Injury
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Firearms are of special interest in trauma research due to high lethality and criminal value. Strong correlation between guns per capita and fire-arm related deaths has been shown. Most of existing literature regarding gun-shot fatalities are from the U.S. and data for Central Europe is lacking. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the legal frameworks regarding gun-ownership in Germany (DE), Austria (A) and Switzerland (CH), and to retrospectively analyze data from the TraumaRegister DGU® regarding the epidemiology, injury severity, intention and outcome of gunshot-related deaths in these countries. ⋯ Gunshot wounds are still rare in central Europe, but gunshot-related suicide rates are high. Gun ownership laws may have an impact on gunshot wounds due to suspected suicide. Injury patterns differ compared to countries where a high incidence of gun ownership is seen.
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There is no clear consensus on whether total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) or hemiarthroplasty (HA) is superior for treating distal humerus fractures in the elderly. This study analysed the functional outcomes and re-operation rates following TEA and HA for intra-articular distal humerus fractures in patients aged ≥65 years. ⋯ HA provides better functional outcomes compared to TEA in the treatment of distal humerus fractures in the elderly. Data is limited by selection bias and low patient numbers with a multicentre randomised controlled trial warranted.
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The clinical effects of artificial dermis in treating skin and soft tissue defects accompanied by bone or tendon exposure were assessed. ⋯ Artificial dermis treatment is considered a safe and effective alternative therapy for patients with skin and soft tissue defects accompanied by bone or tendon exposure who cannot tolerate or are unwilling to undergo autologous skin flap transplantation. It offers the advantages of minimal donor site trauma, simplicity in operation, and favorable postoperative functional recovery.
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The sustentaculum tali is a biomechanically important stabilizer of the hindfoot and contributes to articular congruency of the subtalar joint. Sustentaculum injury associated with a talus fracture has been described infrequently and treatment of this combined injury varies. The purpose of this study was to describe and evaluate the outcomes of the combined talus and sustentaculum fracture. ⋯ IV.
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The increase in life expectancy in the general population has led to a rise in the use of hip arthroplasties and consequently, to an increase in the incidence of periprosthetic hip fractures (PPHF). The impact of this type of fracture on patients necessitates a personalized approach to treatment, whether surgical or non-operative, taking into account the trajectory and associated comorbidities. ⋯ Therapeutic Level IV (Case Series).