Barbed sutures versus staples for closure in total hip arthroplasty using wound ooze as a primary outcome measure: A prospective study.

Background: Prosthetic joint infection is a rare, but devastating complication of primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). Postoperative wound discharge and deep infection are related. We examined whether barbed sutures were associated with a decrease in the incidence of postoperative wound discharge when compared with skin closure using metal staples.

Improving analgesia prescription for trauma inpatients.

Patients value effective pain relief. Complications of inadequate pain control include increased risk of infection, decreased patient comfort and progression to chronic pain, all of which have significant socioeconomic consequence. Accessibility to analgesia is vital to effective administration.

The use of an anterior pelvic internal fixator to treat disruptions of the anterior pelvic ring: a report of technique, indications and complications.

Aims: The anterior pelvic internal fixator is increasingly used for the treatment of unstable, or displaced, injuries of the anterior pelvic ring. The evidence for its use, however, is limited. The aim of this paper is to describe the indications for its use, how it is applied and its complications.

Introducing a post-operative proforma for elective lower limb arthroplasty patients - improving patient care and junior doctor confidence.

The assessment of post-operative patients is vital to identify early complications and ensure patient safety. Good clinical record keeping is essential for effective continuity of care and patient safety in the post-operative period. A group of foundation year 2 (FY2) doctors noted a disparity in levels of confidence and ability in performing this assessment.

Reducing returns to theatre for neck of femur fracture patients.

The Royal United Hospital, Bath, admits approximately 550 patients with neck of femur fractures per year. The risks from returning to theatre for this patient group are often life-threatening. Post-operative wound ooze was noted to cause a significant rate of return to theatre, with increased lengths of stay and patient morbidity.