Aortic stenosis – a 2024 update
The aortic valve normally has three cusps, but an abnormal aortic valve from birth can be bicuspid (two cusps), unicuspid (one cusp) or quadricuspid (four cusps). Read More...
Clinical Articles
What we can learn from top five trials of 2023
Many trials are published each year, and it can be hard to keep up with their results and separate the proverbial wheat from the chaff. These are my takes on some major trials from last year. Read More...
Hidden pandemic of post-operative morbidity and mortality: Strategies for implementing perioperative clinics
Surgery, an essential aspect of evidence-based medical care is not without risk. One in five patients will experience a post-operative complication, and post-operative mortality is the third leading cause of death worldwide. Read More...
Arthrofibrosis – a common side effect of joint surgery
You may not have heard about arthrofibrosis but would be familiar with frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis), stiff knee, frozen elbow or stiff hip. These conditions are arthrofibrosis in different joints. Read More...
Tips and tricks for common inguino-scrotal lumps and bumps in kids
Paediatric inguinal hernias are caused by the persistence of the peritoneal lining as it descends down the inguinal canal, leaving a patent processes vaginalis (PPV), which usually closes by 12 months of age. If the PPV is wide enough, it may allow intra-abdominal contents such as bowel, omentum or ovary, to descend into the inguinal canal or below, resulting in a hernia. Read More...
Advancements in managing spinal pain: A comprehensive approach
Spinal pain poses a common challenge for medical practitioners, especially GPs in Australia, where it stands as the most prevalent musculoskeletal issue encountered by healthcare providers. Read More...
The role of botulinum toxin type A in pain management
Botulinum toxin is the most lethal substance known to humankind being 100 billion times more toxic than cyanide. It was first discovered by German physician and poet Justinus Kerner during an outbreak of botulinum in Germany due to spoiled sausages. He went on to conduct clinical experiments on himself to develop treatment and preventative measures. Read More...
Opioid and benzodiazepine prescribing in chronic pain
The management of chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) remains a significant challenge in healthcare. While opioids are often considered for pain relief, their use requires careful consideration due to potential risks, side effects and potential harm. This article explores best practices in opioid use for CNCP, the risks associated with co-prescription of benzodiazepines, and the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach to pain management. Read More...