Eur J Trauma Emerg S
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Oct 2013
Reduced loosening rate and loss of correction following posterior stabilization with or without PMMA augmentation of pedicle screws in vertebral fractures in the elderly.
Therapy of vertebral fractures in the elderly is a growing challenge for surgeons. Within the last two decades, the use of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral fractures has been widely established. Besides vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty, the augmentation of pedicle screws with PMMA found widespread use to strengthen the implant-bone interface. Several studies showed an enhanced pullout strength of augmented screws compared to standard pedicle screws in osteoporotic bone models. To validate the clinical relevance, we analyzed postoperative radiologic follow-up data in regard to secondary loss of correction and loosening of pedicle screws in elderly patients. ⋯ The reinforcement of pedicle screws using PMMA augmentation may be a viable option in the surgical treatment of spinal fractures in the elderly.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Oct 2013
Motorcycle injuries at a tertiary referral hospital in Kenya: injury patterns and outcome.
The rise in the use of motorcycles in Kenya in the last 10 years has been associated with increased injury rates. Between 2004 and 2009, motorcycle injuries increased at a rate of 29 % and, in some hospitals, motorcycle users have become the predominant road user category injured. Although most road traffic injuries occur in Nairobi, there has been no previous account of motorcycle injury and associated outcomes at its main hospital. ⋯ Injuries to the lower limbs and the head predominate in motorcycle trauma. The high mortality rate, need for surgery in the majority of patients, and prolonged admission days call for motorcycle control and expedited care. Significant head injury mortality calls for efforts to embrace helmet laws for riders and passengers.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Oct 2013
Percutaneous dilatational tracheostomies in a newly established trauma center: a report from Qatar.
Percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT) is a routine surgical procedure for critically ill patients who require prolonged ventilatory support. ⋯ PDT is safe and can be performed with minimal complications even in a newly established trauma center.