Biomedical subjects

K Searls

Publications and source records attributed to K Searls.

4 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed1986

External fixation of the tibia. Basic concepts and prospective evaluation.

External fixation of fractures of the leg may give uneven results and a high rate of complications. We postulate that three basic principles can govern the optimal use of these devices. The external fixation frame should avoid damage to vital anatomical structures, it should allow access to the injured area and it should meet the mechanical demands of the patient and the injury. From 1978 to 1981 these principles were evaluated prospectively in 75 consecutive cases of complex tibial injury treated with an external frame. Most were open fractures. The study confirmed that the principles were safe and effective; they have general application and do not depend on the use of a particular frame or device. By following them we have eliminated the majority of complications seen after traditional methods of external fixation.

Adolescent↗

PubMed1984

Acute thoracolumbar burst fractures in the absence of neurologic deficit. A comparison between operative and nonoperative treatment.

The treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures in the absence of neurologic deficit remains controversial. The present study is a retrospective analysis of 52 of these acute burst fractures among 104 cases of thoracolumbar burst fractures treated either operatively or nonoperatively. Results are expressed in terms of neurologic function, pain, work status, and complications. All patients who had surgical treatment and no unrelated disability returned to full-time work. Twenty-five percent of the patients treated nonoperatively were unable to return to work full time. Of the patients in the nonoperative group, 17% developed neurologic problems. Prophylactic stabilization and fusion of acute burst fractures without neurologic deficit have significant advantages over conservative management.

Adolescent↗

PubMed1984

Comparison between square-ended distraction rods and standard round-ended distraction rods in the treatment of thoracolumbar spinal injuries. A statistical analysis.

This is a retrospective clinical and roentgenographic study of two different types of instrumentation used in the treatment of thoracic and lumbar spinal fractures. Dual square-ended distraction rods contoured into lordosis produced improved results when compared with round-ended distraction rods in terms of both the degree of reduction obtained on the operating table and preventing recollapse of the fracture in the ensuing month. The importance of restoring lordosis was more apparent in the thoracolumbar junction and lumbar spine than in the thoracic region.

Adolescent↗

PubMed1983

Unilateral external fixation for severe open tibial fractures. Preliminary report of a prospective study.

In a prospective survey of severe open tibial fractures, the incidence of serious complications with relatively rigid one- or two-plane unilateral fixator frames was considerably lower than with internal fixation by plates and screws. Unilateral configurations that contain rigid components provide better wound access than bilateral frames and interfere less with knee and ankle motion; they allow unencumbered partial and even full weight-bearing. This increases comfort and mobility and may have a positive effect on fracture healing. No standard formula exists, however, for the application of an optimal unilateral frame. The clinical and mechanical demands of each patient and injury must be considered individually.

Adolescent↗