Annals of surgery
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The hemodynamic changes which occur when clamping and unclamping the aorta during reconstructive surgery might be a threat to the elderly patient with concomitant cardiac disease. In addition, the cross-clamping induces a temporary ischemia of the legs, with severe metabolic derangement after the release of the aortic clamp. We have studied the effect of a intraoperative adrenergic block (phenoxybenzamine plus metoprolol) on the central circulation and the skeletal metabolism in 14 patients undergoing aortic reconstruction to treat occlusive arteriosclerotic disease. ⋯ No improvement in the condition of the cells was observed 16 hours after operation. In conclusion, we found that by using neurolept anesthesia and an intraoperative adrenergic block in combination with a differentiated fluid therapy the central circulation stabilized and was largely unaffected by the clamping and unclamping procedures. In spite of the improved central hemodynamics no favorable effect on the skeletal muscle metabolism was observed.
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This report summarizes the results after two years of a continuing prospective study of cadaver donor renal transplantation being conducted by the Southeastern Organ Procurement Foundation (SEOPF). Data are presented on 942 first grafts. Blood transfusions were found to be a major (if not the major) determinant of allograft survival. ⋯ Preservation time did not relate to ATN, patient survival, or graft survival (within the limits of the study); however, ATN did adversely affect graft survival. The final systolic pressure of the perfusion pump was the only perfusion characteristic which predicted ATN. Race, sex, pregnancy, and duration of dialysis did not correlate with graft survival if the effects of transfusions and compatibility were controlled.
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It is widely believed that fractures of the first rib are associated with more severe injuries than fractures of other ribs. To confirm or refute that belief, we conducted a retrospective review of 168 patients with major blunt trauma resulting in fractures of the upper ribs treated at the North Carolina Baptist Hospital. A comparison of morbidity and mortality rates in relation to highest rib fractured showed essentially no correlation. We concluded that all patients with deceleration or crushing injuries involving upper-rib fractures must be suspected of having significant multiple organ system trauma and evaluated accordingly.