Brit J Hosp Med
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Trousseau syndrome is a cancer-associated hypercoagulative state leading to venous or arterial thromboembolic events. Cerebral infarction is the most common result of arterial embolism and the pathogenesis is complicated, mainly associated with hypercoagulation and non-bacterial thrombotic endocarditis. ⋯ Elevated plasma levels of D-dimer and fibrinogen degradation products may be seen in these patients. There are high rates of short-term recurrence of stroke and sudden death, highlighting the need for early recognition and appropriate treatment of Trousseau syndrome-associated cerebral infarction.
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Ankle fractures are a common injury. Assessment should include looking at the mechanism of injury, comorbidities, associated injuries, soft tissue status and neurovascular status. Emergent reduction is required for clinically deformed ankles. ⋯ Operative management includes open reduction and internal fixation, intramedullary nailing (of the fibula and hindfoot) and external fixation. Syndemosis stabilisation includes suture button or screw fixation. The aim of treatment is to restore ankle stability and this article explores the current evidence in best practice.
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Necrotising fasciitis is a severe, life-threatening and rapidly progressive soft tissue infection that often requires aggressive surgical management, with an estimated incidence of about 0.24-0.40 per 100 000 in the UK. Necrotising fasciitis can be classified based on its microbiology or the anatomy or body region affected. ⋯ To aid with early diagnosis of necrotising fasciitis, a scoring system known as the Laboratory Risk Indicator for necrotising fasciitis was developed which has a positive predictive value of 92%. Once diagnosed, appropriate resuscitation and antibiotics, along with prompt and aggressive surgical debridement, is the mainstay of treatment.
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Peripatetic teaching originated in the Aristotelian school of ancient Greece and refers to the action of walking, discussion and deep learning. A pilot study was carried out to evaluate the educational impact of peripatetic teaching in clinical medical education. There has been no previous evaluation of this form of teaching within medical education. ⋯ This article identifies educational and health benefits to peripatetic teaching. The authors present a simple framework to structure each teaching session using the mnemonic FIRM - Feedback, dIscussion, Reflection and Mentorship. From this pilot study, the authors conclude that there are perceived benefits for teacher and learner from this teaching method.