British journal of anaesthesia
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We describe the use of epidural analgesia for vaginal delivery of a parturient with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome in whom the use of repeated magnetic resonance imaging during her obstetric care allowed us to see deep haemangiomata. This also allowed the safe sitting of an epidural catheter at L1-2 to provide analgesia for labour and delivery. Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome and the anaesthetic implications of the congenital vascular abnormalities and potential coagulopathy are discussed.
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We have assessed a prototype laryngeal mask airway (pLMA) in 50 anaesthetized children for ease of insertion, oropharyngeal leak pressures, gastric insufflation and fibreoptic position. The pLMA has a second smaller mask, which rests against the upper oesophageal sphincter, and a second cuff to increase the seal pressure of the glottic mask. All insertions were graded as easy and an effective airway was achieved in all patients. ⋯ One patient regurgitated clear fluid, but aspiration did not occur. On removal, blood staining was detected in three of 50 children. We conclude that the pLMA was easy to insert, facilitated high airway pressure ventilation and may provide some protection against gastric insufflation.