Thoracolumbar Fracture in Blunt Trauma: Is Clinical Exam Enough for Awake Patients?

BACKGROUND

Physical examination is widely used to screen trauma patients for thoracolumbar fracture (TLFx). Retrospective data suggests that patients with altered sensorium may not manifest symptoms after TLFx. This study was designed to prospectively test the sensitivity of physical examination for detection of TLFx in patients with altered mentation.

METHODS

Prospective data collection in a large urban Level I trauma center from April 2002 to December 2003. During the study period, thoracolumbar radiography was performed on patients with signs or symptoms of TLFx, and also on patients with significant blunt trauma and any alteration in mentation, including drowsiness or apparent intoxication. All patients were classified as reliable if Glasgow coma score was >13 and the treating physician judged them capable of accurately reporting pain, and those who did not met both these conditions were deemed unreliable. Patients with normal mentation and no signs or symptoms were excluded. Injuries, mental status, symptoms, physical examination, and X-ray film results were recorded.

RESULTS

There were 3,028 blunt trauma patients evaluated during the study period. Thoracolumbar radiography was performed on 537 patients. Of these, 442 patients were deemed reliable, and 166 had no signs or symptoms of TLFx. Of these asymptomatic patients, 10 were found to have TLFx. Of these 10 reliable patients with TLFx despite negative examination, none required surgery, but four required a brace.

CONCLUSIONS

Thoracolumbar fractures are often clinically silent in blunt trauma patients with altered sensorium, even when they appear able to reliably report pain. X-ray screening of these patients is appropriate to prevent missed injury.

Distinguishing between type 2B and pseudo-von Willebrand disease and its clinical importance

Pseudo-von Willebrand disease (p-VWD) and type 2B von Willebrand disease (VWD) have similar phenotypic parameters and clinical symptoms, but different aetiologies. Fourteen individuals from five families with a historical diagnosis of type 2B VWD but with no mutation in the von Willebrand factor gene were re-investigated for the possibility of p-VWD, using platelet aggregation in the presence of cryoprecipitate. p-VWD was confirmed by targeted DNA sequencing of the glycoprotein Ibalpha gene, identifying a heterozygous Glycine 233 Valine substitution. This study suggests that p-VWD may be under diagnosed, and that platelet aggregation in the presence of cryoprecipitate is useful in differentiating this disorder from type 2B VWD.

"One-stop" clinics in the investigation and diagnosis of head and neck lumps

This article considers the issues raised by the NICE guidelines "Improving outcomes in head and neck cancers" (2004) with particular emphasis on the guidelines regarding the creation of "one-stop" neck lump assessment clinics. Tissue sampling is an essential function of the clinics and the relative merits of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and ultrasound-guided core biopsy (US-CB) in the context of a one-stop model are discussed. All cancer service providers in the UK have a duty to implement the NICE guidelines, with the intention of improving cancer services to our patients. The measures against which head and neck cancer teams are to be accredited through the process of peer review will specify such a clinic to be in place. Teams should implement the guidance in such a way that there is a genuine benefit to patients. In many centres this may require clinicians to learn new skills and adopt different ways of working.

Historical perspective on the development of outcomes measures for low-vision and blind rehabilitation in the Department of Veterans Affairs

This article reviews the instrument development process and synthesizes current research findings for three low-vision and blind rehabilitation outcomes measures developed in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The examined measures include the Blind Rehabilitation Service Functional Outcomes Survey, the Functional Assessment of Self-Reliance on Tasks, and the VA Low Vision Visual Functioning Questionnaire. We examined vision rehabilitation literature using two fundamental measurement criteria to compare and contrast the instrument development process and research findings for the three measures. Our findings suggest the three measures need refinement to meet the two criteria and proposed measurement standards for instruments in this field. Advanced development goals for the instruments are identified. Measures that meet the specified and proposed measurement criteria will help establish an evidence-based system and guide practice at the VA and in the field.

Ultrasound-guided core biopsy for the diagnosis of lumps in the neck: results in 82 patients

Ultrasound-guided core biopsy of nodes (n = 78) and other lumps (n = 4) in the neck allowed a firm histological diagnosis in 76 of 82 patients (93%). Of the remaining six patients, histological examination was equivocal in four and valueless in two. Of 18 patients with a diagnosis of lymphoma only 3 required excision of the node to provide additional information for the planning of treatment.

Requirement of VPS33B, a member of the Sec1/Munc18 protein family, in megakaryocyte and platelet alpha-granule biogenesis

Bleeding problems are associated with defects in platelet alpha-granules, yet little is known about how these granules are formed and released. Mutations affecting VPS33B, a novel Sec1/Munc18 protein, have recently been linked to arthrogryposis, renal dysfunction, and cholestasis (ARC) syndrome. We have characterized platelets from patients with ARC syndrome and observed reduced aggregation with arachidonate and adenosine diphosphate (ADP). Structural abnormalities seen in ARC platelets included increased platelet size, a pale appearance in blood films, elevated numbers of delta-granules, and completely absent alpha-granules. Soluble and membrane-bound alpha-granule proteins were significantly decreased or undetectable in ARC platelets, suggesting that both the releasable protein pools and membrane components of alpha-granules were absent. The role of VPS33B in platelet granule biogenesis was evaluated by immunofluorescence microscopy in normal human megakaryocytes. VPS33B colocalized appreciably with markers of alpha-granules, moderately with late endosomes/lysosomes, minimally with delta-granules/lysosomes, and not with cis-Golgi complexes. VPS33B protein expression determined by immunoblotting confirmed the presence of VPS33B in control fibroblasts but not in ARC fibroblasts, and in normal megakaryocytes but not in platelets. We conclude that like other Sec1/Munc18 proteins, VPS33B is involved in intracellular vesicle trafficking, being essential for the development of platelet alpha-granules but not for granule secretion.

A safety evaluation of drotrecogin alfa (activated) in hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients with severe sepsis: lessons in clinical research

We conducted an open-label, multicenter, single-arm clinical trial to investigate the safety and efficacy of drotrecogin alfa (activated) (Drot AA) in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) patients with severe sepsis. Drot AA was administered as a continuous i.v. infusion of 24 microg/kg/h for 96 h. The target enrollment was 250 patients in 15-20 transplant centers over a 2-year period (March 2003-March 2005). However, after only 10 months, in December 2003, the trial was stopped due to a low enrollment of seven patients at three of the 15 sites that were open for accrual. Six of the seven patients completed the drug infusion. Two patients experienced serious bleeding events. The first patient developed a nonfatal diffuse alveolar hemorrhage 2 days after study-drug completion. The second patient had severe coagulopathy and developed a fatal intracranial hemorrhage on the third day of drug infusion. Three of the seven patients were alive 100 days after the HSCT. The slow enrollment rate was attributed to changes in transplant preparatory regimens, enhancements in antimicrobial prophylactic protocols and the use of antimicrobial-coated catheters. The small number of patients in this report precludes a definitive assessment of the safety and efficacy of Drot AA in HSCT patients.

The rare coagulation disorders - review with guidelines for management from the United Kingdom Haemophilia Centre Doctors' Organisation

The rare coagulation disorders are heritable abnormalities of haemostasis that may present significant difficulties in diagnosis and management. This review summarizes the current literature for disorders of fibrinogen, and deficiencies of prothrombin, factor V, FV + VIII, FVII, FX, the combined vitamin K-dependent factors, FXI and FXIII. Based on both collective clinical experience and the literature, guidelines for management of bleeding complications are suggested with specific advice for surgery, spontaneous bleeding, management of pregnancy and the neonate. We have chosen to include a section on Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome because haematologists may be consulted about bleeding manifestations in such patients.

Prospective randomized comparison of linear staplers during laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

The development of laparoscopic linear staplers has enabled minimally invasive approaches to bariatric surgery, but there have been no comparison studies of the two current 6-row devices. We report our experience with a prospective randomized comparison of 6-row linear staplers during laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP).

METHODS

From January to March 2003, 100 patients were randomly assigned to undergo LRYGBP with either an Endo-GIA Universal 6-row stapler (USSC) or the ETS-Flex 6-row stapler (Ethicon). Mean preoperative BMI was 49+/-8 for 50 Endo-GIA patients, and 49+/-7 for 50 ETS-Flex patients. Parameters measured included quantity of cartridges, handles, hemoclips, estimated blood loss, misfires, OR time, postoperative leaks and bleeds, and cost.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 135 days (range 90- 180). The ETS-Flex group experienced significantly more misfires (28% vs 2%, P <.001), hemoclips applied (30+/-9 vs 21+/-7, P <.001), estimated blood loss (132+/-56 vs 100+/-32 ml, P <.001) and OR time (66+/-19 vs 58+/-13 mins, P <.02) compared with the Endo-GIA group respectively. There was one postoperative leak associated with the ETS-Flex group and two postoperative bleeds with the Endo-GIA group, which were not a significant differences. The Endo-GIA group averaged $319 more per case for staple cost.

CONCLUSION

While the ETS-Flex stapler was less expensive, it was associated with more technical failures requiring surgeon intervention to reduce potential patient morbidity, compared with the Endo-GIA.

Antineoplastic agents. 380. Isolation and X-ray crystal structure determination of isoaaptamine from the Republic of Singapore Hymeniacidon sp. and conversion to the phosphate prodrug hystatin 1

By use of bioassay (murine P388 lymphocytic leukemia cell line) guided isolation procedures, extracts of the Republic of Singapore marine sponge Hymeniacidon sp. were found to contain demethyloxyaaptamine (1) and aaptamine (3) as prominent cancer cell growth inhibitory constituents accompanied by the trace, albeit more active, component isoaaptamine (4). The isolation, X-ray structure elucidation, and antineoplastic and antimicrobial activities of isoaaptamine (4) have been summarized. Because of instability, isoaaptamine (4) was converted to a stable sodium phosphate prodrug designated hystatin 1 (7).

Experience with routine intraabdominal cultures during laparoscopic gastric bypass with implications for antibiotic prophylaxis

BACKGROUND

Techniques for laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass that do not use bowel cross-clamping raise a question of increased risk for infectious complications. However, to the authors' knowledge, no studies have recorded routine intraoperative peritoneal cultures. This article reports the authors' experience with routine peritoneal cultures during laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and the role of antibiotic prophylaxis.

METHODS

From January 2000 to March 2000, 66 consecutive patients undergoing a laparoscopically divided proximal Roux-en-Y gastric bypass had peritoneal fluid aspirated for routine culture. No mechanical or oral antibiotic bowel preparation was used. All the patients received preoperative intravenous antibiotic prophylaxis with Levoquin 500 mg and Flagyl 500 mg. Peritoneal fluid was aspirated from the left gutter near the site of the enteroenterostomy before irrigation with 1,000 ml of normal saline containing 50,000 U of bacitracin and 1 of kanamycin.

RESULTS

The follow-up period averaged 9 months for 100% of patients. For 15 patients (22.7%), the culture results were positive. The 22 organisms cultured involved 15 streptococcus species, 4 anaerobes, 2 staphylococcus species, and 1 enterobacter. None of the patients experienced a clinical infection or required an extension of antibiotics beyond the first 24 h.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated frequent peritoneal contamination during laparoscopic gastric bypass. Prophylactic intravenous antibiotics and antibiotic irrigation may have reduced the risk of clinically significant infections in this small uncontrolled series.

Linear technique of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

The laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) is currently the most common procedure performed for treatment of morbid obesity in the United States. The technique reported in this chapter requires mastering of extra-corporeal and intra-corporeal laparoscopic suturing, but is safe, cost effective, and technically feasible. Use of the straight needle eliminates the challenge of proper needle orientation encountered with a curved needle. The linear technique is used to construct the gastrojejunostomy because it is time saving and relatively simple. An endoscopic ruler and bougie are used to ensure a consistent pouch size and alimentary limb length. This chaper demonstrates the use of preoperative preparation, and a meticulous surgical technique using the linear stapler, to perform a combined total of more than 1800 cases.

Gadolinium an alternative contrast agent for sialography in patients with iodine sensitivity

The use of iodinated contrast material in radiography is contraindicated in patients with known iodine sensitivity and such patients may present a management dilemma. The successful use of gadolinium in contrast sialography is described.

Colon Injury after Blunt Abdominal Trauma: Results of the EAST Multi-institutional Hollow Viscus Injury Study

BACKGROUND

Blunt injury to the colon is rare. Few studies of adequate size and design exist to allow clinically useful conclusions. The Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma Multi-institutional Hollow Viscus Injury (HVI) Study presents a unique opportunity to definitively study these injuries.

METHODS

Patients with blunt HVI were identified from the registries of 95 trauma centers over 2 years (1998-1999). Patients with colon injuries (cases) were compared with blunt trauma patient undergoing a negative laparotomy (controls). Data were abstracted by chart review.

RESULTS

Of the 227,972 patients represented, 2,632 (1.0%) had an HVI and 798 had a colonic/rectal injury (0.3%). Of patients diagnosed with HVI, 30.2% had a colon injury. No physical findings or imaging modalities were able to discriminate colonic injury. Logistic regression modeling yielded no clinically useful combination of findings that would reliably predict colonic injury. In patients undergoing laparotomy, presence of colon injury was associated with a higher risk of some complications but not mortality. Colon injury was associated with increased hospital (17.4 vs. 13.1, p < 0.001) and intensive care unit (9.7 vs. 6.9, p = 0.003) length of stay. Almost all colon patients (92.0%) underwent laparotomy within 24 hours of injury.

CONCLUSION

Colonic injury after blunt trauma is rare and difficult to diagnose. No diagnostic test or combination of findings reliably excluded blunt colonic injury. Despite the inadequacy of current diagnostic tests, almost all patients with colonic injury were taken to the operating room within 24 hours. Even with relatively prompt surgery, patients with colon injury were at significantly higher risk for serious complications and increased length of stay. In contrast to small bowel perforation, delay in operative intervention appears to be less common but is still associated with serious morbidity.

Massive acute haemolysis in neonates with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency

Three neonates with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency are described. All three patients suffered an episode of massive acute haemolysis, in the absence of blood group incompatibilities, infection, or ingestion of oxidising agents known to trigger haemolysis. One patient died, but the other two survived after an exchange transfusion. This highlights that G6PD deficiency in the neonatal period may present with severe anaemia in association with hyperbilirubinaemia.

Prenatal origin of hyperdiploid acute lymphoblastic leukemia in identical twins

Studies in identical twins and with neonatal blood spots (Guthrie cards) have backtracked the origin of childhood acute leukemia and their associated chromosomal translocations to before birth. High hyperdiploidy is the most common genetic abnormality in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Evidence for an in utero initiation of this important genetic event in ALL is available from blood spots but remains limited. Twin children with hyperdiploid ALL have not hitherto been reported. We describe a pair of 2-year-old monozygotic twins with concordant B-cell precursor ALL and hyperdiploid karyotypes. One twin's leukemic cells had two rearranged TCRD alleles and one of these was a clonotypic Vdelta2-Ddelta3 sequence shared with leukemic cells of the other twin. The twins' leukemic cells had several different IGH V(H)-J(H) rearrangements but shared two common D(H)-J(H) 'stem' sequences. We conclude that ALL in these twins is likely to have originated prenatally in one fetus before spreading to the other via intraplacental anastomoses. It is likely that one or more additional postnatal genetic events was required for overt leukemogenesis.

Laparoscopic approach to the management of intraabdominal unicentric Castleman?s disease

Castleman's disease, or angiofollicular lymphoid hyperplasia, is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder of unknown etiology. We present the case of an 18-year-old woman who was admitted with symptoms of fatigue, weakness, early satiety, and weight gain. A subhepatic mass anterior to the pancreas was discovered on ultrasound. After being treated via the laparoscopic approach with complete surgical resection she recovered well. This case thus represents a new application for laparoscopy and expands the indications for its use.

Unusual presentation of Lemierre's syndrome due to Fusobacterium nucleatum

We report a case of Lemierre's syndrome due to Fusobacterium nucleatum in a previously healthy 19-year-old male. This is the first case report of Lemierre's syndrome due to thrombophlebitis of the external jugular vein. The patient had a rapid clinical response to anticoagulation and antibiotics, as supported by anecdotal evidence.