Der Unfallchirurg
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Comparative Study
[Influence of processing and sterilization on the mechanical properties of pins made from bovine cortical bone].
In a biomechanical study pins made of xenogenous cortical bone were tested in vitro. Forty pins of 3 mm diameter and 60 mm length were made of eight different cattle tibiae and allocated to five different treatment groups. Freeze-dried pins served as control group. ⋯ We found that bending strength and shearing strength were most increased after sodium chloride and acetone treatment, whereas after sterilization with ethylene oxide or autoclaving, the stability of the pins was similar to the control group. The stability was considerably diminished after gamma radiation. Taking into account possible toxic side effects of ethylene oxide, we conclude that Tutoplast processing followed by autoclavation presents a reliable preparation method for the clinical use of implants made of bovine cortical bone.
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Case Reports
[Bleeding into retroperitoneal cavernous lymphangioma following blunt abdominal trauma].
The case of a 12-year-old boy with hemorrhage into a previously unknown retroperitoneal lesion following blunt abdominal trauma is reported. Diagnostic work-up of a post-traumatic surgical acute abdomen revealed a giant multicystic tumor in the retroperitoneum, which could be completely removed. ⋯ Attention should be drawn to the possible coincidence of trauma and a preexisting asymptomatic lesion. Knowledge of the characteristic ultrasonographic and computer tomographic features is essential in order to make a correct diagnosis.