Eur J Trauma Emerg S
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Feb 2011
Acute ischemia of the lower limb after injury by gunshot: case report and review of literature.
Civilian and military vascular trauma has evolved dramatically. It is estimated that 80% of all cases of vascular injuries are due to peripheral vascular trauma, most involving the lower extremities. Arterial below-knee injuries by gunshot still remain a challenge, with an associated rate of amputation of 20-54%. ⋯ This case report shows the importance of an adequate team approach for treatment of a gunshot extremity injury with vascular lesion. The authors want to highlight the scientific background evidence and the value of comparing worldwide civilian trauma center outcomes, mostly reported previously from the military field.
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The objective of this study was to identify and review literature relevant to the medical response to the 921 earthquake in order to analyse Taiwan's immediate and long-term management of the medical issues arising from the disaster. ⋯ Taiwan was unprepared for a disaster of the magnitude of the 921 earthquake. The government has since taken initiatives to ensure Taiwan is better prepared for any future large scale disaster, including the establishment of the National Institute for Disaster Management. There is a paucity of literature on the medical response to the disaster. Only one new paper of relevance to the topic has been listed on Pubmed or Google Scholar in recent years.
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The purpose of this study was to analyze the epidemiology and outcomes after traumatic amputation of the upper (UEA) and lower (LEA) extremities. ⋯ Traumatic limb amputation is a rare consequence of civilian trauma. Amputation is rarely the primary cause of death; however, these devastating injuries are associated with significant intensive care unit and hospital lengths of stay. Although no mortality difference was detected, when compared with patients with upper extremity amputations, patients with lower extremity amputations were more severely injured, required revision extremity surgery more often, had a higher complication rate, and more frequently required discharge to a long-term facility.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Feb 2011
Diagnostic and therapeutic aspects in the treatment of gunshot wounds of the viscerocranium.
Gunshot wounds of the viscerocranium are a rare occurrence during times of peace in Europe. The removal of projectiles is recommended; in some cases, however, this is controversial. The material properties of projectiles and destruction of anatomical landmarks make it difficult to determine their precise location. ⋯ In conclusion, there is a significant correlation between reduced intra- and postoperative complications including wound infections, nerve damage and major bleeding and the appropriate use of a navigation system. In all these cases we were able to present reduced operating time. Cone-beam CT plays a key role as a useful diagnostic tool in detecting projectiles or metallic foreign bodies intraoperatively.