British journal of anaesthesia
-
Platelet dysfunction is an important cause of excessive bleeding after cardiac surgery. We assessed two platelet function point-of-care tests: the platelet function analyser (PFA-100) and the Hemostatus(TM) in patients with and without excessive bleeding after cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. ⋯ Patients bleeding excessively in the ICU had abnormal measurements in point-of-care tests without a dramatic decrease in aggregation. Except for patients with increased risk of postbypass bleeding, point-of-care tests are not useful for routine use after cardiac surgery.
-
Several attempts have been made to evaluate patients' concerns with respect to postoperative recovery. To identify aspects of postoperative recovery relevant to patients, several methodological and statistical approaches have been used. One of the first to provide useful information was Fredrick Orkin who used conjoint analysis. This methodology is usually performed by market researchers to learn about the relative importance of product attributes. We used conjoint analysis in the present study. ⋯ Avoidance of PONV is a major concern for patients before surgery.
-
A variety of techniques and drugs, many unlicensed, is used in paediatric regional anaesthesia. This study is the first to survey paediatric anaesthetists about the techniques and drugs used in paediatric regional anaesthesia. The aim is to provide a record and benchmark of UK practice. ⋯ Caudal anaesthesia is widely used for patients of all ages by almost all practitioners. Most anaesthetists at all hospital types and experience levels use adjuvants with local anaesthetics when performing caudal anaesthesia. Those with more experience in paediatric anaesthesia and those in specialist centres commonly use other neuraxial and peripheral block techniques.