Translational Health Reports

Abstract Background: In the context of modern healthcare, surgical interventions are essential yet pose inherent risks, including postoperative infections. Antibiotic prophylaxis plays a pivotal role in mitigating these risks, aiming to prevent surgical site infections (SSIs) and associated complications. This study focuses on the consumption patterns of antibiotic prophylaxis regimens among patients admitted to the surgical wards at Bu Ali Sina Medical and Educational Services Center in Sari, Iran.
Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study involved 970 participants undergoing clean or clean-contaminated surgical procedures. The research employed a researcher-made questionnaire covering demographic information, antibiotic details, side effects, duration of administration post-operation, adherence to guidelines, and compliance with ASHP 2013 antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines. Statistical analyses included central tendency and dispersion indicators, Chi-squared test, Fisher's exact test, one-sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Mann-Whitney U test, and T-test.
Results: The predominant antibiotic categories were cephalosporins, with ceftriaxone and cefazolin accounting for 65.2% and 61.8% of prescriptions, respectively. Comparison between orthopedic and ENT surgery groups did not reveal significant differences in antibiotic regimens (P=0.085). However, a noteworthy difference emerged in the duration of antibiotic prophylaxis, with a significant distinction between orthopedic and ENT surgery groups (P=0.650). Compliance with ASHP 2013 guidelines was observed in 84% of cases regarding the timing and type of prescribed antibiotic prophylaxis regimen.
Conclusion: This study provides crucial insights into the consumption patterns of antibiotic prophylaxis among surgical patients, emphasizing the prevalence of cephalosporins and revealing distinctions in duration between orthopedic and ENT surgery groups. The findings contribute to optimizing patient outcomes and addressing antimicrobial resistance challenges. As the healthcare community navigates the delicate balance between prophylactic benefits and resistance concerns, these results offer valuable information for policy-making and clinical practices.

Abstract Introduction: Chronic neck pain (CNP) is a common and debilitating condition that significantly impacts quality of life, productivity, and overall well-being. Muscle morphology, particularly in the deep cervical muscles, plays a critical role in the onset, development, and persistence of chronic neck pain. This review investigates the relationship between muscle changes, including atrophy, fat infiltration, and alterations in muscle fiber composition, and their contribution to cervical instability, pain, and functional limitations.

Methods: The review examines existing literature on muscle morphology in CNP, focusing on the role of deep cervical muscles in the pathophysiology of neck pain. It also highlights how factors such as disuse, changes in neural activation, and chronic inflammation exacerbate these muscle alterations. The role of advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI, in identifying these changes is also discussed.

Results: Alterations in muscle morphology, including atrophy and fat infiltration, contribute to weakness and reduced spinal stability, which are key factors in the development and persistence of chronic neck pain. Neural activation changes and chronic inflammation further exacerbate muscle degeneration. Advanced imaging techniques, particularly MRI, play a crucial role in assessing these morphological changes and enabling personalized treatment strategies.

Conclusion: Muscle degeneration, including atrophy and fat infiltration in the cervical spine, is a significant factor in chronic neck pain. Effective management requires a comprehensive approach, including rehabilitation programs focused on muscle strengthening, postural correction, and ergonomic adjustments. Fat infiltration in cervical muscles is a significant marker of structural and functional impairment in cervical spine disorders. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms behind muscle changes in CNP and to develop more targeted and effective interventions.

Abstract Introduction: Osteoporosis is a widespread bone disease characterized by low bone mineral density (BMD), structural bone deterioration, and an increased risk of fractures. It primarily affects postmenopausal women and the elderly, representing a significant global health burden. The management of osteoporosis involves pharmacological treatments aimed at preventing fractures, alleviating symptoms, and improving overall quality of life.
Methods: This review analyzes the pharmacology of current osteoporosis treatments, including bisphosphonates, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), monoclonal antibodies, and newer agents such as sclerostin inhibitors. It also examines pain management strategies, particularly those targeting fracture-related pain, and explores the intersection between bone therapies and analgesia.
Results: The current pharmacological treatments for osteoporosis have shown significant efficacy in reducing fracture risk. However, managing pain in osteoporosis, particularly post-fracture pain, remains a complex challenge. This review highlights the need for a multidimensional approach that integrates both bone-targeted therapies and effective pain management strategies.
Conclusion: While osteoporosis therapies have greatly reduced fracture risk, pain management in osteoporosis patients remains an area requiring further research. This review synthesizes current literature on osteoporosis treatments and pain management, offering insights into best practices and identifying future research directions to improve patient outcomes.