Annals of Saudi medicine
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Annals of Saudi medicine · Sep 2007
Comparative StudyComparison of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate measured by the Micro Test 1 sedimentation analyzer and the conventional Westergren method.
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) remains the most widely used laboratory test for monitoring infections, inflammatory diseases and some types of cancer. Several test methods have been developed recently, and as a result, the safety and reliability of ESR testing procedures have improved. The purpose of this study was the comparison of two methods, the traditional manual Westergren method (reference method of the International Committee on Standardization in Hematology) and a new semiautomated technique, the Micro Test 1 for determining the ESR. ⋯ The Micro Test 1 system was easy to use, had a satisfactory operative practicability, required minimal maintenance, and reduced contact with potential biohazards.
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Annals of Saudi medicine · Sep 2007
Experience with 122 consecutive liver transplant procedures at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center.
Saudi Arabia is a leading country in the Middle East in the field of deceased-donor liver transplantation (DDLT) and living-donor liver transplantation (LDLT). We present out experience with DDLT and LDLT at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center (KFSHRC) for the period from April 2001 to January 2007. ⋯ Both DDLT and LDLT are being successfully performed at KFSHRC with early experience indicating a higher rate of biliary and vascular complications in the LDLT group.