Introduction Several cancers, particularly breast cancer and melanoma, are similar in that regional lymph node metastasis greatly affects treatment, prognosis, recurrence rates, adjuvant therapy recommendations, and survival. Therefore accurate assessment and management of regional lymph node disease are of great…
Introduction Nipple discharge is the third most common breast complaint for which women will see a physician. The majority of nipple discharge is benign. Nipple discharge can be characterized as physiologic or pathological. Physiologic nipple discharge is often bilateral, expressed…
Introduction The modern treatment of breast cancer, in simplified terms, sets forth the goal to cure the patient of breast cancer without diminishing patient quality of life, which for many patients is heavily reliant on breast reconstruction. Although some patients…
Introduction Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed and the second leading cause of cancer mortality in women. Major advances in recent years, including hormonal and monoclonal antibody therapy, have greatly improved outcomes in breast cancer patients. Historically, breast…
Introduction Compartment syndrome of any extremity is a limb-threatening condition that must be recognized and treated in a timely fashion. Left untreated, compartment syndrome can lead to not only limb loss or functional impairment of the affected limb but also…
Introduction Arterial lines are invasive procedures performed under sterile technique in the emergency, critical care, and operative settings to closely monitor blood pressure. They are most commonly placed in the radial artery but can also be placed in the axillary,…
Introduction Successful and safe insertion of a central venous catheter requires an understanding of the anatomic relationships associated with the larger veins of the body. These catheters can be used for fluid resuscitation, blood draws, hemodynamic monitoring, parental nutrition, and…
Introduction Resuscitative emergency thoracotomy can be a lifesaving procedure for patients in traumatic cardiac arrest. As a salvage maneuver, the associated mortality is high, and the search to clarify indications has sparked controversy since its first description. Patients who are…
Introduction Chest tube placement may be a lifesaving maneuver. Chest tubes are generally inserted for pneumothorax, hemothorax, hemopneumothorax, empyema, chylothorax, bronchopleural fistula, and pleural effusion. Although there are no absolute contraindications to placement, caution is advised when considering placement in…
Introduction The well-trained airway expert has a key understanding of the anatomy and challenges that may cause possible complications during airway placement. There are several essential steps when considering an airway placement. The provider must understand the indications for intubation…