The authors discuss the various presentations of scrotal swellings, explaining how a careful clinical assessment and use of ultrasound can aid diagnosis and management of this common problem. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons

Results show that intraoperative, surgical specimen (ex vivo) US control of resection margins in patients undergoing PN is feasible and efficient. It represents a promising tool to ensure margin negativity during PN.

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk assessment of elective ENT patients is essential to minimize the risk of mortality and morbidity. The study is standard-based audit of VTE risk assessment against the ENT UK guidelines and intervention includes instructional poster and departmental presentation. 23 patients on eight operating lists were audited in the first cycle (C1). A total of 27 patients on ten operating lists were re-audited in the second cycle (C2). There were marked improvements in the number of VTE risk assessments completed (C1 = 3/23; C2 = 26/27; p < 0.0001), the number of patients encouraged to mobilize (C1 = 0/23; C2 = 26/27; p < 0.0001), and the number of VTE leaflets provided upon discharge (C1 = 1/23; C2 = 27/27; p < 0.0001) following the intervention. The introduction of a poster and a departmental presentation proved to be simple, cheap, and effective measures to improve adherence of national VTE guidelines.

Background: It has been reported that pumping a shunt in situ may precipitate a proximal occlusion, and/or lead to ventricular over-drainage, particularly in the context of small ventricles. In the laboratory we measured the effect of pumping the pre-chamber of hydrocephalus shunts on intracranial hypotension.

Erectile dysfunction is common and may signal vascular disease, so a cardiovascular risk assessment is important for these patients. Thorough counselling is needed along with discussion of all treatment options at an early stage to facilitate shared decision making.