Anaesthesia
-
Biography Historical Article
The introduction of ether anaesthesia to Great Britain. 2. A biographical sketch of Dr. Francis Boott.
The life of Francis Boott, instigator of the first ether anaesthetics in England is described. The reasons for his settling in Britain are explored and his friendship with Jacob Bigelow and his links with Robert Liston are explained.
-
Comparative Study
Response to a Valsalva manoeuvre before and after epidural block.
In pregnant patients at term the cardiovascular response to a Valsalva manoeuvre has been evaluated in the lateral and supine positions, before and after epidural block (T8-S5). There was no difference in the pattern of response under these four conditions. After epidural block, there was a tendency to a greater degree of hypotension and a slower recovery. In labour such repeated hypotension could account for the increase in fetal acidosis when the second stage of labour is conducted in the supine position.
-
Equipment assembled for use by an accident team is described. The aim is to provide independent lightweight units that a medical practitioner can easily carry yet which will contain the essential items which he may need. ⋯ Compromise is inevitable which makes planning difficult particularly if action is seldom needed. Some schemes may need alternative equipment and individual preferences must also be taken into account.