The Australian and New Zealand journal of surgery
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A plea is made for the early recognition of the possible development of painful conditions affecting peripheral nerves, since it is believed that the experience of our institution, which is detailed here, confirms that while rehabilitation programmes are of benefit to the patient, successful therapy depends upon prompt institution of prophylactic measures to prevent sensitization to sympathetic outflow. Patients are encouraged to use their hands, and it is considered important that they would understand that their complaints arise from a genuine organic condition.
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Cysticercus cellulosae, the larva of the pork tapeworm, has a predilection to encyst within the central nervous system. It is common in endemic areas, such as Central and South America, but rare in Australia. The clinical and radiological findings in two patients with fourth ventricular cysts are described.
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A simple safe technique of providing rapid, effective analgesia in children with femoral shaft fractures is described. It is particularly useful in patients who have associated head or abdominal injuries in the presence of which opiates should be withheld. The technique is recommended to all practitioners involved in the early care of femoral shaft fractures.
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Pathological features such as tumour type, tumour size and lymph node invasion have an important bearing on the prognosis of the patient with breast cancer. It is suggested that such prognostic factors should be considered in the selection of women for post-mastectomy breast reconstruction. The implications of pathological and other factors are reviewed and a summary of favourable prognostic factors is presented.
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Metrical and morphological findings, based on 107 human vertebral columns, related to the variations of the dens are given, and differences in the depth of the superior articular facets of the atlas and specific pertinent details related to the os odontoideum and epitransverse process are also provided and their possible clinical relevance indicated. Findings reveal considerable variation in the height of the dens (11 to 18 mm), but remarkably little in its anteroposterior and transverse diameters at the root. The use of the term "hypoplasia" with reference to the dens is discussed, and a need for more rigid criterian in the use of this term stressed. It is also suggested that there may be sufficient radiological evidence in a lateral radiography to lead one to suspect the presence of an os odontoideum or a separate dens caused by trauma in the distant past.