A new technique combining liposuction and fat grafting has been shown to produce excellent results in buttock augmentation. In a study of 106 women, the procedure resulted in high satisfaction rates with minimal morbidity and no major complications.
A simple method tests visual acuity at lower light levels, providing reliable and repeatable measurements of twilight vision. The study's findings suggest that the light level itself is the major factor explaining the decrease in visual acuity.
A new study published in Neurosurgery finds that surgery provides good functional outcomes and a high cure rate for patients with lower-grade arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) of the brain. The research evaluated 105 patients with AVMs from 2005 to 2012, concluding that treatment is recommended for appropriately selected patients.
A study published in Medical Care found that nearly 22,400 individuals made healthcare visits within a year before attempting suicide, with 38% making a visit within a week. Racial and ethnic differences were noted, with Asian-Americans being the least likely to make any type of visit before an attempt.
A study published in The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease found that 'religiously integrated' cognitive-behavioral therapy is at least as effective as conventional CBT for treating major depression in chronically ill patients. Highly religious patients showed greater improvement with this approach.
A case study of New York City's successful public health reforms, led by Mayor Bloomberg's 'top-down' approach and strategic organizational changes, suggests that similar initiatives may work elsewhere. However, a commentary questions the applicability of this approach to other cities.
Researchers compared two fat grafting techniques for facial rejuvenation and found that both methods produce similar results. The simpler approach using fat cells plus stromal vascular fraction has advantages over stem cell injection due to its faster processing time.
A new technique using fat grafting improves the cosmetic outcomes of breast augmentation, producing a more natural shape and softening the 'medial transition zone'. The study found that women who underwent this procedure had a narrower distance between their breasts and reported high satisfaction rates.
A study published in PAIN journal reports that 20-30% of opioid analgesic drugs prescribed for chronic pain are misused, while the rate of opioid addiction is approximately 10%. The researchers note variability in rates across studies and question whether the benefits of opioids for chronic pain outweigh the consequences.
Research from VA's Women's Health Research Network highlights key barriers and unmet needs for women veterans in accessing care, with a focus on primary care, reproductive health, mental health, and military service-related issues. The studies inform policy recommendations to guide quality improvement efforts.
A study published in the Journal of Patient Safety found that redesigned IV medication labels can significantly reduce the risk of medication errors in the operating room. The research used simulated surgical emergency scenarios and showed a higher correct selection rate with redesigned labels compared to standard labels.
A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that conservative treatment effectively corrected skull flattening in over 77% of infants. Helmet therapy was also highly effective, especially for those who didn't respond to initial conservative treatment.
Researchers evaluate changes in gluteal muscle volume after silicone implant placement, finding significant muscle atrophy despite improved body shape. A new classification system is proposed to standardize labiaplasty techniques, ensuring better patient outcomes and satisfaction rates.
A large twin study suggests that genetic factors may explain the association between low back pain and depression. The study, published in PAIN, analyzed data from nearly 2,150 Spanish twins and found a significant link between symptoms of depression and low back pain.
Studies found significant confusion among emergency physicians and prehospital care providers in interpreting POLST orders. Only when specifying CPR and full treatment did consensus rates reach 95%. The studies call for continued research, standards, and education to ensure patient autonomy and appropriate care.
A recent article highlights the importance of local health departments' roles in responding to global health security threats posed by infectious diseases. Key findings include the need for dedicated staff to interpret federal guidance, form partnerships with healthcare coalitions, and communicate accurate risk information. The Ebola e...
A recent position paper from the ESPGHAN Hepatology Committee recommends bariatric surgery for carefully selected young children with severe or morbid obesity and associated medical conditions. The procedure can strongly reduce the risk of adulthood obesity and obesity-related diseases, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Despite growing interest, there is a lack of studies showing cannabis benefits in children with autism and ADHD. Regular marijuana use can have harmful effects on developing brains, increasing the risk of addiction and mental health problems.
A study by Dr. Timothy R. Smith and colleagues found that over three-fourths of US neurosurgeons practice defensive medicine, ordering extra tests and procedures to mitigate malpractice risks. Rates were highest in states with high-risk liability environments, where neurosurgeons reported stopping procedures due to fear of lawsuits.
Two new fluorescent dyes, CLR1501 and CLR1502, attracted to cancer cells, were evaluated for their ability to differentiate brain tumors from normal brain tissue in mice. The results confirmed that both agents provided excellent fluorescence discrimination of tumor from adjacent normal brain.
Researchers outline their approach to facelift surgery in bariatric surgery patients, highlighting the need for customized techniques to address skin laxity and facial deflation. The study achieved excellent aesthetic outcomes with minimal complications, maintaining improvements over two years' follow-up.
A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found no significant difference in overall complications between older and younger women undergoing breast reconstruction. However, the risk of blood clot-related complications was significantly higher in older women who underwent autologous reconstruction using their own tissues.
A study found that contact lens wearers who don't follow proper hygiene habits have increased bacterial contamination of their cases. Washing hands with soap, letting cases air-dry, and using matching disinfecting solutions from the same manufacturer are key steps to reducing contamination.
A report in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that breast reduction surgery achieves good aesthetic outcomes in bodybuilders with gynecomastia. Most patients are extremely satisfied with their surgical results and have no recurrent gynecomastia issues.
A new study found that infants show specific brain activity patterns when receiving vaccinations, which may help develop improved vaccination techniques and pain-relieving treatments. The researchers used EEG measurements to identify these patterns, which appeared earlier in younger infants and were more consistent in older children.
A study published in Medical Care found that healthcare professionals who use health information technology are only slightly more likely to receive the necessary patient data for coordinated care. Despite this, many physicians still rely on non-electronic means to access patient information, highlighting ongoing challenges with health...
The new guidance provides a six-step process for progressive activity after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), with specific recommendations for rest and activity. Patients can only progress to the next stage if they are symptom-free, with worsening symptoms requiring return to previous stages.
A study by ASPS members analyzed medial thigh lift in 106 patients with massive weight loss, finding that 68% experienced some complication. Most complications were minor wound-healing issues that resolved without surgery, while swelling was common but usually resolved over time.
A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that breast reconstruction using the patient's own tissues provides higher satisfaction scores compared to implant-based reconstruction. However, the findings may be influenced by differences in patient characteristics, such as age and genetic risk of breast cancer.
A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reveals that careful surgical planning and technique are essential for restoring blinking function after facial transplantation. The research highlights the importance of monitoring restoration of reflex blinking to protect long-term visual outcomes.
Recent guidelines aiming to reduce neuroimaging tests for patients with headaches may overlook diagnoses of brain tumors. Neurosurgeons warn that these limits could delay or even prevent diagnosis in up to 30% of cases, leading to delayed treatment and poorer outcomes.
The National Expert Panel recommends annual vision health screening between age 36 months and before 72 months, with specific tests and training guidelines. The screenings aim to detect refractive errors, amblyopia, and strabismus, ensuring prompt diagnosis and referral to eye care professionals.
A study published in Medical Care found that hospitals adopting surgical robots performed more partial nephrectomies, an underutilized procedure that preserves functioning kidney tissue. The increased use of partial nephrectomy may be attributed to improved magnification and manual dexterity provided by the robots.
Researchers have discovered that individuals in opioid recovery exhibit signs of re-regulation of their brain's reward system within several weeks of medical-assisted opioid withdrawal. This finding suggests that the natural reward system may return to normal, making it easier for patients to remain drug-free outside treatment.
A special issue of Journal of Public Health Management and Practice presents 15 articles on urban public health leaders' efforts to design new approaches to make cities healthier places to live. The strategies include comprehensive plans, health promotion, injury prevention, and collaboration with community players.
Researchers map out 'safe entry zones' for brainstem surgery using fiber tract dissection techniques and 3D photography. The study provides unprecedented descriptions and images of the inner anatomy of the brainstem, helping neurosurgeons plan the best approach to microsurgical procedures.
Drs. Alim Louis Benabid and Mahlon DeLong developed deep brain stimulation (DBS) for treating Parkinson's disease, improving motor function and quality of life for thousands of patients. Their groundbreaking research has led to the use of DBS in other disorders, benefiting over 110,000 patients worldwide.
A new study found that contact lens discomfort is associated with degradation of the lipid layer in the tear film. Applying a liposomal eyelid spray increased stability of the tear film and improved dry eye symptoms, suggesting potential benefits for patients with contact lens discomfort.
A special issue of Medical Care reports on the benefits of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for US military veterans and active duty personnel. The studies suggest that CAM therapies are moderately effective in reducing symptoms of chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, and depression.
A study found that Boston Marathon bombings resulted in over 100 cases of ear and hearing injuries, with 80% of patients experiencing reduced hearing and 68% new or worsened tinnitus one year later. Many had difficulty hearing in noisy situations and ongoing disability related to hearing loss, tinnitus, or dizziness.
A position paper by ESPGHAN Hepatology Committee outlines recommendations and a checklist for liver biopsy in infants and children. Liver biopsy is still necessary in follow-up after liver transplantation and for monitoring disease activity.
A study published in Optometry and Vision Science found that preschoolers' ability to change focus is lower than subjective tests suggest. The test results showed a significant difference between the objective and subjective measures of accommodation amplitude in young children, with the former being about half of the latter.
This special issue of Harvard Review of Psychiatry provides an overview of recent advances in understanding and treating bipolar disorder. Key findings include the role of white matter disease, stress and HPA axis function, effectiveness of lithium, stimulants for depression, functional remediation, and issues in network meta-analysis.
A high rate of insomnia is reported in patients during early recovery from addiction, with evidence suggesting it can lead to increased risk of relapse. Behavioral treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), have been shown to be effective in reducing relapse risk.
Women undergoing breast cancer surgery showed significant improvements in breast reconstruction processes of care after hospitals opened comprehensive breast centers. These centers enhanced patient care by assembling specialized practitioners for coordinated breast cancer care.
A new study shows that nerve specimens from patients with migraine show abnormalities of the myelin sheath, a protective layer around nerve fibers. This finding helps explain why plastic surgery procedures provide effective pain relief for migraine patients.
A study of 77 women who died during pregnancy or childbirth found no racial difference in the risk of pregnancy-related death, contrary to national trends. However, distance from the hospital was significantly associated with an increased risk of mortality, suggesting that differences in health care access may be a contributing factor.
A demonstration project made progress in introducing a patient-centered medical home approach at safety net practices serving vulnerable populations. Nearly half of practices achieved substantial implementation of key features within four years.
Intestinal failure-associated liver disease (IAFLD) in children is characterized by gradual and often symptomless liver injury, with mortality rates up to 40%. Early enteral feeding and referral to specialized intestinal failure centers are key to prevention and treatment.
A parent coaching intervention, known as the PLAY Project approach, brings benefits for preschool-aged children with autism-spectrum disorders. The program yields improved parent-child interactions, along with other key outcomes, and is associated with reduced stress and increased mental health for parents.