Canadian journal of anaesthesia = Journal canadien d'anesthésie
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The intensity of care provided to critically ill patients has been shown to be associated with mortality. In patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), specialized neurocritical care is often required, but whether it affects clinically significant outcomes is unknown. We aimed to determine the association of the intensity of care on mortality and the incidence of withdrawal of life-sustaining therapies in critically ill patients with severe TBI. ⋯ In general, more intense care was associated with fewer deaths and a lower incidence of withdrawal of life-sustaining therapies in critically ill patients with severe TBI.
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Biography Historical Article
Dr. Margaret McCallum-Johnston: Canada's first female anesthesiologist.
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Early mobilization is an important aspect of fast-track protocols and intrathecal bupivacaine is often used in primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Although the optimal dose is not known, conventional doses leave patients unable to mobilize for two to four hours. The dose of an intrathecally administered local anesthetic should therefore be optimized to achieve immediate postoperative mobilization. This study determined the median effective dose (ED) of intrathecal bupivacaine for primary unilateral TKA. ⋯ In this small study with tight control over operative duration, the median effective dosage of intrathecal isobaric bupivacaine for primary unilateral TKA was 3.5 mg and the ED95 was 5 mg. Reduction of conventional dosages of intrathecal bupivacaine is feasible at centres using fast-track arthroplasty protocols.
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Editorial Comment
In asking the right questions, be cautious of confounding by indication.