Comparison of intraoperative blood pressure values measured by noninvasive versus invasive methods during normotension, hypertension, and hypotension.

Background and Aims: Monitoring of intraoperative blood pressure (BP) is essential. We aimed to compare BP values simultaneously recorded by invasive and noninvasive methods under general anesthesia (GA) during normotension, hypertension, and hypotension. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) values calculated by the automated technique were also compared to the values obtained using predefined formula. Material and Methods: An observational, prospective study was conducted in 250 adult patients undergoing elective surgeries under GA. Before induction, noninvasive blood pressure (NIBP) was measured in the arm in a supine position using an automated oscillometer. Radial artery in the opposite arm was cannulated. NIBP and arterial BP (ABP) were recorded simultaneously during normotension, hypotension, and hypertension. Results: During normotension and hypertension, systolic BP (SBP) measured by NIBP and ABP were comparable. Diastolic BP (DBP) and MAP during normotension were significantly higher with NIBP (73.65 ± 7.73 vs. 65.69 ± 8.39 and 87.79 ± 8.43 vs. 84.24 ± 8.82, respectively). During hypertension, DBP and MAP were significantly higher with NIBP (90.44 ± 11.61 vs. 78.59 ± 11.09 and 111.67 ± 10.43 vs. 105.63 ± 11.06, respectively). During hypotension, SBP was significantly higher in ABP (91.14 ± 6.90 vs. 86.24 ± 6.06), and DBP and MAP were comparable. Comparison of MAP measured by ABP and NIBP techniques with the MAP calculated using predefined formula in normotension showed significantly higher values with the automated technique. Conclusions: During normotension and hypertension, DBP and MAP showed significantly higher values with the NIBP technique compared to ABP, with comparable SBP values. During hypotension, SBP showed significantly higher values with the ABP technique, with comparable DBP and MAP. MAP obtained using predefined formula and automated method in normotension was significantly higher with the automated technique.

Effects of bilateral transmucosal sphenopalatine ganglion block on intraoperative anesthetic requirements and recovery profile in children undergoing palatoplasty under general anesthesia.

Background and Aims: Sphenopalatine ganglion block (SPGB) given as injection provides excellent perioperative analgesia during palatoplasty. Our objectives were to assess the effect of transmucosal SPGB on anesthetic requirements, intraoperative hemodynamics, recovery time, and emergence delirium in children undergoing palatoplasty. Material and Methods: This prospective, randomized study was conducted in 30 children with cleft palate undergoing palatoplasty, divided into two equal groups. After induction and intubation, patients in Group B received bilateral SPGB using cotton-tipped applicators soaked in 2% lignocaine, which were passed through both the nares, and the distal tip was positioned just superior to middle turbinate and anterior to pterygopalatine fossa and sphenopalatine ganglion. In Group C, saline-soaked cotton applicators were used. All patients received general anesthesia as per a standardized protocol. Intraoperative heart rate, mean arterial pressure, the requirement of anesthetics, extubation time, and emergence delirium were compared. Results: Compared with Group C, patients in Group B had significantly lower sevoflurane consumption (17.2 ± 2.6 vs. 27.5 ± 5.0mL, P < 0.001) and fentanyl consumption (2.2 ± 0.5 vs. 3.2 ± 0.6 µ/kg, P < 0.001).The extubation time was significantly shorter in Group B (3.9 ± 0.7 vs. 9.5 ± 1.6 minutes, P < 0.001). PAED (Pediatric Anesthesia Emergence Delirium Scale) scores at 5and 10 minutes were significantly higher in Group C (P < 0.001). Intraoperative heart rate was significantly higher in Group C. Group C had significantly higher mean arterial pressure at 15, 60, and 75 minutes. Conclusion: Preoperative, SPGB administered by mucosal application of local anesthetic significantly reduced sevoflurane and fentanyl requirements, with stable hemodynamics, quicker recovery, and less emergence delirium in children undergoing palatoplasty.

Comparison of aerosol box intubation with styletted endotracheal tube and intubation over bougie: A randomized controlled trial.

Background and Aims: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS CoV-2) is an infectious disease. The use of video laryngoscopes is recommended for intubation of patients with COVID-19. But in resource-poor countries, it is rare to have video laryngoscopes available. In this trial, we have compared the ease of oral intubation by direct laryngoscopy with styletted endotracheal tube and intubation over the bougie, with the use of the aerosol box. The secondary objectives were comparison of the incidence of airway loss, attempts taken to intubate, time for intubation and hemodynamic changes. Material and Methods: 80 non-coronavirus infected patients coming for an elective procedure under general anesthesia were recruited in this randomized control trial. Participants were assigned into groups S and B using a computer-generated random sequence of numbers by closed envelope technique. In both groups, aerosol box was used. In Group S, participants were intubated by direct laryngoscopy with a styletted endotracheal tube and in group B, after direct laryngoscopy, the endotracheal tube was railroaded over the bougie. Results: Ease of endotracheal intubation was good (67.5%% vs. 45%), satisfactory (32.5%% vs. 37.5%), and poor (0% vs. 17.5%) in group S and B respectively (P < 0.011). The attempts required for intubation were similar in both groups. The time for intubation was significantly less in group S than B (23 vs. 55 s). Conclusion: The use of a styletted endotracheal tube made intubation easier and faster than tracheal intubation with bougie when the aerosol box was used in patients without known or predicted difficult airway and significant medical comorbidities.

Usefulness of ultrasound in confirming the correct placement of Ryle's tube compared to the traditional method of auscultation in normal versus overweight and obese patients.

Background and Aims: Auscultation to verify Ryle's tube position is difficult in obese patients. We compared the usefulness of ultrasonography (USG) versus auscultation in confirming the correct Ryle's tube placement in normal versus overweight or obese patients, time taken for confirmation, and incidence of reinsertion. Material and Methods: A prospective, observational study was carried out on 80 patients. Patients with a body mass index (BMI)>25 kg/m2 formed group O and those with BMI <25 kg/m2 constituted group N. After Ryle's tube insertion correct placement was first confirmed by auscultation. The presence of a gurgling sound over the epigastrium was graded (definite/doubtful/absent). During USG evaluation, if Ryle's tube was not visualized at the subxiphoid region, 20mL of air was injected, looking for dynamic fogging in the stomach. If auscultation yielded doubtful or absent results and USG also failed to confirm, Ryle's tube was repositioned and confirmed. Results: Group O had a significantly higher BMI. Auscultation time and the time taken for USG confirmation were significantly longer in group O. The percentage of patients with definite auscultatory signs was significantly higher in group N. Significantly higher number of patients in group O had doubtful/absent auscultatory signs. Ryle's tube and fogging visualization with USG and the requirement of reinsertion were comparable in both groups. The percentage of patients with definite auscultatory confirmation and definite USG confirmation were comparable in group N. However, in group O, significantly lesser patients had definite auscultatory confirmation compared to definite USG signs. Conclusion: Confirmation of the correct placement of Ryle's tube using ultrasound is easier than auscultation in overweight and obese patients. In normal patients, both techniques are equally useful.

Usefulness of bougie-preloaded proseal laryngeal mask airway versus digital insertion technique in correct placement of the device.

Background and Aims: Digital technique of proseal laryngeal mask airway (PLMA) insertion carries high chance of failed first attempt successful placement. We aimed to compare the number of attempts taken for correct placement of bougie-preloaded PLMA versus traditional digital insertion technique. Ease of insertion, time taken, hemodynamic responses during insertion, and evidence of trauma were also assessed. Material and Methods: This prospective, randomized, open-label study was performed in 60 patients. All patients were administered general anesthesia according to a standardized protocol.After induction of general anesthesia in group P, proseal insertion was performed following the traditional digital technique. In group B, bougie-preloaded PLMA was used. A soft gum elastic bougie was passed through the gastric channel of PLMA, with 15cm protruding distally through the gastric port. Attempts at successful insertion and ease of insertion were noted. Results: Time taken for successful insertion was significantly shorter in group B compared to group P (15.3 ± 4.5 vs. 57 ± 12.02 s, respectively). The first attempt success in group B was 90% versus 60% in group P. The number of moderate to hard insertion was significantly lesser in group B (10 vs. 40, respectively). Blood stain on device was seen in 3.3% in group B compared to 30% in group P. MAP at insertion and at 1, 3, and 5 min was significantly higher in group P. Heart rates were comparable. Conclusion: Bougie-preloaded proseal insertion has significantly higher first attempt insertion success rates and is significantly faster and less traumatic with blunted blood pressure response compared to traditional digital insertion technique.

Effects of oral melatonin premedication on hemodynamic responses to intubation, anesthetic requirements and postoperative sedation: A randomized trial.

Background and Aims: Sedative effects of melatonin may have an additive effect on general anesthesia (GA). We compared hemodynamic response to intubation following oral premedication with melatonin versus placebo. Induction dose of propofol, isoflurane and fentanyl consumption were also compared. Material and Methods: This prospective, double-blinded study was conducted in fifty patients randomized into two equal groups. Group M received oral melatonin 6 mg and group P a placebo two hours before surgery. All patients were induced with intravenous propofol of 1.5-2.5mg/kg till loss of response to verbal commands, three minutes after vecuronium, laryngoscopy was done and trachea was intubated. Heart rate (HR) and mean arterial pressures (MAP) were recorded before premedication, before induction, immediately after induction and then at 1,3,5 and 10 minutes after intubation. Results: Mean HR was comparable in both groups throughout the study period. Group M had significantly lower MAP before induction and immediately after induction (P < 0.05). At all other time points MAP remained comparable in both groups. Mean isoflurane consumption was significantly lower in group M compared to group P (14.8 ± 4.2 vs 19.7 ± 3.2 mL). Propofol requirement for induction was also significantly lower in group M (102.4 ± 19.6 vs 122.4 ± 26.3mg). Intraoperative fentanyl consumption was comparable. Conclusion: Oral premedication with melatonin 6mg administered two hours before surgery significantly reduced MAP before and after induction of GA with a significant reduction in dose of propofol requirement. Titrating induction dose of propofol till loss of response to verbal commands did not effectively attenuate responses to laryngoscopy and intubation following melatonin oral premedication.

Safety and ease of awake fiberoptic intubation with use of oxygen insufflation versus suction to clear secretions during procedure.

Background and Aims: During awake fiberoptic intubation (AFOI), clearing secretions is usually done by suctioning. The study objectives were to assess the safety of AFOI with the use of oxygen insufflation versus suction to clear secretions from the field of vision during the procedure as assessed by incidence of desaturation <95%, ease of intubation, and time taken to secure the airway. Material and methods: This prospective randomized study was conducted in 40 adult patients with difficult airways requiring AFOI. All patients received dexmedetomidine 0.5mcg/kg intravenously, and the airway was topicalized. In Group-S suction and in Group-O oxygen was connected to the suction port of the bronchoscope to clear the secretions by activating the suction knob during bronchoscopy. Ease of intubation was scored as easy, moderate, and hard. Results: Incidence of desaturation to <95% and the need for oxygen supplementation were significantly high in Group S compared to Group O (60% vs. 10%). Incidence of easy intubation (80% vs. 75%) and time taken to intubate (50.1 ± 16.6 vs. 53.8 ± 21.0 s) were comparable. The number of times (median) suctioning was done in Group S was significantly high compared to the number of oxygen insufflations required in Group O [3 (1-6) vs. 2 (0-5), P 0.033]. Desaturation to <95% was significantly low in Group O compared to Group S during bronchoscopy (10% vs. 60%, P 0.002). Conclusion: The use of oxygen insufflation to clear secretions from the field of vision during AFOI is a safer alternative to suctioning as this technique reduces the chance of desaturation during the procedure without affecting ease of intubation, number of attempts, time taken for it, or patient comfort.

Effect of intracuff dexamethasone on incidence and severity of post operative sore -Prospective randomized study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Postoperative sore throat (POST) continues to be a common concern following endotracheal intubation. Objectives of the present study were to compare the effects of intracuff dexamethasone on the incidence and severity of POST, postoperative hoarseness of voice (POHV) and cough (POC). MATERIAL AND METHODS: This prospective, randomized, double blinded study was conducted in 60 patients undergoing short laparoscopic surgery lasting <2 h. Patients were randomly allocated into Group A and B. After intubation, endotracheal tube (ETT) cuffs were filled with saline in group A and with 0.1 mg/kg dexamethasone in group B. All patients received general anesthesia as per a standardized protocol. Incidence and severity of POST, POC, and POHV were assessed. RESULTS: As compared to group A, the number of patients who had sore throat was significantly low in group B at 2, 6, 12, and 24 h (P < 0.001). Though more number of patients in group A had postop cough at all time points and postop hoarseness of voice at 2,6, and 12 h, the difference was statistically significant only at 2 h and 6 h for both. Severity as well as the incidence of POST, POC, and POHV showed a downward trend in both groups with time. In group B, no patient had POST after 12 h, POC after 6 h, and none complained of POHV in the postoperative period. CONCLUSION: Intracuff dexamethasone 0.1 mg/kg significantly reduces incidence and severity of POST, POC, and POHV which occur following general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation in patients undergoing short pelvic laparoscopic procedures lasting <2 h.

Preoperative oral carbohydrate loading: Effects on intraoperative blood glucose levels, post-operative nausea and vomiting, and intensive care unit stay.

Background and Aims: Preoperative fasting imparts safety to patients from aspiration of gastric contents, but undue fasting may predispose to hypoglycemia and dehydration. Preoperative carbohydrate drink reduces postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Primary objective of the present study was to assess effect of carbohydrate drink given 2h before surgery on intraoperative blood glucose levels as compared to those who did not receive it. Secondary objectives included assessment of incidence and severity of PONV and duration of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stay. Material and Methods: It was a prospective randomized study done in 52 non-diabetic patients undergoing thyroidectomy. Group A received 39gm of carbohydrate in 250 mL of apple juice (tetrapack) and Group B patients were given equivalent volume of plain water 2 h prior to surgery. Random blood glucose (RBS) levels were checked before fluid administration, preinduction, 1 h postinduction, and at the end of surgery. PONV was assessed using PONV Impact Scale Score (ISS) and rescue drugs, if needed, were noted. Paired t-test, sample t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Fisher's exact test were used as applicable. Results: The fasting, preinduction, and postoperative RBS values were comparable in both groups. Group B had significantly higher RBS at 1h intraoperatively. Group A patients had less vomiting, dry retching, or nausea and required less rescue therapy compared to Group B. Conclusion: Compared to patients who received carbohydrate drink 2 h before surgery, those who did not receive it had significantly higher blood glucose values intraoperatively with a higher incidence and severity of PONV and comparable ICU stay.

Is intraoperative supplementation of dextrose essential for infants undergoing facial cleft surgeries?

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Dextrose is commonly added to the intraoperative maintenance fluids of pediatric patients. The primary objective was to evaluate the effect of addition of 1% dextrose to Ringer's lactate (RL) on blood glucose levels in infants undergoing facial cleft surgeries. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This prospective, randomized, single blinded study was conducted in forty infants undergoing either cheiloplasty or palatoplasty. Random blood sugar (RBS) was assessed using a glucometer after induction of anaesthesia, and at 1 and 2 hours later. Group R received RL and Group D received RL with 1% dextrose as intraoperative maintenance fluid. Hypoglycemia was defined as RBS <70 mg/dL and hyperglycemia as RBS >150 mg/dL. RESULTS: Baseline RBS levels and those at 60 min and 120 min post-induction were comparable in both groups. The increase in blood sugar levels from baseline to 60 min and to 120 min in each group was significant. Incidence of hyperglycemia was comparable in both groups. There were no episodes of hypoglycemia, intraoperatively. CONCLUSION: Use of Ringer lactate alone or with addition of 1% dextrose resulted in comparable intraoperative blood sugar levels when used as maintenance fluid in infants undergoing facial cleft surgeries.

Indian Subcontinent's First Proximal Forearm Level Double Upper Extremity Transplantation.

Introduction Vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA) has added another step to the reconstructive ladder, leading to a paradigm shift in the approach toward management of cases of upper limb amputations. In this article, we discuss in detail the technical aspects of proximal forearm level transplantation, as well as the immediate posttransplant monitoring and immunosuppression protocols. Materials and Methods A 24-year-old male victim of an electric injury presented with a bilateral proximal forearm level amputation. After the mandatory preoperative psychiatric and immunological evaluation, the patient underwent a proximal forearm level double upper extremity transplantation. He was then put on a stringent immunosuppression and physical rehabilitative regime. Discussion Conceptually, the proximal forearm level transplantation is significantly different from distal forearm level transplant. This transplant "reestablishes" the "donor extremity length," maintains the normal functional length of the donor muscles, and the functional return happens only after the newly transplanted donor muscles are reinnervated over a period of time. Conclusion As the sequence of surgical repair and associated decision making could be quite confusing for this level of transplantation, it is highly advisable to do mock cadaver surgical dissections in order to standardize the procedure and make the team familiar with it.

Indian Subcontinent's First Bilateral Supracondylar Level Upper Limb Transplantation.

Introduction This is the first case of supracondylar level transplant from the Indian subcontinent, performed for a bilateral below elbow amputee. It has a completely different set of challenges for the transplant team, with a relatively shorter ischemia time window. The technical considerations for the same have been discussed in detail in this article. Materials and Methods The patient was a 19-year-old female who lost her both upper limbs at proximal forearm level due to severe crush injury following a road traffic accident. Insufficient bone length on either side necessitated a supracondylar level transplant. The preoperative workup included detailed clinical evaluation, biochemical, and psychological evaluation. The donor was a young brain-dead, male patient from a hospital, 30 minutes away. The donor and recipient preparations in this case were unique. The recipient's own elbow flexors and extensors were used while the elbow joint was from the donor. The specific challenges we faced during this procedure have been described in detail. Results The transplantation has been a complete technical success, with the patient rehabilitated back to her independent life style. This article describes only the technical considerations. The functional recovery aspect is part of an another soon to be published manuscript. Conclusion Supracondylar level arm-transplant requires a highly coordinated team effort with precise preoperative planning, along with meticulous attention to detail to achieve a successful outcome. In properly selected patients, it could be a life-changing procedure, worth all the effort.

Hemodynamic response to tracheal intubation in postlaryngectomy patients.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Endotracheal intubation in postlaryngectomy patients is usually accomplished by inserting endotracheal tube directly into the laryngectomy stoma. The primary objective of our study was to assess the systolic blood pressure (SBP) response to intubation in postlaryngectomy patients. Secondary objectives included assessment of changes in heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and to estimate tracheal component of hemodynamic response to intubation in normal patients by finding out the relative reduction in hemodynamic response that might occur in postlaryngectomy patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a prospective, observational study. Forty postlaryngectomy patients formed group L and 40 normal patients constituted group N. After induction of anesthesia and neuromuscular blockade, direct laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation were performed in group N, whereas an endotracheal tube was passed through the laryngectomy stoma directly into the trachea in group L. Hemodynamic responses were documented. Chi-square test, independent samples t-test, and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) test were applied. RESULT: Group L patients were significantly older with significantly lower baseline HR with higher SBP and MAP. As baseline values were not comparable, they were taken as covariates and ANCOVA was applied. Adjusted mean values were then compared. Immediately after induction HR, SBP and MAP were comparable in both groups. Subsequent comparison of adjusted mean values showed significantly higher HR, SBP, and MAP in group N immediately after intubation and 1,3,5, and 10 min later (P < 0.001). At 15 min, HR and SBP were significantly higher in group N with comparable MAP. CONCLUSION: Hemodynamic stress response to endotracheal intubation is minimal or absent in postlaryngectomy patients. They mostly present with elevated blood pressure and develop hypotension following induction that persists despite intubation.