The American journal of emergency medicine
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Review Meta Analysis
Value of NEXUS chest rules in assessment of traumatic chest injuries; a systematic review and a meta-analysis.
Although many studies have evaluated the diagnostic value of the National Emergency X-ray Utilization Studies (NEXUS) chest rules in assessment of traumatic chest injuries, there still is no consensus on this subject matter. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aims to review the current existing literature in order to evaluate the diagnostic value of NEXUS chest rules for assessment of traumatic chest injuries. ⋯ Our findings indicate that NEXUS chest radiography rule is a sensitive decision rule for assessment of traumatic chest injuries, but its specificity was found to be low. However, few articles have investigated the diagnostic value of NEXUS chest rules, especially the NEXUS chest CT scan, and more studies need to be done in order to strengthen the currently provided results.
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Review Case Reports
Adnexal torsion in pregnancy: A systematic review of case reports and case series.
This study aimed to investigate clinical presentations, surgical procedures and findings, complications, and predisposing factors of adnexal torsion in pregnant women. ⋯ Clinicians should think of adnexal torsion when pregnant women complain of sudden-onset pain. Then, using ultrasound, adnexal enlargement or masses should be explored seriously. They should take invasive and urgent therapy to preserve ovaries and prevent complications.
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Review
Ultrasound for the diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis: A systematic review of the literature.
Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a deadly disorder that can be challenging to diagnose on history and examination alone. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is widely available and has been increasingly used for diagnosing skin and soft tissue infections. We performed a systematic review to determine the accuracy of POCUS for diagnosing NF with subgroup analyses of the accuracy of specific POCUS examination components. ⋯ POCUS has good sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of NF. POCUS should be considered as an adjunct to the initial clinical decision making for the diagnosis of NF.
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Mesenteric ischemia is a rare, frequently misdiagnosed, serious condition that carries with it a high rate of morbidity and mortality. ⋯ An understanding of mesenteric ischemia can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and managing this disease.
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Review
A brief review of the diagnosis and management of arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy.
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is a genetic disorder of the myocardium that can lead to ventricular arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death. The condition has been identified as a significant cause of arrhythmic death among young people and athletes, therefore, early recognition of the disease by emergency clinicians is critical to prevent subsequent death. The diagnosis of ARVC can be very challenging and requires a systematic approach. This publication reviews the pathophysiology, classification, clinical presentations, and appropriate approach to diagnosis and management of ARVC.