Anesthesia and analgesia
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Anesthesia and analgesia · Dec 2007
Comparative StudyDark skin decreases the accuracy of pulse oximeters at low oxygen saturation: the effects of oximeter probe type and gender.
Pulse oximetry may overestimate arterial oxyhemoglobin saturation (Sao2) at low Sao2 levels in individuals with darkly pigmented skin, but other factors, such as gender and oximeter probe type, remain less studied. ⋯ Multivariate analysis indicated that Sao2 level, sensor type, skin color, and gender were predictive of errors in Spo2 estimates at low Sao2 levels. The data suggest that clinically important bias should be considered when monitoring patients with saturations below 80%, especially those with darkly pigmented skin; but further study is needed to confirm these observations in the relevant populations.
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Anesthesia and analgesia · Dec 2007
ReviewPhotoplethysmography: beyond the calculation of arterial oxygen saturation and heart rate.
In this article, I examine the source of the photoplethysmograph (PPG), as well as methods of investigation, with an emphasize on amplitude, rhythm, and pulse analysis. The PPG waveform was first described in the 1930s. Although considered an interesting ancillary monitor, the "pulse waveform" never underwent intensive investigation. ⋯ Future trends are being heavily influenced by modern digital signal processing, which is allowing a re-examination of this ubiquitous waveform. Key to unlocking the potential of this waveform is an unfettered access to the raw signal, combined with standardization of its presentation, and methods of analysis. In the long run, we need to learn how to consistently quantify the characteristics of the PPG in such a way as to allow the results from research efforts be translated into clinically useful devices.
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Anesthesia and analgesia · Dec 2007
Comparative Study Clinical TrialThe usefulness of an earphone-type infrared tympanic thermometer for intraoperative core temperature monitoring.
In this study we sought to determine the usefulness of a novel earphone-type infrared tympanic thermometer (IRT) for core temperature monitoring during surgery. ⋯ The earphone-type IRT might be used in a clinical setting for reliable and continuous core temperature monitoring during an operation.
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Anesthesia and analgesia · Dec 2007
Comparative StudyA bibliometric analysis of global clinical research by anesthesia departments.
Few studies have investigated the diversity in research conducted by anesthesia-based researchers. We examined global clinical research attributed to anesthesia departments using Medline and Ovid databases. We also investigated the impact of economic development on national academic productivity. ⋯ Clinical research attributable to investigators in our specialty is diverse, and extends beyond the traditional field of anesthesia and intensive care. The United States produces the most clinical research, but per capita output is higher in European nations.
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Anesthesia and analgesia · Dec 2007
Comparative StudyKetamine does not increase pulmonary vascular resistance in children with pulmonary hypertension undergoing sevoflurane anesthesia and spontaneous ventilation.
The use of ketamine in children with increased pulmonary vascular resistance is controversial. In this prospective, open label study, we evaluated the hemodynamic responses to ketamine in children with pulmonary hypertension (mean pulmonary artery pressure >25 mm Hg). ⋯ In the presence of sevoflurane, ketamine did not increase pulmonary vascular resistance in spontaneously breathing children with severe pulmonary hypertension.