Anteroposterior chest radiograph vs. chest CT scan in early detection of pneumothorax in trauma patients.

Pneumothorax is a common complication following blunt chest wall trauma. In these patients, because of the restrictions regarding immobilization of the cervical spine, Anteroposterior (AP) chest radiograph is usually the most feasible initial study which is not as sensitive as the erect chest X-ray or CT chest for detection of a pneumothorax. We will present 3 case reports which serve for better understanding of the entity of occult pneumothorax.

Intravascular balloon to minimize blood loss during total hip replacement in a Jehovah's Witness.

Intermittent intravascular occlusive balloons are commonly used to minimize bleeding in cases where massive blood loss is anticipated. However, the efficiency and safety of balloon occlusion remains unclear for elective procedures, and several cases of distal thrombosis have been reported. A case of intra-arterial occlusive balloon that was selectively placed preoperatively to minimize bleeding in a patient during total hip replacement is presented.

Brachial plexus injury following spinal surgery.

Object: In the present study, the authors identified the etiology, precipitating factors, and outcomes of perioperative brachial plexus injuries following spine surgery.

Methods: We reviewed all the available literature regarding postoperative/perioperative brachial plexus injuries, with special concern for the patient's position during surgery, duration of surgery, the procedure performed, neurological outcome, and prognosis. We also reviewed the utility of intraoperative electrophysiological monitoring for prevention of these complications.

Toxic epidermal necrolysis following treatment of pseudotumour cerebri: a case report.

Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis and Steven-Johnson syndrome are entities on a spectrum of cutaneous reactions that usually occur as an idiosyncratic reaction to certain drugs. The distinction between TEN and SJS is based on the percentage of skin involved with SJS being less than 10% and TEN being more than 30%. They exhibit severe skin blistering and sloughing with mucosal involvement and can be fatal in many cases.

Negative pressure pulmonary edema in the prone position: a case report.

Acute airway obstruction can result in life - threatening pulmonary edema. It can develop rapidly, without warning, in otherwise healthy patients. Negative pressure pulmonary edema has been described after acute airway obstruction in situations when a patient is breathing against an obstructed airway such as croup, epiglottitis or laryngospasm.