Journal of clinical anesthesia
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Two types of bradykinin-mediated angioedema, hereditary angioedema (HAE) and acquired angioedema (AAE), result from deficiency or dysfunction of C1 esterase inhibitor, leading to an overproduction of bradykinin, which can lead to vascular permeability and life-threatening angioedema of the airway. The objective of this study was to review perioperative outcomes in a series of patients with HAE and AAE and to review current knowledge about anesthetic complications in patients with HAE or AAE. ⋯ Life-threatening episodes of angioedema of the airway occur infrequently, but they can occur in patients who received pretreatment and in patients who have previously undergone anesthesia uneventfully. Anesthesiologists must be ready to emergently manage a difficult airway and must be familiar with recommendations provided in consensus guidelines for the treatment of HAE and AAE patients.
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Postdural puncture headache (PDPH) is the most common symptom of accidental dural puncture, a frequent complication of intraspinal anesthesia. We developed a postoperative intervention technique to prevent and treat PDPH in accidental dural puncture patients, including epidural pumping of saline. This retrospective study aimed to retrospectively evaluate this new technique for PDPH prevention and treatment. ⋯ Our data indicated that application of 6mL/h saline effectively contributes to PDPH management, and its clinical application should be broadened.
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Case Reports
Successful recovery after amniotic fluid embolism in a patient undergoing vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery.
Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare, catastrophic emergency that requires prompt recognition and treatment. Despite early recognition and supportive therapy, the morbidity and mortality remain high. We report a case of AFE after vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery resulting in hemodynamic collapse and subsequent multiorgan failure. ⋯ The patient was able to make a full recovery with minimal sequelae. In AFE with multiorgan failure, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and continuous veno-venous hemodialysis can be valuable therapies. Proper management requires effective communication and the combined efforts of physicians of several disciplines.
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To determine perioperative treatments and events associated with Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) responses among patients who undergo total hip arthroplasties (THAs) and total knee arthroplasties (TKAs). ⋯ These data suggest that chronic use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is associated with improved overall satisfaction and satisfaction with pain in THA patients. Furthermore, increased PACU opioid use was negatively associated satisfaction with pain management. Age, lengths of stay preadmission medications, anxiolytic medications, and PACU pain scores are associated with patient satisfaction with regards to both pain management and overall satisfaction in TKA patients.