Comparing the Organs and Vasculature of the Head and Neck in Five Murine Species.

BACKGROUND/AIM: The purpose of the present study was to delineate the cervical and facial vascular and associated anatomy in five murine species, and compare them for optimal use in research studies focused on understanding the pathology and treatment of diseases in humans. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The specific adult male animals examined were mice (C57BL/6J), rats (F344), mongolian gerbils (Merionesunguiculatus), hamsters (Syrian), and guinea pigs (Hartley). To stain the vasculature and organs, of the face and neck, each animal was systemically perfused using the vital stain, Trypan Blue. Following this step, the detailed anatomy of the head and neck could be easily visualized in all species. RESULTS: Unique morphological characteristics were demonstrated by comparing the five species, including symmetry of the common carotid origin bilaterally in the Mongolian Gerbil, a large submandibular gland in the hamster and an enlarged buccal branch in the Guinea Pig. In reviewing the anatomical details, this staining technique proves superior for direct surgical visualization and identification. CONCLUSION: The anatomical details provided through these five species atlas will help experimental researchers in the future to select the most appropriate animal model for specific laboratory studies aimed to improve our understanding and treatment of diseases in patients.

A randomized, double-blind trial evaluating the efficacy of palonosetron with total intravenous anesthesia using propofol and remifentanil for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting after gynecologic surgery.

PURPOSE: Palonosetron has potent and long-acting antiemetic effects for postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the efficacy of palonosetron when used with total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) using propofol and remifentanil for the prevention of PONV in patients undergoing laparoscopic gynecologic surgery. METHODS: This prospective double-blind study comprised 100 female American Society of Anesthesiologist physical status I and II patients who were undergoing laparoscopic gynecologic surgery under TIVA. The patients were randomly assigned to two groups-the palonosetron plus TIVA group (palonosetron 0.075 mg i.v., n = 50) and the TIVA group (normal saline 1.5 ml i.v., n = 50). The treatments were given before the induction of anesthesia. The incidence of PONV, severity, number of rescue antiemetics, adverse effects, and patient satisfaction during the first 24 h after surgery were evaluated. RESULTS: The demographic profiles of the patients in the two groups were comparable. The overall incidence of PONV (0-24 h) was significantly lower in the TIVA plus palonosetron group than in the TIVA group (34 vs 58 %, p = 0.027). In particular, during the 6-24 h after surgery, the incidence of PONV (14 vs 30 %, p = 0.03) and the incidence of moderate to severe nausea (6 vs 22 %, p = 0.041) were significantly lower in the TIVA plus palonosetron group than in the TIVA group. There were no significant differences in adverse effects, use of rescue antiemetics or patient satisfaction. CONCLUSION: Combining palonosetron with TIVA can be considered as a good method to prevent PONV, not only during the short postoperative period but also especially during the 6-24-h period after anesthesia.