Family studies of the E1kE1s genotype for plasma cholinesterase.

Six individuals in three families with a history of suxamethonium sensitivity have been found to have genotype E1kE1s. The biochemical data for the recognition of this genotype have been analysed and the mean values compared with similar parameters for the usual phenotype. Individuals with genotype E1kE1s will be sensitive to suxamethonium.

Continuous intravenous anaesthesia with Althesin for resection of tracheal stenosis.

The anaesthetic management of patients undergoing tracheal resection for tracheal stenosis and the advantage of the maintenance of spontaneous respiration without intubation of the distal tracheal segment is discussed. The case reports of two such patients using a continuous intravenous infusion of Althesin with maintenance of spontaneous respiration are presented. The technique expedited the surgical reanastomosis due to lack of instrumentation in the surgical field. While some mild respiratory depression as evidenced by carbon dioxide retention did occur, the technique is worthy of consideration for the procedure.