[Efficacy of an extract of Ginkgo biloba in the treatment of chronic obliterating arteriopathies of the lower limbs in stage III of Fontaine's classification].

Unlabelled: A controlled trial of Ginkgo biloba extract in injectable form (Tanakan 50 mg, a lyophilizate for parenteral use) was carried out versus a placebo as a preoperative medical treatment of stage III (Fontaine classification) chronic occlusive arterial disease of the lower limbs (with pain in decubitus). The 64 men and women patients in this multicenter study (32 in each group) were over 18 years of age and had a cultural and intellectual level as well as a physical condition allowing them to play an active role in the experiment (self-evaluation of pain). During 8 days they received two daily infusions of 500 cc of normal saline solution containing either 100 mg of Ginkgo biloba extract or a placebo of identical appearance.

[Barotraumatic rupture of the esophagus : a case report (author's transl)].

A case of barotraumatic rupture of the thoracic esophagus with a favorable outcome is reported, and the 12 cases found in the published literature reviewed. Mortality was 3 out of 5 in unoperated cases, and only 1 out of 7 in the patients treated by surgery. This emphasizes the need for early diagnosis, thoracotomy for esophageal repair, drainage by-passing digestive secretions, and parenteral feeding, this constituting the best guarantee in the fight against mediastinitis.