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Biomedical subjects

L Eisner

Publications and source records attributed to L Eisner.

16 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2005

Clinical effects of Abeta immunization (AN1792) in patients with AD in an interrupted trial.

BACKGROUND: AN1792 (beta-amyloid [Abeta]1-42) immunization reduces Abeta plaque burden and preserves cognitive function in APP transgenic mice. The authors report the results of a phase IIa immunotherapy trial of AN1792(QS-21) in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer disease (AD) that was interrupted because of meningoencephalitis in 6% of immunized patients. METHODS: This randomized, multicenter, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial of IM AN1792 225 microg plus the adjuvant QS-21 50 microg (300 patients) and saline (72 patients) included patients aged 50 to 85 years with probable AD, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) 15 to 26. Injections were planned for months 0, 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12. Safety and tolerability were evaluated, and pilot efficacy (AD Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale [ADAS-Cog], MRI, neuropsychological test battery [NTB], CSF tau, and Abeta42) was assessed in anti-AN1792 antibody responder patients (immunoglobulin G titer > or = 1:2,200). RESULTS: Following reports of meningoencephalitis (overall 18/300 [6%]), immunization was stopped after one (2 patients), two (274 patients), or three (24 patients) injections. Of the 300 AN1792(QS-21)-treated patients, 59 (19.7%) developed the predetermined antibody response. Double-blind assessments were maintained for 12 months. No significant differences were found between antibody responder and placebo groups for ADAS-Cog, Disability Assessment for Dementia, Clinical Dementia Rating, MMSE, or Clinical Global Impression of Change, but analyses of the z-score composite across the NTB revealed differences favoring antibody responders (0.03 +/- 0.37 vs -0.20 +/- 0.45; p = 0.020). In the small subset of subjects who had CSF examinations, CSF tau was decreased in antibody responders (n = 11) vs placebo subjects (n = 10; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Although interrupted, this trial provides an indication that Abeta immunotherapy may be useful in Alzheimer disease.

Aged↗
PubMed2003

Subacute meningoencephalitis in a subset of patients with AD after Abeta42 immunization.

BACKGROUND: AD is characterized by cerebral deposition of beta-amyloid plaques with amyloid beta-peptide (Abeta) 42 as the major peptide constituent, along with neurofibrillary tangles and neuronal loss. In transgenic mice, active immunization against Abeta42 removes these plaques and improves cognitive function. A Phase I study in AD patients demonstrated good safety and tolerability of multiple injections of aggregated Abeta42 (AN1792) with QS-21 as adjuvant. METHODS: Three hundred seventy-two patients with mild to moderate AD were randomized to receive IM injections of AN1792 or placebo (4:1) at baseline and at months 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 in a multicenter Phase II safety, tolerability, and pilot efficacy study. Dosing was terminated after four early reports of meningoencephalitis, but follow-up continued. The study remains blinded, and further results will be reported after its termination. RESULTS: Symptoms and laboratory findings consistent with meningoencephalitis occurred in 18 of 298 (6%) patients treated with AN1792 compared with 0 of 74 on placebo (p = 0.020). Sixteen of the 18 had received two doses, one had received one dose, and one had received three doses of the study drug before symptoms occurred. The median latency from the first and last injections to symptoms was 75 and 40 days. No case occurred later than 6 months after the first immunization. Anti-Abeta42 antibody titers were not correlated with the occurrence or severity of symptoms or relapses. Twelve patients recovered to or close to baseline within weeks, whereas six remain with disabling cognitive or neurologic sequelae. All 18 patients remain alive to date (December 31, 2002), 6 months to >1 year after symptom onset. CONCLUSIONS: Postvaccination meningoencephalitis occurred without clear relation to serum anti-Abeta42 antibody titers. Potential mechanisms such as T-cell and microglial activation may be responsible and are under consideration to develop a safer anti-Abeta immunotherapy for AD.

Adrenal Cortex Hormones↗
PubMed2003

[Kirschner wire transfixation of syndesmosis rupture--an alternative treatment of type B and C malleolar fractures].

After completing ORIF of the lateral malleolus, the standard technique for fixation of the syndesmosis involves placement of a 3.5 mm locking screw across the fibula to the tibia. Alternative there is a possibility to make the transfixation with two 1.6 mm Kirschner wires introduced obliquely across the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis. No early removing of the implant is necessary. This retrospective study was conducted on a total of 50 cases of Weber type B or C malleolar fractures with syndesmotic rupture between 1988 and 1996. In 45 patients (90%) there is no complication seen for the transfixation, but in five patients a Kirschner wire dislocation was observed. We were able to review 36 of these patients after a median follow-up of 8.3 years (range 5-12 years). The results were evaluated using objective, subjective and roentgenographic criteria. Subjective rating had 29 patients (81%) with very good or good results. Good radiological results were found in 29 patients (81%). Concluding of this results the Kirschner wires transfixation is a technical simple method with good or very good results.

Adult↗
PubMed2002

[Quality management according to the new SN EN ISO-Norm 9001:2000--experiences from initial certification of a hospital department].

Those who want to implement a quality-management system at a hospital these days cannot fall back on a broad-based system proven over the years. Though quality management as defined by ISO norm 9001 has been established as the central standard in many industrial areas, applicability of this ISO norm in the hospital sector has stirred up much controversy during recent years. Introduction of the new ISO norm 9001:2000 has changed the situation. The 2000 version of the new standard seeks to meet the demand for service operations--especially by establishing a clear procedural orientation. This report describes the new standard and its introduction in the Department of Surgery at the Cantonal Hospital in Olten, Canton Solothurn, Switzerland. It indicates the steps taken, for instance in the spheres of top management, quality management, procedural guidance, as well as customer and staff counselling. It also discusses the project's cost/benefit ratio for the organization.

Hospitals, Public↗
PubMed2002

[Acute ischemia of the hand in a drug addict after accidental intra-arterial injection].

We report a case of a 31-year-old male drug addict with acute ischaemia of the right hand after inadverted intraarterial injection of suspended tablets into brachial artery. He was successfully treated with intraarterial administration of urokinase (250'000 IU as bolus, then continuous infusion of 250'000 IU per 12 hours), papaverin (40 mg i.v. 3 x every 4 hours), systematic heparinisation and with axillary plexus anesthesia (Bupivacain 0.25%, 10 ml/h). Treatment options are discussed reviewing recent publications. Early onset of treatment is mandatory for a good outcome.

Adult↗
PubMed2000

Evaluation of magnetic resonance cholangiography in the management of bile duct stones.

HYPOTHESIS: Magnetic resonance cholangiography (MRC) offers the potential for accurate, noninvasive detection of common bile duct stones (CBDSs) before cholecystectomy, and for a consequent reduction in the incidence of preoperative negative diagnoses associated with endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC). DESIGN: Prospective cohort study: MRC results were correlated with ERC (high-risk patients) or intraoperative cholangiography (moderate-risk patients). SETTING: A university hospital providing primary, secondary, and tertiary care. PATIENTS: Seventy patients with suspected CBDSs scheduled to undergo elective cholecystectomy between April 15, 1997, and September 30, 1998. Forty patients were considered at high risk and 30 at moderate risk for CBDSs, according to results of liver function tests and sonograms of the upper abdomen. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Confirmation or exclusion of CBDSs by MRC was assessed by a panel of radiologists who were unaware of the ERC results. Results of ERC and intraoperative cholangiography were analyzed by the investigating gastroenterologists or surgeon. RESULTS: Results of MRC were positive for CBDSs in 21 (52%) of 40 high-risk patients, a finding confirmed by preoperative ERC in 19 (90%) of 21 patients. Results of MRC were positive for CBDSs in 6 (20%) of 30 moderate-risk patients, all of which were confirmed by intraoperative cholangiography. Finally, CBDSs were present in 19 (48%) of 40 high-risk patients and 6 (20%) of 30 moderate-risk patients (P = .02). Overall sensitivity and specificity of MRC were 100% and 95.6%, respectively; the positive and negative predictive values were 92.6% and 100%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Magnetic resonance cholangiography is a reliable, noninvasive method for the detection or exclusion of CBDSs, and seems to reduce the frequency of negative diagnoses associated with ERC. Magnetic resonance cholangiography revealed no CBDSs in 19 (48%) of 40 patients at high risk for CBDSs. Thus, MRC-based diagnosis has the potential to reduce the number of invasive preoperative diagnostic procedures and their associated risks and overall health care costs.

Algorithms↗
PubMed1999

[Telematic and surgery: methods, terminology and instructions].

BACKGROUND: Telematic is the application of computer technology in modern telecommunication. Telemedicine will be of growing importance in the international collaboration in surgery. OBJECTIVE: Review of the different telematic applications for surgery and presentation of technology and tools. Practical user's guide. METHOD: Analysis of our international network of telesurgical staff meetings between 6 University Hospitals. Review of the situation of telemedicine in Switzerland and around the world. RESULTS: After performing some comparative tests we chose to work with 6 ISDN channels at the world wide standard H.320 (rate of 384 Kb/s) which is widely available in Switzerland and around the world. Technical options, market opportunities and relationship between needs and goals of telemedicine are presented on a user point of view. DISCUSSION: More than 70 telesurgical staff meetings allowed us to get an overview of this technology, in order to benefit of telemedicine applications for teaching and clinical use. Important factors are the analysis of needs and goals prior to the teleconference. CONCLUSION: Consultation, second opinion, teaching and training should be new clinical applications of telemedicine, leading to an increase of surgical quality control in Europe and in the world.

Computer Communication Networks↗
PubMed1997

[Incisional hernias].

Incisional hernias are a common complication following abdominal surgery. Surgical treatment as a whole has the disadvantage of having a high recurrence rate. Far better results are obtained by tension-free closure, if necessary backed up by a synthetic prosthesis (PTFE, polypropylene). However, even then, a recurrence rate of about 10% can be expected.

Abdominal Muscles↗
PubMed1996

[Osteosynthesis of the hand--indications, technique, results].

UNLABELLED: Between January 1st 1992 and December 31st 1993 140 non-complex (i.e. nerve, vascular, tendon injuries) fractures of the peripheral hand skeleton were operated at the Policlinic of the Kantonsspital Basel. In a retrospective study we analyzed results, complications and absence from work. We treated 110 male and 30 female patients with a mean age of 47 years. 45 fractures were treated by plate fixation, 45 by screw fixation, 53 times we applied k-wires and once a mini-fix-ex (AO-Prototype). Plate and screw fixation were performed with AO-mini-implants. 90% of our patients had an uneventful postoperative course. In spite of functional after-treatment we noted in 8.6% of the patients a relevant loss of movement leading to operative tenolysis in 7 patients. Fractures at the level of PIP were most frequently associated with loss of movement. Absence from work was 59 days in average (1-206)! CONCLUSIONS: Peripheral osteosynthesis of the hand (non-complex) are effectively treated on an out-patient basis. In spite of functional after-treatment about 10% of patients have a relevant postoperative reduction in motility. Absence from work is relatively long after operative treatment of peripheral hand fractures.

Adult↗
PubMed1996

[Emergency carotid endarterectomy in acute infarction--case report and literature review].

Elective operation of carotid stenosis over 70% is uncontested since publication of the interim results of NASCET and ECST [1,2] trials. Even though emergency carotid endarterectomy for rapidly progressing cerebral infarction (stroke in evolution) remains very controversial outcome depends on how fast cerebral perfusion is reestablished, complete recovery is possible if carotid thrombendarterectomy is successfully performed in between the first 6-8 hours. We report the case of a female patient developing a cerebral infarction on the first postoperative day after femoropopliteal bypass grafting. Diagnosis of an acute carotid occlusion was established by cerebral duplex sonography, intracerebral hemorrhage was excluded by emergency computed tomography. Emergency thrombendarterectomy successfully reverted all cerebral symptoms. Postoperative course was uneventful, the patient was dismissed on the 12th postoperative day without any neurological residual deficit.

Arterial Occlusive Diseases↗
PubMed1992

[Abdominal aortic aneurysm. Risks and early postoperative course].

A review of the literature shows a very variable mortality, especially after emergency operations for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) (14-70%). We therefore analyzed the mortality of our patients in different subgroups. The hospital data of 82 patients operated on for abdominal aortic aneurysm were analyzed retrospectively. 42 patients underwent emergency operations and 40 patients elective surgery. The mean age was 67.5 +/- 9.4 and 70.7 +/- 7.3 years respectively. The overall 30-day mortality in elective cases was 5% (2/40); elective patients under the age of 75 years had a mortality of 0%. 33% of the emergency cases died within 30 days. The mortality in various subgroups was as follows: "asymptomatic AAA" 5.4% (2/37), "symptomatic AAA" 10% (1/10), "retroperitoneal rupture" 34% (11/32) and "intraperitoneal rupture" 66.6% (2/3). Preoperatively 21/42 patients who underwent emergency surgery were in hypovolemic shock (systolic blood pressure < or = 90 mm Hg). The mortality of these patients was 52% (11/21) compared to 9.5% (2/21), (p < 0.01), in emergency patients without preoperative shock. The causes of death after emergency procedures were hypovolemic shock in 6, heart failure in 4, and multi-organ failure, respiratory insufficiency, unknown and pulmonary embolism in 1 each. 5/14 patients died in theatre. Two patients died after elective procedures: one 9 days postoperatively from myocardial infarction and the second 23 days after the operation from an unknown cause. Reoperation rate after elective and emergency procedures was 7.5% and 16.6% respectively. Mortality after reoperation was 40%.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Aged↗
PubMed1989

Oxiracetam in the treatment of multi-infarct dementia.

1. Initial clinical trials in approximately 200 patients with dementias of diverse etiology suggested that oxiracetam, a structural analogue of the nootropic piracetam, was of some benefit in the treatment of cognitive dysfunction. 2. Because previous studies had not specifically examined the effects of oxiracetam upon dementias of vascular origin, the present study evaluated the therapeutic efficacy and safety of oxiracetam in the treatment of symptoms of multi-infarct dementia (MID) of mild to moderate severity. 3. Incremental doses of up to 1200 mg oxiracetam daily were tested in a dose-range finding design in a group of patients with clinically and neuropsychologically confirmed MID. 4. Based on improvement in global evaluations of clinical change, our analysis suggests that the drug may be of some benefit in MID.

Aged↗
PubMed1989

[Therapy and prognosis in 102 liver injuries].

Case histories of 102 patients with liver trauma were analyzed. 88% sustained blunt and 12% penetrating liver injury. 71% of all patients had a polytrauma. The liver injuries were classified in 4 types. With 25 patients primary resuscitation was unsuccessful, in 12 of these cases even though immediate laparotomy and aortic clamping was performed in the emergency room. In 62 of the remaining 77 patients haemostasis was accomplished with minor surgical procedures (lethality 16%), in 13 cases major surgery had to be performed (lethality 62%). Packing was used in one patient only. Prognosis of liver trauma depends mainly on associated injuries and on severity of liver trauma.

Adolescent↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Scanning electron microscopic examination of nonbeating cilia.

When cilia stop beating, their role in moving mucus ceases, but it is uncertain if nonmotile cilia preserve their external architecture and are thus capable of maintaining an additional role of retarding microbial access to the cell. Cilia of chicken embryo tracheal organ cultures were observed until their activity stopped. When examined with scanning electron microscopy, ciliary axonemes did not appear to differ significantly from normally functioning cilia when observed at lower magnifications. Since their density can remain essentially unchanged, nonbeating cilia may still have a role in protecting respiratory membrane from toxic microorganisms.

Animals↗