Meaningful comparison cannot be made between the various studies because of the use of different grading systems for pressure ulcers, different methods of data collection, different (or lack of) population characteristics, unreported preventive measures, and the use of different inclusion and exclusion criteria. There is a need for well-conducted studies covering all these aspects.

The complication rate with PEG placement is high with both the push and pull methods. The complication rate with the pull method is significantly reduced when antibiotic prophylaxis is used.

The LISS showed good overall results in the treatment of these difficult fractures. It is a good alternative to conventional extramedullary and intramedullary stabilizing techniques, especially in more complex fracture situations.

Combination of the APACHE II and the MPI provides the best scoring system fitting clinical goals.

This study validates the sensitivity of near-infrared spectroscopy and provides estimates for the sensitivity and specificity of magnetic resonance imaging in chronic exertional compartment syndrome in a large group of patients. The sensitivity of noninvasive near-infrared spectroscopy is clinically equivalent to that of invasive intracompartmental pressure measurements.

To attain a better understanding of antibiotic cycling and its effects on the epidemiology of antibiotic resistance in gram-negative microorganisms, two different antibiotic classes (quinolone and beta-lactam) were cycled during four 4-month periods in a surgical intensive care unit. Respiratory aspirates and rectal swabs were obtained and DNA fingerprinting was performed. Primary endpoint of the study was the acquisition rate with gram-negative bacteria resistant to the antibiotic of choice during each cycle. Secondary endpoints were changes in endemic prevalence of resistant bacteria and the relative importance of cross-transmission. In all, 388 patients were included and 2,520 cultures analyzed. Adherence to antibiotic protocol was 96%. Overall antibiotic use increased with 24%. Acquisition rates with resistant bacteria were highest during levofloxacin exposure (relative risk [RR] 3.2; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.4-7.1) and piperacillin/tazobactam exposure (RR 2.4; 95% CI 1.2-4.8). The relative importance of cross-transmission decreased during the study. For individual patients, treatment with levofloxacin was the only independent risk factor for acquisition of levofloxacin-resistant bacteria (hazard ratio 12.6; 95% CI 3.8-41.6). Potential for selection of antibiotic-resistant gram-negative bacteria during periods of homogeneous exposure increased from cefpirome to piperacillin/tazobactam to levofloxacin. Cycling of homogeneous antibiotic exposure is unlikely to control the emergence of gram-negative antimicrobial resistance in intensive care units.

In patients with a chronic compartment syndrome, the affected (anterior) compartment shows a statistically significant increase in (T2-weighted) signal intensity during exercise compared with both the (superficial) posterior compartment and the anterior compartment of normal controls. This effect disappeared after fasciotomy. In view of the substantial increase in T2-weighted signal intensity, MRI can be used in diagnosing chronic compartment syndrome.

StO(2) can distinguish healthy from diseased legs. This study provides evidence supporting NIRS as a noninvasive, painless alternative to ICP in the diagnosis of CECS.