Injury
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3D-printing has become a promising adjunct in orthopedic surgery over the past years. A significant drop in costs and increased availability of the required hardware and software needed for using the technique, have resulted in a relatively fast adaptation of 3D-printing techniques for various indications. In this review, the role of 3D-printing for deformity corrections of the lower extremity is described.
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In this article we discuss the evolution of computers and the use of VR for trauma education. We reflect on available literature and share the lessons we learned. VR allows you to share your most interesting and rare patient cases with a bedside teaching experience. ⋯ Based on our experience we advise to limit VR educational sessions to a maximum of one hour. Although the VR techniques currently have some limitations, the quality and possibilities of this technique are rapidly improving. VR education will certainly be a part of trauma education in the future; Be prepared!
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The goal of limb lengthening is to restore length to bone, safely stretch soft tissues and improve quality of life with minimal complications. Traditionally this was achieved with the use of external fixators, associated with complications related to pin site tethering and infections, joint stiffness and regenerate deformity and fracture following frame removal. The duration of treatment also impacts on patient mental health and well-being. ⋯ Following initial excellent outcomes published, the use of the lengthening intramedullary nail has become accepted by many as the implant of choice in limb lengthening. The aim of this article comes in two parts. The first to highlight the latest research and clinical results in the last five years using an intramedullary implant during limb lengthening, and the second to report the outcome in extended surgical indications and further implant innovation.
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Medicine in general is quickly transitioning to a digital presence. Orthopaedic surgery is also being impacted by the tenets of digital health but there are also direct efforts with trauma surgery. Sensors are the pen and paper of the next wave of data acquisition. ⋯ The Internet of Things (IoT) [1] now has a subset which is the Internet of Medical Devices [2-5] permitting a much more in-depth dive into patient procedures and outcomes. IoT devices are now being used to enable remote health monitoring, in hospital treatment, and guide therapies. This article reviews current sensor technology that looks to impact trauma care.
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Observational Study
Fall Risk Identification Throughout the Continuum of Care for Elderly Trauma Patients: An Injury Prevention Initiative.
Falls are the second leading cause of trauma-related deaths worldwide. Identifying fall risk patients and initiating interventions reduces injuries and mortality, particularly in the elderly. The primary aim of this retrospective study was to identify missed opportunities for fall risk identification and intervention for geriatric trauma patients. ⋯ This large study demonstrated that geriatric trauma patients admitted for a fall were already at risk for falling in the 12 months prior to admission. This is a novel finding that presents a substantial prevention opportunity for healthcare systems. Education and implementation of proven techniques to prevent falls as soon as at-risk patients are identified has the potential to change the course for a patient who may not only fall, but also fall again. This proactive approach could significantly impact the fall epidemic in our elderly population.