Search

Background: Posttraumatic spinal cord tethering and syringomyelia are considered disabling diseases in patients with spinal cord injury. In symptomatic patients, surgical management can achieve promising clinical outcomes. As the raising economic pressure might jeopardize optimal and thus personalized patient care, we aimed to exemplify expenses of surgical treatment in contrast to reimbursement by the Swiss diagnosis related group (DRG) system. Methods: This retrospective investigation includes 60 patients who underwent surgery for spinal cord tethering and syringomyelia. The duration of surgeries was used to estimate the costs of care in the operating room (OR) considering established bench marks. Coverage of costs was calculated by comparing Swiss DRG reimbursements with the expenses from the investigated cases. Results: The mean duration of surgeries was 251.0 ± 93.5 min while 2.8 ± 1.4 vertebral segments were treated by spinal cord untethering. The mean OR costs (in USD) were $9,401.2±$3,500.2 (range $4,119.5 to $20,223.0). The mean reimbursement and the ratio of OR costs to reimbursement (in USD) were $24,122.5±$7,409.3 (range $17,249.8 to $31,977.1) and 0.41 ± 0.15 (range 0.14 to 0.74) for standard, and $39,106.0±$4,028.6 (range $35,369.1 to $43,376.8) and 0.24 ± 0.08 (range 0.10 to 0.47) for complex cases, respectively. The estimated costs of surgeries were different from reimbursements (p = 0.005). Conclusions: Although the cost of surgical management of patients with posttraumatic spinal cord tethering and syringomyelia are principally covered, it remains questionable if total hospital expenses are sufficiently outweighed by the current reimbursement system. This could potentially limit the availability of best medical care and might endanger personalized patient management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dissociative symptoms are both a pathological consequence of exposure to psychological trauma as well as a side effect of N -methyl- d -aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist medications; therefore, accurate and valid assessment of these symptoms is important. The psychometric properties of the 23-item Clinician Administered Dissociative States Scale (CADSS) have been characterized in the ketamine and esketamine literatures. Here, we examine its performance in a sample with and without posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and a history of exposure to psychological trauma. Participants with a history of psychological trauma with (N = 148) and without (N = 100) the diagnosis of PTSD and healthy participants without a psychiatric disorder or history of trauma (N = 28) were assessed with the 23-item CADSS and other psychometric and neuropsychological assessments. Analyses were performed to examine internal consistency, convergent and discriminant validity, factor structure, differential performance in populations reported to be more or less likely to report dissociative symptoms (e.g., patients with and without PTSD), and sensitivity to change resulting from exposure to trauma-related sights and sounds. The 23-item CADSS was found to have high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha 0.91) and a single-factor structure. CADSS total scores in trauma-exposed participants with PTSD were higher than those in trauma-exposed participants without PTSD and non-traumatized non-PTSD participants. Finally, veterans with Iraq combat-related PTSD showed a significant increase in CADSS total score after exposure to combat-related slides and sounds. The 23-item CADSS, already validated as a tool to measure dissociation related to administration of NMDA receptor antagonist medication, performs in a reliable and valid manner in the assessment of dissociation in psychologically traumatized participants. • The 23-item Clinician Administered Dissociative States Scale (CADSS) was found to be psychometrically sound in a psychological trauma population including participants with and without posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and a history of psychological trauma • CADSS scores were higher in PTSD participants than in those without PTSD • The study results support the fact that dissociation is a unitary construct • The study does not support the idea that subtypes of dissociation (amnesia, depersonalization, derealization, identity fragmentation) are constructs distinct from one another • The CADSS was found to be useful as a change measure, showing an increase in dissociation in veterans with PTSD following exposure to combat-related slides and sounds [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We sought to determine the risk factors for the development of de Quervain tenosynovitis after distal radius fractures. Our hypothesis is that longer periods of immobilization and higher-energy fracture patterns will correlate with the development of de Quervain tenosynovitis. Methods: This is a 10-year retrospective study of 1451 consecutive patients with distal radius fractures presenting to a large academic institution. The incidence and relative risk of de Quervain tenosynovitis within 1 year of sustaining a distal radius fracture were analyzed. Results: In total, 41 patients developed posttraumatic de Quervain tenosynovitis at an average time of 6.5 months. In the operative cohort, the incidence was 2.2%, and that of the nonoperative group was 3.8%. Among all affected patients, 78% admitted to strenuous, overuse activities or careers. Compared with the unaffected cohort, the de Quervain tenosynovitis group was more likely to be female and black with similar age and body mass index. The traumatic cohort was less likely to respond to corticosteroid injections. A separate extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) sheath was noted in all patients requiring surgical release. Conclusions: Patients with a nonoperative distal radius fracture were 4.2 times more likely to develop de Quervain's than the general population, and those treated operatively were 2.4 times more likely. These patients were more likely to be female, black, and engage in strenuous overuse activities or careers. They demonstrated higher-energy fracture patterns and worse response to corticosteroid injections, more frequently requiring surgical decompression. Among those requiring surgery, patients were 2.5 times more likely to have a separate EPB sheath than those with atraumatic Quervain's. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Operative Orthopädie und Traumatologie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Early identification of knee osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) could enable timely interventions to improve long-term outcomes. However, little is known about the change in early OA symptoms from 6 to 12 months post-ACLR. To evaluate the change over time in meeting classification criteria for early knee OA symptoms from 6 to 12 months after ACLR. Prospective cohort study. Research laboratory. Eighty-two participants aged 13 to 35 years who underwent unilateral primary ACLR. On average, participants' first and second visits were 6.2 and 12.1 months post-ACLR. Early OA symptoms were classified using generic (Luyten Original) and patient population–specific (Luyten Patient Acceptable Symptom State [PASS]) thresholds on Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) subscales. Changes in meeting early OA criteria were compared between an initial and follow-up visit at an average of 6 and 12 months post-ACLR, respectively. Twenty-two percent of participants exhibited persistent early OA symptoms across both visits using both the Luyten Original and PASS criteria. From initial to follow-up visit, 18% to 27% had resolution of early OA symptoms, while 4% to 9% developed incident symptoms. In total, 48% to 51% had no early OA symptoms at either visit. No differences were found for change in early OA status between adults and adolescents. Nearly one-quarter of participants exhibited persistent early knee OA symptoms based on KOOS thresholds from 6 to 12 months post-ACLR. Determining if this symptom persistence predicts worse long-term outcomes could inform the need for timely interventions after ACLR. Future researchers should examine if resolving persistent symptoms in this critical window improves later outcomes. Tracking early OA symptoms over time may identify high-risk patients who could benefit from early treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Posttraumatic spinal cord tethering and syringomyelia are considered disabling diseases in patients with spinal cord injury. In symptomatic patients, surgical management can achieve promising clinical outcomes. As the raising economic pressure might jeopardize optimal and thus personalized patient care, we aimed to exemplify expenses of surgical treatment in contrast to reimbursement by the Swiss diagnosis related group (DRG) system. Methods This retrospective investigation includes 60 patients who underwent surgery for spinal cord tethering and syringomyelia. The duration of surgeries was used to estimate the costs of care in the operating room (OR) considering established bench marks. Coverage of costs was calculated by comparing Swiss DRG reimbursements with the expenses from the investigated cases. Results The mean duration of surgeries was 251.0 ± 93.5 min while 2.8 ± 1.4 vertebral segments were treated by spinal cord untethering. The mean OR costs (in USD) were $9,401.2±$3,500.2 (range $4,119.5 to $20,223.0). The mean reimbursement and the ratio of OR costs to reimbursement (in USD) were $24,122.5±$7,409.3 (range $17,249.8 to $31,977.1) and 0.41 ± 0.15 (range 0.14 to 0.74) for standard, and $39,106.0±$4,028.6 (range $35,369.1 to $43,376.8) and 0.24 ± 0.08 (range 0.10 to 0.47) for complex cases, respectively. The estimated costs of surgeries were different from reimbursements (p = 0.005). Conclusions Although the cost of surgical management of patients with posttraumatic spinal cord tethering and syringomyelia are principally covered, it remains questionable if total hospital expenses are sufficiently outweighed by the current reimbursement system. This could potentially limit the availability of best medical care and might endanger personalized patient management.

Objective: To map nursing interventions that contribute to preventing posttraumatic stress in people hospitalized in the context of intensive care. Design: Scoping review according to the Joanne Briggs Institute methodology. Methods: The search was carried out in the databases PubMed, CINAHL via EBSCO, Joanna Briggs Institute Database of Systematic Reviews, COCHRANE Database of Systematic Reviews, Repositório Científico de Acesso Aberto de Portugal, Dans Easy, and Dart-Europe. Published and unpublished studies (gray literature) were considered. This review integrates articles focused on nursing interventions that contribute to preventing posttraumatic stress in people hospitalized in intensive care in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. Studies with quantitative, qualitative, or mixed designs are covered, as well as systematic reviews and guidelines. The research has 3 eligibility criteria, following the PPC mnemonic: participants (studies involving adults hospitalized in intensive care), concept (studies that address nursing interventions that prevent posttraumatic stress), and context (studies developed in any contextual settings). Results: The present scoping review included 11 articles. Autonomous, nonpharmacologic, pharmacologic, and interdependent nursing interventions were identified, capable of contributing to prevent posttraumatic stress in people hospitalized in intensive care. Conclusion: Identifying nursing interventions that prevent posttraumatic stress in people hospitalized in intensive care allows nurses to develop care plans that include these interventions in the context of intensive care, with a view to improving the quality of nursing care provided. Implications for Clinical Practice: This scoping review demonstrated that nurses have a crucial role in the prevention of posttraumatic stress in the context of intensive care. It is intended to make nurses aware of this issue, specifically to obtain highly significant and clinically relevant results, sensitive to nursing interventions. It is hoped that this review will be the precursor of research studies, centered on evaluating the degree of effectiveness of the nursing interventions mapped in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has significant morbidity and economic costs. This study describes the prevalence and characteristics of patients with PTSD using primary care electronic medical record (EMR) data. Methods This retrospective cross-sectional study used EMR data from the Canadian Primary Care Sentinel Surveillance Network (CPCSSN). This study included 1,574 primary care providers located in 7 Canadian provinces. There were 689,301 patients that visited a CPCSSN provider between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2019. We describe associations between PTSD and patient characteristics using descriptive statistics, chi-square, and multiple logistic regression models. Results Among the 689,301 patients included, 8,817 (1.3%, 95% CI 1.2–1.3) had a diagnosis of PTSD. On multiple logistic regression analysis, patients with depression (OR 4.4, 95% CI 4.2–4.7, P < 0.001), alcohol abuse/dependence (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.6–1.9, P < 0.001), and/or drug abuse/dependence (OR 2.6, 95% CI 2.5–2.8, P < 0.001) had significantly higher odds of PTSD compared with patients without those conditions. Patients residing in community areas considered the most material deprived (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.5–2.1, P < 0.001) or the most socially deprived (OR 2.8, 95% CI 2.7–5.3, P < 0.001) had higher odds of being diagnosed with PTSD compared with patients in the least deprived areas. Conclusions The prevalence of PTSD in Canadian primary care is 1.3% (95% CI 1.25–1.31). Using EMR records we confirmed the co-occurrence of PTSD with other mental health conditions within primary care settings suggesting benefit for improved screening and evidence-based resources to manage PTSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Posttraumatic elbow stiffness can have a large impact on the ability of a patient to perform activities of daily living. Following a stepwise approach to treatment helps clinicians in this otherwise difficult-to treat condition. Treatment in adults is based on dealing with the involvement of soft tissue contracture, osseous impingement or both. Unlike adults, posttraumatic elbow stiffness in children has distinctly different causes and the thrust of treatment is primarily non-surgical. In skeletally immature children, the skeletal growth potential should be properly assessed and closely followed, observing either progression or natural correction of the deformity. Early active motion aided by physiotherapy is the first step in treatment for both adults and children. Following physiotherapy, brace therapy is a proven cheap and effective therapy for treatment-resistant stiffness. If adequate conservative treatment is unsuccessful, the next step is surgical arthrolysis. This procedure can be performed either open or arthroscopically, with the decision dependent on multiple factors. Early active mobilization after surgery is equally important, with the addition of bracing or continuous passive motion (CPM) in pending contractures following surgery. This paper provides a review of the current literature and a state-of-the-art guidance on the management of posttraumatic elbow stiffness in adult and paediatric patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This column first reviews evidence that veterans have poorer response to trauma-focused therapies for PTSD compared to civilians. We then consider several explanations for this trend, starting with gender as a possible confounding variable. We also examine other hypotheses, including the effects of the military acculturation process, the unique influences of military traumas, such as combat andmilitary sexual traumas, and the roles of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) andmoral injury. Future research, we conclude, must determine whether gender explains the differences in trauma-focused therapy response. If so, then the underlying reasons must be further explored. If not, then we must determine the unique characteristics of the veteran population that make it more resistant to treatment. Mining these elements will help us adapt our trauma-focused therapies to better help this population and close the response-rate gap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spontaneous spinal arthrodesis (SSA) is a phenomenon of spontaneous fusion, and SSA is not rare in posttraumatic thoracolumbar kyphosis (PTK). However, few reports have focused on SSA in patients with PTK. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence, features, and predictive factors of SSA in patients with PTK. In this retrospective study, 70 patients with PTK were included. Data on the clinical and radiologic parameters were obtained and evaluated. According to whether there was SSA or not, patients were divided into an SSA group (n = 45) or a non-SSA group (n = 25). A binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify the predictive factors for SSA. The incidence of SSA in PTK was 64%. Among 45 patients with PTK with SSA, SSA was present as a solid bridging anterior osteophyte along the vertebral bodies in 11 patients, posterior contiguous bony growth through the facet joints bilaterally in 13 patients, bony formation in both anterior and posterior elements in 18 patients, and direct contiguous bony formation from the injured vertebral body to the adjacent one in 3 patients. Patients with longer disease duration, larger local Cobb angle, and anterior wall height loss (AWHL) ratio of injured vertebral body, and less kyphosis flexibility index were significantly more likely to develop SSA. The parameter of AWHL remained significant in binary logistic regression analysis. SSA in PTK was common, and the SSA sign presented in various patterns, which might have implications for surgical decisions. AWHL was the independent predictor for SSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Post-9/11-era veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI) have greater health-related complexity than veterans overall, and may require coordinated care from TBI specialists such as those within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system. With passage of the Choice and MISSION Acts, more veterans are using VA-purchased care delivered by community providers who may lack TBI training. We explored prevalence and correlates of VA-purchased care use among post-9/11 veterans with TBI. Setting: Nationwide VA-purchased care from 2016 through 2019. Participants: Post-9/11-era veterans with clinician-confirmed TBI based on VA's Comprehensive TBI Evaluation (N = 65 144). Design: This was a retrospective, observational study. Main Measures: Proportions of veterans who used VA-purchased care and both VA-purchased and VA-delivered outpatient care, overall and by study year. We employed multivariable logistic regression to assess associations between veterans' sociodemographic, military history, and clinical characteristics and their likelihood of using VA-purchased care from 2016 through 2019. Results: Overall, 51% of veterans with TBI used VA-purchased care during the study period. Nearly all who used VA-purchased care (99%) also used VA-delivered outpatient care. Veterans' sociodemographic, military, and clinical characteristics were associated with their likelihood of using VA-purchased care. Notably, in adjusted analyses, veterans with moderate/severe TBI (vs mild), those with higher health risk scores, and those diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, or pain-related conditions had increased odds of using VA-purchased care. Additionally, those flagged as high risk for suicide also had higher odds of VA-purchased care use. Conclusions: Veterans with TBI with greater health-related complexity were more likely to use VA-purchased care than their less complex counterparts. The risks of potential care fragmentation across providers versus the benefits of increased access to care are unknown. Research is needed to examine health and functional outcomes among these veterans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence shows that young people may have experienced increased levels of posttraumatic stress and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the landscape on self-harm is still unclear. This study aimed to examine the role of COVID-19 related posttraumatic stress, depression and resilience as predictors of self-harm with and without suicidal intent. Participants were 625 young people aged 17–25 years old (M = 20.2 years, SD = 2.47). Resilience was measured using the self-reported Child & Youth Resilience Scale Measure – Revised (CYRM-R). Posttraumatic stress related to COVID-19 were measured using the Impact of Event Scale- Revised. Depression was measured using the depression subscale of the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale–21. Self-harm was evaluated with two dichotomous items. Participants reported high levels of depression and COVID-19 posttraumatic stress, and a significant percentage reported engaging in self-harm. Hierarchical logistic regressions showed that caregiver resilience decreased approximately 20% the odds of engaging in self harm with and without suicidal intent remaining a consistent predictor even after accounting posttraumatic stress and depression in the models. Posttraumatic stress and depression predicted a one-fold increase in the odds of engaging in self-harm with and without suicidal intent. However, posttraumatic stress was no longer a significant predictor when depression was entered in the model in self-harm without suicidal intent. The COVID-19 pandemic may have increased the likelihood of engaging in self-harm in young people. However, caregiver resilience seems to operate as a protective factor. This important finding carries implications beyond the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kyphosis is a condition in which there is a curvature of the spine that causes a bowing of the back, which in turn leads to slouching posture or hunchback. There are several types of Kyphosis, including posttraumatic Kyphosis, which usually occurs in the thoracic region. There are several techniques used for the surgical management of posttraumatic thoracolumbar Kyphosis. We aimed to discuss the surgical treatment of posttraumatic thoracolumbar Kyphosis. We searched for articles included in this review through scientific websites using different keywords. The articles were chosen based on inclusion criteria. The articles included in this review were published between 2006 and 2018. The review was written under titles in the discussion part. The outcome of the surgical management of posttraumatic thoracolumbar Kyphosis depends on the accurate selection of the proper surgical approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alexithymia, psychological distress, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are highly related constructs. The ongoing debate about the nature and relationship between these constructs is perpetuated by an overreliance on cross-sectional research. We examined the longitudinal interactive relationship between alexithymia, psychological distress, and PTSD. We hypothesised that there is an interactive relationship between the three constructs. Military personnel (N = 1871) completed the Toronto Alexithymia Scale, the Kessler 10 and a PTSD Checklist (PCL-C) at pre-deployment, post-deployment, and at 3–4 years following the post-deployment assessment. We initially tested whether psychological distress is either a moderator or mediator in the relationship between alexithymia and PTSD across the time points. General psychological distress was a partial mediator of total PTSD severity and hyperarousal symptomology at all three time points. Psychological distress fully mediated re-experiencing and avoidance symptomology at all three time points. Our results suggest that those with alexithymia are at longitudinal risk of developing more severe PTSD symptomology and experiencing hyperarousal irrespective of temporal proximity to traumatic exposure. Further, vulnerability to the emergence of re-experiencing and avoidance symptomology for those with alexithymia is increased when one experiences greater distress. Our results show that alexithymia is a persistent risk factor for PTSD symptomology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Adolescence has emerged as a particularly vulnerable phase during the COVID-19 pandemic, with eating disorders (EDs) representing a prominent psychopathological challenge linked to the restrictions imposed by the pandemic. Emerging evidence suggests that not only individuals with EDs but also their healthy siblings (HS) may experience unique psychological effects in this context. However, the existing literature on this topic remains limited. This study seeks to examine and compare the effects of the pandemic on adolescents and adults, with a specific focus on the impact of containment measures, disruptions in daily routines, and alterations in life trajectories, for both individuals with EDs and their HS. Methods We enrolled 273 individuals, including those diagnosed with EDs and their HS. Among the participants, 120 were under the age of 19. Multiple self-report questionnaires were administered to assess the psychological impact of 1 year of the COVID-19 pandemic. These assessments covered a range of psychological constructs, including posttraumatic symptoms, general psychopathology, and eating-related concerns. Results Notably, adolescent patients with EDs demonstrated the highest psychopathological scores within our sample. They were the sole subgroup to surpass clinical cutoffs, exhibiting more pronounced issues concerning eating-related concerns and general psychological well-being. Our findings also shed light on the unique experiences of HS during the pandemic. Conclusion Our findings highlight the specific psychological burden endured by adolescents with EDs throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the vulnerability of this demographic. Moreover, the experiences of HS, often overlooked in the literature, warrant increased attention in future health programs and interventions.

Kyphosis is a condition in which there is a curvature of the spine that causes a bowing of the back, which in turn leads to slouching posture or hunchback. There are several types of Kyphosis, including posttraumatic Kyphosis, which usually occurs in the thoracic region. There are several techniques used for the surgical management of posttraumatic thoracolumbar Kyphosis. We aimed to discuss the surgical treatment of posttraumatic thoracolumbar Kyphosis. We searched for articles included in this review through scientific websites using different keywords. The articles were chosen based on inclusion criteria. The articles included in this review were published between 2006 and 2018. The review was written under titles in the discussion part. The outcome of the surgical management of posttraumatic thoracolumbar Kyphosis depends on the accurate selection of the proper surgical approach.

Background: Adolescence has emerged as a particularly vulnerable phase during the COVID-19 pandemic, with eating disorders (EDs) representing a prominent psychopathological challenge linked to the restrictions imposed by the pandemic. Emerging evidence suggests that not only individuals with EDs but also their healthy siblings (HS) may experience unique psychological effects in this context. However, the existing literature on this topic remains limited. This study seeks to examine and compare the effects of the pandemic on adolescents and adults, with a specific focus on the impact of containment measures, disruptions in daily routines, and alterations in life trajectories, for both individuals with EDs and their HS. Methods: We enrolled 273 individuals, including those diagnosed with EDs and their HS. Among the participants, 120 were under the age of 19. Multiple self-report questionnaires were administered to assess the psychological impact of 1 year of the COVID-19 pandemic. These assessments covered a range of psychological constructs, including posttraumatic symptoms, general psychopathology, and eating-related concerns. Results: Notably, adolescent patients with EDs demonstrated the highest psychopathological scores within our sample. They were the sole subgroup to surpass clinical cutoffs, exhibiting more pronounced issues concerning eating-related concerns and general psychological well-being. Our findings also shed light on the unique experiences of HS during the pandemic. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the specific psychological burden endured by adolescents with EDs throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the vulnerability of this demographic. Moreover, the experiences of HS, often overlooked in the literature, warrant increased attention in future health programs and interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mediation effect of posttraumatic perception between self-esteem and PTSD severity among college student veterans (N = 64) were investigated. The results of the investigation indicated a significant relationship between self-esteem and PTSD severity. The total effect between self-esteem and PTSD severity showed a statistically significant relationship. Additionally, the investigation affirmed that self-esteem among student veterans was directly and negatively related to posttraumatic perception. Implications for college counseling with veterans are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nonunion rates following ulnar shortening osteotomy (USO) are reported up to 18% with few known risk factors. While resection length is variable in practice, little is known about the prognostic implications on healing. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether longer resection lengths increased the odds of nonunion. Methods: A retrospective review was performed on patients who underwent an elective USO at a single institution over a 6-year period. Demographic, social, comorbidity, and surgical data were reviewed. Ulnar resection length was obtained from operative notes and dichotomized into smaller (<5.5 mm) and larger (≥5.5 mm) groups. The primary outcome was the rate of nonunion. Univariate analyses and a multivariable logistic regression model were used to assess for significant predictors of nonunion. Results: A total of 87 patients were included with a mean age of 45 years. Patient comorbidities included 12.6% with diabetes, 29.9% with an American Society of Anesthesiologists score of ≥ 3, 5.8% reporting current tobacco use, and 29.9% reporting former tobacco use. There were 55 patients (63.2%) with resection lengths < 5.5 mm and 32 patients (36.8%) with ≥ 5.5 mm resections. Multivariable analysis identified longer resection length (≥5.5 mm) and current tobacco use as independent risk factors for nonunion. Patients with a resection length of ≥ 5.5 mm had 20.2 times greater odds of nonunion compared with patients with smaller resections, and current smokers had 72.2 times greater odds of nonunion compared with nonsmokers. Conclusion: Longer ulnar resection length (≥5.5 mm) significantly increases the risk of nonunion following USO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Computed tomography (CT) has become the primary imaging modality for visualization of the paranasal sinuses. In this retrospective, single center patient study the radiation dose development in the past 12 years in CT imaging of the paranasal sinuses was assessed. Methods The computed tomography dose index (CTDIVol) and dose length product (DLP) of a total of 1246 patients (average age: 41 ± 18 years, 361 females, 885 males) were evaluated, who received imaging of the paranasal sinuses either for chronic sinusitis diagnostic, preoperatively or posttraumatically. Scans were performed on three different CT scanners (Somatom Definition AS, Somatom Definition AS+, Somatom Force, all from Siemens Healthineers) and on one CBCT (Morita) ranging from 2010 to 2022. Reconstruction techniques were filtered back projection and three generations of iterative reconstruction (IRIS, SAFIRE, ADMIRE, all from Siemens Healthineers). Group comparisons were performed using either parametrical (ANOVA) or non-parametrical tests (Kruskal-Wallis Test), where applicable. Results Over the past 12 years, there was a 73%, 54%, and 66% CTDIVol reduction and a significant (p

Background: Ankle arthritis that develops after fracture accounts for a significant portion of ankle arthritis necessitating total ankle arthroplasty (TAA). It remains unknown whether TAA in postfracture patients produces equivalent outcomes to those without fracture history. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the medium-term outcomes of TAA in postfracture ankle arthritis compared to those without fracture history. Methods: This study reviewed 178 ankles from 171 consecutive patients who underwent TAA in our institution between 2007 and 2017 and completed a minimum 5-year follow-up. Four different TAA systems were utilized by 6 surgeons. Based on fracture history, patients were divided into 2 groups: the postfracture group (n = 63; median age 65.7 years; median follow-up 5.9 years) and the nonfracture group (n = 115; median age 64.4 years; median follow-up 6.2 years). Types and rates of complications including revision and reoperation were compared. Minimum 5-year Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and postoperative improvement were investigated. A subgroup analysis was performed to determine whether outcomes differ between intraarticular fracture patients (n = 43) and extraarticular fracture patients (n = 20). Results: Both groups exhibited comparable postoperative improvement and final FAOS scores. The postfracture group had a significantly higher reoperation rate than the nonfracture group (20 of 63, 31.7%, vs 17 of 115, 14.8%; P =.011), with gutter impingement being the most common cause. There were 3 revisions in each group. In the subgroup analysis, we found no evidence of statistical difference between the intraarticular fracture group and the extraarticular fracture group in terms of FAOS scores, revision, and reoperation rates. Conclusion: In this single-center, retrospective comparative study, we found total ankle arthroplasty in patients with a history of fractures around the ankle joint had no evidence of statistical difference in patient-reported outcomes and implant survivorship but led to a higher rate of nonrevision reoperation following surgery. In the much smaller subset of patients with previous fracture, we did not find that those with a history of intraarticular fracture had inferior outcomes after TAA when compared to those with a history of extraarticular fracture. Level of Evidence: Level III, case-control study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The first stage of fracture healing consists of hematoma formation with recruitment of proinflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases. Unfortunately, when there is an intra-articular fracture, these inflammatory mediators are not retained at the fracture site, but instead, envelop the healthy cartilage of the entire joint via the synovial fluid fracture hematoma (SFFH). These inflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases are known factors in the progression of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Despite the known inflammatory contents of the SFFH, little research has been done on the effects of the SFFH on healthy cartilage with regard to cell death and alteration in gene expression that could lead to posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). Methods: SFFH was collected from 12 patients with intraarticular ankle fracture at the time of surgery. Separately, C20A4 immortalized human chondrocytes were 3-dimensionally cultured to create scaffold-free cartilage tissue analogs (CTAs) to simulate healthy cartilage. Experimental CTAs (n = 12) were exposed to 100% SFFH for 3 days, washed, and transferred to complete media for 3 days. Control CTAs (n = 12) were simultaneously cultured in complete medium without exposure to SFFH. Subsequently, CTAs were harvested and underwent biochemical, histological, and gene expression analysis. Results: Exposure of CTAs to ankle SFFH for 3 days significantly decreased chondrocyte viability by 34% (P =.027). Gene expression of both COL2A1 and SOX9 were significantly decreased after exposure to SFFH (P =.012 and P =.0013 respectively), while there was no difference in COL1A1, RUNX2, and MMP13 gene expression. Quantitative analysis of Picrosirius red staining demonstrated increased collagen I deposition with poor ultrastructural organization in SFFH-exposed CTAs. Conclusion: Exposure of an organoid model of healthy cartilage tissue to SFFH after intraarticular ankle fracture resulted in decreased chondrocyte viability, decreased expression of genes regulating normal chondrocyte phenotype, and altered matrix ultrastructure indicating differentiation toward an osteoarthritis phenotype. Clinical Relevance: The majority of ankle fracture open reduction and internal fixation does not occur immediately after fracture. In fact, typically these fractures are treated several days to weeks later in order to let the swelling subside. This means that the healthy innocent bystander cartilage not involved in the fracture is exposed to SFFH during this time. In this study, the SFFH caused decreased chondrocyte viability and specific altered gene expression that might have the potential to induce osteoarthritis. These data suggest that early intervention after intraarticular ankle fracture could possibly mitigate progression toward PTOA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Obere Extremitat is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The elbow is prone to stiffness due to its unique anatomy and profound capsular reaction to inflammation. The resulting movement impairment may significantly interfere with a patient’s activities of daily living. Trauma (including surgery for trauma), posttraumatic arthritis, and heterotopic ossification (HO) are the most common causes of elbow stiffness. In stiffness caused by soft tissue contractures, initial conservative treatment with physiotherapy (PT) and splinting is advised. In cases in which osseous deformities limit range of motion (e.g. malunion, osseous impingement, or HO), early surgical intervention is recommended. Open and arthroscopic arthrolysis are the primary surgical options. Arthroscopic arthrolysis has a lower complication and revision rate but has narrower indications. Early active mobilization using PT after surgery is recommended in postoperative rehabilitation and may be complemented by splinting or continuous passive motion therapy. Most results are gained within the first few months but can continue to improve until 12 months. This paper reviews the current literature and provides state-of-the-art guidance on the management regarding prevention, evaluation, and treatment of elbow stiffness.

Introduction: During deployment, soldiers are confronted with potentially morally injurious events. In many cases, these events violate their personal values and belief systems, resulting in feelings of anger, alienation, guilt, and shame. The psychological distress caused by such transgressions is defined as moral injury. It remains unclear to date, which therapeutic interventions are most appropriate for addressing this specific psychological condition. This study examines the effectiveness of value-based cognitive-behavioral group therapy combining elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, spiritual care, and adaptive disclosure therapy. Materials and methods: This controlled study uses the Compass of Shame Scale to assess symptom severity among participants both before and after a threeweek inpatient group therapy regimen for moral injury. An intervention group (n = 45) was compared to a waiting-list control group (n = 40). A one-way between subjects ANOVA was conducted to determine the differences between the two measurement points in the intervention group compared to the control group. A positive ethics vote from the Humboldt University Berlin (Charité) was available (No.EA1/092/15). Results: A significant difference was found on the shame-associated maladaptive strategies subscales of attack self (F (1, 83) = 5.942, p = 0.017, Cohen's f = 0,27), withdrawal (F (1, 83) = 8.263, p = 0.005, Cohen's f = 0,32), and attack others (F (1, 83) = 10.552, p = 0.002, Cohen's f = 0,36) of the Compass of Shame Scale between the intervention group and the control group at the p < 0.05 level in the pre- and post-treatment (t1-t2) comparison. Conclusion: This study suggests that the special therapeutic focus in cognitivebehavioral group therapy can alter shame-based maladaptive coping behaviors in response to war-related moral injury. This study provides further evidence that therapeutic approaches - through fostering a reconciliatory, compassionate, and forgiving approach toward oneself and others - target the underlying mechanisms of moral injury. Therefore, value-based cognitive-behavioral interventions should be considered as a standard element of trauma care in a military setting. Future studies should further examine such interventions in randomized control trials. It would also be particularly valuable for future studies to include a follow-up time point. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Computed tomography (CT) has become the primary imaging modality for visualization of the paranasal sinuses. In this retrospective, single center patient study the radiation dose development in the past 12 years in CT imaging of the paranasal sinuses was assessed. Methods: The computed tomography dose index (CTDIVol) and dose length product (DLP) of a total of 1246 patients (average age: 41 ± 18 years, 361 females, 885 males) were evaluated, who received imaging of the paranasal sinuses either for chronic sinusitis diagnostic, preoperatively or posttraumatically. Scans were performed on three different CT scanners (Somatom Definition AS, Somatom Definition AS+, Somatom Force, all from Siemens Healthineers) and on one CBCT (Morita) ranging from 2010 to 2022. Reconstruction techniques were filtered back projection and three generations of iterative reconstruction (IRIS, SAFIRE, ADMIRE, all from Siemens Healthineers). Group comparisons were performed using either parametrical (ANOVA) or non-parametrical tests (Kruskal-Wallis Test), where applicable. Results: Over the past 12 years, there was a 73%, 54%, and 66% CTDIVol reduction and a significant (p < 0.001) 72%, 33%, and 67% DLP reduction in assessing the paranasal sinuses for chronic sinusitis, preoperatively and posttraumatically, respectively. Conclusion: Technological developments in CT imaging, both hardware and software based, have led to a significant reduction in dose exposure in recent years. Particularly in imaging of the paranasal sinuses, the reduction of radiation exposure is of great interest due to the often young patient age and radiation-sensitive organs in the area of radiation exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We sought to develop a quality standard for the delivery of psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that is both consistent with the underlying evidence supporting psychotherapy as a treatment for PTSD and associated with the best levels of symptom improvement. We quantified psychotherapy receipt during the initial year of PTSD treatment in a 10-year national cohort of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) users who completed patient-reported outcome measurement as part of routine practice. We added progressively stringent measurement requirements. The most stringent requirement was associated with superior outcomes. Quality of psychotherapy for PTSD in the VA improved over time.

ObjectiveTo identify amygdalar volumetric differences associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in individuals with comorbid mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) compared with those with mTBI-only and to examine the effects of intracranial volume (ICV) on amygdala volumetric measures.SettingMarine Corps Base and VA Healthcare System.ParticipantsA cohort of veterans and active-duty military personnel with combat-related mTBI (N = 89).DesignTwenty-nine participants were identified with comorbid PTSD and mTBI. The remaining 60 formed the mTBI-only control group. Structural images of brains were obtained with a 1.5-T MRI scanner using a T1-weighted 3D-IR-FSPGR pulse sequence. Automatic segmentation was performed in Freesurfer.Main measuresAmygdala volumes with/without normalizations to ICV.ResultsThe comorbid mTBI/PTSD group had significantly larger amygdala volumes, when normalized to ICV, compared with the mTBI-only group. The right and left amygdala volumes after normalization to ICV were 0.122% ± 0.012% and 0.118% ± 0.011%, respectively, in the comorbid group compared with 0.115% ± 0.012% and 0.112% ± 0.009%, respectively, in the mTBI-only group (corrected P < .05).ConclusionsThe ICV normalization analysis performed here may resolve previous literature discrepancies. This is an intriguing structural finding, given the role of the amygdala in the challenging neuroemotive symptoms witnessed in casualties of combat-related mTBI and PTSD.

Posttraumatic widespread pain (PTWP) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) are frequent comorbid sequelae of trauma that occur at different rates in women and men. We sought to identify microRNA (miRNA) that may contribute to sex-dependent differences in vulnerability to these outcomes. Monte Carlo simulations (x10,000) identified miRNA in which predicted targeting of PTWP or PTSS genes was most enriched. Expression of the leading candidate miRNA to target PTWP/PTSS-related genes, miR-19b, has been shown to be influenced by estrogen and stress exposure. We evaluated whether peritraumatic miR-19b blood expression levels predicted PTWP and PTSS development in women and men experiencing trauma of motor vehicle collision (n = 179) and in women experiencing sexual assault trauma (n = 74). A sex-dependent relationship was observed between miR-19b expression levels and both PTWP (β = -2.41, P = 0.034) and PTSS (β = -3.01, P = 0.008) development 6 months after motor vehicle collision. The relationship between miR-19b and PTSS (but not PTWP) was validated in sexual assault survivors (β = -0.91, P = 0.013). Sex-dependent expression of miR-19b was also observed in blood and nervous tissue from 2 relevant animal models. Furthermore, in support of increasing evidence indicating a role for the circadian rhythm (CR) in PTWP and PTSS pathogenesis, miR-19b targets were enriched in CR gene transcripts. Human cohort and in vitro analyses assessing miR-19b regulation of key CR transcripts, CLOCK and RORA, supported the potential importance of miR-19b to regulating the CR pathway. Together, these results highlight the potential role that sex-dependent expression of miR-19b might play in PTWP and PTSS development after trauma/stress exposure.

Abstract Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, progressive degenerative whole joint disease that affects the articular cartilage, subchondral bone, ligaments, capsule, and synovium. While it is still believed to be a mechanically driven disease, the role of underlying co-existing inflammatory processes and mediators in the onset of OA and its progression is now more appreciated. Post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) is a subtype of OA that occurs secondary to traumatic joint insults and is widely used in pre-clinical models to help understand OA in general. There is an urgent need to develop new treatments as the global burden is considerable and expanding. In this review, we focus on the recent pharmacological advances in the treatment of OA and summarize the most significant promising agents based on their molecular effects. Those are classified here into broad categories: anti-inflammatory, modulation of the activity of matrix metalloproteases, anabolic, and unconventional pleiotropic agents. We provide a comprehensive analysis of the pharmacological advances in each of these areas and highlight future insights and directions in the OA field.

Introduction: Breastfeeding is highly recommended to promote the physical and mental health of mothers and infants. Unfortunately, migrant mothers face many barriers to their breastfeeding practice and often suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to traumatic events during migration and their settlement in the host country. There is a lack of research on the interrelationship of breastfeeding, PTSD, and the migrant status of mothers. This review presents existing research in the field and provides recommendations to improve the breastfeeding practices of migrant women with PTSD. Methods: This scoping review was undertaken in consultation with the patient partners. After searching various databases, 116 articles were found. We reviewed and analyzed five articles that were relevant to migrant mothers, breastfeeding, and PTSD. Findings: Migrant mothers with PTSD face additional breastfeeding barriers in the host countries due to lack of support, pressure to assimilate, racial stigma, inequalities surrounding breastfeeding, lack of culturally sensitive care, language barrier, misinformation, the norm of formula feeding, and stress. Some recommendations include psychosocial interventions, creating private areas to breastfeed in public, reducing pressure for new mothers to return to work, training healthcare workers to be culturally competent, addressing societal stigma, educating migrant mothers on breastfeeding, and offering social support. Also, healthcare workers should take a warm approach, conduct safety assessments, educate themselves on PTSD, notice nonverbal cues, and employ multidisciplinary professionals and interpreters. Conclusions: While research shows that culturally competent healthcare workers, support, and education can aid with PTSD and breastfeeding, future research is needed surrounding the interconnectedness of PTSD, breastfeeding, and migrant mothers. Research on this unique population will allow for better support. Future research should employ patient partners in the development of novel interventions for breastfeeding migrant mothers with PTSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore whether the association between change in headache management self‐efficacy and posttraumatic headache–related disability is partially mediated by a change in anxiety symptom severity. Background: Many cognitive–behavioral therapy treatments for headache emphasize stress management, which includes anxiety management strategies; however, little is currently known about mechanisms of change in posttraumatic headache–related disability. Increasing our understanding of mechanisms could lead to improvements in treatments for these debilitating headaches. Methods: This study is a secondary analysis of veterans (N = 193) recruited to participate in a randomized clinical trial of cognitive–behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, or treatment as usual for persistent posttraumatic headache. The direct relationship between headache management self‐efficacy and headache‐related disability, along with partial mediation through change in anxiety symptoms was tested. Results: The mediated latent change direct, mediated, and total pathways were statistically significant. The path analysis supported a significant direct pathway between headache management self‐efficacy and headache‐related disability (b = −0.45, p < 0.001; 95% confidence interval [CI: −0.58, −0.33]). The total effect of change of headache management self‐efficacy scores on change in Headache Impact Test‐6 scores was significant with a moderate‐to‐strong effect (b = −0.57, p = 0.001; 95% CI [−0.73, −0.41]). There was also an indirect effect through anxiety symptom severity change (b = −0.12, p = 0.003; 95% CI [−0.20, −0.04]). Conclusions: In this study, most of the improvements in headache‐related disability were related to increased headache management self‐efficacy with mediation occurring through change in anxiety. This indicates that headache management self‐efficacy is a likely mechanism of change of posttraumatic headache–related disability with decreases in anxiety explaining part of the improvement in headache‐related disability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionDuring deployment, soldiers are confronted with potentially morally injurious events. In many cases, these events violate their personal values and belief systems, resulting in feelings of anger, alienation, guilt, and shame. The psychological distress caused by such transgressions is defined as moral injury. It remains unclear to date, which therapeutic interventions are most appropriate for addressing this specific psychological condition. This study examines the effectiveness of value-based cognitive-behavioral group therapy combining elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, spiritual care, and adaptive disclosure therapy.Materials and methodsThis controlled study uses the Compass of Shame Scale to assess symptom severity among participants both before and after a three-week inpatient group therapy regimen for moral injury. An intervention group (n = 45) was compared to a waiting-list control group (n = 40). A one-way between subjects ANOVA was conducted to determine the differences between the two measurement points in the intervention group compared to the control group. A positive ethics vote from the Humboldt University Berlin (Charité) was available (No.EA1/092/15).ResultsA significant difference was found on the shame-associated maladaptive strategies subscales of attack self (F (1, 83) = 5.942, p = 0.017, Cohen’s f = 0,27), withdrawal (F (1, 83) = 8.263, p = 0.005, Cohen’s f = 0,32), and attack others (F (1, 83) = 10.552, p = 0.002, Cohen’s f = 0,36) of the Compass of Shame Scale between the intervention group and the control group at the p

A 60-year-old woman sustained right femur fracture and presented to us after taking native massage therapy for 6 weeks. Radiographs showed suspected posteromedial soft tissue shadow. Further imaging confirmed a rare pseudoaneurysm of the superficial femoral artery. After vascular surgery consultation, a single-stage procedure was planned. Through medial approach to distal femur, Pseudo aneurysm was haemodynamically isolated, opened and its contents evacuated. Neck of pseudo aneurysm is located and ligated. Distal femur plating (broad DCP) was done through the same exposure. Since traumatic pseudoaneurysms are rare entities, surgeons should have a high degree of suspicion for preoperative identification. It facilitates simultaneous vascular repair and fracture fixation. It avoids two-stage incisions, two incisions, intraoperative or postoperative catastrophe, and medicolegal complications. Hence, we advocate to look out for vascular injury in distal femur fractures at a delayed presentation.

Objective: The management of traumatic facial nerve paralysis (FNP) has remained a controversial issue with conflicting findings arguing between surgical decompression and conservative management. However, recent advances in endoscopic surgery may consolidate the management plan for this condition. Methods: This prospective clinical study included patients with posttraumatic FNP at a tertiary referral center. Patients were categorized in two main groups: surgical and conservative. Indications for surgery included patients with immediate and complete FNP, no improvement in facial function on medical treatment, with electroneurography showing >90% degeneration or electromyography showing fibrillation potential. Patients who did not satisfy this criterion received the conservative approach. The transcanal endoscopic approach (TEA) or endoscopic assisted transmastoid approach was performed for facial nerve decompression in the surgical group. Outcome: The main outcome was facial function improvement, assessed using the House Brackmann grading scale (HBGS) 6 months after surgery, and hearing state assessed using the air bone gap (ABG). Results: The study included 38 patients, of whom 15 underwent had surgical decompression and 23 underwent conservative therapy. A significant improvement in facial nerve function from a mean of 4.66 ± 0.97 to 1.71 ± 0.69 (P = 0.001) and ABG from a median of 30 (10–40) to 20 (10–25) (P = 0.002) was observed. Conclusion: Decision-making in cases of traumatic FNP is critical. The geniculate ganglion and tympanic segment were the most commonly affected areas in FNP cases. The TEA represents the most direct and least invasive approach for this area.

Purpose: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression are strong predictors of poor health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among injured U.S. military service members (SMs). Patterns of HRQOL between injury categories and injury categories stratified by mental health (MH) symptoms have not been examined. Among deployment-injured SMs and veterans (n = 4353), we examined HRQOL and screening data for PTSD and/or depression within specific injury categories. Methods: Participants included those enrolled in the Wounded Warrior Recovery Project with complete data for HRQOL (SF-36) from June 2017 to May 2020. Injuries were categorized using the Barell Injury Diagnosis Matrix (Barell Matrix). Mean physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scores were calculated for each injury category and stratified by the presence or absence of probable PTSD and/or depression. Results: The average follow-up time that participants were surveyed after injury was 10.7 years. Most participants were male, non-Hispanic White, served in the Army, and enlisted rank. Mechanism of injury for 77% was blast-related. Mean PCS and MCS scores across the entire sample were 43.6 (SD = 10.3) and 39.5 (SD = 13.3), respectively; 50% screened positive for depression and/or PTSD. PCS and MCS scores were significantly lower within each injury category among individuals with probable PTSD and/or depression than those without. Conclusion: Among deployment-injured SMs, those with probable PTSD and/or depression reported significantly lower HRQOL within injury categories and HRQOL component (i.e., physical or mental) than those without. Findings are consistent with prior reports showing mental health symptoms to be strongly associated with lower HRQOL and suggest integration of mental health treatment into standard care practices to improve long-term HRQOL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nightmares are a hallmark symptom of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This strong association may reflect a shared pathophysiology in the form of altered autonomic activity and increased reactivity. Using an acoustic startle paradigm, we investigated the interrelationships of psychophysiological measures during wakefulness and PTSD diagnosis, posttraumatic nightmares, and nontraumatic nightmares. Methods: A community sample of 122 trauma survivors were presented with a series of brief loud tones, while heart rate (HRR), skin conductance (SCR), and orbicularis oculi electromyogram (EMGR) responses were measured. Prior to the tone presentations, resting heart rate variability (HRV) was assessed. Nightmares were measured using nightmare logs. Three dichotomous groupings of participants were compared: (1) current PTSD diagnosis (n = 59), no PTSD diagnosis (n = 63), (2) those with (n = 26) or without (n = 96) frequent posttraumatic nightmares, and (3) those with (n = 22) or without (n = 100) frequent nontraumatic nightmares. Results: PTSD diagnosis was associated with posttraumatic but not with nontraumatic nightmares. Both PTSD and posttraumatic nightmares were associated with a larger mean HRR to loud tones, whereas nontraumatic nightmare frequency was associated with a larger SCR. EMGR and resting HRV were not associated with PTSD diagnosis or nightmares. Conclusions: Our findings suggest a shared pathophysiology between PTSD and posttraumatic nightmares in the form of increased HR reactivity to startling tones, which might reflect reduced parasympathetic tone. This shared pathophysiology could explain why PTSD is more strongly related to posttraumatic than nontraumatic nightmares, which could have important clinical implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The epidemiological, clinical, and microbiological profiles of patients with infectious endophthalmitis comparing the traumatic and non-traumatic etiologies presented to a Tertiary Eye Care Center in the rural tribal areas of Gujarat. Methods: A retrospective review of the electronic medical records of 114 patients between January 2008 and December 2019 was carried out. All patients were diagnosed with clinical endophthalmitis, treated with Endophthalmitis Vitrectomy Study first intravitreal injection, and then undergone pars plana vitrectomy with intraocular antibiotics. Results: 61/114(53.5%) patients had non-traumatic postoperative (PO) and 53/114 (46.3%) had posttraumatic (PT) endophthalmitis. Males were predominant in all types of endophthalmitis. Significantly younger individuals constituted the PT group. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at presentation was <1/60 in the majority (94.2%) of patients, while the treatment outcome was variable in the etiology with respect to BCVA that improved to 6/60 in 27 (23.68%) eyes and >6/24 in 17 (15.7%) eyes. In addition, 23 (20.2%) did not have any perception of light, and no significant change was detected in the visual outcome (p=0.278) according to etiologies. Conclusion: Infectious endophthalmitis is a rare but serious sight-threatening complication. Aggressive and prompt treatment causes significant improvement in vision. Etiology does not have a significant impact on the outcome of EVS in PT cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental disorder that may develop after exposure to a horrifying or traumatic event. India reported a high number of cases worldwide during the waves of the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic. Even though a high prevalence of PTSD is expected among hospitalized COVID-19 patients, only a very few studies have addressed the issue till now. The objectives of the study were to assess the prevalence and risk factors associated with PTSD among discharged COVID-19-infected individuals from a designated COVID-19 hospital in Karnataka. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among a total of 120 patients who were discharged after recovery from a designated COVID-19 hospital in Karnataka. Multistage random sampling was done, and equal representation was ensured from all the zones as per the hospital protocol from April 2021 to June 2021. Telephonic interviews with the subjects were conducted; participants were evaluated for PTSD using a semi-structured, prevalidated questionnaire (impact of events scale-revised) after 1 month of discharge from the hospital. Results: The prevalence of PTSD was found to be 29.16%. PTSD was more commonly associated among the middle age group, presence of comorbidities, and with an increased number of days of hospitalization stay especially in ICU with the ventilator. Conclusions: Studying PTSD and its associated factors is necessary to inform about the COVID-19 prognosis. Physicians treating the patient and caretakers of patients should be aware of PTSD risk and should consider PTSD Screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects 3.6–9.7% of women, and has been associated with adverse outcomes in pregnancy; however, associations with prenatal care (PNC) utilization are not clear. Objective To evaluate associations of PTSD in pregnancy with PNC utilization and adverse infant outcomes in an active-duty military population (a population with universal health insurance). Methods This was a retrospective cohort study of pregnant active-duty service members in Department of Defense Birth and Infant Health Research program data from 2007 to 2014. Administrative medical encounter data were used to define PTSD cases and outcomes of interest. Descriptive statistics and multivariable log-binomial regression compared PNC utilization and adverse infant outcomes (preterm birth, small for gestational age [SGA], major birth defects) among service members with current PTSD (defined as PTSD in the year prior to pregnancy or during pregnancy) to those without current PTSD. Results Of the 103,221 singleton live births identified, 1657 (1.6%) were born to active-duty service members diagnosed with current PTSD. Service members with PTSD were more likely to initiate PNC in the first trimester (93.5% vs. 90.2%) and score adequate plus on the Adequacy of Prenatal Care Utilization Index (63.2% vs. 40.0%) compared to service members without PTSD. PTSD case status was not associated with preterm birth, SGA, or major birth defects, regardless of the adjustment set used (fully adjusted RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.82–1.13; RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.79–1.48; and RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.79–1.34, respectively). Conclusion For pregnant service members with current PTSD, no associations with adverse infant outcomes were noted, and these patients initiated care earlier and had higher PNC utilization scores compared to pregnant service members without current PTSD. Universal health care coverage and utilization of PNC in this population may mitigate adverse pregnancy outcomes observed in civilian populations of patients with PTSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals with eating disorders (EDs) has been recorded all over the world; the traumatic effects of COVID-19 have exacerbated specific and general psychopathologies in those with EDs. Comparing patients' and their healthy siblings' responses might help one evaluate whether there are significant differences between healthy individuals and those struggling with EDs in regard to posttraumatic psychological symptoms. (2) Methods: A sample of 141 ED patients and 99 healthy siblings were enrolled in this study in two different centers specializing in ED treatment. All participants completed the posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) checklist and an eating and general psychopathological self-report questionnaire. Network analysis was then applied to evaluate the differences between the populations. (3) Results: No significant differences emerged between the network structures despite the significant differences between patients and their healthy siblings in regard to posttraumatic symptoms, eating, and general psychopathology. (4) Conclusion: The complex nature of the interaction between environmental and personal factors should be evaluated further in individuals with EDs due to how they respond to traumatic events, which exacerbate patients' psychopathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a case of posttraumatic ulnar translocation of the carpus, which resulted after a fall from a six-foot ladder. This patient presented with multiple injuries to the skull bones, face, and limbs. A diagnosis of ulnar translocation of the carpus was missed on initial radiographs. Ulnar translocations require a high clinical index of suspicion and should be considered in the context of any high-impact injury to the wrist. A volar fleck just distal to the radial articular surface represents evidence of ligamentous disruption and should alert physicians that a more severe injury may be present. Nonsurgical and surgical treatment options are reviewed.

Purpose: To evaluate the outcomes of transepithelial phototherapeutic keratectomy (transepithelial PTK) for treatment of posttraumatic recurrent corneal erosions. Methods: Twenty-four eyes of 22 patients with posttraumatic recurrent corneal erosions who were treated with transepithelial PTK from April 2018 to July 2020 were included in this retrospective study. The rates of recurrent erosions and complications were evaluated during the follow-up after surgery. Visual acuity and refraction were recorded preoperatively and 1 year after surgery. Total corneal astigmatism, total corneal irregular astigmatism, and total corneal spherical aberrations were recorded using corneal tomography preoperatively and 1 year after surgery. Results: Mean postoperative follow-up was 13 months (range: 12–32 months). None of the patients suffered from any complications or further erosions. Uncorrected distance visual acuity, best-corrected distance visual acuity, spherical equivalent, and cylinder remained stable at 1-year postoperatively compared with the baseline (P = 0.214, P = 0.461, P = 0.084, and P = 0.879, respectively). Moreover, there was no significant difference in total corneal astigmatism, total corneal irregular astigmatism, and total corneal spherical aberrations between baseline and 1-year postoperative visit (P = 0.938, P = 0.136, and P = 0.981, respectively). Conclusion: Transepithelial PTK was an effective treatment for patients with posttraumatic recurrent corneal erosions.