Scand J Surg
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To study the mechanism, management and outcome of patients who had sustained pancreatic trauma. ⋯ Blunt trauma is the main cause of pancreatic injury in our country. Early CT scan may miss pancreatic injury in almost a quarter of the patients. Thin sliced CT scan, with special views in a dedicated abdominal pancreatic study, is recommended. A high index of clinical suspicion, depending on the mechanism of injury, is important for diagnosis of pancreatic injury. Mortality is mainly attributable to other associated injuries so simple procedures should initially be adopted for pancreatic injury, especially in haemodynamically unstable patients.
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Comparative Study
The increasing incidence and difference in sex distribution of Achilles tendon rupture in Finland in 1987-1999.
There have been reports about the increasing number of Achilles tendon ruptures. The most of the reports are based on records in a few hospitals only. We wanted to verify the increasing trend by investigating the epidemiology of Achilles tendon rupture in a very large population. ⋯ The number of Achilles tendon ruptures is increasing, but the reasons for this remain unknown. The geographical variations in rupture rate might indicate the role of the urban life-style as a risk factor. One reason for the differences between the men and the women might be the different level of the sport activities, especially ball-games.
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The purpose of this paper is to retrospectively review 234 consecutive cases of scaphoid fractures and nonunions treated using arthroscopy with the dorsal percutaneous implantation of a headless compression screw for healing and complications. Solid union of fracture is determined by CT scan. We identified 126 acute injuries, including 65 proximal pole fractures; 67 grossly displaced fractures; 12 trans-scaphoid perilunate dislocations including four trans-scaphoid trans-capitate fractures; and ten combined scaphoid and distal radius fractures. 108 scaphoid nonunions were identified. 98 were correctly aligned and ten had a humpback deformity which was correctable using arthroscopic assisted reduction techniques at the time of surgery. 82 presented with a fracture gap 2mm or greater requiring percutaneous bone grafting. 12 cases of avascular necrosis (AVN) were identified by MRI. 20 nonunions had surgery performed at other institutions. ⋯ We conclude that the dorsal percutaneous treatment of scaphoid fractures and nonunions using arthroscopy is safe and effective. CT scans to evaluate scaphoid healing by measuring trabecular bridging at the fracture site was determined to be an excellent modality to evaluate scaphoid healing. While not witnessed in this series, the potential for complications requires proper training.
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Minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum (MIRPE) is the preferred technique for repair of funnel chest deformity. The aim of this study is to evaluate our initial postoperative results, to identify factors related to postoperative complications and to examine the acceptability of MIRPE by the patients. ⋯ MIRPE is a safe operation and gives a cosmetically good result. Thoracoscopy is needed during the operation. The early postoperative period in hospital is painful and there the patients need intensive care. We found the high epidural analgesia beneficial and safe during early period of pain treatment. The bar is removed not earlier than 3 years after the operation as a day care surgical procedure.