World journal of surgery
-
World journal of surgery · Aug 2012
Biography Historical ArticleFrancis Sibson (1814-1876): the unsung hero of modern surgery and anesthesia.
Francis Sibson (1814-1876) was a British physician and anatomist widely regarded as a true pioneer of the medical profession. He overcame a tragic and difficult childhood to become an avid educator at several medical schools and dedicated his life to research. For modern scientists, he is most remembered for describing Sibson's fascia, his experimental use of curare in the treatment of hydrophobia and tetanus, and his detailed description of the positions and movements of internal organs. He died on September 7, 1876 at the age of 62 from complications of an aortic aneurysm.
-
World journal of surgery · Aug 2012
Is intravenous iron useful for reducing transfusions in surgically treated colorectal cancer patients?
The goal of the present study was to determine whether the intravenous administration of iron in the postoperative period of colon cancer surgical patients suffices to reduce the number of transfusions necessary. ⋯ Intravenous iron does not appear to reduce the blood transfusion requirements in the postoperative period of colorectal surgery patients with anemia. We consider that further studies are needed to more clearly define the usefulness of intravenous iron in reducing the transfusion needs in such patients.
-
World journal of surgery · Aug 2012
Diagnostic role of procalcitonin in patients with suspected appendicitis.
The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic value of procalcitonin (PCT) in emergency department (ED) patients with suspected appendicitis. ⋯ The study does not support the hypothesis that the PCT test may be useful for screening ED patients for appendicitis. However, determination of the PCT level may be useful for risk assessment of ED patients with suspected complicated appendicitis.
-
World journal of surgery · Aug 2012
Biochemical profile and outcomes in trauma patients subjected to open cardiopulmonary resuscitation: a prospective observational pilot study.
The predictive factors to regain a heartbeat following emergency department resuscitative thoracotomy (EDT) for trauma are poorly understood. The objective of the present study was to prospectively assess the electrolyte profile, coagulation parameters, and acid-base status from intracardiac blood samples in trauma patients subjected to open cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the presence of established cardiac arrest. ⋯ Most patients undergoing open CPR have normal blood gas levels. Severe lactic acidosis, hyperkalemia, and hypernatremia are associated with decreased probability for return of cardiac function. Calcium and magnesium levels were not significantly different between the two groups, making the therapeutic role of these electrolytes very questionable.
-
World journal of surgery · Aug 2012
A tool and index to assess surgical capacity in low income countries: an initial implementation in Sierra Leone.
A first step toward improving surgical care in many low and middle income countries is to document the need. To facilitate the collection and analysis of surgical capacity data and measure changes over time, Surgeons OverSeas (SOS) developed a tool and index based on personnel, infrastructure, procedures, equipment, and supplies (PIPES). ⋯ The PIPES tool was easily administered at hospitals in Sierra Leone and an index was found useful. Surgical capacity in Sierra Leone improved between 2008 and 2011, as demonstrated by an increase in the overall PIPES indices.