Eur J Orthop Surg Tr
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Eur J Orthop Surg Tr · Feb 2014
ReviewDamage control resuscitation from major haemorrhage in polytrauma.
Trauma is a global disease that affects patients across the socio-economic spectrum. Uncontrolled major haemorrhage occurs from both blunt and penetrating trauma which may lead to hypovolaemic shock and ultimately death. In polytrauma patients that require urgent resuscitation secondary to major haemorrhage, high volume fluid infusions followed by definitive surgical care have been superseded by damage control resuscitation. ⋯ The aim of DCR is to aggressively minimise hypovolaemic shock and limit the development of coagulopathy, hypothermia and acidosis known as the lethal triad. Besides increased volumes of scientific knowledge to underpin modern trauma resuscitation techniques upon, patient survival is also dependent upon effective teamwork and leadership. In conclusion, successful resuscitation from major haemorrhage depends upon a variety of factors distilled into a trauma team with effective leadership, excellent technical and non-technical team skills as well as the early initiation of DCR.
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Eur J Orthop Surg Tr · Feb 2014
Comparative StudyRetrospective comparison of external fixation versus volar locking plate in the treatment of unstable intra-articular distal radius fractures.
The aim of this study is to compare the radiological and functional outcomes of open reduction and volar locking plates versus external fixation (EF) in the treatment of unstable intra-articular distal radius fractures. In this retrospective comparative study, 69 of 80 patients who underwent an operation for AO/ASIF C1, C2 and C3 distal radius fractures were assessed. Functional evaluation was performed using the Gartland-Werley scoring system and the PRWE scale, and wrist range of motion and grip strength was also measured. ⋯ In the external fixator group, six patients had superficial pin tract infection, two patients had sensory branch injury, and four patients had regional pain syndrome. Volar locking plate fixation appeared as a dependable method for the treatment of intra-articular distal radius, with lower complication rates. On the other hand, EF remains a suitable surgical alternative for these fractures, with easy application and acceptable results.