MORTON GERALD KAHAN, M.D.

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This study looked at how often traumatic brain injuries (TBI) happened in New Zealand during 2021-2022 and compared it to 2010-2011. They found that there were about 852 TBIs for every 100,000 people each year, with most cases being mild injuries. The findings revealed that men were affected more than women, urban areas had higher rates than rural areas, and falls were the leading cause of these injuries, particularly among people aged 15-64. Who this helps: This information benefits public health officials and policymakers aiming to improve prevention strategies for brain injuries.

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This study looked at how to improve the delivery of medications directly to the brain through the nose, specifically targeting a part of the nasal cavity called the olfactory mucosa. Researchers found that using special techniques like sticky polymers and advanced nanoparticles could help keep the medicine in the right place longer, improving its chances to work effectively. This is important because it can lead to better treatments for brain-related conditions by bypassing the protective barriers that usually block medications from reaching the brain. Who this helps: This benefits patients with neurological disorders looking for effective treatments.

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This study looked at patients with opioid use disorder who received high doses of buprenorphine for treatment in an emergency department. The researchers found that 90% of these patients experienced a significant decrease in non-fatal overdoses, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations after starting treatment, with reductions of 21.9%, 78.1%, and 77.1% respectively over a year. These results are important because they show that this treatment approach can help improve the health and safety of individuals struggling with opioid addiction. Who this helps: This helps patients with opioid use disorder, particularly those who visit emergency departments for treatment.

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This study looked at how well people with alcohol use disorder can be managed for withdrawal symptoms through telemedicine. Out of 30 participants, 93.3% completed the treatment without needing to go to the emergency room, and 56.7% stayed sober after 30 days. This is important because it shows that remote treatment can work for managing alcohol withdrawal, making it easier for people in rural or underserved areas to get help. Who this helps: Patients with alcohol use disorder seeking accessible treatment options.

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This study looked at a surgical technique called minipterional craniotomy to remove a type of brain abnormality, known as a cavernous malformation, in a 13-year-old girl suffering from severe epilepsy that didn't respond to medication. After one year, the surgery successfully eliminated her seizures, placing her in the highest category for seizure freedom (Engel class I), which greatly improved her quality of life. This is important because it shows that surgery can be a successful option for young patients with epilepsy when other treatments fail. Who this helps: This helps patients with drug-resistant epilepsy and their families.

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This study looked at how a new treatment called magnetic resonance-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (MRgLITT) affects thinking and memory in teenagers with a type of epilepsy that doesn't respond to medication. Out of six patients studied, there were no major changes in their overall cognitive skills or memory a year after the treatment, although half of the patients had great results with their seizures. This is important because it suggests that MRgLITT may be a good option for treating epilepsy in young people without harming their thinking abilities. Who this helps: This helps patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy and their doctors by providing a safer treatment option.

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This study looked at the availability and use of treatments for opioid addiction in Ontario, Canada, focusing on medications like buprenorphine/naloxone and methadone between 2005 and 2019. Of the 122,811 individuals examined, 79.4% received treatment at least once, but fewer people continued treatment for six months over time, with men being more likely to start treatment but less likely to stay on it. The research is important because older individuals and those from higher-income neighborhoods showed better retention, while those in rural areas or with mental health issues faced significant challenges, highlighting the need for improved support for these groups. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with opioid addiction, especially those in rural areas or with mental health conditions.

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This study looked at how robotic assistance during knee surgery (robotic total knee arthroplasty or RATKA) affects the development of arthrofibrosis, a condition that can cause pain and limit movement. It found that 37 patients who had RATKA needed extra procedures to improve knee movement, compared to only 12 patients who had traditional manual surgery (mTKA). This difference is significant, suggesting that RATKA might be linked to more issues with knee tightness post-surgery, which is important because matching knee angles during surgery can lead to better recovery and functionality. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing knee replacement surgery.

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This study looked at two cases of fentanyl users who came to the hospital and found that using high doses of a medicine called sublingual buprenorphine/naloxone helped them stabilize quickly. Within just 24 to 36 hours, they switched to an extended-release version of buprenorphine, leading to relief from withdrawal symptoms without causing sedation. This method may lead to better long-term treatment for patients struggling with fentanyl use. Who this helps: Patients dealing with fentanyl addiction.

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This study looked at how Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (RAAM) clinics in Ontario, Canada, affect individuals with problematic opioid use. It found that patients who used RAAM clinics were less likely to visit the emergency room, be hospitalized, or die within 30 days compared to a similar group that didn't use the clinics, with overall odds of these negative outcomes reduced by 32%. The results suggest that RAAM clinics can significantly improve health outcomes for people struggling with opioid use and should be adopted more widely. Who this helps: Patients dealing with opioid addiction.

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This paper studied a patient who had knee replacement surgery and later developed a serious infection after taking cefadroxil, a type of antibiotic. The patient developed colitis, which is inflammation of the intestines, after using the antibiotic for too long, and then faced even more severe problems like a bloodstream infection and a resistant joint infection that required several surgical interventions. This matters because it highlights that using antibiotics for an extended period after surgery can lead to dangerous infections instead of preventing them. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients by informing them about the risks of long-term antibiotic use after surgery.

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This research reviewed how effective treatments like methadone and buprenorphine are in reducing risky behaviors that can lead to HIV among African, Caribbean, and Black people. The findings showed that these treatments helped lower risky sexual behaviors, such as having multiple partners and engaging in sex work, though some effects were unexpected. For example, one study noted that people not in treatment had higher sexual activity, while those in treatment showed less involvement in prostitution. Who this helps: This benefits patients dealing with opioid addiction and healthcare providers working to reduce HIV risk in these communities.

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This study looked at how quickly patients with alcohol or opioid use disorders could start addiction treatment. Researchers found that 85% of people who were given an appointment within two days went to their first appointment, compared to only 29% of those who were just given contact information for a clinic. Additionally, those who got quick access had fewer emergency department visits in the following year, with an average of 6.39 visits compared to 13.02 for the other group. Who this helps: This helps patients seeking addiction treatment by making it easier for them to access care quickly.

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Researchers studied how a new program, called the Opioid Self-Assessment (OSA) package, could help family doctors in Ontario follow safer guidelines for prescribing opioids. After using the OSA package, doctors showed a notable increase in knowledge about opioids, with important scores improving significantly—some by five out of seven areas measured. This matters because it can lead to safer prescribing practices, helping to reduce the risks associated with opioid use, which is crucial given the rise in opioid-related deaths. Who this helps: This helps patients who rely on opioids for chronic pain management.

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This research looks at how effective methadone and buprenorphine treatments are in reducing risky behaviors related to sex and drug use among African, Caribbean, and Black individuals, who are at higher risk for HIV due to substance use. The study will gather and analyze existing research to determine how these treatments help lower HIV transmission risks linked to opioid addiction. This is important because finding effective ways to reduce HIV risk can lead to better health outcomes for affected communities. Who this helps: This benefits patients, particularly those struggling with opioid addiction and at risk for HIV.

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This study looked at problems with a specific part of a knee implant called the stem extension, which can break down without showing signs of loosening on x-rays. They reported a unique case of this type of failure in a Zimmer NexGen Rotating Hinge Knee system, something that hasn't been documented before. Understanding these failures is important because it could lead to better implant design and improved patient care. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients needing knee replacement surgeries.

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This study looks at how well addiction treatment and HIV/AIDS services work together in community settings. Researchers want to understand people's experiences and identify what helps or hinders this integration. Previous findings show that combining drug treatment with HIV services can lower new HIV infections and improve access to support, and it helps those who are both drug users and HIV-positive stick to their treatments. Who this helps: This benefits patients with substance use issues and HIV, as well as healthcare providers and policymakers involved in these services.

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This study looked at how the Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptom Questionnaire (RPQ) was structured for people four years after a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) compared to individuals without any brain injuries. Researchers found that both groups had similar major symptoms, but there were some differences in secondary symptoms; for example, people with mild-TBI experienced irritability and double vision more often, while controls had more issues with headaches and slowed thinking. Understanding these patterns is important because it can help doctors better recognize and address long-term symptoms in patients with mild TBIs. Who this helps: This research helps patients recovering from mild TBIs and their healthcare providers.

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Researchers in Ontario studied how addiction doctors feel about using buprenorphine for treating opioid dependence, particularly whether they would allow patients to start the medication at home without supervision. Out of 85 doctors surveyed, only 4% used this approach, as many were concerned about risks like withdrawal symptoms and misuse of the medication. This matters because it highlights a gap in the use of a safer treatment option, which could help patients get better access to care. Who this helps: Patients struggling with opioid addiction.

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This study looked at how well people receiving medication for opioid use disorder (like methadone or buprenorphine) were getting basic health care services, like cancer screenings and diabetes monitoring. It found that among more than 20,000 patients, those on opioid treatment were much less likely to get necessary screenings: for cervical cancer, only 48.7% were screened compared to 62.6% of those not on opioid treatment, and for breast cancer, it was 23.3% versus 49.1%. This matters because it highlights that people in treatment for addiction are not getting the same health care services as others, despite often visiting their doctors regularly. Who this helps: This helps patients in treatment for opioid use disorder.

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This study compared two medications, buprenorphine and clonidine, to see which is better for treating people in withdrawal from opioids in the emergency department. Out of 26 patients, those who received buprenorphine were significantly more likely to be in ongoing opioid treatment a month later—about 85% of them compared to 40% who received clonidine. This matters because providing effective treatment in the ED can help patients stay engaged in recovery and reduce future substance use. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with opioid addiction.

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This study focuses on understanding substance use disorders among African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) people in Canada. Researchers aim to explore how common these disorders are, what types of substances are used, and what factors contribute to their use. By reviewing past studies, they hope to gather important information that can help create better health strategies and policies for this community. Who this helps: This benefits ACB individuals dealing with substance use issues, as well as healthcare providers and policymakers.

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This study looked at how many patients with opioid use disorder could access a medication called opioid agonist therapy (OAT) while receiving residential treatment in Ontario, and how this affected their chances of completing the treatment. The researchers found that only 52.8% of the 1,910 patients entering treatment had access to OAT, and overall, 56.8% completed their programs. Interestingly, those on OAT were just as likely to finish treatment as those not using it, with completion rates of 53.9% for OAT users compared to 57.5% for non-users. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with opioid use disorder and the healthcare providers treating them.

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This study looked at how the symptoms reported after a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) change over the first year. Researchers analyzed responses from 527 adults using the Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptom Questionnaire (RPQ) and found that the way symptoms grouped together changed over time; initially, three main symptom groups were identified, but by 6 months, only two groups remained. This matters because understanding how symptoms evolve helps with better assessment and treatment planning for individuals recovering from a concussion. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from concussions and their doctors.

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This study looked at how opioid use during pregnancy affects women and families in Northwestern Ontario, finding that up to 30% of pregnancies involve opioid use. Two workshops brought together various healthcare and social service providers to discuss better ways to support these women, resulting in agreements on improving care transitions, access to treatment, and focusing on programs led by Indigenous communities. This is important because it aims to create a national strategy that prioritizes the health of mothers and their babies within their communities. Who this helps: This benefits patients, particularly Indigenous pregnant women and new mothers dealing with opioid use.

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This study looked at how depression and anxiety change over four years in adults who suffered a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). Researchers found that while the average levels of anxiety and depression went down over time, anxiety affected between 3.7% to 29.5% of people at different points, and 10.2% to 20.7% experienced both anxiety and depression together. This matters because it highlights the need for regular mental health check-ups for TBI patients, as those who seem fine right after the injury may develop emotional issues later on. Who this helps: Patients recovering from mild traumatic brain injuries and their doctors.

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This study looked at how mild traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) affect people's ability to work four years later. It found that 17.3% of participants had left their jobs or reduced their work hours, and 15.5% reported limitations at work due to their injury. On average, these individuals lost 3.6% of their work productivity, with thinking difficulties in the first month after the injury being a significant predictor of this loss. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from mild TBIs and their employers.

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This study examined opioid addiction treatment programs in six First Nations communities in northwestern Ontario that combined the medication buprenorphine with traditional healing practices. The results showed that after six months, 84% of participants remained in the program, and this percentage stayed above 70% at 18 months. Additionally, urine drug tests showed that 84% to 95% of samples were negative for illicit opioids, indicating that the programs are effective despite challenges like high rates of post-traumatic stress disorder and limited resources. Who this helps: This benefits patients struggling with opioid addiction, especially in First Nations communities.

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This study looked at three treatment options for people struggling with opioid use disorders: abstinence alone, methadone, and buprenorphine-naloxone. The researchers found that both methadone and buprenorphine-naloxone work much better than just trying to quit on your own; specifically, methadone keeps patients in treatment longer, while buprenorphine-naloxone has a lower risk of overdose. It’s important for doctors to recommend one of the medication options instead of abstinence, especially for certain groups like young people and pregnant women who may need methadone. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with opioid addiction and their doctors in choosing effective treatments.

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This study looked at how doctors in Ontario prescribed medications for opioid addiction treatment in 2014. It found that just a few high-volume prescribers handled most of the treatment: 57 doctors prescribed over half of all methadone, while 64 doctors prescribed 61% of all buprenorphine. This matters because such a small number of providers are responsible for treating many patients, which could impact the quality of care they receive. Who this helps: This information is valuable for patients in opioid addiction treatment and healthcare policymakers.

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This study looked at how well medical codes for traumatic brain injury (TBI) were used in New Zealand to track cases. Out of 1,369 people with TBI, only 18.6% had received a code that should identify their injury, meaning many cases may be missed, especially among older adults and those with skull fractures. Understanding the gaps in coding is important to better track TBI and improve treatment and preventive measures. Who this helps: This helps patients by ensuring better identification and management of traumatic brain injuries.

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This study looked at the health outcomes of 94 pregnant women in Canada who were receiving methadone treatment, focusing on their deliveries and the health of their babies. The research found that 14% of the women experienced antenatal bleeding, while the average birth weight of the babies was about 6.3 pounds, with 27% needing medication for withdrawal symptoms related to methadone. This is important because it shows that with proper care, women on methadone can have positive outcomes for both themselves and their newborns, highlighting the need for more integrated care programs across Canada. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women using methadone and their healthcare providers.

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The study looked at factors that could predict deaths related to opioid use among people receiving methadone treatment for opioid addiction. It found that, out of over 43,000 patients, 175 died from opioid-related causes, with those using psychotropic medications like benzodiazepines and antipsychotics having a significantly higher risk—twice as likely to die from opioid-related issues. Additional risk factors included lung disease, alcohol use disorders, mood disorders, and a history of heart disease. Who this helps: This research helps patients and doctors by identifying risk factors that may lead to fatal outcomes during methadone treatment.

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This study focused on how primary care doctors can effectively screen and assess patients for issues related to alcohol use, known as alcohol use disorder (AUD) and at-risk drinking. The findings emphasize that doctors should screen all patients at least once a year for unhealthy drinking habits and use a standardized test to identify those at risk or diagnosed with AUD, which can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe. This is important because early detection and proper assessment can lead to better management and support for patients struggling with alcohol-related problems. Who this helps: This benefits patients who may have unhealthy drinking habits and need support for alcohol use issues.

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This study looked at how primary care doctors can better help patients who drink too much alcohol or have alcohol use disorder. It found that doctors should offer short counseling sessions to all patients who drink at-risk and give specific medications to those with moderate to severe issues, like disulfiram, naltrexone, or acamprosate. Connecting these patients to support resources, such as therapy or support groups, is also important. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with alcohol-related issues.

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This study looked at how well Canadian Ob/Gyn residency programs teach gynecologic ultrasound, which is important for diagnosing and managing pelvic conditions. Out of 82 residents and 233 experienced doctors surveyed, most felt they didn't get enough training in Gyn ultrasound, and 92% agreed that a standard curriculum would improve education in this area. This matters because better training can lead to improved care for patients with pelvic diseases. Who this helps: This helps residents and their patients by ensuring doctors are better trained in essential ultrasound skills.

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This study examined tremors caused by alcohol withdrawal in patients' left and right hands. Researchers analyzed data from 61 patients and discovered that while the tremor frequency in the two hands was somewhat related, the ratings given by doctors for tremors in both hands were closely aligned. They found that averaging the tremor ratings from both hands gave the most accurate single estimate of overall tremor severity. This is important because it helps doctors better assess and manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms in patients. Who this helps: This helps doctors who treat patients experiencing alcohol withdrawal.

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This research paper gives advice on how to prescribe smoked cannabis for people with chronic pain that isn't caused by cancer. It found that smoked cannabis may help patients with severe nerve pain who haven't had success with conventional pain medications; however, it's not recommended for younger patients, those with a history of mental health issues, or pregnant women, among others. Knowing these guidelines is important to ensure proper and safe use of cannabis for pain management. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from chronic pain, especially those looking for alternative treatments.

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This research focused on how to accurately assess tremors caused by alcohol withdrawal syndrome using an iOS app that records movements with an accelerometer. The study analyzed 84 recordings and found that actual tremors from alcohol withdrawal in patients often had a frequency above 7 Hz in 75% of cases, while only 17% of the tremors mimicked by nurses exceeded this frequency. This distinction is important because it helps doctors tell the difference between genuine tremors due to withdrawal and those that are faked, leading to better patient care. Who this helps: This benefits doctors assessing patients for alcohol withdrawal syndrome.