International wound journal
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Perioperative hypothermia is common and adversely affects clinical outcomes due to its effect on a range of homeostatic functions. Many of these adverse consequences are preventable by the use of warming techniques. A literature search was conducted to identify relevant published articles on perioperative hypothermia and warming. ⋯ However, more evidence from good-quality prospective randomised controlled trials is needed to evaluate the role of warming in improving overall morbidity, mortality and hospital stay as well as to clarify its role as an adjunct to resuscitation and during the pre-hospital transport phase of critically ill patients. Awareness of the risks of perioperative hypothermia is the key to prevention. Achieving normothermia throughout the patient's journey is a worthwhile goal in surgical patients.
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Comparative Study
Economic comparison of methods of wound closure: wound closure strips vs. sutures and wound adhesives.
Our objective was to review and assess the treatment of low-tension wounds and evaluate the cost-effectiveness of wound closure methods. We used a health economic model to estimate cost/closure of adhesive wound closure strips, tissue adhesives and sutures. The model incorporated cost-driving variables: application time, costs and the likelihood and costs of dehiscence and infection. ⋯ The costs for sutures were $24.11, $69.91 and $41.91, respectively; the costs for tissue adhesives were $28.77, $74.68 and $46.68, respectively. The cosmetic outcome for all three treatments was equivalent. We conclude adhesive wound closure strips were both a cost-saving and a cost-effective alternative to sutures and tissue adhesives in the closure of low-tension lacerations.
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A case study reporting on the successful treatment of a patient affected by a basal cell carcinoma is submitted. Because the carcinoma had infiltrated deeply, a wide excision was necessary, including the removal of bone tissue. ⋯ In this case study, a rapid development of granulation tissue on the exposed surface of the bone was observed. The benefits of the dressing enabled a successful split-thickness skin grafting to be carried out which gave very good aesthetic and functional results.