Laparoscopic versus open repair for peptic ulcer perforation: a systematic review, meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis of randomised controlled trials. Time to conclude!

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate comparative outcomes of laparoscopic and open repair for peptic ulcer perforation (PUP).

Methods: A PRISMA-compliant systematic review with a PROSPERO-registered protocol (registration number CRD42024529286) was conducted. All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving PUP patients managed by laparoscopic or open repair were identified and their risk of bias assessed.

Identification of variables and development of a prediction model for DIBH eligibility in left-sided breast cancer radiotherapy: a prospective cohort study with temporal validation.

Objective: To identify variables associated with a patients' ability to reproducibly hold their breath for deep-inspiration breath-hold (DIBH) radiotherapy (RT) and to develop a predictive model for DIBH eligibility.

Methods: This prospective, single-institution, IRB-approved observational study included women with left-sided breast cancer treated between January 2023 and March 2024. Patients underwent multiple breath-hold sessions over 2-3 consecutive days.

Twelve tips for peer teaching by a medical education student society.

University societies are student-led organisations which provide excellent opportunities for students to collaborate in a shared interest. Peer teaching is gaining recognition as an effective method of medical education. Peer teaching also provides student tutors with core educational skills and provides students with approachable peer mentors.

Systematic Review of the Association of the Hospital Frailty Risk Score with Mortality in Patients with Cerebrovascular and Cardiovascular Disease.

Background: There is limited systematic data on the association between the Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) and characteristics and mortality in patients with cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease (CVD). This systematic review aimed to summarise the use of the HFRS in describing the prevalence of frailty in patients with CVD, the clinical characteristics of patients with CVD, and the association between frailty on the likelihood of mortality in patients with CVD.

Methods: A systematic literature search for observational studies using terms related to CVD, cerebrovascular disease, and the HFRS was conducted using 6 databases in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

Level 1a Evidence Comparing Use of Antibiotics Versus No Antibiotics in Management of Acute Left-Sided Uncomplicated Diverticulitis.

Background: Acute uncomplicated diverticulitis (AUD) is a common cause of acute abdominal pain. Recent guidelines advise selective use of antibiotics in AUD patients. This meta-analysis aimed to compare the effectiveness of no antibiotics vs antibiotics in AUD patients.