Anesthesiology
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Anatomic, physiologic, and behavioral studies in animals suggest that spinally released oxytocin should produce analgesia in humans and may also protect from chronic pain after injury. In this article, the authors report preclinical toxicity screening of oxytocin for intrathecal delivery. ⋯ Substances, including natural neurotransmitters, may be toxic when administered in pharmacologic doses in the spinal cord. This preclinical toxicity screen in two species suggests that bolus injections of oxytocin in concentrations up to 1,100 μg/ml are unlikely to cause neurotoxicity. The authors also support cautious clinical application of intrathecal oxytocin under regulatory supervision.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Patient Blood Management in Elective Total Hip- and Knee-replacement Surgery (Part 1): A Randomized Controlled Trial on Erythropoietin and Blood Salvage as Transfusion Alternatives Using a Restrictive Transfusion Policy in Erythropoietin-eligible Patients.
Patient blood management combines the use of several transfusion alternatives. Integrated use of erythropoietin, cell saver, and/or postoperative drain reinfusion devices on allogeneic erythrocyte use was evaluated using a restrictive transfusion threshold. ⋯ In hip- and knee-replacement patients (hemoglobin level, 10 to 13 g/dl), even with a restrictive transfusion trigger, erythropoietin significantly avoids transfusion, however, at unacceptably high costs. Autologous blood salvage devices were not effective.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Effect of Simulation Training on Compliance with Difficult Airway Management Algorithms, Technical Ability, and Skills Retention for Emergency Cricothyrotomy.
The effectiveness of simulation is rarely evaluated. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of a short training course on the ability of anesthesiology residents to comply with current difficult airway management guidelines. ⋯ The training session significantly improved the residents' compliance with guidelines and their performance of cricothyrotomy.
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Intraosseous vascular access is a time-tested procedure which has been incorporated into the 2010 American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. Intravenous access is often difficult to achieve in shock patients, and central line placement can be time consuming. ⋯ Newer insertion devices are easy to use, making the intraosseous route an attractive alternative for venous access during a resuscitation event. It is critical that anesthesiologists, who are often at the forefront of patient resuscitation, understand how to properly use this potentially life-saving procedure.