Acta orthopaedica Scandinavica
-
We investigated, by studying medical records, background factors and consequences of accidental falls of patients 65-74 years who attended the Department of Orthopedics' emergency clinic in Lund. We also assessed possible prevention measures. Fractures occurred in three quarters of the registered falls. ⋯ Such patients constitute a high risk group for future falls and fractures. A newly developed instrument is suggested as a routine in the emergency department to increase the awareness of risk factors for falls in the elderly. Satisfactory documentation is a prerequisite for further treatment and referrals to prevent falls and fractures.
-
We performed a systematic survey of randomized trials to determine the effects of perioperative NSAIDs on the occurrence of heterotopic bone formation, gastrointestinal side-effects and long-term clinical outcomes after major hip surgery. 13 trials involving 4,129 individuals were identified. Overall, in 12 small trials of medium-to-high-dose regimens, there was a 57% reduction (95% confidence interval 51%-63%) in the risk of heterotopic bone formation. ⋯ The NSAID regimens studied had no definite effect on gastrointestinal complications, and data about the effects of NSAIDs on pain and function were too few, and too incompletely reported, to draw conclusions about their effects on these outcomes. Routine prophylaxis against heterotopic bone formation with NSAIDs may be a useful adjuvant therapy for patients undergoing major hip surgery, but the overall balance of risks and benefits requires assessment in a large-scale randomized trial.
-
Intramedullary nail fixation is a common treatment for metastatic tumors of the femur with overt or impending femoral fracture. This procedure sometimes causes severe cardiorespiratory and vascular dysfunction. The clinical relevance of this is not dear. ⋯ Acute oxygen desaturation and hypotension occurred in 11 of our 45 patients. Of these, 3 died, 2 required intensive care postoperatively and 6 made uneventful recoveries. We hope to highlight a serious complication in this patient group.