Der Anaesthesist
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This paper describes the introduction of a single-pass batch hemodialysis system for renal replacement therapy in a 14 bed intensive care unit. The goals were to reduce the workload of intensive care unit physicians using an alternative and simpler method compared to continuous veno-venous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) and to reduce the costs of hemofiltrate solutions (80,650 EUR per year in our clinic in 2005). We describe and evaluate the process of implementation of the system as well as the achieved and prospective savings. We conclude that a close cooperation of all participants (physicians, nurses, economists, technicians) of a hospital can achieve substantial benefits for patients and employees as well as reduce the economic burden of a hospital.
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The aim of this investigation was to assess the extent of stress and demands in patients during preparation for general anesthesia for elective surgical procedures. ⋯ In future studies assessing the perioperative management of patients and quality of care, standardized testing questionnaires should be preferred, instead of vegetative parameters alone, to reliably evaluate perioperative demands and stress in surgical patients.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
[Preoperative administration of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors].
The discussion about perioperative withdrawal or continuation of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) remains controversial. Should it be continued to avoid peaks in blood pressure and heart rate during anesthesia? Or should it be discontinued the day before to avoid clinically relevant hypotonia? What is the greater risk? Since there are only a few studies dealing with this question, we compared the cardio-circulatory reaction during anesthesia after withdrawal and with continuation of ACEI therapy. ⋯ The continuation of ACEI therapy in the morning is not associated with a better control of blood pressure and heart rate but causes a more pronounced hypotension which forced a therapy more often. Patients chronically treated with ACEI should receive the ACEI the last time on the day before the operation and not with the premedication in the morning.
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Introduction of the laryngeal mask airway (LMA) has been a revolutionary development in airway management over the last decades. It was first used clinically in 1981 by A. ⋯ Originally intended as a substitute for conventional mask respiration for short periods of general anaesthesia, the laryngeal mask is in the meantime used in many areas as an alternative to elective endotracheal intubation as well as an option for controlling difficult airways. This contribution provides an overview of the basics as well as practical aspects of LMA use, and discusses the possibilities and limitations of the laryngeal mask in daily practice.
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Unexpected bleeding in the perioperative period is largely caused by impaired inherited or drug-induced primary haemostasis. Standard tests for plasma coagulation are predominantly employed to gauge the risk of bleeding. ⋯ Accordingly, healthy patients of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grades I and II without any suspicion of impaired haemostasis who are scheduled for procedures without expected transfusion requirements, need no standard tests for coagulation. In all other patients (including patients taking medication affecting coagulation, or patients who are unable to provide adequate information) platelet count, platelet function, aPTT, PT, and fibrinogen levels should be assessed.