Current opinion in anaesthesiology
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The present review serves as an overview update in the diverse uses of the sedative dexmedetomidine. ⋯ Dexmedetomidine is a useful medication with many clinical applications. The medication has shown efficacy in decreasing the need for opioids, benzodiazepines, propofol, and other sedative medications. Short-term sedation has been shown to be safe in studies, although hypotension and bradycardia are the most significant side effects. Dexmedetomidine has been used effectively for sedation during pediatric procedures and in the ICU. In order to reduce sympathetic tone during cardiac surgery, a low-dose dexmedetomidine infusion has been utilized. The bariatric surgery population has also been studied with dexmedetomidine because of its adequate sedation and less prevalent respiratory depression when compared with opioid administration. Dexmedetomidine is emerging as an effective therapeutic agent in the management of a wide range of clinical conditions with an efficacious, safe profile.
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Curr Opin Anaesthesiol · Aug 2008
ReviewPerioperative management including new pharmacological vistas for patients with pulmonary hypertension for noncardiac surgery.
Pulmonary hypertension is a condition that has a multitude of causes. Left untreated, patients with pulmonary hypertension will experience progressive symptoms of dyspnea and right heart failure resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. This review details the many evolving aspects of understanding related to pulmonary hypertension including signs and symptoms, pathophysiology, classification, anesthetic management including perioperative considerations and treatment options. ⋯ Coupled with aggressive use of improved diagnostic hemodynamic monitors perioperatively, these patients can be medically optimized during their hospitalization and possibly aid in improving their long-term prognosis.
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To review the recently published peer-reviewed literature involving regional anesthesia and analgesia in patients at home. ⋯ Advantages of regional techniques include site-specific anesthesia and decreased postoperative opioid use. For shoulder surgeries, the interscalene block provides effective analgesia with minimal complications, whereas the impact and risks of intraarticular injections remain unclear. Perineural catheters are an analgesic option that offer improved pain relief among other benefits. They are now being used at home in both adult and pediatric populations.
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To evaluate the risks and safety of anaesthesia performed outside the operating room. ⋯ There is an urgent need for good data on complications with anaesthesia outside the operating room.