Risk of Colorectal Cancer in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Matched Cohort Study Based on Administrative Data

Background

The risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients relative to the general population is unknown. The aim of this population-based study was to investigate the risk of CRC in patients with CKD.

Methods

The study cohort included patients aged ≥18 years diagnosed with CKD between 2004 and 2005 (n = 15,975). The comparison cohort (n = 79,875) included five randomly selected age- and gender-matched controls for each patient in the study cohort. All the subjects were followed up from the date of cohort entry until they developed CRC or until the end of 2006.

Results

We identified 15,975 patients with a diagnosis of CKD who matched the inclusion criteria. A total of 460 patients developed CRC during the study period, of whom 116 were from the CKD cohort and 344 were from the comparison cohort. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, the CKD patients not undergoing dialysis were independently associated with a greater risk of CRC (hazard ratio, 1.79; 95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.41–2.27). The overall incidence rate of CRC was 341 per 100,000 person-years for CKD patients not undergoing dialysis, compared to 174 per 100,000 person-years. The age-matched hazard ratio of CRC after excluding dialysis patients was 1.64 (95 % CI 1.27–2.11) in patients 50 years and older, and 3.7 (95 % CI 1.83–7.49) in patients younger than 50 years.

Conclusions

This population-based cohort study indicated that CKD patients not requiring dialysis have an increased risk of CRC compared to the general population, independent of comorbidities.     

Relationship between total testosterone, cognitive function, depressive behavior, and sleep quality in chronic kidney disease patients not on dialysis

Background

Studies show that testosterone levels are associated with cognitive function, depression, and sleep quality in the general population. However, these relationships in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients not on dialysis have not yet been evaluated before.

Methods

All patients underwent history taking, physical examination, blood pressure measurement, routine urine and biochemical analysis, 24-h urine collection to measure urinary protein excretion and creatinine clearance, and evaluation of cognitive function, depressive behavior, and sleep quality.

Results

In total, 109 CKD patients were enrolled. Total testosterone levels in stage 3, 4, and 5 CKD patients were 8.32 ± 4.35, 6.71 ± 3.12, and 4.22 ± 1.28 ng/ml, respectively (p < 0.0001). Post hoc analysis revealed that total testosterone levels were different between stages 3 and 5 (p < 0.0001) and stages 4 and 5 CKD patients (p < 0.0001) but not between stages 3 and 4 CKD patients (p 0.094). Standardized Mini Mental State Examination (SMMSE) score, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score, and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) score were 26.2 ± 1.9, 7.1 ± 3.4, and 8.6 ± 6.4, respectively. In linear regression analysis, total testosterone levels were independently associated with SMMSE score [b 0.170, confidence interval (CI) 0.047–0.293, p 0.008] and BDI score (b ?0.750, CI ?1.283 to ?0.216, p 0.006) but not with sleep quality.

Conclusion

Total serum testosterone levels were independently associated with cognitive function and depressive behavior but not with sleep disorders in stage 3–5 CKD patients not on dialysis.     

Fast-track surgery in gastrectomy for gastric cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

Fast-track surgery aims to attenuate the surgical stress response, reduce complications, and shorten hospital stay. The goal of the present meta-analysis is to assess the safety and effectiveness of fast-track surgery in patients undergoing gastrectomy for gastric cancer compared with conventional perioperative care.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and reference lists of the identified studies were searched to identify randomized clinical trials that compared fast-track surgery with conventional perioperative care in patients undergoing gastrectomy for gastric cancer.

Results

Five studies with a total of 400 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Meta-analysis shows that postoperative hospital stay (weighted mean difference (WMD) ?1.87 days, 95 % confidence interval (CI), ?2.46 to ?1.28 days, P?<?0.00001), time to first passage of flatus (WMD ?0.71 days, 95 % CI, ?1.03 to ?0.39 days, P?<?0.0001), and hospital costs (WMD ?505.87 dollars, 95 % CI, ?649.91 to ?361.84 dollars, P?<?0.00001) were significantly reduced for fast-track surgery. No significant differences were found for readmission rates (relative risk (RR), 1.97 95 % CI, 0.37 to 10.64, P?=?0.43) and total postoperative complications (RR, 0.99 95 % CI, 0.56 to 1.76, P?=?0.97).

Conclusions

Fast-track surgery is safe and effective in gastrectomy for gastric cancer. Further randomized trials are needed to strengthen the conclusions.     

The duration of hepatitis B vaccine immunity in pediatric dialysis patients

Background

Dialysis patients are at risk for hepatitis B infection, a serious but preventable disease. Long-term hepatitis B protection has not been defined in pediatric patients with chronic kidney disease stage 5 on dialysis (CKD 5D) who were vaccinated as infants or children.

Methods

Annual hepatitis B antibody surveillance data were collected retrospectively on a cohort of pediatric CKD 5D patients (n?=?202) at a single institution and analyzed by survival analysis to assess hepatitis B immunity duration.

Results

Median duration of immunity by Kaplan–Meier analysis since primary vaccination was 106.3 [95 % confidence interval (CI) 93.9, 124.4] months. After the initiation of dialysis, the median duration of hepatitis B immunity was 37.1 (95 % CI 24.2, 72.3) months. Multivariate adjusted analysis showed that there was a significant difference in the duration of hepatitis immunity based on the timing of hepatitis B vaccination (p?p?Conclusions After dialysis initiation, protective hepatitis B antibody levels wane rapidly, with a shortened duration of immunity. In our cohort of pediatric patients with CKD 5D, this decline was more pronounced in children who were immunized after starting dialysis than in those who received hepatitis B immunizations during childhood. Both groups of patients should be monitored with serial antibody titers.     

Restless legs syndrome in children with chronic kidney disease

Background

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is considerably more common among adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) than in the general population and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. There is limited information on RLS in children with CKD. Failure to account for conditions that might mimic RLS can lead to overdiagnosis of this syndrome.

Methods

In a prospective, cross-sectional study, RLS prevalence was compared between pediatric CKD patients and healthy children. RLS was assessed via a questionnaire that included exclusion of mimics. Sleep characteristics and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were also assessed.

Results

Restless legs syndrome was more prevalent in CKD patients (n?=?124) than in 85 normal children (15.3 vs. 5.9 %; p = 0.04). There was no significant association between RLS and CKD stage, CKD etiology, CKD duration, and dialysis or transplant status. Children with RLS were more likely to rate their sleep quality as fairly bad or very bad (41.2 vs. 8.8 %; p?=?0.003) and report using sleep medications (42.1 vs. 14.7 %; p?=?0.01). RLS was associated with lower HRQoL by parent report (p?=?0.03). Only five of the 19 patients (26.3 %) with CKD and RLS had discussed RLS symptoms with a healthcare provider, and only one of these patients had been diagnosed with RLS prior to this study.

Conclusions

The prevalence of RLS is increased in children with CKD and appears to be underdiagnosed. Systematic screening for RLS and sleep problems would therefore appear to be warranted in children with CKD.     

Skeletal findings in the first 12 months following initiation of glucocorticoid therapy for pediatric nephrotic syndrome

Summary

Incident vertebral fractures and lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD) were assessed in the 12 months following glucocorticoid initiation in 65 children with nephrotic syndrome. The incidence of vertebral fractures was low at 12 months (6 %) and most patients demonstrated recovery in BMD Z-scores by this time point.

Introduction

Vertebral fracture (VF) incidence following glucocorticoid (GC) initiation has not been previously reported in pediatric nephrotic syndrome.

Methods

VF was assessed on radiographs (Genant method); lumbar spine bone mineral density (LS BMD) was evaluated by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.

Results

Sixty-five children were followed to 12 months post-GC initiation (median age, 5.4 years; range, 2.3–17.9). Three of 54 children with radiographs (6 %; 95 % confidence interval (CI), 2–15 %) had incident VF at 1 year. The mean LS BMD Z-score was below the healthy average at baseline (mean ± standard deviation (SD), ?0.5?±?1.1; p?=?0.001) and at 3 months (?0.6?±?1.1; p?<?0.001), but not at 6 months (?0.3?±?1.3; p?=?0.066) or 12 months (?0.3?±?1.2; p?=?0.066). Mixed effect modeling showed a significant increase in LS BMD Z-scores between 3 and 12 months (0.22 SD; 95 % CI, 0.08 to 0.36; p?=?0.003). A subgroup (N?=?16; 25 %) had LS BMD Z-scores that were ≤?1.0 at 12 months. In these children, each additional 1,000 mg/m² of GC received in the first 3 months was associated with a decrease in LS BMD Z-score by 0.39 at 12 months (95 % CI, ?0.71 to ?0.07; p?=?0.017).

Conclusions

The incidence of VF at 1 year was low and LS BMD Z-scores improved by 12 months in the majority. Twenty-five percent of children had LS BMD Z-scores ≤?1.0 at 12 months. In these children, LS BMD Z-scores were inversely associated with early GC exposure, despite similar GC exposure compared to the rest of the cohort.     

Effect of a multifactorial fall-and-fracture risk assessment and management program on gait and balance performances and disability in hospitalized older adults: a controlled study

Summary

This controlled intervention study in hospitalized oldest old adults showed that a multifactorial fall-and-fracture risk assessment and management program, applied in a dedicated geriatric hospital unit, was effective in improving fall-related physical and functional performances and the level of independence in activities of daily living in high-risk patients.

Introduction

Hospitalization affords a major opportunity for interdisciplinary cooperation to manage fall-and-fracture risk factors in older adults. This study aimed at assessing the effects on physical performances and the level of independence in activities of daily living (ADL) of a multifactorial fall-and-fracture risk assessment and management program applied in a geriatric hospital setting.

Methods

A controlled intervention study was conducted among 122 geriatric inpatients (mean?±?SD age, 84?±?7 years) admitted with a fall-related diagnosis. Among them, 92 were admitted to a dedicated unit and enrolled into a multifactorial intervention program, including intensive targeted exercise. Thirty patients who received standard usual care in a general geriatric unit formed the control group. Primary outcomes included gait and balance performances and the level of independence in ADL measured 12?±?6 days apart. Secondary outcomes included length of stay, incidence of in-hospital falls, hospital readmission, and mortality rates.

Results

Compared to the usual care group, the intervention group had significant improvements in Timed Up and Go (adjusted mean difference [AMD]?=??3.7s; 95 % CI?=??6.8 to ?0.7; P?=?0.017), Tinetti (AMD?=??1.4; 95 % CI?=??2.1 to ?0.8; P?<?0.001), and Functional Independence Measure (AMD?=?6.5; 95 %CI?=?0.7–12.3; P?=?0.027) test performances, as well as in several gait parameters (P?<?0.05). Furthermore, this program favorably impacted adverse outcomes including hospital readmission (hazard ratio?=?0.3; 95 % CI?=?0.1–0.9; P?=?0.02).

Conclusions

A multifactorial fall-and-fracture risk-based intervention program, applied in a dedicated geriatric hospital unit, was effective and more beneficial than usual care in improving physical parameters related to the risk of fall and disability among high-risk oldest old patients.     

SHBG levels are associated with bone loss and vertebral fractures in patients with prostate cancer

Summary

Fractures are increased among prostate cancer patients. No data have been reported in patients with prostate cancer about the relation between serum sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and bone metabolism. We found that SHBG levels were inversely related to bone mass and vertebral fractures in this population.

Introduction

Fractures are increased among prostate cancer patients, especially those on androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), but few data are available on the role of SHBG in their bone status. Our objective was to analyze the relation between serum SHBG and bone metabolism in prostate cancer patients.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study including 91 subjects with prostate cancer (54 % with ADT). We measured serum levels of SHBG and sex steroids, bone mineral density (BMD) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and prevalent radiographic vertebral fractures.

Results

SHBG levels were inversely related to BMD (femoral neck: r?=??0.299, p?=?0.00; total hip: r?=??0.259, p?=?0.019). Subjects with osteoporosis had higher SHBG concentrations than patients without osteoporosis (60.97?±?39.56 vs 44.45?±?23.32 nmol/l, p?=?0.022). Patients with SHBG levels in the first quartile (>57.6 nmol/l) had an odds ratio (OR) for osteoporosis of 2.59 (95 % CI, 1.30–5.12; p?=?0.009) compared with patients with lower SHBG levels. In patients with SHBG >57.6 nmol/l, the OR for vertebral fractures was 2.34 (95 % CI, 1.15–4.78; p?=?0.034). The calculated OR was higher after adjustment for age (OR, 5.16; 95 % CI, 1.09–24.49; p?=?0.039), estrogens (OR, 6.45; 95 % CI, 1.44–28.95; p?=?0.023), and androgens (OR, 5.51; 95 % CI, 1.36–22.37; p?=?0.017).

Conclusions

In prostate cancer patients, SHBG levels were inversely related to bone mass and vertebral fractures. Determination of the serum SHBG level may constitute a useful and straightforward marker for predicting the severity of osteoporosis in these patients.     

Resection for Hilar Cholangiocarcinoma: Analysis of Prognostic Factors and the Impact of Systemic Inflammation on Long-term Outcome

Introduction

Resection for hilar cholangiocarcinoma is the single hope for long-term survival.

Methods

Ninety patients underwent curative intent surgery for hilar cholangiocarcinoma between 1996 and 2012. The potential prognostic factors were assessed by univariate (Kaplan–Meier curves and log-rank test) and multivariate analyses (Cox proportional hazards model).

Results

The median overall and disease-free survivals were 26 and 17 months, respectively. The multivariate analysis identified R0 resection (HR?=?0.03, 95 % CI 0–0.19, p?<?0.001), caudate lobe invasion (HR?=?6.33, 95 % CI 1.31–30.46, p?=?0.021), adjuvant gemcitabine-based chemotherapy (HR?=?0.38, 95 % CI 0.15–0.94, p?=?0.037), and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (HR?=?0.78, 95 % CI 0.62–0.98, p?=?0.036) as independent prognostic factors for disease-free survival. The independent prognostic factors for overall survival were R0 resection (HR?=?0.03, 95 % CI 0–0.22, p?<?0.001), caudate lobe invasion (HR?=?11.75, 95 % CI 1.65–83.33, p?=?0.014), and adjuvant gemcitabine-based chemotherapy (HR?=?0.19, 95 % CI 0.06–0.56, p?=?0.003).

Conclusions

The negative resection margin represents the most important prognostic factor. Adjuvant gemcitabine-based chemotherapy appears to benefit survival. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio may potentially be used to stratify patients for future clinical trials.     

Early enteral nutrition after pancreatoduodenectomy: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Purpose

The aim of our study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of early enteral nutrition (EN) for patients after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD).

Methods

We performed a comprehensive search of abstracts in the MEDLINE database, OVID database, Springer database, the Science Citation Index, and the Cochrane Library database. Published data of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing the clinically relevant outcomes of early EN and other nutritional routes for patients after PD were analyzed. The analyzed outcome variables included gastroparesis, intra-abdominal complications (gastroparesis excluded), mortality, infection, and postoperative hospital stay. The Cochrane Collaboration’s RevMan 5.1 software was used for statistical analysis.

Results

Four RCTs published in 2000 or later were included in this meta-analysis, in which 246 patients underwent early EN and 238 patients underwent other nutritional routes following PD. In the combined results of early EN versus other nutritional routes, no significant difference could be found in gastroparesis (odds ratio (OR), 0.89; 95 % CI, 0.36–2.18; P?=?0.79), intra-abdominal complications (gastroparesis excluded) (OR, 0.82; 95 % CI, 0.53–1.26; P?=?0.37), mortality (OR, 0.43; 95 % CI, 0.11–1.62; P?=?0.21), infection (OR, 0.55; 95 % CI, 0.29–1.07; P?=?0.08), postoperative hospital stay (mean difference, ?0.93; 95 % CI, ?6.51 to 4.65; P?=?0.74).

Conclusions

Current RCTs suggests that early EN appears safe and tolerated for patients after PD, but does not show advantages in infection and postoperative hospital stay.     

Value of Geriatric Frailty and Nutritional Status Assessment in Predicting Postoperative Mortality in Gastric Cancer Surgery

Objectives

This study seeks to evaluate assessment of geriatric frailty and nutritional status in predicting postoperative mortality in gastric cancer surgery.

Methods

Preoperatively, patients operated for gastric adenocarcinoma underwent assessment of Groningen Frailty Indicator (GFI) and Short Nutritional Assessment Questionnaire (SNAQ). We studied retrospectively whether these scores were associated with in-hospital mortality.

Results

From 2005 to September 2012 180 patients underwent surgery with an overall mortality of 8.3 %. Patients with a GFI?≥?3 (n?=?30, 24 %) had a mortality rate of 23.3 % versus 5.2 % in the lower GFI group (OR 4.0, 95%CI 1.1–14.1, P?=?0.03). For patients who underwent surgery with curative intent (n?=?125), this was 27.3 % for patients with GFI?≥?3 (n?=?22, 18 %) versus 5.7 % with GFI?<?3 (OR 4.6, 95 % CI 1.0–20.9, P?=?0.05). SNAQ?≥?1 (n?=?98, 61 %) was associated with a mortality rate of 13.3 % versus 3.2 % in patients with SNAQ?=?0 (OR 5.1, 95 % CI 1.1–23.8, P?=?0.04). Given odds ratios are corrected in multivariate analyses for age, neoadjuvant chemotherapy, type of surgery, tumor stage and ASA classification.

Conclusions

This study shows a significant relationship between gastric cancer surgical mortality and geriatric frailty as well as nutritional status using a simple questionnaire. This may have implications in preoperative decision making in selecting patients who optimally benefit from surgery.     

Bone mineral density in men and children with haemophilia A and B: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Summary

Although haemophilia is not considered among the classic causes of secondary osteoporosis, the present meta-analysis provides strong evidence that men with haemophilia have a significant reduction in both lumbar spine and femoral bone mineral density, which appears to begin in childhood.

Introduction

Haemophilia is not considered among the classic causes of secondary osteoporosis. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature for case–control trials that have studied bone mass in males with haemophilia and to meta-analyze the best evidence available.

Methods

Electronic databases MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL were systematically searched for case–control trials that have studied bone mass in men or boys with haemophilia. Standardized mean difference (SMD) for bone mineral density (BMD) in the lumbar spine was the main study outcome and SMD in femoral neck and total hip BMD the secondary ones. Patient and control characteristics, such as age, body mass index (BMI), level of physical activity and blood-borne infections were recorded as possible predictors of the main outcome.

Results

Thirteen studies were included in the systematic review and ten in the main outcome meta-analysis. Men with haemophilia demonstrated reduced lumbar spine [random effects SMD [95 % confidence interval (CI)] = ?0.56 (?0.84, ?0.28), between-study heterogeneity (I ²)?=?51 %] and femoral neck BMD [random effects SMD (95 % CI) = ?0.82 (?1.21, ?0.44), I ²?=?63 %] compared with controls, which indicated a large and clinically significant association. Similar results were obtained for children [random effects SMD (95 % CI) = ?0.92 (?1.77, ?0.07), I ²?=?92 %]. No evidence of publication bias was detected. There was no evidence that age, BMI, level of physical activity or presence of blood-borne infections predicted lumbar spine BMD.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis shows that men with haemophilia present a significant reduction in both lumbar spine and hip BMD, which appears to begin in childhood.     

Left ventricular mass and cardiac function in a population of children with chronic kidney disease

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) are early markers. The aims of this study were to evaluate (1) LVH and LVDD, using both conventional echocardiographic evaluation and Tissue Doppler Imaging (TDI), and (2) the correlation between cardiac disease and possible risk factors, in children with CKD.

Methods

The study cohort comprised 34 paediatric patients with CKD and 34 healthy children (mean ± standard deviation: age 9?±?4.6 and 8.2?±?4.3 years, respectively). Thirteen (38 %) patients were in CKD stage 2, 15 (44 %) in stage 3 and six (18 %) in stage 4–5. LVH was defined as a left ventricular mass index (LVMI) of >95th percentile (38 g/h^2.7).

Results

Left ventricular hypertrophy was present in 13 patients (38 %). Diastolic function evaluated with TDI (E′/A′ = early/late diastolic myocardial velocity) worsened with the reduction of glomerular filtration rate (p?=?0.020). There was a positive correlation between LVMI and body mass index-standard deviation score (p?=?0.020) and a negative correlation between E′/A′ and serum phosphorus and calcium levels and their respective product (p?=?0.004, p?=?0.017, p?<?0.001). The relaxation index E′ was reduced in 68 % of patients.

Conclusion

Based on our results, TDI is a simple procedure and would appear to be a more accurate diagnostic tool than conventional echocardiography in the early diagnosis of LVDD.     

Carotid intima media thickness, oxidative stress, and inflammation in children with chronic kidney disease

Objective

We evaluated the association between inflammation and oxidative stress with carotid intima media thickness (cIMT) and elasticity increment module (E_inc) in pediatric patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

This analytical, cross-sectional study assessed 134 children aged 6–17 years with CKD. Anthropometric measurements and biochemistry of intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, and homocysteine were recorded. Bilateral carotid ultrasound (US) was taken. Patients were compared with controls for cIMT and E_inc using?≥?75  percentile (PC).

Results

Mean cIMT was 0.528?±?0.089 mm; E_inc was 0.174?±?0.121 kPa × 10³; cIMT negatively correlated with phosphorus (r ?0.19, p?=?0.028) and the calcium × phosphorus (Ca × P) product (r ?0.26, p?=?0.002), and positively with iPTH (r 0.19,p?=?0.024). After adjusting for potential confounders, hemodialysis (HD) (β?=?0.111, p?=?<0.001), automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) (β?=?0.064, p?=?0.026), and Ca x P product (β?=??0.002, p?=?0.015) predicted cIMT (R ²?=?0.296). In patients on dialysis, HD (β?=?0.068, p?=?0.010), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (β?=?0.001, p?=?0.048), and GSH (β?=??0.0001, p?=?0.041) independently predicted cIMT (R ²?=?0.204); HD, hypoalbuminemia, and high iPTH increased the risk of increased cIMT. In dialysis, E_inc was inversely associated with GSH, and in predialysis, Ca × P correlated with/predicted E_inc (β?=?0.001, p?=?0.009).

Conclusions

cIMT and E_inc strongly associate with several biochemical parameters and GSH but not with other oxidative stress or inflammation markers.     

Influence of recency and duration of glucocorticoid use on bone mineral density and risk of fractures: population-based cohort study

Summary

Although systemic glucocorticoids are commonly used, it is difficult to obtain accurate exposure history. In 50,000 patients, we confirmed that glucocorticoids were associated with reductions in bone mineral density (BMD) and increases in fracture and documented that recent and prolonged durations of exposure were particularly associated with adverse events—dose information did not improve risk prediction.

Introduction

Systemic glucocorticoid use, defined as ever having taken supra-physiologic doses for 90-days or more, is a risk factor for low BMD and fractures. This definition does not distinguish recent (vs remote) exposure.

Methods

Within a population-based clinical BMD registry in Manitoba, Canada, we identified all adults over age 40 years tested between 1998 and 2007 and then undertook a cohort study. We identified all oral glucocorticoid dispensations from 1995 to 2009 and stratified exposure by timing (“recent” if within 12 months vs “remote”) and duration (short [<90 days] vs prolonged [≥90 days]). Osteoporosis-related risk factors and treatments and major fractures were obtained using administrative health data.

Results

A total of 12,818 of 52,070 (25 %) subjects had used glucocorticoids prior to BMD testing; the most common exposure was remote short (n?=?6453) vs recent prolonged (n?=?2896) vs recent short (n?=?2644) vs remote prolonged (n?=?825). Compared to 39,252 never-users, only recent prolonged glucocorticoid use was significantly associated with femoral neck T-score (ANCOVA-adjusted difference ?0.13, 95 % CI ?0.16 to ?0.10, p?<?0.001). There were 2,842 major (566 hip) fractures over median 5-year follow-up. Compared with never-users, only recent prolonged glucocorticoid use was significantly associated with BMD-independent increases in risk of incident major fracture (5.4 vs 7.7 %, adjusted HR 1.25, 95 % CI 1.07–1.45, p?=?0.004) and hip fracture (1.1 vs 1.8 %, adjusted HR 1.61, 95 % CI 1.18–2.20, p?=?0.003).

Conclusions

Recent and prolonged glucocorticoid use (but neither remote nor recent short courses) was independently associated with reduced BMD and increased risk of fractures. These findings should permit clinicians to identify a high-risk group of patients that might benefit from osteoporosis prevention.     

Evaluation of the accuracy of shoe fitting in older people using three-dimensional foot scanning

Background

Ill-fitting footwear is a common problem in older people. The objective of this study was to determine the accuracy of shoe fitting in older people by comparing the dimensions of allocated shoes to foot dimensions obtained with a three-dimensional (3D) scanner.

Methods

The shoe sizes of 56 older people were determined with the Brannock device^®, and weightbearing foot scans were obtained with the FotoScan 3D scanner (Precision 3D Ltd, Weston-super-mare, UK). Participants were provided with a pair of shoes (Dr Comfort^®, Vista, CA, USA), available in three width fittings (medium, wide and extra wide). The dimensions (length, ball width and ball girth) of the allocated shoes were documented according to the last measurements provided by the manufacturer. Mean differences between last dimensions and foot dimensions obtained with the 3D scanner were calculated to provide an indication of shoe fitting accuracy. Participants were also asked to report their perception of shoe fit and comfort, using 100 mm visual analogue scales (VAS).

Results

Shoe size ranged from US size 7 to 14 for men and 5.5 to 11 for women. The allocated shoes were significantly longer than the foot (mean 23.6 mm, 95% confidence interval [CI] 22.1 to 25.2; t ₅₅?=?30.3, p?t ₅₅?=?1.9, p?=?0.066) or ball girth (mean ?0.7 mm, 95% CI ?6.1 to 4.8 mm; t ₅₅?=??0.2, p?=?0.810). Participants reported favourable perceptions of shoe fit (mean VAS?=?90.7 mm, 95% CI 88.4 to 93.1 mm) and comfort (mean VAS?=?88.4 mm, 95% CI 85.0 to 91.8 mm).

Conclusion

Shoe size selection using the Brannock device® resulted in the allocation of shoes with last dimensions that were well matched to the dimensions of the foot. Participants also considered the shoes to be well fitted and comfortable. Older people with disabling foot pain can therefore be dispensed with appropriately-fitted shoes using this technique, provided that the style and materials used are suitable and extra width fittings are available.     

Hysterectomy and urinary incontinence in postmenopausal women

Introduction and hypothesis

To evaluate an association between hysterectomy and urinary incontinence (UI) in postmenopausal women.

Methods

Women (aged 50–79) with uteri (N?=?53,569) and without uteri (N?=?38,524) who enrolled in the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) Observational Study between 1993 and 1996 were included in this secondary analysis. Baseline (BL) and 3-year demographic, health/physical forms and personal habit questionnaires were used. Statistical analyses included univariate and logistic regression methods.

Results

The baseline UI rate was 66.5 %, with 27.3 % of participants having stress urinary incontinence (SUI), 23 % having urge UI (UUI), and 12.4 % having mixed UI (MUI). 41.8 % of women had undergone hysterectomy, with 88.1 % having had the procedure before age 54. Controlling for health/physical variables, hysterectomy was associated with UI at BL (OR 1.25, 95 % CI 1.19, 1.32) and over the 3-year study period (OR 1.23, 95 % CI 1.11, 1.36). Excluding women with UI at BL, a higher incidence of UUI and SUI episodes was found in hysterectomy at year 3. Among women who had undergone hysterectomy, those with bilateral oophorectomy (BSO) did not have increased odds of developing UI at BL or over the 3-year study period. Hormone use was not associated with a change in UI incidence (estrogen + progesterone, p?=?0.17; unopposed estrogen, p?=?0.41).

Conclusions

Risk of UI is increased in postmenopausal women who had undergone hysterectomy compared with women with uteri.     

External Stent Versus No Stent for Pancreaticojejunostomy: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background

The effectiveness of an external pancreatic duct stent for reduction of the pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy remains controversial.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched for eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Reviews of each trial were conducted and data were extracted. The primary outcome was pancreatic fistula. Statistical pooling used the fixed or random effects model and reported as risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) with the corresponding 95 % confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Four RCTs including a total of 416 patients were detected. Methodological quality assessment revealed a better quality of all analyzed trials. Placing an external stent across pancreaticojejunal anastomosis could significantly reduce the incidence of pancreatic fistula (RR?=?0.57, 95 % CI?=?0.41–0.80, P?=?0.001, I ²?=?0 %), overall morbidity (RR?=?0.79, 95 % CI?=?0.64–0.98, P?=?0.03), and the length of hospital stay (MD?=??3.98 days, 95 % CI?=??6.42 to ?1.54, P?=?0.001, I ²?=?13 %). No significant difference was found in terms of hospital mortality, delayed gastric emptying, operation time, operative blood loss, blood replacement, and reoperation rate.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis provides compelling evidence that the application of an external pancreatic duct stent after pancreaticoduodenectomy can decrease the incidence of pancreatic leakage when compared with no stent. Moreover, the external drainage of pancreatic juice is associated with lower postoperative overall morbidity and shorter hospital stay.     

In-hospital mortality in patients with renal dysfunction admitted for myocardial infarction: the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy database of hospital admissions

Background

In-hospital mortality of patients with myocardial infarction (MI) in different European populations and renal dysfunction is variable. We aimed to evaluate in-hospital mortality for MI in chronic kidney disease (CKD), in end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and in subjects admitted for MI without renal dysfunction living in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy.

Methods

We considered all cases of MI (first event) recorded in the database of hospital admissions of the region Emilia-Romagna of Italy, from January 1999 to December 2009. The criterion for inclusion was the presence, as a first discharge diagnosis, of acute MI (International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification). The Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), with the exclusion of CKD, was calculated. The outcome variable was in-hospital mortality for MI, and its association with comorbidities, CKD and ESRD, was analyzed.

Results

During the considered period, 88,014 cases of first MI were recorded. The percentage of patients admitted with MI and died during hospitalization were higher in patients with ESRD (38.3 %) and CKD (16.5 %) than in those without renal dysfunction (14 %) (p < 0.01). In CKD and ESRD patients, data of in-hospital mortality for MI exhibited a twofold increase in the analyzed period. In-hospital mortality for MI was independently associated with age (OR 1.077, 95 % CI 1.075–1.080, p < 0.001), CCI excluding CKD (OR 1.101, 95 % CI 1.069–1.134, p < 0.001), cerebrovascular disease (OR 1.450, 95 % CI 1.349–1.557, p < 0.001), malignancy (OR 1.234, 95 % CI 1.153–1.320, p < 0.001), and ESRD (OR 4.137, 95 % CI 3.511–4.875, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

As for the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, in-hospital mortality for MI is increasing over the last years, and mortality seems to be related with patients’ comorbidities and presence of advanced stages of CKD.     

Risk factors for permanent stoma after low anterior resection for rectal cancer

Purpose

This study evaluated the risk factors influencing permanent stoma after curative resection of rectal cancer and compared the long-term survival of patients according to the stoma state.

Methods

From January 2004 to December 2010, 895 consecutive rectal cancer patients with histological-confirmed adenocarcinoma who received low anterior resection with curative intent at the Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, were evaluated retrospectively. Patient demographics, times of stoma reversal, and number/reason of permanent stoma were evaluated.

Results

Three hundred fifteen patients (35.2 %) had a diverting stoma of temporary intent among 895 rectal adenocarcinoma patients. Loop ileostomy was performed in 271 patients (86.0 %). A total of 256 (81.3 %) of 315 stoma patients received stoma closure. The mean period between primary surgery and stoma closure was 5.6 months (range, 1–44 months). Seventy-three patients (23.2 %) were confirmed with permanent stoma. Multivariate analysis showed stage IV (hazard ratio (HR), 3.380; 95 % confidence interval (CI), 1.192–18.023; p?=?0.027), anastomosis-related complication (HR, 3.299; 95 % CI, 1.397–7.787; p?=?0.006), colostomy type (HR, 7.276, 95 % CI, 2.454–21.574; p?=?0.000), systemic metastasis (HR, 2.698; 95 % CI, 1.1.288–5.653; p?=?0.009), and local recurrence (HR, 4.231; 95 % CI, 1.724–10.383; p?=?0.002) were independent risk factors for permanent stoma.

Conclusions

On postoperative follow-up, in patients with anastomotic complication, tumor progression with local recurrences and systemic metastasis may cause permanent stoma.