South African Medical Journal - Volume 32, Issue 38, September 1958

Mitral valvotomy is an established surgical procedure of low mortality and with a high proportion of good and apparently lasting benefit .

Short-term studies in 3 patients suggest that chlorothiazide acts by inhibiting the renal tubular reabsorption of chloride and sodium. In this it resembles the organic mercurial diuretics, but there is a rise in urinary pH and a slight increase in the urinary bicarbonate.

The causes of respiratory failure, with or without, paralysis of the protective mechanisms of the pharynx and larynx, are discussed; together with the recognition of these conditions.

An inadequate Billroth I resection increases the percentage of stomal ulcer.

A report is given of an investigation for bacitracin sensitivity of 520 strains of beta-haemolytic streptococci. The recommended concentration of 5 units of bacitracin per mil.