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Biomedical subjects

J M Varney

Publications and source records attributed to J M Varney.

6 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed1992

Hospitalizations for hip fractures among elderly persons in Hawaii, 1986-1990.

Hawaii differs ethnically, geographically, and culturally from other states; therefore, United States hip fracture data cannot be assumed to apply to Hawaii. The purpose of this research was to gain new knowledge about hip fracture in Hawaii to plan and target appropriate services and design preventive measures. Peer Review Organization Medicare data were analyzed for persons age 65+ over a 4-year period. Average length of hospital stay was 20 days resulting in an average estimated charge per hospitalization of $20,000. Of those with E-Codes, 94% sustained falls. Fifty-five percent had one or more complicating illness. Unexpected significant differences were found among the islands: the average annual hospitalization incidence rate/1,000 on Kauai (8.4) was almost twice that of the Island of Hawaii (4.4), and Maui (3.9), and significantly greater than Oahu (5.4), primarily in women over 85. The island differences raise important questions in need of investigation, and suggest target populations and locations for prevention.

Aged↗
PubMed1991

Traumatic spinal cord injury in Hawaii.

As a prelude to continuing surveillance in Hawaii, a 2-year retrospective study (1987-1989) was conducted by the Pacific Basin Rehabilitation Research & Training Center (PBRRTC) and the Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific (REHAB) in order to examine the frequency and causes of traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) at REHAB; determine similarities and differences when compared to national statistics and make recommendations for future study. Data were abstracted from patient records at REHAB. During the period of study, 59 persons were treated for SCI. Similar to the national database, 85% were males and 70% were teenagers and young adults. Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVAs) contributed to 38% of the injuries followed by falls (28%), sports (19%) and violence (16%); however, etiology differed according to age. Sixty-two percent of the lesions were cervical. Almost 50% were neurologically complete. Sixty-six percent were in wheelchairs. Over 50% were independent in mobility and feeding and nearly 40% were independent in bathing and dressing. Eighty-eight percent returned to their homes. In general, the case at REHAB did not differ from the national database. Because reporting has not been mandatory, actual SCI incidence in Hawaii is most likely higher. Information derived from a mandatory reporting system would lead to identification of high risk groups, development and evaluation of prevention programs, identification of patients requiring early intervention and rehabilitation, and better planning of health care services.

Adolescent↗
PubMed1990

Polio survivors in Hawaii: new problems of health and disability.

U.S. mainland studies reveal an alarming rise of progressive disability reported by long-term polio survivors. To determine if polio survivors residing in Hawaii were experiencing similar problems, this study of 100 volunteers was undertaken. Extensive interviews and physical examinations were performed. Results indicate that many patients were complaining of new or greater disability due to late complications of polio or medical conditions unrelated to polio. Twenty percent appeared at greater risk for having post-polio syndrome (PPS). Over half described mobility that was less than fully independent. Subjects voiced a clear need for specialized health, social and rehabilitative services. Consistent with Mainland reports, polio survivors in Hawaii are demonstrating changes in disability that challenge the traditional notion that polio is a static, permanently stable neurologic condition.

Adult↗