No abstract

The laparoscopic approach to Nissen fundoplication improved early postoperative recovery, with an equally good outcome up to 12 months.

No abstract

Infliximab appears to be a potentially cost effective treatment for selected patients based on the reduced number of inpatient stays, examinations under anaesthetic, and diagnostic procedures over a 6 month period.

Helium has a low density and the potential of reducing the work of breathing and improving alveolar ventilation when replacing nitrogen in air. A Phase II, double-blind, randomised, prospective, controlled trial was undertaken to assess whether Heliox28 (72% He/28% O 2 ) compared with oxygen-enriched air (72% N 2 /28% O 2 ) or medical air (78.9% N 2 /21.1% O 2 ) could reduce dyspnoea and improve the exercise capability of patients with primary lung cancer and dyspnoea on exertion (Borg 43). A total of 12 patients (seven male, five female patients, age 53 -78) breathed the test gases in randomised order via a facemask and inspiratory demand valve at rest and while performing 6-min walk tests. Pulse oximetry (SaO 2 ) was recorded continuously. Respiratory rate and dyspnoea ratings (Borg and VAS) were taken before and immediately post-walk. Breathing Heliox28 at rest significantly increased SaO 2 compared to oxygen-enriched air (9672 cf. 9472, Po0.01). When compared to medical air, breathing Heliox28 but not oxygen-enriched air gave a significant improvement in the exercise capability (Po0.0001), SaO 2 (Po0.05) and dyspnoea scores (VAS, Po0.05) of lung cancer patients.