Surg J R Coll Surg E
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A survey was undertaken to assess surgical team members' attitudes to safety and teamwork in the operating theatre. ⋯ Attitude surveys can provide useful diagnostic information relating to behaviour and safety in surgical units. Discrepancies were found between the views of consultants compared with trainees and nurses, in relation to leadership and teamwork. While attitudes to safety were generally positive, there were several areas where theatre staff did not seem to appreciate the impact of psychological factors on technical performance.
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Surg J R Coll Surg E · Jun 2006
Case ReportsMucosal tear in the oropharynx leading to pneumopericardium and pneumomediastinum: an unusual complication of blunt trauma to the face and neck.
Pneumomediastinum and pneumopericardium are very rare complications resulting from blunt trauma to the head and neck. We report the case of a 40-year-old male who had been assaulted. He presented to the Emergency Department with bruises to the face and neck and complained of dysphagia. ⋯ He was managed conservatively and made an uneventful recovery. This is a very rare but potentially life-threatening complication of blunt trauma to the head and neck. It poses diagnostic difficulties and treatment dilemmas, which are discussed.
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Surg J R Coll Surg E · Feb 2006
Comparative StudyOutcome of treatment of primary and recurrent pilonidal sinuses with the Limberg flap.
Surgical treatment of pilonidal sinus disease has a significant morbidity and recurrence rate. The rhomboid flap of Limberg is a transposition flap that has been advocated for treatment of this condition. We present our experience with the Limberg technique for both primary and recurrent pilonidal sinuses. ⋯ Despite the risk of wound complications, this method is particularly useful for complex sinuses with extended tracts where radical excision leaves a large defect. It is also suitable for cases where simpler operations have failed and carries a low risk for recurrence.
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Several options exist with regard to flexible pharyngo-laryngoscope sterilisation. We audited the use of disposable sheaths in our department over a six-month period. ⋯ We have found chlorine dioxide wipes to be a satisfactory alternative means of nasendoscope disinfection. Possible time constraints aside, there are no advantages of sheath use over our current method. Chlorine dioxide wipes are also preferable from a financial point of view.