Annals of emergency medicine
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Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
Ultrasound for the detection of foreign bodies in human tissue.
To determine the accuracy of detection of wood and plastic foreign bodies in human tissue by relatively inexperienced clinicians using typical ultrasound equipment. ⋯ Ultrasound is imperfect but may be useful in screening for superficial foreign bodies in human tissue. Clinical utility in the ED setting remains to be tested.
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To determine the accuracy and application of pelvic ultrasound performed by emergency physicians in detecting ectopic pregnancy (EP) in complicated first-trimester pregnancies. ⋯ Pelvic ultrasonography performed by emergency physicians can be used to rule out EP and make an accurate diagnosis in most patients with complicated first-trimester pregnancies during the initial ED visit. The remaining patients at risk can be identified and a diagnosis made by means of follow-up ultrasound and serial hCG determinations.
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Comparative Study
Effect of emergency physician-performed pelvic sonography on length of stay in the emergency department.
To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of emergency physician-performed pelvic sonography (EPPPS) and its effect on length of stay (LOS) in the emergency department. ⋯ Pelvic ultrasound performed by emergency physicians after a brief period of training shortens ED LOS in women in early pregnancy, particularly in those with viable IUPs. This practice appears to be sensitive, specific, and safe.
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To determine the effects of early fluid resuscitation on the rate, volume, and duration of hemorrhage using a sheep model of uncontrolled pulmonary vascular hemorrhage. ⋯ In this sheep model of uncontrolled pulmonary vascular hemorrhage, immediate fluid resuscitation significantly increased the rate, volume, and duration of hemorrhage. The vigorous administration of fluids to patients with penetrating chest trauma has the potential to significantly increase blood loss.
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Review Comparative Study
Ultrasound in the evaluation and management of blunt abdominal trauma.
Failure to detect intraabdominal injury in the patient with blunt trauma may result in significant morbidity and mortality. The diagnosis of abdominal injury remains a clinical challenge. Presented here is a review of recent literature comparing ultrasound with diagnostic peritoneal lavage and computed tomography in the evaluation of blunt abdominal trauma.