Bilateral sphenopalatine ganglion block as adjuvant to general anaesthesia during endoscopic trans-nasal resection of pituitary adenoma

BackgroundThis study was conducted to investigate the anaesthetic, vasodilator, and post-operative analgesic sparing effect of bilateral sphenopalatine ganglion block (SPGB) in patients undergoing endoscopic endo-nasal trans-sphenoidal surgery.MethodsThirty adult patients of ASA (I, II), aged 20–60 years, were randomly allocated to either the block group or the non-block group (n = 15, for each). After establishment of general anesthesia with sevoflurane and 100% oxygen, the patients received bilateral SPGB with 1.5 ml of either 0.5% bupivacaine (block group) or 0.9% NaCl (non-block group). Intra-operative mean arterial pressure (MAP) was maintained at 60–65 mmHg by using nitroglycerine. End-tidal sevoflurane concentration required to maintain bispectral index values (40–50) throughout the operation was recorded. Nitroglycerine and propranolol consumption, blood loss, recovery profile, perioperative catecholamines, post-operative pain and meperidine consumption were evaluated.ResultsBlock group showed significant decrease in sevoflurane and nitroglycerine consumption, blood loss, emergence time and time needed to achieve ?9 Aldrete score, P < 0.0001. All patients in non-blockade group (100%) were supplemented by nitroglycerine to achieve the target MAP versus 9 patients (60%) in the block group (P < 0.01). Propranolol administration was necessary in 9 patients (60%) in the non-block group versus 3 patients (20%) in the block group, P < 0.05. At PACU, visual analogue pain score and number of patients received meperidine analgesia were significantly less in the block group versus non-block group, P < 0.0001 and P < 0.001, respectively. Intra- and post-operative plasma epinephrine and nor-epinephrine levels were significantly higher in the non-block group than the block group, P < 0.05.ConclusionBilateral SPGB has anaesthetic, vasodilator and analgesic sparing effect when combined with general anaesthesia during endoscopic endo-nasal trans-sphenoidal resection of pituitary adenoma.     

Effects on Humidification and Ventilatory Parameters of Three Single-limb Heated-wired Circuits for Non-invasive Ventilation: A Bench Study

BackgroundThe objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of three single-limb heated wired circuits (SLHWC) for NIV, on ventilatory parameters and humidification performance in a simulation lung model.MethodsThree SLHWC compatible with the MR-850 Heated Humidifier (HH) (Fisher & Paykel, Auckland, New Zealand) were tested: RT-319 (FP) (Fisher & Paykel, Auckland, New Zealand), Respironics 1045770 (RP) (DEAS, Castel Bolognese, Italy) and Intersurgical B/SYS 5809001 (IT) (Intersurgical, Wokingham, UK). A Bipap Vision ventilator (Philips Respironics, Murrysville, PA, USA) in pressure control ventilation (PCV) connected to a test lung was used for simulation. Each SHWC performance was evaluated in four ventilatory conditions: IPAP of 15 cm H₂O with FiO₂ 0.3 and 1, respectively; and, IPAP of 25 cm H₂O with FiO₂ 0.3 and 1, respectively. EPAP was set at 5 cm H₂O. Hygrometric and ventilatory measurements including: relative humidity (RH), temperature (T), Pplat, PIP, PEEP, peak inspiratory flow (PIF), and tidal volume (Vt) were measured.ResultsIn each FiO₂ group absolute humidity (AH) was similar with FP regardless of the IPAP level employed compared to IT and RP (P < .001). Except for RP at FiO₂ 0.3, AH increased significantly in IT and RP groups as IPAP increased (P < .001). PIP, Pplat, PEEP, PIF, and Vt values were significantly higher with FP and RP in each FiO₂ group compared to IT (P < .001).ConclusionsHumidification performance varied significantly among the three circuits, being FP the only one able to maintain stable AH values during the study with no influence on ventilatory parameters.     

Effect of intravenous lidocaine infusion on sevoflurane requirements as monitored by bispectral index: A randomized double-blinded controlled study

IntroductionSystemic administration of lidocaine significantly decreased propofol requirements when compared to patients receiving placebo. Several studies conducted on animals have proved that systemic local anesthetics reduced minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of inhalational anesthetics. The aim of this investigation is to study the effect of intravenous administration of lidocaine on the minimum alveolar concentration of sevoflurane required to keep BIS between 40 and 60 during maintenance of anesthesia in humans.MethodsTwenty-eight ASA I–II adults planned to undergo laparoscopic procedures expected to last <2 h under general anesthesia were randomly assigned to 2 groups. After standardized induction of general anesthesia, patients were given IV lidocaine bolus (1.5 mg kg^?1) followed by 2 mg kg^?1 h^?1 infusion (group L, n = 14) or equal volumes of saline (group C, n = 14). Primary outcome of the study was end-tidal sevoflurane at bispectral index (BIS) values of 40–60. Secondary outcomes included doses of opioids, BIS values, and extubation time.ResultsThe median doses of intraoperative fentanyl (range) in group C were similar to group L (P = 0.08). There were no significant differences between the 2 groups regarding BIS at any time point. End-tidal sevoflurane concentrations were significantly higher in group C than in group L at all intraoperative time points (P < 0.05). Extubation time was longer in group L than in group C (P = 0.04).ConclusionIn conclusion, intravenous lidocaine administration, during maintenance of general anesthesia, can decrease BIS-guided sevoflurane requirements.     

Cerebral oxygenation in patients undergoing shoulder surgery in beach chair position: Comparing general to regional anesthesia and the impact on neurobehavioral outcome

BackgroundIschemic brain damage has been reported in healthy patients after beach chair position for surgery due to cerebral hypoperfusion. Near-infrared spectroscopy has been described as a non-invasive, continuous method to monitor cerebral oxygen saturation. However, its impact on neurobehavioral outcome comparing different anesthesia regimens has been poorly described.MethodsIn this prospective, assessor-blinded study, 90 patients undergoing shoulder surgery in beach chair position following general (G-group, n = 45) or regional anesthesia (R-group; n = 45) were enrolled to assess the prevalence of cerebral desaturation events comparing anesthesia regimens and their impact on neurobehavioral and neurological outcome. Anesthesiologists were blinded to regional cerebral oxygen saturation values. Baseline data assessed the day before surgery included neurological and neurobehavioral tests, which were repeated the day after surgery. The baseline data for regional cerebral oxygen saturation/bispectral index and invasive blood pressure both at heart and auditory meatus levels were taken prior to anesthesia, 5 min after induction of anesthesia, 5 min after beach chair positioning, after skin incision and thereafter all 20 min until discharge.ResultsPatients in the R-group showed significantly less cerebral desaturation events (p < 0.001), drops in regional cerebral oxygen saturation values (p < 0.001), significantly better neurobehavioral test results the day after surgery (p < 0.001) and showed a greater hemodynamic stability in the beach chair position compared to patients in the G-group.ConclusionsThe incidence of regional cerebral oxygen desaturations seems to influence the neurobehavioral outcome. Regional anesthesia offers more stable cardiovascular conditions for shoulder surgery in beach chair position influencing neurobehavioral test results at 24 h.     

Effect of systemic lidocaine infusion on train-of-four ratios during recovery from general anesthesia

IntroductionIn spite of introduction of intermediate-acting neuromuscular blocking drugs (NMBDs), incidence of postoperative residual muscle weakness is still high. The aim of this trial is to study the effect of systemic lidocaine infusion on intraoperative consumption of rocuronium and TOF ratios at extubation and on arrival to postanesthesia care unit (PACU).MethodsForty-six ASA I–III patients aged 16–60 yr were randomly allocated into two groups: lidocaine (L) group (n = 23) and control (C) group (n = 23). After induction of standard endotracheal general anesthesia with fentanyl, propofol and rocuronium, patients of group L were given i.v. lidocaine bolus (1.5 mg kg^?1) followed by continuous infusion (1.5 mg kg^?1 h^?1) till time of endotracheal extubation while patients in group C were given equal volumes of normal saline. Rocuronium was titrated based on clinical signs. On conclusion of surgery, neostigmine was given to reverse the effects of rocuronium if TOF count was two or more. Immediately before extubation, TOF ratio was measured and recorded and considered the primary outcome.ResultsThere were no significant differences between the two study groups regarding intraoperative fentanyl doses or core temperature at the end of surgery. End-tidal sevoflurane concentrations were significantly lower in group L than in group P (P < 0.01). The dose of rocuronium was significantly less in group L than in group C (P = 0.001). Train-of four ratios were significantly higher in group L than in group C either before extubation (P < 0.001) or on arrival to PACU (P = 0.001).ConclusionThe current study shows that intraoperative use of i.v. lidocaine infusion in generally anesthetized patients can result in higher TOF ratios at time of extubation and on arrival to PACU when rocuronium was given based on clinical signs.     

Implementation of an Integrated Care Model for Frequent-Exacerbator COPD Patients: A Controlled Prospective Study

IntroductionFrequent-exacerbator COPD (fe-COPD) associated with frequent hospital admissions have high morbidity, mortality and use of health resources. These patients should be managed in personalized integrated care models (ICM). Accordingly, we aimed to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of a fe-COPD ICM on emergency room (ER) visits, hospital admissions, days of hospitalization, mortality and improvement of health status.MethodsProspective-controlled study with analysis of a cohort of fe-COPD patients assigned to ICM and followed-up for maximally 7 years that were compared to a parallel cohort who received standard care. All patients had a confirmed diagnosis of COPD with a history of ≥2 hospital admissions due to exacerbations in the year before enrollment. The change in CAT score and mMRC dyspnea scale, hospital admissions, ER visits, days of hospitalization, and mortality were analyzed.Results141 patients included in the ICM were compared to 132 patients who received standard care. The ICM reduced hospitalizations by 38.2% and ER visits by 69.7%, with reduction of hospitalizations for COPD exacerbation, ER visits and days of hospitalization (p < 0.05) compared to standard care. Further, health status improved among the ICM group after 1 year of follow-up (p = 0.001), effect sustained over 3 years. However, mortality was not different between groups (p = 0.117). Last follow-up CAT score > 17 was the strongest independent risk factor for mortality and hospitalization among ICM patients.ConclusionsAn ICM for fe-COPD patients effectively decreases ER and hospital admissions and improves health status, but not mortality.     

Función eréctil después de cistectomía con preservación neurovascular

ObjectivesTo study the utility of neurovascular preservation for postoperative erection in radical cystectomy.Materials and methodsRetrospective analysis of 44 cystectomies performed at our center between January 2006-December 2009 in men < 65 years. In 11 cases a neurovascular preservation was done. We analyzed age, BMI, indication for surgery, urinary diversion, use of i-PDE5 or alprostadil, and daytime and nighttime continence. Erection Hardness Score (EHS) was used to assess erectile function.ResultsSpontaneous postoperative erectile function in preservation group was 44,4% EHS 4, 33,3% EHS 3 and 22,3% EHS 1 (achieving EHS 3 or 4 with alprostadil). In the non preservation group, 4,5% achieved EHS 4 spontaneously. The other 95,5% had EHS 0 (4,5% achieved EHS 3 with tadalafil 20 mg and 9% with intracavernous injections). Variables age (P = .001) and nerve-sparing surgery (P < .001) were related to postoperative erectile function recovery. In the multivariate analysis, nerve-sparing surgery remained statisticaly significant.ConclusionsThe functional results in preserving cystectomy are promising. The preservation should be considered in young patients without erectile dysfunction.     

Effect of propofol,sevoflurane, and isoflurane on postoperative cognitive dysfunction following laparoscopic cholecystectomy in elderly patients: A randomized controlled trial

Study objectiveTo compare the incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) in elderly surgical patients (> 60 years) receiving different anesthetics (propofol, sevoflurane, or isoflurane) and to identify potential biomarkers of POCD in this patient population.DesignProspective, randomized, double-blind clinical trial.SettingUniversity-affiliated teaching hospital.PatientsOne hundred and fifty elderly patients scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy.InterventionsElderly patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomly assigned to receive propofol, sevoflurane, or isoflurane anesthesia. Measurements: Cognitive function was assessed using neuropsychological tests at baseline (1 day before surgery [D0]), and on postoperative day 1 (D1) and day 3 (D3). Plasma S-100β and Aβ_1–40 protein, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α concentrations were assessed before induction of anesthesia (T0), after extubation (T1), and 1 h (T2) and 24 h (T3) postoperatively.Main resultsThe incidence of POCD was significantly lower in the propofol group compared to the isoflurane group and the sevoflurane group at D1 and D3 (propofol vs. isoflurane: D1 and D3, P < 0.001; propofol vs. sevoflurane: D1, P = 0.012; D3, P = 0.013). The incidence of POCD was significantly lower in the sevoflurane group compared to the isoflurane group at D1 ( P = 0.041), but not at D3. Postoperatively, plasma S-100β and Aβ_1–40 protein, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α concentrations were significantly decreased in the propofol group compared to the isoflurane group.ConclusionsPropofol anesthesia may be an option for elderly surgical patients.     

Pilot Trial of Extended Hypothermic Lung Preservation to Analyze Ischemia-reperfusion Injury in Pigs

BackgroundIn lung transplantation (LT), the length of ischemia time is controversial as it was arbitrarily stablished. We ought to explore the impact of extended cold-ischemia time (CIT) on ischemia-reperfusion injury in an experimental model.MethodsExperimental, randomized pilot trial of parallel groups and final blind analysis using a swine model of LT. Donor animals (n = 8) were submitted to organ procurement. Lungs were subjected to 6 h (n = 4) or 12 h (n = 4) aerobic hypothermic preservation. The left lung was transplanted and re-perfused for 4 h. Lung biopsies were obtained at (i) the beginning of CIT, (ii) the end of CIT, (iii) 30 min after reperfusion, and (iv) 4 h after reperfusion. Lung-grafts were histologically assessed by microscopic lung injury score and wet-to-dry ratio. Inflammatory response was measured by determination of inflammatory cytokines. Caspase-3 activity was determined as apoptosis marker.ResultsWe observed no differences on lung injury score or wet-to-dry ratio any given time between lungs subjected to 6 h-CIT or 12h-CIT. IL-1β and IL6 showed an upward trend during reperfusion in both groups. TNF-α was peaked within 30 min of reperfusion. IFN-γ was hardly detected. Caspase-3 immunoexpression was graded semiquantitatively by the percentage of stained cells. Twenty percent of apoptotic cells were observed 30 min after reperfusion.ConclusionsWe observed that 6 and 12 h of CIT were equivalent in terms of microscopic lung injury, inflammatory profile and apoptosis in a LT swine model. The extent of lung injury measured by microscopic lung injury score, proinflammatory cytokines and caspase-3 determination was mild.     

Predictive Value of Immune Cell Functional Assay for Non-Cytomegalovirus Infection in Lung Transplant Recipients: A Multicenter Prospective Observational Study

IntroductionImmune cell functional assay (ImmuKnow®) is a non-invasive method that measures the state of cellular immunity in immunosuppressed patients. We studied the prognostic value of the assay for predicting non-cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections in lung transplant recipients.MethodsA multicenter prospective observational study of 92 patients followed up from 6 to 12 months after transplantation was performed. Immune cell functional assay was carried out at 6, 8, 10, and 12 months.ResultsTwenty-three patients (25%) developed 29 non-CMV infections between 6 and 12 months post-transplant. At 6 months, the immune response was moderate (ATP 225–525 ng/mL) in 14 (15.2%) patients and low (ATP < 225 ng/mL) in 78 (84.8%); no patients had a strong response (ATP ≥ 525 ng/mL). Only 1 of 14 (7.1%) patients with a moderate response developed non-CMV infection in the following 6 months compared with 22 of 78 (28.2%) patients with low response, indicating sensitivity of 95.7%, specificity of 18.8%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 28.2%, and negative predictive value (NPV) of 92.9% (AUC 0.64; p = 0.043). Similar acute rejection rates were recorded in patients with mean ATP ≥ 225 vs. <225 ng/mL during the study period (7.1% vs. 9.1%, p = 0.81).ConclusionAlthough ImmuKnow® does not seem useful to predict non-CMV infection, it could identify patients with a very low risk and help us define a target for an optimal immunosuppression.     

Incidência de delírio ao despertar e fatores de risco após o uso de sevoflurano em pacientes pediátricos para cirurgia ambulatorial,Kingston, Jamaica

Background and objectivesEmergence delirium is a distressing complication of the use of sevoflurane for general anesthesia. This study sought to determine the incidence of emergence delirium and risk factors in patients at a specialist pediatric hospital in Kingston, Jamaica.MethodsThis was a cross‐sectional, observational study including pediatric patients aged 3–10 years, ASA I and II, undergoing general anesthesia with sevoflurane for elective day‐case procedures. Data collected included patients’ level of anxiety pre‐operatively using the modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale, surgery performed, anesthetic duration and analgesics administered. Postoperatively, patients were assessed for emergence delirium, defined as agitation with non‐purposeful movement, restlessness or thrashing; inconsolability and unresponsiveness to nursing and/or parental presence. The need for pharmacological treatment and post‐operative complications related to emergence delirium episodes were also noted.Results145 children were included, with emergence delirium occurring in 28 (19.3%). Emergence delirium episodes had a mean duration of 6.9 ± 7.8 min, required pharmacologic intervention in 19 (67.8%) children and were associated with a prolonged recovery time (49.4 ± 11.9 versus 29.7 ± 10.8 min for non‐agitated children; p < 0.001). Factors positively associated with emergence delirium included younger age (p = 0.01, OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.2–8.6) and moderate and severe anxiety prior to induction (p < 0.001, OR 5.6, 95% CI 2.3–13.0). Complications of emergence delirium included intravenous line removal (n = 1), and surgical site bleeding (n = 3).ConclusionChildren of younger age with greater preoperative anxiety are at increased risk of developing emergence delirium following general anesthesia with sevoflurane. The overall incidence of emergence delirium was 19%.     

Trauma morning report is the ideal environment to teach and evaluate resident communication and sign-outs in the 80 hour work week

BackgroundThe 80 h work week has raised concerns that complications may increase due to multiple sign-outs or poor communication. Trauma Surgery manages complex trauma and acute care surgical patients with rapidly changing physiology, clinical demands and a large volume of data that must be communicated to render safe, effective patient care. Trauma Morning Report format may offer the ideal situation to study and teach sign-outs and resident communication.Materials and methodsSurgery Residents were assessed on a 1–5 scale for their ability to communicate to their fellow residents. This consisted of 10 critical points of the presentation, treatment and workup from the previous night’s trauma admissions. Scores were grouped into three areas. Each area was scored out of 15. Area 1 consisted of Initial patient presentation. Area 2 consisted of events in the trauma bay. Area 3 assessed clarity of language and ability to communicate to their fellow residents. The residents were assessed for inclusion of pertinent positive and negative findings, as well as overall clarity of communication. In phase 1, residents were unaware of the evaluation process. Phase 2 followed a series of resident education session about effective communication, sign-out techniques and delineation of evaluation criteria. Phase 3 was a resident-blinded phase which evaluated the sustainability of the improvements in resident communication.Results50 patient presentations in phase 1, 200 in phase 2, and 50 presentations in phase 3 were evaluated. Comparisons were made between the Phase 1 and Phase 2 evaluations. Area 1 (initial events) improved from 6.18 to 12.4 out of 15 (p < 0.0001). Area 2 (events in the trauma bay) improved from 9.78 to 16.53 (p < 0.0077). Area 3 (communication and language) improved from 8.36 to 12.22 out of 15 (P < 0.001). Phase 2 to Phase 3 evaluations were similar, showing no deterioration of skills.ConclusionsTrauma Surgery manages complex surgical patients, with rapidly changing physiologic and clinical demands. Trauma Morning Report, with diverse attendance including surgical attendings and residents in various training years, is the ideal venue for real-time teaching and evaluation of sign-outs and reinforcing good communication skills in residents.     

The effect of different drugs on sevoflurane emergence agitation in pediatric patients undergoing hypospadias repair surgery

BackgroundVarious methods are used to decrease the incidence of emergence agitation (EA) in children following general anaesthesia with sevoflurane.ObjectiveThe present study aims to compare the effect of intravenous injection of small dose of propofol, fentanyl or ketamine at the end of surgery, just before the discontinuation of sevoflurane on the incidence and severity of sevoflurane emergence agitation in children undergoing hypospadias repair operations.Patients and methodsEighty patients undergoing elective hypospadias repair under sevoflurane general anaesthesia with caudal block were randomly divided into four groups (20 patients each); group P received intravenous 1 mg/kg propofol, group K received intravenous 0.25 mg/kg ketamine, group F received intravenous 1 μg/kg fentanyl, and group S received intravenous saline as control group. All those injections were given just before the discontinuation of sevoflurane. The emergence agitation was evaluated by emergence agitation scale from awakening every 5 min for 30 min. Complications like laryngospasm, desaturation, cough, and vomiting were recorded. Awakening time and PACU duration were also recorded.ResultsThe incidence of emergence agitation was significantly lower in groups P and F (p < 0.05). The time for awakening was significantly prolonged in groups P, K and F (p < 0.05), while PACU duration was significantly prolonged in group F (p < 0.05). No significant complications occurred except a significantly higher incidence of vomiting in group F.ConclusionThe use of propofol or fentanyl just before the discontinuation of sevoflurane reduces the incidence of emergence agitation in children, on the other hand fentanyl was accompanied with a significantly longer PACU duration and higher incidence of vomiting.     

Relationship Among Radiological Measurements of Anterior Mediastinal Fat and Outcomes of Lung Transplantation in Fibrotic Patients

ObjectiveLung transplantation (LT) for pulmonary fibrosis is related to higher mortality than other transplant indications. We aim to assess whether the amount of anterior mediastinal fat (AMF) was associated to early and long-term outcomes in fibrotic patients undergoing LT.MethodsRetrospective analysis of 92 consecutive single lung transplants (SLT) for pulmonary fibrosis over a 10-year period. AMF dimensions were measured on preoperative CT-scan: anteroposterior axis (AP), transverse axis (T), and height (H). AMF volumes (V) were calculated by the formula: AP × T × H × 3.14/6.According to the radiological AMF dimensions, patients were distributed into two groups: low-AMF (V < 20 cm³) and high-AMF (V > 20 cm³), and early and long-term outcomes were compared by univariable and multivariable analyses.ResultsThere were 92 SLT: 73M/19F, 53 ± 11 [14–68] years old. 30-Day mortality (low-AMF vs. high-AMF): 5 (5.4%) vs. 15 (16.3%), p = 0.014. Patients developing primary graft dysfunction within 72 h post-transplant, and those dying within 30 days post-transplant presented higher AMF volumes: 21.1 ± 19.8 vs. 43.3 ± 24.7 cm³ (p = 0.03) and 24.4 ± 24.2 vs. 56.9 ± 63.6 cm³ (p < 0.01) respectively. Overall survival (low-AMF vs. high-AMF) (1, 3, and 5 years): 85%, 81%, 78% vs. 55%, 40%, 33% (p < 0.001).Factors predicting 30-day mortality were: BMI (HR = 0.77, p = 0.011), AMF volume (HR = 1.04, p = 0.018), CPB (HR = 1.42, p = 0.002), ischaemic time (HR = 1.01, p = 0.009).Factors predicting survival were: AMF volume (HR = 1.02, p < 0.001), CPB (HR = 3.17, p = 0.003), ischaemic time (HR = 1.01, p = 0.001).ConclusionPreoperative radiological assessment of mediastinal fat dimensions and volumes may be a useful tool to identify fibrotic patients at higher risk of mortality after single lung transplantation.     

Comparing 3 ventilation modalities by measuring several respiratory parameters using the ProSeal laryngeal mask airway in children

Study objectiveTo determine quantitative differences in several routinely measured ventilation parameters using a standardized anesthetic technique and 3 different ventilation modalities in pediatric patients with a ProSeal laryngeal mask airway (PLMA).DesignRandomized prospective study.SettingPediatric hospital of a tertiary care academic medical center.PatientsThirty-three, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification 1-2, pediatric patients (12 months to 5 years).InterventionsThree different ventilation strategies: spontaneous ventilation (SV), pressure support ventilation (PSV), and pressure-controlled ventilation (PCV) were randomly applied to patients who underwent a standardized mask induction with sevoflurane/oxygen and propofol 3 mg/kg and morphine 0.05 mg/kg administered intravenously followed by PLMA insertion. Patients were maintained on sevoflurane and N₂O.MeasurementsWe measured the differences in end-tidal CO₂ (Etco₂), tidal volume, and respiratory rate over time between SV, PSV, and PCV. These data were recorded at 5-minute intervals.Main resultsEtco₂ (mm Hg) was significantly higher in the SV vs PSV (P = .016) and vs PCV (P < .001). Tidal volume (mL/kg) was significantly lower in SV vs PSV (P < .001) and vs PCV (P < .001). Respiratory rate (breaths/min) was significantly higher in SV vs PSV (P < .001) and vs PCV (P = .005).ConclusionsAll 3 modes of ventilation using a PLMA were safely used. Our SV group was noted to have a significantly higher Etco₂ when compared with PSV and PCV with a mean Etco₂ over time in excess of 55 mm Hg. PSV and PCV were found to be more appropriate ventilation strategies to more optimally control Etco₂ over time in these patients.     

Impact of Using a Novel Gastric Feeding Tube Adaptor on Patient's Comfort and Air Leaks During Non-invasive Mechanical Ventilation

IntroductionThe presence of oral or naso-enteral probes during non-invasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV) increases the risk of leakage and patient discomfort. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel tube adapter for NIMV (TA-NIMV) in relation to leakage and comfort level.MethodsA non-randomized quasi-experimental design was performed in an adult intensive care unit of a highly complex hospital, in which patients were their own controls. We included adult patients who required NIV with oronasal mask and who simultaneously had oral or naso-enteric tubes. The interventions were as follows: every participant received two therapies, one with the TA-NIMV and one conventional therapy of NIMV (CT-NIMV). Comfort could be evaluated in 99 patients with a Glasgow Coma Scale of 15. The outcomes of interest was the average percentage of air leak and patient comfort during each intervention.Results196 patients were included in the study during a 16-month period. The mean air leak percentage was 9.2% [standard deviation (SD), 7.7] during TA-NIMV and 32.5% (SD, 12.5) during CT-NIMV (p < 0.001). 84.9% reported being comfortable or very comfortable during TA-VMNI. 66.7% Uncomfortable or Very uncomfortable during CT-NIMV (p < 0.001).ConclusionHigher comfort levels and lower air leakage volume percentages were achieved using the TA-NIMV than those achieved by CT-NIMV.     

Ventilatory Support Use in Hospitalized Patients With Community-Acquired Pneumonia. Fifteen-year Trends in Spain (2001–2015)

AimWe examined fifteen years trends (2001–2015) in the use of non-invasive ventilation (NIV), invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) or both (NIV + IMV) among patients hospitalized for community acquired pneumonia (CAP). We also analyzed trends overtime and the influence of patient factors in the in-hospital mortality (IHM) after receiving NIV, IMV or NIV + IMV.MethodsObservational retrospective epidemiological study. Our data source was the Spanish National Hospital Discharge Database.ResultsOver a total of 1,486,240 hospitalized patients with CAP, we identified 56,158 who had received ventilator support in Spain over the study period. Of them, 54.82% received NIV, 37.04% IMV and 8.14% both procedures. The use of NIV and NIV + IMV increased significantly (p < 0.001) over time (from 0.91 to 12.84 per 100.000 inhabitant and from 0.23 to 1.19 per 100.000 inhabitants, respectively), while the IMV utilization decreased (from 3.55 to 2.79 per 100,000 inhabitants; p < 0.001). Patients receiving NIV were the oldest and had the highest mean value in the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) score and readmission rate. Patients who received only IMV had the highest IHM. Factors associated with IHM for all groups analyzed included age, comorbidities and readmission. IHM decreased significantly over time in patients with CAP who received NIV, IMV and NIV + IMV.ConclusionsWe found an increase in NIV use and a decline in IMV utilization in patients hospitalized for CAP over the study period. Patients receiving NIV were the oldest and had the highest CCI score and readmission rate. IHM decreased significantly over time in patients with CAP who received NIV, IMV and NIV + IMV.     

Obesity-hypoventilation Syndrome: Baseline Hemodynamic Status and Impact of Non-invasive Ventilation

IntroductionObesity-hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) is a risk factor for heart failure (HF). Some studies associate the use of non-invasive ventilation (NIV) with changes in hemodynamic parameters. Our objective was to describe the hemodynamic status of a group of patients with OHS and to study the effect of NIV.Patients and methodsPatients with stable OHS treated with NIV were included in this cross-sectional repeated measurements study. Hemodynamics were measured by bioimpedance: 30 min at baseline and another 30 min on NIV. Cardiac output (CO), cardiac index, and systolic volume were measured. The CO calculated for each patient expressed as a percentage of the lower limit of normal (LLN) was taken as reference, and 2 groups were formed: patients without HF and normal CO (≥100% of LLN) and patients with HF and low CO (<100% of LLN). The Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare independent variables and the Wilcoxon test was used for paired variables, with significance set at P<.05.ResultsThe final sample comprised 36 patients, aged 66 (±8) years, 19 (52%) men. In 17 (46%) patients, HF was detected with a CO of 3.7 l/min (66%) compared to the group without HF, whose CO was 7 l/min (107%). After NIV, patients with HF showed improvement in CO 4.5 l/min (77%), P=.009, while the non-HF group remained unchanged, with CO 6.8 l/min (104%), P=.2.ConclusionA total of 46% of patients with stable OHS present HF; NIV improves hemodynamics and does not affect patients with normal CO.     

Preoperative paracetamol infusion reduces sevoflurane consumption during thyroidectomy under general anesthesia with spectral entropy monitoring

BackgroundIntravenous (IV) paracetamol has a significant opioid-sparing effect. We investigated the effect of paracetamol infusion on sevoflurane consumption during entropy monitored general anesthesia.MethodsSixty-two ASA I and II patients undergoing thyroidectomy under general anesthesia were included in a prospective, randomized, double-blind and placebo controlled study. The patients were randomized to receive a slow infusion of either 1 g paracetamol (paracetamol group, n = 31) or saline (control group, n = 31) just before induction of anesthesia. Sevoflurane concentration was titrated to keep the state entropy value between 40 and 50. End-tidal sevoflurane concentration, sevoflurane consumption, recovery characteristics, time to first analgesic request and meperidine consumption during the first 6 postoperative hours were recorded.ResultsThe mean ± SD estimated sevoflurane consumption was significantly lower in the paracetamol treated patients (36.2 ± 15 vs 44.9 ± 13.9 ml, in the control group; p = 0.021). Patients receiving paracetamol had a faster post-anesthetic recovery profile (extubation time, time to eye opening to command and time to state name and mention his/her home address) than the other group (p < 0.05). Mean ± SD time to first analgesic request was significantly prolonged in paracetamol group compared to control group (48.4 ± 14.0 vs 40.7 ± 11.5 min, respectively; p = 0.021). Meperidine consumption was higher in control group than in paracetamol group (28.7 ± 10.2 vs 23.1 ± 9.0 mg, respectively; p = 0.025).ConclusionPreoperative IV paracetamol infusion improved consumption and emergence from entropy monitored sevoflurane anesthesia with enhancement of the early postoperative analgesia.     

Can systemic lidocaine be used in controlled hypotension? A double-blinded randomized controlled study in patients undergoing functional endoscopic sinus surgery

IntroductionFunctional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is one of the operations that need controlled hypotension. Many drugs were successfully used in this purpose, e.g., magnesium sulfate, esmolol, and volatile anesthetics. Hypotension was observed to occur after submucosal injection of lidocaine. Based on this observation, it was hypothesized in this double-blinded randomized controlled study that lidocaine may be effective in producing controlled hypotension.MethodsForty-eight ASA I–II adults planned to undergo FESS were given a standard general anesthetic after which they were divided into 2 equal groups to receive either lidocaine infusion in a dose of 1.5 mg/kg/h (group L, n = 24) or equal volumes of normal saline (group C, n = 24). Primary outcome was the surgical field rating score (0–5 points). Secondary outcomes included hemodynamic parameters, extubation time, end-tidal sevoflurane concentrations, fentanyl consumption, and postoperative visual analog pain scores (VASs).ResultsBoth groups were similar regarding hemodynamic parameters. Surgical field scores were significantly lower in group L than in group C at all intraoperative time points (P < 0.05). Extubation time was significantly longer in group C than in group L [group C: 12.4(2.3) min and group L: 9.1(3) min, P = 0.03]. Intraoperative fentanyl dose was significantly higher in group C than in group L [group C: 172(37) mcg and group L: 149(34) mcg, P = 0.03]. End-tidal sevoflurane concentrations were significantly lower in group L than in group C at most intraoperative time points (P < 0.05). Postoperative VAS pain scores in the PACU were higher in group C than in group L (P < 0.05).ConclusionThis study showed the ability of intravenous lidocaine infusion of 1.5 mg/kg/h to produce controlled hypotension in patients undergoing FESS and the superiority of this technique over placebo to achieve favorable surgical field scoring.