Distribution of the probability of survival is a strategic issue for randomized trials in critically ill patients.

Background: Many randomized clinical trials in trauma have failed to demonstrate a significant improvement in survival rate. Using a trauma patient database, we simulated what could happen in a trial designed to improve survival rate in this setting.

Methods: The predicted probability of survival was assessed using the TRISS methodology in 350 severely injured trauma patients.

Measurement of platinum in saliva of patients treated with cisplatin.

A procedure for the measurement of platinum (Pt) in the saliva of patients treated with cisplatin has been developed. The saliva is collected and solubilized in hyamine hydroxide before analysis by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry using assay by standard additions. The method has an analytical detection limit of 0.

Prospective evaluation of cell kinetics in head and neck squamous carcinoma: the relationship to tumour factors and survival.

Tumour growth rates were measured in 105 patients using in vivo incorporation of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) and investigated for any relationship to tumour factors or survival. The median labelling index (LI) was 8.7%, the duration of S-phase (Ts) was 14 h and the potential doubling time (Tpot) was 5.