British journal of anaesthesia
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The thoracic aorta elongates and unfolds with advancing age. Lateral displacement and tortuosity of the descending part may affect oesophageal Doppler monitoring (ODM) readings because probe alignment becomes slanted. This investigation aimed to relate aortic displacement as it appears on the chest radiograph with variations in ODM readings as the probe is inserted to different depths. ⋯ Increased lateral displacement and tortuosity of the descending aorta reduces the reliability of ODM measurements as probe depth is varied, especially with aging.
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The safety of aspirin therapy in neuraxial anaesthesia has been historically questioned, and the current recommendations are still heterogeneous. A comprehensive review of clinical evidence and a comparative analysis of European and American guidelines were performed. Low-dose aspirin produces a selective, complete and irreversible cyclooxygenase-1 blockade, and higher doses do not increase the antiplatelet effect. ⋯ The precautions regarding higher doses do not seem to be justified. Although aspirin alone is considered to be safe in neuraxial anaesthesia, the concurrent administration of other antithrombotic drugs significantly increases the risk of spinal haematoma and the recommended safety times for each of these other drugs must be strictly followed. An individualized assessment of the risks and benefits should be performed, before performing a neuraxial technique or catheter removal in a patient receiving aspirin.