Operative management of lateral third clavicle fractures: a comparison of internal fixation methods.

Purpose: Clavicle fractures in the lateral third are associated with more complications. Various methods of internal fixation exist; however, there is no consensus which should be employed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of these various methods in our regional trauma unit.

The use of Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum in the management of Dupuytren's contracture-outcomes of a pilot study in a District General Hospital setting.

Introduction: Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum (CCH) is a recognised treatment option for adult patients presenting with Dupuytren's contracture (DC).

Patients And Methods: Twenty male patients with established DC were treated using CCH. The average metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint and proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP) contractures pre-treatment were 52 (range, 0 - 75) and 35 (range, 0 - 84) respectively.

Is it necessary to embolise all spinal metastases from primary renal tumours?

Introduction: Spinal metastases secondary to renal cell carcinoma are associated with significant intra-operative blood loss. Our aim was to assess if embolisation reduced the intra-operative blood loss and transfusion requirement.

Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of 25 patients undergoing surgery between 2003 and 2011.

The best practice tariff and hip fractures: How can Northern Ireland keep up?

Introduction: Current hip fractures guidelines recommend surgery within 36 h of admission. The 2011 National Hip Fracture Database (NHFD) report shows our institute has the fewest patients meeting this target (9%). Northern Irelands' exclusion from the "Best Practice Tariff" means no incentive-led treatment or prioritisation of hip fracture patients.