Articles: surgery.
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In Western industrial countries, low back pain is one of the most frequent causes of illness. Between the 4th and 5th decades of life approximately 80% of adults complain of low back pain, lasting for fairly long periods. About 10% of this population must undergo disc surgery once during life. ⋯ CT control examinations showed clear regression in the extent of disc herniation in 15 patients, in 18 a moderate decrease, and in 9 cases the CT findings had not changed. A favorable tendency towards regression was observed in disc herniations at the level of L5-S1 and in cases showing sequestration of the disc. Herniations of the disc at higher levels between L4-5 and L3-4 or a lateral herniation, reaching the intervertebral foramen, showed on unfavorable prognosis.
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Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol · Feb 1988
Maternal mortality in Bahrain with special reference to sickle cell disease.
The maternal mortality in Bahrain during the 10-year period, 1977-1986, was 33.9 per 100,000 livebirths; the second 5-year period showed a significant reduction (26.9) compared to the first 5-year period (42.3). Haemorrhage, pulmonary embolism, hypertensive diseases of pregnancy and infection were the main causes of maternal mortality. ⋯ Avoidable factors were present in 38% of the cases, the majority being due to the failure of the patients to seek medical care or follow medical advice. Health education, premarital counselling and family planning were identified as significant factors in reducing the maternal mortality rate.
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The goal of breast reconstruction is to reconstruct breasts which meet the patient's expectations both psychologically and aesthetically, while adhering to the principles of sound oncological management. Breast reconstruction is usually started around 3 to 9 mos after mastectomy. The simplest method of reconstruction uses tissue available after mastectomy and a silicone implant. ⋯ Fat and skin from the buttocks may be used in a microsurgical transfer technique. Prophylactic mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction are still controversial, but are options for the woman who is worried about the development of breast cancer. The reconstruction of the nipple and areola is only done after reconstructed breast symmetry is ascertained.