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Biomedical subjects

L Nölke

Publications and source records attributed to L Nölke.

4 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2003

A new specifically designed forceps for chest drain insertion.

Insertion of a chest drain can be associated with serious complications. It is recommended that the drain is inserted with blunt dissection through the chest wall but there is no specific instrument to aid this task. We describe a new reusable forceps that has been designed specifically to facilitate the insertion of chest drains.A feasibility study of its use in patients who required a chest drain as part of elective cardiothoracic operations was undertaken. The primary end-point was successful and accurate placement of the drain. The operators also completed a questionnaire rating defined aspects of the procedure. The new instrument was used to insert the chest drain in 30 patients (19 male, 11 female; median age 61.5 years (range 16-81 years)). The drain was inserted successfully without the trocar in all cases and there were no complications. Use of the instrument rated as significantly easier relative to experience of previous techniques in all specified aspects. The new device can be used to insert intercostal chest drains safely and efficiently without using the trocar or any other instrument.

Adolescent↗
PubMed2003

Isolated chylopericardium.

A 25-year-old male was discovered to have an asymptomatic pericardial effusion during routine pre-employment medical evaluation. During pericardiocentesis 1200 ml of milky-white fluid was obtained; subsequent biochemical evaluation confirmed the chylous nature of this fluid. Following thorough evaluation a diagnosis of isolated chylopericardium was made. Following several recurrences he underwent thoracotomy with ligation of the thoracic duct and creation of a pericardial window. There are relatively few published reports of true isolated chylopericardium and the aetiology and pathogenesis remain unknown. A primary abnormality of the thoracic lymphatic valve system is postulated. The most effective treatment is surgical with ligation of the thoracic duct above the diaphragm and creation of a pericardial window

Adult↗