Selenium depletion in burn patients.

Victims of major burns may be at risk for selenium (Se) depletion because increased postinjury nutrient needs are often met by total parental nutrition and tube feedings which contain little Se. This study compared Se status of 17 burn patients and 191 healthy control subjects. Se intake of burn patients was lower than the intake of control subjects when total parenteral nutrition or tube feedings were used as primary nutrient sources but was comparable to the control intake when burn patients consumed oral diets.

Peritoneal lavage. Its unreliability in gunshot wounds of the lower chest and abdomen.

The accuracy of peritoneal lavage in patients with gunshot wounds has not been previously reported. A prospective study comprised of 168 patients was designed to determine the reliability of physical examination and peritoneal lavage. Patients sustaining gunshot wounds to the lower chest and abdomen underwent clinical assessment followed up by lavage prior to operation.

Vertebral arteriovenous fistula associated with an anomalous arterial vessel.

The widespread use of angiography in patients sustaining vascular trauma has demonstrated an increased incidence in vertebral artery injuries. With the improvement in peripheral vascular techniques and the utilization of extended exposure of the vertebral artery, aggressive therapy now is generally advocated. While new concepts continue to evolve, it becomes important to report anatomical variants that are not commonly recognized.