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Biomedical subjects

E Pilling

Publications and source records attributed to E Pilling.

7 recordsLinked to original sources

[Conventional tomographic investigations of the reconstructed middle ear in temporal bone specimen].

BACKGROUND: In modern reconstructive middle ear surgery imaging plays an essential role as a diagnostic tool, especially in pre-operative planning. Nowadays imaging of surgical results as a matter of quality control in post-operative follow-up becomes more important. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Conventional tomography was performed in 10 temporal bone specimen using the CommCat IS 2000-system in order to evaluate anatomical structures and inserted middle ear prostheses (PORP/TORP). This imaging technique has not been used in middle ear surgery beforehand. RESULTS: Using conventional tomography characterization of anatomical structures of the temporal bone as e. g. the semicircular canals appeared to be of superior quality to comparable conventional radiographic imaging. Concerning imaging quality (contrast; resolution) conventional tomography allowed similar findings like computed tomography (CT)-scans in some of the investigated specimen while showing inferior sharpness quality due to technical reasons. Further advantages of conventional tomography in contrast to CT were the requirement of just 2.5 % of the CT's irradiation exposure, lack of metallic artefacts caused by implanted prostheses and the feasibility of distance- and angle-measurement of inserted prostheses towards the tympanic membrane which coincided extensively with the temporal bone preparation. CONCLUSIONS: Conventional tomography enables detailed anatomical imaging of the temporal bone region which outperforms conventional radiographic imaging, requires less irradiation dose than CT and helps avoid problems like metallic artefacts. This technique enhances immediate quality-control and seems to be therefore a promising tool for postoperative evaluation after reconstructive middle ear surgery.

Contrast Media↗

An experimental in vivo analysis of the resorption to ultrasound activated pins (Sonic weld) and standard biodegradable screws (ResorbX) in sheep.

We compared the healing and reaction in the mandibles of 11 sheep of a conventional bioresorbable screw osteosynthesis with the newly developed ultrasound-activated pin osteosynthesis. The thermal stress caused by insertion of the ultrasound-aided pins leads to no cellular reaction around the pin. There is neither clinical nor histological evidence of any initial inflammation that could have been induced by the insertion. Adequate attachment of fibrous tissue to the pin head and the absence of any inflammation are important preconditions for the introduction of this new method of osteosynthesis into clinical practice. Further advantageous characteristics are easy intraoperative handling and a reduction in operating time, because cutting the thread is not required. There must be sufficient interlinkage of the polymer and the trabecular structures to ensure stability.

Absorbable Implants↗

[Custom moldable hydroxyapatite collagen composite for repair of osseous defects].

AIM: In the following study we evaluated the biological response of a new freely moldable bone substitute in an animal model. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Critically sized defects were created surgically in the lower jaw of ten adult minipigs. The drill defects were filled with hydroxyapatite collagen paste. After observation periods of 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months the mandibles were harvested without wound healing defects for histological evaluation of resorption and bone ingrowth with a sawing and grinding technique. RESULTS: The result of the remodeling process was a complete degradation of hydroxyapatite collagen implants after 12-18 months with reorganization of vital trabeculae oriented in a mature pattern. CONCLUSION: The hydroxyapatite collagen cement works as an osteoconductor and shows signs of direct osseointegration and resorption.

Animals↗

[Preoperative determination of the position of mandibular canal for planning sagittal ramus osteotomy of the mandible].

BACKGROUND: In the literature the incidence of permanent nerve lesions ranges from 3 to 39%. Therefore, we think that it is necessary to discuss the procedure of individual risk assessment and management. Standard imaging techniques for the preoperative planning and preparation of a sagittal split osteotomy usually include a panoramic radiograph and lateral cephalometric radiograph. If an assessment of the transversal thickness of the lower jaw and cortical substance is required, or the position of the inferior alveolar nerve needs to be determined for preoperative planning, computed tomography of the viscerocranium has to be performed. By employing the conventional computed tomographic X-ray imaging system CommCAT, we are able to determine preoperatively both the transversal thickness of the lower jaw including the cortical substance and the diameter of the ascending ramus of the mandible at the proximal osteotomy site. PATIENTS AND METHOD: We examined prospectively the value of these additional investigations and compared them with the intraoperative findings in 29 patients. With these tomograms, the relation between the position of the inferior alveolar nerve and the vestibular cortical bone was metrically evaluated. In 17 of 58 jaw sides we detected the nerve at a distance from the outer cortical bone of 2 mm or less. The situation for the upper osteotomy was critical in eight cases where the thickness of the mandibular ramus was only 3 mm. RESULTS: By using of the conventional computed tomography system CommCAT, we have the preoperative opportunity to determine the transversal thickness of the mandibular ramus as well as the exact position of the inferior alveolar nerve and its distance from the cortical bone of the mandibular corpus. By predicting the nerve's position and its relation to the osteotomy site, we are able to individualize the operation procedure so that a high standard of safety can be achieved.

Adolescent↗

[Gunshot injuries in the head-neck area--basic principles, diagnosis and management].

Bullet wounds are a rare occurrence during times of peace. Recently, however, there has been a general increase in the number and severity of this type of trauma in our case load. First, the possible firearms and the individual types of ammunition will be discussed. Based on this background, the possible types of wounds are presented. Principally, one distinguishes ricocheting shots from grazing ones, and those leaving bullets lodged in the body from those with perforating wounds. The extent of tissue damage depends on internal lacerations, on the compression of the tissue and on the temporary cavitation along the projectile path. In contrast to other types of injuries, which are caused by a blow or impact to the face or skull, gunshot traumas are characterized by an irregular path, as well as, by localized destruction of bones with associated effects. In this connection, the severity of the bullet wound also depends upon the extent of involvement of the viscerocranium. As causes of gunshot wounds during times of peace, suicidal intent, the negligent handling of firearms and especially brutal crimes are those which come into consideration first and foremost. The diagnostic aspect of firearm wounds, beside anamnesis, comprises comprehensive X-ray diagnostics for a complete picture. From the therapeutic side, tetanus serum and antibiotics as a prophylactic are recommended initially. The operative treatment should take place depending on the injury with the removal of a possible projectile. Bullet wounds always require an interdisciplinary approach to treatment.

Causality↗

[Diagnostic and therapeutic problems in gunshot wounds].

BACKGROUND: Bullet wounds are a rare occurrence during times of peace. Recently, however, there has been a general increase in the relative number and severity of this type of trauma. In times of peace, gunshot wounds may be mainly caused by suicide attempts, negligent handling of firearms and especially violent conflicts. Bullet wounds, in contrast to wounds caused by a blow or impact to the viscerocranium, are characterised by an irregular path, entry and exit wounds, as well as localised demolition of bones with the associated defects. PATIENTS: 30 patients with gunshot wounds were treated during the past 35 years. Basing on four case reports, problems of interdisciplinary treatment approach to gunshot wounds are discussed, as well as the diagnostic and therapeutic consequences. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The first case concerns a retained missile in the left fossa pterygopalatina. Intraoperative removal caused a rupture of the A. maxillaris. Preoperative angiography could have provided valuable information. In the second case, an injury caused by a shot from a blank cartridge pistol in the left facial area resulted in extensive wounds with several surgical revisions. The third case was a shot injury to the tongue with an unexpected wound and bleeding. The fourth case describes a child with a bullet in a hyperplastic adenoid tonsil. Primary careful treatment is of greatest significance for functional and cosmetic results due to extensive rupturing and wounds.

Adolescent↗