Isolated node engineering of neuronal systems using laser direct write.

Current limitations to the engineering of ex vivo and in vitro neural environments are hampering the ability to understand underlying neurophysiology. High levels of spatial specificity, reproducibility and viability have been previously reported using laser direct write (LDW) to print cells. However, despite the significant need no one has yet reported laser assisted printing of primary mammalian neuronal cells, an inherently sensitive but critically important population. Herein, we describe the use of LDW to reproducibly and accurately pattern viable dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons and supportive cells capable of neural outgrowth and network formation. Our demonstrated ability to engineer and control distinct micro-environmental components unlocks the potential for high throughput experiments to both understand underlying physiology and investigate therapeutic interventions.

Recurrent haemarthrosis following total knee replacement.

Total knee replacement is a well-established treatment for osteoarthritis with increasing numbers performed each year. Recurrent haemarthrosis is a relatively rare complication following TKR being reported in up to 1.6% of patients. While some causes are related to direct trauma to blood vessels, others are more obscure and may be difficult to diagnose. The purpose of this review is to give an overview of this unusual complication and summarise the current methods of management.

An intramedullary alignment guide lodging within the femoral canal during total knee arthroplasty: a case report.

The usual complications of total knee arthroplasty include thrombo-embolism, infection, and loosening. We report an unusual and potentially serious complication of an intramedullary guide lodging within the femoral canal during the procedure. Considering the risk of fracture and additional exposure, the guide was not removed and was cut in situ. The rest of the operation was completed successfully and the patient made an uneventfully recovery.

Temporary coracoclavicular screw fixation for displaced distal clavicle fractures.

PURPOSE: To assess the treatment outcome of temporary coracoclavicular screw fixation for displaced distal clavicle fractures. METHODS: From January 1995 to December 2003, 30 consecutive patients with Neer type II displaced distal clavicle fractures were treated with open reduction and internal fixation using a coracoclavicular screw. The screw was removed under local anaesthesia after bony union. Patients were evaluated by clinical and radiological examination. Functional outcome was assessed by a simple shoulder test. RESULTS: There was 100% union rate. All patients returned to their pre-injury activity level by 12 months. One patient developed a superficial wound infection, which resolved with oral antibiotics. Two patients had problems with mild backing out of the screw, but both had bony union by the time of screw removal. The mean score of the simple shoulder test of 28 patients was 11. CONCLUSION: Treatment outcome using temporary coracoclavicular screw fixation for displaced distal clavicle fractures is favourable. The implant is readily available and the technique is simple, safe, cost-effective, and reproducible.

Acquired megalourethra in a woman with normal vagina: a case report.

Urethral coitus leading to megalourethra in women is an extremely rare phenomenon, with only 17 cases reported in the literature to date. All of these cases were associated with some vaginal abnormality, either atresia, or a fibrotic or imperforate hymen.