Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England
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Ann R Coll Surg Engl · Sep 2016
Comparative StudyA comparative audit of gunshot wounds and stab wounds to the neck in a South African metropolitan trauma service.
Introduction The aim of this comparative study of gunshot wounds (GSWs) and stab wounds (SWs) to the neck was to quantify the impact of the mechanism of injury on the outcome and management of penetrating neck injury (PNI). Methods A prospective trauma registry was interrogated retrospectively. Data were analysed pertaining to demographics and injury severity score (ISS), physiology on presentation, anatomical site of wounds and injuries sustained, investigations, management, outcome and complications. ⋯ Conclusions Patients with GSWs to the neck have a worse outcome than those with injuries secondary to SWs. However, the proportion of neck injuries actually requiring direct surgical intervention is not increased and most cases with PNI secondary to GSWs can be managed conservatively with a good outcome. Imaging should be performed for all GSWs to the neck.
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Ann R Coll Surg Engl · Sep 2016
Modular emergency general surgery training: A pilot study of a novel programme.
Introduction Pan-speciality consensus guidance advocates mandatory emergency general surgery (EGS) training modules for specialist registrars (StRs). This pilot study evaluated the impact of EGS modules aimed at StRs over 1 year. Methods Eleven StRs were allocated a focused 4-week EGS module, in addition to the standard 1:12 on-call duty rota, in a tertiary surgical centre. ⋯ Significantly more PBAs related to laparotomy and segmental colectomy were completed during EGS modules than the on-call duty rota, at 32% versus 14% (p<0.001) and 48% versus 22% (p=0.019), respectively. Performance levels were maintained following module completion. Conclusions These findings provide an important baseline when considering future modular EGS training.
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Ann R Coll Surg Engl · Sep 2016
Efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban thromboprophylaxis after arthroplasty of the hip or knee: retrospective cohort study.
Introduction Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a potentially fatal complication of hip arthroplasty and knee arthroplasty. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence recommend rivaroxaban for VTE prevention. Amid concerns over bleeding complications, the modified thromboprophylaxis policy of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital (CWH; London, UK) advises enoxaparin given after surgery in the inpatient setting followed by rivaroxaban upon hospital discharge. ⋯ The MBE (a wound haematoma) required a return to theatre for aspiration. Off-treatment VTEs occurred in four (0.8%) patients after completion of a course of rivaroxaban, and were associated with known risk factors. Conclusions Rivaroxaban is an effective and safe anticoagulant for thromboprophylaxis after hip arthroplasty or knee arthroplasty if used in a modified regimen involving enoxaparin administered in the inpatient setting followed by rivaroxaban upon hospital discharge.