The Efficacy of VAMMFT Compared to "Bogota Bag" in Achieving Sheath Closure Following Temporary Abdominal Closure at Index Laparotomy for Trauma.

INTRODUCTION: The open abdomen (OA) is a necessary component of damage control surgery and closure is often challenging. Our aim was to review our ten-year experience with OA in trauma patients and to compare the success of a dual closure technique termed vacuum-assisted, mesh-mediated fascial traction (VAMMFT) to an exclusively Bogota Bag (BB) approach. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed using the HEMR database from 2012 to 2022, comparing demographics, mechanism of injury, admission vitals and biochemistry between patients with BB and VAMMFT applications. Rate of secondary abdominal closure and complications were assessed in both groups. Logistic regression was used to find predictors of closure. RESULTS: OA was required by 348 patients at index laparotomy. Of these, 133 (38.2%) were managed with VAMMFT and 215 (61.8%) exclusively with a BB. There were no statistical differences between the BB and VAMMFT groups in terms of demographics, injuries, admission vitals and biochemistry. The VAMMFT group achieved a closure rate of 73% compared to 54.9% in the BB group (OR of 2.2 [1.4-3.7]). There was no significant difference in fistulation rate between the two groups (p = 0.103). Length of hospital stay was 30 versus 17 days in the VAMMFT and BB groups, respectively (OR 1.41 [1.30-1.54]). There were no independent predictors of closure identified in the VAMMFT group. Older patients were less likely to achieve closure when BB was used (OR 0.97 [0.95-0.99]). VAMMFT failure was commonly due to lack of stock (39%) and protocol violations (33%). CONCLUSION: The VAMMFT approach to the OA is efficacious and safe. VAMMFT achieves a much higher rate of secondary closure than BB alone with a low rate of enteric fistula formation.

Evaluation of outpatient halo-gravity traction in patients with severe scoliosis: development of a monitoring device.

INTRODUCTION: Patients with severe spinal deformities represent a major clinical and surgical challenge. Halo-gravity traction (HGT) is a traditional method to correct the deformity prior to surgery. Typically, children undergoing HGT remain in the hospital until surgery. Therefore, it has been suggested to treat these children at lower level healthcare centers or even at home. The aim of this study was to develop a tool to assess patient adherence to HGT together with a program to analyze traction results. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An original recording system was designed with an Arduino Nano®. The data extracted from the memory card were compiled into a text file and then analyzed with the MatLab R2018a MathWorks®. RESULTS: Five patients receiving HGT for severe scoliosis were asked to use the device both in the wheelchair and in bed to evaluate its usefulness. CONCLUSIONS: A device was developed to monitor the use of HGT at home. The device provides information on the time of HGT use and the traction weight placed throughout the day, as well as on the correct functioning of the system in bed and in the wheelchair.

Neuromuscular lordoscoliosis: an unusual response to post-operative halo-gravity traction.

PURPOSE: To report the results of prolonged post-operative halo-gravity traction in a patient in whom the surgery had to be interrupted unexpectedly and for whom subsequently specific clinical circumstances contraindicated completion of the surgical procedure. METHODS: The patient was a 15-year-old male with severe cervico-dorsolumbar lordoscoliosis who was being studied for associated diffuse axonal injury. He performed halo-gravity traction for 12 weeks. Subsequent surgical management consisted of occipito-lumbar posterior instrumented fusion. During the surgical approach, electrocardiographic changes with hemodynamic decompensation were detected that did not improve with anesthetic reanimation. The intervention was stopped, the surgical wound was closed, and the patient was transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU). It was decided that a revision surgery with the aim to continue with the previous strategy would imply a high risk of perioperative morbidity and mortality. RESULTS: Orthopedic management was decided upon consisting of continued halo-gravity traction with wheelchair modification at home, which was extended to a period of 12 months because of the good results obtained in terms of cervicothoracic realignment. Two years after halo-gravity discontinuation, clinical and radiographic occipito-cervical alignment was good and the patient conserved certain occipito-cervical range of motion and had the capacity of maintaining a horizontal gaze. CONCLUSION: We considered the outcome extraordinary and relevant in this complex and unusual patient. A longer follow-up will provide more data regarding the final outcome of this treatment.

Root changes in buccal versus palatal maxillary impacted canines of adults: A longitudinal and retrospective 3-dimensional study before and after orthodontic traction.

OBJECTIVE: Maxillary impacted canines (MIC) could suffer root changes after canine traction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the 3-dimensional root changes in buccal versus palatal MIC after orthodontic traction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This longitudinal and retrospective study included pre-treatment and after traction cone beam computed tomography scans (CBCTs) of 30 subjects with unilateral/bilateral MIC. A total of 43 MIC were divided into 2 groups: buccal (n=17) or palatal (n=26). Root changes in length and area after orthodontic traction were measured at sagittal, coronal and axial sections. Intergroup comparison was carried out by t or U Mann-Whitney tests, depending on normality. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the influence of all predictor variables on root changes (P<0.05). RESULTS: Significant difference between groups was found for root area changes in the upper limit of the cervical third at axial section that showed greater appositional values for the palatal impacted canine group (-1.18mm2) and resorptive values for the buccal impacted canine group (0.62mm2) (P=0.024). Position of impaction palatal influenced the increase of root area in the coronal section and in the upper limit of the cervical third at axial section. Age directly influenced the decrease of total length and root area in sagittal and coronal sections, respectively. CONCLUSION: Orthodontic traction of MIC produced an important appositional root change in the palatal impaction group in the axial root area of the upper limit of the cervical third. Impaction position and age influenced the increase and decrease of root area and length of some specific radicular regions.

Inpatient versus outpatient halo-gravity traction in children with severe spinal deformity.

STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective, comparative study. OBJECTIVE: To compare the results, complications, and costs of preoperative halo-gravity traction in in- and outpatient settings. BACKGROUND DATA: Surgical management of severe spinal deformities remains complex and controversial. Preoperative halo-gravity traction results in a decreased need for aggressive surgical techniques, lower incidence of intraoperative neurologic complications, and improvement of nutritional parameters and preoperative cardiopulmonary function. METHODS: Twenty-nine patients younger than 18 years with kyphoscoliosis undergoing preoperative halo-gravity traction were divided into two groups: inpatients (n: 15) and outpatients (n: 14, home care or care at the Foundation). Traction time (weeks), traction weight (kg), radiographic curve correction, complications, and costs were compared. For statistical analysis, t test and odds ratio were calculated with a significance of p < 0.05. RESULTS: Mean traction time was 6 weeks for in- and 4 weeks for outpatients (p = 0.038). Initial traction weight was 6 kg in both groups, while final traction weight was 13 kg for in- and 15 kg for outpatients (p = 0.50). At the end of the traction period, coronal correction was 24° in in- and 28° in outpatients (p = 0.5), while sagittal correction was 27° and 29°, respectively (p = 0.80). Pin loosening was observed in 2 patients in each group, of whom 1 outpatient developed pin-site infection. In each group, one patient developed transient neurologic complications (odds ratio 1.091). Mean treatment cost per patient was 2.8-fold higher in inpatients. CONCLUSIONS: Considering complications and costs, our results show that preoperative halo-gravity traction in an outpatient setting is an option to be taken into account. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Grade III.

Negative pressure therapy in combination with mesh-mediated fascial traction in the treatment of infected pancreatic necrosis. A new therapeutic option.

BACKGROUND: Acute pancreatitis represents one of the most frequent digestive pathologies worldwide, which can be complicated as an infected necrotizing acute pancreatitis, that may require treatment with necrosectomy and open abdomen with the risk that this leads to the appearance of intestinal fistula and giant incisional hernias difficult to manage. CLINICAL CASE: A 35-year-old woman underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis, which was re-admitted due to jaundice and abdominal pain 3 days after her hospital discharge. Diagnostic laparoscopy is performed, where a 3200 cc biliperitoneum secondary to a cystic duct stump leak is located and drained. Likewise, an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is performed, with extraction of an impacted bile gallstone in the distal common bile duct. It presents as a complication of the procedure an acute post-ERCP pancreatitis with infected pancreatic necrosis. Open pancreatic necrosectomy was performed with a negative pressure therapy and mesh-mediated fascial traction, achieving resolution of the infectious condition with definitive closure of the abdominal cavity without incisional hernia or postoperative intestinal fistula. CONCLUSION: Patients with complicated acute pancreatitis with infected pancreatic necrosis represent a challenge in their treatment due to the serious nature of the condition and the morbidity associated with it. A therapeutic option is presented with the combined use of negative pressure therapy (ABThera™) and mesh-mediated fascial traction. With this report we propose a potential line of research to determine its role in the treatment of these patients, as well as their possible advantages and complications.

ANTECEDENTES: La pancreatitis aguda representa una de las enfermedades digestivas más frecuentes en todo el mundo, la cual puede complicarse como una pancreatitis aguda necrotizante infectada, que puede necesitar tratamiento con necrosectomía y abdomen abierto, con el riesgo que esto conlleva de aparición de fistula intestinal y hernias incisionales gigantes de difícil tratamiento. CASO CLÍNICO: Mujer de 35 años, intervenida de colecistectomía laparoscópica por colecistitis aguda, que es reingresada por ictericia y dolor abdominal 3 días después de su egreso hospitalario. Se realiza laparoscopia diagnóstica, en la que se encuentra y drena un biliperitoneo de 3200 cc secundario a una fuga de muñón del conducto cístico. Así mismo, se practica una colangiopancreatografía retrógrada endoscópica (CPRE), con extracción de un lito biliar impactado en el colédoco distal. Presenta como complicación del procedimiento pancreatitis aguda tras la CPRE con necrosis pancreática infectada. Se realiza necrosectomía pancreática abierta con sistema de presión negativa y tracción fascial mediante malla, logrando la resolución del cuadro infeccioso con cierre definitivo de la cavidad abdominal sin presentar hernia incisional ni fistula intestinal posoperatoria. CONCLUSIÓN: Los pacientes con pancreatitis aguda complicada con necrosis pancreática infectada representan un reto en su tratamiento por la naturaleza grave del padecimiento y la morbilidad asociada. Se presenta una opción terapéutica con el uso combinado de presión negativa (ABThera™) y tracción fascial mediante malla. Con el presente reporte se propone una potencial línea de investigación para determinar su papel en el tratamiento de estos pacientes, así como sus posibles ventajas y complicaciones.

Measurement of testicular volume in Wistar rats using a caliper and ultrasonography in experimental surgery.

PURPOSE: To compare the measurement of the testicular volume of Wistar rats using a caliper and ultrasonography. METHODS: Forty Wistar rats were randomly assigned into four groups. A tensile force of 1.6 Newton (N) and 1.0 N was applied to the right spermatic cord in group I and group II, respectively. Group III was the sham group, and group IV served as a control. The initial and final testicular volumes were measured using a caliper and ultrasonography and compared. A significance level of 5% was used. RESULTS: The Kappa coefficient was equal to 0.292 (p = 0.006). The Pearson correlation coefficient obtained for the percent reduction in the right testicular volume using ultrasonography and a caliper was equal to 0.696 (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: There was reasonable agreement and a significant positive correlation between the percent reduction in the right testicular volume using ultrasonography and a caliper.

Review of Lower Extremity Traction in Current Orthopaedic Trauma.

Although methods of traction for temporizing and definitive treatment of orthopaedic injuries are described in dated textbooks, current literature and recommendations on the use of skin and skeletal traction in orthopaedic trauma are lacking. Elaborate traction schemas have been described, but few of them have been retained in practice and even fewer have been supported by scientific data. Several options exist for traction modalities that involve the pelvis and lower extremities, including portable traction devices and traction pins.

Measurement of testicular volume in Wistar rats using a caliper and ultrasonography in experimental surgery

ABSTRACT PURPOSE: To compare the measurement of the testicular volume of Wistar rats using a caliper and ultrasonography. METHODS: Forty Wistar rats were randomly assigned into four groups. A tensile force of 1.6 Newton (N) and 1.0 N was applied to the right spermatic cord in group I and group II, respectively. Group III was the sham group, and group IV served as a control. The initial and final testicular volumes were measured using a caliper and ultrasonography and compared. A significance level of 5% was used. RESULTS: The Kappa coefficient was equal to 0.292 (p = 0.006). The Pearson correlation coefficient obtained for the percent reduction in the right testicular volume using ultrasonography and a caliper was equal to 0.696 (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: There was reasonable agreement and a significant positive correlation between the percent reduction in the right testicular volume using ultrasonography and a caliper.

Tracionamento de incisivo central superior / Traction of impacted upper central incisor – case report

A retenção do incisivo central não é a mais comumente encontrada. Mas, em razão de seu grande apelo estético, o tracionamento cirúrgico-ortodôntico é o tratamento de eleição. Apesar disso, exame clínico detalhado, anamnese e exames complementares devem ser levados em consideração quanto à viabilidade e o prognóstico. O presente caso clínico descreve o tratamento da retenção do incisivo central superior do lado esquerdo de um paciente do sexo masculino, 13 anos e oito meses de idade, pela técnica cirúrgica de erupção fechada, em razão da qualidade estética que a técnica produz. O tratamento foi considerado bem-sucedido e de curta duração, pois, seis meses após o procedimento cirúrgico, o dente estava em posição e no plano oclusal, com o paciente satisfeito e integrado ao convívio social...

Upper central incisor is uncommon clinical finding, but due to great esthetic status, the surgical-orthodontic traction is the first choice of treatment. Despite of this, a detailed clinical examination, health history and complementary examinations should be considered to evaluate the viability and prognosis. This present clinical case describes the approach of a left upper central incisor of a male patient, 13 years old and 8 months, by surgical technique of closed eruption, by the reason of esthetic quality that such technique results. The treatment was considered successful and short time length, because six months after the surgical procedure, the tooth was in position and occlusal plane level, with the patient satisfied and integrated to the social life...

Pinless halo in the pediatric population: indications and complications.

BACKGROUND: The use of the conventional halo is accompanied by the possibility of serious complications, especially in the pediatric population. Complications could include penetration of pin into the skull, pin loosening, pin tract infection, cranial nerve palsies, and vest-related pressure sores. The noninvasive "pinless" halo was introduced in an attempt to mitigate these problems while retaining the effectiveness of the conventional halo. The purpose of this study is to determine the indications and complications related to pinless halo application. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 61 patients, whose treatment included the use of a pinless halo device, presenting to our institution between 2004 and 2012. RESULTS: There were 35 male and 26 female patients with an average age of 6.04 years. Indications of pinless halo application included postoperative immobilization for congenital muscular torticollis in 38 cases, conservative management of atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation in 11 cases, postoperative immobilization following cervical fusion in 10 cases, and immobilization for occipital condyle fracture in 2 cases. The average duration of the pinless halo application was 32.68 days. Thirteen patients had complications, among which major complications were seen in 2 patients, each of whom developed a pressure sore; one on the scalp and the other on the chest. Both the pressure sores responded to local treatment; however, 1 resulted in permanent alopecia. CONCLUSIONS: The use of the noninvasive pinless halo was found to be safe with few complications in our study. The complications were infrequent and patients were compliant to treatment, indicating that this modality is patient-friendly. Effectiveness of this treatment in comparison with invasive halos and other cervical orthoses was not determined and is a limitation of this study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV-Case series.

Informe rápido: seguridad y efectividad de la tracción para el tratamiento del dolor lumbar con y sin ciatalgia / Quick report: Safety and effectiveness of traction for the treatment of low back pain with and without sciatica

Tecnología: La tracción es un tipo de terapia pasiva forzada que se basa en la aplicación de fuerzas axiales en direcciones opuestas, craneocaudales. Se aplica por medio de unos arneses que rodean la cadera y la cresta iliaca. La duración y fuerza ejercida a través del arnés puede variar y ser aplicada de forma continua o intermitente. Hay diferentes modalidades para su aplicación. Preguntas: ¿La tracción lumbar es segura aplicada a pacientes con dolor lumbar agudo, subagudo o crónico, con o sin ciática? ¿La tracción lumbar es efectiva aplicada a pacientes con dolor lumbar agudo, subagudo o crónico, con o sin ciática? Búsqueda y análisis de la evidencia científica: Se realizó una búsqueda en las bases de datos bibliográficas detalladas a continuación, en buscadores genéricos de Internet como google, Agencias de Evaluación de Tecnologías Sanitarias y Agencias nacionales e internacionales reguladoras de alimentos y medicamentos, las que se detallan más abajo. Se utilizaron como criterios de inclusión textos en inglés, español o francés a los que se pueda tener acceso a texto completo, publicados entre el 2005 y el 2011. Se excluyeron textos en otro idioma, los que no se pudiera acceder a texto completo y los anteriores a 2005. Se priorizó la inclusión de revisiones sistemáticas y metanálisis, evaluaciones de tecnologías sanitarias e informes de seguridad. Resumen de los resultados de los estudios seleccionados: La evidencia indica que la tracción no es más efectiva que el placebo, el tratamiento simulado, ningún tratamiento, o que otros tratamientos en los pacientes con dolor lumbar. De acuerdo a los resultados de los estudios encontrados que incluían grupos mixtos de pacientes con dolor lumbar agudo, subagudo y crónico con y sin ciatalgia, la tracción continua o intermitente como un tratamiento único para el dolor lumbar no se recomienda para este grupo. La tracción tampoco puede recomendarse a los pacientes con ciática, debido a los resultados inconsecuentes y los problemas metodológicos de la mayoría de los estudios. En resumen, los ensayos clínicos no apoyan la tracción como tratamiento único para el dolor lumbar, pero son necesarios más estudios metodológicamente adecuados para corroborarlo. Existen reportes de eventos adversos relacionados a la tracción lumbar, por lo que se requieren más estudios de seguridad bien diseñados para responder si la técnica es segura. En este sentido, un ensayo clínico aleatorizado está actualmente en proceso que probablemente pueda aportar información al respecto. Conclusiones: La evidencia actual indica que la tracción no es más efectiva que el placebo, el tratamiento simulado, ningún tratamiento, o que otros tratamientos en los pacientes con dolor lumbar y que podría asociarse a efectos adversos. Se requieren más estudios de seguridad y efectividad bien diseñados antes de poder recomendar esta tecnología.

Estudo retrospectivo dos resultados da utilizaçaÞo do halo craniano nas fraturas-luxaçoÞes subaxiais / Análisis retrospectivo de los resultados de la utilización de las fracturas craneales halo dislocaciones subaxiales / Retrospective results analysis of the use of cranial fractures halo subaxial dislocations

OBJETIVO: avaliar o emprego do halo craniano em fraturas e luxações cervicais no atendimento inicial, relacionado com a taxa de sucesso na redução fechada de lesões cervicais nos diferentes tipos de fraturas. MÉTODOS: investigação retrospectiva de prontuários de pacientes atendidos e tratados de Janeiro de 2004 até Março de 2009, em um total de 222 pacientes, categorizando as lesões encontradas de acordo com a classificação AO. RESULTADOS: encontramos alta taxa de sucesso de redução fechada em pacientes com lesões cervicais por compressão axial (AO tipo A) no emprego do halo craniano; em lesões por distração (AO tipo B) e movimento rotacional (AO tipo C) observamos aproximadamente 50 por cento de redução fechada da luxação; além disso, lesões em níveis mais craniais apresentam maior taxa de sucesso na redução. CONCLUSÃO: o emprego do halo craniano é encorajado, pois, além de realizar um papel imobilizador no atendimento inicial, apresenta resultados satisfatórios na tentativa de redução fechada da lesão cervical, melhorando o conforto do paciente, facilitando a abordagem cirúrgica posterior e o cuidado da equipe de enfermagem.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the use of cranial halo cervical fractures and dislocations in the initial care related to the rate of successful closed reduction of cervical lesions in different types of fractures. METHODS: retrospective investigation of reports of patients admitted and treated from January 2004 to March 2009, a total of 222 patients. The lesions were categorized according to the AO classification. RESULTS: a high success rate of closed reduction in patients with cervical lesions by axial compression (AO type A) in the use of cranial halo; in distraction injuries (AO type B) and rotational motion (AO type C) we observed approximately 50 percent of closed reduction of dislocation; furthermore, lesions in more cranial levels have a higher success rate in reducing. CONCLUSION: the use of cranial halo is encouraged because, in addition to performing a immobilizing role in the initial care, it produces satisfactory results in the attempt of closed reduction of cervical injury, improving patient's comfort, facilitating the surgical approach and subsequent care of the nursing team.

OBJETIVO: evaluar el uso de halo craneal en fracturas cervicales y luxaciones de los cuidados iniciales, en relación con el porcentaje de reducción cerrada con éxito de las lesiones cervicales en los diferentes tipos de fracturas. MÉTODOS: investigación retrospectiva de los informes de los pacientes ingresados y tratados desde enero de 2004 hasta marzo de 2009, en un total de 222 pacientes, las lesiones se clasificaron según la clasificación AO. RESULTADOS: se encontró un alto porcentaje de éxito de la reducción cerrada en pacientes con lesiones cervicales por compresión axial (AO tipo A), en el uso de halo craneal; en las lesiones por distracción (AO tipo B) y el movimiento de rotación (AO tipo C) se observó aproximadamente el 50 por ciento de la reducción cerrada de la luxación. Por otra parte, las lesiones en los niveles más craneales tienen una tasa de éxito mayor en su reducción. CONCLUSIÓN: el uso del halo craneal es alentado porque, además de realizar un papel en la atención inicial inmovilizador, produce resultados satisfactorios en el intento de reducción cerrada de la lesión cervical, mejorando la comodidad del paciente, facilitando el abordaje quirúrgico y los cuidados posteriores del equipo de enfermería.

Avaliação pré-operatória visando ao uso do halo craniano no tratamento de deformidades rígidas da coluna vertebral / Evaluación pre-operatoria del uso del halo craneal en lo tratamiento de las deformidades rígidas de la columna vertebral / Preoperative evaluation for the use of cranial halo traction in the spine treatment of rigid deformities

OBJETIVO: avaliar a eficácia e a segurança do uso do halo craniano gravitacional como técnica de tratamento de deformidades rígidas da coluna vertebral e rever complicações associadas ao seu tratamento. MÉTODOS: análise retrospectiva de dez pacientes com deformidades rígidas da coluna vertebral: cifose, escoliose, cifoescoliose e hiperlordose cervical. O critério para inclusão dos pacientes foi o uso do halo craniano gravitacional em um período pré-operatório e interoperatório em deformidades rígidas da coluna vertebral. Foram avaliados os prontuários dos pacientes e suas mensurações radiográficas foram feitas em um período pré-operatório, após instalação do halo craniano gravitacional, e no período pós-operatório. As variáveis estudadas foram idade, sexo, valor angular da curva principal, valor angular da curva secundária, valor angular da curva sagital maior, protocolo de tração e tipo de procedimento utilizado. RESULTADOS: em relação ao plano frontal, avaliou-se, no período pré-operatório, a média angular de 89,9º, decrescendo para 65º após a instalação do halo e 56,9º no pós-operatório. Analisando o plano sagital, observou-se no período pré-operatório o valor angular de 77,7º, decrescendo para 55,4º, com o uso do halo-colete, e 46,5º no pós-operatório tardio. CONCLUSÃO: pode-se concluir que o uso da tração halo craniana é um método eficaz no auxílio da correção das deformidades rígidas da coluna vertebral, visto que se conseguiu uma correção significativa das deformidades do período pré-operatório para os períodos pós-instalação do halo e pós-operatório, sem se observar lesão neurológica ou outra grave complicação.

OBJECTIVE: to assess the efficacy and safety of using the gravitational cranial halo as a technique for treating rigid deformities in the spinal column and to revisit complications associated to the treatment. METHODS: a total of ten patients with rigid spinal deformities were studied, with the following deformities: kyphosis, scoliosis, kyphoscoliosis and cervical hyperlordosis. The criterion for including a patient was the use of the gravitational cranial halo in a postoperative period and interoperative period for rigid spinal deformities. The patient medical records and their radiographic measurements were studied and compared in a preoperative period, after the installation of the gravitational cranial halo and in the postoperative period. The aspects analyzed were: age, sex, angular value of the main curvature and angular value of the secondary curvature, angular value of the major sagittal curvature, traction protocol and type of procedure. RESULTS: in the frontal plane, an average angle of 89.9º was found in the preoperative period, decreasing to 65º after the installation of the halo and 56.9º in the postoperative period. In the sagittal plane, an angular value of 77.7º was observed, decreasing to 55.4º with the use of the halo and 46.5º in the postoperative period. CONCLUSION: the conclusion was that the use of cranial halo traction is an efficient method for correcting rigid spinal deformities, taking into account that there was significant correction of the deformities from the preoperative period to the post installation of the halo and the postoperative period, without any neurological lesions or serious complications resulting from the treatment.

OBJETIVO: evaluar, retrospectivamente, la eficacia y la seguridad del uso del halo craneal gravitacional como técnica de tratamiento de deformidades rígidas de la columna vertebral, y rever complicaciones asociadas a su tratamiento. MÉTODOS: ha sido analizado un total de diez pacientes con deformidades rígidas de la columna vertebral: cifosis, escoliosis, cifoscoliosis e hiperlordosis cervical. El criterio para inclusión de los pacientes fue el uso del halo craneal gravitacional en un periodo preoperatorio y interoperatorio en deformidades rígidas de la columna vertebral. Han sido evaluados los prontuarios de los pacientes y sus mediciones radiográficas en un periodo preoperatorio, tras la instalación del halo craneal gravitacional y en el periodo postoperatorio. Las variables estudiadas fueron: edad, sexo, valor angular de la curva principal, valor angular de la curva secundaria, valor angular de la curva sagital mayor, protocolo de tracción y tipo de procedimiento utilizado. RESULTADOS: en relación al plano frontal, se ha evaluado, en el periodo preoperatorio, la media angular de 89,9º, decreciendo para 65,0º tras la instalación del halo y 56,9º en el postoperatorio. Analizando el plano sagital, se observa en el periodo preoperatorio el valor angular de 77,7º, decreciendo para 55,4º con el uso del halo y 46,5º en el postoperatorio. CONCLUSIÓN: se puede concluir que el uso de la tracción de halo craneal es un método eficaz para ayudar a corregir las deformidades de la columna rígida, ya que se logró una significativa corrección de las deformidades antes de la operación por los períodos después de la instalación de halo y postoperatorio, sin previo aviso u otras complicaciones neurológicas graves.

Otimização do tracionamento de canino impactado pela técnica do arco segmentado: relato de caso clínico / Impacted canine treatment through orthodontic traction using segmented arch technique: case report

A impactação de caninos superiores permanentes tem sido apontada como a segunda mais frequente, criando problemas estéticos e funcionais de grande relevância. Diversas estratégias de tratamento são citadas na literatura, variando desde a exodontia dos caninos decíduos até a exposição cirúrgica seguida de tracionamento ortodôntico, o que requer uma abordagem interdisciplinar. O objetivo do presente artigo é esclarecer aspectos importantes acerca da impacção de caninos superiores e ressaltar a possibilidade do tratamento utilizando a técnica do arco segmentado.

A pilot randomized controlled trial of controlled cord traction to reduce postpartum blood loss.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether controlled cord traction (CCT) for management of the third stage of labor reduced postpartum blood loss compared with a "hands-off" management protocol. METHODS: Women with imminent vaginal delivery were randomly assigned to either a CCT group or a hands-off group. The women received prophylactic oxytocin. The primary outcome was blood loss during the third stage of labor. RESULTS: In total, 103 women were allocated to the CCT group and 101 were allocated to the hands-off group. Median blood loss in the CCT group and the hands-off group was 282.0 mL and 310.2 mL, respectively. The difference in blood loss (-28.2 mL) was not significant (95% confidence interval, -92.3 to 35.9; P=0.126). Blood collection in the hands-off group took 1.2 minutes longer than in the CCT group, which may have contributed to this difference. CONCLUSION: CCT may reduce postpartum blood loss. The present findings support conducting a large trial to determine whether CCT can prevent postpartum hemorrhage.

Variação da força de resistência à micro-tração de fragmentos de ossos corticais preservados em diversos meios e a fresco: estudo experimental em coelhos / Variation of the resistance force to the micro-traction of fragments of cortical bones preserved in several means and fresh: Experimental study in rabbits

Devido ao crescente uso dos aloenxertos nas cirurgias ortopédicas, há a necessidade do conhecimento de suas características biomecânicas ao longo do tempo de preservação. O presente trabalho consistiu na análise da força de resistência à micro-tração de amostras de ossos corticais de coelho preservadas em diversos meios por até 180 dias e a fresco. Os resultados revelaram que a resistência e o tempo de preservação apresentaram uma relação inversamente proporcional, significando que, quanto maior o tempo de preservação, menor a resistência física avaliada no ensaio biomecânico de resistência à micro-tração. Dos meios utilizados, a glicerina apresentou menores valores quanto ao teste de resistência, demonstrando, após 30 dias de preservação, apenas 24,58 por cento da força presente no osso a fresco e, aos 180 dias, 1,76 por cento. As amostras submetidas à autoclavagem também demonstraram baixos valores ao final do experimento, quando permaneceram com apenas 12,31 por cento da força presente no osso a fresco. Os ossos preservados em plasma homólogo, líquido de dakin e aqueles criopreservados apresentaram os melhores índices de resistência ao final do experimento, permanecendo, respectivamente, com 82,47; 70,34 e 66,72 por cento da força máxima quando comparados com a resistência dos ossos frescos. Concluiu-se que a escolha do método e o tempo de preservação interferiu diretamente na biomecânica dos ossos corticais, promovendo a diminuição da capacidade de resistência à tração ao longo do período de preservação.

Due to the increasing use of cortical bone allografts in orthopedic surgeries, de knowledge of its biomechanics characteristics during preservation time is needed. The present study consisted in the analyses of the resistance power to the micro-traction of samples of rabbit cortical bones preserved in several means for up to 180 days and fresh. The results showed that the resistance and the preservation time presented an inversely proportional relation, meaning that, the longer the time of preservation, the shorter the physical resistance evaluated in the biomechanical rehearsal of resistance to the micro-traction. The glycerin has presented lower values in relation to the resistance test, showing, after 30 days, only 24.58 percent of the present power in the fresh bone, and by 180 days, 1.76 percent. The samples submitted to autoclavation also showed low values by the end of the experiment, while they remained with just 12.31 percent of the power present in the fresh bone. The bones preserved in homologous plasma, Dakin liquid and the ones cryopreserved showed the best levels of resistance at the end of the experiment, remaining, respectively with 82.47, 70.34 and 66.72 percent of the maximum power, while compared with the resistance of the fresh bones. The conclusion is that the choice of methodology and time of preservation interfered directly in the biomechanics of the cortical bones, promoting decrease of the resistance capacity to the traction along the period of preservation.

Variação da força de resistência à micro-tração de fragmentos de ossos corticais preservados em diversos meios e a fresco: estudo experimental em coelhos / Variation of the resistance force to the micro-traction of fragments of cortical bones preserved in several means and fresh: Experimental study in rabbits

Devido ao crescente uso dos aloenxertos nas cirurgias ortopédicas, há a necessidade do conhecimento de suas características biomecânicas ao longo do tempo de preservação. O presente trabalho consistiu na análise da força de resistência à micro-tração de amostras de ossos corticais de coelho preservadas em diversos meios por até 180 dias e a fresco. Os resultados revelaram que a resistência e o tempo de preservação apresentaram uma relação inversamente proporcional, significando que, quanto maior o tempo de preservação, menor a resistência física avaliada no ensaio biomecânico de resistência à micro-tração. Dos meios utilizados, a glicerina apresentou menores valores quanto ao teste de resistência, demonstrando, após 30 dias de preservação, apenas 24,58 por cento da força presente no osso a fresco e, aos 180 dias, 1,76 por cento. As amostras submetidas à autoclavagem também demonstraram baixos valores ao final do experimento, quando permaneceram com apenas 12,31 por cento da força presente no osso a fresco. Os ossos preservados em plasma homólogo, líquido de dakin e aqueles criopreservados apresentaram os melhores índices de resistência ao final do experimento, permanecendo, respectivamente, com 82,47; 70,34 e 66,72 por cento da força máxima quando comparados com a resistência dos ossos frescos. Concluiu-se que a escolha do método e o tempo de preservação interferiu diretamente na biomecânica dos ossos corticais, promovendo a diminuição da capacidade de resistência à tração ao longo do período de preservação.(AU)

Due to the increasing use of cortical bone allografts in orthopedic surgeries, de knowledge of its biomechanics characteristics during preservation time is needed. The present study consisted in the analyses of the resistance power to the micro-traction of samples of rabbit cortical bones preserved in several means for up to 180 days and fresh. The results showed that the resistance and the preservation time presented an inversely proportional relation, meaning that, the longer the time of preservation, the shorter the physical resistance evaluated in the biomechanical rehearsal of resistance to the micro-traction. The glycerin has presented lower values in relation to the resistance test, showing, after 30 days, only 24.58 percent of the present power in the fresh bone, and by 180 days, 1.76 percent. The samples submitted to autoclavation also showed low values by the end of the experiment, while they remained with just 12.31 percent of the power present in the fresh bone. The bones preserved in homologous plasma, Dakin liquid and the ones cryopreserved showed the best levels of resistance at the end of the experiment, remaining, respectively with 82.47, 70.34 and 66.72 percent of the maximum power, while compared with the resistance of the fresh bones. The conclusion is that the choice of methodology and time of preservation interfered directly in the biomechanics of the cortical bones, promoting decrease of the resistance capacity to the traction along the period of preservation.(AU)

Propriedades mecânicas do gastrocnêmio eletroestimulado pós-imobilização / Mechanical properties of gastrocnemius eletrostimulated after immobilization

INTRODUÇÃO: As propriedades mecânicas (PM) consistem num instrumento de aplicabilidade clínica para profissionais de saúde que atuam no sistema músculo-esquelético. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar dois protocolos de estimulação elétrica neuromuscular (NMES) na potencialização do restabelecimento das PM no complexo músculo-tendíneo após imobilização segmentar de ratas. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados 50 animais distribuídos em: Controle (GC, n=10); Imobilizado (GI, n=10); Imobilizado e remobilizado livre (GIL, n=10), Imobilizado e NMES uma vez ao dia (GIE1, n=10) e Imobilizado e NMES duas vezes ao dia (GIE2, n=10). A imobilização foi realizada por 14 dias. O GIL foi liberado posteriormente por 10 dias. A NMES foi aplicada pós-imobilização por 10 dias, GIE1 aplicado pela manhã (10 minutos) e, GIE2 aplicado pela manhã e à tarde (totalizando 20 minutos). Posteriormente, o músculo gastrocnêmio foi submetido ao ensaio mecânico de tração sendo as PM de rigidez, resiliência, carga e o alongamento no limite máximo avaliadas. RESULTADOS: A imobilização reduziu os valores das propriedades de carga e rigidez (p<0,05). A NMES utilizada duas vezes ao dia determinou resultados menos satisfatórios das PM avaliadas que àqueles obtidos uma vez ao dia e no grupo remobilizado (p>0,05). CONCLUSÃO: O músculo gastrocnênio tornou-se estruturalmente mais organizado frente à aplicação unitária da NMES e na remobilização.

INTRODUCTION: Mechanical properties (MP) are clinically applicable tools for healthcare professionals working on the musculoskeletal system. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate two protocols of neuromuscular electric stimulation (NMES) to improve MP regeneration of the myotendinous complex after segment immobilization in female rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty animals were equally distributed into five groups: Control (CG, n=10); Immobilized (IG, n=10); Immobilized and freely remobilized (IFG, n=10); Immobilized and NMES once /day (IEG1, n=10); Immobilized and MNES twice/day (IEG2, n=10). Immobilization was kept for 14 days, and remobilization was subsequently released for 10 days. NMES was applied for 10 days, post-immobilization, every morning for 10 minutes to IEG1 animals and every morning and afternoon (total 20 minutes) to the IEG2 group. After these procedures, the gastrocnemius muscle was submitted to the mechanical traction assay to evaluate stiffness, resilience, load and stretching at maximum limit MPs. RESULTS: Immobilization reduced the MP values concerning load and stiffness (p<0.05). Results for NMES applied twice a day were less satisfactory than the ones obtained with one application or in the remobilized group (p> 0.05). CONCLUSION: It is concluded that the gastrocnemius muscle became structurally better organized through a single NMES application and by remobilization.