Local soft tissue musculoskeletal disorders and injuries. The role of physical and rehabilitation medicine physicians. The European perspective based on the best evidence. A paper by the UEMS-PRM Section Professional Practice Committee

One of the objectives of the Professional Practice Committee (PPC) of the Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM) Section of the Union of European Medical Specialists (UEMS) is the development of the field of competence of PRM physicians in Europe. To achieve this objective, UEMS PRM Section PPC has adopted a systematic action plan of preparing a series of papers describing the role of PRM physicians in a number of disabling health conditions, based on the evidence of effectiveness of PRM interventions. Soft tissue musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and injuries are associated with significant pain and loss of function that may lead to significant disability. The aim of this paper is to define the role of PRM physician in the management of local soft tissue MSDs and injuries with their specific focus on assessing and improving function as well as participation in the community. The training of PRM specialists make them well equipped to successfully treat MSDs including soft tissue MSDs and injuries. PRM specialists may well meet the needs of patients with soft tissue MSDs and injuries using PRM approaches including 1) assessment based on the comprehensive model of functioning, the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), that enable them to identify the areas of impaired functioning in order to apply necessary measures; 2) accurate diagnosis using instrumental diagnostic procedures in addition to clinical examination; 3) outcome measurements available to them; 4) evidence-based pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments; and finally 5) maintenance of social involvement including "return to work" based on restoration of function, all of which will eventually result in improved quality of life for patients with soft tissue MSDs and injuries.

Shoulder pain management. The role of physical and rehabilitation medicine physicians. The European perspective based on the best evidence. A paper by the UEMS-PRM Section Professional Practice Committee

One of the objectives of the Professional Practice Committee (PPC) of the Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM) Section of the Union of European Medical Specialists (UEMS) is the development of the field of competence of PRM physicians in Europe. To achieve this objective, UEMS PRM Section PPC has adopted a systematic action plan of preparing a series of papers describing the role of PRM physicians in a number of disabling health conditions, based on the evidence of effectiveness of the physical and rehabilitation medicine interventions. According to the PCC of the UEMS-PRM Section, the role of PRM physician in the management of shoulder pain (SP) has to be situated inside the general pain management field. SP is a common condition that can place limitations on the activity and restriction in social life participation of sufferers. A variety of shoulder problems, commonly including subacromial impingement, calcifying tendinitis, frozen shoulder, acromio-clavicular disturbances, gleno-humeral instability and gleno-humeral arthritis, can cause pain, and patients should be assessed and treated in order to relieve symptoms and reduce disability. This position paper describes the role of the PRM specialist in the management of such patients. Many assessment methods and treatment interventions are usually used in the management of patients with SP. Depending on the process, disability and patient characteristics, some intervention modalities have reported evidence in pain relief, movement and daily life activity (DLA) restoration, thus permiting a patient early recovery and social participation. Oral medications, local injections, physical therapy modalities and exercises are normally used for the management of SP. The PRM specialist should, always use this best medical evidence to decide how to efficiently and effectively reduce SP-related disability. An adequate therapeutic algorithm is also proposed in order to channelize the above mentioned evidence and reach the best results.

Generalised and regional soft tissue pain syndromes. The role of physical and rehabilitation medicine physicians. The European perspective based on the best evidence. A paper by the UEMS-PRM Section Professional Practice Committee

One of the objectives of the Professional Practice Committee (PPC) of the Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM) Section of the Union of European Medical Specialists (UEMS) is the development of the field of competence of PRM physicians in Europe. To achieve this objective, UEMS PRM Section PPC has adopted a systematic action plan of preparing a series of papers describing the role of PRM physicians in a number of disabling health conditions, based on the evidence of effectiveness of PRM interventions. Generalised and regional soft tissue pain syndromes constitute a major problem leading to loss of function and disability, resulting in enormous societal burden. The aim of this paper is to describe the unique role of PRM physicians in the management of these disabling conditions that require not only pharmacological interventions but also a holistic approach including the consideration of body functions, activities and participation as well as contextual factors as described in the ICF. Evidence-based effective PRM interventions include exercise and multicomponent treatment including a psychotherapeutic intervention such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in addition to exercise, the latter based on strong evidence for reducing pain and improving quality of life in fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). Balneotherapy, meditative movement therapies, and acupuncture have also been shown as efficacious in improving symptoms in FMS. Emerging evidence suggests the use of transcranial magnetic or direct current stimulation (rTMS or tDCS) in FMS patients with intractable pain not alleviated by other interventions. Graded exercise therapy and CBT are evidence-based options for chronic fatigue syndrome. The use of some physical modalities and manipulation for myofascial pain syndrome is also supported by evidence. As for complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), strong evidence exists for rTMS and graded motor imagery as well as moderate evidence for mirror therapy. Interventional techniques such as blocks and spinal cord stimulation may also be considered for CRPS based on varying levels of evidence. PRM physicians' functioning oriented approaches on the assessment and management, adopting the ICF as a reference, may well meet the needs of patients with soft tissue pain syndromes, the common problems for whom are loss of function and impaired quality of life. Available evidence for the effectiveness of PRM interventions serves as the basis for the explicit role of PRM specialists in the management of these health conditions.

Inflammatory arthritis. The role of physical and rehabilitation medicine physicians. The European perspective based on the best evidence. A paper by the UEMS-PRM Section Professional Practice Committee

One of the objectives of the Professional Practice Committee (PPC) of the Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM) Section of the Union of European Medical Specialists (UEMS) is the development of the field of competence of PRM physicians in Europe. To achieve this objective, UEMS PRM Section PPC has adopted a systematic action plan of preparing a series of papers describing the role of PRM physicians in a number of disabling health conditions, based on the evidence of effectiveness of the physical and rehabilitation medicine interventions. Inflammatory arthritis is a major cause of disability with an important economic burden in society. The goals in the management of inflammatory arthritis are to control pain and disease activity, prevent joint damage, protect and enhance function and improve quality of life. This paper aims to define the role of PRM physicians in people with inflammatory arthritis. PRM interventions imply non-pharmacological treatments which include patient education for joint protection, energy conservation and self-management techniques, exercise therapy, physical modalities, orthoses/assistive devices and balneotherapy. Therapeutic patient education and exercises are the cornerstones of therapy with strong evidence of their effectiveness to improve function. Physical modalities are primarily used to decrease pain and stiffness whereas orthoses/assistive devices are usually prescribed to enhance activities and participation. PRM physicians have distinct roles in the management of people with inflammatory arthritis such that they effectively organise and supervise the PRM program in the context of interdisciplinary team work. Their role starts with a comprehensive assessment of patient's functioning based on the International Classification of Functioning Disability and Health (ICF) as the framework. In the light of this assessment, appropriate PRM interventions individualised for the patient are administered. Future research and actions regarding the role of PRM in inflammatory arthritis should target access to care, updates on the use and effectiveness of physical modalities, orthoses/assistive devices, and standardization of therapeutic patient education programs.

Osteoarthritis. The role of physical and rehabilitation medicine physicians. The European perspective based on the best evidence. A paper by the UEMS-PRM Section Professional Practice Committee

One of the objectives of the Professional Practice Committee (PPC) of the Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM) Section of the Union of European Medical Specialists (UEMS) is the development of the field of competence of PRM physicians in Europe. To achieve this objective, UEMS PRM Section PPC has adopted a systematic action plan of preparing a series of papers describing the role of PRM physicians in a number of disabling health conditions, based on the evidence of effectiveness of the PRM interventions. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disorder and the major cause of musculoskeletal pain and limited mobility in the elderly in the world. Therefore, proper management of persons with OA is of substantial importance. The goal of OA management is to reduce the impact of OA on the individual by reducing pain and improving function, activities and participation. The aim of this paper is to descibe the explicit role of PRM physicians in providing management for persons with OA. The optimal management of OA requires the combination of both non-pharmacological and pharmacological approaches, an issue most of the main guidelines on the evidence-based management of OA share in common. There is good level of evidence about the effectiveness of PRM interventions in the management of OA: high level of evidence about the effect of education, weight reduction and exercise and growing evidence about the effectiveness of physical agent modalities. PRM specialists are involved not only in diagnosis and medical and physical treatments of OA, but, as a rehabilitation strategy, they also deal with the problems of the person focusing on the improvement of all components of human functioning as defined in the ICF including personal and environmental factors with a holistic approach. ICF core sets for OA serve as excellent models for directing proper assessments as well as targeting interventions. PRM specialists well meet the needs of people with OA from the early stages of the disease to the stage of disability that could cause activity limitations and participation restrictions. In conclusion, PRM specialists can make substantial contributions to providing management of OA in order to improve the functioning of individuals with OA from both personal and societal perspective.

Osteoporosis. The role of physical and rehabilitation medicine physicians. The European perspective based on the best evidence. A paper by the UEMS-PRM Section Professional Practice Committee

One of the objectives of the Professional Practice Committee (PPC) of the Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM) Section of the Union of European Medical Specialists (UEMS) is the development of the field of competence of PRM physicians in Europe. To achieve this objective, UEMS PRM Section PPC has adopted a systematic action plan of preparing a series of papers describing the role of PRM physicians in a number of disabling health conditions, based on the evidence of effectiveness of PRM interventions. A wide range of health conditions treated by PRM specialists carries the risk of osteoporosis (OP). The consequences of OP may be associated with significant disability. The aim of this paper is: to define the role of PRM physicians in the prevention and management of OP, to describe the needs of people with OP in relation to rehabilitation strategy, and to highlight why and how PRM physicians should be involved in the diagnosis and management of OP. PRM physicians may intervene in the prevention of and risk factor assessment for OP, falls and fractures along with other assessments of functioning and of quality of life. In addition, they are involved in diagnosis and in both pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatment of OP. From a specific PRM perspective based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), there is an important role in optimizing functioning and promoting "activities and participation", including interventions associated with environmental factors for people with OP or osteoporotic fractures. Evidence suggests that a large number of interventions within the scope of PRM that range from preventive strategies (including education and self management and most importantly exercise) to pain management strategies and spinal orthoses or hip protectors may be effective in the prevention and/or management of OP and its sequelae. Competencies and aptitudes of PRM specialists, focusing especially on functioning while providing care over the whole course of a health condition from the hospital to the community, may well place them in the management of OP. Evidence-based effective PRM interventions further warrant the role of PRM physicians in the management of OP.

Serum level of fibroblast growth factor 23 in maintenance renal transplant patients

BACKGROUND

The discovery of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) provides a new conceptual framework that improves our understanding of the pathogenesis of post-transplant bone disease. Excess FGF23 is produced in the early post-transplant period; levels return to normal in the months following transplant. However, few manuscripts discuss FGF23 levels in stable long-term renal transplant recipients.

METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional observational study of 279 maintenance kidney recipients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) Stages 1-4 and stable allograft function who had received their transplant at least 12 months previously. We calculated the estimated GFR (eGFR) using the MDRD4 equation.

RESULTS

FGF23, parathyroid hormone (PTH) and phosphorus values were higher in more advanced stages, while the serum calcitriol levels and the phosphate reabsorption rate were lower. A significant inverse correlation was found between eGFR and FGF23 (r = -0.487; P < 0.001), PTH (r = -0.444; P < 0.001), serum phosphate levels (r = -0.315; P < 0.001) and fractional excretion of magnesium (r = -0.503; P < 0.001). Multivariable analysis showed that increased time on corticosteroids (P < 0.001), PTH (P < 0.001), serum phosphate (P = 0.003), decreased serum calcitriol (P = 0.049) and estimated glomerular filtration (P = 0.003) rate were associated with high FGF23 levels. In contrast with pre-transplant patients and first year post-transplant patients, higher FGF23 values were not correlated with increased phosphate excretion. An elevated phosphate reabsorption rate was associated with decreased PTH (P < 0.001) and calciuria (P = 0.028) and increased serum calcitriol (P = 0.009), plasma bicarbonate (P = 0.024) and estimated glomerular filtration (P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Serum FGF23 concentrations remain increased in long-term kidney graft recipients, even in the early stages of CKD. It remains to be seen whether measures aimed at reducing serum levels of PTH and phosphate and/or corticosteroid doses might help to lower serum FGF23 and whether this will improve kidney recipient outcomes.

Correlation between body mass index and gut concentrations of Lactobacillus reuteri, Bifidobacterium animalis, Methanobrevibacter smithii and Escherichia coli

BACKGROUND

Genus and species level analysis is the best way to characterize alterations in the human gut microbiota that are associated with obesity, because the clustering of obese and lean microbiotas increases with the taxonomic depth of the analysis. Bifidobacterium genus members have been associated with a lean status, whereas different Lactobacillus species are associated both with a lean and an obese status.

OBJECTIVES AND METHODS

We analyzed the fecal concentrations of Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Methanobrevibacter smithii, the genus Lactobacillus, five other Lactobacillus species previously linked with lean or obese populations, Escherichia coli and Bifidobacterium animalis in 263 individuals, including 134 obese, 38 overweight, 76 lean and 15 anorexic subjects to test for the correlation between bacterial concentration and body mass index (BMI). Of these subjects, 137 were used in our previous study.

FINDINGS

Firmicutes were found in >98.5%, Bacteroidetes in 67%, M. smithii in 64%, E. coli in 51%, Lactobacillus species between 17 and 25% and B. animalis in 11% of individuals. The fecal concentration of Lactobacillus reuteri was positively correlated with BMI (coefficient=0.85; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.12-0.58; P=0.02) in agreement with what was reported for Lactobacillus sakei. As reported, B. animalis (coefficient=-0.84; 95% CI -1.61 to -0.07; P=0.03) and M. smithii (coefficient=-0.43, 95% CI -0.90 to 0.05; P=0.08) were negatively associated with the BMI. Unexpectedly, E. coli was found here for the first time to negatively correlate with the BMI (coefficient=-1.05; 95% CI -1.60 to -0.50; P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our findings confirm the specificity of the obese microbiota and emphasize the correlation between the concentration of certain Lactobacillus species and obesity.

[Fibreoptic clinical training in anaesthesia. Course design and results based on a self-assessment survey]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Fibreoptic intubation is the technique of choice for resolving complications related to a difficult airway. Our aim was to determine whether a clinical-practice-based, individualized course provides sufficient training and confidence to allow anaesthetists to routinely practice fibreoptic intubation.

METHODS

Our hospital developed a clinical-practice-based, individualized course on fibreoptic intubation in general anaesthesia that provided practice in sedated spontaneously breathing patients and insertion through supraglottic devices. From 2005 to 2009, we e-mailed participants for response to an anonymous online self-assessment survey. We asked participants about the training outcomes and their overall degree of satisfaction.

RESULTS

Seventy-seven participants were sent the questionnaire six months after the course and 61% responded. All respondents considered themselves skilled in handling the bronchoscope at the end of the course and 97% used it in their routine practice in patients with difficult airways.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest a high success rate can be expected from individually tailored fibreoptic intubation courses that supplement theory and mannequin experience with clinical practice.

[Cerebrovascular accident with haemorrhagic transformation in a patient on antiplatelet treatment subjected to surgery of a hypophyseal macroadenoma]

The case is presented of a 51 year-old woman, proposed for endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal resection of a hypophyseal macroadenoma diagnosed in the context of a stroke suffered 10 weeks before the date of the surgery. During this time, she had been treated with antiplatelet drugs, which were withdrawn 5 days before the surgery. The surgical procedure was performed without any incidents. On the second day after the surgery, the patient had an ischaemic infarction of the left cerebellar hemisphere, with signs of hydrocephaly and a posterior haemorrhagic transformation, with brain death 5 days after the operation. There are no definitive guidelines on the use of antiplatelet drugs in the perioperative period of neurosurgery. Also, there is no agreement as regards the waiting time between a cerebrovascular event and surgery, it appears that between 4 and 12 weeks would be the most advisable. The importance of an individual assessment of each patient before surgery is emphasised, as well as a review of the antiplatelet management of the patient with a risk of thrombosis in the context of neurosurgery, and their possible postoperative complications.

[Bidirectional barbed suture for bladder neck reconstruction, posterior reconstruction and vesicourethral anastomosis during robot assisted radical prostatectomy]

BACKGROUND

The urethrovesical anastomosis is a particular challenging step of robot assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Failure to achieve a watertight anastomosis is associated with postoperative urinary leak and its consequences, which include paralytic ileus, prolonged catheterization, urinary peritonitis and possibly re-intervention. The bidirectional barbed suture is a new technology that may lead to improve the quality of the urethrovesical anastomosis.

OBJECTIVE

To present our surgical technique of urethrovesical anastomosis, bladder neck reconstruction and posterior reconstruction, using a bidirectional barbed suture.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The bladder neck reconstruction, posterior reconstruction and vesicourethral anastomosis were performed using a 2-0 synthetic absorbable bidirectional monofilament barbed suture

RESULTS

All cases were finished successfully without major complication or conversion to laparoscopic or open surgery.

CONCLUSION

The authors successfully modified their RARP technique to take advantage of the properties of the bidirectional barbed suture. Comparative studies that evaluate objective outcomes such as leakage rates and operative time are needed to definitely establish the benefits of this device in comparison to the traditional absorbable monofilament.

[Robotic surgery: history and teaching impact]

CONTEXT

The purpose of this article is to review the history of robotic surgery, its impact on teaching as well as a description of historical and current robots used in the medical arena.

SUMMARY OF EVIDENCE

Although the history of robots dates back to 2000 years or more, the last two decades have seen an outstanding revolution in medicine, due to all the changes that robotic surgery has made in the way of performing, teaching and practicing surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic surgery has evolved into a complete and self-contained field, with enormous potential for future development. The results to date have shown that this technology is capable of providing good outcomes and quality care for patients.

[Experience with the proseal laryngeal mask in ventriculoperitoneal shunting]

OBJECTIVE

To describe the use, utility, safety, and effectiveness of the Proseal laryngeal mask for airway management in patients undergoing ventriculoperitonea shunting.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients in whom the Proseal laryngeal mask was used during ventriculoperitoneal shunting between January 2006 and October 2009. Patient demographic characteristics, airway assessments, type of anesthesia, quality of ventilation, and perioperative complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Of the 43 patients included, 8 (18.6%) had at least 1 difficult airway criterion. We were able to insert the Proseal laryngeal mask in all patients. Ventilation was optimal in 39 (91%) patients, with maintenance of end-expiratory carbon dioxide pressures between 35 and 40 mm Hg and airway pressures above 25 cm H2O throughout the procedures. Air leaks developed in 3 cases (7%) when the patient was placed in a lateral-cervical position for surgery; these patients required orotracheal intubation before surgery could begin. Mean duration of surgery was 53 minutes. Awakening occurred without incident in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The Proseal laryngeal mask is useful for airway management in patients undergoing ventriculoperitoneal shunting. Due to the forced position of the neck, however, it may be necessary to reposition the mask or even proceed to orotracheal intubation in some cases. As is the case for other advanced uses, experience with the device is necessary. Material for managing a difficult airway should be on hand.

Animal-assisted interventions in internal and rehabilitation medicine: a review of the recent literature

While conventional wisdom has always affirmed the value of animals in promoting human well-being, only recently has their therapeutic role in medicine become the focus of dedicated research. Therapeutic modalities that use animals as a tool for improving the physical, emotional, cognitive and/or social functioning of humans are called animal-assisted interventions (AAI), and are classified into: animal-assisted activities (AAA); animal-assisted therapy (AAT); and service animal programs (SAP). The aim of this review is to analyze the papers published between 2001 and 2010 in the most influential medical journals dealing with AAI, and discuss their findings in the light of what may be of interest for internal medicine and rehabilitation. A total of 35 articles met the strict inclusion criteria for this review: 18 papers dealing with AAA, 8 with AAT, and 9 with SAP. The therapeutic outcomes associated with AAA are: enhancement of socialization; reduction of stress, anxiety and loneliness; improvement in mood and general well-being; and development of leisure/recreation skills. Regarding AAT, horses are often used as a complementary strategy to facilitate the normalization of muscle tone and improve motor skills in children with cerebral palsy and persons with lower limb spasticity. Finally, most SAP utilize dogs, that assist people with various disabilities in performing everyday activities, thus reducing their dependence on other persons. Further studies are needed to better define the fields and programs for the therapeutic use of animals and to increase their utilization in medicine, as a promising, complementary and natural means to improve both functional autonomy and quality of life.

Comparison of the LMA Supreme™ with the LMA Proseal™ for airway management in patients anaesthetized in prone position

BACKGROUND

The laryngeal mask airway (LMA) has been successfully used in patients in the prone position either for rescue or elective airway management. The reusable Proseal™ LMA (PLMA) and the single use Supreme™ LMA (SLMA) have been reported to be suitable for this purpose but few comparative data are available. In this study, we compared the clinical use of both devices in adult patients anaesthetized in the prone position.

METHODS

One hundred and twenty patients undergoing surgery in the prone position were randomized to receive either the PLMA or the SLMA for airway management. Patients positioned themselves in the prone position and after pre-oxygenation, anaesthesia was induced using a target-controlled i.v. infusion of propofol and remifentanil. All PLMAs and SLMAs were inserted by experienced anaesthetists using a guided and a standard technique respectively. Ease of facemask ventilation, time and number of attempts needed for insertion, quality of ventilation, airway seal pressure, fibreoptic view, and complications were compared.

RESULTS

There were no differences between groups in insertion time or first attempt success (100% vs. 98%). The PLMA required fewer manipulations (3% vs. 15%; P=0.02) to achieve effective ventilation and provided a higher seal pressure (mean [sd] 31 [4] vs. 27 [4] cm H2O; P<0.01). The fibrescopic view of the vocal cords was similar, although easier to achieve with the PLMA. The complication rate was low and similar between the groups. Blood was present on masks in 7% vs. 8% and sore throat in 3% vs. 5% of patients with the PLMA and SLMA, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Airway management in patients anaesthetized in the prone position was efficient with both devices, although the PLMA required fewer manipulations and achieved a higher seal pressure.

Candiduria in renal transplant recipients: incidence, clinical repercussion, and treatment indication

INTRODUCTION

The incidence of candiduria in renal transplant recipients is unknown. In clinical practice, the indications for antifungal therapy are not well established. Furthermore, there is the problem of the choice of the antifungal drug since some of them may select resistant Candida species, or interact with immunosuppressive agents or only be used intravenously.

AIM

We sought to study the incidence, clinical repercussions and effectiveness of antifungal treatment to prevent recurrence of candiduria.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We examined all episodes of Candida-positive urine cultures (>50,000 cfu/mL) in 996 recipients over 2 years. We considered the Candida species, administered treatment, presence of fever, requirement for hospital admission versus outpatient case, occurrence of simultaneous bacterial urinary tract infection (UTI), antibiotic use during the week before candiduria, and presence of an indwelling urinary catheter.

RESULTS

Among 996 subjects, 34 displayed 83 episodes of candiduria, yielding an accumulated incidence of 3.4% after 2 years. The frequency was higher among women (6.3% vs 1.7%, P<.001). Of the 45 outpatient episodes (54.2%), 17 were treated and one required hospitalization (5.9%). Of the 28 nontreated outpatients, two were hospitalized (7.1%, P=.68 vs treated patients). All cases of hospital admission presented simultaneous bacterial UTI, none developed candidemia, and two patients did not receive any antifungal therapy. With respect to the first episodes of each patient (n=34), 5/11 treated (45.5%) and 4/23 untreated (17.4%) patients developed recurrences (P=.095). Selection of more resistant Candida species was not observed. Fifty cases (60%) were associated with antibiotic therapy and 34 (41%) the presence of a urinary catheter.

CONCLUSIONS

It does not seem necessary to treat candiduria in this setting. Antifungal therapy was not associated with either a reduction in recurrence or the appearance of more resistant species in this study. We observed no important clinical repercussions.

De novo anti-HLA antibodies in renal allograft recipients: a cross-section study

BACKGROUND

The occurrence of anti-HLA antibodies plays a well established role in solid organ rejection. The development of x-MAP multiple bead technology (Luminex) has enabled more accurate detection and definition of these alloantibodies.

METHODS

In 267 kidney transplant patients with stable allograft function for ≥3 years, we analyzed the presence of anti-HLA antibodies by Luminex technology. These patients had no alloantibodies before transplantation, and the immunosuppression treatment was: tacrolimus, cyclosporine, mycophenolate mofetil, prednisone, everolimus, and/or sirolimus.

RESULTS

Fifteen of the 267 patients showed anti-HLA class I antibodies and 12 showed anti-HLA class II antibodies, Seven patients had donor-specific antibodies (DSA): 1 anti-HLA class I, 5 anti-HLA class II, and 1 with both classes. No differences were found between DSA and the use or not of any specific therapy. However, in the retrospective review, we found a higher incidence of acute rejection episodes in the immediate posttransplant period among patients who developed class II DSA than those without DSA.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of patients with normal renal function who develop DSA beyond 3 years after transplantation was relatively low. Steroid or withdrawal replacement of calcineurin inhibitors with inhibitors of mammalian target of rapamycin seem to not be risk factors to increase the development of DSA. The finding that patients who developed DSA showed a higher rate of previous acute rejection episodes suggested that they should be monitored more frequently for HLA antibodies.

[Intraoperative videoangiography using green indocyanine during aneurysm surgery]

OBJECTIVE

The authors' objective is to report the initial appreciations on the use of the intraoperative near-infrared indocyanine green videoangiography during aneurysm surgery in our center.

METHOD

10 surgical procedures have been made in 9 patients, 5 males and 4 females between 27 and 61 years old with an average of age of 49 years during a time of 10 months between March, 2008 and January, 2009. 10 surgical procedures were performed and 11 aneurysms were clipped. Intravenous indocyanine green and surgical microscope Leica OH4 with module of vascular fluorescence intraoperating Leica FL800, with camera infrared Sony (Heerbrugg-Switzerland) were used. The information offered by this technique during the intervention is compared with the images of the postoperative angiography performed during the first 24 hours. The partial or complete occlusion and the respect to the near vessels were evaluated.

RESULTS

The findings of the intraoperative videoangiography were the complete occlusion and absence of complications in all the cases. These results corresponded completely with the postoperative results of the angiography postoperative, except in a case where the angiography demonstrated vasoespasmo moderate without clinical repercussion that during the videoangiografía intraoperatoria was not perceived. Clinically no patient presented neurological added deficits.

CONCLUSIONS

The intraoperative videoangiography is a tool of easy application that offers valuable information as for the complete occlusion of the aneurysm and the permeability of the adjacent vessels.

IRODaT: the International Online Registry for Organ Donation and Transplantation 2007

OBJECTIVE

IRODaT, an international registry for organ donation and transplantation, presents preliminary data reports on global trends on a regular basis and at various times of the year. The purpose of this report was not only to present statistics, but also to make organ donation effectiveness rates a useful tool to reveal similarities between various countries on an international level.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The IRODaT database produced this report for 2007 thanks to early reporting performed by professionals in coordination and transplant services from 49 countries. The countries were grouped as follows: countries with >200 total donors countries with 50 to 200 donors, and countries with <50 donors.

RESULTS

The percentages of deceased and living donors according to the total number of donors from the 49 countries showed that countries performing >200 effective donation procedures yearly in 2007 showed a clear positive trend when compared for number of living donors, donors per million inhabitants, and number of transplantable organs per donor.

CONCLUSIONS

The results obtained through this new presentation of the IRODaT provide a quick, clear, and illustrative view of organ donation activity in various countries.

[Using the CTrach Laryngeal Mask Airway in the awake patient with an expected difficult airway]

The method of choice for managing the expected difficult airway is tracheal intubation with an awake patient breathing spontaneously. The CTrach Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMA) is a modified version of the Fastrach LMA that incorporates a fiberoptic system that provides a view of the glottis during ventilation and intubation. We describe 2 cases of intubation in which the CTrach device was used in patients breathing spontaneously. In both cases difficult intubation was foreseen. The CTrach LMA facilitates management of the airway in these circumstances. It is well tolerated and enables a clear view of the airway and permits assisted ventilation when necessary.

Awake intubation using the LMA-CTrach in patients with difficult airways

We studied 21 patients with known difficult airways who underwent awake tracheal intubation using the LMA CTrach. Patients were given midazolam, atropine, a continuous infusion of remifentanil and topical lidocaine applied to the oropharyx. We limited the number of insertion attempts to three and the time to adjust the view to 5 min. In case of failure, we performed awake fibreoptic tracheal intubation. We found insertion of the device was successful and well tolerated in all patients. Vocal cords could be seen immediately in nine patients and following corrective manoeuvres in 10 patients. Tracheal intubation was successful in 20 patients: 19 cases under direct vision and in one blindly. In one patient with undiagnosed lingual tonsil hyperplasia, tracheal intubation was impossible using the device. No patient had an unpleasant recall of the procedure. We conclude that the LMA CTrach is easy to use, well tolerated and suitable for awake orotracheal intubation in patients with known difficult airways.

[Importance of monitoring neuroendoscopic intracranial pressure during anesthesia for neuroendoscopic surgery: review of 101 cases]

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to describe monitoring, anesthetic management, and risk factors for complications in neuroendoscopic surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients who underwent neuroendoscopy between 1994 and 2003 under general anesthesia, with monitoring of intracranial pressure from inside the neuroendoscope, were studied retrospectively. In some patients, the blood flow rate in the middle cerebral artery was monitored using transcranial Doppler ultrasound. Information was collected related to surgical procedure and the development of complications.

RESULTS

Of 101 patients included in the study, transcranial Doppler ultrasound images were available for 20. In 75 patients neuroendoscopic intracranial pressure exceeded 20 mm Hg. Forty-five percent of the patients with available transcranial Doppler ultrasound images showed episodes of reduced diastolic flow rate in the middle cerebral artery during ventricular irrigation. Hemodynamic instability was associated with higher neuroendoscopic intracranial pressures (P < .05). An increase of more than 30 mm Hg in neuroendoscopic intracranial pressure was associated with more postoperative complications, the most common of which was delayed awakening. Procedures that were more complicated than a simple ventriculostomy were performed in 58% of the cases. Mean (SD) neuroendoscopic intracranial pressures in such cases were higher (50.5 [30.9] mm Hg vs 31.8 [25.1 mm Hg] in the simpler procedures) and the postoperative complication rate was higher (P = .003).

CONCLUSIONS

Neuroendoscopic surgery can causes increases in neuroendoscopic intracranial pressure that are associated with disturbances in cerebral blood flow and complications. This situation demonstrates the importance of monitoring intracranial pressure and cerebral blood flow.

Intracellular ATP concentrations of CD4 cells in kidney transplant patients with and without infection

In the field of organ transplantation, overimmunosuppression is associated with severe side effects, such as infection, drug toxicity, and cancer, whereas underimmunosuppression is associated with acute rejection. Intracellular adenosine triphosphate (iATP) concentration following CD4 cell activation provides an assessment of cellular immune function to help monitor the immune status of immunosuppressed patients. This assay has shown to be the first post-transplant test related not only to the risk of acute rejection but also with the appearance of infection. The aim of our study was to compare the iATP concentrations of CD4 cells between healthy adults and kidney transplant recipients from a European population, analyzing the differences according to transplant clinical status. Samples from 81 kidney transplant patients who were admitted to our hospital over a nine-month period were drawn. T-cell activation was measured by determining the increase of iATP from CD4 cells. Results were compared with patient clinical status (rejection, infection, and stability). Three patients suffered an acute rejection episode and they were not included in the analysis (mean iATP concentration 247 +/- 87 ng/mL). iATP concentrations differed significantly between stable and infected patients (313 +/- 193 vs. 197 +/- 114 ng/mL; p = 0.008). iATP concentration values were not related to the length of admission, age, peak and current panel reactive antibodies, mismatches, leukocytes, weight, creatinine, days after transplantation and blood levels of cyclosporin, tacrolimus, and sirolimus. This assay measures global immune responses of CD4 T cells from a whole-blood sample, allowing for the assessment of the impact of immuno- suppressive drugs and of the patient's underlying clinical conditions. This assay identifies transplant patients at risk for infection or rejection, providing information which can guide immunosuppressive therapy.

New-onset diabetes after kidney transplantation: risk factors

New-onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) contributes to the risk for cardiovascular disease and infection, reducing graft and patient survival. For improvement of the outcome of kidney transplant recipients, it is of great interest to know precisely the risk factors that contribute to NODAT development. Nonmodifiable risk factors for development of NODAT are age, race, genetic background, family history of diabetes, and previous glucose intolerance. Modifiable risk factors are obesity and overweight, hepatitis C virus and cytomegalovirus infections, and immunosuppressive drugs. Both steroids and calcineurin inhibitors influence the appearance of NODAT, whereas the role of sirolimus in glucose metabolism currently is controversial.

[Neuroanesthetic practice in Catalonia. Results of a survey done on 2003]

INTRODUCTION

Health system planning requires the precise knowledge of the activity performed. We present the neuroanesthesic activity results in Catalonia during 2003.

METHODS

A prospective and cross-sectional survey was performed for 14 randomised days during 2003. All hospitals practicing anaesthesia in Catalonia took part in the survey. Data on characteristics of patients, anaesthetic techniques and type of procedure were included.

RESULTS

6909 neuroanesthetic procedures performed in Catalonia in 2003 (95% IC 6022-7847), a 1.28% of total surgical activity. A 74% of procedures were done in the public hospitals and a 26% in private hospitals. Patients mean age was 48 years old (95% IC 45.5-50.6). Scheduled procedures were 79.7%. The most frequent interventions were: Spine surgery 40.1 %; craniotomies for tumour resection 24.1%, for haemorrhage o trauma 7.2% and for aneurysms or AVM surgery 2.3%; ventricular shunts 2.6%. Mean duration of craneotomies for tumour resection was 287 -/+95 min. All patients were distributed postoperatively in a conventional recovery room (55.8 %), in a monitored care unit (19.2%) or in an intensive care unit (24.9 %). Craniotomy patients were admitted to an intensive care unit (41.6%), a monitored care unit (33.7%) or a conventional recovery room (24.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

About seven thousand Neurosurgical procedures were performed in Catalonia in 2003, in public (73.6%) and private (26.4%) hospitals. Spine surgery and craniotomies for tumour resection were the most frequently performed interventions. Craniotomy patients were mainly submitted to an ICU or a Monitored care unit.

[Clinical comparison of the reusable LMA Classic laryngeal mask and the disposable Soft Seal mask in adult patients]

OBJECTIVES

To compare the clinical behavior of the disposable Soft Seal laryngeal mask to the behavior of the reusable LMA Classic mask.

METHODS

Patients were randomly assigned to 2 groups in which either the LMA Classic or the Soft Seal mask would be used. We assessed time required for positioning and number of attempts, seal pressure, fiberoptic bronchoscopic image, and complications. The masks were inserted by 2 anesthesiologists who were inexperienced in the use of laryngeal masks. We also compared compliance of the cuff in the laboratory.

RESULTS

Sixty patients were enrolled. There were no differences in time required for insertion or number of attempts (first-try success, 83%). The mean (SD) seal pressure was greater in the Soft Seal group at 23 (4) cm H2O than in the LMA Classic group at 20 (4) cm H2O. There were no significant differences in the fiberoptic bronchoscopic images, ventilation, incidence of intraoperative complications, presence of blood on the cuff (LMA Classic, 6 out of 30 vs Soft Seal, 11 out of 29), or postoperative sore throat. In 3 patients in the Soft Seal group the laryngeal mask had to be replaced by an orotracheal tube. Cuff compliance in the laboratory was lower for the LMA Classic than for the disposable mask for all sizes assessed.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the results suggest that the clinical behavior of the 2 masks is similar, the LMA Classic allowed for effective airway management in all of the cases assigned to it, whereas management was effective in 90% of the cases in which the Soft Seal mask was used. The inflatable cuff of the Soft Seal is more compliant in vitro and it provides a higher airway seal pressure than does the LMA Classic.

Identification of novel mutations in WFS1 and genotype-phenotype correlation in Wolfram syndrome

Mutations in the WFS1 gene have been reported in Wolfram syndrome (WS), an autosomal recessive disorder defined by early onset of diabetes mellitus (DM) and progressive optic atrophy. Because of the low prevalence of this syndrome and the recent identification of the WFS1 gene, few data are available concerning the relationships between clinical and molecular aspects of the disease. Here, we describe 12 patients from 11 families with WS. We report on eight novel (A214fsX285, L293fsX303, P346L, I427S, V503fsX517, R558C, S605fsX711, P838L) and seven previously reported mutations. We also looked for genotype-phenotype correlation both in patients included in this study and 19 additional WS patients that were previously reported. Subsequently, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of five published clinical and molecular studies of WFS1 for genotype-phenotype correlation, combined with our current French patient group for a total of 96 patients. The presence of two inactivating mutations was shown to predispose to an earlier age of onset of both DM and optic atrophy. Moreover, the clinical expression of WS was more complete and occurred earlier in patients harboring no missense mutation.

Cerebrospinal Fluid Composition Modifications after Neuroendoscopic Procedures

Normal saline solution is currently used as the ventricular irrigation fluid during neuroendoscopic procedures. The aim of this study is to determine the alterations in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) composition after neuroendoscopic interventions. Twenty nine patients who underwent a neuroendoscopic procedure under general anaesthesia were studied. Temperature inside the cerebral ventricle was measured and samples of CSF were taken to determinate oxygen and carbon dioxide partial pressures, pH, base excess, ionised calcium, standard bicarbonate, glucose, sodium, potassium, magnesium, total calcium, proteins, chlorine and osmolality before initiating the irrigation and after the neuronavigation. Patient demographics, neuronavigation time, total fluid volume used and temperature of the irrigation solution and complications that appeared in the first 24 hours were collected. Mean age of the patients was 42+/-18 years. The mean neuronavigation time was 21.5+/-15.4 minutes. The mean amount of saline solution used for irrigation was 919.6+/-994.7 mL. All the values studied in the CSF, except osmolality, showed significant variations. There was a significant correlation between the CSF variation of pH, oxygen and carbon dioxide partial pressures, base excess, standard bicarbonate, glucose and total calcium with respect to the total volume of irrigation solution, but not with respect to the neuronavigation time. A cut-off point of 500 mL of irrigation solution (sensitivity 0.7; specificity 0.87) was related with a CSF pH decrease greater than 0.2. The use of saline as irrigation solution during neuroendoscopic procedures produces important changes in CSF.

[Abscess colon diverticular disease produced for Actinomyces israelii in a renal transplant recipient]

We present the case of a 53 years old man with a cadaveric kidney transplant under cyclosporin A and prednisolone therapy. Clinical transplant course was uneventful until 15 years after transplant, when he was admitted in our hospital with fever and a perirenal mass of unknown origin. Cyclosporin A was removed and a left sided colon was carried out and a abscess colon diverticular disease produced for Actinomyces israelii was diagnosed. The development was satisfactory after medical and surgical treatment.

[Behaviour of near-infrared cerebral oximetry readings during percutaneous carotid angioplasty]

BACKGROUND

Transluminal percutaneous carotid angioplasty and stenting (CAS) carries a risk of cerebral ischemia, hemorrhage, or edema due to relative hyperemia and hemodynamic instability during and after the procedure. Noninvasive monitoring of near-infrared regional cerebral oxygen saturation (SrO2) offers an indirect way to estimate cerebral blood flow.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the behaviour of SrO2 during CAS and the usefulness of this variable for continuous monitoring of cerebral blood flow variation and neurological status.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Prospective study of 25 patients scheduled for unilateral CAS under monitored anesthesia care. SrO, and other hemodynamic and clinical data were recorded. A change in SrO2 (deltaSrO2) of 15% or more in comparison with the baseline value and lasting more than 30 seconds was considered clinically significant. Neurological complications in the first 24 hours were also registered.

RESULTS

Baseline SrO, ranged from 51% to 75%. With administration of papaverine SrO2 values increased by a mean (SD) of 5.6% (6%) (P<.05 vs baseline). They decreased during angioplasty, -2.5% (5.7%) (P<.05 vs baseline), increased after 5 minutes, and fell again at 30 minutes to a level 3% (6.54%) above baseline. Two patients showed signs of elevated intracranial pressure after the procedures and also had ASrO2 readings exceeding 15%; measures to lower arterial hypertension reduced SrO2 in these patients.

CONCLUSION

High interindividual variability of absolute SrO2 values has been confirmed. SrO, fluctuates with maneuvers that change cerebral blood flow in the same way. Changes can precede the onset of other clinical signs.