European journal of trauma and emergency surgery : official publication of the European Trauma Society
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Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg · Dec 2024
Is cross-sectional imaging necessary for fractures of the distal lower leg in children and adolescents: results of a nationwide survey.
In childhood and adolescence, cross-sectional imaging, most commonly computed tomography (CT), is often performed for advanced diagnosis of joint injuries of the distal lower leg and upper ankle. Due to radiation exposure, the need for CT remains controversial, as these injuries follow stereotypies and usually have a similar course. Alternatively, the performance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is also discussed. Since radiation sensitivity at this young age is much higher than in adults, an effort must be to minimize radiation exposure according to as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) principles. The aim of this survey is to evaluate the current procedure in Germany in the diagnosis of pediatric injuries of the distal lower leg and upper ankle. ⋯ The survey showed that the conventional X-ray is still the gold standard. Interestingly, more than half of the respondents regularly use the Ottawa Ankle Rules, and diagnostics using ultrasound are also used by almost a quarter. Awareness of radiation protection in children exists, although a quarter of all participants do not know the extent to which their radiology department has a specific pediatric protocol for CT imaging. Cross-sectional imaging is performed on a regular basis. Regarding the actual extent of imaging, there is a clear divergence between theory and practice.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg · Dec 2024
Cranio-cervical and traumatic brain injury patterns-do they differ between electric bicycle, bicycle, and motorcycle-induced accidents?
With the growing technical options of power transmission and energy-saving options in electric drives, the number of E-bike-related accidents especially in an elderly population has increased. The aim of the current study was to compare if the increased velocity in comparison to conventional bikes translates into different injury patterns in the cranio-cervical and head region. ⋯ The overall pattern of head and cervical injuries in E-bikers resembles more to that of motorcyclists than that of bicyclists. As they are used by a more senior population, multiple risk factors apply in terms of complications and secondary intracranial bleeding. Our study suggests that preventive measures should be reinforced, i.e., use of helmets to prevent from intracranial injury.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg · Dec 2024
Preoperative cardiology consultations for geriatric patients with hip fractures rarely provide additional recommendations and are associated with prolonged hospital stays and delayed surgery: a retrospective case control study.
Hip fractures are increasingly common among the elderly population, who often present with a high burden of comorbidities necessitating preoperative stabilization. As a result, preoperative cardiology consultations are frequently conducted in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to investigate the additional recommendations provided by preoperative cardiology consultations and the impact of consultations on the management and outcomes of elderly patients undergoing hip fracture surgery. ⋯ Preoperative cardiology consultations before hip fracture surgery rarely leads to a change in treatment. Additionally, these evaluations delay surgery and extend the hospital stay.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg · Dec 2024
Evaluating predictors of mortality in octogenarians undergoing urgent or emergent trauma laparotomy.
This study aimed to identify associated risk factors for mortality in octogenarian trauma patients undergoing urgent or emergent laparotomy (UEL). ⋯ This national analysis emphasizes the need to identify and manage pre-existing conditions like cirrhosis and not determine futility based on pre-trauma functional status alone. Concurrent thoracotomy for hemorrhage control increases risk of death over 16-fold.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg · Dec 2024
Preparing individuals with extremity loss due to earthquake through early rehabilitation program for the future.
To mitigate future health risks and improve body image coping strategies among individuals who experienced amputation due to the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake, through an early rehabilitation program. ⋯ The development of early rehabilitation models is essential for improving psychological well-being among individuals who experience amputation following an earthquake.