Anesthesia and analgesia
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Anesthesia and analgesia · Sep 2003
Case ReportsEpidural blood patch placed in the presence of an unknown cervical epidural hematoma.
We discuss a case detailing a favorable outcome of an epidural blood patch performed in the presence of an unknown cervical epidural hematoma. The case highlights the use of a spinal needle for epidural space confirmation, the importance of waiting for final consultation and radiologic testing results before therapeutic intervention when possible, and the use of an epidural blood patch, even in the setting of a known epidural hematoma.
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Anesthesia and analgesia · Sep 2003
Comparative StudyAntinociceptive properties of neurosteroids: a comparison of alphadolone and alphaxalone in potentiation of opioid antinociception.
In this study, we investigated the antinociceptive and sedative effects of the opioids fentanyl, morphine, and oxycodone given alone and in combination with two neurosteroids: alphadolone and alphaxalone. An open-field activity monitor and rotarod apparatus were used to define the sedative effects caused by opioid and neurosteroid compounds given alone intraperitoneally to male Wistar rats. Dose-response curves for antinociception were constructed using only nonsedative doses of these drugs. ⋯ Alphaxalone given alone had no antinociceptive effects at nonsedative doses and it had no effect on opioid antinociception. Neither neurosteroid caused sedative effects when combined with opioids. We conclude that coadministration of alphadolone, but not alphaxalone, with morphine, fentanyl, or oxycodone potentiates antinociception and that this effect is not caused by an increase in sedation.