VNUHCM Journal of Health Sciences

CONTINUOUS GLUCOSE MONITORING (CGM) DURING PREGNANCY: SIGNIFICANCE AND CHALLENGES

Ho Minh Tuan — 2026-05-12

Objective: This review aims to evaluate the clinical significance, accuracy, and implementation challenges of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in pregnancies complicated by type 1 diabetes (T1D), type 2 diabetes (T2D), and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Specifically, it assesses the impact of CGM on maternal glycemic control and perinatal outcomes compared to self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). Methods: A comprehensive systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCT) and observational studies was conducted. Data were synthesized regarding glycemic targets, device accuracy (Mean Absolute Relative Difference: MARD), maternal outcomes (HbA1c, preeclampsia, gestational weight gain), and neonatal outcomes (large for gestational age: LGA, hypoglycemia, NICU admission). Results: Evidence from the CONCEPTT trial and subsequent studies confirms that real-time CGM (rt-CGM) significantly improves neonatal outcomes in T1D, reducing LGA rates and NICU admissions. For GDM and T2D, results are heterogeneous; while CGM consistently detects nocturnal hyperglycemia and reduces gestational weight gain, its impact on LGA is variable, though recent trials (GRACE) indicate significant benefits. Modern CGM devices demonstrate high accuracy in pregnancy (MARD 9.5-10.3%). Higher Time in Range (TIR) is strongly associated with reduced adverse outcomes. Conclusion: CGM is the standard of care for T1D in pregnancy, offering superior glycemic insight and improved neonatal health. Its role in GDM is evolving, showing promise for risk stratification and behavioral modification, though cost and lack of standardized targets remain barriers.

Diagnosis and treatment of gastric and duodenal ulcers in the elderly

Vu Ha — 2026-05-07

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) currently represents a significant medical challenge for the elderly (aged 65 and older). Although the overall incidence has shown a downward trend, the frequency of complications and mortality rates among the aging population have increased markedly due to the decline in gastric physiological function and the presence of comorbidities. The two leading etiologic factors are Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection (accounting for approximately 70% of cases) and the use of mucosal-damaging agents such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or aspirin. The aging process triggers profound changes, including immunosenescence, microcirculatory disturbances, and mucosal atrophy leading to hypochlorhydria. These alterations weaken the natural protective barrier, making the gastric mucosa susceptible to aggressive factors and resulting in "idiopathic" or drug-induced ulcers. In elderly patients, clinical symptoms are often atypical and easily masked by concomitant diseases. Only about one-third of patients present with classic epigastric pain; the remainder often exhibit vague symptoms such as anorexia and weight loss, or may even present initially with severe complications like gastrointestinal hemorrhage or perforation. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, combined with biopsy following the updated Sydney system, is considered the gold standard for identifying ulcer location, ruling out malignancy, and assessing H. pylori status. Treatment strategies must be strictly individualized. For H. pylori-associated ulcers, newer regimens such as bismuth-based quadruple therapy or Potassium-Competitive Acid Blockers (P-CABs) like Vonoprazan are showing superior efficacy. For drug-related ulcers, discontinuing NSAIDs is the top priority; if their use is mandatory, they must be co-administered with Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) for mucosal protection. Prevention plays a pivotal role through risk stratification, routine prophylactic PPI use, and H. pylori screening and eradication before initiating long-term NSAID or aspirin therapy.

The therapeutic effectiveness of electroacupuncture combined with herbal compress therapy using a thermal effect device in treating lumbar spinal degeneration

Nu Kim Bui — 2026-05-11

Objectives: Lumbar spondylosis is a chronic condition with a gradual progression, characterized by increasing severity, causing pain and spinal deformities, significantly affecting the daily activities and quality of life of patients. Electroacupuncture and herbal compress therapy using thermal effect devices are two methods currently being applied in the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal disorders. However, there has been no research documenting the efficacy of combining these two methods in treating low back pain caused by spondylosis. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the pain-relieving efficacy of electroacupuncture combined with herbal compress therapy using thermal effect devices in patients with lumbar spondylosis.

Materials and methods: The study included 206 patients diagnosed with low back pain due to lumbar spondylosis, divided into two groups: the control group received electroacupuncture combined with therapeutic ultrasound, while the study group was treated with electroacupuncture combined with herbal compress therapy using thermal effect devices over 14 days. This was a prospective, controlled clinical intervention study conducted at Long An Traditional Medicine Hospital, comparing outcomes before and after treatment. The effectiveness was assessed using the VAS scale, Oswestry Disability, and Schober index after 14 days of treatment.

Results: After 14 days of treatment, the proportions of patients in the study group achieving good, fair, and average outcomes were 58.25%, 37.86%, and 3.89%, respectively. In the control group, the corresponding proportions were 33%, 45.63%, and 22.33%. During the treatment process, there were 14 cases of bleeding at the acupuncture sites and 1 case of allergic reaction. No cases of acupuncture syncope or burns were reported.

Conclusion: The method of electroacupuncture combined with herbal compress therapy using thermal effect devices is more effective in treating low back pain caused by lumbar spondylosis compared to electroacupuncture combined with therapeutic ultrasound

Simultaneous determination of mansonone E and mansonone G in the extract of Mansonia gagei J.R.Drumm by HPLC-PDA

Tuyet Thi Anh Le — 2026-04-23

ABSTRACT

Mansonia gagei J.R.Drumm. has long been utilized in traditional medicine and is recognized as a rich source of bioactive natural compounds. Among them, mansonone G and mansonone E are two major constituents strongly associated with diverse pharmacological activities. However, no analytical study to date has reported a validated method for their simultaneous quantification to ensure extract quality. This study aimed to survey the chromatographic conditions and validate the HPLC method in accordance with ICH and AOAC guidelines. The results demonstrated that the Poroshell 120 EC-C18 column (3.0 × 100 mm; 2.7 μm) provided superior separation compared to the Cosmosil 5C18-ARII column (250 × 4.6 mm; 5 μm), achieving retention time of 4.8 min (mansonone E) and 5.2 min (mansonone G) with a resolution of 3.7. The method was validated for specificity, linearity, accuracy, precision, and system suitability. This validated analytical procedure offers a reliable approach for quantifying Mansonia gagei extracts and serves as a foundation for establishing quality standards for herbal formulations derived from this promising species.

Investigation of hypothermia in surgical patients undergoing general anesthesia and factors related to anesthesia

Chau My Mai — 2026-05-07

Objective: Determining the incidence of hypothermia in surgical patients underwent general anesthesia and factors related to hypothermia.

Subjects and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on patients aged >18 years who had an indication for surgery under general anesthesia at Nguyen Tri Phuong Hospital from April 2022 to May 2022 and who consented to participate in the study. The Chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test and linear regression models were used to determine associations between variables. Statistical significance was set at p < 0,05.

Result: A total of 107 patients were included in the study. The male-to-female ratio was nearly equal, and more than 70% of patients were younger than 65 years. The prevalence of malnutrition was 2,8%, while overweight and obesity accounted for 27,1%. Most patients were classified as ASA physical status II or higher (83,2%). The incidence of hypothermia in patients undergoing surgery under general anesthesia was 71%. Among these, mild hypothermia accounted for the highest proportion (59,2%), followed by moderate and severe hypothermia at 25,0% and 15,8%, respectively. Risk factors associated with hypothermia included sex, duration of anesthesia, duration of surgery, and operating room temperature.

Conclusion: The incidence of hypothermia in patients who had surgical indications and underwent general anesthesia is 71%. Attention should be given to patients who are male, have induction time exceeding 2 hours, long surgical duration and have low room temperature.

PREVALENCE OF PRETERM BIRTH AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AT TU DU HOSPITAL IN 2024

Truyen Huu Le — 2026-05-14

Background: Preterm birth has consistently been one of the most critical issues in obstetrics, neonatology and public health. It is associated with substantial neonatal morbidity and mortality and imposes a significant long-term healthcare burden. In Vietnam, few studies have investigated the prevalence and associated factors of preterm birth.

Objectives: To investigate the prevalence of preterm birth and its associated factors at Tu Du Hospital in 2024.

Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Tu Du Hospital from June 2024 to December 2024. Systematic random sampling was used to select pregnant women who delivered at Tu Du Hospital. Data were collected through interviews based on a structured questionnaire. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and a significance level of p<0,05 to identify factors associated with preterm birth.

Results: From June to December 2024, a total of 476 pregnant women participated in the study. The prevalence of preterm birth was 9.5%. Statistically significant factors associated included: standing for more than six consecutive hours per day OR=5,2, 95% CI [1,91–14,17], p=0,001; vaginal bleeding OR=3,15, 95% CI [1,69–5,86], p<0,001; multiple pregnancy OR=27,90, 95% CI [5,04–154,44], p<0,001; cervical length <25mm OR=13,46, 95% CI [2,57–70,55], p=0,002; history of preterm birth OR=6,48, 95% CI [1,85–22,67], p=0,004).

Conclusions: The prevalence of preterm birth was 9.5%. Factors associated with preterm birth included multiple pregnancy, cervical length <25 mm, a history of preterm birth, standing continuously for more than 6 hours per day, and vaginal bleeding. Among these, prolonged standing at work for more than 6 hours per day was significantly associated with an increased risk (OR = 5.2; 95% CI: 1.91–14.17; p = 0.001). This finding adds to domestic epidemiological evidence highlighting the potential impact of occupational working conditions on the risk of preterm birth among pregnant women.

Morphometric and Topographical Study of The inferior gluteal artery in Vietnamese Cadavers

Nam Phuong Tran — 2026-05-26

Objectives: The inferior gluteal artery (IGA) is a principal vascular structure supplying the gluteal region, with significant relevance in reconstructive and pelvic surgery. Despite its clinical importance, population-specific anatomical data in Vietnamese individuals remain limited. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the origin, vertebral levels, morphometric characteristics, and spatial distribution of the IGA in Vietnamese cadavers. Subjects and Methods: A descriptive cadaveric study was conducted on 30 hemipelves obtained from 15 formalin-fixed adult Vietnamese cadavers. Dissections were performed following a standardized anatomical protocol to ensure consistency. Recorded parameters included the arterial origin, vertebral levels of origin and pelvic exit, length, diameter, and spatial coordinates relative to the sacral promontory. Morphometric measurements were obtained using digital calipers and analyzed within a two-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system. Results: The IGA most frequently originated from the anterior division of the internal iliac artery (86.7%), whereas 13.3% arose from the posterior division. The predominant vertebral level of origin was S2–S3 (46.67%), followed by S3–S4 (26.67%). The most common pelvic exit level was S3–S4 (33.33%). The mean arterial length and diameter were 23.99 ± 8.93 mm and 5.22 ± 1.36 mm, respectively. No statistically significant differences were observed between the left and right sides, indicating marked bilateral symmetry. Spatial analysis demonstrated that arterial origins consistently clustered lateral and inferior to the sacral promontory. Conclusions: The IGA in Vietnamese cadavers exhibits a relatively consistent origin, predictable vertebral topography, and high bilateral symmetry. Its spatial relationship to the sacral promontory provides a reliable anatomical landmark for surgical orientation. These findings may contribute to improved preoperative planning and help reduce vascular complications in reconstructive and pelvic surgical procedures.

RESEARCH ON THE CLINICAL AND MICROBIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF PERITONSILLAR ABSCESS AT HO CHI MINH CITY OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY HOSPITAL

Ha Nguyen Anh Thu — 2026-06-03

Objective: To investigate the clinical characteristics, bacterial classification, and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of patients with peritonsillar abscess treated at Ho Chi Minh City Otorhinolaryngology Hospital.

Materials and Methods: A prospective descriptive case-series study was conducted on 61 patients diagnosed with peritonsillar abscess who required incision and drainage. Pus specimens were collected for bacterial culture and antibiotic susceptibility testing at Ho Chi Minh City Otorhinolaryngology Hospital between April 2023 and April 2024.

Results: Male patients predominated (70.5%), with a mean age of 37.7 ± 15.7 years. Odynophagia was the most common clinical symptom (100%). The anterosuperior type was the most frequent presentation (95.1%). The bacterial culture positivity rate was 57.4%, of which Streptococci spp. accounted for the majority (97.1%), followed by Staphylococci spp. (2.9%); no anaerobic bacteria were isolated. Streptococci spp. remained relatively susceptible to penicillin (85.2%) and cefalexin (64.7%), whereas high resistance rates were observed for trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (73.5%), erythromycin (61.8%), and clindamycin (55.9%).

Conclusion: Peritonsillar abscess is predominantly caused by Streptococci spp. Penicillin and cephalosporins remain appropriate empirical antibiotic choices in most cases. These findings provide updated local data to support rational antibiotic selection in the context of increasing antimicrobial resistance in Vietnam.

Preliminary investigation of chemical composition and Screening of in vitro biological activities of Goniothalamus donnaiensis Finet & Gagnep. stem

Hoa Thanh Vo — 2026-06-05

To preliminarily investigate the chemical composition and certain in vitro biological activities of the stem extract of Goniothalamus donnaiensis Finet & Gagnep., an endemic plant species in Vietnam, belonging to the Annonaceae family. The stem were extracted with 96% ethanol and subsequently fractionated using solvents of increasing polarity. Qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of major groups, including alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, terpenoids, and sesquiterpene lactones. Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed using two testing models: proteinase inhibition and erythrocyte membrane stabilization. The extracts exhibited low enzyme inhibitory activity (<50%) in the proteinase inhibition model while the membrane stabilization experiment showed remarkable results, with the ethyl acetate fraction achieving hemolysis inhibition of 86.74% at 100 μg/mL, surpassing ibuprofen at the same concentration. Additionally, the ethanol, n-hexane, and ethyl acetate fractions demonstrated noticeable cytotoxicity against lung cancer (A549) and colorectal cancer (HT29) cell lines, with cell viability rates <10% at 100 μg/mL. These findings suggest that the plant stem is a promising source of bioactive compounds that could be further explored for the development of plant-derived anti-inflammatory and anticancer agents.

The application of polydioxanone thread Implantation in rehabilitating sequelae of idiopathic peripheral facial paralysis: A pilot study

Hoa Khiet-Tieu Lieu — 2026-06-08

Background: Idiopathic peripheral facial paralysis often leads to chronic facial motor deficits in 30% of patients, significantly impacting their quality of life. Current treatment options for the chronic phase are limited. Polydioxanone (PDO) thread embedding has shown promise in improving facial disability in these patients, but evidence is scarce.

Objective: This pilot study aimed to explore the feasibility, preliminary safety, and potential effects of PDO thread embedding on improving facial motor function and disability in patients with chronic idiopathic peripheral facial paralysis.

Methods: In this prospective, single-arm, open-label clinical trial, 33 patients with chronic idiopathic peripheral facial paralysis (≥3 months) and Facial Disability Index (FDI) scores indicating significant impairment completed the study. Patients received weekly PDO thread embedding sessions for 6 weeks, with 10 threads per session. The primary outcome was the change in total FDI scores after 6 weeks. Secondary outcomes included changes in House-Brackmann grading (HB Grade), the proportion of patients achieving clinical improvement, and adverse events.
Results: The intervention was associated with a significant improvement in the mean total FDI score, which increased from 88.30 ± 22.05 at baseline to 155.45 ± 18.39 at endpoint (p < 0.001). Both physical and social-well-being sub-scores improved significantly. Additionally, the proportion of patients classified as House-Brackmann Grade III (moderate) or better increased from 30.3% at baseline to 81.8% at endpoint (p < 0.001). Adverse events were mild and transient.
Conclusion: This pilot study suggests that PDO thread implantation is a feasible and generally safe intervention, demonstrating promising preliminary evidence for improving facial motor function and overall quality of life in patients with chronic peripheral facial paralysis. The results warrant confirmation through larger-scale, randomized controlled trials.

Level and factors associated with caregiving preparedness and sense of competence among family caregivers of stroke patients at Cho Ray Hospital

Nhan Trong Nguyen — 2026-06-08

Introduction: Readiness and awareness of caregiving capacity among caregivers, who are family members, play a crucial role in the care and support of stroke patients. Lack of preparation and inadequate perception of caregiving capacity often increase physical, psychological, and social burdens, whereas adequate readiness and proper awareness enhance the effectiveness and confidence in performing caregiving roles. Objectives: To determine the median scores of caregiving preparedness, perceived caregiving competence, and the associated factors among family caregivers of stroke patients treated at Cho Ray Hospital. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study with analytical components was conducted on 180 caregivers living with stroke patients admitted to the Neurology Department of Cho Ray Hospital. Data were collected via structured interviews from January to April 2025. Results: The median caregivers’ score was 43.5 years (range: 36.5-51.0), 68.2% were female, and 59.4% had an educational level of lower secondary school or below. The median caregiving preparedness score was 25.0 (range: 16.0-32.0), and the median perceived caregiving competence score was 88.0 (range: 82.0–97.0). Education level, income, religion, employment status, relationship to the patient, prior caregiving training, and caregiving rotation time were significantly associated with caregiving preparedness (p < 0.05). Additionally, religion, employment status, caregiving training, and caregiving rotation time were significantly associated with perceived caregiving competence (p < 0.05). Additionally, religion, employment status, caregiving training, and frequency of caregiving shifts were significantly related to caregiving capacity awareness (p< 0.05). Conclusions: Caregiver readiness and awareness of caregiving capacity were at moderate levels. Education, religion, employment status, and caregiving shift frequency were significantly correlated with both readiness and caregiving capacity awareness. Notably, nurses should prioritize guidance and counseling on caregiving methods and patient support to enhance caregivers’ readiness, awareness, and confidence.

CORRELATION BETWEEN ORAL GLUCOSE TOLERANCE TEST RESULTS AND MATERNAL-NEONATAL OUTCOMES IN PREGNANT WOMEN WITH GESTATIONAL DIABETES MELLITUS AT THAI BINH OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY HOSPITAL IN 2023

Do Thi Kim Chi — 2026-06-09

Introduction: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common pregnancy complication that is increasing globally and can cause many adverse outcomes for both mother and baby.

Objective: Describe the characteristics and scientific results of pregnant women undergoing gestational diabetes mellitus (DM); investigate the association between oral glucose tolerance test results and maternal and neonatal pregnancy outcomes among pregnant women with GDM at Thai Binh Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital in 2023.

Methods: The study was designed as a cross-sectional study using retrospective data and was conducted on 168 pregnant women with GDM diagnosed from January to December 2023. The pregnant women were diagnosed with GDM according to WHO criteria and underwent an oral glucose tolerance test at 24–28 weeks of gestation.

Results: The average age of pregnant women was 32.4 ± 6.4 years, with approximately 20.8% having a history of miscarriage or stillbirth and 14.9% having given birth to a large baby. Common obstetric complications included preterm birth (10.71%), polyhydramnios (8.93%), and hypertension or preeclampsia (1.79% each). For the fetus, adverse outcomes included neonatal hospitalization (4.16%), macrosomia (11.66%), microsomia (3.68%), and stillbirth (0.6%).

Conclusion: Glycemic thresholds at diagnosis during the oral glucose tolerance testplay a crucial role in predicting the risk of fetal complications, particularly macrosomia.

KNOWLEDGE AND HAND HYGIENE PRACTICES FOR THE PREVENTION OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES AMONG PRIMARY HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN LAM DONG PROVINCE

Chau My Mai — 2026-06-09

Objective: To determine the proportion of primary healthcare workers in Lam Dong province with correct knowledge and proper hand hygiene practices for preventing infectious diseases in medical care, as well as related factors.

Subjects and methods: The study sampled healthcare workers from medical centers and commune health stations in Bao Loc City, Bao Lam District and Di Linh District who were engaged in clinical work and present at the time of the study. The study was conducted from February 2021 to June 2021, with participants who consented to join the research.

Results: The percentage of correct knowledge regarding the five moments of hand hygiene ranged from 48,88% to 80,34% across different moments. Specifically, knowledge of the six-step hand hygiene technique was 45,51%, knowledge of disinfectant agents was 84,83%, and the ability to differentiate between hand hygiene and glove use was 66,29%. The proportion of healthcare workers who correctly performed hand hygiene at all five moments was 70,94%. Factors associated with knowledge included gender, age group, and education level. Meanwhile, factors influencing hand hygiene behavior included occupation, and participation in hand hygiene training programs.

Conclusion: Among healthcare workers, 23,03% had good knowledge, while 76,97% demonstrated moderate knowledge. The proportion of healthcare workers who correctly performed hand hygiene across all five moments was 70,94%, with the highest compliance at Moment 3 ("After exposure to patient body fluids") at 93,82%, and the lowest at Moment 1 ("Before patient contact") at 78,09%.