Faux Pas Recognition Test: transcultural adaptation and evaluation of its psychometric properties in Brazil.

Introduction: Many neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders produce Theory of Mind impairment. We aimed to implement a Brazilian Portuguese version of the Faux Pas Recognition Test (FPRT) and evaluate its psychometric properties.Methods: We first completed an English-Brazilian Portuguese translation and adaptation to obtain an FPRT Brazilian Portuguese version. We performed a multicentric study with 153 healthy participants (68.6% women), mean age of 38.8 years (SD = 14.6) and 12.9 years of schooling (SD = 4.5). Linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association of social class, age, schooling, and FPRT scores. The psychometric analyses comprised item analysis, exploratory factor analysis, reliability, and validity analysis.Results: Normative data in a Brazilian population is presented. A positive correlation of scores with years of schooling, social class, and an inverse relation with age was found. The exploratory factorial analysis found a two-component structure, one component, consisting of questions 1 through 6 (Eigenvalue 5.325) and another component, consisting of questions 7 and 8 (Eigenvalue 1.09). Cronbach's alpha of the 20 stories was .72. All control stories had a poor discriminative index.Conclusion: The FPRT Brazilian Portuguese version demonstrated good internal consistency and, psychometric properties and is adequate for use even in lower educational contexts in Brazil.

External validation of a Brazilian predictive nomogram for pathologic outcomes following radical prostatectomy in tertiary teaching institutions: the USP nomograms.

PURPOSES: (a) To externally validate the Crippa and colleagues' nomograms combining PSA, percentage of positive biopsy cores (PPBC) and biopsy Gleason score to predict organ-confined disease (OCD) in a contemporary sample of patients treated at a tertiary teaching institution. (b) To adjust such variables, resulting in predictive nomograms for OCD and seminal vesicle invasion (SVI): the USP nomograms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The accuracy of Crippa and colleagues' nomograms for OCD prediction was examined in 1002 men submitted to radical prostatectomy between 2005 and 2010 at the University of São Paulo (USP). ROC-derived area under the curve (AUC) and Brier scores were used to assess the discriminant properties of nomograms for OCD. Nomograms performance was explored graphically with LOESS smoothing plots. Furthermore, univariate analysis and logistic regression models targeted OCD and SVI. Variables consisted of PSA, PPBC, biopsy Gleason score and clinical stage. The resulted predictive nomograms for OCD and SVI were internally validated with bootstrapping and the same abovementioned procedures. RESULTS: Crippa and colleagues' nomograms for OCD showed ROC AUC = 0.68 (CI: 0.65-0.70), Brier score = 0.17 and overestimation in LOESS plots. USP nomograms for OCDand SVI showed ROC AUC of 0.73 (CI: 0.70-0.76) and 0.77 (CI: 0.73-0.79), respectively, and Brier scores of 0.16 and 0.08, respectively. The LOESS plots showed excellent calibration for OCD and underestimation for SVI. CONCLUSIONS: Crippa and colleagues' nomograms showed moderate discrimination and considerable OCD overestimation. USP nomograms showed good discrimination for OCD and SVI, as well as excellent calibration for OCD and SVI underestimation.

Assessment of the learning curve of peribulbar blocks using the Learning-Curve Cumulative Sum Method (LC-CUSUM): an observational study

Abstract Introduction: This study aimed to assess the learning curves of peribulbar anesthesia and estimate the number of blocks needed to attain proficiency. Methods: Anonymized records of sequential peribulbar blocks performed by first-year anesthesia residents were analyzed. The block sequential number and the outcomes were extracted from each record. Success was defined as a complete sensory and motor block of the eye, and failure was defined as an incomplete block requiring supplemental local anesthetic injections or general anesthesia. Learning curves using the LC-CUSUM method were constructed, aiming for acceptable and unacceptable failure rates of 10% and 20%, and 10% probability of type I and II errors. Simulations were used to determine the proficiency limit h0. Residents whose curves reached h0 were considered proficient. The Sequential Probability Ratio Test Cumulative Sum Method (SPRT-CUSUM) was used for follow-up. Results: Thirty-nine residents performed 2076 blocks (median = 52 blocks per resident; Interquartile Range (IQR) [range] = 27-78 [4-132]). Thirty residents (77%) achieved proficiency after a median of 13 blocks (13-24 [13-24]). Conclusions: The LC-CUSUM is a robust method for detecting resident proficiency at peribulbar anesthesia, defined as success rates exceeding 90%. Accordingly, 13 to 24 supervised double-injection peribulbar blocks are needed to attain competence at peribulbar anesthesia.

Construction and validation of a non-organic, homemade, low-cost cricothyrotomy simulator. A cross-sectional study / Construção e validação de um simulador de cricotireotomia não orgânico, caseiro e de baixo custo: um estudo transversal

ABSTRACT Introduction: Cricothyrotomy is a procedure that may save lives in emergency acute respiratory failure. Cricothyrotomy must be trained during undergraduate medical education, and low-cost simulators may offer a satisfying solution in economical and practical terms. Objective: The aims of this study were to build and assess the face, content, and construct validity of a low-cost, homemade cricothyrotomy simulator developed by the authors. Methods: Forty-seven students and nine surgeons performed three successive simulated cricothyrotomies and answered a face and content validity questionnaire. The construct validity was tested by comparing procedural duration and a global performance score intra- and between groups. Results: Most face and content validity questionnaire items were highly and positively rated, with no difference between the groups. Accordingly, students and surgeons agreed that the simulator resembles a human neck anterior surface, is easy and safe to use, allows the performance of critical steps of the cricothyrotomy, and exhibits potential teaching feasibility. Procedural duration decreased between the first and third attempts among students (mean time decrease = 61.85 s; 95% CI - 41.86 - 81.85; p < 0.001), and a significant difference was found between surgeons' and students' performance duration (mean difference = 101.36 seconds [95% CI = 69.08 - 133.64] p < 0.001), suggesting construct validity. The students' performance scores improved between the first and second attempts (mean difference = 2.25 points; CI 95% = 1.31 - 3.20; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The non-organic, homemade, low-cost cricothyrotomy simulator has acceptable face, content, and construct validity and is suitable for use as a training tool by undergraduate medical students.

RESUMO Introdução: A cricotireotomia é um procedimento que pode salvar vidas em caso de insuficiência respiratória aguda de emergência. A cricotireotomia deve ser treinada durante a graduação médica, e simuladores de baixo custo podem oferecer uma solução satisfatória em termos econômicos e práticos. Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivos construir e determinar as validades de face, conteúdo e construção de um simulador caseiro de cricotireotomia de baixo custo desenvolvido pelos autores. Método: Quarenta e sete estudantes e nove cirurgiões realizaram três cricotireotomias simuladas sucessivas e responderam a um questionário de validade de face e de conteúdo. A validade de construto foi testada comparando tempos procedurais e um escore de desempenho global intragrupos e intergrupos. Resultado: A maioria dos itens do questionário de validade face e de conteúdo foram avaliados de forma positiva, sem diferença entre os grupos. Assim, estudantes e cirurgiões concordaram que o simulador se assemelha a uma superfície anterior do pescoço humano, é fácil e seguro de usar, permite a realização de etapas críticas da cricotireotomia e apresenta potencial viabilidade de ensino. O tempo de procedimento diminuiu entre a primeira e a terceira tentativa entre os estudantes (diminuição média do tempo = 61,85 s; IC 95% - 41,86 - 81,85; p < 0,001), e foi encontrada diferença significativa entre os tempos de atuação dos cirurgiões e dos estudantes (diferença média = 101,36 segundos [IC 95% = 69,08 - 133,64] p < 0,001), sugerindo validade de construto. Os escores de desempenho dos alunos melhoraram entre a primeira e a segunda tentativa (diferença média = 2,25 pontos; IC 95% = 1,31 - 3,20; p < 0,001). Conclusão: O simulador de cricotireotomia inorgânico, de fabricação caseira e de baixo custo possui validade de face, conteúdo e construção aceitáveis para ser usado como ferramenta de treinamento para estudantes de graduação em Medicina.

The effects of magnesium sulfate added to epidurally administered local anesthetic on postoperative pain: a systematic review

Abstract Background This study evaluated the efficacy of epidurally administered magnesium associated with local anesthetics on postoperative pain control. Methods The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO as CRD42021231910. Literature searches were conducted on Medline, Cochrane, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and Web of Science for randomized controlled trials comparing epidural administration of magnesium added to local anesthetics for postoperative pain in elective surgical adult patients. Primary outcomes were the time to the first Postoperative (PO) Analgesic Request (TFAR), 24-hour postoperative opioid consumption, and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores at the first six and 24 postoperative hours. Secondary outcomes included Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV), pruritus, and shivering. Quality of evidence was assessed using GRADE criteria. Results Seventeen studies comparing epidural were included. Effect estimates are described as weighted Mean Differences (MD) and 95% Confidence Intervals (95% CI) for the main outcomes: TFAR (MD = 72.4 min; 95% CI = 10.22-134.58 min; p < 0.001; I2= 99.8%; GRADE: very low); opioid consumption (MD = -7.2 mg (95% CI = -9.30 - -5.09; p < 0.001; I2= 98%; GRADE: very low). VAS pain scores within the first six PO hours (VAS) (MD = -1.01 cm; 95% CI = -1.40-0.64 cm; p < 0.001; I2= 88%; GRADE: very low), at 24 hours (MD = -0.56 cm; 95% CI = -1.14-0.01 cm; p= 0.05; I2= 97%; GRADE: very low). Conclusions Magnesium sulfate delayed TFAR and decreased 24-hour opioid consumption and early postoperative pain intensity. However, imprecision and inconsistency pervaded meta-analyses, causing very low certainty of effect estimates.

Oral preanesthetic medication in children - comparison between midazolam alone and in combination with ketamine: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background Up to 60% of pediatric surgical patients develop high levels of preoperative anxiety. This study compared the effects of oral combinations of midazolam and ketamine with oral midazolam alone for pediatric preanesthetic medication. Methods The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO as CRD42020172920. A systematic literature search was conducted using Medline, Cochrane, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and Web of Science for randomized controlled trials comparing oral combinations of midazolam and ketamine with midazolam alone as preanesthetic medication in elective surgical pediatric patients. Meta-analyses included the following outcomes: anxiety and sedation levels, child's behavior during separation from parents, face mask acceptance, and venipuncture. The quality of evidence was assessed using GRADE criteria. Results Twenty studies were included. The following effects (RR (95% CI)) were observed for combinations of ketamine and midazolam relative midazolam alone: anxiolysis (1.2 (0.94-1.52); p= 0.15; I2 = 80%; GRADE = very low); satisfactory sedation (1.2 ( 1.10-1.31); p< 0.001; I2 = 71%; GRADE = very low); behavior during parental separation (1.2 (1.06-1.36); p= 0.003; I2 = 88%; GRADE = very low); facial mask acceptance (1.13 (1.04-1.24); p= 0.007; I2 = 49%; GRADE = very low); behavior during venipuncture (1.32 (1.11-1.57); p= 0.002; I2 = 66%; GRADE = very low). Conclusions While similar probabilities of obtaining anxiolysis were found, adequate sedation, calm behavior during child's separation from parents, low levels of fear during face mask adaptation, and cooperative behavior during peripheral venous cannulation were more likely with midazolam-ketamine combinations.

Prática deliberada no ensino de histologia na graduação em Medicina: estudo prospectivo randomizado e controlado / Deliberate practice in the teaching of histology for medical students: a prospective randomized controlled study

Resumo: Introdução: A histologia é relevante para o curso de Medicina porque muitas doenças estão relacionadas com defeitos em nível celular. No entanto, o aprendizado de histologia é considerado difícil devido às escalas molecular e microscópica. Na educação médica, algumas metodologias de ensino têm sido testadas, como a prática deliberada (PD). A PD é um tipo de treinamento que visa aumentar o desempenho por meio de repetição e sucessivos refinamentos. Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a influência da PD como intervenção de ensino de histologia. Método: Os estudantes de Medicina foram alocados aleatoriamente em dois grupos: PD e intervenção de atenção (jogos). As sessões de treinamento ocorreram semanalmente, em um período de 12 semanas. A habilidade treinada foi a localização de estruturas em lâminas histológicas por meio da técnica de microscopia óptica. Selecionaram-se estruturas consideradas de difícil aprendizado: célula de Sertoli, disco intercalar e mácula densa. A cada sessão, utilizaram-se dez lâminas do mesmo corte histológico (repetição), e o tempo disponível para localizar a estrutura foi decrescente até chegar ao valor da meta (aumento da dificuldade). Os estudantes receberam feedback imediato. As avaliações de desempenho foram realizadas por professores que desconheciam o grupo a que os estudantes haviam sido alocados. O tempo utilizado para a identificação da estrutura e os critérios referentes à técnica de microscopia foram avaliados na ocasião da medida. As percepções dos estudantes sobre a experiência educacional foram avaliadas em um questionário desenvolvido pelos investigadores. Resultado: Dos 71 estudantes, dois desistiram, resultando em 35 participantes do grupo PD e 34 do grupo jogos. Na tarefa de localização das estruturas em lâminas histológicas, o grupo PD obteve melhor desempenho (escore) (66,67) do que o grupo jogos (16,67) e, a respeito da técnica de microscopia, também apresentou um melhor desempenho (10,83) do que o grupo jogos (10,5) (p < 0,05). Dentre os participantes da PD, 94% afirmaram que gostaram de participar e 91% perceberam melhora no aprendizado. Conclusão: A PD pode ser considerada relevante para o ensino de histologia, pois teve efeito sobre o aprendizado tanto nas avaliações de desempenho quanto na percepção dos estudantes.

Abstract: Introduction: The study of histology is essential for medical students in multiple ways. Knowing what a normal tissue looks like is important for recognizing different diseases. However, its learning is considered difficult due to molecular and microscopic scale. Different methodologies in medical education have been tested, such as deliberate practice (DP). DP is a kind of training aimed to increase performance through repetition and successive refinements. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of DP as a histology teaching intervention. Method: Medical students were randomly allocated into two groups: DP and games (attention control group). The training sessions took place weekly, over a period of 12 weeks. The skill trained was to locate structures on histological slides through the optical microscopy technique. Structures considered difficult to learn such as Sertoli cell, intercalated disc and dense macula were selected. At each session, ten slides from the same histological section were used (repetition), and the time available to locate the structure decreased until reaching the target value (increased difficulty). Students received feedback immediately. Performance evaluations were carried out by teachers who didn't know the students' group, evaluating time lapsed and behavioral items of the microscopy technique. A questionnaire was developed to investigate students' perceptions. Result: Out of 71 students, two dropped out, remaining 35 participants in the DP group and 34 in the games group. The DP group performed better, both in locating structures on histological slides (score) (66.67) and the microscopy technique (10.83) against the games group (16.67 and 10.5 respectively). Among DP participants, 94% said they enjoyed participating, and 91% noticed improvement. Conclusion: DP was considered relevant for the study of histology by performance evaluations and students' perceptions.

Development of a new instrument to assess the quality of physicians' delivery of bad news / Desenvolvimento de um novo instrumento para avaliar a qualidade da comunicação de más notícias pelos médicos

Abstract: Introduction: Most instruments to assess physicians' delivery of bad news have been developed for patients with cancer and then adapted to other contexts. In clinical practice, some news may not be considered bad by the physicians but may have an important negative impact on the patients' life. Yet, instruments to assess this communication across diverse clinical settings are needed. Objective: To develop, from the patients' perspective, an instrument to assess how physicians deliver bad news in clinical practice. Method: This study was conducted using an exploratory qualitative approach by means of semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 109 patients from two referral hospitals in Brazil. Content analysis was used to generate categories, from which the initial instrument items were developed. The clarity and relevance of the items were evaluated by a committee of 11 medical professionals and 10 patients. Results: The instrument included items about the physicians' attitudes, such as attention, respect, and sincerity, as well as items about sharing information using language that patients could understand. The initial instrument had 19 items, answered in a 5-point Likert scale with labeled endpoints. After evaluation by the committee of judges, 2 items were modified, and 3 were excluded. The final instrument thus had 16 items. Conclusion: A new 16-item instrument was developed from the patients' perspective to assess physicians' delivery of bad news. After additional validation, this instrument may be useful in real and diverse bad news settings in clinical practice.

Resumo: Introdução: A maioria dos instrumentos para avaliar a comunicação de más notícias pelos médicos foi desenvolvida para pacientes com câncer e adaptada a outros contextos. Na prática clínica, muitas notícias podem não ser consideradas tão ruins pelos médicos, mas possuem um impacto importante negativo na vida dos pacientes. Assim, ainda há a necessidade de instrumentos para avaliar essa comunicação nos diversos cenários clínicos. Objetivo: desenvolver, a partir da perspectiva dos pacientes, um instrumento para avaliar como os médicos comunicam más notícias na prática clínica. Método: o estudo foi realizado usando uma abordagem qualitativa exploratória, através de entrevistas semiestruturadas em profundidade com 109 pacientes em dois hospitais de referência no Brasil. A análise de conteúdo foi utilizada para gerar categorias, a partir das quais os itens iniciais do instrumento foram desenvolvidos. A clareza e a relevância dos itens foram avaliadas por um comitê de 11 profissionais médicos e 10 pacientes. Resultados: O instrumento incluiu itens sobre as atitudes dos médicos como atenção, respeito e sinceridade e sobre o compartilhamento de informações compreensíveis na linguagem do paciente. O instrumento inicial foi composto por 19 itens, respondidos em uma escala-Likert de 5 pontos. Após avaliação do comitê de juízes, 2 itens foram modificados e 3 foram excluídos; ficando o instrumento final com 16 itens. Conclusão: um novo instrumento com 16 itens foi desenvolvido a partir da perspectiva dos pacientes para avaliar a comunicação de más notícias pelos médicos. Após validação adicional, este instrumento poderá ser útil em cenários reais e diversos de más notícias da prática clínica.

Sugammadex by ideal body weight versus 20% and 40% corrected weight in bariatric surgery - double-blind randomized clinical trial / Uso de sugamadex pelo peso corporal ideal versus corrigido em 20% e 40% em cirurgia bariátrica - ensaio clínico randômico e duplo-cego

Abstract Background and objectives: The weight parameters for use of sugammadex in morbidly obese patients still need to be defined. Methods: A prospective clinical trial was conducted with sixty participants with body mass index ≥ 40 kg.m-2 during bariatric surgery, randomized into three groups: ideal weight (IW), 20% corrected body weight (CW20) and 40% corrected body weight (CW40). All patients received total intravenous anesthesia. Rocuronium was administered at dose of 0.6 mg.kg-1 of Ideal weight for tracheal intubation, followed by infusion of 0.3-0.6 mg.kg-1.h-1. Train of four (TOF) was used to monitor depth of blockade. After spontaneous recovery TOF-count 2 at the end of surgery, 2 mg.kg-1 of sugammadex was administered. Primary outcome was neuromuscular blockade reversal time to TOF ≥ 0.9. Secondary outcome was the occurrence of postoperative residual curarization in post-anesthesia recovery room, searching the patient's ability to pass from the surgical bed to the transport, adequacy of oxygenation, respiratory pattern, ability to swallow saliva and clarity of vision. Results: Groups were homogenous in gender, age, total body weight, ideal body weight, body mass index, type and time of surgery. The reversal times (s) were (mean ± standard deviation) 225.2 ± 81.2, 173.9 ± 86.8 and 174.1 ± 74.9 respectively, in the IW, CW20 and CW40 groups (p = 0.087). Conclusions: No differences were observed between groups with neuromuscular blockade reversal time and frequency of postoperative residual curarization. We concluded that ideal body weight can be used to calculate sugammadex dose to reverse moderate neuromuscular blockade in morbidly obese patients.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos: Os parâmetros de peso para o uso de sugamadex em pacientes com obesidade mórbida ainda precisam ser definidos. Métodos: Um ensaio clínico prospectivo foi feito com 60 participantes com índice de massa corporal ≥ 40 kg.m-2, submetidos a cirurgia bariátrica, randomizados em três grupos: peso ideal (PI), peso corrigido em 20% (PC20) e peso corrigido em 40% (PC40). Todos os pacientes receberam anestesia intravenosa total. Rocurônio foi administrado em dose de 0,6 mg.kg-1 para intubação traqueal pelo peso ideal, seguido de infusão (0,3 a 0,6 mg.kg-1.h-1). A sequência de quatro estímulos (TOF) foi usada para monitorar a profundidade do bloqueio. Após recuperação espontânea da segunda resposta do TOF no fim da cirurgia, 2 mg.kg-1 de sugamadex foi administrado. O desfecho primário foi o tempo de reversão do bloqueio neuromuscular até obter TOF ≥ 0,9. O desfecho secundário foi a ocorrência de curarização residual pós-operatória na sala de recuperação pós-anestésica, avaliaram-se a capacidade do paciente de passar do leito cirúrgico para o de transporte, a adequação da oxigenação, o padrão respiratório, a habilidade para deglutir saliva e a clareza de visão. Resultados: Os grupos foram homogêneos quanto a gênero, idade, peso corporal total, peso corporal ideal, índice de massa corporal, tipo e tempo de cirurgia. Os tempos de reversão (segundos) foram (média ± desvio-padrão) 225,2 ± 81,2, 173,9 ± 86,8 e 174,1 ± 74,9, respectivamente, nos grupos PI, PC20 e PC40 (p = 0,087). Conclusões: Não foram observadas diferenças entre os grupos quanto ao tempo de reversão do bloqueio neuromuscular e frequência de curarização residual pós-operatória. Concluímos que o peso corporal ideal pode ser usado para calcular a dose de sugamadex para reverter o bloqueio neuromuscular moderado em pacientes com obesidade mórbida.

[A comparative study between ultrasound and neurostimulation guided axillary brachial plexus block]. / Estudo comparativo entre ultrassom e neuroestimulação no bloqueio do plexo braquial pela via axilar.

UNLABELLED: Conceição DB, Helayel PE, Oliveira Filho GR - A Comparative Study between Ultrasound- and Neurostimulation-Guided Axillary Brachial Plexus Block. BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The use of ultrasound in Regional Blocks is increasingly more frequent. However, very few studies comparing ultrasound and neurostimulation have been conducted. The objective of this study was to compare neurostimulation-guided axillary brachial plexus block with double injection and ultrasound-guided axillary plexus block for hand surgeries. The time to perform the technique, success rate, and complications were compared. METHODS: After approval by the Ethics on Research Committee of the Hospital Governador Celso Ramos, 40 patients scheduled for elective hand surgeries under axillary plexus block were selected. Patients were randomly divided into two groups with 20 patients each: Neurostimulation (NE) and Ultrasound (US) groups. The time to perform the technique, success rate, and complication rate were compared. RESULTS: Complete blockade, partial failure, and total failure rates did not show statistically significant differences between the US and NE groups. The mean time to perform the technique in the US group (354 seconds) was not statistically different than that of the NE group (381 seconds). Patients in the NE group had a higher incidence of vascular punctures (40%) when compared with those in the US group (10%, p < 0.05). The rate of paresthesia during the blockade was similar in both groups (15%). CONCLUSIONS: The success rate and time to perform the blockade were similar in ultrasound- and neurostimulation-guided axillary plexus block for hand surgeries. The rate of vascular puncture was higher in neurostimulation-guided axillary plexus block.

[Effective anesthetic volumes in sciatic nerve block: comparison between the parasacral and infragluteal-parabiceps approaches with 0.5% bupivacaine with adrenaline and 0.5% ropivacaine]. / Volumes anestésicos efetivos no bloqueio do nervo isquiático: comparação entre as abordagens parassacral e infraglútea-arabiceptal com bupivacaína a 0,5% com adrenalina e ropivacaína a 0,5%

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The volume and mass of local anesthetics (LA) affect the success rate of peripheral nerve blocks. Thus, the main objective of this study was to determine the volumes of local anesthetics in parasacral and infragluteal-parabiceps sciatic nerve block (SNB). METHODS: One hundred and one patients undergoing infragluteal-parabiceps or parasacral SNB with 0.5% ropivacaine or 0.5% bupivacaine with 5 microg.mL-1 of adrenaline were randomly divided into 4 groups. Success was defined as complete sensitive and motor blockades of the sciatic nerve 30 minutes after the administration of the LA. Volumes were calculated by the up-and-down method. RESULTS: In the parasacral approach, the mean effective volume of ropivacaine was 17.6 mL (95% CI: 14.9-20.8) and of bupivacaine it was 16.4 mL (95% CI: 12.3-21.9). In the infragluteal-parabiceps approach, the mean effective volume of ropivacaine was 21.8 mL (95% CI: 18.7-25.5), and that of bupivacaine was 20.4 mL (95% CI: 18.6-22.5). Volumes were significantly lower (p < 0.01) in the parasacral than in the infragluteal-parabiceps approach. In Probit regression, the estimated effective volume in 95% of the patients in the parasacral approach was 21.8 mL for ropivacaine, and 20.5 mL for bupivacaine; in the infragluteal-parabiceps approach the volumes were 27.2 mL for ropivacaine and 25.5 mL for bupivacaine. The effective volume in 99% of the patients in parasacral SNB was 24 mL for ropivacaine, and 24 mL for bupivacaine; and in the infragluteal-parabiceps approach, 29.9 mL for ropivacaine, and 28.0 mL for bupivacaine. CONCLUSIONS: In sciatic nerve block, significantly smaller volumes were necessary in the parasacral than in the infragluteal-parabiceps approach, but volumes did not differ between both LAs.

Learning curve for the ultrasound anatomy of the brachial plexus in the axillary region.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Proficiency in ultrasound-guided blocks demands four skills: recognition of the ultrasound anatomy, capacity to generate images, aligning the needle with the ultrasound beam, and recognizing the dispersion of the local anesthetic. The objective of this study was to construct and evaluate learning curves for image generation and ultrasound identification of the neurovascular structures in the axilla. METHODS: Seven Anesthesiology residents received theoretical and practical notions on the basic principles of ultrasound and the ultrasound anatomy of the axillary region with the objective to identify the terminal branches of the brachial plexus and axillary vessels. Each resident performed six exams. The accuracy and the time to identify the structures were evaluated. The success rate of each exam was calculated. Simple linear regression evaluated the time necessary to identify each structure in relation to the number of the exam. RESULTS: The axillary vessels were identified in 100% of the exams. The median nerve was identified in 83% of the cases from the first to the fifth exams. The radial nerve was identified in 100% of the exams. The ulnar nerve was identified in 67% of the cases in the first exam, and in 83% of the cases from the second to the fifth exams. The musculocutaneous nerve was identified in 50% of the cases in the first exam and in 83% of the cases in the fourth and fifth exams. All structures were identified correctly on the sixth exam. The mean time for the correct identification of the structures decreased considerably from the first to the sixth exam (r = - 0.37). CONCLUSIONS: Learning progression required the memorization of the ultrasound anatomy of the axillary region and acquisition of manual ability, and increasing success rates were associated with a significant reduction in the time to identify the structures.

External validation of a brazilian predictive nomogram for pathologic outcomes following radical prostatectomy in tertiary teaching institutions: the USP nomograms

Purposes(a) To externally validate the Crippa and colleagues’ nomograms combining PSA, percentage of positive biopsy cores (PPBC) and biopsy Gleason score to predict organ-confined disease (OCD) in a contemporary sample of patients treated at a tertiary teaching institution. (b) To adjust such variables, resulting in predictive nomograms for OCD and seminal vesicle invasion (SVI): the USP nomograms.Materials and MethodsThe accuracy of Crippa and colleagues’ nomograms for OCD prediction was examined in 1002 men submitted to radical prostatectomy between 2005 and 2010 at the University of São Paulo (USP). ROC-derived area under the curve (AUC) and Brier scores were used to assess the discriminant properties of nomograms for OCD. Nomograms performance was explored graphically with LOESS smoothing plots. Furthermore, univariate analysis and logistic regression models targeted OCD and SVI. Variables consisted of PSA, PPBC, biopsy Gleason score and clinical stage. The resulted predictive nomograms for OCD and SVI were internally validated with bootstrapping and the same abovementioned procedures.ResultsCrippa and colleagues’ nomograms for OCD showed ROC AUC = 0.68 (CI: 0.65-0.70), Brier score = 0.17 and overestimation in LOESS plots. USP nomograms for OCD and SVI showed ROC AUC of 0.73 (CI: 0.70-0.76) and 0.77 (CI: 0.73-0.79), respectively, and Brier scores of 0.16 and 0.08, respectively. The LOESS plots showed excellent calibration for OCD and underestimation for SVI.ConclusionsCrippa and colleagues’ nomograms showed moderate discrimination and considerable OCD overestimation. USP nomograms showed good discrimination for OCD and SVI, as well as excellent calibration for OCD and SVI underestimation.

Traços de temperamento e caráter valorizados por instrutores e médicos residentes em anestesiologia / Temperament and character traits valued by instructors and medical residents in anesthesiology

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Temperamento e caráter possuem estreita relação com desempenho profissional de médicos anestesiologistas. Este estudo teve como objetivo estabelecer uma matriz de fatores contendo traços de temperamento e caráter considerados importantes por instrutores/responsáveis e médicos em especialização (ME) em Anestesiologia. MÉTODO: Um questionário contendo 29 traços foi apresentado a 84 Responsáveis e 1089 ME. Cada traço foi valorizado numa escala Likert de 10 pontos com extremos: absolutamente indesejável e absolutamente desejável a um ME em Anestesiologia e comparado pelos testes Kruskal-Wallis e Mann-Whitney. Utilizou-se análise fatorial para identificar fatores continentes dos traços estudados. RESULTADOS: Os resultados compreenderam as respostas de 35 responsáveis e 164 ME. Houve diferença significativa entre escores atribuídos aos traços confiabilidade (p<0,04) e organização (p<0,04) entre responsáveis e ME. Seis fatores foram identificados, respondendo por 63,74% da variância dos escores do questionário. CONCLUSÕES: Responsáveis e ME valorizaram de forma semelhante os traços. A análise fatorial mostrou que seis dimensões incorporaram os 29 traços. Estes achados sugerem que um instrumento de avaliação não técnica de ME contendo estas dimensões pode demonstrar validade de face e conteúdo.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The relationship between temperament and character and anesthesiology have been described.1, 2 This study aimed to establish a matrix containing factors of temperament and character traits considered important by the instructors/responsibles and the resident. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A questionnaire containing 29 traits was presented to 84 responsibles and 1089 residents. Each trait was valued at a 10-point Likert scale with extremes: completely undesirable and completely desirable in a resident in anesthesiology and compared by Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney test. Factor analysis was used to identify factors continents of the studied traits. RESULTS: The results refer to responses from 35 responsibles and 164 residents. There were significant difference between the scores assigned to traits reliability (p<0,04) and neat (p<0,04) among responsibles and residents. Six factors were identified, accounting for 63.74% of the variance of scores on the questionnaire. CONCLUSION: Responsibles and residents similarly valued the traits. Factor analysis revealed six dimensions that have incorporated the 29 traits. These findings suggest that an assessment tool for non-technical of residents containing these dimensions can demonstrate validity and content.

[Remifentanil: does the infusion regimen make a difference in the prevention of hemodynamic responses to tracheal intubation?]. / Remifentanil: o regime de infusão faz diferença na prevenção das respostas circulatórias à intubação traqueal?

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: High doses of opioids decrease the hemodynamic response to tracheal intubation. However, the slow recovery profile of traditional opioids may limit the use of high doses. Remifentanil has a fast time of onset and is short acting, which differentiates it from the other drugs in this class. The primary objective of this study was to verify the hypothesis that there is no need to initiate the administration of remifentanil before the induction with propofol. METHODS: Thirty patients, divided in two groups, who received total intravenous anesthesia, were evaluated. In Group 1, the infusion of remifentanil (0.3 microg.kg-1.min-1) was initiated two minutes before induction, and in Group 2, at the same time of the induction. Systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure (SBP, DBP, MAP), heart rate (HR), concentration of propofol (CEF-prop) and remifentanil (CEF-remi) in the effector area in three moments: baseline (M0), after losing verbal contact (M1), and after tracheal intubation (M2) were evaluated. RESULTS: There were significant reductions in blood pressure in both groups at M1 and M2. CEF-remi was greater in Group 1, at M1, and greater in Group 2, at M2 (p < 0.05). There was a significant statistical correlation between the vascular overload index (VOI) and the variation of the systolic pressure after the loss of verbal contact in Group 1 (r = -0.80; p < 0.01) and in Group 2 after tracheal intubation (r = -0.60; p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Remifentanil administered two minutes before induction with propofol did not offer additional cardiovascular protection to tracheal intubation. This suggests that it is not necessary to start the infusion of remifentanil two minutes before anesthetic induction.

[Ultrasound images of the brachial plexus in the axillary region.]. / Imagens ultra-sonográficas do plexo braquial na região axilar.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The axillary artery is the anatomical reference, in the surface, for axillary brachial plexus block. Anatomic studies suggest variability in the location of the structures in the brachial plexus in relation to the axillary artery. These variations can hinder blocks by neurostimulation. The ultrasound allows the identification of the structures within the brachial plexus(1). The objective of this report was to describe the position of the nerves in the brachial plexus in relation to the axillary artery. METHODS: Thirty volunteers of both genders were studied. They were in the supine position with 90 degrees abduction and external rotation of the shoulder and 90 masculine flexion of the elbow. Using a 5 cm and 5-10 MHz digital transducer, median, ulnar and radial nerves were identified and their position in relation to the artery were recorded in an 8-sector sectional graphic chart, numbered in crescent order starting at the 12-hour position (medial), whose center represented the axillary artery. RESULTS: The median nerve was located mainly in sectors 8 (55%) and 1 (28%) (medial); the radial nerve was predominantly in sectors 4 (59%) and 5 (34%) (lateral); and the ulnar nerve in sectors 2 and 3 (inferior) in 69% and 24% of the cases, respectively. There was a considerable variation in the location of the nerves in relation to the superior and inferior aspects of the artery. CONCLUSIONS: Real-time ultrasound inspection of the neurovascular structures of the brachial plexus in the axilla demonstrated that the median, ulnar and radial nerves have different relations with the axillary artery.

[Current attitude of anesthesiologists and anesthesiology residents regarding total intravenous anesthesia.]. / Atitudes atuais de anestesiologistas e médicos em especialização com relação à anestesia venosa total.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: In the past, time, cost, information, training, and the evaluation of the plane of anesthesia limited the acceptance of total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA). The objective of this study was to determine the attitude of anesthesiologists and other anesthesiology residents regarding total intravenous anesthesia. METHODS: A questionnaire was sent to 150 anesthesiologists and 102 residents. The concordance (C) and disaccord (D) of each item were compared by z tests (consensus if p < 0.05). RESULTS: There were 98 responses. The data represent the number of answers for each category. The majority of the participants agreed that the quality of the awakening stimulates the use of the TIVA (C/D = 86/8; p < 0.05); that the future depends on the development of drugs with a fast onset of action and immediate recovery (C/D = 88/5; p < 0.05); that they would like to use TIVA more often (C/D = 72/21; p < 0.05); and to have more information about TIVA (C/D = 77/14; p < 0.05). There was no agreement about the level of knowledge necessary to administer this technique when compared to inhalational anesthesia (C/D = 48/47); the majority of those who answered the questionnaire did not express any concerns with intra-surgical consciousness (C/D = 20/77; p < 0.05) but agreed that de availability of consciousness monitors would increase the use of TIVA (C/D = 64/25; p < 0.05). There was no consensus whether the need for infusion pumps (C/D = 52/40) and costs (CD = 52/39) limit its use. CONCLUSIONS: The attitude regarding TIVA was predominantly positive. There was no consensus on the influence of the level of knowledge, of the infusion pumps, and of the costs on the use of TIVA.

[Effective volume of local anesthetics for fascia iliac compartment block: a double-blind, comparative study between 0.5% ropivacaine and 0.5% bupivacaine.]. / Volumes efetivos de anestésicos locais para o bloqueio do compartimento da fáscia ilíaca: estudo comparativo duplamente encoberto entre ropivacaína a 0,5% e bupivacaína a 0,5%

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Fascia iliac compartment block is widely used as one of the anesthetic techniques used for surgical interventions of the hip, thigh, and knee. The majority of the studies have used fixed volumes of ropivacaine or bupivacaine. The objective of this study was to calculate the effective volume of 0.5% ropivacaine and 0.5% bupivacaine in 50% (EV50%), 95% (EV95), and 99% (EV99) of the cases to achieve fascia iliac compartment block. METHODS: Fifty-one adults scheduled for elective surgical interventions of the hip, femoral diaphysis, and knee underwent fascia iliac compartment block. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either 0.5% ropivacaine (n = 25) or 0.5% bupivacaine (n = 26). The success of the block was defined as a complete sensitive block of the anterior, medial, and lateral regions of the thigh. The volume of the anesthetic was determined by Massey and Dixon's up-and-down method, while the effective volume was calculated by Massey and Dixon's formula (EV50) and by probits regression (EV50, EV95, and EV99). RESULTS: The volume of anesthetic capable of producing an effective nervous anesthesia in 50% of the cases, calculated by Massey and Dixon formula, were 28.79 mL (CI 95%: 26.31 - 31.5 mL) for ropivacaine, and 29.56 mL (CI 95%: 25.22 - 34.64 mL) for bupivacaine (p = 0.62). The effective volumes of ropivacaine capable of producing a blocking in 50%, 95%, and 99% of the cases were estimated by probits regression as 28.8 mL (27.2 - 30.4), 34.3 mL (32.5 - 37.3), and 36.6 mL (34.3 - 40.5), respectively. The corresponding volumes of bupivacaine were 29.5 mL (28.1 - 31.1), 36.1 mL (33.5 - 38.1), and 37.3 mL (35.1 - 41.3) (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The volumes of 0.5% ropivacaine and 0.5% bupivacaine with adrenaline 1:200,000 for the fascia iliac block are similar.

[Postoperative cognitive dysfunction: prevalence and associated factors.]. / Disfunção cognitiva pós-operatória: prevalência e fatores associados.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is related to factors such as physical status, electrolytic, visual and immune disorders, alcoholism, drugs and advanced age. This study aimed at determining the prevalence of POCD and its associated factors. METHODS: Participated in this prospective study 55 patients aged 18 to 89 years, scheduled for elective orthopedic, urologic, general or vascular surgeries, under general or regional anesthesia. The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) was applied the day before surgery (M0), at 24 postoperative hours (M1) and 3 to 7 days after surgery (M2). POCD was defined as MMSE score below 24/30 or as a difference equal to or above 4 as compared to M0. Univariate and multivariate analysis variables included age, gender, type of anesthesia and surgery, intraoperative hypotension, hypoxemia or hypocapnia, use of atropine and surgery length. RESULTS: POCD was observed in eight patients (14.54%). All POCD patients were above 65 years of age. Among these patients, the prevalence of POCD was 28.57%. Only age and preanesthetic MMSE scores were different between patients with or without POCD. The logistic model included only preanesthetic MMSE scores. CONCLUSIONS: Among the variables included in this study, only preanesthetic MMSE score is a significant independent predictor of POCD.

[Onset of 1% lidocaine for skin infiltrative anesthesia]. / Latência da lidocaína a 1% para anestesia infiltrativa da pele.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Minimum T50 and T95 onsets are the medians of time intervals between end of skin and subcutaneous tissue infiltration with local anesthetics and a painful stimulation, which are associated to no pain in 50% and 95% of patients, respectively. This study has evaluated T50 and T95 of subcutaneous 1% lidocaine for lumbar skin puncture. METHODS: This was a prospective study with sequential allocation depending on the response of previous patient (Dixon and Massey's up-down method) involving 25 patients submitted to spinal blocks with 25G Quincke needle. Skin and subcutaneous tissue were infiltrated with 3 mL of 1% lidocaine in L3-L4 or L4-L5 interspace with 10 mm 25G needle. Time elapsed between the end of infiltration and 25G Quincke needle puncture was established in logarithmic scale. Initial interval was 30 seconds. Subsequent intervals depended on previous patient's response. If the patient referred pain at 25G Quincke needle puncture, the next patient was allocated to the immediately longer interval; otherwise, the next patient would be allocated to the immediately shorter interval. Dixon and Massey's formulas were applied to calculate T50 and T95. RESULTS: Medians (95% confidence limits) of T50 and T95 were 25 seconds (20-31 seconds) and 53 seconds (33-85 seconds), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: To obtain lumbar skin anesthesia before lumbar puncture in 95% of patients, one should wait 33 to 85 seconds after the end of subcutaneous infiltration of 3 mL of 1% plain lidocaine.