Eur J Trauma Emerg S
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Apr 2011
Anterior column reconstruction in thoracolumbar injuries utilizing a computer-assisted navigation system.
Discectomy, corpectomy, and resection of isolated posterior wall fragments are technically demanding steps requiring maximum surgical precision during anterior reconstruction of the unstable thoracolumbar spine. ⋯ Computer-aided guidance in anterior reconstruction of the thoracolumbar spine is a technically feasible option that may aid in the performance of disc- and corpectomy, as well as the resection of isolated posterior wall fragments in cases with initial neurological compromise. However, total time for surgery is significantly prolongated by this technique. There were no differences in the precision of cage positioning between groups. However, during discectomy, the use of computer navigation may aid in the protection of adjacent endplates, as there was a trend towards fewer cases with cage subsidence in the navigated group.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Apr 2011
3D-based navigation in posterior stabilisations of the cervical and thoracic spine: problems and benefits. Results of 451 screws.
Navigated procedures in spinal surgery have been established due to an increasing demand for precision. Especially, 3D C-arms connected to navigation systems are being used more often and can be utilised intraoperatively for the planning and controlling of screw positions. This prospective study analyses our experiences with 3D-based navigation in posterior stabilisations in the cervical and thoracic spine. ⋯ Intraoperative 3D imaging navigation for posterior spinal stabilisations is technically feasible and reliable in clinical use. The image quality depends on the individual bone density. With undisturbed visibility of the vertebral body, the reliability of 3D-based navigation is comparable to that of CT-based procedures. Additionally, it has the advantage of skipping the preoperative acquisition of data as well as the matching process, with reduced radiation doses.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Apr 2011
Doppler ultrasound for the assessment of conservatively treated blunt splenic injuries: a prospective study.
The type and need for follow-up of non-operatively managed blunt splenic injuries remain controversial. The use of Doppler ultrasound to identify post-traumatic splenic pseudoaneurysms, considered to be the main cause of "delayed" splenic rupture, has not been well described. ⋯ Doppler ultrasound can be an effective and a safe noninvasive modality for evaluation and follow-up of patients with blunt splenic injury. The utility and cost-effectiveness of routine surveillance requires further study.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Apr 2011
Teaching in daily clinical practice: a necessary evil or an opportunity? Doctors as teachers.
Teaching is an important part of our medical role as physicians. Though all doctors are usually well prepared for their clinical roles, few are trained to teach. ⋯ However, clinical teaching faces many challenges and problems. The series "Teaching in daily clinical practice," which commences with this article, will describe basic educational principles that are applicable in all phases of the learning and teaching of students, junior doctors and speciality trainees.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Apr 2011
The association between depressive mood and pain amongst individuals with limb amputations.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between pain and depressive mood amongst persons with limb amputations, and to examine the relationship between the etiology (work-related trauma or other types) and depressive mood. ⋯ The results of this study revealed the validity of optional approaches such as prescription of antidepressants or psychological counseling to improve mental health of individuals with limb amputations.