An Improved Method of Ring Removal
A number of techniques exist for the removal of rings from swollen fingers. An improved method is described using ribbon gauze and a paper clip. It is cheap, quick and effective and can be used in the presence of minor lacerations and abrasions.
Review of techniques for the removal of trapped rings on fingers with a proposed new algorithm.
Various removal techniques for rings trapped on the finger have been described in the current literature. However, despite this being a frequently encountered situation in emergency departments, there is no comprehensive algorithm to manage and follow these patients in the current literature. The purposes of this study were to describe the most commonly used ring removal techniques and to establish an algorithm for the removal of rings trapped on fingers. We performed a comprehensive literature search in several databases to identify all articles, case reports, letters, and book chapters that focus on ring removal techniques in English language from 1960 to the present. There are 2 methods of removal: (1) noncutting techniques in which the rings can be removed without breaking the integrity of the ring and (2) various ring-cutting equipments and tools. All these techniques are classified into distinct groups and described in detail with illustrations. Furthermore, an algorithm for handling such patients is established according to case-based patient care. Following an algorithm for the removal of trapped rings on the finger will be useful for patients and emergency physicians. It will also prevent possible complications and will save time.
An Economic Analysis of Obesity in Europe: Health, Medical Care and Absenteeism Costs
Obesity is not only a health but also an economic phenomenon with potentially important direct and indirect economic costs that are unlikely to be fully internalized by the obese. In the US, obesity prevalence is the highest among OECD countries and the issue has long been the focus of policy debate and academic research. However, European obesity rates are rising and there is still a lack of economic analysis of the obesity phenomenon in Europe. This paper attempts to fill in this gap by using longitudinal micro-evidence from the European Community Household Panel to assess the importance of several costs of obesity in nine EU countries. The analysis provides nationally comparable estimates of the costs of obesity in terms of health, use of health care services and absenteeism.