The Journal of laryngology and otology
-
A review of 15 patients, who underwent 34 CO2 laser bronchoscopic procedures, over a 2-year period, is presented. All had malignancies of the tracheobronchial tree and underwent laser surgery to palliate breathlessness or haemoptysis. ⋯ One quarter of the patients required repeat procedures and there were two deaths in the early post-operative period. The indications for such surgery, the technique and its limitations, and the palliation obtained are discussed.
-
The frequency histograms of six patients' laryngographs were studied pre- and post-endotracheal intubation. The changes were correlated with the length of intubation. ⋯ The latter change was thought to be a subconscious compensation for the hoarseness. The increased lower frequency spread as measured by standard deviation was directly proportional to the length of intubation.
-
Case Reports
The use of mini-tracheostomy and high frequency jet ventilation in the management of acute airway obstruction.
A case is described in which upper airway obstruction was successfully treated using cricothyroidotomy in association with high frequency jet ventilation. This procedure allowed time for the patient to be transferred to the operating theatre for formal tracheostomy under optimal conditions. It is suggested that the Portex 'Mini-trach' kit, though primarily designed for tracheobronchial toilet, can be used to provide a satisfactory and safe airway during the resuscitation of an obstructed patient, particularly if jet ventilation is available.
-
The role of radiographs in the management of nasal fractures is assessed. The injury is common and the total cost of radiographs significant. ⋯ At each stage they were grouped into treatment and pathological categories and the contribution of each type of assessment studied. Radiographs were not found to be useful in the routine management of nasal fractures.