We introduced a self-care pathway for minimally displaced distal radius fractures, which involved the patient being discharged from a Virtual Fracture Clinic (VFC) without a physical review and being provided with written instructions on how to remove their own cast or splint at home, plus advice on exercises and return to function. All patients managed via this protocol between March and October 2020 were contacted by a medical secretary at a minimum of six months post-injury. The patients were asked to complete the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE), a satisfaction questionnaire, advise if they had required surgery and/or contacted any health professional, and were also asked for any recommendations on how to improve the service. A review with a hand surgeon was organized if required, and a cost analysis was also conducted.Aims
Methods
We conducted a randomised controlled trial to
determine whether active intense pulsed light (IPL) is an effective treatment
for patients with chronic mid-body Achilles tendinopathy. A total
of 47 patients were randomly assigned to three weekly therapeutic
or placebo IPL treatments. The primary outcome measure was the Victorian
Institute of Sport Assessment – Achilles (VISA-A) score. Secondary
outcomes were a visual analogue scale for pain (VAS) and the Lower
Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS). Outcomes were recorded at baseline,
six weeks and 12 weeks following treatment. Ultrasound assessment
of the thickness of the tendon and neovascularisation were also
recorded before and after treatment. There was no significant difference between the groups for any
of the outcome scores or ultrasound measurements by 12 weeks, showing
no measurable benefit from treatment with IPL in patients with Achilles tendinopathy. Cite this article:
