bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Patient-reported Outcome Measures in Pediatric Orthopaedic Literature
Authors: Phillips Lisa , Carsen Sasha , Vasireddi Anisha , Mulpuri Kishore
Published: September 2016

Background:

Patient-reported outcomes are increasingly used as primary measures of success and impact of health care services. There is no current consensus on the efficacy of functional health status (FHS) or health-related quality of life (HRQoL) evaluation in pediatric orthopaedic surgery. The purpose of this study was to quantify and characterize the use of such patient-reported outcomes in the pediatric orthopaedic literature over the last several years.

Methods:

A cross-sectional review of 6 orthopaedic journals—Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Bone and Joint Journal, Spine, Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics A, Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics B, and Journal of Children’s Orthopaedics, was conducted by 2 independent reviewers. Articles were analyzed for patient-reported outcome usage over the time periods of 2000 to 2001, 2007 to 2008, and 2012 to 2013.

Results:

A total of 189 articles (2.7%) were identified that used patient-reported outcomes in pediatric populations. A total of 71 (37.5%) of these articles used FHS tools, 95 (50.3%) used HRQoL tools and 23 (12.2%) used a combination of both. The use of FHS and HRQoL tools has increased over time, with 8 FHS and 2 HRQoL publications in the year 2000 expanding to 19 and 28, respectively, in 2013. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery American Volume published both the highest total number of articles containing patient-reported outcome measures (57/189) and the highest number of articles specifically using FHS measures (28/71). Spine published the highest number of articles using HRQoL measures (43/95). The most frequently used FHS and HRQoL tools were the Lysholm knee score and the Scoliosis Research Society tools, respectively. Only 33/73 identified patient-based outcome instruments had been validated in a pediatric population.

Conclusions:

Patient-reported outcome measures are underutilized in the pediatric orthopaedic literature. Instruments are frequently used that are neither designed nor validated for a pediatric population. Consequently, further work is necessary to develop, validate, and implement pediatric-specific FHS and HRQoL tools to fully understand the impact of a clinical intervention on all aspects of patient quality of life.
Intraoperative Hypothermia is Common, but not Associated With Blood Loss or Transfusion in Pediatric Posterior Spinal Fusion
Authors: Schur Mathew D. , Blumstein Gideon W. , Seehausen Derek A. , Ross Patrick A. , Andras Lindsay M. , Skaggs David L.
Published: September 2016

Background:

Intraoperative hypothermia may be associated with increased blood loss due to the effects of temperature on clotting but this has not been evaluated in the setting of pediatric posterior spinal fusion (PSF). The purpose of this study was to determine if a correlation exists between intraoperative hypothermia and estimated blood loss (EBL) or transfusion requirements in pediatric patients undergoing PSF.

Methods:

A retrospective review of consecutive patients undergoing PSF for scoliosis at a single institution between 6/2004 and 3/2012 was performed. Exclusion criteria were fewer than 10 levels fused, anterior spinal fusion, and patients below 9 years old at time of surgery. Temperature was measured every 15 seconds using esophageal temperature probe. Input variable of hypothermia was analyzed as a binary variable T
min ≤35°C at any point during anesthesia and as integrated temperature area under the curve (TAUC).

Results:

A total of 510 with an average age of 14.6 years (range, 9.0 to 24.3 y) met inclusion criteria. Totally, 56% (287/510) had idiopathic scoliosis (IS) and 44% (223/510) were non-IS. Hypothermia (T
min≤35°C) was experienced by 45% (230/510) of all patients [48% (137/287) of IS; 42% (93/223) of non-IS]. A total of 63% (323/510) of patients were transfused with packed red blood cells (PRBC) [49% (141/287) of IS patients; 82% (182/223) of non-IS patients]. There was no correlation between T
min≤35°C and transfusion of PRBC in all included patients (P=0.49); (IS patients P=0.45, non-IS patients P=0.61). There was no significant difference in EBL between patients who experienced hypothermia and those who did not (P=0.33; IS patients P=0.21, non-IS patients P=0.87). There was no significant correlation between TAUC and transfusion of PRBC for all patients (P=0.35), IS patients (P=0.26) and non-IS patients (P=0.54) or between TAUC and EBL (P=0.80); (IS patients P=0.57. non-IS patients P=0.62).

Conclusions:

There was no significant correlation between intraoperative hypothermia and EBL or transfusion of PRBC in pediatric patients undergoing PSF.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
Subcapital Shortening Osteotomy for Severe Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis: Preliminary Results of the French Multicenter Study
Authors: Ilharreborde Brice , Cunin Vincent , Abu-Amara Saad
Published: September 2016

Background:

There is growing evidence that symptomatic femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) can develop after severe slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) fixed in situ. Realignment procedures have therefore gained popularity, but complication rates remain controversial. Among them, the subcapital shortening osteotomy without hip dislocation has been progressively adopted in France, but results have never been assessed to date.

Methods:

All cases performed in 23 French university hospitals between January 2010 and March 2014 were reviewed to (1) describe the surgical procedure, (2) assess the radiologic and functional outcomes, and (3) report complications and more specifically the avascular necrosis rate (AVN) according to initial stability. Stable and unstable SCFE were distinguished following Loder’s definition. Radiologic outcomes were assessed by the 3 authors to determine FAI and osteonecrosis rates. Functional outcomes were evaluated at follow-up and complications were reported.

Results:

A total of 82 cases (45 unstable and 37 stable), performed in 10 institutions, were included with a mean follow-up of 25 months. No intraoperative complication occurred but 2 patients (2.4%) underwent unplanned early revision. Slip angle was significantly reduced (87%) without loss of correction. Overall AVN rate was 9.7%, reaching 13.3% in unstable slips. However, preoperative magnetic resonance imaging showed that most of the unstable epiphyses (4/6) were already hypoperfused before surgery.

Conclusions:

The procedure is a reliable option for the treatment of severe SCFE. AVN rates are lower than previously reported in multicenter series of modified Dunn technique, especially in unstable slips. However, the risk of AVN in severe stable SCFE (5.4%) must still be balanced with the functional outcomes of potential future FAI.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV—therapeutic study.
Soft Tissue Injury Severity is Associated With Neurovascular Injury in Pediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fractures
Authors: Ho Christine A. , Podeszwa David A. , Riccio Anthony I. , Wimberly Robert L. , Ramo Brandon A.
Published: September 2016

Background:

Neurovascular injury in pediatric supracondylar fractures (SCHFx) has been associated with fracture classification but not with soft tissue injury. The purpose of this study is to correlate clinical soft tissue damage to neurovascular injuries in SCHFx.

Methods:

This is an institutional review board approved prospective study from January 2010 through December 2013 of 748 operatively treated pediatric SCHFx. Prospective data were gathered both preoperatively and intraoperatively regarding detailed neurovascular examination as well as soft tissue status, with qualitative descriptives for swelling (mild/moderate/severe), ecchymosis, abrasions, skin tenting, and skin puckering.

Results:

A total of 7.8% of patients (41/526) had a nonpalpable radial pulse preoperatively. Compared with those with a palpable pulse, a nonpalpable pulse was associated with severe elbow swelling (P<0.0001), tenting (P=0.0085), puckering (P=0.0011), ecchymoses (P<0.0001), and open fracture (P=0.044). Ten patients had a loss of a palpable pulse from initial orthopaedic consult to time of surgery, and when compared with the patients who did not have a loss of pulse, this was associated with swelling severity (P=0.0001) and ecchymosis (P=0.053). A total of 14% of patients (71/526) had a neurological injury preoperatively, and this was associated with severe elbow swelling (P<0.0001), tenting (P=0.0008), puckering (P=0.0077), and ecchymoses (P<0.0001) when compared with patients who did not have a neurological injury. In total, 17 patients had a decline in their neurological examination from the time of initial orthopaedic consult to the time of surgery, and this was associated with severe elbow swelling (P=0.0054) and ecchymoses (P=0.011). After multivariate logistic regression analysis, severe swelling and ecchymoses were significantly associated with a nonpalpable pulse as well as neurological injury (P<0.05). No patient had compartment syndrome.

Conclusions:

Soft tissue injury, as measured by swelling, ecchymosis, puckering, and tenting, had a clinically significant association with neurovascular compromise in pediatric SCHFx, and assessment of soft tissue injury is as important as the radiographic appearance when examining these patients. The physical examination signs of soft tissue injury may play a factor in determining urgency of surgical treatment in these fractures.

Level of Evidence:

Level II—therapeutic.
Complication Rates After Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) Use in Orthopaedic Surgery in Children: A Concise Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Garg Sumeet , McCarthy James J. , Goodwin Ryan , Kolmodin Joel , Sankar Wudbhav N. , Franklin Corinna , Armstrong Douglas , Fryzel David , Hassenbein Susan , Meder Cara
Published: September 2016

Background:

The use of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) has been associated with a number of complications in adult patients. However, this association is less established in children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety of BMP use in children by determining the complication rates after BMP use at multiple institutions.

Methods:

In a retrospective study (2000 to 2013), the medical records of all patients who received BMP at any of the 5 institutions were reviewed. Demographic information, preoperative data, and postoperative follow-up data were collected on those patients who were under the age of 18 at the time of surgery.

Results:

A total of 312 pediatric patients underwent surgery with BMP application during the study period. The surgical procedures consisted of 228 spinal fusions, 39 pars repairs, 33 nonunion repair, and 12 other various procedures. Overall 21% (65/312) of patients who had BMP utilized had a complication. Fifty-five percent (36/65) of patients with a complication required a revision surgery. The average follow-up was 27 months (range, 3 to 96 mo); 80% of patients had a follow-up period of >12 months. The average age at the time of surgery was 13 years (range, 1 to 17 y). Males and females were almost equally represented in the study: 143 males (46%) and 168 females (54%). Of the patients who received BMP, 9% had minor complications and 13% had major complications. Wound dehiscence without infection was the most common minor complication and occurred in 59% (16/27) of patients with minor complications. Infection and implant failures were the most frequent major complications, occurring in 38% (15/39) and 33% (13/39) of patients with major complications, respectively. Five of 312 (2%) patients had neurological injury, 3 of which were only temporary.

Conclusions:

This multicenter study demonstrates a relatively high rate of complications after the use of BMP in children. However, further study is needed to attribute the complications directly to the use of BMP.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV.
A Medial Portal for Hip Arthroscopy in Children With Septic Arthritis: A Safety Study
Authors: Edmonds Eric W. , Lin Christina , Farnsworth Christine L. , Bomar James D. , Upasani Vidyadhar V.
Published: September 2016

Background:

Prompt open arthrotomy is historically utilized to treat pediatric septic arthritis of the hip, but arthroscopy has been described as a valid alternative to prevent long-term sequelae. Standard hip arthroscopy in adolescents and adults utilizes lateral-based portals, but successful irrigation in infants may necessitate a medial portal due to the smaller joint size. The purpose of this study was to determine the safety of a medial hip portal in children based on its anatomic relation to neurovascular structures.

Methods:

A retrospective review of children 6 years of age or below with septic hip arthritis who obtained a preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) between 2009 and 2015 was performed. Multiple measures were recorded from the MRI to create a 3D cone with the vertex just posterior to the adductor longus at the convergence of the gluteal and inguinal creases—a previously described posteromedial portal—with the cone base being a circle defined as the central joint diameter. The distance to the femoral vessels and nerve were then recorded. An adult cadaver was then utilized to replicate the proposed portal starting point and trajectory to confirm that it could be reproducible in a clinical setting.

Results:

After applying criteria, 47 MRI were evaluated (21 boys, 26 girls) demonstrating a mean distance to femoral vessels and nerve: at insertion, 18.9 mm (minimum 10.5 mm) and at the hip joint, 11.1 mm (minimum 5.2 mm). Girls and boys did not differ significantly, but there was a significant correlation of both age (r=0.75) and body weight (r=0.84) to the measured distance (P<0.001). Imaging of the cadaver confirmed that the starting point could be replicated.

Conclusions:

There is a direct relation to size of the child and the distance from the neurovascular structures to the cannula trajectory, but even the smallest of children have at least 5.5 mm of adductor longus to protect the femoral structures. A medial-based portal that utilizes a medial needle for initial aspiration features a wide margin of safety for children requiring treatment for septic hip arthritis.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV.
Radiographic Anatomy of the Pediatric Lisfranc Joint
Authors: Knijnenberg Lisa M. , Dingemans Siem A. , Terra Maaike P. , Struijs Peter A.A. , Schep Niels W.L. , Schepers Tim
Published: September 2016

Background:

Injuries to the Lisfranc joint in children and adolescents are rare. The incomplete ossification of the bones of the foot makes it difficult to detect injuries.

The aim of this study was to determine age-specific radiographic measurements of the Lisfranc joint to provide guidance to the radiologist, emergency physicians, and surgeons to decrease misdiagnosis of Lisfranc injuries and improve detection.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed all foot radiographs without traumatic injury made between August 2014 and February 2015 in all patients younger than 18. The attendance list of the Emergency Department and Outpatient Clinic of a level-1 trauma center were used. Using a non–weight-bearing anteroposterior-view of the foot the distance between the base of metatarsal 1 and metatarsal 2 (MT1-MT2) and the distance between the medial cuneiform (MC) and the base of metatarsal 2 (MC-MT2) were measured. Median normal values were calculated per age.

Results:

A total of 352 patients between the age of 0 and 18 years were screened for eligibility. Excluded were 109 patients because of anatomic abnormality, a fracture, inadequate radiograph, pain at the base of the first metatarsal, second metatarsal or MC, persisting pain at the Outpatient Clinic checkup or no follow-up. Included in the analysis were 243 patients.

Conclusions:

The distance between the base of MT1-MT2 was constant below 3 mm. Measurements for both MT1-MT2 and MC-MT2 distance approached adult values at the age of 6.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
Femoral Neck Aspiration Aids in the Diagnosis of Osteomyelitis In Children With Septic Hip
Authors: Schlung Jedidiah E. , Bastrom Tracey P. , Roocroft Joanna H. , Newton Peter O. , Mubarak Scott J. , Upasani Vidyadhar V.
Published: September 2016

Background:

The role of femoral aspiration (FA) in the treatment of septic arthritis of the hip is controversial. The purpose of this study was to determine if FA conducted concomitantly with irrigation and debridement (I&D) of the septic hip aids in microorganism and osteomyelitis identification and alters the treatment plan, or if the risks of the procedure outweigh its potential benefit. We also compare preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with FA for diagnosis of osteomyelitis cooccurring with septic arthritis.

Methods:

Retrospective review was performed of all patients treated at a single institution between January 2003 and June 2014 for suspected septic hip arthritis. Eighty-three patients were identified with suspected or confirmed septic arthritis and 28 patients (33%) had cooccurring osteomyelitis. Demographic and clinical data were recorded for each patient. The sensitivity and specificity of FA and MRI for diagnosing osteomyelitis were determined.

Results:

Among the 83 patients with confirmed or suspected septic arthritis, 31 patients (37%) had a FA performed at the time of the hip I&D, resulting in positive cultures in 17 patients. All of these patients had other positive cultures (blood and/or joint fluid) that grew the same organism. 54 patients (65%) had a preoperative MRI. The MRI was falsely negative in 10 patients, 6 of whom had a positive FA resulting in appropriate management of osteomyelitis. Missed or delayed diagnosis of osteomyelitis resulted in significant morbidity in 3 patients (avascular necrosis and femoral neck fracture, extensive lower extremity osteomyelitis, and subtrochanteric fracture with malunion). No complications associated with FA were identified. FA and MRI were found to have sensitivity/specificity for osteomyelitis of 100%/100% and 38%/95%, respectively.

Conclusions:

Although FA did not improve microorganism identification, it did aid in the diagnosis of cooccurring osteomyelitis when treating children with septic arthritis, especially in patients with false negative MRI findings for osteomyelitis. We recommend FA at the time of septic hip I&D as its benefits appear to far outweigh its risks.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—diagnostic study.
Multiple Enchondromas of the Hand in Children: Long-Term Follow-Up of Mean 15.4 Years
Authors: Kadar Assaf , Kleinstern Geffen , Morsy Mohamed , Soreide Endre , Moran Steven L.
Published: September 2016

Background:

Multiple enchodromatosis of bone, termed Ollier’s disease, or Maffucci syndrome when associated with hemangiomas, is a rare disease that can affect the pediatric hand. This condition often causes a finger mass, deformity, pain and possible pathologic fractures, and has been associated with malignant transformation to chondrosarcoma. The aim of our study is to describe the long-term sequela of multiple enchondromatosis of the hand in the pediatric population, specifically the rates of malignant transformation, tumor recurrence, rates of pathologic fracture, and phalangeal growth arrest.

Methods:

We examined 15 pediatric patients who were treated in our institute with a total of 127 phalanges and metacarpals lesions. Only patients with follow-up of at least 4 years were included. We retrospectively reviewed patients’ chart and hand radiograph for symptoms including pathologic fractures, indications for surgery, and postoperative complications including tumor recurrence, and malignant transformation. We assessed phalangeal growth arrest with radiographs and normalized phalangeal growth charts.

Results:

Mean age of diagnosis was 5.8 years and mean follow-up time was 15.4 years. Pathologic fractures were common at 46% of pediatric patients, but ceased to occur once reaching adulthood. Outcomes of pathologic fractures were excellent, regardless of treatment. Malignant transformation occurred in 1 patient and did not occur during childhood. A total of 80% of patients and 29% of lesions underwent surgical treatment of curettage and bone graft for the lesion, yet recurrence was common and affected 33% of treated patients. Phalangeal growth arrest was the most common long-term sequela and affected 11% of phalanxes and metacarpals. This sequela was significantly more prevalent in patients who had surgical excision of the tumor.

Conclusions:

Our findings reassure that malignant transformation of enchodromatosis of the hand is unlikely in the pediatric population. Pathologic fracture is common, but has excellent outcomes. When considering surgery, parents should be counseled about the possibility of phalangeal growth arrest and recurrence of the lesion.

Type of Study/Level of Evidence:

Level IV—therapeutic.
A small multimarker panel using simple immunohistochemistry methods is an adjunct to stage for cutaneous melanoma prognosis
Authors: Romaine Sam T. , Wells-Jordan Peter , de Haro Tracey , Dave-Thakrar Avni , North Joanna , Pringle James H. , Saldanha Gerald
Published: September 2016

Melanoma is an aggressive cancer. Outcomes can vary significantly for lesions within the same pathological stage – a problem of increasing relevance with the promise of adjuvant treatments on the basis of immune checkpoint modulators and targeted therapies. The use of a panel of prognostic molecular biomarkers as an adjunct to stage represents a possible solution. Immunohistochemistry-based biomarkers offer greater potential for translation into clinical practice than biomarkers utilizing more complex methods. Many immunohistochemistry-based biomarkers have been identified through discovery studies, but rigorous validation of these is scarce. We take the first steps towards validating a combination of three such biomarkers in a prognostic panel – 5hmC, ki-67 and p16. Immunohistochemistry was performed on a cohort of 50 melanomas to determine the expression of 5hmC, ki-67 and p16. 5hmC and p16 showed statistically significant differences in metastasis-free survival between low-score and high-score groups, whereas the use of all three biomarkers together with stage could predict the 5-year metastasis risk more accurately than stage alone. Our results suggest that the use of multimarker panels to improve the accuracy of prognostic predictions is feasible and worthy of further study. We have shown that a small immunohistochemistry-based panel utilizing simple, inexpensive, reproducible methods can be an effective adjunct to stage in prognostic prediction. A follow-up study consisting of a large cohort of melanomas is now indicated to continue the development of the prognostic panel.
Effects of commonly used chronic medications on the outcomes of ipilimumab therapy in patients with metastatic melanoma
Authors: Failing Jarrett J. , Finnes Heidi D. , Kottschade Lisa A. , Allred Jacob B. , Markovic Svetomir N.
Published: September 2016

Ipilimumab can induce long-term survival in 20% of patients with metastatic melanoma. Concurrent chronic medications may impact the patient’s immune system, possess antimelanoma properties, and potentially affect clinical outcomes. This retrospective study sought to describe the efficacy and toxicity effects of 12 classes of chronic medications in metastatic melanoma patients treated with ipilimumab. A total of 159 adults who received ipilimumab for metastatic melanoma at Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minnesota, USA) from 1 March 2011 through 31 December 2014 were included. Classes of chronic medications included statins, metformin, β-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin-receptor blockers, calcium channel blockers, aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, H1 and H2 receptor antagonists, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), antidepressants, and vitamin D supplements. Of the 12 medication classes, only PPIs were found to have an increased odds of experiencing a partial response or a complete response to ipilimumab [odds ratio: 3.73; confidence interval (CI): 1.26–11.04; P=0.02] on the basis of a case–control analysis. Although not significant, PPI use also trended toward improved overall survival and progression-free survival (hazard ratio: 0.44; CI: 0.17–1.15; P=0.09; and hazard ratio: 0.6; CI: 0.34–1.06; P=0.08, respectively) on the basis of Kaplan–Meier and Cox proportional hazard modeling. No medication class was associated with an increased risk of grades 3–5 immune-related adverse events with ipilimumab on the basis of case–control analysis. In summary, patients on PPIs may be more likely to experience a partial response/complete response following ipilimumab therapy. Because of the small sample size and the retrospective nature of this work, these findings are only descriptive and further study should be carried out. Other classes of chronic medications did not produce statistically significant effects for any of the measured outcomes.
Primary malignant melanoma of the urinary bladder: clinical, morphological, and molecular analysis of five cases
Authors: Karabulut Yasemin Y. , Erdogan Seyda , Sayar Hamide , Ergen Ali , Ertoy Baydar Dilek
Published: September 2016

The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical and morphological features of primary malignant melanomas of the urinary bladder. We obtained information on five such cases from three different institutions. These were three men and two women between 52 and 76 years of age. Three tumors presented with hematuria, one with dysuria, and one was discovered incidentally on imaging studies. All were invasive to muscularis propria on transuretral resections performed for diagnosis. Neoplastic cells showed variable patterns (large cell epithelioid, small cell diffuse, storiform, or mixed) in different tumors. Pigmentation was prominent in all except one case. Each case was labeled diffusely for S-100, HMB-45, and Melan-A. Pan-cytokeratin showed a perinuclear dot-like reaction in two tumors. Three cases showed the BRAF mutation in molecular studies. Two patients were already metastatic at the time of diagnosis. Two patients died, one is alive with disease after 15 months, and two patients are disease free at 1 and 5 years of surveillance.
A Retrospective Evaluation of Subsurface Monopolar Radiofrequency for Lifting of the Face, Neck, and Jawline
Authors: Dendle Julia , Wu Douglas C. , Fabi Sabrina G. , Melo Diana , Goldman Mitchel P.
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

Subsurface monopolar radiofrequency (SMRF) has emerged as a new method for reducing skin laxity via the controlled delivery of thermal energy below the skin using a radiofrequency probe.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the overall efficacy of the treatment and satisfaction ratings of subjects who underwent a single SMRF treatment to the face, neck, or jawline (or some combination).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective, single-center study was conducted in which data were obtained via subject follow-ups at 90 and 180 days posttreatment.

RESULTS

A total of 35 subjects, 6 men and 29 women, underwent a single SMRF treatment. Overall, 77% of subjects reported improvement, and 64% reported satisfaction with the treatment site at Day 180 posttreatment.

CONCLUSION

Subsurface monopolar radiofrequency represents an effective modality to achieve skin tightening of the face, neck, and jawline. The data suggest that there is an energy delivery threshold, above which a higher percentage of subjects report satisfaction. Analysis of treatments parameters suggests an optimal treatment time and tissue temperature that should be achieved to maximize results.
Diagnostic Change From Atypical Intraepidermal Melanocytic Proliferation to Melanoma After Conventional Excision—A Single Academic Institution Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zhang Junqian , Miller Christopher J. , Sobanko Joseph F. , Shin Thuzar M. , Etzkorn Jeremy R.
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

Atypical intraepidermal melanocytic proliferation (AIMP) is a histopathologic diagnosis with uncertain malignant potential and presents a surgical management dilemma for clinicians.

OBJECTIVE

To identify the associated clinical and histopathologic factors and the frequency of diagnostic change to melanoma after conventional excision of AIMP.

METHODS

Retrospective cross-sectional study of 306 AIMPs treated by conventional excision.

RESULTS

Diagnostic change to melanoma occurred in 4.2% (13/306) of AIMP lesions after histopathologic review of the excision specimen; melanomas were in situ in 85% (11/13) and invasive in 15% (2/13) of cases. Factors associated with diagnostic change to melanoma included anatomic location on the head and neck (Odds ratio [OR] 8.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.17, 33.19; p = .001) and acral areas (OR 9.24, 95% CI 2.18, 39.24; p = .001), lesion extension to the base of the biopsy specimen (OR 13.07, 95% CI 2.98, 57.31; p = .001), biopsy using the punch technique (OR 6.06, 95% CI 1.95, 18.86; p = .013), and melanoma in the initial biopsy's histopathologic differential diagnosis (OR 13.29, 95% CI 1.71, 103.57; p = .001).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative counseling and surgical planning for AIMP should be individualized to account for potential diagnostic change to melanoma, especially when specific risk factors are present.
Fractional Laser-Assisted Topical Imiquimod 5% Cream Treatment for Recalcitrant Common Warts in Children: A Pilot Study
Authors: Park Sung-Min , Kim Gun-Wook , Mun Je-Ho , Song Margaret , Kim Hoon-Soo , Kim Byung-Soo , Kim Moon-Bum , Ko Hyun-Chang
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

Conventional treatments for warts like cryotherapy are limited by the pain during procedures, especially in pediatric patients. Imiquimod is a topical immune response modifier, but the thick stratum corneum of common warts prevents drug permeation through skin.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of fractional laser/topical 5% imiquimod cream for the treatment of warts in children.

METHODS

Eleven pediatric patients with multiple recalcitrant common warts were included. Lesions were treated using an ablative fractional 2,940-nm Er:YAG laser at 1- or 2-week interval. After each laser treatment session, imiquimod 5% cream was self-applied once daily 5 days a week. Response and adverse effects were assessed 2 weekly until complete clearance or up to maximum of 48 weeks. Pain during fractional laser was assessed using a visual analogue scale (0–10).

RESULTS

Eight of the 11 (72.7%) children experienced complete clearance. Mean duration was 29.7 (16–48) weeks, and the mean number of fractional laser was 17.5 (8–37). No significant adverse effect was observed. Pain visual analogue scale during fractional laser was 2.4 (1–4) compared to 6.2 (5–8) during cryotherapy.

CONCLUSION

This pilot study indicates that fractional laser-assisted topical imiquimod may provide benefit for recalcitrant warts in children.
Oxytocin for the treatment of drug and alcohol use disorders
Authors: Lee Mary R. , Weerts Elise M.
Published: September 2016

There is growing interest in the use of oxytocin (OT) as a potential treatment for alcohol and other substance-use disorders. OT is a neuropeptide that modulates adaptive processes associated with addiction including reward, tolerance, associative learning, memory, and stress responses. OT exerts its effects through interactions with the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and multiple neurotransmitter systems including the dopamine mesolimbic reward and corticotrophin-releasing factor stress systems. The effects of OT on stress systems are of high interest, given the strong link between stress, drug use and relapse, and known dysregulation of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal-axis activity associated with substance-use disorders. At the same time, the OT system is itself altered by acute or chronic drug exposure. This review summarizes the preclinical and clinical literature on the OT system and its relevance to drug and alcohol addiction. In addition, findings from recent clinical trials conducted in participants with cocaine, cannabis, or alcohol use disorder are included and evidence that OT may help to normalize blunted stress responses, and attenuate withdrawal-associated hypercortisolism, negative mood, and withdrawal symptoms is summarized.
THE SECOND BLIND SPOT: SMALL RETINAL VESSEL VASCULOPATHY AFTER VACCINATION AGAINST NEISSERIA MENINGITIDIS AND YELLOW FEVER
Authors: Moysidis Stavros N. , Koulisis Nicole , Patel Vivek R. , Kashani Amir H. , Rao Narsing A. , Humayun Mark S. , Rodger Damien C.
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

To describe a case of small retinal vessel vasculopathy postvaccination.

Methods:

We report the case of a 41-year-old white man who presented with a “second blind spot,” describing a nasal scotoma in the right eye that started 4 days after vaccinations against Neisseria meningitidis and the yellow fever virus, and after a 2-month period of high stress and decreased sleep. Clinical examination, Humphrey visual field testing, and multimodal imaging with fundus photographs, autofluorescence, fluorescein angiography, and spectral domain optical coherence tomography and angiography were performed.

Results:

Clinical examination revealed a well-circumscribed, triangular area of retinal graying of about 1-disk diameter in size, located at the border of the temporal macula. This corresponded to a deep scotoma similar in size to the physiologic blind spot on Humphrey visual field 24-2 testing. There was mild hypoautofluoresence of this lesion on autofluorescence, hypofluorescence on fluorescein angiography, and focal attenuation of a small artery just distal to the bifurcation of an artery supplying the involved area. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography through the lesion conveyed hyperreflectivity most prominent in the inner and outer plexiform layers, with extension of the hyperreflectivity into the ganglion cell and inner nuclear layers. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography angiography demonstrated arteriolar and capillary dropout, more pronounced in the superficial retinal layer compared to the deeper retinal layer. At 1-month follow-up, his scotoma improved with monitoring, with reduction from −32 dB to −7 dB on Humphrey visual field testing. There was clinical resolution of the area of graying and decreased hyperreflectivity on spectral domain optical coherence tomography, with atrophy of the inner retina. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography angiography showed progression of arteriolar and capillary dropout, more so in the superficial than in the deep capillary plexus.

Conclusion:

We describe a case of small artery occlusion in a previously healthy patient, 4 days after vaccination against N. meningitidis and yellow fever. Fluorescein angiography yielded greater diagnostic value than OCTA for evaluating the occlusion, whereas spectral domain optical coherence tomography angiography enabled better visualization of capillary dropout and layer-specific assessment. Further research is required to determine whether vaccination in general, or directed specifically at N. meningitidis or yellow fever, is associated with small vessel vasculopathy and the underlying pathogenesis.
PHENOTYPING CHOROIDEREMIA AND ITS CARRIER STATE WITH MULTIMODAL IMAGING TECHNIQUES
Authors: Ma Kevin K. , Lin James , Boudreault Katherine , Chen Royce W. S. , Tsang Stephen H.
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

To describe findings in a patient with choroideremia (CHM) and his mother, an obligate CHM carrier.

Methods:

Case report.

Results:

A 25-year-old man with nyctalopia and poor peripheral vision since childhood, as well as a family history consistent with an X-linked retinal disorder was diagnosed with CHM. His asymptomatic 50-year-old mother, an obligate carrier, was also examined. Fundus examination of the affected man showed significant atrophy of the choroid and retinal pigment epithelium, whereas the carrier woman showed patchy pigmentary mottling. Imaging of the affected man showed diffuse retinal pigment epithelium atrophy on optical coherence tomography and extensive areas of decreased choriocapillaris flow on optical coherence tomography angiography. By contrast, the carrier woman showed subtle retinal pigment epithelium changes on optical coherence tomography and mild flow alterations on optical coherence tomography angiography.

Conclusion:

This case demonstrates the findings seen in CHM, and while CHM carrier women are often asymptomatic, they may exhibit a mosaic pattern of pigmentary change on fundus examination. Optical coherence tomography angiography may show mild choroidal flow abnormalities. This finding serves to further characterize the extent of dysfunction in CHM and its carrier state.
Antimicrobial Efficacy of Multipurpose Disinfecting Solutions in the Presence of Contact Lenses and Lens Cases
Authors: Gabriel Manal M. , McAnally Cindy , Bartell John
Published: September 2016

Objective:

The aim of this study was to use antimicrobial efficacy endpoint methodology to determine compatibility of multipurpose disinfecting solutions (MPSs), lens cases, and hydrogel lenses for disinfection (AEEMC) against International Organization for Standardization (ISO)–specified microorganisms and clinical ocular isolates of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia.

Methods:

Six MPSs (PQ/Aldox 1, 2, and 3; PQ/Alexidine; PQ/PHMB; and PHMB) were challenged against ISO-specified microorganisms and S. maltophilia using the AEEMC test. AEEMC tests were performed with and without balafilcon A, etafilcon A, and senofilcon A lenses in lens cases with organic soil. Exposure times included disinfection time (DT) and 24 hr. Additionally, all six MPSs were challenged with two strains of S. maltophilia, based on the ISO Stand-alone test.

Results:

The efficacy against bacteria for PQ/Aldox and PQ/Alexidine MPSs was not diminished by the presence of lenses. The efficacy of PQ/PHMB and PHMB MPSs against Serratia marcescens was significantly reduced compared with the no-lens control at DT for at least one lens type. The PHMB MPS with lenses present also demonstrated reduced efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus at DT versus the control. PQ/Aldox MPSs retained activity against Fusarium solani with lenses present; however, all other test MPSs demonstrated reduced F. solani efficacy at DT with lenses present. With lenses, all MPSs showed reduced efficacy against Candida albicans.

Conclusions:

AEEMC antimicrobial efficacy test results vary based on challenge microorganism, contact lenses, and MPS biocide systems. This study highlights the importance of evaluating MPSs for compatibility with lenses and lens cases.
Simultaneous Implantation of an Ahmed and Baerveldt Glaucoma Drainage Device for Uncontrolled Intraocular Pressure in Advanced Glaucoma
Authors: Rao Veena S. , Christenbury Joseph , Lee Paul , Allingham Rand , Herndon Leon , Challa Pratap
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

To evaluate efficacy and safety of a novel technique, simultaneous implantation of Ahmed and Baerveldt shunts, for improved control of intraocular pressure (IOP) in advanced glaucoma with visual field defects threatening central fixation.

Patients and Methods:

Retrospective case series; all patients receiving simultaneous Ahmed and Baerveldt implantation at a single institution between October 2004 and October 2009 were included. Records were reviewed preoperatively and at postoperative day 1, week 1, month 1, month 3, month 6, year 1, and yearly until year 5. Outcome measures included IOP, best-corrected visual acuity, visual field mean deviation, cup to disc ratio, number of glaucoma medications, and complications.

Results:

Fifty-nine eyes were identified; mean (±SD) follow-up was 26±23 months. Primary open-angle glaucoma was most common (n=37, 63%). Forty-six eyes (78%) had prior incisional surgery. Mean preoperative IOP was 25.5±9.8 mm Hg. IOP was reduced 50% day 1 (P<0.001, mean 12.7±7.0 mm Hg), which persisted throughout follow-up. At year 1, cup to disc ratio and mean deviation were stable with decreased best-corrected visual acuity from logMAR 0.72±0.72(20/100) to 1.06±1.13(20/200) (P=0.007). The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed median and mean survival of 1205 and 829±91 days, respectively. Complication rate was 47%.

Conclusions:

IOP is markedly reduced postoperative day 1 following double glaucoma tube implantation with effects persisting over postoperative year 1 and up to year 5. Complications were higher than that seen in reports of single shunt implantation, which may be explained by patient complexity in this cohort. This technique may prove a promising novel approach for management of uncontrolled IOP in advanced glaucoma.
Patterns of Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Loss in Different Subtypes of Open Angle Glaucoma Using Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Baniasadi Neda , Paschalis Eleftherios I. , Haghzadeh Mahdi , Ojha Pallavi , Elze Tobias , Mahd Mufeed , Chen Teresa C.
Published: September 2016

Purpose of the Study:

The purpose of the study was to determine whether there are different patterns of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thinning as measured by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) for 4 subtypes of open angle glaucoma (OAG): primary OAG (POAG), normal tension glaucoma (NTG), pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PXG), and pigmentary glaucoma (PDG) and to compare them with normal controls.

Materials and Methods:

SD-OCT RNFL thickness values were measured for 4 quadrants and for 4 sectors (ie, superior-nasal, superior-temporal, inferior-nasal, and inferior-temporal). Differences in RNFL thickness values between groups were analyzed using analysis of variance. Paired t tests were used for quadrant comparisons.

Results:

Two hundred eighty-five participants (102 POAG patients, 33 with NTG, 48 with PXG, 13 with PDG, and 89 normal patients) were included in this study. All 4 subtypes of OAG showed significant RNFL thinning in the superior, inferior, and nasal quadrants as well as the superior-temporal and inferior-temporal sectors (all P-values <0.0001) compared with normals. POAG and NTG patients had greater RNFL thinning inferiorly and inferior-temporally than superiorly (P-values: 0.002 to 0.018 and 0.006, respectively) compared with PXG patients. In contrast, PDG patients had greater RNFL thinning superiorly and superior-nasally than inferiorly compared with other OAG subtypes (ie, POAG, NTG, PXG groups, with P-values: 0.009, 0.003, 0.009, respectively). Of the 4 OAG subtypes, PXG patients exhibited the greatest degree of inter-eye RNFL asymmetry.

Conclusions:

This study suggests that SD-OCT may be able to detect significant differences in patterns of RNFL thinning for different subtypes of OAG.
Outcomes of Trabeculectomy Augmented With Subconjunctival and Subscleral Ologen Implantation in Primary Advanced Glaucoma
Authors: Angmo Dewang , Wadhwani Meenakshi , Upadhyay Ashish Dutt , Temkar Shreyas , Dada Tanuj
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of trabeculectomy with combined subconjunctival and subscleral ologen implant in eyes with advanced glaucomatous optic neuropathy.

Design:

This is a retrospective, noncomparative case series.

Methods:

Twenty seven eyes of 23 patients with advanced primary glaucoma who underwent fornix-based trabeculectomy with insertion of ologen both subsclerally and subconjunctivally along with low dose Mitomycin-C (0.1 mg/mL×1 min) were evaluated. Data recorded included a complete history, demographic profile, and ophthalmic examination including gonioscopy and visual fields. Any complications or secondary procedures performed after trabeculectomy were recorded. Complete success was defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) ≤15 mm Hg without ocular hypotensive medication and qualified success as IOP≤15 mm Hg with medications.

Results:

The average age of patients was 46.2±14.8 years. There were 17 males and 6 females. Of these, 7 patients were diagnosed with juvenile open-angle glaucoma, 7 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma and 9 patients with primary angle-closure glaucoma and pseudophakia. The average follow-up time was 23.3±5.6 months, with a minimum of at least 12 months. The mean preoperative IOP was 38.3±6.6 mm Hg. Postoperatively, the IOP at 3 months was 12.5±1.9 mm Hg; 6 months was 12.6±3.9 mm Hg; 12 months was 12.3±2.5 mm Hg; and 24 months was 12.5±1.6 mm Hg (n=17); (P<0.0001). Complete success was noted in 92.6% eyes, qualified success in 3.7% eyes, and failure in 3.7% eyes. The preoperative and postoperative best-corrected visual acuity in logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution was 0.3±0.2 and 0.3±0.1 (P=0.31). The average number of ocular hypotensive medications used preoperatively was 4.2±0.5 (median 4) which decreased to 0.07±0.3 (median 0), (P<0.0001) postoperatively.

Conclusions:

Trabeculectomy with low dose Mitomycin-C and with implantation of ologen both subsclerally and subconjunctivally, appears to offer encouraging results in achieving a low target IOP in eyes with advanced primary adult glaucoma.
Differences in Corneal Biomechanics in Nonpenetrating Deep Sclerectomy and Deep Sclerectomy Reconverted into Trabeculectomy
Authors: Casado Alfonso , Cabarga Carmen , Pérez-Sarriegui Ane , Fuentemilla Enrique
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

To evaluate the differences in intraocular pressure (IOP) and in corneal biomechanics in eyes with uneventful nonpenetrating deep sclerectomy (NPDS) in 1 eye and with intended deep sclerectomy reconverted into trabeculectomy (RIT) in the fellow eye of the same patient.

Participants:

Forty eyes of 20 patients with both types of glaucoma surgery and more than 6 months of follow-up, and 31 eyes of 50 controls.

Methods:

IOP was assessed with Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT), ocular response analizer (ORA), and dynamic contour tonometer (DCT). Student t test for independent samples and a univariate generalized estimating equations model were used to analyze the results.

Main Outcome Measures:

Overall, no significant differences were found between IOP of NPDS and RIT eyes when measured with 3 tonometers.

Results:

Although NPDS showed lower values of IOP measured with GAT and ORA, RIT presented lower IOP if DCT is the chosen tonometry. Biomechanically, NPDS eyes had higher corneal hysteresis (CH) and corneal resistance factor (CRF). When compared with control patients, eyes that underwent glaucoma surgery had lower IOP using GAT, DCT and ORA (P<0.001, 0.315, and 0.260, respectively), and lower CRF (P<0.001).

Conclusions:

Eyes with NPDS tended to have higher values of CH and CRF and lower IOP than RIT eyes, as measured with 3 of 4 tonometry methods; these differences did not reach statistical significance.
Capillary Dropout at the Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Defect in Glaucoma: An Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Study
Authors: Ichiyama Yusuke , Minamikawa Takayuki , Niwa Yuichi , Ohji Masahito
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

To investigate the microvasculature changes of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) defects in glaucoma.

Design:

The study design is a case report.

Patients and Methods:

Four glaucomatous eyes were included in this observational cross-sectional study. The microvasculature changes of RNFL defects were examined using optical coherence tomography (OCT) angiography.

Results:

Three eyes had apparent wedge-shaped capillary dropout on OCT angiography. In the fourth eye, detection of wedge-shaped capillary loss was difficult because of overall capillary drop out due to advanced glaucoma. Capillary dropout detection by OCT angiography was correlated with visual field loss and RNFL defect detection by regular OCT. Compared with regular OCT used to obtain retinal thickness maps, OCT angiography is often better at visualizing the borders of lesions in the RNFL.

Conclusions:

OCT angiography can detect capillary dropout in RNFL defects in glaucomatous eyes, and therefore could be a useful glaucoma examination tool.