Journal of clinical anesthesia
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Observational Study
Differences between patients in whom physicians agree versus disagree about the preoperative diagnosis of heart failure.
To quantify preoperative heart failure (HF) diagnostic agreement and identify characteristics of patients in whom physicians agreed versus disagreed about the diagnosis. ⋯ Physicians usually agree about HF diagnoses adjudicated via chart review, although disagreement is not uncommon and may be partly explained by heterogeneous clinical presentations. Our findings inform preoperative screening processes by identifying patients whose characteristics contribute to physician disagreement via chart review. Clinical Trial Number / Registry URL: Not applicable.
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Observational Study
Pleth variability index during preoxygenation could predict anesthesia-induced hypotension: A prospective, observational study.
To determine whether changes in the pleth variability index (PVi) during preoxygenation with forced ventilation for 1 min could predict anesthesia-induced hypotension. ⋯ Hypotension frequently occurs during general anesthesia induction and can impact outcomes. Additionally, the percentage change in the PVi before and after preoxygenation using deep breathing can be used to predict anesthesia-induced hypotension.
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To analyze the use of neuraxial techniques in total hip or knee arthroplasty patients who previously underwent lumbar spine surgeries. ⋯ Previous lumbar fusion -but not decompression- surgery is associated with lower neuraxial anesthesia in THA/TKA patients, despite its use being universally associated with decreased length of stay. More research is needed to address the importance of neuraxial techniques in patients with prior spine surgery.
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Digitalizing the preoperative assessment clinic can be a solution to keep up with the growing demand for surgery. It remains unclear if a digital preoperative assessment clinic is as safe, and effective in terms of patient health outcomes and experience compared to face-to-face consultations. This study aimed to compare quality of recovery and mental state in patients undergoing a digital preoperative assessment versus regular face-to-face consultations. ⋯ A digital preoperative screening is not inferior to face-to-face consultations in patients undergoing predominantly low to moderate risk surgery. Given its potential to reduce physician workload, reallocate healthcare resources, and lower healthcare costs, a digital preoperative screening may be a better choice for preoperative assessments.
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Observational Study
Clinical triggers and vital signs influencing crisis acknowledgment and calls for help by anesthesiologists: A simulation-based observational study.
In a perioperative emergency, anesthesiologists must acknowledge the unfolding crisis promptly, call for timely assistance, and avert patient harm. We aimed to identify vital signs and qualitative factors prompting crisis acknowledgment and to compare responses between observers and participants in simulation. ⋯ Despite overall heterogeneity in clinical performance, anesthesiologists acknowledged crises per standard definitions of hypotension. Thresholds for crisis acknowledgment did not significantly differ between PAICs and AOs, suggesting minimal effect from active care responsibility. Many indicated crises at MAP <65 mmHg or after significant deterioration, risking failure-to-rescue events. We suggest that crisis management instruction should address triggers for requesting help.