Articles: general-anesthesia.
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General anesthesia induces changes in dendritic spine number and synaptic transmission in developing mice. These changes are rather disturbing, as similar changes are seen in animal models of neurodevelopmental disorders. We previously suggested that mTor-dependent upregulation of mitochondrial function may be involved in such changes. ⋯ We next assessed whether the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt) acted as a link between anesthetic exposure and mitochondrial function. Expression of UPRmt proteins, which help maintain protein-folding homeostasis and increase mitochondrial function, was increased 6 h after sevoflurane exposure. Our results show that a single, brief sevoflurane exposure induces age-dependent changes in mitochondrial function that constitute an important mechanism for the increase in excitatory synaptic transmission in late postnatal mice, and also suggest mitochondria and UPRmt as potential targets for preventing anesthesia toxicity.
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Clin. Hemorheol. Microcirc. · Jan 2021
Non-invasive evaluation of macro- and microhemodynamic changes during induction of general anesthesia - A prospective observational single-blinded trial.
Hypotension and bradycardia are known side effects of general anesthesia, while little is known about further macro- and microhemodynamic changes during induction. Intriguing is furthermore, why some patients require no vasopressor medication to uphold mean arterial pressure, while others need vasopressor support. ⋯ Non-invasive determination of CO provides additional hemodynamic information during anesthesia, showing that induction results in a significant decrease not only of MAP but also of CO and other cardiac factors at all timepoints compared to baseline values. The decrease of CO was greater than that of MAP and, in contrast to MAP, did not respond to NE. There was also no sign of a positive inotropic effect of NE in this situation. Support of MAP by NE must consequently result from an increase in peripheral arterial resistance, posing a risk for oxygen supply to tissue. In addition, general anesthesia and the operative stimulus lead to an impairment of the microcirculation.
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The use of neuromuscular blockers during surgery represented a landmark for anesthesiology. However, their use can prompt residual Neuromuscular Blockade (RNMB) and objective monitoring of neuromuscular function is crucial to warrant the recovery of muscle strength. The present study aimed to estimate the incidence of RNMB and late Neuromuscular Blockade (LNMB) at the Post-Anesthetic Recovery Unit (PACU). ⋯ The incidence ofRNMB remains significant despite the use of intermediate-acting neuromuscular blockers and reversal agents. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of RNMB or LNMB in patients receiving cisatracurium or rocuronium. The use of objective NMB monitoring is effective for the diagnosis of RNMB, as well as for treatment management.
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During the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), allocating intensive care beds to patients needing acute care surgery became a very difficult task. Moreover, since general anesthesia is an aerosol-generating procedure, its use became controversial. This strongly restricted therapeutic strategies. Here, we report a series of undeferrable surgical cases treated with awake surgery under neuraxial anesthesia. Contextual benefits of this approach are deepened. ⋯ In our experience, awake laparotomy under regional anesthesia resulted feasible, safe, painless, and, in specific cases, was the only viable option. This approach allowed prevention of the need of postoperative intensive monitoring during the COVID-19 era. In such a peculiar time, we believe it could become part of an ICU-preserving strategy and could limit viral transmission inside theatres.