Current opinion in obstetrics & gynecology
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Curr. Opin. Obstet. Gynecol. · Dec 1991
ReviewAdvances in anesthesia and pharmacology in the puerperium.
The past year has provided us with some interesting studies concerning pharmacology and anesthesia during the puerperium. I review the prevalence of various anesthetic techniques, as well as the use of different aspiration prophylaxis regimens. I also look at innovations in the administration of epidural and subarachnoid anesthetics, including use of the Sprotte needle to prevent postoperative headache. ⋯ Furthermore, predelivery injections of glucocortoid may protect against bronchopulmonary dysplasia. I also review painstaking studies that help to better understand thyroid stimulation and regulation during pregnancy. I hope this paper helps the busy obstetrician understand some of the highlights of this year's new literature on obstetric anesthesia and pharmacology.
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Factors influencing urinary tract infections depend on a balance between bacterial virulence (bacterial adhesion to tissues, hemolysin, and aerobactin) and on the host's defenses (local immunoglobulin production). Predisposing factors for the development of urinary tract infections in women are physiologic changes with aging, use of catheters, and genitourinary operations. ⋯ Treatment of complicated urinary tract infections is by intravenous medications. New drugs for treatment of urinary tract infections are also reviewed.