International journal of obstetric anesthesia
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Int J Obstet Anesth · May 2023
Observational StudyMaternal heart rate variability patterns associated with maternal hypotension and non-reassuring fetal heart rate patterns following initiation of combined spinal-epidural labor analgesia: a prospective observational trial.
We evaluated whether baseline maternal heart rate variability (HRV), including the Analgesia Nociception Index (ANI), is associated with maternal hypotension and fetal heart rate (FHR) abnormalities following combined spinal-epidural (CSE) labor analgesia. ⋯ The ANI can predict the propensity for maternal hypotension and non-reassuring FHR patterns following CSE.
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Int J Obstet Anesth · May 2023
ReviewThe use of processed electroencephalography (pEEG) in obstetric anaesthesia: a narrative review.
Accidental awareness under general anaesthesia (AAGA) remains a major complication of anaesthesia. The incidence of AAGA during obstetric anaesthesia is high relative to other specialities. The use of processed electroencephalography (pEEG) in the form of "depth of anaesthesia" monitoring has been shown to reduce the incidence of AAGA in the non-obstetric population. ⋯ In addition, pEEG acts as a surrogate marker of cerebral perfusion, and thus as an additional monitor for impending cardiovascular collapse, as seen in amniotic fluid embolism. The subtle physiological and pathological changes in EEG activity that may occur during pregnancy are an unexplored research area in the context of anaesthetic pEEG monitors. We believe that the direction of clinical practice is moving towards greater use of pEEG monitoring and individualisation of anaesthesia.
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In this update we explore the current applications of simulation in obstetric anesthesia, describe what is known regarding its impacts on care and consider the different settings in which simulation programs are required. We will introduce practical strategies, such as cognitive aids and communication tools, that can be applied in the obstetric setting and share ways in which a program might apply these tools. Finally, we provide a list of common obstetric emergencies essential for a program's curriculum and common teamwork pitfalls to address within a comprehensive obstetric anesthesia simulation program.
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Int J Obstet Anesth · May 2023
Observational StudyClinical and ultrasonographic assessment of airway indices among non-pregnant, normotensive pregnant and pre-eclamptic patients: a prospective observational study.
Prediction of a difficult airway is of paramount importance for an anaesthesiologist. Various anatomical and physiological factors contribute to a difficult airway in pregnant females, especially those with pre-eclampsia. The aim of the study was to assess airway indices using both routinely used clinical methods and ultrasound. ⋯ Routinely used clinical methods of airway assessment lack sensitivity and specificity. Ultrasound can visualise anatomical structures in the supraglottic and subglottic views and is encouraging as an airway assessment tool.
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Int J Obstet Anesth · May 2023
ReviewScholarship in anesthesiology: the role of critical appraisal, literature review, quality improvement, journal club, and presentation skills.
If asked to describe the term "anesthesiologist scholar", one may receive a variety of definitions depending on the individual's area of practice, location in the world, and the generation in which they trained. In this article, we review the roles of five core elements that make an anesthesiologist a "scholar": skills in critical appraisal, literature review, quality improvement, journal club participation, and presentation delivery. ⋯ Overall, through the dissemination, recognition, and support of scholarship through these practices, we will continue to achieve meaningful outcomes for our patients and promote a culture of collaboration worldwide. We should ensure that these topic areas become a bedrock of medical education globally, and we must foster opportunities for those who have already completed training to develop and master these skills as a part of their clinical and academic practice.