Eur J Trauma Emerg S
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Aug 2008
Midfacial Fractures: A Scoring Method and Validation on 117 Patients.
The midfacial region (MR) is located in the middle-third of the face, composed of several bones and surrounded by complex anatomical structures so that MR fractures (MRFs) often involve other parts of the face. A staging system for classifying MRFs is of paramount importance in order to exchange information among trauma centers. Le Fort described three lines of fractures but still there is no scoring method to stage MRFs. ⋯ In conclusion, the proposed classification is a simple and precise method of staging MRFs. It can summarize MRFs and be used in daily practice. It is our understanding, however, that a multi-centers study should be performed before the effectiveness of the proposed classification can be clearly stated.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Aug 2008
Displaced Operable Radial Head Fractures : Functional Outcome Correlations.
Radial head fractures are common injuries occurring in conjunction with other injuries. We hypothesize that the associated injuries are under-diagnosed, under-treated and are under-estimated in terms of their relevance to the patients final functional outcome. We hypothesize a high correlation between the associated injuries and poor functional scores. ⋯ "Isolated radial head fractures" are rare. All displaced radial head fractures need thorough clinical and radiographic evaluation. The associated injuries are often unappreciated on initial diagnosis and are often under-treated. Associated injuries are strongly correlated with poor functional scores and therefore need to be addressed during surgery.
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Tracheal injuries are uncommon after blunt trauma. Early diagnosis and urgent treatment are primordial to reduce both mortality and morbidity. ⋯ The diagnosis of a tracheal rupture was established and the rupture was closed surgically. The management of the patient with suspected tracheal rupture is discussed.
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Cardiac and pulmonary injuries present major challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Distinct differences between penetrating and blunt trauma of these organs exist. ⋯ Organized trauma systems can provide optimal care by minimizing prehospital time, allowing easy access to imaging modalities, and offering state-of-the-art treatment strategies. A multidisciplinary approach, including surgeons, intensivists, and others, is absolutely necessary.