• The Korean Journal of Emergency Medical Services
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• v.21 no.3
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• pp.7-16
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• 2017

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of laryngeal mask airway (LMA) insertion from different positions, using different methods, on the quality of the insertion, for identifying a more convenient and effective insertion method. Methods: In a model ambulance, 30 paramedic students performed the LMA insertion procedure, in four different settings, combinations of the rescuer's position (at the head end of the patient, at the side of the patient), and insertion technique (index finger insertion, thumb insertion), in a randomized order. Quality of insertion index and convenience of use were measured. Results: The quality of insertion index (tidal volume, gastric insufflation, airway pressure, airway sealing pressure, midline positions, insertion success grade, and insertion time) were not significantly different among four different settings. However LMA insertion from the anterior (head) end, using the index finger method compared to the thumb method was found to be significantly more convenient. Conclusion: We recommend using the more convenient and familiar LMA insertion method, between index finger insertion and thumb insertion, regardless of rescuer's position.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• v.51 no.1
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• pp.118-125
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• 2024

Tamai zone 4 replantation, defined as the replantation at a level proximal to the flexor digitorum superficialis' insertion and distal to where the common digital artery branches into the proper digital artery, has poor functional results because making orthosis and rehabilitation protocols that protect the bone and the flexor and extensor tendons simultaneously difficult. Two cases of Tamai zone 4 replantation are presented: one case of an index finger replantation at the proximal phalanx and a case of ring finger replantation at the proximal interphalangeal joint. The author did not repair the flexor tendon intentionally in the primary replantation and performed two-stage flexor tendon reconstruction later. The total active motions (TAMs) at the last follow-up were 215 and 180 degrees, respectively, with the latter distal interphalangeal joint being an arthrodesis. Both cases had no extension lag in the proximal interphalangeal joint. These results were much better than those in previous reports, in which the mean TAM was 133 degrees or less. The good results appeared to be mainly due to the reasonable and clear postoperative rehabilitation protocols made by the proposed procedure. This procedure may be useful for obtaining reproducible functional results even in Tamai zone 4 replantation.