Bayesian meta-analysis of test accuracy in the absence of a perfect reference test applied to bone scintigraphy for the diagnosis of complex regional pain syndrome.

There is conflicting evidence about the accuracy of bone scintigraphy (BS) for the diagnosis of complex regional pain syndrome 1 (CRPS 1). In a meta-analysis of diagnostic studies, the evaluation of test accuracy is impeded by the use of different imperfect reference tests. The aim of our study is to summarize sensitivity and specificity of BS for CRPS 1 and to identify factors to explain heterogeneity.

Perceived barriers to computerised quality documentation during anaesthesia: a survey of anaesthesia staff.

Background: Underreporting of intraoperative events in anaesthesia is well-known and compromises quality documentation. The reasons for such omissions remain unclear. We conducted a questionnaire-based survey of anaesthesia staff to explore perceived barriers to reliable documentation during anaesthesia.

Long-term Adverse Effects of Extracorporeal Shock-wave Lithotripsy for Nephrolithiasis and Ureterolithiasis: A Systematic Review.

This study presents a systematic review of the published literature on possible long-term adverse effects after extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). Although published disagreement exists, this review finds that previous evidence supporting an association between ESWL and long-term adverse effects is weak and that the majority of studies show no evidence for any increase in post-ESWL incidence of arterial hypertension (24 of 30 studies), diabetes mellitus (4 of 6 studies), kidney dysfunction (14 of 14 studies), or infertility (2 of 2 studies). Currently, no strong evidence exists to support the hypothesis that ESWL causes long-term adverse effects.

Arguments for the choice of surgical treatments in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis - a systematic appraisal of randomized controlled trials.

Background: Lumbar spinal stenosis is the most common reason for spinal surgery in elderly patients. However, the surgical management of spinal stenosis is controversial. The aim of this review was to list aspects a surgeon considers when choosing a specific type of treatment.

Antibiotic efficacy in patients with a moderate probability of acute rhinosinusitis: a systematic review.

The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize the results of original studies assessing antibiotic efficacy at different time points after initiating treatment in patients with a moderate probability of acute bacterial rhinosinusitis. We searched the Cochrane library for systematic reviews on the efficacy of antibiotic treatment in patients with acute rhinosinusitis (ARS). Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared treatment of any antibiotic with placebo were included.

[Who is the decision maker in medicine - the doctor or the patient?].

In earlier times physicians decided on their own which diagnostic tests and treatments the patient should undergo, receive and follow. At least, such physicians' behavior is described in the literature. In recent decades the pendulum moved in the other direction.