Retrospective analysis of the risk factors and pathogens associated with early-onset ventilator-associated pneumonia in surgical-ICU head-trauma patients.

Background: Early-onset ventilator associated pneumonia (EOVAP) are frequent in head-trauma patients, but specific risk factors are poorly studied in this population.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study in a surgical intensive care unit. Consecutive severe head-trauma patients admitted from January 2000 to December 2002 were studied.

Computed tomography scanning of the sciatic nerve posterior to the femur: Practical implications for the lateral midfemoral block.

Background And Objectives: Using computed tomography (CT) scans of the thighs, this study addresses sciatic nerve anatomy at the injection site for the lateral midfemoral sciatic nerve block. It addresses the recommendation of neutral leg rotation to facilitate block placement.

Method: This prospective and descriptive study involves 21 patients scheduled for CT scan imaging of the lower limbs.