​​​Star of Excellence

Innovative Game-based Exercise during Dialysis



There is a high prevalence of diabetes in Qatar with nearly 23% population suffering from the pandemic, increasing the associated healthcare cost. Low compliance with exercise in patients with diabetes increases foot risk complications especially in dialysis patients. Exercise interventions have been shown to improve mobility and balance, reduce the incidence of falls, and improve peripheral blood flow, which is essential for reducing foot problems and peripheral arterial disease. This is a randomized control trial in which over 80 eligible HD patients were recruited to examine the effectiveness of an innovative game-based interactive exercise program using wearable devices during HD sessions. 

Results showed that the exercise system proposed in this research is feasible and practical among patients with diabetes undergoing dialysis. It is effective for improving gait and the postural balance of these patients. It is also able to improve their mobility and daily physical activity.
 

​​​Rising Star

Rising Star: A Research Simulator Model for Maximal Output CPR



The “Research Simulator CPR model” is an important step in the effort to improve the COP during CPR. Its unique, interconnected-multi-compartment design, with each compartment containing physiological fluid volume depicts normal human circulatory compartments. The outlet of the central, cardiac compartment could be measured objectively and precisely (the COP).  Thus, we can simulate the efficacy – the cardiac output – produced by various CPR techniques and their combinations, under different clinical states.

This innovation should open the gates of a multitude of animal and clinical studies that would ultimately conclude the discussion as to the best possible CPR method for maximal COP and hence better prognosis with resuscitation after cardiac arrest. Usage of a homegrown device designed for the safety and improved outcome of patients would inculcate consumer confidence in the services and capabilities of HMC.

 

​​​Awards of Merit

Troponin Inconsistency in Acute Kidney Injury



The value of cardiac troponin as a risk assessment tool for cardiac disease in the setting of end-stage renal diseases (ESRD) is not equivalent to its value in those with normal renal function. This consideration had not been studied in settings of acute kidney injury (AKI). 

Utilization of biomarkers in clinical practice is gaining a lot of interest. Identifying these groups of patients who have acute kidney injury associated high enzymatic changes in this context could lead to early proper intervention and hence better outcomes after cardiac surgery, cardiology and emergency departments.
Care delivery could be improved with early diagnosis of PMI where proper intervention could save lives, however the diagnosis could be affected if patients develop acute kidney injury that is frequent after cardiac surgeries. Attempt to investigate the reason of high levels of HsTnT as it is not usually a benign condition and may denote myocardial injury or AKI. 

 

Adrenal Insufficiency in the Elderly Qataris



This research work was carried out by researchers at the HGH Medical Ward in collaboration with the Endocrinology Division. A retrospective review of electronic Cerner and medical records data of individuals was used to identify the study population that reported on the prevalence of AI in cohorts of at least 117 patients living in Qatar from 2004 to 2014 in elderly > 65 years. The prevalence of adrenal insufficiency is between 34.47% and 52.71% which is a significant number.

The findings from our study show clear guidance for suspecting a life-threatening disease in the elderly that is adrenal insufficiency which is preventable by early diagnosis and intervention. It significantly affects the quality and life expectancy of the elderly patient resulting in morbidity and mortality. 

This collaborative effort has highlighted how it is possible to bring together multiple disciplines and professionals within HMC and international research consultants from the UK (University of College of London) to deliver clinical translational research and establish a firm foundation to develop new clinical research projects.