Anaesthesia
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Comparative Study
Bronchial intubation. A comparison between polyvinyl chloride and red rubber double lumen tubes.
Red rubber and polyvinyl chloride bronchial double lumen tubes were compared. Polyvinyl chloride tubes are easier to pass quicker to position and cause less damage to the mucosa of the respiratory tract than the red rubber equivalents.
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In a prospective study of 51 young male outpatients given spinal anaesthesia through a 25-gauge needle, we found a 37.2% incidence of postdural puncture headache. In addition, 54.9% complained of backache after surgery. ⋯ These patients had a higher incidence of postoperative backache and pain during lumbar puncture. It is concluded that spinal anaesthesia is not a satisfactory technique for outpatient procedures in young men.
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Twenty five patients were treated with an epidural blood patch for persistent headache, following a known or suspected dural puncture. Fifteen to 20 ml blood was injected into the epidural space through a catheter inserted one space away from the dural puncture. The catheter technique was useful in confirming the clinical diagnosis of previously unrecognised dural tap in six patients with severe headache. It was possible to perform the blood patch single-handed.
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Knowledge of common anaesthetic drugs, techniques and complications amongst junior surgical staff at a typical district general hospital is assessed. The implications for patient care are discussed and suggestions made for improved education.