Terapia endovascular en trauma periférico: una alternativa a la cirugía abierta tradicional / Endovascular therapy in peripheral trauma: our experience

Resumen Introducción: La terapia endovascular ha demostrado ser una buena alternativa de tratamiento en las enfermedades arteriales y venosas. Asimismo, en trauma vascular periférico constituye una excelente opción, especialmente en sitios anatómicos difíciles de acceder y con lesiones complejas como seudoaneurismas, fístulas arteriovenosas (FAV) o la combinación de ambos, con numerosas ventajas. Objetivo: Evaluar los resultados del tratamiento endovascular en trauma vascular penetrante por agresiones y iatrogenias. Materiales y Método: Revisión retrospectiva de todos los pacientes con trauma vascular periférico sometidos a terapia endovascular. Resultados: Entre abril de 2011 y mayo de 2020 se trataron 30 pacientes, 28 hombres y 2 mujeres. Con edades fluctuantes entre 17 y 84 años. La causa del trauma fue 20 penetrantes y 10 iatrogenias. Los vasos afectados fueron arteria femoral superficial 6, femoral profunda 2, subclavia 9, axilar 1, poplítea 4, ilíacas 1, peronea 1, tibial anterior 5, tronco venoso braquiocefálico 1. Diecisiete pacientes fueron tratados con endoprótesis, 9 con embolización y 4 con cierre percutáneo en relación con catéteres arteriales en subclavia. No hubo mortalidad, pero dos pacientes requirieron reparación abierta: un seudoaneurisma poplíteo gigante y un seudoaneurisma de tibial anterior, en ambos se constató sección completa de ambas arterias. El seguimiento clínico ha sido entre 30 días y 3 años. Conclusiones: En esta serie de casos, la terapia endovascular en lesiones de trauma vascular periférico ofrece excelentes resultados con baja morbimortalidad y permeabilidad aceptable a corto y mediano plazo.

Introduction: Endovascular therapy has proven to be a good treatment alternative in arterial and venous diseases. Likewise, in peripheral vascular trauma it is an excellent option, especially in anatomical sites that are difficult to access and with complex lesions such as pseudoaneurysms, arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) or the combination of both, with numerous advantages. Aim: To evaluate the results of endovascular treatment in trauma Penetrating vascular injury and iatrogenesis. Materials and Method: Retrospective review of all patients with peripheral vascular trauma undergoing endovascular therapy. Results: Between April 2011 and May 2020, 30 patients were treated, 28 men and 2 women. With fluctuating ages between 17 and 84 years. The cause of the trauma was 20 penetrating and 10 iatrogenic. The affected vessels were superficial femoral artery 6, deep femoral 2, subclavian 9, axillary 1, popliteal 4, iliac 1, peroneal 1, anterior tibial 5, brachiocephalic venous trunk 1. Seventeen patients were treated with endoprosthesis, 9 with embolization and 4 with percutaneous closure in relation to arterial catheters in the subclavian. There was no mortality but two patients required open repair: a giant popliteal pseudoaneurysm and an anterior tibial pseudoaneurysm in which both sections of both arteries were found to be complete. Clinical follow-up was between 30 days and 3 years. Conclusión: In this serie, endovascular therapy in peripheral vascular trauma lesions offers excellent results with low morbidity and mortality and acceptable patency in the short and medium term.

Implementation of a new Single-Pass Whole-Body Computed Tomography Protocol: Is it safe, effective and efficient in patients with severe trauma? / Implementación de un nuevo protocolo de Tomografía Computarizada Corporal Total de un solo pase: ¿Es seguro, efectivo y eficiente en pacientes con trauma severo?

Abstract Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate the implementation of a new single-pass whole-body computed tomography Protocol in the management of patients with severe trauma. Methods: This was a descriptive evaluation of polytrauma patients who underwent whole-body computed tomography. Patients were divided into three groups: 1. Blunt trauma hemodynamically stable 2. Blunt trauma hemodynamically unstable and 3. Penetrating trauma. Demographics, whole-body computed tomography parameters and outcome variables were evaluated. Results: Were included 263 patients. Median injury severity score was 22 (IQR: 16-22). Time between arrival to the emergency department and completing the whole-body computed tomography was under 30 minutes in most patients [Group 1: 28 minutes (IQR: 14-55), Group 2: 29 minutes (IQR: 16-57), and Group 3: 31 minutes (IQR: 13-50; p= 0.96)]. 172 patients (65.4%) underwent non-operative management. The calculated and the real survival rates did not vary among the groups either [Group 1: TRISS 86.4% vs. real survival rate 85% (p= 0.69); Group 2: TRISS 69% vs. real survival rate 74% (p= 0.25); Group 3: TRISS 93% vs. real survival rate 87% (p= 0.07)]. Conclusion: This new single-pass whole-body computed tomography protocol was safe, effective and efficient to decide whether the patient with severe trauma requires a surgical intervention independently of the mechanism of injury or the hemodynamic stability of the patient. Its use could also potentially reduce the rate of unnecessary surgical interventions of patients with severe trauma including those with penetrating trauma.

Resumen Introducción: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la implementación de un nuevo protocolo de tomografía computarizada corporal total para el manejo de pacientes con trauma severo. Métodos: Este estudio es una evaluación descriptiva de pacientes que recibieron tomografía computarizada corporal total. Los pacientes fueron divididos en 3 grupos: 1. Trauma cerrado hemodinámicamente estables, 2. Trauma cerrado hemodinámicamente inestables y 3. Trauma penetrante. Se evaluaron las características demográficas, parámetros relacionados con la técnica y los desenlaces de los pacientes. Resultados: Se incluyeron 263 pacientes. La mediana del puntaje de severidad de la lesión fue 22 (RIQ: 16-22). El tiempo entre el ingreso a urgencias y completar la tomografía corporal total fue menor a 30 minutos en la mayoría de pacientes [Grupo 1: 28 minutos (RIQ: 14-55), Grupo 2: 29 minutos (RIQ: 16-57), y Grupo 3: 31 minutos (RIQ: 13-50; p= 0.96). 172 pacientes (65.4%) recibieron manejo no operatorio. Las tasas de supervivencia calculadas y reales no difirieron entre ninguno de los grupos [Grupo 1: TRISS 86.4% vs. Tasa real de supervivencia 85% (p= 0.69); Grupo 2: TRISS 69% vs. Tasa real de supervivencia 74% (p= 0.25); Grupo 3: TRISS 93% vs. Tasa real de supervivencia 87% (p= 0.07)]. Conclusión: Este nuevo protocolo de tomografía corporal total de un solo pase fue seguro, efectivo y eficiente para definir si los pacientes con trauma severo requieren o no una intervención quirúrgica. Su uso podría reducir la tasa de intervenciones quirúrgicas innecesarias en estos pacientes incluyendo los que se presentan con trauma penetrante.

Tratamiento exitoso con gel de silicona de heridas que no cicatrizan en el cuero cabelludo / Successful silicone gel treatment of wounds that do not heal on the scalp

La silicona podría tener propiedades ideales para estimular la cicatrización de heridas abiertas. Se presentan cuatro casos de heridas en el cuero cabelludo que no cicatrizaban y en todas se observaba tejido de granulación abundante y falta de migración epidérmica. La aplicación de un gel a base de silicona (Stratamed, Stratpharma, Basilea, Suiza), que forma una película directamente sobre la herida, a modo de monoterapia se asoció con una mejor cicatrización de la herida

The silicone could have ideal properties to stimulate the healing of open wounds. We present four cases of wounds on the scalp that did not heal and in all of them there was abundant granulation tissue and lack of epidermal migration. The application as a monotherapy of a silicone-based gel (Stratamed, Stratpharma, Basel, Switzerland), which forms a film directly on the wound, was associated with better wound healing

Resucitación hemostática en el paciente con choque hipovolémico hemorrágico. Reporte de un caso / Case report: Hemostatic resuscitation in the patient with hemorrhagic hypovolemic shock

In the world, traumatic pathology continues to be a problem of great magnitude, from the point of view of public health. Today, the volumemic resuscitation in hypovolemic hemorrhagic shock is still controversial; a new alternative in volemic resuscitation is the hemostatic resuscitation that consists of the rapid use of whole blood or of the administration of the concentrate of erythrocytes (CE), fresh frozen plasma (PFC) and platelet concentrate (CP), with a fixed ratio between the products. OBJECTIVE: Clinical case presentation, as well as review of the published literature on hemostatic resuscitation in patients with hemorrhagic hypovolemic shock. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We present the case of a female patient of 16 years of age with penetrating injuries in the neck, thorax and abdomen; management and evolution in the operating room, intensive care unit until discharge. RESULTS: The adequate initial resuscitation in the patient with hemorrhagic hypovolemic shock has been shown to improve their survival, so that nowadays the application of new alternatives in resuscitation; As is the hemostatic resuscitation, they have yielded better results in the patient's prognosis. CONCLUSIONS: Trauma remains one of the main causes of admission to hospital units, with the young population being the most vulnerable due to car accidents. Strategies in improving the time of transfer from the accident site to the hospital unit, its definitive management in the operating room (if required) and the use of new alternatives in the management of hemorrhagic hypovolemic shock; such as hemostatic resuscitation, and the administration of pro-hemostatic drugs, are of great importance in the evolution and prognosis of the patient.

En el mundo, la patología traumática continúa siendo un problema de gran magnitud, desde el punto de vista de salud pública. Hoy en día la resucitación volémica en el choque hemorrágico hipovolémico todavía es controversial; una nueva alternativa en la resucitación volemica es la resucitación hemostática que consiste en el uso rápido de sangre total o de la administración del concentrado de Eritrocitos (CE), Plasma Fresco Congelado (PFC) y Concentrado de Plaquetas (CP), con una razón fija entre los productos. OBJETIVO: Presentación de caso clínico, así como revisión de la literatura publicada sobre resucitación hemostática en el paciente con choque hipovolémico hemorrágico. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se presenta el caso de paciente femenino de 16 años de edad con lesiones penetrantes en cuello, tórax y abdomen; manejo y evolución en sala de operaciones, unidad de cuidados intensivos hasta su egreso. RESULTADOS: La adecuada resucitación inicial en el paciente con choque hipovolémico hemorrágico ha demostrado mejorar su sobrevida, por lo que hoy en día la aplicación de nuevas alternativas en la reanimación; como es la resucitación hemostática, han arrojado mejores resultados en el pronóstico del paciente. CONCLUSIONES: El trauma sigue siendo una de las principales causas de ingreso a las unidades hospitalarias, siendo la población joven la más vulnerable por accidentes automovilísticos. Las estrategias en la mejora del tiempo de traslado del lugar del accidente hasta la unidad hospitalaria, su manejo definitivo en sala de quirófano (si así lo requiere) y el uso de nuevas alternativas en manejo del choque hipovolémico hemorrágico; como es la resucitación hemostática, y la ministración de fármacos pro hemostáticos, resultan de gran importancia en la evolución y pronóstico del paciente.

Wound-Healing potential of Sebastiania hispida (Mart) Pax (Euphorbiaceae) ointment compared to low power laser in rats / Potencial cicatrizante da pomada de Sebastiania hispida (Mart) Pax (Euphorbiaceae) comparado ao laser de baixa potência

Abstract Impaired wound healing represents a serious complication in some pathologies and the use of plant extracts has proved to improve tissue repair. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the healing potential of the ointment of Sebastiana hispida compared with Aluminum-Gallium Indium-Phosphide Laser (InGaAlP) in surgically induced wounds in rats and to perform the phytochemical analysis. The phytochemical analysis was performed in the classic way and also by HPLC. A controlled study was developed with 80 rats (200-250 g) in which a linear excision was performed in the dorsal region after shaving, measuring 2 cm × 1 cm (epidermis and dermis) exposing the muscle fascia. The rats were randomly divided into four groups of twenty animals each. The experimental groups (n = 5) were G1 (Saline); G2 (crude methanol plant extract 2% + Carbopol Gel 98%); G3 (crude methanol plant extract 2% + lanolin/vaseline) and G4 (laser). The incision healing processes were monitored during 3, 7, 14 and until 21 days after excision. The histologic parameters evaluated were Collagen fiber types, microscopic examination and neovascularization. There was a significant increase in the deposition of collagen fibers, as evidenced by a better organized epithelial tissue, keratinized and showing greater proliferation of new blood vessels in the inflammatory phase in the group treated with both the extract and laser. The results were correlated to the phenolic derivatives found after qualitative and quantitative analysis. These compounds were considered responsible for the healing process. The topical treatment with S. hispida leaves, in the two different formulations, was more effective than the application of the laser (Ingan ALP) 660 nm in the model used.

Resumo A cicatrização deficiente representa uma complicação grave em algumas patologias e o uso de extratos de plantas tem demonstrado melhora no processo de reparação tecidual. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o potencial cicatrizante da pomada de Sebastiania hispida comparado ao Laser Indio Phosphide-Gallium-Aluminum (InGaAlP) em feridas cutâneas induzidas cirurgicamente em ratos e realizar analise fitoquímica. A análise fitoquímica foi via clássica e por CLAE. O experimento foi desenvolvido com 80 ratos (200-250 g), divididos aleatoriamente em quatro grupos (n = 5): G1 (salina); G2 (extrato bruto metanólico 2% + Carbopol Gel 98%); G3 (extrato bruto metanólico 2% + lanolina/vaselina) e G4 (laser). Após a tricotomia da região dorsal realizou uma excisão linear, medindo 2 cm × 1 cm (epiderme e derme), expondo a fáscia muscular. Em sequência os tratamentos e o monitoramento do processo de cicatrização das feridas cirúrgicas ocorreu nos tempos de: 3, 7, 14 e até 21 dias após a excisão. Os parâmetros histológicos avaliados foram: tipos de fibras colágenas, avaliação morfológica e neovascularização. Houve uma deposição significativa de fibras colágenas, evidenciado por um tecido epitelial mais bem organizado, queratinizado e mostrando uma maior proliferação de novos vasos sanguíneos na fase inflamatória do grupo tratado com o extrato e o laser. A eficiência do processo de cicatrização pode estar relacionada com a presença de compostos fenólicos e derivados detectados na análise qualitativa e quantitativa. A utilização do tratamento tópico com as duas formulações diferentes de S. hispida foram mais eficazes do que a aplicação do Laser (InGaAlP) no modelo utilizado.

Embolização de pseudoaneurisma com fístula arteriovenosa de artéria femoral profunda decorrente de ferimento por arma branca: relato de caso / Embolization of pseudoaneurysm with arteriovenous fistula of deep femoral artery secondary to a stab wound: case report

As complicações locais de uma lesão arterial penetrante incluem hematoma, pseudoaneurisma e formação de fístula arteriovenosa. A artéria femoral profunda, por sua localização anatômica, é sede infrequente de lesões traumáticas. Relatamos um caso de paciente jovem, vítima de agressão por arma branca em face posterior de coxa, em que foi diagnosticada, tardiamente, lesão de ramo descendente da artéria femoral profunda, sendo então tratada com técnica endovascular. A revisão de literatura corrobora a raridade do caso, sendo a maioria dos casos de lesão traumática de artéria femoral profunda relatada como decorrente de complicação de procedimentos ortopédicos ou fraturas envolvendo o fêmur proximal.

The local complications of penetrating injuries involving arteries include hematoma, pseudoaneurysm and arteriovenous fistulas. Traumatic injuries to the deep femoral artery are uncommon because of its anatomic location. We report the case of a young male patient who was victim of a stab wound to the posterior thigh who was later diagnosed with an injury to the descending branch of the deep femoral artery and treated using endovascular techniques. A review of the literature confirmed the rarity of the case, since the majority of cases of traumatic injuries to the deep femoral artery that have been reported were due to complications during orthopedic procedures or fractures involving the proximal femur.

Análisis comprensivo de los traumatismos torácios penetrantes atendidos en Hospital Padre Hurtado de Santiago / Penetrating chest trauma

Objectives: Penetrating chest trauma (PCT) is a life threatening condition that challenges emergency surgeons daily. The aim of this study is to make an epidemiological characterization of these patients, and secondarily analyze their treatment and outcome. Methods: A retrospective analysis of a series of consecutive patients experiencing PCT who presented at our hospital, was performed from 1st May 2009 to 30th April 2013. Results: Of 274 consecutive patients who presented to the emergency department (ED) with PCT, 257 (94 percent) were male and 17 (6 percent) were female. The median age was 26 (range 15-66) years. Stab wounds (SW) accounted for 185 (68 percent) of the injuries, and 80 (29 percent) suffered from gunshot wounds (GSW). As first treatment, chest tube drainage was performed in 229 (84 percent) patients, emergent thoracotomy in 21 (8 percent) and observation, in 13 (5 percent). 26 (9 percent) patients died: 21 (81 percent) from GSW and 4 (15 percent) with SW P<0.0001; 20 (77 percent) had heart or thoracic great vessels involvement. Thoracic complications occurred in 30 (12 percent) patients. There was no mortality associated with thoracic complications. The median hospital stay was 4 days. Conclusions: PCT is frequent in our hospital compared with historical series. The majority of the patients who died had cardiac or thoracic great vessels involvement due to GSW. Therefore, healthcare improvements are needed to reduce mortality in this group of patients.

Objetivos: Los traumatismos torácicos penetrantes (TTP) son graves y desafían diariamente a los cirujanos de urgencia. El objetivo de este estudio es realizar una caracterización epidemiológica de los pacientes con TTP, y como objetivo secundario analizar el tratamiento efectuado y su evolución. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo de los pacientes atendidos en el Hospital Padre Hurtado de Santiago que presentaron un TTP desde el 1 de mayo de 2009 hasta el 30 de abril de 2013. Resultados: 274 pacientes que se consultaron al servicio de urgencia con un TTP, 257 (94 por ciento) eran hombres y 17 (6 por ciento) eran mujeres. La mediana de edad fue 26 (15-66) años. Lesiones por arma blanca 185 (68 por ciento), y 80 (29 por ciento) fueron por arma de fuego. Como primer tratamiento la pleurostomía fue realizada en 229 (84 por ciento) pacientes. La toracotomía de emergencia fue realizada en 21 (8 por ciento) pacientes. No se realizó tratamiento y solo observación en 13 (5 por ciento) de los casos. 26 (9 por ciento) de los pacientes murieron, 21 (81 por ciento) fueron consecuencia de lesiones por arma de fuego y 4 (15 por ciento) por arma blanca P<0,0001, 20 (77 por ciento) tenían lesiones cardíacas o de grandes vasos torácicos. 30 (12 por ciento) pacientes presentaron complicaciones torácicas. No hubo mortalidad asociada a complicaciones torácicas. La mediana de días de hospitalización fue 4. Conclusiones: El TTP es frecuente en nuestro hospital comparado con series históricas. La mayoría de los pacientes fallecidos presentaban TTP por arma de fuego con lesiones cardíacas o de grandes vasos torácicos. Se precisan mejoras asistenciales en este grupo para disminuir su mortalidad.

Tatuajes traumáticos en Chile tratados con láser Q-switched Nd:YAG: reporte de nueve casos / Traumatic tattoos in Chile treated with Q-switched laser Nd: YAG: report of nine cases

Introducción: Los láser Q-switched (QS) son actualmente los equipos más utilizados en el tratamiento de los tatuajes traumáticos. Reportamos los resultados del tratamiento de nueve pacientes con este tipo de tatuajes. Materiales y métodos: Fue utilizado el láser Revlite (Hoya ConBio®) QS Nd:YAG 1064 nm. Los parámetros del equipo fueron ajustados en cada paciente variando entre los siguientes valores; diámetro de punta (spot size) 4-6 mm, energía 3,5-7 J/cm2 y 5-10 hercios (Hz). El tiempo mínimo entre cada sesión fue de ocho semanas. Se realizaron fotografías antes y después de cada sesión para evaluar el aclaramiento de las lesiones. Resultados: obtuvimos un aclaramiento completo(>95 por ciento) en tres pacientes en 1,6 +/- 0,5 sesiones y un excelente resultado (75 por ciento-95 por ciento) en un paciente luego de siete sesiones láser. De los cinco pacientes restantes, tres de ellos han tenido una buena respuesta (50 por ciento-75 por ciento) en 1,6 +/- 0,5 sesiones, sin embargo dos de ellos siguen en tratamiento. Solo dos pacientes obtuvieron un aclaramiento razonable (25 por ciento-50 por ciento), uno de ellos abandonó y el otro sigue en tratamiento. Conclusiones: El láser QS Nd:YAG1064 nm es eficaz para el tratamiento de los tatuajes traumáticos.

Introduction: Q-switched are the most used lasers in the treatment of traumatic tattoos. We report the results of treatment of nine patients with these tattoos. Materials and Methods: We used the Revlite QS Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser(Hoya ConBio®). The device parameters were adjusted for each patient varying between the following values; spot size4-6 mm, energy 3,5-7 J/cm2 and 5-10 Hz. The minimum time in between each session was eight weeks. Photographs were taken before and after each session to assess the clearance of the lesions. Results: We achieved a complete clearance (>95 percent) in three patients at 1.6 +/- 0.5 sessions and excellent results (75 percent-95 percent) in one patient after seven laser sessions. Of the remaining five patients, three of them have had a good response (50 percent-75 percent) in 1.6 +/- 0.5 sessions, however two of them are still under treatment. Only two patients had a reasonable clearance (25 percent-50 percent). Conclusion: QS laser Nd: YAG 1064 nm is effective in the treatment of traumatic tattoos.

Atualização da classificação e tratamento das lesões renais complexas / Update in the classification and treatment of complex renal injuries

A reunião de revista "Telemedicina Baseada em Evidência - Cirurgia do Trauma e Emergência" (TBE-CiTE) realizou uma revisão crítica da literatura e selecionou três artigos atuais sobre o tratamento do trauma renaldefinido como graus III a V pela classificação da Associação Americana de Cirurgia do Trauma (AAST). O primeiro trabalho propõe subestratificação da lesão renal AAST grau IV em 4a (baixo risco) e 4b (alto risco). O segundo trabalho revisa o atual sistema de classificação de lesão renal AASTpara incluir lesões vasculares segmentares e estabelecer uma definição mais detalhada dos graus IV e V. O último artigo analisa a angiografia diagnóstica e angioembolização na fase aguda do trauma renal utilizando dados americanos. A reunião de revista TBE-CiTE elaborou as conclusões e recomendações para o tratamento do trauma renal de alto grau.

The "Evidence-Based Telemedicine - Trauma and Acute Care Surgery" (EBT-TACS) Journal Club performed a critical review of the literature and selected three up-to-date articles on the management of renal trauma defined as American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) injury grade III-V. The first paper was the proposal for the AAST grade 4renal injury substratification into grades 4a (Low Risk) and 4b (High Risk). The second paper was a revision of the current AAST renal injury grading system, expanding to include segmental vascular injuries and to establish a more rigorous definition of severe grade IV and V renal injuries.The last article analyses the diagnostic angiography and angioembolization in the acute management of renal trauma using a nationaldata set in the USA. The EBT-TACS Journal Club elaborated conclusions and recommendations for the management of high-grade renal trauma.

Management of twenty patients with neck trauma in Khartoum ENT Hospital

Neck trauma is a great surgical challenge, because there are multi organ and systems involved. To study the clinical presentation, management and outcome of twenty patients presented to Khartoum ENT Hospital with neck trauma. This is a prospective study conducted in Khartoum ENT Hospital, Sudan during the period 1998- 2008. A total number of 20 patients presented to our unit with neck trauma were included in the study. All patients were admitted to the hospital, assessed and managed according to the magnitude of trauma. The age varied from 5 to 40years, with mean age [ +/- SD] 28 years [ +/- 9]. Male to female ratio was 2:1. Most of the patients presented to the Hospital between 1-6 hours after trauma. The mechanism of neck trauma was blunt trauma in 16[80%] patients and penetrating wound in 4[20%] patients. The distribution of injuries in neck zones were 17[85%] patients in zone two, 2[10%] patients in zone three and one patient in zone one. Tracheal injury and pharyngeal injury were seen in 4[20%] patients each, laryngeal injury in 5[25%] patients, and salivary gland injury in 1[5%] patient. Surgical exploration and tracheostomy were done in 4[20%] patients. tracheostomy alone was performed in 7[35%] patients with blunt trauma. Conservative management without surgical intervention was done in 9[45%] patients. The common complications in this study were vocal cord paralysis and subglottic stenosis in 2[10%] patients each, while surgical emphysema and haemothorax was seen in one patient. Zone two injures were the commonest injuries. Early presentation and proper management of patients with neck trauma carry good prognosis.

Conservative approach in the management of isolated penetrating liver trauma

Damage to the liver is the most common cause of death after abdominal injury. The most common cause of liver injury is blunt abdominal trauma. In the case of penetrating injury, non-intervention management has not been adequately addressed. Selective non-operative management of stab wounds especially to the liver has been reported. This study was carried out from May 2006 to April 2011 at the Main Alexandria University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria, Egypt. This study consisted of 62 liver trauma patients and the following data were collected: demographics, mechanism of injury, pre-hospital care, hemodynamic status, grade of hepatic injury, associated injuries, failure of non-operative [NOP] management, hospital stay in intensive care unit [ICU] or in the ward and death. Patients were eligible for the study if they sustained isolated penetrating right hypochondrial injury. Assessment of hemodynamic stability was based on routine vital signs. Injury severity was determined from CT and classified by means of the Liver Injury Scale. This study was carried out for 62 consecutive patients with hepatic trauma in a five year period. Mean age was 33.6 years with a range of 16-54 years. The isolated penetrating liver injuries included knives, guns [gunshot and shotgun injuries] and other sharp objects. All patients were treated successfully via NOP management except five patients [8%] who failed NOP management. These five patients were hemodynamically unstable and were unresponsive to crystalloid and blood transfusion. The five patients underwent surgery [suturing, packing, and resectional debridement]. Two patients [3.2%] died because of high grade liver injury. The overall actuarial one-year survival in NOP management was 96.8%. Low grade penetrating hepatic injuries [G I-III] can be managed non-operatively with excellent results; even G IV penetrating liver injuries with hemodynamically stable patients can be managed safely non-operatively

Observation of initial clinical manifestations and repercussions from the treatment of 314 human injuries caused by black sea urchins (Echinometra lucunter) on the southeastern Brazilian coast / Observação das manifestações clínicas iniciais e sua influência no tratamento de 314 acidentes causados por ouriços-do-mar pretos (Echinometra lucunter) na região sudeste do Brasil

INTRODUCTION: Injuries caused by sea urchins are the most common caused by marine animals in humans in Brazil, with the black sea urchin (Echinometra lucunter) causing the most injuries to bathers. METHODS: This study observed 314 human wounds with emphasis on the early observation of clinical signs and symptoms and their implications on the recommended treatment. RESULTS: All the injuries were caused by black sea urchins and were observed in bathers. The lesions and the pain were associated with penetration of the spines; there was no early inflammation or pain without pressure on the wounded places. Complications arising from this kind on injury, including infections and foreign body granulomas, are associated with the permanence of the spines in the wounds. CONCLUSIONS: The study confirmed that this kind of injury is the most common accident caused by aquatic animals in Brazil. The main therapeutical recommendation is early removal of the spines to prevent late complications, such as infections and the formation of foreign body granulomas.

INTRODUÇÃO: Os acidentes causados por ouriços-do-mar são as ocorrências por animais marinhos mais comuns no país. O ouriço-do-mar preto (Echinometra lucunter) é a espécie que mais causa ferimentos em banhistas. MÉTODOS: Este trabalho registrou e estudou 314 agravos com ênfase nas manifestações clínicas iniciais observadas e suas implicações na terapêutica recomendada. RESULTADOS: Todos os acidentes foram causados pelo ouriço-do-mar preto e aconteceram em banhistas. As lesões e a dor foram associadas ao trauma causado pela penetração das espículas (não ocorreu inflamação ou dor imediata sem pressão sobre os pontos comprometidos). As complicações deste tipo de acidente, incluindo infecções e granulomas de corpo estranho, estão associadas com a permanência das espículas nos ferimentos. CONCLUSÕES: Foi confirmado o fato do acidente causado por esta espécie ser o mais comum no Brasil e apresentar caráter traumático, sendo a principal recomendação a retirada precoce dos espinhos para prevenção de complicações tardias como as infecções e formação de granulomas de corpo estranho.

Trauma de abdomen / Abdominal trauma

El trauma abdominal representa un gran desafío para el cirujano que trabaja en los Servicios de Urgencia. El objetivo de este artículo es discutir los mecanismos de producción, así como los diferentes métodos diagnósticos que nos ayuden a tomar la mejor decisión terapéutica. Didácticamente se separa el estudio según el mecanismo de producción del trauma, ya que su utilidad es variable. Posteriormente se esboza el tratamiento y se entrega un algoritmo para facilitar decisiones.

Abdominal trauma is a major challenge for surgeons working in emergency services. The aim of this paper is to discuss the mechanisms of production and the different diagnostic methods to help us make the best therapeutic decision. Therefore for better assessment, the study is divided according to the mechanism that produces the trauma, since its usefulness is variable. Later, the treatment is planned and an algorithm is given to facilitate the decisions.

Trauma ocular: experiencia de 16 Años de la UTO / Ocular trauma: UTO 16 years of experience

Se presenta una visión personal del jefe de la unidad de trauma ocular, en la cual se describen los hechos históricos más importantes, y los pasos que se dieron para la creación del primer centro nacional de referencia en Chile de trauma ocular severo. También en estudios previos se han mencionado las características principales de los pacientes que se atienden en este centro. El objetivo del artículo es revisar los hitos históricos más importantes que participaron en la creación de la Unidad de Trauma Ocular del hospital el Salvador hasta ahora, haciendo énfasis en los resultados epidemiológicos en estudios previos. Desde 1971, el primer esfuerzo por dar atención de urgencia oftalmológica, se concentró en el de la Urgencia de la asistencia pública Dr. Alejandro del Río. Con solo 12 oftalmólogos, y muchas dificultades para operar como un departamento de urgencia independiente. El servicio tuvo una lento deterioro, hasta mediados de los 80, en que comenzaron a colapsar otros servicios oftalmológicos. Sin embargo, diversos personajes de la esfera oftalmológica presionaron a las autoridades para la creación de una unidad de trauma ocular. De este modo en 1994 se creó la primera unidad de trauma ocular con dos oftalmólogos con turno de medio día, una pequeña sala de emergencia, que fue gradualmente creciendo y prosperando hasta como se conoce hoy día. Desde el 2007, fue declarada por ley, el centro de referencia del trauma ocular severo, en el nuevo régimen de garantías explícitas de salud. Actualmente, desde el 2010, nuestra unidad se convertido el Centro Nacional de trauma ocular severo y accidentes del trabajo, con más de 33.000 atenciones y 1.500 cirugías al año. La creación del Centro Nacional de Trauma Ocular severo es el resultado de largos años de trabajo y representa el esfuerzo conjunto para prevenir la ceguera por trauma en Chile.

Purpose: To review the main historical landmarks of the creation of the Ocular Trauma Unit of Hospital del Salvador until nowadays, making emphasis in epidemiological findings of previous studies. Methods: A personal point of view, made by the Ocular Trauma Unit head chief is presented here describing the most important historical facts that they took step to the creation of the First Center of National Reference for Severe Ocular in Chile. Also, a previous epidemiological study is mentioned in order to reference main characteristics of patients attended here. Results: Since 1971, the first effort to provide ophthalmological emergency attention was concentrated in its beginnings in the Emergency Department of The Public Assistance Dr. Alejandro del Río. With only 12 ophthalmologists and many difficulties to operate as an independent emergency department, the service had a slow deterioration until middle eighties, starting to collapse other Ophthalmology Services. Nevertheless, diverse personages of the ophthalmological sphere, pressed to the authorities for the creation of a unit of ocular trauma. Thus, in 1994 it was created the first ocular trauma unit with only two ophthalmologists with half-day shifts in a small emergency room that gradually prospered to which we know now. Since 2007, it was declared by law as The Referral Center for Severe Ocular Trauma in the new regimen of Explicit Guaranties in Health, and currently (since 2010) our unit has become the National Center for Severe Ocular Trauma and Work-Related accidents, with more than 33,000 attentions and 1,500 surgeries per year. Conclusion: The creation of The National Center for Severe Ocular Trauma has been the result of long years of work and represents a joint effort in preventing the blindness by ocular trauma in Chile.

Accidentalidad por fluidos biológicos en profesionales de laboratorios clínicos de Maracaibo, Venezuela / Biological fluid-related accidents amongst professionals working in clinical laboratories in Maracaibo, Venezuela

Objetivo Determinar la exposición laboral accidental a fluidos biológicos por contacto percutáneo en el personal Bioanalista de Laboratorios Clínicos públicos, sus factores asociados y el cumplimiento de medidas post exposición biológica. Métodos Se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal, la muestra fue de 156 bioanalistas adscritos a laboratorios clínicos del área metropolitana del estado Zulia. Para la recolección de datos se aplicó un instrumento de escalas que exploró la exposición percutánea, los factores vinculados y el cumplimiento de medidas post exposición biológica. Resultados Se evidenció exposición por accidentes percutáneos, representados principalmente por pinchazos y cortaduras, detectados en razón de su ocurrencia en un nivel moderado (media entre 2-3,99). Como factores vinculados a la accidentabilidad percutánea, se registra la ocurrencia en nivel moderado con diversas agujas huecas, con sangre y hemoderivados, en manos y dedos, con una severidad superficial, en áreas de toma y procesamiento de muestras durante el re-encapuchado de objetos punzo cortantes. Un nivel de mediano cumplimiento se obtuvo para el manejo post exposición. Existe relación entre la exposición percutánea con el nivel de cumplimiento detectado para el manejo post exposición p <0,001. Conclusión La magnitud y características de la exposición a fluidos biológicos detectada en este colectivo laboral reviste una problemática que puede impactar en la salud del personal y debe ser abordada institucionalmente para una efectiva gestión de prevención y control de riesgo.

Objective Determining the occupational exposure to biological fluids of medical technicians working in public clinical laboratories caused by accidental percutaneous contact, associated factors and compliance with post-exposure biological measures. Methods This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of 156 medical technicians assigned to clinical laboratories in the metropolitan area of Zulia state in Venezuela. Data was collected by applying an instrument for exploring exposure and related factors, as well as compliance with established post-biological exposure measures. Results There was evidence of exposure caused by percutaneous accidents, mainly represented by a moderate level of needle-pricks and cuts (2-3.99 mean). There was a moderate level of factors regarding percutaneous injury in the hands and fingers associated with hollow needles, blood and blood products and superficial severity in sample taking and processing areas when recapping needles or handling sharp or cutting objects. A medium level (2-3.99 mean) of compliance was obtained for post-exposure handling. A significant correlation was found (p<001) between percutaneous exposure and level of compliance with post-exposure management. Conclusion The magnitude and characteristics of exposure to biological fluids detected in this work represents a problematic situation which can affect staff health and must be approached by institutions to ensure effective prevention management and risk control.

Management of combined femoral artery and vein injuries

The aim of this study was to review our experience with combined injuries to the femoral artery and vein, and to analyze the role of venous repair. Thirty two patients with penetrating injuries of the both femoral artery and vein underwent surgical management at our hospital from May 1999 to August 2009. Primary vascular repair was carried out whenever possible; if not possible the interposition graft was used. This study group consisted of 27 males and 5 females, ranging in age from 15 to 72 years with a mean age of 28.3 years. The mechanism of injury included gunshot wounds in 18 patients and stab wounds in 14 patients. Primary arterial repair was performed in 17 patients. Autogenous saphenous vein graft was used in nine patients and vein patch in two patients. Polytetraflouroethylene [PTFE] graft was used in four patients. All patients had associated venous injuries of which 24 patients had primary venous repair, five had vein graft interposition, and two had PTFE graft interposition. Seven patients had fasciotomies. Graft thrombosis occurred in three arterial repairs. Above-knee amputation was required in two patients with femur fracture. Patients with combined femoral artery and vein injuries can be managed successfully with clinical assessment alone. In these dual vascular injuries, both the femoral artery and vein injuries should be repaired to avoid complications. If venous ligation becomes compulsory, adjuvant therapies and techniques should be recommended such as the use of fasciotomy, anticoagulation treatment, elevation of the lower limb and compression stockings

Heridas penetrantes del cuello / Penetrating wounds of the neck

This is a revision based in a personal experience of the penetrating wounds of the neck, describing the diagnosis and treatment.

Trauma hepático: análise do tratamento com balão intra-hepático em um hospital universitário de Curitiba / Hepatic trauma: analysis of the treatment with intrahepatic balloon in a university hospital of Curitiba

OBJETIVO: Discutir a estratégia cirúrgica para tratamento de lesões hepáticas penetrantes graves através de tamponamento com balão intra-hepático. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo com 18 pacientes com trauma hepático penetrante, tratados com balão, atendidos em um hospital de referência em trauma no sul do Brasil. Foram avaliados: idade, sexo, grau da lesão hepática, segmentos acometidos, quantidade de solução salina infundida no balão intra-hepático e seu tempo de permanência, lesões associadas, terapia nutricional, hemotransfusões, complicações, antibioticoterapia, necessidade de UTI e tempo de internamento. RESULTADOS: Todos os pacientes eram do sexo masculino com idade média de 22,5 anos (18-48). As feridas por arma de fogo foram mais prevalentes, sendo a localização mais comum a região torácica e a transição tóraco-abdominal. A lesão associada mais comum foi a do diafragma, e o segmento hepático mais acometido foi o VIII (29,6 por cento). Sete pacientes (38,9 por cento) sobreviveram e a complicação mais comum foi fístula biliar (42,8 por cento). Dos 11 (61,1 por cento) pacientes que foram a óbito, seis morreram no mesmo dia em que foram operados, três ficaram em média 18,6 dias internados e os demais morreram no 2° e 3° do pós-operatório. CONCLUSÃO: O tratamento das lesões hepáticas transfixantes costuma ser de difícil manejo cirúrgico e com alto índice de morbimortalidade. O uso do balão intra- hepático foi eficaz no tratamento dessas lesões, porém não é isento de complicações tendo suas indicações bem definidas.

OBJECTIVE: The authors discuss the surgical strategies in the management of complex penetrating hepatic lesions through liver balloon tamponade. METHODS: Eighteen patients who received care in a trauma referral center in southern Brazil over the last 5 years were selected retrospectively. Data and variables evaluated were age, sex, hepatic injury grade and location, amount of saline solution filling the balloon and the length of time it was kept in place, associated injuries, the nutritional therapy instituted, hem concentrate transfusion, complications, antibiotics use, ICU need and length of hospital stay. RESULTS: All patients were male with an average age of 22.5 years (18-48). Gunshot wounds were more prevalent than stab wounds and their most common locations were the thorax and thoraco-abdominal regions. The m most commonly associated injury was in the diaphragm, and Couinaud segment VIII was the most often injured hepatic region (29.6 percent). Seven patients (38.9 percent) survived and the most common complication were biliary fistulae (42.8 percent). From the eleven deceased patients (61.1 percent), 6 died on the day of admission, 3 stayed for 18.6 days in hospital and the others died on the 2nd and 3rd postoperative days. CONCLUSION: Transfixing hepatic lesions are usually difficult to manage and carry high morbidity and mortality rates. The use of intrahepatic balloon tamponade can be useful as a therapeutic tool, but not rid of complications, and for that reason it has specific and selected indications.