

Sequential therapy of vacuum sealing drainage and free-flap transplantation for children with extensive soft-tissue defects below the knee in the extremities

PurposeThe aim of the study is to evaluate the surgical technique and clinical significance of the sequential therapy of vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) and free-flap transplantation for children with extensive soft-tissue defects below the knee in the extremities.MethodsTwenty-two children (aged from 3 to 10 years) received sequential therapy of VSD and free-flap transplantation. All cases suffered from extensive area soft-tissue defects and exposure or partial defects of bones, tendons and other deep tissues. The wound sizes varied from 10 cm × 6 cm to 30 cm × 22 cm. Amongst 22 cases, 12 cases had fresh wounds and the remaining 10 children had necrotising infection. After complete debridement, the wounds were covered by VSD. External fixation or Kirschner-wire fixation should be performed for the cases complicated by unsteady fractures. After the removal of negative pressure VSD devices, free-flap transplantations were performed in 8 cases after debridement, and 14 cases received combined therapy of free-flap transplantation and skin grafting depending upon the severity of soft-tissue and deep-tissue defects. The flap survival and wound healing were followed up postoperatively.ResultsAfter VSD treatment, the infection of deep-tissue exposure was effectively prevented, and granulation tissues surrounding the exposed areas of tendons and bones grew well. All patients who received free-flap transplantation at the second stage survived without the occurrence of vascular crisis, infection or sinus formation. During follow-up ranging from 6 to 24 months, all the patients were satisfied with the morphological appearance and functional recovery of the affected limbs.ConclusionSequential therapy of VSD and free-flap transplantation can serve as a reliable option for children with extensive soft-tissue defects below the knee in the extremities and exposed deep tissues, after complete debridement, which significantly shortens remedy period, enhances success rate for surgery and achieves maximal restoration of limb function.     

Contribution of imaging in the initial management of ballistic trauma

IntroductionThe purpose of this study is to specify the role of imaging in the initial management of ballistic traumas.MethodsThis is a retrospective study that colligated 83 victims of a gunshot wound during demonstrations, treated in our trauma centre between 12 January and 3 February 2011. All of the patients were haemodynamically stable and examined by conventional radiography and/or ultrasound and/or 16-slice CT-scan (CT).ResultsThe mean age of the victims was 26 years with a sex ratio of 0.02. All wounds were unique. Injury to the limbs was most common in 75.5% of the cases (n = 64) followed by that of the torso in 19.5% of the cases (n = 16). Wounds in the spine (n = 2), brain (n = 2) and facial skeleton (n = 1) were observed. Conventional x-rays objectified 32 cases of open fractures 95% of which were in the legs. Twenty-one of the victims of gunshot wounds had a CT-scan that objectified the path of the bullet and an assessment of the wound was made in all cases. The confrontation of the data from the CT-scan and that noted during surgery and during the monitoring demonstrated that the CT-scan is very efficient in the diagnosis of pleural effusion, vascular wounds, thoracic parenchymatous wounds and wounds of the solid organs and brain lesions and the facial skeleton. However, the sensitivity is low for the diagnosis of hollow organs.ConclusionThe CT-scan is very useful in the initial care of stable patients with gunshot wounds as regards the haemodynamics and helps objectify the path of the bullet and obtain a precise assessment of the damage. Conventional x-rays are unavoidable for wounds to the legs and spine.     

The unilateral frontotemporal approach for large and giant olfactory groove meningioma: Experience with 18 consecutive patients

AimAlthough the bifrontal approach used to be recommended for large olfactory groove meningioma (OGM), recent studies showed that large OGMs can also be resected safely via unilateral approaches. The present study aimed to discuss reasons for preferring a unilateral frontotemporal approach (UFTA), and the technical nuances and results of the UFTA, based on 18 cases.Material and methodsThe clinical and surgical data of patients who had been operated on for large (4–6 cm) or giant (>6 cm) OGM via a UFTA between 2011 and 2018 were retrospectively collected.ResultsIn all, 18 patients were included. All tumors were compatible with a diagnosis of OGM in the light of peri-operative examinations. 11 cases (61%) were large and 7 (39%) giant OGM; mean diameter was 6.1 cm (range, 4-10 cm). Resection extent was Simpson grade II in 14 cases (78%), grade III in 1 (5%), and grade IV in 3 (17%). Sixteen cases (89%) had no peri-operative complications, while 2 patients (11%) showed cerebrospinal fluid leakage and hemorrhagic deposition in the surgical area. There were no new neurological deficits nor deaths.ConclusionThe UFTA for OGM is a relatively safe and effective approach, ensuring a high total removal rate with low mortality and morbidity. This study, with a reasonable number of patients, is one of the few in the literature on the outcome of this approach.     

Adnexal torsion with paraovarian cysts in pediatric and adolescent populations: A retrospective study

BackgroundDetermination of the clinical characteristics associated with adnexal torsion involving paraovarian cysts in pediatric and adolescent populations.MethodsRetrospective review of all cases of paraovarian cysts operated on in our department between 2007 and 2019. Demographic characteristics, clinical and sonographic findings were reviewed.ResultsThe cohort was composed of 39 pediatric and adolescent patients with an operative diagnosis of adnexal masses located in the paraovarian area. The patients were classified into two groups: 19 girls (48.7%) with a confirmed operative diagnosis of adnexal torsion and 20 girls (51.3%) without torsion. The preoperative diagnosis of adnexal torsion was correct in ≈ 70% of the cases. The mean BMI were similar in both groups. The preoperative sonographic detection rate of paraovarian cysts was also similar (11/19 [57.9%] vs. 14/20 [70.0%]; P = 0.514). The mean cyst diameter did not differ between groups, nor did the classification into cyst size groups (≤ 50 mm, 51–99 mm and ≥ 100 mm).ConclusionAdnexal torsion is a common complication diagnosed in girls undergoing surgery for paraovarian cysts, and is not associated with sonographic appearance or cyst diameter. In order to prevent torsion, surgical removal of paraovarian cysts should thus be considered in young girls undergoing surgery for paraovarian cysts.Type of studyRetrospective case series.Level of evidenceIV     

Single port laparoscopic cholecystectomy in major ambulatory surgery (MAS)

IntroductionNatural orifice endoscopic surgery is a new surgical procedure still in the development phase. The most natural entry for surgeons is to use an already existing scar, such as the navel. The recent introduction of trocars designed for this purpose has made it possible to put this into practice.Material and methodsWe present our preliminary experience in single trans‐umbilical incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy, by means of a prospective study which included 26 patients operated on between January 2009 and January 2010. We also attempt to find out whether it can be performed in a MAS programme.ResultsAll patients had uncomplicated cholelithiasis, although in 5 of them cholecystitis was identified during the surgery. The mean surgical time was 51.2 min. The mean hospital stay was 25.7 h, and 76.92% of patients were admitted for less than 24 h. There were no re-admissions or significant intra-operative or post-operative complications.ConclusionsOn looking at our results, single port laparoscopic cholecystectomy could be included in a major ambulatory surgery programme.     

Síndrome antissintetase: anti-PL-7, anti-PL-12 e anti-EJ

ObjectivesDue to the scarcity of studies in the literature, we conducted an analysis of a series of patients with the anti-PL-7, PL-12 and EJ types of antisynthetase syndrome (ASS).MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study of 20 patients with ASS (8 with anti- PL-7, 6 with PL-12, 6 with EJ) monitored in our department between 1982 and 2012.ResultsThe mean patient age at disease onset was 38.5 ± 12.9 years, and the disease duration was 4.5 ± 6.4 years. Of all the patients, 70% were white and 85% were female. Constitutional symptoms occurred in 90% of cases. All patients presented objective muscle weakness in the limbs; in addition, 30% were bedridden and 65% demonstrated high dysphagia at diagnosis. Joint and pulmonary involvement and Raynaud's phenomenon occurred in 50%, 40% and 65% of cases, respectively, with more than half of the patients presenting incipient pneumopathy, ground-glass opacity and/or pulmonary fibrosis. There were no cases of neurological and/or cardiac involvement. All patients received prednisone or other immunosuppressants depending on tolerance, side effects and/or disease refractoriness. Importantly, patients with the anti-EJ type of ASS demonstrated higher rates of recurrence. Two patients died during follow-up, and 1 patient had breast cancer at the time of diagnosis.ConclusionsASS (anti-PL-7, PL-12 and EJ) was found to predominantly affect white women. Although the autoantibodies described in the present study are more related to pulmonary than joint involvement, our patients showed a significant percentage of both types of involvement and a high percentage of myopathy. We also observed a low mortality rate.     

The effect of ondansetron in preventing the hypotensive bradycardic events during shoulder arthroscopy done under interscalene block in the sitting position

PurposeThis study was conducted to test whether blocking the serotonin receptors by intravenous [IV] ondansetron; can help in reducing the hypotensive bradycardic events [HB events] associated with shoulder arthroscopy done in the sitting position under interscalene plexus block [ISB].MethodsOne hundred and fifty patients, scheduled for shoulder arthroscopy in the sitting position under ISB, were randomly assigned to one of three groups receiving either: 4 mg ondansetron, or 8 mg ondansetron or saline.ResultsIV injection of ondansetron 4 mg or 8 mg significantly reduced the incidence of HB events from 20.4% in the saline group to 6.1% after injection of 4 mg ondansetron and 6% after injection of 8 mg ondansetron; p value [0.030].ConclusionIV ondansetron either 4 mg or 8 mg reduces the HB events during shoulder arthroscopy in the sitting position under ISB.     

Five mm laparoscopic varicocelectomy versus conventional varicocele ligation in young men with symptomatic varicocele: A randomized clinical study

ObjectivesTo compare the therapeutic success, morbidity and the costs of 5 mm laparoscopic varicocele ligation (LV) compared to inguinal varicocelectomy (IV).Patients and methodsEighty patients with idiopathic symptomatic varicocele of grades I–III diagnosed by clinical examination and Doppler ultrasonography were randomly assigned to LV or IV (40 patients in each group). The mean patient age was 25.2 ± 1.4 (range 18–40) years. Of the 80 patients treated 21.3% had a left-sided varicocele, 70% had bilateral varicoceles and 8.8% a right-sided varicocele. Of 136 varicoceles, 37 (27.2%) were grade III, 51 (37.5%) grade II and 48 (35.3%) were grade I. The indications for varicocele ligation were: abnormal spermiogram in 47 patients (58.7%), scrotal pain in 19 (23.8%) and cosmetic impairment in 14 (17.5%). A total of 136 varicocele ligations were performed (67 IV and 69 LV). All patients were followed up for 4–8 months to assess early complications, testicular size, late complications and persistence or recurrence of the varicocele.ResultsLV was associated with shorter operative time, shorter hospital stay and lower cost compared to IV. The overall incidence of postoperative complications including hydrocele, epididymitis and local pain was significantly higher among patients undergoing IV compared with LV (17.5% vs 5%). The incidence of persistent varicoceles was not significantly different between the 2 groups, but the varicocele recurrence rate was significantly lower in the LV compared to the IV group (5% vs. 17.5%, p ≤ 0.02).ConclusionsLV is a less invasive treatment than IV for managing male varicoceles. It is also associated with lower costs and better outcomes and should therefore be the preferred method of treatment for male varicoceles.     

Effect of dynamic hip screw on the treatment of femoral neck fracture in the elderly

[Abstract] Objective： To discuss the indications, surgical procedures, and curative effect of dynamic hip screw （DHS） in the treatment of femoral neck fracture in the elderly. Methods： A retrospective study was conducted to analyse the clinical data of 42 elderly patients who had been treated for femoral neck fracture with DHS in our department between June 2009 and November 2011. There were 21 males and 21 females with a mean age of 68.5 years （range 60-75 years）. According to the Garden Classification, there were 19 cases of type II, 21 cases of type III and 2 cases of type IV fractures. By the Singh In- dex Classification, there were 3 cases of level 2, 19 cases of level 3 and 20 cases of level 4 fractures. The Harris cri- terion, complications and function recovery after operation were analysed. Results： The average hospitalization time in 42 patients was 11.2 days （range 7-21 days）. All patients were followed up for 12-26 months （mean 18 months）. No lung infection, deep venous thrombosis or other complications occurred. Partial backing-out of the screws was found in 2 cases. The internal fixation device was with- drawn after fracture healing. Internal fixation cutting was found in 1 case, and he had a good recovery after total hip arthroplasty. The time for fracture healing ranged from 3-6 months （average 4.5 months）. According to Harris criteri- on, 15 cases were rated as excellent, 24 good, 2 fair and 1 poor. The Harris scale was significantly improved from 30.52＋2.71 preoperatively to 86.61＋2.53 at 6 months post- operatively （P〈0.05）. Conclusion： DHS, being minimal invasive, al- lowing early activity and weight-bearing, is advisable for treatment of elderly patients with femoral neck fracture. In addition, it can avoid complications seen in artificial joint replacement. It is especially suitable for patients with mild osteoporosis.     

Minimally invasive distal first metatarsal osteotomy can be an option for recurrent hallux valgus

BackgroundRecurrence rate of surgical treatment of hallux valgus ranges in the literature from 2.7% to 16%, regardless of used procedure. In this study, long-term results of a minimally invasive distal osteotomy of the first metatarsal bone for treatment of recurrent hallux valgus are described.Methods32 consecutive percutaneous distal osteotomies of the first metatarsal were performed in 26 patients for treatment of recurrent hallux valgus. Primary surgery had been soft tissue procedures in 8 cases (25%), first metatarsal or phalangeal osteotomies in 19 cases (59.4%) and Keller procedures in 5 cases (15.6%).ResultsPatients were assessed with a mean follow-up of 9.8 ± 4.3 years. All patients reported the disappearance or reduction of the pain. The mean overall AOFAS score improved from 46.9 ± 17.8 points to 85.2 ± 14.9 at final follow-up. The mean hallux valgus angle decreased from 26.1 ± 9.1 to 9.7 ± 5.4°, the intermetatarsal angle decreased from 11.5 ± 4.5 to 6.7 ± 4.0°. No major complications were recorded with a re-recurrence rate of 3.1% (1 case).ConclusionsPercutaneous distal osteotomy of the first metatarsal can be a reliable and safe surgical option in the recurrent hallux valgus with low complication rate and the advantages of a minimally invasive surgery.Levels of evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series.     

Effect of parecoxib on remifentanil induced postoperative shivering

Remifentanil based anesthesia was found to be associated with high incidence of postoperative shivering. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of preoperative administration of IV parecoxib sodium (a selective COX 2 inhibitor) on remifentanil induced shivering during the first 2 h following surgery.MethodIn a randomized, placebo-controlled, double blind study, sixty-seven patients with ASA physical status I, aged 20–60 years underwent elective lumber discectomy, were randomly allocated to receive either parecoxib sodium 40 mg IV (group P, n = 33) or saline IV (group S, n = 34) 30 min before induction of anesthesia which was induced with remifentanil 0.5 ug/kg/min, propofol, and cisatracurium and was maintained with remifentanil 0.1–0.3 ug/kg/min, sevoflurane, O₂/N₂O and cisatracurium. The incidence and grades of postoperative shivering were evaluated for 2 h.ResultsThe incidence of postoperative shivering was 36% in parecoxib group which was significantly less than that of saline group 64% (p < 0.05). Number of patients who developed grade 3 shivering, number of patients received meperidine to treat shivering and postoperative morphine requirement were significantly less in group P than that of group S (p < 0.05).ConclusionAdministration of parecoxib sodium 40 mg IV 30 min before induction of general anesthesia significantly reduced the incidence and severity of remifentanil induced shivering compared to placebo in patients underwent elective lumber discectomy under general anesthesia.     

Effectiveness and safety of anakinra in gout patients with stage 4–5 chronic kidney disease or kidney transplantation: A multicentre,retrospective study

Objectives

Interleukin (IL)-1β blocking is effective for the treatment of gout flares and is recommended in patients with contraindications to the standard of care, such as stage 4–5 chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. However, efficacy and safety data regarding these agents are lacking in this population. We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of anakinra for the treatment of gout flares in patients with stage 4–5 CKD or renal transplantation.