Canadian journal of anaesthesia = Journal canadien d'anesthésie
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Massive transfusion has recently been given a dynamic definition, namely, the replacement of more than four red cell concentrates within an hour. The purpose of this continuing professional development module is to review the pathophysiology of hemorrhagic shock in the trauma patient and the current management strategies of the massively bleeding trauma patient. ⋯ After reading this module, the reader should be able to: 1. Enumerate the complications associated with massive transfusion in the trauma context; 2. Understand how the coagulopathy present in the trauma patient differs from that seen in the elective setting; 3. Identify the modifications suggested by the recent literature for the management of massive transfusion in the trauma setting; 4. Appreciate the evidence for the institution of massive transfusion protocols.
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Interscalene nerve blocks provide adequate analgesia, but there are no objective criteria for early assessment of correct catheter placement. In the present study, pulse oximetry technology was used to evaluate changes in the perfusion index (PI) in both blocked and unblocked arms, and changes in the plethysmographic variability index (PVI) were evaluated once mechanical ventilation was instituted. ⋯ The perfusion index increases after successful interscalene nerve blockade and may be used as an indicator for successful block placement in awake patients. The PVI values before and after a fluid challenge can be useful to detect changes in preload, and this can be performed in both blocked and unblocked arms.
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Letter Case Reports
Bullae after rapid blood transfusion through a warming system.