Journal of cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesia
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J. Cardiothorac. Vasc. Anesth. · Feb 2023
ReviewA Free-Access Online Interactive Simulator to Enhance Perioperative Transesophageal Echocardiography Training Using a High-Fidelity Human Heart 3D Model.
The clinical uses of perioperative transesophageal echocardiography have grown exponentially in recent years for both cardiac and noncardiac surgical patients. Yet, echocardiography is a complex skill that also requires an advanced understanding of human cardiac anatomy. Although simulation has changed the way echocardiography is taught, most available systems are still limited by investment costs, accessibility, and qualities of the input cardiac 3-dimensional models. In this report, the authors discuss the development of an online simulator using a high-resolution human heart scan that accurately represents real cardiac anatomies, and that should be accessible to a wide range of learners without space or time limitations.
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J. Cardiothorac. Vasc. Anesth. · Feb 2023
ReviewCardiovascular Drug Administration Errors During Neuraxial Anesthesia or Analgesia-A Narrative Review.
The prevalence and harm associated with inadvertent neuraxial cardiovascular (CV) medication administration errors are unknown. This review aims to analyze neuraxial CV drug administration errors and associated clinical consequences. The secondary objective is to identify the causes and contributory factors in order to prevent future incidents. ⋯ All were preventable skill-based errors. The human factor analysis classification system (HFACS) identified poor organizational climate, inadequate supervision of junior doctors, deficiencies in neuraxial task processes, and incorrect visual perception of objects. The HFACS suggests CV medication safety strategies should include better education and training of junior doctors, modifications in neuraxial anesthesia practices, and careful handling of the CV drug ampoules and syringes.
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J. Cardiothorac. Vasc. Anesth. · Feb 2023
Meta AnalysisEffect of the Paravertebral Block on Chronic Postsurgical Pain After Thoracic Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
This study aimed to identify the benefits of thoracic paravertebral block (PVB) by focusing on its role in reducing chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) after thoracic surgery. ⋯ Thoracic PVB does not prevent CPSP after thoracic surgery. Further large RCTs are required to confirm and validate the authors' results.
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J. Cardiothorac. Vasc. Anesth. · Feb 2023
ReviewTreatment Strategies in Anemic Patients Before Cardiac Surgery.
Both preoperative anemia and the transfusion of red blood cells have been associated with increased morbidity and mortality after cardiac surgery. To reduce the need for blood transfusion during surgery and improve patient outcomes, patient blood management programs have been developed. A primary focus of patient blood management in the preoperative period is the identification, diagnosis, and treatment of preoperative anemia, as anemia is associated with an increased risk of preoperative blood transfusion. ⋯ Combined therapy might effectively reduce the need for red blood cell transfusion, even if applied shortly before cardiac surgery. The therapeutic effect on morbidity and mortality remains unclear. Nonetheless, the timely preoperative assessment of anemia and determination of iron status, eventually leading to targeted therapy, should become a standard of care and might potentially improve patient outcomes.