Acta Orthop Belg
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The widespread use of minimally invasive and other spinal procedures raises concern about the peroperative radiation exposure to surgeon and patient. The authors noted the fluoroscopy time and the radiation dose, as read from the image amplifier, in 95 spinal procedures. The results of this prospective study varied widely between different operations. ⋯ Preventive measures for the surgeon, such as lead aprons and gloves, thyroid shields, radioprotective glasses and staying away from the beam are recommended. Still from the surgeon's view-point, source inferior positioning of the image amplifier is indicated for the AP view, as well as monitoring of the radiation exposure. Finally, the difference in fluoroscopy time and radiation exposure between surgeons for the same procedure stresses the fact that peroperative radiation may be reduced by simple awareness and by training.
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This study aimed at assessing the effectiveness of open reduction and plate fixation combined with autogenous bone grafting in the treatment of non-united fractures of the humeral shaft. Forty six patients (27 men, 19 women; mean age, 35.6 years; range, 23-53 years) were operated on for non-union of a diaphyseal fracture of the humerus. Sixteen patients had surgical treatments and 30 patients had non-surgical treatments prior to operation. ⋯ Elbow range of motion was excellent in 30 patients (65.2%), moderate in 14 patients (30.4%) and poor in 2 patients (4.4%). Functional results were excellent in 24 patients (522%), good in 14 patients (30.4%), fair in 6 patients and poor in 2 patients (04.4%). In this study, plate fixation combined with autogenous bone grafting appeared as a safe and effective option in non-infected non-union of the humeral shaft.