Articles tagged with Medical Treatments
A new study published in Neurology found that stroke treatments and prevention are not effective enough to improve quality of life for people who experience a stroke. The study suggests that strokes take nearly three out of five quality years off a person's life, depending on the severity of the stroke.
Pediatric atrial fibrillation is a rare but serious condition with substantial symptoms and a high recurrence rate. Researchers found that nearly 40% of patients experienced recurrence, with significant complications in three cases.
A study found that binge drinking slows bone healing by impairing the formation of hard bony tissue and recruiting stem cells to the injury site. Alcohol also increases oxidative stress, which can lead to weaker bones.
A new MRI technique has been developed to detect Fabry disease, a genetic condition that affects the heart, brain, and nerves. The T1 mapping test can identify microscopic changes in the heart muscle structure that are not visible on regular images, allowing for early detection and treatment.
Scott Hansen, a Scripps Research Institute scientist, has won the NIH New Innovator Award to study mechanosensation, particularly touch and hearing. The award provides $2.8 million in research funding over five years to explore the molecular mechanisms behind sensing touch.
A team of IUPUI researchers will investigate the impact of staff burnout on mental health treatment and outcomes, implementing an intervention program that incorporates traditional stress-reduction techniques and cognitive behavioral practices. The goal is to reduce burnout and improve clinician engagement in patient care.
Researchers at Drexel University are developing a smartphone app to track individuals' patterns of eating and binge-eating behavior, alerting them at risk. A new evidence-based approach to small-group behavioral therapy also aims to equip patients with psychological tools to adhere to standard treatments.
A recent study found that using DVDs, booklets, and health coaches can help patients arrive at an informed treatment decision within their first visit with an orthopaedic surgeon. The study showed a significant increase in patient confidence in knowing what questions to ask their doctor, leading to better shared medical decision making.
Treating strep throat with penicillin can reduce ARF/RHD risk by 70-80%, and including primary prevention in overall strategy is crucial. Global efforts to combat RHD control have shown success through comprehensive strategies involving syndromic treatment, education, and awareness campaigns.
Scientists have developed a portable imaging system that harnesses smartphones to detect individual viruses and determine viral load. This breakthrough enables remote diagnosis and treatment monitoring in resource-limited locations.
A new study found that only 12 out of 92 eligible patients received an implantable cardiac defibrillator after being medically evaluated. The majority who qualified did not receive the treatment, highlighting a need for further analysis to determine why this occurs.
Researchers from UT Arlington used mathematical modeling to simulate foreign-body reactions to implants, finding results consistent with lab tests. The model aims to improve biocompatibility and identify optimal treatments for severe inflammation and fibrotic capsule formation.
A Northwestern University study found that fear memories can be reduced in people by exposing them to the memory over and over again while they slept. This breakthrough potentially offers a new way to enhance daytime treatment of phobias through exposure therapy with a nighttime component.
A new NIH study found that bracing significantly reduces the risk of curve progression and the need for surgery in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. Wearing a brace for more than 13 hours per day is associated with success rates of 90-93 percent.
A multi-center study found that wearing back braces significantly reduced the risk of curve progression and the need for surgery in children with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Patients who wore a brace more than 13 hours per day achieved success rates of 90-93%.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is funding new bird flu vaccine studies to protect against a deadly strain that caused severe disease in China last spring. The study aims to fine-tune the process of creating an effective vaccine, with the goal of preventing future pandemics.
A new study has found that a smartphone app can quickly screen for cognitive dysfunction often found in patients with cirrhosis. The app, called EncephalApp_Stroop, is a valid method for screening minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) and may improve treatment rates in potential patients.
Researchers found that the procedure was successful in 89% of patients with symptomatic carotid artery occlusion, allowing for recanalization through imaging examination findings. The study's results suggest a treatment approach based on imaging exam findings can effectively restore blood flow to affected areas.
A new study suggests that continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy can improve the subjective impression of people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), making them appear more alert, youthful, and attractive. The study used digital photos to assess facial changes before and after at least two months of CPAP treatment.
Researchers found significant improvements in facial appearance, including reduced puffiness and redness, after just a few months of CPAP treatment for middle-aged patients with sleep apnea. The study used face mapping and photogrammetry techniques to measure changes in facial contours.
Recent paper reviews treatment scenarios for SARS, suggesting similar treatments may work for MERS-CoV. The Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus has been identified in over 90 patients, with approximately 50% mortality rate.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has released a list of five targeted, evidence-based recommendations to support conversations between patients and physicians about necessary care. The recommendations aim to reduce waste and overuse in the healthcare system by identifying unnecessary tests and procedures in orthopaedics.
Researchers found that atorvastatin treatment decreased levels of inflammatory markers, thrombogenesis, and hyperlipidemia, suggesting its anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic effects. This study expanded the use of atorvastatin for acute ischemic stroke treatment by measuring multiple biomarkers.
A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that critically ill patients often receive futile treatment, with estimated costs of $2.6 million over three months. The most common reason for perceiving treatment as futile was the significant burden it placed on the patient's quality of life.
A study found that 11% of ICU patients received treatments perceived by physicians as 'futile', with high costs and poor outcomes. The majority of patients received appropriate care, but many were given aggressive therapies without expected benefits.
A new UN-backed study reveals that treated wastewater has 'massive potential resource' globally, but data on its usage is scarce. Only 55 countries out of 181 studied have information on wastewater generation, treatment, and reuse.
The smart phone app uses data from over 100,000 heart attack patients to calculate the risk of repeat attacks within three years. This enables clinicians to tailor treatments to individual patients, reducing the risk of side effects and improving patient outcomes.
A study found that transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) can be successfully performed in high-risk patients with bicuspid aortic valves, with a higher rate of aortic regurgitation. Despite this, the procedure resulted in similar mortality rates as those with tricuspid aortic valves.
Researchers have identified the cells targeted by anthrax toxins, which can cause illness and death. Lethal toxin targets heart cells and muscle cells surrounding blood vessels, while edema toxin targets liver cells.
The report provides 13 key standards for effective coordinator-based FLS services, which have been shown to close the treatment gap and manage high-risk patients. Implementing these standards can help healthcare providers identify and treat patients at risk of secondary fractures, reducing future fracture risk and associated costs.
The American Academy of Periodontology urges pregnant women to prioritize periodontal health to minimize risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Regular dental cleanings and monitoring can help prevent premature birth or low-birth weight babies.
A recent study of over 1600 children found that cumulative incidence of stuttering by four years old was 11% higher than previous reports. Stuttering was associated with better language development and non-verbal skills, but no impact on mental health or temperament.
Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare genetic disorder affecting the respiratory and other systems, with limited data due to small patient populations. The BESTCILIA project aims to improve screening and treatment through clinical trials, standardized diagnostic testing, and patient registries.
A meta-analysis of 12 studies found that lateral wedge insoles had no significant or clinically important effect on reducing knee pain in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis. The overall effect estimate was moderately significant, but heterogeneity across studies suggested a null association.
The WHO's Mental Health Gap Action Programme Intervention Guide (mhGAP-IG) was adapted for Nigeria to address the substantial treatment gap. The adaptation process involved a multi-step approach, including situational analysis, focus group discussions, and pilot testing, to contextualize the guide for the Nigerian context. The resultin...
The Rhode Island Consortium for Autism Research and Treatment (RI-CART) has received a $1.2 million grant to create a confidential registry of individuals diagnosed with autism in the state. The registry aims to improve diagnoses and treatments by connecting families with clinical experts and researchers.
A long-term study of insulin pump therapy in children with type 1 diabetes found improved HbA1c control and reduced episodes of severe hypoglycaemia. Pump therapy also led to lower rates of diabetic ketoacidosis compared to injections.
A study published in Spine Journal found that 65% of herniated lumbar discs resulted from avulsion of the vertebral end plate junction, rather than true rupture. The findings challenge conventional wisdom on how herniated discs occur and may lead to a reevaluation of treatment strategies.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed a new treatment for children with brittle bone disease, finding that oral risedronate significantly reduces the risk of fractures. The study showed rapid action, with curves for fracture risk diverging after just 6 weeks of treatment.
A new study, MADIT-Asia, aims to improve treatment of non-ischemic heart disease in the Asian population. The trial will test cardiac resynchronization therapy using a two-lead system, which may reduce complications and improve outcomes.
The European Society of Cardiology's ESC Congress 2013 received a record number of abstract submissions, with nearly 10,500 entries. The congress will feature four Hot Lines press conferences, discussing innovative treatments for conditions such as venous thromboembolism and myocardial infarction.
Recent studies have reported discouraging results for endovascular treatment of acute stroke, but a commentary suggests it remains a viable option for certain patients. A new study also finds no evidence that obesity affects outcomes in subarachnoid hemorrhage patients.
A study of current and former military personnel found that mental disorders and male sex are independently associated with increased suicide risk, but deployment or combat experiences were not linked to an increased risk. The findings suggest that early recognition and treatment of mental health concerns can help mitigate suicide risk.
A recent study reveals that many people experience mental health disorders after disasters, with nearly 1 in 3 showing signs of PTSD. The study emphasizes the need for a consistent and integrated system for identifying, triaging, and treating these individuals.
Researchers at National University of Mexico found that prolactin can prevent chondrocyte death and associated cartilage degradation in rheumatoid arthritis models. Prolactin treatment reduced inflammation, bone erosion, joint swelling, and pain in rat models.
A University of Zurich study found online psychotherapy to be equally effective, and in some cases better than, face-to-face therapy in reducing depression. After treatment, 53-57% of patients showed significant improvement, with higher satisfaction rates for both groups.
A study of nearly 46,000 caregivers in 17 low- to middle-income countries found that disabled children were more likely to receive violent treatment, including being hit on the head or beaten with an object. The study suggests that harsh discipline may be a result of stigma around disabilities rather than the disability itself.
A study found that strong doctor-patient relationships facilitate conversations about healthcare costs, particularly when patients feel trust their physician. Patients are more willing to discuss personal out-of-pocket costs than insurer costs, and older and sicker individuals are more receptive to discussing costs.
A multicenter study found that whole-body CT scans significantly lower mortality rates for severely injured patients in shock. The comprehensive knowledge gained from the scan enables targeted life-saving emergency treatment, leading to a 25% increased chance of survival.
A study found that electroacupuncture at specific points (Baliao and Huiyang) improved cystometric capacity, decreased detrusor leak point pressure, and treated post-stroke detrusor overactivity. The treatment significantly enhanced bladder function in patients with this condition.
Prosthetic valve endocarditis is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and early surgery does not appear to reduce one-year mortality compared to medical therapy. Approximately one-third of patients die within one year after diagnosis, mainly due to complications such as S aureus infection.
A new review published in The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist recommends that all women be asked about postpartum psychosis risk factors before conception to ensure early recognition and prompt treatment. Women with bipolar disorder are at high risk of developing postpartum psychosis, with a 1 in 4 chance.
Researchers have created synthetic receptors that mimic biological nicotine receptors, showing promise in clinical detection and treatment therapies for nicotine addiction. The new molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) demonstrate high selectivity and effectiveness across a wide pH range.
A new study suggests that CPAP therapy significantly reduces nightmares in veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and obstructive sleep apnea. Treatment compliance improves when patients experience restful sleep without frequent nightmares, leading to better overall health outcomes.
The US Preventive Services Task Force found insufficient evidence to recommend for or against screening for primary open-angle glaucoma. Two commentaries explore the physician's role in preventing gun violence, including the importance of discussing guns with elderly patients and advocating for mental health treatment.
A study in Belgium demonstrates that simplified IVF methodology can be successful and cost-effective, with estimated costs as low as €200 per cycle. The research aims to make infertility care universally accessible to couples in developing countries.
A recent study published in Reproductive BioMedicine Online examines the outcomes of assisted reproduction treatment for same-sex male couples and single men. The research found that high success rates can be achieved, particularly among persistent individuals, with most men successful in realizing their dream of fatherhood.
A study by researchers at the University of Zurich and UCL found that irreversible tissue loss occurs in spinal cord injury patients as early as 40 days after injury. The study used novel MRI protocols to track changes in the spinal cord and brain, revealing a rapid decline in spinal cord diameter and nerve cell volume.
A young man experienced severe compartment syndrome in his shoulder due to excessive weightlifting, requiring surgery and hospitalization. The case report emphasizes the importance of recognizing unusual musculoskeletal injuries and highlights the role of bedside ultrasound in diagnosis.
Patients with strokes often encounter barriers in receiving adequate care due to fragmented services and poor communication. Systematic review findings highlight the need for health systems to prioritize patient needs over healthcare systems.