J Trauma
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Comparative Study
Variations in bone mineral density of proximal femora of elderly people with hip fractures: a case-control analysis.
Bone mass as represented by bone mineral density (BMD) is the most important factor determining bone strength. Elderly people with and without hip fractures were compared with the BMD of the proximal femora. The correlation between hip fractures in elderly patients and osteoporosis was investigated. ⋯ The severity of osteoporosis may affect the risk of hip fractures in elderly people. The risk of intertrochanteric fractures may be determined simply by BMD, but the risk of femoral neck fractures may be determined by multiple factors. Intertrochanteric fractures may start at the greater trochanter due to its low BMD.
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Topical hemostatic agents have generated intense research interest in recent years, prompted in part by the demands of wartime medicine. Numerous animal studies demonstrate variable degrees of efficacy of a variety of agents; however, little clinical data are available in severely traumatized patients. This report describes 30 consecutive uses of the modified rapid deployment hemostat (MRDH) during combat operations in Operation Iraqi Freedom. ⋯ This is the single largest description of the clinical efficacy of the MRDH and the first description during combat operations. The MRDH bandage was an effective hemostat for temporarily controlling hemorrhage in difficult circumstances. Caution should be exercised when removing the dressing as rebleeding may occur.