Anesthesia and analgesia
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Anesthesia and analgesia · Jan 2015
ReviewMetrology in medicine: from measurements to decision, with specific reference to anesthesia and intensive care.
Metrology is the science of measurements. Although of critical importance in medicine and especially in critical care, frequent confusion in terms and definitions impact either interphysician communications or understanding of manufacturers' and engineers' instructions and limitations when using devices. In this review, we first list the terms defined by the International Bureau of Weights and Measures regarding quantities and units, measurements, devices for measurement, properties of measuring devices, and measurement standards. The traditional tools for assessing the most important measurement quality criteria are also reviewed with clinical examples for diagnosis, alarm, and titration purposes, as well as for assessing the uncertainty of reference methods.
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Anesthesia and analgesia · Jan 2015
Review Case ReportsPostpartum spinal cord, root, plexus and peripheral nerve injuries involving the lower extremities: a practical approach.
Neurological complications after labor and delivery are most often caused by compressive trauma related to childbirth and rarely related to neuraxial anesthesia/analgesia. However, it is important for anesthesiologists to be able to recognize the common manifestations of these neuropathies in order to distinguish them from more ominous causes of neurologic disease. ⋯ We will focus on a practical approach to their diagnosis, management, and treatment. Cases will be used to illustrate diagnosis and management.
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Anesthesia and analgesia · Jan 2015
Randomized Controlled TrialAn Acetate-Buffered Balanced Crystalloid Versus 0.9% Saline in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease Undergoing Cadaveric Renal Transplantation: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial.
Recent studies have shown a decline in glomerular filtration rate and increased renal vasoconstriction after administration of normal saline when compared with IV solutions with less chloride. In this study, we investigated the impact of normal saline versus a chloride-reduced, acetate-buffered crystalloid on the incidence of hyperkalemia during cadaveric renal transplantation. The incidence of metabolic acidosis and kidney function were secondary aims. ⋯ The incidence of hyperkalemia differed by less than 17% between groups. Use of balanced crystalloid resulted in less hyperchloremia and metabolic acidosis. Significantly more patients in the saline group required administration of catecholamines for circulatory support.