The ultrasonic diagnosis of acute thrombophlebitis of the vena saphena magna

A total of 321 patients with suspected acute thrombophlebitis were examined. There were 92 men (30%) and 229 women (70%). For control 15 patients without lower limb vein abnormalities and 19 ones with uncomplicated varicose disease were examined. Ultrasonic examinations using Ultramark-8 (Medata, Sweden) device were carried out in all the patients. Of the 313 cases (in 8 patients the diagnosis of acute thrombophlebitis was not confirmed by ultrasonic examination) ultrasonography results were erroneous in only 6 cases when assessing the proximal borderline of the great subcutaneous femoral vein thrombosis. Hence, the accuracy of duplex scanning in assessment of the proximal border of thrombosis in acute thrombophlebitis was 98.6% in our study. Ultrasonic angio-scanning in patients with superficial thrombophlebitis give reliable and valuable information about the presence, type, and extension of the pathologic process. This helps to optimally solve the therapeutic policy problems and adequately plan surgical intervention.     

Inhibition of mammalian protoporphyrinogen oxidase by acifluorfen

We have studied the kinetics of the inhibition of mitochondrial protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) from liver and placenta of 3 mammalian species by the diphenyl ether herbicide acifluorfen (AF). AF competitively inhibited PPO from human liver and placenta, mouse liver and pig placenta with respect to its substrate protoporphyrinogen. In contrast, mixed-type inhibition was shown for pig liver. The differing results shown in pig liver may point to structural differences in PPO derived from different species and tissues. We have also compared the effects of AF on the function of PPO in human lymphoblasts from normal subjects and those with variegate porphyria, an inherited disorder of PPO. Competitive inhibition was shown for both and there were no significant differences in the values of Ks or Ki.     

Microsurgical replantation of the main segments of the extremities

Computerizing an organization's policies and guidelines is difficult but rewarding. The assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of converting all paper policies and procedures into a computerized system are outlined, with particular focus on organizing guidelines according to the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organization's (JCAHO) functional standards.     

Hemostasis in acquired hemophilia--role of intracavitary instillation of EACA

An 82 year old man developed antibodies against coagulation factor VIII:C without any apparent cause. Bleeding from the soft tissue cavity could not be controlled by factor VIII:C concentrates, immunosuppression with steroids and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy in the standard dosages. However, a single injection of Epsilon Aminocaproic Acid (EACA) instilled into the cavity under aseptic precautions achieved lasting hemostasis with resultant wound healing.