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Search Results (2,634)

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Keywords = patient satisfaction

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9 pages, 668 KiB  
Article
Needle Radiofrequency Combined with Topical Exosome Therapy for Moderate to Severe Acne
by Jovian Wan, Song Eun Yoon, Sky Wong, Inneke Jane Hidajat, Henry Tanojo, Atchima Suwanchinda and Kyu-Ho Yi
Life 2025, 15(2), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15020141 (registering DOI) - 21 Jan 2025
Abstract
Objective: This case series aims to evaluate the efficacy, patient satisfaction, and safety of combined needle radiofrequency (RF) and topical exosome therapy for moderate to severe acne. Methods: This study involved 22 patients (12 females and 10 males, ages 18–35) with moderate to [...] Read more.
Objective: This case series aims to evaluate the efficacy, patient satisfaction, and safety of combined needle radiofrequency (RF) and topical exosome therapy for moderate to severe acne. Methods: This study involved 22 patients (12 females and 10 males, ages 18–35) with moderate to severe acne who underwent combined needle RF and topical exosome (Xomage, Zishel Bio Inc., Seoul, Republic of Korea) treatments. Each patient completed between 6 and 10 sessions, conducted weekly over three-week intervals. Acne severity was assessed using the Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA) scale, while patient satisfaction was measured on a 5-point Likert scale. Clinical photographs were taken at baseline and after the final treatment session. Results: All patients showed improvement in acne severity with a mean decrease in IGA score of 2.5 points from baseline to the final assessment. Patient satisfaction was high, with the majority expressing satisfaction in skin texture and acne reduction. Conclusion: Needle RF combined with topical exosome therapy appears to be an effective treatment for reducing acne lesions and improving skin quality, demonstrating a strong safety profile and high patient satisfaction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multidisciplinary Management of Dermatology)
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23 pages, 1617 KiB  
Article
Patient-Centric Paradigm: A Systems Thinking Approach to Enhance Healthcare
by Ashiat Adeogun and Misa Faezipour
Healthcare 2025, 13(3), 213; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13030213 - 21 Jan 2025
Viewed by 147
Abstract
Objective: The study aims to investigate the impact of patient-centric approaches on patient health outcomes, identify key leverage points for enhancing patient-centered care, and evaluate the effectiveness of systems thinking in guiding healthcare transformations. Methods and Procedures: The research utilizes system dynamics methodology, [...] Read more.
Objective: The study aims to investigate the impact of patient-centric approaches on patient health outcomes, identify key leverage points for enhancing patient-centered care, and evaluate the effectiveness of systems thinking in guiding healthcare transformations. Methods and Procedures: The research utilizes system dynamics methodology, combining qualitative and quantitative data with causal loop diagrams and simulation models. Using Vensim software, the study examines dynamic interactions, feedback loops, and the effects of patient-centric interventions. Sensitivity analysis assesses the impact of variables such as access to healthcare improvements, and social determinants of health (SDOH), providing insights into the systemic behaviors of healthcare models. Results: Simulation analyses demonstrate the effectiveness of patient-centric interventions in improving engagement, satisfaction, communication, and health outcomes. Key leverage points, such as enhanced patient–provider communication and addressing SDOH, are critical for driving sustainable improvements. However, declining trends in outcomes over time indicate the need for adaptive strategies to maintain effectiveness. Conclusions: The study emphasizes the importance of maintaining patient centricity in healthcare settings. By leveraging systems thinking and addressing underlying factors such as SDOH, the research provides actionable insights to enhance care delivery and patient outcomes. Despite the limitations of simulated data, the findings contribute to understanding the dynamic interplay between patient-centric strategies and healthcare system performance, advocating for sustained efforts to ensure equitable and effective care. Full article
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13 pages, 265 KiB  
Review
How to Effectively Communicate Dismal Diagnoses in Dermatology and Venereology: From Skin Cancers to Sexually Transmitted Infections
by Giulia Ciccarese, Francesco Drago, Astrid Herzum, Mario Mastrolonardo, Laura Atzori, Caterina Foti and Anna Graziella Burroni
Diagnostics 2025, 15(3), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15030236 - 21 Jan 2025
Viewed by 197
Abstract
Background/Objectives: One of the problematic situations dermatologists face with their patients is communicating dismal diagnoses. Examples are the diagnosis and prognosis of skin cancers like melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma and the disclosure of the chronic nature of a disease that requires [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: One of the problematic situations dermatologists face with their patients is communicating dismal diagnoses. Examples are the diagnosis and prognosis of skin cancers like melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma and the disclosure of the chronic nature of a disease that requires long-term therapies or can lead to scarring or disfiguring conditions. Likewise, receiving a diagnosis of a sexually transmitted infection can be a shocking event that can also put into question the patient’s relationship with his/her partner/partners. Some oncology and internal medicine protocols have been developed to support delivering distressing information. Regrettably, no consensus guidelines exist in dermatology, sexually transmitted infections, or other medical specialties. Methods: The protocols available in the literature to guide the disclosure of a dismal diagnosis have been reviewed in the present work. Results: The different protocols consist of several steps, from 5 to 13, and most of them are summarized by acronyms, such as “SPIKES”, “ABCDE”, and “BREAKS”. The frameworks are listened to and explained in the manuscript. Conclusions: These communication models are suggested to be adapted to dermatology and sexually transmitted infections. Indeed, several studies demonstrated that training in communication skills and techniques to facilitate breaking bad news may improve patient satisfaction and physician comfort. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dermatology and Venereology: Diagnosis and Management)
7 pages, 2078 KiB  
Brief Report
Dialysis Patients’ Evaluation of Lung Edema at Home Using a Mobile Phone Tele-Ultrasound Application: A Pilot Study
by Itamar Ben Shitrit, Aviya Kedmi, Khaled El Haj, Amit Kosto, Ofri Karni, Sharon Einav, Tomer Poleg, Ariel Avraham Hasidim, Noa Bineth, Tomer Gat, Alla Shnaider, Orli Barad and Lior Fuchs
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(2), 654; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14020654 - 20 Jan 2025
Viewed by 405
Abstract
Background: Home rehabilitation improves patient satisfaction and reduces the need for specialist consultations. Hemodialysis is a costly post-ICU service that requires frequent monitoring. Previous studies have demonstrated the feasibility and accuracy of patients self-scanning their lungs with an ultrasound device within the [...] Read more.
Background: Home rehabilitation improves patient satisfaction and reduces the need for specialist consultations. Hemodialysis is a costly post-ICU service that requires frequent monitoring. Previous studies have demonstrated the feasibility and accuracy of patients self-scanning their lungs with an ultrasound device within the hospital. Methods: In this single-center, prospective pilot study, we compared the quality of high-risk elderly patient-generated lung ultrasound images against physician-generated images as our primary outcome. The secondary outcome assessed image quality and B-line quantification between a home device and a gold standard device, when operated by the same clinician. Results: We enrolled nine participants (66% male, median age 76 years [IQR 66,79]). Analysis included 402 ultrasound clips (163 patient-generated, 239 physician-generated, and 237 in-clinic gold standard clips). Patient-generated images demonstrated high reliability (92% highly reliable or reliable) and were non-inferior to physician-generated images (p < 0.001). There was substantial agreement in B-line classification (Kw = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.46–0.82). The home device, when operated by the same physician, showed non-inferiority to the gold standard device (p < 0.001) with substantial B-line classification agreement (Kw = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.51–0.78). Conclusions: High-risk elderly patients can successfully generate self-scanned lung ultrasound images comparable to those produced by physicians. These promising results warrant further investigation through larger-scale and long-term studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pulmonology)
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19 pages, 8178 KiB  
Article
Immediate Patient Satisfaction with Dental Esthetics After Endodontic and Prosthodontic Treatment of Dental Dyschromia
by Adrian Jantea, Sorin Gheorghe Mihali, Dan Lolos, Anca Tudor, Roxana Oancea and Liliana Porojan
Dent. J. 2025, 13(1), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13010044 - 20 Jan 2025
Viewed by 302
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate patients’ satisfaction with the esthetic outcomes of combined endodontic and prosthetic treatments for devitalized or dyschromic teeth, a condition influenced by various intrinsic and extrinsic factors that present a growing concern in modern dentistry. Methods: A total [...] Read more.
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate patients’ satisfaction with the esthetic outcomes of combined endodontic and prosthetic treatments for devitalized or dyschromic teeth, a condition influenced by various intrinsic and extrinsic factors that present a growing concern in modern dentistry. Methods: A total of 104 patients, including 43 men and 61 women, underwent treatment using lithium disilicate restorations for esthetic zones and zirconium oxide restorations for regions with higher occlusal demands. Patient satisfaction was evaluated through a post-treatment questionnaire, classifying responses as either “satisfied” or “dissatisfied”. Dissatisfied participants were further asked to specify their concerns. Results: The study revealed a high satisfaction rate of 93%. Dissatisfaction was slightly more prevalent among women than men, but this difference was statistically insignificant. The primary reasons for dissatisfaction included darker restoration color, chipping, and gingival recessions. Conclusions: Combined endodontic and prosthetic treatments, utilizing lithium disilicate and zirconium oxide restorations, achieved high levels of patient satisfaction. Nevertheless, addressing specific issues, such as color matching and gingival health, could enhance outcomes further. Full article
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13 pages, 2658 KiB  
Article
A Technique to Augment Arthroscopic Bankart Repair With or Without a Metal Block: A Comparison
by Paul Vedrenne, Mohamad K. Moussa, Kévin Picard, Thomas Bauer and Alexandre Hardy
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(2), 616; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14020616 - 18 Jan 2025
Viewed by 248
Abstract
Introduction: Arthroscopic Bankart repair (ABR) is associated with an increased failure rate over time. The Recenter implant, a metal block, is designed to reinforce capsulolabral repair. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the addition of the Recenter implant to ABR [...] Read more.
Introduction: Arthroscopic Bankart repair (ABR) is associated with an increased failure rate over time. The Recenter implant, a metal block, is designed to reinforce capsulolabral repair. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the addition of the Recenter implant to ABR reduces the rate of recurrence in patients with glenohumeral anterior instability. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective, multicentric case–control study focusing on patients surgically treated for anterior shoulder instability from February 2012 to November 2019. This study compared patients undergoing ABR augmented with the “Recenter” implant (augmented ABR group) against those receiving traditional ABR. Primary outcomes measured included recurrence rates. Secondary outcome measures included functional scores (Walch–Duplay and the subjective shoulder test [SST], the auto Rowe score, satisfaction, pain, and the presence or absence of subjective subluxation and apprehension), return to sports, the range of motion, as well as other complications. Results: Thirty-two patients with augmented ABR were compared to forty-eight patients in the traditional ABR group, with mean follow-up periods of 5.2 ± 1.3 years and 6.1 ± 1.5 years, respectively. Three patients (9.4%) experienced recurrence in the “Recenter” group, versus eight (16.7%) in the other group (p > 0.05). The Walch–Duplay score was 70.2 ± 8.2 in the “Recenter” group and 64.2 ± 8 in the control group (p > 0.05). The SST score out of 100 was, respectively, 84.6 ± 6 and 81.5 ± 5.5 (p = 0.05). There were no early complications in the implant group. No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups for the other outcomes. Conclusions: ABR safely restores shoulder stability in selected patients with subcritical glenoid bone deficiency. However, the addition of the Recenter metal implant did not improve outcomes compared to traditional Bankart repair and introduced presumed significant surgical time, technical challenges, and additional costs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Trends and Innovations in Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery)
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22 pages, 1085 KiB  
Article
Adapting and Implementing a Blended Collaborative Care Intervention for Older Adults with Multimorbidity: Quantitative and Qualitative Results from the ESCAPE Pilot Study
by Josefine Schulze, Dagmar Lühmann, Jonas Nagel, Cornelia Regner, Christine Zelenak, Kristina Bersch, Christoph Herrmann-Lingen, Matthew M. Burg and Birgit Herbeck-Belnap
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15010079 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 459
Abstract
Multimorbidity poses significant challenges for patients and healthcare systems, often exacerbated by fragmented care and insufficient collaboration across providers. Blended Collaborative Care (BCC) is a promising strategy to address care complexity by partnering care managers (CMs) with primary care providers (PCPs) and specialists. [...] Read more.
Multimorbidity poses significant challenges for patients and healthcare systems, often exacerbated by fragmented care and insufficient collaboration across providers. Blended Collaborative Care (BCC) is a promising strategy to address care complexity by partnering care managers (CMs) with primary care providers (PCPs) and specialists. This study aimed to adapt and pilot a BCC intervention for patients aged 65+ with heart failure and physical–mental multimorbidity. Our objectives were to assess the feasibility of the study procedures, patient recruitment, participant satisfaction and acceptability, and to identify necessary adjustments for improving intervention delivery. We evaluated goal attainment and intervention fidelity through standardised electronic documentation by CMs, and patient acceptance and satisfaction through semi-structured interviews. A monocentric, one-arm pilot study involved nine patients with a mean of 6.7 contacts with their CM over three months. Patients’ health goals primarily focused on lifestyle changes and psychosocial support. The intervention was generally well-accepted, with no reported negative consequences. Difficulties in establishing working alliances with PCPs were a barrier to effective implementation. The analysis indicated the need for minor procedural adjustments. Next steps include launching the ESCAPE trial, a large randomised-controlled trial across different European healthcare systems and developing strategies to facilitate PCP involvement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Providing Emotional Support for People with Chronic Diseases)
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13 pages, 231 KiB  
Article
Perspectives of Women with Breast Cancer and Healthcare Providers Participating in an Adherence-Enhancing Program for Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy: A Qualitative Study
by Véronique Turcotte, Laurence Guillaumie, Martine Lemay, Anne Dionne, Julie Lemieux, Angéline Labbé, Carolyn Gotay, Line Guénette and Sophie Lauzier
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(1), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32010045 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 260
Abstract
Background: Adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) is prescribed for 5–10 years to women with hormone-sensitive breast cancer to prevent recurrence. However, a significant proportion of women do not adhere to AET. We developed SOIE, a one-year program designed to enhance the AET experience and [...] Read more.
Background: Adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) is prescribed for 5–10 years to women with hormone-sensitive breast cancer to prevent recurrence. However, a significant proportion of women do not adhere to AET. We developed SOIE, a one-year program designed to enhance the AET experience and adherence. SOIE was pilot-tested in a mixed-methods randomized controlled trial. This report presents the experience of women and healthcare providers (HCPs) with SOIE. Methods: A descriptive qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis was conducted with 20 women and 7 HCPs who participated in the program. Results: Most women and HCPs reported high satisfaction with the program. Women felt it addressed their need for information and strategies to manage side effects. They felt supported and developed a more positive attitude toward AET, which contributed to their intention to pursue AET. They perceived that the program helped them navigate the AET experience and reduced their stress or fear regarding AET. HCPs corroborated these benefits. Conclusions: Findings suggest that SOIE can enhance the experience and motivation to pursue the AET treatment by meeting important needs for information, side-effects management, and psycho-emotional support. Programs like SOIE can have benefits beyond adherence by improving patients’ well-being during this crucial long-term treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")
20 pages, 781 KiB  
Review
Oral Antibacterial Drug Prescribing in Primary Care Out-of-Hours Services: A Scoping Review
by Sarah Khalid Al Hussain, Rhian Deslandes, Deborah Edwards and Karen Louise Hodson
Antibiotics 2025, 14(1), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14010100 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 470
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The rapid spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) presents a critical threat to global health. Primary care plays a significant role in this crisis, with oral antibacterial drugs among the most prescribed medications. Antibacterial prescribing rates are often high and complicated in out-of-hours [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The rapid spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) presents a critical threat to global health. Primary care plays a significant role in this crisis, with oral antibacterial drugs among the most prescribed medications. Antibacterial prescribing rates are often high and complicated in out-of-hours (OOH) services, including weekdays outside regular hours, weekends, and holidays, potentially exacerbating AMR. This review aims to identify the existing literature on oral antibacterial drug prescribing within primary care OOH services. Methods: This review followed established frameworks, adhered to PRISMA-ScR guidelines, and the protocol was registered on Open Science Framework. Seven databases were searched from 2017 to May 2022. Data were summarised, tabulated, and presented narratively to explore themes and patterns that aligned with the review objectives. Results: The search identified 28 studies from nine high-income countries, mainly the UK (n = 6) and Belgium (n = 5). Most were quantitative studies (n = 23). Key areas identified included common oral antibacterial prescriptions, prescribing trends, presentations and conditions managed in OOH services, factors and predictors associated with prescribing, prescribing appropriateness, the impact of interventions on prescribing, prescribing in the context of COVID-19, patient satisfaction and expectations, and the challenges encountered, such as factors influencing prescribing behaviour and decision making, safety netting, and communication. Conclusions: This review highlights key areas around oral antibacterial prescribing in primary care OOH services. Despite the numerous articles identified covering various areas within OOH services, the variability in OOH services approaches across countries and studies complicates the comparison of practice. Further research is needed to better understand practices in these settings. Full article
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14 pages, 987 KiB  
Article
Novel Conservative Therapies in Migraine Management: The Impact of Fascia Exercises in a Randomized Controlled Trial
by Rabia Tuğba Tekin, Hilal Aslan, Veysel Uludağ, Şadiye Gümüşyayla and Gönül Vural
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(2), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14020539 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 301
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Migraine is a complex neurological disorder often associated with autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of fascia exercises on migraine symptoms and explore their potential as a novel conservative treatment approach. Methods: A prospective, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Migraine is a complex neurological disorder often associated with autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of fascia exercises on migraine symptoms and explore their potential as a novel conservative treatment approach. Methods: A prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted with 30 migraine patients who were randomly assigned to a treatment group (fascia exercises) or a control group (conventional physiotherapy). Both groups underwent a six-week intervention consisting of two sessions per week. Pain intensity, migraine-related disability, sleep quality, anxiety, depression, heart rate variability (HRV), and patient satisfaction were assessed before and after the intervention using validated scales. Results: Significant improvements in pain intensity, attack frequency and duration, migraine-related disability, sleep quality, and anxiety levels were observed in both groups (p < 0.05). However, the treatment group demonstrated a more pronounced reduction in depression scores compared to the control group (p < 0.05). While no significant changes in HRV parameters were detected in either group, patient satisfaction was significantly higher in the treatment group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Fascia exercises represent a promising complementary therapy for migraine management, offering significant improvements in both physical and psychological symptoms. While immediate effects on HRV were not evident, the potential to modulate autonomic balance and address migraine pathophysiology warrants further exploration. These findings highlight the value of fascia exercises as a low-cost, non-invasive approach, emphasizing the need for further research to confirm their long-term clinical benefits and integration into migraine treatment protocols. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Neurology)
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19 pages, 1530 KiB  
Review
Periocular Aging Across Populations and Esthetic Considerations: A Narrative Review
by Brendan K. Tao, Fahad R. Butt, Thanansayan Dhivagaran, Michael Balas, Navdeep Nijhawan, Georges Nassrallah, Ahsen Hussain and Edsel B. Ing
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(2), 535; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14020535 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 482
Abstract
As the face ages, the skin, fat, muscle, and fascia descend, and the underlying bone, cartilage, and teeth may lose mass. Oculofacial aging is a multifactorial process that is influenced by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. This review summarizes the patterns of oculofacial [...] Read more.
As the face ages, the skin, fat, muscle, and fascia descend, and the underlying bone, cartilage, and teeth may lose mass. Oculofacial aging is a multifactorial process that is influenced by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. This review summarizes the patterns of oculofacial aging that are observed across populations, including variations in periorbital hollowing, eyelid ptosis, and skin elasticity. Evidence indicates significant variability in aging patterns between sex- and race-based subgroups. Nonetheless, there remains a paucity of research on the progression of aging in some under-studied demographic groups. Signs of oculofacial aging often become apparent to patients well before these changes reach full maturity in later years, leading many to seek early esthetic interventions. Others may present with more advanced signs of aging, motivating a diverse range of therapeutic options. We discuss minimally invasive esthetic interventions to mitigate the signs of aging, which may include botulinum toxin injections, dermal fillers, applied energy-based treatments (e.g., lasers), and emerging techniques such as micro-focused ultrasound and platelet-rich plasma therapies. We review evidence on outcomes related to patient satisfaction and quality of life following esthetic interventions for oculofacial aging. Finally, we outline ethical considerations and challenges faced with the delivery of esthetic surgery, including treatment complications and the influence of social media. This review provides a comprehensive overview of oculofacial aging patterns, its management, and important considerations for the provision of esthetic oculofacial treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)
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14 pages, 3151 KiB  
Article
Health Pods for Automated Triage Improve Efficiency and Satisfaction in Nurses and Patients
by Giuseppe Andreoni, Alessandra Santangelo, Riccardo Sannicandro and Alessandro Nizardo Chailly
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(2), 813; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15020813 - 15 Jan 2025
Viewed by 419
Abstract
Emergency department (ED) overcrowding and limited staff availability pose ongoing challenges to healthcare efficiency. Recent advancements in automated health technologies, such as the health pod, aim to alleviate these pressures by automating vital sign measurements for low-risk patients. Over three months, the CAPSULA [...] Read more.
Emergency department (ED) overcrowding and limited staff availability pose ongoing challenges to healthcare efficiency. Recent advancements in automated health technologies, such as the health pod, aim to alleviate these pressures by automating vital sign measurements for low-risk patients. Over three months, the CAPSULA Health Pod was implemented and used in a paired setting with normal triage procedures in an urban hospital ED; it demonstrated improvements in triage efficiency and patient satisfaction, aligning with evidence that supports automation as a solution in high-demand healthcare settings. With 1342 assessments across 404 patients, despite some challenges with elderly patient engagement, CAPSULA achieved excellent measurement accuracy and relevant efficiency for the first assessment of patients in crowded situations and for reassessment. The findings indicate CAPSULA’s potential to reduce patient wait times, improve workflow efficiency, and support resource-limited EDs. Although the main limitation remains IT integration, the system demonstrates scalability and potential for broader adoption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering)
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13 pages, 4005 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Morphologic and Rheological Properties of Hyaluronic Acid Gel Fillers to Body Contouring and Its Clinical Correlation
by Maria Cláudia Almeida Issa, Renata M. M. Viana, Paulo R. de Souza Mendes, Mônica F. Naccache, Priscila R. Varges, Eliana P. Marín Castaño and Eliandre Palermo
Viewed by 333
Abstract
The demand for minimally invasive body contouring procedures, particularly for gluteal augmentation, has grown significantly. This study evaluates the morphologic and rheological properties of four commercially available hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers used for body contouring and explores their clinical implications. Critical parameters such [...] Read more.
The demand for minimally invasive body contouring procedures, particularly for gluteal augmentation, has grown significantly. This study evaluates the morphologic and rheological properties of four commercially available hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers used for body contouring and explores their clinical implications. Critical parameters such as storage modulus (G′), loss modulus (G″), complex modulus (G*), and damping factor (tan δ) were measured using oscillatory rheological tests to assess each filler’s elasticity, viscosity, and viscoelastic profile. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was performed to analyze the microstructure of the fillers, providing insights into their microscopic architecture. The results showed differences in mechanical properties and viscoelastic behavior among the fillers. These variations suggest that the choice of filler may need to be tailored to specific body contouring requirements. Understanding these differences is crucial for achieving the best clinical results and patient satisfaction, helping professionals select the most suitable filler for each case. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Medical Hydrogels)
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9 pages, 2791 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of a Novel Method for Temporary Eyebrow Lifting Using Polydioxanone Threads: Preliminary Findings
by Kyu Hwa Jung, Won Lee and Seong Hwan Kim
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(2), 490; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14020490 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 256
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Aging affects the face and eyebrow areas, with various resultant procedures for lifting the eyebrows. Recently, thread lifting using absorbable threads has become increasingly popular, with the advantages of a faster recovery and no visible scars, when compared with conventional facial rhytidectomy. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Aging affects the face and eyebrow areas, with various resultant procedures for lifting the eyebrows. Recently, thread lifting using absorbable threads has become increasingly popular, with the advantages of a faster recovery and no visible scars, when compared with conventional facial rhytidectomy. Furthermore, polydioxanone (PDO) thread lifting is a favorable surgical method that has been used for eyebrow lifting. However, simply raising the eyebrows overall does not always result in high patient satisfaction. Therefore, in this study, we successfully applied a surgical method to lift the eyebrows, achieving a softer impression of the changing eyebrow shape that is associated with aging. We report on the favorable results yielded by the application of this surgical method. Methods: Between January 2023 and January 2024, a retrospective chart review was conducted for 29 patients who had undergone eyebrow lifting using only PDO threads. Photographs were taken pre- and 3 months post-operatively, in a photo studio with indirect lighting. Patient satisfaction and adverse effects were evaluated immediately and 3 months post-operatively. Results: The overall change in the eyebrow height was minimal at approximately 1.2–1.3 cm; nonetheless, the changes in the angles of the inner eyebrows at 4.00° and 4.44° resulted in a more favorable appearance. In total, 26 out of 29 patients expressed being “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with the outcomes. Serious complications were not observed. Conclusions: An effective, noninvasive eyebrow correction, considering the shape of the inner eyebrow, was performed. A thread-lifting method was used, which lifted the overall eyebrows and corrected the eyebrow shape. Full article
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13 pages, 1049 KiB  
Review
An Overview of Dentist–Patient Communication in Quality Dental Care
by Jasmine Cheuk Ying Ho, Hollis Haotian Chai, Bella Weijia Luo, Edward Chin Man Lo, Michelle Zeping Huang and Chun Hung Chu
Dent. J. 2025, 13(1), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13010031 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 413
Abstract
Dentist–patient communication is at the core of providing quality dental care. This study aims to review the importance, challenges, strategies, and training of dentist–patient communication. The World Dental Federation (FDI) emphasizes the importance of effective communication between oral healthcare providers and patients as [...] Read more.
Dentist–patient communication is at the core of providing quality dental care. This study aims to review the importance, challenges, strategies, and training of dentist–patient communication. The World Dental Federation (FDI) emphasizes the importance of effective communication between oral healthcare providers and patients as a critical component of high-quality care. Effective dentist–patient communication allows dentists to accurately and effectively pass on essential medical information to patients. It improves the dentist’s efficiency, boosts self-confidence, reduces occupational stress, and minimizes the risks of complaint or litigation. Moreover, it alleviates dental anxiety and fear, helps build trust between dentists and patients, addresses patients’ needs and preferences, increases patients’ adherence to improved treatment outcomes, and ultimately leads to enhanced patient satisfaction. Nonetheless, it has been widely acknowledged that dentists universally encounter the repercussions arising from suboptimal communication strategies. Time constraints, difficulties in establishing rapport, the oral-health illiteracy of the patients, the poor communication skills of the dentists, dentists’ perceptions, and language barriers often hinder dentist–patient communication. Dentists should take the patient-centered approach as a premise and acquire verbal and non-verbal communication skills to overcome these communication barriers. The patient-centered approach comprises the understanding of patients’ illness, shared decision-making, and intervention with mindfulness of the patient’s own pace. Simple, succinct, and jargon-free language should be used in verbal communication. Proper body postures and gestures are fundamental for showing positive attitudes towards patients. Communication training for dental students should involve a structured pedagogical approach that includes didactic instruction, role-playing exercises, patient interviewing, and ongoing assessments. Key components of effective communication skills training in dental education include motivational interviewing, open-ended questioning, affirmations, reflective listening, and summaries to enhance patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Preventive Dentistry and Public Health)
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