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Biomedical subjects

B R Rothwell

Publications and source records attributed to B R Rothwell.

11 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2001

Principles of dental identification.

Identification of the deceased is an important standard of civilized society, and dental means are accurate and reliable to ensure a proper identification. Using a methodic approach through a preliminary evaluation, postmortem examination, antemortem investigation, and comparison, an experienced forensic dentist can develop all of the requisite information necessary to reach a conclusion regarding the identity. Although there are some questions regarding the way in which the conclusion is developed, dental identification has long been regarded as reliable and accurate. Forensic dentists face greater challenges for the future as the overall incidence of dental restorations decreases and there is increasing reliance on other dental features to ensure a proper identification.

Computer Systems↗
PubMed2001

Analysis of distortion in preserved bite mark skin.

In addition to other methods for conservation of bite mark evidence, preservation of actual skin from deceased victims is often suggested. This study was undertaken to analyze the dimensional stability of such specimens. Utilizing a prefabricated template, marks approximating "bites" were made in postmortem skin of Miniature Hanford pigs, producing imprints with distinct margins and indentations. Tissue samples were stored in 10% formalin after affixing an acrylic support ring with cyanoacrylate adhesive and sutures. Measurements of the six tooth mark analogues and cross-arch dimensions were taken at intervals of up to 38 days. Data from these measurements indicate a wide range of amount and type of distortion in preserved tissue. Although some samples were dimensionally stable, there was both contraction and expansion of bite mark specimens, even within individual skin samples. It appears that standard techniques for storage and preservation of bite mark samples will not produce reliable dimensional accuracy.

Animals↗
PubMed2000

Antibiotic prophylaxis in dentistry: a review and practice recommendations.

BACKGROUND: The American Heart Association, or AHA, and the American Dental Association recently changed their recommended protocols for antibiotic prophylaxis against bacterial endocarditis. A new recommendation also has been issued by the ADA and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, or AAOS, against routine antibiotic prophylaxis in patients with prosthetic joint replacements. These changes reflect increasing scientific evidence and professional experience in opposition to widespread use of antibiotic prophylaxis in these specific situations and others faced in dentistry. METHODS: The authors reviewed the medical and dental literature for scientific evidence regarding the use of antibiotics to prevent local and systemic infections associated with dental treatment. Situations commonly considered by dentists for potential use of prophylactic antibiotics were reviewed to determine current evidence with regard to use of antimicrobial agents. This included prevention of distant spread of oral organisms to susceptible sites elsewhere in the body and the reduction of local infections associated with oral procedures. RESULTS: There are relatively few situations in which antibiotic prophylaxis is indicated. Aside from the clearly defined instances of endocarditis and late prosthetic joint infections, there is no consensus among experts on the need for prophylaxis. There is wide variation in recommended protocols, but little scientific basis for the recommendations. The emerging trend seems to be to avoid the prophylactic use of antibiotics in conjunction with dental treatment unless there is a clear indication. CONCLUSIONS: Aside from the specific situations described, there is little or no scientific basis for the use of antibiotic prophylaxis in dentistry. The risk of inappropriate used of antibiotics and widespread antibiotic resistance appear to be far more important than any possible perceived benefit. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Dentists are wise to use antibiotic prophylaxis in only those specific situations in which there is a valid scientific basis for it. Whenever possible, dentists should follow the standard protocols recommended by the ADA, AHA or AAOS.

American Dental Association↗
PubMed1997

Absence of adult dental anomalies in familial hypophosphatasia.

This paper is a supplemental report on 3 previous publications about a family in which 3 male children manifested gingival recession, alveolar bone resorption and premature exfoliation of their deciduous teeth without apical root resorption and without clinical signs of inflammation. Laboratory blood and urine studies in conjunction with an analysis of periodontal microflora and family pedigrees established a diagnosis of hypophosphatasia in these 3 children, as well as their father, the paternal grandmother and paternal great-uncle. Clinical data also revealed that a son of the paternal great-uncle and his daughter were similarly affected. The family pedigree is consistent with an autosomal dominant mode of transmission. The 3 brothers are now between the ages of 18 and 22 yr and all have complete permanent dentitions. Aside from some periodontal manifestations of prior dentoalveolar trauma, most of the findings of the periodontal assessment are within normal limits. All 3 exhibit moderate to severe caries and some degree of gingival inflammation, but minimal periodontal pathosis.

Adolescent↗
PubMed1995

Bite marks in forensic dentistry: a review of legal, scientific issues.

Bite marks are an important and sometimes controversial aspect of forensic odontology. The discipline has recently received considerable attention in the media and in scientific realms. Although there are many cases in which bite mark evidence has been critical to the conviction or exoneration of criminal defendants, there is continuing dispute over its interpretation and analysis. This article explores the legal and scientific basis of bite mark evidence.

Bites, Human↗
PubMed1989

Dental identification in serial homicides: the Green River Murders.

At least 40 young women have died at the hands of a serial killer in what has been called the Green River Murders. Because most of the victims' remains were severely decomposed with partial or complete skeletonization and little or no personal effects were recovered, forensic odontologic methods played a key role in their identifications. Although numerous methods were used to accumulate leads to the identities of the badly decomposed skeletonized remains, leads generated through traditional investigative methods established the identities in most cases. Of 40 victims, 36 have now been identified, mainly by means of dental evidence. This article details the challenges presented by serial homicides and the key role of forensic odontologic methods in the Green River Murders investigation.

Adolescent↗
PubMed1987

Prevention and treatment of the orofacial complications of radiotherapy.

Radiotherapy of malignant head and neck tumors often causes extensive, permanent changes in salivary glands, peridental alveolar bone, and mucosal structures. Dental neglect and inappropriate dental management can cause complications. The potential orofacial side effects of radiotherapy are reviewed, as are preventive strategies for the dental treatment of patients scheduled to undergo radiotherapy.

Deglutition Disorders↗
PubMed1985

Odontogenic infections.

Although most dental infections are localized phenomena, a significant number lead to severe compromise of vital structures and perhaps death. Thus, the ability to recognize and assess infections of dental origin is of particular value. This article addresses the nature of odontogenic infections and their potential for serious complications, examines some specific odontogenic infections, and offers guidelines for diagnosis and treatment.

Anti-Bacterial Agents↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Palliation of radiation-related mucositis.

Oral mucositis associated with head and neck radiotherapy can substantially hinder completion of cancer therapy. Alleviation of this often severe stomatitis can provide enhanced patient comfort and facilitate appropriate care. A double-blind format was used in a pilot project to measure, against a control rinse, the effectiveness of an oral rinse consisting of hydrocortisone, nystatin, tetracycline, and diphenhydramine in controlling radiation-related mucositis. A combination of clinical evaluation and patient responses to a questionnaire was used to judge the results of the topical medications. Patients using the experimental medication developed less mucositis than did patients in the control group.

Administration, Topical↗