Postgraduate medicine
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Postgraduate medicine · Mar 2023
Review Meta AnalysisLow serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels are associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
There is controversy about the association between vitamin D and cardiovascular disease (CVD). This article aims to explore the association of serum 25-hydroxyvitaminD (25 OHD) with the risk of CVD. ⋯ The underlying mechanism still needs to be explored further, and well-designed RCTs are needed to confirm the role of vitamin D in the occurrence and development of CVD.
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Postgraduate medicine · Nov 2022
Review Meta AnalysisPostoperative complications, length of stay, and mortality following colectomies in rural hospitals: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Studies regarding patients who have underwent colectomy reported contradictory post-surgical complications based on their living areas. Due to the conflicting data surrounding whether rural or urban hospitals have lower postoperative complication rates, we have performed a systematic review and meta-analysis with the aim of understanding and assessing the evidence that has already been found. ⋯ Rural hospitals overall have equivalent postoperative complication rates to urban hospitals and can provide sufficient postoperative patient care.
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Postgraduate medicine · Nov 2022
Meta AnalysisComparative risk-benefit profiles of weak opioids in the treatment of osteoarthritis: a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Despite their poor tolerance, weak opioids are still the most commonly-prescribed medicine for osteoarthritis (OA)-related pain. The objective of this network meta-analysis was to comparatively examine the efficacy and safety of weak opioids in OA treatment. ⋯ The results of the present study confirmed that tramadol and codeine were effective drugs for the treatment of OA, but involved considerable safety issues. Dextropropoxyphene and dihydrocodeine exhibited a relatively good safety profile but their efficacy still warrant further investigation.
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Postgraduate medicine · Apr 2021
Review Meta AnalysisThe effect of prophylactic thoracic duct ligation during esophagectomy on the incidence of chylothorax and survival of the patients: an updated review.
The role of thoracic duct ligation (TDL) during esophagectomy remains controversial. This review aimed to elucidate the effect of TDL on chylothorax and survival of the patients after esophagectomy for cancer. ⋯ The present review provided updated evidence opposing prophylactic TDL during esophagectomy for lowering chylothorax. Considering the harmful effect of TDL on survival of the patients, further well-designed trials should be considered in selected cases under strict supervision.
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Postgraduate medicine · Nov 2020
Meta AnalysisCOVID-19 and comorbidities: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
SARS-CoV-2 has caused a worldwide pandemic that began with an outbreak of pneumonia cases in the Hubei province of China. Knowledge of those most at risk is integral for treatment, guideline implementation, and resource allocation. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate comorbidities associated with severe and fatal cases of COVID-19. ⋯ Diabetes was more prevalent among fatal cases [24.89% (95%CI: 18.80%, 32.16%)] compared to total cases [9.65% (95%CI: 6.83%, 13.48%)]. Respiratory diseases had a higher prevalence in fatal cases [10.89% (95%CI: 7.57%, 15.43%)] in comparison to total cases [3.65% (95%CI: 2.16%, 6.1%)]. Studies assessing the mechanisms accounting for the associations between severe cases and hypertension, diabetes, and respiratory diseases are crucial in understanding this new disease, managing patients at risk, and developing policies and guidelines that will reduce future risk of severe COVID-19 disease.