British journal of anaesthesia
-
Previous studies indicated an association between impaired cerebral perfusion and post-procedural neurological disorders. We investigated whether intra-procedural hypoxaemia or hypocapnia are associated with delirium after surgery. ⋯ Intra-procedural hypoxaemia and hypocapnia were dose-dependently associated with a higher risk of postoperative delirium. These findings support maintaining normal gas exchange to avoid postoperative neurological disorders.
-
It remains controversial whether general anaesthetic drugs contribute to perioperative neurocognitive disorders in adult patients. Preclinical studies have generated conflicting results, likely because of differing animal models, study protocols, and measured outcomes. This scoping review of preclinical studies addressed the question: 'Do general anaesthetic drugs cause cognitive deficits in adult animals that persist after the drugs have been eliminated from the brain?' ⋯ Most studies reported cognitive deficits after general anaesthesia, with age, use of volatile anaesthetic drugs, and duration of anaesthesia as risk factors. Recommendations to improve study design and guide future research are presented.
-
Recent trials are conflicting as to whether titration of anaesthetic dose using electroencephalography monitoring reduces postoperative delirium. Titration to anaesthetic dose itself might yield clearer conclusions. We analysed our observational cohort to clarify both dose ranges for trials of anaesthetic dose and biological plausibility of anaesthetic dose influencing delirium. ⋯ NCT03124303, NCT01980511.
-
The Centre for Perioperative Care (CPOC) has published in September 2022 guidance addressing perioperative anaemia. This editorial addresses the definition of anaemia for women and management of borderline anaemia in women. We also address implications of the CPOC guidance for anaesthetists and the future direction of anaemia research and management.