Der Unfallchirurg
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Resuscitation and management of high-risk multiple trauma patients require a systematic and coordinated approach to diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Clinical algorithms with branch chain decision logic can provide a clear and organized transformation of clinical standards for trauma care. Owing to their capability in formalization and standardization, algorithms define precisely the process of care and serve as a central interface within the system of quality assurance and quality control. ⋯ Special starting and ending point symbols make it possible to break down complex processes in several single interrelated algorithms. Inclusion of optional criteria checklists reduces the number of decision nodes and loops and minimizes the extent of a comprehensive algorithm. Clinical algorithms are an excellent tool for converting highly complex concepts of multiple trauma management into a logical, prioritized and systematic process of care.
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The initial management of patients with multiple trauma requires a well-defined plan of action for immediate and adequate therapy, that ensures fast recognition of life-threatening conditions and injuries. While treatment protocols for specific situations and injuries are fairly well defined, there are few such concepts for the overall management process. Therefore, we designed a comprehensive algorithm for in-hospital trauma care to give priority-based guidelines to the trauma room physician. ⋯ The first algorithm starts with the initial assessment of immediate life-threatening disorders of A (airways), B (breathing) and C (circulation) and is followed by the early stabilization and maintenance of vital functions. It is followed by six interrelated flow charts, based on disturbed physiological functions (respiration, circulation) and anatomical injuries (thorax, abdomen, head/brain, spine/pelvic girdle/extremities), which are worked up simultaneously and repeatedly. This algorithm is not only intended as an overall guideline for use the management of severely injured patients, but is also indispensable for quality assurance.
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The chondromyxoid fibroma as a benign bone tumour is described. The difficult but extremely important differential diagnosis from chondrosarcoma is discussed, and the question of the existence of malignant chondromyxoid fibroma is examined. ⋯ Experience with seven chondromyxoid fibromas and two tumours misdiagnosed as malignant chondromyxoid fibromas are described. In view of the clear definition of chondromyxoid fibroma and chondrosarcoma the term malignant chondromyxoid fibroma is not justified and should no longer be used.