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Discogenic low back pain often persists despite medication and medical intervention. In this study, intradiscal pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) was performed in a patient with discogenic low back pain who did not respond to oral medication, posterior medial branch block, epidural steroid injection, and percutaneous epidural adhesiolysis.A 28-year-old woman visited a pain clinic complaining of low back pain that was scored 8 out of 10 on a numerical rating scale. Her pain was present in any position throughout the day and worsened in the sitting position.Magnetic resonance imaging showed L5-S1 internal discal disruption. Based on the medical history, physical examination, and magnetic resonance imaging, we determined that her pain originated from the L5-S1 disc.We performed an intradiscal PRF on the affected disc under C-arm fluoroscopy guidance. PRF was performed at 5 Hz, 20-ms pulse width, and 70 V for 15 minutes while ensuring that the electrode tip temperature was maintained below 42°C.Immediately after the procedure, the patient's pain subsided. At the 1-month follow-up visit, the patient reported complete relief of her low back pain. The Oswestry disability index, which indicates the degree of disability, improved significantly. She also reported that she could sit for long periods because the pain was reduced. No adverse effects from the procedure were found.Applying intradiscal PRF seems an effective and safe technique for treating discogenic low back pain.

This study aimed to determine the effects of the binaural beat (BB) on brainwave induction using an inaudible baseline frequency outside the audible frequency range. Experiments were conducted on 18 subjects (11 males [mean age: 25.7 ± 1.6 years] and 7 females [mean age: 24.0 ± 0.6 years]). A BB stimulation of 10 Hz was exerted by presenting frequencies of 18,000 Hz and 18,010 Hz to the left and right ears, respectively. A power spectrum analysis was performed to estimate the mean of the absolute power of the alpha frequency range (8-13 Hz). The variation in the mean alpha power during the rest and stimulation phases in each brain area was compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Compared to the rest phase, the stimulation phase with BB showed an increasing trend in the mean alpha power across all 5 brain areas. Notably, a significant increase was found in the frontal, central, and temporal areas. This is a significant study in that it determines the effects of only BB without the influence of auditory perception, which has been overlooked in previous studies.

In this study, we attempted to observe changes in cognitive characteristics according to 3 intensity changes (Level 1: 0.25 gravity, Level 2: 0.38 gravity, Level 3: 1.3 gravity) at 8 vibration frequencies (10, 50, 100, 150, 200, 225, 250, 300 Hz). The subjects were twelve male (22.1 ± 0.6 years old) and twelve female (21.5 ± 0.8 years old) healthy, right-handed adults with normal cognitive abilities. An experimental trial consisted of a stimulation phase (0.1 sec) in which a vibration stimulus was presented and a rest phase (6 sec) in which no vibration stimulus was presented. A selected stimulus was presented on the first knuckle of the right index finger 5 times (trials). Cognitive characteristics scores according to changes in intensity at each frequency were sampled using a subjective assessment sheet consisting of eighteen items (“ticklish,” “shivery,” “push,” “convex,” “thick,” “numb,” “slow,” “fast,” “shallow,” “strike,” “weak,” “strong,” “dense,” “blunt,” “heavy,” “light,” “stab”, “no stimulus”). To identify the cognitive characteristics according to intensity changes by frequency, the 3 intensities were designated as variables, and a curve estimation regression analysis was performed. At 10 Hz, cognitive characteristics of ’blunt’ increased with the intensity, and ’weak’ decreased. In 100 and 225 Hz, increase or decrease in intensity led to opposite cognitive characteristics (‘weak-strong’ in 100 and 225 Hz, ‘light-heavy’ in 225 Hz). In 100 and 225 Hz, as the intensity increased, expressions on the sense of surface such as ’blunt’ were superior, and the shape of an object (thick) and dynamics (push) differed with the change in intensity. In addition, in 225 Hz, decrease in intensity led to increase in cognitive characteristics such as ’light’ and 'shallow. ’Fast’ was unique in that it only appeared as the intensity increased at 300 Hz.

Background and Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the comparative efficacy and safety of 4 non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) and warfarin in Asians with non-valvular atrial fibrillation in real-world practice through a network meta-analysis of observational studies. Methods: We searched multiple comprehensive databases (PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane library) for studies published until August 2020. Hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals were used for the pooled estimates. Efficacy outcomes included ischemic stroke (IS), stroke/systemic embolism (SSE), myocardial infarction (MI), and all-cause mortality, and safety outcomes included major bleeding, gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). The P score was calculated for ranking probabilities. Subgroup analyses were separately performed in accordance with the dosage range of NOACs (“standard-” and “low-dose”). Results: A total of 11, 6, and 8 studies were allocated to the total population, standard-dose group, and low-dose group, respectively. In the total study population, edoxaban ranked the best in terms of IS and ICH prevention and apixaban ranked the best for SSE, major bleeding, and GI bleeding. In the standard-dose regimen, apixaban ranked the best in terms of IS and SSE prevention. For major bleeding, GI bleeding, and ICH, edoxaban ranked the best. In the low-dose regimen, edoxaban ranked the best for IS, SSE, GI bleeding, and ICH prevention. For major bleeding prevention, apixaban ranked best. Conclusions: All 4 NOACs had different efficacy and safety outcomes according to their type and dosage. Apixaban and edoxaban might be relatively better and more well-balanced treatment for Asian patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation.

Rationale: Filling materials for partial defect of the breast have rarely been developed because of safety and durability. Patient concerns: Two female patients (ages, 53 and 50 years) with breast cancer underwent partial mastectomy with sentinel lymph node biopsy. Diagnosis: Core needle biopsy revealed an invasive ductal carcinoma in both patients. Breast ultrasound showed hypoechoic nodules with irregular margins. Breast magnetic resonance imaging showed an irregularly shaped enhancing mass with duct extension in Patient 1 and irregularly shaped multifocal, enhancing masses with non-mass enhancement in Patient 2. Intervention: A combination method using acellular dermal matrix and oxidized regenerated cellulose was used for partial breast reconstruction. The safety and cosmetic outcomes were evaluated for both patients. Outcomes: There were no significant complications, and the breast shape and volume were well maintained, even 2 years after surgery. There was no postoperative tumor recurrence. Conclusion: The combination of acellular dermal matrix and oxidized regenerated cellulose for partial breast reconstruction can be a good option based on oncological safety and cosmetic outcome.

Del-1 has been linked to the pathogenesis of various cancers, including breast cancer. However, the regulation of Del-1 expression remains unclear. We previously reported the interaction between microRNA-137 (miR-137) and the Del-1 gene. In this study, we investigated miR-496 and miR-137 as regulators of Del-1 expression in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Del-1 mRNA and miR-496 were measured by quantitative PCR in breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231, MCF7, SK-BR3, and T-47D) and tissues from 30 patients with TNBC. The effects of miR-496 on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were determined with MTT, wound healing, and Matrigel transwell assays, respectively. In MDA-MB-231 cells, miR-496 levels were remarkably low and Del-1 mRNA levels were higher than in other breast cancer cell lines. Luciferase reporter assays revealed that miR-496 binds the 3'-UTR of Del-1 and Del-1 expression is downregulated by miR-496 mimics. Furthermore, miR-496 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells. The effects of miR-496 on cell proliferation were additive with those of miR-137, another miRNA that regulates Del-1 expression. Moreover, in the 30 TNBC specimens, miR-496 was downregulated (P

Rationale: Malignant phyllodes tumors are rare breast neoplasms that are associated with a 6.2% to 25% incidence rate of distant metastasis; the lung is the most common metastatic site. To date, there is no consensus regarding the treatment of metastatic malignant phyllodes breast tumors. Patient concern: A 48-year-old woman was admitted into the breast clinic for a rapidly growing right breast tumor that was first noticed 1 month prior. Diagnosis: Core needle biopsy revealed a malignant phyllodes tumor. A chest computed tomography and positron emission tomography/CT showed metastatic lymph nodes that appeared to have spread to the right axilla, as well as multiple solitary pulmonary nodules in the right lung. Fine needle aspiration on the axillary lymph node confirmed metastasis. Interventions: A right mastectomy with axillary lymph node dissection was conducted and a thoracoabdominal flap and a split thickness skin graft were performed for the skin defect. Palliative chemotherapy with doxorubicin plus ifosfamide was performed. Outcomes: An examination conducted 3 years postsurgery showed no signs of recurrence, and the patient's overall health status was satisfactory. Lessons: As standard treatment guidelines for metastatic malignant phyllodes tumors are lacking, we opted for the aforementioned aggressive treatments that resulted in complete remission of the lung metastasis. Therefore, aggressive treatment, whenever possible, is warranted.

The aim of study was to understand the epidemiology of playground injury and to find the factors related to the clinically significant injuries. This retrospective observational study enrolled children (age 0–18 years old) who visited the emergency departments (ED) of 6 hospitals in Korea. We obtained and analyzed the data from the ED injury surveillance system, which was supported by the Korea Centers for Disease Control. Clinically significant injury (Cs injury) was defined as the injuries that caused hospital admission for more than one day. The factors associated with injury and clinical outcome were compared between admitted and discharged patient groups. Multivariable logistic regression and the population attributable fraction were used to identify significant factors for hospitalization. A total of 1458 patients were enrolled. The proportion of patients who visited ED due to injuries unrelated to the playground equipment use was 57.8%. The majority of Cs injury was upper extremity fractures (68.1%). The risk factors for admission were the 6- to 11-year old age group (OR 5.7, 95% CI 1.3–25.0) and public playground (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1–5.3); the population attributable factor of these factors was 51.3% and 36.0%, respectively. This study shows that approximately 60% of the patients visited ED due to injury unrelated to the playground equipment use. The risk factors of Cs injuries were ages 6 to 11 and public playgrounds. The results of the study can be helpful to formulate the prevention policy against playground injury.

Rationale: Percutaneous cementoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that can provide immediate pain relief and improve range of motion in patients with metastatic bone pain. Conventionally, this procedure is guided by computed tomography (CT). However, to minimize exposure to radiation, we performed percutaneous cementoplasty under the guidance of a navigation system. Patient concerns: A 60-year-old man presented with left hip pain for several months due to bone metastasis in the left ilium. Diagnoses: The patient was diagnosed with lung cancer and multiple bone metastases including ileum. Interventions: The puncture needle was placed under the guidance of a navigation system with pre-procedure CT images, and bone cement was injected into the osteolytic lesion in the left ilium. Outcomes: Bone cement placement was confirmed by post-procedure radiography, and its distribution was satisfactory. The patient's Karnofsky Performance Scale and Brief Pain Inventory scores showed improvement in pain and mobility without complications. Lessons: Percutaneous cementoplasty guided by a navigation system is a safer and more effective method with less radiation compared with conventional CT-guided methods.

Low family income is a risk factor for child maltreatment. However, there has been no comparative study on the association between child maltreatment and family income. The objective of this study was to investigate the physical health and emotional and behavioral problems of maltreated children according to the economic status of their family. Cross-sectional nationwide study Data from 2012 to 2014 was extracted from the Korean National Child Abuse Registry (age

The performance of scoring systems for risk stratification in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) was not validated well in patients with stroke. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the risk scoring systems predict vascular outcomes in stroke patients with AF.Data were obtained from a nationwide multicenter registry for acute stroke with AF from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2015. We investigated the predictive power of the CHADS2, CHA2DS2-VASc, ATRIA, and Essen stroke scores in stroke patients with AF. The subjects were further stratified into groups according to treatment with or without oral anticoagulants (OACs).A total of 3112 stroke with AF subjects were included. The rate of recurrent ischemic stroke and any stroke were not associated with the CHADS2, CHA2DS2-VASc, ATRIA, and Essen stroke risk scores. The risks of death and major adverse cerebrovascular and cardiovascular events (MACEs) increased sequentially with the increase of each risk score in OAC group. (the range of C-index 0.544-0.558 for recurrent ischemic stroke; 0.523-0.537 for any stroke; 0.580-0.597 for death; 0.564-0.583 for MACEs). However, in the group treated with OACs, all risk scores were significantly associated with the risk of MACEs. The C-statistics of the 4 scoring systems were 0.544 to 0.558, 0.523 to 0.537, 0.580 to 0.597, 0.564 to 0.583, respectively, for recurrent ischemic stroke, any stroke, death, and MACEs.The performance of the CHADS2, CHA2DS2-VASc, ATRIA, and Essen stroke risk scores for the prediction of recurrent stroke was unsatisfactory in stroke patients with AF whereas the performance for the prediction of recurrent stroke was not MACEs or death was good. A new risk stratification scheme that is specific for secondary stroke prevention in the AF population is needed.

The present study aimed to investigate the predictive value of free fatty acid (FFA) in embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) according to the presence of potential embolic sources (PES) after extensive etiologic evaluation.This was a retrospective observational study based on a single-center registry from January 2011 to July 2017. Stroke subtypes were determined through laboratory findings, brain, and angiographic imaging, carotid ultrasonography, transthoracic echocardiography, and 24-hour Holter monitoring. If ESUS was suspected, transesophageal echocardiography was additionally performed. Patients were classified into ESUS with PES and ESUS without PES. PES included mitral annular calcification, mitral valve prolapse, patent foramen ovale, atrial septal aneurysm, spontaneous echo contrast, ventricular aneurysm, and high-risk plaques of aortic arch, or carotid bulb. We compared clinical and laboratory findings between the two groups.Of a total of 110 ESUS patients, 61 patients (55.5%) had no PES. Patients with ESUS without PES had higher levels of serum FFA, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and left atrial (LA) enlargement compared with those of ESUS with PES. Multivariable analysis demonstrated that the FFA level, DBP, and LA volume index were associated with ESUS without PES [odds ratio (OR) 1.038, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.019-1.058 for FFA/10 μEq/L, OR 1.414, 95% CI 1.037-1.928 for DBP/10 mm Hg, and OR 1.073, 95% CI 1.009-1.141 for LA volume index].Higher levels of FFA, DBP, and LA volume index are associated with ESUS without PES, highlighting the need to identify the role of these markers in ESUS through further large-scale, multi-center and prospective studies.

Background: Peri-prosthetic seroma after implant insertion for breast reconstruction is a common but difficult-to-manage complication. This study aimed to compare peri-prosthetic seroma duration and the number of aspirations associated with intravenous cannula with those associated with conventional needle. Methods: Seventy-one patients who underwent skin- or nipple-sparing mastectomy and implant insertion were treated for peri-prosthetic seroma. When peri-prosthetic seroma was detected, ultrasound-guided aspiration was performed either by using an intravenous cannula (n = 35) or a conventional needle (n = 36); however, the method adopted was randomly selected. We analyzed the participants’ clinicopathologic factors after medical record review. Results: There were no significant intergroup differences in mean age (P = .052), mean body mass index (P = .601), total clinical tumor size (P = .107), pathologic tumor size (P = .269), specimen weight (P = .147), implant size (P = .313), or operation time (P = .595). However, the mean total peri-prosthetic seroma volume was significantly higher (105.80 vs 88.58, P = .015) but the number of aspirations was lower (4.48 vs 5.80, P = .043) in the intravenous cannula group than in the conventional needle group. Mean peri-prosthetic seroma volume per aspiration was nonsignificantly higher in the intravenous cannula group (26.92 vs 19.14, P = .291). Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided aspiration performed using an intravenous cannula was comparable to the procedure performed using a conventional needle. Furthermore, the former method can be safer and effective alternative to manage peri-prosthetic seroma.

Rationale: The occurrence of bleeding and hematoma from bone metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is extremely rare. Patient concerns: We present a case of scapular metastasis of HCC in a 69-year-old man who presented with acute bleeding and hematoma. Diagnoses: Chest computed tomography showed a large hematoma within the right pectoral muscle of the right upper chest and an exophytic metastatic mass in the right scapula with bony destruction, which caused the intramuscular hematoma. The final diagnosis was scapular metastasis of HCC presenting as acute bleeding and hematoma. Interventions: Selective right subclavian angiography showed a hypervascular metastatic lesion in the right scapula. Subsequently, embolization of the tumoral feeding artery using a microcoil was performed and tumoral bleeding was stopped. Outcomes: The patient was discharged on hospital day 14 without any complications. Lessons: Despite being extremely rare, the possibility of bleeding from bone metastasis of HCC needs to be considered. Transcatheter arterial embolization may be an effective means to treat bleeding from bone metastasis of HCC.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text, Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is known to be one of the leading causes of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The aim of this study was to estimate the incidence rate of ESRD and the risk for progression to ESRD in SLE patients compared to the general population. A total of 21,253 SLE patients were extracted from the Korean National Health Insurance Service database between 2008 and 2013. Age-and sex-matched controls (n = 106,265) were randomly sampled in a 5:1 ratio from non-SLE individuals. Both cohorts were followed up for development of ESRD until 2015. During the median 7.53 years of follow-up, 533 (2.51%) cases of ESRD were newly developed in SLE patients and 145 (0.14%) cases in matched controls (incidence rate: 4.075 and 0.219 per 1000 person-year, respectively). SLE patients were at higher risk for ESRD development compared to matched controls (hazard ratio [HR], 9.84; 95% confidence interval [CI] 8.10–11.96) after multivariate adjustment. In subgroup analysis, the risk for ESRD was higher in male (HR, 7.76; 95% CI 5.07–11.90) and female patients with SLE (HR, 10.48; 95% CI 8.41–13.07) than in matched controls. When analyzed by age group, the younger the age, the higher the risk of ESRD versus non-SLE matched controls; this result was also significant after adjustment. In subgroup analysis according to comorbidities, the SLE group had a significantly higher risk of ESRD than the non-SLE group in almost all subgroups. SLE was associated with an increased incidence of ESRD.

Foreign body (FB) injuries mainly occur in young children and may cause serious complications. The purpose of this study was to describe the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of FB injuries among children visiting the emergency department (ED) in South Korea and to compare the incidence and the ED results of FB injuries. Using data from the National Emergency Department Information System, FB injury-related ED visits among children (

The relationship between body weight changes in late life and cognitive function is controversial.We investigated whether weight gain or loss in late life affected cognitive function in community-dwelling older adults over a 3-year period.Our study used data from the Survey of Living Conditi

We had designed an educational program for early reporting of suspected child abuse for healthcare providers in South Korea. The purpose of study was to evaluate the effectiveness of education program for health care providers as pilot study. The educational program consisted of two 2-hour-long didactic lectures and was held at 15 hospitals between July and December 2016. We conducted a survey study with physicians, nurses, emergency medical technicians, and other hospital staff. Participants completed survey questionnaires before and after the lecture and 3 months later. The questionnaire contained 3 sections: practical knowledge regarding child abuse, confidence in reporting, and willingness to report. A 10-point Likert scale was used to evaluate the responses. A total of 1103 participants working in 15 different hospitals attended the educational program. In all, 663 participants (75.5%) completed the survey with nurses at 61.7% and physicians at 22%. 26.4% had previously received education about child abuse and reporting methods, and 227 (34.2%) had experience with reporting (direct and indirect) child abuse. The score about knowledge improved from 5.28 points before to 8.03 after the educational program, and was 7.1 after 3 months (P

Mandatory reporting rate of suspected child abuse by health care provider is relatively low in South Korea. The purpose of the study was to develop a screening tool for child abuse and evaluate the feasibility of using this screening tool in emergency department (ED) of South Korea. Injured children younger than 14 years old in the ED were enrolled as subjects to use this screening tool. Candidate items for screening tool were decided after reviewing relevant previous studies by researchers. Using the modified Delphi method, it was judged that the consensus for items of screening tool was achieved in 2 rounds, and the final item of the screening tool was decided through the discussion in the final round. The registry including the developed screening tool was applied to 6 EDs over 10 weeks. Variables of the registry were retrospectively analyzed. A child abuse screening tool called Finding Instrument for Non-accidental Deeds (FIND) was developed. It included 8 questions. One item (suspected signs in physical examination) had 100% agreement; 3 items (inconsistency with development, inconsistent history by caregivers, and incompatible injury mechanism) had 86.7% agreement; and 4 items (delayed visit, inappropriate relationship, poor hygiene, and head or long bone injury in young infants) had 80% agreement. During the period of registry enrollment, the rate of screening with FIND was 72.9% (n = 2815). 36 (1.3%) cases had 1 or more “positive” responses among 8 items. Two (0.07%) cases were reported to the Child Protection Agency. An ED based screening tool for child abuse consisting of 8 questions for injured children younger than 14 years old was developed. The use of screening tools in Korean ED is expected to increase the reporting rate of child abuse. However, further study is necessary to investigate the accuracy of this screening tool using a national child abuse registry.

To compare the diagnostic performance of gadoxetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with that of computed tomography (CT) during hepatic arteriography and arterial portography (CT HA/AP) for detecting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) from small hypervascular nodules. This retrospective study included 38 patients with 131 hypervascular nodules (≤2 cm) who had underwent MRI and CT HA/AP within a 2-week interval. Two observers analyzed MRI while other 2 observers analyzed CT HA/AP. Thereafter, MRI observers reviewed the CT HA/AP and magnetic resonance (MR) images again using both modalities. HCC was diagnosed by pathologic or imaging studies according to American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) criteria. Alternative free-response receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed on a lesion-by-lesion basis. Diagnostic accuracy (area under the ROC curve [Az]), sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were calculated. The pooled Az was significantly higher for the combined modalities (0.946) than for MRI alone (0.9, P = 0.004), and for MRI than for CT HA/AP alone (0.827, P = 0.0154). Subgroup analysis for HCC ≤1 cm showed the sensitivity of the combined modalities (79.4%) was significantly higher than for MRI (52.9%) and CT HA/AP alone (50%) (both, P 1 to 2 cm can be diagnosed sufficiently by MRI. The combined modalities increased the diagnostic accuracy of HCCs ≤1 cm, compared with MRI or CT HA/AP alone.

Background: Double-lumen endotracheal tubes (DLTs) are often displaced during change from the supine to the lateral decubitus position. The aim of this study was to determine whether Rescuefix, a recently developed tube-holder device, is more effective than the traditional tape-tying method for tube security during lateral positioning. Methods: Patients were randomly assigned to a Rescuefix (R) group (n = 22) or a tape (T) group (n = 22). After intubation with a left-sided DLT and adjustment of the appropriate DLT position using a fiberoptic bronchoscope, the DLT was fixed firmly at the side of the mouth by either Rescuefix or Durapore tape. “Tracheal depth” (from the tracheal carina to the elbow connector of the DLT) and “bronchial depth” (from the left bronchial carina to the elbow connector of the DLT) were measured in the supine position using the fiberoptic bronchoscope. After positional change, tracheal and bronchial depths were measured as described above. As the primary endpoint, displacement of the DLT during positional change was evaluated by obtaining the difference in depths measured when the patient was in the supine and lateral decubitus positions. In addition, after lateral positioning of the patient, any requirement for repositioning the DLT was recorded. Results: After lateral positioning, there were no significant differences in changes in tracheal and bronchial depths between the groups (tracheal depth 6.1 ± 4.4 mm [R group] and 9.1 ± 5.6 mm [T group], P = 0.058; bronchial depth 6.5 ± 4.4 mm [R group], and 8.5 ± 4.6 mm [T group], P = 0.132). Although the amount of change in tracheal and bronchial depths was not different between the groups, the need to reposition the DLT was significantly lower in the R group than in the T group (32% vs 68%, P = 0.016). Conclusion: This study demonstrated that use of Rescuefix did not reduce the amount of DLT displacement, but it did significantly lower the incidence of DLT repositioning compared with the tape-tying method. Therefore, Rescuefix appears to be an effective alternative to minimizing DLT displacement during lateral positioning in thoracic surgery. Trial registration: http://cris.nih.go.kr identifier: KCT0001949.

It is important to identify risk factors for low bone mass at a young age. An influence of iron store on bone health in the general population has been reported but has not been studied in adolescents. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels and bone mineral content (BMC) in South Korean adolescents. This study was based on data collected during the 2009to 2010 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. We included 1321 participants aged 10 to 18 years. BMC was measured at the femur and lumbar spine using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, and hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels were examined. In boys, hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels were positively associated with BMC of the total femur and lumbar spine after adjusting for confounders, and hemoglobin levels significantly increased as BMC increased at all sites (P for trend = .001 for total femur, .01 for femur neck, and

Background: Dexmedetomidine is a sedative and analgesic agent that is administered intravenously as an adjunct to spinal anesthesia. It does not suppress the respiratory system significantly, but has adverse effects on the cardiovascular system, for example, bradycardia and hypotension. We here report a patient who underwent cardiac arrest during spinal anesthesia after intravenous infusion of dexmedetomidine. Methods: A 57-year-old woman with no significant medical history underwent spinal anesthesia for arthroscopic meniscus resection after rupturing the right knee meniscus. Preoperative electrocardiogram revealed sinus bradycardia (54 beats/min) and a left anterior fascicular block. Spinal anesthesia was performed with 11 mg of 0.5% heavy bupivacaine, and the upper level of sensory loss was at T6. Dexmedetomidine infusion was planned at a loading dose of 1.0 mcg kg−1 min−1 over 10 minutes, followed by 0.7 mcg kg−1 min−1 intravenously, as a sedative. Two minutes after dexmedetomidine injection, her heart rate decreased to 31 beats/min and asystole was observed within 10 seconds. Results: After a few minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, spontaneous circulation returned and surgery was completed under general anesthesia. The patient was discharged, and experienced no complications. Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine can decrease blood pressure and heart rate, and may cause asystole in some cases. We suggest that dexmedetomidine should be carefully administered under close observation when the parasympathetic nerve system is activated during spinal anesthesia.

Introduction: In fetuses who are predicted to be at risk of catastrophic airway obstruction at delivery, the ex utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) procedure is useful for securing the fetal airway while maintaining fetal oxygenation via placental circulation. Factors, including poor posture of the fetus and physician, narrow visual field, and issues of contamination in the aseptic surgical field, make fetal intubation during the EXIT procedure difficult. Herein, we report our experience of the usefulness of the GlideScope video laryngoscope (GVL) for intubation during the EXIT procedure. Symptoms and clinical findings: A 28-year-old woman presented with a fetus having a cystic neck mass diagnosed on prenatal ultrasound at 25 weeks of gestation. We planned the EXIT procedure in conjunction with cesarean delivery at 38 weeks of gestation, as the mass enlarged to 4.9 cm × 3.2 cm, protruded externally at the neck, and subsequently resulted in polyhydramnios. Therapeutic intervention and outcomes: After induction of anesthesia using intravenous thiopental (300 mg), adequate uterine relaxation was achieved with sevoflurane (2.0–3.0 vol%) combined with continuous intravenous infusion of nitroglycerin (0.5–1.0 μg/kg/min) for maintaining uteroplacental circulation. After hysterotomy, the head and right upper limb of the fetus were partially delivered, and fetal heart tones were monitored with a sterile Doppler probe. After oropharyngeal suctioning to improve the visual field, the fetus was intubated successfully using a sterile GVL by an anesthesiologist, and the passage of the endotracheal tube beyond the vocal cords was confirmed on the screen of the GVL system. Immediately after the fetal airway was definitely secured, the fetus was fully delivered with umbilical cord clamping. After delivery, nitroglycerine administration was ceased and sevoflurane administration was reduced to 0.5 minimum alveolar concentration. Additionally, oxytocin (10 units) and carbetocin (100 μg) were administered for recovery of uterine contraction. Cesarean delivery was successfully performed without any problems, and the neonate successfully underwent surgery for removal of the neck mass under general anesthesia on the 7th day after delivery. The neonate is developing normally. Conclusion: The GVL approach may be a useful noninvasive approach for establishing a clear fetal airway during the EXIT procedure.

To avoid missing events associated with clinical activity, the authors previously developed a novel, web-based, self-reporting Crohn disease (CD) symptom diary. However, although this diary provided a means of self-checking based on responses to set questions based on Harvey–Bradshaw index scores, it was limited in terms of describing other specific symptoms. Thus, the authors added a space to the questionnaire, which allows patients to send clinicians questions or a description of unpredictable events. The aim of the present study was to assess the clinical usefulness of this messaging system by analyzing patients’ messages. The messaging system between patients and their doctors was included in a webpage created for recording patients’ symptom diaries (www.cdsd.or.kr). Using this system, patients can send messages easily at any time and doctors can read and respond to these messages immediately using a smart phone or computer. In the present study, the authors retrospectively reviewed 686 messages sent by 152 patients from July 2012 to July 2014 and patient medical records. Mean patient age was 29.0 ± 11.6 years and the male-to-female ratio was 99:53. Most messages regarded symptoms (381 messages, 55.5%), which was followed by self-reports about general condition (195 messages, 28.4%) and questions about treatment (71 messages, 10.3%). With respect to symptoms, abdominal pain was most common (145 cases, 21.1%) followed by hematochezia (36 cases, 5.2%). Problems about medication were the most frequently associated with treatment (65, 91.5%). Patients above 40 years showed a greater tendency to focus on symptoms and treatment (P = 0.025). The doctor answer rate was 56.3% (n = 386), and based on these responses, an early visit was needed in 28 cases (7.3%). Using this web-based messaging system, patients were able to obtain proper advice from their physicians without visiting clinics or searching the Internet, and in addition, 7.3% of messages prompted an early visit. Although longer follow-up is required, this study shows that the devised messaging system provides a clinically relevant communication tool for patients and physicians.

The aim of the study was to examine the clinical characteristics and prognosis according to severity of thrombocytopenia and response to treatment for thrombocytopenia in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).We retrospectively evaluated 230 SLE patients with thrombocytopenia, and reviewed their clinical data and laboratory findings. Thrombocytopenia was defined as platelet counts under 100,000/mm, and patients were divided into 3 thrombocytopenia groups according to severity: mild (platelet counts >50,000/mm), moderate (>20,000/mm, ≤50,000/mm), and severe (≤20,000/mm). Clinical characteristics, treatments, and prognoses were compared among the groups. Furthermore, complete remission of thrombocytopenia was defined as platelet counts >100,000/mm after treatment.There was no significant difference in clinical or laboratory findings among the groups according to severity of thrombocytopenia. However, hemorrhagic complications were more frequent in severe thrombocytopenia (P

Little is known about life-threatening events during gastrointestinal endoscopy (GIE). This study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics of emergency conditions requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in GIE units and to assess the risk factors for mortality in these cases. We retrospectively collected life-threatening cases that occurred in the GIE units of 6 tertiary hospitals from January 2012 to June 2014. Cases were defined as alert calls for resuscitation teams in emergency situations of respiratory failure or cardiac arrest. Demographic data, clinical features, and probable causes were assessed. Factors associated with mortality were elucidated using logistic regression analysis. Among 263,426 endoscopies, 40 cases of CPR (0.015%) occurred during the period (male 67.5%, median age 62 yr). Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB), such as hematemesis or melena, was the most common indication for endoscopy (55%). The types of clinical situations encountered were as follows: respiratory insufficiency (47.5%), decreased blood pressure (25%), and cardiac arrhythmia (25%). Although most of these conditions were detected during endoscopy (67.5%), one-third of cases (32.5%) were found before or after procedures. The most frequent probable cause of cases was aggravation of underlying diseases (57.5%), such as uncontrolled bleeding or exacerbation of lung disease. Despite efforts to resuscitate, 18 patients (45%) died. GIB was the single independent risk factor for mortality (odds ratio 28.45, 95% confidence interval 1.55–523.33, P = 0.024). Life-threatening situations requiring CPR can occur during endoscopy, even before or after the procedure. Greater attention should be paid while endoscopy is performed for GIB.