Der Anaesthesist
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We have developed a modern strategy for the anaesthetic management of the pediatric airway using anaesthetic drugs such as sevoflurane, propofol, mivacurium and remifentanil, together with new techniques including the laryngeal mask. This strategy provides optimal conditions for the examiner and maximum safety for the pediatric patient. ⋯ Important indications include acute and chronic stridor, chronic obstructive airway disease, mucoviscidosis and foreign body aspiration. The best and safest techniques are outlined depending on the clinical situation, and the most frequent complications are discussed, e.g. hypoxaemia, respiratory arrest, laryngospasm, bronchial obstruction, pneumothorax and overdosing of local anaesthetic agents.
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Catecholamines are currently the most often used vasopressor agents in the treatment of vasodilatory shock. However, progressive catecholamine resistance is a feared complication. Recent studies have shown that arginine vasopressin, an endogenous hormone of the neurohypophysis, may be a potent vasopressor when used in combination with catecholamines. ⋯ In the guidelines of both the "American Heart Association" and the "International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation" from the year 2000, arginine vasopressin is recommended as a possibly helpful agent in therapy refractory vasodilatory septic shock. There is currently limited data on possible side effects of a continuous arginine vasopressin therapy in vasodilatory shock. Therefore, arginine vasopressin should be restricted to patients where adequate stabilization of hemodynamic function cannot be achieved by conventional vasopressor therapy alone.