Research
BISPHOSPHONATE INDUCED OSTEONECROSIS OFTHE JAWS
Page 86-94
Downloads: 15 Views: 40
Bisphosphonate (BP) is a group of drugs used to treat osteoporosis, multiple myeloma, skeletal metastasis cancer. BP’s mechanism of action is to reduce bone resorption by inhibiting the osteoclasts activity. Therefore, the indication of BP is increasingly widespread and becomes the first class of drugs in the treatment of osteoporosis. At Frienship Hospital, over the past five years, we have encountered 12 cases of bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) at various stages. The key message we wish to convey in this report is to kindly encourage close collaboration between internal medicine specialists and oral maxillofacial surgeons during bisphosphonate therapy, in order to minimize the risk of BRONJ complications for patients.
Abstract:
Bisphosphonate (BP) is a group of drugs used to treat osteoporosis, multiple myeloma, skeletal metastasis cancer. BP’s mechanism of action is to reduce bone resorption by inhibiting the osteoclasts activity. Therefore, the indication of BP is increasingly widespread and becomes the first class of drugs in the treatment of osteoporosis. At Frienship Hospital, over the past five years, we have encountered 12 cases of bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) at various stages. The key message we wish to convey in this report is to kindly encourage close collaboration between internal medicine specialists and oral maxillofacial surgeons during bisphosphonate therapy, in order to minimize the risk of BRONJ complications for patients.
BALANCE IMPROVEMENT IN OLDER ADULTS WITH TAEKWONDO
Page 16-20
Downloads: 13 Views: 34
Impaired balance in older adults can directly lead to falls, leading to injuries, reduced quality of life, and increased dependence in daily activities. To diversify neuromotor exercises, evidence on the effectiveness of Taekwondo has been reviewed. Searches using relevant keywords reported that Taekwondo significantly improves both static and dynamic balance measures in individuals over 65 years old. Additionally, the findings suggest that Taekwondo may enhance exercise adherence among participants. These results support the potential of Taekwondo as a exercise to improve balance for older adults, although further high-quality evidence is needed.
This study was conducted to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of electro-auricular acupuncture in the treatment of functional gastrointestinal disorders, as classified by Traditional Medicine. Thirty patients with digestive disorders were enrolled and received daily electro-auricular acupuncture for 14 consecutive days. Symptom severity was assessed at baseline D0, D7, and D14 using a standardized questionnaire. In the excess pattern group, a statistically significant improvement was observed in certain symptoms by day 7 (abdominal pain, p=0,04; borborygmus/bloating, p=0,008), with most symptoms showing marked reduction by day 14 (p<0,05). For the deficiency pattern group, most symptoms demonstrated significant improvement primarily at D14 (p<0,05); however, specific symptoms such as “sallow complexion/cold limbs” and “fatigue/poor appetite” showed improvement only at this later time point. The treatment was well-tolerated, and no serious adverse events were reported. Minor, self-limited side effects included pain at insertion (10%), mild bleeding (6,7%), and needle faint (3,3%). The findings suggest that electro-auricular acupuncture is an effective intervention for improving the symptoms of digestive disorders in both excess and deficiency patterns and possesses a favorable safety profile.
To evaluate the quality of life and associated factors among elderly patients with COPD attending the Respiratory Outpatient Clinic, Thong Nhat Hospital. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 240 patients aged ≥60 years with confirmed COPD according to GOLD 2025 criteria. Clinical data were collected, and QoL was assessed using the validated Vietnamese version of the St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire for COPD patients (SGRQ-C). Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, bivariate tests, and multivariate logistic regression to identify independent factors associated with poor QoL. The mean age was 72 ± 8 years; 41.3% were 60–69 years, 41.3% were 70–79 years, and 40.8% were ≥80 years. Males accounted for 86.2%; 75.4% had a history of smoking, and 71.7% had at least one comorbidity. The mean total SGRQ-C score was 50.2 ± 19.6, with the symptoms domain being the most impaired (58.5 ± 19.5). Overall, 47.9% of patients had low or very low QoL. Multivariate analysis showed that age ≥70 (OR=1.7), female gender (OR=3.1), history of hospitalization, need for caregiver support (OR=1.2), GOLD group E (OR=1.2), and acute exacerbations requiring hospitalization (OR=1.3) were independently associated with poor QoL (p<0.05). Elderly patients with COPD at Thong Nhat Hospital had significantly impaired QoL, particularly in physical activity. Advanced age, female gender, severe airflow limitation, frequent exacerbations, comorbidities, and smoking were key determinants of poor QoL. Routine QoL assessment and comprehensive interventions—including smoking cessation, pulmonary rehabilitation, comorbidity management, and psychosocial support—are essential to improve outcomes in this vulnerable population.
ASSESSMENT OF HLA-B27 EXPRESSION BY FLOW CYTOMETRY AND ITS CLINICAL RELEVANCE IN ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS
Page 95-100
Downloads: 14 Views: 16
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease strongly associated with the genetic marker HLA-B27. HLA-B27 testing plays an important role in supporting early diagnosis. Flow cytometry is a novel method with high potential for detection of HLA-B27. To determine the prevalence of HLA-B27 positivity and negativity among AS patients and to evaluate its association with biological characteristics within the study population. A retrospective descriptive study was conducted at Thong Nhat Hospital from January to July 2025 on patients diagnosed with AS based on ICD code M45. HLA-B27 testing was performed using the flow cytometry technique. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation analysis via Microsoft Excel 2021. Among 248 patients diagnosed with AS (ICD M45), females were predominant (male:female ratio = 1:1.5). The average age of the cohort was 44.6 ± 14.9 years. The rate of HLA-B27 positivity was 12% (30/248), significantly lower than in previous studies. Patients with HLA-B27 positivity had a younger mean age at disease onset compared to the negative group (40.9 ± 15.4 vs. 45.1 ± 14.8 years; p = 0.048). No statistically significant difference in gender distribution was observed between the two groups (p > 0.05), although a higher proportion of females was noted in the HLA-B27 negative group. In Conclusions, The low HLA-B27 positivity rate in this study may reflect population characteristics and broader screening criteria. HLA-B27 positivity was associated with younger age at disease onset, suggesting its role not only in diagnosis but also in clinical presentation. Flow cytometry proved effective in detecting HLA-B27 and shows potential for broader clinical application.
ASSESSMENT OF HEART FAILURE KNOWLEDGE IN OUTPATIENTS WITH CHRONIC HEART FAILURE AT THONG NHAT HOSPITAL
Page 30-38
Downloads: 20 Views: 57
Chronic heart failure is one of the leading causes of hospitalizations, impaired quality of life, and increased socioeconomic burden. Adequate disease awareness and effective self-care are key factors in improving prognosis and reducing hospital readmissions. A crosssectional descriptive study was conducted from January 1 to May 31, 2025, involving 200 patients. The tools used included the Dutch Heart Failure Knowledge Scale (DHFKS), a qualityof-life questionnaire, and a self-care assessment. Results: 66% of patients were aged ≥60 years, 94.5% had health insurance, and 78.5% resided in urban areas. Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) accounted for 73.5%, significantly higher among patients aged ≥60 years (78.8%, p = 0.026). Hypertension (91%) and dyslipidemia (77%) were the most common comorbidities. A total of 78% of patients demonstrated good knowledge of heart failure. Regarding self-care behaviors, most adhered to a low-salt diet and regular weight monitoring, though physical activity remained suboptimal. Dyspnea and lower limb edema significantly impacted quality of life. When symptoms occurred, patients commonly contacted healthcare providers. Conclusions: The majority of outpatients with chronic heart failure demonstrated good disease awareness; however, improvements in self-care practices and multidimensional support are needed to enhance quality of life and reduce disease burden.
Abstract:
Chronic heart failure is one of the leading causes of hospitalizations, impaired quality of life, and increased socioeconomic burden. Adequate disease awareness and effective self-care are key factors in improving prognosis and reducing hospital readmissions. A crosssectional descriptive study was conducted from January 1 to May 31, 2025, involving 200 patients. The tools used included the Dutch Heart Failure Knowledge Scale (DHFKS), a qualityof-life questionnaire, and a self-care assessment. Results: 66% of patients were aged ≥60 years, 94.5% had health insurance, and 78.5% resided in urban areas. Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) accounted for 73.5%, significantly higher among patients aged ≥60 years (78.8%, p = 0.026). Hypertension (91%) and dyslipidemia (77%) were the most common comorbidities. A total of 78% of patients demonstrated good knowledge of heart failure. Regarding self-care behaviors, most adhered to a low-salt diet and regular weight monitoring, though physical activity remained suboptimal. Dyspnea and lower limb edema significantly impacted quality of life. When symptoms occurred, patients commonly contacted healthcare providers. Conclusions: The majority of outpatients with chronic heart failure demonstrated good disease awareness; however, improvements in self-care practices and multidimensional support are needed to enhance quality of life and reduce disease burden.
Colonic diverticulitis is increasing in Asia, yet data on clinical patterns in Vietnam remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical, laboratory, imaging characteristics, and treatment outcomes at Thong Nhat Hospital. A retrospective descriptive study was conducted on 105 patients from January 1 to September 1, 2025. Data on demographics, clinical features, laboratory tests, CT findings, WSES classification, treatment strategies, and outcomes were collected and analyzed using SPSS 26.0, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. The mean age was 53.9 ± 20.0 years, with 31.4% aged ≥65. Males accounted for 67.6%. The most common symptom was right lower quadrant pain (55.2%). CT revealed diverticula mainly in the sigmoid colon (40.0%), cecum (37.1%), and right colon (19.0%). WSES stages were: 1a (57.1%), 1b (19.0%), 2a (11.4%), 2b (7.6%), 3 (3.8%), and 4 (1.0%). Medical treatment was applied in 89.5% of cases, percutaneous drainage in 1.0%, and surgery in 9.5%. The mean hospital stay was 7.6 ± 4.4 days, significantly longer in complicated cases and those requiring invasive interventions (p < 0.05). Colonic diverticulitis in Vietnam often affects middle-aged males, with location varying by age: cecum/right colon in younger patients and sigmoid colon in the elderly. CT-scan plays a crucial role in diagnosis, staging, and guiding treatment.
Abstract:
Colonic diverticulitis is increasing in Asia, yet data on clinical patterns in Vietnam remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical, laboratory, imaging characteristics, and treatment outcomes at Thong Nhat Hospital. A retrospective descriptive study was conducted on 105 patients from January 1 to September 1, 2025. Data on demographics, clinical features, laboratory tests, CT findings, WSES classification, treatment strategies, and outcomes were collected and analyzed using SPSS 26.0, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. The mean age was 53.9 ± 20.0 years, with 31.4% aged ≥65. Males accounted for 67.6%. The most common symptom was right lower quadrant pain (55.2%). CT revealed diverticula mainly in the sigmoid colon (40.0%), cecum (37.1%), and right colon (19.0%). WSES stages were: 1a (57.1%), 1b (19.0%), 2a (11.4%), 2b (7.6%), 3 (3.8%), and 4 (1.0%). Medical treatment was applied in 89.5% of cases, percutaneous drainage in 1.0%, and surgery in 9.5%. The mean hospital stay was 7.6 ± 4.4 days, significantly longer in complicated cases and those requiring invasive interventions (p < 0.05). Colonic diverticulitis in Vietnam often affects middle-aged males, with location varying by age: cecum/right colon in younger patients and sigmoid colon in the elderly. CT-scan plays a crucial role in diagnosis, staging, and guiding treatment.
ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE ON EMPLOYEE JOB SATISFACTION AND ENGAGEMENT AT THONG NHAT HOSPITAL
Page 38-44
Downloads: 169 Views: 320
Employee job satisfaction and organizational commitment are key factors that determine the effectiveness, stability, and professional development of hospitals in general and public hospitals in particular. This study aims to explore and measure the factors affecting job satisfaction and employee engagement in the healthcare sector from the perspective of organizational culture. Research data was collected from 499 healthcare workers currently employed at Thong Nhat Hospital. Among them, 324 were female (64.9%) and 175 were male (35.1%). The VIF analysis results show that the observed variables had a maximum value of 8.010 and a minimum of 0.713. The test for multicollinearity violations revealed 12 direct impact relationships indicating employee job satisfaction. Of the 11 established factors, only 5 relationships corresponding to 5 factors showed statistical significance at the 5% level: reward and recognition (β = 0.217, p < 0.0001), teamwork (β = 0.200, p < 0.0001), fair compensation (β = 0.157, p < 0.0001), integrity promotion (β = 0.165, p = 0.002), and training and advancement (β = 0.137, p = 0.004). Bootstrapping results showed that 3 moderating variables were not statistically significant, as their p-values were greater than 0.05. There are five factors that positively influence job satisfaction and employee commitment in healthcare, ranked from highest to lowest impact: reward and recognition, teamwork, fair compensation, integrity promotion, and training and advancement.
ASSESSING ANTIMICROBIAL THERAPY IN TREATING HEALTHCARE-ASSOCIATED INFECTIONS AT A VIETNAMESE NATIONAL HOSPITAL
Page 58-72
Downloads: 11 Views: 34
To evaluate the appropriateness of antimicrobial therapy in treating healthcare-associated infections and identify factors associated with patient outcomes at a national hospital in Vietnam. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 122 medical records of patients who were diagnosed with healthcare-associated infection at Thong Nhat Hospital from January 2023 to December 2023, using data from the Infection Control Department. Appropriateness of antimicrobial therapy was defined as physician adherence to Thong Nhat Hospital guidelines for antibiotic use. The factors associated with the treatment outcome were identified using multiple logistic regression analysis. The median age of the patients was 75.5 (65-85). Hospital-acquired pneumonia was identified in 51.6% of patients. The most prevalent pathogens were Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli. The overall appropriate rate of empiric antimicrobial therapy was 76.2%. The successful treatment outcome rate was 71.3%. Lower respiratory tract infection, sepsis/sepsis shock, cancer, and comatose state were factors associated with treatment failure. Active management and treatment are essential for patients with lower respiratory infection, sepsis or septic shock, cancer, and comatose states to improve treatment outcomes.
Abstract:
To evaluate the appropriateness of antimicrobial therapy in treating healthcare-associated infections and identify factors associated with patient outcomes at a national hospital in Vietnam. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 122 medical records of patients who were diagnosed with healthcare-associated infection at Thong Nhat Hospital from January 2023 to December 2023, using data from the Infection Control Department. Appropriateness of antimicrobial therapy was defined as physician adherence to Thong Nhat Hospital guidelines for antibiotic use. The factors associated with the treatment outcome were identified using multiple logistic regression analysis. The median age of the patients was 75.5 (65-85). Hospital-acquired pneumonia was identified in 51.6% of patients. The most prevalent pathogens were Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli. The overall appropriate rate of empiric antimicrobial therapy was 76.2%. The successful treatment outcome rate was 71.3%. Lower respiratory tract infection, sepsis/sepsis shock, cancer, and comatose state were factors associated with treatment failure. Active management and treatment are essential for patients with lower respiratory infection, sepsis or septic shock, cancer, and comatose states to improve treatment outcomes.
ASPIRIN HYPERSENSITIVITY IN CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE: PRACTICAL CHALLENGES AND MANAGEMENT APPROACHES
Page 24-34
Downloads: 259 Views: 288
Aspirin is a cornerstone therapy for coronary artery disease (CAD), yet hypersensitivity complicates its use in clinical practice. This narrative review synthesizes contemporary evidence from studies and guidelines to provide pragmatic, evidence–based recommendations on the epidemiology, mechanisms, classification, and management of aspirin hypersensitivity. Prevalence is estimated at 0.5–1.9% in the general population and 2.6% among patients undergoing coronary angiography. In the ADAPTED (Aspirin Desensitization in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease) registry, a rapid desensitization protocol achieved a 95.4% success rate, with 80.3% of patients remaining on aspirin at 12 months. The 2025 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) guidelines recommend aspirin desensitization as the preferred strategy in acute coronary syndromes (ACS). In contrast, the 2024 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines recommend clopidogrel for chronic coronary syndromes (CCS) when aspirin is not tolerated. Desensitization is contraindicated in patients with a history of severe anaphylaxis. Accordingly, desensitization should be preferred whenever feasible. When it is not possible or unsuccessful, alternatives—such as cilostazol, indobufen, or P2Y12 inhibitor–based regimens with or without oral anticoagulants—may be considered based on ischemic and bleeding risk. Robust randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the efficacy of these strategies.
The global population is aging rapidly, leading to an increase in the number of elderly individuals who are more vulnerable and require comprehensive healthcare services, including long-term care and skilled nursing facilities. In this context, aspiration pneumonia has become a significant concern due to its high incidence, mortality rate, and substantial financial burden, particularly among elderly patients requiring intensive care unit admission. Aspiration pneumonia is defined as a pulmonary infection resulting from the inhalation of food, liquid, saliva, or stomach contents into the lungs, often due to impaired swallowing or consciousness. Symptoms may include cough, fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue . Risk factors include neurological disorders, impaired consciousness, advanced age, and conditions affecting swallowing. Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation, imaging studies such as chest X-rays or CT scans, and, if necessary, swallowing assessments. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, and in severe cases, may include oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation . Preventive measures focus on managing risk factors, improving swallowing function, and maintaining oral hygiene. This article aims to provide information on aspiration pneumonia in the elderly, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment, to raise awareness and help reduce the incidence and mortality associated with this condition.
APPLICATION OF SIX SIGMA METHOD EVALUATING THE QUALITY OF PERIPHERAL BLOOD CELL TESTING AT PHUONG CHAU INTERNATIONAL HOSPITAL
Page 100-105
Downloads: 90 Views: 187
The Six Sigma approach enables laboratories to objectively evaluate analytical performance, refine IQC protocols, and establish suitable IQC frequencies. This study aimed to evaluate the quality and optimize the IQC procedure for selected hematology tests on the Advia 2120i automated hematology analyzer. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted using internal quality control and external quality assessment data from April 2024 to December 2024 at Phuong Chau International Hospital. The results showed that WBC and PLT achieved sigma values >4 at all three IQC levels. HGB had sigma values ranging from 3 to <6, while RBC had sigma values between 2 and <4 across all three IQC levels. Most tests in this study reached “acceptable” sigma performance or higher. These findings demonstrate that the Six Sigma approach is effective in monitoring and improving test quality by enabling the selection of appropriate IQC strategies for each parameter.
APPLICATION OF SIX SIGMA IN THE EVALUATION AND IMPROVEMENT OF BIOCHEMISTRY TESTING PERFORMANCE AT THONG NHAT HOSPITAL
Page 118-124
Downloads: 264 Views: 475
The survey aimed to evaluate and improve the performance of testing methods of 10 biochemistry assays on AU5800 (Beckman Coulter) and cobas c503 (Roche Diagnostics) by Sigma metrics. Cross-sectional study. Ten biochemistry assays: glucose, urea, creatinine (Jaffe), cholesterol, triglycerides, AST, GGT, uric acid, HDL-Cho, total bilirubin. Collect internal and external inspection data on 2 devices under the same laboratory conditions, same test materials, at the same time from January to March 2024, calculate Sigma value. Evaluate performance and take improvement action on low-performing tests. On the AU5800 analyzer, 5 out of 10 tests (urea, creatinine, cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, and total bilirubin) had Sigma values less than 3; 2 out of 10 tests (glucose and AST) had Sigma values between 3 and 6; and 3 out of 10 tests (triglycerides, GGT, and uric acid) had Sigma values greater than 6. On the Cobas c503 analyzer, 1 out of 10 tests (creatinine) had a Sigma value less than 3; 4 out of 10 tests (urea, cholesterol, AST, and total bilirubin) had Sigma values between 3 and 6; and 5 out of 10 tests (glucose, triglycerides, GGT, uric acid, and HDL-cholesterol) had Sigma values greater than 6. The tests with “acceptable to excellent” performance accounted for 50% on the AU5800 analyzer and 90% on the Cobas c503. The creatinine test (Jaffe method) showed “not good” performance on both systems. After improvement by switching to the enzymatic method on the c503 system, its performance changed from “not good” to “excellent.” On the AU5800 system, the performance of the creatinine (Jaffe) test improved from “not good” to “good".
APPENDICEAL CANCER INVADING THE ABDOMINAL WALL: A CASE REPORT AND LAPAROSCOPIC SURGICAL MANAGEMENT
Page 125-127
Downloads: 83 Views: 275
Appendiceal cancer is a rare condition, often diagnosed late due to nonspecific symptoms. We report a case of appendiceal cancer invading the abdominal wall to evaluate the effectiveness of laparoscopic surgery and a multimodal treatment strategy. A 60-year-old male patient was admitted with persistent right iliac fossa pain for 2 months and a 3kg weight loss. Imaging confirmed an 6x8cm appendiceal tumor invading the abdominal wall and cecum, causing partial bowel obstruction. The patient underwent laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy. Pathology confirmed moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma with metastases to 12/17 lymph nodes and peritoneal fluid (stage IVB). Postoperative recovery was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on day 7 with adjuvant chemotherapy scheduled. After 3 weeks of follow-up, the patient remained stable. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and radical surgery, combined with adjuvant therapy, in improving outcomes for patients with advanced-stage appendiceal cancer.
Kidney transplantation is one of the most effective treatment options for patients with end-stage renal disease. However, a considerable number of patients die while waiting for transplantation. We conducted a descriptive case series of six kidney transplantations from brain-dead donors in Thong Nhat hospital. All six procedures were completed successfully following a standardized Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) anaesthetic protocol. No patients experienced postoperative nausea or delayed graft function, and early urine output exceeded 2 mL.kg⁻¹.h⁻¹ in all recipients. The prevalence of end-stage renal disease is steadily increasing, while the disparity between available organ supply and transplantation demand continues to widen. Organs from brain-dead donors represent an effective strategy to address this shortage. Kidney transplantation is a highly complex surgical procedure that necessitates meticulous anesthetic planning to ensure patient safety and optimize graft function. ERAS‑based protocols offer safe and effective perioperative management, resulting in reduced complications, shorter hospital stays and improved patient satisfaction.
Abstract:
Kidney transplantation is one of the most effective treatment options for patients with end-stage renal disease. However, a considerable number of patients die while waiting for transplantation. We conducted a descriptive case series of six kidney transplantations from brain-dead donors in Thong Nhat hospital. All six procedures were completed successfully following a standardized Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) anaesthetic protocol. No patients experienced postoperative nausea or delayed graft function, and early urine output exceeded 2 mL.kg⁻¹.h⁻¹ in all recipients. The prevalence of end-stage renal disease is steadily increasing, while the disparity between available organ supply and transplantation demand continues to widen. Organs from brain-dead donors represent an effective strategy to address this shortage. Kidney transplantation is a highly complex surgical procedure that necessitates meticulous anesthetic planning to ensure patient safety and optimize graft function. ERAS‑based protocols offer safe and effective perioperative management, resulting in reduced complications, shorter hospital stays and improved patient satisfaction.
ANALYZING THE POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE ASPECTS OF APPLYING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT: A FRAMEWORK FOR VIETNAM
Page 13-20
Downloads: 253 Views: 360
Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a disruptive technology with the potential to revolutionize the field of public health management. This study, based on a situational analysis and systematic review, indicates that AI offers significant benefits in disease outbreak forecasting, resource optimization, and supporting human clinical decision-making. However, barriers related to input data quality, algorithmic bias, infrastructure costs, and inadequately regulated legal and ethical issues are persistent challenges for Vietnam. A proposed reference framework for Vietnam, grounded in a review of global research, includes for main pillars for the application of AI in public health management: (1) Data Foundation, (2) Technology and Infrastructure, (3) Human Resources, (4) Legal and Ethical Framework. This framework is expected to be a valuable reference for policymakers, health managers, and technology developers in Vietnam in the field of public health management and community health.
ANALYSIS OF COSTS OF DRUG USE IN TREATMENT AT THONG NHAT HOSPITAL IN 2024
Page 110-117
Downloads: 966 Views: 832
This study was conducted to analyze drug expenditure in treatment at Thống Nhất Hospital in 2024. A retrospective cross-sectional descriptive study analyzing drug usage costs in treatment at Thống Nhất Hospital in 2024. In 2024, Thống Nhất Hospital provided medical examination and treatment services to 650,000 health insurance patients, with over 595,000 outpatient visits, accounting for 90.63%. The total drug expenditure was VND 490.89 billion, representing 36.98% of the total health insurance medical examination and treatment costs. Western medicines accounted for 97.32% of the drug costs, while herbal and traditional medicines made up 2.86%. Imported drugs constituted 76.2% of the total drug expenditure. Original brand-name drugs, Group 1, and Group 2 drugs were the highest-cost categories, accounting for 38.63%, 25.59%, and 13.11% respectively. Cardiovascular drugs and those affecting the endocrine system and hormones were the most utilized, comprising 35.61% and 22.0% respectively. According to the ABC/VEN analysis, essential drugs classified as ‘E’ were the most used in terms of both quantity and cost, accounting for 58.55% and 75.51% respectively. Drug groups such as AV, AE, AN, BV, and CV represented 84.72% of the total drug expenditure. The CN group accounted for only 0.87% of the total drug expenditure in 2024. The study results indicate that the drug formulary used at Thống Nhất Hospital in 2024 aligns with the hospital’s disease patterns. The diverse and comprehensive drug list meets the treatment needs of patients.
AESTHETIC SKIN CARE IN GERIATRICS: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES IN ENHANCING QUALITY OF LIFE IN OLDER ADULTS
Page 13-20
Downloads: 24 Views: 63
The rapidly aging population creates new demands for comprehensive healthcare, including aesthetic dermatology. Physical appearance directly influences psychological well-being, self-confidence, and quality of life in older adults. This review aims to analyze the role of aesthetic skin care in geriatrics, identify the boundaries between appropriate needs and excessive interventions, and highlight the risks of complications as well as physicians’ responsibilities in ensuring safety. We systematically synthesized and analyzed medical literature published between 2015 and 2025 related to skin aesthetics, geriatrics, and elderly healthcare. PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched using the following keywords: “geriatrics dermatology”, “skin aesthetics”, “aesthetic skin care”, “elderly dermatology”, “cosmetic dermatology,” “aesthetic interventions complications elderly”, “quality of life”, “skin care elderly”, “complications”, “physician counseling”. Evidence indicates that aesthetic skin care significantly improves psychological health, quality of life, and social connectedness in older adults. However, complication risks are heightened due to multimorbidity, long-term medication use, and age-related physiological changes of the skin. Ethical considerations and the distinction between appropriate and excessive interventions must be carefully addressed in clinical practice. Aesthetic skin care in geriatrics represents an inevitable trend but requires cautious implementation. Physicians play a pivotal role in counseling, preventing complications, and selecting appropriate interventions to optimize both medical benefits and humanistic values in the comprehensive care of older adults.
Abstract:
The rapidly aging population creates new demands for comprehensive healthcare, including aesthetic dermatology. Physical appearance directly influences psychological well-being, self-confidence, and quality of life in older adults. This review aims to analyze the role of aesthetic skin care in geriatrics, identify the boundaries between appropriate needs and excessive interventions, and highlight the risks of complications as well as physicians’ responsibilities in ensuring safety. We systematically synthesized and analyzed medical literature published between 2015 and 2025 related to skin aesthetics, geriatrics, and elderly healthcare. PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched using the following keywords: “geriatrics dermatology”, “skin aesthetics”, “aesthetic skin care”, “elderly dermatology”, “cosmetic dermatology,” “aesthetic interventions complications elderly”, “quality of life”, “skin care elderly”, “complications”, “physician counseling”. Evidence indicates that aesthetic skin care significantly improves psychological health, quality of life, and social connectedness in older adults. However, complication risks are heightened due to multimorbidity, long-term medication use, and age-related physiological changes of the skin. Ethical considerations and the distinction between appropriate and excessive interventions must be carefully addressed in clinical practice. Aesthetic skin care in geriatrics represents an inevitable trend but requires cautious implementation. Physicians play a pivotal role in counseling, preventing complications, and selecting appropriate interventions to optimize both medical benefits and humanistic values in the comprehensive care of older adults.
ADVANCES IN FLEXIBLE BRONCHOSCOPY FOR EARLY DIAGNOSIS OF LUNG CANCER
Page 21-29
Downloads: 14 Views: 42
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related death. In central airway lesions, flexible bronchoscopy (FB) is the diagnostic backbone, as it allows direct visualization, lesion localization, and sampling, while integrating new technologies such as autofluorescence bronchoscopy (AFB), narrow-band imaging (NBI), endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS), optical coherence tomography (OCT), electromagnetic/CBCT-guided navigation bronchoscopy (ENB, CBCT), robotic bronchoscopy, and “real-time pathology” techniques such as confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE). Over the past 5–7 years, evidence shows these technologies significantly enhance sensitivity/early detection, increase diagnostic yield for small peripheral nodules, reduce complications compared with transthoracic biopsy, and open the era of artificial intelligence (AI) for lesion recognition and procedural training. This article summarizes key advances, clinical impact, limitations, and implementation prospects in Vietnam.
Abstract:
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related death. In central airway lesions, flexible bronchoscopy (FB) is the diagnostic backbone, as it allows direct visualization, lesion localization, and sampling, while integrating new technologies such as autofluorescence bronchoscopy (AFB), narrow-band imaging (NBI), endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS), optical coherence tomography (OCT), electromagnetic/CBCT-guided navigation bronchoscopy (ENB, CBCT), robotic bronchoscopy, and “real-time pathology” techniques such as confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE). Over the past 5–7 years, evidence shows these technologies significantly enhance sensitivity/early detection, increase diagnostic yield for small peripheral nodules, reduce complications compared with transthoracic biopsy, and open the era of artificial intelligence (AI) for lesion recognition and procedural training. This article summarizes key advances, clinical impact, limitations, and implementation prospects in Vietnam.
ADVANCES IN ADJUVANT THERAPY FOR RESECTED NON SMALL CELL LUNG CANCER
Page 34-41
Downloads: 136 Views: 267
Non Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) is the second most common cancer in both sex but it is still the leading cause of cancer death. Most of NSCLN appear in the late stage so the prognosis is very poor. Although, the patient in early stage NSCLC who underwent standard lobectomy but the recurrent rate is still so high. Adjuvant therapy after standard surgical therapy gives the patient better overall survival (OS) and disease Free Survival (DFS). Recent advances in diagnosis and treatment for NSCLC show the benefit of adjuvant therapy with TKI or Immunotherapy for selected NSCLC patients.
ADAPTING TO THE TREND OF POPULATION AGING AND AN AGED POPULATION - ELDERLY CARE
Page 1-17
Downloads: 596 Views: 1,165
Population aging is a global trend driven by rising life expectancy and declining birth rates, creating profound socio-economic impacts. Vietnam officially entered this stage in 2011 and is now facing one of the world’s fastest aging rates, projected to become an “aged society” by 2036. The country’s primary challenge is the risk of “getting old before getting rich,” as its demographic transition outpaces its national financial accumulation, placing immense pressure on multiple sectors. The healthcare system is unprepared for the surging demand from the elderly, who often suffer from multiple chronic diseases and have treatment costs 7-8 times higher than younger individuals. Vietnam currently lacks sufficient geriatric hospitals, nursing homes, and integrated healthcare models. In terms of social security, a staggering 73% of the elderly do not have a pension and must continue to work or rely on their children, while the pay-as-you-go (PAYG) social insurance system is threatened by demographic shifts. The labor market, despite being in its “golden population” period, is constrained by a low rate of trained labor and low productivity, which affects future financial accumulation capabilities. Simultaneously, traditional family support systems are weakening due to smaller family sizes and geographic dispersion. To adapt effectively, Vietnam needs a comprehensive reform strategy, including promoting sustainable economic growth , improving the labor market , and restructuring the healthcare system towards integrated care, geriatric network development, and long-term care models. Concurrently, developing a multi-pillar social security system is critical to expand coverage and ensure the well-being of the elderly.
ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION TRIGGERED BY DROWNING IN AN ELDERLY PATIENT: A CASE REPORT
Page 133-138
Downloads: 62 Views: 126
Drowning is a leading cause of unintentional injury-related mortality worldwide, particularly in two vulnerable populations: children and the elderly. In addition to respiratory compromise, drowning may lead to serious complications such as hypothermia, prolonged neurological injury, and cardiovascular sequelae — including myocardial damage. Myocardial infarction following drowning is rare and frequently overlooked in the acute setting, as elevated cardiac biomarkers are often attributed to resuscitation efforts. Nevertheless, in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors, systemic hypoxia combined with acute physiological stress induced by drowning may serve as a trigger for true myocardial infarction. This report describes an incidental finding of underlying coronary artery disease following a drowning event, underscoring the critical importance of comprehensive cardiovascular assessment in drowning survivors for early recognition of life-threatening cardiac events and timely, individualized management
ACROMEGALIC CARDIOMYOPATHY IN AN OLDER ADULT: A CASE REPORT AND A REVIEW OF DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES
Page 134-140
Downloads: 16 Views: 36
Acromegalic cardiomyopathy is classified as an endocrine cardiomyopathy. Acromegaly is characterized by the hypersecretion of Growth Hormone (GH) and its peripheral mediator, Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1). The etiology in the majority of cases is a pituitary adenoma. Chronic elevation of circulating GH and IGF-1 levels affects cardiomyocyte growth, myocardial contractility, and triggers various indirect mechanisms culminating in cardiomyopathy. The clinical phenotype typically presents as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy; however, without hormonal control, it may progress to a dilated cardiomyopathy phenotype with reduced ejection fraction. In this article, we report a clinical case in an older patient presenting with dyspnea. Based on clinical and diagnostic findings, the patient was diagnosed with acromegaly secondary to a pituitary adenoma, complicated by heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Management included diuretics for decongestion and optimization of Guideline-Directed Medical Therapy (GDMT), with planned pituitary tumor resection upon stabilization of heart failure. However, the patient declined surgical intervention.
A COMPARISON BETWEEN LAPAROSCOPIC AND OPEN INGUINAL HERNIA SURGERY IN THONG NHAT HOSPITAL
Page 95-98
Downloads: 109 Views: 309
To survey the characteristics of inguinal hernia and compare between the open and laparoscopic inguinal hernia surgery at Thong Nhat Hospital from April 2023 to April 2024. A restrospective study of 139 patients with laparoscopic and open inguinal hernia surgery in Thong Nhat hospital during the study period. Of 139 included patients, 97.8% were men, and the median (IQR) age was 60 (20-88) years. Compared between open and laparoscopic repair was associated with a nonsignificant duration of hospitalization. Most of patient lived in Ho Chi Minh City. We performed 72.66% open surgery. The majority of patients with unilateral inguinal hernias were treated with open surgery (80.34%) and bilateral inguinal hernias were treated with laparoscopic surgery (68.18%). The average duration of hospitalization for patients undergoing inguinal hernia surgery was 7.99±3.6 days. Most of patients has lived in Ho Chi Minh city. Duration of hospitalization was similar for the laparoscopic and open general anesthesia groups. Individualisation treatment with laparoscopic or open repair for patients and the decision should be made considering both patient and surgeon factors.
A CASE OF FEMORAL HERNIA: ROLE OF COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY FOR ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS.
Page 142-146
Downloads: 58 Views: 285
Femoral hernia is a rare type of hernia with a high risk of complications, commonly seen in elderly women and often mistaken for other groin pathologies. Imaging, particularly computed tomography (CT), plays a crucial role in detecting and differentiating femoral hernias from inguinal hernias and other groin conditions. Key CT imaging findings distinguishing femoral hernias from inguinal hernia are the location of the hernia sac lateral to the pubic tubercle and associated compression of the ipsilateral femoral vein. Additionally, CT can help detect complications of femoral hernias such as incarceration, bowel obstruction, or bowel ischemia, thereby guiding timely and effective management. The presented clinical case clearly illustrates the important role of CT in diagnosing this uncommon type of abdominal wall hernia.
