Background: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), previously known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy and causalgia, is a neuropathic pain condition that usually develops after an injury to an extremity. CRPS can be a d...Background: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), previously known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy and causalgia, is a neuropathic pain condition that usually develops after an injury to an extremity. CRPS can be a debilitating condition with high levels of pain and reduced function. Aim: This case report aims to discuss the multimodal approach in the management of a patient who presented with ongoing poorly controlled pain secondary to CRPS from an injury that happened years prior. Case Presentation: A 45-year-old female was involved in a motor vehicle accident where her right leg was injured. She underwent several surgeries and developed CRPS that significantly reduced her mobility and quality of life. She presented to the pain clinic years after her initial injury and a multimodal regimen was started for her resulting in significantly improved function. Conclusion: CRPS can be a severely debilitating condition. While early diagnosis and management are important, ongoing management in the outpatient chronic pain setting is important in maintaining a good level of function.展开更多
Background: Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) are potentially life threatening medical emergencies associated with devastating and rapidly spreading destruction of soft tissues. Atypical presentations and del...Background: Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) are potentially life threatening medical emergencies associated with devastating and rapidly spreading destruction of soft tissues. Atypical presentations and delayed early diagnosis can be significant challenges in managing NSTIs. The infectious process can start at any part of the body with rapid progression leading to limb amputation and high mortality rate. We present a case of a patient with NSTI, the sequelae and management of the chronic pain that developed. Aim: This case report looks to shed light on the importance of a plan for management of subacute and chronic pain in treating patients who present with Necrotizing soft tissue infection. Case presentation: A 53-year-old female who presented with septicemia and was subsequently admitted and treated for NSTI in 2014 resulting in amputation of her distal foot, toe digits, and now with ongoing chronic wound of the lower extremities along with chronic pain. Conclusion: Chronic pain as part of the sequelae of Necrotizing soft tissue infections needs to be anticipated by the health care management team in order to optimize patient care post operatively.展开更多
Background: The long-term outcomes of patients with chronic pain treated in a multidisciplinary pain management center remain variable. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the changes in outcomes of patient’s self...Background: The long-term outcomes of patients with chronic pain treated in a multidisciplinary pain management center remain variable. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the changes in outcomes of patient’s self-reported pain, psychosocial status, health related quality of life and gender differences following treatment in amultidisciplinary pain management centre. Design: A prospective longitudinal cross-sectional study uses questionnaires. Treatment Setting: A pragmatic and individualized patient centered approach in a tertiary level multidisciplinary pain management center. Subjects: Patients with chronic pain referred to the centre from 2004-2010. Outcome Measures: Pain Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), Pain Temporal Description (1 - 6), Pain Self- Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ), Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21) and Short Form-36 (SF- 36). Follow-up questionnaires were sent at 6 and 12 months after initial assessment. Results: Mean duration of baseline chronic pain was 8.1 years and 61% of chronic pains were involving the musculoskeletal system. At 6 and 12 month follow-ups, 273 and 180 participants had been surveyed respectively. At 6-month follow-up, there were significant improvements on pain intensity (Cohen’s d = 0.8), pain self-efficacy (Cohen’s d = 0.47), depression and stress scores (Cohen’s d = 0.16) and six out of eight domains of SF-36 (Cohen’s d = 0.2 - 0.4). At 12-month follow-up, improvements were maintained on pain intensity, self-efficacy and three out of eight domains of SF-36. There were distinctive pre- and post-treatment gender differences in these outcomes and overall females showed better short- and long-term outcomes than males. Conclusion: Multidisciplinary pain management using an individualized patient centered approach remains an effective treatment for chronic pain in both the short- (6 month) and long-term (12 month). The distinctive pre- and post-treatment gender differences particularly in the psychological outcomes, suggest that it may be beneficial to further delineate and better manage vulnerable patient subgroups.展开更多
Introduction With growing concerns about the opioid crisis,the adoption of multimodal analgesia has significantly increased in clinical settings over the last 20 years.Multimodal analgesia refers to the use of various...Introduction With growing concerns about the opioid crisis,the adoption of multimodal analgesia has significantly increased in clinical settings over the last 20 years.Multimodal analgesia refers to the use of various analgesic agents that act via distinct mechanisms at multiple sites along the nociceptive pathway,thereby enhancing pain management and minimizing opioid use.Opioid-sparing or opioid-free approaches can be effective for perioperative analgesia;however,their necessity and appropriateness depend on the circumstances of the individual patient.Common perioperative analgesics include opioids and non-opioid systemic analgesics,such as dexmedetomidine(DEX),ketamine,acetaminophen,non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs,gabapentinoids,and regional or local anesthetics administered intravenously or through infiltration.展开更多
Objective To evaluate the clinical efficacy of different acupuncture-related therapies in treating postoperative pain in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures(OVCFs)after percutaneous kyphoplasty(...Objective To evaluate the clinical efficacy of different acupuncture-related therapies in treating postoperative pain in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures(OVCFs)after percutaneous kyphoplasty(PKP)or percutaneous vertebroplasty(PVP)using a network meta-analysis.Methods A systematic search was conducted in PubMed,Cochrane Library,Embase,Web of Science,China National Knowledge Infrastructure,Wanfang Database,Chinese Scientific Journal Database,and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database(SinoMed)from their inception to January 15,2025.Outcome measures included the Visual Analog Scale(VAS)score,Oswestry Disability Index(ODI)score,and overall efficacy rate.Literature screening,data extraction,and risk-of-bias assessment were independently performed by two researchers.Data analysis was conducted using Stata 17.0 software.Results A total of 35 randomized controlled trials involving 2860 patients were included.The data analysis revealed that,in terms of improving VAS and ODI scores,the top three effective therapies were Fu's subcutaneous needling,wrist-ankle acupuncture,and acupotomy.For the overall efficacy rates in pain treatment,the top three therapies were wrist-ankle acupuncture,warm acupuncture and moxibustion,and Fu's subcutaneous needling.Based on the combined results across the three outcome measures,Fu's subcutaneous needling was found to be the most effective in relieving pain and improving lumbar function.Conclusion Fu's subcutaneous needling,wrist-ankle acupuncture,warm acupuncture and moxibustion,and acupotomy were all effective in treating postoperative pain post-PKP/PVP and improving lumbar function.However,further high-quality,large-sample studies are required to confirm these findings.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the diagnostic validity and therapeutic value of lumbar facet joint interventions in managing chronic low back pain.METHODS: The review process applied systematic evidence-based assessment methodol...AIM: To investigate the diagnostic validity and therapeutic value of lumbar facet joint interventions in managing chronic low back pain.METHODS: The review process applied systematic evidence-based assessment methodology of controlled trials of diagnostic validity and randomized controlled trials of therapeutic efficacy. Inclusion criteria encompassed all facet joint interventions performed in a controlled fashion. The pain relief of greater than 50% was the outcome measure for diagnostic accuracy assessment of the controlled studies with ability to perform previously painful movements, whereas, for randomized controlled therapeutic efficacy studies, the primary outcome was significant pain relief and the secondary outcome was a positive change in functional status. For the inclusion of the diagnostic controlled studies, all studies must have utilized either placebo controlled facet joint blocks or comparative local anesthetic blocks. In assessing therapeutic interventions, short-term and long-term reliefs were defined as either up to 6 mo or greater than 6 mo of relief. The literature search was extensive utilizing various types of electronic search media including Pub Med from 1966 onwards, Cochrane library, National Guideline Clearinghouse, clinicaltrials.gov, along with other sources includingprevious systematic reviews, non-indexed journals, and abstracts until March 2015. Each manuscript included in the assessment was assessed for methodologic quality or risk of bias assessment utilizing the Quality Appraisal of Reliability Studies checklist for diagnostic interventions, and Cochrane review criteria and the Interventional Pain Management Techniques- Quality Appraisal of Reliability and Risk of Bias Assessment tool for therapeutic interventions. Evidence based on the review of the systematic assessment of controlled studies was graded utilizing a modified schema of qualitative evidence with best evidence synthesis, variable from level Ⅰ to level Ⅴ.RESULTS: Across all databases, 16 high quality diagnostic accuracy studies were identified. In addition, multiple studies assessed the influence of multiple factors on diagnostic validity. In contrast to diagnostic validity studies, therapeutic efficacy trials were limited to a total of 14 randomized controlled trials, assessing the efficacy of intraarticular injections, facet or zygapophysial joint nerve blocks, and radiofrequency neurotomy of the innervation of the facet joints. The evidence for the diagnostic validity of lumbar facet joint nerve blocks with at least 75% pain relief with ability to perform previously painful movements was level Ⅰ, based on a range of level Ⅰ to Ⅴ derived from a best evidence synthesis. For therapeutic interventions, the evidence was variable from level Ⅱ to Ⅲ, with level Ⅱ evidence for lumbar facet joint nerve blocks and radiofrequency neurotomy for long-term improvement(greater than 6 mo), and level Ⅲ evidence for lumbosacral zygapophysial joint injections for short-term improvement only.CONCLUSION: This review provides significant evidence for the diagnostic validity of facet joint nerve blocks, and moderate evidence for therapeutic radiofrequency neurotomy and therapeutic facet joint nerve blocks in managing chronic low back pain.展开更多
The cytochrome P450 proteins(CYP450s)have been implicated in catalyzing numerous important biological reactions and contribute to a variety of diseases.CYP26A1,a member of the CYP450 family,carries out the oxidative m...The cytochrome P450 proteins(CYP450s)have been implicated in catalyzing numerous important biological reactions and contribute to a variety of diseases.CYP26A1,a member of the CYP450 family,carries out the oxidative metabolism of retinoic acid(RA),the active metabolite of vitamin A.Here we report that CYP26A1 was dramatically upregulated in the spinal cord after spinal nerve ligation(SNL).CYP26A1 was mainly expressed in spinal neurons and astrocytes.HPLC analysis displayed that the content of all-trans-RA(at-RA),the substrate of CYP26A1,was reduced in the spinal cord on day 7 after SNL.Inhibition of CYP26A1 by siRNA or inhibition of CYP26A1-mediated at-RA catabolism by talarozole relieved the SNL-induced mechanical allodynia during the maintenance phase of neuropathic pain.Talarozole also reduced SNL-induced glial activation and proinflammatory cytokine production but increased anti-inflammatory cytokine(IL-10)production.The RA receptors RARα,RXRβ,and RXRγwere expressed in spinal neurons and glial cells.The promoter of Il-10 has several binding sites for RA receptors,and at-RA directly increased Il-10 mRNA expression in vitro.Finally,intrathecal IL-10 attenuated SNL-induced neuropathic pain and reduced the activation of astrocytes and microglia.Collectively,the inhibition of CYP26A1-mediated at-RA catabolism alleviates SNL-induced neuropathic pain by promoting the expression of IL-10 and suppressing glial activation.CYP26A1 may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of neuropathic pain.展开更多
Objective Pectus excavatum is a congenital deformity characterized by a caved-in chest wall.Repair requires surgery.The less invasive Nuss procedure is very successful,but postoperative pain management is challenging ...Objective Pectus excavatum is a congenital deformity characterized by a caved-in chest wall.Repair requires surgery.The less invasive Nuss procedure is very successful,but postoperative pain management is challenging and evolving.New pain management techniques to reduce opioid reliance include the erector spinae plane(ESP)block.We retrospectively examined opioid consumption after Nuss procedure comparing three pain management techniques:ESP block,thoracic epidural(TE),and patient-controlled analgesia(PCA).Methods This retrospective cohort study compared pain management outcomes of three patient groups.Seventy-eight subjects aged 10–18 years underwent Nuss procedure at our institution between January 2014 and January 2020.The primary outcome measure was opioid consumption measured in morphine milligram equivalents.Secondary measures included pain ratings and length of stay(LOS).Pain was quantified using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale.Analysis of variance was performed on all outcome measures.Results Average cumulative opioid use was significantly lower in the ESP block(67 mg)than the TE(117 mg)(p=0.0002)or the PCA group(172 mg)(p=0.0002).The ESP block and PCA groups both had a significantly shorter average LOS(3.3 and 3.7 days,respectively)than the TE group(4.7 days).ESP block performed best for reducing opioid consumption and LOS.Reduced opioid consumption is key for limiting side effects.This study supports use of ESP block as a superior choice when choosing among the three postoperative pain management options that were evaluated.Conclusion ESP resulted in reduced opioid consumption postoperatively and shorter LOS than TE or PCA for patients undergoing the Nuss procedure for surgical repair of pectus excavatum.展开更多
Neuropathic pain is chronic pain generated by disorders of the peripheral and central nervous system, including skull base tumours. A skull base tumour can be any type of tumour that forms in the skull base, and this ...Neuropathic pain is chronic pain generated by disorders of the peripheral and central nervous system, including skull base tumours. A skull base tumour can be any type of tumour that forms in the skull base, and this includes vestibular schwannomas which arise from the sheath of the inner ear vestibulocochlear nerve(eighth cranial nerve). Growth of the tumour, surgical resection, and/or stereotactic radiotherapy may result incompression and/or irritation of the fifth cranial nerve(trigeminal nerve) resulting in facial pain and/or numbness. Non-trigeminal afferent input may contribute to the wide constellation of symptoms seen in orofacial pain patients. The purpose of this report was to develop a decision tool to guide the recognition and treatment of neuropathic pain in this specialized population. Recommendations for treatment are based on evidence presented in Canadian and international neuropathic treatment guidelines. Algorithms are included for assessment and treatment of adult patients with agents that are recognized to have analgesic efficacy within the broad context of neuropathic pain.展开更多
BACKGROUND Elsberg syndrome is a type of postinfectious lumbosacral radiculitis typically tri-ggered by neurotropic viruses and manifests as bladder/bowel dysfunction,saddle sensory disturbances(including hypoesthesia...BACKGROUND Elsberg syndrome is a type of postinfectious lumbosacral radiculitis typically tri-ggered by neurotropic viruses and manifests as bladder/bowel dysfunction,saddle sensory disturbances(including hypoesthesia,hyperesthesia,or dyse-sthesia),and variable neurological deficits.Typically self-limiting,it often res-ponds to antiviral and neurotropic therapies.However,in patients with comorbi-dities that confer susceptibility to peripheral neuropathy(e.g.,diabetes mellitus),timely escalation to neuromodulation strategies,such as spinal cord stimulation,may be warranted to optimize functional outcomes when conservative measures are inadequate.CASE SUMMARY A 60-year-old male with diabetes mellitus presented with severe bladder and bowel dysfunction persisting for more than two months,followed by left gluteal and perianal(saddle area)herpes zoster eruption that was accompanied by significant neuropathic pain.Following a suboptimal response to conservative therapy,the patient underwent implantation of a short-term spinal cord stimu-lation.Following a 10-day trial of continuous tonic stimulation,the percutaneous electrode lead was removed.The patients experienced no surgical complications,and after the procedure,the patient achieved complete restoration of bladder and bowel function and significant pain alleviation.Two-month follow-up confirmed sustained full recovery.CONCLUSION Early implementation of short-term spinal cord stimulation represents a pro-mising therapeutic approach for promoting neurological recovery in patients with Elsberg syndrome refractory to conservative management,especially those with predisposing comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus.展开更多
BACKGROUND Intestinal injury is the most common complication of sepsis,and the mitigation of intestinal damage is crucial for treating sepsis.AIM To examine the use of ozone-rich water and its action in preventing int...BACKGROUND Intestinal injury is the most common complication of sepsis,and the mitigation of intestinal damage is crucial for treating sepsis.AIM To examine the use of ozone-rich water and its action in preventing intestinal damage caused by sepsis.METHODS Through histological analysis,immunohistochemistry,immunofluorescence assays,and Western blot detection,we evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of ozone in mitigating intestinal injury during sepsis.Additionally,by conducting 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics analysis on fecal samples,we identified alterations in the gut microbiota and specific metabolites in septic mice following ozone treatment.This comprehensive approach aims to further elucidate the mechanistic underpinnings of ozone therapy in alleviating sepsis-induced intestinal damage.RESULTS Our results demonstrate that ozonated water significantly ameliorates pathological damage in intestinal tissues,enhances the expression of tight junction proteins,and inhibits the polarization of intestinal macrophages,thereby reducing the expression of inflammatory cytokines in intestinal tissues of cecal ligation and puncture-induced septic mice.16S rRNA sequencing analysis revealed that ozonated water increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria and alleviated gut microbiota dysbiosis.Studies using broad-spectrum antibiotic-treated mice indicated that the protective effects of ozonated water on intestinal injury are dependent on the gut microbiota.Furthermore,metabolomic analysis identified an increase in the tryptophan metabolite DL-tryptophan in the ozonated water treatment group.This suggests that ozonated water protects against intestinal injury by activating the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and suppressing necroptosis in intestinal epithelial cells.CONCLUSION Ozone protected against sepsis-induced intestinal injury through regulation of the gut microbiota and tryptophan metabolism,inhibiting necrotic apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells through activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor.展开更多
This retrospective case study investigates the clinical presentation of a 53-year-old female who underwent mantle field radiotherapy roughly 26 years ago. This patient presents with diffuse muscle atrophy and weakness...This retrospective case study investigates the clinical presentation of a 53-year-old female who underwent mantle field radiotherapy roughly 26 years ago. This patient presents with diffuse muscle atrophy and weakness in the cervical musculature, as well as sensory deficits in the upper extremities. We sought to compare our patient’s symptoms with other patients who had been formally diagnosed with Dropped Head Syndrome (DHS) by reviewing the existing literature. We found that the clinical presentation under investigation was consistent with other patients who had received radiotherapy for Hodgkins’s disease and were then diagnosed with DHS. Electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction studies, and a cervical MRI were unable to identify a separate neurological cause for the symptoms, but the MRI did confirm the presence of diffuse muscle atrophy in the cervical musculature. After reviewing the existing literature and imaging results, we compared our patient’s symptoms to those that define DHS, and both the time of onset, presenting symptoms, and progressing course are consistent with a diagnosis of Dropped Head Syndrome.展开更多
Objective: Erector spinae plane block is a novel regional anaesthetic intervention that is said to have an effective analgesic profile in the upper abdominal region. We compared its analgesic efficacy with thoracic ep...Objective: Erector spinae plane block is a novel regional anaesthetic intervention that is said to have an effective analgesic profile in the upper abdominal region. We compared its analgesic efficacy with thoracic epidural block for upper abdominal cancer surgeries. Methods: This prospective study included 60 patients, 18 to 65 years old with ASA class II who underwent gastrectomy and Whipple’s procedures under general anesthesia. Patients were assigned into two groups: Thoracic epidural group, with injection of 0.1 ml/kg of bupivacaine 0.25% in epidural catheter followed by 0.1 ml/kg/h of 0.125% bupivacaine infusion for 48 hrs., and Erector spinae group, with insertion of bilateral erector spinae catheters to inject 0.1 ml/kg of bupivacaine 0.25% followed by bilateral infusion of 0.1 ml/kg/h of bupivacaine 0.125% for 48 hrs. The primary endpoint was postoperative VAS scores at rest and movement. Secondary endpoint included postoperative total opioid consumption, 1st request for analgesia, hemodynamic changes and satisfaction scores. Results: Pain scores and needed rescue analgesia in both groups were comparable. However, 1st request for opioid was significantly longer in TEPI compared to ESI group. Hemodynamics were significantly lower in TEPI group with no differences in the incidence of postoperative complications except for hypotension. Patient satisfaction scores were arbitrarily higher in ESI group without significance. Conclusion: Erector spinae infusion is a highly promising regional technique with comparable effects to thoracic epidural blockade in reducing pain and opioid needs while causing minimal hemodynamic consequences.展开更多
BACKGROUND Postoperative delirium(POD),an acute neuropsychiatric complication in elderly surgical patients,manifests as attention and cognitive disturbances that may last 24-72 hours after surgery,potentially progress...BACKGROUND Postoperative delirium(POD),an acute neuropsychiatric complication in elderly surgical patients,manifests as attention and cognitive disturbances that may last 24-72 hours after surgery,potentially progressing to dementia.Transcranial direct current stimulation(tDCS),a non-invasive neuromodulation technique,enhances cortical excitability and cognitive function by modulating brain networks and synaptic plasticity.Elderly patients undergoing major laparoscopic surgery face elevated POD risks due to prolonged anesthesia and pneumoperitoneum-induced cerebral hypoperfusion.This study investigates whether pre-anesthesia tDCS can reduce POD incidence in this population.AIM To investigate the effect of preoperative tDCS on reducing the incidence of POD in elderly patients undergoing major laparoscopic surgery.METHODS In this study,we enrolled 220 elderly patients who underwent major laparoscopic surgery between April 2024 and December 2024.Patients were randomly assigned to the active-tDCS(group A)and sham-tDCS(group S)groups.A single session of tDCS or sham stimulation was administered 30 minutes before anesthesia induction.The primary outcome was the incidence of POD during within 3 days postoperatively.RESULTS A total of 201 patients were included in the final analysis,with 100 patients in group A and 101 in group S.The incidence of POD within 3 days postoperatively was 7.0%in group A,which was significantly lower than 22.8%in group S.On postoperative day 1,the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale and Self-Rating Depression Scale scores significantly differed between the two groups,but the pain scores showed no significant difference.CONCLUSION A single session of preoperative tDCS can reduce the incidence of POD in elderly patients undergoing major laparoscopic surgery and can also reduce postoperative anxiety and depression in these patients.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the effects of“Three Methods and Three Acupoints”(TMTP)Tuina therapy on spinal microcirculation in sciatic nerve injury(SNI).Methods:Thirty-six SpragueeDawley rats were randomly assigned to ...Objective:To investigate the effects of“Three Methods and Three Acupoints”(TMTP)Tuina therapy on spinal microcirculation in sciatic nerve injury(SNI).Methods:Thirty-six SpragueeDawley rats were randomly assigned to four groups:normal,sham operation,model,and TMTP Tuina.Successful model induction was confirmed by observable hind limb lameness.After 20 sessions,hind limb grip strength and motor nerve conduction velocity(MNCV)were measured at baseline and following the 10th and 20th intervention.CD31 and a-SMA in the ventral horn of SNI model rats were detected using immunofluorescence.Motor neurons in the ventral horn were detected by Nissl staining.PTEN levels in the ventral horn were measured by ELISA,and PI3K,Akt,BDNF,VEGF,and HIF-1a expression was determined by RT-PCR.Spinal cord microcirculation was evaluated by western blotting analysis of the levels of Akt,p-Akt,BDNF,and VEGF.Results:Hind limb grip strength and MNCV significantly improved in the TMTP Tuina group compared to the model group(both P<.001).Morphology of ventral horn motor neurons in the TMTP Tuina group improved compared to the model group,with increased expressions of a-SMA(P=.002)and CD31(P=.006).Western blot analysis indicated increased expression of VEGF(P=.005),p-Akt(P<.001),and BDNF(P=.008)in the ventral horn following Tuina treatment.RT-PCR analysis revealed increased expression of PI3K,Akt,BDNF,VEGF and HIF-1a(all P<.05).In contrast,expression of PTEN decreased compared to the model group(P<.001).Conclusion:TMTP Tuina therapy may restore motor function in rats,enhance ventral horn motor neuron morphology,and promote angiogenesis and vascular smooth muscle proliferation.The mechanism may involve the activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.展开更多
Chronic migraine is a potentially debilitating condition that can be detrimental to someone’s quality of life. Clinical data has proven OnabotulinumtoxinA (BoNT-A) to be an effective prophylactic treatment for chroni...Chronic migraine is a potentially debilitating condition that can be detrimental to someone’s quality of life. Clinical data has proven OnabotulinumtoxinA (BoNT-A) to be an effective prophylactic treatment for chronic headache types, and it is now regularly employed by headache treatment centers. The PREEMPT injection protocol has become the standard treatment regimen surrounding Botox injections for chronic migraine treatment since it was granted approval by the FDA in 2010. This retrospective chart review of patients treated for chronic migraine at Maine Comprehensive Pain Management in Scarborough, Maine, presents an alteration to the standard PREEMPT injection paradigm that reinforces the efficacy of Botox for chronic migraine treatment. We will discuss our Modified PREEMPT injection paradigm, which yields a positive clinical response rate of 95% of patients achieving at least 50% improvement in their migraine headaches. This appears to be the highest established response rate in the literature to date.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the effects of Huangqi(Radix Astragali Mongolici)-Ezhu(Rhizoma Curcumae Phaeocaulis)(HQEZ)on colorectal cancer therapies and to elucidate the potential mechanisms of HQEZ,especially in combinatio...OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the effects of Huangqi(Radix Astragali Mongolici)-Ezhu(Rhizoma Curcumae Phaeocaulis)(HQEZ)on colorectal cancer therapies and to elucidate the potential mechanisms of HQEZ,especially in combination with 5-Fluorouracil(5-FU).METHODS:The anti-tumor effects of HQEZ were evaluated in colorectal cancer models both in vivo and in vitro.The network pharmacological assay was used to investigate potential mechanisms of HQEZ.Potential target genes were selected by Gene Ontology(GO)enrichment analysis,Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG)enrichment analysis,protein-protein interaction network(PPI)and molecular docking.Within key targets,potential targets related to drug sensitivity,especially the sensitivity to 5-FU,were evaluated in HCT116 in vitro by immunofluorescence,quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qPCR)and Western-blot.Then,changes in potential targets were assessed in tumors from tumor-bearing mice and the expression of these targets was also evaluated in colorectal cancer(COAD)patients from the Cancer Genome Atlas Program(TCGA)database.RESULTS:HQEZ significantly enhanced the anti-tumor activity of 5-FU in vivo and inhibit the growth of HCT116 in vitro.By network pharmacological analysis,key targets,such as protein kinase B(AKT1),epidermal growth factor receptor(EGFR),adenosine triphosphate(ATP)binding cassette subfamily B member 1(ABCB1,also named multidrug resistance protein 1,MDR1),ATP binding cassette subfamily G member 2(ABCG2),thymidylate synthetase(TYMS,also named TS),prostaglandinendoperoxide synthase 2(PTGS2),matrix metallopeptidase 2(MMP2),MMP9,toll like receptor 4(TLR4),TLR9 and dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase(DPYD),were identified.Additionally,4 potential core active ingredients(Folate,Curcumin,quercetin and kaempferol)were identified to be important for the treatment of colorectal cancer with HQEZ.In key targets,chemoresistance related targets were validated to be affected by HQEZ.Furthermore,5-FU sensitivity related targets,including MDR1,TS,EGFR,ribonucleotide reductase catalytic subunit M1,Breast and Ovarian Cancer Susceptibility Protein 1(BRCA1)and mutl homolog 1 were also significantly reduced by HQEZ both in vitro and in vivo.Finally,these validated key targets and 5-FU sensitivity related targets were demonstrated to be up-regulated in COAD patients based on TCGA database.CONCLUSION:HQEZ has synergistic effects on the antitumor activity of 5-FU in the treatment of colorectal cancer both in vivo and in vitro.The beneficial effect of HQEZ results from the inhibition of the drug sensitivity targets associated with 5-FU.The combination therapy of HQEZ with 5-FU or other chemotherapeutic drugs will also improve the anti-tumor efficacy of chemotherapy.展开更多
Dear Editor,SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that caused the COVID-19 pandemic,leading to more than 774 million cases and 7,037,007 deaths by March 2024(World Health Organization,http://covid19.who.int/).Despite effective trea...Dear Editor,SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that caused the COVID-19 pandemic,leading to more than 774 million cases and 7,037,007 deaths by March 2024(World Health Organization,http://covid19.who.int/).Despite effective treatments,15%-20%of patients experience long-term symptoms,such as breathlessness,fatigue,depression,and cognitive impairment,which are often linked to an excessive immune response[1].All variants of the virus(α,,,Omicron,and BA.1),which can potentially access the brain via the olfactory mucosa,have been found in the brains of Syrian hamsters,triggering inflammation and demonstrating axonal travel[2].展开更多
From its inception the success of liver transplantation has been associated with massive blood loss. Massive transfusion is classically defined as > 10 units of red blood cells within 24 h, but describing transfusi...From its inception the success of liver transplantation has been associated with massive blood loss. Massive transfusion is classically defined as > 10 units of red blood cells within 24 h, but describing transfusion rates over a shorter period of time may reduce the potential for survival bias. Both massive haemorrhage and transfusion are associated with increased risk of mortality and morbidity(need for dialysis/surgical site infection) following liver transplantation although causality is difficult to prove due to the observational design of most trials. The blood loss associated with liver transplantation is multifactorial. Portal hypertension secondary to cirrhosis results in extensive collateral circulation, which can bleed during hepatectomy particular if portal pressures are increased. Avoiding volume loading and maintenance of a low central venous pressure together with the use of vasopressors have been shown to reduce blood loss and transfusion during liver transplantation, but may increase the risk of renal impairment post-operatively. Coagulation defects may be present pre-transplant, but haemostasis is often re-balanced due to a deficit in both proand anti-coagulation factors. Further derangement of haemostasis may develop in the anhepatic and neohepatic phases due to absent hepatic metabolic function, hyperfibrinolysis and platelet sequestration in the donor liver. Point-of-care tests of coagulation such as the viscoelastic tests rotation thromboelastometry/thromboelastometry allow and more accurate and rapid assessment of these derangements in coagulation and guide the use of factor replacement and antifibrinolytics. Transfusion protocols guided by these tests have been shown to reduce transfusion rates compared with conventional coagulation tests, but have not shownimprovements in mortality or morbidity. Pre-operative factors associated with massive transfusion include previous surgery, re-do transplantation, the aetiology and severity of liver disease. Intra-operatively the use of piggy-back technique and avoiding veno-veno bypass has been shown to reduced blood loss.展开更多
Artificial nutrition(AN) is necessary to meet the nutritional requirements of critically ill patients at nutrition risk because undernutrition determines a poorer prognosis in these patients. There is debate over whic...Artificial nutrition(AN) is necessary to meet the nutritional requirements of critically ill patients at nutrition risk because undernutrition determines a poorer prognosis in these patients. There is debate over which route of delivery of AN provides better outcomes and lesser complications. This review describes the management of parenteral nutrition(PN) in critically ill patients. The first aim is to discuss what should be done in order that the PN is safe. The second aim is to dispel "myths" about PN-related complications and show how prevention and monitoring are able to reach the goal of "near zero" PN complications. Finally, in this review is discussed the controversial issue of the route for delivering AN in critically ill patients. The fighting against PN complications should consider:(1) an appropriate blood glucose control;(2) the use of olive oil- and fish oil-based lipid emulsions alternative to soybean oil-based ones;(3) the adoption of insertion and care bundles for central venous access devices; and(4) the implementation of a policy of targeting "near zero" catheter-related bloodstream infections. Adopting all these strategies, the goal of "near zero" PN complications is achievable. If accurately managed, PN can be safely provided for most critically ill patients without expecting a relevant incidence of PN-related complications. Moreover, the use of protocols for the management of nutritional support and the presence of nutrition support teams may decrease PN-related complications. In conclusion, the key messages about the management of PN in critically ill patients are two. First, the dangers of PN-related complications have been exaggerated because complications are uncommon; moreover, infectious complications, as mechanical complications, are more properly catheter-related and not PN-related complications. Second, when enteral nutrition is not feasible or tolerated, PN is as effective and safe as enteral nutrition.展开更多
文摘Background: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), previously known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy and causalgia, is a neuropathic pain condition that usually develops after an injury to an extremity. CRPS can be a debilitating condition with high levels of pain and reduced function. Aim: This case report aims to discuss the multimodal approach in the management of a patient who presented with ongoing poorly controlled pain secondary to CRPS from an injury that happened years prior. Case Presentation: A 45-year-old female was involved in a motor vehicle accident where her right leg was injured. She underwent several surgeries and developed CRPS that significantly reduced her mobility and quality of life. She presented to the pain clinic years after her initial injury and a multimodal regimen was started for her resulting in significantly improved function. Conclusion: CRPS can be a severely debilitating condition. While early diagnosis and management are important, ongoing management in the outpatient chronic pain setting is important in maintaining a good level of function.
文摘Background: Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) are potentially life threatening medical emergencies associated with devastating and rapidly spreading destruction of soft tissues. Atypical presentations and delayed early diagnosis can be significant challenges in managing NSTIs. The infectious process can start at any part of the body with rapid progression leading to limb amputation and high mortality rate. We present a case of a patient with NSTI, the sequelae and management of the chronic pain that developed. Aim: This case report looks to shed light on the importance of a plan for management of subacute and chronic pain in treating patients who present with Necrotizing soft tissue infection. Case presentation: A 53-year-old female who presented with septicemia and was subsequently admitted and treated for NSTI in 2014 resulting in amputation of her distal foot, toe digits, and now with ongoing chronic wound of the lower extremities along with chronic pain. Conclusion: Chronic pain as part of the sequelae of Necrotizing soft tissue infections needs to be anticipated by the health care management team in order to optimize patient care post operatively.
文摘Background: The long-term outcomes of patients with chronic pain treated in a multidisciplinary pain management center remain variable. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the changes in outcomes of patient’s self-reported pain, psychosocial status, health related quality of life and gender differences following treatment in amultidisciplinary pain management centre. Design: A prospective longitudinal cross-sectional study uses questionnaires. Treatment Setting: A pragmatic and individualized patient centered approach in a tertiary level multidisciplinary pain management center. Subjects: Patients with chronic pain referred to the centre from 2004-2010. Outcome Measures: Pain Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), Pain Temporal Description (1 - 6), Pain Self- Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ), Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21) and Short Form-36 (SF- 36). Follow-up questionnaires were sent at 6 and 12 months after initial assessment. Results: Mean duration of baseline chronic pain was 8.1 years and 61% of chronic pains were involving the musculoskeletal system. At 6 and 12 month follow-ups, 273 and 180 participants had been surveyed respectively. At 6-month follow-up, there were significant improvements on pain intensity (Cohen’s d = 0.8), pain self-efficacy (Cohen’s d = 0.47), depression and stress scores (Cohen’s d = 0.16) and six out of eight domains of SF-36 (Cohen’s d = 0.2 - 0.4). At 12-month follow-up, improvements were maintained on pain intensity, self-efficacy and three out of eight domains of SF-36. There were distinctive pre- and post-treatment gender differences in these outcomes and overall females showed better short- and long-term outcomes than males. Conclusion: Multidisciplinary pain management using an individualized patient centered approach remains an effective treatment for chronic pain in both the short- (6 month) and long-term (12 month). The distinctive pre- and post-treatment gender differences particularly in the psychological outcomes, suggest that it may be beneficial to further delineate and better manage vulnerable patient subgroups.
文摘Introduction With growing concerns about the opioid crisis,the adoption of multimodal analgesia has significantly increased in clinical settings over the last 20 years.Multimodal analgesia refers to the use of various analgesic agents that act via distinct mechanisms at multiple sites along the nociceptive pathway,thereby enhancing pain management and minimizing opioid use.Opioid-sparing or opioid-free approaches can be effective for perioperative analgesia;however,their necessity and appropriateness depend on the circumstances of the individual patient.Common perioperative analgesics include opioids and non-opioid systemic analgesics,such as dexmedetomidine(DEX),ketamine,acetaminophen,non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs,gabapentinoids,and regional or local anesthetics administered intravenously or through infiltration.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82305273)the Central High-Level Clinical Research Fund for Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospitals(DZMG-QNGG0010).
文摘Objective To evaluate the clinical efficacy of different acupuncture-related therapies in treating postoperative pain in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures(OVCFs)after percutaneous kyphoplasty(PKP)or percutaneous vertebroplasty(PVP)using a network meta-analysis.Methods A systematic search was conducted in PubMed,Cochrane Library,Embase,Web of Science,China National Knowledge Infrastructure,Wanfang Database,Chinese Scientific Journal Database,and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database(SinoMed)from their inception to January 15,2025.Outcome measures included the Visual Analog Scale(VAS)score,Oswestry Disability Index(ODI)score,and overall efficacy rate.Literature screening,data extraction,and risk-of-bias assessment were independently performed by two researchers.Data analysis was conducted using Stata 17.0 software.Results A total of 35 randomized controlled trials involving 2860 patients were included.The data analysis revealed that,in terms of improving VAS and ODI scores,the top three effective therapies were Fu's subcutaneous needling,wrist-ankle acupuncture,and acupotomy.For the overall efficacy rates in pain treatment,the top three therapies were wrist-ankle acupuncture,warm acupuncture and moxibustion,and Fu's subcutaneous needling.Based on the combined results across the three outcome measures,Fu's subcutaneous needling was found to be the most effective in relieving pain and improving lumbar function.Conclusion Fu's subcutaneous needling,wrist-ankle acupuncture,warm acupuncture and moxibustion,and acupotomy were all effective in treating postoperative pain post-PKP/PVP and improving lumbar function.However,further high-quality,large-sample studies are required to confirm these findings.
文摘AIM: To investigate the diagnostic validity and therapeutic value of lumbar facet joint interventions in managing chronic low back pain.METHODS: The review process applied systematic evidence-based assessment methodology of controlled trials of diagnostic validity and randomized controlled trials of therapeutic efficacy. Inclusion criteria encompassed all facet joint interventions performed in a controlled fashion. The pain relief of greater than 50% was the outcome measure for diagnostic accuracy assessment of the controlled studies with ability to perform previously painful movements, whereas, for randomized controlled therapeutic efficacy studies, the primary outcome was significant pain relief and the secondary outcome was a positive change in functional status. For the inclusion of the diagnostic controlled studies, all studies must have utilized either placebo controlled facet joint blocks or comparative local anesthetic blocks. In assessing therapeutic interventions, short-term and long-term reliefs were defined as either up to 6 mo or greater than 6 mo of relief. The literature search was extensive utilizing various types of electronic search media including Pub Med from 1966 onwards, Cochrane library, National Guideline Clearinghouse, clinicaltrials.gov, along with other sources includingprevious systematic reviews, non-indexed journals, and abstracts until March 2015. Each manuscript included in the assessment was assessed for methodologic quality or risk of bias assessment utilizing the Quality Appraisal of Reliability Studies checklist for diagnostic interventions, and Cochrane review criteria and the Interventional Pain Management Techniques- Quality Appraisal of Reliability and Risk of Bias Assessment tool for therapeutic interventions. Evidence based on the review of the systematic assessment of controlled studies was graded utilizing a modified schema of qualitative evidence with best evidence synthesis, variable from level Ⅰ to level Ⅴ.RESULTS: Across all databases, 16 high quality diagnostic accuracy studies were identified. In addition, multiple studies assessed the influence of multiple factors on diagnostic validity. In contrast to diagnostic validity studies, therapeutic efficacy trials were limited to a total of 14 randomized controlled trials, assessing the efficacy of intraarticular injections, facet or zygapophysial joint nerve blocks, and radiofrequency neurotomy of the innervation of the facet joints. The evidence for the diagnostic validity of lumbar facet joint nerve blocks with at least 75% pain relief with ability to perform previously painful movements was level Ⅰ, based on a range of level Ⅰ to Ⅴ derived from a best evidence synthesis. For therapeutic interventions, the evidence was variable from level Ⅱ to Ⅲ, with level Ⅱ evidence for lumbar facet joint nerve blocks and radiofrequency neurotomy for long-term improvement(greater than 6 mo), and level Ⅲ evidence for lumbosacral zygapophysial joint injections for short-term improvement only.CONCLUSION: This review provides significant evidence for the diagnostic validity of facet joint nerve blocks, and moderate evidence for therapeutic radiofrequency neurotomy and therapeutic facet joint nerve blocks in managing chronic low back pain.
基金supported by STI2030-Major Projects(2022ZD0204700)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32030048,31700899,and 32200817)+1 种基金the Graduate Student Scientific Research Innovation Projects of Jiangsu Province(KYCX18-2397)the Startup Foundation for Doctors of the Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University(Tdb1906).
文摘The cytochrome P450 proteins(CYP450s)have been implicated in catalyzing numerous important biological reactions and contribute to a variety of diseases.CYP26A1,a member of the CYP450 family,carries out the oxidative metabolism of retinoic acid(RA),the active metabolite of vitamin A.Here we report that CYP26A1 was dramatically upregulated in the spinal cord after spinal nerve ligation(SNL).CYP26A1 was mainly expressed in spinal neurons and astrocytes.HPLC analysis displayed that the content of all-trans-RA(at-RA),the substrate of CYP26A1,was reduced in the spinal cord on day 7 after SNL.Inhibition of CYP26A1 by siRNA or inhibition of CYP26A1-mediated at-RA catabolism by talarozole relieved the SNL-induced mechanical allodynia during the maintenance phase of neuropathic pain.Talarozole also reduced SNL-induced glial activation and proinflammatory cytokine production but increased anti-inflammatory cytokine(IL-10)production.The RA receptors RARα,RXRβ,and RXRγwere expressed in spinal neurons and glial cells.The promoter of Il-10 has several binding sites for RA receptors,and at-RA directly increased Il-10 mRNA expression in vitro.Finally,intrathecal IL-10 attenuated SNL-induced neuropathic pain and reduced the activation of astrocytes and microglia.Collectively,the inhibition of CYP26A1-mediated at-RA catabolism alleviates SNL-induced neuropathic pain by promoting the expression of IL-10 and suppressing glial activation.CYP26A1 may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of neuropathic pain.
文摘Objective Pectus excavatum is a congenital deformity characterized by a caved-in chest wall.Repair requires surgery.The less invasive Nuss procedure is very successful,but postoperative pain management is challenging and evolving.New pain management techniques to reduce opioid reliance include the erector spinae plane(ESP)block.We retrospectively examined opioid consumption after Nuss procedure comparing three pain management techniques:ESP block,thoracic epidural(TE),and patient-controlled analgesia(PCA).Methods This retrospective cohort study compared pain management outcomes of three patient groups.Seventy-eight subjects aged 10–18 years underwent Nuss procedure at our institution between January 2014 and January 2020.The primary outcome measure was opioid consumption measured in morphine milligram equivalents.Secondary measures included pain ratings and length of stay(LOS).Pain was quantified using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale.Analysis of variance was performed on all outcome measures.Results Average cumulative opioid use was significantly lower in the ESP block(67 mg)than the TE(117 mg)(p=0.0002)or the PCA group(172 mg)(p=0.0002).The ESP block and PCA groups both had a significantly shorter average LOS(3.3 and 3.7 days,respectively)than the TE group(4.7 days).ESP block performed best for reducing opioid consumption and LOS.Reduced opioid consumption is key for limiting side effects.This study supports use of ESP block as a superior choice when choosing among the three postoperative pain management options that were evaluated.Conclusion ESP resulted in reduced opioid consumption postoperatively and shorter LOS than TE or PCA for patients undergoing the Nuss procedure for surgical repair of pectus excavatum.
文摘Neuropathic pain is chronic pain generated by disorders of the peripheral and central nervous system, including skull base tumours. A skull base tumour can be any type of tumour that forms in the skull base, and this includes vestibular schwannomas which arise from the sheath of the inner ear vestibulocochlear nerve(eighth cranial nerve). Growth of the tumour, surgical resection, and/or stereotactic radiotherapy may result incompression and/or irritation of the fifth cranial nerve(trigeminal nerve) resulting in facial pain and/or numbness. Non-trigeminal afferent input may contribute to the wide constellation of symptoms seen in orofacial pain patients. The purpose of this report was to develop a decision tool to guide the recognition and treatment of neuropathic pain in this specialized population. Recommendations for treatment are based on evidence presented in Canadian and international neuropathic treatment guidelines. Algorithms are included for assessment and treatment of adult patients with agents that are recognized to have analgesic efficacy within the broad context of neuropathic pain.
基金Supported by the Science and Technology Department of Sichuan Province,No.2023YFS0255。
文摘BACKGROUND Elsberg syndrome is a type of postinfectious lumbosacral radiculitis typically tri-ggered by neurotropic viruses and manifests as bladder/bowel dysfunction,saddle sensory disturbances(including hypoesthesia,hyperesthesia,or dyse-sthesia),and variable neurological deficits.Typically self-limiting,it often res-ponds to antiviral and neurotropic therapies.However,in patients with comorbi-dities that confer susceptibility to peripheral neuropathy(e.g.,diabetes mellitus),timely escalation to neuromodulation strategies,such as spinal cord stimulation,may be warranted to optimize functional outcomes when conservative measures are inadequate.CASE SUMMARY A 60-year-old male with diabetes mellitus presented with severe bladder and bowel dysfunction persisting for more than two months,followed by left gluteal and perianal(saddle area)herpes zoster eruption that was accompanied by significant neuropathic pain.Following a suboptimal response to conservative therapy,the patient underwent implantation of a short-term spinal cord stimu-lation.Following a 10-day trial of continuous tonic stimulation,the percutaneous electrode lead was removed.The patients experienced no surgical complications,and after the procedure,the patient achieved complete restoration of bladder and bowel function and significant pain alleviation.Two-month follow-up confirmed sustained full recovery.CONCLUSION Early implementation of short-term spinal cord stimulation represents a pro-mising therapeutic approach for promoting neurological recovery in patients with Elsberg syndrome refractory to conservative management,especially those with predisposing comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81971814Pudong New Area Health Talent Training Program,No.2025PDWSYCBJ-04Shanghai’s 2023“Technology Innovation Action Plan”Medical Innovation Research Project,No.23Y11908300。
文摘BACKGROUND Intestinal injury is the most common complication of sepsis,and the mitigation of intestinal damage is crucial for treating sepsis.AIM To examine the use of ozone-rich water and its action in preventing intestinal damage caused by sepsis.METHODS Through histological analysis,immunohistochemistry,immunofluorescence assays,and Western blot detection,we evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of ozone in mitigating intestinal injury during sepsis.Additionally,by conducting 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics analysis on fecal samples,we identified alterations in the gut microbiota and specific metabolites in septic mice following ozone treatment.This comprehensive approach aims to further elucidate the mechanistic underpinnings of ozone therapy in alleviating sepsis-induced intestinal damage.RESULTS Our results demonstrate that ozonated water significantly ameliorates pathological damage in intestinal tissues,enhances the expression of tight junction proteins,and inhibits the polarization of intestinal macrophages,thereby reducing the expression of inflammatory cytokines in intestinal tissues of cecal ligation and puncture-induced septic mice.16S rRNA sequencing analysis revealed that ozonated water increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria and alleviated gut microbiota dysbiosis.Studies using broad-spectrum antibiotic-treated mice indicated that the protective effects of ozonated water on intestinal injury are dependent on the gut microbiota.Furthermore,metabolomic analysis identified an increase in the tryptophan metabolite DL-tryptophan in the ozonated water treatment group.This suggests that ozonated water protects against intestinal injury by activating the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and suppressing necroptosis in intestinal epithelial cells.CONCLUSION Ozone protected against sepsis-induced intestinal injury through regulation of the gut microbiota and tryptophan metabolism,inhibiting necrotic apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells through activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor.
文摘This retrospective case study investigates the clinical presentation of a 53-year-old female who underwent mantle field radiotherapy roughly 26 years ago. This patient presents with diffuse muscle atrophy and weakness in the cervical musculature, as well as sensory deficits in the upper extremities. We sought to compare our patient’s symptoms with other patients who had been formally diagnosed with Dropped Head Syndrome (DHS) by reviewing the existing literature. We found that the clinical presentation under investigation was consistent with other patients who had received radiotherapy for Hodgkins’s disease and were then diagnosed with DHS. Electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction studies, and a cervical MRI were unable to identify a separate neurological cause for the symptoms, but the MRI did confirm the presence of diffuse muscle atrophy in the cervical musculature. After reviewing the existing literature and imaging results, we compared our patient’s symptoms to those that define DHS, and both the time of onset, presenting symptoms, and progressing course are consistent with a diagnosis of Dropped Head Syndrome.
文摘Objective: Erector spinae plane block is a novel regional anaesthetic intervention that is said to have an effective analgesic profile in the upper abdominal region. We compared its analgesic efficacy with thoracic epidural block for upper abdominal cancer surgeries. Methods: This prospective study included 60 patients, 18 to 65 years old with ASA class II who underwent gastrectomy and Whipple’s procedures under general anesthesia. Patients were assigned into two groups: Thoracic epidural group, with injection of 0.1 ml/kg of bupivacaine 0.25% in epidural catheter followed by 0.1 ml/kg/h of 0.125% bupivacaine infusion for 48 hrs., and Erector spinae group, with insertion of bilateral erector spinae catheters to inject 0.1 ml/kg of bupivacaine 0.25% followed by bilateral infusion of 0.1 ml/kg/h of bupivacaine 0.125% for 48 hrs. The primary endpoint was postoperative VAS scores at rest and movement. Secondary endpoint included postoperative total opioid consumption, 1st request for analgesia, hemodynamic changes and satisfaction scores. Results: Pain scores and needed rescue analgesia in both groups were comparable. However, 1st request for opioid was significantly longer in TEPI compared to ESI group. Hemodynamics were significantly lower in TEPI group with no differences in the incidence of postoperative complications except for hypotension. Patient satisfaction scores were arbitrarily higher in ESI group without significance. Conclusion: Erector spinae infusion is a highly promising regional technique with comparable effects to thoracic epidural blockade in reducing pain and opioid needs while causing minimal hemodynamic consequences.
文摘BACKGROUND Postoperative delirium(POD),an acute neuropsychiatric complication in elderly surgical patients,manifests as attention and cognitive disturbances that may last 24-72 hours after surgery,potentially progressing to dementia.Transcranial direct current stimulation(tDCS),a non-invasive neuromodulation technique,enhances cortical excitability and cognitive function by modulating brain networks and synaptic plasticity.Elderly patients undergoing major laparoscopic surgery face elevated POD risks due to prolonged anesthesia and pneumoperitoneum-induced cerebral hypoperfusion.This study investigates whether pre-anesthesia tDCS can reduce POD incidence in this population.AIM To investigate the effect of preoperative tDCS on reducing the incidence of POD in elderly patients undergoing major laparoscopic surgery.METHODS In this study,we enrolled 220 elderly patients who underwent major laparoscopic surgery between April 2024 and December 2024.Patients were randomly assigned to the active-tDCS(group A)and sham-tDCS(group S)groups.A single session of tDCS or sham stimulation was administered 30 minutes before anesthesia induction.The primary outcome was the incidence of POD during within 3 days postoperatively.RESULTS A total of 201 patients were included in the final analysis,with 100 patients in group A and 101 in group S.The incidence of POD within 3 days postoperatively was 7.0%in group A,which was significantly lower than 22.8%in group S.On postoperative day 1,the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale and Self-Rating Depression Scale scores significantly differed between the two groups,but the pain scores showed no significant difference.CONCLUSION A single session of preoperative tDCS can reduce the incidence of POD in elderly patients undergoing major laparoscopic surgery and can also reduce postoperative anxiety and depression in these patients.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82274675&82074573)the Beijing Natural Science Foundation(7232278).
文摘Objective:To investigate the effects of“Three Methods and Three Acupoints”(TMTP)Tuina therapy on spinal microcirculation in sciatic nerve injury(SNI).Methods:Thirty-six SpragueeDawley rats were randomly assigned to four groups:normal,sham operation,model,and TMTP Tuina.Successful model induction was confirmed by observable hind limb lameness.After 20 sessions,hind limb grip strength and motor nerve conduction velocity(MNCV)were measured at baseline and following the 10th and 20th intervention.CD31 and a-SMA in the ventral horn of SNI model rats were detected using immunofluorescence.Motor neurons in the ventral horn were detected by Nissl staining.PTEN levels in the ventral horn were measured by ELISA,and PI3K,Akt,BDNF,VEGF,and HIF-1a expression was determined by RT-PCR.Spinal cord microcirculation was evaluated by western blotting analysis of the levels of Akt,p-Akt,BDNF,and VEGF.Results:Hind limb grip strength and MNCV significantly improved in the TMTP Tuina group compared to the model group(both P<.001).Morphology of ventral horn motor neurons in the TMTP Tuina group improved compared to the model group,with increased expressions of a-SMA(P=.002)and CD31(P=.006).Western blot analysis indicated increased expression of VEGF(P=.005),p-Akt(P<.001),and BDNF(P=.008)in the ventral horn following Tuina treatment.RT-PCR analysis revealed increased expression of PI3K,Akt,BDNF,VEGF and HIF-1a(all P<.05).In contrast,expression of PTEN decreased compared to the model group(P<.001).Conclusion:TMTP Tuina therapy may restore motor function in rats,enhance ventral horn motor neuron morphology,and promote angiogenesis and vascular smooth muscle proliferation.The mechanism may involve the activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
文摘Chronic migraine is a potentially debilitating condition that can be detrimental to someone’s quality of life. Clinical data has proven OnabotulinumtoxinA (BoNT-A) to be an effective prophylactic treatment for chronic headache types, and it is now regularly employed by headache treatment centers. The PREEMPT injection protocol has become the standard treatment regimen surrounding Botox injections for chronic migraine treatment since it was granted approval by the FDA in 2010. This retrospective chart review of patients treated for chronic migraine at Maine Comprehensive Pain Management in Scarborough, Maine, presents an alteration to the standard PREEMPT injection paradigm that reinforces the efficacy of Botox for chronic migraine treatment. We will discuss our Modified PREEMPT injection paradigm, which yields a positive clinical response rate of 95% of patients achieving at least 50% improvement in their migraine headaches. This appears to be the highest established response rate in the literature to date.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China Youth Found Project:Anti-Colorectal Cancer Metastasis Mechanism of Huangqi(Radix Astragali Mongolici)-Ezhu(Rhizoma Curcumae Phaeocaulis)According to the Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 2 Alpha/β-Catenin Cross-Talk Which Influence the Colon Tumor Stem Cells in Hypoxia Microenvironment(No.82003961)National Natural Science Foundation of China Youth Found Project:the Mechanism of the Compatibility of Huangqi(Radix Astragali Mongolici)and Ezhu(Rhizoma Curcumae Phaeocaulis)on the Early Metastasis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Mediated by Cancer Associated Fibroblasts(82104408)+1 种基金Science Foundation of China Project:Involvement of Hypoxia Inducible Factor-1αSignal in Huangqi(Radix Astragali Mongolici)-Ezhu(Rhizoma Curcumae Phaeocaulis)Combination Induced Remolding of Tumor Hypoxic Microenvironment(No.82074035)Science and Technology Development Project of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Jiangsu Province:Mechanism of Huangqi(Radix Astragali Mongolici)-Ezhu(Rhizoma Curcumae Phaeocaulis)Herb Pair on the Inhibition of Colon Cancer Metastasis Through the Wnt/β-catenin Pathway(No.YB201921)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the effects of Huangqi(Radix Astragali Mongolici)-Ezhu(Rhizoma Curcumae Phaeocaulis)(HQEZ)on colorectal cancer therapies and to elucidate the potential mechanisms of HQEZ,especially in combination with 5-Fluorouracil(5-FU).METHODS:The anti-tumor effects of HQEZ were evaluated in colorectal cancer models both in vivo and in vitro.The network pharmacological assay was used to investigate potential mechanisms of HQEZ.Potential target genes were selected by Gene Ontology(GO)enrichment analysis,Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG)enrichment analysis,protein-protein interaction network(PPI)and molecular docking.Within key targets,potential targets related to drug sensitivity,especially the sensitivity to 5-FU,were evaluated in HCT116 in vitro by immunofluorescence,quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qPCR)and Western-blot.Then,changes in potential targets were assessed in tumors from tumor-bearing mice and the expression of these targets was also evaluated in colorectal cancer(COAD)patients from the Cancer Genome Atlas Program(TCGA)database.RESULTS:HQEZ significantly enhanced the anti-tumor activity of 5-FU in vivo and inhibit the growth of HCT116 in vitro.By network pharmacological analysis,key targets,such as protein kinase B(AKT1),epidermal growth factor receptor(EGFR),adenosine triphosphate(ATP)binding cassette subfamily B member 1(ABCB1,also named multidrug resistance protein 1,MDR1),ATP binding cassette subfamily G member 2(ABCG2),thymidylate synthetase(TYMS,also named TS),prostaglandinendoperoxide synthase 2(PTGS2),matrix metallopeptidase 2(MMP2),MMP9,toll like receptor 4(TLR4),TLR9 and dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase(DPYD),were identified.Additionally,4 potential core active ingredients(Folate,Curcumin,quercetin and kaempferol)were identified to be important for the treatment of colorectal cancer with HQEZ.In key targets,chemoresistance related targets were validated to be affected by HQEZ.Furthermore,5-FU sensitivity related targets,including MDR1,TS,EGFR,ribonucleotide reductase catalytic subunit M1,Breast and Ovarian Cancer Susceptibility Protein 1(BRCA1)and mutl homolog 1 were also significantly reduced by HQEZ both in vitro and in vivo.Finally,these validated key targets and 5-FU sensitivity related targets were demonstrated to be up-regulated in COAD patients based on TCGA database.CONCLUSION:HQEZ has synergistic effects on the antitumor activity of 5-FU in the treatment of colorectal cancer both in vivo and in vitro.The beneficial effect of HQEZ results from the inhibition of the drug sensitivity targets associated with 5-FU.The combination therapy of HQEZ with 5-FU or other chemotherapeutic drugs will also improve the anti-tumor efficacy of chemotherapy.
基金sponsored by the National Key Research&Development Program of China(2022YFC3602700 and 2022YFC3602702)the Science and Technology Innovation 2030-Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence Project(2021ZD0201301)+1 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32170688 and 82172109)Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Major Project(2018SHZDZX01),and ZJLab.
文摘Dear Editor,SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that caused the COVID-19 pandemic,leading to more than 774 million cases and 7,037,007 deaths by March 2024(World Health Organization,http://covid19.who.int/).Despite effective treatments,15%-20%of patients experience long-term symptoms,such as breathlessness,fatigue,depression,and cognitive impairment,which are often linked to an excessive immune response[1].All variants of the virus(α,,,Omicron,and BA.1),which can potentially access the brain via the olfactory mucosa,have been found in the brains of Syrian hamsters,triggering inflammation and demonstrating axonal travel[2].
基金Supported by Department of AnesthesiaPain Management academic program support
文摘From its inception the success of liver transplantation has been associated with massive blood loss. Massive transfusion is classically defined as > 10 units of red blood cells within 24 h, but describing transfusion rates over a shorter period of time may reduce the potential for survival bias. Both massive haemorrhage and transfusion are associated with increased risk of mortality and morbidity(need for dialysis/surgical site infection) following liver transplantation although causality is difficult to prove due to the observational design of most trials. The blood loss associated with liver transplantation is multifactorial. Portal hypertension secondary to cirrhosis results in extensive collateral circulation, which can bleed during hepatectomy particular if portal pressures are increased. Avoiding volume loading and maintenance of a low central venous pressure together with the use of vasopressors have been shown to reduce blood loss and transfusion during liver transplantation, but may increase the risk of renal impairment post-operatively. Coagulation defects may be present pre-transplant, but haemostasis is often re-balanced due to a deficit in both proand anti-coagulation factors. Further derangement of haemostasis may develop in the anhepatic and neohepatic phases due to absent hepatic metabolic function, hyperfibrinolysis and platelet sequestration in the donor liver. Point-of-care tests of coagulation such as the viscoelastic tests rotation thromboelastometry/thromboelastometry allow and more accurate and rapid assessment of these derangements in coagulation and guide the use of factor replacement and antifibrinolytics. Transfusion protocols guided by these tests have been shown to reduce transfusion rates compared with conventional coagulation tests, but have not shownimprovements in mortality or morbidity. Pre-operative factors associated with massive transfusion include previous surgery, re-do transplantation, the aetiology and severity of liver disease. Intra-operatively the use of piggy-back technique and avoiding veno-veno bypass has been shown to reduced blood loss.
文摘Artificial nutrition(AN) is necessary to meet the nutritional requirements of critically ill patients at nutrition risk because undernutrition determines a poorer prognosis in these patients. There is debate over which route of delivery of AN provides better outcomes and lesser complications. This review describes the management of parenteral nutrition(PN) in critically ill patients. The first aim is to discuss what should be done in order that the PN is safe. The second aim is to dispel "myths" about PN-related complications and show how prevention and monitoring are able to reach the goal of "near zero" PN complications. Finally, in this review is discussed the controversial issue of the route for delivering AN in critically ill patients. The fighting against PN complications should consider:(1) an appropriate blood glucose control;(2) the use of olive oil- and fish oil-based lipid emulsions alternative to soybean oil-based ones;(3) the adoption of insertion and care bundles for central venous access devices; and(4) the implementation of a policy of targeting "near zero" catheter-related bloodstream infections. Adopting all these strategies, the goal of "near zero" PN complications is achievable. If accurately managed, PN can be safely provided for most critically ill patients without expecting a relevant incidence of PN-related complications. Moreover, the use of protocols for the management of nutritional support and the presence of nutrition support teams may decrease PN-related complications. In conclusion, the key messages about the management of PN in critically ill patients are two. First, the dangers of PN-related complications have been exaggerated because complications are uncommon; moreover, infectious complications, as mechanical complications, are more properly catheter-related and not PN-related complications. Second, when enteral nutrition is not feasible or tolerated, PN is as effective and safe as enteral nutrition.
