J Trauma
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The changing profiles of spinal cord injuries in South Africa are addressed in this study. ⋯ Gunshots carry a heavier prognosis. Only 32% of our gunshot cases underwent a significant recovery as opposed to 61% of stab cases and 44% of the motor vehicle crash victims.
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Comparative Study
Comparison of high-field magnetic resonance imaging with computed tomography in the evaluation of blunt renal trauma.
To compare magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and computed tomography (CT) in radiographic staging of blunt renal trauma. ⋯ Although CT remains the method of choice in radiographic staging of renal injury, MR imaging can complement CT in patients with severe renal injury, pre-existing renal abnormality, equivocal CT findings, or when repeated radiographic follow-up is required. MR imaging could replace CT in patients with iodine allergy and be used for initial staging if CT is not available.
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To investigate the effects of inhaled nitric oxide (NO) in adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) associated with a therapeutic optimization strategy on oxygen parameters, barotrauma, and evolution in a medical and surgical intensive care unit. ⋯ This study was shorter to demonstrate an improvement in the survival rate. Nevertheless, these preliminary results are encouraging. Because of its safety, effectiveness, and easy use, inhaled NO should be used as a part of a therapeutic optimization protocol before considering more invasive and expensive procedures, such as extracorporeal respiratory support or intravascular oxygenation.
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Comparative Study
Gunshot wounds seen at a county hospital before and after a riot and gang truce: Part Two.
An analysis was undertaken of the number of gunshot wound victims seen at a Los Angeles County hospital both before and after the Los Angeles riot. Since the LA riot the gang truce between the "Bloods" and the "Crips" resulted in a significant decrease in the number of gunshot wound victims seen at a level I trauma center in Los Angeles. Unfortunately, this lasted for only three months. The resurgence of shootings, mainly of the drive-by type (82%), to an occurrence rate higher than ever before, has negated any positive effect of the gang truce and indicates the need for additional measures to control gang violence.
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To verify the appropriate methods of diagnosis and treatment of gunshot injuries to the penis and anterior urethra. ⋯ The preferred method of handling low-velocity gunshot wounds to the penis and anterior urethral includes debridement of superficial wounds, repair of cavernosal defects, and primary repair of urethral injuries wherein tissue loss is not extensive to result in high-potency rates and lower rates of urethral stricture disease.