Journal of cardiothoracic anesthesia
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Many patients undergo cardiac surgery with preexisting congenital and acquired coagulation defects. Almost all of these can be recognized and corrected preoperatively. CPB itself induces a variety of abnormalities of coagulation, affecting plasma proteins, platelets, and the fibrinolytic system. ⋯ Exciting advances have been made in the use of synthetic alternatives to blood products. Both DDAVP and aprotinin seem promising in this respect, but more investigation is needed into the mechanisms of action and possible thrombotic complications of these drugs. In the future, anesthesiologists and surgeons may look forward to more safe and effective therapy of bleeding in cardiac surgical patients.
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This article has attempted to familiarize the anesthesiologist with the bronchoscopic appearance of normally and abnormally positioned double-lumen endobronchial tubes. Double-lumen tubes are being used in an increasing proportion of thoracic surgical cases in major centers. Double-lumen tubes are also being used more frequently in intensive care units for independent lung ventilation, bronchopleural fistula, massive hemoptysis, and other asymmetrical pulmonary disorders. ⋯ When used as described, the FOB is a monitor. Like all new monitors it will take some time before there is a general consensus whether it is to be used routinely or only for certain indications. Whatever the final consensus on the indications for the FOB in double-lumen tube positioning, it is certain that all anesthesiologists involved in managing thoracic cases should be familiar with this technique.