British medical bulletin
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British medical bulletin · Jun 2014
Review Meta AnalysisPlatelet-rich plasma in the conservative treatment of painful tendinopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled studies.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) seeks to meet the multifaceted demand of degenerated tendons providing several molecules capable of boosting healing. ⋯ Further studies circumventing heterogeneity are needed to reach firm conclusions. Available evidence can help to overcome hurdles to future clinical research and bring forward PRP therapies.
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British medical bulletin · Jan 2011
Meta AnalysisMeniscectomy as a risk factor for knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review.
This review defines the recognized risk factors responsible for the development of knee osteoarthritis after surgical management of meniscal tears. ⋯ Appropriately powered randomized controlled trials reporting clinical and imaging-related outcomes in patients undergoing arthroscopic minimally invasive procedures and meniscal suturing should be performed. Comparing imaging findings of patients undergoing arthroscopic partial and open meniscectomy, a lower incidence of knee osteoarthritic evolution was detected after arthroscopy. The amount of removed meniscus is the most important predictor factor for the development of osteoarthritis. Minimally invasive procedures seem to reduce the incidence of long-term osteoarthritic changes of the knee compared with more invasive open and or arthroscopic procedures.
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British medical bulletin · Jan 2010
Review Meta AnalysisExtracorporeal cardiac mechanical stimulation: precordial thump and precordial percussion.
External cardiac mechanical stimulation is one of the fastest resuscitative manoeuvres possible in the emergency setting. Precordial thump (PT), initially reported for treatment of atrio-ventricular block, has been subsequently described to cardiovert also ventricular tachycardia (VT) and fibrillation (VF). PT efficacy, mechanics and mechanisms remain poorly characterized. ⋯ The 2005 ALS guidelines recommend PT delivery only by healthcare professionals trained in the technique. The use of training aids should therefore be explored, regardless of whether they are based on stand-alone devices or integrated within resuscitation mannequins.