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Patient-reported outcomes in pediatric regional anesthesia trials: current use and limitations.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review examines the current use and limitations of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in pediatric regional anesthesia research. Despite the increasing emphasis on patient-centered outcomes, existing pediatric outcome assessment frameworks may inadequately capture the pain experience and interference with daily living. RECENT FINDINGS: Across 17 identified randomized controlled trials and 15 ongoing studies, PROM use remains highly variable, with consistent reliance on observational pain scales such as the Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, and Consolability scale and limited incorporation of standardized, longitudinal health-related quality-of-life measures. SUMMARY: Current pediatric PROM frameworks remain fragmented, limiting comprehensive evaluation of recovery. Greater standardization and incorporation of developmentally appropriate, longitudinal outcome measures are needed to better align clinical research with meaningful patient-centered endpoints and to improve assessment of functional and psychosocial recovery.

Humans

Patient-reported outcome measures for depression or anxiety symptoms in patients with cardiovascular disease: A COSMIN systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Depression and anxiety are common in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD), but the measurement quality of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) used in this population remains unclear. This review aimed to evaluate the methodological quality, measurement properties, and certainty of evidence for depression and anxiety PROMs in adults with CVD and to inform instrument selection. METHODS: Following COSMIN and PRISMA guidance, four databases were searched from inception to February 2026. Studies assessing measurement properties of PROMs in adults with CVD were included. Methodological quality was evaluated using the COSMIN Risk of Bias checklist, and certainty of evidence was graded using an adapted GRADE approach. RESULTS: Sixty-six studies assessing 38 PROMs were included, comprising 29 generic and 9 CVD-specific instruments. Six PROMs met COSMIN Category A criteria: Cardiac Depression Scale-Short Form, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Beck Depression Inventory-II, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, and Major Depression Inventory. Four instruments were classified as Category C because of insufficient structural validity. Content-validity evidence was largely indeterminate or of limited certainty. Only 24 studies used confirmatory factor analysis or Rasch analysis, and no study assessed measurement error or responsiveness. Cross-cultural validity evidence was scarce. CONCLUSIONS: Six PROMs met Category A criteria, but selection should remain purpose- and context-specific. Particular attention should be given to somatic symptom overlap and intended clinical use. Further validation should prioritize content validity, measurement invariance, responsiveness, measurement error, and clinimetric performance.

Humans

Long-term outcomes of surgical correction of ventral penile curvature in children: Patient-reported measures, surgical results, and decisional regret.

INTRODUCTION: There is a dearth of data on long-term outcomes, including patient-reported outcomes (PROMs), decisional regret, and complication rates for surgical correction of isolated ventral penile curvature in childhood. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Twenty-six children treated for ventral curvature between 1993 and 2008 were identified; 24 met inclusion criteria (isolated ventral curvature without hypospadias or need for urethral reconstruction). Surgical correction consisted of degloving alone or degloving with Nesbit-like dorsal plication when residual curvature >20° persisted after degloving. PROMs were collected via pre-mailed validated questionnaires after puberty: Danish Prostatic Symptom Score (DAN-PSS) for LUTS, Erection Hardness Score (EHS) for erectile function, Penile Perception Score (PPS) for cosmetic perception, and items assessing decisional regret and perceived appropriateness of surgical timing. RESULTS: Curvature was corrected intraoperatively in all 24 patients. Twelve underwent degloving alone and 12 required additional dorsal plication. During long-term follow-up (median 14.2 years), one patient (4%) underwent re-operation for residual curvature, and three (13%) underwent cosmetic revisions; two (8%) underwent cystoscopy for flow concerns. 71% returned PROMs at a median age of 16.2 years. LUTS were uncommon, with low bother scores. Erectile function was favorable: 87% (13/15) reported EHS 4 and 93% (14/15) reported ejaculation. Cosmetic outcomes were favorable, with PPS dissatisfaction rates comparable to controls. Two patients reported dissatisfaction with overall appearance, and one with residual subjective curvature. No patient expressed decisional regret, and 88% felt timing of surgery was appropriate. CONCLUSION: Early surgical correction of isolated ventral penile curvature using degloving with or without dorsal plication provided durable anatomical correction and favorable long-term functional and cosmetic outcomes. These findings support early intervention as an effective approach with sustained patient-perceived benefits.

Humans

Patient-reported outcomes with tarlatamab in extensive-stage small cell lung cancer after platinum-based chemotherapy: results from the phase 3 DeLLphi-304 trial.

BACKGROUND: Extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC) is associated with a high symptom burden and impaired health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This prespecified analysis from the phase 3 DeLLphi-304 trial evaluated patient-reported outcomes (PROs) for tarlatamab versus standard-of-care (SoC) chemotherapy following first-line platinum-based therapy. METHODS: DeLLphi-304 is a multicenter, open-label, randomized phase 3 study in adults with ES-SCLC. PROs were assessed using validated instruments, including the EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC QLQ-LC13, FACT-G GP5, BPI-SF, and the EQ-5D-5L visual analogue scale. Change from baseline, response rates, and time to deterioration in these PROs were analyzed. RESULTS: PRO data from all 509 patients enrolled were evaluated. Compliance with QLQ-C30 and QLQ-LC13 assessments remained above 69% through 19 weeks. A higher proportion of patients receiving tarlatamab achieved symptom or functional improvement at 19 weeks compared with SoC in chest pain (19% vs 10%), cough (35% vs 26%), dyspnea (22% vs 7%), physical functioning (13% vs 8%), and global health status (23% vs 15%), respectively. Tarlatamab also delayed deterioration in symptoms, physical functioning, and pain at worst relative to SoC. FACT-G GP5 results indicated that patients receiving tarlatamab were less bothered by treatment side effects over time. CONCLUSIONS: In addition to its previously reported antitumor activity, tarlatamab demonstrated clinically meaningful improvements in symptoms and HRQoL compared with SoC. These findings support a favorable benefit-risk profile of tarlatamab in patients previously treated for ES-SCLC.

Humans

The impact of absolute change in tibiofemoral morphology on patient reported outcome measures post total knee arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Reconstructing knee morphology and alignment is important for outcomes post total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Personalised alignment strategies are proposed to improve outcomes by replicating native alignment. However, how change in morphology affects patient outcomes is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between absolute change in morphological measures post-TKA and patient reported outcome measures (PROMs). METHOD: An observational analysis of a randomised clinical trial was conducted. Participants received preoperative and postoperative CT scans and completed PROMs at six-months post-TKA. Absolute change in hip-knee-ankle angle, medial proximal tibial angle, lateral distal femoral angle, non-weightbearing joint line convergence angle, tibial and femoral rotation, and posterior tibial slope (PTS) were calculated. PROMs included visual analogue scales of pain and satisfaction (0-100), Oxford Knee Score, Forgotten Joint Score, and the Kujala Score. Regression and principal component (PCA) analyses investigated relationships between PROMs and change in morphology. RESULTS: Sixty-one participants were included for analysis (61% women, age 66.9 ± 9.1 [mean ± SD] years, BMI 32.8 ± 6.8 kg/m2). The PCA demonstrated coronal, axial, and sagittal plane measures were interdependent, with over 65% of variability driven by change in tibial rotation (PC1) and the PTS (PC2). The regression analysis showed no relationships between morphological change and PROMs postoperatively. CONCLUSION: Tibiofemoral morphology was interrelated across coronal, axial, and sagittal planes. However, this study suggests absolute morphological change had minimal impact upon PROMs at six-months post-TKA. Future research should clearly distinguish between osteoarthritic versus prearthritic alignment and consider the influence of soft-tissue releases upon PROMs.

Humans

Early and late CTCAE and patient-reported outcomes following lung cancer radiotherapy: A sex-stratified descriptive analysis from the REQUITE cohort.

BACKGROUND: Long-term prospective data on lung cancer patients treated with radiotherapy are limited, restricting understanding of outcomes and sex-specific characteristics. The multicentre REQUITE study provides standardized follow-up data from an international cohort. METHODS: We analysed longitudinal data from 530 lung cancer patients treated with radical radiotherapy (sequential or concurrent chemoradiotherapy, or stereotactic body radiation therapy [SBRT]) between 2014 and 2017 at 16 centres in Europe and the USA. Healthcare professionals prospectively recorded 21 pulmonary, oesophageal, neurological, cardiac, and skin adverse events using CTCAE v4.0. Patient-reported outcomes assessed symptoms, quality-of-life, fatigue, and physical activity. Adverse event incidence was stratified by sex, radiotherapy technique, chemotherapy administration, smoking status, and other clinical factors. RESULTS: At 12 months, 309 patients were evaluable, with 151 having follow-up beyond one year. Pulmonary adverse events were most frequent (40% grade ≥ 2), mainly dyspnoea and cough. Women had higher rates of oesophagitis, and more frequently reported dysphagia, and chest wall pain, while men experienced a higher frequency of cardiac adverse events. Exploratory subgroup analyses identified significant sex-related differences in grade ≥ 3 pulmonary adverse events following SBRT and in overall grade ≥ 2 oesophageal adverse events among patients with clinical stage I-II and those aged >70 years. Patient-reported outcomes showed persistent fatigue and reduced physical activity, particularly in females. Symptom prevalence and severity varied by sex, age, treatment modality, smoking status, and clinical stage. CONCLUSION: The REQUITE-Lung cohort provides prospectively collected real-world data on radiotherapy-related adverse events in lung cancer patients. This study describes patterns of adverse events and patient-reported outcomes according to sex, age, and treatment characteristics. These findings are hypothesis-generating and may support future validation in independent and pooled datasets.

Patient-reported outcomes

Clinical performance of monolithic and veneered zirconia three-unit posterior FDPs: A five-year multicenter randomized controlled trial.

AIM: This randomized controlled clinical study compared monolithic, partially veneered, and fully veneered zirconia FDPs over a 5-year period with respect to survival, technical and biological complications, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-four patients requiring three-unit posterior FDPs were randomly allocated to monolithic (MONO-FDP), partially veneered (PV-FDP), or fully veneered (FV-FDP) groups. All FDPs were fabricated from 4 mol% Y₂O₃ partially stabilized zirconia (4Y-TZP). Follow-up examinations were conducted at baseline, 1, 3, and 5 years. Technical parameters were evaluated using modified USPHS criteria. Periodontal measurements (PPD, BOP, PI) and patient satisfaction were assessed at all time points. RESULTS: A total of 63 FDPs were evaluated at baseline, 57 at 3 years, and 54 at 5 years. Survival at 5 years was 94.7% for MONO-FDPs, 100% for FV-FDPs and 100% for PV-FDPs. Technical complications occurred exclusively in PV-FDP (33%) and FV-FDP (38%) groups and consisted of minor, polishable chipping; no chipping or fractures were recorded in MONO-FDPs (0%) with statistically significant difference between MONO-FDP and the other two groups (p ≤ 0.014). Biological parameters remained stable across all groups, with no significant differences in PPD, BOP, or PI. PV-FDPs and FV-FDPs tended to receive more favorable professional color ratings, whereas PROMs were similar among the groups. CONCLUSIONS: All three FDP designs-monolithic, partially veneered, and fully veneered-fabricated from 4Y-TZP zirconia demonstrated excellent 5-year clinical performance. Technical complications were limited to PV- and FV-FDPs and consisted of minor chipping. Biological outcomes and patient satisfaction were similar across groups. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The five-year outcomes suggest that veneered, partially veneered, and monolithic FDPs can be used with high clinical reliability; however, restorations incorporating veneering ceramic may present an elevated risk of ceramic chipping.

Humans

Evaluation of intravenous sedation in dental implant surgeries: A prospective cohort study.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of intravenous sedation on patient-centered outcomes during implant and bone augmentation surgeries. METHOD: A prospective observational cohort study included 40 patients undergoing placement of &#x2265;3 implants, with or without bone augmentation. Patients underwent surgery under either intravenous sedation (n = 20) or local anesthesia alone (n = 20), according to routine clinical decision-making and patient preference. The sedation group received intravenous sedation with a multimodal regimen comprising remimazolam, dexmedetomidine, alfentanil, and low-dose esketamine, whereas the control group received local anesthesia only. Patient-reported outcome measures, hemodynamic parameters (SBP, DBP, HR, SpO2), postoperative pain (0-10 scale), and OHRQoL (OHIP-14) were recorded from baseline through 7 days post-surgery. RESULTS: Intravenous sedation was associated with significantly lower intraoperative pain (0.5 [IQR: 0&#x223c;2.75] vs. 3.25 &#xb1; 2.40, p = 0.003), anxiety (1 [IQR: 0&#x223c;2.75] vs. 4 [IQR: 3&#x223c;6], p = 0.001), and experienced discomfort (2 [IQR: 1&#x223c;3.75] vs. 4.15 &#xb1; 2.16, p = 0.016), and shortened perceived treatment duration (2.90 &#xb1; 2.34 vs. 5 [IQR: 4&#x223c;5], p = 0.020). Early postoperative pain was lower in the sedation group from Days 1-4 (p = 0.003-0.010). Hemodynamic parameters were more stable under sedation, with lower SBP (116.42 &#xb1; 13.32 vs. 144.11 &#xb1; 17.42 mmHg, p < 0.001), DBP (73.21 &#xb1; 10.28 vs. 82.37 &#xb1; 11.03 mmHg, p = 0.012), and HR (71.00 [IQR: 62.50&#x223c;79.25] vs. 85.00 &#xb1; 10.72 bpm, p = 0.021). OHRQoL scores favored the sedation group in swallowing, diet, malaise, and daily activities, particularly during the first three postoperative days (p=0.006-0.040). CONCLUSION: Intravenous sedation may enhance the patient experience during implant and/or bone augmentation procedures by reducing intraoperative pain and anxiety, improving hemodynamic stability, and promoting better early-postoperative recovery and OHRQoL. These findings suggest that intravenous sedation provides a safe and effective alternative for implant dentistry surgery, particularly for anxious or pain-sensitive individuals.

Humans

Quality of life and gender identity in females with congenital adrenal hyperplasia after genital restoration surgery: A single-center experience.

BACKGROUND: Legislation restricting surgical interventions in children with differences of sex development (DSD) has intensified debate about female genital restoration surgery (FGRS) in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Long-term patient-reported outcomes are needed regarding the optimal timing of surgery. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to assess health-related quality of life (HRQoL), gender identity, and family satisfaction regarding surgical timing and outcome in females with CAH following genital restoration surgery. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey of CAH patients who underwent surgery between January 2007 to December 2016 at our institution. Validated instruments (KINDL questionnaire for HRQoL, Utrecht Gender Dysphoria Scale, UGDS) and structured telephone interviews were employed. RESULTS: Data on HRQoL was available for 25 patients (self- and/or parent-reported) out of 56 eligible patients (45% response rate). Median age at first surgery was 6 months (range: 3-137 months). Patients' age at time of participation ranged from 2 to 28 years. All had 21-hydroxylase deficiency (92% salt-wasting form) with Prader grades ranging from II-V. Wound dehiscence requiring secondary suturing occurred in 15% of patients with primary surgery at our center, while only one (4%) patient developed vaginal stenosis after early primary vaginoplasty. Two additional patients (8%) with prior outside surgery required vaginal revision after FGRS at age 12. HRQoL scores were comparable to healthy reference populations across most age groups. Children aged 3-6 and adolescents and young adults showed no significant difference from reference values, while children aged 7-13 showed a slight elevation. None of five patients &#x2265;14 years demonstrated gender dysphoria (all UGDS scores <40, threshold &#x2265;40). 14 patients and families were also interviewed by telephone. All preferred early surgical timing. No family expressed regret about the decision or preferred delayed surgery. DISCUSSION: This study provides validated intermediate-term patient- and parent-reported outcomes after FGRS in CAH. Key limitations include the small sample size, single-center design, and young age of most patients. Selection bias may exist, though participating families included those who underwent revision surgery. The absence of a non-operated comparison group reflects current clinical reality, as nearly all CAH patients with urogenital sinus underwent surgical correction. CONCLUSIONS: Females with CAH reported normal HRQoL and a comfortable female gender identity after early FGRS. The patients and their families expressed a preference for early surgery. However, there is need for longer-term follow-up to assess sexual function and reproductive outcomes as well comparison of outcomes with a non-operated group.

Humans

Clinical outcomes of Epstein-Barr virus infection/reactivation following CAR-T cell therapy: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection or reactivation is an emerging but underrecognized complication following chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy and is likely associated with treatment-induced immune dysregulation. Data regarding its clinical impact remain limited. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the reported occurrence, clinical manifestations, and outcomes of EBV infection or reactivation in adults undergoing CAR-T therapy. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched from inception to March 2025 for studies reporting EBV infection or reactivation after CAR-T therapy in adults. Due to limited and heterogeneous data, results were synthesized descriptively. RESULTS: Five studies comprising 80 patients were included (median age, 55&#xa0;years; 52.6% male among patients with reported sex data [10/19]). Across the included studies, 11 EBV infection/reactivation events were identified among 80 described CAR-T recipients, representing 13.8% of the reported sample rather than a true incidence estimate. Among events with usable individualized timing data, the median interval from CAR-T infusion to EBV detection/reactivation was 9.8&#xa0;months (approximate range, 1-44&#xa0;months). Because EBV surveillance strategies and definitions were inconsistently reported across studies, this proportion should not be interpreted as a true incidence estimate. Four patients (36.4%) developed EBV-associated disease, including three cases of EBV-related lymphoproliferative disorder and one case of EBV-associated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Among seven patients with reported post-CAR-T treatment response, four achieved Complete Remission/ Continuous Complete Remission; treatment response should be interpreted separately from final survival status. Confirmed EBV-related mortality occurred in 2/11 patients with reported EBV infection/reactivation and in 2/4 patients with EBV-associated disease; all-cause mortality could not be reliably estimated because patient-level vital status could not be fully attributed to the EBV-reactivated subgroup. Reported toxicities predominantly consisted of low-grade cytokine-release syndrome; however, toxicity data were limited. CONCLUSION: Although infrequently reported, EBV infection or reactivation after CAR-T therapy may be associated with substantial morbidity and mortality among affected patients. However, the available evidence is limited by the small sample size, heterogeneous study designs, and inconsistent EBV surveillance practices.

Humans

Relationship between participant-reported outcomes, residual beta cell function and metabolic parameters in youth with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes.

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: Clinical trials of interventions to preserve beta cell function in new-onset type 1 diabetes frequently employ participant-reported outcome measures (PROMs). However, the expected changes in PROMs scores immediately following diagnosis and their association with residual beta cell function, metabolic markers and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) are unclear. METHODS: Repeated PROMs including Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory diabetes module (PedsQL) and hypoglycaemia fear survey (HFS) were recorded from participants aged 10-18 years with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes and their parents in two clinical trials: CLOuD (N=97, hybrid closed loop [HCL] vs multiple daily injections [MDI]) and USTEKID (N=72, ustekinumab immunotherapy vs placebo). Scores were compared with serial mixed meal-stimulated C-peptide levels (AUC C-peptide), HbA1c and CGM data. RESULTS: PedsQL and HFS scores for children/adolescents and their parents showed wide variation between individuals but did not change substantially within individuals over the first 48 months from diagnosis. Baseline scores were highly predictive of scores at 12-48 months (p<0.001). PedsQL scores were higher (better) in those reported by children/adolescents than by their parents (p<0.01). In contrast, HFS scores were higher in parents than children (p<0.001), indicating more fear. Strong correlations were observed between child and parent scores (p<0.001). No significant improvement in these scores was detected following intervention (ustekinumab or HCL). Meta-analysis revealed modest but statistically significant associations between HbA1c and PedsQL (&#x3b2;(std)=-0.11; 95% CI -0.20, -0.03) and HFS (&#x3b2;(std)=0.11; 95% CI 0.00, 0.21), and between CGM time in range and PedsQL (&#x3b2;(std)=0.14; 95% CI 0.03, 0.26) but not HFS (&#x3b2;(std)=-0.05; 95% CI -0.16, 0.06). Beta cell function (AUC C-peptide) was strongly associated with HbA1c (&#x3b2;(std)=-0.29; 95% CI -0.39, -0.20) and CGM time in range (&#x3b2;(std)=0.41; 95% CI 0.30, 0.52). Higher beta cell function showed a trend towards better PedsQL (&#x3b2;(std)=0.11; 95% CI -0.03, 0.25) and lower HFS (&#x3b2;(std)=-0.05; 95% CI -0.17, 0.07) but this did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: PedsQL and HFS scores changed little during the first 48 months after diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. These scores showed modest but statistically significant associations with measures of glucose management (HbA1c and CGM time in range), whereas the relationships with residual beta cell function (C-peptide) were weaker and did not reach significance. The modest size of these effects suggests current PROMs capture only limited aspects of the clinical benefit associated with beta cell preservation. Future research should incorporate psychometric instruments that are specifically adapted for young people using modern diabetes technologies and undergoing disease-modifying therapy, to ensure outcomes are meaningfully represented in early-stage type 1 diabetes trials.

Adolescent

Cochlear Implantation in Sickle Cell Disease: A Systematic Review of Feasibility and Outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is associated with systemic complications, including sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) from microvascular occlusion and chronic inflammation. Although reports link SCD to higher rates of SNHL, current evidence is limited by small sample size, varied audiologic methods, and lack of standardized screening. This systematic review summarizes available literature on SNHL and cochlear implantation (CI) in SCD. METHODS: A literature search of PubMed MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL identified 79 citations. After removal of duplicates, 35 records were screened in Rayyan. Studies published between January 1, 2000, and June 30, 2025, were eligible if they reported patients with SCD who developed hearing loss and underwent CI. Nine full texts were reviewed, and 4 met the inclusion criteria. Screening and review were performed independently by 2 authors per PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS: Across 4 case reports, a total of 5 patients with SCD underwent CI, ranging in age from 2 to 42 years. Four presented with bilateral severe-to-profound SNHL and one with unilateral loss. Implantation was technically feasible in all cases, including patients with cochlear fibrosis or ossification requiring modified insertion techniques. Postoperative outcomes were favorable: all patients demonstrated reliable device function and low impedances. Only 60% showed meaningful auditory benefit, characterized by improved functional speech perception in 2 patients (40%) and access to the speech frequency range with hearing testing going from moderate/profound hearing loss to mild hearing loss in 3 patients (60%). Complications occurred in 2 patients (40%): one developed unilateral middle ear infection leading to meningitis, and another experienced a postoperative pulmonary embolism requiring anticoagulation. The remaining 3 patients (60%) had uncomplicated recoveries with reported improved hearing from moderate/profound hearing loss to mild hearing loss post implantation. CONCLUSION: While CI appears feasible in SCD, our findings suggest that additional data are needed to assess its effectiveness in this patient population. However, evidence is limited to case reports, and complications such as thromboembolism and rapid cochlear fibrosis highlight the need for close perioperative management. More comprehensive studies with larger sample size are required to define surgical risk, optimize management, and establish best practices for timely implantation in this population.

Humans

Cerebrovascular involvement in Erdheim-Chester disease: a case report and systematic literature review.

BACKGROUND: Intracranial perivascular/vascular infiltrations and stenoses related to Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD), often associated with ischemic events, are rarely documented. This study aims to characterize intracranial perivascular/vascular infiltrations and stenoses. METHODS: We first report a new case of strokes revealing ECD with intracranial arterial involvement. We then searched all English- and French-language publications from database inception to November 2025 across 12 different search interfaces, including grey literature sources. Vascular involvement was defined by the presence of intracranial perivascular/vascular infiltrations and stenosis on imaging and/or histopathological evidence of small-vessel involvement. Cases with intracranial nodules or masses abutting vessels but without clear longitudinal perivascular infiltration were excluded. RESULTS: We present a case of recurrent strokes with intracranial vertebral and basilar artery wall stenosis, and aortitis. Initially diagnosed as giant cell arteritis, the patient was treated with corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide followed by methotrexate, but relapsed. The identification of tibial osteosclerosis led to the diagnosis of ECD, with a favorable response to anakinra. Twelve relevant articles were retrieved, in addition to our own case. Most patients exhibited focal cerebrovascular signs (11/13) and associated parenchymal involvement (11/13). Intracranial perivascular/vascular infiltrations and stenoses involved the carotid arteries (7/13), the vertebrobasilar arteries (1/13), or both territories (4/13). Aorta was involved in 8/12 cases. Among the nine patients with available follow-up data, five had poor overall or neurovascular outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Intracranial perivascular/vascular infiltrations and stenoses, which leads to recurrent focal ischemic events, represents a likely underdiagnosed CNS pattern in ECD, referred to as "cerebrovascular ECD", which worsens overall prognosis. Vascular imaging should be included in brain MRI protocols for patients with ECD, given the overlap with parenchymal involvement.

Humans

Soft Tissue Volume Augmentation at Single Implant Sites Applying Collagen Matrices or Connective Tissue Grafts: 10-Year Follow-Up of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

AIM: To compare up to 10&#x2009;years clinical, profilometric and patient-reported outcomes of implant sites previously augmented using a volume-stable collagen matrix (VCMX) or connective tissue graft (SCTG) in the aesthetic zone. METHODS: The original non-inferiority randomized controlled trial (RCT) enrolled 20 patients who received soft tissue volume augmentation with VCMX or SCTG at single implant sites. Clinical assessments and standardized measurements were performed at baseline after crown insertion and at 6&#x2009;months, 1, 3, 5, 7.5, and 10&#x2009;years. The primary outcome was mucosal thickness. Secondary outcomes included marginal bone levels (MBL), probing depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque control record, Pink Aesthetic Score (PES), OHIP-14 and buccal profilometric changes. Group comparisons were performed using mixed-effects and generalized estimating equation (GEE) models, which account for within-patient correlations due to repeated measurements and allow inclusion of all available data without requiring imputation for missing observations. RESULTS: Of the 20 originally enrolled patients, 10 (5 in the SCTG group and 5 in the VCMX group) were available for re-examination at 10&#x2009;years. The adjusted between-group difference in mucosal thickness was -0.02&#x2009;mm (95% CI -0.99 to 0.96). As the lower bound of the confidence interval remained above the prespecified non-inferiority margin of -1&#x2009;mm, non-inferiority of VCMX was shown. Buccal contour changes were comparable during the early follow-up, while a trend toward a greater long-term contour decrease was observed in group VCMX (-0.31&#x2009;mm [95% CI, -0.65 to 0.03]; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.07). Mean PES values were 10.6 in the SCTG group and 9.6 in the VCMX group, with no significant between-group differences (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.45). Both groups revealed high levels of oral health-related quality of life, with low median OHIP-14 scores (SCTG, 0.0; VCMX, 1.0; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.26). CONCLUSION: These preliminary long-term findings showed no clinically relevant differences between SCTG and VCMX in terms of clinical, profilometric and patient-reported outcomes. While SCTG remains the reference standard, VCMX represents a less invasive alternative but with a slight tendency toward greater long-term contour reduction. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Volume-stable collagen matrices serve as a viable alternative to autogenous connective tissue grafts for peri-implant soft tissue volume augmentation, particularly in patients seeking a reduced morbidity, without compromising long-term clinical or aesthetic outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00017484.

Humans

Diagnostic communication in functional neurological disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis of patient acceptance and clinical outcomes.

OBJECTIVES: Diagnostic disclosure is a key therapeutic moment in Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). This systematic review aimed to evaluate quantitative evidence on diagnostic acceptance, understanding, satisfaction, symptom outcomes, and healthcare utilisation following diagnostic disclosure in FND, and to conduct a meta-analysis of diagnostic acceptance. METHODS: Systematic searches of PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science identified quantitative studies in adults with FND. Screening followed predefined inclusion criteria. Data were extracted using a structured template and risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A random-effects meta-analysis of proportions was conducted using the Freeman-Tukey transformation. RESULTS: Fifteen studies were included, four of which contributed to the meta-analysis (n&#x202f;=&#x202f;481). Reported diagnostic acceptance rates ranged from 38.7% to 90%, although the timing and method of assessment varied across studies. Pooled acceptance was 0.68 (95% CI 0.44-0.88), with substantial heterogeneity. Structured or reinforced communication was frequently associated with improved understanding and satisfaction, although its superiority for diagnostic acceptance was not established. In some studies, diagnostic acceptance was associated with more favourable clinical outcomes, although findings were inconsistent. Some studies reported reductions in healthcare utilisation or costs following satisfactory diagnostic explanation, whereas others found no sustained overall reduction. CONCLUSIONS: Diagnostic communication in FND is associated with differences in acceptance, understanding, and downstream clinical and healthcare outcomes. Approximately two-thirds of patients were reported as accepting the diagnosis following disclosure, although the timing and method of assessment varied substantially across studies. Empathic and evidence-informed communication may enhance understanding and engagement, although its effects on healthcare use and recovery remain uncertain. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Diagnostic disclosure should be delivered clearly, empathically, and with reinforcement over time. Written information, reputable educational resources, and opportunities for follow-up clarification may support patient understanding and engagement, although stronger comparative evidence is needed.

Humans

Systematic Review of Pharmacologic Treatment for Migraine Prevention in Adults: Report of the AAN Guidelines Subcommittee and the American Headache Society.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This systematic review (SR) provides updated evidence-based conclusions regarding the use of pharmacologic migraine prevention in adults to inform a new joint American Academy of Neurology (AAN) and American Headache Society practice guideline. METHODS: A multidisciplinary panel conducted an SR following the 2017 AAN Clinical Practice Guideline Process Manual. Randomized controlled trials evaluating pharmacologic preventive treatments for adults with episodic or chronic migraine were included. Searches encompassed MEDLINE, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov from database inception through June 6, 2024. Studies were screened in duplicate, with dual independent risk-of-bias assessment. Outcomes included change in monthly headache days, &#x2265;50% responder rate, and validated patient-reported quality of life (QOL) measures. Raw mean differences, standardized mean differences, and risk ratios were calculated. A modified Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation process was used to classify certainty of evidence. RESULTS: A total of 217 studies met inclusion criteria. For episodic migraine, high-confidence evidence showed that galcanezumab and erenumab are more effective than placebo in reducing headache frequency. Moderate-confidence evidence supported benefit from atogepant, eptinezumab, fremanezumab, propranolol, topiramate, and valproate. Several additional oral agents including amitriptyline, bisoprolol, flunarizine, fluoxetine, levetiracetam, metoprolol, nifedipine, pizotifen, and telmisartan had low-confidence evidence suggesting possible benefit. For chronic migraine, high-confidence evidence supported reductions in headache frequency with fremanezumab, galcanezumab, and onabotulinumtoxinA. Moderate-confidence evidence supported benefit from atogepant, eptinezumab, erenumab, topiramate and valproate. Across both episodic and chronic migraine populations, erenumab, fremanezumab, galcanezumab, eptinezumab, rimegepant, atogepant, topiramate and onabotulinumtoxinA demonstrated improvements in patient-reported QOL outcomes on validated instruments. Evidence comparing active treatments was limited and generally of low or very low confidence, restricting conclusions about comparative effectiveness. DISCUSSION: This SR provides a comprehensive synthesis of evidence on pharmacologic migraine prevention in adults. High- and moderate-confidence findings confirm the efficacy of several established and newer preventive therapies and demonstrate improvements in patient-reported outcomes across multiple validated measures. These conclusions informed the development of evidence-based recommendations, presented in a companion publication, to guide clinicians in selecting preventive medications for adults with episodic and chronic migraine.

Humans

Associations between smart infusion pump-electronic health record interoperability and healthcare outcomes: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: This study synthesized available evidence on the associations between smart infusion pump-electronic health record (EHR) interoperability and healthcare outcomes. METHODS: A systematic review of PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and Scopus databases identified 901 records, which were imported into Rayyan&#xae; for duplicate removal, independent screening by three reviewers, and resolution of discrepancies. Eligible studies were peer-reviewed, data-driven, and reported associations between smart infusion pump-EHR interoperability and healthcare outcomes. Studies focused solely on technical validation or interoperability prototypes were excluded. A backward citation search identified additional studies. Two reviewers independently extracted and cross-validated study characteristics using standardized templates. Methodological quality was assessed with the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tools. RESULTS: Twenty records of 14 full-text studies and 6 conference proceedings were included. Most records reported positive associations between smart infusion pump-EHR interoperability and outcomes related to safety (e.g., medication administration errors, safety-reported events, pump alerts, and compliance with interoperability and drug library), operational efficiency (e.g., programming and documentation time and technical issues), financial performance (e.g., charges captured, and cost avoided), and user experience domains. Most studies used observational designs, reflecting real-world interoperability implementations, where controlling confounding factors is challenging. Limited reporting of baseline characteristics, pump type, and sample sizes limited comparability across studies. CONCLUSIONS: Smart infusion pump-EHR interoperability was associated with improvements in patient safety, efficiency, charge capture, and user experience, with variable findings across studies. Future research should use rigorous methodologies and standardized measures, examine relationships across outcome domains, assess limitations of pump-EHR interoperability, and evaluate underexplored outcomes, including team communication, cognitive workload, and AI-enabled pumps. IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE: Interoperability should be viewed as a component of a broader sociotechnical system, in which technology, user, workflow, clinical content, and organizational practices collectively determine overall effectiveness.

Humans

Sensor-based measures of knee brace adherence have low agreement with self-report methods: A multi-measure study among knee osteoarthritis patients.

OBJECTIVE: To explore agreement between self-report and objectively measured adherence to brace wearing by patients with knee osteoarthritis. METHOD: A single-arm observational analysis nested within the PROP OA randomised controlled trial (ISRCTN28555470). Of 237 adults with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis randomised to brace treatment, 60 were included in this sub-study investigating three different methods of assessing knee brace wear time over 26 weeks: 1. Self-report questionnaires (SRQ) at 12 weeks and 26 weeks; 2. Short message service (SMS) questions (days worn in past week, typical hours per day when worn) administered from week 1 to week 24; 3. A skin temperature sensor embedded in the brace, sampling every 10&#x202f;min for 26 weeks. The presence and reason for the sensor were concealed from participants. The estimated proportion of participants meeting "minimum brace use", defined a priori as &#x2265;1&#x202f;h on &#x2265;2 days in past week, was described for each measurement method, overall and by brace type (unloader, neutral). For temperature sensor measurements, time spent above 24&#xb0;C and time spent above 25&#xb0;C were used. Agreement between the measures was summarised by percentage agreement and kappa (&#x138;). RESULTS: The estimated proportions of participants meeting "minimum brace use" at 12 weeks were 83% (SRQ), 83% (SMS), 60% and 58% (temperature sensor, 24&#xb0;C and 25&#xb0;C thresholds, respectively). At 26 weeks, the corresponding estimates reduced to 72%, 71% (SMS at 24 weeks), 43% and 37%. Sensor data suggested the sharpest decline in brace use occurred within the first 12 weeks. Agreement between self-report measures was higher than between self-report measures and sensor (SRQ vs SMS at 12 weeks: 92% agreement, &#x138;=0.67 (95%CI: 0.34, 1.00); SRQ vs Sensor at 12 weeks: 74%, 0.35 (0.10, 0.60); SMS vs Sens at 12 weeks: 76%, 0.36 (0.05, 0.66). Agreement between all measurement methods reduced at 26 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: This novel use of a temperature sensor to monitor brace adherence in knee osteoarthritis indicates that self-report adherence substantially overestimates knee brace wearing time, with implications for clinical trials and practice.

Humans