Der Anaesthesist
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Several national airway task forces have recently updated their recommendations for the management of the difficult airway in adults. Routinely responding to airway difficulties with an algorithm-based strategy is consistently supported. The focus is increasingly not on tools and devices but more on good planning, preparation and communication. ⋯ Simplicity and clarity are essential for recall under stressful and time-sensitive conditions. The algorithm should be adapted to local conditions and preferences and devices should be limited to a definite number. The acquisition and maintenance of expertise by education and training is demanded.
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Observational Study
[Hemodynamic effects of cafedrine/theodrenaline on anesthesia-induced hypotension].
There is insufficient knowledge about the hemodynamic effects of cafedrine/theodrenaline (caf/theo), a commercially available drug combination, to treat hypotension. ⋯ In anesthesia-induced hypotension caf/theo effectively increased the mean arterial blood pressure by combined effects on preload, contractility, and afterload without altering cardiovascular efficiency.
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Despite broad availability, extended hemodynamic monitoring is used in practice only in the minority of critical care patients. Pathophysiological reasoning suggests that systemic perfusion pressure (and thereby arterial as well as central venous pressure), cardiac stroke volume, and the systemic oxygen balance are key variables in maintaining adequate organ perfusion. ⋯ Ideally, high-risk patients with limited right ventricular function should be monitored with a pulmonary artery catheter. In patients with preserved right ventricular function, transpulmonary thermodilution with special consideration of extravascular lung water seems to be sufficient to guide hemodynamic therapy.
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Review
[Central venous pressure in liver surgery : A primary therapeutic goal or a hemodynamic tessera?]
Central venous pressure (CVP) is deemed to be an important parameter of anesthesia management in liver surgery. To reduce blood loss during liver resections, a low target value of CVP is often propagated. Although current meta-analyses have shown a connection between low CVP and a reduction in blood loss, the underlying studies show methodological weaknesses and advantages with respect to morbidity and mortality can hardly be proven. ⋯ The definition of a generally valid target area for the CVP must be called into question. The primary objective is to maintain adequate oxygen supply and euvolemia. The CVP should be regarded as a mosaic stone of hemodynamic management.