Subglottic stenosis above tracheal stoma: technique for Montgomery T-tube insertion.

The insertion of the Montgomery T-tube can be a difficult and time-consuming procedure if the stricture is located above the tracheal stoma, especially in individuals with short, obese necks. This article reports a modified insertion technique that is very useful in patients with severe fibrosis that makes it difficult to correctly position the proximal end of the T-tube's intraluminal limb. We have successfully performed this technique in 108 procedures in 69 patients since 2005, irrespective of the stoma location.

Giant solitary fibrous tumor of the pleura.

Background: Solitary fibrous tumor is the second primary malignancy of the pleura and can reach up to 39 cm in diameter; however, to be referred to as 'giant' it must occupy at least 40% of the affected hemithorax. Although this tumor usually shows a benign behavior, malignancy criteria have been described. The aim of the study was to assess the initial evaluation, diagnostic procedures, surgical management, treatment outcome, and prognosis.

[Are antimicrobials useful in closed thoracostomy due to trauma?].

Background: Thoracic trauma accounts for 25% of deaths due to trauma. Chest trauma patients generally present to the emergency room with pneumo- or hemothorax. According to the majority of the studies, management of closed thoracostomy for trauma includes the use of antimicrobial drugs to prevent infectious complications, but this has not been proven to be beneficial.

[Omental torsion. An acute abdomen etiology].

Introduction: Omental torsion is an uncommon cause of acute abdomen, usually mimicking acute appendicitis; almost all described cases are diagnosed with laparotomy. It can be a primary or secondary condition. Primary torsion occurs without evidence of intrabdominal abnormalities.

[Spontaneous pneumothorax in pregnancy. Case report].

Background: Spontaneous pneumothorax is a rare condition during pregnancy. The most common cause is the rupture of a subpleural apical bulla or bleb, due to the increased respiratory demand of the peripartum period. The main risk for the mother is respiratory compromise; fetal risks include reduction in oxygen supply and preterm labor.

[Penetrating abdominal trauma].

Background: The abdomen ranks in third place of body areas injured by trauma. Evaluation and stabilization of these patients form the cornerstone in emergency medicine. Diagnostic approach and treatment outcome are influenced by several factors.