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Oestrogen receptors in breast capsules – experimental findings

This study from Rome, on humans, is stated by the authors to be not definitive and further work is required before any treatment can be recommended. But careful analysis of oestrogen receptors in breast capsules and the number of fibroblasts...

Raised serum lactate as a marker in the diagnosis of necrotising fasciitis

A 10-year prospective study of cases of suspected necrotising fasciitis was made, involving 53 patients. Of these, 28 had histologically proven necrotising fasciitis, 25 did not. Serum lactate measured at presentation of those who had the condition was 4.1+or-1.62 mmol/l...

Evidence based review of management for common head and neck cancers

As part of the PRS evidence based review series, this well written review summarises the up-to-date knowledge regarding the surgical and non-surgical management of the common facial skin cancers. The review is limited to BCC, SCC, MM and Merkel Cell...

Pose in imaging the breast

Inconsistency in breast imaging is remarkably frequent. Even a simple photograph can mislead, depending upon whether or not the arms are held by the sides, are raised above the head or are akimbo. However, the real gold standard in three...

Classification of contour deformities after massive weight loss, using the Pittsburgh Rating Scale

While the treatment of patients by skin reduction following massive weight loss is increasing, the conclusions of this study from the Netherlands finds that the Pittsburgh Rating Scale is not entirely suitable for this classification purpose and another system must...

A review of treatment options for acute flexor tendon injuries in zone one

This review reports the techniques that have been and are still used to repair acute injuries in this difficult area. The review does not end with a ‘best buy’ in the tradition of a consumer magazine, concluding that there is...

Platysma muscle use for oral sphincter substitution or countering excessive pull of a free muscle, following facial palsy

The use of the platysma muscle as a pedicled ‘apron’ flap in order to minimise the overactivity of a free muscle transfer, used in the treatment of facial palsy, is described in admirable detail. The successful results are carefully assessed...

The Accordion Severity Grading System in the assessment of negative outcomes following carpal tunnel release

Classification systems come and go, some more memorable than others. Without such systems it is not possible to compare like with like and so it must be conceded that they are necessary, although I personally find them difficult to commit...