Arch Surg Chicago
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To assess the incidence of acute alcohol intoxication and the proportion of trauma patients with evidence of chronic alcohol abuse. ⋯ The high prevalence of both acute intoxication and chronic alcoholism in trauma patients indicates the need to diagnose and appropriately treat this pervasive problem in trauma victims.
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To evaluate orotracheal intubation with in-line stabilization of the cervical spine for emergency airway treatment of trauma patients with cervical spine injuries. ⋯ Orotracheal intubation, performed with manual in-line stabilization by trained and experienced personnel, is a safe emergency procedure in patients with cervical fractures.
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We studied delayed or residual manifestations of penetrating cardiac injury in patients to determine the incidence, type, management, and outcome. ⋯ We found residual or delayed sequelae in 23% of our patients. Close follow-up and utilization of diagnostic studies, including two-dimensional echocardiography during the early postoperative period, can identify late sequelae and allow elective repair.
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To determine whether pneumoperitoneum and reverse Trendelenburg's position used during laparoscopy impede common femoral venous flow and whether calf-length intermittent sequential pneumatic compression (ISPC) overcomes this impedance. ⋯ This study demonstrated a significant reduction in common femoral venous flow during laparoscopic cholecystectomy coincident with pneumoperitoneum and reverse Trendelenburg's position. Intermittent sequential pneumatic compression reversed that effect, returning peak systolic velocity to normal.
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We studied the impact of age on outcomes for patients with severe blunt brain injury. ⋯ Elderly patients experienced higher mortality, had poorer functional recovery, more frequently died of secondary organ failure, and consumed more resources per favorable outcome than did younger patients with similar injury profiles despite equivalent treatment efforts.