Do severity and comorbidity predict episode duration and recurrence of DSM-IV major depressive disorder?
The course of MDD in modern psychiatric settings remains unfavorable. Any estimates of duration of depressive episodes and rates of recurrence are likely to be dependent on the severity of depression and level of comorbidity. At least among a population of mostly outpatients with MDD in medium-term follow-up, severity of depression and comorbidity appear to be more useful predictors of recurrence than does the number of prior episodes. These factors should influence clinical decision-making regarding the need for maintenance therapy.
The majority of TORS patients resume oral intake by 6 weeks. This study shows that impaired swallowing prior to surgery correlates with post-operative duration of tube feeding and strengthens the evidence for the utility of these measures in this clinical setting.