Comparative results of non-operative multi-modal therapy for filarial lymphoedema

The effectiveness and safety of heat/cold therapy in adults with lymphoedema: systematic review

PURPOSE

The aim of this review is to assess the efficacy and safety of using heat and cold therapy for adults with lymphoedema.

METHODS

A multi-database search was undertaken. Only studies which included adults with lymphoedema who were treated with heat or cold therapy reporting any outcome were included. Screening, data extraction, and assessment of bias were undertaken by a single reviewer and verified by a second. Due to the substantial heterogeneity, a descriptive synthesis was undertaken.

RESULTS

Eighteen studies were included. All nine studies which assessed the effects of heat-therapy on changes in limb circumference reported a point estimate indicating some reduction from baseline to end of study. Similarly, the five studies evaluating the use of heat-therapy on limb volume demonstrated a reduction in limb volume from baseline to end-of-study. Only four studies reported adverse events of which all were deemed to be minor. Only two studies explored the effects of cold therapy on lymphoedema.

CONCLUSIONS

Tentative evidence suggests heat-therapy may have some benefit in treating lymphoedema with minimal side effects. However, further high-quality randomised controlled trials are required, with a particular focus on moderating factors and assessment of adverse events.Implications for rehabilitationThis review highlights the potential benefit that heat therapy may have on reducing limb circumference and volume for adults with lymphoedema.There was no evidence that controlled localised heat therapy was unsafe.The current evidence-base is at a point where no specific clinical recommendations can be made.The use of heat therapy should only be applied as part of a methodologically robust study to treat lymphoedema.

Comparison of Efficacy of Coumarin and Chymotrypsin/Trypsin in Patients Undergoing Surgical Removal of Lower Third Molars: A Prospective Study

Background Third-molar surgeries are very commonly done by oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Pain and swelling that is associated with this procedure is a frequent reason for the patient's discomfort and apprehension. There is a need to look for a drug that can substantially reduce postoperative swelling amongst the patients. Pain, swelling, and trismus are common complications that are encountered after third molar surgery. These complications have a major impact on the quality of life of patients undergoing minor surgical procedures. Aim The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of coumarin and trypsin/chymotrypsin in the reduction of postoperative sequelae for mandibular third molar surgeries. Materials and methods The research was carried out at Saveetha Dental College and Hospital in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. The study consisted of 50 individuals, 25 individuals received tablets of coumarin, and 25 individuals received tablets containing a combination of trypsin/chymotrypsin postoperatively. Patients were evaluated postoperatively for pain and swelling. Postoperative pain was measured on days one, three, and seven after surgery using a visual analog scale. The postoperative swelling was measured on postoperative days three and day seven via a four-point technique. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 23 (Released 2015; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). P-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The independent samples t-test was used to compare the outcomes between the two groups. Results It was found that study participants in the trypsin/chymotrypsin group reported statistically significantly less pain postoperatively than participants receiving coumarin (p=0.001). There was more reduction in swelling postoperatively in patients who were given trypsin/chymotrypsin as compared to the participants who were given coumarin, and the results were statistically significant. Conclusion Based on the data obtained, it can be inferred that the trypsin/chymotrypsin combination was more effective in reducing postoperative sequelae like pain and swelling than coumarin in the mandibular third molar surgeries.

Compression therapy for ulcers: The science and the art

INTRODUCTION

Chronic ulcers are characterized by being resistant to all forms of treatment. Recent improvement in compression techniques, notably use of multilayer bandaging has created a need for a re-look into it's use.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors present two case reports of successful management of chronic ulcers using compression through bandaging where all other forms of treatment had failed. This is followed by a review of literature based on previous articles as well as more recent ones found through Pubmed.

CONCLUSION

It is suggested that, at least in India, compression through proper multilayer bandaging, should be a choice far higher in the treatment ladder than so previously. However, if the technique is improper, it may be harmful so the option is to be exercised with care and only by those who have received adequate training. The need of a team approach, and alongside, wider introduction of more and better training facilities for therapists and nurses is underlined.