South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde
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A technique of blind nasal intubation for anaesthesia using the Samson modification of the Mapleson 'A' circuit is described. Adequate depth of anaesthesia is maintained by continuous insufflation, and scavenging is continuously used to remove waste anaesthetic gases. The position of the tube in relation to the larynx is estimated by movement of the reservoir bag and intermittent condensation of expired water vapour in the clear plastic of the circuit.
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Biography Historical Article
Sporotrichosis research in the Transvaal--how it began 60 years ago.
The Transvaal was once known as an area with a high incidence of sporotrichosis in workers on the goldmines. The nature of the infection was not understood before the disease was first clinically identified 60 years ago by the pathologist, Dr B. D. ⋯ Working with Dr A. Pijper in Pretoria, she demonstrated the presence of a pathogenic Sporothrix fungus. Now in retirement, Dr Pullinger has told how this discovery was made.
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Comparative Study
A comparison of two resuscitators in the management of birth asphyxia.
Twenty newborn infants with birth asphyxia were alternately assigned to ventilation with either the Samson or the Laerdal infant resuscitator. During resuscitation significantly greater percentage changes in pH (1,1% v. 0,2%; P less than 0,05), hydrogen ion concentration (-15,6% v. -2,1%; P less than 0,05) and partial arterial carbon dioxide pressure (-24,5% v. -11,9%; P less than 0,02) were seen in the Laerdal group. There was also a tendency towards improved oxygenation and lung compliance and quicker establishment of spontaneous respiration in the Laerdal group. We therefore conclude that the Laerdal resuscitator is superior to the Samson one in the management of infants with birth asphyxia.
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Allergic reactions to the intravenous drugs used in anaesthesia pose a major problem for the anaesthetist, since they represent an unpredictable and occasionally life-threatening event. Reports of 2 such cases are presented, and the incidence, assessment and prophylaxis of such reactions are discussed.