The Effect of Subcutaneous Saline Irrigation on Wound Complications After Cesarean Section: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Subcutaneous (SC) saline irrigation was reported as a feasible and cost-effective procedure to prevent cesarean section (CS) surgical site complications. We aim to investigate the efficacy of SC saline irrigation to prevent CS surgical site complications. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted synthesizing evidence from randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies obtained from PubMed, Embase Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to March 2024. Pooled outcomes included wound complications (superficial surgical site infections (SSI), hematoma, seroma, and wound separation) and operative time. We used RevMan v.5.4. (The Cochrane Collaboration, Oxford, UK) to report dichotomous outcomes using risk ratio (RR) and continuous outcomes using mean differences (MD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Five RCTs with 4,025 patients were included. Four studies had a low overall risk of bias and only one trial with some concerns about selection bias. There was no difference between SC saline irrigation and no irrigation regarding the incidence of superficial SSI (five RCTs, RR: 0.72 with 95% CI [0.47, 1.10], P = 0.13), seroma (four RCTs, RR: 0.73 with 95% CI [0.32, 1.65], P = 0.45), wound separation (four RCTs, RR: 0.66 with 95% CI [0.36, 1.24], P = 0.2), and operative time (four RCTs, MD: -1.26 with 95% CI [-5.14, 2.62], P = 0.52). However, SC saline irrigation significantly decreased the incidence of hematoma (three RCTs, RR: 0.54 with 95% CI [0.45, 0.65], P = 0.00001). SC saline irrigation of the surgical site after CS was not effective in preventing the incidence of superficial SSI, seroma, or wound separation, while only preventing the incidence of hematoma.

Valsalva Maneuver Versus Carotid Sinus Massage for Supraventricular Tachycardia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is one of the most common cardiac arrhythmias, characterized by a sudden increase in heart rate. Initial management often involves vagal maneuvers, including the Valsalva maneuver (VM) and carotid sinus massage (CSM). VM can be categorized into standard VM (sVM) and modified VM (mVM). This study aimed to synthesize the first evidence from published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the efficacy of VM versus CSM. A comprehensive search across databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, was conducted up to July 29, 2024. The primary endpoint was the success rate of converting SVT to sinus rhythm. The dichotomous outcome was analyzed using a fixed-effect model to calculate the risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The Risk of Bias (RoB) tool, version 2, was employed to assess bias in the included RCTs. In total, three RCTs with 346 cases were analyzed. Concerns were noted regarding potential bias related to the randomization process in all three studies. The meta-analysis of these RCTs (comprising four arms) revealed that VM had a higher success rate than CSM for treating SVT, with an RR of 1.82 (95% CI: 1.29-2.57, p<0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that the rate of conversion to sinus rhythm was significantly higher in the sVM compared to CSM (RR=1.61, 95% CI (1.13-2.29), p=0.01). Additionally, subgroup analysis of one study indicated that mVM was associated with a higher rate of SVT conversion to sinus rhythm compared to CSM (RR=9.28, 95% CI (1.25-69.13), p=0.03). In conclusion, VM demonstrated a higher success rate compared to CSM in treating SVT. Specifically, mVM was more effective than CSM in both terminating SVT and restoring sinus rhythm, though this evidence was based on a single RCT; hence, the related conclusion should be interpreted with caution and requires validation using additional RCTs. Further research in diverse patient populations and clinical settings is necessary to validate these findings and potentially support the broader use of mVM in practice. Additional well-designed, multi-center studies with diverse populations are needed to confirm these observations and provide more comprehensive guidance on SVT management. This is important to enhance the generalizability of results across different demographics and clinical settings. This approach helps ensure that treatment effectiveness is applicable to a broader range of patients, accounting for variations in age, gender, comorbidities, and regional practices.

Triple Therapy with Telmisartan, Amlodipine, and Rosuvastatin (TAR) Versus Telmisartan/Amlodipine (TA) and Telmisartan/Rosuvastatin (TR) Combinations in Hypertension and Dyslipidemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Hypertension and dyslipidemia are common contributors to cardiovascular disease (CVD), often occurring together. Effectively Managing both is key to reducing mortality and morbidity, but complex regimens reduce adherence.

AIM

This study investigated the comparative efficacy and safety of a three-drug regimen (TAR) containing telmisartan, amlodipine, and rosuvastatin against two-drug combinations (TA and TR) for managing hypertension and dyslipidemia.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, Embase, and Scopus databases for relevant articles matching our inclusion criteria. Following the application of inclusion criteria, four studies were selected for qualitative analysis and four studies for meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Our analysis showed TAR [n = 155] significantly reduced mean systolic blood pressure (MSSBP) at week 4 compared to TR (n = 163) (MD = -15.65 mmHg) and TA (MD = -4.63 mmHg). TAR also showed superiority over all groups (TR [n = 163], TA [n = 162]) in MSSBP reduction. For low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), TAR only showed a significant difference at week 4 compared to TA (MD = -86.41 mg/dL), with no difference between TAR and TR at either week 4 or 8.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that TAR may be a safe and effective therapeutic option for the concurrent management of hypertension and dyslipidemia. However, there is no significant difference regarding adverse events between both arms.

Exploring the Relationship Between Helicobacter pylori Infection and Biliary Diseases: A Comprehensive Analysis Using the United States National Inpatient Sample (2016-2020)

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is widely recognized for its association with gastric diseases. Prior studies on the relationship between H. pylori infection and biliary diseases have faced constraints, including inadequate control of confounding factors and small sample sizes. This study aims to explore the association between H. pylori infection and biliary diseases using a large, population-based sample with adequate control for various covariates.

METHODS

 The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) from 2016 to 2020 was used to investigate the association between H. pylori infection and biliary diseases. We identified patients with H. pylori infection using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) code (B96.81). Descriptive analysis and inferential statistics, including univariate and multivariate regression, were performed to explore the relationship between H. pylori and selected biliary diseases.  Results: Overall, 32,966,720 patients were analyzed. Among them, 736,585 patients had biliary diseases (n=1,637 with H. pylori and n=734,948 without H. pylori). The baseline characteristics revealed notable differences in demographics and healthcare variables between both groups. Univariate regression analysis demonstrated significant associations between H. pylori infection and various biliary diseases such as gallbladder stones, gallbladder cancer, cholangitis, acute cholecystitis, and biliary pancreatitis, with the highest risk for chronic cholecystitis (odds ratio: 5.21; 95% confidence interval: 4.1-6.62; p<0.0001). Multivariate regression analysis, after adjusting for various covariates, confirmed these associations, providing insights into the potential causal relationship between H. pylori and biliary diseases.

CONCLUSION

 This study strengthens the evidence suggesting a potential association between H. pylori infection and biliary diseases. The findings need to be validated in prospective clinical studies.

Levobupivacaine versus ropivacaine for brachial plexus block: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Background and Aims

Brachial plexus block (BPB) is advantageous for elective orthopaedic or reconstructive upper limb surgery. However, the optimal local anaesthetic in BPB remains debatable. Therefore, we aim to investigate the efficacy and safety of levobupivacaine versus ropivacaine in BPB for upper limb surgery.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis synthesising randomised controlled trials (RCTs), retrieved by systematically searching PubMed, EMBASE, WOS, SCOPUS, Google Scholar, and CENTRAL since inception till June 2024. Continuous and dichotomous outcome variables were pooled using mean difference (MD) and risk ratio (RR), with a 95% confidence interval (CI), using Stata v. 17. We assessed heterogeneity using the Chi-square test and I2 statistic.

Results

Sixteen RCTs and 939 patients were included. Levobupivacaine was significantly associated with a longer sensory block duration [MD: 1.66 (95% CI: 1.43, 1.89), P < 0.001] and motor block duration [MD: 1.18 (95% CI: 0.11, 2.26), P = 0.03]. However, there was no difference between both groups in time to sensory block [MD: -0.30 (95% CI: -1.31, 0.71), P = 0.56], time to motor block [MD: -0.29 (95% CI: -1.26, 0.67), P = 0.55], pain score [MD: -0.48 (95% CI: -2.13, 1.16), P = 0.56], rescue analgesia rate [RR: 0.94 (95% CI: 0.74, 1.20), P = 0.64], and complications [RR: 0.47 (95% CI: 0.20, 1.13), P = 0.09].

Conclusions

Levobupivacaine is significantly associated with a longer duration of sensory and motor block in patients undergoing BPB for upper limb surgery compared to ropivacaine, with a similar safety profile. However, there was no difference regarding the time to onset of the sensory or motor block.

The Impact of Vitamin D on Androgens and Anabolic Steroids among Adult Males: A Meta-Analytic Review

BACKGROUND

Recent studies indicate that vitamin D impacts male reproductive function, with deficiency linked to infertility. This review evaluates the effect of vitamin D supplementation on male fertility, focusing on total testosterone, free testosterone, the free androgen index (FAI), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), sex-hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and estradiol.

METHODS

We systematically searched Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Scopus from their inception until July 2024 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving adult males. The primary focus of these studies was on reproductive hormone parameters, analyzed using a random-effects meta-analysis and weighted mean difference (WMD). Evidence quality was assessed using ROB2 and GRADE. Meta-regression and dose-response analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Seventeen studies met the criteria for quantitative analysis. Vitamin D supplementation significantly increased total testosterone levels (WMD 0.38, 95% CI 0.06-0.70, n = 15, I2 = 67.03). However, it had no significant effect on other hormone parameters: free testosterone (WMD 0.00, 95% CI -0.02-0.03, n = 9, I2 = 48.12), FSH (WMD -0.02, 95% CI -0.57-0.53, n = 7, I2 = 48.72), LH (WMD -0.09, 95% CI -0.30-0.12, n = 8, I2 = 0.00), SHBG (WMD 0.73, 95% CI -1.14-2.61, n = 10, I2 = 69.05), FAI (WMD -0.92, 95% CI -2.12-0.27, n = 6, I2 = 0.00), and estradiol (WMD -0.02, 95% CI -2.95-2.92, n = 5, I2 = 20.63).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis shows that vitamin D supplementation may increase total testosterone levels in men. However, further well-designed RCTs are needed to determine vitamin D's effects on other reproductive hormone parameters.

The effect of open-label placebo on allergic rhinitis symptoms: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

KEY POINTS

The evidence regarding the open-label placebo effect on allergic rhinitis symptoms remains uncertain. Open-label placebo significantly reduced the frequency of symptoms in allergic rhinitis patients with similar safety profiles; however, there was no effect on the severity of symptoms and impairment due to symptoms. The statistically significant impact on symptom frequency can be considered not clinically significant.

Efficacy of LigaSure Versus Harmonic Devices in Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Our goal is to conduct a thorough systematic review and meta-analysis of comparative studies to evaluate the efficacy of LigaSure (Valleylab, Boulder, CO) compared with Harmonic (Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc., Cincinnati, OH) devices in patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Our search strategy, from inception until March 1, 2024, involved multiple databases, including the Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials (CENTRAL), Web of Science (WOS), PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. We evaluated randomized clinical trials using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for randomized trials (RoB-2) tool and non-randomized studies using the Risk of Bias In Non-randomized Studies for Interventions (ROBINS-I) tool. The primary outcomes assessed were operative time, mean length of hospital stay, and the rates of intraoperative complications such as bleeding, organ injury, leakage, and hematoma formation. Additionally, we collected data on postoperative complications, including bleeding, abscess formation, leakage, fever (>38°C), and reoperation rates. Data were analyzed using random-effects models and reported as mean difference (MD) or risk ratio (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) using Review Manager software (RevMan, version 5.4 for Windows, The Cochrane Collaboration, 2020). Four studies, comprising two randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and two retrospective cohort studies, involving a total of 692 patients, were included in the analysis. Both the operative time and length of hospital stay did not significantly differ between the LigaSure and Harmonic groups (p>0.05). The pooled analysis also revealed no significant difference between the LigaSure and Harmonic groups in terms of intraoperative and postoperative complications (p>0.05). In conclusion, our systematic review and meta-analysis found no significant statistical or clinical differences between LigaSure and Harmonic devices in terms of operative outcomes and complication rates in patients undergoing LSG.

Impact of Magnesium Supplementation on Blood Pressure: An Umbrella Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background and aim

Conflicting results on the effect of magnesium supplementation on blood pressure have been published in previous meta-analyses; hence, we conducted this umbrella meta-analysis of RCTs to provide a more robust conclusion on its effects.

Methods

Four databases including PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched to find pertinent papers published on international scientific from inception up to July 15, 2024. We utilized STATA version 17.0 to carry out all statistical analyses (Stata Corporation, College Station, TX, US). The random effects model was used to calculate the overall effect size ES and CI.

Findings

Ten eligible review papers with 8610 participants studied the influence of magnesium on SBP and DBP. The pooling of their effect sizes resulted in a significant reduction of SBP (ES = -1.25 mmHg; 95% CI: -1.98, -0.51, P = 0.001) and DBP (ES = -1.40 mmHg; 95% CI: -2.04, -0.75, P = 0.000) by magnesium supplementation. In subgroup analysis, a significant reduction in SBP and DBP was observed in magnesium intervention with dosage ≥400 mg/day (ES for SBP = -6.38 mmHg; ES for DBP = -3.71mmHg), as well as in studies with a treatment duration of ≥12 weeks (ES for SBP = -0.42 mmHg; ES for DBP = -0.45 mmHg).

Implications

The findings of the present umbrella meta-analysis showed an overall decrease of SBP and DBP with magnesium supplementation, particularly at doses of ≥400 mg/day for ≥12 weeks.

Sphenopalatine ganglion block for pain control after septoplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis

INTRODUCTION

Septoplasty corrects a deviated nasal septum (DNS) and improves nasal obstruction. Sphenopalatine ganglion block (SPGB) effectively reduces postoperative pain after septoplasty, but conclusive evidence is still lacking. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to comprehensively evaluate the analgesic efficacy of SPGB in septoplasty patients.

METHODS

We systematically searched PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and CENTRAL from inception to April 10th, 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were assessed using the RoB-2 tool. The primary outcomes were postoperative pain scores, analgesic consumption, surgery duration, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), and patient satisfaction. Continuous data were pooled as mean difference (MD), and dichotomous data as risk ratio (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) using STATA software. Additionally, trial sequential analysis (TSA) was conducted.

RESULTS

Three RCTs with 180 patients were included. Two RCTs had a 'low risk' of bias, while one RCT had 'some concerns'. The SPGB group had significantly lower postoperative pain within 24 hours compared to controls, particularly after particularly after 1-2 hours (MD = -1.85), 4-6 hours (MD = -2.02), 12 hours (MD = -2.14), and 24 hours (MD = -2.36) TSA confirmed the conclusive evidence. Analgesic use was significantly reduced in the SPGB group. No significant differences were observed in surgery duration or PONV rates between groups. Patient satisfaction was significantly higher in the SPGB group.

CONCLUSION

SPGB demonstrates efficacy and safety in managing postoperative pain in patients undergoing septoplasty for DNS.

Single-Pill Combination Therapy of Amlodipine, Telmisartan, and Chlorthalidone in the Management of Hypertension: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Hypertension is a major cause of cardiovascular disease and death worldwide. Low-dose combination therapy is a promising approach for managing hypertension due to its safety and efficacy. This systematic review evaluates the safety and efficacy of a single-pill, low-dose combination of amlodipine, telmisartan, and chlorthalidone for essential hypertension based on evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and searched the Cochrane, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases until July 01, 2024, using the following search string: (telmisartan) AND (amlodipine) AND (chlorthalidone) AND (randomized OR randomly). The quality of the RCTs was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool. The primary endpoint was the mean change in sitting systolic blood pressure (BP), with secondary endpoints including BP target achievement rates, BP response rates, and serious treatment-related adverse events. Overall, three RCTs met the inclusion criteria and exhibited a low risk of bias. The doses in the combination pill ranged from 2.5 to 5 mg of amlodipine, 20 to 80 mg of telmisartan, and 4.167 to 25 mg of chlorthalidone. Control groups varied, including usual care, amlodipine 10 mg, and dual therapy of telmisartan and amlodipine. Results showed significant reductions in mean sitting systolic and diastolic BP, improved BP control and response rates, and a generally safe profile with no significant differences in serious adverse events. Despite encouraging data, results should be interpreted with caution due to heterogeneity in doses and control groups. Further research should address the long-term effects and explore predictors of response to this therapy.

Analgesic Efficacy of Gabapentin in Patients Undergoing Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trials

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) results from median nerve compression and may lead to significant pain. Surgical management through release is the gold standard approach for severe CTS patients. Gabapentin is used as an analgesic drug, but data on its postoperative effects on pain assessment and safety measures are unclear. We aimed to assess the clinical effectiveness of gabapentin in patients undergoing CTS release surgery. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (WOS), and the Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) addressing the effectiveness of gabapentin in patients with CTS release until September 2024. The primary outcome was the assessment of postoperative pain at one, six, 12, and 24 hours by a visual analog scale (VAS). Other specific outcomes were adverse events. Data were pooled as effect sizes (mean difference (MD) or odds ratio (OR)) with their 95% confidence interval (CI) in a random-effects model using Stata/MP 18. Three RCTs comprising 205 patients were included in the pooled meta-analysis. Gabapentin significantly reduced postoperative pain at six, 12, and 24 hours compared to placebo (MD = -0.6, 95% CI: -0.63 to 0.57, p < 0.001; MD = -2.14, 95% CI: -2.18 to -2.1, p < 0.001; and MD = -1.41, 95% CI: -1.82 to -0.99, p < 0.001, respectively). On the other hand, no significant differences were observed regarding other studied outcomes (i.e., safety) between the two groups. This pooled meta-analysis of 205 patients revealed that gabapentin was associated with reduced pain postoperatively at 6, 12, and 24 hours with comparable rates of adverse events compared to placebo. Further RCTs are warranted to validate the current findings.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to Colorectal Cancer's Prevention and Early Detection Among Older Adults in Kuwait: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Worldwide, colorectal cancer is one of the significant public health concerns that imposes a substantial risk of morbidity and mortality. Early detection and management of colorectal cancer are necessary to improve the patient's prognosis and outcomes. Hence, several guidelines recommend screening patients at risk of colorectal cancer periodically. Patients' knowledge and attitudes toward screening measures influence their compliance with the guidelines. This study aimed to determine knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to prevention and early detection among older adults in Kuwait.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among Kuwaiti adults aged between 45 and 75 years attending the outpatient department in Kuwait's seven major hospitals. A convenience sampling technique was used to recruit the participants. A self-administered questionnaire consisted of four parts: sociodemographic and baseline characteristics, knowledge of colorectal cancer screening, attitudes toward colorectal cancer screening, and practices toward colorectal cancer screening.

RESULTS

A total of 570 Kuwaiti patients were included, and half of them were males (n = 285). Most patients were aged between 45 and 50 years (53.8%), had a secondary school certificate (n = 357, 62.6%), and were unmarried (n = 419, 73.5%). Low levels of knowledge (<50%) and practices (<30%) toward colorectal cancer screening were seen among the participants. Statistically significant correlations were found between patients' knowledge about colorectal cancer screening and their attitudes (r = 0.317, P < 0.001) and practices (r = 0.330, P < 0.001). In addition, a moderately significant association was found between patients' attitudes and practices toward colorectal cancer screening.

CONCLUSION

The study found that despite positive attitudes, Kuwaiti patients have low levels of knowledge and practice regarding colorectal cancer screening. This suggests a need for targeted, culturally sensitive educational programs and national campaigns to improve screening rates and address knowledge gaps.

Insights From the National Inpatient Sample (2016-2019) on Laryngeal Cancer Incidence and Trends

BACKGROUND

Laryngeal cancer has a significant impact on speech, swallowing, and quality of life. This study aims to analyze laryngeal cancer trends using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database, providing insights into its epidemiology.

METHODS

Data from the NIS database was analyzed for a cohort of 14,282 laryngeal cancer cases from 2016 to 2019. Baseline characteristics and demographic parameters, including primary expected payer, age groups, hospital types, and geographic regions, were examined. Descriptive statistics and trend analysis were conducted.

RESULTS

 The cohort showed consistent annual case numbers (range: 3739-3948). The highest case numbers were in the 40-64 age group (average 1998 cases/year), followed by the 65-80 age group (average 1473 cases/year). Medicare was the most common primary expected payer, followed by Medicaid, private insurance, self-pay, and no charge. The cohort was roughly three times more skewed toward males, with an average of 2936 male cases per year compared to 885 female cases. Notable trends included significant positive correlations with time for urban teaching hospitals, the South region, older age group (65-80 years), and Asian or Pacific Islander individuals. However, the overall correlation between case numbers and time was not statistically significant. The primary expected payer and deaths exhibited moderate correlations with time but did not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

This study provides insights into the baseline characteristics and trends in laryngeal cancer incidence. The observed demographic shifts highlight the need for further investigation into underlying factors influencing case distribution. Understanding these trends can guide targeted interventions for prevention, early detection, and treatment of laryngeal cancer.