Eur J Trauma Emerg S
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To evaluate the pattern, demographics, circumstances behind events and patient outcome of civilian gunshot wounds (GSWs), we conducted a prospective review in a surgical department in Durban, South Africa over a period of 9 months. ⋯ This study provides evidence that the burden of GSW-related mortality and morbidity poses a substantial threat to the local public health. A national database for reporting all GSWs is recommended for proper assessment of the magnitude of the problem and to facilitate funding for research into injury prevention.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Dec 2010
Neutrophil-derived circulating free DNA (cf-DNA/NETs), a potential prognostic marker for mortality in patients with severe burn injury.
The predictive value of circulating free DNA/neutrophil extracellular traps (cf-DNA/NETs) has recently been shown in patients with major trauma for sepsis, multiple organ failure, and mortality. Here we report on the predictive potential of cf-DNA/NETs for mortality in patients with severe burn injury. In a prospective study 32 patients with severe burn injury were included. ⋯ ROC revealed largest areas under the curve (AUC) for cf-DNA/NETs on day 1 (0.851) and 3 (0.883) after admission. For all values between day 1 and 7, AUC was 0.815. cf-DNA/NETs seems to be a rapid, valuable marker for prediction of mortality in burn patients. A larger confirmation trial ought to be carried out.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Dec 2010
Transverse dislocation of the elbow with ipsilateral shaft of radius fracture in an adult.
A report of a rare case of transverse dislocation of the elbow associated with fracture of the shaft of the ipsilateral radius. ⋯ To the best of our knowledge, this is first case of transverse dislocation of the elbow with an ipsilateral radial shaft fracture in an adult. Closed reduction of such dislocations is usually achievable, though open reduction may be required in some case.
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Eur J Trauma Emerg S · Dec 2010
A novel fuzzy-logic inference system for predicting trauma-related mortality: emphasis on the impact of response to resuscitation.
Trauma scoring aims for quantification and uniform reporting of trauma-related outcomes. Despite significant advances in trauma scoring, the exact time period at which relevant calculations should be made is not clear. Considering the importance of response to resuscitation, calculation of trauma scores after a period of resuscitation can allow better discrimination of patients who will survive. ⋯ Response to resuscitation has significant impact on trauma mortality and must be considered in trauma scoring and mortality prediction. Fuzzy logic provides important opportunities for design of better predictive systems.