Appendectomy for Vague Symptoms and Equivocal Physical Findings on Physical Exam and Computed Tomography.

Appendicitis is a common condition affecting 7-8% of the general population. With the improvement of noninvasive imaging, the diagnostic approach and treatment algorithm for patients with clear signs and symptoms suggestive of acute appendicitis are well agreed-upon. However, patients without pathognomonic signs and symptoms, but with equivocal imaging pose a diagnostic dilemma.

Tympanic membrane perforation and hearing loss from blast overpressure in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom wounded.

Background: Tympanic membrane perforation is the most common primary blast injury in the current conflicts and occurs in approximately one tenth of service members wounded by combat explosions. We wanted to determine the severity of perforation and its effect on hearing and combat readiness.

Methods: This analysis is a retrospective study of US service members injured in combat explosions in Afghanistan or Iraq and treated at our institution between March 2003 and July 2006.