Complement depletion suppresses Lewis rat experimental allergic neuritis

Lewis rats immunized with myelin and complete Freund's adjuvant were treated with cobra venom factor (CVF) which depletes the C3 component of complement. CVF given at day 9 delayed the onset of experimental allergic neuritis (EAN) by 2-3 days and when given at days 9 and 12 delayed the onset of EAN by 4-5 days. Lumbar nerve roots of CVF-treated rats had significantly less demyelination than those from control EAN rats.     

Re-treatment in endodontics

In order to achieve success in endodontics, major emphasis is placed on judicious instrumentation, microbial control, and complete obturation of the root canal system. During re-treatment of previously endodontically treated teeth, one may encounter a variety of different materials, which must be removed before these objectives can be achieved. The intent of this article is to present various methods that the practitioner may use in an attempt to safely remove these materials while adhering to sound endodontic principles. The article further emphasizes that removal of the previous filling material is only the initial step, which, when successfully accomplished, provides access to the root canal system so that therapy objectives can be carried out.     

Pedicled myocutaneous flap of latissimus dorsi muscle for reconstruction of anterior and middle skull defects: an alternative

Three cases are presented demonstrating the use of a pedicled myocutaneous flap of latissimus dorsi muscle to reconstruct large defects of the anterior and middle skull after ablative surgery for carcinoma. This method is proposed as an alternative to reconstruction with a free myocutaneous flap in selected patients.     

Epidural hematoma after outpatient epidural anesthesia.

IMPLICATIONS: Epidural hematoma is a rare complication of epidural anesthesia in healthy patients. Expedient diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid permanent neurologic deficits. In an outpatient setting, patients should be instructed to communicate symptoms of severe back pain or weakness early.