Publications by authors named "L S Hoff"

Introduction: Various randomized control trials in the pediatric population have shown no therapeutic advantage of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery over fibrinolytic therapy (tissue plasminogen activator [tPA]) for empyema management. However, literature detailing changes in practice management and protocol implementation is limited. In 2018, we instituted clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for empyema management utilizing tissue plasminogen activatorinstillation via a small bore chest tube as initial therapy.

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  • The study investigates how comorbidities impact the quality of life in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) compared to other autoimmune diseases and healthy individuals, utilizing self-reported data from the COVAD-2 survey.
  • Results show IIM patients have significantly higher rates of comorbidities, basic multitasking, complex multitasking, and mental health disorders.
  • The presence of these conditions correlates with lower overall physical and mental health scores, suggesting the need for targeted management strategies for IIM patients based on identified clinical clusters.
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  • The study aimed to analyze the outcomes for pediatric patients who required open abdomen surgery due to various conditions that might lead to prolonged open abdomen (POA) and complications with abdominal wall closure.
  • Researchers conducted a retrospective review of patients under 18 from 2015 to 2022, focusing on those needing three or more surgeries before closure, and collected data on demographics and outcomes.
  • Results showed a high survival rate of 93%, with many patients achieving primary closure of the abdomen despite the challenges, indicating a need for improved management protocols in future cases.
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Objectives: To explore prevalence, characteristics and risk factors of COVID-19 breakthrough infections (BIs) in idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) using data from the COVID-19 Vaccination in Autoimmune Diseases (COVAD) study.

Methods: A validated patient self-reporting e-survey was circulated by the COVAD study group to collect data on COVID-19 infection and vaccination in 2022. BIs were defined as COVID-19 occurring ≥14 days after 2 vaccine doses.

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Background: Hip fractures in the older adults lead to increased morbidity and mortality. Although a low bone mineral density is considered the leading risk factor, it is essential to recognize other factors that could affect the risk of hip fractures. This study aims to evaluate the contribution of clinical characteristics, patient-reported outcomes, and muscle and aerobic capacity for hip fractures in community-dwelling older adults.

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