Irish journal of medical science
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Surgery remains the mainstay of treatment for malignant melanoma. Despite previous studies examining the surgical interval (SI) between the diagnostic excision biopsy (DEB) and definitive surgical management there remains few guidelines regarding an optimal time interval. The aim of this study was to determine the SI between DEB and definitive surgery and elucidate factors associated with delays in management of malignant melanoma. ⋯ Significant variations were noted in the SI predominantly accounted for by mode of referral and location of the malignant melanoma. Further investigation is required to elucidate factors affecting the SI and its subsequent effect on patient outcomes.
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Observational Study
An audit of drug shortages in a community pharmacy practice.
There are no firm data on drug shortages in Irish community pharmacy. This prospective observational study aimed to characterise the drug shortage problem in an Irish community pharmacy. ⋯ This study highlights the drug shortage problem in an Irish community pharmacy. We propose that enhanced communication between all stakeholders is the most worthwhile solution. Further studies are needed.
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Self-reported concussion rates among U-20 and elite rugby union players in Ireland are 45-48%. Half of these injuries go unreported. Accurate knowledge of concussion signs and symptoms and appropriate management practices among coaches and medical staff is important to improve the welfare of players. ⋯ Overall, the coaches in this investigation have accurate knowledge of concussion and medical staff use effective techniques for managing this injury. On-going education is needed to assist coaches in identifying concussion signs and symptoms. It is recommended that medical staff increase their reliance on objective methods for assessment and return-to-play decision making.
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Comparative Study
Impact of intracameral cefuroxime on the incidence of postoperative endophthalmitis following cataract surgery in Ireland.
Postoperative endophthalmitis (PE) is a rare complication of cataract surgery, but carries a significant risk of blindness. The European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons published a landmark study in 2007 that revealed the use of intracameral cefuroxime as prophylaxis against endophthalmitis reduced its incidence by fivefold. Since the publication of these results, the use of intracameral cefuroxime in cataract surgery has become a standard practice in many institutions, including our own. ⋯ The incidence of postoperative endophthalmitis has reduced by approximately eightfold since the introduction of intracameral cefuroxime following cataract surgery at our hospital in 2007. This study strongly supports the use of intracameral cefuroxime as prophylaxis against endophthalmitis in all cataract surgical cases.
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The traditional model for emergency surgical care consists of an on-call team providing service to the emergency department, while simultaneously balancing the demands of elective work. Various newer models, such as the "surgeon of the week" aim to reduce the conflict between elective and emergency duties. Despite the recent focus on newer models, there remains no data on the effectiveness of the traditional model. We aim to assess the efficacy of the traditional model in a large regional hospital. ⋯ Newer models of acute surgical care have desirable outcomes in consultation times. However, regional and economical implications have a substantial impact on which model is feasible at local levels. We demonstrated that the traditional model still remains effective in a large sized tertiary referral unit.