J Trauma
-
Direct and indirect trauma can cause injury to various portions of the pectoralis major muscle in varying degrees. Sprains and partial tears of the pectoralis major muscle are not uncommon. ⋯ Delayed diagnosis and delayed repair may prevent excellent results. A functional classification as presented here can aid in the diagnosis and treatment of these injuries.
-
A patient with delayed neurologic injury secondary to high-tension current, with recovery, is presented. The mechanism of injury and pathophysiology are felt to be either vascular or direct damage to the spinal cord. This case demonstrates the need for frequent, repeated neurologic examinations of electrical injury victims. The cause of delay in onset of neurologic injury and the mechanism of recovery need further experimental study.
-
Until recently, the only therapy available for a tracheal stricture has been repeated dilations of the stenotic area or resection and anastomosis. Upper-airway burns in the pediatric patient have occasionally resulted in tracheal stenosis. ⋯ Both have an adequate airway, and future surgical correction of a subglottic stenosis is planned for both. The results, although initially successful, will need to be tested by time before they can be considered the definitive treatment for long areas of tracheal stenosis.
-
Two patients with gunshot wounds of the pregnant uterus are reported. Both were explored and delivered of stillborn infants by Cesarean section. Neither patient sustained a significant visceral injury. Expectant management with close observation is appropriate in pregnant when the entrance wound is below the level of the uterine fundus, the infant is dead, and the bullet is radiographically shown to be in the uterus.