The peri-implantation period is a critical time during murine development. Although the importance of nitric oxide has been demonstrated during gestation, its role in implantation has not been fully defined. The aim of this study was to quantify (by Western blotting) two prominent nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms, inducible (iNOS) and endothelial (eNOS) and localize all three forms [iNOS, eNOS, and neuronal (nNOS)] by immunohistochemistry in uterine tissue from days 4 through 8 of pregnancy. By day 6, iNOS values were significantly elevated in implantation sites compared with interimplantation regions and continued to rise through day 8. Analysis of eNOS was similar, but implantation site values peaked by days 6 and 7. Labelled iNOS cells were within the decidua, around myometrial vessels, and within the ectoplacental cone. At implantation, eNOS was conspicuous, displaying label adjacent to the embryo in vessels of the primary decidual zone. nNOS was localized mainly in the mesometrium and myometrium and did not appear to change throughout the peri-implantation period. The increased iNOS and eNOS values following implantation in the embryonic site may imply roles in tissue remodelling, immunosuppression and vasoregulation. Nitric oxide may play an important role in the mechanisms of implantation where these factors are keys to successful pregnancy.

No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.

In a prospective review we assessed the results of extensor tendon injuries managed postoperatively with a static splint. Thirty-three patients with 44 injured digits were assessed 4 months after primary tendon repair, using the Strickland-Glogovac criteria. Patients were managed in a static splint, the duration of which was guided by the zone of injury. Four months after repair, excellent or good results were obtained in 95%. Overall it was found that static splinting was an effective and safe method of management after extensor tendon repair.

Gabapentin significantly reduced postoperative pain after PRK compared to placebo, with no increase in reported side effects.