Journal of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
-
A classification of cervical spine injuries based upon Dunn's concept of stable and unstable fractures is presented. The role of conservative treatment using Halo-body fixation is outlined along with the various approaches to the cervical spine and their method of ensuring stability.
-
Thoracotomy has long been the conventional surgical approach in dealing with chylothorax due to thoracic duct injury which has been refractory to conservative treatment. The development of thoracoscopic access provides an alternative means of dealing with thoracic duct injuries thereby reducing the morbidity from thoracotomy and prolonged chylous leak. It will encourage earlier intervention in thoracic duct injury.