Canadian journal of surgery. Journal canadien de chirurgie
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Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
Compression treatment of hypertrophic scars in burned children.
The formation of hypertrophic scars is common following healing of the burn wound, particularly in children. The control of scar formation is an important part of overall treatment in these cases and this paper describes a newer method that applies compression to the burn scar in an attempt to improve the ultimate appearance. The 35 patients treated by this method included some with partial-thickness and others with full-thickness burns. ⋯ The design of facial moulages and their use in compression of facial scars are dealt with. Overall there was a 75% to 80% improvement in the state of burn scars. The reasons for this improvement are discussed.
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The conventional treatment of peptic ulcer disease with special dietary regimens, antacids or anticholinergics has been found wanting. Recently introduced agents show considerable promise in the benefit they can render. ⋯ Cimetidine, a histamine HI-receptor antagonist, is an effective suppressant of acid secretion and therefore promotes healing of duodenal ulcers. Metoclopramide hastens gastric emptying and increases the tone of the gastroesophageal sphincter, and is valuable in cases of reflux esophagitis and gastric ulcer.
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The authors present an account of some of the problems facing the specialty of anesthesia, which suggests that the interdependence of these problems and of their solutions should be recognized. Recruitment, job satisfaction and clinical standards will be improved as a result of greater involvement by anesthetists in preanesthetic care as part of the health care team. Teaching programs require appropriate expansion and modification. The incorporation of a physician-assistant program is essential to the future of anesthesia.
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This study compares the efficiency, safety and cost of hair removal before surgery, with a safety razor, an electric clipper and a depilatory. It was found that both the razor and the clipper damaged the surface of the skin, while the depilatory caused a mild lymphocytic reaction in the upper dermis. The depilatory was expensive and may cause sensitivity reactions in a few individuals, but was found to be the easiest and most efficient method of removing hair. It was concluded that if hair has to be removed a depilatory is the agent of choice.