Ann Acad Med Singap
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Ann Acad Med Singap · Jan 2023
Meta AnalysisAblation therapies for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and patient-level network meta-analysis.
Despite promising trials, catheter ablation is still regarded as an adjunct to antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) in the treatment of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF). This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of various ablation therapies and AADs. ⋯ The advantage of ablation therapies over AAD in preventing atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrence suggests that ablation should be considered as the first-line treatment for PAF in patients fit for the procedure. The promising nature of several specific therapies warrants further trials to elicit their long-term efficacy and perform a cost-benefit analysis.
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Ann Acad Med Singap · Sep 2022
Review Meta AnalysisPeriodontal disease and systemic health: An update for medical practitioners.
Chronic periodontal disease is a highly prevalent dental condition affecting tooth-supporting tissues. Scientific evidence is accumulating on links between periodontal disease and various systemic conditions. This narrative review provides a holistic yet succinct overview that would assist medical practitioners to deliver integrated care for better clinical outcomes. ⋯ Oral-systemic links are multifaceted and complex. While evidence linking periodontal disease with a variety of systemic conditions is still emerging, the nature of the relationship is becoming clearer. The updated understanding of these associations warrants the attention of medical experts and policymakers for a concerted effort to develop a patient-centric, integrated model for the treatment of comorbid dental and medical conditions.
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Ann Acad Med Singap · Feb 2022
Meta AnalysisThe efficacy and safety of high-intensity focused ultrasound in the treatment of benign thyroid nodules: A systematic review and meta-analysis from 1990 to 2021.
To date, there have only been 2 systematic reviews, and 1 systematic review and meta-analysis on high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) for benign thyroid nodules. The present systematic review and meta-analysis seeks to evaluate the efficacy and safety of HIFU in the treatment of benign thyroid nodules. ⋯ HIFU may be an effective and safe alternative treatment modality for benign thyroid nodules. Larger clinical trials with longer follow-up are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of HIFU in treating benign thyroid nodules.
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Ann Acad Med Singap · Apr 2021
Meta AnalysisSevere COVID-19 and coagulopathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-induced coagulopathy (CIC) has been widely reported in the literature. However, the spectrum of abnormalities associated with CIC has been highly variable. ⋯ Significant variability in CIC exists between non-severe and severe patients, with platelet count and D-dimer level correlating with disease severity. Routine monitoring of all coagulation parameters may help to assess CIC and decide on the appropriate management.
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Ann Acad Med Singap · Jan 2021
Meta AnalysisImpact of cardiovascular diseases on severity of COVID-19 patients: A systematic review.
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases are increasing rapidly worldwide. Similar to Middle East respiratory syndrome where cardiovascular diseases were present in nearly 30% of cases, the increased presence of cardiovascular comorbidities remains true for COVID-19 as well. The mechanism of this association remains unclear at this time. Therefore, we reviewed the available literature and tried to find the probable association between cardiovascular disease with disease severity and mortality in COVID-19 patients. ⋯ Our findings showed that cardiovascular disease has a negative effect on health status of COVID-19 patients. However, large prevalence studies demonstrating the consequences of comorbid cardiovascular disease are urgently needed to understand the extent of these concerning comorbidities.