Low back pain education and short term quality of life: a randomized trial

Background  

Different interventions can reduce the burden of the chronic low back pain. One example is the use of a 'Back School Programme'. This is a brief therapy that uses a health education method to empower participants through a procedure of assessment, education and skill development. This study aimed to evaluate to what extent the programme could improve quality of life in those who suffer from the condition.     

The cubital fossa

The boundaries and floor of the cubital fossa are described. Its contents and their clinically important relationships are emphasised. The commonest variation of the fossa’s venous anatomy is described, and details of a method of blocking the median nerve in the fossa is given.     

Anaesthesia for vascular emergencies

Patients undergoing emergent vascular surgery, such as ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm, acute ischaemic limb revascularization, and postoperative evacuation of haematoma after carotid surgery have significantly higher morbidity and mortality than for the equivalent elective procedures. This is partly caused by the high risk of the procedures. In addition, these patients have significant co-morbidity, and are usually under-assessed and under-prepared for such surgery, and often present out of normal working hours. Careful selection and application of anaesthetic techniques is important to minimize this morbidity, but also experienced anaesthetists and surgeons should be involved from the outset in managing these patients.