Three-Year Clinico-Pathological Observations of Breast Carcinoma in Okolobiri; Bayelsa State; Nigeria

Aim: To ascertain the clinico-pathological pattern of breast cancer at the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital. Methods: This was a retrospective study of all BC patients treated from January 2007 to December 2009 in the Surgical Department of the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital. Okolobiri; Bayelsa State; Nigeria. Relevant data including name; age; sex; history and examination findings and results of histopathology and other investigations were collected from case files of all the patients treated for BC during the period under review. The data was then analysed manually and by using stat-graphics version 2.3. Results: A total of 42 patients were included in the study and they were all females. Twelve patients (28.6) were of the 31-40 years age group; followed by 21-30 years age group with 10 patients (23.8). Thirty-one patients (73.8) between the ages of 21-50 years were premenopausal. The commonest histological type was infiltrating ductal carcinoma which was found in 23 (54.7) patients. Late presentation was seen in 38 (90.5) patients. The right breast was affected in 22 (52.4) cases; the left in 19 (45.2) and only one (2.4) was bilateral. Mortality was 4.8. Conclusion: Cancer of the breast is still a common problem presenting in the young to middle age groups. Infiltrating ductal carcinoma is the commonest variant. Late stage presentation is often the norm in this locality. There is the need to increase the awareness of the disease

A simple lithotomy device for children.

BACKGROUND: The position of the patient is important for good access during surgery. The aim of this paper is to present a simple lithotomy device for children. METHOD: We present a simple easy-to-construct and affordable lithotomy device utilizing locally available materials for paediatricpatients. RESULTS: A simple, cheap and easy-to-construct lithotomy device for children has been used in our centre. It is also easy to sterilize and very durable. No complication has been noticed so far that is attributable to the lithotomy device. It has been used for Swenson's procedure for Hirschsprung's disease, and rectal biopsy. CONCLUSION: The affordability of the device will save hospital administrators and the country great cost while still being effective. The device is being recommended for use in developing countries where paediatric operating tables are not available.