J Trauma
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Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) impairs outcome from injury. We present a path analysis of factors related to the development of PTSD in injured adults. ⋯ PTSD occurred in 42.3% of injured adults 6 months after trauma and was related to assault, dissociation, female gender, youth, poor mental health, and prior illness. By modeling PTSD, we may learn more of the etiology, risk stratification, and potentials for the treatment of this common and important morbidity of injury.
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To assess the utility of laboratory markers of severe alcoholism in a cross-sectional population of male trauma center patients, who have a high rate of current alcohol dependence (CAD). ⋯ Laboratory tests are not highly predictive of CAD in male trauma patients. A combination of BAC tests and interview screens is suggested for use in this patient population.
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The surgical treatment of complex unstable proximal femur fractures from the trochanteric region to the middle shaft area is difficult and often highly invasive, especially in older patients with osteoporotic bones. ⋯ The LGN is, after appropriate introduction and training, a safe and easy implant for the treatment of complex proximal femur fractures from the trochanteric region to the middle shaft area. The minimal invasive technique with low risks and minimal complications and the possibility of immediate full weightbearing sets a new standard, especially for older patients with osteoporotic bones.
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To evaluate the role of routine helical computed tomographic (CT) scan of the entire cervical spine in high-risk patients with multiple injuries. ⋯ There is a high incidence of cervical spine injuries in the severe, blunt, multiple-injury, unevaluable patients requiring intensive care unit admission. Plain radiography alone is not reliable in diagnosing many cervical spine injuries. Complete cervical spiral computed tomography is superior to plain radiography. It is suggested that in this selected group of patients, both plain radiography and spiral computed tomography should be performed.