Resolution of experimental pneumothorax by room air.

UNLABELLED: Observation alone is advised only for primary spontaneous pneumothoraces with less than 20 percent of the lungs collapsed. In such cases, it is the resorption capabilities of the visceral pleura that are solely relied upon. The AIM of the present experimental study was to demonstrate the capabilities of the pleura for pneumothorax resolution by room air. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was conducted with six laboratory animals (New Zealand white rabbits, weighing 2.5-3.5 kg), in which right total pneumothorax was induced. Conventional chest X-rays at intervals of 2 days were used to monitor the changes in the size of the pneumothorax until its final resolution. The size of the pneumothorax was estimated by the Light index. RESULTS: Total resolution of the pneumothorax occurred within 12 days after it was induced. The average rate of pneumothorax resolution was 6.63% (SEM +/- 0.20)/daily. CONCLUSION: The study imitates initial clinical observation in pneumothorax. Despite the fact that the study demonstrates resolution of total pneumothorax (100%), observation only is inappropriate as a treatment modality in patients with more than 20% collapse of the lung.

Descending necrotizing mediastinitis of odontogenic origin--personal experience and literature review.

UNLABELLED: Descending necrotizing mediastinitis is the most severe form of mediastinal infection. The aim of the study was to present the optimal diagnostic and treatment approach to this severe, life-threatening condition. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Three patients (men, aged 75, 73, and 63) with descending necrotizing mediastinitis hospitalised between April 2007 and February 2009 have been included in the study. The diagnosis of the condition was made based on cervico-thoracic computed tomography and surgical findings. The surgical treatment in each of the cases included bilateral longitudinal cervicotomy, transversal suprasternal cervicotomy and posterior-lateral thoracotomy. RESULTS: The period between the initiation of ambulatory treatment of the dental infection and diagnosing the mediastinitis was 9, 8 and 11 days, respectively. Engagement of all cervical spaces and mediastinal sections with polybacterial (three or more agents) dental infection, originating from third and fourth lower molars was present in each of the patients. Chronic alcoholism and diabetes are factors influencing the course of mediastinitis. The outcome in all the three patients was lethal (within 72 hours). CONCLUSION: Success in the treatment of descending necrotic mediastinitis of odontogenic origin may be expected only in case of early diagnose and aggressive cervical and mediastinal drainage, performed by bilateral longitudinal cervicotomy and posterior-lateral thoracotomy.