Journal of cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesia
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J. Cardiothorac. Vasc. Anesth. · Dec 1999
Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical TrialPlasma bupivacaine concentrations and effects of epinephrine after superficial cervical plexus blockade in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy.
To determine if epinephrine (EPI) added to a solution of bupivacaine (BUP) injected for use in superficial cervical plexus blockade (SCPB) lowers plasma BUP concentrations after injection and whether this addition of EPI resulted in tachycardia, cardiac arrhythmias, or both. ⋯ BUP 0.25% consistently produced the lowest plasma BUP concentrations, particularly when EPI was added to the solution. BUP 0.5% without EPI can produce plasma BUP concentrations previously reported to be associated with central nervous system effects. The use of EPI in this setting does not produce untoward cardiac side effects.
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J. Cardiothorac. Vasc. Anesth. · Dec 1999
A multidisciplinary process to improve the efficiency of cardiac operating rooms.
To alter the approach to cardiac operating room services in an attempt to remain competitive in a cost-driven market. ⋯ Development of a working group, with support from the hospital administration, can significantly decrease the time of tasks in a cardiac surgery operating room without adversely affecting morbidity and mortality.