Eur J Trauma Emerg S
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Dec 2013
Computerized dynamic posturography analysis of balance in individuals with a shoulder stabilization sling.
Sling immobilization of the upper limb may affect balance. Computerized dynamic posturography (CDP) provides a validated, objective assessment of balance control and postural stability under dynamic test conditions. We tested the balance of individuals with a shoulder stabilization sling (SSS) using an EquiTest machine to objectively assess imbalance while wearing a sling. ⋯ Wearing a sling causes balance decompensation in almost one-third of healthy volunteers, and this is greater when worn in the non dominant hand, with double the number of falls. This has significant implications for patients having prolonged use of a sling. Consideration should be given to operative procedures or conservative management of shoulder pathology where sling use is required and promotion of the early discontinuation of sling use can be considered.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Dec 2013
Deep venous thrombosis following different isolated lower extremity fractures: what is known about prevalences, locations, risk factors and prophylaxis?
Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) offers a high risk of morbidity and mortality, especially in case of pulmonary embolism. Precise data as to DVT after isolated lower extremity fractures (ILEFs) are rare. Even organizations like the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons or the American College of Chest Physicians do not state exact recommendations as to optimal DVT prophylaxis (ppx) after ILEFs. ⋯ The rate of morbidity caused by DVT after ILEF is poorly understood so far. Exact data on prevalences are missing and optimal DVT prophylaxis still has to be defined.
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The impact of anemia and restrictive transfusion strategies in traumatic brain injury (TBI) is unclear. The purpose of this study was to examine the outcome of varying degrees of anemia in patients who have sustained a TBI. ⋯ The presence of anemia in patients with TBI as low as 8 g/dl was not associated with increased mortality or complications, while the transfusion of red blood cells was associated with a significant increase in septic complications. Prospective evaluation of an optimal transfusion trigger in head-injured patients is warranted.