Schweizerische Rundschau für Medizin Praxis = Revue suisse de médecine Praxis
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In Colles' fractures of the radius the distal fragment is slanted dorsally and radially, dislocated dorsally and radially and supinated. The radius is shortened. Furthermore a comminution-zone of the dorsal cortex is found. ⋯ The cast should push the carpus slightly palmwards and hold the hand in light ulnar-duction. Immobilization is retained for four to six weeks. Radiologic review is performed 4, 8, 12 and 16 days post reduction so that timely change to a different form of fixation is possible in case of secondary dislocation.
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From 1987 to 1989, 14 adults with acute epiglottitis were seen and treated at the ENT clinic of Geneva. All patients presented with a severe sore throat as primary symptom. An indirect laryngoscopy, which bears no risk in adults, was performed and revealed a swollen, cherry-red epiglottis. ⋯ In most cases, these patients can be treated medically with antibiotics and corticoids, and there is no need for systematic orotracheal intubation. However, patients presenting with respiratory distress syndrome or stridor require intubation, which may be impossible because of edema of the epiglottis. Therefore, a surgeon must be ready to perform a tracheotomy.