Articles: treatment.
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Epilepsy is the most common neurological disease of females in reproductive age. Problems concerning contraception, reproduction, teratogenicity and antiepileptic therapy preceding and during pregnancy are discussed and recommendations made. We underline the advantages of a planned pregnancy with optimal adjustment of antiepileptic drug therapy and recommend prophylactic treatment with folic acid before and during, and with vitamin K towards the end of pregnancy.
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The use of caesarean section (C. S.) has been analysed in the 12 hospitals of the Midlands Province of Zimbabwe during a 2-year period. Maternal mortality rate, perinatal mortality rate, low birthweight rate, percentage of high risk pregnancy, C. ⋯ S. differentiated the 12 hospitals into two groups. Although there was no difference in the number of high risk patients in these two groups, outcomes were much better in the hospitals with a high ID rate than in the hospitals with a high C. S. rate, suggesting that attitudes of medical staff can influence both the mode of delivery and the perinatal outcome in a developing country.
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Amalgam, which has long been used as a restorative material, has recently become the target of more and more criticism. An assessment of amalgam requires consideration of different aspects of toxicology, allergology, electrochemistry, psychology, and dentistry. ⋯ Almost all preventive or therapeutic dental treatment can have adverse effects, and an attempt to eliminate all risks could well eliminate established methods in dentistry as well. This paper presents the ramifications of an amalgam ban, which is being called for by various groups, in some detail.
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Beside the procedures to ensure adequate ventilatory and circulatory support, analgesia, sedation and even anesthesia are essential parts of the preclinical treatment of patients with multiple injuries. The measures for extrication and positioning must be adjusted to minimize pain and excitation. ⋯ The therapy must take into account the special conditions concerning the patient, material and assisting personnel by choosing suitable techniques. The best results can be obtained if all kinds of measures can be administered from the site of the accident on up to the definitive care in the operating room.
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Historical Article
Evolution of paediatric oncology over the years: overview with a focus on sub-Saharan Africa and examples from the Kenyan experience.
In this paper on "The Evolution of Paediatric Oncology Over the Years", a historical perspective is outlined regarding the subspecialty of paediatric oncology on a global basis. The evolution of paediatric oncology units and their role in the progress of cancer management in children is highlighted. ⋯ The development of a paediatric oncology unit at the Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya has been focused on, pointing out challenges, constraints and success that are associated in the initiation and nurturing of such units in developing countries. Lastly, Burkitt's lymphoma is singled out for discussion to illustrate problems that are abound in cancer management in children in sub-Saharan Africa.