Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump <p class="p0">04/10/2015 Ministry of Information and Communications allowed Can Tho journal of medicine and pharmacy to operate (102 /GP-BTTTT)</p> <p class="p0"><strong>07/16/2015 Can Tho journal of medicine and pharmacy is internationally recognized:ISSN 2354-1210</strong></p> <p class="p0"><strong>In 2016, The journal has been included in the list of medical science journals by The State&nbsp;Council for professorship which is awarded a work score of&nbsp;0-0.5 points for a published article.</strong></p> <p class="p0">Can Tho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy welcome original works that haven&rsquo;t been submitted or published in other medical journals. Posts must contain content related to one of the journal&rsquo;s categories.</p> Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy vi-VN Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2354-1210 PLICATION OF THE SIX SIGMA SCALE AND QUALITY GOAL INDEX IN CLINICAL BIOCHEMISTRY TESTING QUALITY MANAGEMENT https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3443 Background: The Six Sigma scale aids in evaluating the analytical performance of clinical biochemistry testing methods, while the Quality Goal Index (QGI) further enhances laboratory testing quality. Objectives: To assess the analytical performance of seven biochemical tests (Glucose, Urea, Creatinine, Uric Acid, AST, ALT, and Calcium) and to identify potential issues within the laboratory using the QGI index. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted. Sigma metrics were calculated based on TEa%, CV%, and Bias% derived from internal quality control (IQC) and external quality assessment (EQA) data collected over three months. The QGI index was determined using sigma values and CV%. Results: According to the Biological Variation database, ALT exhibited the highest analytical performance (16.7) at IQC level 2, whereas Creatinine demonstrated the lowest performance (2.5) at IQC level 1. Based on CLIA criteria, Glucose and Uric Acid achieved “World-Class” analytical performance at IQC level 1, while Urea was classified as “Unacceptable” at both IQC levels. Tests with QGI < 0.8, including Creatinine and Calcium (IQC level 1) and Uric Acid (IQC level 2), indicated issues with imprecision. Tests with QGI between 0.8 and 1.2, including Urea (IQC level 1) and Urea, Calcium (IQC level 2), showed both imprecision and inaccuracy. QGI > 1.2 for AST (IQC level 1) reflected problems with inaccuracy. Conclusions: The application of Six Sigma and QGI effectively identified performance issues, particularly in Creatinine, Urea, and Calcium tests. This enables the development of appropriate quality control procedures and ensures more reliable results for patient care. Van Giem Nguyen Hong Phong Nguyen Thi Hong Nguyen Kim Tu Ngo Tan Phat Tran Van Dien Doan Dinh Khanh Ngo Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 1 8 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3443 THE TREATMENT RESULTS OF PECTUS EXCAVATUM AT CAN THO GENERAL HOSPITAL https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3370 Background: Pectus excavatum is a congenital chest wall deformity caused by abnormal development of certain ribs and the sternum, leading to a sunken appearance of the chest. Surgical treatment for pectus excavatum, commonly performed by thoracic surgeons, includes the Ravitch technique and, more recently, the Nuss procedure. Objective: To describe clinical features and to evaluate the treatment results of pectus excavatum patients who underwent the Nuss procedure. Materials and methods: A retrospective cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 143 medical records of patients diagnosed with congenital pectus excavatum who underwent the Nuss procedure at Can Tho General Hospital from April 2014 to August 2024. Results: The mean age was 17.04 ± 4.66 years, with males accounting for 83.91% and females 16.09%. The Haller index was greater than 3.23. One bar was used in 55.5% of cases, while two bars were used in 44.5% of cases. Thoracoscopy was performed in 5.59% of patients. The average length of hospital stay was 9.1 ± 2.45 days. Postoperative complications occurred in 12 cases (8.3%), including one case of bar removal during surgery due to a suspected cardiac arrest, one case of chest wall bleeding, one case of the lung being positioned between the bar and chest wall, and nine cases of pneumothorax. No mortality was reported. A total of 62 patients had their bars removed, with 83.3% showing excellent outcomes and 16.7% showing good outcomes. Conclusion: The Nuss procedure for the treatment of pectus excavatum at Can Tho General Hospital has proven to be an effective, safe, and minimally invasive approach with a low incidence of complications. Van Trang Nguyen Van Phuong Pham Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 9 15 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3370 CHARACTERISTICS OF rpoB GENE MUTATION IN RIFAMPICIN-RESISTANT PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS PATIENTS AT CAN THO TUBERCULOSIS AND LUNG DISEASE HOSPITAL https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3672 Background: Currently, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB)/rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (RR-TB) remain major public health challenges, leading to prolonged treatment duration and increased healthcare costs due to difficulties in early detection of drug resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Rifampicin resistance (RR) have been associated with mutations in the rpoB gene of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Objectives: To describe the characteristics of rpoB gene mutations in drug-resistant tuberculosis and analyze factors related to rpoB gene mutations in patients with Rifampicin-resistant pulmonary tuberculosis admitted to Can Tho Tuberculosis and Lung Disease Hospital. Materials and method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 70 patients with Rifampicin-resistant pulmonary tuberculosis admitted to Can Tho Tuberculosis and Lung Disease Hospital. Results: The majority of patients were male (74.3%), with the highest proportion aged between 40-60 years. The prevalence of Rifampicin-resistant pulmonary tuberculosis was 54.3% in previously of patients with a history of previous TB treatment and 45.7% in compared to newly diagnosed cases. Mutations in the rpoB gene were detected in 81.4% of cases, with the majority occurring at Ser531Leu (49.1%). Other significant mutations included Asp516Pro (1.75%), His526Tyr (3.52%), Leu511Pro (8.77%), and Leu533Pro (7.03%). Double mutations in the rpoB gene were observed as follows: His526Tyr & Ser531Leu (1.75%) and His526Lys & Lys527Glu (1.75%). Some less common mutations were also identified at a frequency of 3.52%. A statistically significant association was observed between rpoB gene mutations in Rifampicin-resistant pulmonary tuberculosis patients and factors such as living standards (p<0.05). Conclusions: Rifampicinresistant pulmonary tuberculosis predominantly affects middle-aged males, most of whom had undergone prior treatment. A high rate of rpoB gene mutations was observed, primarily in the "hotspot mutation" region. Ngoc Bao Vi Nguyen Thanh Hung Tran Thi Cam Thuy Bui Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 16 22 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3672 COMPARISON OF TREATMENT OUTCOMES FOR PEDIATRIC SUPRACONDYLAR HUMERUS FRACTURES USING CLOSED REDUCTION WITH LATERAL PINNING VERSUS CROSSED PINNING UNDER FLUOROSCOPY https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3522 Background: Supracondylar fractures of the humerus are more common in children than adults. The current effective treatment with fewer complications is closed reduction and Kirschner wire fixation. The technique of Kirschner wire insertion is still debated. Objectives: 1). To evaluate the treatment outcomes of supracondylar humeral fractures. 2). To compare the treatment outcomes of closed reduction with lateral pinning versus cross-pin fixation in pediatric supracondylar fractures. Materials and methods: A prospective cohort study on thirty-two patients with lateral pin fixation (51.6%) and thirty patients with crossed bicortical pin fixation (48.4%) for Gartland type II and III fractures were followed for an average of three months post-surgery. Results: The clinical carrying angle and functional rehabilitation outcomes, assessed using Flynn’s criteria, were rated as good or fair in 87% of cases. Comparison between the two pinning techniques using the Fisher's Exact Test showed no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05). No cases of radial or ulnar nerve palsy were observed. Conclusion: There was no significant difference in treatment effectiveness between the two techniques. However, lateral pinning avoids the complication of ulnar nerve injury. Vinh Phuc Bui Quang Tien Nguyen Van Het Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 23 29 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3522 EVALUATION OF ENDOVASCULAR INTERVENTION THERAPY RESULTS IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC LOWER LIMB ARTERIAL OCCLUSIVE STENOSIS DISEASE AT GIA AN 115 HOSPITAL https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3502 Background: Chronic lower peripheral artery disease is common in elderly people, progresses silently, recurs many times and tends to increase in recent years. Endovascular intervention has been becoming a new approach with many advantages such as: less invasive, short treatment time and fast recovery. Objectives: To describe the imaging characteristics in patients with chronic lower arterial stenosis occlusive disease and evaluate the results of endovascular intervention therapy in patients with chronic lower arterial stenosis occlusive disease. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 32 patients diagnosed with chronic lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD) who were indicated for endovascular intervention at Gia An 115 Hospital from from March 2023 to April 2025. Results: A total of 32 patients were enrolled in the study. The mean patient age was 68.75 years, and 62.5% were male. The most common cardiovascular risk factors included hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, and dyslipidemia. Target vessels for angioplasty included the aortoiliac arteries (12.5%), femoropopliteal arteries (37.5%), and below-the-knee arteries (50%). According to the Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society Consensus II (TASC II) classification, the majority of lesions were categorized as type C (40.5%). Technical success of revascularization was achieved in 90.6% of cases. The overall complication rate was 18.8%. At 30-day follow-up, the clinical success rate was 84.3%. Conclusions: Endovascular intervention represents a safe, minimally invasive, and effective therapeutic option for chronic lower extremity peripheral artery disease, offering a high technical success rate and favorable short-term clinical outcomes. Ngoc Diem Quynh Vu Minh Hoang Tran Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 30 36 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3502 STUDY ON THE PREVALENCE, FTO-rs9939609 POLYMORPHISM AND RELATED FACTORS OF OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA IN PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3881 Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has a relatively high prevalence in patients with type 2 diabetes. The rs9939609 polymorphism in the FTO gene is a crucial genetic predictor of type 2 diabetes; however, its association with obstructive sleep apnea has not yet been investigated. Objectives: 1) To determine the prevalence and characteristics of obstructive sleep apnea in patients with type 2 diabetes 2) To determine the prevalence of the FTO-rs9939609 polymorphism and other related factors with OSA in patients with type 2 diabetes. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 75 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus admitted to Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital from April 2024 to May 2025. Respiratory polygraphy was performed, and the rs9939609 polymorphism of the FTO gene was identified using the RFLPPCR technique. Results: Female was 78.7%, mean age was 69.56 ± 9.83, mean HbA1c level was 9.11 ± 2.61%. The rate of OSA in type 2 diabetes was 61.3%. The group with OSA: AHI ranged from 5.2 to 67.3 events/hour, the lowest SpO2 was 79.26 ± 6.13%. The genotype distribution of AA, AT, and TT was 3%, 27%, and 70%, respectively. The following factors were associated with OSA in type 2 diabetes: BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2, high risk neck circumference, Mallampati grade 3-4, SSS ≥ 4, and the presence of the A allele (AA or AT genotype). Conclusions: The A allele, a greater BMI, a large neck circumference, and Mallampati grades 3-4 were more common in patients with OSA. Huynh Thien Duyen Nguyen Pham Minh Thu Vo Ngoc Thanh Long Nguyen Xuan Quynh Tran Tran Xuan Quyen Phan Thi Ngoc Nga Pham Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 37 43 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3881 CLINICAL, RADIOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS AND RESULTS OF TREATMENT OF MANDIBULAR FRACTURES IN THE SYMPHYSEAL AND ANGLE REGIONS WITH MINI-PLATE https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3772 Background: Fractures of the mandibular symphysis and angle account for a significant proportion of maxillofacial trauma cases. The treatment method using miniplate fixation is a widely applied technique. Objectives: To describe the clinical and radiographic features of mandibular symphysis and angle fractures; To evaluate the treatment outcomes of mandibular symphysis and angle Fractures using Miniplates and Screws. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study combined with an uncontrolled clinical intervention was conducted on 50 patients with mandibular symphysis and angle fractures who underwent surgical treatment at Can Tho Central General Hospital from April 2023 to March 2025. Results: Most patients were male (80%), with the highest prevalence in the 19–39 age group (64%). Clinical symptoms included severe pain (98%), bone discontinuity (90%), swelling (92%), dental arch disruption (94%), dental injuries (80%), malocclusion (100%), and restricted mouth opening (84%). 3D reconstructed CT imaging identified that the most common fracture pattern involved contralateral fractures (64%) and open fractures (96%). The predominant fracture type was complete fractures: symphysis (90%) with displacement < 3 mm (56%) and angle (88%) with displacement < 3 mm (62%). At the three-month postoperative follow-up, good outcomes were observed in terms of anatomical restoration (78%), function (90%), and aesthetics (74%). Conclusion: Mandibular symphysis and angle fractures predominantly occur in males aged 19-39 years. Clinical and radiographic features are diverse, with a high prevalence of contralateral fractures, complete fractures, and minimal displacement (<3 mm). Miniplate fixation provides favorable outcomes in terms of anatomical restoration, functional recovery, and aesthetic improvement. Quoc Ky Nguyen Thanh Uyen Phung Linh Nam Tran Minh Triet Tran Hai Van Phung Thi Phuong Dan Tran Nhut Khue Truong Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 44 50 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3772 STUDY OF CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS, TREATMENT OUTCOMES OF SCABIES IN CHILDREN WITHOUT COMPLICATIONS USING SCABIO CREAM COMBINED WITH BABY SHOWER GEL IN 2023 - 2025 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3732 Background: Scabies is a common skin disease in children. Sulfur is a safe treatment option for young children but may cause skin irritation. Objectives: To describe the clinical features of scabies in children; To evaluate the treatment results of uncomplicated scabies in children using SCABIO cream (sulfur 5%) combined with BABY shower gel from 2023 to 2025. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study on 72 patients diagnosed with scabies and treated in Can Tho from April 2023 to March 2025. Results: The majority of participants were under 5 years of age, accounting for 73.24% of the sample population. Pruritus was present in all 72 patients (100%). Mild and moderate disease severity were the most common, observed in 45.83% and 41.67% of cases, respectively. After one week of treatment, 95.8% of patients showed a positive therapeutic response, which increased to 98.6% by the second week. Adverse effects were recorded in 2 out of 72 patients (2.8%), both presenting with irritant contact dermatitis. A statistically significant association was found between treatment efficacy at week 1 and the duration of disease prior to treatment initiation, with a p-value of 0.005. The odds ratio (OR) was 1.3, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) ranging from 0.965 to 1.751. Conclusion: Scabies is commonly seen in newborns and young children, with itching being a symptom that appears in almost patients and is an important symptom for diagnosing the disease. Treating scabies with sulfur 5% combined with Baby shower gel shows high effectiveness after 14 days and is safe for use in children. The study also found a correlation between initial treatment response and duration of illness. Tuyet Nhi Lam Nguyen Thuy Anh Vo Hong Ha Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 51 57 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3732 STUDY ON ATTITUDES AND RELEVANT FACTORS OF DRUG RETAILERS ON CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT IN CAN THO CITY IN 2023 - 2024 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3559 Background: Along with the rapid economic development of the country, the prevalence of chronic diseases, especially among the elderly, has increased significantly, posing a burden on the overloaded healthcare system. Non-communicable diseases - including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes - kill 41 million people every year. Improving patient knowledge contributes to improving treatment outcomes, maintaining the best possible health and quality of life for patients, and preventing or minimizing complications and disease progression. Objectives: To survey the current status of attitudes of drug retailers toward chronic disease management in Can Tho City in 2023-2024; To analyze the factors related to drug retailers regarding chronic disease management in Can Tho City in 2023-2024. Materials and methods: A descriptive analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 306 drug retailers in Can Tho City in 2023-2024. Results: The percentage of drug retailers with a positive attitude was 59.5%. The study showed that there was no relationship between the factors and the attitudes of drug retailers about chronic disease management in Can Tho City. Conclusion: The majority of survey participants are clearly aware of the role of drug retailers in chronic disease management. However, there is still a part that does not clearly understand or is not ready to take on this responsibility. Targeted training programs and pharmacist - led guidance are essential to strengthen the role of drug retailers in chronic disease management at the community level. Phuc Hung Nguyen Gia Han Pham Minh Thu Pham Tran Dieu Sinh Thai Thi Lan Anh Huynh Thi Thu Hien Nguyen Thi My Huong Vo Thi Thu Hang Ho Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 58 65 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3559 CHARACTERISTICS OF CLINICAL, PARACLINICAL AND SOME FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SEVERE PNEUMONIA IN CHILDREN 1-15 YEARS OLD AT CAN THO CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3608 Background: Pneumonia is a condition of inflammatory damage to the lung parenchyma, which can spread to both lungs or concentrate in one lobe or segment of the lung. Pneumonia has diverse clinical and subclinical characteristics, especially severe pneumonia has the risk of causing death in children. Objectives: To describe the characteristics of clinical, paraclinical and some factors related to severe pneumonia in children 1-15 years at Can Tho Children’s Hospital from 2023 to 2024. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study on 104 pediatric patients 1-15 years old diagnosed with pneumonia. Results: Age 1 - <5 years accounted for the highest rate of 78.8%, males (58.7%), malnutrition (26%), overweight and obesity (20.2%). Clinical features included fever (84.6%), tachypnea (49%), cough with phlegm (61.5%), wheezing (57.7%), dyspnea (34.6%), pulmonary rales (91.3%), pleural effusion (7.7%), pneumonia (71%) and severe pneumonia (29%). Paraclinical features included 15.4% increased total white blood cell; 56.7% had anemia; 39.2% of CRP increased and 100% of plain chest X-rays showed lung parenchymal damage. Some related factors such as age group, gender, place of residence, malnutrition, overweight and obesity leading to severe pneumonia were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Pneumonia in children has diverse clinical and paraclinical characteristics, notably fever, cough with phlegm, lung rales and plain chest X-ray showing lung parenchymal damage. Severe pneumonia accounts for about 1/3 of pneumonia cases, however some factors associated with severe pneumonia were not statistically significant. Trinh Gia Minh Nguyen Tran Phuong Vy Nguyen Thi Hong Cua Trinh Quang Nghia Bui Van Anh Le Thi Hoai Thu Do Phuoc Hoang Diep Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 66 72 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3608 CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND EVALUATION OF TREATMENT OUTCOMES FOR REFRACTORY STATUS EPILEPTICUS WITH INTRAVENOUS MIDAZOLAM AT CAN THO CENTRAL GENERAL HOSPITAL FROM 2023 TO 2025 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3431 Background: Status epilepticus is a critical neurological emergency, with refractory status epilepticus being particularly concerning due to its lack of response to first- and second-line treatment regimens. Several studies have demonstrated seizure control with intravenous midazolam in refractory status epilepticus; however, the seizure cessation rates remain inconsistent. Objectives: To describe the clinical characteristics of patients with refractory status epilepticus and to evaluate treatment outcomes of intravenous midazolam infusion at Can Tho Central General Hospital from 2023 to 2025. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on patients diagnosed with status epilepticus at Can Tho Central General Hospital. The criteria for evaluating treatment outcomes included: (1) seizure cessation (defined as no clinical seizures observed continuously for ≥ 24 hours after the last episode); (2) functional outcome at discharge according to the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) (0-2: favorable, 3-6: unfavorable); (3) mortality rate in the group without seizure cessation. Results: The most common type of refractory status epilepticus was bilateral tonic-clonic seizures, accounting for 77.8% of cases. The proportion of patients with refractory status epilepticus was 52.9%. The maximum intravenous midazolam infusion dose ranged from 0.05 to 0.5 mg/kg/h. Seizure cessation was achieved in 83.3% of cases. The mortality rate among patients who did not achieve seizure cessation was 66.7%, which was more than twice as high as the non-mortality rate (33.3%) in this group. Conclusions: The majority of refractory status epilepticus cases involved bilateral tonic-clonic seizures (77.8%). The proportion of patients with refractory status epilepticus was 52.9%. The maximum intravenous midazolam infusion dose was 0.05-0.5 mg/kg/h. The seizure cessation rate with intravenous midazolam infusion was 83.3%. The mortality rate among patients without seizure cessation was 66.7%. Hoang Trong Cao Second level specialist Van Khoa Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 73 79 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3431 STUDY OF CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS, RESPIRATORY POLYPHYSIOLOGY RESULTS AND SOME FACTORS RELATED TO THE SEVERITY OF OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA IN PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES AND HYPERTENSION https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3509 Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a treatable chronic sleep disorder characterized by episodes of complete or partial obstruction of the upper airway, occurring in 56% of patients with type 2 diabetes and 53.1% of patients with hypertension. There have been no studies on sleep apnea in patients with both conditions, so research on this group of subjects is essential. Objectives: 1) To describe the clinical characteristics and respiratory polygraphy of obstructive sleep apnea in patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension; 2) To investigate some factors related to the severity of obstructive sleep apnea in patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Materials and method: Randomized study of 90 patients diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes and co-existing hypertension and treated at the Department of Internal Medicine, Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital from October 2023 to June 2024. Results: Mean age was 70.1± 9.8 years, female was 73.3%. In the group with obstructive sleep apnea, obesity 35.2%, neck circumference 35.7±3.4 cm, waist circumference 93.7±11 cm, daytime sleepiness 88.9%, mean AHI 18.1±15.2/hour, mean ODI 20.5±15.4/hour. In the severe OSA group, the neck circumference was 37.5±3.1 cm, and obesity was 66.7%. Conclusions: Patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension have OSA commonly experience daytime sleepiness, obesity, and a larger neck circumference. Obesity and increased neck circumference are also associated with the severity of OSA in this group. Huynh Thien Duyen Nguyen Ngoc Thach Truong Pham Minh Thu Vo Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 80 86 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3509 EVALUATION OF THE THERAPEUTIC EFFICACY OF THE TRADITIONAL HERBAL FORMULA TAOHONG SIWU TANG COMBINED WITH ELECTROACUPUNCTURE AND ACUPRESSURE MASSAGE IN PATIENTS WITH LUMBAR DISC HERNIATION OF THE BLOOD STASIS SYNDROME TYPE https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3533 Background: Lumbar disc herniation is a common medical condition worldwide, including in Vietnam. The disease causes acute or chronic lower back pain, reduces mobility, affects daily activities and work, and in severe cases, may lead to disability. Traditional medicine, with its advantage of minimal side effects, is increasingly applied in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation. Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of the herbal formula Taohong Siwu Tang combined with electroacupuncture and acupressure massage in alleviating pain caused by blood stasis-type lumbar disc herniation at Can Tho Traditional Medicine Hospital. Materials and methods: An uncontrolled clinical interventional study was conducted to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy before and after intervention in 32 patients diagnosed with lumbar disc herniation of the blood stasis syndrome type at Can Tho Traditional Medicine Hospital during the period 2024-2025. Results: In this study, the integrated approach combining herbal medicine with electroacupuncture and acupressure massage demonstrated a statistically significant analgesic effect (p<0.05). No serious adverse events associated with the treatment modalities were observed. Conclusions: The herbal formula Taohong Siwu Tang, combined with electroacupuncture and acupressure massage, has shown positive effects in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation with blood stasis syndrome. Tan Phuc Tran Hoang Nhon Duong Minh Sang Bui Trung Nghia Ta Tien Dang Khoa Dang Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 87 93 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3533 INCIDENCE OF MAXILLARY SINUSITIS AFTER MAXILLARY SINUS TRAUMA AT CAN THO CENTRAL GENERAL HOSPITAL IN 2023-2025 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3577 Background: The maxillary sinus is an empty, shallow bony cavity located in the middle craniofacial region, making it vulnerable to injury following trauma. When the maxillary sinus is injured, it can lead to various functional and aesthetic sequelae. One of the most common complications following maxillary sinus trauma is maxillary sinusitis, typically caused by edema, blood, residual bone fragments, soft tissue remnants, or foreign objects. Prevention and early treatment of maxillary sinusitis following trauma have received limited attention. Objective: 1) To determine the incidence of maxillary sinusitis following maxillary sinus trauma. 2) To describe the clinical, paraclinical characteristics, and treatment outcomes of maxillary sinusitis following maxillary sinus trauma. Materials and method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 95 patients diagnosed with maxillary sinus trauma and treated at Can Tho Central General Hospital from March 2023 to March 2025. Results: The median age of the patients was 31 years (16-74 years), with a male-to-female ratio of 3:1. The main cause of trauma was traffic accidents, accounting for 93.7%. Most patients presented to the hospital within 6 hours to 10 days after the trauma (82.1%). Isolated maxillary sinus fractures were rare (5.3%), while maxillary sinus trauma with zygomatic bone fractures accounted for 54.7%, and maxillary sinus trauma with nasal bone fractures made up 36.8%. All patients had hematoma within the maxillary sinus, and 47.4% of patients with maxillary sinus trauma were treated conservatively, while 52.6% underwent corrective surgery. The incidence of maxillary sinusitis 3 months post-trauma was 11.6%. Clinical symptoms related to the nasal sinuses included nasal congestion/obstruction (14.7%), nasal discharge (12.6%), reduced/loss of smell (1.1%), and facial pain/pressure (2.1%). Treatment included medical management (54.5%) and endoscopic sinus surgery (45.4%). Conclusion: Maxillary sinus trauma is commonly observed in young individuals, primarily due to traffic accidents, with a higher incidence in males than females. The rate of maxillary sinusitis following trauma is relatively low, and both medical management and surgical intervention are effective when appropriately indicated. Thanh Dat Huynh Thi Ngoc Han Vo Hong Hanh Trang Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 94 100 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3577 THE CURRENT STATUS OF MALE HYPOGONADISM IN CAN THO CITY https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3580 Background: Male hypogonadism is related to the decline in testicular function, androgen production, and sperm production. Currently, questionnaires such as ADAM and ANDROTEST are used to screen for male hypogonadism. ADAM has high sensitivity (90.12%) but low specificity (41.3%), while ANDROTEST has lower sensitivity (71%) but higher specificity (65%). Objectives: The current status of male hypogonadism and the investigation of factors associated with male hypogonadism. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 1812 males aged ≥ 16 years from January 2024 to the end of March 2025 in Can Tho City. Results: The mean age was 46.16 ± 14.94 years, with 38.7% of patients diagnosed with hypogonadism according to the ADAM scale and 18.8% according to the ANDROTEST scale. A statistically significant association (p < 0.05) was found between male hypogonadism and the following factors: erectile dysfunction, waist circumference > 90 cm, body mass index ≥ 23 kg/m², diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia. Conclusion: Male hypogonadism is significantly associated with factors such as waist circumference, body mass index, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia, with the prevalence of male hypogonadism being 38.7% according to the ADAM questionnaire and 18.8% according to the ANDROTEST questionnaire in Can Tho City. Trung Hieu Nguyen Trung Kien Nguyen Van Cuong Dam Thanh Binh Le Quoc Cuong Tran Viet Tu Le Le Kha Ai Nguyen Duy An Nguyen Bao Vinh Bui Nguyen Khang Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 101 108 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3580 CLINICAL EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF DUHUO JISHENG DECOCTION COMBINED WITH ELECTROACUPUNCTURE, ELECTRICAL STIMULATION, ACUPRESSURE MASSAGE, AND MODIFIED TRIANGLE MOVEMENT THERAPY IN PATIENTS WITH LUMBAR SPONDYLOSIS AT CAN THO TRADITIONAL MEDICINE HOSPITAL IN 2024–2025 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3621 Background: According to Traditional Medicine, there are many traditional methods that are effective in treating low back pain caused by lumbar spine degeneration. The combination of therapeutic exercises, including a modified triangle movement, has been studied and shown to be effective in managing low back pain due to spinal degeneration. Objectives: To describe the clinical and paraclinical characteristics, and to evaluate the pain relief outcomes using the prescription Duhuo Jisheng Tang combined with electroacupuncture, electrical stimulation, acupressure massage, and the modified triangle movement in patients with lumbar spine degeneration. Materials and methods: An uncontrolled clinical intervention study was conducted on 30 patients diagnosed with lumbar spine degeneration according to modern medicine, and classified as having kidney and liver deficiency syndrome (Gan-Shen Xu) according to Traditional Medicine, who were hospitalized at Can Tho Traditional Medicine Hospital, voluntarily participated in the study from June 2024 to April 2025. Results: All patients (100%) presented with localized low back pain, paraspinal muscle stiffness, and restricted mobility. Paraclinical imaging showed joint space narrowing and intervertebral disc space reduction in 100% of cases, subchondral sclerosis in 86.7%, and osteophyte formation in 93.3%. Pain reduction based on the VAS score, lumbar lordosis angle, lateral flexion, forward flexion, range of motion, and fingertip-to-floor distance all improved significantly after 14 days of treatment, with statistically significant differences (p<0.001). Conclusion: The results indicate that the treatment regimen combining Duhuo Jisheng Tang, electroacupuncture, electrical stimulation, acupressure massage, and modified triangle exercises provides good clinical efficacy in treating patients with lumbar spine degeneration, with notable improvement in both symptoms and functional parameters. Nguyen Bao Ngoc Pham Minh Hoang Le Thanh Vu Huynh Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 109 115 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3621 SOME FACTORS RELATED TO THE SEVERE CONDITION OF HAND, FOOT, AND MOUTH DISEASE IN CHILDREN AT NINH THUAN PROVINCIAL GENERAL HOSPITAL https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3637 Background: Hand, foot, and mouth disease is usually mild, lasted less than a week in most cases, characterized by fever, a blister-like rash on the hands and feet, and oral ulcers caused by ruptured blisters in the mouth. However, quite a few patients experience fatal neurological or cardiopulmonary complications, especially in children. Objectives: To identify some factors related to the severity of hand, foot and mouth disease in children treated at Ninh Thuan Provincial General Hospital. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 109 pediatric patients aged ≤5 years who were diagnosed with hand, foot, and mouth disease from January to September 2024. Results: The rate of children with severe hand, foot, and mouth disease (grade 2b or higher) accounted for 6.4%. The severity of hand, foot, and mouth disease was statistically significantly associated (p<0.05) with underweight malnutrition, low maternal education, illness duration >3 days, fever ≥39°C, vesicular rash in the mouth, sore throat, limb shaking, EV71 (+), elevated white blood cell count, and increased platelet count. Conclusion: Severe hand, foot, and mouth disease accounted for 6.4% of cases. Associated factors include malnutrition, low maternal education, illness duration >3 days, fever ≥39°C, vesicular rash, sore throat, limb shaking, EV71 (+), elevated white blood cell count, and increased platelet count. Early identification of these factors enables timely intervention and reduces complications. Huy Thach Le Quoc Thang Le Thi Huong Nguyen Nguyen Duy Chau Phan To Tuong Vy Pham Van Thanh Le Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 116 122 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3637 EARLY RESULTS OF LAPAROSCOPIC TREATMENT FOR PERFORATED PEPTIC ULCERS WITH BARBED SUTURE IN THE ELDERLY https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3669 Background: Gastroduodenal perforation is a common surgical emergency in clinical practice. Gastroduodenal ulcer perforation ranks 2-4th among surgical emergencies. Laparoscopic repair for peptic perforation has many advantages, helping patients recover quickly, however, laparoscopic suturing is often time-consuming and requires a surgeon with a lot of experience. Barbed suture used in laparoscopic surgery have brought many benefits, especially simplifying the operations and shortening the surgical time. Objectives: To investigate the clinical characteristics and to assess the early outcomes of laparoscopic surgery to suture perforated gastric and duodenal ulcers with barbed sutures. Materials and methods: A non-controlled clinical intervention study on 35 patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery to suture perforated gastric and duodenal ulcers with barbed sutures at Can Tho Central General Hospital from April 2024 to January 2025. Results: Mean age was 72.8±9.7 years. Male/Female ratio: 2.1/1. The patient's history of gastritis was 14.3%; history of previous gastric perforation surgery was 2.9%. The subphrenic free air sign was recorded in 62.9% of cases; ultrasound showed free air in 42.9% of cases. The mean surgical time was 79.06±26.5 minutes. The mean perforation size was 13.3±7 mm. The mean postoperative time was 6.2±2.0 days. The mean postoperative oral feeding time was 1.9±0.7 days; the mean postoperative mobility and walking time was 2.74±0.72 days. Postoperative complications were recorded in 20% with 2 cases of pneumonia treated medically and 5 deaths due to ongoing infection. Conclusion: Laparoscopic surgery to suture perforated gastric and duodenal ulcers with barbed suture is a safe treatment method, initially bringing some positive results. Minh Tan Nguyen Van Nong Lai Hong Quan Dang Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 123 129 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3669 STUDY ON CLINICAL, SUBCLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND ENDOSCOPIC SURGERY TO TREAT VOCAL CORD TUMORS AT CAN THO CENTRAL GENERAL HOSPITAL IN 2023-2025 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3720 Background: Benign vocal cord tumors commonly cause hoarseness and loss of voice. Endoscopic surgery to treat benign vocal cord tumors is a complex surgery, the purpose of which is to remove the tumor while still ensuring vocal function without causing future complications. Objectives: To describe the clinical and paraclinical characteristics and evaluation of treatment outcomes by endoscopic surgery for benign vocal cord tumors. Materials and methods: A crosssectional study on 48 patients diagnosed with benign vocal cord tumors at Can Tho Central General Hospital from June 2023 to January 2025. Results: Among the 48 patients studied, the most common age group was 30-50 years old. The reason why patients came to the hospital the most was hoarseness, accounting for 89.58%. Moderate hoarseness had the highest rate at 68.75%. The tumor location on the vocal cord was mainly in the anterior 1/3, accounting for 62.5%, and the majority was located on the two sides of vocal cord, accounting for 47.92%. According to histopathology, 100% of patients had intact vocal cord basement membranes and vocal cord nodules were the majority of benign vocal cord tumors, with 47.92%. The level of hoarseness resolved 1 month after surgery accounted for 83.33% and 3 months after surgery accounted for 93.75%. There was only 1 case of papilloma recurrence after 3 months of surgery. Most of the cases had no complications during surgery, accounting for 93.75%. Conclusions: The surgical results were rated as very good, accounting for 91.67%. There was only 1 case of patient with vocal cord papilloma recurrence after 3 months. Quang Thoai Quach Chanh Thi Lam Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 130 136 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3720 STUDYING THE CLINICAL, EVALUATION OF TREATMENT RESULTS AND SOME FACTORS RELATED TO HYPERCLEROUS TONSILLITIS AT CAN THO CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL IN 2023-2025 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3760 Background: Treatment of tonsillitis in children has long been considered a very common problem and it is necessary to establish a solution to the symptoms as well as ensure the health development of children. This is a disease that is very easy to recur many times a year. Chronic tonsillitis in children, if not treated early, will lead to a condition of enlarged tonsils. Tonsillectomy is an inexpensive and effective treatment method that is often chosen by doctors. Objectives: To describe the clinical, evaluation of treatment results and understand some factors related to postoperative pain among patients undergoing tonsillectomy using monopolar electrocautery. Materials and methods: This descriptive cross-sectional, non-controlled clinical trial was conducted on 51 pediatric patients diagnosed with chronic tonsillitis who underwent monopolar electrocautery tonsillectomy at Can Tho Children’s Hospital from 2023 to 2025. Results: The majority of the study subjects were female (60.8%), with the highest proportion in the 6-11 age group (66.7%). Tonsil hypertrophy was classified as grade II in 27.4%, grade III in 60.8%, and grade IV in 11.7%. The primary indication for tonsillectomy was the frequency of inflammation (88.2%). The second postoperative day showed that 84.4% of patients had uniform pseudomembrane adhesion. There aren’t early postoperative bleeding, while late bleeding occurred in 1.9%. Postoperative pain was moderate on day 1 (54.9%), and almost no pain was reported on day 14 (98.1%). Overall postoperative assessment was rated as good in 94.1% of cases. Conclusions: The tonsillectomy method with monopolar electrocautery reduces intraoperative blood loss, accelerates wound healing, significantly decreases postoperative pain, and minimizes postoperative bleeding. Quoc Bao Duong Ky Duy Tam Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 137 143 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3760 CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS, VALUE OF NLR, CRP ON HOSPITALISED PATIENTS WITH ACUTE EXACERBATION OF CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE INFECTION AT CAN THO CENTRAL GENERAL HOSPITAL https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3779 Background: Evaluating the changes in the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and Creactive protein (CRP) levels during acute exacerbations of infectious chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a relatively new field. There are not many studies in Vietnam and the world, and they are usually just expert consensus. Objectives: To describe clinical characteristics and the changes in NLR and CRP values, the treatment results during acute exacerbation of infectious chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Materials and methods: Randomized descriptive study of 75 patients with acute exacerbation of infectious chronic obstructive pulmonary disease hospitalized at the Respiratory Department, Can Tho Central General Hospital from May 2023 to February 2025. Results: Men accounted for the majority with a rate of 97.1%, with an average age of 71.3 ± 8.5 years. The most common clinical symptom of dyspnea was 94.6%, the treatment outcome improved at 88%, the NLR value at discharge was related to the treatment outcome with p = 0.035. Conclusion: The most common clinical symptom of dyspnea was 94.6%, the NLR value at discharge was related to the treatment outcome of patients with acute exacerbation of infectious chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Ngoc Truong Long Le Thi My Thuy Cao Quang Pho Truong Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 144 149 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3779 THE OUTCOME OF INTERNAL FIXATION IN OPEN TIBIAL SHAFT FRACTURE https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3748 Background: Open tibial shaft fractures are the result of high-energy traumas and often involve severe bone and soft tissue damage, damage of muscles and neurovascular structures. Internal fixations and bacterial cultures in treatment of open tibial shaft fractures remain a relatively underexplored topic, therefore, we conducted a study to evaluate the treatment outcomes of internal fixation. Objectives: To describe bacterial cultures and evaluate the treatment outcomes of internal fixation for open tibial shaft fractures. Materials and methods: A prospective cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 34 patients with open tibial shaft fractures who underwent internal fixation at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital and Can Tho Central General Hospital from March 2023 to June 2025. Results: 10 patients underwent internal fixation using plate, while 24 patients underwent internal fixation using intramedullary nailing. The average time to fracture union, assessed using the RUST score was 76.5% at 3-month follow-up and 94.1% at 6-month follow-up. Functional recovery, evaluated at 6-month follow-up using the Kentenjian and Shelton scale, achieved excellent results 82.3%, good outcomes 14.7% and fair was 2.9%. Conclusion: Intramedullary nailing remains the preferred method over plate fixation for treatment of open tibial shaft fractures, as it causes less soft tissue damage, results in shorter healing times, reduces the risk of infection, and yields better functional recovery outcomes. Ngoc Thien Ho Duc Thai Hoang Hoang Lai Pham Phu Toan Nguyen Huu Dat Nguyen Minh Luan Nguyen Hoang Tuan Vo Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 150 156 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3748 PREVALENCE AND RELATED FACTORS OF NECK AND SHOULDER PAIN AMONG TRADITIONAL MEDICINE STUDENTS AT CAN THO UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND PHARMACY IN 2023-2024 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3751 Background: Neck and shoulder pain is a common condition that affects the health, quality of life, and academic performamnce of students. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of neck– shoulder pain and to describe some related factors to neck and shoulder pain among Traditional Medicine students at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy in 2023-2024. Materials and method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 247 Traditional Medicine students at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy. Results: The prevalence of students currently experiencing neck and shoulder pain was 22.7%. This rate was related to the frequency of electronic device usage for more than 5 days/week (p= 0.001) and usage time of more than 3 hours/day (p= 0.002). The prevalence of students who had experienced neck and shoulder pain at some point was 66.0% and this ratio is related to the age group over 25 years old (p= 0.023) and the joint training system (p= 0.036). Conclusion: Traditional Medicine students have a high prevalence of neck and shoulder pain, which is influenced by various factors such as age, training system, and especially the frequency and duration of electronic device usage. Bao Duy Nhan Khanh Lin Duong Minh Hoang Le Gia Linh Pham Thi Ngoc Thanh Lam Gia Khiem Vo Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 157 162 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3751 CHARACTERISTICS OF EMPIRICAL ANTIBIOTIC USE AN ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE RATES AT THE INTENSIVE CARE UNIT - TOXICOLOGY DEPARTMENT OF TRA VINH GENERAL HOSPITAL IN 2024 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3877 Background: The utilization of empirical antibiotic plays a crucial role in the emergence and progression of antimicrobial resistance, which in turn affects treatment efficacy, costs, and mortality rates. Objectives: To investigate the characteristics of empirical antibiotic use and the antibiotic resistance rates of isolated bacterial strains. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 200 medical records from patients who received antibiotics and had culture and susceptibility (C & S) reports at the Intensive Care and Toxicology Department of Tra Vinh General Hospital from March to November, 2024. Results: The most frequently used empirical antibiotic group was beta-lactams (50%), with carbapenems accounting for 33%. This was followed by fluoroquinolon (42.3%) and glycopeptides (13.3%), while other antibiotic groups accounted for less than 3%. Dual antibiotic therapy was the most common regimen (79%). Among the 200 medical records reviewed, 148 had positive C & S results. The distribution of cultured samples was as follows: 55.5% from sputum, 26% from blood, 13% from pus, and 5.5% from other body fluids. The most frequently isolated bacterial strain was Klebsiella pneumoniae (31.2%), followed by Acinetobacter baumannii (15.5%). The antibiotic resistance rates for Klebsiella pneumoniae were 56.5% to carbapenems, 65%-97% to penicillins, 70%-87% to cephalosporins, and over 90% to fluoroquinolon. Acinetobacter baumannii exhibited resistance exceeding 90% to nearly all tested antibiotics. Conclusion: The research results showed that the resistance rates of the isolated microorganisms were high, with resistance to imipenem and levofloxacin exceeding 50% and 90%, respectively. However, the use of these two antibiotics in empirical treatment remained relatively high. Therefore, it is necessary to implement strategies for managing, monitoring, and optimizing the use of empirical antibiotics to improve treatment effectiveness. Ke Hoach Tran Xuan Chu Duong Thi Huynh Cuc Nguyen Tuong Vi Vo Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 163 169 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3877 CLINICAL AND PARACLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND TREATMENT OUTCOMES OF PATIENTS WITH RED-TAILED GREEN PIT VIPER ENVENOMATION AT VINH LONG GENERAL HOSPITAL https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3883 Background: The red-tailed green pit viper (Trimeresurus albolabris) is one of the most prevalent venomous snake species in Vietnam, particularly in the Mekong Delta region. This condition constitutes a medical emergency, as failure to achieve accurate diagnosis and timely treatment may result in life-threatening complications or long-term sequelae. Early definitive diagnosis, based on clinical and paraclinical findings, is crucial for prompt management and optimal therapeutic outcomes, thereby improving patient prognosis. Objectives: To describe the clinical and paraclinical characteristics and to evaluate the treatment outcomes of patients with red-tailed green pit viper envenomation at Vinh Long General Hospital. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study on 111 patients envenomed by the red-tailed green pit viper (Trimeresurus albolabris) treated at Vinh Long General Hospital from June 2024 to March 2025. Results: Male patients accounted for 56.8%, and the age group of 40–60 years comprised 55.9% of cases. The bite site was predominantly located on the lower limbs (62.2%). Local symptoms included venom fang marks (100%), localized pain (100%), and swelling (78.4%). Laboratory abnormalities included thrombocytopenia (14.4%), decreased fibrinogen levels (9.9%), prolonged prothrombin time (4.5%), and prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (1.8%). Coagulopathy was observed in 21.6% of cases. Antivenom therapy was administered to 73.9% of patients. Complete recovery after treatment was achieved in 100% of cases. Conclusions: The most common clinical symptoms in patients envenomed by the red-tailed green pit viper include fang marks, pain, and localized swelling, while paraclinical findings frequently indicate coagulation disorders. The hospital stay is short, and all patients achieve complete recovery. Hoang Ton Nguyen Chau Tuan Huynh Trung Kien Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 170 176 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3883 EVALUATION OF TREATMENT OUTCOMES OF DENTAL SURGICAL HANDPIECE IN EXTRACTION OF IMPACTED LOWER THIRD MOLARS https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3896 Background: Surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars is a common procedure in oral and maxillofacial surgery, accounting for over 70% of dental surgical cases. Despite standardized protocols, this procedure still carries potential complications such as swelling, pain, trismus, and alveolar osteitis. Objectives: Evaluation and comparison of treatment outcomes for impacted mandibular third molars using surgical dental handpieces and conventional straight handpieces. Materials and methods: This was a controlled clinical study conducted on 76 patients undergoing impacted mandibular third molar extractions at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital from November 2024 to February 2025. Results: The study recorded statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of postoperative pain, facial swelling, and mouth opening ability (p < 0.05). The group treated with the surgical dental handpiece showed better treatment outcomes compared to the group using the conventional straight handpiece. no cases of alveolar osteitis or postoperative bleeding were observed in either group. Conclusion: The use of a surgical dental handpiece powered by an electric motor yielded better treatment outcomes than the conventional straight handpiece in the surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars, contributing to reduced early postoperative complications and improved treatment quality. Quang Vinh Luu Hoang Nam Nguyen Tuan Dan To Kim Dinh Tram Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 177 184 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3896 EFFICACY OF CONCURRENT CHEMORADIOTHERAPY FOR ORAL CANCER AT CAN THO ONCOLOGY HOSPITAL 2024 - 2025 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3765 Background: Oral cancer is common in head and neck cancer. Concurrent chemoradiotherapy is the primary treatment approach for locally advanced or inoperable disease. Objectives: To evaluate treatment response and identifying factors associated with response in oral cancer patients treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Materials and methods: This is a descriptive cross sectional study in 27 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma, who was treated from January 2024 to March 2025 at Can Tho Oncology Hospital. Results: The median age at diagnosis was 53.9. The male to female rate was 8.5:1. The most common tumor subsite was the tongue (48.1%), followed by the floor of mouth (44.4%). Most of patient has stage IV disease (96.3%). 100% of patients occurred radiotherapy toxicity, with 66.7% suffering from severe (grade III-IV) oral mucositis. Most of chemotherapy toxicity is anemia. Three months after radiotherapy, complete response was observed in 18.5% of patients, and partial response in 66.7%. Pack-Years of Cigarette Smoking and KPS Smoking history and KPS status are significant prognostic factors for response to concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Conclusion: Concurrent chemoradiotherapy proved effective in over three-quarters of oral cancer patients, with acceptable toxicity. Van Phong Tang Thao Luat Huynh Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 185 191 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3765 STUDY ON CLINICAL AND PARA-CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND EVALUATION OF SURGICAL TREATMENT OUTCOMES FOR UNILATERAL SINUS DISEASE AT CA MAU GENERAL HOSPITAL AND CAN THO UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND PHARMACY HOSPITAL https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3892 Background: Unilateral sinus disease is a chronic pathology that occurs on one side of the nose, usually due to benign causes. Endoscopic sinus surgery is determined to be effective and safe for cases of chronic sinusitis especially in cases on unilateral. Objectives: To describe clinical, subclinical characteristics and evaluate the results of sinusitis treatment on one side. Materials and methods: The study described across 40 patients was diagnosed with sinusitis on one side at Ca Mau General Hospital and Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital. Results: Over 40 patients were studied with 21 men and 19 women, the age group from 30-55 years old accounted for the highest percentage (32.5%). Purulent discharge and nasal obstruction were two most common symptoms in the research group accounted for 100% and 92.5%. On the right and left, the incidence of nearly 1:1, the jaw sinus was the most common location (87.5%) with the main cause of mushrooms (65%) and inflammation/polyps (27.5%). There was a significant improvement in the symptoms of function after 1 month of surgery, purulent discharge from 100% decrease to 20%, only 2 cases have complications of mucosal adhesion after 1 month of surgery. The good outcomes accounted for 85% and quite 15%. Conclusions: Unilateral sinus disease has the same points as in the elderly, the reward occurs in the maxillary sinus and the fungus accounts for most of the cause. This disease is highly effective in surgical treatment, 85% of patients have good results after treatment (drawn from the result). Minh Phuoc Tran Thanh The Pham Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 192 198 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3892 COMPARATIVE RESULTS OF PERCUTANEOUS AND OPEN SURGERY FOR TRIGGER FINGERS https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3936 Background: Trigger finger is a common condition, affecting 10-16% of fingers, and is a condition of flexor tendonitis or flexor tendon sheath disease. Trigger finger pain is treated with minimally invasive and very effective methods and is often widely used. Objective: To describe the clinical and ultrasound characteristics of trigger finger in the minimally invasive percutaneous intervention and open surgery groups. Compare the treatment results of trigger finger by minimally invasive percutaneous intervention and open surgery. Materials and methods: Cohort study on 99 patients diagnosed with trigger finger, divided into 2 groups at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital from June 2023 to March 2025. Results: The disease was common in middle age, often in women, in the thumb. Clinically, the pain level (VAS score) in groups A and B were 7.00 ± 0.677 and 7.12 ± 0.718, respectively. Small masses were palpable in all cases (100%). Ultrasound of peritendinous fluid in group A accounted for 40.8%, group B 48%; the thickness of the A1 pulley in group A was 1.304 ± 0.484, group B 1.410 ± 0.419. The pain level (VAS score), after 1 week, group A was 1.47 ± 0.649, group B was 2.10 ± 0.763, the difference was statistically significant. VAS assessment in the following weeks showed no difference between the two groups. Conclusion: Both minimally invasive and open surgical treatments for trigger finger have shown good results. However, minimally invasive treatments with 18-gauge needles have been shown to result in less postoperative pain and less scarring. Quoc Hung Huynh Van Duong Tran Thai Hung Ngo Tuan Kiet Tran Chi Linh Phan Dinh Tuan Khoa Nguyen Quoc Thinh Huỳnh Vinh Xuan Nguyen Thi Ngoc Trinh Nguyen Van Tuan Phan Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 199 204 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3936 THE RESEARCH ON THE CARBAPENEMASE ENZYME PRODUCTION IN KLEBSIELLA PNEUMONIAE AT CAN THO GENERAL HOSPITAL https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3938 Background: Carbapenem resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae was recognized as a serious issue, increasing challenges in treating severe infections. Understanding antibiotic resistance patterns was deemed essential for developing effective prevention and treatment control measures to reduce the spread of resistant bacteria. Objectives:(1) To determine the carbapenemase enzyme production rate of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from clinical specimens of infected patients. (2) To determine the carbapenem resistance rate in Klebsiella pneumoniae. Materials and method: A cross-sectional descriptive study with a sample size of 73 specimens was conducted on clinical samples from patients infected with Klebsiella pneumoniae at Can Tho City General Hospital. Results: The carbapenemase enzyme production rate in carbapenem-resistant strains was 91.9%. The resistance rates to ertapenem, imipenem, and meropenem were notably high in the carbapenemase-producing bacterial strains, reaching 91.7%, 94.3%, and 97.1%, respectively. All bacteria resistant to two classes of antibiotics simultaneously produced carbapenemase, with a rate of up to 97.1%, and for all three antibiotics, the rate was 97%. The resistance rate to ertapenem was 49.3%, while resistance to imipenem and meropenem was 47.9%. The rate of dual resistance to two types of carbapenems was 46.6%, and the resistance rate to all three carbapenems was 45.2%. Conclusion: The carbapenemase enzyme production rate reached 91.9%. Particularly, the bacteria producing carbapenemase exhibited very high resistance to carbapenem antibiotics, reflecting that the primary resistance mechanism is the production of carbapenemase. The study demonstrates a high resistance rate to carbapenem antibiotics (ertapenem, imipenem, and meropenem) in Klebsiella pneumoniae. Tu Tran Huynh Thi Hai Yen Nguyen Thi Ngoc Han Nguyen Thuy An Le Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 205 210 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3938 EVALUATION OF THE RESULTS OF LEG AND FOOT DEFECT COVERAGE WITH LATISSIMUS DORSI MUSCLE FLAP https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3928 Background: The primary objective of reconstructing lower limb soft tissue defects is to achieve adequate wound coverage and restore limb function. However, the utilization of local flaps is often constrained in cases of extensive soft tissue loss. Severe lower limb soft tissue injuries may result in exposure of tendons, bones, joints, and neurovascular structures, necessitating early coverage to prevent complications. The latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap is reliable for reconstructing extensive soft tissue defects in the lower extremity. Objectives: Evaluation of leg and foot defect coverage results with latissimus dorsi muscle flap at Cho Ray Hospital in 2023. Materials and methods: A case series study including five patients who underwent latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap reconstruction for extensive lower leg and foot soft tissue defects at Cho Ray Hospital between May 2023 and December 2023. Results: Among the five cases, three involved foot defects and two involved lower leg defects. All patients achieved successful flap integration with satisfactory functional and aesthetic outcomes. One case experienced a first-degree burn in the postoperative period due to infrared heating exposure. Conclusion: The latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap serves as a valuable reconstructive option for extensive lower limb soft tissue defects, providing reliable coverage and favorable clinical outcomes. Tan Viet Ly Thanh Tan Nguyen Huu Giau Nguyen Phuoc Binh Tran Phuoc Tien Pham Van Duong Tran Le Hoan Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 211 217 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3928 FACTORS RELATED TO SUICIDE IDEAS AND BEHAVIOR IN PATIENTS WITH RECURRENT DEPRESSION DISORDER https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3976 Background: Depression is an important health problem at the global level. Among suicide cases, about 90% of individuals suffer from mental disorders and up to 40-70% suffer from depression. Research on factors related to suicide in depression in general and recurrent depression in particular helps predict the appearance of suicidal ideation and behavior symptoms, improving the treatment effectiveness of patients. Objectives: To evaluate the rate and factors related to suicidal ideation and behavior symptoms among patients with recurrent depressive disorder. Materials and methods: The study used a cross-sectional descriptive method with 96 patients at the Institute of Mental Health - Bach Mai Hospital from January 2020 to December 2020 who met the diagnostic criteria for recurrent depressive disorder of ICD-10. Subjects will be interviewed and evaluated by researchers based on their medical records, psychological tests, and blood cortisol tests at 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Results: The study had 96 patients suitable for inclusion in the study. The rate of patients with suicidal ideation and behavior symptoms was 42.71%. Through the survey of all 26 related factors, 5 statistically significant related factors were found to be associated with suicide in patients with recurrent depression: severity of depression, residual symptoms, high scores on the BECK, DASS-D, and DASS-S psychological test scales. Conclusion: Good resolution of residual symptoms, patients' ability to recognize and cope well with stress, early detection and treatment of each depressive relapse phase are appropriate measures to reduce the suicide rate in patients with clinically recurrent depression. Son Tung Vu Thi Quynh Pham Van Tuan Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 218 224 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3976 EFFECTS OF TREATMENT OF LUMBAR SPONDYLOSIS YIN WIND – COLD – DAMPNESS PATTERN COMBINED WITH LIVER AND KIDNEY YIN DEFICIENCY PATTERN BY THE FORMULA DU HUO JI SHENG TANG, ULTRASOUND TREATMENT, ELECTRONIC ACUPUNCTURE AND MOXIBUSTION https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3527 Background: Lumbar spondylosis is a chronic disease usually starting to appear after the age of 40, not only affecting the health but also the quality of life of the patient. Combining treatment methods between traditional medicine and modern medicine to increase treatment effectiveness has been receiving research attention in recent years. The application of ultrasound therapy and moxibustion in treating pain caused by lumbar spine degeneration is increasing and effective. Objectives: Effects of treatment of lumbar spondylosis yin wind - cold - dampness pattern combined with liver and kidney yin deficiency by the formula Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang, ultrasound treatment, electronic acupuncture and moxibustion. Materials and methods: 30 patients diagnosed with lumbar spondylosis yin wind - cold - dampness pattern combined with liver and kidney yin deficiency be treated in Can Tho hospital of traditional medicine. Results: After 10 days of treatment, the good rate was 57.5%, the fair rate was 40%, the average rate was 2.5%. Conclusions: The formula Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang, ultrasound treatment, electronic acupuncture and mugwort have effective in treating of lumbar spondylosis yin wind – cold – dampness pattern combined with liver and kidney yin deficiency. Pha Nha Cao Anh Tuan Phan Tri Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 225 231 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3527 ASSOCIATION BETWEEN ANTHROPOMETRIC PARAMETERS AND BLOOD PRESSURE IN SPORTS CLUB PARTICIPANTS AT CAN THO UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND PHARMACY https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/4028 Background: Body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio have been reported to be associated with hypertension; however, data among physically active or athletic populations remain limited. Objectives: Analysis of the association between anthropometric characteristics and blood pressure among students participating in sports clubs at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 75 students engaged in regular activities at various sports clubs. Data collected included body mass index (BMI), waistto-hip ratio (WHR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and heart rate. Comparisons were made between male and female participants. Results: Males had significantly higher BMI, WHR, SBP, and waist circumference compared to females, while females had higher hip circumference and heart rate (all p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed for age and DBP. Linear regression analysis revealed that BMI (β = 1.03; p = 0.015) and male (β = 10.87; p < 0.001) were independently associated with increased SBP. Additionally, gender was inversely associated with heart rate (β = –7.43; p = 0.001), indicating lower heart rates in males. DBP was not significantly influenced by any of the anthropometric variables. Conclusion: Both gender and BMI are independent factors significantly associated with systolic blood pressure in physically active university students. Trung Kien Nguyen Kim Son Tran Thi Tuyet Chau Truong Tran Dang Khanh Nguyen Hoang Toan Ngo Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 232 238 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.4028 CLINICAL, PARACLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECTIVE TREATMENT OF POSTPARTUM IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA IN CHILDREN 12 MONTHS TO 5 YEARS OLD AT SOC TRANG MATERNITY AND PEDIATRICS HOSPITAL IN 2024 - 2025 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3591 Background: Anemia affects the patient's cognition, motor development and immunity. Iron deficiency anemia accounts for a quarter of the world's population and is concentrated mainly in children under 5 years old. Objectives: To describe clinical and paraclinical characteristics and assessment of the effective treatment of postpartum iron deficiency anemia in children 12 months to 5 years old at Soc Trang hospitals for women and children in 2024 - 2025. Materials and methods:A cross-sectional descriptive method with analysis and intervention without control group on 34 children from 12 months to 5 years old diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia when have clinical symptoms of anemia and paraclinical indexes Hb < 11g/dL, ferritin < 30ng/mL, serum iron < 9 µmol/L at Soc Trang hospitals for women and children in 2024 - 2025. Information collected included age, gender, clinical symptoms of iron deficiency anemia, Hb index, serum iron, ferritin before and after 3 months of treatment. Results: The majority of patients weremale, accounting for 61.8%, the majority of patients were aged from 12 months to 36 months (76.4%). Common clinical symptoms of iron deficiency anemia in children were pale skin, pale mucous membranes, pale palms, and anorexia. The level of iron deficiency anemia after treatment decreased compared to before treatment (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The difference in the rate of iron deficiency anemia symptoms and paraclinical characteristics before and after 3 months of treatment was statistically significant with p < 0.05. The treatment success rate was 50.0%. Thi Thanh Hoa Ha Thi Vui Cao Van Phu Lam Thi My Ngoc Ly Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 239 245 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3591 STUDY ON DIRECT MEDICAL COSTS IN THE TREATMENT OF ACUTE ISCHEMIC STROKE WITH ALTEPLASE AT BINH DUONG PROVINCIAL GENERAL HOSPITAL IN 2024-2025 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3567 Background: Stroke is considered the third leading cause of death after cardiovascular diseases and cancer. International studies indicate that the total cost of stroke treatment in developed nations, such as the United Kingdom, amounts to £8.97 billion annually, with direct medical costs accounting for up to 49%. Researching direct medical costs not only helps manage and utilize healthcare resources efficiently but also provides valuable information for healthcare facilities in policy-making and improving the quality of care. Therefore, we are conducting the study to contribute to the development of an appropriate healthcare cost model, thereby alleviating the burden on patients and the healthcare system in the future. Objective: To determine the direct medical costs of ischemic stroke treatment using Alteplase at Binh Duong General Hospital in the period of 2024–2025. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study on 30 patients treated for acute ischemic stroke with Alteplase at Binh Duong Provincial General Hospital from May 2024 to January 2025. Results: The direct medical cost for the treatment of ischemic stroke with Alteplase was 22,538.51 (IQR = 9,165.2) thousand VND. The cost of medication accounted for the highest proportion at 59.7%. The difference in direct medical costs for the treatment of ischemic stroke with Alteplase between age groups, length of treatment, and treatment outcomes according to NIHSS at 24 hours was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The direct medical cost for the treatment of ischemic stroke with Alteplase was 22,538.51 (IQR = 9,165.2) thousand VND. Thi Thao Nhi Than Trung Kien Nguyen Van Tinh Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 246 252 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3567 STUDY OF RELATED FACTORS AND CLINICAL FEATURES OF SCABIEI IN SOC TRANG CITY IN 2025 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3893 Background: Scabies is a dermatological disease caused by the parasite Sarcoptes scabiei hominis. This study aims to identify associated factors and describe the clinical characteristics of scabies in Soc Trang City in 2025. Objectives: To describe the clinical features and analyze factors associated with the prevalence of scabies in Soc Trang City. Materials and methods: This was a descriptive analytical study conducted on 165 individuals residing in Soc Trang City from January to March 2025. Participants were selected using systematic random sampling and were assessed through interviews, clinical examinations, and parasitological tests using microscopy. Results: The prevalence of scabies was 35.8%. Factors associated with scabies included: households with ≥4 members, contact or sharing personal items with infected individuals, low household income, and low educational attainment. The education level of parents was related to the prevalence of scabies in children aged ≤18 years. The mean age of participants was 43.19±24.77 years, with females being more affected than males. The average duration of illness was 8.8±5.84 weeks. Typical scabies accounted for 83.1% of cases, and severe cases made up 61%. The most common lesion was scabetic papules. Lesions were most frequently found on the feet and hands. The detection rate of Sarcoptes scabiei by light microscopy was 15.25%. Conclusion: Factors such as household size, contact with infected individuals, low socioeconomic status, and low educational level of individuals and their parents were associated with scabies prevalence. Identifying risk factors and clinical characteristics can improve diagnosis, treatment, and control of the disease in the community. Tri Qui Nguyen Phuong Nga Nguyen Thuy Nga Pham Le Anh Tuan Truong Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 253 259 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3893 OUTCOMES OF LAPAROSCOPIC NISSEN FUNDOPLICATION FOR THE TREATMENT OF GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3804 Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition that significantly impacts patients' quality of life. While medical therapy, particularly proton pump inhibitors, remains the first-line treatment, a considerable number of cases fail to achieve symptom relief. For these patients, laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication has long been recognized as the gold standard surgical intervention. This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in the management of GERD. Objectives: To assess the treatment outcomes of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in GERD patients at Can Tho General Hospital from 2023 to 2025. Materials and methods: This is an interventional clinical study without a control group, conducted on 34 patients diagnosed with GERD between January 2023 and April 2025. Patient selection was based on failure to respond to medical therapy and confirmation of GERD through clinical assessment and diagnostic tests. Results: The mean age of patients included in the study was 34.71 ± 8.93 years. Among them, 23 patients (67.6%) were male, and 11 patients (32.4%) were female. The average GERD-Q score was 14.26 ± 1.69. Intraoperative findings showed that 26 patients (76.5%) had a type I hiatal hernia. The mean operative time was recorded at 124.56 ± 27.37 minutes. Postoperative outcomes were favorable, with 32 patients (94.1%) achieving good results and 2 patients (5.9%) classified as fair outcomes. Conclusion: Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication has proven to be a safe and effective treatment option for GERD patients who do not respond to medical therapy. The procedure demonstrates high success rates with minimal complications, reinforcing its role as the preferred surgical intervention for refractory GERD cases. Manh Doan Tran Van Nong Lai Van Phu La Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 260 266 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3804 EVALUATION OF CLINICAL EFFICACY OF FENGSHI PILLS COMBINED WITH ELECTROACUPUNCTURE AND ACUPRESSURE IN PATIENTS WITH CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS AT LONG AN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE HOSPITAL IN 2024 - 2025 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3897 Background: In current medical practice, the treatment of cervical spondylosis is primarily conservative, employing various combined methods to relieve pain and reduce symptoms. Traditional medicine integrates both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches. Specifically, the combination of Fengshi pills, electroacupuncture, and acupressure massage may enhance therapeutic outcomes for cervical spondylosis. Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of Fengshi pills combined with electroacupuncture and acupressure massage in patients with cervical spondylosis at Long An Traditional Medicine Hospital. Materials and methods: 70 patients diagnosed with cervical spondylosis at Long An Traditional Medicine Hospital were enrolled in a randomized controlled clinical trial. The control group received electroacupuncture combined with acupressure massage, while the intervention group was treated with Fengshi pills in combination with electroacupuncture and acupressure massage. Both groups were followed for 10 days. Outcome measures included the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, range of motion (ROM), and the Neck Pain Questionnaire (NPQ) to assess functional improvement. Results: A total of 70 patients completed the study, with 35 patients in each group. In the intervention group, 80% of patients reported mild pain according to the VAS. The NPQ score averaged 23.69 ± 4.71. The average ROM for flexion, extension, lateral bending, and rotation was 37.02 ± 5.11°, 39.13 ± 5.51°, 47.11 ± 4.75°, and 56.13 ± 6.27°, respectively. After 10 days, the intervention group showed significantly better outcomes compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The combination of Fengshi pills, electroacupuncture, and acupressure massage was more effective than electroacupuncture with acupressure massage alone in treating patients with cervical spondylosis. Thi Hong Van Nguyen Minh Sang Bui Tri Nguyen Thanh Son Vo Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 267 273 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3897 RISK FACTORS FOR FEBRILE SEIZURES IN CHILDREN AGED 6 TO 60 MONTHS AT CAN THO CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3628 Background: Febrile seizures are the most common type of seizures in children and one of the main reasons parents bring their children to the emergency department. Although generally benign, febrile seizures can recur and increase the risk of epilepsy later in life. Several risk factors, such as fever severity, family history, and nutritional status, have been reported; however, the evidence remains inconsistent. Identifying key risk factors is essential for guiding prevention strategies and optimizing management. Objectives: To describe the clinical characteristics and investigate certain risk factors associated with febrile seizures in children aged 6 to 60 months at Can Tho Children’s Hospital. Materials and methods: A case-control study was conducted, including 140 children aged 6 to 60 months diagnosed with febrile seizures (case group) and 140 febrile children without seizures (control group) at Can Tho Children’s Hospital. Results: The mean age in the case group was 21.5 months, while in the control group, it was 21.3 months. Febrile seizures occurred most frequently in children aged 12 to 24 months (34.3%). A body temperature of ≥39°C at seizure onset was observed in 52.1% of cases. The seizure duration was less than 15 minutes in 97.1% of cases, and the seizure type was predominantly generalized (98.6%). Postictal consciousness was intact in all cases (100%). The primary cause of fever in both groups was respiratory infections. Significant risk factors for febrile seizures included a family history of febrile seizures, birth interventions, low serum zinc levels, and iron deficiency anemia, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Febrile seizures are predominantly generalized, short in duration (<15 minutes), and mainly occur at a body temperature of ≥39°C, with full recovery of consciousness post-seizure. Identified risk factors for febrile seizures include family history of febrile seizure, iron deficiency anemia, and zinc deficiency. Chanh Tin Nguyen Minh Phuong Nguyen Van Hieu Duong Van Thi Vo Kieu Anh Tho Pham Hoang My Le Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 274 282 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3628 A STUDY ON CLINICAL AND PARACLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND TREATMENT OUTCOMES OF PNEUMONIA WITH IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA IN CHILDREN AGED 2 MONTHS TO 5 YEARS AT SOC TRANG OBSTETRICS AND PEDIATRICS SPECIALIZED HOSPITAL IN 2024 - 2025 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3578 Background: Pneumonia is a very common disease in children, especially children under 5 years old, and is the leading cause of hospitalization and death in children in the world, including Vietnam. Iron deficiency anemia is a risk factor for respiratory infections, associated with the severity and clinical outcome of pneumonia in children. Understanding the impact of iron deficiency anemia on pneumonia in children will help doctors make appropriate treatment decisions and improve mortality rates in pneumonia. Objectives: Describe clinical and paraclinical characteristics and evaluate the treatment outcomes of pneumonia in children with iron deficiency anemia from 2 months to 5 years old at Soc Trang Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital in 2024-2025. Materials and methods: Using a case-control study method on 224 children aged 2 months to 5 years old diagnosed with pneumonia being treated at Soc Trang Obstetrics and Pediatrics Hospital. Information collected included general information of the child, clinical characteristics of pneumonia, paraclinical characteristics, severity of pneumonia, treatment results. Results: The most common clinical symptoms were cough, rapid breathing, fever, lung crackles, wheezing, chest indrawing, children with pneumonia with iron deficiency anemia had a higher rate of poor feeding or poor eating; the rate of severe pneumonia; the rate of antibiotic change, intensive care transfer, respiratory support, artificial feeding, duration of antibiotic use and length of hospital stay were higher than those of children with pneumonia without iron deficiency anemia (p<0.05). Conclusion: Children with pneumonia with iron deficiency anemia had more clinical characteristics, severity of pneumonia and more severe treatment. Son Khoa Nguyen Ngoc Phuoc Truong Tan Tai Nguyen Tan Dinh Chung Quoc Trung Ly Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 283 289 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3578 RESEARCH ON CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND OUTCOMES OF TOPICAL TREATMENT WITH ZINVIO AND MEDLO IN PEDIATRIC ATOPIC DERMATITIS https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3599 Background: Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by intense pruritus and xerosis, with a relapsing-remitting course. Although AD is most common in children, it can occur at any age. In the management of atopic dermatitis, moisturizing therapy serves as the cornerstone regardless of disease severity or stage. ZINVIO and MEDLO are moisturizers containing active ingredients such as polyhydroxy acids, dipotassium glycyrrhizinate, zinc oxide, vitamin E, sunflower seed oil, etc., which possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, enhance the skin barrier, and help reduce the frequency of topical corticosteroid use. Objectives: 1. To describe the clinical characteristics of pediatric atopic dermatitis. 2. To evaluate the results of topical treatment with ZINVIO and MEDLO in pediatric atopic dermatitis. Materials and methods: A descriptive case series study was conducted on 74 patients under 16 years of age diagnosed with atopic dermatitis who received topical treatment with ZINVIO and MEDLO and were followed for 4 weeks. Results: The median age (interquartile range) was 6.0 years (3.9–9.3), with a female-to-male ratio of approximately 1.6/1. The median age of onset was 1 year, with 62.2% experiencing early onset before the age of 2. Pruritus was the most common symptom, observed in 100% of patients. According to the SCORAD index, moderate severity was reported in 86.5% of cases. The topical treatment outcomes using ZINVIO and MEDLO after 4 weeks showed good response in 51.4% of cases, fair in 39.2%, moderate in 5.4%, and poor in 4.1%. Erythema and pruritus were recorded as adverse effects; they were transient, occurred at a low incidence during the first week of treatment, and were not observed in the following weeks. Conclusion: Pediatric atopic dermatitis typically has an early onset before the age of 2 and is characterized by prominent pruritus, with moderate disease severity being the most common. ZINVIO and MEDLO are effective topical treatment methods that help reduce disease severity while ensuring a high level of safety. Thi Minh Tam Tran Thang Diep Trung Kien Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 290 296 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3599 RESEARCH DRUG-RELATED PROBLEMS (DRP) IN OUTPATIENT PRESCRIPTION IN PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES AND HYPERTENSION AT CA MAU GENERAL HOSPITAL IN 2024 https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3984 Background: The use of medications in diabetic patients with concomitant hypertension often results in the occurrence of drug-related problems (DRP), which have been identified as a major cause of treatment failure. The analysis of DRP is a critical function of clinical pharmacy practice in the Faculty of Pharmacy, in accordance with Decision No. 3547/QĐ-BYT issued by the Ministry of Health. However, there remains a lack of comprehensive studies on DRP in diabetic patients with hypertension in Vietnam. Objectives: Investigate patient characteristics and outpatient health insurance prescriptions and identify factors associated with drug-related problems in patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension at a general hospital in Ca Mau province in 2024. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional descriptive study of drug-related issues according to the guidance of Decision 3547/QD-BYT of the Ministry of Health on prescription information of type 2 diabetes patients with hypertension examined and treated at a general hospital in Ca Mau province. Results: Among the 350 outpatient prescriptions analyzed, the mean patient age was 67.15 ± 13.21 years, 60.3% were women, and the average number of medications per prescription was 6.35 ± 1.43. Overall, 44.6% of the prescriptions contained at least one drug-related problem. Statistically significant differences in DRP occurrence were observed according to the number of medications used. Conclusion: The notably high prevalence of DRP in prescriptions for patients with type 2 diabetes and coexisting hypertension underscores the imperative for strengthened clinical pharmacy monitoring and intervention to enhance treatment safety and efficacy. Tran Anh Khoa Ho Thi Dan Thanh Tran Ngoc Bao Tran Tran Thi Hanh Nguyen Thien Phuc Lu Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 297 303 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3984 FORMULATION DEVELOPMENT AND DRUG RELEASE EVALUATION OF A TOPICAL GEL-SMEDDS CONTAINING VITAMIN E https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/4006 Background: Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant in dermo-cosmetics, faces limited skin penetration in conventional formulations due to its high log P, leading to stratum corneum accumulation and poor bioavailability. Self-Microemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SMEDDS), forming nanometer-sized droplets, show promise in enhancing drug permeability. Objective: To improve Vitamin E's transdermal permeability and bioavailability using a SMEDDS gel formulation. Materials and methods: A SMEDDS gel was developed with MCT oil, Tween 80, and Transcutol. Its in vitro membrane permeation was assessed using a Franz Diffusion Cell. Results:The gel-SMEDDS had comparable viscosity to the control, with a particle size of 188.9 nm (PDI = 0.272). It achieved a maximum diffusion of 34.6% after 240 minutes, significantly outperforming the control. Conclusion: The SMEDDS technique successfully produced a novel topical Vitamin E gel with improved bioavailability compared to conventional formulations. Van Liet Nguyen Vinh Tri Nguyen Van Lien Le Minh Y Nguyen Van Loc Thoi Phuong Thuy Tran Ngoc Nha Thao Nguyen Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 304 310 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.4006 DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION FOR THE SIMULTANEOUS QUANTIFICATION OF AMLODIPINE CAMSYLATE AND LOSARTAN POTASSIUM BY HPLC-UV/VIS https://tapchi.ctump.edu.vn/index.php/ctump/article/view/3818 Background: Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular complications. The combination of amlodipine and losartan potassium in treatment provides more effective blood pressure control. Several chromatographic methods have been developed for the quantitative determination of amlodipine (as besylate) and losartan potassium; however, amlodipine camsylate has not been studied. There is currently no pharmacopoeia analytical procedure for the simultaneous determination of amlodipine (camsylate) and losartan potassium, which makes testing difficult. Therefore, the development and validation of a quantitative method is necessary to assess the drug content in the preparation. Objectives: Analyze chromatographic conditions, develop, and validate a method to simultaneously quantify amlodipine camsylate and losartan potassium using high-performance liquid chromatography. Materials and methods: Experimental research method on finished film-coated tablets containing active ingredients amlodipine camsylate and losartan potassium at the same time. Results: HPLC method with UV/VIS detector, reversed phase Pursuit XRS 5 C18 (250 x 4.6 mm, 5 µm) column, the optimal mobile phase for the simultaneous analysis of amlodipine and losartan potassium was phosphate buffer at pH 2.2 and acetonitrile (ACN) in a 67:33 (v/v) ratio. The chromatographic system demonstrated system suitability requirements, with stable retention time and peak area parameters, maintaining an RSD of less than 2%. The method achieved specificity, linearity with R² > 0.998 in the concentration range of 12.52 – 43.82 μg/mL for amlodipine camsylate and 160 - 560 μg/mL for losartan potassium. Recovery was 98,0% - 102.0% with RSD < 2.0%, demonstrating high accuracy. Precision was assessed by repeatability and intermediate precision with RSD < 2.0%. Conclusion: The HPLC method with the above chromatographic conditions can be applied to simultaneously quantify drugs containing amlodipine camsylate and losartan potassium. Phuong Thuy Tran Kim Tuyen Vo Viet Hung Tran Thi My Duyen Huynh Copyright (c) 2025 Cantho Journal of Medicine and Pharmacy 2025-06-25 2025-06-25 88 311 318 10.58490/ctump.2025i88.3818