https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/20251 2026-04-14T19:39:58Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/20541 Title: First-aid in traumatic amputations Abstract: Traumatic amputation of limbs or digits are fortunately not very common occurrences on our islands; however, enough cases are seen to warrant a modest discussion on how to tackle the situation before the patient is received by the surgeon. I do not claim to present a complete synopsis on the subject but I hope to succeed in emphasizing sufficiently well the basic first-aid measures which should be adopted by all those who may be involved in the management of these patients. 1989-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/20540 Title: Lead poisoning : a pathophysiological overview Abstract: During the last century, there has been a steep decline in the incidence of industrial lead poisoning and a similar decrease, in the number of deaths due to lead poisoning. However, many people are chronically exposed to high atmospheric lead concentrations, which although not causing lead poisoning, may cause subclinical effects, i.e. metabolic disturbances undetectable by usual clinical procedures. Table 1 compares the lead concentrations in an uncontaminated environment with today's levels and their effects on body lead .. The 'safe' upper limit is considered to be about 70ug of lead per decilitre of blood. 1989-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/20539 Title: Rational prescribing of oral contraceptives Abstract: Oral contraceptives are amongst the most popular drugs, at present about 60 million women are using this highly effective form of contraception. Following the classic demonstrations by Pinchus and Rock (1958) interest has centred on progesterone-oestrogen combinations as oral contraceptives. The first oral contraceptives to be introduced contained high doses of oestrogen and progesterone. Since then there has been a gradual, but signifi- cant reduction in both components, leading to a decrease in adverse effects. A large number of oral contraceptive pill formulations are available with an even greater number of proprietary preparations (Kestelman, 1981). Further preparations are being developed (Eyong, 1987). Many women appear to be suited by any pill formulation they are offered, but some find only one formulation acceptable. Unfortunately there are no simple rules for identifying which formulation is suitable for a particular patient, and if the first choice of oral contraceptive formulation proves unsuitable, the second choice must be better and based on the knowledge of the composition of available varieties and the relationship to each other. 1989-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/20538 Title: The medical experience of the Malta marathon 1988 Abstract: Marathon running is known to be associated with orthopaedic and medical injury. The aim of this study was to observe, report and. analyse injuries occurring during the Malta Marathon, held on 21 February, 1988. Observations showed that the commonest specific problems were muscle cramps and, upon completion of the event, hypotension. The significance of these, and other injuries in the context of long-distance runs is discussed. 1989-01-01T00:00:00Z