Current opinion in anaesthesiology
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Curr Opin Anaesthesiol · Apr 2017
ReviewHemotherapy algorithm for the management of trauma-induced coagulopathy: the German and European perspective.
This review presents a synopsis of best current knowledge with reference to the updated German and European guidelines and recommendations on the management of severe trauma hemorrhage and trauma-induced coagulopathy as well as a viscoelastic-based treatment algorithm based upon international expert consensus to trigger the administration of hemostatic agents and blood products. ⋯ Current guidelines urge for the implementation of evidence-based local protocols and algorithms including clinical quality and safety management systems together with parameters to assess key measures of bleeding control and outcome.
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Curr Opin Anaesthesiol · Apr 2017
ReviewEvolving healthcare delivery paradigms and the optimization of 'value' in anesthesiology.
Healthcare worldwide is evolving to yield enhanced care provided at a lowered cost. Patient-centric paradigms that hasten surgical recovery and strengthen collaboration amongst medical professionals are gaining impetus. This review will discuss the changing healthcare landscape and outline its implications on anesthesiology practice. ⋯ Exemplifying opportunities to demonstrate value-added care, the scope of anesthesiology education and clinical practice should diversify to further integrate perioperative care of surgical patients.
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Curr Opin Anaesthesiol · Apr 2017
ReviewHaemotherapy algorithm for the management of trauma-induced coagulopathy: an Australian perspective.
Recent advances in the understanding of the pathophysiological processes associated with traumatic haemorrhage and trauma-induced coagulopathy have resulted in improved outcomes for seriously injured trauma patients. However, a significant number of trauma patients still die from haemorrhage. This article reviews the various transfusion strategies utilized in the management of traumatic haemorrhage and describes the major haemorrhage protocol (MHP) strategy employed by an Australian trauma centre. ⋯ There are advantages and disadvantages to each of the various MHP strategies and the evidence base to support one above another with any certainty is lacking at this time. One strategy cannot be considered superior to the other and the choice of MHP is dependent on interpretation of the current literature and local institutional logistical considerations. A number of exciting studies are currently underway that will certainly increase the evidence base and help inform clinical practice.
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Curr Opin Anaesthesiol · Apr 2017
ReviewPoint-of-care monitoring for the management of trauma-induced bleeding.
Knowledge of trauma-induced coagulopathy has been grown in the past and point-of-care suitable devices for coagulation testing have been introduced. Methodology and clinical application of different systems for point-of-care coagulation monitoring are shown with a focus on thrombelastography as measured by TEG, rotational thromboelastometry as measured by ROTEM and impedance aggregometry as measured by the multiplate analyser and ROTEM platelet. ⋯ Point-of-care assessment of coagulation in trauma patients appears to be at least promising. However, because published data mostly are of retrospective or observational nature only, there is a need for prospective, randomized and controlled studies.
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Curr Opin Anaesthesiol · Apr 2017
ReviewContinuous electroencephalographic-monitoring in the ICU: an overview of current strengths and future challenges.
In ICUs, numerous physiological parameters are continuously monitored and displayed. Yet, functional monitoring of the organ of primary concern, the brain, is not routinely performed. Despite the benefits of ICU use of continuous electroencephalographic (EEG)-monitoring (cEEG) is increasingly recognized, several issues nevertheless seem to hamper its widespread clinical implementation. ⋯ In selected critically ill patient groups, ICU cEEG has clear benefits over (repeated) standard EEG or no functional brain monitoring at all and if available, cEEG should be used. However, several issues preventing optimal ICU cEEG usage persist and should be further explored.