Injury
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The purpose of this study was to investigate serum levels of vitamin D in post-menopausal Korean women with a distal radius fracture (DRF) and to determine if there is any association between vitamin D levels and bone-related variables such as bone mineral densities (BMDs), serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels and several bone turnover markers. ⋯ Post-menopausal Korean women with a DRF were found to have significantly lower serum vitamin D levels than the control group, and vitamin D levels were particularly lower in women in their sixth and seventh deciles who may be a good target group for prevention of future fractures. Future investigation should focus on determining whether vitamin D supplementation can be helpful in preventing future fractures in patients with a DRF.
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Comparative Study
The interpretation of intra-abdominal pressures from animal models: the rabbit to human example.
The importance of the abdominal wall characteristics in intraabdominal pressure (IAP), intraabdominal hypertension (IAH) and abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) are poorly understood. The applicability of laboratory research findings to human scenarios is unknown due to the potential differences in abdominal wall elastance (AWE) amongst species. The aims of the study are to describe the AWE curve in rabbits and to compare it to the available human data. ⋯ The AWE can vary amongst species. This study determined the relationship to allow the comparison of rabbit and human IAP. The proposed mathematical function is important for the advancement of interpretation and understanding of animal research into IAH and ACS. We recommend developing model-specific functions comparing individual animal models' IAP and that of humans.
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INTRODUCTION: Volar locking plates have revolutionised the treatment of distal radius fractures but complications are not uncommon. We present a cadaveric study and a technical tip to assist in the accurate and reproducible placement of one such plate. ⋯ Placing this next to needles in these joints can help pre-plan the most distal and ulnar extent of the plate allowing for reproducible optimal positioning of the DVR plate. TECHNIQUE: The technique developed uses the existing kit and is simple and easy to build into one's existing fixation technique.
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The purpose of this study was to determine whether a displaced dorsal rim fracture has an adverse effect on wrist function after volar plate fixation of a dorsally displaced distal radius fracture (DRF). ⋯ A displaced dorsal rim fracture does not appear to affect outcomes adversely after volar locking plate fixation of dorsally displaced DRFs.