Home > Bibliographic references

Swiss Emergency Research collection

2025

  • Kutz, A., Purtak, M., Laager, R., Stortecky, S., and Conen, A. “Infective Endocarditis And Cardiac Events After Transcatheter Vs Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement: A Nationwide Cohort Study”. Int J Infect Dis 159: 108011. doi:10.1016/j.ijid.2025.108011.
    Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To compare rates of infective endocarditis (IE) and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in patients with TAVI, bioprosthetic (bio), and mechanical (mech) SAVR. METHODS: Population-based cohort study of inpatient adults undergoing TAVI, bioSAVR or mechSAVR for aortic valve stenosis between 2012 and 2021 in Switzerland. In 2 pairwise 1:1 propensity-score matched cohorts (TAVI versus bioSAVR and bioSAVR versus mechSAVR) we analysed the primary outcome of the incidence of IE and secondary outcomes including MACE. RESULTS: Among 18,253 patients undergoing aortic valve replacement (mean age 76.6+/-10.3 years, 43.8% female), the incidence rate (IR) of IE was highest in the first 3 months after the intervention (TAVI, bioSAVR, mechSAVR: 23.61, 18.87, 16.65 per 1000 person-years, respectively). After matching, the rate of IE was higher in patients undergoing TAVI versus bioSAVR (n=2329 pairs, HR 1.56 [95% CI, 1.12-2.18]; incidence rate difference [IRD] 3.84 [95% CI,1.29-6.39] per 1000 person-years), and higher in bioSAVR versus mechSAVR (n=773, HR 2.27 [1.24-4.15]; IRD 4.57 [1.29-7.85] per 1000 person-years). The HRs for MACE were 2.10 [1.90-2.33] and 2.09 [1.58-2.77], respectively. CONCLUSIONS: For patients undergoing aortic valve replacement for native aortic valve stenosis, TAVI was associated with higher rates of IE than bioSAVR, as was bioSAVR when compared with mechSAVR.
    Tags: *Aortic Valve Stenosis/surgery, *Aortic Valve/surgery, *Endocarditis/epidemiology/etiology, *Heart Valve Prosthesis Implantation/adverse effects, *Postoperative Complications/epidemiology, *Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement/adverse effects, Aged, Aged, 80 and over, Aortic valve replacement, Bioprosthesis/adverse effects, Cohort Studies, Female, Heart Valve Prosthesis/adverse effects, Humans, Incidence, Infective endocarditis, Male, Middle Aged, Propensity Score, Surgical, Switzerland/epidemiology, Tavi, Transcatheter.
  • Bretagne, L., Roten, C., Mosimann, S., Blum, M. R., Debieux, M., Martin, A., Kraege, V., et al. “Association Of Part-Time Clinical Work Of Hospitalists With Efficiency And Quality Of Care On Medical Wards: A Retrospective Study”. Bmj Open 15, no. 8: e098255. doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2024-098255.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: Physicians are increasingly interested in part-time employment. However, the impact of part-time work on efficiency and quality of care of inpatients is unknown. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the association between part-time clinical work of hospitalists in General Internal Medicine (GIM) and resource utilisation and short-term patient outcomes. DESIGN: Retrospective study. SETTING: GIM wards of 3 Swiss teaching hospitals. PARTICIPANTS: Each inpatient was categorised as having received care mainly (>50%) by part-time or full-time hospitalists. Part-time clinical work was defined as employment of <100% as a clinician. We included 3557 cases cared for mainly by part-time and 4973 by full-time physicians. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES: Primary outcome was length of hospital stay, secondary outcomes included 30-day readmission, in-hospital mortality, hospitalisation cost and time to completion of the discharge letter. We assessed the association between both groups and outcomes using generalised estimating equations, clustering for individual patients and adjusting for patient and hospitalist characteristics. RESULTS: There was no statistically relevant difference in length of stay in cases cared for mainly by part-time (mean 7.3 days, 95% CI 7.1 to 7.6) compared with full-time hospitalists (mean 7.6 days, 95% CI 7.3 to 7.8; p=0.18). Time to completion of the discharge letter was longer in the part-time (mean 11.4 days, 95% CI 11.0 to 11.8) versus full-time group (mean 10.9 days, 95% CI 10.6 to 11.2, p=0.049). There was no statistically significant difference between groups for the other outcomes. CONCLUSION: We found no evidence that part-time clinical work of hospitalists negatively affects resource utilisation and short-term patient outcomes compared with full-time work.
    Tags: *Hospitalists/statistics & numerical data, *Internal Medicine, *Quality of Health Care, Adult, Aged, Female, Health Care Costs, Hospital Mortality, Hospitals, Teaching, Humans, Internal medicine, Length of Stay/statistics & numerical data, Male, Middle Aged, Patient Readmission/statistics & numerical data, Physicians, Retrospective Studies, Switzerland.
  • Robinson, E., Zellner, M., Osuna, E., Seiler, M., Theiler, M., Sidorov, S., von Felten, S., Berger, C., and Meyer Sauteur, P. M. “Evolving Clinical Features Of Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infections Following Covid-19 Pandemic Restrictions: A Retrospective, Comparative Cohort Study”. Eur J Pediatr 184, no. 8: 535. doi:10.1007/s00431-025-06326-y.
    Abstract: Since its delayed re-emergence after non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) against the COVID-19 pandemic, Mycoplasma pneumoniae has caused community-acquired pneumonia outbreaks worldwide. In this study, we aimed to investigate how the clinical characteristics and severity of M. pneumoniae infections have changed after COVID-19 pandemic restriction, in order to enable adequate interpretation of clinical features and response to future M. pneumoniae epidemics. This retrospective, comparative cohort study compared clinical features and severity of children with M. pneumoniae detection by PCR during the periods April 1, 2015, to March 31, 2020 (pre-NPI); April 1, 2020, to March 31, 2022 (NPI); and April 1, 2022, to March 31, 2025 (post-NPI). Clinical features were compared between periods by Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test or Fisher's exact test, as appropriate. Moreover, we compared hospitalization and intensive care unit (ICU) admission using generalized linear models. In total, 321 patients were included in the study. Since the first detection of M. pneumoniae after the COVID-19 pandemic in summer 2023, the re-emergence has shown a bimodal curve with two distinct peaks (post-NPI first-year and second-year). The median age of patients was higher in the post-NPI than the pre-NPI period (9.05 vs 8.20 years), particularly during the first-year peak (11.00 years). Obstructive diseases were observed more frequently post-NPI compared to pre-NPI (18.6% vs 9.6%). Moreover, more patients presented with chest pain (8.9% vs 2.4%) and pleural effusions (45.7% vs 28.9%) post-NPI than pre-NPI. Conversely, extrapulmonary manifestations were less frequent post-NPI (18.6% vs 30.1%), particularly dermatological (15.7% vs 25.3%) and neurological (1.3% vs 4.8%) manifestations. Hospitalization rate (38.6% post-NPI vs 43.9% pre-NPI) and length of stay (median, 4 [IQR, 2-5] vs 4 [IQR, 3-6] days) were similar, while generalized linear models showed a trend toward fewer hospitalizations post-NPI (odds ratio [OR], 0.72 [95% CI, 0.42-1.23]; P = 0.22). The same applied to ICU admission rate (5.1% post-NPI vs 4.9% pre-NPI), with a trend toward fewer ICU admissions post-NPI (OR, 0.90 [95% CI, 0.29-3.34]; P = 0.86). CONCLUSION: We observed notable changes in the clinical presentation of re-emerging M. pneumoniae infections compared to the pre-COVID-19 pandemic period, particularly an increase in obstructive phenotypes and pleural effusions. However, overall disease severity appeared to remain largely unchanged. WHAT IS KNOWN: * The delayed re-emergence of M. pneumoniae in late 2023 was substantial in terms of case numbers across many geographical locations. * No statistically increased proportion of severe or worse outcomes of re-emerging M. pneumoniae infections could be observed globally compared with pre-COVID-19 pandemic epidemics. WHAT IS NEW: * Clinical features of M. pneumoniae infections in children partly changed following COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, with new signs like obstructive phenotypes and pleural effusions. * The findings suggest that there has been no overall increase in disease severity; in fact, extrapulmonary manifestations were fewer, with trends toward reduced hospitalizations and ICU admissions.
    Tags: *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control, *Pneumonia, Mycoplasma/epidemiology/diagnosis, Adolescent, Child, Child, Preschool, Community-acquired pneumonia, consent for further use of health-related data as part of the previous myCAP, Epidemiology, Extrapulmonary manifestations, Female, General consent at the University Children's Hospital Zurich or written informed, Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data, Humans, included in the study. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing, Infant, interests., Male, Mycoplasma pneumoniae/isolation & purification, Non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs), Pandemics, Retrospective Studies, SARS-CoV-2, Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Severity of Illness Index, study [4] (BASEC no. 2016-00148) was available from every individual participant, the Canton of Zurich, Switzerland (BASEC no. 2025-00039). Consent to participate:.
  • Glowinski, D., Buchheit, F., Badier, E., Celi, J., Bolore, S., and Fassier, T. “Innovative Sensor-Based Technology And Measurement Solution For Interprofessional Simulation In Crisis Resource Management”. Simul Healthc 20, no. 4: 250-258. doi:10.1097/SIH.0000000000000855.
    Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Interprofessional simulation (IP-Sim) training in crisis resource management (CRM) is widely used to improve team performance. Emerging social sensor-based technology and measurement provide an opportunity to enhance IP-Sim. Using these methods, signals generated by team members in action are collected, analyzed, and presented in a debriefing session as visual aids and statistics that summarize behavioral markers of teamwork and taskwork. We developed a novel social sensor-based measuring system and tested it in a pilot study to demonstrate its feasibility, acceptance, and relevance during IP-sim in CRM. METHODS: During 6 immersive scenario-based IP-Sim sessions, we gathered both quantitative (survey) and qualitative (videotaped debriefing) postsimulation exposure data. Six experimental teams, each containing 3 trainees (2 nurses and 1 physician), were involved in a scenario in which a life-threatening emergency in a hospital setting had to be identified and managed. RESULTS: By conducting successful deployment in a simulated environment, we demonstrated the viability of the proposed system and outlined the remaining obstacles (feasibility check). We documented users' successful and unsuccessful methods for incorporating the solution into existing training frameworks (acceptability check). In addition, we determined how users interpreted behavioral markers during debriefing such as space occupation, gaze dynamics, and verbal interaction to improve situational awareness and common understanding (relevance check). CONCLUSIONS: We detailed the conditions under which a new sensor-based approach can be successfully integrated into immersive scenario-based simulation and identified areas for further development. The findings indicated that social sensor technology and measurement have the potential to enhance the overall experience of IP-Sim sessions in CRM.
    Tags: *Interprofessional Relations, *Patient Care Team/organization & administration, *Simulation Training/methods/organization & administration, crew resource management, data science [MeSH], debriefing, health care [MeSH], Humans, Interprofessional education [MeSH], Pilot Projects, sensor-based technology and measurement solutions, simulation training [MeSH].
  • Schulz, L. P., Gatti, B., Milani, G. P., Lava, S. A. G., Lavagno, C., Bianchetti, M. G., Bronz, G., Kottanattu, L., Camozzi, P., and Fare, P. B. “Chronic Meningococcal Disease: Systematic Literature Review”. J Infect Public Health 18, no. 11: 102900. doi:10.1016/j.jiph.2025.102900.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: Chronic meningococcal disease is a rare and under-recognized manifestation of Neisseria meningitidis infection. Unlike acute meningococcal infections, its presentation is insidious, leading to diagnostic delays. We conducted a systematic review to better characterize its clinical, microbiological, and epidemiological profile. METHODS: A systematic review was performed in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024608035). We searched Excerpta Medica, National Library of Medicine, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and bibliographies for cases reported since 1960 using the terms "chronic meningococcemia" or "chronic meningococcal disease." Eligible cases involved previously apparently healthy individuals with N. meningitidis isolated from a normally sterile site. Two reviewers independently extracted data on demographics, clinical features, diagnostics, microbiology, treatment, and outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 126 cases from 97 reports were included. Most patients (median age: 21 years) presented with recurrent fever (98 %), non-blanching skin lesions (95 %), and musculoskeletal symptoms (90 %) over a period of >/= 10 days. In over two-thirds of cases, symptoms followed a relapsing-remitting pattern, with alternating episodes of fever, rash, and joint involvement. Diagnosis was delayed longer in adults than in children (P < 0.0001). Blood cultures were positive in 77 % of cases; molecular testing and skin biopsy improved diagnostic yield. N. meningitidis serogroup B (58 %) and C (31 %) were most common. Meningeal signs were largely absent (94 %). Antimicrobial therapy led to complete recovery without sequelae in all patients. Testing for inherited susceptibility was conducted in 52 cases and revealed abnormalities - primarily complement deficiencies - in 13 (23 %) of them. CONCLUSIONS: Chronic meningococcal disease should be considered in individuals with relapsing fever, vasculitic skin lesions, and joint involvement, especially when cultures are negative or symptoms mimic viral or autoimmune conditions. Early use of molecular diagnostics and awareness of characteristic patterns may improve recognition. The term "relapsing-remitting meningococcal disease" may better reflect its clinical nature.
    Tags: *Meningococcal Infections/diagnosis/epidemiology/microbiology/drug therapy, *Neisseria meningitidis/isolation & purification, Adolescent, Adult, Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use, Child, Chronic Disease, Chronic meningococcal disease, Complement deficiency, Female, Humans, interests pertinent to the content of this article., Male, Middle Aged, Neisseria meningitidis, Relapsing fever, Vasculitic skin lesions, Young Adult.
  • Romann, V., Ding, C., Khattab, N., Lim, R., and Heymann, E. “Integrating Physician Wellbeing Into Patient Safety Standards: A Crucial Step For Emergency Medicine”. Intern Emerg Med 20, no. 7: 2169-2174. doi:10.1007/s11739-025-04033-y.
    Abstract: Emergency departments (EDs) are high-risk environments for adverse events (AEs), making patient safety a critical concern. Current patient safety standards, such as those established by the International Federation for Emergency Medicine (IFEM), address various risk factors but often overlook the crucial role of physician wellbeing. This paper explores the intrinsic link between patient safety and physician burnout, highlighting how improving emergency physician (EP) wellbeing can enhance patient outcomes. The high burnout rates among EPs, driven by factors such as unpredictable workloads, circadian rhythm disruptions, and substantial emotional tolls, directly impact patient safety. Shared organizational, social, and individual determinants between patient safety and physician burnout suggest that addressing these can yield mutual benefits. Effective strategies at the organizational level include ensuring adequate facilities and human resources, continuous training, and support from management. At the social level, improving teamwork, communication, and staffing levels can mitigate burnout. On the individual level, supporting EPs' mental agility and critical thinking through manageable workloads and sufficient rest is vital. Moreover, factors such as interpersonal conflicts, work-related psychological trauma, patient violence, and administrative burdens further exacerbate EP burnout and jeopardize patient safety. Proposed interventions include improved communication protocols, structured debriefings, violence prevention programs, and the optimization of Electronic Health Records (EHR) to reduce administrative stress. This paper advocates for the inclusion of EP wellbeing in patient safety standards to form a comprehensive national strategy, aligning with the transition from the Triple Aim to the Quadruple Aim in healthcare. By safeguarding the physical and mental health of EPs, the overall quality of care in EDs can be significantly improved.
    Tags: *Burnout, Professional/psychology/prevention & control, *Emergency Medicine/standards/methods, *Patient Safety/standards, *Physicians/psychology, Emergency medicine, Emergency Service, Hospital/organization & administration, Humans, Patient safety, Physician burnout, Physician wellbeing, Safety standards.
  • Soret, G., Leidi, A., Leszek, A., Marti, C., Carballo, S., Stirnemann, J., Grosgurin, O., Reny, J. L., and Mavrakanas, T. A. “Point-Of-Care Ultrasonography And Worsening Of Renal Function In Acute Heart Failure: A Cohort Study” 12: 20543581251328069. doi:10.1177/20543581251328069.
    Abstract: INTRODUCTION: The goal of this study was to investigate the association between worsening renal function (WRF) and central venous pressure, right ventricular function, and lung fluid overload assessed by point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in hospitalized patients with acute heart failure (AHF). METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study including AHF adult inpatients, conducted in Geneva University Hospitals from October 2019 to March 2020. The primary outcome was WRF, defined by an increase in creatinine of >/=1.5 times from baseline value or an increase of >/=0.3 mg/dL between admission and day 4 to 6. Expert ultrasonographers used POCUS to examine lungs, inferior vena cava during spontaneous expiration (IVCe), and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) at admission. RESULTS: A total of 43 patients were included in the study. A total of 8 patients (19%) developed WRF during the study period (between October 8, 2019 and March 16, 2020), of whom 4 were in the higher quartile of lung fluid overload, 2 had TAPSE <14 mm, and 4 had IVCe >/= 21 mm. In uni- and multi-variate logistic regression model, neither admission IVCe nor TAPSE was associated with WRF. However, lung congestion, as assessed by the number of B-lines, was significantly associated with WRF (odds ratio [OR] per quartile = 2.47, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01 to 5.86, P = .04). This result remained statistically significant after adjustment for daily diuretic dose in mg/kg (OR = 2.98, 95% CI = 1.11 to 8.00, P = .03). CONCLUSION: This study showed that lung congestion as assessed by POCUS was associated with WRF in AHF patients, whereas IVCe and TAPSE were not. Due to the small number of participants, our results need to be prospectively validated in future adequately powered clinical trials.
    Tags: acute heart failure, acute kidney failure, Bayer. He has also received operating grants from the Canadian Institutes of, Foundation of Canada. He is supported by a Fonds de Recherche Sante Quebec (FRSQ), has received speaker honoraria from Bayer, BMS Canada, Janssen, AstraZeneca, and, Health Research, the Kidney Foundation of Canada, and the Heart and Stroke, J1 Clinician Scholar award and a Kidney Research Scientist Core Education and, lung congestion, National Training (KRESCENT) Program New Investigator Award., Novo Nordisk, and Servier outside the submitted work. He has also received a, Pfizer and has served on advisory boards for Boehringer Ingelheim, Bayer, GSK,, Pocus, point-of-care ultrasonography, research grant from AstraZeneca and fellowship grants from Pfizer, Janssen, and, to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: Professor T.A.M..
  • Hall, N., Metrailler-Mermoud, J., Rousson, V., Conforti, C., Dupasquier, A., Carron, P. N., Grabherr, S., et al. “Use Of The Hope Score To Assess Survival Outcome Of Hypothermic Cardiac Arrest Selected By Ecls Rewarming”. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 33, no. 1: 132. doi:10.1186/s13049-025-01445-9.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: We studied adult hypothermic cardiac arrest (CA) patients admitted to a University Hospital (UH) and a Regional Hospital (RH) for whom Extracorporeal Life Support (ECLS) was implemented. We used the HOPE score to estimate individual survival probabilities and to compare overall results between hospitals. METHODS: We included hypothermic CA patients who underwent ECLS between 2000 and 2022. We assessed the predicted survival probabilities by calculating the HOPE scores, both at individual and hospital levels. We assessed the performance of a HOPE score cutoff of 10% in predicting survival to hospital discharge, as ECLS rewarming is currently recommended when the HOPE is >/= 10%. We also assessed the utility of the HOPE score in evaluating and comparing patient management within and between two hospitals. RESULTS: In the 46 patients with successful ECLS implementation, a HOPE score < 10% would have contraindicated and therefore prevented futile ECLS rewarming procedures for 17 patients (37%) who did not survive, while finding that ECLS was indicated for 100% of survivors. The observed survival rate was 24% (UH: 35%, RH: 11%) whereas the HOPE score predicted a survival rate of 35% (UH: 41%, RH: 26%), suggesting underperformance of ECLS rewarming among both hospitals. The difference of survival between the two hospitals was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: This study confirmed the utility of the HOPE score in estimating individual survival probabilities. The HOPE score may also be used to estimate the overall survival rate in a patient cohort, enabling internal quality-control and outcome results comparisons between different settings.
    Tags: *Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation/methods, *Heart Arrest/mortality/therapy, *Hypothermia/complications/mortality/therapy, *Rewarming/methods, 2022-01206). An anonymised data transfer agreement between the two participating, Accidental hypothermia, Adult, Aged, Benchmarking, Cardiac arrest, collection were approved by the local ethics committee "Commission cantonale, d'ethique de la recherche sur l'etre humain - Vaud (CER-VD)", Switzerland (N degrees, Ecls, Environmental hypothermia, Female, HOPE score, hospitals was obtained. Consent for publication: Not applicable. Competing, Humans, interests: The authors declare no competing interests., Male, Middle Aged, Retrospective Studies, Survival Rate/trends.
  • Dugar, F., López-Ayala, P., Koechlin, L., Bima, P., Glaeser, J., Spagnuolo, C., Crisanti, L., et al. “Diagnostic And Prognostic Utility Of Endocan In Suspected Myocardial Infarction: An International Cohort Study”. Clinica Chimica Acta 578: 120510. doi:10.1016/j.cca.2025.120510.
    Abstract: Background: The possible clinical utility of endocan, a novel inflammatory biomarker involved in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis, is largely unknown. We aimed to evaluate its diagnostic and prognostic performance in chest pain patients presenting to the emergency department (ED). Methods: We prospectively enrolled patients presenting with suspected myocardial infarction (MI) to the ED in an international multicenter study. Endocan, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) were measured in blood samples obtained at presentation. Final diagnoses were centrally adjudicated by two independent cardiologists applying the 4th universal definition of MI and current guidelines. Non-ST-elevation MI (NSTEMI) was the diagnostic endpoint and 5-year cardiovascular death was the primary prognostic endpoint. Results: Among 4728 patients, 843 (17.8 %) had NSTEMI. The diagnostic discrimination of endocan for NSTEMI was low (area under the curve (AUC) 0.585 [95 % CI: 0.563–0.607]. Its combination with hs-cTnT (0.939 [95 % CI: 0.931–0.947]) did not improve the discriminative performance of hs-cTnT alone (0.937 [95 % CI: 0.930–0.950]). Long-term prognostic accuracy of endocan was higher versus hs-CRP, but lower versus hs-cTnT (AUC 0.730 [0.710–0.760] vs 0.650 [0.620–0.680] vs 0.810 [0.790–0.830], respectively). Endocan was associated with an increased 5-year risk for cardiovascular mortality. However, it did not provide relevant incremental prognostic value when added on top of a base model that included SCORE2 risk factors and hs-cTnT. Conclusion: Endocan has a low diagnostic accuracy for NSTEMI, and moderate long-term prognostic accuracy for cardiovascular death. Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00470587, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00470587https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00470587. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.
    Tags: adult, aged, area under the curve, Article, atherosclerosis, biological marker, Biomarkers, blood, body mass, cardiovascular mortality, clinical outcome, clinical trial, cohort analysis, Cohort Studies, controlled study, coronary angiography, coronary artery bypass graft, diagnosis, diagnostic accuracy, diagnostic test accuracy study, diagnostic value, Endocan, endothelial cell specific molecule 1, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, ESM1 protein, human, female, follow up, heart failure, heart infarction, heart left ventricle ejection fraction, human, Humans, Inflammatory biomarkers, male, middle aged, multicenter study, Myocardial infarction, Neoplasm Proteins, percutaneous coronary intervention, prognosis, prognostic utility, Prospective Studies, prospective study, proteoglycan, Proteoglycans, receiver operating characteristic, risk assessment, risk factor, sensitivity and specificity, systolic blood pressure, thrombosis, Troponin, troponin T, tumor protein, unclassified drug.
  • Ünlü, Luca, Hayes-Bradley, Clare, St. George, Jonathan, Hohenstein, Christian, and Reid, Cliff. “Preoxygenation Strategies In Emergency Airway Management”. Emergency And Critical Care Medicine. doi:10.1097/ec9.0000000000000155.
  • Zucconi, E. C., Gysin, S., Heymann, E. P., Hautz, W. E., and Eva, K. W. “How Do Medical Educators Discern, Decode, And Act Upon Trainees Appearing To Engage In Impression Management?”. Med Teach: 1-9. doi:10.1080/0142159X.2025.2533402.
    Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Trainees are motivated to impress clinical teachers, making impression management common. Such efforts are beneficial, but problematic when 'targets' are misled or learning opportunities missed. Guiding faculty regarding impression management is difficult because little is known about what cues yield perceptions of being managed. METHODS: A qualitative study was performed to explore faculty perspectives on: (1) recognising cues indicative of impression management; (2) interpreting cues; and (3) using them. Fifteen educators from various specialities and cultural regions of Switzerland were interviewed. Transcripts were analysed thematically following grounded theory. They were reviewed by multiple reviewers with constant comparison undertaken. RESULTS: Faculty assumed trainees 'acted' whenever stakes were high. However, decoding impression management was deemed highly complex, mentally taxing, and fraught with uncertainty. Consideration of context was deemed important. Reactions to impression management were dynamic, ranging from benevolence to frustration, depending on perceptions of trainee motivations. DISCUSSION: Findings suggest trainees should be cautious about strategies used to influence preceptors. Impression management is accepted when considered an effort to improve capacity to act as a physician; it elicits negativity when trainees seem to be endearing themselves. Valuable leads are offered that should help educators and trainees remain engaged in effective educational alliances.
    Tags: educational alliance, impression management, Workplace-based learning.
  • Liliane, N., Tisljar, K., Berger, S., De Marchis, G. M., Dittrich, T. D., Bassetti, S., Bingisser, R., Hunziker, S., Marsch, S., and Sutter, R. “Comprehensive Observations And Multidisciplinary Approaches (Coma) In The Management Of Unconscious Patients: A Prospective High Fidelity Simulation Study”. J Neurol 272, no. 8: 537. doi:10.1007/s00415-025-13228-4.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: Managing patients with coma of unknown etiology presents a challenge requiring rapid, structured assessment. We aimed to examine how physicians from different specialties manage patients with coma of unknown etiology and adhere to recommendations in a highly standardized scenario. METHODS: Prospective high-fidelity simulation study conducted at an academic simulation center involving 50 physicians from acute care (38%), internal medicine (36%), and neurology (26%). Participants were confronted with a standardized coma scenario. Performance was assessed for adherence to expert-recommended clinical assessments (primary endpoints) and timing of interventions, such as airway protection, oxygen administration, toxicological screening, and self-evaluation (secondary endpoints). RESULTS: All participants recognized coma; 80% assessed the Glasgow Coma Scale, with 40% quantifying it correctly. 20% completed ABCDE assessments, with 66% performing head-to-toe examinations. Airway inspection was conducted by 89% of acute care physicians, 70% of neurologists, and 60% of internists. A median of 4 ancillary tests were ordered, mostly neuroimaging (98%) and toxicological screening (86%), while rare toxin screening (2%) and EEG (12%) were scarce. Oxygen was universally administered (100%), but treatment response was rarely checked (8%). Side-positioning for airway protection was infrequent (21% acute care, 15% neurology, 6% internal medicine), while intubation was more commonly ordered by internists (17%). Prior simulator training improved side-positioning rates (27% vs. 4%, p = 0.047). Self-evaluations showed high motivation (median 8/10) but moderate confidence (5/10). CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights specialty-specific differences, misconceptions, and gaps in managing coma of unknown etiology, including inconsistent diagnostic workup and missed treatments, emphasizing the need for guidelines, standardized care and training. REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov registry (ID NCT06265168).
    Tags: (8472/HEG-DSV), and the Swiss Society of General Internal Medicine (SSGIM). S., (ChatGPT-4omni, OpenAI, San Francisco, USA) was used to paraphrase and summarize, (Ref 10001C_192850/1 and 10531C_182422), the Bangerter-Rhyner Foundation, *Coma/therapy/diagnosis, *Simulation Training, *Unconsciousness/therapy/diagnosis, Adult, and have therefore been performed in accordance with the ethical standards laid, and Novo Nordisk. S. Bassetti reports no disclosures relevant to the manuscript., Bangerter-Rhyner-Stiftung, Berger reports no disclosures relevant to the manuscript. G.M. De Marchis was or, Coma, De Quervain research, decision-support tool licensed to 150 European hospitals, owned by the University, down in the 1964 Declaration of Helsinki and its later amendments. All, Female, Fondazione Dr. Ettore Balli, further edited the content as needed and verified its accuracy. Ethical Standard, Glasgow Coma Scale, Gottfried Julia Bangerter-Rhyner Foundation. He received personal grants from, grant, holds shares from Johnson & Johnson, Roche, Lilly, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Merck,, honoraria by Medtronic and BMS/Pfizer. T.D. Dittrich was or is supported by the, Hospital Basel. S. Hunziker is supported by the Swiss National Foundation (SNF), Humans, is supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation, Male, Marsch reports no disclosures relevant to the manuscript. R. Sutter received, Middle Aged, Neurocritical care, participants consented to participate in written form., Prospective Studies, Prospective study, R. Bingisser is editor of medstandards.com, a symptom-based medical, Research Fund of the University Basel, the Scientific Society Basel, and the, research grants from the Swiss National Foundation (No 320030_169379), the, Science Funds, Simulator study, some of the manuscript's content. After using this application, the authors, Statement: The study has been approved by the appropriate local ethics committee, Swiss Heart Foundation, the science funds of the University Hospital Basel, and, Swiss Neurological Society, Swisslife Jubilaumsstiftung for Medical Research, the manuscript. K. Tisljar reports no disclosures relevant to the manuscript. S., the Research Fund for excellent young researchers of the University of Basel. He, Thermo Fisher GmbH. He received travel honoraria by Bayer and speaker, UCB-pharma and holds stocks from Alcon, Johnson & Johnson, Novartis, and Roche., Use of artificial intelligence-assisted technologies: The large language model, [Wissenschaftsfonds] of the University Hospital Basel and University of Basel.
  • Darie, A. M., Grize, L., Jahn, K., Salina, A., Rocken, J., Herrmann, M. J., Pascarella, M., et al. “Reply To: The Risk Of Hypoventilation During Bronchoscopy Under Oxygen And Procedural Sedation”. Eur Respir J 66, no. 1. doi:10.1183/13993003.00834-2025.
    Tags: breathing rate, bronchoscopy, carbon dioxide tension, case report, chronic obstructive lung disease, cost effectiveness analysis, human, hyperoxia, hypoventilation, hypoxemia, Letter, lung function, oxygen, oxygen saturation, oxygen supply, oxygen therapy, pulse oximetry, sedation.
  • Topalis, V., Voros, C., and Ziaka, M. “Targeting Inflammation In Alzheimer's Disease: Insights Into Pathophysiology And Therapeutic Avenues-A Comprehensive Review”: 8919887251361578. doi:10.1177/08919887251361578.
    Abstract: Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is the most common dementia, affecting mainly older adults, particularly over 65. Characterized by progressive cognitive decline-including deficits in memory, executive functions, and language, alongside behavioral disturbances-AD arises from complex pathophysiological mechanisms. These include neurotransmitter imbalances, cholinergic deficits, amyloid-beta (Abeta) toxicity, tau protein hyperphosphorylation, oxidative stress, synaptic dysfunction, and neuroinflammatory processes. Growing evidence highlights the protective role of microglia in AD pathology through their immune functions, phagocytic clearance of Abeta proteins, and trophic support to promote tissue repair and maintain cerebral homeostasis, as alterations in their response to Abeta are linked to an increased risk of AD. However, disruptions in homeostasis or tissue alterations may trigger microglial activation, leading to detrimental effects such as increased inflammatory activity, impaired microglial-mediated clearance, synapse loss, and neuronal damage. Astrocytes, a distinct type of glial cell with homeostatic functions, also exhibit neuroprotective effects. However, the presence of Abeta may result in astrocyte reactivity, leading to neurotoxic effects associated with disturbances of calcium levels, activation of proinflammatory pathways, gliotransmission, altered tau metabolism, and impaired clearance of Abeta. Despite substantial research, AD remains challenging to diagnose early and lacks effective treatments. Given its multifactorial nature, therapeutic approaches primarily aim to slow progression and remain limited in achieving a definitive cure. While most current strategies focus on mitigating the toxic effects of Abeta and tau proteins, growing interest has emerged in addressing neuroinflammation as a potential means to delay or prevent neurodegeneration. Targeting neuroinflammation could open new therapeutic avenues for the treatment of AD.
    Tags: Alzheimer's disease, amyloid-beta, astrocytes, microglia, neuroinflammation, tau protein.
  • Pugnale, S., Galofaro, L., Puricel, S. G., Garin, D., Guechi, Y., Cook, S., and Ribordy, V. “What Is The Effect Of Volunteer Community Responders Network On Out-Of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Outcomes In The Swiss Canton Of Fribourg? A Five-Year Retrospective Observational Study”. Resusc Plus 25: 101009. doi:10.1016/j.resplu.2025.101009.
    Abstract: AIM: This study aims to assess the impact of the Volunteer Community Responders (VCR) Network on the outcomes of Out-of-hospital Cardiac Arrest (OHCA) patients in the Swiss Canton Fribourg from 2018 to 2022. METHODS: We collected data from the SWISSRECA registry of all OHCA occurring in the Swiss Canton of Fribourg between January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2022. The patients were divided in two groups according to whether a VCR intervened and were compared using descriptive statistics. We constructed exact multivariable logistic regression models to analyse the association of a VCR intervention with Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC) rate, survival to hospital admission and survival to hospital discharge, adjusting for age, sex, emergency services arrival time, witness status, initial rhythm and location of the OHCA. RESULTS: We included 559 patients, 319 in the VCR intervention group and 240 in the other group. The key differences were more home located OHCA (80% vs 63%; p-value = < 0.001), longer EMS arrival times (13 [11, 17] vs 11 [8, 14] minutes; p-value = < 0.001) and more pre-EMS CPR performed (95% vs 63%; p < 0.001) and pre-EMS AED usage (48% vs 13%; p < 0.001) in the VCR intervention group. In the adjusted model, the odds ratios with VCR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) were 0.82 (95% CI: 0.39-1.74; p = 0.61) for ROSC, 0.65 (95% CI: 0.27-1.53; p = 0.32) for survival to hospital admission and 1.22 (95% CI: 0.26-5.74; p = 0.80) for survival to hospital discharge. In the sub-cohort of home-located OHCA, consisting of 192 patients the VCR intervention group and 202 in the other group, the adjusted odds ratios of VCR CPR were 0.78 (95% CI: 0.34-1.81; p = 0.57) for ROSC, 0.75 (95% CI: 0.27-2.08; p = 0.58) for survival to hospital admission and 1.34 (95% CI: 0.23-7.79; p = 0.75) for survival to hospital discharge. CONCLUSION: The rates of CPR performed and AED usage before EMS arrival were higher in the VCR intervention group. However, the VCR intervention was not independently associated with ROSC rate, survival to hospital admission and survival to hospital discharge. Potential key explanations are the sequential manual activation of the VCR network, leading firstly to potential delays in VCR deployment and secondly to potentially more VCR deployment on home-located OHCAs or on OHCA with longer expected EMS travel time. Updating the deployment system of the emergency medical communication centre could be a key improvement measure to address this. Further studies are needed to explore these issues and to improve the chain of survival including the VCR Network.
    Tags: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, Clinical Outcomes, Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest, personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in, Survival to Hospital Discharge, Swiss Canton Fribourg, this paper., Volunteer Community Responder.
  • Brockhus, L. A., Liasidis, P., Lewis, M., Jakob, D. A., and Demetriades, D. “Response To Letter To The Editor On "Injury Patterns And Outcomes In Motorcycle Driver Crashes In The United States: The Effect Of Helmet Use"”. Injury 56, no. 8: 112583. doi:10.1016/j.injury.2025.112583.
    Tags: clinical outcome, driver, female, helmet, human, injury, Letter, motorcycle, United States, vehicle safety.
  • Khatib, N., Kempinska, A., Levin, H., Lynch, T., Khattab, N., DeSouza, K., Heymann, E., and Lim, R. “Rethinking Shifts: Shift Length, Diurnal Variability, And Long-Term Health Risks For Emergency Medicine Physicians”. Intern Emerg Med. doi:10.1007/s11739-025-04032-z.
    Abstract: Emergency physicians are experts in managing critical conditions in a fast-paced everchanging environment. They deliver continuous 24/7 care and are the entry point to the healthcare system for many patients. It is essential to have healthy, alert and skilled emergency physicians at all times of the day and yet they face the physical and mental challenges of shift work. This article aims to explore the current literature on emergency department (ED) shiftwork, the mental well-being and physical implications of shift work and offer strategies to mitigate its detrimental effects on emergency physicians.
    Tags: Circadian rhythm, Emergency doctor, Health, Informed consent: The authors have no conflict of interests to report., Mental health, Shift work, Wellbeing, Wellness.
  • Gordon, L., Darocha, T., Paal, P., Pasquier, M., Cools, E., and Zafren, K. “Reader Comment Regarding Found Down, Pulseless And Cold: Outcomes Following Unwitnessed Hypothermic Cardiac Arrest”. Am J Emerg Med 97: 255-256. doi:10.1016/j.ajem.2025.06.059.
    Tags: aortic arch syndrome, cardiopulmonary bypass, clinical outcome, cold, emergency physician, emergency ward, heart arrest, heart rhythm, hospital admission, human, hypothermia, hypothermic cardiac arrest, Letter, neurologic outcome, out of hospital cardiac arrest, overall survival, prognosis, temperature.
  • Engeler, J., Stricker, D., Birrenbach, T., Fadini, D., Mattsson, B., Luck, B. N., Straub, D. R., et al. “Designing And Validating Entrustable Professional Activities For Emergency Medicine: A Stringent, Construct-Validity Enhancing Approach”. Bmc Med Educ 25, no. 1: 866. doi:10.1186/s12909-025-07449-4.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: Entrustable professional activities (EPAs) are a cornerstone in many postgraduate medical education programs. However, the design of EPAs varies widely across programs, the validity of newly developed EPAs is rarely tested, and there is little agreement on how to validate them. This study aimed to describe and evaluate the consensus finding and validation process for the development of EPAs in Emergency Medicine (EM) in Switzerland following a stringent, construct-validity-enhancing approach. METHODS: A conceptual framework was adopted as a template for the development and validation process. In the first step, a multi-institutional, core expert panel of EM physicians was assembled and received preparatory training. This group subsequently identified, developed, and revised EPAs in iterative rounds using Delphi and nominal group techniques. In the final step, a second expert panel, which was not involved in the development process, carried out validations of the EPAs using EQual rubric scores, generalizability analysis, and intra-class correlation coefficients. RESULTS: The development process resulted in 24 EPAs subdivided into 7 junior EPAs and 17 senior EPAs. The validation of the EPAs showed a mean total EQual rubric score of 4.08 (+/- 0.04) on a 5-point scale for all EPAs. The generalizability analysis yielded a phi-coefficient of 0.66 and an intra-class correlation coefficient of 0.83. CONCLUSIONS: By using and challenging existing strategies and validity-enhancing instruments, we were able to develop and validate EPAs in EM. Key elements in this process were the adherence to a conceptual framework as a structural planning template, multimodal preparatory education of experts, and validation by a second, independent expert group via appropriate tools such as the EQual rubric score. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12909-025-07449-4.
    Tags: All participants signed an informed consent form. Confidentiality of data was, applicable., approval based on the national legislation "Bundesgesetz uber die Forschung am, Competence-Based medical education (CBME), compliance with the Helsinki Declaration and is deemed exempt from ethical, data were only discussed within the research team. The study is in, Emergency medicine, Entrustable professional activities (EPA), https://www.admin.ch/opc/de/classified-compilation/20061313/index.html ), as no, interests: The authors declare no competing interests. Clinical trial number: Not, maintained, Menschen", Art.2, Abs.1 (, patient data was involved. Consent for publication: Not applicable. Competing, study was voluntary, and participants could discontinue the study at any time., Validation.
  • Cibotto, C., Pasquier, M., Beysard, N., Rouyer, F., Grosgurin, O., Bourgeois, L., Erriquez, E., et al. “Assessment Of Prehospital Tracheal Intubation Technique Using Initial Direct Laryngoscopy During Videolaryngoscopy: Randomized Controlled Simulated Trial”. Bmc Emerg Med 25, no. 1: 112. doi:10.1186/s12873-025-01266-0.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: In critically ill patients, tracheal intubation may be required in the prehospital setting, where airway management presents unique technical and logistical challenges. While videolaryngoscopy has emerged as a potential alternative to direct laryngoscopy by providing a better and easier visualization of the glottis, the improved view of anatomical structures does not necessarily correlate with successful tracheal tube placement. Intubation may be harder because novice providers performing videolaryngoscopy may only look at the screen and only obtain a two-dimensional representation of the patient's airways. By directly visualizing the airways, these providers may obtain a better 3D apprehension and an improved mental visualization of the patient's anatomy. We compared the impact of an unrestricted videolaryngoscopy use with a sequence consisting in direct visualization of the airway followed by videolaryngoscopy ("Direct Laryngoscopy-to-VideoLaryngoscopy sequence" or "DL-VL sequence") on time to intubation among novice providers. METHODS: This was a parallel group simulated randomized controlled superiority trial. Participants were medical students or junior residents with an experience of less than 10 intubations. After a presentation and workshop on direct laryngoscopy and videolaryngoscopy, participants were randomized in two groups. In the control group, participants were free to use of the videolaryngoscope as they intended. In the other group (DL-VL sequence), participants were told to perform an initial direct laryngoscopy without looking at the video screen until they reached the epiglottis. All intubations were conducted in a simulated prehospital environment, with a high-fidelity manikin placed supine on the floor. Each participant performed three intubations of increasing levels of difficulty. The primary outcome was the time to intubation. Secondary outcomes included first-pass success, time to ventilation, and number of intubation attempts. The chi-squared test was used to compare categorical variables while the t-test was used to compare continuous variables. RESULTS: Time to intubation was shorter in the control group (22+/-8 s vs. 27+/-11 s, p < 0.001). This difference was consistent in all levels of difficulties. First-pass success rates were similar (99/111, 89% in the control group vs. 85/105, 81%, p = 0.089). Time to ventilation was significantly shorter in the control group (37+/-9 vs. 41+/-11 s, p = 0.008). The mean number of intubation attempts was similar between groups (p = 0.231). CONCLUSION: In this simulated study among novice providers, direct airway visualization prior to videolaryngoscopy did not improve time to intubation or to ventilation. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, Registration Number: NCT06918717, registered on April 8th, 2025. Retrospectively registered.
    Tags: (Registration number Req-2023-00073, February 9th, 2023). All experiments and, *Emergency Medical Services/methods, *Intubation, Intratracheal/methods, *Laryngoscopy/methods, 810.30), a clarification of responsibility and all experimental protocols were, Adult, Advanced airway management, After creating an account on a specifically designed online platform (, applicable. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests., Clinical Competence, committee confirmed that no further review by an ethics committee was required, d'Ethique de la Recherche sur l'etre humain - CCER - Geneva, Switzerland). This, Direct laryngoscopy, Female, https://airways.online-studies.net/ ) designed using the Joomla 5 content, Humans, including data use and protection policy. Informed consent was obtained from all, Internship and Residency, Male, management system, participants were given detailed information about the study,, Manikins, methods were performed in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations., not fall within the scope of the Swiss Federal Human Research Act (HRA, RS, Prehospital, subjects before being included in the study. Consent for publication: Not, submitted and approved by the regional ethics committee (Commission Cantonale, Tracheal intubation, Video Recording, Videolaryngoscopy.
  • Benhamou, J., Nieves-Ortega, R., Nickel, C. H., Lampart, A., Kuster, T., Balestra, G. M., Rosin, C., Becker, C., Lippay, K., and Bingisser, R. “Human Neutrophil Lipocalin, Procalcitonin, C-Reactive Protein, And Leucocyte Count For Prediction Of Bacterial Sepsis In Emergency Department Patients”. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 33, no. 1: 112. doi:10.1186/s13049-025-01429-9.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: Delayed identification of bacterial sepsis undermines the initiation of antibiotic and other time-sensitive treatments in the emergency department (ED). We aimed to investigate the performance of human-neutrophil lipocalin (HNL), procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein (CRP), and leucocyte count in conjunction with clinical scores for the early prediction of bacterial sepsis. METHODS: Patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with a suspected infection and a national early warning score (NEWS) >/= 2 at triage were screened for eligibility. The study biomarkers were measured at ED presentation. The primary outcome was bacterial sepsis, defined as an acute bacterial infection and an increase of >/= 2 points in the sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score (Sepsis-3 criteria). The diagnostic accuracy of the biomarkers for bacterial sepsis was calculated using receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis and its area under the curve (AUC) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS: In total, we included 421 patients, of whom 155 (36.8%) had bacterial sepsis. For the prediction of bacterial sepsis, PCT outperformed the other biomarkers with an AUC (95% CI) of 0.77 (0.72-0.82), compared to HNL 0.72 (0.67-0.77), CRP 0.71 (0.66-0.76), and leucocyte count 0.64 (0.59-0.70). A combination of serum HNL with NEWS and SOFA at presentation had the best predictive value for bacterial sepsis at 48 h after ED presentation (AUC 0.83). CONCLUSION: Our findings do not support the routine use of serum HNL as a tool in the prediction of bacterial sepsis in patients presenting to the ED. A combination of biomarkers (serum HNL or CRP plus leucocytes) with NEWS and SOFA at presentation outperformed inflammatory biomarkers used individually in the prediction of bacterial sepsis.
    Tags: *Bacterial Infections/blood/diagnosis, *C-Reactive Protein/metabolism/analysis, *Emergency Service, Hospital, *Lipocalin-2/blood, *Procalcitonin/blood, *Sepsis/blood/diagnosis/microbiology, Aged, an emergency physician unrelated to the study could provide a surrogate consent., Bacterial sepsis, Biomarkers, Biomarkers/blood, C-reactive protein, committee approved the study protocol (2017-00092, www.eknz.ch ). Participants, Consent for publication: Not applicable. Competing interests: The authors declare, Emergency medicine, Female, Human neutrophil Lipocalin, Humans, Leukocyte Count, Male, Middle Aged, no competing interests., Predictive Value of Tests, Procalcitonin, Prospective Studies, provided written informed consent. For participants unable to consent, a proxy or, ROC Curve.
  • Schöne, Laurin, Klukowska-Rötzler, Jolanta, Exadaktylos, Aristomenis K., Olariu, Radu, Vögelin, Esther, and Rothenfluh, Esin. “Epidemiology And Characteristics Of Hand Burns: A 12-Year Retrospective Analysis At A University Hospital”. Burns Open 11. doi:10.1016/j.burnso.2025.100413.
    Abstract: The purpose of this study was to assess epidemiological features and injury characteristics of hand burn injuries based on a retrospective data collection from 2012 to 2023 at a maximum care University Hospital. 1809 burn injuries were registered in the Emergency Department of the Hospital, including 538 chemical burns to the eye. Deducting the latter of the total number, 24 % affected the hand as an isolated burn and 37 % as a combined burn injury. 43 % of all hand burns (combined and isolated) were female and 57 % were male. The age group from 20 to 29 years was significantly most affected. 21 % of hand burns happened at work, with 80 % of them being male. The most prevalent cause was contact (24 %), at home and at work. 84 % of all hand burns were treated non operatively and did not cause high costs. In general, there has been a decrease of burn injuries worldwide, but we did not recognize a declining trend of hand burns, some of them related to work. Most patients with hand burns present with mild degrees, but particularly work-related hand burns can be more severe with long term sequelae. The study highlights the importance of prevention programs and initiatives.
    Tags: Accident Prevention, Adult, Aged, Article, Asphalt, Burns, Chemical Burn, Child, Clinical Feature, Conservative Treatment, Controlled Study, Debridement, Electric Burn, Emergency Ward, Epidemiology, Explosion, Eye Burn, Female, Fire, First Degree Burn, Friction, Groups By Age, Hand Burn, Hand Burn Severity Score, Hand Burns, Hand Injuries, Home, Hospital Admission, Hospitalization Cost, Human, Injury Severity, Length Of Stay, Major Clinical Study, Male, Middle Aged, Occupational Accident, Oil, Population Research, Prevalence, Prevention, Retrospective Study, Scald, Seasonal Variation, Skin Transplantation, Third Degree Burn, University Hospital, Very Elderly, Water Vapor, Wax.
  • Pluta, M. P., Darocha, T., Hymczak, H., Witt-Majchrzak, A., Nowak, E., Mendrala, K., Barteczko-Grajek, B., et al. “Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation In Hypothermic Cardiac Arrest: Severe Hypoglycemia Does Not Preclude Survival With Good Neurologic Outcome”. J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 39, no. 11: 3038-3043. doi:10.1053/j.jvca.2025.06.006.
    Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Prolonged hypoglycemia can cause irreversible brain damage. Clinicians may thus be reluctant to initiate extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation in hypothermic cardiac arrest patients with severe hypoglycemia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the survival rate with good neurologic outcomes of patients with hypothermic cardiac arrest and severe hypoglycemia. DESIGN: Retrospective study. SETTING: Multicenter study based on data from the HELP Registry. PARTICIPANTS: Adult victims of accidental hypothermia with a core temperature </=28 degrees C and cardiac arrest who had undergone extracorporeal rewarming between January 2014 and June 2024 were included in the study. INTERVENTIONS: Patients with initial blood glucose concentration <3 mmol/L (<54 mg/dL) (severe hypoglycemia) were compared with those with glucose level >/=3 mmol/L (>/=54 mg/dL). Survival to hospital discharge with favorable neurologic outcome was considered the primary outcome. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: The study population consisted of 127 patients, of whom 21 (17%) presented with glucose concentration <3 mmol/L (<54 mg/dL) on admission to the hospital. By hospital discharge, 8 of 21 patients (38%) with severe hypoglycemia had survived in good neurologic condition. The lowest blood glucose level in a patient who survived without neurologic deficit was 0.9 mmol/L (16 mg/dL). There was no statistically significant difference in survival rates between patients with and without severe hypoglycemia (38% v 43%, p = 0.7). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with hypothermic cardiac arrest, severe hypoglycemia on admission to the hospital does not rule out survival with good neurologic outcomes after extracorporeal rewarming.
    Tags: *Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation/methods/trends/mortality, *Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation/methods/trends, *Heart Arrest/therapy/mortality, *Hypoglycemia/mortality/complications/diagnosis, *Hypothermia/complications/therapy/mortality, accidental hypothermia, Adult, Aged, brain injury, cardiac arrest, competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared, extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation, Female, Humans, hypoglycemia, Male, Middle Aged, Nervous System Diseases/etiology, Retrospective Studies, Rewarming/methods, Severity of Illness Index, Survival Rate/trends, to influence the work reported in this paper., Treatment Outcome.
  • Gloor, S., Quante, M., Lehmann, B., and Schnuriger, B. “Breaking The Silence: Communication Failures Are The Leading Errors Identified In 10-Years Of Trauma Morbidity And Mortality Conferences”. Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg 51, no. 1: 242. doi:10.1007/s00068-025-02913-8.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: Despite global efforts to reduce trauma-related morbidity and mortality, diagnostic and therapeutic errors occur due to the urgency and complexity of care. Trauma morbidity and mortality (Trauma M&M) conferences aim to identify and address such errors to improve clinical outcomes. While most existing data on Trauma M&M conferences originate from the US, insights from Western Europe remain scarce. METHODS: This single-center, retrospective case series analyzed trauma patients discussed at the monthly Trauma M&M at a Swiss Level I trauma center over 10 years (2013-2022). Data were collected from Trauma M&M records and electronic medical charts, including demographics, injury characteristics, timelines, and documented errors. A novel error categorization system was developed, encompassing communication, skill/knowledge deficits, delays, missed injuries, and deviations from algorithms. RESULTS: Out of 198 trauma cases reviewed, 189 with complete data were further analyzed. The median Injury Severity Score was 32 (IQR 25-43). Of these patients, 77% died within 90 days. A total of 130 potential errors were identified, with communication errors (n = 29) being the most frequent, followed by skill/knowledge deficits (n = 24) and procedural delays (n = 19). Communication errors often triggered subsequent errors, such as missed diagnoses, under-triage, and deviations from protocols. Discussions during the Trauma M&M led to the introduction or refinement of clinical algorithms, including updates to triage protocols. CONCLUSION: Communication errors emerged as the leading cause of errors in trauma care, highlighting the need for focused communication training. The Trauma M&M serves as an essential platform for interdisciplinary collaboration, quality improvement, and education. Future research should explore the ripple effects of communication errors and evaluate targeted interventions to optimize trauma care systems.
    Tags: Education, Medical errors, Morbidity, Mortality, Wounds and injuries.
  • Von Rhein, Michael, Krayenbühl, Niklaus, Meyer-Heim, Andreas, Manzano, Sergio, Gualco, Gianluca, Gualtieri, Renato, Romano, Fabrizio, Mack, Alexander, Hauser-Angst, Larissa, and Seiler, Michelle. “High Data Retrieval Rates With Swisspeddata For Paediatric Traumatic Brain Injuries In Children’s Hospitals: A Multicentre, Point-Prevalence Study”. Swiss Medical Weekly 155, no. 6. doi:10.57187/s.4065.
    Abstract: STUDY AIMS: SwissPedNet aims to improve the quality of multicentre research through standardised documentation of routine healthcare data. Therefore, SwissPedDa-ta was developed as a set of defined common data elements to be documented in each electronic patient file in a standardised format. This study evaluates the prepared-ness of the ten SwissPedNet hospitals for SwissPedDa-ta before its nationwide implementation, focusing on: (a) whether the defined common data elements are effectively documented and can be retrieved for children presenting with traumatic brain injuries to paediatric emergency departments, and (b) analysis of the content of these common data elements to assess how children with traumatic brain injuries are treated in paediatric emergency departments across Switzerland. METHODS: This multicentre point-prevalence study, con-ducted in June 2023, included all children up to 16 years presenting with traumatic brain injuries to ten SwissPed-Net paediatric emergency departments over one calendar week. To assess the documentation of common data elements, a questionnaire was developed, consisting of 21 common data elements defined by SwissPedData, covering patient demographics, accident details, symptoms, paediatric emergency department course, and if applicable, inpatient course. Each hub retrospectively collected data from the electronic health records of all traumatic brain injury patients during the specified week. The primary objective was to assess the rate of successful data retrieval, defined as the presence of documented information for specific common data elements. Data were classified as missing if no information regarding a specific common data element was found in the electronic health record. The retrieval rate of each common data element was evaluated, and the average time investment per patient was recorded to estimate the associated workload. The secondary objectives focused on the content of the compiled common data element information, assessing causes and symptoms of traumatic brain injuries and injury severity and comparing management procedures for traumatic brain injury patients across Switzerland. Logistic regression was used to assess associations between specific patient characteristics (e.g. symptoms), the probability of having computed tomography (CT) scans in paediatric emergency departments, and the rate of hospitalisations. RESULTS: During the study period, a total of 349 children with traumatic brain injury were treated; the median age was 4.0 years (interquartile range [IQR] 2.0–7.5 years). Data retrieval rates exceeded 90% for each common data element; specifically, common data elements with numeric information were extracted in 98.3% to 100% of cases, while those with standardised options or free-text entries had a retrieval rate of 91.7% to 100%. However, data on written discharge information were available for only 51.2% of outpatients and 53.3% of inpatients, with significant variability among hospitals. Data collection efforts varied among the ten participating hubs, with an average time investment per patient ranging from 0.5 to 2 hours and limited involvement of information technology (IT) departments. The prevalence of traumatic brain injury patients at the paediatric emergency departments was 6% (range: 3% to 11.5%), with most traumatic brain injuries occurring at home (48%) or on playgrounds (18.9%). The primary trauma mechanism was a fall (56.5%), usually from a height of less than 1 metre. Most patients (99.1%) had a normal Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). CT scans were performed in ten cases in the paediatric emergency departments, revealing pathologies in four cases, and resulting in neurosurgical intervention in one case. Factors associated with undergoing a CT scan or being hospi-talised included lower triage category numbers and loss of consciousness. CONCLUSIONS: Common data elements are conscientiously documented within clinical information systems for patients with traumatic brain injuries in paediatric emergency departments, but data extraction require consider-able time and effort, underscoring the need for additional technical support. Although traumatic brain injuries are a common reason for paediatric emergency department vis-its, they are generally mild in severity. Although Switzerland has no national guidelines for treating children with traumatic brain injuries, management practices, particularly the low rate of CT scans in children with traumatic brain injury and normal GCS, appear to be fairly consistent across hospitals. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.
    Tags: Accident, Anticoagulant Agent, Article, Built Environment, Child, Clinical Feature, Clinical Research, Cohort Analysis, Computer Assisted Tomography, Data Quality, Demographics, Disease Course, Documentation, Electronic Medical Record, Emergency Ward, Female, Glasgow Coma Scale, Health Care Planning, Health Data, Home Accident, Hospital Care, Hospital Discharge, Hospital Patient, Hospitalization, Human, Information Retrieval, Information Technology, Logistic Regression Analysis, Major Clinical Study, Male, Medical Information System, Pediatric Hospital, Pediatric Patient, Pediatrics, Playground, Point Prevalence, Preschool Child, Questionnaire, Retrospective Study, Standardization, Switzerland, Symptom, Traumatic Brain Injury, Workload.
  • Unlu, L., Margenfeld, F., Zendehdel, A., Griese, J. A., Poilliot, A., Muller-Gerbl, M., Nickel, C. H., and Dedic, M. “Ultrasound-Guided Emergency Pericardiocentesis Simulation On Human Cadavers: A Scoping Review”. West J Emerg Med 26, no. 3: 685-691. doi:10.5811/westjem.39696.
    Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Emergency pericardiocentesis is a critical but infrequently performed procedure in emergency medicine, necessitating effective training modalities for emergency physicians. In this scoping review we aimed to identify existing literature on simulation of ultrasound-guided pericardiocentesis in human cadavers. METHODS: We carried out a scoping review based on a search on the use of sonography on human cadavers. The following databases were searched: MEDLINE; EMBASE; CENTRAL; BIOSIS Previews; and Web of Science Core Collection. Additionally, we performed a gray literature search. Title and abstract screening were done by a single reviewer, and full-text review was performed by two independent reviewers. Studies included were limited to those published in English or German, focusing specifically on ultrasound-guided pericardiocentesis training models in human cadavers, with no restrictions on publication year or outcomes. RESULTS: Our search strategy yielded 9,821 publications and 1,440 reports were assessed for eligibility. Ultimately, four studies met the inclusion criteria. All were conducted in the USA; two used soft-embalmed cadavers, one reported using fresh frozen cadavers, and one did not specify the cadaver type used. All studies accessed the pericardial sac using large-bore catheters or peripheral lines, filling it with (colored) water for simulation. CONCLUSIONS: Evidence on ultrasound-guided emergency pericardiocentesis simulation on human cadavers remains limited, but based on the four studies we reviewed human cadavers could be used for (emergency) pericardiocentesis simulation.
    Tags: *Emergency Medicine/education, *Pericardiocentesis/methods/education, *Simulation Training/methods, *Ultrasonography, Interventional/methods, Cadaver, Humans.
  • Starvaggi, C. A., Affentranger, S., Lengeler, N., Siebert, J. N., Galetto-Lacour, A., Tan, R., Jaboyedoff, M., Kuehni, C. E., Hartley, M. A., and Keitel, K. “Infokids+: A Validation Study Of A Pediatric Acuity Risk Stratification Algorithm”. Mayo Clin Proc Digit Health 3, no. 2: 100220. doi:10.1016/j.mcpdig.2025.100220.
    Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To prospectively validate InfoKids+, a pediatric acuity electronic risk stratification algorithm (eRSA), against a nurse-based triage standard (nbTS). PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: We conducted a prospective validation study in a Swiss university hospital pediatric emergency department to assess the performance of a pediatric acuity eRSA, InfoKids+, on the basis of a well-established parental guidance application, InfoKids. Participants completed the eRSA once seated in a consultation booth. We compared the acuity levels from InfoKids+ (urgent, <4 hours; nonurgent, <24 hours; and no emergency, >/=24 hours) against an nbTS. The primary outcome was the level of agreement and rate of alignment between InfoKids+ and the reference standard. RESULTS: We included 1990 participants from June 3, 2020, through January 31, 2022. InfoKids+ showed a slight level of agreement with the nbTS (kappa(lw)=0.08; 95% CI, 0.06-0.10). InfoKids+ triaged 1762 (89%) cases as urgent (<4 hours), 106 (5%) as nonurgent (</=24 hours), and 122 (6%) as no emergency (>/=24 hours), compared with 810 (41%), 843 (42%), and 337 (17%) triages by the nbTS, respectively (P<.001). InfoKids+ acuity level aligned with the reference standard in 888 (45%) cases, whereas it overreferred and underreferred in 999 (50%) and 103 (5%) cases, respectively (P<.001). CONCLUSION: In summary, our study uncovered notable discrepancies between the InfoKids+ algorithmic triage and conventional nurse-based triage. Our results highlight the critical need for rigorous validation of such tools for accuracy and safety before public release to ensure these tools are beneficial and do not inadvertently cause harm or misallocation of resources.
  • Simma, L., Schmid, R., Drack, F., and Fontana, S. “Faster Diagnosis, Smarter Care? Point Of Care Ultrasound For Pediatric Sternal Fractures Secondary To Indirect Trauma: A Case Series”. J Ultrasound. doi:10.1007/s40477-025-01043-6.
    Abstract: This multisite case series examines the role of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in diagnosing isolated sternal fractures in pediatric patients following indirect trauma. While traditionally linked to high-impact injuries and major trauma, these fractures can also occur in children participating in leisure activities like trampoline jumping. We aim to highlight POCUS as a rapid, radiation-free alternative to traditional imaging. We included pediatric patients presenting with acute chest pain after indirect trauma at three clinical sites in Switzerland. POCUS was performed by trained physicians to detect cortical discontinuity, confirming sternal fractures. Patients were managed conservatively and followed up by phone. Eleven children (median age: 11 years) were diagnosed with isolated sternal fractures, with the majority involving hyperflexion injuries. None had external signs of trauma. POCUS swiftly identified fractures, enabling immediate diagnosis without additional imaging. All patients recovered fully with conservative management, and no repeat visits or complications were reported. POCUS could be an effective, non-invasive tool for diagnosing pediatric sternal fractures following indirect trauma. It may facilitate rapid evaluation, avoid unnecessary imaging, and may streamline management, making it a valuable first-line diagnostic modality in pediatric emergency care.
    Tags: accordance with the requirements expressed in the Declaration of Helsinki (8th, Association of Pediatric Ultrasound. SF is POCUS course director for the Swiss, Association of Pediatric Ultrasound. The other authors have no conflict of, Chest pain, Child, Emergency department, Indirect trauma, informed consent to publication and the use of the ultrasound images., interest to declare. Ethical approval: This work has been carried out in, Point-of-care ultrasound, Revision, 75th Meeting, Helsinki, 2024) as well as the current legislation in, Sternal fracture, Switzerland regarding case reports. Consent to publish: All guardians gave.
  • Dunser, M. W., Behringer, W., and Critical Care in Emergency Medicine Interest, Group. “Reply Of The Authors: "Emergency Critical Care - Life-Saving Critical Care Before Icu Admission: A Consensus Statement Of A Group Of European Experts"”. J Crit Care 89: 155148. doi:10.1016/j.jcrc.2025.155148.
    Tags: Belgium, bleeding, burn, critical illness, critically ill patient, emergency care, emergency critical care, emergency ward, heart arrest, hospital admission, human, injury, intensive care, intensive care unit, Letter, morbidity, mortality, opioid poisoning, patient care, resuscitation, thorax pain.
  • Pietsch, U., Muller, M., Hautz, W. E., Jakob, D. A., and Knapp, J. “The Importance Of Normocapnia In Patients With Severe Traumatic Brain Injury In Prehospital Emergency Medicine”. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open 6, no. 4: 100193. doi:10.1016/j.acepjo.2025.100193.
    Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Optimal management of cerebral perfusion and intracranial pressure already at the prehospital setting can have a positive influence on the outcome of these patients. Both target values are influenced by the arterial PaCO(2). We investigated the association between PaCO(2) immediately on hospital admission and mortality of patients with severe TBI. METHODS: This study conducted a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from trauma patients who were admitted to 2 Swiss level 1 trauma centers with severe TBI between 2017 and 2022 that were selected from the hospitals' databases. Relationship between PaCO(2) obtained from arterial blood gas analysis (aBGA) immediately on hospital admission and 28-day mortality was examined by multivariable logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Of the 866 eligible patients, we observed an association between PaCO(2) and 28-day mortality, with mortality increasing at values above 35 mm Hg. CONCLUSION: A target PaCO(2) in the lower normal range as early as in the prehospital phase of treatment of patients with severe TBI seems to be associated with a reduced overall 28-day mortality. Our results support the need for a randomized controlled trial of aBGA-guided ventilation in TBI patients in the prehospital setting.
    Tags: hypocapnia, normocapnia, outcome, prehospital, target ventilation, traumatic brain injury.
  • Beil, M., Alberto, L., Bourne, R. S., Brummel, N. E., de Groot, B., de Lange, D. W., Elbers, P., et al. “Correction: Esicm Consensus-Based Recommendations For The Management Of Very Old Patients In Intensive Care”. Intensive Care Med 51, no. 7: 1412-1413. doi:10.1007/s00134-025-07881-6.
    Abstract: When this article was first published, part of the first paragraph was italicized by mistake in the PDF version of the article. Also, the affiliations did contain information about the ESICM sections and groups that were not related to these affiliations. For clarity the acknowledgement section now displays the list of members of ESICM Sections and Groups who contributed to the article. Furthermore, Tables 2 and 4 suffered a typeset error which hinders comprehension. They have now been updated with a clear divide between consensus statements and checklist items. Authors are not responsible of these errors introduced during the publishing process. The original article has been updated. © Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2025.
    Tags: drug dose, drug therapy, erratum, human, surgery.
  • Pradhan, S. K., Furian, M., Todeschini, G., Schurer, Q., Wang, X., Chen, B., Li, Y., and Gantenbein, A. R. “Daith Piercing, A Social Media Hype On Youtube For The Treatment Of Migraine? A Systematic Video Analysis”. Health Sci Rep 8, no. 6: e70880. doi:10.1002/hsr2.70880.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Nowadays, the social media video-sharing website YouTube is globally accessible and used for sharing news and information. It also serves as a tool for migraine sufferers seeking guidance about Daith piercing (DP) as a potential migraine treatment; however, shared and disseminated video content is rarely regulated and does not follow evidence-based medicine. This study aims to investigate the content, quality, and reliability of YouTube videos on DP for the treatment of migraine. METHODS: YouTube videos were systematically searched from the video portal inception until 17th January 2024. "Daith piercing" AND "migraine" were the applied search terms. The primary outcome of interest was assessing the Global Quality Scale (GQS) and DISCERN to evaluate each video blog's quality, flow, and reliability. Secondary outcomes included the relapse time of migraine after DP, and further outcomes related to DP. RESULTS: In the final analysis, 246 videos were included (N = 69 categorized as Personal Experience; N = 176 as Others, defined as videos from bloggers, piercers, or other persons; and N = 1 as Healthcare Professionals). The GQS rating in the category Personal Experience revealed that the quality of 50.7% of videos was very poor; 29.0% poor; 11.6% moderate, and 8.7% good. In the category Others, GQS rating showed that the quality of 60.8% of videos was very poor; 25.6% poor; 11.9% moderate, and 1.7% good. The one video in the category Healthcare Professionals was rated "poor quality". Ratings applying the DISCERN tool were comparable. Overall, 111 (45.1%) videos recommended and 14 (5.7%) discouraged DP for migraine relief. CONCLUSION: Based on the GQS and DISCERN scores, the information, usefulness, and accuracy of most YouTube content on DP for migraine treatment are generally of poor quality and reliability. The lack of high-quality and reliable videos might expose users to potentially misleading information and dissemination of unproven medical interventions.
    Tags: acupuncture, analysis., complementary and alternative medicine, headache disorders, migraine piercing, pain, Pradhan had full access to all of the data in this study and takes complete, responsibility for the integrity of the data and the accuracy of the data, YouTube.
  • Hejrati, N., Stengel, F. C., Fehlings, M. G., Maschmann, C., Stienen, M. N., Jensen, K. O., and Swiss Trauma, Registry. “Spinal Cord Injury In Severely Injured Patients: Results From The Swiss Trauma Registry”. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 33, no. 1: 103. doi:10.1186/s13049-025-01420-4.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Traumatic spinal cord injuries (SCIs) in the context of severe trauma are rare, and patient demographics are infrequently reported. This study aimed to assess patient demographics in acute traumatic SCI in the context of severe injuries in Switzerland and to evaluate differences in demographics and outcomes stratified by timing of surgery. METHODS: We analyzed data from the Swiss Trauma Registry (STR) from 2015 to 2024. The STR includes patients with major trauma (injury severity score [ISS] >/= 16 and/or abbreviated injury scale [AIS] head >/= 3) admitted to any level-one trauma centre in Switzerland. We evaluated patient characteristics, complications, and hospital outcomes, which were further stratified by early (< 24 h) and late (>/= 24 h) surgery. RESULTS: Among 24,328 patients, 6,819 (28%) sustained spinal injuries, and 383 (1.6%) had a concurrent SCI with an incidence of 0.44 cases per 100'000 inhabitants. The median age was 52 years (IQR 31-70) and 73.6% were male. The primary causes were falls (63.1%) and road traffic accidents (29.6%). The in-hospital mortality rate was 4.7%. Late surgery patients more often had concomitant moderate or severe traumatic brain injuries (31% vs. 14%, p = 0.009) and were more likely to have no fractures or dislocations of the spine (22.8% versus 6.8%, p = 0.001). Patients who underwent early surgery had shorter hospital stays (9d [5-16], versus 16 d [9-24]; F = 13.92, p < 0.001). Late surgery was associated with a higher likelihood of developing two and more complications (OR 2.57, 95% CI 1.18-5.63, p = 0.018), including urinary tract infections (OR 12.13, 95% CI 2.76-53.41, p = 0.001) and multiple organ failure (OR 12.99, 95% CI 1.64-102.83, p = 0.015). CONCLUSIONS: This study offers insights into the characteristics and outcomes of acute SCI care in severely injured patients. Despite its low incidence, the acute management of this patient population remains highly challenging. Our findings suggest early stabilization of spinal injuries in severely injured patients may reduce hospital stays and complications.
    Tags: article, human, register, spinal cord injury.
  • Schuetz, P. “A Key Step Toward Gaining A Deeper Understanding Of Individual Responses To Protein Supplementation”. Am J Clin Nutr 122, no. 2: 375-376. doi:10.1016/j.ajcnut.2025.05.030.
  • Pfortmueller, C. A., Hahn, M., Eggimann, A., Rodemund, N., Kokoefer, A., Lindner, G., Schefold, J. C., and Waskowski, J. “Long-Term Mortality After Stage 1 Acute Kidney Injury In Critically Ill Patients - An Observational Cohort Study”. J Crit Care 89: 155130. doi:10.1016/j.jcrc.2025.155130.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is prevalent in intensive care units (ICU) and is linked with increased mortality. The Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines define AKI using serum creatinine and urinary output criteria. While moderate and severe AKI according the creatinine criterion correlate with increased mortality, the significance of stage 1 AKI remains debated. METHODS: Retrospective cohort analysis from two tertiary care centres in Switzerland and Austria (2013-2021) to investigate the association between stage 1 AKI (KDIGO creatinine criterion) in the first seven days after ICU admission and one-year mortality in adult ICU patients. Data were extracted using standardized protocols. Baseline creatinine was determined using estimation formulas. We applied multivariable regression models adjusted for key confounders and conducted sensitivity analyses. RESULTS: Of 42,446 patients, 4667 (11 %) developed stage 1 AKI, 13 % (n = 5449) moderate/ severe AKI and 32,330 patients no AKI (76 %). Stage 1 AKI associates with one-year mortality (OR 1.6 [95 %CI 1.48; 1.73], p < 0.001) and increases length of stay in ICU (beta 1.4 [95 %CI 1.2; 1.5], p < 0.001) and hospital (beta 2.7 [95 %CI 2.1; 3.2], p < 0.001). In subgroup-analyses, we observed similar associations in patients with surgery (OR 1.66 [95 %CI 1.45;1.89], p < 0.001) and without surgery (OR 1.61 [95 %CI 1.46;1.78], p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Stage 1 AKI is associated with 1-year mortality in adult ICU patients even in steps below 26.5 mumol/L. This highlights the prognostic significance of subclinical renal injury and underlines the need for increased efforts to diagnose AKI in its full spectrum. The analysis is limited by basing the AKI diagnosis on creatinine criterion.
    Tags: *Acute Kidney Injury/mortality, *Critical Illness/mortality, Abbott AG, Anandic Medical Systems, Pan Gas AG Healthcare, Bracco, Hamilton, Acute kidney injury, Aged, Aki, Astellas, Astra Zeneca, CSL Behring, Novartis, Covidien, Phagenesis Ltd., and, Austria/epidemiology, Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG). NR and AE reports no conflict of, Clinical Research AG, Nestle, Pierre Fabre Pharma AG, Pfizer, Bard Medica S.A.,, Creatinine/blood, Critically ill, Daiichi-Sankyo, Bayer Pharmaceuticals. AK is currently receiving funding from the, Female, GmbH, Glaxo Smith Kline, Merck Sharp and Dohme AG, Eli Lilly and Company, Baxter,, Hospital Mortality, Humans, Intensive Care Units/statistics & numerical data, interest., Kdigo, Kidney diseases, Length of Stay/statistics & numerical data, Lifesciences Services GmbH, Kenta Biotech Ltd., Maquet Critical Care AB, Omnicare, Male, Medical AG, Fresenius Kabi, Getinge Group Maquet AG, Drager AG, Teleflex Medical, Middle Aged, Mortality, no personal financial gain applied. GL received honoraria from Otsuka Pharma,, Nycomed outside the submitted work. The money was paid into departmental funds, Pharma, Abbott Nutrition International, B. Braun Medical AG, CSEM AG, Edwards, Retrospective Studies, Severity of Illness Index, Switzerland/epidemiology.
  • Klocker, E., Wienandts, L., Josi, D., Rauch, S., Albrecht, R., Knapp, J., and Pietsch, U. “High-Altitude Hems Missions-A Retrospective Analysis Of 3,564 Air Rescue Missions Conducted Between 2011 And 2021”. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 33, no. 1: 97. doi:10.1186/s13049-025-01419-x.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: Mountain sport activities are being practiced by an increasing number of people: The number of tourists visiting altitudes greater than 2,500 m above sea level in the Alps has been estimated at around 40 million people per year. For this reason, however, the number of emergencies in remote areas, which can be reached most rapidly by helicopter, has also increased. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed all rescue missions conducted by the Swiss Air Ambulance (Rega) in the period 2011-2021 that were carried out at an altitude of more than 2,500 m above sea level. Demographic and epidemiological data, medical measures implemented on scene, and the on-scene time were then analyzed for both trauma and non-trauma patients. Patients were categorized based on the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) score into non-injured (NACA 0), minor injured (NACA 0-3), seriously injured (NACA 4-6), deceased during mission (NACA 7), and already deceased on arrival of the HEMS team. RESULTS: A total of 3,564 rescue missions were analyzed. Of the patients, 66.8% were male and the vast majority (88.4%) were adults. In terms of injury level, 88.1% of the patients were minor injured, with an NACA score of 0-3, while 9.4% were seriously injured, with a score of 4-6. Patients who died in scene (NACA 7) accounted for 2.5% of cases. We observed a significant increase in the number of minor injured patients with traumatic injuries over the period of observation. Factors that significantly influenced the on-scene time included the NACA score, hoist missions, and traumatic injuries in summer. CONCLUSION: Over the last ten years, the number of HEMS missions conducted at more than 2,500 m above sea level with non-injured and slightly injured patients has increased. The large number of HEMS missions with uninjured patients are of a preventive nature. Only around 9% of all rescue missions involved the medical treatment and rescue of seriously injured patients who required advanced medical interventions. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Ethics approval and consent to participate BASEC Nr. Req202200189.
    Tags: *Air Ambulances/statistics & numerical data, *Altitude, *Mountaineering/injuries, *Rescue Work/statistics & numerical data, *Wounds and Injuries/epidemiology/therapy, Adolescent, Adult, Aged, Alpine rescue, authors declare no competing interests., Female, Hems, High altitude, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Mountain medicine, On-scene time, Req-2022-00189. Consent for publication: Not applicable. Competing interests: The, Retrospective Studies, Switzerland/epidemiology.
  • Kuhnen, S. C., Muller, M., Schmeling, A., Zech, W. D., Klaus, J. B., Lombardo, P., Ith, M., Egli, R. J., and Ruder, T. D. “Ct Of The Medial Clavicular Epiphysis For Forensic Age Estimation - Raised Arms Position Recommended”. Int J Legal Med 139, no. 5: 2339-2349. doi:10.1007/s00414-025-03521-2.
    Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To compare the effect of arm positioning on radiation dose, scan length, and image noise in computed tomography (CT) scans of the medial clavicular epiphysis for forensic age estimation performed with the arms alongside the body (arms-down) versus elevated above the head (arms-up). METHODS: Twenty consecutive CT scans were analysed, ten performed with arms-down and ten with arms-up. The scans were conducted at 120 kVp and 37 mAs reference tube current. Scan length extended from 10 mm above to 10 mm below the medial clavicular epiphysis. Dose-relevant parameters (effective CT tube current, volume CT dose index (CTDIvol), CT dose length product (DLP), and effective dose) as well as scan length and image noise were compared between arms-up and arms-down CT scans. RESULTS: Population characteristics: 19 males, 1 female; mean weight 65.8 +/- 9.2 kg; height 174.6 +/- 7.8 cm; and body mass index (BMI) 21.6 +/- 2.5 kg/m(2). Dose-relevant parameters were significantly lower with arms-up compared to arms-down (effective tube current: 80.9 +/- 21.7 mAs vs. 146.0 +/- 47.5 mAs, p = 0.001; CTDIvol: 5.5 +/- 1.5 mGy vs. 9.9 +/- 3.2 mGy, p = 0.001; DLP: 40.2 +/- 13.7 mGy*cm vs. 63.8 +/- 21.9 mGy*cm, p = 0.010; effective dose: 0.6 +/- 0.2 mSv vs. 0.9 +/- 0.3 mSv, p = 0.010). No significant differences were found in scan length, image noise, or population characteristics. CONCLUSIONS: Removing the arms from the CT beam path reduced radiation dose by 33% without affecting scan length or image noise. Given the importance of dose optimisation in non-medical examinations of potentially minor individuals, CT scans of the medial clavicular epiphysis should be performed with arms elevated above the head.
    Tags: *Age Determination by Skeleton/methods, *Arm, *Clavicle/diagnostic imaging, *Epiphyses/diagnostic imaging, *Patient Positioning/methods, *Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods, Adolescent, Adult, Arm positioning, Computed tomography, Female, Forensic age estimation, Humans, Male, Medial clavicular epiphysis, Middle Aged, need for informed consent was waived. Conflict of interest: The authors declare, Radiation Dosage, Radiation protection, study by the Ethics Committee of the Canton of Bern (KEK Req-2023-00390) and the, that they have no conflict of interest., Young Adult.
  • von Kanel, R., Neuner-Jehle, S., Kressig, R. W., Guessous, I., Krayenbuhl, P. A., Zimmerli, L., Angelilo-Scherer, A., et al. “Effects Of A Novel Differential Diagnosis Aid For Managing Patients With Unexplained Fatigue In Primary Care: A Prospective Randomized, Controlled, Open And Multicenter Study In Primary Care”. Bmc Prim Care 26, no. 1: 183. doi:10.1186/s12875-025-02873-3.
    Abstract: AIMS OF THE STUDY: Unexplained fatigue is a common reason for encounters in primary care. However, currently no aid orients physicians in detecting its potential causes. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the novel Fatigue Differential Diagnostic Aid (FDDA) supported clinicians in better managing unexplained fatigue. METHODS: This was a prospective, cluster-randomized, controlled, open, and multicenter study comparing the use of the FDDA vs usual care in patients with unexplained fatigue as the main reason for encounter. The primary endpoint was difference in Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) between groups at 3 months. Among pre-defined secondary endpoints were: Difference in change of PGIC between groups at 6 months; percentage of patients with fatigue reduction; mean reduction in fatigue; clinician's confidence in diagnosis; patient satisfaction with quality of care (diagnostic process and treatment); number of clinician-reported visits; number of referrals to specialists; and time until final diagnosis. RESULTS: 112 primary care practitioners (PCPs) recruited in Switzerland between 2017 to 2020 were randomly cluster-assigned to the FDDA = 57 or usual care = 55 arm. Of these, 15 (FDDA) and 22 (usual care) PCPs recruited 93 patients (FDDA: n = 40, usual care: n = 53). The achieved sample size was less than planned. There was no difference in PGIC at 3 months between groups (D = 0.06, 95%-CI: -0.41 - -0.53, p = 0.802). Among secondary endpoints, no significant differences occurred in PGIC at 6 months, nor in fatigue reduction. However, in the FDDA group, more patients reported less fatigue at 3 or 6 months (D = 18.9%, 95%-CI: -33.6 - -4.3%, p = 0.011), and increased satisfaction with treatment management at 1 month (FDDA 56.8% vs usual care 25.0%, p = 0.004) and 3 months (FDDA 64.9% vs usual care 31.0%, p = 0.003); the FDDA was also associated with higher total number of visits (median 4.0 vs 3.0, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: In this pilot study, the FDDA, a structured diagnostic aid for guiding PCPs in identifying the causes of unexplained fatigue in their patients, was not able to show a global improvement in patient outcomes despite improvements in fatigue and satisfaction with care. The evaluation of fatigue in larger-scale studies is warranted. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This trial was retrospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT05861492. Date of registration: 17th May 2023. The ethics committee of Ethikkommission Nordwest- und Zentralschweiz (EKNZ) had originally voiced the opinion that no registration was required because no drug or intervention was involved, i.e., the study was non-interventional and observational. However, the study authors felt that the study should be retrospectively registered because the FDDA could be interpreted to be an active intervention. At the time of registration, two protocol deviations occurred that are explicitly addressed in the Methods section of this manuscript. Because of the low sample size, we statistically compared "patients" instead of "comparing patients nested in doctors" (the latter was performed as an additional analysis). Thus, cluster randomization was performed, but the analysis to consider this was not feasible.
    Tags: (QualiPro Schweiz AG, Switzerland) which was the primary contact for PCPs to, *Fatigue/diagnosis/therapy/etiology, *Medically Unexplained Symptoms, *Primary Health Care, 6-month patient follow-ups by telephone. The study was overseen by an independent, accordance with the European data privacy regulation (GDPR). The study was, Adult, and Health Research, Germany) that hosted the database and carried out data and, as well as writing of the manuscript were conducted independently, and results, by a Contract Research Organization (CRO, Clinical trial, Diagnosis, Differential, Differential diagnosis, Fatigue, FDDA steering committee, no further conflicts. All authors confirm that they have, Female, general practice. The sponsor provided financial support to the study. All, have not been influenced by CSL Vifor., Humans, Male, Member of the FDDA steering committee, no further conflicts. SNJ: Member of the, Middle Aged, or competing interests related to this manuscript. The funding body took part in, participated in the study provided informed consent. Patient data were handled in, Patient relevant outcome, Patient Satisfaction, performed in line with all relevant European and national guidelines and, Primary care, procedures in this study were performed in accordance with the national ethical, project management. The CRO worked in cooperation with a Swiss field organization, Prospective Studies, provide study material and administrative support, as well as conduct the 2- and, psychosomatics, psychiatry, epidemiology, geriatrics, internal medicine, and, read BMC s guidance on competing interests and that they do not have conflicting, regulations for conducting studies with human subjects. Competing interests: RvK:, regulatory authority's requirements (approval no. 2016-01786). The study was, reviewed and approved by the ethics committee "Ethikkommission Nordwest- und, Scientific Steering Committee (the Swiss Fatigue Working Group). This Committee, standards and the Swiss Federal law on data protection (FADP) and met Swiss, Switzerland, the design of the study, however, data collection, analysis, and interpretation,, Treatment outcome, was composed of experts in the field of fatigue, with specialists in hematology,, ZEG Berlin - Center for Epidemiology, Zentralschweiz (EKNZ)" (reference N degrees 2016-01786), Switzerland. All patients who.
  • Bima, P., Lopez-Ayala, P., Koechlin, L., Morello, F., Boeddinghaus, J., Dimitrova, M., Spagnuolo, C. C., et al. “Derivation And Validation Of Esc-0/1-H Algorithm For High-Sensitivity Troponin T And I In Cancer Patients”. Jacc Adv 4, no. 6 Pt 1: 101821. doi:10.1016/j.jacadv.2025.101821.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: The diagnostic performance of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T/I (hs-cTnT/I) and the efficacy of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) 0/1-h hs-cTnT/I algorithms for the early diagnosis of non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction are lower in cancer patients. OBJECTIVES: The authors aimed to derive new cutoffs for ESC 0/1-h hs-cTnT/I algorithms optimized for use in patients with active or past cancer. METHODS: Patients presenting with suspected non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction to the emergency department enrolled in an international multicenter study were analyzed. Final diagnoses were centrally adjudicated by 2 independent cardiologists according to the fourth universal definition of myocardial infarction. External validation was performed in 2 independent cohorts. RESULTS: Among 541 eligible cancer patients, cancer-optimized ESC 0/1-h hs-cTnT cutoffs, <8 ng/L at presentation (if chest pain onset >3 hours) or <14 ng/L if 0/1 h-delta is <3 ng/L for rule-out and >/=54 ng/L or 0/1-h delta >/=4 ng/L for rule-in, increased the efficacy vs the current cutoffs from 58.6% (95% CI: 54.4-62.7) to 68.0% (95% CI: 64.0-71.8; P < 0.001). Sensitivity and specificity remained high and comparable. Similarly, among 516 eligible patients, cancer-optimized ESC 0/1-h hs-cTnI-Architect cutoffs, <7 ng/L at presentation (if chest pain onset >3 hours) or <10 ng/L if 0/1-h delta is <3 ng/L for rule-out and >/=61 ng/L or 0/1-h delta >/=5 ng/L for rule-in, increased the efficacy vs the current cutoffs from 59.3% (95% CI: 55.0-63.5) to 78.9% (95% CI: 75.2-82.2; P < 0.001). Sensitivity and specificity again remained high and comparable. Findings were confirmed in internal and external validation cohorts (n = 130 and n = 195 patients, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Cancer-optimized ESC 0/1-h hs-cTnT/I algorithm cutoffs increased efficacy maintaining high safety.
    Tags: analysis. All authors have read and approved the manuscript. The sponsors had no, and FEDER, Mapfre, Novartis, Bayer, MSD, Abbott, and Orion-Pharma, outside the, and Sphingotec, as well as speaker honoraria/consulting honoraria from Abbott,, and travel, assay was donated by the manufacturer, who had no role in the design of the, Astra Zeneca, Bayer, Boehringer Ingelheim, BMS, Osler, Novartis, Roche, Siemens,, Bando d'Eccellenza 2023 to EL) and, Basel, the University Hospital of Basel, the Division of Internal Medicine, the, Boeddinghaus, and Mueller had full access to all the data in the study and take, by the Universita degli Studi di Torino (grants MORF_RILO_21_02 and 23_03 to FM)., cancer, cardiac troponin, Cardiorentis, and Sanofi and research grants from the Spanish Ministry of Health, cutoffs, decision to submit the manuscript for publication. The authors designed the, degli Studi di Torino and Fondazione Ricerca Molinette. All other authors declare, diagnosis, Doctoral College Scholarship and received research grants from the University of, Dr Wildi reports funding from the University of Basel, the Swiss National, e-print servers., Fondazione Ricerca Molinette (Torino, Italy, Foundation (320030-231521), the Wesley Medical Research Foundation, and the, Foundation (FF23062), unrelated to the present work. Dr Lopez-Ayala has received, Foundation (P400PM_191037/1), the Prof Dr Max Cloetta Foundation, the Margarete, Foundation, the Swiss National Science Foundation, and the "Freie Akademische, from Roche Diagnostics, Abbott, and Siemens, outside the submitted work. Dr, from the Swiss National Science Foundation, the Swiss Heart Foundation, the, from the University of Torino. Dr Lupia received grant support from Universita, Gesellschaft Basel", has received a research grant from the University of Basel, the Swiss Academy of, honoraria from Quidel, paid to the institution, outside the submitted work. Dr, honoraria from Siemens Healthineers, Roche Diagnostics,, Idorsia, LSI-Medience, Roche, Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, Quidel, Siemens,, Martin-Sanchez has received speaker, advisory, or consulting fees from Novartis,, Medical Sciences, and the Gottfried and Julia Bangerter-Rhyner Foundation, as, Medtronic, Abbott, Beckman Coulter, Bayer, Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, and Orion, MSD, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Pfizer, The Medicine Company, Otsuka, Thermo Fisher,, myocardial infarction, Nestelberger has received research support from the Swiss National Science, Novartis, Ortho Clinical, Quidel, Roche, Siemens, Singulex, SpinChip, Upstream,, Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, Quidel Corporation, and Beckman Coulter, paper, and decided to publish. Drs Bima, Lopez-Ayala, Wildi, Nestelberger,, Pharma, outside the submitted work. Dr Boeddinghaus is supported by an Edinburgh, prognosis, published previously and are not being considered for publications elsewhere in, research grants from the Swiss Heart Foundation (FF20079 and FF21103) and speaker, responsibility for the integrity of the data and the accuracy of the data, role in designing or conducting the study and no role in gathering or analyzing, Science Foundation, the Swiss Heart Foundation, the University Hospital Basel,, SpinChip, and Singulex, outside the submitted work, all paid to the institution., SpinChip, and Singulex. The Turin-cancer cohort study was supported by the, study, gathered and analyzed the data, vouch for the data and analysis, wrote the, study, the analysis of the data, the preparation of the manuscript, or the, submitted work. Dr Mueller has received research support from the Swiss National, support from Edwards Lifesciences, Pronova Medical, Meril, Boston Scientific,, support from Medtronic and Cordis, all outside the submitted work. Dr Koechlin, Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences, the Gottfried and Julia Bangerter-Rhyner, that they have no conflict of interest with this study. The investigated hs-cTn, the data or writing the manuscript. The manuscript and its contents have not been, the University of Basel, Abbott, Beckman Coulter, Brahms, Idorsia, LSI-Medience,, und Walter Lichtenstein-Stiftung (3MS1038), and the University of Basel, the, University Hospital Basel, as well as speaker/consulting honoraria or research, University Hospital Basel, the University of Basel, Abbott, Beckman Coulter,, University of Queensland, all outside submitted work. Dr Morello received grants, We disclose that Dr Bima has received a research grant from the Swiss Heart, well as the "Freiwillige Akademische Gesellschaft Basel," and speaker honoraria, whole or in part in any language, including publicly accessible web sites or.
  • G. B. D. Global Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Risk Factors Collaborators,, Rautalin, I., Volovici, V., Stark, B. A., Johnson, C. O., Kaprio, J., Korja, M., et al. “Global, Regional, And National Burden Of Nontraumatic Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: The Global Burden Of Disease Study 2021”. Jama Neurol 82, no. 8: 765-87. doi:10.1001/jamaneurol.2025.1522.
    Abstract: IMPORTANCE: Nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) represents the third most common stroke type with unique etiologies, risk factors, diagnostics, and treatments. Nevertheless, epidemiological studies often cluster SAH with other stroke types leaving its distinct burden estimates obscure. OBJECTIVE: To estimate the worldwide burden of SAH. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: Based on the repeated cross-sectional Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 study, the global burden of SAH in 1990 to 2021 was estimated. Moreover, the SAH burden was compared with other diseases, and its associations with 14 individual risk factors were investigated with available data in the GBD 2021 study. The GBD study included the burden estimates of nontraumatic SAH among all ages in 204 countries and territories between 1990 and 2021. EXPOSURES: SAH and 14 modifiable risk factors. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Absolute numbers and age-standardized rates with 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs) of SAH incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) as well as risk factor-specific population attributable fractions (PAFs). RESULTS: In 2021, the global age-standardized SAH incidence was 8.3 (95% UI, 7.3-9.5), prevalence was 92.2 (95% UI, 84.1-100.6), mortality was 4.2 (95% UI, 3.7-4.8), and DALY rate was 125.2 (95% UI, 110.5-142.6) per 100 000 people. The highest burden estimates were found in Latin America, the Caribbean, Oceania, and high-income Asia Pacific. Although the absolute number of SAH cases increased, especially in regions with a low sociodemographic index, all age-standardized burden rates decreased between 1990 and 2021: the incidence by 28.8% (95% UI, 25.7%-31.6%), prevalence by 16.1% (95% UI, 14.8%-17.7%), mortality by 56.1% (95% UI, 40.7%-64.3%), and DALY rate by 54.6% (95% UI, 42.8%-61.9%). Of 300 diseases, SAH ranked as the 36th most common cause of death and 59th most common cause of DALY in the world. Of all worldwide SAH-related DALYs, 71.6% (95% UI, 63.8%-78.6%) were associated with the 14 modeled risk factors of which high systolic blood pressure (population attributable fraction [PAF] = 51.6%; 95% UI, 38.0%-62.6%) and smoking (PAF = 14.4%; 95% UI, 12.4%-16.5%) had the highest attribution. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Although the global age-standardized burden rates of SAH more than halved over the last 3 decades, SAH remained one of the most common cardiovascular and neurological causes of death and disabilities in the world, with increasing absolute case numbers. These findings suggest evidence for the potential health benefits of proactive public health planning and resource allocation toward the prevention of SAH.
    Tags: adolescent, adult, age distribution, aged, Article, Asia, Caribbean, cause of death, child, comparative study, cross-sectional study, disability-adjusted life year, disease association, female, global disease burden, high income country, human, incidence, infant, major clinical study, male, mortality, newborn, Pacific islands, public health service, resource allocation, risk factor, smoking, sociodemographics, South and Central America, subarachnoid hemorrhage, systolic hypertension.
  • Zare, I., Volovici, V., Stark, B. A., Johnson, C. O., Kaprio, J., Korja, M., Krishnamurthi, R. V., et al. “Global, Regional, And National Burden Of Nontraumatic Subarachnoid Hemorrhage The Global Burden Of Disease Study 2021”. Jama Neurology 82, no. 8: 765-787. doi:10.1001/jamaneurol.2025.1522.
    Abstract: IMPORTANCE Nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) represents the third most common stroke type with unique etiologies, risk factors, diagnostics, and treatments. Nevertheless, epidemiological studies often cluster SAH with other stroke types leaving its distinct burden estimates obscure. OBJECTIVE To estimate the worldwide burden of SAH. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Based on the repeated cross-sectional Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 study, the global burden of SAH in 1990 to 2021 was estimated. Moreover, the SAH burden was compared with other diseases, and its associations with 14 individual risk factors were investigated with available data in the GBD 2021 study. The GBD study included the burden estimates of nontraumatic SAH among all ages in 204 countries and territories between 1990 and 2021. EXPOSURES SAH and 14 modifiable risk factors. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Absolute numbers and age-standardized rates with 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs) of SAH incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) as well as risk factor-specific population attributable fractions (PAFs). RESULTS In 2021, the global age-standardized SAH incidence was 8.3 (95% UI, 7.3-9.5), prevalence was 92.2 (95% UI, 84.1-100.6), mortality was 4.2 (95% UI, 3.7-4.8), and DALY rate was 125.2 (95% UI, 110.5-142.6) per 100 000 people. The highest burden estimates were found in Latin America, the Caribbean, Oceania, and high-income Asia Pacific. Although the absolute number of SAH cases increased, especially in regions with a low sociodemographic index, all age-standardized burden rates decreased between 1990 and 2021: the incidence by 28.8% (95% UI, 25.7%-31.6%), prevalence by 16.1% (95% UI, 14.8%-17.7%), mortality by 56.1% (95% UI, 40.7%-64.3%), and DALY rate by 54.6% (95% UI, 42.8%-61.9%). Of 300 diseases, SAH ranked as the 36th most common cause of death and 59th most common cause of DALY in the world. Of all worldwide SAH-related DALYs, 71.6% (95% UI, 63.8%-78.6%) were associated with the 14 modeled risk factors of which high systolic blood pressure (population attributable fraction [PAF] = 51.6%; 95% UI, 38.0%-62.6%) and smoking (PAF = 14.4%; 95% UI, 12.4%-16.5%) had the highest attribution. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Although the global age-standardized burden rates of SAH more than halved over the last 3 decades, SAH remained one of the most common cardiovascular and neurological causes of death and disabilities in the world, with increasing absolute case numbers. These findings suggest evidence for the potential health benefits of proactive public health planning and resource allocation toward the prevention of SAH. © 2025 GBD 2021 Global Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Risk Factors Collaborators.
    Tags: adolescent, adult, age distribution, aged, Article, Asia, Caribbean, cause of death, child, comparative study, cross-sectional study, disability-adjusted life year, disease association, female, global disease burden, high income country, human, incidence, infant, major clinical study, male, mortality, newborn, Pacific islands, public health service, resource allocation, risk factor, smoking, sociodemographics, South and Central America, subarachnoid hemorrhage, systolic hypertension.
  • Rubini Gimenez, M., Koechlin, L., Lopez-Ayala, P., Spagnuolo, C., Boeddinghaus, J., Wildi, K., Nestelberger, T., et al. “Clinical Implications Of Sex-Specific Upper Reference Limits For High-Sensitivity Cardiac Troponin I In Myocardial Infarction Diagnosis”. Rev Esp Cardiol (Engl Ed) 78, no. 12: 1064-1075. doi:10.1016/j.rec.2025.05.003.
    Abstract: INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: It is unclear whether applying sex-specific rather than uniform upper reference limits (URLs) for high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) improves diagnostic equity between women and men with suspected myocardial infarction (MI). We compared the diagnostic performance of these 2 approaches. METHODS: In an international, prospective, multicenter study of patients presenting with suspected MI, the final diagnosis was centrally adjudicated twice by 2 independent cardiologists using all available information, including serial measurements of hs-cTnI-Architect, once using the uniform URL (26.2 ng/L) and once using sex-specific URLs (women: 15.6 ng/L; men: 34.2 ng/L). The primary outcome was the diagnostic performance of uniform vs sex-specific URLs at presentation for MI. RESULTS: Among 7137 eligible patients, 2434 were women (34%), median age 65 years, and 4703 were men (66%), median age 59 years. Using the uniform URL, 348 women and 880 men were adjudicated as having MI. At presentation, the sensitivity and specificity of hs-cTnI were high and similar in women (77%; 95%CI, 72-81, and 93%; 95%CI, 92-94, respectively) and men (79%; 95%CI, 77-82, and 94%; 95%CI, 93-94). Using sex-specific URLs, the sensitivity and specificity were 85% (95%CI, 81-89) and 91% (95%CI, 89-92) in women vs 74% (95%CI, 71-77), and 95% (95%CI, 94-95) in men (P<.001). Using sex-specific URLs, diagnostic reclassification occurred in 27 patients, 12 women (upgrade to MI) and 15 men (downgrade from MI), representing 0.4%, (95%CI, 0.3-0.6) of all patients. CONCLUSIONS: Using a uniform URL for hs-cTnI provides high and similar diagnostic sensitivity and specificity in women and men. Contrary to expectations, sex-specific URLs introduced sex-related disparities. These findings support the use of a uniform rather than sex-specific URL in the diagnosis of MI.
    Tags: *Myocardial Infarction/diagnosis/blood, *Troponin I/blood, Aged, Biomarkers/blood, Desigualdades de sexo, Female, High-sensitivity troponin, Humans, Infarto agudo de miocardio, Male, Middle Aged, Myocardial infarction, Prospective Studies, Reference Values, Sensitivity and Specificity, Sex Factors, Sex inequalities, Troponina ultrasensible.
  • Ahmad, S. J. S., Degiannis, J. R., Head, M., Ahmed, A. R., Gelber, E., Hakky, S., Kieser, A., et al. “Meta-Analysis Of The Optimal Needle Length And Decompression Site For Tension Pneumothorax And Consensus Recommendations On Current Atls And Etc Guidelines”. World J Emerg Surg 20, no. 1: 39. doi:10.1186/s13017-025-00613-7.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: Tension pneumothorax (TP) is a life-threatening condition. The immediate recommended management is needle decompression (ND), followed by the insertion of an intercostal chest drain. The European Trauma Course (ETC) and the Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) guidelines differ on needle size and decompression site, creating clinical uncertainty. This meta-analysis aims to explore the optimal approach for emergency needle decompression in TP. METHODS: This meta-analysis followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. It included English-language RCTs, cohort, case-control, cross-sectional studies, and case series with more than six patients. Studies on adults undergoing needle decompression therapy for TP or with chest wall thickness measurements were included. Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched until May 31, 2024. Data were extracted, assessed for quality using OCEBM and GRADE, and analyzed using SPSS and OpenMeta with random-effects models. PRIMARY OUTCOME: needle decompression failure rate. SECONDARY OUTCOMES: patient demographics, cannula size, and chest wall thickness comparisons. RESULTS: This review analyzed 51 studies on needle decompression for TP, with a weighted mean patient age of 36.67 years. Radiological data from 24 studies (n = 8046) indicated a 32.84% failure rate for needle penetration into the pleural cavity (I(2): 99.72%). Increased needle length reduced failure rates by 7.76% per cm. No significant differences in chest wall thickness between genders were observed (T-test, p = 0.77), but thickness at the 5th anterior axillary line (5AAL) and 5th midaxillary line (5MAL) was less than at the 2nd midclavicular line (2MCL). Injury rates were higher at 5AAL than 5MAL, with strong positive correlations between needle length and injury at these sites (0.88, 0.91). CONCLUSION: Based on our meta-analysis, a 7 cm needle may be appropriate for decompression of right-sided tension pneumothorax at either the 5th intercostal space along the midaxillary line or the 2nd intercostal space along the midclavicular line. For left-sided cases, given the potential risk of cardiac injury, the 2nd midclavicular line is a safer option. However, these recommendations should be interpreted with caution due to considerable heterogeneity among the included studies, potential risk of bias, and variability in measurement techniques. Clinical decisions should always be individualized, taking into account patient-specific factors.
    Tags: *Decompression, Surgical/instrumentation/methods/standards, *Needles/standards, *Pneumothorax/surgery, are required for this study. Patients and public involvement: No patients were, authors consent for this version of the paper to be published. Competing, Chest wall thickness, Consensus, Humans, Iatrogenic injury, Intercostal space, interests: The authors declare no competing interests., involved in this study as it is a meta-analysis. Consent for publication: All, Needle decompression, Needle length, Practice Guidelines as Topic, Tension pneumothorax, Trauma care.
  • Schwappach, D., Hautz, W., Krummrey, G., Pfeiffer, Y., and Ratwani, R. M. “Emr Usability And Patient Safety: A National Survey Of Physicians”. Npj Digit Med 8, no. 1: 282. doi:10.1038/s41746-025-01657-4.
    Abstract: Despite widespread adoption of electronic medical records (EMRs), concerns persist regarding their usability and implications for patient safety. This national cross-sectional survey assessed physicians' perceptions of EMR usability across safety-relevant domains. Among 1933 respondents from diverse care settings, 56% reported that their EMR did not enhance patient safety, and 50% perceived their system as inefficient. Usability ratings averaged 52% of the maximum score. Statistically significant differences were observed between EMRs in outpatient (eta(2) = 0.13) and hospital (eta(2) = 0.37) settings. Multilevel modeling attributed 38% of the variance in usability ratings to differences between EMRs, 51% to hospital-level variation within EMRs, and 11% to physician-level differences. Canonical discriminant analysis identified key differentiating usability features, including system response times, excessive alerts, prevention of data entry errors, and support for collaboration. These findings underscore substantial limitations in current EMR systems and reinforce the value of comparative usability assessments to inform targeted improvements in digital health infrastructure.
    Tags: adult, aged, article, Biomedical engineering, Canonical discriminant analysis, controlled study, cross-sectional study, Cross-sectional surveys, digital health, discriminant analysis, Electronic health record, electronic medical record, female, health infrastructure, human, human experiment, Level difference, male, Maximum score, Medical record, middle aged, multilevel analysis, Multilevel modeling, National surveys, outpatient, Patient safety, physician, Physician perceptions, prevention, reaction time, Statistically significant difference, usability, usability testing.
  • Ben Salah, M. H., and Ziaka, M. “Holothoracic Spinal Epidural Lipomatosis: Report Of A Rare Presentation And Review Of Literature”. Sage Open Med Case Rep 13: 2050313X251339051. doi:10.1177/2050313X251339051.
    Abstract: Spinal epidural lipomatosis refers to the abnormal accumulation of unencapsulated fat in the epidural space, possibly associated with spinal canal narrowing and compression of adjacent nerve structures. Risk factors for spinal epidural lipomatosis include older age, male sex, obesity, and systemic corticosteroid use. While spinal epidural lipomatosis typically involves the thoracic or lumbosacral regions of the spinal cord, there are no published cases involving the entire thoracic cord. This report presents the first case of spinal epidural lipomatosis affecting the whole thoracic cord, highlighting the complexity of its diagnosis and management.
    Tags: diabetes/endocrinology, geriatrics/gerontology, research, authorship, and/or publication of this article., surgery.
  • Podsiadlo, P., Mendrala, K., Gordon, L., Pasquier, M., Paal, P., Hymczak, H., Witt-Majchrzak, A., Nowak, E., Czarnik, T., and Darocha, T. “Survival Prediction For Non-Asphyxia-Related Hypothermic Cardiac Arrest Patients After Extracorporeal Rewarming: Development Of The Help Score”. Asaio J. doi:10.1097/MAT.0000000000002456.
    Abstract: The aim of this study was to develop a scoring tool to estimate the probability of survival following extracorporeal rewarming in patients suffering hypothermic cardiac arrest. This is a multicenter retrospective study based on registry data. We included adult patients with hypothermic cardiac arrest not associated with asphyxia, with a core temperature of </=28 degrees C, who underwent extracorporeal rewarming. A multivariable logistic regression model was developed to serve as the predictive tool. Internal validation with bootstrap resampling was performed to adjust model parameters and reduce model optimism. Our study population included 141 patients. The survival rate was 46% (65/141). A total of 88% of the survivors (57/65) had a favorable neurological outcome (Cerebral Performance Category 1-2). The predictive model includes four variables. Outdoor occurrence of hypothermia and a higher hemoglobin level raise survival odds while higher concentrations of potassium and lactate reduce survival odds. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was 0.812 and p value of the Hosmer-Lemeshow test was 0.8. We developed a prognostic model to estimate the probability of survival in adult patients with non-asphyxia-related hypothermic cardiac arrest. This model may aid in identifying candidates suitable for extracorporeal rewarming, though it should not be used as the sole deciding factor.
    Tags: accidental hypothermia, cardiac arrest, extracorporeal life support, patient outcome assessment, resuscitation.
  • Wildi, K., Gimenez, M. R., Boeddinghaus, J., Nestelberger, T., Lopez-Ayala, P., Koechlin, L., Gerstenberger, M., et al. “Possible Misdiagnosis Of Myocardial Infarction Using Regulatory-Approved And Close-To-Bioequivalent Upper Limits Of Normal For Cardiac Troponin”. J Am Heart Assoc 14, no. 10: e040468. doi:10.1161/JAHA.124.040468.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: Possible misdiagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) may occur due to inappropriate upper limit of normal (ULN) for cardiac troponin and has the potential to harm patients. In this observational international multicenter study, we aimed to assess to what extent the novel hs-cTn-assays are affected. METHODS: A total of 6646 patients presenting with suspected AMI to the emergency department were enrolled. All level pairs (n=18 732) of 4 widely used high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T/I (hs-cTnT/I) assays using (1) the regulatory-approved uniform and sex-specific clinical ULN and (2) mathematically derived close-to-bioequivalent ULNs were assessed. The primary outcome was the quantification of the incidence of inconsistencies in the diagnosis of AMI. Inconsistency was defined as hs-cTnT/I concentration above the recommended ULN in one but not the other assay: for example, hs-cTnT-Elecsys+/hs-cTnI-Architect- or hs-cTnT-Elecsys-/hs-cTnI-Architect+. RESULTS: AMI was the adjudicated diagnosis in 1422 patients (21.4%). When the regulatory-approved uniform ULN was used, the rate of inconsistent AMI diagnoses was 17.6% (Elecsys/Architect), 18.8% (Elecsys/Centaur), 14.2% (Elecsys/Access), 4.9% (Architect/Centaur), 8.3% (Architect/Access), and 7.4% (Access/Centaur), respectively. Overall, diagnostic mismatches were not decreased, but in fact increased using regulatory-approved sex-specific ULNs. In women as compared with men, they were 23.8% versus 17.6% (Elecsys/Architect), 30.1% versus 19.1% (Elecsys/Centaur), 23.2% versus 15% (Elecsys/Access), 7.2% versus 4.5% (Architect/Centaur), 8.3% versus 8.7% (Architect/Access) and 7.8% versus 8.2% (Access/Centaur), respectively. Using close-to-bioequivalent ULNs reduced inconsistencies by 15% to 20% (P<0.001). Findings were confirmed in a sensitivity analysis among all level pairs with final diagnosis of AMI (mismatches in 7.3%-20.5%). CONCLUSIONS: Current regulatory-approved uniform and sex-specific ULNs for hs-cTnT/I result in discordances in binary assay results, possibly impacting the diagnosis of AMI. A regulatory process that defines bioequivalent ULNs could reduce inconsistencies significantly. REGISTRATION: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT00470587.
    Tags: *Diagnostic Errors, *Myocardial Infarction/diagnosis/blood, *Troponin I/blood, *Troponin T/blood, addition, she received a PhD scholarship from the University of Queensland,, Aged, Akademische Gesellschaft Basel," and speaker honoraria from Roche Diagnostics,, and received speaker, and speaker's honoraria from Quidel, paid to the institution, outside the, Ayala, and Mueller had full access to the data of the study and take full, Beckman Coulter, Biomerieux, Idorsia, Ortho Cinical Diagnostics, Quidel, Roche,, Biomarkers/blood, Boeddinghaus has received research grants from the University of Basel and the, Brisbane, Australia. Dr Rubini Gimenez reports research grants from the Swiss, Corporation, outside the submitted work. Dr Nestelberger has received speaker, disclosures to report. Author Contributions: Drs Wildi, Rubini Gimenez, Lopez, Division of Internal Medicine, the Swiss National Science Foundation, Female, Foundation, and the University of Basel, all outside the submitted work. In, Foundation, the University of Basel, the Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences, and, Foundation, the Wesley Medical Research Foundation, the Swiss National, Heart Foundation and Swiss National Foundation (P400PM_180828) and speakers', high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T and I, honoraria from Beckman Coulter, outside the submitted work. Dr Lopez-Ayala has, honoraria from Roche, Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, Quidel, and Siemens. Dr, honoraria from Siemens, Roche Diagnostics, Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, and Quidel, honoraria/consulting honoraria from Acon, Amgen, Astra Zeneca, Boehringer, Humans, Ingelheim, Bayer, BMS, Idorsia, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Osler, Roche, Sanofi, and, Innosuisse, the University of Basel, the University Hospital Basel, Abbott,, is, Male, Middle Aged, misdiagnosis of acute myocardial infarction, Predictive Value of Tests, received research grants from the Swiss Heart Foundation (FF20079 and FF21103), Reference Values, responsibility for its integrity and data analysis., Siemens, and Abbott outside the submitted work. Dr Mueller has received research, Siemens, Singulex, SpinChip, Upstream, and Sphingotec, as well as speaker, SpinChip, outside of the submitted work. The remaining authors have no, submitted work. Dr Koechlin received a research grant from the Swiss Heart, support from the Swiss National Science Foundation, the Swiss Heart Foundation,, supported by an Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarship, the Gottfried and Julia Bangerter-Rhyner Foundation, as well as the "Freiwillige, upper limit of normal clinical decision values.
  • Klug, J., Cortier, D., Wolf, S., Carrera, E., Cerf, C., and Pietsch, U. “Effect Of Extended Intravenous Diclofenac Infusions On Brain Tissue Oxygenation In Patients With Acute Brain Injury”. Intensive Care Med Exp 13, no. 1: 50. doi:10.1186/s40635-025-00759-3.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: Fever is associated with worse outcomes in patients with acute brain injury. Diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is commonly used as antipyretic therapy. As evidence emerged that short diclofenac infusions (< 1 h) decrease brain tissue oxygen (PtO2) and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP), clinical practice has shifted to extended infusions (12 h). The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of extended diclofenac infusion for the treatment of fever on cerebral perfusion and tissue oxygenation after acute brain injury. RESULTS: We conducted a retrospective study of prospectively collected data from a cohort of 18 patients with acute brain injury and PtO2 monitoring admitted between November 2018 and April 2024. The hour before and the 12 h during an extended diclofenac infusion were compared. Additionally, we compared the 12 h prior and 12 h during the diclofenac infusion. Cerebral autoregulation and metabolites obtained by microdialysis were assessed in a subgroup of patients. Thirty-nine interventions were analyzed. Core temperature decreased from 38.1 degrees C in the hour before to 37.4 degrees C during an extended diclofenac infusion (p < 0.0001). ICP (11.0 vs 10.0 mmHg, p < 0.0001) and heart rate (84 vs. 77 bpm, p < 0.0001) decreased. CPP and PaCO2 did not vary significantly. PtO2 decreased from 23.1 mmHg (IQR 19.0-31.4) during fever peak to 21.7 mmHg (IQR 17.8-27.2) (p < 0.0001). Median PtO2 during the 12 h before diclofenac was 23.3 mmHg (IQR 18.9-30.5). In a multivariable analysis the effect of treatment was significantly influenced by heart rate and temperature (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Extended diclofenac infusions for the treatment of fever in patients with acute brain injury achieve a clinically significant reduction in temperature but are associated with a small decrease in PtO2, even in the setting of maintained CPP.
    Tags: accordance with Article 34 of the Swiss Federal Act on Human Research. Consent, Brain tissue oxygen, Diclofenac, Fever, for publication: Not applicable. Competing interests: The authors declare that, in accordance with the Helsinki declaration and approved by the local, institutional review board (EKOS22/179 and EKOS 22/198). Consent was waived in, Subarachnoid hemorrhage, Temperature control, they have no competing interests., Traumatic brain injury.
  • Jegerlehner, S., Harris, T., Mueller, M., and Bloom, B. “Association Of Central Capillary Refill Time With Mortality In Adult Trauma Patients: A Secondary Analysis Of The Crash-2 Randomised Controlled Trial Data”. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 33, no. 1: 82. doi:10.1186/s13049-025-01407-1.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: Trauma-related injuries account for up to 4.4 million deaths annually worldwide. Failure to identify haemorrhage in trauma patients increases mortality. This study examines the association of central capillary refill time (CRT) and mortality in adult trauma patients, especially in the subgroup with normal heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP). METHODS: This retrospective observational study analysed data from the CRASH-2 trial, conducted in 274 hospitals across 40 countries and 5 continents between May 2005 and January 2010. A total of 19,054 out of 20,207 adult trauma patients with recorded CRT and complete dataset were included. CRT was taken centrally (sternum) and categorized as </= 2, 3-4, and >/= 5 s. The primary outcome was 28-day mortality, while secondary outcomes included need for transfusion, surgical intervention and thromboembolic events. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis were conducted, incorporating random effects for continent/cluster. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to assess the discriminatory ability of central CRT measurement. RESULTS: Among the patients, 6,756 (35.5%) had a CRT </= 2 s, 9,142 (48%) had a CRT of 3-4 s, and 3,156 (16.6%) had a CRT >/= 5 s. Compared to the reference category (CRT </= 2 s), the odds of death were significantly higher in patients with CRT of 3-4 s (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.6-1.9) and CRT >/= 5 s (OR 3.2, 95% CI 2.8-3.5). Higher CRT was also associated with an increased likelihood of blood transfusion, surgical intervention, and thromboembolic events. The AUC values ranged from 0.63 to 0.74 and were consistent with a significant association between the variables. CONCLUSION: Central CRT is associated with increased mortality and adverse outcomes in trauma patients. In bleeding trauma patients, an increasing central CRT is linked to higher mortality risk, with a central CRT >/= 5 s being particularly predictive of worse outcomes. This also applies to patients with stable vital signs (normal HR and BP), suggesting that CRT may offer additional value as an indicator of hidden hypoperfusion.
    Tags: *Capillaries/physiopathology, *Hemorrhage/mortality/physiopathology/etiology, *Wounds and Injuries/mortality/physiopathology/complications, Adult, applicable. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests., Central capillary refill time, conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki, ensuring adherence to, Data Monitoring and Ethics Committee (DMEC) had the responsibility for, Emergency medicine, ethical principles for medical research involving human subjects. The CRASH-2, ethics committees in all 274 participating hospitals. Informed consent procedures, Female, Humans, Injury Severity Score, Male, Middle Aged, Mortality, Pre-hospital, randomization. This is a secondary analysis of data from this trial, and, Retrospective Studies, ROC Curve, Shock, therefore no additional ethics approval was needed. Consent for publication: Not, Trauma, trial had UK Research Ethics Committee approval and was approved by the relevant, were established by local regulation and the appropriate ethics committees. The.
  • Wildi, K., Gimenez, M. R., Boeddinghaus, J., Nestelberger, T., Lopez-Ayala, P., Koechlin, L., Gerstenberger, M., et al. “Possible Misdiagnosis Of Myocardial Infarction Using Regulatory-Approved And Close-To-Bioequivalent Upper Limits Of Normal For Cardiac Troponin”. J Am Heart Assoc 14, no. 10: e040468. doi:10.1161/JAHA.124.040468.
    Abstract: BACKGROUND: Possible misdiagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) may occur due to inappropriate upper limit of normal (ULN) for cardiac troponin and has the potential to harm patients. In this observational international multicenter study, we aimed to assess to what extent the novel hs-cTn-assays are affected. METHODS: A total of 6646 patients presenting with suspected AMI to the emergency department were enrolled. All level pairs (n=18 732) of 4 widely used high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T/I (hs-cTnT/I) assays using (1) the regulatory-approved uniform and sex-specific clinical ULN and (2) mathematically derived close-to-bioequivalent ULNs were assessed. The primary outcome was the quantification of the incidence of inconsistencies in the diagnosis of AMI. Inconsistency was defined as hs-cTnT/I concentration above the recommended ULN in one but not the other assay: for example, hs-cTnT-Elecsys+/hs-cTnI-Architect- or hs-cTnT-Elecsys-/hs-cTnI-Architect+. RESULTS: AMI was the adjudicated diagnosis in 1422 patients (21.4%). When the regulatory-approved uniform ULN was used, the rate of inconsistent AMI diagnoses was 17.6% (Elecsys/Architect), 18.8% (Elecsys/Centaur), 14.2% (Elecsys/Access), 4.9% (Architect/Centaur), 8.3% (Architect/Access), and 7.4% (Access/Centaur), respectively. Overall, diagnostic mismatches were not decreased, but in fact increased using regulatory-approved sex-specific ULNs. In women as compared with men, they were 23.8% versus 17.6% (Elecsys/Architect), 30.1% versus 19.1% (Elecsys/Centaur), 23.2% versus 15% (Elecsys/Access), 7.2% versus 4.5% (Architect/Centaur), 8.3% versus 8.7% (Architect/Access) and 7.8% versus 8.2% (Access/Centaur), respectively. Using close-to-bioequivalent ULNs reduced inconsistencies by 15% to 20% (P<0.001). Findings were confirmed in a sensitivity analysis among all level pairs with final diagnosis of AMI (mismatches in 7.3%-20.5%). CONCLUSIONS: Current regulatory-approved uniform and sex-specific ULNs for hs-cTnT/I result in discordances in binary assay results, possibly impacting the diagnosis of AMI. A regulatory process that defines bioequivalent ULNs could reduce inconsistencies significantly. REGISTRATION: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT00470587.
    Tags: *Diagnostic Errors, *Myocardial Infarction/diagnosis/blood, *Troponin I/blood, *Troponin T/blood, addition, she received a PhD scholarship from the University of Queensland,, Aged, Akademische Gesellschaft Basel," and speaker honoraria from Roche Diagnostics,, and received speaker, and speaker's honoraria from Quidel, paid to the institution, outside the, Ayala, and Mueller had full access to the data of the study and take full, Beckman Coulter, Biomerieux, Idorsia, Ortho Cinical Diagnostics, Quidel, Roche,, Biomarkers/blood, Boeddinghaus has received research grants from the University of Basel and the, Brisbane, Australia. Dr Rubini Gimenez reports research grants from the Swiss, Corporation, outside the submitted work. Dr Nestelberger has received speaker, disclosures to report. Author Contributions: Drs Wildi, Rubini Gimenez, Lopez, Division of Internal Medicine, the Swiss National Science Foundation, Female, Foundation, and the University of Basel, all outside the submitted work. In, Foundation, the University of Basel, the Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences, and, Foundation, the Wesley Medical Research Foundation, the Swiss National, Heart Foundation and Swiss National Foundation (P400PM_180828) and speakers', high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T and I, honoraria from Beckman Coulter, outside the submitted work. Dr Lopez-Ayala has, honoraria from Roche, Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, Quidel, and Siemens. Dr, honoraria from Siemens, Roche Diagnostics, Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, and Quidel, honoraria/consulting honoraria from Acon, Amgen, Astra Zeneca, Boehringer, Humans, Ingelheim, Bayer, BMS, Idorsia, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Osler, Roche, Sanofi, and, Innosuisse, the University of Basel, the University Hospital Basel, Abbott,, is, Male, Middle Aged, misdiagnosis of acute myocardial infarction, Predictive Value of Tests, received research grants from the Swiss Heart Foundation (FF20079 and FF21103), Reference Values, responsibility for its integrity and data analysis., Siemens, and Abbott outside the submitted work. Dr Mueller has received research, Siemens, Singulex, SpinChip, Upstream, and Sphingotec, as well as speaker, SpinChip, outside of the submitted work. The remaining authors have no, submitted work. Dr Koechlin received a research grant from the Swiss Heart, support from the Swiss National Science Foundation, the Swiss Heart Foundation,, supported by an Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarship, the Gottfried and Julia Bangerter-Rhyner Foundation, as well as the "Freiwillige, upper limit of normal clinical decision values.
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