Injury
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Tracheobronchial injuries are rare but feasibly life-threatening conditions. A prompt diagnosis and early management can be lifesaving. Due to the unspecific symptoms and indirect radiological signs the diagnosis often delays. ⋯ In case of suspected tracheobronchial injury, a high index of suspicion is required for early diagnosis. Most commonly respiratory distress, subcutaneous emphysema and pneumothorax are found on physical examination. Prompt intubation below the site of the injury and early laryngo- or bronchoscopic examination have priority, as we did in our cases. A primary anastomosis is required with minimal resection during urgent operation. A better outcome is to be expected when extubation is done early after surgery. We offer ordinal steps that should be taken to lead to a prompt management and good long-term outcome based on the literature and our experiences.
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To evaluate the efficacy of conventional microbiological examinations in the diagnostics of septic joint and periprosthetic inflammations. ⋯ Based on our data, the efficacy of conventional microbiological testing in the diagnostics of different type of joint infections is questionable. Therefore, further studies are warranted to evaluate the efficacy of novel diagnostic testing tools in prospective randomized controlled trials.
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There are clear racial/ethnic disparities in the trauma care service delivery. However, no study has examined the relationships between structural determinants of trauma care designations (L-I through L-IV) or verification and social factors of the surrounding health region in the U.S. ⋯ Our findings highlight that system disparities exist in trauma care. Research is needed to determine if other factors, such as resource allocation and reimbursement distribution, impact the availability of trauma facilities.
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The aim of this study was to evaluate functional outcomes in patients with varus malposition following open reduction and internal fixation of displaced proximal humeral fractures. ⋯ Varus malposition is related to inferior functional outcomes compared to anatomic healing in patients treated by open reduction and internal fixation for proximal humeral fractures. The data supports suggestions to prevent varus malposition in open reduction and internal fixation. In severe >20° of varus malposition, revision surgery should be considered.
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Scapular body fractures represent less than 1% of all skeletal fractures. Operative criteria and risk factors for scapular fracture instability are well defined. Non-operative management of scapular body fractures show satisfactory results but with shortening and medialization of the scapular body. The aim of this study is to evaluate if surgical treatment will result in an improved quality of life and shoulder function compared to non-operative treatment on patients suffering from a scapular body fracture. ⋯ This study suggests that surgical treatment for extraarticular scapular fractures can achieve better short-term functional outcomes (3 to 6 months) compared to conservative treatment.