For the first time an implantation of muscle and nerve controlled arm prosthesis was conducted at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg (Sweden). The arm prosthesis is attached permanently using electrodes and nerves of an amputee. The result is that the control of an advanced robotic prosthetic improved and similar to the pattern of movement of a human arm. Read full text »

Owing to the fact that societies are ageing, especially in industrialized countries, the number of geriatric patients to whom we should pay special attention increases. It was noticed long time ago that not the metrical but the biological age is significant to asses condition and prognosis of the patients. That’s why a scale called Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) was developed. After describing the co-existent diseases and disability or impairment of cognitive functions, it allows for assessment of the biological age of the patient. Read full text »

Scientists from Switzerland and United Arab Emirates made a research thus proving that taking cholecalciferol (vitamin D) is an effective analgesic therapy. Read full text »

Vitamin E, which is commonly considered to have positive influence on reproduction, was subjected to analysis by Japanese scientists who stated that it reduces the bone mass. The results of their research were published in “Nature Magazine” in 2012. Read full text »

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone tumour. It is characterized by the presence of the fusiform cells producing a malignant extracellular osteoid. Both, the malignancy and the ability to create metastasis depend on the histological type. Osteosarcoma is an eighth most common tumour in infants with a peak of incidence between 10 and 14 years. Nevertheless, we should not forget that osteosarcoma is also an adult cancer. In this case it can occur either as an idiopathic or as a secondary disease (e.g. to Paget disease).

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Written for www.physiciansweekly.com by: Christopher P. Chiodo, MD
Attending Orthopedic Surgeon Chief, Foot and Ankle Service
Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Faulkners Hospitals
Clinical Instructor
Harvard Medical School
President
Massachusetts Orthopaedic Association

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has released treatment guidelines on acute Achilles tendon rupture, emphasizing early motion and weight-bearing to enhance the return of function.

When an Achilles tendon ruptures, the forces placed on the tendon exceed its tensile limits. Patients who sustain these injuries often experience sudden pain in the affected leg, difficulty with weight-bearing, and weakness of the affected ankle. “The Achilles tendon is one of the strongest tendons in the body, and a rupture can be quite disabling,” explains Christopher P. Chiodo, MD.

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Written for www.physiciansweekly.com by Shane J. Nho, MD, MS
Assistant Professor, Division of Sports Medicine
Department of Orthopedic Surgery
Rush University Medical Center
Rush Medical College of Rush University

Tendinitis of the long head of the biceps (LHB) is a common inflammatory tenosynovitis that occurs as the tendon courses along its constrained path within the bicipital groove of the humerus. Despite plenty of research into the anatomy of the LHB tendon, there is still some controversy on the most appropriate management strategies.

Each year, about 10 million people seek medical attention for shoulder injuries, and another 4 million present to physicians with arm injuries. Tendinitis of the long head of the biceps (LHB) is a common inflammatory tenosynovitis, which occurs as the tendon courses along its constrained path within the bicipital groove of the humerus. It typically presents with anterior shoulder pain and is often exacerbated by overuse. In many cases, LHB tendinopathy occurs in combination with other shoulder problems, particularly rotator cuff tendon injuries.Continue reading

Written by: Therese West, RN, CPN, MSN, APN-C



Therese West, RN, CPN, MSN, APN-C
Director-At-Large, American Association of Neuroscience Nurses

Financial Disclosure: Therese A. West, MSN, APN-C has indicated to Physician’s Weekly that she is on the Board of Directors of AANN and is employed as a contracted consultant for the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury.

Written for Physician’s Weekly.

The focus on TBIs among high school, college, and professional athletes has brought attention to new research showing the residual effects that remain in some patients with mild TBI. A new clinical guideline on caring for patients with mild TBI promotes evidence-based practices across the continuum of care.Continue Reading

One of the greatest playwrights of the ancient Greece, Euripides wrote: “We do not exist without the pain and suffering “– it is hard to disagree with these words because the pain is a part of everyone’s life. It is often a symptom of the ongoing disease process the protection against external stimuli acting, but it is also a warning against dangers such as the body exhaustion. Read full text »

Fibrydysplasia (FOP) is a rare genetic disorder, in which the organism products extra bones in places where they should not develop. These bones are produced within the muscles, tendons, ligaments and other connective tissues. They cause ossification in various places hindering the normal functioning of the person. Read full text »