ANZ journal of surgery
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ANZ journal of surgery · Oct 2014
A holistic perspective of patients' lives post-Ilizarov external fixation.
The Ilizarov external fixator (IEF) is used in the treatment of complicated fractures with severe soft tissue damage. Despite advantages of being minimally invasive and allowing early weight-bearing, the IEF has limitations, including size, treatment duration and crucial pin-site care. Many patients showed enormous resilience despite the devastating effects of their injuries. Our aim was to assess the value of IEF treatment for trauma patients with a focus on their quality of life. ⋯ Patient's quality of life scores correlated directly with their injury severity and pre-existing conditions. They were not negatively affected by IEF treatment itself. High quality of life scores (non-physical) were achieved with IEF treatment.
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Anastomotic leaks are a serious complication of bowel surgery. This study aimed to evaluate the rate and severity, and identify risk factors for leaks in patients undergoing bowel anastomoses. ⋯ Majority of predictors for anastomotic leak were fairly intuitive. Nonetheless, it was relevant to note the importance of the individual surgeon as an independent predictor for leaks.
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ANZ journal of surgery · Oct 2014
Modified elliptical rotation flap for sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus disease.
Although various surgical procedures have been described for pilonidal sinus disease, the best surgical technique is still controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term results of modified elliptical rotation flap (MERF) for pilonidal sinus disease in terms of post-operative complications, recurrence and quality of life. ⋯ MERF seems to be an effective and reliable procedure having low morbidity rates and no recurrence. Further prospective randomized studies comparing the MERF with other flap techniques will provide better information about the technique.
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Deficiencies in daily ward rounds are increasingly identified. A ward safety checklist has recently been devised to improve the fast-paced surgical ward round. ⋯ Implementing this simple checklist has provided our unit with a starting point in how to overcome some of the deficiencies of the post-take surgical ward round.