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Perioperative anaemia increases postoperative morbidity and mortality, and iron deficiency is anaemia’s most common cause in surgical patients. Preoperative intravenous iron increases postoperative haemoglobin; however, data regarding intraoperative intravenous iron’s effectiveness are inadequate. This study examined intraoperative intravenous iron’s effects on postoperative haemoglobin levels in adults. Fifty-seven healthy subjects (aged 19–40 years) scheduled for bimaxillary orthognathic surgery were assigned randomly to the iron (n = 28) or control (n = 29) groups. The iron group received intravenous ferric derisomaltose (1,000 mg) after anaesthetic induction. The control group received an identical volume of intravenous normal saline. The primary outcome was postoperative haemoglobin level. Secondary outcomes included other postoperative haematologic and iron parameters. Laboratory data were obtained preoperatively and at 1 day, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks postoperatively. Haemoglobin was higher in the iron group 2 weeks postoperatively (12.9 g/dL vs. 12.2 g/dL), but the between-group difference was not significant after adjustment for multiple testing. However, the reticulocyte production index was significantly higher in the iron group 2 weeks postoperatively. Intraoperative intravenous iron maintains postoperative haemoglobin values in patients undergoing bimaxillary orthognathic surgery by increasing haematopoietic function and iron bioavailability and therefore appears to be a useful strategy for blood management.

Background: The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) remains high. The effects of sufentanil for PONV is not firmly confirmed. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of sufentanil- and fentanyl-based intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV-PCA) on the incidence of PONV after laparoscopic nephrectomy. Methods: Eighty-six patients were randomly allocated to receive either the sufentanil (n =43) or fentanyl (n =43). IV-PCA was prepared using either sufentanil 3 µg/kg or fentanyl 20 µg/kg, ramosetron 0.3 mg, and ketorolac 120 mg. The primary outcome of was the incidence of PONV during 24 h after post anesthesia care unit (PACU) discharge. The secondary outcomes were the modified Rhodes index and patient satisfaction scores at 24 h after PACU discharge, need for rescue antiemetics, pain score, need for additional analgesics, and cumulative consumption of IV-PCA Results: The incidence of PONV was comparable between the sufentanil and fentanyl groups (64.3% vs. 65%, p = 0.946; respectively). The number of patients who required antiemetics (p = 0.946) and the modified Rhodes index at 24 h after post-anesthesia care unit discharge (p = 0.668) were also comparable in both groups. No significant differences were found in the secondary outcomes, including the analgesic profiles and adverse events between the groups. Conclusions: In conclusion, sufentanil- and fentanyl-based IV-PCA showed similar incidence of PONV with comparable analgesic effects after laparoscopic nephrectomy. Based on these results, we suggest that sufentanil and fentanyl may provide comparable effects for IV-PCA after laparoscopic nephrectomy.

Background: Caudal block is commonly administered for postoperative analgesia in children. Although caudal block with 1.5 ml kg −1 local anaesthetic has been reported to reduce cerebral oxygenation in infants, the effect of caudal block on intracranial pressure (ICP) in children has not been well investigated. Optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) correlates with degree of ICP. This study aimed to estimate the effects of caudal block on ICP according to volume of local anaesthetic using ultrasonographic measurement of ONSD in children. Methods: Eighty patients, 6- to 48-months-old, were randomly allocated to the high-volume (HV) or low-volume (LV) groups for caudal block with ropivacaine 0.15%, 1.5 ml kg −1 or 1.0 ml kg −1 , respectively. Measurement of ONSD was performed before (T0), immediately after (T1), and 10 min (T2) and 30 min (T3) after caudal block. Results: The two groups exhibited significant differences in ONSD according to time ( P Group x Time =0.003). The HV group exhibited significantly greater changes in ONSD from T0 to T2 and T3 than the LV group. However, in both groups, ONSDs at T1, T2 and T3 were significantly greater compared with those at T0, with the highest values at T2. Conclusions: Caudal block with a high volume of local anaesthetic can cause a greater increase in ICP than caudal block with a low volume of local anaesthetic. However, caudal block with 1.0 ml kg −1 of local anaesthetic can also result in a significant increase in ICP. Clinical trial registration NCT02768493.

Introduction: Perioperative anesthesia and analgesia exacerbate immunosuppression in immunocompromised cancer patients. The natural killer (NK) cell is a critical part of anti-tumor immunity. We compared the effects of two different anesthesia and analgesia methods on the NK cell cytotoxicity (NKCC) in patients undergoing breast cancer surgery. Methods: Fifty patients undergoing breast cancer resection were randomly assigned to receive propofol-remifentanil anesthesia with postoperative ketorolac analgesia (Propofol-ketorolac groups) or sevoflurane-remifentanil anesthesia with postoperative fentanyl analgesia (Sevoflurane-fentanyl group). The primary outcome was NKCC, which was measured before and 24 h after surgery. Post-surgical pain scores and inflammatory responses measured by white blood cell, neutrophil, and lymphocyte counts were assessed. Cancer recurrence or metastasis was evaluated with ultrasound and whole body bone scan every 6 months for 2 years after surgery. Results: The baseline NKCC (%) was comparable between the two groups (P = 0.082). Compared with the baseline value, NKCC (%) increased in the Propofol-ketorolac group [15.2 (3.2) to 20.1 (3.5), P = 0.048], whereas it decreased in the Sevoflurane-fentanyl group [19.5 (2.8) to 16.4 (1.9), P = 0.032]. The change of NKCC over time was significantly different between the groups (P = 0.048). Pain scores during 48 h after surgery and post-surgical inflammatory responses were comparable between the groups. One patient in the Sevoflurane-fentanyl group had recurrence in the contralateral breast and no metastasis was found in either group. Conclusions: Propofol anesthesia with postoperative ketorolac analgesia demonstrated a favorable impact on immune function by preserving NKCC compared with sevoflurane anesthesia and postoperative fentanyl analgesia in patients undergoing breast cancer surgery.

Tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) is the only treatment for ischemic stroke. However, tPA could induce the intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), which is the main cause of death in ischemic stroke patient after tPA treatment. At present, there is no treatment strategy to ameliorate tPA-induced brain injury after ischemia. Therefore, we investigated the effect of pre-treated isoflurane, which is a volatile anesthetic and has beneficial effects on neurological dysfunction, brain edema and infarct volume in ischemic stroke model. In this study, we used oxygen/glucose deprivation and reperfusion (OGD/R) condition to mimic an ischemic stroke in vitro. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) activity was measured in endothelial cell media. Also, neuronal cell culture was performed to investigate the effect of pretreated isoflurane on the neuronal cell survival after tPA-induced injury during OGD/R. Isoflurane pretreatment prevented tPA-induced MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity and suppressed tPA-triggered LRP/NF-κB/Cox-2 signaling after OGD/R. Neuronal cells, incubated with endothelial cell conditioned medium (EC-CM) after tPA + OGD/R, showed upregulation of pro-apoptotic molecules. However, neurons incubated with isoflurane-pretreated EC-CM showed increased anti-apoptotic molecules. Our findings suggest that isoflurane pretreatment could attenuate tPA-exaggerated brain ischemic injury, by reducing tPA-induced LRP/NF-κB/Cox-2 in endothelial cells, endothelial MMP-2 and MMP-9 activation, and subsequent pro-apoptotic molecule in neurons after OGD/R.

Purpose Children have few small alveoli, which reduce lung compliance; in contrast, their cartilaginous rib cage makes their chest wall highly compliant. This combination promotes lung collapse. Prolonged inspiratory to expiratory (I:E) ratio ventilation is used to optimize gas exchange and respiratory mechanics in surgery. However, the optimal ratio is unclear in children. We hypothesized that, compared to a 1:2 I:E ratio, a 1:1 I:E ratio would improve dynamic compliance and oxygenation, and affect the peak airway pressure in pediatric patients undergoing surgery. Materials and methods Forty-eight patients aged ≤6 years who were scheduled to undergo surgery under general anesthesia with an arterial line were randomly allocated to receive 1:1 (group 1:1) or 1:2 (group 1:2) I:E ratio ventilation. Airway pressure, respiratory system compliance, and arterial blood gas analyses were compared between groups immediately after induction (T0), 30 min after induction (T1), 60 min after induction (T2), immediately after surgery (T3), and on arrival at the post-anesthesia care unit (T4). Results Peak and plateau airway pressures were significantly lower in group 1:1 than in group 1:2 at T1 (p=0.044 and 0.048, respectively). The dynamic and static compliances were significantly higher in group 1:1 than in group 1:2 at T1 (p=0.044 and 0.045, respectively). However, the partial pressure of oxygen did not significantly differ between groups. Conclusion Compared to a 1:2 I:E ratio, a 1:1 I:E ratio improved dynamic compliance and lowered the peak airway pressure without complications in pediatric patients. Nevertheless, our results do not support its use solely for improving oxygenation.

The interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) is a potential stroke treatment candidate. Intranasal delivery is a novel method thereby a therapeutic protein can be penetrated into the brain parenchyma by bypassing the blood-brain barrier. Thus, this study tested whether intranasal IL-1RA can provide neuroprotection and brain penetration in transient cerebral ischemia. In male Sprague-Dawley rats, focal cerebral ischemia was induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 1 h. The rats simultaneously received 50 mg/kg human IL-1RA through the intranasal (IN group) or intraperitoneal route (IP group). The other rats were given 0.5 mL/kg normal saline (EC group). Neurobehavioral function, infarct size, and the concentration of the administered human IL-1RA in the brain tissue were assessed. In addition, the cellular distribution of intranasal IL-1RA in the brain and its effect on proinflammatory cytokines expression were evaluated. Intranasal IL-1RA improved neurological deficit and reduced infarct size until 7 days after MCAO (p

Propofol is an anesthetic agent that gained wide use because of its fast induction of anesthesia and rapid recovery post-anesthesia. However, previous studies have reported immediate neurodegeneration and long-term impairment in spatial learning and memory from repeated neonatal propofol administration in animals. Yet, none of those studies has explored the sex-specific long-term physical changes and behavioral alterations such as social (sociability and social preference), emotional (anxiety), and other cognitive functions (spatial working, recognition, and avoidance memory) after neonatal propofol treatment. Seven-day-old Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats underwent repeated daily intraperitoneal injections of propofol or normal saline for 7 days. Starting fourth week of age and onwards, rats were subjected to behavior tests including open-field, elevated-plus-maze, Y-maze, 3-chamber social interaction, novel-object-recognition, passive-avoidance, and rotarod. Rats were sacrificed at 9 weeks and hippocampal protein expressions were analyzed by Western blot. Results revealed long-term body weight gain alterations in the growing rats and sex-specific impairments in spatial (female) and recognition (male) learning and memory paradigms. A markedly decreased expression of hippocampal NMDA receptor GluN1 subunit in female- and increased expression of AMPA GluR1 subunit protein expression in male rats were also found. Other aspects of behaviors such as locomotor activity and coordination, anxiety, sociability, social preference and avoidance learning and memory were not generally affected. These results suggest that neonatal repeated propofol administration disrupts normal growth and some aspects of neurodevelopment in rats in a sex-specific manner.

BACKGROUND In free flap reconstruction for head and neck cancer, achieving a haemodynamic target using excessive fluid infusion is associated with decreased flap survival rates and extended hospital stays. We hypothesized that goal-directed haemodynamic therapy would improve flap survival rates and shorten hospitalization periods. METHODS Patients scheduled for free flap reconstruction were randomly assigned to a goal-directed haemodynamic therapy group (n = 31) or a conventional haemodynamic therapy control group (n = 31). The control group received extra bolus fluid and ephedrine or norepinephrine to maintain a mean arterial pressure ≥ 65 mmHg. The goal-directed haemodynamic therapy group received a colloid solution as the extra bolus fluid to maintain a stroke volume variation < 12%; dobutamine, ephedrine, or norepinephrine was administered to maintain a cardiac index ≥ 2.5 l/min/m2 and mean arterial pressure ≥ 65 mmHg. Enhanced recovery after surgery protocols were not used except for fluid therapy. An otolaryngologist blinded to group assignments assessed flap outcomes and classified them as 'survival,' 'at risk' or 'failure.' RESULTS The hospitalization period was not significantly different between the groups. The goal-directed haemodynamic therapy group had significantly shorter intensive care unit stays and a higher flap survival rate. The crystalloid volume was significantly lower in goal-directed haemodynamic therapy group. Reoperation rates, post-operative complications, and laboratory data including inflammatory markers were similar between the groups. CONCLUSION Compared to conventional haemodynamic therapy, goal-directed haemodynamic therapy does not reduce hospitalization periods; it may, however, reduce the length of intensive care unit stays and increase flap survival rates. Further studies including multi-centre trials with larger sample sizes are warranted.

Sympathetic blockade associated with epidural analgesia was reported to be a risk factor for acute kidney injury (AKI) following liver resection. The purpose of this study was to compare the incidence of AKI after living-donor hepatectomies according to the type of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA).A total of 316 patients after living-donor hepatectomy were retrospectively analyzed; 148 patients in the epidural PCA group and 168 patients in the intravenous (IV) PCA group were evaluated. AKI was defined as an increase in serum creatinine ≥0.3 mg/dL, ie, 1.5-fold from the baseline, or a reduction in the urine output in the first 48 hours after surgery, based on the Acute Kidney Injury Network criteria. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the independent risk factors for AKI after living-donor hepatectomy.Baseline characteristics were similar between the 2 groups except the age. Volumes of fluids and colloids administered intraoperatively were greater in the epidural PCA group (P .001 and P = .006, respectively). The incidence of AKI did not show significant differences between the 2 groups (8.1% vs 7.1%; P = .747). In multivariate analysis, preoperative serum alanine transaminase level ≥50 U/L was identified as a risk factor for postoperative AKI. However, epidural PCA failed to be a risk factor for postoperative AKI.The type of PCA did not affect the incidence of postoperative AKI after living-donor hepatectomy. Despite significant differences in the postoperative hemodynamics, the incidence of AKI was similar between 2 groups.

Purpose Epidural analgesia has been the preferred analgesic technique after major abdominal surgery. On the other hand, the combined use of intrathecal morphine (ITM) and intravenous patient controlled analgesia (IVPCA) has been shown to be a viable alternative approach for analgesia. We hypothesized that ITM combined with IVPCA is as effective as patient controlled thoracic epidural analgesia (PCTEA) with respect to postoperative pain control after conventional open gastrectomy. Materials and Methods Sixty-four patients undergoing conventional open gastrectomy due to gastric cancer were randomly allocated into the intrathecal morphine combined with intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IT) group or patient-controlled thoracic epidural analgesia (EP) group. The IT group received preoperative 0.3 mg of ITM, followed by postoperative IVPCA. The EP group preoperatively underwent epidural catheterization, followed by postoperative PCTEA. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores were assessed until 48 hrs after surgery. Adverse effects related to analgesia, profiles associated with recovery from surgery, and postoperative complications within 30 days after surgery were also evaluated. Results This study failed to demonstrate the non-inferiority of ITM-IVPCA (n=29) to PCTEA (n=30) with respect to VAS 24 hrs after surgery. Furthermore, the IT group consumed more fentanyl than the EP group did (1247.2±263.7 µg vs. 1048.9±71.7 µg, p

Purpose Emergence agitation (EA) is frequently observed in children undergoing general anaesthesia. This study tested whether the addition of an intra-operative low-dose infusion of dexmedetomidine to fentanyl treatment reduced the incidence of emergence delirium following desflurane anesthesia in children undergoing strabismus surgery. Materials and Methods A total of 96 children (1-5 years old) undergoing strabismus surgery were enrolled. Anaesthesia was induced with propofol and maintained with desflurane. After induction, fentanyl (1 µg/kg) was administered to all children. During surgery, patients were infused with 0.2 µg/(kg·h)-1 dexmedetomidine (Group FD, n=47) or normal saline (Group F, n=47). Postoperative objective pain score (OPS), Paediatric Agitation and Emergence Delirium (PAED) score, and EA score were documented every 10 minutes in the post-anaesthesia care unit. Results There were no significant differences between the two groups in demographic characteristics and haemodynamic changes. The mean values of maximum EA, maximum PAED, and maximum OPS score were significantly lower in Group FD than in Group F at 0, 10, and 20 minutes after arrival at the post-anaesthesia care unit (p

Laparoscopic surgery involves the creation of a carbon dioxide (CO2) pneumoperitoneum to facilitate a clear surgical view, which may result in an elevated intracranial pressure (ICP). Depending on the surgical area, steep Trendelenburg positioning may be used as well, further increasing the ICP. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of laparoscopic surgery on changes in ICP assessed by ultrasonographic measurement of optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD), which is a generally accepted simple, reliable, and non-invasive ICP measurement technique. A computerized literature search was performed in August 2016 to identity prospective studies that measured ONSD to assess ICP changes during laparoscopic surgery. The primary outcome was the change in ONSD during the early (0–30 min) and late (30–120 min) periods after initiating pneumoperitoneum, compared with baseline values measured after anesthesia induction. Mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals [CIs] were calculated. Nine observational studies and one randomized controlled trial, with a total of 460 subjects, were analyzed. Compared to the baseline value after anesthesia induction, significant increases in ONSD were observed in both the early period (MD 0.46, 95% CI 0.31–0.61, P

Emergence agitation is common after nasal surgery. We investigated the effects of intraoperative dexmedetomidine infusion on emergence agitation and quality of recovery after nasal surgery in adult patients.One hundred patients undergoing nasal surgery were randomized into two groups. The dexmedetomidine group (Group D, n=50) received dexmedetomidine infusion at a rate of 0.4 μg kg(-1) h(-1) from induction of anaesthesia until extubation, while the control group (Group C, n=50) received volume-matched normal saline infusion as placebo. Propofol (1.5-2 mg kg(-1)) and fentanyl (1 μg kg(-1)) were used for induction of anaesthesia, and desflurane was used for maintenance of anaesthesia. The incidence of agitation, haemodynamic parameters, and recovery characteristics were evaluated during emergence. A 40-item quality-of-recovery questionnaire (QoR-40) was provided to patients 24 h after surgery.The incidence of agitation was lower in Group D than Group C (28 vs 52%, P=0.014). Mean arterial pressure and heart rate were more stable in Group D than in Group C during emergence (P0.05). Time to extubation, bispectral index, and respiratory rate at extubation were similar between the groups. Global QoR-40 score at 24 h after surgery was higher in Group D (median [range], 183 [146 -198]) compared with Group C (178 [133-196]) (P=0.041).Intraoperative infusion of dexmedetomidine provided smooth and haemodynamically stable emergence. It also improved quality of recovery after nasal surgery.

Background: Endothelial dysfunction associated with diabetes mellitus (DM) may influence arterial vasoreactivity after arterial stimulus, such as cannulation, and cause changes in diameter and blood flow. Despite the frequent use of arterial cannulation during anesthesia and critical care, little information is available regarding vasoreactivity of the radial and ulnar arteries and its influence on underlying DM. Methods: Forty non-DM and 40 DM patients, who required arterial cannulation during general anesthesia, were enrolled. Using duplex Doppler ultrasonography, we measured the patients' arterial diameter, peak systolic velocity, end-diastolic velocity, resistance index, and mean volume flow of both arteries at five different time points. Results: After radial artery cannulation, ulnar arterial diameter and blood flow did not significantly increase in DM group, as they did in non-DM group. Ulnar arterial resistance index significantly increased in both groups, but the degree of decrease in DM group was significantly less than non-DM. Conclusion: Ulnar artery's ability to increase blood flow for compensating the sudden reduction of radial arterial flow in DM patients was significantly less than that in non-DM patients under general anesthesia. Such attenuated vasoreactivity of ulnar artery to compensate the reduced radial arterial flow may have to be considered in radial arterial cannulation for DM patients.

Background: Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) remains a challenge for patients and health professionals despite various newly developed prophylactic interventions. We reviewed the efficacy and safety of ramosetron in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for the prevention of PONV. Methods: We reviewed 18 randomized controlled trials investigating the efficacy and safety of ramosetron in comparison with placebo or any other drugs. Relevant studies were searched in the MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and the Cochrane database libraries. Our end points of concern were prevention of PONV and adverse effects as dichotomous data. Results: The prophylactic effect of 0.3 mg ramosetron was observed in early PON (relative risk, RR: 0.4; 95% CI 0.3 0.6), early POV (RR: 0.3; 95% CI 0.1-0.6), late POV (RR: 0.3; 95% CI 0.1-0.6), but not late PON (RR: 0.7; 95% CI 0.51.0). Compared with placebo, the efficacy of 0.3 mg ramosetron in adults and 6 μg/kg in children were consistently beneficial in preventing PONV overall (RR: 0.4; 95% CI: 03-0.6). The effects of 0.3 mg ramosetron and 3 mg granisetron were similar. No serious side effects or adverse events resulted from ramosetron and other active drugs, and incidence was similar to those of the placebo group. Conclusions: Ramosetron is effective and safe in children and adults without serious adverse effects compared with placebo or other active drugs, as shown in pooled data of RCTs, in terms of the prevention of PONV. (Korean J Anesthesiol 2011; 61: 405-412)

Background Although acetaminophen has been used widely and is well tolerated in children, its efficacy and safety have not been clarified when combined with an opioid in intravenous parent-/nurse-controlled postoperative analgesia. Methods Sixty-three children (aged 6-24 months) who had undergone elective ureteroneocystostomies were enrolled in this prospective, randomized, double-blinded study. After the surgery, an analgesic pump was programmed to deliver fentanyl at a basal infusion rate of 0.25 microg.kg(-1).h(-1) and 0.25 microg/kg bolus after a loading dose of 0.5 microg/kg(-1). In the fentanyl-acetaminophen group, acetaminophen was coadministered as a solution mixture at a basal infusion rate of 1.5 mg.kg(-1).h(-1) and 1.5 mg/kg bolus after a loading dose of 15 mg/kg, whereas saline was administered to the fentanyl group. Results Postoperative pain scores were similar between the two groups. The total dose (micrograms per kilogram per day, mean+/-SD) of fentanyl at postoperative days 1 (8.3+/-3.7 vs. 18.1+/-4.6, P=0.021) and 2 (7.0+/-2.4 vs. 16.6, P=0.042) was significantly less in the fentanyl-acetaminophen group compared with that in the fentanyl group. The incidences of vomiting (16.1 vs. 56.3%, P=0.011) and sedation (9.7 vs. 46.9%, P=0.019) were significantly lower in the fentanyl-acetaminophen group than those in the fentanyl group. Conclusions Acetaminophen has significant fentanyl-sparing effects and reduces side effects when combined with fentanyl in intravenous parent-/nurse-controlled analgesia for postoperative pediatric pain management.

Background: Caudal block is the most common regional technique to provide post-operative analgesia in pediatric infra-umbilical surgery. This study was designed to define how many spinal segments would be covered by the weight-based dosage of caudally administered 0.2% ropivacaine in children using the fluoroscopic method. Methods: After an approval from the institutional human research review board, in 83 ASA I boys undergoing day-case urological surgery, the distribution of ropivacaine mixed with a radioactive dye in relation to the volume injected caudally was studied. Three groups were studied: for perineal surgery 0.5 ml/kg (group C0.5), for inguinal hernia repair 1 ml/kg (group C1.0), and for orchiopexy 1.25 ml/kg (group C1.25). The dose of 0.2% ropivacaine containing radiopaque dye at a ratio of 1 : 4 was injected at a rate of 1 ml 3 s−1. Fluoroscopic examination was performed immediately to define the level of the drug spread within the extradural space. Results: The highest spinal levels [median with ranges] of spread were L2 [L4-T12] in group C0.5, T12 [L1-T8] in group C1.0, and T10 [L2-T7] in group C1.25. Analysis by age distribution (infants: 36 months) revealed a larger spread in younger patients. Conclusions: Based on the fluoroscopic findings, the weight-based doses for caudally administered 0.2% bupivacaine suggested by Armitage are also useful for ropivacaine to block the spinal level required for the different types of surgeries studied.

Study Objective To determine (1) the amount of 8.4% sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO 3 ) to adjust the pH of rocuronium to 7.4 (neutralization), (2) to show whether neutralizing the pH of rocuronium can prevent pain, and (3) to confirm that rocuronium mixed with NaHCO 3 does not change the physical property and efficacy of rocuronium. Design Prospective studies. Setting University medical center. Patients 180 ASA physical status I and II women patients undergoing elective gynecologic surgery. Interventions and Measurements 60 patients were randomly allocated to group 1 (rocuronium only), group 2 (rocuronium 50 mg mixed with 0.9% NaCl 3 mL), and group 3 (rocuronium 50 mg mixed with 8.4% NaHCO 3 3 mL). All patients received mixtures equal to 0.04 mg/kg of rocuronium and were asked to evaluate their pain with visual analog scale (VAS) and pain scores. In other settings, the onset time and duration of action of each group of rocuronium were measured. The dose of rocuronium required to produce a 50% twitch depression (ED 50 ) was calculated. Main Results The amount of 8.4% NaHCO 3 needed to neutralize 50 mg of rocuronium was 3.1 ± 0.3 mL. VAS scores were lower in group 3 than in groups 1 or 2 ( P 50 values among the groups. Conclusions Rocuronium neutralized with NaHCO 3 prevents intravenous injection pain. The physical and pharmacologic properties of rocuronium mixed with NaHCO 3 immediately before administration are not altered.

Recently, the laparoscopic surgical technique has been widely applied to major surgery as it can minimize surgical incision, reduce blood loss, and shorten hospital stay. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of the laparoscopic surgery on postoperative micturitional function in comparison to open surgery. Sixty patients undergoing subtotal gastrectomy were assigned to either laparoscopic (L group, n = 30) or open surgery (O group, n = 30) groups. The combined thoracic epidural-general anesthesia was performed on all patients, and epidural patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) using ropivacaine and sufentanil was maintained for two days following surgery. After surgery, visual analog pain score (VAS), levels of sensory and motor block, observer’s assessment of alertness/sedation score (OAA/S), time to first flatus, ambulation and oral intake, and micturition function were assessed. The L group showed much earlier ambulation, flatus and oral intake than the O group. Although the scores of VAS and OAA/S were not significantly different between the two groups, the micturition problem scores of the L group were lower than that of the O group (P

BACKGROUND In the previous study, we observed agmatine (AGM) posttreatment immediately after 30 minutes of suture occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCAO) reduced the infarct size and neurological deficit in diabetic rats. The aim of the present study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of AGM to reduce cerebral ischemic damage in diabetic rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Normoglycemic (n=20) and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats (n=40) were subjected to 30 minutes of MCAO followed by reperfusion. Twenty diabetic rats were treated with AGM (100 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) immediately after 30 minutes of MCAO. Modified neurological examinations and rotarod exercises were performed to evaluate motor function. Western blot and immunohistochemical analysis were performed to determine the expression of inflammatory cytokines in ischemic brain tissue. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to measure the mRNA expression of high-mobility group box 1, receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), Toll-like receptor (TLR)2, and TLR4 RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS:: AGM posttreatment improved the neurobehavioral activity and motor function of diabetic MCAO rats at 24 and 72 hours after reperfusion. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that AGM treatment significantly decreased the expression of inflammatory cytokines in diabetic MCAO rats at 24 and 72 hours after reperfusion (P

Drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) allows for direct airway observation in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. This study compared the safety profiles and efficacies of three regimens for DISE.Sixty-six patients were randomly assigned to receive propofol alone (n = 22), a propofol-remifentanil combination (n = 22), or a dexmedetomidine-remifentanil combination (n = 22). Remifentanil was infused at a concentration of 1.5 ng·ml(-1) in the propofol-remifentanil and dexmedetomidine-remifentanil groups, whereas saline was infused in the propofol group. The propofol and propofol-remifentanil groups received propofol at a starting concentration of 1.0 μg·ml(-1), then 0.1 μg·ml(-1) increments at 5 min intervals. The dexmedetomidine-remifentanil group received 1.0 μg·kg(-1) loading dose of dexmedetomidine for 10 min and then 0.2 μg·kg(-1)·h(-1) increments at 5 min intervals.The incidence of oxygen desaturation was significantly higher in the propofol-remifentanil group compared with that of the dexmedetomidine-remifentanil group (77 vs. 45%, respectively, P = 0.024). Even with a maximum dose of dexmedetomidine (1.4 μg·kg(-1)·h(-1)), 50% of the dexmedetomidine-remifentanil group did not reach sufficient sedation and required additional propofol. Cough reflex occurred in five patients of propofol group and in neither of the other groups (P = 0.004).The propofol-remifentanil combination was associated with a higher incidence of desaturation. The dexmedetomidine-remifentanil combination was associated with inadequate sedation in one half of the patients, even though it produced less respiratory depression. Addition of remifentanil reduced the cough reflex.

Background: Intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) is recognized as the standard treatment for ischemic stroke. However, its narrow therapeutic window and association with an increased risk of intracranial hemorrhage have required caution when used. In this context, several approaches are required to deal with the shortcomings of such a doubleedged drug. Anesthetics are known to protect against ischemic reperfusion injury, and their protective role in ischemic post-conditioning is crucial for reducing ischemia-related injury. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of isoflurane post-treatment on intracranial hemorrhage and cerebral infarction after tPA treatment for transient cerebral ischemia. Methods: Cerebral ischemia was modeled in male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 32) by occluding the right middle cerebral artery for 1 h, followed by intravenous tPA administration. Rats were randomly divided into control and isoflurane posttreatment group, and isoflurane post-treatment group was post-treated by administering 1.5% isoflurane for 1 h from the start of reperfusion. Twenty-four h after reperfusion, neurobehavioral changes were assessed. The extent of cerebral infarction and intracranial hemorrhage were also assessed by quantification of infarction volume and cerebral hemoglobin concentration from brain tissue, respectively. Results: Neurobehavioral testing showed better functional outcomes in the isoflurane post-treatment group than the control group. The extent of cerebral infarction and intracranial hemorrhage were both reduced in isoflurane post-treatment group compared to control group. Conclusions: Isoflurane post-treatment may mitigate infarction volume and intracranial hemorrhage in tPA-exaggerated brain injury. Our findings provide an encouraging novel approach for enhancing clinical outcomes in tPA-exaggerated brain injury.

Purpose Sedatives must be carefully titrated for patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) as oversedation may lead to disastrous respiratory outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the relations between the effect-site concentration (Ce) of propofol and sedation and airway obstruction levels in patients with OSAHS. Materials and Methods In 25 patients with OSAHS, sedation was induced by 2% propofol using target-controlled infusion. Sedation and airway obstruction levels were assessed using the Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation Scale and a four-category scale, respectively. The relationships between propofol Ce and sedation and airway obstruction were evaluated using a sigmoid Emax model. Pharmacodynamic modeling incorporating covariates was performed using the Nonlinear Mixed Effects Modeling VII software. Results Increased propofol Ce correlated with the depth of sedation and the severity of airway obstruction. Predicted Ce50(m) (Ce associated with 50% probability of an effect≥m) for sedation scores (m≥2, 3, 4, and 5) and airway-obstruction scores (m≥2, 3, and 4) were 1.61, 1.78, 1.91, and 2.17 µg/mL and 1.53, 1.64, and 2.09 µg/mL, respectively. Including the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) as a covariate in the analysis of Ce50(4) for airway obstruction significantly improved the performance of the basic model (p

Propofol, a widely used anesthetic, regulates neurological processes including neurotoxicity, neuroprotection, glial activation, synaptic plasticity and neuronal maturation. Tissue plasminogen activator/tissue plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (tPA/PAI-1) in CNS acts as a neuromodulator regulating synaptic plasticity, neurite outgrowth, seizure spreading and cell survival. Here, we investigated the effects of propofol on tPA/PAI-1 system using cultured neurons and astrocytes and their role in the regulation of neurite extension. Cultured rat primary astrocytes were treated with propofol (1–10 µM) and LPS (10 ng/ml). The expression of functional tPA/PAI-1 was examined by casein zymography, Western blot and RT-PCR. Alternatively, culture supernatants were added to cultured rat primary neuron to investigate the effects on neurite extension. Propofol alone did not affect tPA activity in rat primary cortical neuron. Similarly, propofol alone changed neither tPA nor PAI-1 activity in rat primary astrocytes. In immunologically challenged situation using LPS, propofol synergistically increased expression of PAI-1 in rat primary astrocytes without affecting tPA expression in a manner dependent on MAPKs activation. Increased expression of PAI-1 reduced tPA activity in LPS plus propofol-treated rat primary astrocytes. Consistent with the critical role of tPA activity in the regulation of neurite extension (Cho et al. 2013), the diminished tPA activity in astrocyte culture supernatants resulted in decreased neurite extension when administered to cultured rat primary cortical neuron. The results from the present study suggest that propofol, especially in immunologically-challenged situation, dysregulates tPA/PAI-1 system in brain. Whether the dysregulated tPA/PAI-1 activity adversely affects neural differentiation as well as regeneration of neuron in vivo should be empirically determined in the future.

Epidural administration of dexamethasone might reduce postoperative pain in adults. We evaluated whether a caudal block of 0.1 mg kg(-1) dexamethasone combined with ropivacaine improves analgesic efficacy in children undergoing day-case orchiopexy.This randomized, double-blind study included 80 children aged 6 months to 5 yr who underwent day-case, unilateral orchiopexy. Patients received either 1.5 ml kg(-1) of 0.15% ropivacaine (Group C) or 1.5 ml kg(-1) of 0.15% ropivacaine in which dexamethasone of 0.1 mg kg(-1) was mixed (Group D) for caudal analgesia. Postoperative pain scores, rescue analgesic consumption, and side-effects were evaluated 48 h after operation.Postoperative pain scores at 6 and 24 h post-surgery were significantly lower in Group D than in Group C. Furthermore, the number of subjects who remained pain free up to 48 h after operation was significantly greater in Group D [19 of 38 (50%)] than in Group C [four of 37 (10.8%); P0.001]. The number of subjects who received oral analgesic was significantly lower in Group D [11 of 38 (28.9%)] than in Group C [20 of 37 (54.1%); P=0.027]. Time to first oral analgesic administration after surgery was also significantly longer in Group D than in Group C (P=0.014). Adverse events after surgery including vomiting, fever, wound infection, and wound dehiscence were comparable between the two groups.The addition of dexamethasone 0.1 mg kg(-1) to ropivacaine for caudal block can significantly improve analgesic efficacy in children undergoing orchiopexy. Clinical trial registration NCT01604915.

Although propofol has been reported to offer neuroprotection against cerebral ischemia injury, its impact on cerebral edema following ischemia is not clear. The objective of this investigation is to evaluate the effects of propofol post-treatment on blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity and cerebral edema after transient cerebral ischemia and its mechanism of action, focusing on modulation of aquaporins (AQPs), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1α. Cerebral ischemia was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 78) by occlusion of the right middle cerebral artery for 1 h. For post-treatment with propofol, 1 mg kg(-1) min(-1) of propofol was administered for 1 h from the start of reperfusion. Nineteen rats undergoing sham surgery were also included in the investigation. Edema and BBB integrity were assessed by quantification of cerebral water content and extravasation of Evans blue, respectively, following 24 h of reperfusion. In addition, the expression of AQP-1, AQP-4, MMP-2, and MMP-9 was determined 24 h after reperfusion and the expression of HIF-1α was determined 8 h after reperfusion. Propofol post-treatment significantly reduced cerebral edema (P < 0.05) and BBB disruption (P < 0.05) compared with the saline-treated control. The expression of AQP-1, AQP-4, MMP-2, and MMP-9 at 24 h and of HIF-1α at 8 h following ischemia/reperfusion was significantly suppressed in the propofol post-treatment group (P < 0.05). Propofol post-treatment attenuated cerebral edema after transient cerebral ischemia, in association with reduced expression of AQP-1, AQP-4, MMP-2, and MMP-9. The decreased expression of AQPs and MMPs after propofol post-treatment might result from suppression of HIF-1α expression.

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is an advanced therapy for early gastric neoplasm and requires sedation with adequate analgesia. Lidocaine is a short-acting local anesthetic, and intravenous lidocaine has been shown to have analgesic efficacy in surgical settings. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of intravenous lidocaine on analgesic and sedative requirements for ESD and pain after ESD. Sixty-six patients scheduled for ESD randomly received either intravenous lidocaine as a bolus of 1.5 mg/kg before sedation, followed by continuous infusion at a rate of 2 mg/kg/h during sedation (lidocaine group; n = 33) or the same bolus and infusion volumes of normal saline (control group; n = 33). Sedation was achieved with propofol and fentanyl. The primary outcome was fentanyl requirement during ESD. We recorded hemodynamics and any events during ESD and evaluated post-ESD epigastric and throat pain. Fentanyl requirement during ESD reduced by 24% in the lidocaine group compared with the control group (105 ± 28 vs. 138 ± 37 μg, mean ± SD; P

Background: Active upper respiratory tract infection (URI), orotracheal intubation and use of inhalation anesthetics are known risk factors for perioperative respiratory adverse events (RAE). This study investigated the risk factors of perioperative RAE in children with these risk factors. Methods: The records of 159 children who underwent general anesthesia with an orotracheal tube and inhalation were reviewed. These patients also had at least one of the following URI symptoms on the day of surgery: clear or green nasal secretion, dry or moist cough, nasal congestion, or fever. RAE such as laryngospasm, bronchospasm, oxygen desaturation and sustained cough were collected before induction, during intubation, during extubation, after extubation and in the postanesthesia care unit. Results: Forty-five patients had RAE. The patients with RAE were younger than those without RAE. There were more passive smokers and a greater number of intubation attempts in patients with RAE than in those without RAE. The type of surgery and type of inhalation agents were not different between patients with and without RAE. Passive smoking was the only independent risk factor for RAE. Conclusions: In children with an active URI using orotracheal tube and inhalation anesthetics, passive smoking is an important risk factor for RAE. (Korean J Anesthesiol 2013; 65: 136-141)

To examine individual patient's demographic parameters and clinical variables related to return of consciousness (ROC) and the pharmacodynamic relationship between propofol effect-site concentration (C(e)) and ROC from propofol-remifentanil anesthesia.Ninety-four patients received propofol-remifentanil anesthesia using the effect-site target-controlled infusion (TCI) system. All clinical events were noted, and variables possibly related to propofol C(e) at ROC were examined using linear correlation analyses. Pharmacodynamic modeling incorporating covariates was performed using NONMEM (Nonlinear Mixed Effects Modeling) VII software.The C(e) values of propofol at loss of consciousness (LOC) and ROC were 4.4±1.1 μg/mL and 1.1±0.3 μg/mL, respectively. Age was negatively correlated with propofol C(e) at ROC (r=-0.48, P0.01). Including age as a covariate in C(e50) (the effect-site concentration associated with 50% probability of return of consciousness) and λ (the steepness of the concentration-versus-response relationship) significantly improved the performance of the basic model based on the likelihood ratio test, with a significant decrease in the minimum value of the objective function. The C(e50) in 25-, 50-, and 75-year-old patients was predicted to be 1.38, 1.06, and 0.74 μg/mL, respectively. The λ in 25-, 50-, and 75-year-old patients was predicted to be 12.23, 8.70, and 5.18, respectively.Age significantly affects the relationship between propofol C(e) and ROC, and pharmacodynamic modeling including age could lead to better predictions of ROC during emergence from propofol-remifentanil anesthesia.

I.V. lidocaine administration and target-controlled infusion (TCI) of remifentanil may each be used to reduce cough and haemodynamic stimulation during emergence from general anaesthesia. We therefore compared the effects of these two treatments on patients' responses to the tracheal tube during recovery from general anaesthesia after thyroid surgery.Seventy female patients undergoing thyroidectomy under general anaesthesia using sevoflurane and remifentanil were randomly assigned to i.v. lidocaine (Group L, n=35) or remifentanil by TCI (Group R, n=35). At the end of surgery, sevoflurane was turned off, and the remifentanil infusion was stopped in Group L and maintained in Group R at an effect-site concentration of 2.0 ng ml(-1) until extubation. At the same time, i.v. lidocaine 1.5 mg ml(-1) was administered in Group L. The incidence and severity of cough, haemodynamic parameters, and recovery profiles were evaluated during the emergence.The incidence of cough during the emergence was significantly higher in Group L than in Group R (72.7% vs 20.6%, P0.001) and so was the grade of cough (P0.001). The mean arterial pressure and heart rate were significantly lower in the R group than in the L group during the emergence period (P0.05), although the two groups showed comparable recovery profiles.TCI of remifentanil reduces responsiveness to the tracheal tube during emergence from general anaesthesia more effectively than does i.v. lidocaine in female patients undergoing thyroid surgery.

Background The administration of low-dose bupivacaine can limit the distribution of spinal block to reduce adverse haemodynamic effects. Intrathecal opioids can enhance analgesia in combination with subtherapeutic doses of local anaesthetics. We aimed at comparing the efficacy of intrathecal fentanyl and sufentanil with low-dose diluted bupivacaine for transurethral prostatectomy (TURP) in elderly patients. Methods Seventy patients undergoing TURP were randomly allocated into two groups. Group F ( n =35) received fentanyl 25 µg+bupivacaine 0.5% (0.8 ml)+normal saline 0.3 ml and Group S ( n =35) received sufentanil 5 µg+bupivacaine 0.5% (0.8 ml)+normal saline 0.7 ml—in total, bupivacaine 0.25% (1.6 ml) intrathecally. Onset and duration of the sensory block, the degree of the motor block, side-effects, and the perioperative analgesic requirements were assessed. Results The median peak level of the sensory block was significantly higher in Group S than in Group F ( P =0.049). Group S required fewer perioperative analgesics than Group F ( P =0.008). The time to the first analgesic request was longer in Group S ( P =0.025). There were no differences between the groups for the onset and recovery time of the sensory block, degree of the motor block, quality of anaesthesia, or adverse effects. Conclusions Low-dose diluted bupivacaine with fentanyl 25 µg or sufentanil 5 µg can provide adequate anaesthesia without haemodynamic instability for TURP in elderly patients. However, sufentanil was superior to fentanyl in the quality of the spinal block produced.

Purpose: In this randomized, double-blind study, we investigated the analgesic efficacy and side effects of continuous constant-dose infusions of remifentanil after total abdominal hysterectomy and compared it to fentanyl. Materials and Methods: Fifty-six adult female patients scheduled for elective total abdominal hysterectomy were enrolled in this study. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups according to fentanyl (group F, n = 28) or remifentanil (group R, n = 28) for postoperative analgesia. Patients in group F were given fentanyl intravenously with an infusion rate of fentanyl 0.5 g/kg/hr; group R was given μ remifentanil with an infusion rate of remifentanil 0.05 g/kg/ μ min for 2 days. Pain intensity at rest, occurrence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), dizziness, pruritus, and respiratory depression were assessed 1 hr after arrival at the post-anesthesia care unit, at 6; 12; 24; and 48 hr postoperation and 6 hr post-infusion of the study drug. Pain was evaluated by using visual analogue scale (VAS; 0 - 10). The time that patients first requested analgesics was recorded as well as additional analgesics and antiemetics. Results: There were no significant differences in VAS, time to first postoperative analgesics, and additional analgesics between the 2 groups. The incidences and severities of PONV and opioid related side effects were not different between the groups; however, there were 3 episodes (10.7%) of serious respiratory depression in group R. Conclusion: Continuous infusion technique of remifentanil did not reveal any benefits compared to fentanyl. Furthermore, it is not safe for postoperative analgesia in the general ward.

Purpose The Physiological and Operative Severity Score for enUmeration of Mortality and morbidity (POSSUM) and its Portsmouth modification (P-POSSUM) are comprehensive assessment methods for evaluating patient and surgical factors widely used to predict 30-day mortality rates. In this retrospective study, we evaluated the usefulness of POSSUM and P-POSSUM in predicting 30-day mortality after intraoperative cardiac arrests in adult patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery. Materials and Methods Among 190486 patients who underwent anesthesia, 51 experienced intraoperative cardiac arrest as defined in our study protocol. Predicted mortality rates were calculated using POSSUM and P-POSSUM equations and were compared with actual outcomes using exponential and linear analyses. In addition, a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was undertaken, and area-under-the-curve (AUC) values with confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for POSSUM and P-POSSUM. Results Among the 51 patients with intraoperative cardiac arrest, 32 (62.7%) died within 30 days postoperatively. The overall predicted 30-day mortality rates using POSSUM and P-POSSUM were 65.5% and 57.5%, respectively. The observed-to-predicted (O:E) ratio for the POSSUM 30-day mortality was 1.07, with no significant difference between the observed and predicted values (χ2=4.794; p=0.779). P-POSSUM predicted mortality equally well, with an O:E ratio of 1.10 (χ2=8.905; p=0.350). AUC values (95% CI) were 0.771 (0.634-0.908) and 0.785 (0.651-0.918) for POSSUM and P-POSSUM, respectively. Conclusion Both POSSUM and P-POSSUM performed well to predict overall 30-day mortality following intraoperative cardiac arrest in adults undergoing non-cardiac surgery at a university teaching hospital in Korea.

Patients undergoing thyroidectomy with neck fully extended usually experience occipital headache and posterior neck pain. We have attempted to evaluate the effect of preoperative greater occipital nerve (GON) block on occipital headache and posterior neck pain after thyroidectomy. Eighty-two patients undergoing elective total thyroidectomy were randomly allocated to two groups. In block group, bilateral GON blocks with 0.25% bupivacaine were performed. The control group did not have any prior block. Occipital headache and posterior neck stiffness were assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS) and verbal rating scale. VAS of occipital headache and posterior neck pain in block group was significantly lower compared to that in the control group at postoperative 12 and 24 hours (p < 0.05). In addition, the proportion of patients reporting moderate or severe occipital headache and posterior neck pain at postoperative 12 and 24 hours in block group was significantly lower than that in control group (p < 0.001). No side effects were observed during and after GON block. We conclude that preoperative GON block with 0.25% bupivacaine is an effective technique to reduce occipital headache and posterior neck pain after thyroid surgery.

Although epidural opioids have excellent analgesic property, their side-effects limit its use in patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA). This study was designed to compare side-effects of epidural sufentanil in ropivacaine with that of morphine in ropivacaine focusing on lower urinary tract function after major abdominal surgery.In total 60 patients undergoing gastrectomy were randomly allocated to receive either sufentanil in ropivacaine (Group S, n=30) or morphine in ropivacaine (Group M, n=30) for their PCEA. Epidural catheter was inserted between the 7th and 8th thoracic spine. Visual analogue pain score and side-effects such as nausea, vomiting, pruritus, hypotension and urinary retention were evaluated during postoperative days (PODs) 1 and 2 in the postanaesthetic care unit.The incidence of serious to major micturition problem in Group S was lower than that in Group M (P0.001). The incidence of pruritus, nausea and vomiting was also lower in Group S than in Group M on POD 1.The lower incidence of major/serious micturition problem in patients receiving sufentanil in ropivacaine thoracic epidural analgesia suggests that continuation of urinary drainage may not be necessary from POD 1 onwards.

Subdural placement of an epidural catheter is a rare complication that may lead to life-threatening consequences. However, it is difficult to detect due to the variability of symptoms and signs and insufficient diagnostic guidelines. We recently experienced a case of subdural catheter placement that caused delayed emergence with respiratory depression and mental status change. A 56-year-old, 167cm, 68 kg male patient with stomach cancer was scheduled for subtotal gastrectomy with gastrojejunostomy. The patient was recently diagnosed with hypertension and otherwise healthy. Before induction of general anesthesia, a 20-gauge multiorifice epidural catheter was inserted for postoperative analgesia through an 18-gauge Tuohy needle at the T8-9 interspace using the paramedian approach in the sitting position. The epidural space was identified using the loss of resistance technique with saline and the catheter was advanced 6 cm upward. After aspiration for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and a bolus injection of a test dose for confirmation that the catheter was not within the subarachnoid or intravenous space, general anesthesia was induced. Before skin incision, a 10 ml epidural bolus of 1.5% lidocaine was administered and 0.15% ropivacaine with 3.6 ug/ml of fentanyl infusion was started at a rate of 4 ml/hr (Automed,® Ace Medical Co., Goyang, Korea). A total dose of 15.3 ml of 0.15% ropivacaine and 55 µg of fentanyl had been epidurally administered throughout the uneventful 230 min operation and an additional epidural bolus of 10 ml of 0.225% ropivacaine mixed with 50 µg of fentanyl was given at the end of the operation. The patient was extubated after he could respond to verbal commands and return of neuromuscular function was confirmed. The patient showed normal vital signs. However, several minutes after tracheal extubation, the patient developed hypertension, tachycardia and respiratory depression while he became drowsy and gradually unresponsive to verbal commands and painful stimuli. The patient showed no improvement even after 30 minutes of assisted face mask ventilation with 100% oxygen, and continued to present with unconsciousness, irregular shallow respiration and constricted pupils. Assuming that this may have been caused by the subdural spread of fentanyl, the patient-controlled analgesic device was stopped and naloxone was given intravenously in increments of 200 µg at 2 min intervals. After 10 min, the patient regained consciousness and adequate spontaneous breathing, and 10 min later, he was fully awake and complained of abdominal pain. After transfer to the recovery room, naloxone was continuously infused intravenously and thoracolumbar radiography was performed to identify the location of the epidural catheter with 5 ml of radiocontrast dye (Omnipaque®) injected through the catheter. X-ray in the lateral view showed a definite radiopaque feature in the posterior column in the subdural space (Fig. 1) and the catheter was removed. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 9 with full recovery. Fig. 1 Lateral view of thoracolumbar X-ray taken after radiocontrast dye injection. A thin posterior column of dye is seen within the subdural space. The incidence of subdural block is estimated to be 0.1% after intended epidural block [1] while some report a higher incidence of 7% [2]. Characteristic presentations are reported to be a negative aspiration test, limited or marked motor block, moderate to severe hypotension, delayed or extreme rapid onset, progressive respiratory depression and incoordination, unconsciousness, papillary dilation, and rapid recovery of neurologic function [3,4]. Therefore, the clinical features vary greatly and are difficult to anticipate. Diagnostic guidelines proposed by Lubenow et al. [1] are intended for patients that are not under general anesthesia, and was therefore impossible to apply in this case. However, the radiographic findings of subdural block are archetypal with anterior-posterior views showing narrow lateral columns of dye resembling railroad tracks, usually in the thoracic and upper lumbar spine, while lateral views display thin films of dye along the dorsal and/or ventral part of the spinal canal [3]. Although the present case only partially presents with the above-mentioned clinical features, the radiographic findings as seen in Figure 1 supported our suspicion. In addition, other possible causes of delayed awakening from anesthesia such as residual effects of anesthetics, incomplete neuromuscular relaxation reversal or hypothermia were ruled out. The discrepancy in clinical signs such as high blood pressure and constricted pupils of this case may be due to the effect of fentanyl rather than ropivacaine. The development of symptoms might have been subtle and further delayed had we not injected the bolus dose at the end of the surgery, which seems to have triggered the exaggerated spread of drug within the subdural space. Moreover, the rather low concentration of local anesthetics (0.15% ropivacaine) may have resulted in the weak effect of local anesthetic. However, the infusion rate and bolus dose of epidural fentanyl that was used in this case is reported to be safe from the risk of respiratory depression [5]. Although the dose of subdural fentanyl that will cause respiratory depression and mental status change is not clear, the clinical and radiographic findings of the present case and the fact that the patient was stabilized after naloxone administration strongly supports the possibility of the effect of subdurally injected fentanyl. We suggest that subdural complications from local anesthetics and opioids should be considered when unexpected clinical features develop, and radiologic identification of the epidural catheter may be helpful when other clinical symptoms are difficult to assess.

Purpose: In earlier analyses, desflurane has been shown to reduce average extuba tion time and the variability of extubation time by 20% to 25% relative to sevoflurane in adult patients. We undertook this study to determine which agents prompt less recovery time in pediatric patients undergoing minor surgery. Materials and Methods: After obtaining Institutional Review Board approval, we retrospectively reviewed the anesthesia records of 499 patients, with an average age of 5 years, who underwent minor surgeries at Severance Eye and Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital between May 2010 and April 2011. Anesthesia was induced with propofol and rocuronium. Anesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane (n=340) or desflurane (n=159) with 50% air/ O2. Time from cessation of anesthetics to recovery of self-respiration, eye opening on verbal command and extubation were compared between the two groups. Additionally, the incidences of postoperative respiratory adverse events were also compared. Results: Times to self-respiration recovery, eye opening on verbal command, and extubation were significantly faster in the desflurane group than the sevoflurane group (4.6±2.5 min vs. 6.9±3.8 min, 6.6±3.0 min vs. 9.2±3.6 min, and 6.2±2.7 min vs. 9.3±3.7 min, respectively, p

S7 2 Background: Intrathecal (IT) magnesium has antinociceptive effects on animals and has been reported to prolong spinal opioid analgesia in humans. This study examined the effect of IT magnesium on spinal anesthesia and postoperative epidural analgesia. Methods: Sixty patients undergoing total knee replacement were enrolled in this study. Before the IT injection of 0.5% isobaric tetracaine (10 mg), group C and group M received 0.9% saline or 50% magnesium sulfate 0.1 ml, respectively. The epidural solution for postoperative analgesia contained 0.2% ropivacaine (100 ml) only in group M, and 0.2% ropivacaine plus morphine (50μg/ml) in group C. The verbal rating scale (VRS) scores for pain, sensory block level, intensity of motor block and side effects were recorded at 5, 60, and 120 minutes after the IT injection and at 1, 12 and 36 hours after surgery in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). Results: The VRS score at 120 minutes after the IT injection were lower in group M than in group C (P ＜ 0.05). There were no differences in the VRS scores and the use of supplemental analgesics at the postoperative period. The incidence of PONV, pruritus and urinary retention was significantly lower in group M than in group C at 12 and 36 hours after surgery. Conclusions: IT magnesium can be used as a local anesthetic adjuvant to strengthen the analgesic effect of spinal local anesthesia and to intensify the analgesic effect of epidural local anesthesia for postoperative pain control to the extent of 5 mg epidural

The physiologic changes produced by hypothermia include impairments in the stress response and immune system, and drug clearance, exacerbation of lactic acidosis, cardiac arrhythmias, and coagulopathies. Transfusion with cold blood is known to produce profound changes in body temperature and other metabolic responses with significant morbidity especially in infants and children. Warming blood for transfusion has been a common practice to avoid the dangers of hypothermia following cold blood transfusion. However, overheating of packed red blood cells results in hemolysis and transfusion of hemolyzed blood may cause hypotension, shock, and renal dysfunction. This case report describes an acute hemolysis due to transfusion of overheated blood.

Background: Combined thoracic epidural-general anesthesia have many advantages, which are including early recovery, postoperative analgesia and less requirement of inhalation anesthetic. The aim of this study was to compare the requirements of sevoflurane during combined epidural-general anesthesia with those during only general anesthesia for laparoscopic distal gastrectomy. Methods: Forty patients undergoing laparoscopic distal gastectomy under general anesthesia were allocated randomly to two groups receiving infusion of epidural 0.375% ropivacaine mixed with 2g/ml sufentanil at 5 ml/hr following 8 ml bolus (group R), or epidural normal saline (group C) as the same method. All the patients were permitted to be infused to epidural 0.2% ropivacaine mixed with 1g/ml sufentanil at 5 ml/hr 30 minutes before end of surgery for postoperative analgesia. Anesthetic depth was maintained within 15% mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) of basal values. We recorded the end-tidal sevoflurane concentration (ETsev), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) at the critical time during the surgery (intubation, 3 minuets after intubation, skin incision, pneumoperitoneum, 3 minuets after pneumoperitoneum, end point of pneumoperitoneum, abdominal wall suture, extubation) and hourly consumptional volume of sevoflurane. Results: Both groups were similar in demographic data, surgery anesthetic time and postoperative pain score. But the stay time in post anesthetic care unit was significantly shorter in R group. ETsev were lower in group R than in group C during the study period. Actually approximately half volume of sevoflurane was consumed in group R comparing to group C. Conclusions: For laparoscopic distal gastrectomy, smaller amount of sevoflurane was used during combined thoracic epidural-general anesthesia than during general anesthesia.

Background: Patients are most likely to develop severe arterial desaturation during the early postoperative period. Respiratory complications in postanesthesia care unit (PACU) increase the risk of major adverse cardiac outcomes, unanticipated ICU admission or delay in PACU discharges. The increased use of inhalation agents with low blood, gas partition coefficient, intermediate-acting muscle relaxants and continuous pulse oximeter monitoring over the past 10 years may have altered the incidence of immediate postoperative hypoxemia. This study was undertaken to determine the overall incidence of immediate postoperative hypoxemia in PACU. Methods: Hypoxemia was defined as a pulse oxygen saturation () of less than 90% lasting for at least 20 sec. The occurrence of hypoxemia was documented and notified to the anesthesiologist by PACU nurses. The anesthesiologist recorded contributory factors and the management modalities used in patients with hypoxemia. Results: The incidence of hypoxia was 3.5 per 1,000 patients after general anesthesia. Most hypoxemic events (88%) occurred during the first 5 minutes after arrival in PACU. Upper airway obstruction was the major contributory factor for hypoxemia (75.5%) and most of these patients recovered simply after a jaw thrust or the insertion of an oral or nasal airway. Conclusions: Postoperative hypoxemia does not occur often in PACU, but when it does, it is associated with major morbidity and increased medical costs. Therefore, oxygen supply is recommended in patients with risk factors of hypoxemia during transfer from operating rooms to PACU. Close monitoring of hypoxemia in PACU is needed in all patients after general anesthesia.

We have determined the infusion rates of rocuronium in the elderly and young adult patients during sevoflurane and nitrous oxide anesthesia. The correlation of some anthropometric predictors with infusion rate of rocuronium was also investigated for both elderly and young adult. Participating patients were assigned to one of two groups: 1) young adult patients aged 20 to 50 years (n = 30); 2) elderly patients aged over 65 years (n = 30). The anthropometric variables such as height, weight, ratio of weight to body surface area, subscapularis and suprailiac skin folds, body surface area, body mass index and % ideal body weight were evaluated as predictors for infusion rate. The infusion rate in elderly patients was significantly less compared with that in young adult patients (p < 0.05). In elderly patients, no anthropometric predictor was related to the infusion rate of rocuronium. This suggests that the infusion rate of rocuronium for an elderly patient needs to be individualized by monitoring neuromuscular transmission to avoid excessive dose.

We describe our initial experience of the perioperative anesthetic care provided to 8 years old female child with argininosuccinic acidemia undergoing living-related liver transplantation because it is the only available therapy for end-stage liver disease. Induction and maintenance of anesthesia has been conventional method. Arterial catheterized at radial and femoral arteries for continuous blood pressure monitoring and sampling. 18 G central vein catheterization was placed in left subclavian vein for fluid, drug infusion and CVP monitoring. EKG, pulse oxymetry, end-tidal CO2, urine output and body temperature were monitored. CBC, PT, aPTT, serum electrolyte were checked at preanhepatic, anhepatic phase and just after hepatic artery anastomosis. ABGA was checked every 1 hour. The level of serum ammmonia returned to normal range without protein restriction. We describe this case and a brief review of the literature.

Tracheobronchial rupture is considered to be a life-threatening condition and most commonly occurs after blunt trauma to the neck or chest. However, single- and double-lumen endotracheal tubes can cause serious airway injury. The recognition of this complication and a knowledge of the possible contributory factors is critical, because failure to do so could result in lethal events. We report the case of a 63-year-old male patient who developed pneumomediastinum three days after routine orotracheal intubation.

Background: Although lidocaine seems to be one of the most suitable spinal anesthetics for ambulatory surgery, the safety of lidocaine for spinal anesthesia has been called into question by report of transient neurologic toxicity. So diluted bupivacaine with opioids or adrenergic receptor agonist can replace spinal lidocaine, but delayed awakening, pruritis, intraoperative weak motor block are unsolved problems. This study explored the possibility of solving the unmerited problem to mix bupivacaine and plain lidocaine in spinal anesthesia for transurethral surgery. Methods: Fifty patients presented for transurethral resection of bladder or prostate. The duration was expected to less one hour. All patients were randomized to two groups receiving the following spinal anesthetics: Group I (7.5 mg bupivacaine), 1.5 ml of 0.5% spinal bupivacaine in 8% dextrose + 0.6 ml saline; Group II (7.5 mg bupivacaine + 6 mg lidocaine), 1.5 ml of 0.5% spinal bupivacaine in 8% dextrose + 0.6 ml 1% plain lidocaine. The sensory and motor block level were checked via pinprick test and modified Bromage score. Results: The highest level of sensory block was not different in group I and group II [median (range): T8 (T5-T9) vs. T8 (T5-T10)]. Onset time to peak block was similar in both groups (11 2 vs. 11 4 min). Time to two-segment regression (49 10 vs. 42 10 min; P 27 vs. 113 24 min; P 41 vs. 158 38 min; P

Background: A new technique resecting the hepatic parenchyma without inflow occlusion using a Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator (CUSA) reduces intraoperative blood loss and perioperative morbidity. This study was designed to identify the incidence and severity of venous air embolism (VAE) using transesophaseal echocardiography (TEE) in hepatic resection using CUSA. Methods: Forty patients undergoing hepatic resection using CUSA of ASA class 1 and 2 were selected. After insertion of an epidural catheter for postoperative analgesia, all patients were anesthetized with sevoflurane in 50% air/. After the induction of anesthesia, A TEE probe was inserted into the esophagus. Blood pressure, heart rate, central venous pressure, end tidal , and arterial carbon dioxide tension were recorded after induction, and during and after hepatic resection. During hepatic resection, an anesthesiologist evaluated the degree of VAE by transesophageal echocardiography in the 4-chamber view. Results: The mean time of using CUSA was 65.3 24.4 minutes. Of 40 patients, 9 had VAE grade I, 14 grade II, 14 grade III, and 3 grade IV. However, no significant difference was observed in hemodynamics or PaCO2 after induction, or during or after hepatic resection. The mean amount of blood loss was 887.0 ml 598.8 ml and the mean transfused amount was 123.1 351.3 ml. Conclusions: All patients showed air embolism during hepatic resection with CUSA. Serious complications associated with air embolism would occur in patients with an undiagnosed intracardiac right to left shunt. Therefore, meticulous monitoring by transesophageal echocardiography might be recommended in hepatic resection with CUSA.

Long QT syndrome is characterized by syncope and fatal ventricular arrhythmia or fibrillation at an young age. A 25-year-old female patient with congenital Long QT syndrome (Jervell and Lange-Nielsen syndrome) was scheduled for cochlea implantation due to congenital deafness. During anesthetic induction, maintenance, and emergence of these patients, cardiac arrests have been reported, which may be due to asymmetrical adrenergic stimuli in the heart, especially in unrecognized cases. Beta blocker is the first-line therapeutic drug for long QT syndrome. However, there is a controversy with regard to which anesthetics are safe for the management of patients with long QT syndrome. This case report describes an anesthetic management of a patient with congenital long QT syndrome who was treated with beta blocker.