Physiological measurements of tissue health; implications for clinical practice

Pressure mapping alone insufficiently describes tissue health. Comprehensive, quantitative non invasive assessment is crucial. Interface pressures (IPs) and transcutaneous blood gas levels [transcutaneous tissue oxygen (T_cPO₂)] were simultaneously assessed over both ischia and the sacrum to investigate the hypotheses: (i) tissue oxygenation decreases with sustained applied pressure; (ii) tissue oxygen and IP are inversely correlated in loaded soft tissues; (iii) multisite assessments are unnecessary because healthy individuals are symmetrical. Measurements were taken at 5‐minute intervals for 20 minutes in both sitting and supine lying for a cohort of 20 able‐bodied adults. There were no statistically significant changes over time for either variable in 96% of timepoint comparisons. Specifically, no significant differences were seen between 10 and 20 minutes in either position. These findings imply that a 10‐minute assessment can reliably indicate tissue health and that tissue may adapt to applied load over time. No statistically significant correlations between T_cPO₂ and IP were observed. However, the left and right ischia were significantly different for both variables in supine lying (P < 0·001) and for sitting IP (P < 0·010). Thus, even in this healthy cohort, postural symmetry was not observed and should not be assumed for other populations with restricted mobility. If a multisite technique cannot be used, repeated tissue health assessments must use the same anatomic location.     

The reproducibility of transcranial Doppler middle cerebral artery velocity measurements: implications for clinical practice

Use of transcranial Doppler (TCD) to diagnose vasospasm has been criticised. We examined reproducibility of TCD middle cerebral artery (MCA) velocity measurements. Thirty-six healthy adult volunteers were recruited. Four operators, two experienced and two inexperienced, participated. MCA velocity was measured twice by one operator and once by a second operator. Mean (95% limits of agreement) interoperator agreement was 2.4(+/-36.7) cm/s. Experienced vs. inexperienced, inexperienced vs. inexperienced, and experienced vs. experienced operators were -2.8(+/-39.3), -5.6(+/-40.1), 1.8(+/-22.1) cm/s, respectively. Intraoperator agreement across all operators, experienced and inexperienced were -0.5(+/-16.9), -1.6(+/-19.3), 0.7(+/-13.7) cm/s, respectively. Interoperator limits of agreement for experienced operators were almost half that of inexperienced operators. Intraoperator reproducibility was much better, regardless of level of experience, but aberrant results did occur even with experienced operators. If TCD measurements are used to guide management it is essential that operators are adequately trained, and readings repeated before potentially harmful treatments are instituted.     

Extra-articular arthrodesis of the subtalar joint: a clinical study and review

A series of 73 Grice extra-articular arthrodeses in 54 children with hind foot valgus is presented with an overall satisfactory result in 79% of these cases. The diagnostic categories in which we have used this procedure include: cerebral palsy, poliomyelitis, meningomyelocele, pes plano valgus, convex pes valgus, osteogenesis imperfecta, congenital hydrocephalus, partial adactylia, and congenital calcaneovalgus. The results with 11 meningomyelocele deformities are encouraging as only 2 of these children required a triple arthrodesis; 5 out of 6 patients in whom the opposite foot could serve as a control developed a smaller foot on the opposite extremity as a result of this procedure. This operative procedure was considered definitive treatment in 47% of the cases (264 operative feet) and produced satisfactory results in 74% of the cases (573 operative feet) reported in the literature.     

Closed versus open medullary nailing of femoral fractures

In rats, bilateral closed femoral fractures were produced. On the left side, closed intramedullary nailing was done, and on the right side, the nail was inserted by an open procedure. The healing process of the fractures was evaluated at 4, 8, and 12 weeks, bone and muscle blood flows were also determined. Reaming had no acute impact on bone blood flow, while reaming and fracture halved total bone flow (P < 0.04), and reduced cortical diaphyseal flow to approximately one quarter (P < 0.01). No differences were found between the open and closed methods. At 4 weeks, the bending moment, rigidity, and fracture energy of the fractures treated by closed medullary nailing were greater than those treated by open nailing. The fracture energy was still greater at 8 weeks, while no differences were seen in bending moment and rigidity. At 12 weeks, however, there were no differences in the mechanical parameters. Bone blood flows in both the cortical diaphysis and callus area were increased at 4 and in the callus area at 8 weeks in bones treated by the open method. No differences were found at the end of the experiment. Muscle blood flow was not different in the two limbs, and was constant during the experimental period.

We conclude that femoral fractures treated by closed nailing heal better in the initial phase compared with those that have been openly nailed. This difference cannot be explained by an impaired muscle or bone blood flow due to open surgery.     

Reliability of two instruments in the measurement of closed chain subtalar joint positions

Abnormal motion of the subtalar joint has often been implicated as a major contributing factor to lower limb pathology. However, the techniques used to assess this joint have not been adequately evaluated. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the inter- and intra-tester reliability of measuring neutral calcaneal stance position and resting calcaneal stance position using the gravity angle finder and a digital goniometer which has been specifically designed and manufactured by one of the authors. Two testers measured the neutral calcaneal stance position and resting calcaneal stance position of ten healthy volunteer participants (seven females, three males, mean age 21) using each device to establish both inter- and intra-tester reliability. The results indicated that inter- and intra-tester rearfoot measurement using both instruments had poor reliability (as evidenced by standard error of measurement values ranging from ± 3.7 to ± 8.5). Rearfoot measurement using the angle finder and a digital goniometer is unreliable and produces values with questionable clinical application. In light of such poor reliability, the validity of measuring frontal plane heel bisections to indicate subtalar joint position must also be seriously questioned.     

Multimodal intracranial monitoring: implications for clinical practice

This article presents an overview of intracranial monitoring techniques during the perioperative and intensive care management of neurologic patients. Various regional and global brain monitors are available; some modalities are well established whereas others are new to the clinical arena and their indications are still being evaluated. Indications for monitoring are reviewed, modalities critically evaluated, and future directions identified.     

Closed suction drainage after orthopaedic surgery: evidence versus practice

Abstract Closed suction drainage systems are commonly used in orthopaedic surgery, particularly in joint arthroplasty. The rationale for the use of drains is a theoretical reduction of wound haematomas and infection. However the benefit of using drains after total hip or knee arthroplasty is controversial. Several reports have shown that the use of drains does not reduce infection and morbidity and is an unnecessary and potentially dangerous practice. In fact most studies highlighted that at best their use appears to make no difference to important clinical outcomes. Recently a metaanalysis raised the question about the usefulness of closed suction drainage again, concluding that it has no major benefits. The purpose of this study was to review the evidences available concerning the utility of closed suction drainage outlining that this practice is not supported by clinical evidence.     

Comparison of open isolated subtalar arthrodesis with autogenous bone graft versus outpatient arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis using injectable bone morphogenic protein-enhanced graft

Isolated subtalar joint arthrodesis is an established salvage procedure that can be performed in various ways for varying diagnoses. The purpose of this article is to report a new arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis technique that has been developed. The results of this method versus an open technique were compared. Length of hospital stay, tourniquet time, morbidity, and fusion rate were studied in 17 fusion patients between 1990 and 1997. Twelve patients had open arthrodesis with bone graft and 5 patients had arthroscopic arthrodesis with supplemental, injectable, osteoinductive enhanced-graft gel. The length of stay decreased 1.7 days with the arthroscopic procedure. Tourniquet time was not significantly different. One open procedure required refusion, whereas none did in the arthroscopic group. One patient in each group required AO screw removal. In selected patients with subtalar arthrosis without significant hindfoot deformity, arthroscopic arthrodesis can be an effective. It is too early to determine if there are specific advantages in this procedure compared with a conventional open arthrodesis.     

Physical properties of flexible ureteroscopes: implications for clinical practice

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Physical characteristics may be important in the performance of a flexible ureteroscope. This study evaluated the strength of the shaft and deflection mechanism of several instruments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sequential loads were placed along the axis of downward deflection to measure the stiffness of the shaft and strength of deflection. Bending pressure was defined as the force required to deflect the tip of the ureteroscope 15 degrees from baseline. Buckling pressure was defined as the force that resulted in catastrophic bending (>90 degrees) of the shaft of the ureteroscope. Strength of deflection was defined as the force that resulted in loss of 10 degrees of active deflection. RESULTS: Bending pressures were lower for the Olympus URF-P3 (6.4 g) and Wolf 7325.172 (6.0 g) ureteroscopes. Similarly, buckling pressures were lower for these two ureteroscopes (9.0 g and 11.6 g, respectively). The Wolf and Storz flexible ureteroscopes had stronger deflection mechanisms than the Olympus URF-P3 and the ACMI DUR-8. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates significant differences in ureteroscope strength. Higher buckling pressures may facilitate advancement of a ureteroscope over a guidewire but may impede secondary deflection. Lower bending pressures may facilitate passive intrarenal manipulation. Strength of deflection may impact the ability to maintain deflection with an instrument in the working channel.     

Arthroscopy of the subtalar joint: an experimental approach

Talocalcaneal articulations are relatively complex and functionally very important because they play a major role in the movements of inversion and eversion of the foot. Few reports on arthrography of the subtalar joints are available in the literature, and, similarly, little attention has been paid by arthroscopists to these joints. This preliminary study briefly defines the normal anatomy of the subtalar joints and describes a new technique of arthroscopic examination of the posterior subtalar joint. The distal lower extremities of six fresh cadavers were used in these experiments. All the subtalar joints were supple. A 2.7-mm arthroscope was used to carry out arthroscopic and anatomic examinations. A technique of examination with one anterior portal and one posterior portal is described in detail. When the anterior portal was used, the egress needle was placed posteriorly; when the posterior portal was used, the converse was true. By using the two portals, the following intraarticular structures could be visualized: a major part of the convex posterior calcaneal facet of the talus and the posterior talar facet of the calcaneus; the synovial lining laterally and posteriorly; the posterior aspect of the interosseous talocalcaneal ligament; and the posterior recess of the joint. The results of this experimental study indicate that arthroscopy of the posterior subtalar joint is technically feasible. Clinically, the possible indications for arthroscopy would include state of the articular cartilage in suspected cases of degenerative arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and infection; visualization of the joint after intraarticular fracture to evaluate chronic pain syndrome in the hindfoot; biopsy; management of sinus tarsi syndrome; loose body removal.     

Advanced practice: implications for clinical and procurement transplant coordinators

What is exciting about the "buzz" is that it is encouraging continuing education and knowledge acquisition. Advanced practitioners, including clinical and procurement transplant coordinators, have recognized the need to continually enhance their knowledge base, formally and informally. Whether procurement or clinical, transplant coordinators function in expanded roles by virtue of their knowledge and skills. They have been practicing at that high level with specialized, complex skills and knowledge for at least 30 years. Advanced practice is what procurement and clinical transplant coordinators do. We have met the advanced practice transplant coordinator, and we are him or her.     

Genetic causes of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis: implications for clinical practice

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is a common cause of steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome in children and adults. Although FSGS is considered a podocyte disease, the aetiology is diverse. In recent years, many inheritable genetic forms of FSGS have been described, caused by mutations in proteins that are important for podocyte function. In the present commentary, we review these genetic causes of FSGS and describe their prevalence in familial and sporadic FSGS. In routine clinical practice, the decision to perform the costly DNA analysis should be based on the assessment if the results affect the care of the individual patient with respect to the evaluation of extra-renal manifestations, treatment decisions, transplantation and genetic counselling.     

Anterior dislocation of the subtalar joint: a case report

We report a very rare case of anterior dislocation of the subtalar joint. Forceful supination of the foot and dorsiflexion of the ankle was considered the cause of the injury in this case. Closed reduction was successful for the talocalcaneal component of subtalar joint, although surgery was subsequently performed because of the residual subluxation of the midtarsal joint including the talonavicular component of subtalar joint and the associated fracture of the lateral process of the talus. Satisfactory results were shown at three-year follow-up.     

腹腔镜与开腹肝部分切除术的临床疗效对比

目的 探讨腹腔镜肝部分切除术的安全性、可行性.方法 2002年11月至2010年12月我院行腹腔镜下肝部分切除术165例,与同期行传统开腹肝部分切除术170例进行比较.结果 腹腔镜组159例腹腔镜肝部分切除术成功,6例因术中出血中转开腹肝部分切除术;开腹组170例均顺利完成肝部分切除术.腹腔镜肝切除术组住院时间(7.6±1.3 d)显著低于开腹组(14.6±3.3 d)(t=-12.657,P=0.00).腔镜组总住院费用(31767.4±220.1元)显著低于开腹组(35127.3±392.2元)(t=-78.859,P=0.00).腔镜组肝门阻断时间(20.6±8.5 min)与开腹组(18.6±6.5 min)无明显差异(t=2.108,P=0.068).腔镜组术中出血量(420.8±76.5 ml)与开腹组(395.9±96.1 ml)无明显差异(t=2.157,P=0.063).两组术后并发症无明显差异(t=2.011,P=0.156).腹腔镜组手术时间(59.6±12.2 min)显著长于开腹组(42.7±22.6 min),(t=6.941,P-0.001).结论 对位于肝脏边缘、右肝表面或左肝外叶、左半肝、肝右叶下段的良恶性病灶,阻断肝门血流后行腹腔镜肝部分切除或行解剖性肝部分切除术是可行和安全的,且具有创伤小恢复快的特点.与传统开腹肝部分切除术相比除手术时间稍长外,阻断肝门时间、术中出血量、术后并发症及两年生存率无明显差异,而在住院时间和总住院费用方面开腹组明显高于腹腔镜组.     

True posterior dislocation of subtalar joint: a case report

Posterior dislocation subtalar joint is rare and usually results from a high-velocity injury. Previous reports of all complete posterior dislocations of the subtalar joint have had some degree of a rotational component. We report a case of a true complete posterior dislocation of subtalar joint with no rotation.     

阴式与经腹子宫切除术的临床比较

目的评价阴式子宫切除术的临床应用价值. 方法对118例子宫良性病变经阴道子宫切除(阴式组)临床资料进行回顾性分析,并与经腹子宫切除(腹式组)124例进行比较. 结果阴式组手术时间(50.1±15.3) min,术中出血量(150.4±56) ml、术后疼痛用止痛药例数(26例)、术后病率(42例)、下床活动时间(26.4±6.3) h及住院时间(5.2±1.2) d均明显少于腹式组(70.3±12.4) min, (212.2±70.3) ml,124例,94例,(48.5±12.1) h,(8.2±2.2) d,P＝0.000,术中、术后并发症发生率(0.8%, 1/118)与腹式组(5.6%, 7/124)无显著性差异(χ2 =2.982,P=0.084). 结论阴式子宫切除术创伤小,术后恢复快,优于开腹子宫切除术.     

Effects of ligamentous injury on ankle and subtalar joints: a kinematic study.

Using 10 normal fresh cadaveric legs, kinematic effects of ligamentous injuries around the ankle joint were studied while the ankle joint moved from maximum plantar flexion to maximum dorsiflexion in saggittal plane. A series of anteroposterior and lateral sequential roentgenograms was taken both in the normal and subsequently created injured condition, to evaluate instant center of rotation and horizontal rotation pattern in the hindfoot complex. Although the pattern of instant center of rotation of the ankle joint varied among normal condition, the majority fell in a prescribed area. The deviation of instant centers from those in uninjured condition was most evident in lateral ligament injury. The average horizontal rotation between the tibia and calcaneus was 8 degrees in the uninjured condition; 6 degrees in the subtalar joint and 2 degrees in the ankle joint. In both medial and lateral injuries, more rotation in the subtalar joint was noted in plantar flexion phase. In the ankle joint, the degree of excessive rotation in plantar flexion range was greater in lateral injury than medial injury, but that in dorsiflexion range was greater in medial injury. It appeared that while every component of collateral ligaments around the ankle was important in controlling rotation in plantar flexion range, the posterior portion of the deltoid ligament is most important in the forsiflexion range.