Have You Tried It?
Remote Monitoring: A Proactive Approach to Pregnancy Health
The study by Hauspurg et al. highlights the significant prevalence of persistent hypertension in postpartum women and the associated risk of emergency department visits and hospital readmissions. The researchers found that over 80% of patients had ongoing blood pressure control problems after discharge, with 14% progressing to severe hypertension. This emphasizes the need for improved management strategies, including remote monitoring and earlier intervention. The study also revealed disparities in the development of severe hypertension based on factors such as race, insurance status, and delivery method. These findings underscore the importance of addressing social determinants of health and tailoring interventions to meet the specific needs of different populations.
Innovative heart valve technology could improve patient lives
A Breakthrough in Heart Valve Technology
A team of researchers at UBC Okanagan has developed a new heart valve that combines the best qualities of mechanical and tissue valves. This innovative valve, named the iValve, could significantly improve the lives of patients who require heart valve replacement.
Unlike traditional mechanical valves, which require patients to take daily anticoagulants, the iValve offers the durability of mechanical valves without the associated risks. It also outperforms tissue valves, which typically last only 15-20 years, by providing long-lasting performance.
The iValve was developed through an international collaboration and is the first of its kind to be designed and built in Canada. It is particularly promising for pediatric patients due to its design for high-heart-rate applications.
After successful mechanical lab tests, the researchers plan to conduct animal and clinical trials within the next two years. The iValve has the potential to revolutionize heart valve replacement by offering a safer and more effective solution for patients.
Technology AI for physical therapy
RealSense PT Metrics is an AI-enabled data-driven kiosk that tracks and analyzes a patient’s movement, posture and range of motion and directs patients through their physical therapy routines…
Breakthrough: Blood Test May Predict Future Respiratory Health
Researchers developed a promising blood test that identifies adults at high risk of severe respiratory diseases like COPD. The test analyzes 32 proteins linked to lung function decline. This information comes from a 30-year study where participants provided blood samples and underwent lung function tests. Adults with higher scores in the blood test were more likely to require hospitalization for respiratory issues, develop COPD, and die from respiratory diseases. While the test isn’t ready for widespread use yet, it has the potential to identify high-risk patients early so interventions can be implemented to improve their long-term lung health.