General Anesthesia With and Without Remifentanil for Flexible and Rigid Bronchoscopy: A Retrospective Case-Matched Study.

Prior research suggests general anesthesia (GA) with remifentanil is superior to GA without remifentanil regarding perioperative outcomes, including the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) length of stay (LOS). The objective of this study was to compare the intraoperative management and PACU LOS in patients who underwent GA with or without remifentanil for bronchoscopy. The study included 5,763 adult patients who underwent flexible bronchoscopy and received GA with or without remifentanil or who underwent rigid bronchoscopy and received GA with or without remifentanil. Despite prolonged procedural length in both the flexible and rigid bronchoscopy groups and greater ASA score in the flexible bronchoscopy group, no difference in the adjusted PACU LOS or time to extubation was found. Remifentanil was associated with hemodynamic perturbations and desaturation events. Remifentanil was associated with a significant reduction in nonremifentanil opioid requirements. Although both groups receiving remifentanil were associated with a less favorable intraoperative hemodynamic profile, remifentanil did not increase the incidence of postoperative complications despite that group having a greater ASA score and procedural duration.

"The Worst Is the Worry": Importance of Preoperative Preparation of Preschool Children.

Children often experience a high level of anxiety before anesthesia, which may lead to poor cooperation during anesthesia induction and negative consequences for the postoperative period. The aim of this study was to obtain knowledge that may improve practice in preparing preschoolers for anesthesia and surgery by analyzing nurse anesthetists' preoperative experiences with children. A focus group interview with nurse anesthetists was conducted. The interview was recorded and transcribed verbatim, and results were analyzed using qualitative text analysis. Three main themes were identified to relieve preschoolers' anxiety: "Making the unknown and scary harmless," "Using oneself," and "Having a lap to sit on." Findings indicate that explanation and preparation through play, as well as experiences of participation and coping, can safeguard children who are feeling anxious. The professional and personal qualities of a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) are important when managing pediatric patients' anxiety. It is essential that CRNAs have the ability to adapt the induction of anesthesia to suit the child individually (and parents). The parents constitute an important collaborator for CRNAs. Young children need explanations and knowledge about what is happening and what to expect. CRNAs should focus on codetermination and participation for preschool children undergoing anesthesia.

Comparison of the ED50 propofol requirements during the insertion of laryngeal mask airway Ambu AuraFlex with Ambu AuraOnce in children undergoing strabismus surgery.

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE: Optimal airway management is crucial in strabismus surgery due to the inaccessibility of the airway throughout the procedure. Laryngeal mask airway offers advantages over tracheal intubation in ophthalmic surgery as it does not increase the intraocular pressure. The purpose of this study was to determine the median effective dose of propofol required, when combined with 0.2 µg/kg of sufentanil, for smooth insertion of Ambu AuraFlex in the first attempt in children undergoing strabismus surgery, and to compare it with that for Ambu AuraOnce. METHODS: Forty-three paediatric patients undergoing strabismus surgery under general anaesthesia were recruited. For induction, the initial dosage of propofol was 2 mg/kg in the AuraOnce group or 3 mg/kg in the AuraFlex group. In accordance with Dixon's up-and-down method, the dose of propofol for consecutive patients in each group was adjusted in increments or decrements of 0.25 mg/kg based on the previous patient's "three-point, six-category scale" response to the first attempt of insertion of the randomized device. Insertion of the device was attempted when the bispectral index was ≤60 for 5 s after propofol administration without the use of neuromuscular blocking agents. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The median effective dose (95% confidence interval) of propofol was significantly lower in the Ambu AuraOnce group than in the Ambu AuraFlex group (1.92 [1.50-2.32] mg/kg vs. 2.98 [2.49-3.94] mg/kg; p = 0.002). The incidence of dislodgement of the device was significantly higher with the use of the Ambu AuraOnce than with the use of AuraFlex (p = 0.023), whereas insignificant differences were observed between the two groups in the incidence of other perioperative adverse events. WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION: Ambu AuraFlex requires a significantly higher dose of propofol for insertion and provides more effective and stable airway management in strabismus surgery than AuraOnce.

Acupuntura en la recuperación de la anestesia general en pacientes intervenidas quirúrgicamente de nódulo de mama / Acupuncture in the recovery from general anesthesia in patients who underwent a breast nodule surgery

RESUMEN Introducción: en el período de recuperación de la anestesia general se deben metabolizar los medicamentos empleados y restablecer las alteraciones fisiológicas. La acupuntura es un método de tratamiento que ha sido estudiado en el período perioperatorio con diferentes fines; sin embargo, es menos conocido su efecto en la recuperación de la anestesia general. Objetivo: describir el efecto de la estimulación con Acupuntura en la recuperación de la anestesia general balanceada en pacientes intervenidas quirúrgicamente por nódulo de mama. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional prospectivo, en 60 pacientes intervenidas quirúrgicamente de nódulo de mama con anestesia general endotraqueal balanceada, de enero de 2014 a enero de 2016, en el Hospital Provincial Docente José Ramón López Tabrane, de Matanzas. Se conformaron dos grupos: grupo I, al que al finalizar la cirugía se le colocaron agujas de acupuntura en los puntos R1, Du26 y P9; y grupo II, al que no se le realizó acupuntura. El efecto de la acupuntura en la recuperación anestésica se midió a través de la Escala de Aldrete. Resultados: la edad de mayor incidencia fue de 40 a 49 años. El estado físico de las pacientes, según la Sociedad Americana de Anestesiología, es I. Prevaleció un tiempo anestésico de 61 a 90 minutos. Más del 75 % de las féminas tuvieron un tiempo de recuperación anestésica entre 31 y 60 minutos. Se presentaron dos complicaciones leves atribuibles a la acupuntura. Conclusiones: la aplicación de la acupuntura acortó el tiempo de recuperación anestésica en las pacientes estudiadas (AU).

ABSTRACT Introduction: in the recovery period from general anesthesia the used drugs should be metabolized and the physiological alterations restored. Acupuncture is a treatment method that has been studied in the perioperative period with different aims; nevertheless its effect on the recovery from general anesthesia is less well known. Objective: to describe the acupuncture stimulation effect on the recovery from general balanced anesthesia in patients who underwent a breast nodule surgery. Materials and methods: a prospective, observational study was performed in 60 patients who underwent a surgery of breast nodule with balanced endotracheal general anesthesia, from January 2014 to January 2016, at the Provincial Teaching Hospital "Jose Ramon Lopez Tabrane" of Matanzas. Two groups were formed: group I included patients to whom acupuncture needles were placed in R1, Du 26 and P9 acupoints after surgery, and Group II patients to whom acupuncture was not performed. The acupuncture effect on anesthetic recovery was assessed using the Aldrete Scale. Two groups were formed: group I, whose members at the end of the surgery were placed acupuncture needles to in the points R1, Du26 and P9; and group II, whose members did not receive acupuncture. The effect of acupuncture on anesthetic recovery was measured through the Aldrete Scale. Results: the highest incidence age was 40 to 49 years. The physical condition of the patients, according to the American Society of Anesthesiology, was I. An anesthetic time of 61 to 90 minutes prevailed. More than 75% of the women had an anesthetic recovery time between 31 and 60 minutes. There were two minor complications attributable to acupuncture. Conclusions: acupuncture application shortened the anesthetic recovery time in the studied patients (AU).

Ultrasound-guided versus Shikani optical stylet-aided tracheal intubation: a prospective randomized study.

BACKGROUND: To compare ultrasound-guided tracheal intubation (UGTI) versus Shikani optical stylet (SOS)-aided tracheal intubation in patients with anticipated normal airway. METHODS: Sixty patients aged 18-65 years old who presented for elective surgery under general anesthesia were recruited in this prospective randomized study. They were assigned into two equal groups, either an ultrasound-guided group (Group UG, n = 30) or an SOS-aided group (Group SOS, n = 30). After the induction of anesthesia, the tracheal intubation was performed by a specified skilled anesthesiologist. The number of tracheal intubation attempt and the duration of successful intubation on the first attempt were recorded. Complications relative to tracheal intubation including desaturation, hoarseness and sore throat were also recorded. RESULTS: The first-attempt success rate is 93.3% (28/30) in Group UG and 90% (27/30) in Group SOS (P = 0.640). The second-attempt was all successful for the 2 and 3 patients left in the two groups, and the overall success rate of both groups was 100%. The duration of successful intubation on the first attempt of Group UG was not significantly different from that of Group SOS (34.0 ± 20.8 s vs 35.5 ± 23.2 s, P = 0.784). One patient in Group SOS had desaturation (P = 0.313), and there was none hoarseness in the two groups. Sore throat was detected in both group (4 in Group UG, 5 in Group SOS, P = 0.718). CONCLUSION: Ultrasound-guided tracheal intubation was as effective as Shikani optical stylet-aided tracheal intubation in adult patients with anticipated normal airway. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR-IIC-17010875 . Date of Registration: 15 March 2017.

Prospective Evaluation of a Standardized Opioid Reduction Protocol after Anorectal Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Surgery for anorectal disease is thought to cause significant postoperative pain. Our previous work demonstrated that most opioids prescribed after anorectal surgery are not used. We aimed to evaluate a standardized protocol for pain control after anorectal surgery. METHODS: We prospectively evaluated a standardized opioid reduction protocol over a 13-mo period for all patients undergoing elective anorectal surgery at our institution. Protocol components include preoperative query, procedural local-anesthetic blocks, first-line nonopioid analgesic use ± opioid prescription of five pills, and standardized postoperative instructions. Patients completed questionnaires at postoperative follow-up. Patients with history of opioid abuse or use within 30 d of operation, loss to follow-up, or surgical complications were excluded. Primary outcome was quality of pain control on a five-point scale. Secondary outcomes included use of nonopioid analgesics, opioids used, and need for refill. RESULTS: A total of 55 patients were included. Mean age was 47 ± 17 y with 23 women (42%). Anorectal abscess/fistula procedures were the most common (69%) followed by pilonidal procedures (11%) and hemorrhoidectomy (7%). Most had general anesthesia (60%) with the remainder local anesthesia ± sedation. Fifty-four (98%) had procedural local-anesthetic blocks. Twenty-six patients (47%) were prescribed opioids with a median of five pills. Forty-seven patients (85%) reported the use of nonopioid analgesics. Forty-six patients (84%) reported excellent to very good pain control. About 220 opioid pills were prescribed, and 122 were reported to be used. One patient (2%) received an opioid refill. CONCLUSIONS: Satisfactory pain control after anorectal surgery can be achieved with multimodality therapy with little to no opioid use for most patients.

Neuroanesthesia Guidelines for Optimizing Transcranial Motor Evoked Potential Neuromonitoring During Deformity and Complex Spinal Surgery: A Delphi Consensus Study.

STUDY DESIGN: Expert opinion-modified Delphi study. OBJECTIVE: We used a modified Delphi approach to obtain consensus among leading spinal deformity surgeons and their neuroanesthesiology teams regarding optimal practices for obtaining reliable motor evoked potential (MEP) signals. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring of transcranial MEPs provides the best method for assessing spinal cord integrity during complex spinal surgeries. MEPs are affected by pharmacological and physiological parameters. It is the responsibility of the spine surgeon and neuroanesthesia team to understand how they can best maintain high-quality MEP signals throughout surgery. Nevertheless, varying approaches to neuroanesthesia are seen in clinical practice. METHODS: We identified 19 international expert spinal deformity treatment teams. A modified Delphi process with two rounds of surveying was performed. Greater than 50% agreement on the final statements was considered "agreement"; >75% agreement was considered "consensus." RESULTS: Anesthesia regimens and protocols were obtained from the expert centers. There was a large amount of variability among centers. Two rounds of consensus surveying were performed, and all centers participated in both rounds of surveying. Consensus was obtained for 12 of 15 statements, and majority agreement was obtained for two of the remaining statements. Total intravenous anesthesia was identified as the preferred method of maintenance, with few centers allowing for low mean alveolar concentration of inhaled anesthetic. Most centers advocated for <150 µg/kg/min of propofol with titration to the lowest dose that maintains appropriate anesthesia depth based on awareness monitoring. Use of adjuvant intravenous anesthetics, including ketamine, low-dose dexmedetomidine, and lidocaine, may help to reduce propofol requirements without negatively effecting MEP signals. CONCLUSION: Spine surgeons and neuroanesthesia teams should be familiar with methods for optimizing MEPs during deformity and complex spinal cases. Although variability in practices exists, there is consensus among international spinal deformity treatment centers regarding best practices. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 5.

Prospective, Randomized Comparison of the i-gel and the Self-Pressurized air-Q Intubating Laryngeal Airway in Elderly Anesthetized Patients.

BACKGROUND: Age-related changes in upper airway anatomy may affect the overall performance of supraglottic airways significantly. The clinical performance of the i-gel and the self-pressurized air-Q intubating laryngeal airways with noninflatable cuffs for elderly populations remains unknown, unlike in children. Thus, we performed a prospective, randomized comparison of these 2 supraglottic airways in elderly patients undergoing general anesthesia. METHODS: We recruited 100 patients, 65-90 years of age, who were scheduled for elective surgery under general anesthesia with muscle relaxation. The enrolled patients were allocated to the i-gel or self-pressurized air-Q group. We assessed oropharyngeal leak pressure as the primary outcome and fiberoptic view after placement and fixation of the airway and at 10 minutes after the initial assessment. The fiberoptic view was scored using a 5-point scale as follows: vocal cords not visible; vocal cords and anterior epiglottis visible, >50% visual obstruction of epiglottis to vocal cords; vocal cords and anterior epiglottis visible, <50% visual obstruction of epiglottis to vocal cords; vocal cords and posterior epiglottis visible; and vocal cords visible. We also investigated success rate and ease of insertion, insertion time, and manipulations during insertion as insertion variables, complications during maintenance and emergence periods, and postoperative pharyngolaryngeal complications including sore throat, dysphagia, and dysphonia. RESULTS: After assessing for eligibility, 48 patients were allocated to each group. Oropharyngeal leak pressures were significantly higher in the i-gel group than in the self-pressurized air-Q group (P < .001) at the 2 measurement points. The raw mean difference at initial assessment and the median difference after 10 minutes were 5.5 cm H2O (95% confidence interval, 3.3-7.6 cm H2O) and 5.0 (95% confidence interval, 2.0-7.0 cm H2O), respectively. The initial scores of fiberoptic view were similar in the 2 groups. However, the self-pressurized air-Q supraglottic airway provided a significantly improved fiberoptic view at 10 minutes after initial assessment (P = .030). We found no statistically significant differences in insertion variables and complications between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS: The i-gel provided better sealing function than the self-pressurized air-Q supraglottic airway according to the high oropharyngeal leak pressures in elderly patients during general anesthesia. The self-pressurized air-Q supraglottic airway had improved fiberoptic views in elderly patients during general anesthesia.

American Society for Enhanced Recovery and Perioperative Quality Initiative Joint Consensus Statement on the Role of Neuromonitoring in Perioperative Outcomes: Electroencephalography.

Electroencephalographic (EEG) monitoring to indicate brain state during anesthesia has become widely available. It remains unclear whether EEG-guided anesthesia influences perioperative outcomes. The sixth Perioperative Quality Initiative (POQI-6) brought together an international team of multidisciplinary experts from anesthesiology, biomedical engineering, neurology, and surgery to review the current literature and to develop consensus recommendations on the utility of EEG monitoring during anesthesia. We retrieved a total of 1023 articles addressing the use of EEG monitoring during anesthesia and conducted meta-analyses from 15 trials to determine the effect of EEG-guided anesthesia on the rate of unintentional awareness, postoperative delirium, neurocognitive disorder, and long-term mortality after surgery. After considering current evidence, the working group recommends that EEG monitoring should be considered as part of the vital organ monitors to guide anesthetic management. In addition, we encourage anesthesiologists to be knowledgeable in basic EEG interpretation, such as raw waveform, spectrogram, and processed indices, when using these devices. Current evidence suggests that EEG-guided anesthesia reduces the rate of awareness during total intravenous anesthesia and has similar efficacy in preventing awareness as compared with end-tidal anesthetic gas monitoring. There is, however, insufficient evidence to recommend the use of EEG monitoring for preventing postoperative delirium, neurocognitive disorder, or postoperative mortality.

Derivation and validation of an equation to determine the optimal ventilator setting in children undergoing intracranial revascularization surgery: A single-center retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: It can be difficult to determine the appropriate ventilator settings to maintain normocapnia in children undergoing general anesthesia for surgery for moyamoya disease, especially immediately following anesthesia induction. AIM: We conducted this study to attempt to derive an equation to predict the appropriate ventilator settings and subsequently validated the accuracy of the equation. METHODS: A retrospective study of 91 pediatric patients less than 18 years of age who underwent cerebral revascularization for moyamoya disease at our institution. Fifty-eight patients were used to derive the equation, and the subsequent 33 patients were used to validate the equation. We calculated the required respiratory rate to attain normocapnia based on the median of all values of the minute volume during normocapnia (estimated partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide of 38-42 mm Hg) and the assumption that the tidal volume was 8 mL/kg body weight. We derived the regression equation from the derivation data set where the required respiratory rate to attain normocapnia was represented by age. We simplified the equation by rounding coefficients to the nearest integer. The level of agreement between the respiratory rate predicted from the equation and the actual required respiratory rate was assessed in the validation group using Bland-Altman analysis. RESULTS: The derived equation is tidal volume = 8 mL/kg body weight, respiratory rate = 24-age/min. Bland-Altman analysis in the validation group revealed that the mean bias between the predicted and actual respiratory rate was 0.29 (standard deviation, 3.67). The percentage of cases where the predicted rate was within ± 10% and ± 20% of the actual rate was 42.4% and 66.7%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: We derived and validated a simple and easily applicable equation to predict the ventilator settings required to attain normocapnia during general anesthesia in children with moyamoya disease.

Methodological description of clinical research data collection through electronic medical records in a center participating in an international multicenter study.

Data collection for clinical research can be difficult, and electronic health record systems can facilitate this process. The aim of this study was to describe and evaluate the secondary use of electronic health records in data collection for an observational clinical study. We used Cerner Millennium®, an electronic health record software, following these steps: (1) data crossing between the study's case report forms and the electronic health record; (2) development of a manual collection method for data not recorded in Cerner Millennium®; (3) development of a study interface for automatic data collection in the electronic health records; (4) employee training; (5) data quality assessment; and (6) filling out the electronic case report form at the end of the study. Three case report forms were consolidated into the electronic case report form at the end of the study. Researchers performed daily qualitative and quantitative analyses of the data. Data were collected from 94 patients. In the first case report form, 76.5% of variables were obtained electronically, in the second, 95.5%, and in the third, 100%. The daily quality assessment of the whole process showed complete and correct data, widespread employee compliance and minimal interference in their practice. The secondary use of electronic health records is safe and effective, reduces manual labor, and provides data reliability. Anesthetic care and data collection may be done by the same professional.

Regional anesthesia and pain management in patients with sleep apnea: can they improve outcomes?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: In several guidelines, regional anesthesia and analgesia have been suggested as safer alternatives for general anesthesia and systemic analgesia for their safety profile in patients suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, the underlying scientific basis is still evolving. The present review is intended to provide an up-to-date account on the question whether the use of regional anesthesia improves outcomes in patients with OSA. RECENT FINDINGS: A number of studies found favorable effects of regional anesthesia used in patients with OSA, including reduced incidence of major perioperative complications such as the need for mechanical ventilation, reintubation and pulmonary/cardiac complications. No negative effects of regional anesthesia specific to patients with OSA were found. Regional anesthesia was most effective when used as a sole technique, but also carried benefits when added to general anesthesia. The majority of available literature focuses on orthopedic surgery and neuraxial anesthesia. SUMMARY: Regional anesthesia can be recommended as a good strategy to treat patients with OSA whenever feasible, as it reduces the incidence of potentially catastrophic perioperative complications. However, the breadth of both surgical and regional anesthetic techniques analyzed is limited; further research should focus on extending the knowledge base beyond neuraxial anesthesia and orthopedics.

Reducing kidney motion: optimizing anesthesia and combining respiratory support for retrograde intrarenal surgery: a pilot study.

BACKGROUND: One of the greatest challenges presented with RIRS is the potential for movement of the stone within the operative field associated with diaphragm and chest respiratory excursions due to mechanical ventilation. To overcome this challenge, we propose in this pilot study a new general anesthesia technique combining high frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) with small volume mechanical ventilation (SVMV). Data regarding safety, feasibility and surgeons' impression was assessed. METHODS: Patients undergoing RIRS for kidney stones from November 2017 to May 2018 were prospectively recruited to participate in the study. In each case after the beginning of general anesthesia (GA) with mechanical ventilation (MV) surgeons were asked to assess the mobility of the operative field and conditions for laser lithotripsy according to the developed questionnaire scale. The questionnaire consisted of 5 degrees of assessment of kidney mobility and each question was scored from 1 to 5, 1 being very mobile (extremely poor conditions for dusting) and 5 completely immobile (Ideal conditions for dusting). After the assessment GA was modified with combined respiratory support (CRS), reducing tidal volume and respiratory rate (small volume mechanical ventilation, SVMV) and applying in the same time transcatheter high frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) inside the closed circuit. After beginning of CRS, surgeons were once again asked to assess the mobility of the operative field and the conditions for laser lithotripsy. Main ventilation parameters were recorded and compared in both regimens. RESULTS: A total of 38 patients were included in the study. The mean age was 49 (range 45-53) with a mean stone size of 10 mm (range 10-14) and Hounsfield unit of 1060 (range 930-1190). All patients underwent successful RIRS and no intraoperative complications occurred throughout the duration of the study. A statistically significant difference between ventilation parameters prior to and after CRS institution was detected in all cases, however their clinical impact was negligible. Despite this, assessment via the questionnaire scale point values varied significantly before and after the application of CRS and were 2.3 (2.1; 2.6) and 3.8 (3.7; 4.0) respectively (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The novel combined respiratory approach consisting of HFJV and SVMV appears to provide better conditions for stone dusting through reduced respiratory kidney motion and is not associated with adverse health effects or complications. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT03999255 , date of registration: 25th June 2019 (retrospectively registered).

Anesthesia for peroral endoscopic myotomy in Japan.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) was developed in Japan as a less invasive treatment for esophageal achalasia requiring general anesthesia under positive pressure ventilation. In 2018, the Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society published the first guidelines describing the standard care for POEM. Based on these guidelines, we discuss the typical approach to anesthesia during POEM for the management of esophageal achalasia in Japan. RECENT FINDINGS: Prior cleansing of the esophagus is essential to prevent both aspiration during induction of anesthesia and contamination of the mediastinum and thoracic/abdominal cavity by esophageal remnants after endoscopic resection of the esophageal mucosa. Although rare, adverse events related to intraoperative carbon dioxide insufflation occur. These are treated through percutaneous needle decompression and insertion of a chest drainage tube for pneumoperitoneum and pneumothorax, respectively. Caution should be exercised regarding the development of subcutaneous emphysema and its involvement in airway obstruction. SUMMARY: Prevention of aspiration pneumonia and adverse events related to the insufflation of carbon dioxide is essential in the management of esophageal achalasia through POEM. Close cooperation between gastrointestinal endoscopic surgeons and anesthesiologists is indispensable in POEM.

Safety and quality of endovascular therapy under general anesthesia and conscious sedation are comparable: results from the GOLIATH trial.

BACKGROUND: The "General or Local Anesthesia in Intra-Arterial Therapy" (GOLIATH) trial compared infarct growth and outcome in patients undergoing endovascular therapy (EVT) under either general anesthesia (GA) or conscious sedation (CS). The results were the same for the primary outcome (infarct growth) but successful reperfusion was higher in the GA arm. OBJECTIVE: To further examine differences in the quality and safety of EVT with the two anesthetic regimens in a post hoc analysis of GOLIATH. METHODS: In GOLIATH, 128 subjects with anterior circulation large vessel occlusion stroke within 6 hours of onset were randomized to either GA or CS (1:1 allocation). We compared the quality of reperfusion, treatment delay, use of catheters, and contrast and radiation dosage between the trial arms. RESULTS: Sixty-five subjects were randomized to GA. Baseline demographic and clinical variables were similar between the treatment arms. We found no difference in procedure time, contrast dose, or radiation dose between the two arms. Tandem occlusions were associated with a longer procedure time, but there was no difference between the two arms. There was no difference in reperfusion rates between the direct aspiration technique and a stent retriever (86% vs 79%, respectively, p=0.54), but aspiration was associated with a shorter procedure time (28 min vs 42 min for a stent retriever), p=0.03. CONCLUSION: Safety and quality of EVT under either GA and CS are comparable. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Unique identifier: NCT02317237;Post-results.

A multicentre observational study on management of general anaesthesia in elderly patients at high-risk of postoperative adverse outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: In elderly patients, goal-directed haemodynamic therapy (GDHT), depth of anaesthesia monitoring and lung-protective ventilation have been shown to improve postoperative outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate current practices concerning strategies of anaesthesia optimisation in patients aged≥75 years. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A multicentre observational study was performed from February to May 2015 in 23 French academic centres. On 30 consecutive days in each centre, patients≥75 years with at least one major comorbidity undergoing elective or emergency procedures (femoral-neck fractures surgery, intraperitoneal abdominal surgery or vascular surgery) were included. Patient characteristics and data related to GHDT, management of hypotension, monitoring of temperature and depth of anaesthesia, lung ventilation, point of care haemoglobin testing were collected. RESULTS: In total, 807 patients were included. Only 2% of patients [95% CI: 1-3] received GHDT in full accordance with guidelines. Depth of anaesthesia monitoring was largely performed (53% [95% CI: 50-56]). The multifaceted strategy of lung-protective ventilation combining low tidal volumes (6-8mL/kg), PEEP of 5-8cm cmH2O, and repeated recruitment manoeuvres, was performed in only 4% [95% CI: 3-5] of patients. A centre effect was a major determinant of variation concerning implementation of these strategies. DISCUSSION: In patients'≥75 years, strategies of anaesthesia optimisation are not in accordance with eligible guidelines. Implementation of these techniques varies independently of factors related to the patient or the type of surgery and may be dependent on the generated constraints.

General versus spinal anesthesia for the elderly hip fractured patient.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: There is an urge to improve care for patients with hip fracture. The present review will compare the efficacy of spinal versus general anesthesia for patients requiring hip fracture surgery. RECENT FINDINGS: The present review gives an overview with particular emphasis on literature published during the past 24 months. SUMMARY: So far, no clear evidence form randomized trials exists to identify the best anesthesia technique for hip fracture surgery. However, several large-scale pragmatic trials are ongoing and will provide future guidance.

Methodological description of clinical research data collection through electronic medical records in a center participating in an international multicenter study / Abordagem e descrição metodológica do uso do prontuário eletrônico como forma de coleta de dados em pesquisa clínica em centro participante de estudo internacional e multicêntrico

ABSTRACT Data collection for clinical research can be difficult, and electronic health record systems can facilitate this process. The aim of this study was to describe and evaluate the secondary use of electronic health records in data collection for an observational clinical study. We used Cerner Millennium®, an electronic health record software, following these steps: (1) data crossing between the study's case report forms and the electronic health record; (2) development of a manual collection method for data not recorded in Cerner Millennium®; (3) development of a study interface for automatic data collection in the electronic health records; (4) employee training; (5) data quality assessment; and (6) filling out the electronic case report form at the end of the study. Three case report forms were consolidated into the electronic case report form at the end of the study. Researchers performed daily qualitative and quantitative analyses of the data. Data were collected from 94 patients. In the first case report form, 76.5% of variables were obtained electronically, in the second, 95.5%, and in the third, 100%. The daily quality assessment of the whole process showed complete and correct data, widespread employee compliance and minimal interference in their practice. The secondary use of electronic health records is safe and effective, reduces manual labor, and provides data reliability. Anesthetic care and data collection may be done by the same professional.

RESUMO A coleta de dados para pesquisa clínica pode representar um desafio em que sistemas de registro eletrônico em saúde podem facilitar o processo. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever e avaliar o uso secundário de registros eletrônicos em saúde na coleta de dados para um estudo clínico observacional. Usamos o Cerner Millennium®, software de registro eletrônico em saúde, de acordo com os seguintes passos: (1) cruzamento dos dados das fichas de coleta de dados do estudo e dos registros eletrônicos em saúde; (2) desenvolvimento de método para coleta manual de dados não registrados no Cerner Millennium®; (3) desenvolvimento de interface de estudo para a coleta automática de dados nos registros eletrônicos em saúde; (4) treinamento de colaboradores; (5) avaliação da qualidade dos dados; e (6) preenchimento da ficha eletrônica de coleta de dados no fim do estudo. Três fichas de coleta de dados foram consolidadas em uma ficha eletrônica de coleta de dados no fim do estudo. Os pesquisadores realizaram análise qualitativa e quantitativa de dados diariamente. Foram coletados dados de 94 pacientes. Na primeira ficha de coleta de dados, 76,5% das variáveis foram obtidas eletronicamente, na segunda, 95,5%, e na terceira, 100%. A avaliação diária de qualidade do processo como um todo revelou dados completos e corretos, ampla adesão dos colaboradores e mínima interferência na prática profissional. O uso secundário dos registros eletrônicos em saúde é seguro e efetivo, reduz o trabalho manual e produz dados confiáveis. O cuidado anestésico ao paciente e a coleta de dados podem ser realizados simultaneamente pelo mesmo professional.

Anesthesia protocols in laboratory animals used for scientific purposes.

BACKGROUND: A suitable, effective and free of complications anesthetic protocol is very important in experimental studies on animal models since it could bias the outcome of a trial. To date there is no universally accepted protocol for induction, maintenance and recovery from anesthesia. The endotracheal intubation with the use of inhalation anesthesia is used very especially in the from of large size laboratory animals, because it is a secure and easy control mode. However, it is not common for small laboratory animals because of the high technical skills required. AIM: The aim of this paper is a review of the main methods of induction of anesthesia in laboratory animals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed an electronic search of MEDLINE (PubMed interface), ISI Web of Science and Scopus using the keywords "anesthesia" and "animal (s)" or "protocol (s)" or "surgery", without the data or the language restriction. We consider only the most common laboratory animals (rats, mice, rabbits, pigs). We identify all the scientific articles that refer to the use of anesthetics for studies on laboratory animals in all areas: experimental surgery, CT, MRI, PET. All documents identified the search criteria are subject to review only by identifying relevant studies. CONCLUSIONS: There is a strong need for application of existing guidelines for research on experimental animals; specific guidelines for anesthesia and euthanasia should be considered and reported in future studies to ensure comparability and quality of animal experiments.

Bispectral index to guide induction of anesthesia: a randomized controlled study.

BACKGROUND: It is unknown to what extent hypotension frequently observed following administration of propofol for induction of general anesthesia is caused by overdosing propofol. Unlike clinical signs, electroencephalon-based cerebral monitoring allows to detect and quantify an overdose of hypnotics. Therefore, we tested whether the use of an electroencephalon-based cerebral monitoring will cause less hypotension following induction with propofol. METHODS: Subjects were randomly assigned to a bispectral index (BIS)-guided (target range 40-60) or to a weight-related (2 mg.kg- 1) manual administration of propofol for induction of general anesthesia. The primary endpoint was the incidence of hypotension following the administration of propofol. Secondary endpoints included the degree of hypotension and correlations between BIS and drop in mean arterial pressure (MAP). Incidences were analyzed with Fisher's Exact-test. RESULTS: Of the 240 patients enrolled into this study, 235 predominantly non-geriatric (median 48 years, 25th - 75th percentile 35-61 years) patients without severe concomitant disease (88% American Society of Anesthesiology physical status 1-2) undergoing ear, nose and throat surgery, ophthalmic surgery, and dermatologic surgery were analyzed. Patients who were manually administered propofol guided by BIS (n = 120) compared to those who were given propofol by weight (n = 115) did not differ concerning the incidence of hypotension (44% vs. 45%; p = 0.87). Study groups were also similar regarding the maximal drop in MAP compared to baseline (33% vs. 30%) and the proportion of hypotensive events related to all measurements (17% vs. 19%). Final propofol induction doses in BIS group and NON-BIS group were similar (1.93 mg/kg vs. 2 mg/kg). There was no linear correlation between BIS and the drop in MAP at all times (r < 0.2 for all) except for a weak one at 6 min (r = 0.221). CONCLUSION: Results of our study suggest that a BIS-guided compared to a weight-adjusted manual administration of propofol for induction of general anesthesia in non-geriatric patients will not lower the incidence and degree of arterial hypotension. TRIAL REGISTRATION: German Registry of Clinical Trials ( DRKS00010544 ), retrospectively registered on August 4, 2016.