Postpartum heparin therapy for patients with the syndrome of hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets (HELLP) is associated with significant hemorrhagic complications.

Objective: To compare the outcome of two groups of 16 patients with hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets (HELLP) syndrome treated with heparin therapy or treated conservatively in the postpartum period.

Study Design: This is a retrospective cohort study comparing 16 consecutive patients with HELLP syndrome admitted to the ICU at the University of Florence (Italy) after delivery and treated with heparin, to 16 patients with the same disease admitted to the University of Virginia (UVA, USA) and treated with supportive therapy.

Results: Nine patients in the Florence group developed disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).

Prediction of 'awakening' and outcome in prolonged acute coma from severe traumatic brain injury: evidence for validity of short latency SEPs.

Objective: To evaluate the prognostic value of somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) in severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) considering both 'awakening' and disability.

Methods: SEPs were recorded in 60 severe TBI with duration of acute coma>7 days. N20-P25 amplitudes, their side-to-side asymmetry and CCT were measured.