Abstract
InnovAiT is produced on a 3-year cycle. However, many articles do not significantly go out of date in that time. This section of InnovAiT summarises articles from the previous cycle of InnovAiT that GPs and GPs in training might still find useful today.
The crystal arthropathies
Dr Robert A Jones and Dr Brian Quilty
InnovAiT 2013 6(11): 681–687
DOI:
Gout is the most common of the crystal arthropathies and case numbers continue to rise, probably because of dietary trends, diuretic prescriptions and a rise in the prevalence of co-morbid conditions. This article addresses important long-term management goals, such as the prevention of recurrent attacks and the reduction of cardiovascular risk factors.
Acute infections of the hand
Mr James Warbrick-Smith and Mr James Smith
InnovAiT 2013 6(11): 688–693
DOI:
Acute infections of the hand are common. Delay in the diagnosis and treatment of infections can lead to permanent disability, and death. This article provides a framework for the diagnosis and management of hand infections, with guidance on referral to secondary care.
Bone and soft tissue tumours
Miss Ruth Varrall and Dr Ellen Welch
InnovAiT 2013 6(11): 694–699
DOI:
Sarcomas are rare tumours of the connective tissues and include soft tissue tumours, primary bone tumours and gastrointestinal tumours (GISTS). This article highlights the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines for soft tissue swelling and the features that should prompt 2-week rule referral. GPs should be aware of the local referral process and initiate referral without investigations that risk delay in treatment.
Assessment and management of chronic pelvic pain
Miss Anna Humphries and Miss Rebecca Pugh
InnovAiT 2013 6(11): 701–708
DOI:
Chronic pelvic pain affects about one in six women, but the cause is often unclear and may be multifactorial. This article details how a structured assessment can help diagnose the cause of this symptom and identify important red-flag symptoms and signs. Specific treatment options are described, but adequate analgesia should be offered to all women with chronic pelvic pain.
Reconstructive breast surgery
Dr Will Mackintosh and Ms Phillipa Jackson
InnovAiT 2013 6(11): 717–724
DOI:
Reconstructive breast surgery has developed rapidly over the last 30 years. This article briefly considers a historical perspective before detailing modern techniques and the pre-operative factors where GPs may have a role in supporting patients. Understanding the variety of breast-conserving treatments is important when GPs refer to secondary care, but also when providing post-operative care and advice.
The challenges of generalism
Dr John CM Gillies and Professor George K Freeman
InnovAiT 2013 6(11): 725–730
DOI:
This article provides an important and still highly relevant review of the ethos of medical generalism. It raises issues that are particularly pertinent for those moving from hospital posts into general practice. The challenges listed for general practice remain and are, if anything, greater than ever in the face of many pressures, including those that erode continuity of care.