J Trauma
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The role of plate fixation in the management of fresh displaced midclavicular fractures is unsettled. The objective of this study was to evaluate the drawbacks and pitfalls of this treatment method. ⋯ Patient noncompliance with the postoperative regimen could be suspected to have been a major cause of the failures. The high complication rate supports a reserved attitude toward plate fixation of fresh midclavicular fractures. The method should be reserved for patients who have trustworthy personal motives for quick pain relief and functional recovery.
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To determine the value of follow-up abdominal computed tomography in patients with splenic trauma managed nonoperatively. ⋯ Follow-up abdominal CT scans are not routinely necessary in patients with splenic injuries managed nonoperatively.
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The purpose of this study was to characterize the geographic epidemiology of serious nonfatal firearm injuries (NFFI) within Pennsylvania during a 6-year period. ⋯ Significant variation in NFFI was observed across population-based regions in Pennsylvania. Rural areas demonstrated relatively high risks of NFFI committed unintentionally, in the home, and with rifles. As regional populations increase, relatively high risks of NFFI, committed as assaults, in the street, and by handguns, are highlighted. Although handguns were the most prominent firearm associated with NFFI, nonfatal shotgun injuries produced substantially longer hospital stays and may be an underappreciated cause of nonfatal firearm assaults in the urban setting.