Anesthesiology
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Sevoflurane has been found to increase apoptosis and pathologic markers associated with Alzheimer disease, provoking concern over their potential contribution to postoperative cognitive dysfunction. ⋯ Sevoflurane anesthesia did not impair acquisition learning and retention memory in young adult or aged rats.
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Intraoperative cardiac arrest (ICA) is a rare but potentially catastrophic event. There is a paucity of recent epidemiological data on the incidence and risk factors for ICA. The objective of this study was to assess the incidence, risk factors, and survival outcome of ICAs in adults undergoing noncardiac surgery. ⋯ Intraoperative blood loss as indicated by the amount of transfusion was the most important predictor of ICA. The urgency of surgery and the preoperative composite indicators of health such as American Society of Anesthesiologists status and functional status were other important risk factors. The high case fatality suggests that primary prevention might be the key to reducing mortality from ICA.