Open versus laparoscopic right hemicolectomy in the elderly population.

Aim: To compare short term outcomes of elective laparoscopic and open right hemicolectomy (RH) in an elderly population.

Methods: All patients over the age of 70 undergoing elective RH at Ninewells Hospital and Perth Royal Infirmary between January 2006 and May 2011 were included in our analysis. Operative details, hospital length of stay, morbidity and mortality was collected by way of proforma from a dedicated prospective database.

Outpatient continuous interscalene brachial plexus block in cancer-related pain.

This case outlines the use of a continuous interscalene brachial plexus block to treat cancer-related pain. Using an elastomeric device, the patient's previously intractable pain was controlled and he was able to return home. Furthermore, the patient developed a pragmatic and effective method of balancing loss of power and sensation against pain control using the flow restrictor.