Current opinion in anaesthesiology
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Hysterectomy is a common surgical procedure with a low risk of major complications. However, some women experience long-lasting complications, including chronic postsurgical pain, which can have a negative impact on their quality of life. This review aims to present the recent literature on chronic pain following hysterectomy for benign indications. ⋯ Chronic pain may occur after hysterectomy. Preoperative screening tools, including psychological screening for depression and anxiety, may identify women at risk of developing chronic postsurgical pain, and future studies should examine perioperative interventions aimed at preventing the development of chronic pain after hysterectomy.
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Curr Opin Anaesthesiol · Jun 2018
ReviewPeer support in anesthesia: turning war stories into wellness.
Peer support, a method of providing for the well being of healthcare providers following adverse or stressful events, is garnering increased attention in light of the increased prevalence and awareness of burnout, depression and suicidality in physicians. In this review, we will summarize the evolution of the 'second victim,' explore methods of support and examine how new regulatory requirements are changing the peer support landscape. ⋯ Effective and accessible peer support is developing in many departments nationwide and can only be expected to continue, given new regulatory requirements. As these programs develop, and research on their effect continues, best practices will likely emerge.
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Curr Opin Anaesthesiol · Jun 2018
ReviewOccupational stress, burnout and personality in anesthesiologists.
There is a growing awareness of the problem of occupational stress and burnout among anesthesiologists. Occupational stress was found to be related to burnout, a process that is supposed to be moderated by personality. This article will discuss the topic of stress and burnout in relationship to anesthesiologists' personality based on recent literature. ⋯ Strategies to alleviate stress and hence the development of burnout should not only be directed at adapting occupational or organizational factors but also at equipping anesthesiologists with psychological tools to deal with occupational stress. Furthermore, personality traits that predispose for development of burnout could be taken into consideration in resident selection procedures.
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Curr Opin Anaesthesiol · Jun 2018
ReviewPerioperative considerations for airway management and drug dosing in obese children.
Childhood obesity, a phenomenon that is increasing globally, holds substantial relevance for pediatric anesthesia. In particular, understanding the nuances of airway management and drug dosing in obese children can be daunting. ⋯ Theoretical knowledge, practical skills, meticulous risk stratification and optimal drug regimens are crucial to ensure the safe conduct of anesthesia for obese children.
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Curr Opin Anaesthesiol · Jun 2018
ReviewAcute pain management in children: challenges and recent improvements.
The evidence regarding the efficacy of analgesics available to guide postoperative pain treatment in pediatric patients is limited. Opioid medications are very often an important component of pediatric postoperative pain treatment but have been associated with perioperative complications. We will focus on initiatives aiming to provide effective treatment minimizing the use of opioids and preventing the long-term consequences of pain. ⋯ Treatment options have evolved in recent years, including the combinations of multimodal regimens and regional anesthetic techniques. Using combinations of nonopioid analgesics in a multimodal approach may limit the need for opioids.