J Trauma
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From January 1982 through December 1983, 83 severely injured and hypovolemic patients were immediately resuscitated with uncrossmatched packed red cells. Seventy-four patients received 250 units (3.3 units/pt) of Group O red blood cells (TOB), and nine patients received 27 units of type-specific blood (TSB) (3.0 units/pt). Additionally, 53 units of TSB were transfused to the TOB group in the interval between TOB immediate transfusion and the availability of fully crossmatched blood. ⋯ Two patients developed positive hepatitis screens, and there was one clinical case of hepatitis observed. None of the 'DIC' cases were related to incompatible blood transfusion. We conclude that for immediate trauma resuscitation, TOB is safe and TOB has additional advantages over TSB or Type O whole blood transfusion.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
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Injuries to the larynx and cervical trachea are uncommon, making the development of treatment protocols and subsequent data analysis in any one hospital difficult. This prompted a review of our experience with emphasis on variables related to long-term morbidity. The records of 20 patients with laryngotracheal injuries seen at the Montreal General Hospital from January 1974 to December 1984 were reviewed. ⋯ Computerized tomography of the upper airway facilitates definitive surgical repair. Long-term followup is essential. Laryngeal trauma remains a major challenge.