Tuesday, 6 February 2024

Assessing The Factors Impacting COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake and Immunization

Assessing The Factors Impacting COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake and Immunization

The coverage of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) immunization uptake has been impacted by the
acceptance of regular vaccine uptake and, like many other vaccination attempts in the past, it also faces
issues of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. Through this study, we hoped to assess the conspiracy theories and beliefs attached to the COVID-19 vaccination efforts in Pakistan.



Methods



This study was conducted among the general population of Pakistan, aged 16 and above, from April 29 to May 29, 2021. The data was collected through English and Urdu questionnaires by a method of convenient sampling. A total of 600 participants were asked to fill in 34 questions pertaining to vaccine hesitancy and conspiracies. We used the Modified Kuppuswamy Socioeconomic Scale, Kuppuswamy Socioeconomic Scale, Conspiracy Mentality Questionnaire (CMQ), and Vaccine Conspiracy Belief Scale (VCBS) as our questions. Results A total of 591 participants responded to our questionnaire. The majority were females (56.7%), had an undergraduate degree (41.5%), and belonged to the upper middle socioeconomic class (40%). Factors like occupation (p=0.001), education (p=0.001), socioeconomic status (p#covid19vaccinehesitancy


https://drakbarabbas.com/assessing-the-factors-impacting-covid-19-vaccine-uptake-and-immunization/

Professional Video - Endoscopic Inverted Papilloma of Nose and Paranasal sinuses

Professional Video - Endoscopic Inverted Papilloma of Nose and Paranasal sinuses

https://drakbarabbas.com/professional-video-endoscopic-inverted-papilloma-of-nose-and-paranasal-sinuses/

Monday, 5 February 2024

Farhan's Symphony-From Silence to Classroom Maestro

Farhan's Symphony-From Silence to Classroom Maestro
Farhan's Symphony-From Silence to Classroom Maestro

Farhan's Symphony: From Silent World to Schoolroom Maestro, and Beyond



In the vibrant tapestry of Karachi, where the salty tang of the Arabian Sea mingles with the lively melody of Pushto chatter, Farhan's story unfolds. Born into a close-knit family, his arrival was met with muted joy. He came into this world as a silent observer, his ears cloaked in an impenetrable quiet, his voice trapped within. Deaf and mute, Farhan navigated a world painted in hushed tones, an outsider in the cacophony of life.



Yet, Farhan's spirit bloomed like a tenacious wildflower in the cracks of silence. His eyes, like twin pools of curiosity, reflected an unyielding thirst for connection. Then, a beacon of hope appeared in the form of Dr. Akbar Abbas, a renowned ENT surgeon in Karachi. With the touch of a skilled maestro, Dr. Abbas orchestrated a life-changing symphony for Farhan. Four years ago, a delicate cochlear implant surgery gifted him the precious gift of sound.



For the first time, the world unveiled its hidden music. Birdsong, laughter, the rustle of leaves – a kaleidoscope of melodies flooded Farhan's senses. Words, no longer elusive phantoms, became tangible building blocks with which he constructed his own language.



Fueled by an insatiable appetite for knowledge, Farhan embraced the world of regular schooling. His journey wasn't without its challenges. But, armed with unwavering determination and the unwavering support of his family and teachers, he soared above every hurdle. The once silent boy blossomed into a bright student, his thirst for learning as endless as the Arabian Sea.



Today, Farhan stands at the head of a remarkable class – a second-grade voluntary teacher in a Karachi school. The irony is not lost on anyone. The boy who once inhabited a silent world now guides young minds through the labyrinth of language, his voice a testament to the indomitable power of human spirit.



https://youtu.be/hq4nRccUD9M

From Silence to Classroom Maestro

His classroom is a symphony of discovery. His eyes, once windows to a silent world, now sparkle with the joy of shared learning. He speaks, he tells stories that paint vivid pictures in the minds of his young pupils. He is not just a teacher; he is a symbol of hope, possibilities and courage, contributing to the world he once could only dream of.



But Farhan's story is only a fragment in a larger, ongoing melody. His journey resonates with the countless newborns who arrive in this world shrouded in silence. Cochlear implants, once a distant medical marvel, are now, thanks to doctors like Dr. Akbar Abbas, transforming lives. At Aga Khan Hospital, Dr. Akbar Abbas leads a team of experts who dedicate their lives to weaving sound into the tapestry of deafness, offering hope and opportunity where silence once reigned.



For Dr. Akbar Abbas, it's a calling that transcends the technical brilliance of surgery. He sees in each tiny face the potential for a symphony unsung, a world waiting to be experienced through the prism of sound. His mission is not simply to implant a device, but to ignite a spark, to open a door to a world overflowing with laughter, music, and the comforting cadence of human connection. He witnesses firsthand the transformation, the hesitant first steps into sound, the hesitant babbles that blossom into vibrant language, the spark of curiosity igniting in previously vacant eyes.



The journey isn't always smooth. Early diagnosis and access to technology remain crucial hurdles. But Dr. Akbar Abbas and his team tirelessly break down these barriers, advocating for early screening and accessibility, working tirelessly to ensure that every child, like Farhan, gets a chance to dance to the music of life. Their efforts transcend the sterile confines of the operating room, extending into communities, raising awareness, and building a chorus of support for these silent souls.



In the years to come, Dr. Akbar Abbas hopes to expand his reach, to share his expertise and knowledge, to weave a network of hope that spans the boundaries of Pakistan and beyond, reaching out to every corner where a silent child waits to hear the world. His tireless dedication is a testament to the transformative power of medicine, a beacon of hope for those who navigate the world in shades of silence, a melody of compassion that promises a symphony of possibilities for generations to come.



So, the next time you hear the laughter of children echoing through the streets of Karachi, remember Farhan, the boy who danced from silence to song, his life a testament to the fact that even the most muted soul can compose a symphony of hope. And remember Dr. Akbar Abbas, the maestro who conducted his journey, and countless others like him, who strive to ensure that every child, born into the quietness, gets a chance to hear the beautiful music of the world.



The surgery was performed by Dr Akbar Abbas who is one of the best ENT specialist in Karachi, Pakistan. He specializes in otolaryngology, cochlear implants, ear surgery and is one of the few experts on pituitary and head and neck cancer surgery in Pakistan. Presently serving at Aga Khan University Hospital.



#otolaryngology #cochlearimplant #deafness #deafnessinnewborns #headndneckcancer #earsurgery #pituitarysurgery #endoscopicsiunssurgery #EARNOSETHROAT #ENT #Cochlear implants in Pakistan #Cochlear implant in Karachi, #Best cochlear implant surgeon #Cochlear implant surgeon in Aga Khan Hospital #Skull base surgeon #Thyroid surgeon #pituitary gland surgeon #Ear surgeon #parotid tumors #best cochlear implant surgeon at Aga khan hospital
https://drakbarabbas.com/farhans-symphony-from-silence-to-classroom-maestro/

Bugs Bunny in Operating Room Now!

Bugs Bunny in Operating Room Now!
Bugs Bunny in Operating Room Now!

Bugs Bunny was brought in Dr Akbar's operating room, as the patient wanted to be entertained before anesthesia kicks in :)




The Looney Tunes in the Operating Room:



Setting the scene: Dr. Akbar's operating room hums with quiet preparation. Instruments gleam under sterile lights, and the air carries a faint antiseptic scent. Young eyes, wide with nervous anticipation, peek from beneath a starched green cover. The boy, barely past kindergarten age, clutches a toy car, knuckles white.



Enter Bugs Bunny: Recognizing the child's apprehension, Dr. Akbar, a man with a kind smile and an even kinder heart, decides to make the pre-surgery moments a little less daunting. His eyes twinkle as he instructs the nurse, "Turn on the television. Channel 3... it's cartoon time!"



Laughter is the best medicine: As the screen flickers to life, a familiar tune fills the room - the unmistakable theme of "Looney Tunes!" The boy's eyes widen, a spark of delight replacing the fear. On the screen, Bugs Bunny, with his carrot and his trademark "Eh, what's up Doc?" demeanor, leaps into action.



The anxiety takes flight: The boy is captivated. He forgets the sterile walls, the looming machines, the impending procedure. He's transported to a world of carrot chomping, ACME rocket mishaps, and "That's all, folks!" pronouncements. With each slapstick gag, a giggle escapes his lips. The grip on his toy car loosens.



https://www.youtube.com/shorts/3gc69LkcFts?feature=share

bugs bunny in operating room


More than just a distraction: Dr. Akbar, watching the scene unfold, knows the value of this moment. Laughter isn't just a diversion; it's a physiological marvel. It relaxes muscles, lowers blood pressure, and releases endorphins - potent natural painkillers. In this operating room, Bugs Bunny isn't just a cartoon rabbit; he's a furry therapist, a stress reliever, a friend who chases away the shadows of fear.



A successful operation: As the anesthesia takes effect, the boy drifts off, a faint smile playing on his lips. The memory of Bugs Bunny's antics will linger, a comforting antidote to the anxieties of surgery.



Dr. Akbar's legacy: This is just one story among many. Over the years, Dr. Akbar has turned his operating room into a stage for cartoon magic, transforming pre-surgery jitters into giggles and grins. He understands that healing involves more than just scalpels and stitches; it requires a touch of kindness, a dash of humor, and sometimes, a rabbit with a very big appetite for carrots.



This scene, brief as it may be, paints a heartwarming picture of how the simplest acts of empathy and compassion can make a world of difference, even in the sterile environment of an operating room. It reminds us that laughter, like hope, can bloom even in the most unexpected places.

#otolaryngology #cochlearimplant #deafness #deafnessinnewborns #headndneckcancer #earsurgery #pituitarysurgery #endoscopicsiunssurgery #EARNOSETHROAT #ENT #Cochlear implants in Pakistan #Cochlear implant in Karachi, #Best cochlear implant surgeon #Cochlear implant surgeon in Aga Khan Hospital #Skull base surgeon #Thyroid surgeon #pituitary gland surgeon #Ear surgeon #parotid tumors #best cochlear implant surgeon at Aga khan hospital
https://drakbarabbas.com/bugs-bunny-in-operating-room-now/

Professional surgery video on Nucleus 522 Cochlear Implant on a Two Year Old

Professional surgery video on Nucleus 522 Cochlear Implant on a Two Year Old
Professional surgery video on Nucleus 522 Cochlear Implant on a Two Year Old

Cochlear Implant on a Two Year Old Muhammed



Hello everyone, and welcome to this Nucleus 522 Cochlear Implant surgical video. I'm Dr. Akbar Abbas, and today, I'll be guiding you through a cochlear implant procedure on a very special patient, 2-year-old Mohammad. Mohammad was born with profound hearing loss, and this surgery will offer him the exciting possibility of experiencing the world of sound.



https://youtu.be/7t_EK0b7Fes

The Challenge and the Solution:



As you know, profound hearing loss can significantly impact a child's development and communication. Cochlear implants offer a remarkable solution by bypassing damaged inner ear structures and directly stimulating the auditory nerve. In this case, we'll be using the advanced Cochlear Nucleus 522 device.



Using the advanced Cochlear Nucleus 522 device, I employed a standard post-aural approach, carefully dissecting the layers to reveal the underlying temporal bone. A meticulous dissection under the temporalis muscle created a snug pocket for the receiver stimulator, ensuring its long-term stability.



Next, a cortical mastoidectomy exposed the intricate anatomy of the middle ear. With a keen eye, I identified the short process of the incus, a crucial landmark for accessing the round window. Employing a 2mm burr, I carefully created an enlarged facial recess, granting optimal visualization and access to this delicate structure.



The stapedius tendon, responsible for fine-tuning middle ear acoustics, was meticulously preserved. Next, I meticulously drilled the upper lip of the round window, maximizing exposure of the window membrane. Utilizing a specialized pick, I atraumatically opened the membrane, creating an extended opening to minimize cochlear trauma upon electrode insertion.



With steady hands and precise movements, I gently guided the electrode into the scala tympani, ensuring full insertion and optimal neural stimulation. The ground electrode was securely placed beneath the temporalis muscle, completing the electrical circuit.



Finally, I meticulously secured the electrode within the cavity and meticulously closed the surgical site in two layers, utilizing only absorbable sutures beneath the skin to minimize infection risk. A secure head bandage was applied for 24 hours, and Mohammad was comfortably discharged just three hours post-surgery.



The following week, a course of oral antibiotics ensured a smooth recovery. More importantly, Mohammad embarked on a journey of auditory discovery, his brain awakening to the world of sound.



This young conductor now has the instruments to create his own symphony of experiences, guided by the beautiful melodies of life. Each successful cochlear implant surgery reminds me of the profound impact we can have on individuals and their families, restoring not just hearing, but opportunities, connections, and a richer tapestry of life.



This case represents more than just a technical procedure; it's a testament to the collaborative efforts of our entire team, the cutting-edge technology, and the unwavering hope we share in empowering individuals like Mohammad to reach their full potential.



The Hopeful Outcome:



This surgery represents a significant step forward for Mohammad. With successful healing and rehabilitation, he will embark on a journey of discovering the world of sound, opening doors to communication, learning, and social interaction.



Thank you for joining me on this journey. Cochlear implant surgery is a complex yet rewarding procedure, and I'm honored to be a part of Mohammad's story. Remember, this video is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice.



This is an educational video for students and patients for making informed decisions about their own and others health. The surgery was performed by Dr Akbar Abbas who is one of the best ENT specialist in Karachi, Pakistan. He specializes in otolaryngology, cochlear implants, ear surgery and is one of the few experts on pituitary and head and neck cancer surgery in Pakistan. Presently serving at Aga Khan University Hospital.

#otolaryngology #cochlearimplant #deafness #deafnessinnewborns #headndneckcancer #earsurgery #pituitarysurgery #endoscopicsiunssurgery #EARNOSETHROAT #ENT #Cochlear implants in Pakistan #Cochlear implant in Karachi, #Best cochlear implant surgeon #Cochlear implant surgeon in Aga Khan Hospital #Skull base surgeon #Thyroid surgeon #pituitary gland surgeon #Ear surgeon #parotid tumors #best cochlear implant surgeon at Aga khan hospital
https://drakbarabbas.com/professional-surgery-video-on-nucleus-522-cochlear-implant-on-a-two-year-old/

Professional Video on Tackling Meningitis/Brain Abscess in Bilateral Cholesteatoma

Professional Video on Tackling Meningitis/Brain Abscess in Bilateral Cholesteatoma

https://drakbarabbas.com/meningitis-brain-abscess-in-bilateral-cholesteatoma/

Sunday, 4 February 2024

Rural Pediatric Health Systems Assessment

Rural Pediatric Health Systems Assessment

Rural pediatric health systems: Assessment of pediatric surgical needs, health-seeking behaviors, and health systems in a rural district of Pakistan



Surgical conditions are responsible for up to 15% of total Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALY) lost globally. Approximately 4.8 billion people have no access to surgical care and this studies aim is to assess the surgical disease burden in children under the age of five years. We used Surgeons OverSeas Assessment of Surgical Need (SOSAS) and Pediatric Personnel, Infrastructure, Procedures, Equipment, and Supplies (PediPIPES) survey tools in Tando Mohammad Khan (TMK).



Assessment_of_pediatric_surgical_needs_health-seek

A set of photographs of lesions were also taken for review by experts. All the data was recorded electronically via an android application. The current surgical need was defined as the caregiver’s reported surgical problems in their children. The unmet surgical need was defined as a surgical problem for which the respondent did not access care.



Descriptive analysis was performed. Information of 6,371 children was collected. The study identified 1,794 children with 3,072 surgical lesions. Categorization of the lesions by the six body regions suggested that head and neck accounted for the greatest number of lesions (55.2%). And the most significant unmet surgical need (16.6%). The chest region had the least unmet surgical need of 5.9%. A large percentage of the lesions were managed at a health care facility, but the treatment essentially consisted of mainly medical management (87%), and surgical treatment was provided for only 11% of lesions.



The pediatric health systems assessment suggested that trained personnel including surgeons, anesthetic, or trained nurses were only available at one hospital. Basic procedures such as suturing and wound debridement were only performed frequently. This study suggests a high rate of unmet surgical need and a paucity of trained health staff and resources in this rural setting of Pakistan.

#pediatrichealthsystemsinruralareasofPakistan
https://drakbarabbas.com/assessment-of-pediatric-health-systems-in-rural-district/

Professional Video on Allergic Fungal Sinusitis and Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

Professional Video on Allergic Fungal Sinusitis and Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

https://drakbarabbas.com/endoscopic-sinus-surgery-for-allergic-fungal-sinusitis/

Professional Video on Stapedotomy Surgery for Otosclerosis

https://drakbarabbas.com/stapedotomy-for-otosclerosis-by-dr-syed-akbar-abbas-ent-head-neck-and-cochlear-implant-surgeon/