All articles by chris cox
chris cox
Ease the pain: lidocaine infusion for fibromyalgia
In October 2013, a study presented at the American Society of Anesthesiologists’ annual meeting gave new hope to fibromyalgia sufferers: an intravenous lidocaine infusion. This treatment could help patients who are otherwise resistant to medication. But with the infusion so difficult to administer, what are the clinical implications? Abi Millar asks lead researcher Dr Billy Huh.
Stay connected: mobile medicine
As each generation becomes more technology dependent than the last, young doctors and new patients are increasingly more receptive to mobile technology in medicine. Nic Paton speaks to Dr Joseph Kvedar, director of the Center for Connected Health at Partners HealthCare, Boston, about telemedicine and connected health.
New wound order: regular debridement
According to a recent study, regular debridement may help to significantly cut the time required for chronic wounds to heal. Jim Banks speaks to one of the authors of the report, Dr D Scott Covington, executive vice-president of medical affairs at Healogics, about the implications of the study’s findings, how debridement should be incorporated into a broader plan for wound care, and what further research might be required in this area.
And the winner is… – Practical Patient Care Awards 2013
Welcome to the inaugural Practical Patient Care Awards. In this issue, we announce the winners across various categories that illustrate growing healthcare and patient management trends, innovations and priorities. Step forward, worthy winners.
New test for detecting BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations
A new test has been developed for detecting mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes that are associated with breast cancer.
Hearts and minds: the link between hypertension and Alzheimer’s disease
A recent study, featured in the journal Neurology, broke new ground in Alzheimer’s research. For the first time, it used PET scans to show that amyloid plaque build-up in the brain is related to arterial stiffness. But how exactly can hypertension influence the onset of dementia, and what are the implications for sufferers? Abi Millar talks to the study’s author, Dr Timothy Hughes, about the links between the heart and the brain.
Most powerful MRI scanner in the world nears completion
The world’s most powerful MRI scanner is edging closer to completion, according to a report from IEEE Spectrum. Due for delivery in September 2014, the scanner will be strong enough to lift 60t and will offer unprecedented images of the human brain.
Global medical imaging market continues to grow
The global medical imaging device market is expected to exceed $49 billion by 2020, according to a recent report. Currently standing at an estimated $30.2 billion, it is on course to maintain a compound annual growth rate of 7%.
Growth in Chinese ultrasound market
China’s ultrasound market is predicted to surge more than 60% within the next five years, according to a market report released in September 2013. Equipment revenue is forecast to reach $1.5 billion by 2017, compared with $908.8 million in 2012, with 2013 marking the year that the industry crosses the billion-dollar threshold. Rapid growth is expected across the duration of the time period, and possibly beyond.
Smartphone microscope launched
A simple smartphone device could help physicians determine the effectiveness of treatments, according to a recent study in the journal ACS Nano. The device converts the phone into a powerful mini-microscope, allowing physicians to detect individual viruses for the first time.