Anaesthesia
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The pressure within the abdominal cavity is normally little more than atmospheric pressure. However, even small increases in intra-abdominal pressure can have adverse effects on renal function, cardiac output, hepatic blood flow, respiratory mechanics, splanchnic perfusion and intracranial pressure. Although intra-abdominal pressure can be measured directly, this is invasive and bedside measurement of intra-abdominal pressure is usually achieved via the urinary bladder. ⋯ The only available treatment for established abdominal compartment syndrome is decompressive laparotomy. Prevention of abdominal compartment syndrome after laparotomy by adoption of an open abdomen approach may be preferable in the patient at significant risk of developing intra-abdominal hypertension, but this has not been demonstrated in any large trials. Most surgeons prefer to adopt a 'wait and see' policy, only intervening when clinical deterioration is associated with a significant increase in intra-abdominal pressure.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
The effect of celecoxib on intrathecal morphine-induced pruritus in patients undergoing Caesarean section.
Pruritus associated with intrathecal opioid administration is particularly common in pregnancy. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce the severity of this pruritus but have undesirable side effects. The recent development of drugs that can specifically inhibit the cyclooxygenase 2 isoenzyme have become an attractive alternative. ⋯ Visual analogue scores for pain and pruritus were measured at 30 min, 2, 4, 8, and 24 h. There was no difference in the severity and onset of pain and pruritus between the two groups. Timing of administration, inadequate dosing and possible altered pharmacokinetics in pregnancy may explain the lack of efficacy.