The American journal of emergency medicine
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Facial trauma and orbital fractures are common reasons for ophthalmology consultation in the emergency department (ED). The purpose of this study is to assess intervention rates and evaluate the acuity of ophthalmology consultation for orbital fractures in the ED. ⋯ Orbital fractures can be associated with severe ocular complications. Most cases, however, do not require emergent evaluation by an ophthalmologist. We propose the South Texas Orbital Fracture Protocol (STOP) for proper assessment and triaging of orbital fractures in the ED. While this clinical decision-making tool requires validation, it may offer improved healthcare efficiency, reduced costs, fewer unnecessary inter-facility transfers, and less burnout for ophthalmology residents.
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Tubo-ovarian abscess (TOA) is a rare but serious condition that carries with it a high rate of morbidity and even mortality. ⋯ An understanding of TOA can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and managing this potentially deadly disease.