Jeff Susman

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This study looked at two methods for placing a feeding tube in patients who cannot eat normally: one method using ultrasound (PUG) and the other using X-ray (PRG). Both methods worked well, with a success rate of 96% for each, but the ultrasound method took longer, averaging 39.7 minutes compared to 30.5 minutes for the X-ray method. Using ultrasound is safer because it avoids radiation exposure and can be done at the bedside, making it more accessible for critically ill patients. Who this helps: This helps patients in critical care who need feeding tubes, as well as their healthcare providers.

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This paper looked at how to best use a procedure called transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) to manage complications from portal hypertension, a condition that can lead to serious health issues like fluid buildup and bleeding. The authors, a group of experts from various medical fields, found that since TIPS procedures can vary so much in execution and outcomes, it’s important to have a team approach where gastroenterologists, interventional radiologists, and other specialists work together to ensure patients get the best care possible. They also identified gaps in knowledge and suggested areas for future research to improve how TIPS is used. Who this helps: This helps patients with portal hypertension and the doctors who treat them.

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This research paper focuses on improving the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, especially in its early forms like mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The authors emphasize that recognizing Alzheimer’s early is crucial because new treatments can be more effective when started sooner. They found that primary care providers need to adapt their practices to better identify early signs of Alzheimer's using biomarkers, which can lead to better patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients and their families by potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and better treatment options.

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Bile duct strictures are a common complication after pediatric liver transplant, often requiring repeated procedures. This study tested a structured three-session dilation protocol and found it reduced total drainage time and improved outcomes compared to less systematic approaches. A standardized biliary dilation protocol can spare children multiple interventions.

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This study looked at the effects of a treatment called irreversible electroporation (IRE) in 50 patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. It found that 6 patients died within 90 days of the procedure, mostly from serious complications, and the average overall survival for patients treated primarily was about 7.7 months. These findings highlight the need for more research to improve the safety and effectiveness of IRE as a treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients with advanced pancreatic cancer and their doctors.

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This study looked at how well two types of stents—bare-metal stents (BMS) and drug-eluting stents (DES)—work for treating narrowing in arteries after kidney transplants. Researchers reviewed records of 18 patients and found that those with BMS needed more follow-up procedures (4 out of 11) compared to those with DES (none of the 7). However, the differences in outcomes like blood pressure and kidney function changes were not significant, suggesting both stents work similarly overall. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and kidney transplant patients by providing insights into treatment options.

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This study looked at what factors affect primary care doctors' decisions to send patients with depression to mental health specialists. It involved 40 healthcare providers who discussed their thought processes, revealing that a patient’s resources, the clinician's comfort with treating depression, and their familiarity with mental health professionals all influenced the decision to refer. These insights matter because they can help improve how depression is managed in primary care settings, ultimately ensuring patients get the support they need faster. Who this helps: Patients suffering from depression.

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This study looked at how primary care doctors and nurse practitioners use tools designed to measure depression in their everyday work. Researchers interviewed 70 clinicians and found that these tools are not often used for diagnosing or managing depression. Instead, clinicians primarily use them to help patients accept their diagnosis, especially when patients are hesitant; factors like time pressure, a lack of clear signs of depression, and their relationship with the patient affect how often they use these tools. Who this helps: This benefits patients by improving their understanding and acceptance of depression diagnoses.

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This study looked at how creating a strong treatment team can improve outcomes for people with bipolar disorder. It found that using a collaborative care model—where doctors work together to provide comprehensive support and treatment—leads to better results for these patients. Specifically, this approach helps bridge the gap between effective treatments and the care patients actually receive, aiming for patients to achieve their best possible functioning. Who this helps: This benefits patients with bipolar disorder by providing more effective and coordinated care.

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This study examines a severe liver growth in a newborn that led to heart failure and a serious blood clotting issue. Doctors initially thought it was a different type of liver mass, but after the baby passed away, they found it was a hepatic mesenchymal hamartoma instead. Understanding this condition is important because it helps doctors better diagnose similar cases in the future, potentially saving lives. Who this helps: This helps doctors and medical professionals in diagnosing liver masses in newborns.