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Biomedical subjects

D H Dembo

Publications and source records attributed to D H Dembo.

18 recordsLinked to original sources

Problems in health data analysis: the Maryland permanent pacemaker experience in 1979 and 1980.

In a recent report the Maryland statewide health data base, which is derived from "face sheet" data, was used to determine the appropriateness of permanent pacemaker insertion. In the present study the same indications were utilized and both the complete medical records and the face sheet were reviewed for those patients who had been classified as having permanent pacemakers inserted for inappropriate or questionable reasons. In 32 hospitals, 75% of the records were reviewed (610 of 817 patients). Although coded as having received permanent pacemakers, 16% had received temporary pacemakers, battery change, and the like. Diagnoses justifying permanent pacemaker insertion had been omitted in 53% of the face sheet s, and coding errors were found in 39%. Although none of the 610 medical records reviewed had a valid indication for permanent pacemaker insertion listed on the face sheet, complete medical record review demonstrated valid indications in 95%. Inherent difficulties arise in attempting to list rigid indications for permanent pacemaker insertion. The face sheet does not provide adequate data for assessing the appropriateness of permanent pacemaker insertion.

Arrhythmias, Cardiac↗

Familial occurrence of mitral valve prolapse in X-linked muscular dystrophy.

A high incidence of mitral valve prolapse (MVP) has been reported in patients with X-linked Duchenne muscular dystrophy. In our study MVP was present in six of 22 Duchenne dystrophy cases (27%) followed in the Maryland General Hospital Muscular Dystrophy Clinic. In addition, seven carriers of Duchenne and X-linked benign (Becker) dystrophy had evidence of MVP. Autosomal dominant transmission of MVP was present in four families. The unusually high prevalence of MVP in families with X-linked muscular dystrophy may have potential value in the recognition of the carrier trait.

Female↗