Irish journal of medical science
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There have been reports of thalidomide-affected people suffering a deterioration in their disability over time [1, 2]. This study assessed changes in disabilities among thalidomide-affected people in the Irish population. ⋯ There is a need to continually review the physical, psychological and social needs of thalidomide survivors in order to ensure optimum care is made available.
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Depression is a very prevalent mental disorder affecting 340 million people globally and is projected to become the leading cause of disability and the second leading contributor to the global burden of disease by the year 2020. ⋯ The presented evidence suggests that exercise and physical activity have beneficial effects on depression symptoms that are comparable to those of antidepressant treatments.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Are postoperative drains necessary with the Karydakis flap for treatment of pilonidal sinus? (Can fibrin glue be replaced to drains?) A prospective randomized trial.
Different surgical techniques for pilonidal disease have been described in the literature. In this study, our aim was to evaluate the influence of routine cavity drainage in the Karydakis flap technique. ⋯ We recommend the use of fibrin sealant with Karydakis flap procedure, but further studies are needed to confirm this conclusion.
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Patients undergoing major breast surgery have an almost negligible need for blood transfusions. However, type and screen requests are still routinely performed. This represents an inefficient utilization of resources and unnecessary workload for laboratory staff. The aim of this study was to ascertain whether pre-operative blood typing is justified in patients undergoing surgical procedures with an intermediate transfusion probability. ⋯ The need for routine group and hold blood requests is not justified for patients undergoing elective breast surgery and represents a waste of clinical resources. A more targeted approach will not only reduce the demand on blood products but also reduce the associated costs to blood transfusion services.
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Dementia patients in Ireland live 8 years on average after diagnosis and health policy aims to ensure patients are cared for in the home for as long as possible. ⋯ Dementia carers form an important yet understated patient group who present unique challenges for general practitioners in Ireland.