Benzocaine—an unsatisfactory indicator of topical local anaesthetic sensitization for the U.K.

Three thousand consecutive patients undergoing patch tests were tested with a mix of benzocaine, amethocaine hydrochloride and cinchocaine hydrochloride. Eighty-four subjects (2.8%) were found to be allergic to this mix. Forty of these were patch tested with the constituents of the mix: 21 (52.5%) patients were sensitive to amethocaine hydrochloride or cinchocaine hydrochloride or both, but not to benzocaine. We recommend that a non-irritant 'caine mix' containing benzocaine, cinchocaine and amethocaine should be included in the standard patch test series for the U.K.     

POSTANAESTHETIC FOLLOW-UP BY QUESTIONNAIRE: A RESEARCH TOOL

The practicability of conducting a postanaesthetic follow-upby questionnaire was investigated. A 96 per cent response rate,the consistency of the answering, and the lack of difficultyapparently experienced by patients in interpreting the questions,suggested that this might be a useful research tool. More patientscomplained of more symptoms when answering the questionnairethan in a previous series using the personal interview method. ^*Present address: Killinarden, Palmerstown, Dublin,Eire.     

The effect of diazepam and lorazepam on awareness during anaesthesia for Caesarian section

One hundred-and-eighty-three patients having general anaesthesia for Caesarian section were given lorazepam or diazepam intravenously immediately following delivery. The incidence of unpleasant recall was comparable with the reports of other workers. There was no evidence of a specific retrograde amnesic effect by either drug. Neither agent appeared to affect cardiovascular stability, uterine contraction, the reversal of muscle relaxant or the time to recovery of protective reflexes. The patients tended to be drowsier after lorazepam but as safe as after diazepam so far as circulation, respiration and protective reflexes were concerned.     

Microcomputer data handling for the Phoenix system

A modified Phoenix data processing system has been introduced into the laboratories at the Manchester Royal Infirmary. Specifications for the design and installation of microcomputers to link automated instruments to this host computer are described. The operation and data manipulation facilities of the microcomputer are included. It is concluded that these devices aid the management of data within the department and improve the quality of service.