Surgical correction of cubitus varus in children with a lateral closing-wedge osteotomy: a comparison between two different techniques

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective of the present study is to compare the radiographic outcomes and complications of two different techniques for lateral closing-wedge osteotomy in pediatric patients with cubitus varus.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified patients treated at five tertiary care institutions: 17 underwent the Kirschner-wire (KW) technique, and 15 patients were treated with the mini external fixator (MEF) technique. Demographic data, previous treatment, pre- and postoperative carrying angle (CA), complications and additional procedures were recorded. Radiographic evaluation included assessment of the humerus-elbow-wrist angle (HEW), and the lateral prominence index (LPI).

RESULTS

Patients treated with both KW and MEF achieved significant improvements in clinical alignment (mean pre-op CA -16 ± 6.1 degrees to mean post-op 8.9 ± 5.3 degrees, P < 0.001). There were no differences in final radiographic alignment or radiographic union time; however, time to achieve full elbow motion was faster in the MEF group (13.6 versus 34.3 weeks, P = 0.4547). Two patients (11.8%) in the KW group experienced complications, including one superficial infection and one failed correction that required unplanned revision surgery. Eleven patients in the MEF group underwent a planned second surgical procedure for hardware removal.

CONCLUSIONS

Both fixation techniques are effective at correcting cubitus varus in the pediatric population. The MEF technique may have the advantage of shorter recovery of elbow range of motion but may require sedation for hardware removal. The KW technique may present a slightly higher complication rate.

The Sleeve Gastrectomy with Jejunal Bypass (Original Technique)

Introduction: Sleeve gastrectomy with jejunal bypass (SGJB) has been used as a bariatric/metabolic procedure since 2003, in the search for a simpler than other standard techniques and as effective as them. The jejunal-ileal anastomosis can deliver food directly to the hindgut where incretins are secreted. This procedure has gained popularity around the globe and has been studied in rat models as in humans, especially in South America and Asia. In this review, we present the details of the original surgical technique SGJB, summarized all the publications of the procedure, discuss possible advantages and disadvantages, and provide scientific information to look for the real place between bariatric/metabolic procedures. Methods: With 20 years of experience performing the original SGJB, the authors present the details of the procedure. Results: The SGJB consists of a traditional sleeve with the addition of a jejunal bypass. The jejunum is transected 20-30 cm distally to the ligament of Treitz. Then, the biliopancreatic limb is anastomosed to restore transit 250-300 cm distal to the jejunum transection. This way, the ileum gets in contact with partially digested food with the subsequent production of incretins. Conclusion: In this article, we describe the original Alamo technique of SGJB. It is important to clarify the technical details since many publications have presented different lengths of the defunctionalized jejunal limb. Also, the SGJB has been categorized in the "sleeve plus" procedures and its promising outcomes should rapidly position it as an alternative metabolic surgery.

Distal femoral fractures in children

The physis of the distal femur contributes to 70% of femoral growth and 37% of the total limb growth; therefore, physeal injury can lead to important alterations of axes and length. Distal metaphyseal corner-type fracture prior to walking is classically associated with child abuse. In children aged >10 years, sports-related fractures and car accidents are significant contributors. Imaging includes a two-plane radiographic study of the knee. It is recommended to obtain radiographs that include the entire femur to rule out concomitant injuries. In cases of high suspicion of distal metaphyseal fractures and no radiographic evidence, CT or MRI can show the existence of hidden fractures. Fractures with physeal involvement are conventionally classified according to the Salter-Harris classification, but the Peterson classification is also recommended as it includes special subgroups. Conservative and surgical management are valid alternatives for the treatment of these fractures. Choosing between both alternatives depends on factors related to the fracture type. As there is a high risk of permanent physeal damage, long-term follow-up is essential until skeletal maturity is complete.

[Epidemiology of neuromyelitis optica spectrum. New and old challenges]

INTRODUCTION

This epidemiological review on neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) focuses on describing the methodologies employed in studies conducted under the 2015 NMOSD criteria and the studies conducted in Spain and Latin America, as well as examining factors related to the prognosis of the disease.

DEVELOPMENT

The methodology used in the studies varies essentially in the application of different diagnostic criteria, sources of records, antibody detection techniques and standardisation methods. However, in general terms, NMOSD is distributed worldwide with an incidence/prevalence that is higher in women than in men, and in Asian and African-American countries than in Western countries. The frequency increases in parallel to age, with a peak incidence/prevalence in the 40-59 age range. The Latin American population has particular epidemiological characteristics linked to its racial and genetic mix. Finally, epidemiological variables, such as belonging to the black race, being of older age at onset and being female, are associated with a worse functional prognosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Epidemiological data on NMOSD vary from one study to another, largely due to discrepancies in the methodological designs. Although Latin American studies are scarce, the findings described are associated with their ethnic mix. The homogenisation of criteria and the use of similar diagnostic techniques and standardisation methods must be implemented for the correct study of the epidemiology of NMOSD.

Risk factors of severe COVID-19 in people with multiple sclerosis : A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives

To gather, synthesize, and meta-analyze data regarding the risk factors associated with a severe course of COVID-19 among patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS).

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and WoS were searched in May 2021. Briefly, the eligibility criteria included: 1) studies assessing COVID-19 severity among adult pwMS; 2) definitive diagnoses or high clinical suspicion of COVID-19; 3) a categorization of COVID-19 severity into at least two categories; 4) quantitative effect size and precision measurements; and 5) English language; and 6) clear effect size/precision measures. internal validity of studies was assessed using the NIH Quality Assessment Tools. A list of possible risk factors was created based on the search results and was later used in extraction, synthesis, and meta-analysis of the data.

Results

Thirteen studies were included in the syntheses. Outcome measures were either extracted from the papers, obtained from the primary researchers or calculated manually. The meta-analyses showed a significantly (P < 0.05) increased odds of a severe COVID-19 in pwMS with all of the assessed risk factors, except smoking and most DMTs.

Conclusion

This study facilitates evidence-based risk/benefit assessments in practice. Older men with progressive MS on anti-CD20 therapies are more at risk of an unfortunate COVID-19 outcome.

Fishers' perception of the interaction between the South American sea lions and the Chinook salmon fishery in southern Chile

We studied how the South American sea lion (SASL, Otaria flavescens) interacts with the operation of an artisanal fishery of Chinook salmon, a non-native species in Chile, using a combination of biological and social approaches, including a valuation by fishers about this interaction. During austral summer of 2019, an observer onboard artisanal fishing boats characterized the attack behavior of SASLs to gillnet-captured Chinook salmon during 33 hauls and analyzed which factors may affect the intensity of attacks. To analyze the relationship between fishers and SASLs, a Likert scale about the perception and views about nature was applied. A total of 23 interviews—including 35 open and 16 closed questions—with fishers were conducted to describe how they perceived the interactions with SASLs. Interactions with SASLs were recorded in 35% of the fishing events and varied depending on both operational factors, such as the number of boats, as well as environmental factors, such as moon’s luminosity. Even though SASL interactions resulted in seven fish (~ 70 kg) damaged of a total catch of 2815 kg (2.5%) during the survey, boats with a damaged catch by SASL lost up to 11% of their revenue. This is consistent with 87% of the interviewed fishers who considered that the conflict with the SASL negatively impacts their activity and results in economic losses. A negative perception towards SASLs likely results from personal experience and revenue loss, even though impacts of SASL interactions at the scale of the entire fishery may be less important. While older fishers with less formal education have a productivist and instrumental focus, younger fishers with a more sustainable and conservationist view of fishing offer an opportunity to lead an improved local understanding of the relationship between salmon, SASLs, and humans.

Ankle fractures in children

Ankle fractures are common in children, and they have specific implications in that patient population due to frequent involvement of the physis in a bone that has growth potential and unique biomechanical properties.

Characteristic patterns are typically evident in relation to the state of osseous development of the segment, and to an extent these are age-dependent.

In a specific type known as transitional fractures – which occur in children who are progressing to a mature skeleton –a partial physeal closure is evident, which produces multiplanar fracture patterns.

Computed tomography should be routine in injuries with joint involvement, both to assess the level of displacement and to facilitate informed surgical planning.

The therapeutic objectives should be to achieve an adequate functional axis of the ankle without articular gaps, and to protect the physis in order to avoid growth alterations.

Conservative management can be utilized for non-displaced fractures in conjunction with strict radiological monitoring, but surgery should be considered for fractures involving substantial physeal or joint displacement, in order to achieve the therapeutic goals.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2021;6:593-606. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.6.200042

Partial hardware removal in guided growth surgery: A convenient strategy?

BACKGROUND

Tension band plates (TPBs) are frequently used in guided growth (CG) surgeries. Recently, the concept of removing the metaphyseal screw only to stop the growth modulating effect rather than completely removing the implant, has gained popularity. Although this strategy would have certain potential advantages, the associated risks are unknown. The aim of this study is to report the experience of three institutions with this strategy.

METHODS

A database was compiled with the demographic information of patients treated by guided growth using TBPs between January 2014 and January 2019 at three institutions. The cases where only the metaphyseal screw was removed were identified. The records were reviewed to analyze the indications, demographic data, characteristics of the procedure, complications and need for additional procedures.

RESULTS

We reviewed 28 partial hardware removals, performed in 10 patients (all male). Initial surgery was indicated for angular deformity (N = 6), and leg-length discrepancy (N = 4). The average age at the time of surgery was 9.5 ± 2.9 years (range 4 to 13 years). Three procedures were performed on the distal femur, 3 on the proximal tibia, 2 on the distal tibia, and 20 combined. The average follow-up was 23.3 ± 11 months (range 12 to 52 months). We observed recurrence of deformities in 7 of 28 (22%) limbs that required re-insertion of the metaphyseal screw. Two patients presented complications from the procedure: soft tissue irritation (N = 1) and angular deformity (N = 1). Both patients required unplanned surgery.

DISCUSSION

Partial hardware removal in guided growth surgery could favor the presentation of complications. The benefits of this strategy must be considered against the possible undesired effects generated by its application.

STUDY DESIGN

Therapeutic study (Level IV).

Histologic and microbiological findings of the defunctionalized loop in sleeve gastrectomy with jejunal bypass

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery produces anatomic changes in the digestive tract that can affect the intestinal microbiome and, in some cases, can cause small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Since the inception of the sleeve gastrectomy with jejunal bypass (SGJB) in 2004, there has been discussion regarding the possible development of those complications associated with the now abandoned jejunoileal bypass (JIB) procedure.

OBJECTIVES

The primary endpoint was to characterize the bacteriologic and histopathologic findings in the defunctionalized jejunal loop after the SGJB procedure and to analyze the liver profile. The secondary endpoint was to report SGJB conversions or reversions and to review the differences between SGJB and JIB.

SETTING

Academic medical center.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective study of patients who underwent laparoscopy for any reason, having previously had an SGJB. A 5-cm segment at the proximal end of the excluded limb was resected. Luminal liquid and tissue samples were taken from this segment for aerobic and anaerobic cultures, and pathologic examination of the bowel wall was performed to evaluate trophism and signs of chronic inflammation. Other variables were liver function and pre- and postoperative status. Finally, we retrospectively reviewed the causes of revisional surgery in the prospective database.

RESULTS

Eleven patients underwent laparoscopy. The median time after SGJB was 14 months (range, 10-144 months). There were no complications from the procedure. Eight (72.7%) of the procedures were cholecystectomies. None of the patients showed histologic alterations or signs of chronic infection. The liquid and tissue cultures were negative. The liver tests and the laparoscopic morphology of the liver were normal in all patients, except in 1 with previously documented liver cirrhosis. The number of SGJB revisions was 19 of 1074 (1.8 %), and all of them were converted to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for severe gastroesophageal reflux.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we were unable to demonstrate the presence of symptoms or histologic alterations that would suggest that patients undergoing SGJB develop small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in the short- and medium-term follow-up, unlike those who have undergone JIB. The study constitutes an initial step toward establishing what happens to the defunctionalized jejunal limb as a result of this surgical technique.

Discoid meniscus: current concepts

Discoid meniscus is the most frequent congenital malformation of the menisci, and primarily affects the lateral meniscus; it is highly prevalent in the Asian population.The anatomic, vascular, and ultrastructural features of the discoid meniscus make it susceptible to complex tears.Discoid meniscus anomalies are described according to their shape; however, there is consensus that peripheral stability of the meniscus should also be defined.Initial workup includes plain X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging, while arthroscopic evaluation confirms shape and stability of the meniscus.Clinical presentation is highly variable, depending on shape, associated hypermobility, and concomitant meniscal tears.Treatment seeks to re-establish typical anatomy using saucerization, tear reparation, and stable fixation of the meniscus. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:371-379. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.190023.

Fracture of the anterior tibial tuberosity in children

Fractures of the anterior tibial tuberosity during childhood are an infrequent pathology (around 3% of all proximal tibial fractures), but the incidence of this injury has risen over recent years, likely due to the increased involvement of this age group in sports activities.

This fracture is more commonly seen in children 12–14 years old.

It is vital to identify the anatomical structures associated with this type of fracture, along with the pathophysiological mechanisms involved.

Treatment includes non-operative and operative options, with the goal of achieving articular congruency, restoring the extensor mechanism function, and avoiding damage to the proximal tibial physis.

Understanding the management of this fracture, and the complications that might arise, is critical. The provision of an appropriate clinical management plan and the avoidance of complications are vital in the prevention of disability.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:260-267. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.190026

Surgical Morbidity in the Elderly Bariatric Patient: Does Age Matter?

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a global health problem that also affects older adults. In Chile, as in most of the developing countries, more than half of older adults are overweight or obese, and bariatric surgery may be riskier for this group. The aim of this study is to compare our experience in patients over 60 years of age with a control group to determine associated surgical morbidity and mortality.

METHODS

Case-control study of bariatric surgeries performed between 2006 and 2017 in our institution. Patients aged ≥ 60 years for the case group versus control group for patients ≤ 50 years selected randomly, matched by body mass index, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, surgical technique, and gender (ratio 1:2). Primary endpoint was surgical morbidity, 30-day readmission, and mortality.

RESULTS

Seventy-two patients in case group were matched with 144 patients in control group. Surgical complications rate was the same for both groups. No differences were observed in the conversion to open surgery rate or 30-day readmission rate. There was no mortality in this series.

CONCLUSION

In this case-control study, being elderly does not increase the risk of morbidity and mortality associated with bariatric surgery.

[Consensus statement of the Chilean endocrinological society on the role of bariatric surgery in type 2 diabetes]

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and obesity are a public health problem in Chile. Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment alternative to achieve a significant and sustained weight reduction in patients with morbid obesity. The results of controlled clinical trials indicate that, compared to medical treatment, surgery for obese patients with DM2 allows a better control of blood glucose and cardiovascular risk factors, reduces the need for medications and increases the likelihood for remission. Consensus conferences and clinical practice guidelines support bariatric surgery as an option to treat DM2 in Class III Obesity (Body Mass Index (BMI) > 40) regardless of the glycemic control and the complexity of pharmacological treatment and in Class II Obesity (BMI 35-39,9) with inadequate glycemic control despite optimal pharmacological treatment and lifestyle. However, surgical indication for patients with DM2 and BMI between 30-34.9, the most prevalent sub-group, is only suggested. The Chilean Societies of Endocrinology and Diabetes and of Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery decided to generate a consensus regarding the importance of other factors related to DM2 that would allow a better selection of candidates for surgery, particularly when weight does not constitute an indication. Considering the national reality, we also need a statement regarding the selection and characteristics of the surgical procedure as well as the role of the diabetologist in the multidisciplinary team.

Fate of petroleum hydrocarbons in bioturbated pristine sediments from Caleta Valdés (Patagonia Argentina): An ex situ bioassay

Petroleum can pollute pristine shorelines as a consequence of accidental spills or chronic leaks. In this study, the fate of petroleum hydrocarbons in soft pristine sediment of Caleta Valdés (Argentina) subject to ex situ simulated oil pollution was assessed. Sedimentary columns were exposed to medium and high concentrations of Escalante Crude Oil (ECO) and incubated in the laboratory during 30 days. Levels of aliphatic hydrocarbons at different depths of the sedimentary column were determined by gas chromatography. Oil penetration was limited to the first three centimetres in both treatments, and under this depth, hydrocarbons were clearly biogenic (terrestrial plants) as in the whole sedimentary column of the control assay. Bioturbation by macrobenthic infauna was strongly impacted by oil pollution which resulted in reduced sediment oxygenation and low burial of petroleum hydrocarbons. This may partly explain the limited hydrocarbon biodegradation observed, as indicated by the relatively high values of the ratios nC17/pristane, nC18/phytane, and total resolved aliphatic hydrocarbons/unresolved complex mixture. Correspondingly, at the end of the experiment the most probable number of hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria reached ~ 10³ MPN g^-1 dry weight. These values were lower than those found in chronically polluted coastal sediments, reflecting a low activity level of the oil-degrading community. The results highlight the low attenuation capacities of Caleta Valdés pristine sediments to recover its original characteristics in a short time period if an oil spill occurs. In this work, we present a novel and integrative tool to evaluate the fate of petroleum hydrocarbons and their potential damage on pristine sediments.

Bartonella vinsonii subsp. berkhoffii and B. henselae in dogs

This study aimed to molecularly survey Bartonella in dogs from Chile. Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) for Bartonella spp. based on nuoG gene was performed in 139 blood samples taken from dogs belonging to rural localities of the Valdivia Province, Los Ríos region, southern Chile. nuoG qPCR-positive samples were submitted to conventional PCR assays for ftsZ, gltA, rpoB and nuoG genes and sequencing for speciation and phylogenetic analysis. Based upon qPCR results, Bartonella spp. occurrence in dogs was 4.3% (6/139). Out of six nuoG qPCR-positive samples, six, three, two and none showed positive results in cPCR assays based on gltA, ftsZ, rpoB and nuoG genes, respectively. Consistent sequencing results were obtained only for the ftsZ gene from sample #1532 (GeneBank accession number: MG252491), and gltA gene from samples #1535 (MG252490) and #1532 (148 bp fragment that was not deposited in GenBank). Phylogenetic analysis of ftsZ and gltA genes allowed speciation of two nuoG-positive samples, one as Bartonella vinsonii subsp. berkhoffii and the other as B. henselae. Bartonella vinsonii subsp. berkhoffii and B. henselae are detected for the first time in dogs from Chile, highlighting the importance of the canine population as a source of zoonotic agents and potential infection risk to humans.

Long-term weight loss in laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has become an option as a bariatric surgical technique. There is a lack of long-term results of this procedure in the literature. The aim of this study is to present weight loss results of LSG for up to 7 years of follow-up.

METHODS

A retrospective series of patients who underwent LSG between 2008 and 2011 was examined. The primary endpoint was weight loss: percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL), percentage of total weight loss (%TWL), and body mass index (BMI) were reported. Failure was defined as %EWL<50%. Multivariate analysis for weight loss was performed. The complications rate was reported.

RESULTS

A total of 148 patients met the inclusion criteria; 76.3% were female. Mean preoperative BMI was 36 ± 4 kg/m². Mean operative time was 89.3 ± 3.2 minutes. Follow-up at 5, 6, and 7 years was 77.7%, 83.3%, and 82.2%, respectively. Mean %EWL and %TWL at 1, 3, 5, and 7 years was 93.2%, 80.7%, 70.6%, and 51.7%, and 27.2%, 23.3%, 20.4%, and 16.3%, respectively. The failure rate was 30.4% at the fifth year and 51.4% at the seventh year. High preoperative BMI was related to worse %EWL (P<0.001) but not to %TWL. Preoperative BMI<35 kg/m² was associated with better %EWL but not with %TWL (P = 0.003). Four leaks (2.7%) and no mortalities were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

LSG is an acceptable surgical technique for weight loss, but in this series, up to one third of the patients fail at the fifth year and half fail in the seventh year. %EWL is better in patients with BMI<35 kg/m², but this difference disappears when we express outcomes with %TWL.

[Acute mountain sickness at 3500 and 4250 m. A study of symptom, incidence and severity]

BACKGROUND

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) refers to signs and symptoms associated with hypobaric hypoxia. Its reported incidence is highly variable.

AIM

To determine the incidence of AMS symptoms and severity at 3,500 and 4,250 m above sea level.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A population of 362 soldiers without former exposure to altitude was studied. AMS symptoms, were assessed by an extensively used standard questionnaire (Lake Louise), applied 36-72 hours after exposure to high altitude.

RESULTS

A group of 200 recruits ascended to Putre (3,500 m) and a second group (162) ascended to Alto Pacollo (4,250 m). The incidence of AMS was 28% and 60% respectively (p < 0.05). Headaches and sleeping difficulties were the most frequent symptoms at both altitudes. Furthermore, severe digestive problems and dizziness were described in a high proportion of individuals at both 3,500 and 4,250 m.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of AMS in this study is similar to that reported elsewhere at equivalent altitudes.

[Activity of imipenem and meropenem against strains of Acinetobacter baumannii isolated from various Chilean hospitals]

The activity of two carbapenem compounds, imipenem and meropenem, against 447 strains of Acinetobacter baumannii isolated between 1990 and 1998 in different Chilean hospitals was determined. MIC ranges, MIC(50) and MIC(90), were determined by an agar dilution method. Similar antibacterial activities were observed for both antibacterials; however, a slight increase in the MIC(50) of imipenem and meropenem, and in the MIC(90) of meropenem was found among strains isolated from 1997-1998. Although A. baumannii remains susceptible to these antibiotics, the MIC(50) and MIC(90) have increased in recent years.

[Adherence of Acinetobacter baumannii to rat tracheal tissue]

BACKGROUND

Acinetobacter baumannii is an important nosocomial pathogen whose virulence factors have not been fully elucidated.

AIM

To study the adherence and hemagglutinating capacity of several biotypes of Acinetobacter baumannii.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty nine strains of Acinetobacter baumannii isolated from hospitalized patients were studied. The adherence of these strains to small pieces of rat tracheal tissue was studied. Additionally, their ability to hemagglutinate human erythrocytes and the effect of D-mannose and D-galactose on the adherence and hemagglutinating capacity was assessed. Transmission electron microscopy of strains was performed looking for the presence of fimbriae.

RESULTS

All strains exhibited adherence to tissues. All strains had also D-mannose and D-galactose resistant hemagglutinating ability. Fimbriae were found in Acinetobacter baumannii and E coil cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Adherence of Acinetobacter baumannii to rat tracheal tissue, apparently not related to the presence of fimbriae, may be a virulence mechanism of this bacterium.

[Microdoses of BCG vaccine for prophylaxis in bladder cancer stage T1]

A prophylaxis with a minidose of BCG Vaccine (1 mgr.) is performed in vesical instillation during one year, to 108 patients bearing bladder cancer in the stage T1. In the first month the instillations are once a week, each fifteen days the second and third month and then, once a month for one year. An 19.4% of recurrences is obtained with an general average observation time of 37.3 months as well as an important increase of muster populations of T lymphocytes and a positive test of dinitroclorobenzene. As complications we have obtained an inguinal BCG adenitis and in a few cases disury and frequency for two or three days. We conclude that the doses of the BCG vaccine used during the period of one year, is satisfactory in the reduction of recurrences and without important complications.

[Soft tissue sarcoma. Combined treatment of drug therapy, radiotherapy and conservative surgery]

The preliminary results of a prospective and cooperative protocol for the treatment of soft tissue sarcomas of trunk and extremities, stages IB-IIIB are presented. Thirty one patients (17 males, 22 with a tumor larger than 5 cm) aged 16 to 68 years, were treated with one dose of epirubicin 70 mg/m2 i.v. and radiotherapy (3000 rads in 10 fractions) Two or three weeks later an ample surgical complications occurred in 6 patients and were all of infectious origin. The median follow up period has been of 26 months. During this period 5 patients presented late surgical complications (edema in 4 and a pathological fracture in 1), 2 patients had a local tumor recurrence and distant metastases appeared in 7. Actuarial survival was 60% at 48 months. Ninety six percent of surviving patients conserved their extremity. It is concluded that with this treatment modality local recurrence is acceptable, morbidity is low and that the majority of patients do not require amputations or crippling resection.

[Continuous hemodialysis in the treatment of chronic renal insufficiency in emergencies]

Continuous hemodialysis is advantageous for the treatment of renal failure in critically ill patients. This study reports our experience in the treatment of emergencies during chronic renal failure with continuous hemodialysis using a Cuprofane membrane. Eighteen patients with acute decompensations of chronic renal failure were treated with continuous hemodialysis (14 arteriovenous and 4 veno-venous). Procedures lasted a mean of 44.2 h, blood urea nitrogen decreased from 150.3 +/- 49.8 to 60.6 +/- 30.7 mg/dl, metabolic acidosis was corrected raising serum bicarbonate from 10.1 +/- 44 to 17.8 +/- 3.3 mEq/L and hyperkalemia was corrected. Mean ultrafiltration was 239.6 +/- 124.6 ml/h which allowed to withdraw a mean 10.590 ml of ultrafiltrate. Two patients were complicated with femoral artery pseudoaneurysms and one patient with a catheter related sepsis. Global mortality was 16.7%, which compared favorably with the 32.1% predicted mortality according to the Simplified Acute Physiology Score. It is concluded that continuous hemodialysis, a readily available procedure, is suitable for the treatment of emergencies during chronic renal failure.

[Impetigo in children: etiology and response to treatment]

Seventy seven cases of impetigo were studied in children. Group A beta hemolyticus Streptococcus was the only bacterial agent isolated from 25 culture samples, Staphylococcus aureus from 6 and both agents from 39 cases. Cultures were negative in 7 children. The clinical response to treatment with penicillin G benzathine, crust removal and skin cleansing was satisfactory in 93.5% of the cases, nonresponders (6.5%) were satisfactory treated oral with cloxacillin.