VOLUME

The Editors of the 4th Edition of the Bangkok Medical Journal are pleased to offer readers another rich smorgasbord of diverse articles from our own doctor-authors as well as guest authors. Pediatric Syncope is looked at from both a neurological and cardiological perspective. Dr. Montri’s respective review of 126 children explores etiologies and considers the usefulness of using EEG in determining fainting caused by epilepsy. Dr. Apichai’s CME article reminds us that syncope may sometimes be the first presentation of a serious cardiac pathology, and details the conditions as well as the indications for investigative work ups. Another cardiac offering, a case report by Dr. Kumpanart highlights the importance of exercise and dietary control in secondary CAD prevention.

The Bangkok Spine Academy presents new follow up data. Preliminary reports on 12 patients who underwent Direct Lateral Interbody Fusion this year are encouraging. The study used patient questionnaires and it can be argued that this kind of patient involvement in their own treatment encourages medical compliance as well as facilitating better communication with physicians.

In line with thinking about how we convey information and different modes of communication, prospective contributors who are non-native English speaking (NNES) writers will find help offered by medical discourse expert Dr. Naruemol who in this issue looks at reporting verbs used in international medical journals.

Our current CEO and Group Vice President, Dr. Chatree, records what we have learned during our recent five year quality development program in Patient Safety and Risk Management. This article highlights to us how far we have come from the initial difficult early days of the hospital: a founding member and ex-Chairman of the Board, Professor Sanoe Indrasukhsri gives a poignant reminiscence about the struggles to establish the hospital 41 years ago. Similarly the history of the AO foundation in Thailand shows the dedication of those who worked to facilitate the transfer of knowledge, instrumentation and best practices of orthopedic surgery in Thailand and Asia up to International standards. 

In addition we have investigations into enhanced cancer detection in breast imaging, and a history of ceramic on ceramic bearings used in hip replacements. There is also an interesting introduction to Evidence Based Practice, the idea of which first appeared in medicine but which is now extending beyond to public policy.

And so, without further ado, find a comfortable seat, and read on. Bon appetite!

Chirotchana Suchato, MD

Editorial in Chief

Rergchai Varatorn, MD

Co-Editor