A&A practice
-
The curative role of sugammadex has been challenged in several observations of rocuronium-induced anaphylaxis because sugammadex may not completely encapsulate the molecule of rocuronium. In such conditions, rocuronium remains able to cause immunoglobulin E cross-linkage and the anaphylaxis mechanism can continue. ⋯ Intradermic skin tests confirmed rocuronium immunoglobulin E-mediated anaphylaxis but also showed intradermal injection of mixing in equal molecular ratio of sugammadex with rocuronium preventing rocuronium anaphylactic skin reaction. This observation demonstrates the efficacy of sugammadex to prevent rocuronium interaction with the skin immune system.
-
We describe the management of a pregnant patient with osteogenesis imperfecta with a history of numerous fractures, severe scoliosis, and anticipated difficult airway. Her pregnancy was complicated by progressive shortness of breath and a fetal diagnosis of osteogenesis imperfecta. ⋯ Immediately after awake fiberoptic intubation and induction of general anesthesia, capnography waveform was lost with rapid profound oxygen desaturation. A supraglottic airway device was placed, oxygenation maintained with supraglottic airway and positive pressure ventilation throughout case, and the baby was delivered with Apgars of 8 and 9.
-
Case Reports
Retrieval of a Bravo Probe Dislodged Into the Laryngopharynx With Minimal Delay in Ambulatory Care: A Case Report.
Esophageal pH monitoring via wireless probes is used to evaluate chest pain and atypical symptoms and diagnose gastroesophageal reflux. These probes are commonly placed during esophagogastroduodenoscopy performed by gastroenterologists in an ambulatory anesthesia setting. Dislodgment and aspiration of these probes can cause morbidity, require surgical removal, and involve the anesthesia provider in prolonged emergency care. We present a case of a probe dislodgment where aspiration was avoided and describe how retrieval of this device is different from typical hypopharyngeal foreign body removal.
-
Heparin is the only well-established anticoagulant medication for cardiopulmonary bypass making selecting an alternative anticoagulant challenging in patients with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. Other anticoagulant medications can cause significant postoperative bleeding, especially in patients with end-stage renal disease. We present a case of a 63-year-old woman requiring aortic valve replacement with a history of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and end-stage renal disease. Cangrelor and heparin were successfully used during cardiopulmonary bypass, offering an option for anticoagulation management for a uniquely challenging patient population.
-
Case Reports
Low-Dose Intrathecal Ziconotide for Spasticity From Primary Lateral Sclerosis: A Case Report.
Spasticity can be very debilitating and painful. We present a case of severe spasticity from primary lateral sclerosis refractory to intrathecal baclofen in doses up to 1100 μg/d. ⋯ The dose was then titrated up to 3 μg/d with excellent control of spasticity. This case suggests that low-dose intrathecal ziconotide should be considered in patients with lower extremity spasticity refractory to intrathecal baclofen.