Bacterial and fungal secondary infections occurring in COVID-19 patients followed in intensive care: a retrospective study.

INTRODUCTION: We aimed to investigate the effects of secondary bacterial and fungal infections on patient outcomes in patients followed up in the intensive care unit (ICU) due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). METHODOLOGY: We retrospectively analyzed reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) positive COVID-19 patients followed in the ICU of our hospital between March 2020 and June 2021, using the hospital information system. Demographic data, pathogens causing a secondary infection, onset time of secondary infection, and patient outcomes were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 251 RT-PCR positive patients who met the inclusion criteria were evaluated. The mean length of stay (LOS) in the ICU was 13.3 ± 9.6 days. During this period, 165 (65.7%) patients died. When blood, urine, respiratory tract, and catheter cultures were examined, the number of patients with growth in at least one culture was 129 (51.4%). There was growth in a total of 227 cultures. The highest culture positivity rate was observed in respiratory tract samples (n = 94, 41.4%). Gram-negative bacterial pathogens (n = 130, 58.4%) predominated. Candida spp. was more frequent in urine cultures. The median day of the occurrence of secondary infection was 10 (range: 6-15). Patients who developed secondary infection had a longer LOS and higher mortality rate than patients who did not (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Gram-negative secondary infections, predominantly in respiratory tract cultures, occurred in COVID-19 patients followed in the ICU. As a result, the LOS was prolonged and mortality rates increased.

Comparison of the Effects of Anaesthesia Methods Used in Caesarean Delivery on Neonatal Cerebral and Renal Oxygenation: A Randomised Controlled Trial.

Background: During a newborn's adaptation to extrauterine life, many changes take place that are influenced by various factors. The type of delivery and anaesthesia strategy utilised during labour can modify these adaptive modifications. In this regard, this study was designed to compare the effects of general and spinal anaesthesia on cerebral and renal oxygenation after elective caesarean deliveries. Methods: This randomised controlled study comprised sixty parturient women who were over 18 years old and had a gestational age between 37 and 41 weeks. All participants had an ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) classification of II. Neonatal cerebral (CrSO2) and renal (RrSO2) regional oxygen saturations were assessed using near-infrared spectroscopy. Additionally, the 1st-5th min Apgar scores, preductal and postductal peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), and perfusion index were recorded in both the general anaesthesia and spinal anaesthesia groups. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of CrSO2 or RrSO2 values. The values of CrSO2 and RrSO2 in both groups showed a significant rise from the 10th to the 15th min, respectively. Conclusions: General and spinal anaesthesia techniques used for cesarean delivery have similar effects on neonatal cerebral and renal oxygenation.

Use of ultrasound guided single shot costotransverse block (intertransverse process) in breast cancer surgery: a prospective, randomized, assessor blinded, controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Ultrasound guided costotransverse block (CTB) is a relatively new "peri-paravertebral" block that has been described recently. It has been previously reported that CTB, administered with a single high-volume injection, provides effective analgesia in breast conserving surgery. In this study we evaluated the effect of CTB when used in breast cancer surgery. METHODS: Seventy patients due to undergo breast cancer surgery were included in this blinded, prospective, randomized, efficiency study. Patients were randomized into two equal groups (CTB group and control group) using the closed envelope technique. All patients underwent general anesthesia. In addition to standard analgesia methods, patients in group CTB also received CTB block while the remaining (control group) did not. Numeric rating (pain) scores and opioid consumption was compared between the two groups. RESULTS: Opioid consumption in all time frames and pain scores at 1st and 3rd hours only were found to be significantly lower in Group CTB when compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound guided CTB improves analgesia quality in breast cancer surgery. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials Registration ID: NCT04197206 , Registration Date: 13/12/2019.

Evaluation of ultrasound-guided bilateral low thoracic erector spinae plane block for postoperative analgesia in cesarean delivery patients: a prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is a recently described block. In many reports, ESPB has been reported to provide effective postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing cesarean delivery (CD). Herein, we compared the effectiveness of ESPB and control group in postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing CD under spinal anesthesia. METHODS: This assessor-blinded, prospective, randomized, efficiency study was conducted in the postoperative recovery room and ward at a tertiary university hospital. Eighty-six patients ASA II-III were recruited. Following exclusion, 80 patients were randomized into two equal groups (block and control group). Standard multimodal analgesia was performed in the control group while ESPB block was performed in the intervention (ESPB) group. Opioid consumption was measured and pain intensity between groups was compared using Numeric Rating Scores (NRS). RESULTS: NRS was lower in Group ESPB at 3rd and 6th hours. There was no difference between NRS scores at other hours. Opioid consumption was lower in Group ESPB. CONCLUSION: When added to multimodal analgesia, bilateral ultrasound guided low thoracic ESPB leads to improve the quality of analgesia in the first 24 hours in patients undergoing CD.

Characteristics and outcomes of 974 COVID-19 patients in intensive care units in Turkey.

BACKGROUND: In our previous report on Turkish COVID-19 patients requiring intensive care, the 24 patients in a single ICU were elderly and mortality was high. We extended our analysis to include patients admitted to ten ICUs. OBJECTIVES: Report the demographics, clinical features, imaging findings, comorbidities, and outcomes in COVID-19 patients. DESIGN: Retrospective. SETTING: Intensive care unit. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study includes patients with clinical and radiological confirmed or laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 infection who were admitted to ten ICUs between 15 March and 30 June 2020. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Clinical outcomes, therapies, and death during hospitalization SAMPLE SIZE: 974, including 571 males (58%). RESULTS: The median age (range) was 72 (21-101) years for patients who died (n=632, 64.9%) and 70 (16-99) years for patients who lived (n=432, 35.2%) (P<.001). APACHE scores, and SOFA scores were higher in patients who died than in those who survived (P<.001, both comparisons). Respiratory failure was the most common cause of hospitalization (82.5%), and respiratory failure on admission was associated with death (P=.013). Most (n=719, 73.8%) underwent invasive mechanical ventilation therapy. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of patients admitted to the ICU with a diagnosis of COVID-19 require respiratory support. LIMITATIONS: Although the Turkish Ministry of Health made recommendations for the treatment of COVID-19 patients, patient management may not have been identical in all ten units. CONFLICT OF INTEREST: None.

The use of ultrasound guided combined peripheral nerve blocks in a high-risk patient: A case report.

Combined peripheral nerve blocks can be used as an alternative anesthetic technique for lower limb amputations in high-risk patients. The approach may vary according to the clinical condition of the patient. Presently described is the use of a combination of peripheral nerve blocks used for above-the-knee amputation in a high-risk patient: a sciatic nerve block with an anterior approach, a femoral nerve block, and a lateral femoral cutaneous nerve block.

Preclinical Study on the Hepatoprotective Effect of Pollen Extract of Pinus brutia Ten. (Red Pine) in Mice and Phenolic Acid Analysis

Objectives: Many agents, including those from herbal sources, have been sought as preventives or cures for hepatotoxicity. The pollen of Pinus brutia Ten., known as red pine (Pinaceae), is used against liver diseases in Anatolian folk medicine. Materials and Methods: In the current study, pollen ethanol extract of P. brutia was investigated for its possible hepatoprotective activity using a mouse model of CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity. Swiss albino mice were divided into five groups, and extract-treated groups were compared with a silymarin-treated group as the reference. The extract was tested at 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg (b.w.). Phenolic acids were analyzed using high-performance column chromatography (HPLC) in the extracts as pollens are usually known to be rich in phenolics. Results: Our data revealed that the extract displayed the best hepatoprotection at a dose of 100 mg/kg when compared with silymarin (Legalon®), the reference drug. HPLC analysis indicated presence of protocatechuic acid (0.176 mg/g extract), p-hydroxybenzoic acid (0.001 mg/g extract), vanillic acid (VA) (0.537 mg/g extract), syringic acid (0.050 mg/g extract), and tr-cinnamic acid (0.310 mg/g extract), while the major phenolic acid was VA. Conclusion: The outcomes of this study allow us to conclude that red pine pollen extract can serve as a promising hepatoprotective agent. Among the phenolic acids analyzed in the pollen extract, vanillic acid as the major one besides some other phenolic acids detected seems to be responsible for its remarkable hepatoprotective effect.

Regional anesthesia in two consecutive surgeries in a patient with mitochondrial neurogastrointestinal encephalomyopathy: a case report.

Mitochondrial Neurogastrointestinal Encephalomyopathy (MNGIE) is a rare autosomal-recessive disorder which is due to mutations in TYMP. The case reported here is of an 18-year-old male with MNGIE syndrome who presented for two different operations on two different occasions under regional anesthesia. The patient presented with urinary incontinence and abdominal pain. A cystoscopy under spinal anesthesia was scheduled. At 3 months after discharge, gastric perforation was diagnosed and combined spinal-epidural anesthesia, surgical repair was planned. Surgical and perioperative periods were uneventful. Based on this experience, we believe that regional anesthesia can be considered safe for use in patients with MNGIE disease.

S100B level and cognitive dysfunction after robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy procedures: a prospective observational study / Nível de S100B e disfunção cognitiva após prostatectomia radical laparoscópica assistida por robô: estudo observacional prospectivo

Abstract Background: The present study investigated the association between Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD) and increased serum S100B level after Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy (RALRP). Methods: The study included 82 consecutive patients who underwent RALRP. Serum S100B levels were determined preoperatively, after anesthesia induction, and at 30 minutes and 24 hours postoperatively. Cognitive function was assessed using neuropsychological testing preoperatively, and at 7 days and 3 months postoperatively. Results: Twenty four patients (29%) exhibited POCD 7 days after surgery, and 9 (11%) at 3 months after surgery. Serum S100B levels were significantly increased at postoperative 30 minutes and 24 hours in patients displaying POCD at postoperative 7 days (p = 0.0001 for both) and 3 months (p = 0.001 for both) compared to patients without POCD. Duration of anesthesia was also significantly longer in patients with POCD at 7 days and 3 months after surgery compared with patients without POCD (p = 0.012, p = 0.001, respectively), as was duration of Trendelenburg (p = 0.025, p = 0.002, respectively). Composite Z score in tests performed on day 7 were significantly correlated with duration of Trendelenburg and duration of anesthesia (p = 0.0001 for both). Conclusions: S100B increases after RALRP and this increase is associated with POCD development. Duration of Trendelenburg position and anesthesia contribute to the development of POCD. Trial Registry Number: Clinicaltrials.gov (N° NCT03018522).

Resumo Introdução: O presente estudo investigou a associação entre Disfunção Cognitiva Pós-Operatória (DCPO) e aumento do nível sérico de S100B após Prostatectomia Radical Laparoscópica Assistida por Robô (PRLAR). Métodos: O estudo incluiu 82 pacientes consecutivos submetidos à PRLAR. Os níveis séricos de S100B foram determinados: no pré-operatório, após indução anestésica, e aos 30 minutos e 24 horas do pós-operatório. A função cognitiva foi avaliada com testes neuropsicológicos no pré-operatório, no 7° dia pós-operatório (7 DPO) e aos 3 meses após a cirurgia (3 MPO). Resultados: Observamos 24 pacientes (29%) com DCPO no 7 DPO e 9 pacientes com DCPO (11%) após 3 meses da cirurgia. Quando comparados com os pacientes sem DCPO, os níveis séricos de S100B estavam significantemente aumentados aos 30 minutos e às 24 horas do pós-operatório nos pacientes que apresentaram DCPO no 7 DPO (p= 0,0001 para os dois momentos) e 3 meses após a cirurgia (p= 0,001 para os dois momentos) A duração anestésica também foi significantemente maior em pacientes com DCPO no 7 DPO e 3 MPO em comparação com pacientes sem DCPO (p= 0,012, p= 0,001, respectivamente), assim como a duração da posição de Trendelenburg (p= 0,025, p= 0,002, respectivamente). O escore Z composto nos testes realizados no 7 DPO foi significantemente correlacionado com a duração da posição de Trendelenburg e a duração da anestesia (p= 0,0001 para ambos). Conclusão: S100B aumenta após PRLAR e o aumento está associado ao desenvolvimento de DCPO. A duração anestésica e o tempo decorrido em posição de Trendelenburg contribuem para o desenvolvimento de DCPO. Número de registro do estudo: Clinicaltrials.gov (n° NCT03018522)

[S100B level and cognitive dysfunction after robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy procedures: a prospective observational study]. / Nível de S100B e disfunção cognitiva após prostatectomia radical laparoscópica assistida por robô: estudo observacional prospectivo.

BACKGROUND: The present study investigated the association between Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD) and increased serum S100B level after Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy (RALRP). METHODS: The study included 82 consecutive patients who underwent RALRP. Serum S100B levels were determined preoperatively, after anesthesia induction, and at 30 minutes and 24 hours postoperatively. Cognitive function was assessed using neuropsychological testing preoperatively and at 7 days and 3 months postoperatively. RESULTS: Twenty-four patients (29%) exhibited POCD 7 days after surgery, and 9 (11%) at 3 months after surgery. Serum S100B levels were significantly increased at postoperative 30minutes and 24 hours in patients displaying POCD at postoperative 7 days (p = 0.0001 for both) and 3 months (p = 0.001 for both) compared to patients without POCD. Duration of anesthesia was also significantly longer in patients with POCD at 7 days and 3 months after surgery compared with patients without POCD (p = 0.012, p = 0.001, respectively), as was duration of Trendelenburg (p = 0.025, p = 0.002, respectively). Composite Z score in tests performed on day 7 were significantly correlated with duration of Trendelenburg and duration of anesthesia (p = 0.0001 for both). CONCLUSIONS: S100B increases after RALRP and this increase is associated with POCD development. Duration of Trendelenburg position and anesthesia contribute to the development of POCD. TRIAL REGISTRY NUMBER: Clinicaltrials.gov (N° NCT03018522).

Comparison of ultrasound guided Erector Spinae Plane Block and quadratus lumborum block for postoperative analgesia in laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients; a prospective randomized study.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: Erector Spinae Plane Block (ESPB) is a recently described block. Both ESPB and Quadratus Lumborum block type II (QLB-II) have been reported to provide effective postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). In this study, we compared the postoperative analgesic effects of ESPB and QLB-II in patients undergoing LC. DESIGN: Assessor Blinded, prospective, randomized, controlled study. SETTING: Tertiary hospital, postoperative recovery room & ward. PATIENTS: 80 patients (ASA I-II) were recruited. Patients were allocated in to two equal groups (ESB and QLB-II). All patients were included in analysis. INTERVENTIONS: Standard multimodal analgesia was performed in all groups. ESPB and QLB-II were performed under ultrasound guidance. MEASUREMENTS: Mean opioid consumptions and Numeric Rating Scores was measured during the first 24 postoperative hours. MAIN RESULTS: Demographic data was similar between groups. There was no difference between NRS scores and opioid consumption at any hour between the groups. CONCLUSION: While ESPB and QLB-II are not significantly different, they improve analgesia quality in patients undergoing LC.

[Comparison of volume-controlled and pressure-controlled ventilation on respiratory mechanics in laparoscopic bariatric surgery: randomized clinical trial]. / Comparação das ventilações controlada por volume e controlada por pressão na mecânica respiratória em cirurgia bariátrica laparoscópica: estudo clínico randômico.

BACKGROUND: It is not clear which mechanical ventilation mode should be used in bariatric surgery, one of the treatment options for patients with obesity. OBJECTIVES: To compare volume-controlled ventilation and pressure-controlled ventilation in terms of respiratory mechanics and arterial blood gas values in patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric surgery. METHODS: Sixty-two patients with morbid obesity scheduled for gastric bypass were included in this study. Their ideal body weights were calculated during preoperative visits, and patients were divided into two groups, volume-controlled ventilation and pressure-controlled ventilation. The patients were ventilated in accordance with a previously determined algorithm. Mechanical ventilation parameters and arterial blood gas analysis were recorded 5 minutes after induction, 30 minutes after pneumoperitoneum, and at the end of surgery. Also, the dynamic compliance, inspired O2 pressure/fractional O2 ratio, and alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient pressure were calculated. RESULTS: Peak airway pressures were lower in patients ventilated in pressure-controlled ventilation mode at the end of surgery (p = 0.011). Otherwise, there was no difference between groups in terms of intraoperative respiratory parameters and arterial blood gas analyses. CONCLUSIONS: Pressure-controlled ventilation mode is not superior to volume-controlled ventilation mode in patients with laparoscopic bariatric surgery.

Comparison of volume-controlled and pressure-controlled ventilation on respiratory mechanics in laparoscopic bariatric surgery: randomized clinical trial / Comparação das ventilações controlada por volume e controlada por pressão na mecânica respiratória em cirurgia bariátrica laparoscópica: estudo clínico randômico

Abstract Background: It is not clear which mechanical ventilation mode should be used in bariatric surgery, one of the treatment options for patients with obesity. Objectives: To compare volume-controlled ventilation and pressure-controlled ventilation in terms of respiratory mechanics and arterial blood gas values in patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Methods: Sixty-two patients with morbid obesity scheduled for gastric bypass were included in this study. Their ideal body weights were calculated during preoperative visits, and patients were divided into two groups, volume-controlled ventilation and pressure-controlled ventilation. The patients were ventilated in accordance with a previously determined algorithm. Mechanical ventilation parameters and arterial blood gas analysis were recorded 5minutes after induction, 30minutes after pneumoperitoneum, and at the end of surgery. Also, the dynamic compliance, inspired O2 pressure/fractional O2 ratio, and alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient pressure were calculated. Results: Peak airway pressures were lower in patients ventilated in pressure-controlled ventilation mode at the end of surgery (p = 0.011). Otherwise, there was no difference between groups in terms of intraoperative respiratory parameters and arterial blood gas analyses. Conclusions: Pressure-controlled ventilation mode is not superior to volume-controlled ventilation mode in patients with laparoscopic bariatric surgery.

Resumo Justificativa: O modo de ventilação mecânica que deve ser usado em cirurgia bariátrica, uma das opções de tratamento para pacientes com obesidade, ainda não foi definido. Objetivos: Comparar as ventilações controladas por volume e por pressão em termos de mecânica respiratória e dos valores da gasometria arterial em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia bariátrica laparoscópica. Métodos: Foram incluídos neste estudo 62 pacientes com obesidade mórbida programados para bypass gástrico. Seus pesos corporais ideais foram calculados durante as consultas pré-operatórias e os pacientes foram divididos em dois grupos: ventilação controlada por volume e ventilação controlada por pressão. Os pacientes foram ventilados de acordo com um algoritmo previamente determinado. Os parâmetros da ventilação mecânica e as análises da gasometria arterial foram registrados 5 minutos após a indução, 30 minutos após o pneumoperitônio e ao final da cirurgia. Além disso, a complacência dinâmica, a pressão e a fração de oxigênio inspirado e a pressão do gradiente alvéolo-arterial de oxigênio foram calculados. Resultados: As pressões de pico das vias aéreas foram menores nos pacientes ventilados no modo de ventilação controlada por pressão ao final da cirurgia (p = 0,011). Exceto por esse aspecto, não houve diferença entre os grupos quanto aos parâmetros respiratórios intraoperatórios e às gasometrias arteriais. Conclusões: O modo de ventilação controlada por pressão não é superior ao modo de ventilação controlada por volume em pacientes de cirurgia bariátrica laparoscópica.

Plant- and Nutraceutical-based Approach for the Management of Diabetes and its Neurological Complications: A Narrative Review.

Diabetes is an important metabolic disease affecting many organs and systems in the body. The nervous system is one of the body systems affected by diabetes and neuropathic complications are troublesome in diabetic patients with many consequences. As diabetes has deleterious influences almost on bodily systems, an integrative approach seems to be necessary accepting the body as a whole and integrating body systems with lifestyle and living environment. Like some traditional health systems such as Ayurveda, integrative approach includes additional modalities to overcome both diabetes and diabetic complications. In general, these modalities consist of nutraceuticals and plant products. Prebiotics and probiotics are two types of nutraceuticals having active ingredients, such as antioxidants, nutrient factors, microorganisms, etc. Many plants are indicated for the cure of diabetes. All of these may be employed in the prevention and in the non-pharmacological management of mildto- moderate diabetes. Severe diabetes should require appropriate drug selection. Being complementary, prebiotics, probiotics, plants and exercise may be additive for the drug therapy of diabetes. Similarly, there are complementary approaches to prevent and cure neurological and/or behavioral manifestations of diabetes, which may be included in therapy and prevention plans. A scheme is given for the prevention and therapy of comorbid depression, which is one of the most common behavioral complications of diabetes. Within this scheme, the main criterion for the selection of modalities is the severity of diseases, so that personalized management may be developed for diabetic patients using prebiotics and probiotics in their diets, plants and drugs avoiding possible interactions.

Minimum effective volume of bupivacaine 0. 5% for ultrasound-guided retroclavicular approach to infraclavicular brachial plexus block / Volume mínimo efetivo de bupivacaína a 0, 5% para abordagem retroclavicular guiada por ultrassom no bloqueio do plexo braquial por via infraclavicular

Abstract Background and objectives: The current study aimed to determine the minimum effective volume (MEV) of bupivacaine 0.5% in 50% of patients for an ultrasound-guided retroclavicular approach to infraclavicular brachial plexus block. Methods: A total of 25 adult patients who were scheduled for upper limb surgery received an ultrasound-guided retroclavicular approach to infraclavicular brachial plexus block with bupivacaine 0.5%. The needle insertion point was posterior to the clavicle and the needle was advanced from cephalad to caudal. Block success was defined as a composite score of 14 at 30 min after local anesthetic (LA) injection. The minimum effective volume in 50% of patients was determined using the Dixon-Massey up-and-down staircase method. Minimum effective volume for a successful block in 95% of the patients was also calculated using logistic regression and probit transformation. Results: The minimum effective volume of bupivacaine 0.5% resulting in successful block in 50% of patients (MEV50) according to the up-and-down staircase method was found to be 9.6 mL (95% confidence interval (CI), 5.7-13.4). The calculated minimum effective volume required for a successful block in 95% of patients (MEV95) using the probit transformation and logistic regression analysis was 23.2 mL (95% CI, 18.8-36.7). Conclusions: The MEV50 of bupivacaine 0.5% for US-guided retroclavicular approach to infraclavicular brachial plexus block was 9.6 mL and the calculated MEV95 was 23.2 mL. Future studies are required for infraclavicular brachial plexus block with different approaches, other LA agents and different concentrations of bupivacaine.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos: Determinar o volume mínimo efetivo (VE) de bupivacaína a 0,5% em 50% dos pacientes para uma abordagem retroclavicular guiada por ultrassom no bloqueio do plexo braquial por via infraclavicular. Métodos: Um total de 25 pacientes adultos agendados para cirurgia do membro superior receberam abordagem retroclavicular guiada por ultrassom para o bloqueio do plexo braquial por via infraclavicular com bupivacaína a 0,5%. O ponto de inserção da agulha foi posterior à clavícula e a agulha foi avançada de cefálica para caudal. O sucesso do bloqueio foi definido como um escore composto de 14 aos 30 min após a injeção do anestésico local. O VE em 50% dos pacientes foi determinado com o método de escalonamento progressivo-regressivo de Dixon-Massey. O VE para um bloqueio bem-sucedido em 95% dos pacientes também foi calculado com regressão logística e transformação probit. Resultados: O volume mínimo efetivo (VE50) de bupivacaína a 0,5% que resultou em bloqueio bem-sucedido em 50% dos pacientes, de acordo com o método de escalonamento progressivo-regressivo, foi de 9,6 ml (intervalo de confiança de 95%, IC 5,7-13,4). O cálculo do volume mínimo efetivo necessário para um bloqueio bem-sucedido em 95% dos pacientes (VE95) com a análise de transformação probit e regressão logística foi de 23,2 ml (IC 95%, 18,8-36,7). Conclusões: O VE50 de bupivacaína a 0,5% para abordagem retroclavicular guiada por US para o bloqueio do plexo braquial por via infraclavicular foi de 9,6 ml e o VE95 calculado foi de 23,2 ml. Estudos futuros são necessários para o bloqueio do plexo braquial por via infraclavicular com diferentes abordagens, outros anestésicos locais e diferentes concentrações de bupivacaína.

Genomic Mismatch at LIMS1 Locus and Kidney Allograft Rejection.

BACKGROUND: In the context of kidney transplantation, genomic incompatibilities between donor and recipient may lead to allosensitization against new antigens. We hypothesized that recessive inheritance of gene-disrupting variants may represent a risk factor for allograft rejection. METHODS: We performed a two-stage genetic association study of kidney allograft rejection. In the first stage, we performed a recessive association screen of 50 common gene-intersecting deletion polymorphisms in a cohort of kidney transplant recipients. In the second stage, we replicated our findings in three independent cohorts of donor-recipient pairs. We defined genomic collision as a specific donor-recipient genotype combination in which a recipient who was homozygous for a gene-intersecting deletion received a transplant from a nonhomozygous donor. Identification of alloantibodies was performed with the use of protein arrays, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, and Western blot analyses. RESULTS: In the discovery cohort, which included 705 recipients, we found a significant association with allograft rejection at the LIMS1 locus represented by rs893403 (hazard ratio with the risk genotype vs. nonrisk genotypes, 1.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.35 to 2.50; P = 9.8×10-5). This effect was replicated under the genomic-collision model in three independent cohorts involving a total of 2004 donor-recipient pairs (hazard ratio, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.25 to 1.93; P = 6.5×10-5). In the combined analysis (discovery cohort plus replication cohorts), the risk genotype was associated with a higher risk of rejection than the nonrisk genotype (hazard ratio, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.37 to 1.95; P = 4.7×10-8). We identified a specific antibody response against LIMS1, a kidney-expressed protein encoded within the collision locus. The response involved predominantly IgG2 and IgG3 antibody subclasses. CONCLUSIONS: We found that the LIMS1 locus appeared to encode a minor histocompatibility antigen. Genomic collision at this locus was associated with rejection of the kidney allograft and with production of anti-LIMS1 IgG2 and IgG3. (Funded by the Columbia University Transplant Center and others.).

The effects of music on anxiety and pain in patients during carotid endarterectomy under regional anesthesia: A randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: Music can be used as an alternative method to decrease anxiety in awake patients during surgical procedures. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that listening to music during carotid endarterectomy (CEA) under regional anesthesia decreases the patient's anxiety and pain. DESIGN: A multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy under cervical plexus block. INTERVENTIONS: Patients scheduled for carotid endarterectomy under cervical plexus block were randomized into two groups: Music Group and Control Group. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary endpoint of this study was the difference in intraoperative anxiety in patients with or without music during CEA under regional anesthesia, and the secondary endpoints were intraoperative and postoperative pain, use of additional local anesthetics, use of intravenous analgesics, patient and surgeon satisfaction and complications. Anxiety was assessed using State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and numeric rating scale (NRS). Visual analog scale (VAS) was used for pain assessment. RESULTS: The postoperative STAI scores were similar in both groups (p = 0.839). The NRS scores measured immediately after the end of the surgery were statistically higher in Music Group (p = 0.001). The intraoperative anxiety statistically increased in Music Group, when the scores of the intraoperative responses to the questions of "are you relaxed?" and "are you calm?" were compared. (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0001, respectively). There were no statistical differences in terms of the amount of intraoperative and postoperative analgesic used (p = 0.801, p = 0.773, respectively). The intraoperative VAS scores, postoperative VAS scores, patient and surgeon satisfaction scores were similar in both groups (p = 0.586, p = 0.185, p = 0.302 and p = 0.599, respectively). Systolic, diastolic and mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate were no different between Music Group and Control Group at any of all time points during the intraoperative period. Surgical side and contralateral side cerebral rSO2 values are similar in both groups (p = 0.438, p = 0.397, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Music use in CEA under regional anesthesia increased intraoperative patient anxiety, and had no effect on intraoperative and postoperative pain or patient satisfaction.

[Minimum effective volume of bupivacaine 0.5% for ultrasound-guided retroclavicular approach to infraclavicular brachial plexus block]. / Volume mínimo efetivo de bupivacaína a 0,5% para abordagem retroclavicular guiada por ultrassom no bloqueio do plexo braquial por via infraclavicular.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The current study aimed to determine the minimum effective volume (MEV) of bupivacaine 0.5% in 50% of patients for an ultrasound-guided retroclavicular approach to infraclavicular brachial plexus block. METHODS: A total of 25 adult patients who were scheduled for upper limb surgery received an ultrasound-guided retroclavicular approach to infraclavicular brachial plexus block with bupivacaine 0.5%. The needle insertion point was posterior to the clavicle and the needle was advanced from cephalad to caudal. Block success was defined as a composite score of 14 at 30min after local anesthetic (LA) injection. The minimum effective volume in 50% of patients was determined using the Dixon-Massey up-and-down staircase method. Minimum effective volume for a successful block in 95% of the patients was also calculated using logistic regression and probit transformation. RESULTS: The minimum effective volume of bupivacaine 0.5% resulting in successful block in 50% of patients (MEV50) according to the up-and-down staircase method was found to be 9.6mL (95% confidence interval (CI), 5.7-13.4). The calculated minimum effective volume required for a successful block in 95% of patients (MEV95) using the probit transformation and logistic regression analysis was 23.2mL (95% CI, 18.8-36.7). CONCLUSIONS: The MEV50 of bupivacaine 0.5% for US-guided retroclavicular approach to infraclavicular brachial plexus block was 9.6mL and the calculated MEV95 was 23.2mL. Future studies are required for infraclavicular brachial plexus block with different approaches, other LA agents and different concentrations of bupivacaine.

Determination of residual mass in left ventricle by intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography after a giant and floating left atrial myxoma resection / Determinação da massa residual em ventrículo esquerdo por ecocardiografia transesofágica intraoperatória após ressecção de mixoma gigante e flutuante em átrio esquerdo

Abstract Atrial myxoma is a benign tumor of the heart that occurs primarily in the left atrium. Floating or large left atrial myxomas frequently cause functional mitral stenosis, may also affect mitral valve structure and flow, and lead to mitral regurgitation. Systemic embolization occurs in around 30% of cases either from tumor fragmentation or complete tumor detachment hence it should be removed as soon as it is detected. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography has a vital importance in the surgery. After resection of myxoma, intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography must be performed to rule out residual mass. The case here reported is of a 48-year old female, who presented with giant and floating left atrial myxoma. Residue mass was detected with intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography in the left ventricle after the resection of myxoma. Subsequently, the residue mass was successfully removed. Complete resection must be required to prevent possible complications such as recurrence, embolization in atrial myxomas. Transesophageal echocardiography performed intraoperatively is vital importance to confirm that the myxoma is completely resected.

Resumo Mixoma atrial é um tumor benigno do coração que ocorre principalmente no átrio esquerdo. Os mixomas flutuantes ou grandes em átrio esquerdo com frequência causam estenose mitral funcional, podendo também afetar a estrutura e o fluxo da válvula mitral e levar à insuficiência mitral. A embolização sistêmica ocorre em cerca de 30% dos casos, quer pela fragmentação do tumor ou pelo desprendimento total do tumor; portanto, o tumor deve ser removido assim que detectado. A ecocardiografia transesofágica intraoperatória tem uma importância vital na cirurgia. Após a ressecção do mixoma, a ecocardiografia transesofágica intraoperatória deve ser feita para excluir a massa residual. O caso aqui relatado é o de uma paciente de 48 anos que apresentou um mixoma de átrio esquerdo gigante e flutuante. A massa residual foi detectada com ecocardiografia transesofágica intraoperatória no ventrículo esquerdo após a ressecção do mixoma. Posteriormente, a massa residual foi removida com sucesso. A ressecção completa é necessária para evitar possíveis complicações, como recorrência e embolização em mixomas atriais. A ecocardiografia transesofágica realizada no intraoperatório é de vital importância para confirmar a ressecção completa do mixoma.