Acta anaesthesiologica Belgica
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Acta Anaesthesiol Belg · Jan 2003
ReviewShould we reconsider triggers for red blood cell transfusion?
Very few randomized controlled trials on the benefits of red blood cell (RBC) transfusions in humans have been published. Consequently, most clinical practice guidelines remain based on expert opinion, animal studies and the limited human trials available. In the absence of definitive outcome studies, numerous theoretical arguments have been put forward either to support or to condone the classic transfusion threshold of 10 g/dL. ⋯ All RBC transfusions must be tailored to the patient's needs, at the moment the need arises. In conclusion most published recommendations are appropriate but their conclusions are limited, as they are commensurate with existing knowledge. Reliable monitors to guide transfusion therapy and well conducted trials to determine optimal transfusion strategies are required.
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Acta Anaesthesiol Belg · Jan 2003
Meta Analysis Comparative StudyColloids versus crystalloids as priming solutions for cardiopulmonary bypass: a meta-analysis of prospective, randomised clinical trials.
Using Cochrane methodology a review was performed of prospective randomized clinical trials comparing colloidal pump priming solutions for cardiopulmonary bypass. Dextrans were not considered. Database searches from 1966 through December 2002 delivered 265 articles. ⋯ To conclude, using mere crystalloids produced more pronounced positive fluid balances and their avoidance as a single pump-prime component can be suggested. Since albumin is not necessarily associated with better outcomes and is more expensive, it is hard to continue its use. However, there is still insufficient evidence available to allow definitive conclusions.
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Acta Anaesthesiol Belg · Jan 2003
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical TrialThe effect of mandibular nerve block on opioid consumption, nausea and vomiting in bilateral mandibular osteotomies.
The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of a mandibular nerve block to placebo, in patients undergoing mandibular osteotomy surgery, regarding opioid consumption and adverse opioid induced side effects. Forty healthy individuals with a mean age of 19.7 years participated in the study. All subjects received lidocaïn 2% + adrenaline 1/80,000 versus placebo for mandibular nerve block in a randomized double-blind manner. Opioid consumption and opioid related side effect such as postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), and respiratory depression were assessed. ⋯ The mandibular block during mandibular osteotomy reduces intra-operative opioid consumption but does not alternate the opioid related side-effects in the postoperative phase.
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Acta Anaesthesiol Belg · Jan 2003
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical TrialComparison of remifentanil versus ketamine for paediatric day case adenoidectomy.
Few studies exist of using remifentanil and intravenous ketamine for anaesthetic induction in paediatric day case anaesthesia. Therefore, we studied 75 unpremedicated ASA I-II children (age 1-7 years) who were randomly assigned in a double-blind fashion to receive either remifentanil (1 microgram/kg), ketamine (0.7 mg/kg) or placebo before the anaesthetic induction. Anaesthesia was induced with propofol and maintained with O2-N2O-sevoflurane. ⋯ There were no differences between the groups in achieving predetermined recovery end-points, attaining full points on the Steward score or in the well being at home. In conclusion, remifentanil provides haemodynamically more stable induction of anaesthesia compared with ketamine or placebo. Ketamine with its' longer duration of action does not prolong recovery but does not have a clear opioid-sparing effect either in the immediate postoperative period.
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Acta Anaesthesiol Belg · Jan 2003
ReviewOpioid tolerance and dependence: an inevitable consequence of chronic treatment?
Although opioids provide effective analgesia, largely unsubstantiated concerns about opioid-induced tolerance, physical dependence and addiction have limited their appropriate use. As a consequence, many patients receive inadequate treatment for both malignant and non-malignant pain. However, it has been shown that analgesic tolerance develops less frequently during chronic opioid administration in a clinical context than in animal experiments, and that instituting an appropriate dosing regimen can minimise withdrawal symptoms. ⋯ New treatment regimens may also reduce the risk of tolerance, physical dependence and addiction. Long-acting preparations, such as transdermal fentanyl and possibly some forms of other slow release opioids, which maintain constant opioid concentrations in the plasma, minimise the occurrence of the 'between-dose' symptoms such as withdrawal and opioid-induced euphoria. This review discusses the development of tolerance, physical dependence and addiction during opioid therapy, and the influence of these factors on the choice of treatment.