Canadian journal of anaesthesia = Journal canadien d'anesthésie
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The PiCCO System is a relatively new device allowing intermittent cardiac output monitoring by aortic transpulmonary thermodilution technique (Aorta intermittent) and continuous cardiac output monitoring by pulse contour analysis (Aorta continuous). The objective of this study was to assess the level of agreement of Aorta intermittent and Aorta continuous with intermittent (PA intermittent) and continuous cardiac output (PA continuous) measured through a special pulmonary artery catheter (Vigilance System SvO(2)/CCO Monitor) in patients undergoing single- or double-lung transplantation. ⋯ Measurements with the aortic transpulmonary thermodilution technique give continuous and intermittent values that agree with the pulmonary thermodilution method which is still the current clinical standard.
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To determine if the extent of sensory blockade after the intrathecal injection of hypobaric fentanyl (25 micro g) and bupicavaine (2.5 mg) in the sitting position in term parturients is influenced by body habitus. ⋯ Height did not influence the extent of sensory analgesia after initiation of intrathecal labour analgesia using a hypobaric solution injected with the parturient in the sitting position. Weight and BMI were associated with a non-clinically significant increase in the cephalic spread of analgesia, suggesting that dose adjustments based on body habitus in this population are not necessary.
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Cumulative sum (cusum) analysis is a statistical and graphical tool that examines trends for sequential events over time. It has been used to determine proficiency in technical procedures. We used cusum to determine the number of labour epidural attempts necessary for proficiency in our training program. ⋯ After a period of training, residents are expected to perform the skill of labour epidural insertion independently. This study illustrates that some residents may need as many as 75 attempts to ensure proficiency. Training programs could use cusum to track the progress of their residents' technical skills in order to guarantee an adequate experience.