Percutaneous Drainage of a Thigh Haematoma: Case Report of an Unusual Radiographic Appearance

We present a case of fat necrosis in the thigh of a ten year old girl, resulting in unusual multiple, ovoid filling defects seen in the residual cavity following drainage of a subcutaneous haematoma. No similar cases have been found on review of the literature. The appearance is described to aid diagnosis at the time of initial cavity drainage, avoiding the need for further investigation.     

Medishield AGS system and servo 900 ventilators

The use of the new Medishield anaesthetic gas scavenging system with ventilators in the Siemens-Elema Servo 900 series was investigated. It was discovered that this combination of equipment creates the hazard that a disconnexion in the patient breathing system may not be detected by the ventilator alarm. This happens because the suction generated by the scavenging system draws a considerable flow of room air through the expiratory system of the ventilator when a disconnexion occurs. Possible solutions to the problem were investigated, and it was discovered that the problem can be overcome by applying a small amount of positive end-expiratory pressure to counteract the suction from the scavenging system.     

Alternating Current Electrocution Detection and Termination by an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator

A patient with an ICD accidentally grasped a power line and was electrocuted. He was unable to release the cable during electrocution though he remained conscious. After receiving a shock from his ICD. the powerline was released. ICD interrogation revealed inappropriate detection of alternating current and delivery of a shock.