Suzan M Goldman

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This study looked at a treatment for severe muscle loss caused by injuries, particularly those seen in combat situations. Researchers tested a new material that releases a growth factor (IGF1-LR3) to see if it could help muscles recover better after injury. They found that while a higher dose of the growth factor increased muscle weight by 28 days, it didn't improve muscle function or size compared to those who received no treatment. Who this helps: This could benefit patients with severe muscle injuries, especially soldiers.

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This study looked at how certain treatments might help prevent or lessen post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) after joint injuries. Researchers tested two agents, KGN and KA9, along with the drug anakinra (ANR), in rats that had fractures. They found that while all treatments showed some promise in improving cartilage and bone health, the results varied, and no single treatment worked perfectly for every outcome. This is important because it highlights the potential of these treatments to help manage arthritis after injuries, but also the challenges in creating effective therapies. Who this helps: Patients recovering from joint fractures.

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This study looked at how useful a new type of MRI, called dynamic Magnetic Resonance of the Urethra (d-MRU), is for planning surgery for men developing a narrow urethra after prostate surgery. The researchers compared 48 men who had their urethra examined with this new MRI technique to another group using a standard method, finding that the d-MRU showed better results in preserving blood vessels (94.4% vs. 63.3%). While there wasn't a big difference in the rates of re-narrowing after surgery (5.6% for d-MRU vs. 16.7% for the other method), the dynamic MRU closely matched what doctors observed during surgery. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing surgery for urethral strictures after prostate removal.

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This research compared two methods of providing blood flow during surgery for a life-threatening condition called acute type A aortic dissection. The study found that using direct aortic cannulation (DAC) resulted in lower rates of death during surgery (operating mortality) at 28% less risk compared to femoral arterial cannulation (FAC) and also led to a reduced chance of stroke after surgery. This matters because improving surgical techniques can lead to better survival rates and fewer complications for patients undergoing this serious procedure. Who this helps: Patients with acute type A aortic dissection.

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This study examined the accuracy of Parkinson's disease (PD) diagnoses recorded in the Veterans Administration's electronic medical records over a period from 1999 to 2021, involving 146,776 veterans. It found that only 46.5% of veterans with a PD diagnosis code actually had the disease. The accuracy of these diagnoses varied significantly based on who made the diagnosis, with specialists being more reliable, but overall accuracy was lower in Black veterans compared to White veterans. Who this helps: This research benefits patients, particularly Black veterans, by highlighting the need for more accurate PD diagnoses.

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This study looked at how well a new heart valve treatment worked for patients who had previously received smaller or larger artificial heart valves that had failed. Researchers found that patients with small failed valves (19 mm or smaller) faced significantly worse outcomes, with a higher likelihood of complications after the procedure—40% had significant problems compared to just 8.9% for those with larger valves. This matters because it highlights that the size of the old valve can influence the success of the new valve treatment, emphasizing the need for careful sizing when planning these procedures. Who this helps: Patients with heart valve issues and their doctors.

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This study examined heart rate patterns to see if they could help identify individuals who have a genetic mutation linked to Parkinson's disease but do not yet show symptoms. Researchers found that 28% of the non-symptomatic mutation carriers had heart rate variability similar to that seen in Parkinson's patients, suggesting that these heart patterns could signal early signs of the disease. This matters because it could lead to earlier detection and better management for people at risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Who this helps: Patients at risk for Parkinson's disease.

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This study looked at a procedure called valve-in-valve transcatheter aortic valve implantation (ViV-TAVI) for patients with artificial heart valves that had failed. Researchers found that out of 15 patients who underwent this procedure, 87.6% experienced technical success, while 80% had successful implantation of the device, and only one patient died within 30 days. These results are important because they demonstrate that ViV-TAVI can be a viable option for patients with failed stentless valves, but careful patient selection is key due to higher complications. Who this helps: This benefits patients with failed heart valves who may want to avoid more invasive surgery.

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This study looked at the possible link between the medication disulfiram and the development of parkinsonism in a large group of people in Italy. The researchers found that people prescribed disulfiram had more than a three times higher risk of developing parkinsonism, with 8 out of 19,072 cases being linked to the drug. This is important because it raises concerns about the safety of disulfiram, especially for individuals who might be prescribed it. Who this helps: This information is useful for doctors and patients who need to weigh the risks of using disulfiram for treatment.

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This study looked at how moderate mitral regurgitation (MR) changes in patients after they undergo a procedure called transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Out of 154 patients aged around 81, about 43.5% experienced worsening of their MR, while 16.2% saw improvement. These findings are important because they show that the condition of patients with moderate MR can change significantly after TAVI, which may help doctors identify who is at greater risk for worsening heart issues. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors involved in heart care decisions.

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The research focused on injuries to muscles and tendons in military personnel, specifically the area where muscles and tendons connect, which commonly leads to long recovery times and few effective treatments. The review highlighted various promising therapies, including new drugs and physical therapy, that could help speed up healing and improve recovery outcomes. Addressing these injuries is crucial for maintaining the health and performance of military service members. Who this helps: This benefits military personnel recovering from injuries.

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This study looked at how U.S. Service members used healthcare in the year after they suffered serious lower limb injuries from combat. It found that those who had limb salvage with a secondary amputation needed the most medical care, averaging over 40% requiring four or more hospital stays, and had the highest need for physical therapy and other outpatient services. This matters because it shows that combat injuries create a heavy demand on healthcare resources, highlighting the need for better care systems for these patients. Who this helps: This helps injured service members and their healthcare providers.

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This study examined the secondary health issues experienced by U.S. Service members who suffered lower limb injuries during combat between 2004 and 2014. It found that those who had limb salvage but had to undergo secondary amputation (LS-SA) faced higher rates of conditions like osteoarthritis and joint pain compared to those whose injuries did not require amputation (LS-NA). Understanding these health issues is crucial because it highlights the need for better rehabilitation and support for injured veterans to improve their long-term well-being. Who this helps: This helps injured service members by guiding medical care and support programs tailored to their specific needs.

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This study looked at how well a procedure called transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) works for people with severe aortic stenosis, a heart condition, based on different blood flow and heart function levels. It included 846 patients and found that those with low blood flow and preserved or reduced heart function had higher death rates after the procedure—up to 7.2% short-term and 51% long-term—compared to those with normal blood flow. These findings are important because they highlight that certain groups of patients may face more risks, helping doctors make better decisions for their patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with severe aortic stenosis and their doctors by providing insights into risks associated with TAVR.

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This study looked at the complications that U.S. Service members faced within the first year after suffering combat-related injuries to their lower limbs. Researchers found that 21% had amputations, 47% had their limbs salvaged, and 32% had non-threatening injuries. Those with amputations had higher rates of complications, such as post-hemorrhagic anemia and osteomyelitis, which means they need extra care after surgery. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and healthcare providers treating injured Service members.

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This study looked at how the loss of muscle tissue affects the healing of complex bone fractures in rats. Researchers found that even when muscle was lost near the bone injury, the healing process for the bone was still effective and showed no significant differences in bone formation or strength compared to fractures without muscle loss. This is important because it suggests that the induced membrane technique can successfully treat fractures even in cases where muscle tissue is damaged. Who this helps: This benefits patients with severe fractures and their doctors by providing effective treatment options despite muscle injuries.

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This study examined how biological sex affects muscle loss and recovery after severe injuries in a rodent model. Researchers found that while both male and female rodents had similar responses to the injury, the treatment using minced muscle grafting helped females improve their muscle function, and males showed less scar tissue at the injury site. These differences indicate that treatments may work better for one sex compared to the other, which is important for tailoring therapies in the future. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from muscle injuries.

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This study looked at 116 patients in Brazil with two types of tumors called pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas, which produce excess hormones that can cause high blood pressure. They found that 81% of patients had high blood pressure, and 65% experienced sudden drops in blood pressure when standing up. The study also established specific hormone level thresholds that can accurately identify these tumors, which is crucial for early detection and treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients with pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas, as well as their doctors.

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This study looked at how vitamin E, delivered in a special gel, can help muscles heal after significant injury in rats. Researchers found that using the lowest amount of vitamin E (5 mg/ml) led to a 30% decrease in muscle strength and smaller muscle fibers compared to the gel alone. This is important because it shows that while vitamin E can reach the injured area, finding the right amount to improve healing will require more research. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from significant muscle injuries.

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This study looked at a technique called snorkel stenting, which helps prevent a serious complication (coronary obstruction) during a heart valve procedure known as transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Out of 1,476 TAVI procedures performed from 2018 to 2023, 21 patients used snorkel stenting, with no immediate complications or heart attacks reported post-surgery, and a 30-day mortality rate of 0%. This is important because it shows that snorkel stenting can be a safe option for high-risk patients, helping to improve their outcomes during this procedure. Who this helps: Patients at high risk for complications during TAVI procedures.

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This study looked at how certain environmental chemicals, like specific pesticides and dry-cleaning solvents, contribute to the rise of Parkinson's disease, which is increasingly common worldwide. Researchers found that exposure to these toxic substances could greatly influence the disease's development, suggesting that many cases of Parkinson's might be preventable. Understanding these risks is crucial because it could lead to better prevention strategies and reduce the number of people affected. Who this helps: Patients and their families, as well as healthcare providers working to prevent Parkinson's disease.

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This study looked at a procedure called endoscopic ultrasound-guided tissue acquisition (EUS-TA) to help doctors determine the type of pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) in patients who had unclear results from imaging tests. The researchers found that EUS-TA was very effective, with an accuracy rate around 95% for distinguishing between harmful and non-harmful cysts and identifying cancerous lesions, and it had a low complication rate of just 2.7%. This is important because accurate diagnosis can lead to better treatment choices for patients with pancreatic cysts. Who this helps: This helps patients with pancreatic cysts and their doctors make informed treatment decisions.

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This study looked at two methods for connecting the heart to a machine during surgery for a serious condition known as acute type A aortic dissection. Researchers compared central aortic cannulation, which involves accessing the aorta directly, to axillary artery cannulation, which involves accessing a blood vessel in the arm. They found that both methods had nearly identical results in terms of survival and stroke rates, indicating that patients can safely receive either type of procedure. Who this helps: This research benefits patients undergoing surgery for aortic dissection and their doctors in deciding the best approach.

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This study looked at the health of attorneys who worked near a dry-cleaning site contaminated with trichloroethylene (TCE), a chemical known to cause cancer, to see if they had higher rates of Parkinson's disease (PD) or cancer. Among the attorneys studied, 5.1% reported having Parkinson's disease, which is higher than the expected rate of 1.7%, and 19% had cancers related to TCE, compared to just 5.3% in a comparison group. These findings highlight the potential health risks faced by those exposed to TCE, underlining the need for better monitoring and protections against harmful chemicals. Who this helps: This helps patients and workers in professions exposed to environmental toxins.

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This study examined how having mitral stenosis (MS) affects outcomes for patients undergoing a procedure called transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for aortic stenosis. Researchers looked at 952 patients and found that while the death rate during the procedure was higher for those with progressive and severe MS (4.1% and 4.2%), the overall survival rates and heart failure rehospitalizations over five years were similar across all groups, indicating that TAVR is a safe option for patients with aortic stenosis, even if they have mitral stenosis. This research is important because it reassures patients and doctors that they can proceed with TAVR without increased risks related to having mitral stenosis. Who this helps: Patients with aortic stenosis, especially those with mitral stenosis.

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This study focused on creating a new, highly accurate test to measure two types of beta-amyloid peptides and different forms of the apolipoprotein E (ApoE) protein in blood plasma, which are important for assessing the risk of Alzheimer's disease. They found that their tests were very precise, with errors as low as 1.8% to 8.7%, and could reliably detect these proteins at concentrations from 10 to 2500 picograms per milliliter. This matters because early detection of Alzheimer’s can help in timely intervention and treatment. Who this helps: Patients at risk for Alzheimer's disease and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how the ratio of two proteins, Aβ42 and Aβ40, in blood can help determine if someone has Alzheimer's disease. Researchers tested this ratio in 250 samples alongside brain scans and found it has a 99% chance of correctly identifying those who likely do not have Alzheimer's, which could reduce unnecessary brain scans by about 40%. This is important because it could save money and time in diagnosing Alzheimer's disease. Who this helps: This benefits patients suspected of having Alzheimer's and their doctors by streamlining the testing process.

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This study looked at the effectiveness of two types of heart valves—self-expanding and balloon-expandable—used in patients with small aortic valves who need valve replacement due to severe narrowing of the aorta. Researchers found that the self-expanding valves resulted in better blood flow and fewer problems related to valve size mismatch compared to balloon-expandable valves, with significant differences observed in valve function (p < 0.002) and pressure gradients (p < 0.001). This matters because using the right type of valve can improve patient recovery and quality of life after surgery. Who this helps: Patients with small aortic valves needing valve replacement.

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This study looked at how coronary artery disease (CAD) affects the results of a procedure called transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in elderly patients with severe aortic stenosis. Researchers examined 1,042 patients, finding that those with CAD had higher rates of follow-up heart interventions, but both groups had similar survival rates and major complications over five years. Notably, patients with chronic kidney disease and CAD had worse outcomes. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors treating elderly patients with heart issues, especially those also facing kidney problems.

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This study looked at how having previous heart surgery and the complexity of heart lesions affected the outcomes of a specific heart valve procedure in elderly patients with severe aortic stenosis. Researchers compared over 1,000 patients, finding that those who had prior heart surgery (CABG) had similar survival rates and complications as those without surgery, but lower mortality rates when compared to those without any heart disease. This matters because it shows that patients who have had CABG may actually do better in the long run after receiving a transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Who this helps: This information benefits patients who have undergone coronary artery bypass grafting and are considering aortic valve replacement.

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This study looked at female veterans who were exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987 and compared their health and disability ratings to those of female veterans from Camp Pendleton, who were not exposed. Out of the women studied, about 51% from Camp Lejeune had been exposed to toxicants, and around 51% had a disability rating of at least 10%. The research found that being stationed at Camp Lejeune increased the likelihood of having a disability rating, but toxicant exposure itself did not seem to affect these ratings directly. Who this helps: This benefits female veterans who may be affected by their time at Camp Lejeune and helps inform their healthcare and disability claims.

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This study looked at how working with pesticides affects the risk of developing Parkinson's disease (PD) in people with certain genetic variations (specifically LRRK2 and GBA). Researchers found that among those with the GBA variant, exposure to pesticides significantly increased the odds of developing PD, with a risk increase of over five times compared to those without exposure. The findings suggest that pesticide exposure could make symptoms worse and progress faster for individuals with these genetic markers. Who this helps: This research helps patients with Parkinson's disease and their doctors by highlighting the risks of pesticide exposure.

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This study examines a rare case of a twin pregnancy where one fetus was located in a small, non-communicating part of the uterus called a rudimentary horn, while the other was in the main part of a unicornuate uterus. The pregnancy was diagnosed at 28 weeks and both babies were successfully delivered by cesarean section at 33 weeks, using advanced imaging techniques to monitor the health of the babies. This case is important because it highlights successful outcomes in complex pregnancies, helping healthcare teams manage similar situations in the future. Who this helps: This benefits patients and doctors dealing with rare and complicated pregnancy cases.

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This study examined a new two-step treatment for muscle injuries that involve significant tissue loss. Researchers tested different types of a substance (polyvinyl alcohol) to create temporary fillers for these injuries in rats. They found that a medium concentration of 7.5% provided the best results in terms of muscle recovery and function, but it still did not perform better than more immediate treatments currently available. Who this helps: This research can benefit patients with severe muscle injuries and their doctors by informing better treatment strategies.

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Researchers studied the impact of contaminated water exposure on the progression of Parkinson's disease (PD) in Marines who lived at Camp Lejeune between 1975 and 1985. They found that out of 270 individuals with PD, 177 (about 66%) had been exposed to harmful chemicals in their water, which significantly sped up their progression of the disease. Specifically, those exposed were over twice as likely to experience psychosis, fractures, and falls sooner than those who were not exposed. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with Parkinson's disease, especially those who served at Camp Lejeune, as well as their doctors and caregivers.

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This study looked at whether having post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) increases the risk of developing Parkinson's disease (PD) among over 158,000 Veterans. The researchers found that Veterans with PTSD had a 35% higher chance of getting PD, and the risk was even greater—53% higher—if PTSD was diagnosed before PD. This is important because it highlights a potential link between mental health and neurological disorders, helping us understand how PTSD may affect long-term health in Veterans. Who this helps: This benefits Veterans and healthcare providers by highlighting the importance of addressing PTSD to potentially reduce the risk of Parkinson's disease.

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This study looked at how being overweight or obese affects the outcomes of a procedure called transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for severe heart valve narrowing. Researchers found that while overweight and obese patients had similar overall survival rates to those with normal weight over about two years, obese patients with chronic lung disease had significantly higher death rates—3.5 times higher compared to those with normal weight. This matters because it helps identify a risk group who may need closer monitoring and different care strategies after TAVR. Who this helps: Patients with obesity and chronic lung disease undergoing heart valve replacement.

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Researchers studied how different types of blood flow patterns affect the outcomes of a heart procedure called transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in elderly patients with severe aortic stenosis and normal heart function. They found that patients with a specific pattern called low-flow high-gradient had a higher risk of dying or being readmitted for heart failure after the procedure, with a 41% increased risk of death compared to those with normal flow. This is important because understanding these differences can help doctors better assess risks and tailor treatments for patients undergoing TAVR. Who this helps: This helps patients with severe aortic stenosis and their doctors in making informed treatment decisions.

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This study looked at how different types of atrial fibrillation (AF) affect the survival of patients undergoing a heart valve replacement procedure. Researchers examined 982 patients and found that those with persistent or permanent AF (nonparoxysmal AF) faced a 4.7 times higher risk of dying during the procedure compared to those without AF and were 56% more likely to die within five years. In contrast, patients with intermittent AF (paroxysmal AF) did not have worse outcomes than those without AF. Who this helps: This information is valuable for doctors and patients making decisions about heart valve replacement treatment options.

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This study compared two methods for taking tissue samples from the pancreas to diagnose pancreatic cancer: a standard 22-gauge needle and a ProCore 20 needle. They looked at 129 patients and found that while the 22-gauge needle was easier to use, the ProCore 20 needle obtained more tissue with fewer attempts and had better overall sample quality, with 78.1% of samples being adequate compared to 42.2% for the 22-gauge needle. This is important as having better samples can lead to more accurate diagnoses and potentially better treatment plans for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients suspected of having pancreatic cancer by improving the accuracy of their diagnoses.

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This study looked at how two specific treatments, Infliximab and Anakinra, affect the development of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) after an intra-articular fracture in rats. The researchers found that Anakinra significantly reduced certain inflammatory markers and signs of joint damage, although it did not change overall healing outcomes much when compared to a control group. This research is important because it highlights the potential for targeted treatments to create a better situation for further therapies that could slow down PTOA progression. Who this helps: Patients recovering from joint injuries at risk for post-traumatic osteoarthritis.

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This research paper looks at how to help people with lower limb fractures move around when they can't be quickly evacuated from tough environments, like battlefields or remote areas. The study found three basic types of splints—box splints, pneumatic splints, and traction splints—but none of them allowed people to walk. It highlights the need for better solutions, like combining splints with more advanced devices that support weight, to improve mobility and survival chances until help arrives. Who this helps: This research benefits injured service members and outdoor adventurers who experience severe fractures in challenging situations.

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This study looked at new materials that can be used to fill gaps in muscles caused by severe injuries, known as volumetric muscle loss (VML), to help with recovery. Researchers tested three different materials in rats over 28 days: polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a mixture of hyaluronic acid and polyethylene glycol (HA+PEG), and silicone. The PVA material proved to be the best option because it effectively maintained muscle volume without causing harmful effects, unlike silicone, which caused significant scarring. Who this helps: This benefits patients with severe muscle injuries as well as doctors seeking better treatment options.

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This study focused on improving how we identify patients who underwent limb salvage surgery after combat injuries. Researchers analyzed data from over 3,300 US service members with lower limb trauma and found that 2,018 of them—a little over half (59.5%)—had successful limb salvage procedures. Their method achieved about 70% accuracy when compared to expert opinions, which can help researchers and doctors better understand and track outcomes for these patients. Who this helps: Patients recovering from combat-related limb injuries and the doctors who treat them.

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This study examined US Service members who had severe leg injuries from combat, particularly focusing on those who kept their limbs after surgery. The researchers found that those who managed to keep their limbs often suffered from more blast-related injuries compared to others with less severe leg trauma. Interestingly, demographic factors like age and sex did not significantly change the likelihood of keeping their limbs, though more severe injuries were noted overall. Who this helps: This research benefits military doctors and medical teams caring for injured service members by providing insights into injury patterns and outcomes.

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This study looked at the knee health of 38 young male service members who lost a leg due to injury. Over two years, researchers found that many faced worsening knee conditions, with 7 individuals who initially had no joint damage developing signs of it later. The findings highlight that regular assessments are crucial for detecting early arthritis in younger service members who have experienced significant limb loss. Who this helps: This helps injured service members by identifying risks to their knee health early on.

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This study looked at the ratio of two proteins in blood, Aβ42 and Aβ40, to see if it could help assess Alzheimer's disease. Researchers found that this blood test accurately predicted brain scans for amyloid, which is a sign of Alzheimer's, with a very high negative predictive value of 99%, meaning it can reliably indicate when Alzheimer's is not the cause of a patient's memory issues. This is important because it could reduce unnecessary brain scans by about 40%, saving time and money for both patients and healthcare providers. Who this helps: This helps patients by reducing invasive testing and doctors by streamlining diagnosis.