[Detection of periodontal pathogenic microorganisms in atheromatous plaque. Preliminary results].

Introduction: Recent studies suggest that chronic infections, including those associated with periodontitis, increase the risk for coronary vascular disease. We hypothesize that oral microorganisms including periodontal bacterial pathogens enter the blood stream during transient bacteremias where they may play a role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis.

Materials And Methods: To test this hypothesis, 34 human specimens obtained during carotid endarterectomy or bypass procedures were examined by use of specific oligonucleotide primers for Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans and Bacteroides forsythus in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays.

[Laparoscopic gastric banding using a modified gastric band with loops and a microport system. A report on 25 cases].

Introduction: The laparoscopic application of an adjustable silicone gastric band is an established procedure in the surgical treatment of pathologic adiposity.

Patients And Methods: Twenty-five patients with morbid obesity underwent the laparoscopic application of a gastric band between November 1998 and June 2000. A modified band (GastroBelt II) was used.

[Argon gas embolism in laparoscopic cholecystectomy with the Argon Beam One coagulator].

The report is about argon embolism in a 37-year-old female patient during laparoscopic cholecystectomy and coagulation of a liver bed bleeding with the "Argon Beam One". The presented case report is to show that in spite of technical perfection and correct use of the Argon Beam One coagulator unfavorable anatomical conditions can cause life threatening gas embolism.

[Diffuse eosinophilic gastroenteropathy].

Eosinophilic gastroenterocolitis is a very rare disease of the gastrointestinal tract. As a result, frequently the diagnosis is missed and/or symptoms get misinterpreted. Histological examination and blood analysis however support the finding of the correct diagnosis in most cases.

[Obturator dislocation of the hip joint].

Luxatio obturatoria may occur in the case of a trauma affecting the hip joint when the latter is in a position of flexion, abduction and external rotation. The femoral head dislocates anteriorly and caudally towards the foramen obturatum. A recent case will be presented with a discussion of the general aspects of this injury, with special emphasis on concomitant injuries and their significance of the long-term prognosis.