International journal of burns and trauma
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Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a multi-organ dysfunction caused by the fat emboli. The diagnostic of FES remains a challenge for clinicians. The clinical criteria including those of Gurd's and Wilson's although universally used for its diagnosis are not specific. Different methods of imaging are increasingly performed in the patients with presumed FES. The objective of this study is to determine whether there is a correlation between the clinical parameters and the imaging findings in confirming the FES diagnosis. ⋯ The FES is common in young males with long bone fractures. Respiratory distress and neurological deterioration were common presentations. We suggest that the all patients with suspected FES by clinical criteria should have imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis.
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The present study describes initial burn injury care in Tanzania-materials applied, sources of information, reasons for applying the materials, and time to a health centre-in order to suggest ways to optimize initial care. Eight small studies were conducted in which burn-injured patients were interviewed who had been admitted to referral hospitals in four regions in Tanzania. Most burn injuries in Tanzania occur in the home cooking area, and it was found that the first responders were family members, friends, and neighbours. ⋯ A national mass media campaign should start immediately to inform ordinary citizens about proper initial treatment of burns. In addition, curricula of all schools that train health workers need to be reviewed for accuracy, and appropriate knowledge about initial care of burn victims should be added if necessary. Measures to improve burn first aid, are relatively easy, even in a low-income country such as Tanzania.