This study details improvements in the intubation of a long intestinal decompression tube by use of a new flexible tip guide wire and a new intestinal decompression tube. The intubation route of the endoscope was changed from the oral to the nasal cavity. Although the guide wire formerly used (TGBD-65-345) could be inserted into the descending part of the duodenum by passing it through the biopsy channel of the endoscope, with this new method, the guide wire (TGBD-65-450) could be inserted into the upper jejunum. The endoscope could also be left in the stomach, when this method was used. The long tube was introduced along this guide wire into the upper jejunum. As a result of these improvements, the intubation rate for long intestinal decompression tubes was significantly more rapid and the time reduced. Intubation rate to the jejunum was 96 percent successful, as compared with a former success rate of 75 percent. The intubation time was decreased to 11.3 +/- 5.6 min. to the duodenum and 18.6 +/- 8.6 min. to the upper jejunum. This differs markedly from the former method which required 16.0 +/- 5.3 min. and 39.6 +/- 22.7 min, respectively.

Although the foot is involved in load-bearing and shock absorption, foot pressure (FP), ground contact area (CA), and gait cycle (GC) in flatfeet (FF) have not been examined in detail. We aimed to analyze the influence of FF on FP, CA, and GC. We included 20 and 21 women with FF and normal feet (NF), respectively. A Footscan plantar pressure plate (RsScan International, Belgium) was used to analyze FP, CA, and GC. FP was applied to the unit area of 10 compartments. GC analysis was performed using phase-time measurements by dividing the GC into four phases. In the analysis, FP and CA were compared between the FF and NF groups. A comparison of GC was similarly performed between the two groups. The data provided in this article will be useful when designing studies on the effect of foot shape on FP, CA, and GC during gait.

Ultrasonically guided subclavian venipuncture is described. Since this method permits direct tapping of the subclavian vein and control of the insertion to the innominate vein under ultrasonic guidance, complications such as pneumothorax, accidental subclavian artery puncture, and malposition of the catheter, which often accompany the conventional method, can be avoided. As a result, this technique produces no radiation damage.

No abstract

No abstract