Inferior vena cava filter placement at bedside using computed tomography scan information: a new technique for accurate deployment.

Background: An inferior vena cava filter (IVCF) is indicated for the prophylaxis of pulmonary embolism where anticoagulation is contraindicated. The majority of these filters are placed using fluoroscopy and venogram. We hypothesized that a computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen and pelvis provides sufficient information for successful deployment of an IVCF at bedside without the need for any further imaging during the procedure.

The Wittmann Patch s a temporary abdominal closure device after decompressive celiotomy for abdominal compartment syndrome following burn.

Background: Abdominal compartment syndrome is frequently the result of aggressive fluid resuscitation after burn. Management of the open abdomen following decompressive celiotomy is a major problem.

Methods: From 2004 to mid-2005, six patients required decompressive celiotomy after developing abdominal compartment syndrome as a result of burn.

Percutaneous tracheostomy tube obstruction: warning.

Study Objectives: To determine the patency of standard and modified Portex tracheostomy tubes inserted by the percutaneous dilatational technique.

Design: Prospective observational study.

Setting: Medical-surgical ICUs in a tertiary care community hospital.

Heterotopic pregnancy presenting as an acute abdomen: a diagnostic masquerader.

Simultaneous intrauterine and extrauterine pregnancy is called heterotopic pregnancy. It is a rare complication of pregnancy, especially in the absence of predisposing factors. It is known to present with a variety of symptoms and signs often leading to a delay in establishing the correct diagnosis.

Posterior tracheal wall perforation during percutaneous dilational tracheostomy: an investigation into its mechanism and prevention.

Objectives: Part 1: To describe the complication of posterior tracheal wall injury and perforation associated with the percutaneous dilational tracheostomy (PDT). Part 2: To determine the mechanism of posterior tracheal wall injury during PDT.

Design: Prospective observational study.