A&A practice
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Burning mouth syndrome is a chronic pain condition characterized by a burning sensation of the oropharynx. The pathophysiology of burning mouth syndrome includes peripheral and central sensitization. ⋯ Low-dose naltrexone has been reported to provide analgesia in central sensitization states and was successful in reducing pain severity in our patient. We conclude that low-dose naltrexone may be a therapeutic option for patients with burning mouth syndrome who are refractory to conventional therapies.
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Increased intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) following large abdominal surgeries can lead to postoperative complications, including wound dehiscence and surgical reoperation. Numerous factors can contribute to increased postoperative IAP, and intractable hiccups have been implicated as a culprit. ⋯ Here, we present a case in which postoperative hiccups leading to wound dehiscence and reoperation were successfully treated with an indwelling phrenic nerve catheter. Following placement, a significant reduction in hiccup severity and frequency was noted, improving the patient's quality of postoperative course and preventing further surgical intervention.
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Multiple disease processes can contribute to coagulopathy in the setting of intrauterine fetal demise. A 34-year-old woman with multiple prior uterine surgeries presented for dilation and evacuation of a fetal demise at 17 weeks. Her case was complicated by significant hemorrhage and coagulopathy requiring massive transfusion and hysterectomy. ⋯ Pathology identified a focal placenta accreta. While not known to present together, fetal demise, placenta accreta, and atypical hemolytic-uremic syndrome can occur in the same patient with an overlapping presentation. Early hematology consultation is recommended in the setting of ongoing hemolysis and renal dysfunction.
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A 60-year-old woman with a 5-year history of anxiolytic use, a diazepam-equivalent daily dose of 15 mg, was scheduled for esophageal stent removal. She was given remimazolam (0.5 mg/kg) but remained fully alert. She only lost consciousness with propofol (40 mg). ⋯ He was given remimazolam (0.3 mg/kg) but remained fully alert. He only lost consciousness after desflurane inhalation. In a patient with a history of long-term benzodiazepine use, anesthetic or sedative agents aside from remimazolam should be considered.
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Recent studies have demonstrated that vasopressors can be delivered safely through peripheral intravenous lines. While norepinephrine is usually delivered at a concentration of 16 to 32 μg/mL, out of concern for extravasation and interstitial necrosis, some patients receive more dilute norepinephrine solutions through peripheral intravenous catheters. ⋯ After the incident, the institutional policy changed to recommend normal saline as the default diluent for peripheral norepinephrine, with a more concentrated option available. The incident also informed similar guidelines at other hospitals.