Eur J Trauma Emerg S
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Dec 2012
Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis for distal radius fractures with a palmar locking plate.
Since 2006, we have been performing minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis with a palmar locking plate and without division of the pronator quadratus muscle for repairing distal radial fractures. The purpose of this study was to present the surgical technique we have developed and to retrospectively evaluate the clinical outcomes. ⋯ The small skin incisions of this technique are advantageous from the aesthetic viewpoint. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis is one of the options for the treatment of distal radial fractures.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Dec 2012
Clinical outcomes following invasive versus noninvasive preoperative stabilization of closed diaphyseal femur fractures.
The use of invasive traction (INV-T) to stabilize femur fractures prior to fixation (open reduction and internal fixation, ORIF) remains controversial. Some centers have utilized noninvasive traction (NINV-T) or splinting preoperatively. It is possible that INV-T decreases hemorrhage. However, the use of INV-T in pediatric patients and for femoral neck fractures in adults is associated with worsened outcomes. We hypothesized that there is no difference in the need for transfusion between those who receive INV-T and NINV-T. ⋯ INV-T is not associated with improved outcomes in adult patients with closed mid-shaft femoral fractures who are operated upon within 48 h of arrival.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Dec 2012
Invasive and surgical procedures in pre-hospital care: what is the need?
On occasion, advanced invasive procedures in pre-hospital care can be life saving. This study aimed to identify the contemporary use of these procedures on a regional doctor-led air ambulance unit, and to define the need, skill set and training requirements for a regional pre-hospital team in the UK. ⋯ A steady increase in the number of procedures was observed over time. Less invasive methods of airway and breathing support were frequently inadequate, though definitive surgical airway or chest decompression was effective each time it was performed. Thoracotomy was performed infrequently. There are implications for the training of pre-hospital doctors who work in the majority of the UK.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Dec 2012
Predictors of early outcome after acute appendicitis: is delaying surgery for acute appendicitis an option? A retrospective study.
This study analysed the clinical and para-clinical criteria that may allow surgeons and emergency physicians to take a decision regarding the surgery of acute appendicitis. ⋯ Patient delay is a determining factor for the grade of appendicitis. It has an influence on the complications, length of hospital stay and duration of antibiotic treatment, unlike hospital delay.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Dec 2012
The epidemiology of amputation injuries in the Austrian helicopter emergency medical service: a retrospective, nationwide cohort study.
Data on the epidemiological characteristics of traumatic amputations in prehospital emergency care, especially in the context of air rescue, are scarce. Therefore, we aimed to describe the epidemiology of total and subtotal amputation injuries encountered by the OEAMTC helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) in Austria, based on an almost nationwide sample. ⋯ In the HEMS, amputation injuries are infrequent and mostly not life-threatening. However, HEMS crews need to maintain their focus on providing sufficient and fast primary care while facilitating rapid transport to a specialized hospital. The knowledge of the epidemiological characteristics of amputation injuries encountered in the HEMS gained in this study may be useful for educational and operational purposes.