An educational intervention to reduce the incidence of postoperative residual curarisation: a cluster randomised crossover trial in patients undergoing general anaesthesia.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of postoperative residual curarisation remains unacceptably high. We assessed whether an educational intervention on perioperative neuromuscular block management can reduce it. METHODS: In this multicentre, cluster randomised crossover trial, centres were allocated to receive an educational intervention either in a first or a second period. The educational intervention consisted of a lecture about neuromuscular management key points, including quantitative neuromuscular monitoring and use of reversal agents. The lecture was streamed to allow repetition. Additionally, memory cards were distributed in each operating theatre. The primary outcome was postoperative residual curarisation in the PACU. Secondary outcomes were frequency of quantitative neuromuscular monitoring, use of reversal agents, and incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications during hospital stay. Measurements were performed before randomisation and after the first and the second period. The effect of the educational intervention was estimated using multivariable mixed effects logistic regression models. RESULTS: We included 2314 subjects in 34 Spanish centres. Postoperative residual curarisation incidence was not affected by the educational intervention (odds ratio [OR] 0.90 [95% confidence interval {CI}: 0.51-1.58]; P=0.717 and 1.30 [0.73-2.30]; P=0.371] for first and second time-period interaction). The educational intervention increased the quantitative neuromuscular monitor usage (OR 2.04 [95% CI: 1.31-3.19]; P=0.002), the use of reversal agents was unchanged (OR 0.79 [95% CI: 0.50-1.26]; P=0.322), and the incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications decreased (OR 0.19 [95% CI: 0.10-0.35]; P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: An educational intervention on perioperative neuromuscular block management did not reduce the incidence of postoperative residual curarisation nor increase reversal, despite increased quantitative neuromuscular monitoring. Sugammadex reversal was associated with reduced postoperative residual curarisation. The educational intervention was associated with a decrease in postoperative pulmonary complications. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT03128151.

COVID-19 psychological impact in 3109 healthcare workers in Spain: The PSIMCOV group.

BACKGROUND: The current coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has a great impact worldwide. Healthcare workers play an essential role and are one of the most exposed groups. Information about the psychosocial impact on healthcare workers is limited. METHODS: 3109 healthcare workers completed a national, internet-based, cross-sectional 45-item survey between 9 and 19 April 2020. The objective is to assess the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in Spanish healthcare workers. A Psychological Stress and Adaptation at work Score (PSAS) was defined combining four modified versions of validated psychological assessment tests (A) Healthcare Stressful Test, (B) Coping Strategies Inventory, (C) Font-Roja Questionnaire and (D) Trait Meta-Mood Scale. RESULTS: The highest psychosocial impact was perceived in Respiratory Medicine, the mean (S.D.) PSAS was 48.3 (13.6) and Geriatrics 47.6 (16.4). Higher distress levels were found in the geographical areas with the highest incidence of COVID-19 (>245.5 cases per 100 000 people), PSAS 46.8 (15.2); p < 0.001. The least stress respondents were asymptomatic workers PSAS, 41.3 (15.4); p < 0.001, as well as those above 60 years old, PSAS, 37.6 (16); p < 0.001. Workers who needed psychological therapy and did not receive it, were more stressed PSAS 52.5 (13.6) than those who did not need it PSAS 39.7 (13.9); p < 0.001. CONCLUSIONS: The psychological impact in healthcare workers in Spain during COVID-19 emergency has been studied. The stress perceived is parallel to the number of cases per 100 000 people. Psychotherapy could have a major role to mitigate the experimented stress level.

Analysis of the 'Evaluation Indicators' of an Enhanced Recovery After Bariatric Surgery Pathway in the First Six Months After Implementation.

The implementation of a clinical pathway in bariatric surgery (BS) might facilitate systemic care. Focusing on enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs may also improve surgical outcomes depending on the degree of adherence achieved. We hypothesized that the implementation of an ERAS clinical pathway in BS (ERABS) improves clinical outcomes compared to traditional treatment in a tertiary care hospital. The main objective was to assess the degree of adherence to the ERABS program. Secondary objectives were to evaluate compliance with the quality indicators of the Spanish Society for Obesity Surgery (SECO) and overall patients' satisfaction. A retrospective observational study was designed. Data from patients who underwent BS into an ERABS context were reviewed and compared with traditionally treated patients. Process and outcomes indicators adapted from RICA (Recuperación Intensificada en Cirugía Abdominal) pathway, degree of compliance with SECO quality indicators and patients' satisfaction were analyzed. Forty-three patients were included per group. Indicators' compliance rate per patient was 83.23%. Differences were found in postoperative bleeding, immediate morbidity and overall morbidity, but not in severity of complications. No patient felt dissatisfied or unsatisfied. Average compliance with indicators of process and outcome was 90.45%. Overall morbidity in ERABS group did not differ from that recommended by SECO, but traditional group did show significant increase. Adherence was 83.63% and overall incidence of complications was 7%. Our study shows improved clinical outcomes in ERABS group with a high degree of adherence. Quality indicators were met, improving overall morbidity with no difference in the severity of complications.

[Functional urology during COVID-19: Recommendations during de-escalation.] / La urología funcional en la era COVID-19. Consejos para la desescalada.

OBJECTIVES: Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, all surgical activity that was not life threatening was cancelled , as well as most face-to-face consultations. Currently the beginning of the de-escalation phases that will led us to a new normal, forces us to establish some degree of priority in the interventions as well as in the medical consultations. Our objective is to establish some recommendation on Functional Urology office visits and surgical interventions that serve as a tool to facilitate decision-making. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Experts in Functional Urology from different autonomous communities of Spain were contacted to design a strategy to reorganize the activity of both, diagnosis and treatment. A modified nominal group technique has been used due to the extraordinary restrictions of assembly and mobility during the COVID pandemic. The first signer (EMC) made the first draft with the measures adopted and the strategy to be followed during the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic. The proposal was sent to the rest of the authors, in order to unify criteria and experiences to reach a quick consensus on the relative priority of the different activities, problems and solutions. A final version was approved by all authors May 27, 2020. RESULTS: Tables of recommendation have been prepared for outpatient consultation, surgical and technical interventions, according to de-escalation phases proposed by the Spanish Associations of Surgeons. CONCLUSIONS: The change that COVID-19 Pandemich as involved in our clinical practice force us to seek alternative methods to treat our patients, some of which may already be established. Mean while, a consensusin decision making is necessary. Documents such as the current one, are intended to guide the management of patients with urological functional pathology in exceptional situations. Logically, it should be adapted to material and human availability, and to the idiosyncrasy of each Urology service.

OBJETIVOS: Debido a la Pandemia COVID-19 se suspendió toda actividad quirúrgica que no fuera una urgencia vital, así como la mayoría de consultas presenciales. Actualmente el inicio de las fases dedesescalada que nos llevarán a una nueva normalidad nos obliga a establecer unos grados de prioridad en las intervenciones así como en las consultas médicas. Nuestro objetivo es establecer una serie de recomendaciones sobre las consultas de Urología Funcional y las intervenciones quirúrgicas que sirva como herramientade ayuda en la toma de decisiones.MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Expertos en Urología Funcionalde distintas comunidades autónomas de España fueron contactados para diseñar una estrategia parareorganizar la actividad tanto de diagnóstico como de tratamiento. Se ha utilizado una técnica de grupo nominal modificada debido a las restricciones extraordinarias de reunión y movilidad durante la pandemia COVID. El primer firmante (EMC) realizó el primer borrado rcon las medidas adoptadas y la estrategia a seguir durante la evolución de la pandemia COVID19. Se remitió la propuesta al resto de autores, con el fin de unificar criterios y experiencias para llegar a un rápido consenso sobre la importancia relativa de las distintas actividades, problemas y soluciones. Se realizó una versión definitiva, aprobada por todos los autores, el día 27 de mayo de 2020. RESULTADOS: Se han elaborado tablas de recomendaciones tanto para consultas externas, como para intervenciones quirúrgicas y técnicas, de acuerdo con las fases de desescalada propuestas por la Asociación Española de Cirujanos (AEC). CONCLUSIONES: El cambio que ha supuesto la Pandemia COVID-19 en nuestra práctica clínica nos obliga a buscar métodos alternativos para seguir y tratar a nuestros pacientes, algunos de los cuales pueden ya quedar instaurados. Mientras, es necesario un consenso en la toma de decisiones. Documentos como el actual, pretenden orientar en el manejo de los pacientes con patología funcional urológica en situaciones excepcionales. Lógicamente, deberá adaptarse alas disponibilidades materiales y humanas, y a la idiosincrasia de cada servicio de Urología.

La urología funcional en la era COVID-19. Consejos para la desescalada / Functional urology during COVID-19: Recommendations during de-escalation

OBJETIVOS: Debido a la Pandemia COVID-19 se suspendió toda actividad quirúrgica que no fuera una urgencia vital, así como la mayoría de consultas presenciales. Actualmente el inicio de las fases dedesescalada que nos llevarán a una nueva normalidad nos obliga a establecer unos grados de prioridad en las intervenciones así como en las consultas médicas. Nuestro objetivo es establecer una serie de recomendaciones sobre las consultas de Urología Funcional y las intervenciones quirúrgicas que sirva como herramientade ayuda en la toma de decisiones. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Expertos en Urología Funcionalde distintas comunidades autónomas de España fueron contactados para diseñar una estrategia parareorganizar la actividad tanto de diagnóstico como de tratamiento. Se ha utilizado una técnica de grupo nominal modificada debido a las restricciones extraordinarias de reunión y movilidad durante la pandemia COVID. El primer firmante (EMC) realizó el primer borrado rcon las medidas adoptadas y la estrategia a seguir durante la evolución de la pandemia COVID19. Se remitió la propuesta al resto de autores, con el fin de unificar criterios y experiencias para llegar a un rápido consenso sobre la importancia relativa de las distintas actividades, problemas y soluciones. Se realizó una versión definitiva, aprobada por todos los autores, el día 27 de mayo de 2020. RESULTADOS: Se han elaborado tablas de recomendaciones tanto para consultas externas, como para intervenciones quirúrgicas y técnicas, de acuerdo con las fases de desescalada propuestas por la Asociación Española de Cirujanos (AEC). CONCLUSIONES: El cambio que ha supuesto la Pandemia COVID-19 en nuestra práctica clínica nos obliga a buscar métodos alternativos para seguir y tratar a nuestros pacientes, algunos de los cuales pueden ya quedar instaurados. Mientras, es necesario un consenso en la toma de decisiones. Documentos como el actual, pretenden orientar en el manejo de los pacientes con patología funcional urológica en situaciones excepcionales. Lógicamente, deberá adaptarse alas disponibilidades materiales y humanas, y a la idiosincrasia de cada servicio de Urología

OBJECTIVES: Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, all surgical activity that was not life threatening was cancelled, as well as most face-to-face consultations. Currently the beginning of the de-escalation phases that will led us to a new normal, forces us to establish some degree of priority in the interventions as well as in the medical consultations. Our objective is to establish some recommendation on Functional Urology office visits and surgical interventions that serve as a tool to facilitate decision-making. MATERIAL AND METHODS: experts in Functional Urology from different autonomous communities of Spain were contacted to design a strategy to reorganize the activity of both, diagnosis and treatment. A modified nominal group technique has been used due to the extraordinary restrictions of assembly and mobility during the COVID pandemic. The first signer (EMC) made the first draft with the measures adopted and the strategy to be followed during the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic. The proposal was sent to the rest of the authors, in order to unify criteria and experiences to reach a quick consensus on the relative priority of the different activities, problems and solutions. A final version was approved by all authors May 27, 2020. RESULTS: tables of recommendation have been prepared for outpatient consultation, surgical and technical interventions, according to de-escalation phases proposed by the Spanish Associations of Surgeons. CONCLUSIONS: The change that COVID-19 Pandemic has involved in our clinical practice force us to seek alternative methods to treat our patients, some of which may already be established. Meanwhile, a consensus in decision making is necessary. Documents such as the current one, are intended to guide the management of patients with urological functional pathology in exceptional situations. Logically, it should be adapted to material and human availability, and to the idiosyncrasy of each Urology service

Spontaneous recovery of neuromuscular blockade is an independent risk factor for postoperative pulmonary complications after abdominal surgery: A secondary analysis.

BACKGROUND: In intermediate-to-high-risk patients, major abdominal surgery is associated with a high incidence of postoperative complications, mainly pulmonary. Neuromuscular blocking drugs have been suggested as a contributing factor, but this remains unproven. OBJECTIVE: To define the relationship of neuromuscular blockade management (reversal) with postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs). DESIGN: The individualised PeRioperative Open-lung approach Versus standard protectivE ventilation in abdominal surgery study was a prospective, multicentre, four-arm, randomised controlled trial. This is a secondary analysis of the data. SETTING: Twenty-one teaching hospitals in Spain. The study was conducted between 2 January 2015, and 18 May 2016. PATIENTS: Age more than 18 years with an intermediate-to-high risk for PPCs, scheduled for major abdominal surgery lasting more than 2 h. Exclusion criteria included pregnancy or breastfeeding, and moderate-to-severe organ diseases. INTERVENTIONS: The mode of reversal of neuromuscular blockade determined two patient groups: pharmacological reversal versus spontaneous recovery. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcome was a composite of PPCs during the first 30 postoperative days. The association between categorical variables and PPCs within 30 days was studied. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression modelling and propensity score analyses were performed. RESULTS: From the 923 patients included, 596 (64.6%) presented with PPCs within 30 days after surgery. Patients who developed these complications were older with a higher BMI, a lower pre-operative SpO2, a higher ASA physical status score and a higher incidence of arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Pharmacological neuromuscular blockade reversal was associated with a lower incidence of PPCs (odds ratio 0.62, 95% CI 0.47 to 0.82). CONCLUSION: Spontaneous recovery of neuromuscular blockade was an independent risk factor for PPCs in patients with intermediate-to-high risk, undergoing abdominal surgery. We suggest this factor should be included in future studies on PPCs. TRIAL REGISTRATION: clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT02158923.

Treatment of Anaphylaxis to Rocuronium with Sugammadex: A Case Report with Bronchospasm as the Only Symptom.

Anaphylaxis during anaesthesia is a rare event occurring in up to 1:20,000 anaesthetics and in 33%-63% neuromuscular blocking agents are involved. Several case reports suggested the effectiveness of sugammadex in the treatment of rocuronium-induced anaphylactic shock refractory to conventional treatment. We report a case of anaphylactic reaction to rocuronium that caused isolated respiratory symptoms and showed no improvement in oxygen saturation after intravenous corticosteroids and intratracheal beta-2 agonists and that was successfully treated with sugammadex. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that explain the potential beneficial effect of sugammadex in this context are not completely known. We briefly review the literature regarding this topic.

A multifaceted individualized pneumoperitoneum strategy for laparoscopic colorectal surgery: a multicenter observational feasibility study.

BACKGROUND: While guidelines for laparoscopic abdominal surgery advise using the lowest possible intra-abdominal pressure, commonly a standard pressure is used. We evaluated the feasibility of a predefined multifaceted individualized pneumoperitoneum strategy aiming at the lowest possible intra-abdominal pressure during laparoscopic colorectal surgery. METHODS: Multicenter prospective study in patients scheduled for laparoscopic colorectal surgery. The strategy consisted of ventilation with low tidal volume, a modified lithotomy position, deep neuromuscular blockade, pre-stretching of the abdominal wall, and individualized intra-abdominal pressure titration; the effect was blindly evaluated by the surgeon. The primary endpoint was the proportion of surgical procedures completed at each individualized intra-abdominal pressure level. Secondary endpoints were the respiratory system driving pressure, and the estimated volume of insufflated CO2 gas needed to perform the surgical procedure. RESULTS: Ninety-two patients were enrolled in the study. Fourteen cases were converted to open surgery for reasons not related to the strategy. The intervention was feasible in all patients and well-accepted by all surgeons. In 61 out of 78 patients (78%), surgery was performed and completed at the lowest possible IAP, 8 mmHg. In 17 patients, IAP was raised up to 12 mmHg. The relationship between IAP and driving pressure was almost linear. The mean estimated intra-abdominal CO2 volume at which surgery was performed was 3.2 L. CONCLUSION: A multifaceted individualized pneumoperitoneum strategy during laparoscopic colorectal surgery was feasible and resulted in an adequate working space in most patients at lower intra-abdominal pressure and lower respiratory driving pressure. ClinicalTrials.gov (Trial Identifier: NCT03000465).

Influence of tetanic stimulation on the staircase phenomenon and the acceleromyographic time-course of neuromuscular block: a randomized controlled trial.

During neuromuscular monitoring, repeated electrical stimulation evokes muscle responses of increasing magnitude ('staircase phenomenon', SP). We aimed to evaluate whether SP affects time course and twitches' values of an acceleromyographic assessed neuromuscular block with or without previous tetanic stimulation. Fifty adult patients were randomized to receive a 50 Hz tetanic stimulus (S group) or not (C group) before monitor calibration. After 20 min of TOF ratio (TOFr) stimulation rocuronium was administered. Onset time of block (primary endpoint), recovery of T1 to 25%, TOFr to 0.9, and recovery index were compared. We also compared T1 and TOFr at baseline, post-stimulation, and during recovery from block. Moreover the correlation between T1 at maximum recovery and (a) baseline T1 and (b) post-stimulation T1 along with T1/TOFr ratio during recovery were evaluated. After stimulation median T1 increased (32%) in group C and decreased (16%) in group S (P = 0.0001). Onset time (Median [IQR] in seconds) was 90 (29-77) vs. 75 (28-60) in C and S group (P = 0.002). Time [Mean (SD) in minutes] to normalized TOFr 0.9 were 70.13 (14.9) vs. 62.1 (21.2) in C and S groups (P = 0.204). TOFr showed no differences between groups at any time point. T1 at maximum recovery showed a stronger correlation with post-stabilization T1 compared to baseline. (ρ = 0.80 and ρ = 0.85, for C and S groups.) Standard calibration does not ensure twitch baseline stabilization and prolongs onset time of neuromuscular block. TOF ratio is not influenced by SP.

[Cost-effectiveness model of a fixed dose combination of solifenacin and tamsulosin for the treatment of LUTS associated with BPH with inadequate response to monotherapy.] / Modelo de coste­efectividad de la combinación a dosis fijas de solifenacina y tamsulosina en el tratamiento de los STUI asociados a HBP con respuesta inadecuada a la monoterapia.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the cost-effectiveness of fixed dose combination of solifenacin 6 mg and tamsulosin 0.4 mg in a controlled absorption system (TOCAS) with free dose combination of tolterodine plus tamsulosin, when used for the treatment of patients with moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who do not respond adequately to monotherapy. The analysis was conducted from the perspective of the Spanish National Health System. METHODS: A Markov model was developed in Excel, with 1-year time horizon. The transition probabilities of the model were obtained from the NEPTUNE clinical trial and published literature. Unit costs were obtained from Spanish sources. The use of healthcare resources was validated by Spanish clinical experts. Both deterministic and probabilistic analyses were performed to determine the key drivers of the model. RESULTS: Treatment with fixed dose combination of solifenacin plus TOCAS was found to be dominant, as it resulted in lower annual costs (€ 1,349 vs. € 1,619) and greater quality-adjusted life years (QALY) gained per patient (0.8406 vs. 0.8386) when compared with free dose combination of tolterodine plus tamsulosin. According to the probabilistic analyses, the probability of the fixed dose combination treatment being cost-effective at a willingness to pay threshold of € 20,000 or 30,000 would be 100%. CONCLUSIONS: This analysis suggests that fixed dose combination of solifenacin plus TOCAS represents a cost-effective choice for the treatment of patients with moderate to severe LUTS/BHP, compared to free dose combination of tolterodine plus tamsulosin.

Modelo de coste-efectividad de la combinación a dosis fijas de solifenacina y tamsulosina en el tratamiento de los STUI asociados a HBP con respuesta inadecuada a la monoterapia / Cost-effectiveness model of a fixed dose combination of solifenacin and tamsulosin for the treatment of LUTS associated with BPH with inadequate response to monotherapy

OBJETIVO: Evaluar el coste-efectividad de la combinación a dosis fijas de 6 mg de solifenacina y 0,4 mg de tamsulosina en un sistema oral de absorción controlada (TOCAS) en el tratamiento de los pacientes con síntomas del tracto urinario inferior (STUI) moderados a graves asociados a la hiperplasia benigna de próstata (HBP) (STUI/HBP) y una respuesta inadecuada a la monoterapia, en comparación con el tratamiento de tolterodina más tamsulosina, desde la perspectiva del Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS). MÉTODOS: Se realizó un modelo de Markov en Excel con un horizonte temporal de 1 año. Las probabilidades de transición del modelo se obtuvieron del ensayo clínico NEPTUNE y la literatura. Los costes unitarios se obtuvieron de fuentes españolas. El uso de recursos sanitarios fue validado por expertos clínicos españoles. Se realizaron análisis determinísticos y probabilísticos. RESULTADOS: El tratamiento con la combinación a dosis fijas de solifenacina más TOCAS dio lugar a un menor coste anual (1.349 Euros vs. 1.619 Euros) y un aumento de años de vida ajustados por su calidad (AVAC) (0,8406 vs. 0,8386) por paciente en comparación con tolterodina más tamsulosina, siendo por tanto dominante. La probabilidad de que el tratamiento a dosis fijas de solifenacina más TOCAS sea coste-efectivo frente al tratamiento con tolterodina más tamsulosina sería del 100% para una disponibilidad a pagar de 20.000-30.000 Euros por AVAC ganado. CONCLUSIONES: El tratamiento con dosis fijas de solifenacina más TOCAS en pacientes con STUI/HBP moderados a graves daría lugar a una ganancia de AVAC, siendo una estrategia coste-efectiva y dominante frente al tratamiento con tolterodina más tamsulosina

OBJECTIVE: To compare the cost-effectiveness of fixed dose combination of solifenacin 6 mg and tamsulosin 0.4 mg in a controlled absorption system (TOCAS) with free dose combination of tolterodine plus tamsulosin, when used for the treatment of patients with moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who do not respond adequately to monotherapy. The analysis was conducted from the perspective of the Spanish National Health System. METHODS: A Markov model was developed in Excel, with 1-year time horizon. The transition probabilities of the model were obtained from the NEPTUNE clinical trial and published literature. Unit costs were obtained from Spanish sources. The use of healthcare resources was validated by Spanish clinical experts. Both deterministic and probabilistic analyses were performed to determine the key drivers of the model. RESULTS: Treatment with fixed dose combination of solifenacin plus TOCAS was found to be dominant, as it resulted in lower annual costs (Euros 1,349 vs. Euros 1,619) and greater quality-adjusted life years (QALY) gained per patient (0.8406 vs. 0.8386) when compared with free dose combination of tolterodine plus tamsulosin. According to the probabilistic analyses, the probability of the fixed dose combination treatment being cost-effective at a willingness to pay threshold of Euros 20,000 or 30,000 would be 100%. CONCLUSIONS: This analysis suggests that fixed dose combination of solifenacin plus TOCAS represents a cost-effective choice for the treatment of patients with moderate to severe LUTS/BHP, compared to free dose combination of tolterodine plus tamsulosin

Neuraxial Regional Anaesthesia in Patients with Active Infection and Sepsis: A Clinical Narrative Review.

Infection is considered to be a relative contraindication for regional anaesthesia. However, there is a paucity of articles addressing the topic of regional anaesthesia in patients with an active infectious process. Recent publications show a low incidence of infection (0.007% to 0.6%) of the central nervous system after neuraxial punctures in patients at risk of, or with ongoing bacteraemia, and a low incidence of infection after performing regional anaesthesia techniques in immunosuppressed patients, or patients with an actual infection. Therefore, some authors conclude that it seems that there is little justification to set strict contraindications regarding this indication and that the risk-benefit ratio should prevail. In addition, a low incidence of meningitis or abscesses after the lumbar puncture has been observed in patients with unsuspected and ongoing bacteraemia, or who were at risk of bacteraemia, when antibiotic therapy has been previously started. For viral infections, regional techniques seem to be safe, being applied in patients with HIV infection. The only established absolute contraindication for any type of regional anaesthesia technique is the infection at the puncture site. Debate persists if a neuraxial anaesthesia technique is to be performed in the course of sepsis with the origin away from the puncture site. In case of thoracic epidural anaesthesia and analgesia, experimental and clinical studies highlight their potential benefits in the systemic inflammatory response syndromes and founded sepsis, both in surgical and non-surgical patients. Finally, the anti-inflammatory and anti-infective effects of local anaesthetics and the basis of excessive inflammatory response are described, as the latter might be involved, in part, in the clinical outcomes.

Influence of depth of neuromuscular blockade on surgical conditions during low-pressure pneumoperitoneum laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A randomized blinded study.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of neuromuscular blockade (NMB) on surgical conditions during low-pressure pneumoperitoneum (8mmHg) laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), while comparing moderate and deep NMB. Secondary objective was to evaluate if surgical conditions during low-pressure pneumoperitoneum LC performed with deep NMB could be comparable to those provided during standard-pressure pneumoperitoneum (12mmHg) LC. DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, blinded clinical trial. SETTING: Operating room. PATIENTS: Ninety ASA 1-2 patients scheduled for elective LC. INTERVENTIONS: Patients were allocated into 3 groups: Group 1: low-pressure pneumoperitoneum with moderate-NMB (1-3 TOF), Group 2: low-pressure pneumoperitoneum with deep-NMB (1-5 PTC) and Group 3: standard pneumoperitoneum (12mmHg). Rocuronium was used to induce NMB and acceleromiography was used for NMB monitoring (TOF-Watch-SX). MEASUREMENTS: Three experienced surgeons evaluated surgical conditions using a four-step scale at three time-points: surgical field exposure, dissection of the gallbladder and extraction/closure. MAIN RESULTS: Low-pressure pneumoperitoneum (Group 1 vs. 2): good conditions: 96.7 vs. 96.7%, 90 vs. 80% and 89.6 vs. 92.3%, respectively for the time-points, p>0.05. No differences in optimal surgical conditions were observed between the groups. Surgery completion at 8mmHg pneumoperitoneum: 96.7 vs. 86.7%, p=0.353. Standard-pressure pneumoperitoneum vs. low-pressure pneumoperitoneum with deep NMB (Group 3 vs. 2): good conditions: 100% in Group 3 for the three time-points (p=0.024 vs. Group 2 at dissection of the gallbladder). Significantly greater percentage of optimal conditions during standard-pressure pneumoperitoneum LC at the three time points of evaluation. CONCLUSIONS: The depth of NMB was found not to be decisive neither in the improvement of surgical conditions nor in the completion of low-pressure pneumoperitoneum LC performed by experienced surgeons. Surgical conditions were considered better with a standard-pressure pneumoperitoneum, regardless of the depth of NMB, than during low-pressure pneumoperitoneum with deep NMB.

Intravenous Remifentanil Analgaesia for an Obstetric Patient with Type I Neurofibromatosis and a Factor V Leiden Mutation.

Type I neurofibromatosis is characterised by altered skin pigmentation and the growth of benign tumours, particularly along the peripheral nerves and central nervous system. We report a 36-year-old primigravida woman in labour who was admitted to the obstetric suite of the Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain, in 2007 with hypothyroidism, type I neurofibromatosis and a factor V Leiden mutation. Due to a lack of cranial and spinal imaging data, an epidural was not indicated; instead, continuous intravenous remifentanil analgaesia was administered. The remifentanil infusion was self-titrated by the patient using a visual analogue scale, with the dosage ranging from 0.01 to 0.25 µg/kg/minute. Due to rotational dystocia, Kjelland-type forceps were used during the delivery. After birth, the infant was found to have Apgar scores of 9 and 10, with no maternal or neonatal adverse effects observed. Although still controversial, remifentanil may be a successful alternative for analgaesia in similar cases; however, the specific risks and benefits for each patient should be considered prior to administration.

Effect of depth of neuromuscular blockade on the abdominal space during pneumoperitoneum establishment in laparoscopic surgery.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of neuromuscular blockade (NMB) upon the abdominal space during pneumoperitoneum establishment in laparoscopic surgery, comparing moderate NMB and deep NMB. DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, crossover clinical trial. SETTING: Operating room. PATIENTS: Seventy-six American Society of Anesthesiologists 1 to 2 patients scheduled for elective laparoscopic surgery. INTERVENTIONS: Two independent evaluations were performed at the establishment of pneumoperitoneum for a preset intraabdominal pressures (IAPs) of 8 and 12 mm Hg, both during moderate NMB (train-of-four count, 1-3) and deep NMB (posttetanic count, <5). Rocuronium was used to induce NMB, and sugammadex was used for reversal. MEASUREMENTS: We evaluated (i) the volume of CO2 introduced in 41 patients and (ii) the skin-sacral promontory distance in 35 patients, at pneumoperitoneum establishment. RESULTS: Compared to moderate NMB, deep NMB increased, in a significant manner, both the intraabdominal volume of CO2 insufflated (mean [SD], 2.24 [1.10] vs 2.81 [1.13] L at 8 mm Hg IAP, P<.001, and 3.52 [1.31] vs 4.09 [1.31] L at 12 mm Hg IAP, P<.001) and the skin-sacral promontory distance (11.78 [1.52] vs 12.16 [1.51] cm at 8 mm Hg IAP, P=.002, and 13.34 [1.87] vs 13.80 [1.81] cm at 12 mm Hg IAP, P<.001). Increase in intraabdominal volume after inducing deep NMB was observed in 88% and 81.7% of patients at 8 and 12 mm Hg pneumoperitoneum, with a volume increase of mean of 36.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 22.8-50.8) and 25% (95% CI, 13.7-36.4), respectively (P=.003). Increase in distance was observed in 61% and 82% of patients at 8 and 12 mm Hg pneumoperitoneum, with a mean distance increase of 3.3% (95% CI, 1.3-5.4) and 3.6% (95% CI, 1.9-5.2), respectively (P=.840). CONCLUSIONS: Deep NMB, in comparison to moderate NMB, increased in a significant manner the abdominal space at pneumoperitoneum establishment. However, the effective increase in the abdominal cavity dimensions could be low, the increase showed a great interindividual variability, and it was not observed in every patient. Clinical significance of this increase on surgical conditions is yet to be demonstrated.

Residual neuromuscular blockade in the postanesthesia care unit: observational cross-sectional study of a multicenter cohort.

BACKGROUND: Residual neuromuscular blockade after general anesthesia using nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents has pathophysiological, clinical, and economic consequences. A significant number of patients under muscle relaxation sustain residual curarization. METHODS: Observational, prospective, multicenter study of a cohort of patients (Residual Curarization in Spain Study, ReCuSS). Residual blockade was defined as TOFr<0.9. Patients >18 years-old under general anesthesia, including at least one dose of non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents, and transferred extubated and spontaneously ventilating to the postanesthesia care unit were included. Pre- and intraoperative data were recorded, including, patient characteristics, ASA physical status, experience of the anesthesiologist, type of surgery, temperature monitoring, surgery duration, neuromuscular blockade-related parameters, type of anesthesia (halogenated-balanced, intravenous propofol-based, other), and use of neuromuscular monitoring. RESULTS: A total of 763 patients from 26 hospitals were included, 190 patients (26.7%) showing residual paralysis. Female patients were more prone to residual neuromuscular blockade. Length of surgery, type of relaxant used (benzylisoquinolines), halogenated anesthesia, absence of intraoperative specific monitoring, avoidance of drug reversal, and neostigmine reversal (vs. sugammadex), were significantly related to residual blockade. In the postanesthesia care unit, patients with residual neuromuscular blockade had an increased incidence of respiratory events and tracheal reintubation. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of residual blockade in Spain is similar to that published in other settings and countries. Female gender, longer duration of surgery, and halogenated drugs for anesthesia maintenance were related to residual paralysis, as were NMBA specific items, such as the use of benzylisoquinoline drugs, and the absence of reversal or reversal with neostigmine.

Efectos de la ventilación mecánica intraoperatoria y de la ventilación de protección pulmonar en el paciente quirúrgico adulto / Effects of intraoperative mechanical ventilation and of pulmonary protective ventilation in the adult surgical patient

La ventilación mecánica es esencial para un adecuado intercambio gaseoso durante la anestesia general, siendo empleada con volúmenes corrientes altos para prevenir la hipoxemia y la formación de atelectasias; pero volúmenes corrientes altos y altas presiones de meseta pueden agravar o incluso iniciar una lesión pulmonar. La ventilación de protección pulmonar consiste en el uso de un volumen corriente bajo, limitar la presión meseta para minimizar la sobredistensión y utilizar presión positiva al final de la espiración. Más recientemente se está investigando su aplicación al paciente quirúrgico con anestesia general y ventilación controlada. Objetivo: analizar la evidencia en cuanto al beneficio de la ventilación de protección pulmonar durante la cirugía con ventilación controlada bipulmonar o unipulmonar en paciente adulto. Metodología de búsqueda: búsqueda en la base de datos Pubmed-Medline 2010-2014 de artículos de revisión clínica y fisiopatológica y revisiones sistemáticas, metaanálisis, estudios observacionales y controlados aleatorizados, incluyéndose en total 2031 artículos. Resultados: la mayoría de estudios que emplean ventilación de protección pulmonar: volumen corriente 6-8 ml/kg, presión positiva al final de la expiración 4-8 cmH2O y maniobras de reclutamiento, obtuvieron una mejoría en los parámetros fisiológicos y ventilatorios. Algunas investigaciones ofrecen resultados no homogéneos; sin embargo, clínicamente la evidencia no es tan notoria. Estudios con tamaño de muestra grande registran un aumento de la morbimortalidad respiratoria postoperatoria en pacientes en los que no se emplea esta estrategia. Conclusiones: la aplicación de estrategias de ventilación de protección pulmonar intraoperatoria podrían mejorar el pronóstico y los resultados inmediatos y diferidos -especialmente respiratorios- de los pacientes quirúrgicos normales y poblaciones especiales...

Artificial ventilation is essential for an adequate gas interchange during general anesthesia, it has been used with high tidal volume to prevent hypoxemia and atelectasis, but high tidal volumes and high plateau pressures might aggravate or start a lung injury. Pulmonary protective ventilation consists of use of low tidal volumes, limit plateau pressure to minimize overdistension and use positive pressure at the end of expiration and controlled ventilation. Objective: to analize the evidence on the possible benefit of protective pulmonary ventilation during surgery with bipulmonar or unipulmonar controlled ventilation. Materials and Methods: the Pubmed-Medline database was searched for years 2010-2014 for articles on clinical and pathophysiological reviews, systematic reviews, metaanalysis, observational studies, and randomized controlled trials. A total of 2031 articles were included. Results: most studies using pulmonary protective ventilation: tidal volume 6-8 ml/kg, positive end expiratory pressure 4-8 cmH2O and recruitment maneuvers, showed improved physiologic and ventilatory parameters. Some investigations offered not homogeneous results; however, the clinical evidence of improvement is not as clear. Studies with wide sample sizes showed increased respiratory morbimortality in patients in whom this strategy was not applied. Conclusions: application of protective pulmonary ventilation strategies might improve the immediate and delayed prognostic and outcomes, specially respiratory of normal sugical patients. Special populations could benefit of these stratiegies...