Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research
-
Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) affects approximately one third of patients and may lead to aspiration, dehiscence, esophageal rupture, and increased treatment costs if inadequately controlled. An important therapeutic option for prevention of PONV is 5-hydroxytryptamine type 3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonists. Nonetheless, therapeutic failure sometimes occurs. ⋯ Instead, granisetron is metabolized via the CYP3A4 isoform, which is not subject to significant genetic polymorphism. CYP2D6 genotype screening prior to PONV treatment may allow for modification of antiemetic dosing. An alternative is to use a 5-HT3 agent that is metabolized independently of the CYP2D6 isoform, such as granisetron, that would obviate the need for genotyping and may lead to improved prophylaxis of PONV.
-
Case Reports
Small bowel infarction complicating rectus sheath haematoma in an anticoagulated patient.
A rectus sheath haematoma is a difficult condition to diagnose and is usually treated by conservative measures. However, significant sized haematomas can result in severe haemodynamic repercussions, especially in those patients with co-morbidities and anticoagulation. ⋯ A careful history and a high index of suspicion are necessary to diagnose a rectus sheath haematoma. Further imaging such as CT may be required and if diagnosed early enough, it should be treated aggressively based on the clinical findings.