JAMA Network

Anna D. Ratzliff and Andrew J. Saxon, both experts from the University of Washington School of Medicine, discuss innovative collaborative care models for treating opioid use disorder. They address the alarming rise in opioid-related fatalities and the need for better healthcare access. The duo highlights their study, showcasing how structured collaborative care improves treatment outcomes and mental health quality of life. They also delve into the creation of a specialized registry aimed at optimizing care integration within existing primary care systems.

Three editorial fellows share their transformative experiences at a leading internal medicine journal. They delve into the challenges and rewards of the fellowship, highlighting personal growth and teamwork. The impact on their writing and understanding of scientific literature is profound, showcasing the importance of clear communication in medical contexts. They also reflect on honing research skills and the value of strong editorial processes. Friendships formed during the fellowship contribute to a richer understanding of the medical field.

Colin P. Derdeyn, a leading interventional neuroradiologist from the University of Virginia, joins the conversation to discuss groundbreaking treatments for acute ischemic stroke. He delves into the challenges of conducting trials for drugs like intravenous Argatroban and Eptifibatide, exploring their efficacy in improving neurologic outcomes. The talk also highlights the potential of adjunct therapies to enhance thrombectomy procedures and the ongoing quest for better patient recovery methods following strokes.

Nyssa Fox Farrell, an otolaryngologist specializing in COVID-related olfactory dysfunction, joins pain management specialist Lara W. Crock to discuss their research on using stellate ganglion blocks for treating COVID-19 induced parosmia. They share compelling patient stories and explore the innovative application of this technique for olfactory dysfunction. The conversation delves into the historical context of stellate ganglion blocks, challenges in study methodologies, and the importance of ethical practices in developing effective treatments.

An insightful interview delves into the use of prophylactic antibiotics for cirrhosis patients experiencing upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Recent findings challenge traditional guidelines, revealing no clear mortality benefits and raising concerns about antibiotic resistance. The conversation also highlights advancements in cirrhosis care and the importance of tailored treatment strategies. Experts discuss the complexities of antibiotic effectiveness and the need for further research to refine clinical practices in this area.

In this engaging discussion, Ehsan Rahimy, a leading expert in vitreoretinal diseases, sheds light on the promising role of mTOR inhibitors in preventing proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). He dives into the significance of mTOR as a cellular regulator and its implications for retinal health. Rahimy reviews remarkable data showcasing a 40% reduction in retinal detachment risks through mTOR therapies. Plus, he emphasizes the need for randomized clinical trials to validate excitement in innovative treatments, setting a hopeful tone for future retinal surgeries.

Adam J. Luginbuhl is a surgical oncologist at the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, specializing in immunotherapy for head and neck cancer. Jennifer M. Johnson, also from the same center, focuses on treating advanced cases with immunotherapy. They delve into the impact of neoadjuvant nivolumab on HPV-negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, discussing patient outcomes and the critical role of early treatment responses. The conversation highlights the evolving dynamics in tumor boards and the importance of personalized care in enhancing patient survival.

In this insightful discussion, David Hui, a leading authority in palliative care from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and Eduardo Bruera, a renowned expert in delirium management, delve into their groundbreaking study on agitated delirium in cancer patients. They discuss innovative sedation strategies tailored for terminal patients, the emotional toll of delirium on families, and the need for personalized care. Their findings emphasize the importance of teamwork in palliative care and call for future research to enhance patient outcomes and support.

In this insightful discussion, Roxana Mehran, a leading cardiologist and vice president of the American College of Cardiology, shares her expertise on the importance of clinical trial representativeness. She discusses the challenges of recruiting diverse populations and suggests actionable strategies for enhancing inclusivity in trials. Mehran emphasizes how community engagement and demographic considerations can improve outcomes and trust in clinical research. The conversation highlights the growing role of industry in ensuring that clinical trials reflect the populations they aim to serve.

Jennifer Rose-Nussbaumer, an associate professor of ophthalmology at Stanford University, dives into groundbreaking research on treating bacterial keratitis. She discusses the pivotal SCUT II trial, revealing the benefits of adjunctive corticosteroids and corneal cross-linking. Controversies surrounding diagnosis and treatment timing are explored, along with the importance of prioritizing clinical outcomes beyond just visual acuity. Rose-Nussbaumer emphasizes the ongoing challenges and the need for further trials to refine effective treatment strategies.