Vertebral Body Lavage Reduces Hemodynamic Response to Vertebral Body Augmentation With PMMA.

Study Design: Retrospective comparative study.

Objectives: To assess the effect of vertebral body lavage (VBL) on (1) systemic blood pressure, (2) heart rate, and (3) oxygen saturation following cement augmentation procedures for acute vertebral compression fractures (VCFs).

Methods: A total of 145 consecutive patients undergoing cement augmentation for acute VCF (mean age 74 ± 12 years, age range 42-96 years; 70% female; 475 levels treated) were allocated to the "lavage group" (n = 61 patients; VBL prior to cement application) and to the "control group" (n = 84 patients, no VBL).

Telemedical assistance for in-flight emergencies on intercontinental commercial aircraft.

We have conducted a three-year prospective study of medical incidents on a commercial airline. A telemedicine service was available via an on-board satellite phone. During the study period there were 3364 medical incidents.