Journal of clinical anesthesia
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This study aims to determine trends and predictors of acute stroke among total joint arthroplasty (TJA) patients using nationally representative data. ⋯ Despite a decline in the rate of stroke and stroke-related mortality after TJA, stroke still seems to be a major cause of in-hospital mortality. The present study outlines some risk factors for stroke after TJA. Recognition of these factors and identification of the at-risk patients may allow for appropriate allocation of resources and ability to minimize this complication after TJA.
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We report a patient with a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction to a chlorhexidine-coated central venous catheter, confirmed with a high serum level of chlorhexidine-specific IgE. To our knowledge, this is the first case successfully resuscitated using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Great caution is required when using chlorhexidine and chlorhexidine-impregnated catheters, given that its widespread use has the potential to sensitize certain patients and may result in life-threatening anaphylaxis on subsequent exposure. ⋯ We have designed a flowchart for the diagnosis and management of severe anaphylaxis. This case report highlights the potential for chlorhexidine to be a source for the development of refractory anaphylactic shock. We suggest that ECMO may save the lives of patients with severe bronchospasm and refractory anaphylactic shock secondary to chlorhexidine.
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Case Reports
Successful recovery after amniotic fluid embolism in a patient undergoing vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery.
Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare, catastrophic emergency that requires prompt recognition and treatment. Despite early recognition and supportive therapy, the morbidity and mortality remain high. We report a case of AFE after vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery resulting in hemodynamic collapse and subsequent multiorgan failure. ⋯ The patient was able to make a full recovery with minimal sequelae. In AFE with multiorgan failure, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and continuous veno-venous hemodialysis can be valuable therapies. Proper management requires effective communication and the combined efforts of physicians of several disciplines.
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Observational Study
An in vitro evaluation of the pressure generated during programmed intermittent epidural bolus injection at varying infusion delivery speeds.
Programmed intermittent bolus injection of epidural anesthetic solution results in decreased anesthetic consumption and better patient satisfaction compared with continuous infusion, presumably by better spread of the anesthetic solution in the epidural space. It is not known whether the delivery speed of the bolus injection influences analgesia outcomes. The objective of this in vitro study was to determine the pressure generated by a programmed intermittent bolus pump at 4 infusion delivery speeds through open-ended, single-orifice and closed-end, multiorifice epidural catheters. ⋯ Using a pump designed for programmed intermittent infusion boluses, the delivery speed of saline solution through epidural catheters was directly related to the peak pressures. Future work should evaluate whether differences in the delivery speed of anesthetic solution into the epidural space correlate with differences in the duration and quality of analgesia during programmed intermittent epidural bolus delivery.
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The prevalence of anesthesiology department wellness programs is unknown. A database of wellness programs is needed as a resource for departments attempting to respond to the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education Anesthesiology Milestones Project. The purpose of this study was to survey academic anesthesiology chairs on wellness issues, characterize initiatives, and establish wellness contacts for a Wellness Initiative Database (WID). ⋯ The majority of chairs needed to recently refer a department member to wellness resources or counseling. Most were interested in participating in a WID, whereas a minority had gauged staff interest in wellness topics or had a wellness resource repository. Highest interest was in topics most related to function as an anesthesiologist. Those willing to participate in the database had statistically significant differences in interest across most wellness topics.