Effects of the thoracic block technique on vital signs, blood gases, and lung compliance in children with atelectasis.

Objectives: This study was aimed at examining the effects of the thoracic block technique on vital signs, arterial blood gases, and lung compliance in children with unilateral atelectasis receiving mechanical ventilation.

Methods: Forty-four boys and girls with unilateral atelectasis and receiving mechanical ventilation, ranging in age from 4 months to 4 years, were recruited from the Abo El-Reesh Hospital intensive care unit at Cairo University. They were assigned to control and study groups: group A included 22 children receiving chest physical therapy, and group B included 22 children receiving the same chest physical therapy program as well as the thoracic block technique.

Evaluation of scars in children after treatment with low-level laser.

Burn scars are known for their tendency to worsen with hypertrophy and contracture, causing esthetic and functional problems. The objective is to analyze the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy on post-burn hypertrophic scar tissue in children. A randomized controlled study included 15 children, ranging from 2 to 10 years of age, presented with post-burn hypertrophic scars.