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AnteayerInternational Wound Journal

The impact of glucocorticoids therapy on cutaneous wounds in Kawasaki disease: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract

Kawasaki disease (KD) is one of the most challenging diseases that is defined as an acute vasculitis that affects the coronary arteries primarily in children. It causes complications if left untreated at early stages, ultimately leading to death. Corticosteroids have been recognized to treat and cause great impact on the patients with KD. Glucocorticoid is one of the main corticosteroids that are being used to treat KD and cutaneous wounds. However, ineffectiveness of a few glucocorticoids can limit the efficacy of this treatment. This study particularly aimed to elucidate the impact of glucocorticoids on cutaneous wounds in KD. To perform the meta-analysis, a comprehensive literature survey was conducted to unveil the studies and research conducted on Kawasaki patients that revealed different glucocorticoids in the form of specific interventions influencing KD. The literature was searched using numerous keywords, screened and data was extracted to perform the meta-analysis and then it was conducted using the metabin function of R package meta. A total of 2000 patients from both intervention and control groups were employed to carry out the meta-analysis to analyse and evaluate the impact of glucocorticoids on curing KD and cutaneous wounds in patients. The results disclosed that glucocorticoids along with other steroids, mainly IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin), was an effective intervention to patients suffering from Kawasaki. The results depicted significant outcomes with the values (risk ratio [RR]: 1.08, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.58–2.00, p < 0.01) and enlightened the fact that adopting different glucocorticoids may significantly improve the efficacy of skin lesions along with KD. Hence, interventions of glucocorticoids must be utilized in the clinical practice to reduce the incidence of skin wounds and adverse effects caused due to KD.

Effects of evidence‐based nursing care interventions on wound pain and wound complications following surgery for finger tendon injury

Abstract

We conducted this study aimed to examine the impact of evidence-based nursing interventions on postoperative wound pain and complications after surgery for finger tendon injury. A total of 86 patients treated for finger tendon injuries at our hospital from January 2021 to October 2023 were selected and randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group. The control group received conventional nursing care, while the experimental group received evidence-based nursing interventions. The study compared the postoperative wound pain intensity, incidence of complications and patient satisfaction with nursing care between the two groups. The analysis revealed that compared with conventional care, evidence-based nursing interventions significantly reduced the level of wound pain (p = 0.034) and the incidence of complications (4.65% vs. 18.60%, p = 0.043). It also increased patient satisfaction with the nursing care (97.67% vs. 83.72%, p = 0.026). The study indicates that the application of evidence-based nursing interventions for patients with finger tendon injuries can reduce postoperative wound pain, decrease the incidence of complications and enhance patient satisfaction with nursing care.

Effect of right internal mammary artery versus radial artery as a second graft vessel in coronary artery bypass grafting on postoperative wound infection in patients: A meta‐analysis

Abstract

Few studies have shown that radial artery (RA), which is used as a secondary arterial graft, offers superior results compared with right internal thoracic artery (RIMA) in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). In a meta-analysis of observational studies starting in 2023, we looked at the effect of re-operation on postoperative infection and haemorrhage in CABG with RA vs. RIMA. The electronic database up to October 2023 was examined in the course of the research. Analysis was carried out on the clinical trials of postoperative wound infections and haemorrhage re-surgery. Among 912 trials associated with CABG, we selected 8 trials to be included in the final data analysis. The main results were secondary wound infection and re-operation after surgery. The odds ratios (OR) and confidence intervals (CIs) were computed on the basis of a randomized or fixed-effect model of wound infection and re-operation. Seven trials showed a significant reduction in the risk of wound infection in RA treated as a secondary artery transplant compared with RIMA (OR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.03, 2.47 p = 0.04); Four trials showed that RIMA was not significantly different from RA in the rate of re-operation for postoperative bleeding (OR, 1.31; 95% CI, 0.60, 2.88 p = 0.50). In CABG, RA is used as a secondary arterial conduit graft to lower the risk of wound infection in CABG patients.

Risk factors and clinical characteristics of surgical site infections in athletes undergoing Achilles tendon repair surgery

Abstract

Achilles tendon ruptures are common in athletes, requiring surgical intervention. However, the risk of surgical site infections (SSIs) post-surgery poses significant challenges. This study aims to analyse the risk factors and microbial aetiology associated with SSIs in athletes undergoing Achilles tendon repair. A comprehensive retrospective analysis was conducted from May 2021 to July 2023. The study included 25 patients with SSIs (case group) and 50 patients without SSIs (control group) post Achilles tendon repair surgery. Inclusion criteria encompassed patients with medically confirmed Achilles tendon ruptures who underwent surgical repair. Exclusion criteria included prior tendon pathologies and significant chronic illnesses. Diagnostic criteria for SSIs involved symptoms like elevated body temperature and localized tenderness, along with laboratory confirmations such as positive microbiological cultures. The study utilized VITEK® 2 for bacterial identification and involved statistical analyses like univariate and multivariate logistic regression. The study identified Staphylococcus aureus as the primary pathogen in SSIs. Significant risk factors included lack of prophylactic antibiotic use, presence of diabetes, open wounds and prolonged surgery duration. Univariate analysis revealed stark contrasts in these factors between infected and non-infected groups, while multivariate analysis underscored their importance in SSI development. S. aureus emerged as the predominant pathogen in SSIs post Achilles tendon repair. Critical risk factors such as absence of prophylactic antibiotics, diabetes, open wounds and extended surgery duration play a vital role in SSIs. Addressing these factors is essential for better postoperative outcomes in Achilles tendon repair surgeries.

Meta‐analysis of the influence of tracheal intubation with cuff and without cuff on the incidence of total wound complications in ICU intubation patients

Abstract

At present, it is still controversial whether patients in intensive care unit (ICU) use tracheal intubation with or without cuff. This paper evaluates the effect of tracheal intubation with and without cuff on overall complication rate of patients with intubation in ICU. The database of PubMed, Embase, Conchrane Library and Web of Science was searched by computer, and the clinical research on intubation with and without cuff in ICU was collected. The time range was from the database establishment to November 2023. Literature was independently screened, information was extracted, and quality was assessed by two researchers. Finally, there were nine studies included, with 11 068 patients (7391 in cuff group and 3677 in non-cuff group). The results showed that the overall complication rate of cuff group was significantly lower than that of non-cuff group, and that of cuff group (RR = 0.53, p < 0.01). In addition, compared with the non-cuff group, the cuff group had a lower number of tracheal intubation changes [RR = 0.05, p < 0.01] and a lower incidence of aspiration pneumonia (RR = 0.45, p = 0.01). Compared with the non-cuff group, the cuff group had a higher incidence of oral mucosal ulcers and pharyngitis (RR = 1.99, p = 0.04), while the cuff group had a lower incidence of laryngeal edema (RR = 0.39, p < 0.01). In ICU intubation patients, the use of cuffs reduces overall complication rate in comparison to patients without cuffs. Therefore, patients with intubation in ICU can recommend tracheal intubation with cuff.

Metabolism, fibrosis, and apoptosis: The effect of lipids and their derivatives on keloid formation

Abstract

Keloids, pathological scars resulting from skin trauma, have traditionally posed significant clinical management challenges due to their persistence and high recurrence rates. Our research elucidates the pivotal roles of lipids and their derivatives in keloid development, driven by underlying mechanisms of abnormal cell proliferation, apoptosis, and extracellular matrix deposition. Key findings suggest that abnormalities in arachidonic acid (AA) synthesis and non-essential fatty acid synthesis are integral to keloid formation. Further, a complex interplay exists between lipid derivatives, notably butyric acid (BA), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), prostaglandin D2 (PGD2), and the regulation of hyperfibrosis. Additionally, combinations of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) with BA and 15-deoxy-Δ12,14-Prostaglandin J2 have exhibited pronounced cytotoxic effects. Among sphingolipids, ceramide (Cer) displayed limited pro-apoptotic effects in keloid fibroblasts (KFBs), whereas sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) was found to promote keloid hyperfibrosis, with its analogue, FTY720, demonstrating contrasting benefits. Both Vitamin D and hexadecylphosphorylcholine (HePC) showed potential antifibrotic and antiproliferative properties, suggesting their utility in keloid management. While keloids remain a prevalent concern in clinical practice, this study underscores the promising potential of targeting specific lipid molecules for the advancement of keloid therapeutic strategies.

Systematic review and network meta‐analysis of mesenchymal stem cells in treating diabetic skin ulcers in animal models

Abstract

Background

Diabetic cutaneous ulcers often pose considerable challenges in the healing process. These challenges stem from factors including inadequate perfusion of the ulcer's surrounding environment, persistent inflammation, tissue damage and microbial proliferation. The existing standard treatment modalities prove insufficient in fully addressing the complex pathogenesis of these ulcers. As a novel approach, researchers are exploring cellular therapies employing mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for the treatment of diabetic skin ulcers. MSCs are readily found in various tissues, including bone marrow, adipose tissue, placenta, amniotic membrane, amniotic fluid and umbilical cord. However, the optimal source of MSCs for effectively treating diabetic skin ulcers remains a topic of ongoing discussion.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive search of Embase, PubMed and Web of Science databases, spanning from their inception to November 2022. Subsequently, we rigorously screened the literature following predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria and evaluated the quality of the selected studies using the SYRCLE scale. Finally, the included literature underwent analysis, employing the Bayesian school of thought-based R language. To ensure transparency and accountability, we registered this study with PROSPERO's International Systematic Review Prospective Registry, with the Registration ID: CRD42023387421.

Results

We included a total of 11 articles in our analysis, all of which were randomized controlled studies involving 218 animal models. Among these studies, two utilized adipose-derived MSCs, six employed bone marrow-derived MSCs, one utilized amniotic membrane-derived MSCs and three utilized umbilical cord-derived MSCs. Our network meta-analysis results revealed that there were no statistically significant differences in the healing rates of diabetic skin ulcers among MSCs derived from amniotic membrane, adipose tissue, umbilical cord and bone marrow on days 7–8, 10–12 and 12–14. Notably, according to the probability ranking table, the most effective treatment for diabetic wounds was found to be amniotic membrane-derived MSCs.

Conclusion

There was no statistically significant difference in the efficacy of MSCs derived from amniotic membrane, adipose, umbilical cord and bone marrow in the treatment of diabetic skin ulcers during the short-term observation period, and the probability ranking graphs indicate that amniotic membrane-derived MSCs may be the best choice for the treatment of diabetic skin ulcers.

Best practices for managing malodorous and infected wounds in advanced cervical cancer

Abstract

This cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the most effective strategies for managing malodorous and infected wounds in patients who have been diagnosed with advanced cervical cancer. The research was conducted in Liupanshui, China. The study specifically examined demographic profiles, wound characteristics and effectiveness of wound management approaches. The study incorporated the heterogeneous sample of 289 participants who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Data collection was conducted via structured questionnaires and medical record evaluations. Descriptive statistics and statistical analyses, such as regression analysis, were utilized to evaluate demographic attributes, wound profiles and effects of different approaches to wound management. The findings unveiled the heterogeneous demographic composition of patients, encompassing differences in socioeconomic standing, educational attainment and age. A wide range of wound characteristics were observed, as 65.7% of lesions during the acute phase with diameter between 2 and 5 centimetres, while 41.5% of lesions had this range. The most prevalent types of infections were those caused by fungi (48.4%), followed by bacterial infections lacking resistance (38.1%). A moderate degree of odour intensity was prevalent, affecting 45.0% of the cases. With maximal odour reduction of 80%, a mean healing time of 25 days and patient satisfaction rating of 4.5 out of 5, Negative Pressure Wound Therapy demonstrated itself to be the most efficacious treatment method. Additional approaches, such as photodynamic therapy and topical antibiotic therapy, demonstrated significant effectiveness, as evidenced by odour reductions of 70% and 75%, respectively, and patient satisfaction ratings of 4.3 and 4.2. Thus, the study determined challenges associated with management of malodorous and infected lesions among patients with advanced cervical cancer. The results underscored the significance of individualized care approaches, drew attention to efficacious wound management techniques and identified critical determinants that impacted patient recuperation. The findings of this study hold potential for advancing palliative care for individuals diagnosed with advanced cervical cancer.

Incidence and Management of Skin Lesions and Minor Wounds in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients undergoing Advanced Bronchodilator Therapy

Abstract

While triple inhalation therapy is commonly employed in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), limited knowledge exists regarding its impact on the healing of minor wounds and integrity of the epidermis. This study investigated the impact of combining triple inhalation therapy with double bronchodilators on the aforementioned parameters in patients with stable COPD. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Changzhou, China, from March 2022 to October 2023, involving 540 patients who had received the diagnosis of stable COPD. Combined therapy participation requirements stipulated a minimum of 6 months of uninterrupted treatment. Dermatological examinations, demographic data and clinical records were utilized to collect information regarding the elasticity, moisture content and duration of wound healing. The research revealed that there were no statistically significant differences in demographic and clinical characteristics between the groups that received triple inhalation alone and triple inhalation in combination with double bronchodilators (p > 0.05). Nevertheless, the combined therapy group demonstrated shorter duration since receiving a diagnosis of COPD (p < 0.05). It is noteworthy to remark that the combined therapy group exhibited significantly higher skin moisture content and shorter interval for wound recovery when compared with the group that only received triple inhalation (p < 0.05). Lung function measurements in combined therapy group indicated enhanced Forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and FEV1/forced vital capacity ratio, as well as a reduction in COPD exacerbations. Nevertheless, no statistically significant distinction in skin elasticity was observed among the groups (p > 0.05). The supplementary application of triple inhalation therapy and double bronchodilators in stable COPD patients not only improved respiratory outcomes but also positively impacted skin health, specifically by promoting wound healing and augmenting moisture levels. These results highlighted the possible benefits of implementing a holistic treatment approach in COPD, suggesting that incorporating these therapies could offer additional advantages to the epidermis.

Effect of transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy versus 20‐G vitrectomy on surgical wound closure in patients: A meta‐analysis

Abstract

A meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact of transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy (TSV) over 20 G vitrectomy on wound healing, as well as the requirements for closing the wound in order to treat vitreoretinal diseases. Among the 500 cases who had been treated with vitrectomy to September 2023, 250 were treated by transconjunctiva without vitrectomy and 250 were treated with 20 G vitrectomy. The odds ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD) of 95% confidence interval (CI) were computed to evaluate the influence of wound opening and closing on vitrectomy diseases. The evaluation of vitreoretinal diseases was performed with either a random-or fixed-effect model, which involved TSV compared to 20 G vitrectomy. Compared to 20 G vitrectomy, the opening time of the wound in TSV was less (MD, −2.03; 95% CI, −2.87, −1.19; p < 0.0001); Compared to 20 G vitrectomy, the closing time of the wound was less (MD, −4.84; 95% CI, −6.38, −3.03; p < 0.0001); Nevertheless, there were no statistically significant differences in the incidence of vitreous haemorrhage after TSV surgery compared with 20 G vitrectomy (OR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.25, 2.18; p = 0.59). TSV vitrectomy can shorten the duration of the operation and speed up the healing of the wound. It is suggested that additional studies be carried out with a larger sample size in order to verify this conclusion.

Impact of evidence‐based nursing on surgical site wound infection after caesarean: A meta‐analysis

Abstract

We conducted this study to investigate the effect of evidence-based care on surgical site wound infection after caesarean section. A computerised search of PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang databases for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on the use of evidence-based care in caesarean section delivery was applied from the database inception to November 2023. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data and performed quality assessment based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Stata 17.0 software was applied for data analysis. Twenty-one RCTs involving 3269 caesarean sections were finally included. The analysis revealed the implementation of evidence-based nursing interventions was effective in reducing the incidence of post-caesarean section wound infections (OR = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.21–0.39, p < 0.001) and complications (OR = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.23–0.38, p < 0.001) compared with conventional care. This study shows that the application of evidence-based nursing in postoperative caesarean section care can effectively reduce the incidence of postoperative wound infection and complications and improve the quality of life, which is worthy of clinical nursing application and promotion.

Effects of different dressings in the prevention of facial skin pressure injury related to non‐invasive ventilation: Systematic review and network meta‐analysis

Abstract

To investigate the preventive effect of different dressings on pressure injuries related to non-invasive ventilation equipment and to screen the efficacy of dressings. Systematic review and network meta-analysis. PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database (CNKI), Wanfang Database, Chinese Biomedical Database (CBM) and Weipu Database (VIP) were used for the search from the date of inception of each database to 15 October 2023. The quality of the data was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Stata 16.0 Software was used to analysis and ranking of different types of dressings. A total of 23 randomized controlled trials on 7 interventions were included in the final analysis. The effectiveness of these in preventing the overall incidence of pressure injuries is ranked from best to worst as follows: hydrogel dressing > foam dressing > petroleum jelly gauze dressing > hydrocolloid dressing > film dressing > clean gauze dressing > sterile gauze. Sixteen studies reported the incidence of Stage I pressure injuries, the effectiveness in preventing the incidence of Stage I pressure injuries was ranked from best to least effective: foam dressing > hydrogel dressing > petroleum jelly gauze dressing > hydrocolloid dressing > film dressing > clean gauze dressing > sterile gauze dressing. Fourteen studies reported the incidence of Stages I/II pressure injuries, the effective in preventing the incidence of Stages I and II pressure injuries was ranked from best to least effective: foam dressing > hydrogel dressing > petroleum jelly gauze dressing > hydrocolloid dressing > clean gauze dressing > sterile gauze dressing. Considering the advantages and disadvantages of different dressings, both hydrogel and foam dressings are effective in preventing pressure injuries related to non-invasive ventilation equipment.

Exploration of machine learning models for surgical incision healing assessment based on thermal imaging: A feasibility study

Abstract

In this study, we explored the use of thermal imaging technology combined with computer vision techniques for assessing surgical incision healing. We processed 1189 thermal images, annotated by experts to define incision boundaries and healing statuses. Using these images, we developed a machine learning model based on YOLOV8, which automates the recognition of incision areas, lesion segmentation and healing classification. The dataset was divided into training, testing and validation sets in a 7:2:1 ratio. Our results show high accuracy rates in incision location recognition, lesion segmentation and healing classification, indicating the model's effectiveness as a precise and automated diagnostic tool for surgical incision healing assessment. Conclusively, our thermal image-based machine learning model demonstrates excellent performance in wound assessment, paving the way for its clinical application in intelligent and standardized wound management.

A meta‐analysis of clinical studies of moxibustion for pressure ulcer healing

Abstract

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of moxibustion on pressure ulcers. A thorough search was performed for articles published from database inception up to 14 December 2023. Randomized controlled trials, which evaluated the effects of moxibustion were included. Finally, 11 relevant trails that enrolled a total of 795 participants met inclusion criteria. The results of meta-analysis suggested beneficial effects of moxibustion for pressure ulcer compared with control on the response rate (RR: 1.21; 95% CI: 1.13–1.29; p = 0.82; I 2 = 0%), healing time (MD: −5.69; 95% CI: −9.58 to −1.80; p<0.05; I 2 = 97%) and pressure ulcer scale for healing scores (MD: −1.13; 95% CI: −1.36 to −0.89; p = 0.79; I 2 = 0%). The evidence suggests that moxibustion possesses satisfactory efficacy in promoting healing of pressure ulcers. However, due to the small number of trials included in this study, as well as the small sample size and high risk of bias, we were unable to draw firm conclusions about the effectiveness of moxibustion for pressure ulcers.

Effects of exercise in treating patients with venous leg ulcers: An umbrella review

Abstract

Venous leg ulcers (VLUs) represent a substantial challenge within the healthcare landscape, thereby necessitating efficacious therapeutic strategies. Exercise has been investigated as a prospective intervention to bolster the management of VLUs. The objective of this comprehensive review is to systematically scrutinize and appraise the extant body of evidence pertaining to the impact of exercise on the treatment of patients diagnosed with VLUs. A comprehensive literature search was executed across multiple databases, encompassing PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, and Google Scholar. The methodological rigour was evaluated utilizing the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR-2) instrument, while the quality of the evidence was appraised via the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) classification system. The relative efficacy of exercise interventions on outcomes related to VLUs, including rates of wound healing, total range of motion in the ankle joint, and adherence rates, was synthesized. Data were consolidated employing fixed-effects models, and the impact of exercise on these outcomes was visually represented through the use of forest plots. The methodological foundation of this investigation comprised four systematic reviews and meta-analyses, each characterized by an intermediate level of methodological rigour and evidence quality. Subsequent analyses revealed that exercise interventions exert a multifaceted and favourable impact on the therapeutic landscape of VLUs. These interventions distinctly contribute to the enhancement of wound healing rates (risk difference 0.17, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.06–0.28) and the extension of ankle range of motion (mean difference [MD] 6.10, 95% CI: 4.61–7.59). Furthermore, Pooled adherence rate was 0.70 (95% CI: 0.20–2.45) with no significant heterogeneity. In conclusion, although existing evidence supports the positive impact of exercise training on VLUs, higher-quality research is still needed to deepen our understanding of its effects and provide more specific guidance for clinical practice.

Enhancing wound recovery in chemotherapy‐induced leukopenia for malignant tumours: A meta‐analysis of acupuncture treatment efficacy

Abstract

This meta-analysis study aimed to assess the effectiveness of acupuncture in enhancing wound recovery in patients experiencing leukopenia following chemotherapy for malignant tumours. A comprehensive search was conducted to collect randomized controlled trials and observational studies focusing on leukopenia post-chemotherapy in malignant tumour patients. Data analysis was performed using Revman 5.3 software. Eleven articles were included, encompassing 957 patients. The meta-analysis revealed that, compared with control groups, patients receiving acupuncture showed a significantly higher total effectiveness rate (p < 0.05). Subgroup analysis indicated superior outcomes in groups receiving acupuncture combined with moxibustion (p < 0.05) and acupuncture combined with Western medicine (p < 0.05), with the former outperforming the latter. Notably, acupuncture was found to improve white blood cell (WBC) counts on 3rd, 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th days post-treatment, with significant differences compared with control groups. These improvements were time dependent and more pronounced than in control groups. Acupuncture demonstrated significant, time-dependent capability to enhance wound recovery in leukopenia following chemotherapy for malignant tumours. The combination of acupuncture and moxibustion was found to be more effective than acupuncture combined with Western medicine. This study highlighted the potential of acupuncture as a complementary therapy in managing chemotherapy-induced leukopenia, contributing positively to the wound healing process in cancer patients.

Comparing the Waterlow and Jackson/Cubbin pressure injury risk scales in intensive care units: A multi‐centre study

Abstract

To compare the predictive properties of the Jackson/Cubbin scale and Waterlow scales in intensive care unit patients. A multi-centre study. This study was conducted between April 2021 and February 2023 in 72 intensive care units of 38 tertiary hospitals in Gansu Province, China. All adults admitted to the intensive care unit for 24 hours or more without pressure injury on admission were screened using the Waterlow scale and Jackson/Cubbin scales in intensive care. Additionally, the negative predictive value, positive predictive value, sensitivity, specificity and receiver operating characteristic curve with area under the curve of the Waterlow scale and Cubbin/Jackson scales were determined. The participant population for this study included 6203 patients. Predictive properties for the Jackson/Cubbin scales and Waterlow scales, respectively, were as follows: Cut-off scores, 28 versus 22; AUC, 0.859 versus 0.64; sensitivity, 92.4% versus 51.9%; specificity, 67.26% versus 71.46%; positive predictive value, 35% versus 23%; negative predictive value, 99.9% versus 99.1%. Both Waterlow scales and Jackson/Cubbin scales could predict pressure injury risk for patients in the intensive care unit. However, the Jackson/Cubbin scale demonstrated superior predictive properties than the Waterlow scale.

Assessing biomarkers for post‐surgical wound healing: A meta‐analysis of exosome‐based CircRNA in breast cancer recovery

Abstract

To evaluate the diagnostic potential of exosome-based circular RNAs (circRNAs) as biomarkers for wound healing in patients after breast cancer surgery, we conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis of studies that measured exosome-based circRNA levels in breast cancer patients post-surgery. Data sources included several biomedical databases up to April 2023. Two independent reviewers extracted the data and assessed study quality. Sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic odds ratios were synthesized using random-effects model with subgroup analyses performed based on study characteristics. Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing a total of 1234 patients. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of exosome-based circRNA for detecting wound healing complications were 0.85 (95% CI: 0.77–0.91) and 0.83 (95% CI: 0.78–0.88), respectively. The area under the summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve was 0.90, indicating high diagnostic accuracy. Subgroup analyses revealed that diagnostic performance was consistent across studies of different geographic regions and sample types but indicated potential variability related to patient age and study design. Exosome-based circRNA profiles exhibited the high diagnostic accuracy for monitoring wound healing in breast cancer post-operative care. These findings supported the potential utility of circRNA as non-invasive biomarkers for post-surgical recovery. However, variability among studies suggested the need for standardized protocols in biomarker measurement. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to validate the prognostic value of these biomarkers and investigate their role in personalized patient management.

Integrated strategies for the clinical correlation, prevention and management of chronic oral infections, wounds and arteriosclerotic occlusion in lower extremities

Abstract

This study explores the intricate relationship between chronic periodontitis (CP) and its implications for wound healing, particularly in the context of arteriosclerotic occlusion (ASO) in the lower extremities. A cohort of 90 individuals was categorized into three groups: those with CP, those with both CP and ASO (ASO + CP) and a healthy control group. Comprehensive assessments including oral examinations, blood tests and questionnaires were conducted. Key oral health indicators such as probing depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP) and periodontal inflammatory surface area (PISA) were evaluated to gauge the severity of periodontal wounds. The study found that the ASO + CP group showed a significantly higher number of missing teeth and increased PD compared to the CP group (p < 0.05). Both CP and ASO + CP groups exhibited elevated PD, BOP and PISA compared to the control group (p < 0.05), indicating exacerbated periodontal wounds. Serum analyses showed heightened total cholesterol (TC) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels in the ASO + CP group, suggesting a stronger inflammatory response and potential for atherogenesis. Interestingly, FPG and triglycerides (TG) levels did not significantly vary across groups (p > 0.05). Regression analysis identified PD (β = 2.271, p < 0.001) and PISA (β = 0.027, p = 0.001) as significant predictors for ASO presence in CP patients. The findings underscore the clinical correlation between chronic oral wounds in CP and the development of ASO in lower extremities, highlighting the critical need for integrated management strategies focusing on periodontal health to prevent and manage such complex conditions effectively. Elevated inflammatory markers in the ASO + CP group further reinforce the necessity for vigilant monitoring and targeted interventions in these patients.

Clinical effects of acupuncture for the treatment of pressure ulcers: A comprehensive systematic review and meta‐analysis

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of pressure ulcers. Randomized controlled trials evaluating the effects of acupuncture on pressure ulcers were identified through a comprehensive literature search on public database. The quality assessment of the included trials was performed based on the guidance of the Cochrane Reviewers' Handbook, and pooled analyses were performed by using the RevMan 5.4 software. The pooled results demonstrated that acupuncture in combination with standard wound care was significantly superior to standard wound care alone with regard to effective rate (RR 1.17, 95% CI [1.10, 1.24]), reduction in Wound Size (MD −2.78, 95% CI [−2.43, −1.44]), healing time (MD −6.24, 95% CI [−12.32, −0.17]) and the amount of 24-h exudate (MD −0.86, 95% CI [−1.54, −0.18]). In conclusion, this study suggests that acupuncture can be used as an adjunctive therapy to promote healing of pressure ulcers.

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