Risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in bedridden or wheelchair-bound multiple sclerosis patients: A prospective study

Targeting Vascular Impairment, Neuroinflammation, and Oxidative Stress Dynamics with Whole-Body Cryotherapy in Multiple Sclerosis Treatment

Multiple sclerosis (MS), traditionally perceived as a neurodegenerative disease, exhibits significant vascular alternations, including blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption, which may predispose patients to increased cardiovascular risks. This vascular dysfunction is intricately linked with the infiltration of immune cells into the central nervous system (CNS), which plays a significant role in perpetuating neuroinflammation. Additionally, oxidative stress serves not only as a byproduct of inflammatory processes but also as an active contributor to neural damage. The synthesis of these multifaceted aspects highlights the importance of understanding their cumulative impact on MS progression. This review reveals that the triad of vascular damage, chronic inflammation, and oxidative imbalance may be considered interdependent processes that exacerbate each other, underscoring the need for holistic and multi-targeted therapeutic approaches in MS management. There is a necessity for reevaluating MS treatment strategies to encompass these overlapping pathologies, offering insights for future research and potential therapeutic interventions. Whole-body cryotherapy (WBCT) emerges as one of the potential avenues for holistic MS management approaches which may alleviate the triad of MS progression factors in multiple ways.

Anaesthetic management of people with multiple sclerosis

There is a lack of published guidelines on the management of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) undergoing procedures that require anaesthesia and respective advice is largely based on retrospective studies or case reports. The aim of this paper is to provide recommendations for anaesthetists and neurologists for the management of patients with MS requiring anaesthesia. This review covers issues related to the anaesthetic management of patients with MS, with a focus on preoperative assessment, choice of anaesthetic techniques and agents, side-effects of drugs used during anaesthesia and their potential impact on the disease evolution, drug interactions that may occur, and the need to use monitoring devices. A systematic PubMed research was performed to retrieve relevant articles.

Stroke risk in multiple sclerosis: a critical appraisal of the literature

Observational studies suggest that the occurrence of stroke on multiple sclerosis (MS) patients is higher compared to the general population. MS is a heterogeneous disease that involves an interplay of genetic, environmental and immune factors. The occurrence of stroke is subject to a wide range of both modifiable and non-modifiable, short- and long-term risk factors. Both MS and stroke share common risk factors. The immune mechanisms that underlie stroke are similar to neurodegenerative diseases and are attributed to neuroinflammation. The inflammation in autoimmune diseases may, therefore, predispose to an increased risk for stroke or potentiate the effect of conventional stroke risk factors. There are, however, additional determinants that contribute to a higher risk and incidence of stroke in MS. Due to the challenges that are associated with their differential diagnosis, the objective is to present an overview of the factors that may contribute to increased susceptibility or occurrence of stroke in MSpatients by performing a review of the available to date literature. As both MS and stroke can individually detrimentally affect the quality of life of afflicted patients, the identification of factors that contribute to an increased risk for stroke in MS is crucial for the prompt implementation of preventative therapeutic measures to limit the additive burden that stroke imposes.

Physical disability and venous thromboembolism during pregnancy and the postpartum period: a population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy and the postpartum period are a high-risk time for venous thromboembolism (VTE). Decreased mobility is also a major risk factor. However, the risk of peripregnancy VTE among individuals with physical disabilities is unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the risk of peripregnancy VTE between people with a physical disability and those without a physical disability.

METHODS

This population-based cohort study comprised all births in Ontario, Canada, from 2007 to 2018. Physical disability was defined as a condition diagnosed before conception that was likely to result in restricted mobility. Modified Poisson regression was used to compare the risk of VTE during pregnancy and up to 6 weeks postpartum between people with a physical disability and those without a physical disability. Adjusted relative risks (aRRs) were calculated, controlling for demographics, history of VTE, thrombophilia, and other comorbidities. An additional analysis was used to evaluate the risk of peripregnancy VTE among people with physical disabilities who used a mobility aid.

RESULTS

Of 1 220 822 eligible people, 13 791 (1.1%) had a physical disability. VTE occurred during pregnancy or up to 6 weeks of the postpartum period in 0.85% of the individuals with a physical disability and 0.47% of those without a physical disability (aRR, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.26-1.83). The rate of VTE was notably higher in those with a physical disability requiring a mobility aid (3.0%), generating an aRR of 3.05 (95% CI, 1.45-6.41), than in those without a physical disability.

CONCLUSION

Pregnant people with a physical disability, especially those using a mobility aid, are at an increased risk of VTE. Anticoagulant prophylaxis could be considered in this group, especially in the presence of additional risk factors.

Soft tissue infection and follow-up for an unsheltered patient: the role of Street Medicine providers in bridging gaps in care

Street Medicine is a volunteer-run initiative for low-resource healthcare settings. Formed to bridge gaps in care for persons experiencing homelessness, these organisations work to provide preventative medicine through maintenance care and follow-up. However, there are limits to what Street Medicine can accomplish given the geographical radius covered, lack of available transportation options and vulnerable sleeping locations night to night for the patients served. The subject of this case report is a middle-aged Spanish-speaking unsheltered man who began his care with a Street Medicine team. He was unable to attend medical appointments due to relocation, complicating his disease course and resulting in hospital intervention for cellulitis. Post-discharge, he stayed within radius and was treated by the street team. Increased emphasis on the effects of housing insecurity and addressing social determinants of health could prevent deterioration of manageable diseases and should be an area of active interest for Street Medicine team expansion.

Incidence and risk factors for venous thromboembolism during an acute attack in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders

BACKGROUND

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) patients may be at increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) during the acute attack, but evidence is limited.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) patients with an acute attack and to identify the potential risk factors for the development of VTE.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of NMOSD patients with an acute attack between January 1, 2015, and June 31, 2021. Diagnosis of DVT or PE was objectively confirmed by doppler ultrasound or computed tomographic pulmonary angiography (CTPA) during their acute hospital stay.

RESULTS

We identified 184 attacks in 128 NMOSD patients with the mean age of 46.9 years at the time of the attack and female predominance (152/184, 83.2%). VTE occurred in 22 (12.0%) attacks. Among the 22 attacks, 20 presented with transverse myelitis (TM), 1 cerebral syndrome (CS), and 1 simultaneous TM and brainstem syndrome (BS). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that advanced age [odds ratio (OR) = 1.08, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.04-1.12, p = 0.000], Nadir Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS)>6.5(OR = 3.39, 95% CI = 1.22-10.10, p = 0.029) and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment (OR = 3.21, 95% CI = 1.15-8.91, p = 0.025) were independent risk factors for the development of VTE in the total NMOSD cohort. In the subgroup analysis of the NMOSD patients with TM, age at attack (OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.03-1.11, p = 0.002) and IVIG treatment (OR = 4.23, 95% CI = 1.44-12.45, p = 0.009) were independent risk factors for the development of VTE in the total NMOSD cohort, but Nadir EDSS>6.5 was not an independent risk factor.

CONCLUSIONS

VTE is a frequent complication in NMOSD patients, especially in patients with TM. Advanced age and IVIG are independent risk factors for VTE. Immobilization is an independent risk factor for VTE in the total NMOSD cohort but not in the subgroup analysis of the patients with TM.

Iliofemoral venous stenting in patients with central neuromuscular disorders

BACKGROUND

Leg swelling in patients with various central neuromuscular disorders is a common clinical scenario and can lead to significant morbidity. The aim of the present study was to evaluate a subset of patients with central neuromuscular disorders who had undergone iliofemoral venous stenting at a specialty venous clinic at a tertiary care hospital.

METHODS

From January 2000 to December 2020, the medical records of all patients with a known central neuromuscular disorder who had undergone iliofemoral venous stenting for chronic iliofemoral venous obstruction were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 42 patients (45 limbs) with central neuromuscular disorders had undergone iliofemoral stenting after failure of a trial of conservative therapy. The central neuromuscular disorders included Parkinson disease (n = 20 limbs), multiple sclerosis (n = 15 limbs), and other neuromuscular conditions (n = 10 limbs). The mean age of the sample was 59 ± 14 years. The ratio of post-thrombotic to nonthrombotic iliac vein lesions was 3:1. Most of the patients had had CEAP (clinical, etiologic, anatomic, pathophysiologic) class ≥C4 (64.4%); 25 limbs had a history of venous thromboembolism (56%). A trend was seen toward improvement in all clinical parameters measured (venous clinical severity score, visual analog scale for pain score, and edema grade) after stenting. An ulcer healing rate of ≤90% was noted after stenting. Of the 45 limbs, 24 had required some form of reintervention (53%) after initial stent placement.

CONCLUSIONS

Venous intervention in the form of endovenous stenting was associated with improvement in the clinical parameters for patients with central neuromuscular disorders. However, these patients should be counseled regarding the relatively higher rate of reinterventions that might be required to correct residual or recurrent symptoms.

Deep venous thrombosis in patients with neurological diseases: A multicenter, prospective study

OBJECTIVE

Patients with neurological diseases are liable to develop deep venous thrombosis (DVT) due to various factors. We investigated the prevalence, related factors, and prognosis of DVT in patients with neurological diseases.

METHODS

Patients admitted to four hospitals due to neurological diseases were prospectively recruited. Those with cerebrovascular diseases were excluded. To screen for DVT, ultrasonography was performed in patients with possible DVT risk, such as D-dimer > 1.0 µg/dL, recent surgery, active malignant diseases, recent bone fracture, decreased activity, or treatment with immunoglobulin or steroid therapy. Clinical characteristics were compared between patients with and without DVT.

RESULTS

A total of 106 patients (54 women, median 71 years old) were included. DVT was detected in 27 patients (26.0%) at the first assessment. All had DVT only in the calf; encephalopathy/meningitis (n = 4, 40.0%) had the highest prevalence of DVT among the underlying neurological diseases, followed by parkinsonian syndrome (n = 6, 37.5%). Independent predictors for DVT detection were malignant diseases (odds ratio, 11.7; 95% confidence interval, 1.0-301.4), modified Rankin Scale score ≥ 4 (5.4; 1.9-16.6), and D-dimer ≥ 2.0 µg/dL (5.7; 2.1-16.7). Ten patients were treated with anticoagulants, and no patients developed a symptomatic pulmonary embolism. No clinically evident pulmonary embolisms, systemic embolisms, or severe bleeding complications were observed in patients with DVT.

CONCLUSIONS

Asymptomatic DVT is not rare in patients with neurological diseases, especially in those with malignancy, decreased activity, or elevated D-dimer. The overall prognosis is favorable, but the potential risk of development of a pulmonary embolism should be recognized.

Microengineered Human Vein-Chip Recreates Venous Valve Architecture and Its Contribution to Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and its consequences are lethal, but current models cannot completely dissect its determinants-endothelium, flow, and blood constituents-together called Virchow's triad. Most models for studying DVT forego assessment of venous valves that serve as the primary sites of DVT formation. Therefore, the knowledge of DVT formed at the venous cusps has remained obscure due to lack of experimental models. Here, organ-on-chip methodology is leveraged to create a Vein-Chip platform integrating fully vascularized venous valves and its hemodynamic, as seen in vivo. These Vein-Chips reveal that vascular endothelium of valve cusps adapts to the locally disturbed microenvironment by expressing a different phenotype from the regions of uniform flow. This spatial adaptation of endothelial function recreated on the in vitro Vein-Chip platform is shown to protect the vein from thrombosis from disturbed flow in valves, but interestingly, cytokine stimulation reverses the effect and switches the valve endothelium to becoming prothrombotic. The platform eventually modulates the three factors of Virchow's triad and provides a systematic approach to investigate the determinants of fibrin and platelet dynamics of DVT. Therefore, this Vein-Chip offers a new preclinical approach to study venous pathophysiology and show effects of antithrombotic drug treatment.

Metformin as a Potential Agent in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis

Metformin, a synthetic derivative of guanidine, is commonly used as an oral antidiabetic agent and is considered a multi-vector application agent in the treatment of other inflammatory diseases. Recent studies have confirmed the beneficial effect of metformin on immune cells, with special emphasis on immunological mechanisms. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by various clinical courses. Although the pathophysiology of MS remains unknown, it is most likely a combination of disturbances of the immune system and biochemical pathways with a disruption of blood-brain barrier (BBB), and it is strictly related to injury of intracerebral blood vessels. Metformin has properties which are greatly desirable for MS therapy, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory or antiplatelet functions. The latest reports relating to the cardiovascular disease confirm an increased risk of ischemic events in MS patients, which are directly associated with a coagulation cascade and an elevated pro-thrombotic platelet function. Hence, this review examines the potential favourable effects of metformin in the course of MS, its role in preventing inflammation and endothelial dysfunction, as well as its potential antiplatelet role.

Muscle Thickness of Anterior Mid-Thigh in Hospitalized Patients: Comparison of Supine and Standing Postures

Objectives

To compare the magnitude changes in muscle thickness (MTH) of the anterior mid-thigh between the supine and standing postures.

Design

Experimental.

Setting

University hospital laboratory.

Participants

Inpatients (N=283) between the ages of 29 and 93 years (193 men, 90 women) with cardiovascular disease who volunteered for this study.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measures

MTH of the anterior mid-thigh was measured with a 10 MHz ultrasound probe while the participants stood or lay supine in a relaxed position with their arms extended and by their sides.

Results

Age and percentage of body fat were greater (P<.01) in women than in men (74.3±12.3 vs 67.7±12.1y and 32.6±10.3% vs 27.4±7.4%, respectively), but standing height, body weight, and body mass index were greater (P<.01) in men than in women (164.9±6.3 vs 149.1±7.5 cm, 65.4±12.7 vs 49.5±11.1 kg, and 23.8±3.9 vs 22.1±4.4 kg/m², respectively). Correlations were found between the standing posture and supine position in the anterior-mid thigh MTH for both men (r=0.85; P<.01) and women (r=0.82; P<.01). In the anterior-mid thigh for men and women, MTH was greater in the standing posture (3.7±1.0 vs 2.5±0.7 cm) than in supine position (3.1±0.8 vs 2.1±0.7 cm) (both P<.01).

Conclusions

In this study, MTH of the anterior mid-thigh during prolonged hospitalization was approximately 16% higher in men than in women regardless of posture, and was approximately 32% higher in standing posture than in the supine position regardless of sex.

The effects of a standardized nursing intervention model on immobile patients with stroke: a multicenter study in China

BACKGROUND

Immobility complications, including pressure injuries (PIs), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pneumonia, and urinary tract infections (UTIs), affect the clinical outcomes of stroke patients. A standardized nursing intervention model (SNIM) was constructed and implemented to improve the quality of care and clinical outcomes among immobile patients with stroke.

AIMS

To assess the benefit of SNIM for immobility complication rates, including PIs, DVT, pneumonia, and UTIs, and mortalities in immobile patients with stroke.

METHODS

A before and after study design was used. Patients were divided into a pre- and post-SNIM training original cohort and matched for socioeconomic, demographic, and disease characteristics using propensity score. We fitted logistic regression models to examine the effect of SNIM, and whether the benefit differed between tertiary and non-tertiary hospitals.

RESULTS

In the original cohort, the rate of pneumonia, UTIs, and mortality was lower after SNIM training. Furthermore, in the matched cohort, the difference in PI rates was significant. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the probability of PIs, pneumonia, UTIs, and mortality were significantly reduced after SNIM training in the original cohort and this estimated value changed little in the matched cohort. Our results show that the decreased rates of pneumonia, UTIs, and mortality were mainly among non-tertiary hospitals.

CONCLUSIONS

A structured and systematic SNIM benefited immobile stroke patients' clinical outcomes, but mainly in non-tertiary hospitals in China. Standardized nursing training is needed in non-tertiary hospitals.

Pro-Thrombotic Activity of Blood Platelets in Multiple Sclerosis

The available data, including experimental studies, clearly indicate an excessive intravascular activation of circulating platelets in multiple sclerosis (MS) and their hyper-responsiveness to a variety of physiological activators. Platelet activation is manifested as an increased adhesion and aggregation and is accompanied by the formation of pro-thrombotic microparticles. Activated blood platelets also show an expression of specific membrane receptors, synthesis many of biomediators, and generation of reactive oxygen species. Epidemiological studies confirm the high risk of stroke or myocardial infarction in MS that are ischemic incidents, strictly associated with incorrect platelet functions and their over pro-thrombotic activity. Chronic inflammation and high activity of pro-oxidative processes in the course of MS are the main factors identified as the cause of excessive platelet activation. The primary biological function of platelets is to support vascular integrity, but the importance of platelets in inflammatory diseases is also well documented. The pro-thrombotic activity of platelets and their inflammatory properties play a part in the pathophysiology of MS. The analysis of platelet function capability in MS could provide useful information for studying the pathogenesis of this disease. Due to the complexity of pathological processes in MS, medication must be multifaceted and blood platelets can probably be identified as new targets for therapy in the future.

Short Physical Performance Battery for cardiovascular disease inpatients: implications for critical factors and sarcopenia

We examined the relationship between Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and clinical and laboratory factors and the effect of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity (SO) on clinical and laboratory factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) inpatients. CVD male (n = 318) and female (n = 172) inpatients were recruited. A stepwise multiple-regression analysis was performed to predict total SPPB scores and assess clinical and laboratory factors (physical characteristics, functional and morphological assessments, etc.). Each test outcome were compared among sarcopenia, SO and non-sarcopenic groups. To predict total SPPB scores, the predicted handgrip, Controlling Nutritional Status score, % body fat, anterior mid-thigh muscle thickness, standing height and systolic blood pressure were calculated for males and anterior mid-thigh MTH, BMI, knee extension and fat mass were calculated for females. There were no differences in blood pressure, total SPPB scores and functional assessments between sarcopenia and SO groups for CVD male and female inpatients. In conclusion, the physical performance of CVD inpatients can be predicted by nutritional, functional, clinical and anthropometric variables, regardless the gender and the presence of sarcopenia. Furthermore, the presence of sarcopenia has a negative effect on the clinical and laboratory factors, but there is a difference in impact between sarcopenia and SO regardless the gender.

Short physical performance battery for middle-aged and older adult cardiovascular disease patients: implication for strength tests and lower extremity morphological evaluation

[Purpose] To examine if the SPPB is higher with healthy subjects than outpatients, which was higher than inpatients and if the SPPB can be validated assessment tool for strength tests and lower extremity morphological evaluation in cardiovascular disease patients. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-four middle aged and older adults with cardiovascular disease were recruited from inpatient and outpatient facilities and assigned to separate experimental groups. Twelve age-matched healthy volunteers were assigned to a control group. SPPB test was used to assess balance and functional motilities. The test outcomes were compared with level of care (inpatient vs. outpatient), physical characteristics, strength and lower extremity morphology. [Results] Total SPPB scores, strength tests (knee extensor muscle strength), and lower extremity morphological evaluation (muscle thickness of anterior and posterior mid-thigh and posterior lower-leg) were greater in healthy subjects and outpatients groups compared with inpatients. To predict total Short Physical Performance Battery scores, the predicted knee extension and anterior mid-thigh muscle thickness were calculated. [Conclusion] The SPPB is an effective tool as the strength tests and lower extremity morphological evaluation for middle-aged and older adult cardiovascular disease patients. Notably, high knee extensor muscle strength and quadriceps femoris muscle thickness are positively associated with high SPPB scores.

Risk Factors for Venous Thromboembolism Among Reproductive Age Women

BACKGROUND

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is rare among young women and is often presumed to occur in the setting of a genetic predisposition or during the use of estrogen-containing combined hormonal contraceptive or to have an unknown cause. This study aims to describe the distribution of VTE risk factors among women with a confirmed VTE.

METHODS

We identified all women aged 15-46 years with a VTE diagnosis at Columbia University Medical Center from 2005 to 2012 using medical center databases. We then reviewed all electronic medical records to validate the diagnoses and identify risk factors associated with each confirmed case.

RESULTS

We identified 315 cases and confirmed 186 (59%). The proportion of unconfirmed cases increased over time. Forty percent of confirmed cases were associated with hormonal contraceptives or pregnancy. Ninety-five percent of confirmed cases had identifiable major risk factors including a personal history, family history, malignancy or other predisposing illness, recent long-haul travel, trauma, hospitalization, and obesity; many had multiple simultaneous risk factors. None of the confirmed cases was associated with a previously known genetic predisposition, but in 10 confirmed cases a genetic predisposition was identified during evaluation. In only 10 of the 186 confirmed cases could we not identify any acquired risk factor, and only 2 of those 10 women had a genetic predisposition.

CONCLUSIONS

Many reproductive age women experiencing a VTE have risk factors unique to this group, and most have multiple risk factors, confirming that this is a multifactorial disease. The large proportion of unconfirmed cases suggests the need for great caution in using administrative databases for research due to poor diagnostic specificity and due to lack of information about additional risk factors.

Thyroid function, as assessed by TSH, and future risk of venous thromboembolism: the Tromsø study

OBJECTIVE

The relationship between thyroid function and the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) has not been addressed in population-based cohorts. We investigated the association between TSH levels and the risk of VTE in a general adult population.

DESIGN

Population-based cohort study.

METHODS

TSH was measured in 11 962 subjects aged 25-89 years who participated in Tromsø 4-6 starting in 1994-1995. Incident VTE events were recorded through 31st December 2010. Cox's regression models with TSH as a time-varying covariate were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) of VTE by TSH categories (low TSH: <0.05  mU/l; moderately reduced TSH: 0.05-0.19  mU/l; normal TSH: 0.20-4.00  mU/l; moderately elevated TSH: 4.01-5.00  mU/l; and high TSH: >5.00 mU/l) and within the normal range of TSH, modeling TSH as a continuous variable.

RESULTS

There were 289 VTEs during 8.2 years of median follow-up. Subjects with low (prevalence: 0.22%) and high (3.01%) TSH had slightly higher risk estimates for VTE than did subjects with normal TSH (multivariable HRs: 2.16, 95% CI 0.69-6.76 and 1.55, 95% CI 0.87-2.77 respectively), but the CIs were wide. Moreover, there was no association between TSH within the normal range and VTE (HR per 1 mU/l increase: 0.95, 95% CI 0.82-1.11).

CONCLUSION

Serum levels of TSH within the normal range were not associated with a risk of VTE, whereas low and high TSH levels were rare and associated with a moderately higher risk of VTE. The present findings suggest that only a minor proportion of the VTE risk in the population can be attributed to thyroid dysfunction.

Aspirin and multiple sclerosis

Aspirin is widely used to lessen the risks of cardiovascular events. Some studies suggest that patients with multiple sclerosis have an increased risk for some cardiovascular events, for example, venous thromboembolism and perhaps ischemic strokes, raising the possibility that aspirin could lessen these increased risks in this population or subgroups (patients with limited mobility and/or antiphospholipid antibodies). However, aspirin causes a small increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke, which is a concern as it could potentially worsen a compromised blood-brain barrier. Aspirin has the potential to ameliorate the disease process in multiple sclerosis (for example, by limiting some components of inflammation), but aspirin also has the potential to inhibit mitochondrial complex I activity, which is already reduced in multiple sclerosis. In an experimental setting of a cerebral ischemic lesion, aspirin promoted the proliferation and/or differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursors, raising the possibility that aspirin could facilitate remyelination efforts in multiple sclerosis. Other actions by aspirin may lead to small improvements of some symptoms (for example, lessening fatigue). Here we consider potential benefits and risks of aspirin usage by patients with multiple sclerosis.

Robot-assisted walking with the Lokomat: the influence of different levels of guidance force on thorax and pelvis kinematics

BACKGROUND

Little attention has been devoted to the thorax and pelvis movements during gait. The aim of this study is to compare differences in the thorax and pelvis kinematics during unassisted walking on a treadmill and during walking with robot assistance (Lokomat-system (Hocoma, Volketswil, Switzerland)).

METHODS

18 healthy persons walked on a treadmill with and without the Lokomat system at 2kmph. Three different conditions of guidance force (30%, 60% and 100%) were used during robot-assisted treadmill walking (30% body weight support). The maximal movement amplitudes of the thorax and pelvis were measured (Polhemus Liberty™ (Polhemus, Colchester, Vermont, USA) (240/16)). A repeated measurement ANOVA was conducted.

FINDINGS

Robot-assisted treadmill walking with different levels of guidance force showed significantly smaller maximal movement amplitudes for thorax and pelvis, compared to treadmill walking. Only the antero-posterior tilting of the pelvis was significantly increased during robot-assisted treadmill walking compared to treadmill walking. No significant changes of kinematic parameters were found between the different levels of guidance force.

INTERPRETATION

With regard to the thorax and pelvis movements, robot-assisted treadmill walking is significantly different compared to treadmill walking. It can be concluded that when using robot assistance, the thorax is stimulated in a different way than during walking without robot assistance, influencing the balance training during gait.

Anesthetic management of a patient with multiple sclerosis undergoing cesarean section with low dose epidural bupivacaine

A 32-year-old Indian female 38 weeks pregnant, with a history of multiple sclerosis since 2008 was admitted in obstetric ward for safe confinement. She had a history of diminution of vision in both eyes and limb weakness, relapsing – remitting type with movement-induced muscle spasms, in all the four limbs. Her symptoms were usually diplopia, difficulty in vision and ataxic gait. Sh was then treated with methylprednisolone. She was on oral dimethyl fumarate trial, which was stopped at the beginning of pregnancy. Presently, she was completely asymptomatic. Epidural anesthesia with an indwelling catheter was administered with 15 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine in 5 ml increments. A total of 3 mg of epidural morphine was given for post-operative analgesia. The surgery evolved without any intercurrences and patient was discharged from the hospital 72 h after surgery without worsening of her symptoms. We report a safe anesthetic management of a patient with MS undergoing cesarean section with low dose epidural bupivacaine with the addition of morphine for post-operative analgesia.

Problematic clinical features of powered wheelchair users with severely disabling multiple sclerosis

PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to describe the clinical features of powered wheelchair users with severely disabling multiple sclerosis (MS) and explore the problematic clinical features influencing prescription.

METHOD

Retrospective review of electronic and case note records of recipients of electric-powered indoor/outdoor powered wheelchairs (EPIOCs) attending a specialist wheelchair service between June 2007 and September 2008. Records were reviewed by a consultant in rehabilitation medicine, data systematically extracted and entered into a computer database. Further data were entered from clinical records. Data were extracted under three themes; demographic, diagnostic, clinical and wheelchair factors.

RESULTS

Records of 28 men mean age 57 (range 37-78, SD 12) years and 63 women mean age 57 (range 35-81, SD 11) years with MS were reviewed a mean of 64 (range 0-131) months after receiving their wheelchair. Twenty two comorbidities, 11 features of MS and 8 features of disability were thought to influence wheelchair prescription. Fifteen users were provided with specialised seating and 46 with tilt-in-space seats.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that people with severe MS requiring an EPIOC benefit from a holistic assessment to identify problematic clinical features that influence the prescription of the EPIOC and further medical and therapeutic interventions.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

People with multiple sclerosis (MS), referred for an EPIOC, require a full clinical assessment to identify problematic clinical features that are potentially treatable and/or can be accommodated through specialised seating and tilt. The beneficial effects of TIS should be considered for all EPIOC users with MS and particularly for those with comorbidity Poorly controlled spasticity, when identified in people with MS, should be managed through positioning in the chair, pressure-relieving cushion and referral for medical management.

Multiple sclerosis clinical course and cardiovascular disease risk - Swedish cohort study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk amongst multiple sclerosis (MS) patients appears raised, but few studies have examined CVD risk amongst an unselected MS patient group. MS course may be relevant for CVD risk. Our aim was to assess CVD risk and variation by course in MS patients.

METHODS

The Multiple Sclerosis Register identified 7667 patients who received an MS diagnosis between 1964 and 2005. They were matched by age, period, region and sex with 76 045 members of the general population without MS using Swedish registers. Poisson regression compared the two cohorts to estimate the relative risk for CVD, overall, as well as grouped and individual CVD diagnoses.

RESULTS

MS patients had an increased adjusted relative risk (with 95% confidence intervals; number of MS cohort events) for CVD of 1.31 (1.22-1.41; n = 847), with some variation by course: relapsing-remitting 1.38 (1.17-1.62; n = 168); secondary progressive 1.30 (1.18-1.53; n = 405) and primary progressive 1.15 (0.93-1.41; n = 108). The association for the relapsing-remitting course was not significant after excluding the first year of follow-up. Overall incidence rates per 1000 person-years for CVD are 11.8 (11.06-12.66) for the MS cohort and 8.8 (8.60-9.05) for the non-MS cohort. The most pronounced association was for deep vein thrombosis: relapsing-remitting 2.16 (1.21-3.87; n = 14), secondary progressive 3.41 (2.45-4.75; n = 52) and primary progressive 3.57 (1.95-6.56; n = 15). MS was associated with ischaemic stroke but largely during the first year of follow-up. MS was associated with a decreased relative risk for angina pectoris and atrial fibrillation.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a significantly increased relative risk for CVD in MS, particularly for venous thromboembolic disorders in progressive MS, suggesting immobility as a possible factor. An increased frequency of ischaemic stroke in MS is most probably due to surveillance bias resulting from diagnostic investigations for MS. There is no increased relative risk for ischaemic heart disease in MS and atrial fibrillation appears to be less common than amongst the general population.

The risk of venous thromboembolism in patients with multiple sclerosis: the Clinical Practice Research Datalink

BACKGROUND

In patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), disability and autoinflammatory processes may result in an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the risk of VTE associated with MS.

METHODS

We conducted an observational-cohort study within the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (1987-2009) linked to the National Registry of Hospitalizations (1997-2008). At the time of MS diagnosis, a comparison cohort (N = 33 370) without a recorded MS diagnosis during the study period was matched (6:1) to the MS cohort (n = 5566) by birth year, sex, and practice. Subjects were followed from the index date until the occurrence of VTE, end of data collection, migration, or death, whichever came first. Cox proportional-hazards models were used to derive adjusted hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for VTE associated with MS and VTE risk factors within the MS cohort. Time-dependent adjustments were made for age, comorbidity, and medication use.

RESULTS

Compared with the comparison cohort, a 2.6-fold increased risk of VTE was observed for MS patients (adjusted hazard ratio 2.56, 95% confidence interval 2.06-3.20). A prior VTE event, varicose veins, obesity, and major trauma were found to be associated with an increased risk of VTE within the MS population. Moreover, the risk of VTE was increased in MS patients with recent records indicating immobility, spasticity, glucocorticoid use, or disability.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with MS had an increased risk of VTE. Furthermore, our results provide evidence that this association is, at least in part, mediated through an increased prevalence of VTE risk factors in MS patients.

Hyperglycemia, assessed according to HbA1c , and future risk of venous thromboembolism: the Tromsø study

BACKGROUND

HbA1c , a marker of average plasma glucose level during the previous 8-12 weeks, is associated with the future risk of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the association between hyperglycemia, assessed according to HbA1c , and the future risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in a population-based cohort.

METHODS

HbA1c was measured in 16 156 unique subjects (25-87 years) who participated in one or more surveys of the Tromsø study (Tromsø 4, 1994-1995; Tromsø 5, 2001-2002; and Tromsø 6, 2007-2008). All subjects were followed, and incident VTE events were recorded up to 31 December 2010.

RESULTS

There were 333 validated first VTE events, of which 137 were unprovoked, during a median follow-up of 7.1 years. HbA1c was not associated with the future risk of VTE in analyses treating HbA1c as a continuous variable, or in categorized analyses. The risk of VTE increased by 5% per one standard deviation (0.7%) increase in HbA1c (multivariable-adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.97-1.14), and subjects with HbA1c  ≥ 6.5% had a 27% higher risk than those with HbA1c  < 5.7% (multivariable-adjusted HR 1.27; 95% CI 0.72-2.26). There was no significant linear trend for an increased risk of VTE across categories of HbA1c (P = 0.27).

CONCLUSIONS

Serum levels of HbA1c were not associated with the future risk of VTE in multivariable analysis. Our findings suggest that hyperglycemia does not play an important role in the pathogenesis of VTE.

Venous thromboembolism in neurologic disease

Patients with neurologic disease are at high risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) because of relative immobility. They are also at increased risk due to the presence of a hypercoagulable state. Patients with spinal cord injuries, brain tumors, and strokes are at particularly high risk and extra vigilance is needed in these patients. Because VTE is very common in hospitalized neurologic and neurosurgical patients, mechanical thromboprophylaxis is indicated in virtually all patients. Pharmacologic prophylaxis with either subcutaneous heparin or low molecular heparinoids should be given to all high-risk neurologic and neurosurgical patients provided there are no major contraindications. The major concern would be a risk of bleeding but in some patients alternate drugs must be considered given the risk of thrombosis (i.e., in the context of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia). The immediate or long-term treatment of full dose anticoagulation for VTE may not be appropriate in all patients as VTE therapy represents a balance between the risks of bleeding related to anticoagulant therapy versus the risk of recurrent events. An inferior vena cava (IVC) filter is another option in these patients but may not necessarily be the best choice for most neurologic patients. Given the high risk of VTE in patients with neurologic diseases, early recognition by clinicians of the signs and symptoms of VTE is essential.

Postural abnormality as a risk marker for leg deep venous thrombosis in Parkinson's disease

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary thromboembolism is a common cause of death in patients with autopsy-confirmed Parkinsonism. This study investigated the incidence of leg deep vein thrombosis in Parkinson's disease and relationships between deep vein thrombosis and clinical/laboratory findings, including postural abnormalities as assessed by photographic measurements.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study assessed the presence of deep vein thrombosis using bilateral leg Doppler ultrasonography in 114 asymptomatic outpatients with Parkinson's disease.

RESULTS

Deep vein thrombosis was detected in 23 patients (20%) with Parkinson's disease. Deep vein thrombosis was located in the distal portion in 18 patients and in the proximal portion in 5 patients. No significant differences in age, sex, body mass index, disease duration, Hoehn-Yahr stage, anti-Parkinson's drugs, or daily levodopa-equivalent dose were seen between deep vein thrombosis-positive and -negative groups. Univariate analysis for developing deep vein thrombosis in patients with Parkinson's disease identified the following markers: long-term wheelchair use, bent knee, bent spine, and D-dimer elevation. Bending angles were significantly greater in the deep vein thrombosis-positive group at the knee and spine than in the deep vein thrombosis-negative group. Half of Parkinson's disease patients with camptocormia had deep vein thrombosis. Among diabetes mellitus cases, long-term wheelchair use, bent knee over 15°, camptocormia, D-dimer elevation, the more risk markers were associated with a higher incidence of DVT. The presence of risk markers contributed to the development of deep vein thrombosis. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, a bent knee posture was strongly associated with an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis.

CONCLUSION

Presence of leg deep vein thrombosis correlated with postural abnormalities in Parkinson's disease. We recommend non-invasive ultrasonographic screening for leg deep vein thrombosis in these high-risk patients with Parkinson's disease.

Risk of venous thrombosis in patients with major illnesses: results from the MEGA study

BACKGROUND

The risk of venous thrombosis associated with major illnesses is not well known, and neither is the risk associated with the combined effect of immobilization and thrombophilia. The aim of this study was to assess the effect on the development of venous thrombosis of several major illnesses in combination with immobilization, body mass index, and thrombophilia, to identify high-risk groups that may provide a basis for personalized prevention.

METHODS

This study included 4311 consecutive patients with a first episode of venous thrombosis, and 5768 controls from a case-control study (MEGA study). We calculated odds ratios (ORs) for venous thrombosis for patients with a self-reported history of major illnesses.

RESULTS

Venous thrombosis risk was increased for all investigated major illnesses: liver disease, OR 1.7 (95% confidence interval [CI]1.0-2.9); kidney disease, OR 3.7 (95% CI 2.3-5.9); rheumatoid arthritis, OR 1.5 (95% CI 1.2-1.9); multiple sclerosis, OR 2.4 (95% CI 1.3-4.3); heart failure, OR 1.7 (95% CI 1.2-2.3); hemorrhagic stroke, OR 4.9 (95% CI 2.4-9.9); arterial thrombosis, OR 1.5 (95% CI 1.2-1.8); and the presence of any of the above major illnesses, OR 1.7 (95% CI 1.5-1.9). Combinations of major illnesses with immobilization and increased factor VIII (OR 79.9; 95% CI 33.2-192.2), increased FIX (OR 35.3; 95% CI 14.2-87.8), increased von Willebrand factor (OR 88.0; 95% CI 33.9-228.3), FV Leiden (OR 84.2; 95% CI 19.5-363.6), and blood group non-O (OR 53.1; 95% CI 30.9-91.4) were associated with increased venous thrombosis risks.

CONCLUSIONS

All of the major illnesses reported here were associated with an increased risk of venous thrombosis. These risks were most pronounced at the time of immobilization or in the presence of thrombophilia.

Risk of venous thromboembolism in patients nursed at home or in long-term care residential facilities

Background. This study investigated the prevalence of and impact of risk factors for deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in patients with chronic diseases, bedridden or with greatly limited mobility, cared for at home or in long-term residential facilities. Methods. We enrolled 221 chronically ill patients, all over 18 years old, markedly or totally immobile, at home or in long-term care facilities. They were screened at the bedside by simplified compression ultrasound. Results. The prevalence of asymptomatic proximal DVT was 18% (95% CI 13–24%); there were no cases of symptomatic DVT or pulmonary embolism. The best model with at most four risk factors included: previous VTE, time of onset of reduced mobility, long-term residential care as opposed to home care and causes of reduced mobility. The risk of DVT for patients with reduced mobility due to cognitive impairment was about half that of patients with cognitive impairment/dementia. Conclusions. This is a first estimate of the prevalence of DVT among bedridden or low-mobility patients. Some of the risk factors that came to light, such as home care as opposed to long-term residential care and cognitive deficit as causes of reduced mobility, are not among those usually observed in acutely ill patients.

Anesthetic management of the emergency laparotomy for a patient with multiple sclerosis -A case report-

A 33-year-old male patient with multiple sclerosis (MS) received an emergency laparotomy because of perforated appendicitis. He had been suffering from MS for 2 years and the symptoms of MS were paraplegia and urinary incontinence. Anesthesia was induced with propofol and remifentanil and maintained with nitrous oxide, sevoflurane and remifentanil. Rocuronium was used for tracheal intubation. Train of four ratio and bispectral index scale were also monitored for adequate muscle relaxation and anesthetic depth. The patient emerged from general anesthesia smoothly and was extubated without any complication. Postoperative exacerbation of MS symptoms did not appear. However, he was rehospitalized because deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurred after discharge and he received heparinization immediately. Eventually, he was discharged after a full recovery from DVT. We report a safe anesthetic management of the patient with MS, with the use of sevoflurane and with no the aggravation of MS during postoperative period.

[A case of inferior vena cava thrombosis and acute pancreatitis in a patient with ulcerative colitis]

A 21-year-old man admitted complaining of sudden severe epigastric pain for 1 day. He had been diagnosed as ulcerative colitis (UC) and taking mesalazine for two months. UC was in nearly complete remission at admission. He never drank an alcohol, and serum amylase was 377 IU/L. CT scan showed inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombosis in addition to mild acute pancreatitis. To evaluate the cause of acute pancreatitis and IVC thrombosis, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatogram (MRCP), endoscopic ultrasonogram (EUS), lower extremity Doppler ultrasonogram (US) and blood test of hypercoagulability including factor V, cardiolipin Ab, protein C, protein S1, antithrombin III, and anti phospholipids antibody were performed. There was no abnormality except mild acute pancreatitis and IVC thrombosis in all the tests. He was recommended to stop taking mesalazine and start having anticoagulation therapy. After all symptoms disappeared and amylase returned normal, rechallenge test with mesalazine was done. Flare-up of abdominal pain occurred and the elevation of serum amylase was observed. Ulcerative colitis came to complete remission with short-term steroid monotherapy. Acute pancreatitis and IVC thrombosis were completely resolved after 3-month anticoagulation therapy with no more mesalazine. We postulated that IVC thrombosis occurred due to hypercoagulable status of UC and intra-abdominal inflammation caused by mesalazine-induced pancreatitis.