Anaesthesia and intensive care
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Anaesth Intensive Care · Oct 2007
Comparative StudyA comparison of tape-tying versus a tube-holding device for securing endotracheal tubes in adults.
During the transfer of intubated patients, endotracheal tube security is paramount. This study aims to compare two methods of securing an endotracheal tube in adults: tying with a cloth tape versus the Thomas Endotracheal Tube Holder (Laerdal). A manikin-based study was performed using paramedics and critical care doctors (consultants and senior trainees) as participants. ⋯ The degree of tube movement was significantly higher when the tube was secured with a tie compared with when the tube holder was used (median movement 22 mm vs. 4 mm, P < 0.0001). We have demonstrated that the tube holder device minimised tube movement in a manikin model when compared with conventional tape tying. The use of this device when transporting intubated patients may reduce the risk of tube displacement though further clinical studies are warranted.
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Anaesth Intensive Care · Oct 2007
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative StudyComparison of airway management during anaesthesia using the laryngeal mask airway CTrach and Glidescope.
The design of the Laryngeal Mask Airway CTrach combines the fibreoptic viewing capability of the Glidescope and the ability for ventilation of the Fastrach. We conducted a prospective randomised trial comparing the intubation characteristics of the CTrach and Glidescope to investigate the difference in clinical performance for airway management during anaesthesia. One-hundred-and-six patients with normal airways were recruited and randomly assigned to the CTrach or Glidescope group. ⋯ There was no apparent difference in complications of device insertion. Our results suggest that during elective management of normal airways, the time to intubation with the Glidescope is significantly shorter than the CTrach. Further studies are required to compare these devices in patients with difficult airways.
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Anaesth Intensive Care · Oct 2007
Case ReportsUnsuccessful lumbar puncture in a paediatric patient with achondroplasia.
We present a case of an unsuccessful lumbar puncture performed on an anaesthetised 17-year-old girl with achondroplasia who was diagnosed with and being treated for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) subsequently showed spinal stenosis and no observable cerebrospinal fluid around the nerve roots at the levels of the lumbar pedicles and discs. A recommendation is made to obtain MRI scans before proceeding with lumbar puncture and/or spinal anaesthesia in this patient group to ensure that the anatomical features of the insertion site are favourable to a successful outcome.
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Anaesth Intensive Care · Oct 2007
Review Case ReportsLemierre's syndrome with septic shock caused by Fusobacterium necrophorum.
Fusobacterium necrophorum infections are rare. We report a 15-year-old male who presented with tachycardia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and ankle pain. He rapidly deteriorated requiring ventilation and vasopressors. ⋯ Fusobacterium necrophorum was identified in blood culture on day nine. The patient recovered with antibiotics and surgical interventions for empyema and septic arthritis. Fusobacterium necrophorum should be a suspected pathogen in septic shock complicated by metastatic abscess formation.