Description
In this 360 session, Professor Ben Ollivere, an expert in orthopedic trauma from Nottingham, presents the latest updates in orthopedic evidence, particularly focusing on trauma care. He highlights the exponential growth in published orthopedic research, emphasizing the significance of curating and distilling this information for practicing surgeons. Professor Ollivere elaborates on the importance of the BJ 360 Evidence Review, which aggregates hundreds of evidence summaries in plain English, providing insights that are often overlooked in standard orthopedic literature.
He discusses key clinical trials, such as the CRASH 2 and CRASH 3 studies regarding the use of tranexamic acid in trauma patients, specifically addressing how it can reduce mortality when used properly. He underscores that while CRASH 2 established the drug's benefits for general trauma patients, CRASH 3 offered more nuanced insights regarding patients with head injuries, sparking some controversy due to altered inclusion criteria within the trial.
Furthermore, Professor Ollivere examines the OVIVA trial that contrasts oral versus intravenous antibiotics for treating osteomyelitis, demonstrating that delivery method does not significantly influence outcomes, asserting that oral antibiotics can be sufficient for compliant patients. He wraps up by contextualizing the management of stable ankle fractures, advocating for the use of supportive orthoses over traditional casting methods, based on a recent Finnish trial proving equal efficacy with improved patient comfort and cost-effectiveness. Overall, the session encapsulates essential evidence updates critical for modern orthopedic practice.