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Review articles

[English]
South Korea is experiencing a rapid demographic transition, with the proportion of older adults projected to exceed 20% by 2025. This unprecedented pace has intensified the demand for healthcare and social support, creating complex challenges in the management of multimorbidity, frailty, and functional dependency. Historically, Korea has relied on a rigid, provider-centered model, with healthcare financed through National Health Insurance and long-term care through long-term care insurance. Although these systems expanded service availability, they also entrenched fragmentation between long-term care hospitals and nursing homes. Recent reforms mark a paradigm shift toward person-centered, integrated care. The Community Care pilot programs (2019–2022) and the Integrated Community Care Support Act (2024) introduced coordinated models that link healthcare, housing, and social services under local government leadership. Evidence from domestic and international studies underscores the risks of prolonged institutionalization and highlights the benefits of integrated approaches, including reduced hospitalizations, improved functional independence, and higher satisfaction among older adults and their families. At the same time, experiences from Korea and Japan suggest that institutional care remains indispensable for individuals with high medical needs or at the end of life, emphasizing the need for balanced strategies. Successful implementation of the 2026 reforms will require redefining the role of institutions, expanding community-based alternatives, developing a professional care manager workforce, achieving interoperability of data systems, and undertaking financing reforms to align incentives. Beyond structural change, embedding a cultural ethos that values dignity, autonomy, and personhood will be essential. Korea’s evolving model not only responds to urgent demographic challenges but also offers lessons for other aging societies.
  • 1,622 View
  • 18 Download
[English]
Two paths, one goal–uniting regional and general anesthesia for optimal surgical care: a narrative review
Min Kyoung Kim, Oh Haeng Lee, Hyun Kang
Ewha Med J 2025;48(4):e61.   Published online September 16, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2025.00724
The integration of regional anesthesia (RA) with general anesthesia (GA) has become a central component of multimodal strategies to improve perioperative pain management. This approach not only enhances analgesic efficacy but also reduces opioid requirements and mitigates opioid-related adverse effects. By targeting peripheral or neuraxial nociceptive pathways, RA attenuates the surgical stress response and decreases central sensitization, complementing the systemic actions of GA. The combined application of RA and GA has shown substantial benefits across a wide range of surgical procedures, including abdominal, thoracic, orthopedic, and pediatric operations. Reported advantages include improved hemodynamic stability, enhanced pulmonary function, earlier ambulation, faster gastrointestinal recovery, and greater patient satisfaction. Moreover, recent evidence indicates a positive association between effective postoperative pain control and long-term outcomes, such as reduced incidence of persistent postsurgical pain, better functional independence, and even improved immune function and survival following cancer surgery. The development of sustained-release local anesthetic delivery systems, which provide localized and prolonged analgesia, further extends the benefits of RA-GA integration into the postoperative period. This review summarizes the mechanistic rationale, clinical applications, and future directions of RA-GA combinations in modern surgical care, with special emphasis on their role in enhanced recovery after surgery protocols.
  • 1,530 View
  • 24 Download

Original article

[English]
Status of human rights violations and trauma among North Korean defectors: a cross-sectional study
So Hee Lee, Won Woong Lee, Haewoo Lee, Jin Yong Jun, Jin-Won Noh
Ewha Med J 2025;48(2):e28.   Published online April 10, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2025.00367
Purpose
This study aimed to identify the types of human rights violations and the associated psychological trauma experienced by North Korean defectors. It also examined the impact of trauma on the defectors’ interpersonal relationships, employment, and overall quality of life, while evaluating existing psychological support policies to suggest potential improvements.
Methods
A multidisciplinary research team conducted an observational survey and in-depth interviews with approximately 300 North Korean defectors residing in South Korea from June to September 2017. Standardized measurement tools, including the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Checklist (PCL-5), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale-7 (GAD-7), and Short Form-8 Health Survey (SF-8), were employed. Statistical analyses consisted of frequency analysis, cross-tabulation, factor analysis, and logistic regression.
Results
The findings revealed a high prevalence of human rights violations, such as public executions (82%), forced self-criticism (82.3%), and severe starvation or illness (62.7%). Additionally, there were elevated rates of PTSD (56%), severe depression (28.3%), anxiety (25%), and insomnia (23.3%). Defectors who resided in China before entering South Korea reported significantly worse mental health outcomes and a lower quality of life. Moreover, trauma was strongly and negatively correlated with social adjustment, interpersonal relationships, employment stability, and overall well-being.
Conclusion
An urgent revision of existing policies is needed to incorporate specialized, trauma-informed care infrastructures within medical institutions. Furthermore, broad societal education to reduce stigma and enhance integration efforts is essential to effectively support the psychological well-being and social integration of North Korean defectors.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by  
  • Recent advances in pulmonary tuberculosis, the application of deep learning to medical topics, and highlights from this issue of Ewha Medical Journal
    Hae-Sun Chung
    Ewha Medical Journal.2025; 48(2): e16.     CrossRef
  • 7,067 View
  • 91 Download
  • 1 Web of Science
  • 1 Crossref

Review article

[English]

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols are designed to minimize surgical stress, preserve physiological function, and expedite recovery through standardized perioperative care for primary colorectal surgery patients. This narrative review explores the benefits of current ERAS protocols in improving outcomes for these patients and provides insights into future advancements. Numerous studies have shown that ERAS protocols significantly reduce the length of hospital stays by several days compared to conventional care. Additionally, the implementation of ERAS is linked to a reduction in postoperative complications, including lower incidences of surgical site infections, anastomotic leaks, and postoperative ileus. Patients adhering to ERAS protocols also benefit from quicker gastrointestinal recovery, marked by an earlier return of bowel function. Some research indicates that colorectal cancer patients undergoing surgery with ERAS protocols may experience improved overall survival rates. High compliance with ERAS protocols leads to better outcomes, yet achieving full adherence continues to be a challenge. Despite these advantages, implementation challenges persist, with compliance rates affected by varying clinical practices and resource availability. However, the future of ERAS looks promising with the incorporation of prehabilitation strategies and technologies such as wearable devices and telemedicine. These innovations provide real-time monitoring, enhance patient engagement, and improve postoperative follow-up, potentially transforming perioperative care in colorectal surgery and offering new avenues for enhanced patient outcomes.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by  
  • Impact of “Enhanced Recovery After Surgery” (ERAS) protocols vs. traditional perioperative care on patient outcomes after colorectal surgery: a systematic review
    Vaishnavi Kannan, Najeeb Ullah, Sunitha Geddada, Amir Ibrahiam, Zahraa Munaf Shakir Al-Qassab, Osman Ahmed, Iana Malasevskaia
    Patient Safety in Surgery.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
  • 8,517 View
  • 67 Download
  • 1 Web of Science
  • 1 Crossref

Original Article

[English]

Objectives: Addiction to prescription narcotics is a global issue, and detecting individuals with narcotic use disorder (NUD) at an early stage can help prevent narcotics misuse and abuse. We developed a novel index for the early detection of NUD based on an analysis of real-world prescription patterns in a large hospital.

Methods: We analyzed the narcotic prescriptions of 221,887 patients, prescribed by 8,737 doctors from July 2000 to June 2018. To facilitate the early detection of patients at risk of developing NUD after a prolonged period of narcotic use, we developed a weighted morphine equivalent daily dose (wt-MEDD) score. This score was based on the number of prescription dates where the actual MEDD exceeded the intended MEDD. We compared the performance of the wt-MEDD scoring system in identifying patients diagnosed with NUD by doctors against other high-risk NUD indices. These indices included the MEDD scoring system, the number of days on prescribed narcotics, the frequency and duration of prescriptions, narcotics prescriptions from multiple doctors, and the number of early narcotic refills.

Results: A wt-MEDD score cut-off value of 10.5 successfully identified all outliers and diagnosed patients with NUD with 100% sensitivity and 99.6% specificity. This score demonstrated the highest sensitivity and specificity for detecting NUD compared to all other indexes. The predictive performance was further improved by combining the wt-MEDD score with other high-risk NUD indexes.

Conclusion: We developed a novel index, the wt-MEDD score, which showed excellent performance in the early detection of NUD.

  • 929 View
  • 8 Download

Review article

Special topic: recent management strategies for liver cancer

[English]
Current perspectives on the pharmacological treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: a narrative review
Hye-Jin Yoo, Jeong-Ju Yoo, Sang Gyune Kim, Young Seok Kim
Ewha Med J 2024;47(4):e53.   Published online October 31, 2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2024.e53

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a critical health concern in Korea, ranking as the second leading cause of cancer mortality and imposing substantial economic burdens, particularly among the working-age population. This review examines recent advancements in treating advanced HCC, referencing the updated 2022 HCC guidelines and the Barcelona Clinical Liver Cancer system. Historically, first-line systemic therapies included sorafenib and lenvatinib, with regorafenib, cabozantinib, or ramucirumab serving as second-line options. Since 2020, immune checkpoint inhibitors have shown superior overall survival than sorafenib, leading to the adoption of combination therapies such as atezolizumab with bevacizumab and durvalumab with tremelimumab as first-line treatments. The IMbrave150 study demonstrated that atezolizumab–bevacizumab significantly extended median overall survival and progression-free survival, with the longest survival reported in any phase 3 trial for advanced HCC. Similarly, the HIMALAYA study indicated that durvalumab combined with tremelimumab significantly improved survival rates. Second-line therapies now include regorafenib, cabozantinib, ramucirumab, nivolumab with ipilimumab, and pembrolizumab, each offering benefits for specific patient populations. Nonetheless, these therapies are associated with side effects that require careful management. Traditional targeted therapies can lead to hypertension, cardiovascular events, and hand-foot skin reactions, whereas immune checkpoint inhibitors may cause immune-related adverse events affecting the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and endocrine system. Clinicians must be well-versed in these treatments and their potential side effects to provide optimal patient care. The emergence of combination therapies targeting complex biological pathways signifies a new paradigm in HCC treatment, emphasizing the importance of continuous education and vigilant monitoring to optimize patient outcomes.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by  
  • Novel Immunotherapy for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma
    Hyun Bin Choi, Jeong-Ju Yoo
    The Korean Journal of Medicine.2025; 100(3): 102.     CrossRef
  • 6,047 View
  • 37 Download
  • 1 Web of Science
  • 1 Crossref

Original Articles

Original Articles

[English]
OxyMask is not superior to a non-rebreathing oxygen mask for oxygen supply in a post-anesthesia care unit in Korea: a comparative study
Seung Hee Yoo, In-Young Yoon, Dong Yeon Kim, Sooyoung Cho
Ewha Med J 2024;47(2):e26.   Published online April 30, 2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2024.e26
Objectives:

OxyMask, a novel product, has recently been used to administer oxygen postoperatively to patients who have undergone general anesthesia. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of hypoxia in patients under general anesthesia upon arrival to the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) using arterial blood gas analysis, and to compare the effectiveness of OxyMask with a non-rebreathing oxygen mask for oxygen administration.

Methods:

We retrospectively investigated anesthesia-related data from the electronic medical records of 460 patients treated from April to November 2021. We analyzed patients aged 20 years or older who had undergone general anesthesia and whose perioperative arterial blood gas analysis results were available upon arrival to the PACU. These patients were grouped into the non-rebreathing oxygen mask (n=223) and OxyMask (n=237) groups, and statistical analysis was performed utilizing their anesthesia records.

Results:

No patients exhibited hypoxia upon arrival to the recovery room. The oxygen concentration increased after oxygen administration; its concentration during the recovery room period (Δ2 PaO2) was 10.7±42.3 and 13.9±38.5 mmHg in the non-rebreathing oxygen mask and OxyMask groups, respectively. This difference was not statistically significant. Moreover, the arterial oxygen saturation between the end of surgery and upon arrival to the PACU (Δ1 SaO2) and the arterial oxygen saturation 20 minutes after oxygen administration at the PACU (Δ2 SaO2) did not significantly differ between the groups.

Conclusion:

OxyMask was not superior to a non-rebreathing oxygen mask in terms of the effectiveness of oxygen supply.

  • 1,759 View
  • 9 Download
[English]
Exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) in blood and urine under physiological conditions: a comparative study
Lv Chun-yan, Zhong Yuan, Hu Yao
Ewha Med J 2024;47(1):e6.   Published online January 31, 2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2024.e6
Objectives:

Blood and urine are commonly used specimens for clinical testing, and their contents, particularly exosomal microRNA (miRNA), are diverse, reflecting the metabolic activities of tissues and organs in the body.

Methods:

Blood and urine samples were collected from six healthy adults. Exosomes were then enriched from these samples, followed by sequencing and bioinformatic analysis of exosomal miRNA.

Results:

The comparative analysis of miRNAs in blood and urine revealed that 41 miRNAs were more abundant in blood, while 61 were found at lower levels. Notably, hsa-miR-934 was among those with higher expression in blood, whereas hsa-miR-425-5p was one of the miRNAs with lower expression. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis indicated that the target mRNAs of differentially expressed exosomal miRNAs (DEexo-miRNAs) in both blood and urine are implicated in various signaling pathways, including proteoglycans in cancer, axonal guidance, and the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. Additionally, the target mRNAs associated with DEexo-miRNAs in urine were also linked to processes such as ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis and the phosphatidylinositol signaling system. In contrast, the target mRNAs corresponding to DEexo-miRNAs in blood were involved in the FoxO signaling pathway and chronic myeloid leukemia, among others.

Conclusion:

This study observed differential expression of exosomal miRNAs in blood and urine, thereby enriching the available library of exosomal miRNA for these two sample types. It also lays the groundwork for the detection of exosomal biomarkers from blood and urine.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by  
  • Potential liquid biopsy markers of exosomal microRNAs in renal interstitial fibrosis blood and urine
    Chunyan Lv, Yuan Zhong, Yao Hu, Yan Tang
    Indian Journal of Pathology and Microbiology.2025; 68(2): 279.     CrossRef
  • Gender equity in medical journals in Korea and this issue
    Sun Huh
    The Ewha Medical Journal.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
  • 2,390 View
  • 23 Download
  • 1 Web of Science
  • 2 Crossref

Special Article

[English]

The Republic of Korea’s potential role in the peacebuilding process on the Korean Peninsula is explored, with the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s earnest efforts to denuclearize and become a normal country. The paper focuses on the United Nations (UN) agencies in the peacebuilding process, considering the UN’s engagement in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea during the sanction years with humanitarian assistance, the UN’s legitimacy as an impartial international organization for assisting developing countries in forging peace and prosperity, and recently-adopted resolutions on sustaining peace and the Sustainable Development Goals. Policy recommendations are for the Republic of Korea to actively cooperate with the UN’s development and humanitarian agencies, conduct a thorough preparatory review and conduct research, and work towards expanding its engagement and role within key UN agencies.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by  
  • Gender equity in medical journals in Korea and this issue
    Sun Huh
    The Ewha Medical Journal.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef
  • 4,434 View
  • 53 Download
  • 1 Crossref

Review Articles

[English]

Preoperative chemoradiotherapy (pCRT) followed by total mesorectal excision is the accepted standard treatment for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. The purpose of pCRT is to prevent the spread of viable tumor cells within the local area during surgical procedures. Additionally, pCRT can facilitate the resection of locally advanced tumors that are otherwise challenging to remove, thereby enabling a radical resection. Although a pathologic complete response is observed in fewer than 20% of patients, the reasons for the variability in tumor response to pCRT are not fully understood. Several techniques have been researched with the aim of improving the tumor response to pCRT. These techniques include intensifying or combining chemotherapy, either simultaneously or sequentially, increasing radiation dose, modifying radiation mode or schedule, adjusting the interval between radiation and surgery, and incorporating multiple agents to increase the efficacy of pCRT. This review discusses various strategies that may improve tumor response outcomes following pCRT.

  • 794 View
  • 3 Download
[English]

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) aims to promote postoperative recovery in patients by minimizing the surgical stress response through evidence-based multimodal interventions. In 2023, updated clinical practice guidelines were published in North America, potentially superseding the most recent guidelines previously announced at the ERAS Society in 2019. This review compares and reviews these two guidelines to examine the principle of ERAS and items related to colorectal surgery and to introduce the latest relevant study results published within the last 5 years. In the pre-hospitalization stage, the concept of pre-hospitalization is emphasized; this involves checking and reinforcing the patient’s nutritional status and physical functional status before surgery. In the preoperative stage, large-scale studies have prompted a change in the recommendation of mechanical bowel preparation combined with oral antibiotics in elective colorectal surgery. In the intraoperative stage, laparoscopic surgery has become a widespread and important component of ERAS, and more technologically advanced single-incision laparoscopic surgery and robotic surgery are the focus of active research. Ileus-prevention items, such as opioid-sparing multimodal pain management and euvolemic fluid therapy, are recommended in the postoperative stage. The adoption of ERAS protocols is expanding to encompass a wide range of surgical procedures, clinical scenarios, healthcare institutions, and professional medical societies. In order to maximize the effect by increasing adherence to ERAS, medical staff must fully understand the clinical basis and meaning of each item, and the protocol must be maintained and developed steadily through a team approach and audit system.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by  
  • ERAS and Gastrointestinal Site Infections: Insights from a Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
    Zhiwei Wu, Xiaofang Ge, Dike Shi
    Surgical Infections.2024; 25(9): 699.     CrossRef
  • Emerging Infectious Diseases at the End of the Fourth Year of the COVID-19 Pandemic and Recent Updates on Colorectal and Pediatric Endocrine Diseases
    Sun Huh
    The Ewha Medical Journal.2023;[Epub]     CrossRef
  • 10,632 View
  • 17 Download
  • 1 Web of Science
  • 2 Crossref
[English]
Postoperative Rehabilitation of Elbow Pain
Hyojune Kim, Kyoung Hwan Koh, In-Ho Jeon
Ewha Med J 2023;46(4):e16.   Published online October 31, 2023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2023.e16
ABSTRACT

The elbow joint, with its intricate anatomy, plays a pivotal role in the upper limb's functional movements. Common surgical indications include epicondylitis, osteoarthritis, tendon tears, and neuropathies. Irrespective of the nature of surgery, appropriate postoperative rehabilitation is essential to enhance recovery, optimize functional outcomes, and minimize complications. Protective measures for the elbow vary based on the surgical procedure is performed. Extended postoperative immobilization is generally not advised. Temporary splints may be utilized to protect the soft tissues in the immediate aftermath of surgery, with patients advised to intermittently remove them to facilitate elbow movement. To increase mobility while ensuring the safety of repaired tendons or ligaments, articulated dynamic braces are recommended. This review delivers clinically useful recommendations specific to various surgical procedures, designed to be user-friendly even for non-specialists in orthopaedic surgery.

  • 5,666 View
  • 45 Download

Case Reports

[English]
Recurrent Colonic Perforation in Geriatric Patients with Sigmoid Colostomy: Two Case Reports
Hyeonkyeong Kim, Kwang Ho Kim, Gyoung Tae Noh, Ho Seung Kim
Ewha Med J 2023;46(3):e8.   Published online July 31, 2023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2023.e8
ABSTRACT

Recurrent colonic perforation in patients already having colostomy is extremely rare and only a few cases had been reported. Herein, we report 2 cases of recurrent colonic perforation at the proximal part of the colostomy in geriatric patients resulting from different causes, which might be caused by stercoral perforation and recurrent colonic ischemia, respectively. Based on our experience, surgeons should consider correcting chronic constipation even in patients who already have a colostomy. Additionally, transverse colostomy should be considered as a surgical treatment in patients with sigmoid colostomy for recurrent perforation due to colonic ischemia.

  • 740 View
  • 5 Download
[English]
Minute Colon Perforation by a Nonabsorbable Suture Knot after Uterine Myomectomy
Hyeonkyeong Kim, Jinhoon Nam, Ryung-Ah Lee
Ewha Med J 2022;45(3):e7.   Published online July 31, 2022
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2022.e7
ABSTRACT

We report a rare case of suture material-related colon perforation. A 60-year-old woman visited clinics because of the nonspecific abdominal discomfort for several months. There were no specific medical history except previous laparoscopic myomectomy 15 years ago. Colonoscopy and abdomen-pelvis computed tomography revealed an unknown foreign body penetrating the sigmoid colon wall adjacent to the uterus. We performed laparoscopic exploration with foreign body removal and primary colon wall repair. The foreign body was identified as a non-absorbable suture material suggestive of used in previous myomectomy. With recent trends for minimally invasive procedures in the field of pelvic organ surgery, surgeons, especially those without sufficient training have to pay attention to selecting the proper surgical suture materials. (Ewha Med J 2022;45(3):e7)

  • 661 View
  • 4 Download
[English]
Embarrassed Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation of Supraventricular Tachycardia in Pectus Excavatum
Gahyun Lee, Ji-Eun Ban
Ewha Med J 2022;45(3):e6.   Published online July 31, 2022
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2022.e6
ABSTRACT

A 16-year-old patient with pectus excavatum visited our hospital because of palpitation. He underwent first Nuss operations at the age of 3. When he was 13 years old, the slow-fast type atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia was documented during electrophysiology study. However, the catheter ablation was not conducted because of recurrent atrial fibrillation during procedure. At that time, second Nuss operation was performed due to progressive chest wall deformity. And then, atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia was successfully treated by radiofrequency catheter ablation at the higher position than usual slow pathway zone under the modified fluoroscopic view with the cranial angle although distorted right atrial geometry and radiographic obstacle of Nuss operation bar. The concern about abnormal cardiac and electrical anatomy, and the accurate and modified procedure technique are essential in patients with pectus excavatum. (Ewha Med J 2022;45(3):e6)

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by  
  • Flecainide/propranolol

    Reactions Weekly.2023; 1984(1): 241.     CrossRef
  • 647 View
  • 3 Download
  • 1 Crossref

Review Articles

[English]
Prevention and Management of Small-for-Size Syndrome of Liver Transplantation
Nam-Joon Yi
Ewha Med J 2022;45(2):29-34.   Published online April 30, 2022
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2022.45.2.29
ABSTRACT

Small-for-size syndrome (SFSS) is a critical complication of partial liver transplantation, particularly in adult-to-adult living donor liver transplantation (ALDLT) using a small graft. Minimally required liver graft size for a successful ALDLT is classically 40% of a standard recipient’s liver volume or 0.8% of recipient body weight. Recent progress in perioperative care and technical improvement push the lower limit of safe graft size to 25% of the recipient’s standard liver volume or 0.6% of the graft versus recipient weight ratio although this is an ongoing debate. The clinical manifestations of SFSS include various symptoms and signs related to graft dysfunction and portal hypertension in patients with small grafts. The risk factors for SFSS include poor preoperative patient condition, including portal pressure, surgical techniques to reduce portal pressure, and graft quality and size. Hence, various approaches have been explored to modulate inflow and pressure to a small graft and to decrease the outflow block to alleviate this SFSS as well as the selection of a patient and graft. Additionally, recent research and efforts to prevent and treat SFSS are reviewed. (Ewha Med J 2022;45(2):29-34)

  • 1,500 View
  • 14 Download
[Korean]
How to Choose the Optimal Bowel Preparation Regimen for Colonoscopy
Ewha Med J 2021;44(4):122-132.   Published online October 31, 2021
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2021.44.4.122

Colonoscopy is commonly used to screen for and diagnose colorectal disease, and adequate bowel preparation is crucial to its quality. As bowel preparation regimens vary, it is important that clinicians understand each and select the proper one for each patient. Accordingly, here we investigated recent studies and describe how to choose the optimal bowel preparation regimen. We detail composition, dosages, efficacy, contraindications, and precautions of commonly used regimens including 4 L polyethylene glycol (PEG), 2 L PEG+ascorbic acid, 1 L PEG+ascorbic acid, trisulfate (oral sulfate solution/tablets), and sodium picosulfate/magnesium citrate. Here we describe that the most recently introduced 1 L PEG and oral sulfate tablets, which were developed to improve convenience and compliance, differ in composition and efficacy between South Korea and foreign countries. This review presents new evidence of and differences among products to increase clinician understanding.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by  
  • Strategies to improve screening colonoscopy quality for the prevention of colorectal cancer
    Joo Hye Song, Eun Ran Kim
    The Korean Journal of Internal Medicine.2024; 39(4): 547.     CrossRef
  • Hyponatremic Seizure after Ingestion of an Oral Sulfate Tablet for Bowel Preparation for Colonoscopy
    Sung Hyun Hong, Dong Seok Lee, Ji Won Kim, Kook Lae Lee, Hyoun Woo Kang, Su Hwan Kim
    The Korean Journal of Gastroenterology.2022; 80(3): 154.     CrossRef
  • 3,074 View
  • 33 Download
  • 2 Web of Science
  • 2 Crossref

Original Article

[English]
Influence of the Phase of Menstrual Cycle on Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting after Breast Cancer Surgery
Jong Wha Lee, Jun Seop Lee, Jong Hak Kim, Youn Jin Kim, Jae Hee Woo, Dong Yeon Kim, Jeong Jeong
Ewha Med J 2018;41(1):19-23.   Published online January 31, 2018
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2018.41.1.19
Objectives

The phase of the menstrual cycle was demonstrated to have an influence on the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) after gynecologic laparoscopic surgery, but little was known for breast surgery, which was shown to have relatively higher incidence of PONV, >60%. We performed this study to investigate the influence of the phase of menstrual cycle on PONV after breast cancer surgery.

Methods

A total of 103 patients, who were scheduled for breast cancer surgery under general anesthesia, were recruited, and patients with irregular menstrual cycles, history of previous history of PONV were excluded. Groups were divided in two ways as follows: 1) gynecologic classification: premenstrual and menstrual (days 25 to 6), follicular (days 8 to 12), ovulation (days 13 to 15), and luteal phase (days 20 to 24); 2) menstrual classification: menstrual (days 1 to 8) and non-menstrual (days 9 to 28). PONV were recorded using Rhodes index of nausea, vomiting and retching at postoperative 6 and 24 hours.

Results

The overall incidence of PONV during postoperative 24 hours was 35.4%. At the menstrual classification, the incidence of PONV at postoperative 24 hours was higher in the menstrual group than that in the non-menstrual group (16.7% vs. 4.2%, P=0.057). The severity of PONV, measured with Rhodes index of nausea, vomiting and retching was significantly different between menstrual and non-menstrual groups (P=0.034).

Conclusion

The duration and severity of the PONV after breast cancer surgery were demonstrated to be prolonged and aggravated during menstruation, respectively. Therefore, consideration of menstrual cycle for scheduling breast cancer surgery could effectively prevent the PONV and reduce medical cost.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by  
  • Preoperative Fasting Times and Postoperative Nausea–Vomiting in Patients Undergoing Urological Surgery: Descriptive and Correlational Study
    Hatice Demirdağ, Meftun Akgün, Büşra Erdoğan, Ece Sümeyra Soytürk, Batuhan Kurt, Alime Nur Uygun
    International Journal of Urological Nursing.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
  • Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in Female Patients Undergoing Breast and Gynecological Surgery: A Narrative Review of Risk Factors and Prophylaxis
    Marco Echeverria-Villalobos, Juan Fiorda-Diaz, Alberto Uribe, Sergio D. Bergese
    Frontiers in Medicine.2022;[Epub]     CrossRef
  • 1,190 View
  • 1 Download
  • 2 Crossref

Review Articles

[English]
Introduction to the Medical Research Using National Health Insurance Claims Database
Dong-Ryeol Ryu
Ewha Med J 2017;40(2):66-70.   Published online April 28, 2017
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2017.40.2.66

All Korean citizens should join the National Health Security System by law. The National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) and the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service (HIRA) are one of major components to support this system, and all data about medical expenses for the medical claims are stored and managed in the institutions. Recently, medical research using administrative claims databases has dramatically progressed in Korea and worldwide, and the methods how to use them are briefly reviewed in this article. Research using these databases have several strengths. Researchers can perform the complete enumeration survey in a real world. They can get new valuable findings because the number in the database is usually large enough to detect the minute difference with a big statistical power. They can obtain more detailed and reproducible results. Moreover, they can investigate a very rare disease or infrequent side effects of drugs. However, we must recognize that research using administrative claims database also has several incoherent limitations. These databases have not been constructed originally for research, but for reimbursement. Therefore, there are no important data including medical history and laboratory findings of each patient, which are crucial to adjust baseline characteristics. In addition, it is hard to discover causal relationship and direct association with the included information. In spite of limitations, researchers can easily use these databases for their research now than ever, and the results may be utilized not only to expand the academic knowledge but also to influence the determination of national healthcare policy.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by  
  • National Health Insurance Data as a Research Tool in Korean Medicine: a guide to database utilization and methodological approaches
    Chan-Young Kwon, Il-Su Park
    Journal of Pharmacopuncture.2025; 28(1): 1.     CrossRef
  • Comparison of HIV characteristics across 3 datasets: the Korea HIV/AIDS Cohort Study prospective, retrospective, and national reporting system
    Yunsu Choi, Jun Yong Choi, Bo Youl Choi, Bo Young Park, Shin-Woo Kim, Joon Young Song, Jung Ho Kim, Sang Il Kim
    Epidemiology and Health.2024; 46: e2024055.     CrossRef
  • Predicting the Transition to Metabolically Unhealthy Obesity Among Young Adults With Metabolically Healthy Obesity in South Korea: Nationwide Population-Based Study
    HyunHae Lee, Ji-Su Kim, Hyerine Shin
    JMIR Public Health and Surveillance.2024; 10: e52103.     CrossRef
  • Pediatric Cancer Research using Healthcare Big Data
    Hyery Kim
    Clinical Pediatric Hematology-Oncology.2022; 29(1): 1.     CrossRef
  • Effectiveness of Nootropics in Combination with Cholinesterase Inhibitors on Cognitive Function in Mild-to-Moderate Dementia: A Study Using Real-World Data
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    Journal of Clinical Medicine.2022; 11(16): 4661.     CrossRef
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    Ilsu Park
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    Hosihn Ryu, Jiyeon Jung, Jihyun Moon
    BMJ Open.2020; 10(11): e038446.     CrossRef
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    Seonji Kim, Myo-Song Kim, Seung-Hun You, Sun-Young Jung
    Korean Journal of Family Medicine.2020; 41(3): 146.     CrossRef
  • Safety of acupuncture during pregnancy: a retrospective cohort study in Korea
    H‐Y Moon, M‐r Kim, D‐S Hwang, J‐B Jang, J Lee, J‐S Shin, I Ha, YJ Lee
    BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology.2020; 127(1): 79.     CrossRef
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    Hun-Sung Kim, Dai-Jin Kim
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    Jin-Hong Yoo
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[English]

Despite recent advances in the development of diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines, the ease of international travel and increasing global interdependence have brought about particular challenges for the control of infectious diseases, highlighting concerns for the worldwide spread of emerging and reemerging infectious diseases. Korea is also facing public health challenges for controlling imported cases of infectious diseases; dengue virus, which is the most commonly reported case of imported infectious diseases; the largest outbreak of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus infections outside the Arabian Peninsula in 2015; and the Zika virus infection, which was declared by the WHO as a "Public Health Emergency of International Concern." Although national and global partnerships are critical to controlling imported infectious disease threats, the role of local hospitals, public health sectors, and laboratory capacity remains the cornerstone for initial disease recognition and response. The current status of laboratory diagnosis for imported infectious diseases is reviewed.

Citations

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  • One Biosecurity is essential to implement One Health
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    BioScience.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
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    Yoon Jung Cha, Kang-Sook Lee, Jeong Hee Cho, Ik Soon Choi, Dahyeon Lee
    International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2022; 19(9): 5409.     CrossRef
  • Occurrence rates of wild rodent hosts and chigger mites and the infection rate ofOrientia tsutsugamushiin the central region of South Korea from 2015 to 2018
    Moon Bo Choi, Yeongbu Kim, Da Young Kim, Ohseok Kwon
    Entomological Research.2019; 49(8): 374.     CrossRef
  • Species composition, seasonal prevalence and flavivirus occurrence of mosquitoes in Daegu and Gunwi, South Korea during the period of 2015–2016
    Da Yeong Kim, Moon Bo Choi, Wook‐Gyo Lee, Ohseok Kwon
    Entomological Research.2018; 48(6): 522.     CrossRef
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  • 4 Crossref

Case Report

[English]

Prostatic abscess is not a common entity which is characterized by non-specific clinical presentations. This poses a diagnostic challenge for clinicians. Clinicians routinely consider antibiotic treatments concomitantly with drainage for the treatment of prostatic abscess. But there are no established guidelines for its optimal timing, methods and indications. Surgical drainage procedures include transurethral resection of the prostate and perineal incision and drainage. But there is variability in the prognosis of patients between the procedures. We have treated a 48-year-old diabetes patient with prostatic abscess accompanied by MRSA bacteremia using a percutaneous fine-needle aspiration under the computed tomography (CT) guidance. The patient achieved improvement of the symptoms and in follow up CT findings. A percutaneous drainage under the CT guidance is advantageous in that it causes fewer complications. However, Further studies are warranted to establish the optimal timing, methods and indications in patients with prostate abscess.

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Original Articles

[English]
Endoscopic Fenestration Procedures to Cerebral Arachnoid Cysts
Myung-Hyun Kim, Kyu-Man Shin, Jun-Hyeok Song
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 1997;20(3):309-313.   Published online July 24, 2015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.1997.20.3.309

No abstract available in English.

  • 245 View
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[English]
Grading System and Outcome of Surgical Treatment of Arteriovenous Malformations
Kyu-Man Shin
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 1997;20(2):199-204.   Published online July 24, 2015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.1997.20.2.199
Objectives

Arterovenous malformations(AVVMs) represent the most commonly encountered symptomatic vascular malformations in the field of vascular neurosurgery. Surgically accessible AVMs that present with hemorrhage should be removed to reduce the risk of subsequent hemorrhage. The advance of surgery is based on the size, location and pattern of venous drainage and these anatomic features influence the treatment risk. The author studied the above features for predictor of the surgical resection of AVMs.

Methods

Nineteen patients(8 male and 11 female patients) with intracranial AVMs were treated at the Ewha Womans Medical Center between March 1989 and Dec. 1996. The mean age, and sexual ratio, of the pts as will as symptoms, location, feeding arteries, pattern of venous drainage and size of the nidus were studied. AVMs were graded according to the Spetzler and martin grade system. Overall outcome and postoperative results in eighteen patients were evaluated according to Glasgow Outcome SCale(GOS).

Results

The average age at the time of treatment was 30.8 years old(range 4-55 years old). The hemorrhage was the most common symptom, occurring in 15(80%) patients, and 2(10%) patients presented with headache, 195%) patient with seizure, 1(5%) patient with neurological deficit. The feeding arteries were as the followings ; middle cerebral artery 8(42%), anterior cerebral artery 2(10%), posterior cerebral artery 1(5%), The pattern of draining veins were described into superficial and deep ; superficial 9(47%), deep 10(53%), The size of the nidus were as the followings ; small(<3cm) 9(47.5%), medium(3-6cm) 9(47.5%), large(>6cm) 1(5%), The Spetzler-Martin's grade and the outcome according to the grade were as follows ; grade I;3(17%) resulted GOS-5 3 patients, grade II ;5(26%) did GOS-5 6 patients, grade III; 5(26%) did GOS-5 4 patients and GOS-4 1 patient, grade IV;4(21%) did GOS-5 3 patients and GOS-4 1 patient, grade V;1(5%0 did GOS-1 1 patient. Overall, there were no death in surgical treatment, patients, the morbidity value was 2(10%) patients, the remainder were completely cured.

Conclusion

The Spetzler-Martin grade I-IV AVMs were associated with low rates of surgical morbidity and mortality, Therefore, surgery is the best treatment in the these grades.

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[English]
Objective

Rastelli procedure for right ventricular outflow tract(RVOT) obstruction has many disadvantage especially for children. Instead of using the artificial valved conduit, we applied the REV procedure for preventing the valve re-replacement after growing and observed the fate of that patch.

Method

We performed REV procedure for RVOT reconstruction with our own hand-made monocusp patch composed of porcine pericardial cusp and bovine pericardial patch in 7 young piglets(15.3±1.3kg) and raised till adult pig9about 70 kg). After sacrificed the pig we explored their pulmonary arteries, monocusp patch and hearts.

Results

Without any stenotic residues in the pulmonary artery, we found the deformed monocusp patch with severe calcification, which deprived the adequate valve function, but kept the pig growing normally.

Conclusion

We are sure that this REV procedure with monocusp patch could be extendedly applied to the RVOT obstruction, but we need to develope the anti-calcification method for the heterograft patch.

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[English]
Operative Verification of Meniscal Injury in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Chung Nam Kang, Jong Oh Kim, Sang Hoon Ko
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 1997;20(1):29-35.   Published online July 24, 2015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.1997.20.1.29
Objective

The purpose of this study is the evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of MRI, frequent location of injury site and injury type in meniscal injury, retrospective review of false positive cases.

Method

From September 193 to January 1997 in our hospital, we analyzed a hundred cases of meniscal injury suggested by MRI. And we tried to correct operatively in meniscal injury by arthroscopic or open method of operation.

Result

1)Diagnostic accuracy of MRI was 90%

2)Most common site of meniscal injury was medial meniscus posterior horn(54.4%).

3)Most common injury type was Bucket handle tearing(34.4%).

4)Cause of pitfall in false positive case was most common popliteal tendon sheath(30%).

Conclusion

MRI was effective method on diagnosis of meniscus injury and most common injury was medial meniscus posterior horn, And diagnostic fault was caused by popliteal tendon sheath, lateral inferior genicular artery, truncation artifect, meniscofemoral ligament, transverse geniculate ligament.

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[English]
The Graf Soft Stabilization System in Degenerative Lumbar Spine Instability
Hyang Kwon Park
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 1996;19(4):477-484.   Published online July 24, 2015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.1996.19.4.477
Object

Although various kinds of spine stabilizing instruments have been developed over the past years for the treatment of unstable lumbar spinal disorders, the subject is still controversial and contradictory reports are seen in the literature.

Among such instruments, Graf instrument has attracted much interest because of the originality of the idea as s soft stabilizer.

Methods

All patients suffered from intractable symptomatic degenerative disc disease which could be localized to one or more levels.

The results of the 30 consecutive patients using the Graf stabilization system are presented from Jan. 94 to Dec. 95.

Result

I have performed Graf soft fixation system on 30 cases of degenerative lumbar spine diseases for 2 years and more than 3 months of postoperative follow-up.

1) There were 10 males and 20 females.

2) The main preoperative diagnosis and evaluation was a severe back pain caused by degenerative disc disease with instability.

3) The most common operation level was a single level, L4/5 in 8 cases(27%), followed by two levels, L4/5+L5/S1 in 6 case(20%).

4) Out of the 30 operated cases, the follow-up results for low back pain were excellent in 14 cases(47%),good in 10 cases(33%).

Conclusion

Although the follow-up in relatively short, the results from this study are sufficiently encouraging to prompt this report. Compared with conventional instrumented spinal fusion, the advantages of Graf system are less surgical trauma with shorted hospital stay and faster rehabilitation with early normal life, The Graf system instead of rigid implant is highly recommendable in managing unstable lumbar disorders.

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[English]
The Values of Fine Needle Aspiration and Needle Biopsy in the Diagnosis of Thyroid Nodules
Young Sun Hong, Hee Jin Kim, Yeon Ah Sung, Nan Ho Kyung
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 1996;19(4):439-445.   Published online July 24, 2015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.1996.19.4.439
Objectives

Thyroid nodule is a common clinical problem and it is important to distinguish benign from malignant nodule. Although features found on history taking, physical examnation and imaging studies help the diagnosis, fine needle aspiration(FNA) has been accepted as an accurate and reliable diagnostic procedure of thyroid nodule. This study was aimed to assess the values of FNA and needle biopsy in the diagnosis of thyroid nodules.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of the 405 patients who underwent FNA and needle biopsy for the diagnosis of thyroid nodule form September 1993 to July 1996.

Results

The 414 fine needle aspiration cytologic specimens were obtained from 405 patients(male : 26, female : 379). 390 cases(94.2%) were adequate for cytologic diagnosis. And the diagnosis showed benign in 357(91.5%), malignancy in 20(5.1%) and suspicious malignancy in 13(3.3%). Among the 357 benign cases, 104 cases were benign cysts, 163 cases were adenomatous goiter and 45 cases were follicular adenoma. 46 patients underwent thyroidectomy after FNA and 21 patients(45.7%) were diagnosed as having carcinoma. The sensitivity and specificity of FNA in diagnosing malignancy were 65% and 82%, respectively, with an accuracy of 74%. Of 46 patients, needle biopsy was done in 41. The sensitivity and specificity of the needle biopsy were 79% and 73%, respectively. And the accuracy was 76%. Hoarseness was developed in one patient after FNA and needle biopsy, and small amount of hemoptysis was developed in another patient after FNA.

Conclusion

Although it had been expected that needle biopsy may increase the diagnostic accuracy, our study didn't show the superiority of needle biopsy as compared with FNA. FNA has limitations in suspicious and nondiagnostic results but it is a safe, simple, reliable and cost-effective means of evaluating thyroid nodules. It is the preferred initial diagnostic method in all patients with thyroid nodule.

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[English]
The Effects of Intraarticular Morphine, Bupivacaine with or withour Epinephrine after Knee Arthroscopy
Rack Kyung Chung, Jong In Han, Jong Hak Kim, Chi Hyo Kim, Guei Yong Lee, Choon Hi Lee, Yeon Jin Cho
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 1996;19(2):249-255.   Published online July 24, 2015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.1996.19.2.249
Objectives

There are controversies about the analgesic effects of intraaarticular morphine and local anethetics bupivacaine. This study sought to compare the effects of saline with mor-phine, bupivacaine with or without epinephrine, administrated intraarticularly upon pos-toperative pan following arthroscopic knee surgery under general anesthesia.

Methods

In a double-blined, randommized manner, 40 patients received one of saline(20ml, n=10), morphine(1mg in 20ml NaCl, n=10), bupivacaine(0.25%, 20ml, n=10), bu-pivacaine with epinephrine(0.25%, 20ml, 200ug of epinephrine, n=10) intaarticularly at the completion of surgery. The pain scores by VAS were determined after 1,2,3,4 and 24 hours after intraarticular administration.

Results

There were no significant statistical differences between four groups in the pain score. The maximal pain scores were 37.5 in control group, 48.0 in morphine group, 33.6 in bupivacaine group postoperative 1 hour and 32.9 in bupivacaine with epinephrine group pos-toperative 2 hours. The pain scores were decreased as the time went by and were minimin as 21.4 in control group, 17.6 in morphine group, 11.2 in bupivacaine group and 12.3 in bu-pivacaine with epinephrine group 24 hour postoperatively.

Conclusion

Though there were no significant statistical significances with those doses, there were tendencies that the bupivacaine group with or without epinephrine had the postoperative analgesic effect rather than control group, and morphine group had a slow onset of analgesic ef-fect. So, we should study to decide the dose or volume of the drugs and appropriate time to evaluate for the anagesic effects after knee arthroscopy further.

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[English]
The Effect of Cis-Diammine Dichloro Platinum(II) on Radiation Injury in the Rat Bowel
Kyung Ja Lee, Chung Sik Rhee
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 1995;18(4):487-498.   Published online July 24, 2015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.1995.18.4.487
Objective

This experimental study was performed for evaluate the effects of cis-di-amminedichloroplatinum(II) (cis-DDP) on the radiation injury of rat bowel by histopathologic changes.

Method and materials

Rats were exposed to entire abdomen by a single doses of X-ray(6-10 Gy) without or witn cis-DDP(2.5mg/kg). Rats were divided into 3 groups such as radiation alone, cis-DDP alone and combined group. In combined group, cis-DDP was given 30minutes before or immediately after irradiation.

Results

Cis-DDP induced the inflammatory cell infiltrations with focal necrosis of the mucosa in the small bowel and no abnormal change in the large bowel. In radiation alone group, mucosal necrosis, subrnucosal fibrosis and muscular necrosis were prominent changes in small bowel and submucosal fibrosis in the large bowel. The submucosal fibrosis in the small bowel was appealed in 10 Gy of radiation alone group and 8 Gy of cis-DDP infusion after radiation and 6 Gy of cis-DDP infusion before radiation of combined group. In the large bowel, submucosal fibrosis was noted in 8 Gy of radiation alone group and 8 Gy of cis-DDP infusion after radiation and 6 Gy of cis-DDP infusion before radiation of combined group. In the small bowel, the enhancement ratio was 1.67 in a group of cis-DDP infusion before radiation and 125 in a group of cis-DDP infusion after radiation as the end point was the submucosal fibrosis,In the large bowel, the enhancement ratio was 1.33 in a group of cis-DDP infusion before radiation and 1.0 in a cup of cis-DDP infusion after radiation as e end point was e submucosal fibrosis.

Conclusion

This study suggested that cis-DDP enhance the radiation effect in the small and large bowel especially when cis-DDP was infused before radiation.

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[English]
Treatment of Stress Urinary Incontinence with Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz Operation
Seok Heun Jang, Bong Suck Shim, Sung Won Kwon
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 1995;18(4):469-473.   Published online July 24, 2015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.1995.18.4.469
Objectives

The purpose of this study is to investigate the clinical result of Marshall-Mar-chetti-Krantz operation, one of the treatment methods for stress urinary ncontinence.

Methods

Authors have analyzed the 66 cases out of 83 stress urinary incontinence patientsin whom Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz operation and 1 year follow-up was performed at UrologyDepartment of Ewha Womans University Hospital from January 1990 to December 1993.

Results

The results were as follows:

1) The patients' age distribution was from 33 to 53 years old (mean age 44.9 years). The average number of deliveries was 3.1 and 29 patients were multipara with more than 4 deliveries.

2) As compared with urinary incontinence grade, Grade I was seen in 22 cases (43.9%),Grade II in 40 rases (42.4%) and Grade III in 4 cases (6.1%). Overall Grade II was most frequent.

3) PUV angle between posterior urethra and bladder base seen by chain cystourethrographywas 154.0°(134-179°) in average and urethral inclination was 23.9°(14-50°)in average.

4) The operation took between 36 to 72 minutes with mean 45.2 minutes. Urethral catheter was placed after the operation for mean 5.0 days (4-8 days) ana hospitalization days weremean 8.3 days (7-15 days).

5) 6 cases (9%) of urinary retention was the only postoperative complication and all of themwere resolved 3-7 days after intermittent catheterization.

6) In the fi11ow-up after 6 months, recurrence was seen on the third month after the operationin 2 cases and on the 12th month in 3 cases which resulted in 92.4% of operation success rate.

Conclusion

Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz method can safely be performed in patients withstress urinary incontinence and further comparative study with otter operation method be needed.

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[English]
Histomorphometry on Regenerated Muscle Fiber in the Damaged Striated Muscle
Seok-Beom Lee
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 1995;18(1):45-52.   Published online July 24, 2015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.1995.18.1.45

The repair of striated muscle after injury by trauma or chemicals occurs simultaneously by the regeneration of disrupted muscle. Tlthough the efects of various external factors e.g. denervation, irradiation and steroid upon the repair of striated muscle injury has been previously studied, no attention has been focused on the effect of trauma and local anesthetics on the regenearted muscle fiber.

The author induced a constant contusion injury on the calf of rats using Drop-Weight method Lidocaine and/or epinephrine was intramuscularly injected at the site of injure.

The results of morphological and histochemical observation were as follows:

1) The striated muscle showed histological and histochemical evidences of the healing process for 90 days.

2) Formation of myotube appeared on 7th day and decreased on 15th day. Myotube persisted upto 30 days.

3) The cross sectional area of the muscle fibers was measured days 30 and 90. Local anestetic injection groups showed mire muscle fiber atrophy than trauma alone groups. Muscle fibers were significantly more atrophied on day 90 in all types of fiber after injection of mixture of lidocaine and epinephrine and on type B after injection of mixture of lidocaine and epinephrine and in type B after injection of epinephrine compared to control group.

4) Regenerative capacity of the injured muscle piber was correlated with the formation of myotubes.

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[English]
A Clinical Study on the Ulcerative Colitis
Hee Jung Choi, Jung En Park, Hee Jung Sohn, Keum Mi Kim, Jung Ran Byun, Young Yub Koh, Doe Young Kim, Il Hwan Moon
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 1993;16(3):235-242.   Published online July 24, 2015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.1993.16.3.235
Objects

Ulcerative colitis is an waxing and waning inflammatory bowel disease characterized by rectal bleeding and diarrhea, affecting principally the mucosa of the rectum and colon. Its incidience is being higher in Europe and America and it also seems to be rising increasingly in our country because diagnostic methods are much developed and Korean life styles are westernized. So, we investigated its clinical characteristics.

Methods

We analyzed 36 cases of ulcerative colitis which had been treated in the Hospital of Ewha Womans' University from Jan. 1983 to Feb. 1993, retrospectively.

Results

1) The most prevalent age group was 3rd decade and male to female ratio was 1:1.77.

2) The duration of symptoms was less than 6 months in 63.9%.

3) The most common clinical manifestation was hematochezia(86.1%), abdominal pain(75.0%), diarrhea(72.2%), fever(30.6%), weight loss(27.8%) in the order of frequency.

4) According to the severity, moderate type was shown in 52.8%, severe in 33.3% and mild in 13.9%.

5) According to the anatomical distribution of the lesion, pancolitis was shown in 36.1%, the involvement of the rectum and sigmoid colon in 16.6%, the left-sided colon in 13.8%, rectum only in 13.8%, transverse colon in 8.3% and backwash ileitis in 11.1%, respectively.

6) The hematologic laboratory finding was non-specific including anemia, leukocytosis, increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate, bypoalburninemia, electrolyte imbalance, increased serum transaminase and alkaline phosphatase.

7) Colonoscopy revealed ulceration(77.1%) commonly, including hyperemia(51.4%), bleeding(42.5%), mucosal friability(22.9%), pseudopolyp(22.9%), granularity(20.2%).

8) The Barium enema showed granularity commonly and loss of haustral marking(55.2%), luminal narrowing(34.5%), lead pipe rigidity(13.8%), pseudopolyp(3.4%). Also, normal finding was shown in 10.3%.

9) The most common histopathologic finding was inflammation(83.3%) and ryptitis(55.6%), ulceration(50%), goblet cell depletion(19.4%), pseudopolyp(19.4%), necrosis(13.9%), granolarity(8.3%) were also noted.

10) With the medical treatment, 76.5% of the cases showed initial improvement of the symptom, but the recurrence developed in 17.7%. The surgery was performed in 6 cases of patients(16.7%). Emergency operation was performed in 2 cases due to bowel perforation and elective operation in 4 cases.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by  
  • Evolution of inflammatory bowel disease in Korea: a 60-year perspective on clinical and research development
    Suk-Kyun Yang
    Intestinal Research.2025; 23(3): 233.     CrossRef
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Review Article

[English]

In experimental neurogenerative diseases, aluminum(Al) intoxication and axotomized sensory neurons showed an abnormal accumulation of neurofilaments(NF) in the neuronal perikarya. These NF contain phosphorylated(ph) epitopes that are not detectable in normal perikaryal NF. Antimitotic drugs also cause accumulations of NF probably by depolymerization of microtubules(MT). The present study was designed to examine immunohistochemical changes of NFs following administration of antimitotic drugs, which result in accumulation of NFs in the cell body through a different pathogenetic mechanism than aluminum. Adult rabbits were injected intracisternally with 25-50µg of maytansine and maytanprine, two antimitotic agents. Tissues were obtained from experimental and control animals and processed for histological and immunocytochemical examinations. Large bundles of NF in the perikarya and proximal processes of large neurons from experimental animals reacted intensely with monoclonal antibodies(mAb) to ph epitopes of 200 KDa NF subunit as well as with mAb recognizing nonphosphorylated(non-ph) NF epitopes. Neuronal perikarya from control animals immunoreacted only with mAb to non-ph NF Immunoreaction of Ab to the microtubule associated protein 2(MAP-2) and to tubulin was similar in neurons from experimental and control animals. No immunoreaction was detected with antibodies to tau proteins. The abnormal presence of ph epitopes in accumulating NF under different conditions indicate that neurons affected in different diseases show aberrant phosphorylation of NF proteins associated with functional impairment.

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Original Articles

[English]
Operative Treatment in Patellar Fracture
Kwon Jae Roh
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 1990;13(4):383-389.   Published online July 24, 2015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.1990.13.4.383

The aid of treatment in patellar fracture is the restoration of knee joint function and quadriceps muscle power. In this series, we experienced 37 cases of patellar fractures from March 1981 to March 1987 which were treated with operative care and followed-up at least 2 years at Department of the Orthopedic Surgery, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University.

The results were as follow :

1) Most fractures were encountered in man from twenties to thirties.

2) The traffic accident was the most prevalent cause(17 cases, 47%) and 24 cases(65%) of fracture were induced by direct injury.

3) The most frequent configration of fractures was comminuted.

4) Among the operative methods, the result of the tension band wiring was superior to other operative methods, but not significantly.

5) The long-term result of patellar fracture with operative management following trauma may be directly related to this initial damage, involvement of articular surface, duration of immobilization and operative method.

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[English]
Renal Fuction in Premature with Respiratory Distress Syndrome: The Effect of Perinatal Asphyxia
Seung Joo Lee
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 1989;12(4):343-348.   Published online July 24, 2015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.1989.12.4.343

We studied the postnatal development of the renal function and the incidence of the renal dysfunction in premature with reapiratory distress syndrome, admitted to NICU, E.W.U.H. from March, 1986 to August 1989.

The results were as follows.

1) Renal function in Group I, RDS premature without perinatal asphyxia, was not different from the control values.

2) Renal function in Group II, RDS premature with perinatal asphyxia was different from the control values. Serum creatinine concentration was 1.05mg% at postnatal age 3 day and decreased to 0.88mg% at P.A 7 day. But both values were significantly higher than control values(P<0.05)

Creatinine clearance, 10.8ml/min/1.73m at P.A. 3 day which was significantly lower than control, but increased to 17.4ml/min/1.73m at P.A. 7 day which was not different from control value. Urine Na excretion and FENa were 5.2lmEg/kg/d and 3.81% at P.A. 3 day and decreaed to 3.42mEg/kg/d and 1.86% at P.A. 7 day. But both values were significantly higher than control values.(P<0.05) The incidence of proteinuria, oliguria and azotemia were significantly higher than control.(P<0.05)

In conclusion, RDS per se did not compromise the renal function. But associated perinatal asphyxia delayed the postnatal development of the glomerular function and the tubular reabsorptive capacity which seemed to be transient.

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[English]
The Trend of First-Line and Second-Line Eradication Rates for Helicobacter pylori Infection in a Single Institute in Seoul
Mi Yeon Kim, Ki-Nam Shim, Hye-In Kim, Hyeon Ju Kang, Min Sun Ryu, So-Young Ahn, Hye Kyung Jung, Sung-Ae Jung
Ewha Med J 2014;37(1):26-29.   Published online March 25, 2014
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2014.37.1.26
Objectives

To investigate the rate of first-line eradication and the rate of second-line eradication of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) from 2001 to 2010 in a single institute in Seoul.

Methods

Among the 2,717 patients who received H. pylori eradication treatment from 2001 to 2010 at Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, the medical records of 1,466 patients who satisfied the condition of execution of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, positive H. pylori eradication results at 6~8 weeks after eradication therapy were reviewed retrospectively. Then the first-line and second-line eradication rates and the eradication rates according to endoscopy findings were also compared.

Results

The first-line eradication rate was 77% H. pylori eradication rate for the last 5 years was continuously increasing and no sign of decline was observed even for the whole 10 years. The rates of eradication related to endoscopic findings showed statistical significance (P<0.001) of 79.8% and 70.1% each for peptic ulcer and non-ulcerative gastric diseases, respectively.

Conclusion

In this study, no decrease in tendency of first-line eradication rate could be found. In addition, the patients with the non-ulcerative gastric disease seemed to show significantly lower eradication rate. This finding suggests eradication treatment may be affected by the category of gastric diseases, and careful considerations should be taken assessing the effects and needs for the H. pylori eradication treatment.

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  • Eradication Rates of First-line and Second-line Therapy forHelicobacter pyloriInfection in Gyeongnam Province
    Gyo Hui Kim, Jin Ah Kim, Ui Won Ko, Jong Ho Park, Jue Yong Lee, Su Sin Jin, Yeon-Ho Joo, Jae Uk Shin
    The Korean Journal of Helicobacter and Upper Gastrointestinal Research.2015; 15(3): 160.     CrossRef
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Review Article

[English]
Role of Sleep Center for Integrative Approach to Sleep Disorders
Hwa Kyoung Chung, Hee Yeon Choi, Jin Woo Kim, Sun Jong Kim, Seung Sin Lee, Jung Ho Pae, Weon-Jeong Lim, Hyang Woon Lee
Ewha Med J 2013;36(2):79-83.   Published online September 26, 2013
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2013.36.2.79

The prevalence of sleep disorder is about 30% of the population. Common sleep disorders are insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy, restless legs syndrome, rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder and parasomnia. These sleep disorders lead various medical and mental complications. However, most sleep disorders are underdiagnosed and not treated appropriately. Sleep medicine is important for treating these sleep disorders and maintaining general healthy conditions. Specialized and comprehensive treatments for sleep disorder are important in sleep medicine.

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Case Reports

[English]
Amiodarone-Induced Pulmonary Toxicity: Percutaneous Needle Aspiration Biopsy and Ultrastructural Findings
In Sook Kang, Jin Hwa Lee, Sun Hee Sung, Seong Hoon Park
Ewha Med J 2013;36(2):144-148.   Published online September 26, 2013
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2013.36.2.144

Amiodarone has been widely used for supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias and many patients benefit from its effectiveness in treating potentially life-threatening arrhythmias. However, this drug can cause multi-organ toxicity, including amiodarone-induced pulmonary toxicity (APT). Not only does amiodarone have a long half-life but also is lipophilic and therefore can easily accumulate in tissues. Hence, it is difficult to monitor therapeutic levels and side effects, making it difficult to predict toxicities. In this case, we describe multi-organ complications secondary to amiodarone use, especially APT combined with pneumonia with atypical pathogens and pulmonary hemorrhage. The patient reached a high cumulative dose of amiodarone despite a low maintenance dose of amiodarone. This case highlights an unusual presentation of APT with multi-organ toxicity and we review articles regarding the association between the cumulative dose of amiodarone and amiodarone-induced toxicities.

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  • Amiodarone

    Reactions Weekly.2014; 1492(1): 8.     CrossRef
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[English]
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome after Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Case Report
Yun Won Jo, Jeong-Mi Lee, Ja Yoon Choi, Dong-Hoon Lew, Ra Ri Cha, Hye Won Oh, Hong-Jun Kim, Hyun Ju Min, Hyun Jin Kim, Woon-Tae Jung, Ok-Jae Lee, Chang Yoon Ha, Sun Young Yi
Ewha Med J 2013;36(1):62-66.   Published online March 25, 2013
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2013.36.1.62

Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) has become an effective alternative treatment strategy for patients with inoperable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although TACE is relatively safe, acute respiratory distress syndrome associated with pulmonary lipiodol embolism is a rare and potentially fatal complication. We report a rare case of acute respiratory distress syndrome after TACE for inoperable HCC. A 75-year-old man, with huge HCC in right lobe, was treated by TACE for the first time. Seven hours after uneventful TACE procedure, he felt dyspneic and his oxygen saturation recorded by pulse oximetry (SpO2) fell to 80% despite of applying non-rebreathing mask. He underwent mechanical ventilation with a protective ventilatory strategy. We experienced a case of acute respiratory distress syndrome after TACE for HCC.

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Original Article

[English]
Does the Size of Anterior Microforaminotomy Affect the Surgical Outcome?
Myung-Hyun Kim
Ewha Med J 2013;36(1):43-50.   Published online March 25, 2013
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2013.36.1.43
Objectives

Anterior microforaminotomy (AMF) is an alternative procedure to treat unilateral cervical pathology. Although the results have been reported favorable in the previous studies, postoperative degeneration may occur. We analyze long-term outcome to determine the critical size of AMF.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed. Clinical data with chart review, radiologic data with picture archiving and communication system (PACS) images were obtained. Long-term clinical outcomes were accessed by a questionnaire, including visual analogue scale (VAS) and neck disability index (NDI). Various clinical, radiological data were statistically analyzed.

Results

Eight-two patients were enrolled in this study. Main pathology was spondylotic spur (53.7%), soft disc herniation (36%). Mean age was 49 years old. There was no surgery-related complication. Mean follow-up was 6.1 years. 90.3% showed favorable clinical outcome. Mean VAS score was decreased from 8.2 to 2.9, and NDI score was decreased from 24.5 to 6.7 (P<0.05). 88.7% showed decrease of disc height (DH), and mean change was 1 mm. DH change was correlated positively with the disc invasion and AMF diameter (P<0.05). Mean diameter of AMF was 5.2 mm. According to statistical analysis, the critical diameter of AMF was 4.7 mm, directly affecting DH decrease. Any radiological parameters did not affect the clinical outcome.

Conclusion

AMF was an effective procedure to treat unilateral cervical pathology. Critical DH decreases and/or disc invasion may be the trigger of sequential degeneration. To preserve DH, AMF diameter should be small and disc invasion should be avoided.

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Case Report

[English]
Sessile Serrated Adenoma with High-grade Dysplasia
Kyoung-Joo Kwon, Sung-Ae Jung, Ki-Nam Shim, Jung-Hwa Chung, Seok-Hyung Kang, Do-Kyeung Song, Seung-Jung Jun, Hye-In Kim
Ewha Med J 2012;35(1):44-48.   Published online March 31, 2012
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2012.35.1.44

Until recently, colorectal polyps were classified predominantly as hyperplastic or adenomatous. While adenomatous polyps are well-characterized precursor lesions of adenocarcinomas, hyperplastic polyps have been considered as benign lesion. However, some hyperplastic polyps with serrated morphology of the crypts have been recognized to have distinctive features and these polyps were termed 'serrated adenomas'. Recent data show that sessile serrated adenomas (SSA) might be the precursors of serrated colonic cancers, underlining the necessity of identifying them. SSA is approximately 3% of all polyps, commonly appears as flat or sessile and yellowish due to mucus production. In the pathogenesis of SSA, progression to high grade dysplasia or early invasive carcinoma may be associated with serrated neoplasia pathway different from adenoma-carcinoma sequence. We report a case with a colon polyp diagnosed as sessile serrated adenoma with high grade dysplasia after endoscopic submucosal dissection.

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Original Articles

[English]
Apolipoprotein B/A1 Ratio as Risk Factor for Cerebral Ischemic Stroke
Chorong Hahm, Ki-Sook Hong
Ewha Med J 2012;35(1):21-25.   Published online March 31, 2012
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2012.35.1.21
Objectives

According to current knowledge, apolipoprotein B/A1 (apoB/A1) ratio is like to be risk factor in coronary artery disease. There is evidence form case-control studies that apoB/A1 ratio may be a superior to LDL and HDL cholesterol in discriminating coronary artery disease case subject from control subject. However, relationship between apoB/A1 ratio and cerebral ischemic stroke is undefined. The main object of this study is to determine whether the risk of cerebral ischemic stroke is related to levels of apoB/A1.

Methods

The study group included 643 patients (Men, 372; Women, 271) who diagnosed cerebral ischemic stroke between January 2008 to December 2010. The control groups were composed of 378 patients (Men, 139; Women, 239) who diagnosed other neurological disease. The correlation between lipid profiles and odds ratio of 10 preliminary risk factors (total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, HDL, apoA1, apoB, apoB/A1 ratio, non HDL, total cholesterol/HDL ratio, LDL/HDL ratio) for stroke were analyzed.

Results

ApoB/A1 ratio was significantly increased in case patients compared with control subjects. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified decrease of apoB/A1 ratio (odds ratio [OR], 1.583; 95% confidence intercal [CI], 1.105~2.269) as significantly associated with stroke. Individual apoA1 (OR, 1.303; 95% CI, 0.967~1.755) and apoB (OR, 1.397; 95% CI, 0.773~2.523) were also not significantly associated with cerebral ischemic stroke.

Conclusion

Increase of apoB/A1 ratio is associated with an increase risk of cerebral ischemic stroke. Use of apoB/A1 ratio is efficient as conventional lipids, for the identification of subjects at increased risk of stroke. So apoB/A1 ratio to standard lipid profile testing could improve the evaluation of risk factors of cerebral ischemic stroke.

Citations

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  • Clinical Research Progress of Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoprotein A1
    小红 李
    Advances in Clinical Medicine.2025; 15(03): 253.     CrossRef
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[English]
Evaluation of Cardiac Troponin T Elevation in Patients with Chronic Renal Failure Undergoing Dialysis
Chae Lim Jung, Ki Sook Hong
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 2010;33(2):81-87.   Published online September 30, 2010
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2010.33.2.81
Objectives

Cardiac troponin T(cTnT) levels are elevated in patients with chronic renal fail-ure(CRF) with dialysis which represent myocardial damage. But the cut-off levels were different in laboratories and clinical physicians. We conducted a study to find out the cut-off levels of acute myocardial infarction(AMI), ischemic heart disease(IHD), and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in CRF patients with dialysis and prognostic aspect according to cTnT levels.

Methods

Cardiac troponin T(cTnT) of total 98 patients(men 43, women 55, mean age 60.4±13.0 years) was reviewed the diagnosis and progress for 3 years by the medical records. Serum cTnT by Elecsys 2010(Roche diagnostics, Germany), the 4th generation assay was performed.

Results

Mean cTnT level of total 98 patients was 0.26ng/mL and the patients with CVD were 59(60.2%) and their cTnT level was 0.41 ng/mL. The mean levels of cTnT in AMI, IHD, and CVD were 1.10, 0.52, and 0.41 ng/mL, respectively. cTnT, CK, CK-MB, and glucose were increased according to severity of cardiovascular disease. The cut-off levels of cTnT in AMI, IHD, and CVD was 0.10, 0.07 and 0.06 ng/mL. The sensitivity and specificity of AMI, IHD, and CVD in each cut-off level were 88.2/71.6%, 76.2/71.4%, and 81.4/71.8%, respectively. The survival rate above cTnT 0.1 ng/mL during 3 years was significantly decreased(p<0.001) than less than 0.1 ng/mL.

Conclusion

The degree of cTnT elevation in CRF patients with dialysis represents severity of cardiovascular disease and poor survival rate.

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[English]
Effects of Transmigration of Bone Marrow Nuclear Cells Through Endothelial Cell and Stromal Cell by Leukotriene B4 and Inhibition of Reactive Oxygen Species
Yeung-Chul Mun, Soo A Oh, Kyoung-Eun Lee, Eun-Sun Yoo, Moon Young Choi, Jee-Young Ahn, Chu-Myong Seong
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 2008;31(2):65-71.   Published online September 30, 2008
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2008.31.2.65
Objectives

Leukotriene B4(LTB4) is lipid mediator derived from membrane phospholipids during the process of inflammation, having many roles(ie; inducer of chemotaxis, the production of nitric oxide, transepithelial migration of neutrophil). The major activities of LTB4 include the recruitment and activation of leukocytes, suggesting that it may involve the process for transendothelial migration of nuclear cells in bone marrow environment. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) have a cell signaling roles that are involved in signal transduction cascades of numerous growth factor-, cytokine-, and hormone-mediated pathways, and regulate many biological systems. In this present study, we focused on the role of LTB4 and ROS on transmigration of bone marrow nuclear cells across endothelial or stromal cell monolayer.

Methods

MS-5, murine stromal cell line cells, or bEnd.3, murine microvascular cell line cells, were grown to confluence on microporous transwell membrane. Murine marrow cells were placed on top of the prepared transwell membrane. The transwells were then seated in wells containing media and LTB4 with or without pretreatment of N-acetylcysteine(NAC), an oxygen free radical scavenger, or diphenylene iodonium(DPI), an inhibitor of NADPH oxidase-like flavoproteins. Cells that migrated through the stromal or endothelial layer into the wells were assayed for transendothelial migration.

Results

The numbers of migrated bone marrow nuclear cells through the bEnd.3 were increased by treatment of LTB4(control, 12.5±0.2%; 50nM, 22.7±0.9%; 100nM, 44.3±1.4%; 200 nM, 36.3±0.9%; p<0.05). The numbers of migrated bone marrow nuclear cells through the MS-5 were also increased by treatment of LTB4(control, 11.0±0.9%; 50nM, 25.7±0.9%; 100nM, 35.8±1.8%; 200nM, 32.1±0.9%; p<0.05). However, increasing effect of LTB4 to the transmigration of bone marrow nuclear cells through the MS-5 or bEnd.3 were inhibited by pretreatment of NAC or DPI.

Conclusion

Through our data, it is suggested that LTB4 could induce the transmigration of bone marrow nuclear cells and ROS might be involved on the transendothelial migration of bone marrow nuclear cells by LTB4. It would be very interesting to test the effects of LTB4 and ROS on stem cell mobilization and homing in the future.

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Case Report

[English]
A Case of Microperforation after Endoscopic Duodenal Biopsy
Young Wook Noh, Sung-Ae Jung, Hyun Joo Song, Jae Jung Park, Kyung Jong Lee, Eun Kyung Baek, Seog Ki Min
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 2008;31(2):107-110.   Published online September 30, 2008
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2008.31.2.107

Nowadays, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is very commonly performed procedure as a diagnostic tool or therapeutic purpose. Although perforation rate during diagnostic evaluation has been reported as low about 0.03%, gastrointestinal perforation is a critical problem to the patients owing to significant morbidity and hospital stay. Therefore, all endoscopists should know the risk factors for the perforation and pay attention to avoid this complication. We experienced a case of 66 year-old-male with duodenal microperforation after endoscopic biopsy. During endoscopic examination, a submucosal mass was detected at duodenal second portion and endoscopic biopsy was performed. After this, he complained of severe abdominal pain during colonoscopy. Emergent simple abdomen and abdominal computed tomography revealed multiple free air in retroperitoneal space and duodenal perforation was suspicious. He was treated with primary closure and then recovered completely. Therefore, we report a case with microperforation after endoscopic duodenal biopsy.

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Original Articles
[English]
Evaluation of Checklist and Inter-Rater Agreement in Oral Case Presentation of Undergraduate Medical Students
Jungwon Huh, Miae Lee, Whasoon Chung
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 2007;30(1):47-52.   Published online March 30, 2007
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2007.30.1.47
Background

Undergraduate medical students should learn oral presentation skills, which are central to physician-physician communication. The purpose of this study was to compare checklist scores with global ratings for evaluation of oral case presentation and to investigate interrater agreement in the scoring of checklists.

Methods

The study group included twenty-one teams of undergraduate medical students who did clerkship for 2 weeks in the department of Laboratory Medicine of Mokdong Hospital, School of Medicine, Ewha Womans University from January 2005 to October 2006. Three faculty raters independently evaluated oral case presentations by checklists, composing of 5 items. A consensus scores of global ratings were determined after discusssion. Inter-rater agreement was measured using intraclass correlation coefficient(ICC). As the ICC values approaches 1.0, it means higher inter-rater agreement.

Results

The mean of consensus global ratings was significantly higher than that of checklists by three faculty raters(12.6±1.7 vs 11.1±2.0, P<0.001). Spearman's correlation coefficient between global ratings and checklist scores was r=0.82(P<0.01). The overall scores of checklist were significantly different among three raters (12.3±2.0, 10.8±2.8, 10.0±2.7, P<0.05). ICC values in the scoring of checklists were as follows ; for overall scores, 0.750 ; for individual checklist items, 0.350-0.753.

Conclusions

These results suggest that checklist scores by faculty raters could be one of the most useful tools for evaluation of oral case presentation, if checklist would be modified to make less ambiguous and more objective and faculty raters would have opportunities to be educated and trained for evaluation skills of oral case presentation.

Citations

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  • Comparison of Standardized Patient and Faculty Agreement in Evaluating Nursing Students’ Assessment and Communication Skills
    Young Ju Kim
    Journal of Korean Academy of Fundamentals of Nursing.2017; 24(3): 189.     CrossRef
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[English]

No abstract available in English.

Citations

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  • Preoperative Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test Associated with Postoperative Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Cancer Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses
    Daniel Steffens, Hilmy Ismail, Linda Denehy, Paula R. Beckenkamp, Michael Solomon, Cherry Koh, Jenna Bartyn, Neil Pillinger
    Annals of Surgical Oncology.2021; 28(12): 7120.     CrossRef
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[English]
Objectives

Smoking cessation is the mainstay of treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD) and prevention of related malignancy. But smoking cessation cliniss generally have low success rates. The aim of this study is to evaluate the abstinece rates and factors determining success among during out patient(OPD) run by pulmonologist(smoking cessation specialist).

Methods

125 smokers with COPD(97) and bronchal asthma(28) were consulted in the smoking cessation clinic during treatment of out patients department from 2003 to 2005.

Patients palnned to cisit every 4 weeks and the patients were ercerived brief intervenrion(5-10 minutes) by a same pulmonologist(smoking cesation specialist) every 4weeks. Medication was evaluated every 4 weeks and followed-up for 6 months.

Results

Overall, 33%(41/125) of patients were absinent at 6 months. Success rate was higher among the older(mean age of 54.0 vs. 45.6, p=0.00). Logistic regression was to identify predictors of abstinence at the end of the medication phase.

Mulivariate predictors of abstinence were the following : older age(p<0.00), numbers of visit to OPD[OR=1.85(95% CI : 1.21-2.86)], duration of medication [OR=18.3(95% CI : 1.54-217.00)], doctor's recommendation[OR=16.62(95%CI : 1.29-214.17)].

Conclusion

Brief, frequent and intensive motivational intervention with medication(bupropion) during OPD by specialist was effective for cessation smoking in view of time and cost for smokers with COPD and bronchial asthma who require quitting of smoking inevitably for treatmint and prevention of diease.

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[English]
Role of Reactive Oxygen Species on Sodium Butyrate Induced Human Hepatocyte Differentiation
Tae Hun Kim
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 2006;29(1):3-9.   Published online March 30, 2006
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2006.29.1.3
Background/Aim

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion and hydroky radicals are produced in various physiologic and pathologic conditions and involved in many cellular processes as proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. Studies investigating the role of ROS in various cellular behaviors especially in proliferation and apoptosis have been widely conducted in many cell types but the role of ROS in nontransformed human hepatocyte differentiation has not been investigated yet. thus we were going to elucidate the roleof ROS on human hepatocyte differentiaiton using sodium butyrate (SB) induced hepatocyte differentiation model of our own establishment.

Methods

Intracellular ROS and apoptotic cell death were monitored by flowcytometry using peroxide sensitive probe (Dicholorofluorscein diacetate) and Annexin V/Propidium iodide, respectively. Urea nitrogen in culture media was measured by colorimetric methods. Ornithine transcarbamylase(OTC) and albumin trasncription was evaluated by RT-PCR.

Results

Intracellular ROS production was increased by SB. SB induced urea production was significantly decreased with antioxidant treatment (p<0.05) and SB induced OTC and albumin transcription were also attenuated with antioxidant treatment. SB induced increase in apoptosiswas significantly inhibited by antioxidant treatment (p<0.05).

Conclusion

ROS produced during the process of sodium butyrate induced human hepatocyte differentiation auguments hepatoctye differentiation and apoptosis.

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[English]
Clinical Analysis for Stereotatic Aspiration and Thrombolysis of Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Sung Kyun Hwang, Do Sang Cho, Sung Hak Kim, Dong-Bin Park
Ihwa Ŭidae chi 2005;28(1):17-25.   Published online March 30, 2005
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12771/emj.2005.28.1.17

No abstract available in English.

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