Colour-duplex echography in atherosclerotic carotid artery disease.

The first and larger part of this article is devoted to a brief review of colour duplex echography of atherosclerotic lesions of the carotid artery: history, basic principles, technique, and diagnostic value. The authors, a vascular surgical team, witness from their own experience, with due attention to surgical practice. In the last part concerning duplex-based surgical decision, the results of a small scale trial conducted in 1996 in their department are presented: in 36 consecutive operated cases, the operative data and excised plaque were compared to the preoperative colour-duplex data regarding degree of stenosis, geometry of the lesion, and plaque composition.

Postoperative dropfoot after cementless total hip arthroplasty.

From 1989 through 1993, postoperative dropfoot occurred in seven patients after noncemented total hip replacement. After analysis of the records and a review of the literature the authors assume that cementless components may be a contributory factor to sciatic nerve palsy in total hip replacement, especially in combination with Low Molecular Weight Heparin.

The influence of radiation therapy on the Harris hip score in cementless total hip arthroplasty.

Heterotopic ossification may adversely influence the outcome of total hip arthroplasty, causing discomfort or limiting the range of motion and function of the hip. In this prospective study we examined the influence of prophylactic radiation therapy on the postoperative Harris Hip Score in cementless total hip arthroplasty, with a follow-up from 2 to 5 years. Radiation therapy lowered the incidence of unsatisfactory results and increased the Harris Hip Score in hips with a poor preoperative range of motion.

Radiation therapy to prevent heterotopic ossification in cementless total hip arthroplasty.

Heterotopic ossification is the most frequent complication in total hip arthroplasty. In this prospective trial the influence of radiation therapy on heterotopic ossification in cementless total hip arthroplasty was investigated. Radiation therapy reduces the incidence and the degree of heterotopic ossification, especially in hips with a poor preoperative range of motion.

The effect of a combined administration of ridogrel and ketanserin in patients with intermittent claudication.

After a 1-month placebo run-in phase, 27 patients with proven peripheral arterial obstructive disease participated in a double blind placebo controlled study and were divided in 3 groups, receiving either placebo, ridogrel 300 mg b.i.d.