Journal of clinical anesthesia
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To estimate the magnitude behavior of ferrous-alloy, wire-reinforced microcatheters for subarachnoid anesthesia and the possible hazards of exposing patients to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after accidental catheter fracture within the subarachnoid space. ⋯ The microcatheters under test exhibited marked magnetic properties. Two questions arise: First, should MRI be avoided in patients where broken TFX catheter fragments may lie partly or completely within the subarachnoid space? Second, should ferrous metallic strengthening wire be replaced by a nonmetallic fiber of comparable or greater tensile strength? Further in vitro studies are indicated to answer these questions.
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To determine whether a single epidural dose of morphine sulfate is effective in providing 12- to 24-hour pain relief in children. ⋯ Single-dose caudal epidural morphine in children is safe and effective when administered intraoperatively prior to surgery as the only opioid and coupled with appropriate monitoring, nursing education, and follow-up by the anesthesiologist. These patients can be followed on regular nursing floors with proper monitoring.
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To define the effect of the knee-chest position on pulmonary oxygenation in patients who underwent lower spinal operations under spinal anesthesia. ⋯ A significant improvement of pulmonary oxygenation was seen in elderly patients who underwent lower spinal operation with spinal anesthesia when they were turned to the knee-chest position. The knee-chest position has a beneficial effect on pulmonary oxygenation in elderly patients who are given spinal anesthesia.