Surg J R Coll Surg E
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Surg J R Coll Surg E · Feb 2017
Randomized Controlled TrialUsing a multimedia presentation to improve patient understanding and satisfaction with informed consent for minimally invasive vascular procedures.
As vascular procedures become more complex, patient understanding of their treatment(s) can become more difficult. We wished to evaluate the utility of multimedia presentations (MPs) to improve patient understanding of their vascular interventions. ⋯ This study suggests that patients find the use of MP during the consent process to be helpful in patient understanding and that there is improved satisfaction. Given the rapid rate of innovation in vascular interventions, increased regular use of MPs to help patients understand their procedures would be beneficial in the care of patients undergoing vascular interventions.
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Venous leg ulcers affect 1-3% of adults with a significant economic impact, utilizing 1% of annual healthcare budgets in some western European countries. ⋯ This review confirmed that the evidence for a beneficial effect of endovenous and open surgery for varicose vein in venous leg ulcer is at beast weak. A well-structured RCT is required to investigate the role of endovenous ablation of incompetent superficial veins in improving venous leg ulcer outcomes.
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Surg J R Coll Surg E · Aug 2016
ReviewIs treatment de-escalation a reality in HPV related oropharyngeal cancer?
The incidence of HPV related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is rapidly increasing. It is now well recognised as a distinct clinical and biologic entity, compared to traditional OPSCC. ⋯ The de-escalation of current treatment regimens have therefore been proposed in an attempt to reduce the long term treatment related morbidity of this much younger patient cohort. Several of the more pertinent points regarding safe de-escalation strategies are considered within this manuscript.
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Surg J R Coll Surg E · Aug 2016
ReviewManagement of novel oral anticoagulants in emergency and trauma surgery.
The compelling safety, efficacy and predictable effect of novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) is driving a rapid expansion in their therapeutic indications. Management of the increasing number of patients on those new agents in the setting of emergency or trauma surgery can be challenging and the absence of specific reversal agents has been a matter of concern. This review summarises the key principles that underpin the management of those patients with a particular emphasis on the recent development of specific antidotes. ⋯ Management of patients on NOACs in the context of emergency or trauma surgery relies on best supportive care in combination with the blood products and/or specific antidotes as required. Familiarity with the new reversal agents is essential but further evidence on their indications, safety and efficacy as well as consensus guidelines are warranted prior to widespread adoption.