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Background Measures of the sonorheometry based Quantra® viscoelastic hemostatic analyzer (HemoSonics, LCC, Charlottesville, VA, USA) were compared with corresponding results of the ROTEM® sigma device (Instrumentation Laboratory, Bedford, MA, USA). Methods In thirty-eight patients scheduled for elective cardiac surgery between December 2018 and October 2019, blood samples were taken after induction of anesthesia (sample 1) and after heparin neutralization (sample 2) and measured on Quantra (QPlus® Cartridge) and ROTEM sigma (ROTEM® sigma complete + hep Cartridge). Clot times and clot stiffness values were recorded. Clot stiffness values of ROTEM amplitudes (A in mm) were converted to shear modulus (G) in hectoPascal (hPa): G (hPa) = (5 x A)/(100-A). Additionally, time-to-results was recorded. Spearman rank test correlation and Bland Altman analysis were performed. Results Clot stiffness parameters of the Quantra correlated strongly with corresponding measurements of the ROTEM with r = 0.93 and 0.94 for EXTEM A10 vs CS and r = 0.94 and 0.96 for FIBTEM A10 vs FCS for sample 1 and 2, respectively. Quantra clot time correlated strongly with ROTEM INTEM CT with r = 0.71 for sample 1 and r = 0.75 for sample 2. However, Bland Altman analysis showed no agreement in all compared assays of both methods. The median time to delivery of first and complete results was significantly shorter for Quantra (412 and 658 s) compared to ROTEM sigma (839 and 1290 s). Conclusions The Quantra showed a strong correlation with the ROTEM sigma for determining clot times and clot stiffness and the parameters assess similar aspects of clot development. However, these parameters are not directly interchangeable and implicate that separate cut-off values need to be established for users of the Quantra device. Word count: 278. Trial registration The study was retrospectively registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT04210830) at December 20th 2019.

Introduction Seizures count to critical situations emergency medical systems (EMS) are confronted with. Objectives Evaluation of a modified treatment algorithm (MTAS-EMS) using diazepam and midazolam due to a supply bottleneck of iv lorazepam in 2012. Methods Retrospective study where data from patients treated for seizures by the EMS of the city of Zurich were analyzed. Effectiveness of the MTAS-EMS and i.v. diazepam in children and adults was compared with respect of cessation of seizure without recurrence over the period until arrival at the hospital. The chi-square and Fisher's exact test were used to compare categorical data. The Student’s t-test and Mann Whitney test were used to compare numerical data. p-values Results Of 584 documented missions, 165 treated patients (126 adults and 39 children) were included. 115 patients (80 adults and 35 children) were treated according the MTAS-EMS. Cessation of seizure was achieved in 85% of the adults and in 97% of the children, if all options of the MTAS-EMS were used. The first dose of nasal midazolam was more successful in children compared to adults (p = 0.012). In adults, the single dose of i.v. diazepam terminated the seizure in 98% (p = 0.001) compared to 57% for the single dose of iv and 64% for nasal midazolam. Conclusions The treatment success of the MTAS-EMS is high. However, in adults the single dose of i.v. diazepam is as successful as the completely used MTAS-EMS and seems to be superior to the single dose iv and nasal midazolam.

Introduction: To investigate relationship between intraoperative regional oxygen cerebral desaturation (rScO_2) and the incidence of neurological deficit after aortic arch surgery in adult patients. Methods: This study was conducted in a retrospective fashion. 53 patients undergoing aortic arch surgery with antegrade selective cerebral perfusion during deep hypothermic circulatory arrest between 2010 and 2012 were included. ln all patients cerebral monitoring was performed using the near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and a bispectral index electroencephalography (BIS). Cumulative values of rScO_2 decrease ＞ 20% of the baseline level (min%) captured as the area under the curve (rScO_2 AUC) were calculated. Patients were divided in two groups: patients with (N-group) and without (Non-N group) a nonreversible neurological deficit, and patients with (D-group) and without (Non-D group) a reversible neurological deficit. Results: Of 53 patients, 49 (93%) suffered an aortic dissection Stanford Type A/De Bakey Type I and 4 (8%) patients a De Bakey Type II. Six (11%) patients died. Eleven (21%) patients developed a nonreversible (stroke, hemorrhage) and 23 (43%) patients a reversible neurological deficit (postoperative delirium). Postoperative delirium was significantly more frequent in the N-group (91%) compared to the Non-N group (33%). No significant difference was found for absolute rScO_2 values ＜ 50% and for the rScO_2 AUC in both hemispheres between all groups. Conclusion: Regional oxygen cerebral desaturation measured by NIRS appears to be a poor indicator for neurological outcome after aortic arch surgery in adults.

Summary Uncontrollable bleeding is the major cause of possible preventable death after traumatic injury. Up to one third of patients admitted to the emergency room will develop the so-called trauma induced coagulopathy (TIC) which has been shown to be associated with massive transfusions, increased morbidity and mortality. Several recent studies contribute to our present understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms of TIC. In the literature the lethal triad of trauma (hypothermia, acidosis, and coagulopathy), dilution and hypoperfusion including the role of the protein C pathway activation are well described. Recent studies offer evidence for the mechanisms which induce TIC that include platelet dysfunction, endothelial activation/anticoagulation, hypofibrinogenaemia and hyperfibrinolysis which develop very early after traumatic injury. One of the major limitations of the current literature regarding TIC is that most data presented are associations from observational databases, and only a few prospective observational studies exist and causative aspects are only shown by haemorrhagic shock in animal models. TIC represents a complex interplay between coagulation, inflammation, and cellular dysfunction (platelets, leukocytes, and endothelium). Mechanisms include anticoagulation by the thrombin-thrombomodulin protein C system, platelet dysfunction and hyperfibrinolysis. The understanding of TIC has improved immensely in recent years but many questions remain that need to be answered by other prospective studies and animal models to further define this complex syndrome.

Out of hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) occurs frequently and the outcome is often dismal. Early defibrillation saves lives and brain function in OHCA. The Zurich city police (STAPO) forces were instructed and equipped to provide basic life support (BLS) and to use an AED in 2009.Retrospective observational study comparing period 1 (P1) 2004-2009 before equipping and training of the STAPO and period 2 (P2) 2010-2015 after the implementation. Patients suffering from OHCA of cardiac or presumed cardiac origin in the city of Zurich undergoing CPR by EMS in P1 (n=709) and P2 (n=684) were included. Intervention periods and outcome were compared between the periods. Outcome variables were adjusted for patient age and gender, witnessed status, and defibrillation by the EMS, STAPO, layperson or no defibrillation.In P2, CPR was started by the STAPO in a median of 8 (IQR 6-9) minutes after the arrest and thus significantly earlier (median 3min) than by the EMS (p0.001). STAPO performed the first defibrillation in a median of 9 (IQR 8-10) minutes and thus significantly earlier (median 6min) than the EMS (p0.001). Outcome improved significantly in P2: proportion of patients with return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC, P2 35.8%, P1 24.0%, OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.4-2.2, p0.001), hospital admission (P2 32.2%, P1 21.4%, OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.4-2.2, p0.001) and survival to hospital discharge (P2 13.6%, P1 6.9%, OR 2.1 95% CI 1.5-3.0, p0.001). If the patient was firstly defibrillated by the STAPO, ROSC (STAPO 74.4%, adj. OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.3-5.4, p=0.010) and hospital admission (STAPO 72.1%, adj. OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.4-5.6, p=0.005) was higher compared to patients firstly defibrillated by the EMS. Survival to hospital discharge (STAPO 30.2%, adj. OR 1.4, 95% CI 0.7-2.9, p=0.38) was unchanged.Dispatching BLS trained and AED equipped police forces results in earlier and more successful resuscitation of OHCA victims, leading to higher proportions of patients with ROSC, hospital admission and survival to hospital discharge.

The Masimo Radical-7 Pulse CO-Oximeter (Masimo Corp., USA) non-invasively computes hemoglobin concentration (SpHb). SpHb was compared to Co-Oximeter readings (CoOxHb) of arterial samples in surgery patients of the emergency department. Forty-six patients were enrolled. The Masimo R1 25L (revision F and G) adult adhesive sensor was attached to the ring finger of the arterially cannulated hand. Before start, every 30 min during surgery and in the case of severe bleeding SpHb and CoOxHb values were documented. SpHb and post hoc adjusted SpHb (AdSpHb) values were analyzed. Linear regression analysis and Bland-Altman plot for agreement were performed. The detection failure rate of SpHb was 24.5 %. CoOxHb and SpHb showed a strong correlation (r = +0.81), but agreement was moderate [bias (LOA) of -0.6 (-3.0; +1.9)] g/dl. Positive and negative predicted value was 0.49 and 0.69. Exclusion of changes of CoOxHb values ≤1 g/dl resulted in a positive and negative predictive value of 0.66 and 1.00. Post hoc adjustment of the SpHb (AdSpHb) improved linear correlation of CoOxHb and AdSpHb [r = +0.90 (p

To assess the impact of short time hypnosis for retro-bulbar anesthesia on ventilation in patients undergoing ophthalmic surgery of the anterior eye chamber. In all patients, a combined continuous transcutaneous carbon dioxide tension (PtcCO2) and partial oxygen saturation (SpO2) measurement was applied in addition to routine monitoring. To enable unconscious application of retro-bulbar anesthesia, intravenous thiopental was given in one to multiple bolus doses. Transient breathing support included chin lift, Esmarch maneuver and manual hand-bag ventilation via face mask. Main endpoints were apnea time, recovery time according to the Richmond Agitation Sedation Scale, as well as SpO2 and PtcCO2 readings at predefined time points. Fifty-two patients with a mean age of 68 ± 13 years were included. Average thiopental dose was 2.7 ± 0.6 mg/kg. In seven (13.5%) patients repeated doses of thiopental were necessary to a total of 3.3 ± 1.1 mg/kg. Except one patient, no severe, significant or clinical relevant hypercapnia or desaturation periods were observed, and the occurring elevation of PtcCO2 values did not correlate with the application of repeated doses of thiopental or the need for the Esmarch maneuver. Higher PtcCO2 values were associated with the presence of hypertension and smoking. Apnea (p

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Key factors of Fast Track (FT) programs are fluid restriction and epidural analgesia (EDA). We aimed to challenge the preconception that the combination of fluid restriction and EDA might induce hypotension and renal dysfunction. METHODS: A recent randomized trial (NCT00556790) showed reduced complications after colectomy in FT patients compared with standard care (SC). Patients with an effective EDA were compared with regard to hemodynamics and renal function. RESULTS: 61/76 FT patients and 59/75 patients in the SC group had an effective EDA. Both groups were comparable regarding demographics and surgery-related characteristics. FT patients received significantly less i.v. fluids intraoperatively (1900 mL [range 1100-4100] versus 2900 mL [1600-5900], P < 0.0001) and postoperatively (700 mL [400-1500] versus 2300 mL [1800-3800], P < 0.0001). Intraoperatively, 30 FT compared with 19 SC patients needed colloids or vasopressors, but this was statistically not significant (P = 0.066). Postoperative requirements were low in both groups (3 versus 5 patients; P = 0.487). Pre- and postoperative values for creatinine, hematocrit, sodium, and potassium were similar, and no patient developed renal dysfunction in either group. Only one of 82 patients having an EDA without a bladder catheter had urinary retention. Overall, FT patients had fewer postoperative complications (6 versus 20 patients; P = 0.002) and a shorter median hospital stay (5 [2-30] versus 9 d [6-30]; P< 0.0001) compared with the SC group. CONCLUSIONS: Fluid restriction and EDA in FT programs are not associated with clinically relevant hemodynamic instability or renal dysfunction.

To compare the activated coagulation times (ACTs) measured with the blood-saving kaolin i-STAT 1 ACT technique (Abbott Point of Care Inc, Princeton, NJ) with ACTs obtained from the widely used ACTR II device (Medtronic, Inc, Minneapolis, MN) in children undergoing cardiac surgery.A prospective, observational single-center study.Forty-four pediatric cardiac surgery patients.Surgery was performed with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) necessitating heparinization.ACTs measured on the i-STAT 1 device (2 × 95 μL) were compared with those obtained from the Medtronic ACTR II device (2 × 0.5 mL). Blood samples were drawn before, during, and after heparinization for CPB and paired for statistical analysis. The 2 techniques were compared using simple and multiregression analyses and the Bland-Altman method. In total, 179 intrarater and 142 interrater data pairs were analyzed. The intrarater reliability of the 2 devices was good, with a mean bias and limits of agreement of +2.0 and -55.5/+59.5 seconds for the Medtronic ACTR II and +0.5 and -59.9/+60.9 seconds for the i-STAT 1. An interrater reliability analysis of the mean of simultaneously measured ACT of the Medtronic ACTR II and both i-STAT 1 devices yielded a mean bias of -5.3 seconds and limits of agreement of -210.1/+199.5 seconds. A comparison of the higher of the paired ACT values from both devices showed similar results. After the removal of heparin, the i-STAT 1's ACT values became significantly lower than those measured on the Medtronic ACTR II (p0.001). Simple and multiregression analyses revealed that base excess independently influenced the mean bias of the ACT values from the Medtronic ACTR II (p = 0.037) and i-STAT 1 devices (p = 0.036).The kaolin i-STAT 1 ACT technique agreed well with the Medtronic ACTR II technique during the nonheparinized phase that preceded CPB. The overall agreement between the ACT obtained from the 2 devices was poor. The routine use of i-STAT 1 measured ACT values cannot be recommended as a reliable alternative to the Medtronic ACTR II.

Severely decreased ejection-fraction is an established risk-factor for worse outcome after cardiac surgery. We compare outcomes of off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) and on-pump CABG (ONCABG) in patients with severely compromised EF. From 2004 to 2009, 478 patients with a decreased EF ≤35% underwent myocardial-revascularization. Patients received either OPCAB (n = 256) or ONCABG (n = 222). Propensity score (PS), including 50 preoperative risk-factors, was used to balance characteristics between groups. PS adjusted logistic regression analysis was performed to assess mortality and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE). A composite endpoint for major non-cardiac complications such as respiratory failure, renal failure, rethoracotomy was applied. Complete revascularization (CR) was assumed when the number of distal anastomoses was larger than that of diseased vessels. There was no difference for mortality (2.3 vs. 4.1%; PS-adjusted odds ratio (PS-OR) = 1.05; p = 0.93) and MACCE (13.7 vs. 17.6%; PS-OR = 1.22; p = 0.50) including myocardial-infarction (1.4 vs. 4.9%; PS-OR = 0.39; p = 0.26), low cardiac output (2.3 vs. 4.7%; PS-OR = 0.75; p = 0.72) and stroke (2.3 vs. 2.7%; PS-OR = 0.69; p = 0.66). OPCAB patients presented with a trend to less frequent occurrence of the non-cardiac composite (12.1 vs. 22.1%; PS-OR = 0.54; p = 0.059) including renal dysfunction (PAOR = 0.77; 95% CI 0.31-1.9; p = 0.57), bleeding (PAOR = 0.42; 95% CI 0.14-1.20; p = 0.10) and respiratory failure (PAOR = 0.39; 95% CI 0.05-3.29; p = 0.39). The rate of complete revascularization was similar (92.2 vs. 92.8%; PS-OR = 0.75; p = 0.50). OPCAB in patients with severely decreased EF is safe and feasible. It may even benefit these patients in regard to non-cardiac complications and does not come at cost of less complete revascularization.

Indications, efficacy, and safety of plasma products are highly debated. We compared the concentrations of haemostatic proteins and cytokines in solvent/detergent-treated plasma (SDP) and fresh-frozen plasma (FFP).Concentrations of the following parameters were measured in 25 SDP and FFP samples: fibrinogen (FBG), factor (F) II, F V, F VII, F VIII, F IX, F X, F XIII, von Willebrand factor (vWF), D-Dimers, ADAMTS-13 protease, tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10.Mean FBG concentrations in SDP and FFP were similar, but in FFP, the range was larger than in SDP (P0.01). Mean F II, F VII, F VIII, F IX, and F XIII levels did not differ significantly. Higher concentrations of F V (P0.01), F X (P0.05), vWF (P0.01), and ADAMTS-13 (P0.01) were found in FFP. With the exception of F VIII and F IX, the range of concentrations for all of these factors was smaller (P0.05) in SDP than in FFP. Concentrations of TNF-α, IL-8, and IL-10 (all P0.01) were higher in FFP than in SDP, again with a higher variability and thus larger ranges (P0.01).Coagulation factor content is similar for SDP and FFP, with notable exceptions of less F V, vWF, and ADAMTS-13 in SDP. Cytokine concentrations (TNFα, IL-8, and IL-10) were significantly higher in FFP. The clinical relevance of these findings needs to be established in outcome studies.

OBJECTIVE: The study's aim was to compare response entropy (RE) and state entropy (SE) with bispectral index (BIS) electroencephalography (EEG) as an alternative cerebral monitoring tool in patients scheduled for coronary artery bypass graft surgery. DESIGN: Prospective, observational single-center study. SETTING: University hospital. PARTICIPANTS: Thirty patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery receiving remifentanil-propofol anesthesia. INTERVENTIONS: Surgery was performed with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and cardiac arrest in 15 patients, with CPB without cardiac arrest in 9 patients and without CPB in 6 patients. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: RE, SE, BIS, burst suppression ratio (BSR), and frontal electromyography (f-EMG) were detected simultaneously. RE and SE compared favorably with BIS and their correlations were strong (r(2) = 0.6, r(2) = 0.55, respectively). The mean bias of RE and BIS was -1.8, but limits of agreement were high (+20.5/-24.1). RE and SE tended to be lower than the BIS values in the CPB subgroups. The detection of BSR was similar with RE and SE and the BIS. A strong correlation existed between BIS and f-EMG (r(2) = 0.62) in contrast to RE (r(2) = 0.45) and SE (r(2) =0.39). BIS monitoring was significantly more disturbed than RE and SE with 9.1% +/-10.9% and 0.1% +/- 0.2% of the total anesthesia time, respectively. Neither implicit nor explicit memory was shown. CONCLUSION: RE and SE are comparable with the BIS but showed significantly less interference from f-EMG and superior resistance against artifacts. Thus, spectral entropy is more suitable than the BIS during propofol-remifentanil anesthesia in cardiac surgery patients.

Continuous assessment of central venous oxygen saturation (S(cevox)O(2)) with the CeVOX device (Pulsion Medical Systems, Munich, Germany) was evaluated against central venous oxygen saturation (S(cv)O(2)) determined by co-oximetry.In 20 cardiac surgical patients, a CeVOX fiberoptic probe was introduced into a standard central venous catheter placed in the right internal jugular vein and advanced 2-3 cm beyond the catheter tip. After in vivo calibration of the probe, S(cevox)O(2), S(cv)O(2), mixed venous oxygen saturation (S(mv)O(2)) haemoglobin (Hb), body temperature, heart rate, central venous and mean arterial pressure, and cardiac index were assessed simultaneously at 30 min intervals during surgery and at 60 min intervals during recovery in the intensive care unit. Agreement between S(cevox)O(2), and S(cv)O(2) was determined by Bland-Altman analysis. Simple regression analysis was used to assess the correlation of S(cevox)O(2), and S(cv)O(2) to Hb, body temperature and haemodynamic parameters.Values of S(cevox)O(2) and S(cv)O(2) (84 data pairs during surgery and 106 in the intensive care unit) ranged between 45-89% and 43-90%, respectively. Mean bias and limits of agreement of S(cevox)O(2) and S(cv)O(2) were -0.9 (-7.9/+6.1)% during surgery and -1.2 (-10.5/+8.1)% in the intensive care unit. In 37.9% of all measured data pairs, the difference between S(cevox)O(2) and S(cv)O(2) was beyond clinically acceptable limits (or =1 s.d.). Mean bias was significantly influenced by cardiac index. Sensitivity and specificity of S(cevox)O(2) to detect substantial (or =1 s.d.) changes in S(cv)O(2) were 89 and 82%, respectively.In adult patients during and after cardiac surgery, the current version of the CeVOX device might not be the tool to replace S(cv)O(2) determined by co-oxymetry, although sensitivity and specificity of S(cevox)O(2 )to predict substantial changes in S(cv)O(2) were acceptable.

We studied the impact of transcutaneous continuous carbon dioxide tension (PtcCO2) monitoring on ventilation and oxygenation during monitored anaesthesia care (MAC) in patients scheduled for shoulder surgery with continuous interscalene block. 50 patients were randomised either to the intervention (I-group) or the control (C-group) group. In both groups MAC was performed using target controlled infusion of propofol and remifentanil. MAC regimen was adapted to PtcCO2 values in the I-group, whereas the C-group was blinded for these values. Primary outcome was the incidence, degree and duration of hypoventilation stages. In the I-group and the C-group the mean ± SD [range] of PtcCO2 and PaCO2 was 5.79 ± 0.84 [4.37] and 5.44 ± 0.59 [2.78] kPa, as well as 6.41 ± 1.17 [6.29] and 6.01 ± 0.96 [7.15] kPa. Periods of PtcCO2/PaCO2 > 6.5 kPa were 21.0 ± 35.7/1.2 ± 4.2 min in the I-group and 45.6 ± 40.0/18.6 ± 26.8 min in the C-group. Severe hypercapnia (PtcCO2 and/or PaCO2 > 7.5 kPa) was dected in 3/0 patients of the I-group and in 10/3 patients of the C-group. PtcCO2 and PaCO2 showed a strong correlation (r = 0.78), but only moderate agreement with a mean bias (LOA) of −0.37 (−1.69; +0.95) kPa showing an overestimation of the PaCO2. Sensitivity and specificity of PtcCO2 to detect changes of PaCO2 was 0.94 and 0.56, respectively. In no patient SpO2 or SaO2 values lower than 90 % were measured. Despite a moderate agreement between PaCO2 and PtcCO2 the PtcCO2 monitoring significantly reduced incidence, degree and duration of hypercapnia in shoulder surgery patients with MAC.

BACKGROUND: When trauma patients arrive in the emergency department (ED), coagulopathy frequently is present. The time course, however, in which this coagulopathy develops is poorly understood. No study has fully evaluated the coagulation status, including thromboelastometry on-scene and at hospital arrival. We hypothesized that measured coagulation variables might change when measured at the scene of injury and upon arrival to the ED. METHODS: We performed a prospective, single-center, observational study investigating coagulation status in 50 trauma patients on-scene and at arrival in the ED. Measurements included arterial blood gases, ROTEM®, protein S100, protein C activity, protein S, Quick value, international normalized ratio, activated partial thromboplastin time, D-dimer, coagulation factor V (FV), coagulation factor XIII (FXIII), fibrinogen, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets, and volume and blood products being administered during the first 24 hours. RESULTS: Significant changes between on-scene and the ED were observed for the following values: partial venous oxygen pressure increased and sodium, glucose, and lactate decreased. For EXTEM, INTEM, and APTEM, clotting time and clot formation time increased significantly, whereas maximal clot firmness and angle α decreased significantly (all P ≤ 0.004). For FIBTEM, clotting time increased significantly and maximal clot firmness decreased significantly. In the laboratory, significant reductions in hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets, activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen, FV, FXIII, protein C activity, protein S, and protein S100 were observed (all P ≤ 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Although most all laboratory and rotational thromboelastometry coagulation tests worsened over time when measured on-scene and in the ED, monitoring coagulation at the scene of trauma does not provide clinically important information in a majority of trauma patients. One hour after injury, significant activation and consumption of fibrinogen, FV, FXIII, protein C activity, and protein S were observed.

To present a case of laryngeal damage in an infant caused by a too large and inappropriately designed cuffed tracheal tube.A 13-month-old child undergoing cardiac surgery was intubated with an uncuffed endotracheal tube with an internal diameter (ID) of 4.0 mm. Because of an important air leak around the tracheal tube during mechanical ventilation, a cuffed endotracheal tube ID 4.0 mm was inserted. The air leak with the tube cuff not inflated was acceptable at 25 cm H2O airway pressure. After extubation on the third postoperative day, the patient showed increasing stridor and respiratory deterioration. Fibreoptic laryngoscopy of the spontaneously breathing patient showed a large intra-laryngeal web. After surgical removal of the web, the child rapidly recovered and was discharged from the hospital on the 12th postoperative day. Inspection of the 4.0 mm (ID) cuffed tracheal tube revealed a cuff positioned inappropriately high and an increase of 0.7 mm in outer tube diameter compared to the 4.0 mm (ID) uncuffed tracheal tube from the same manufacturer. The tube cuff is likely to be situated within the larynx when placed in accordance to insertion depth formulas or radiological criteria, as used for uncuffed tracheal tubes in children.The larger than expected tracheal tube with its intra-laryngeal cuff position in a 13-month-old child likely caused mucosal damage and an inflammatory reaction within the larynx resulting in granulation tissue formation and fibrous healing around the tracheal tube.

The aim of this study was to determine the association between standard laboratory tests, coagulation factor concentrations, and Rotation Thromboelastometry (ROTEM® delta, TEM® International GmbH, Munich, Germany) in patients undergoing major surgery with hemorrhage.In 45 patient's fibrinogen, factor VIII, factor XIII, International Normalized Ratio (INR), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), thrombin time, hemoglobin, leukocytes, and platelet count were simultaneously measured intraoperatively with ROTEM (EXTEM, INTEM, FIBTEM, APTEM) measurements. ROTEM parameters were: clotting time (CT), clot formation time (CFT), maximum clot firmness (MCF), and α-angle. Demographic and laboratory data were expressed as mean ± SD and median [range]; nonparametric Spearman rank correlations and multiple linear regressions were performed; P-values ≤0.003 were considered significant.Significant correlations (P ≤ 0.003) were found for CFT, α-angle, and MCF, in EXTEM, INTEM, and APTEM with platelets, INR, and fibrinogen. Factor VIII (18 measurements) showed a strong correlation (r ≥ 0.7 or r ≤ -0.7; all P ≤ 0.003) with MCF, CFT, and α-angle of EXTEM, INTEM, MCF of FIBTEM excluding CT of EXTEM, INTEM, FIBTEM and strong significant correlation for α-angle of APTEM and moderate for CFT and MCF of APTEM. A significant moderate to strong correlation of factor XIII with MCF of EXTEM, INTEM, FIBTEM, and APTEM was found. Hemoglobin was moderately correlated (r = 0.3-0.7 or r = -0.3 to -0.7) with MCF in APTEM (P = 0.003). A moderate to strong correlation of the standard coagulation tests with all ROTEM parameters was found, in particular the CT. The aPTT correlated significantly moderate to strong with CT, CFT, α-angle, and MCF of INTEM. However, multiple linear regressions were not able to show an influence of INR on ROTEM parameters except for APTEM-MCF. A significant impact of the aPTT on INTEM-CT was found. EXTEM, INTEM, and APTEM are significantly influenced by fibrinogen and platelets.The results confirm the clinical assumption that EXTEM, INTEM, and APTEM are associated with fibrinogen and platelets levels; INTEM-CT significantly to aPTT; and FIBTEM significantly to fibrinogen. Factor VIII showed a significant correlation with all ROTEM parameters except CT of EXTEM, INTEM, FIBTEM, and CFT and MCF of APTEM.

Malignant pheochromocytoma is a neuroendocrine tumor that originates from chromaffin tissue. Although osseous metastases are common, metastatic dissemination to the spine rarely occurs. Five years after primary diagnosis of extra-adrenal, abdominal pheochromocytoma and laparoscopic extirpation, a 53-year old patient presented with recurrence of pheochromocytoma involving the spine, the pelvis, both proximal femora and the right humerus. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography revealed osteolytic lesions of numerous vertebrae (T1, T5, T10, and T12). In the case of T10, total destruction of the vertebral body with involvement of the rear edge resulted in the risk of vertebral collapse and subsequent spinal stenosis. Thus, dorsal instrumentation (T8-T12) and cement augmentation of T12 was performed after perioperative alpha- and beta-adrenergic blockade with phenoxybenzamine and bisoprolol. After thorough preoperative evaluation to assess the risk for surgery and anesthesia, and appropriate perioperative management including pharmacological antihypertensive treatment, dorsal instrumentation of T8-T12 and cement augmentation of T12 prior to placing the corresponding pedicle screws did not result in hypertensive crisis or hemodynamic instability due to the release of catecholamines from metastatic lesions. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report describing cement-augmentation in combination with dorsal instrumentation to prevent osteolytic vertebral collapse in a patient with metastatic pheochromocytoma. With appropriate preoperative measures, cement-augmented dorsal instrumentation represents a safe approach to stabilize vertebral bodies with metastatic malignant pheochromocytoma. Nevertheless, direct manipulation of metastatic lesions should be avoided as far as possible in order to minimize the risk of hemodynamic complications.

Background:We investigated whether hyperfibrinolysis and its severity was associated with outcome of traumatized and nontraumatized patients.Methods:From April 2008 to April 2010, all emergency patients with hyperfibrinolysis were enrolled in this study. Hyperfibrinolysis patients were divided into traumatized (trauma hyperfibrinolysis group) and nontraumatized (nontrauma hyperfibrinolysis group). The trauma hyperfibrinolysis group was matched with 24 polytrauma patients without hyperfibrinolysis (matched trauma group). Data from rotational thromboelastometry measurements, blood gas analysis (metabolic state), laboratory analysis, injury severity score, and 30-day mortality were collected.Results:Thirty-five patients with hyperfibrinolysis were identified (13 traumatized, 22 nontraumatized). Overall mortality for hyperfibrinolysis was 54%. Mortality in the trauma hyperfibrinolysis group (77% ± 12%) was significantly higher than in the nontrauma hyperfibrinolysis group (41% ± 10%; P = 0.001, 95% CI 5%-67%) and the matched trauma group (33% ± 10%; P = 0.009, 95% CI 13%-74%). Hyperfibrinolysis is significantly (P = 0.017) associated with mortality in trauma patients. In the blood gas analysis representing the metabolic state, only pH (P = 0.02) and potassium (P = 0.01) were significantly lower in the trauma hyperfibrinolysis group compared to the nontrauma hyperfibrinolysis group.Conclusions:Mortality from hyperfibrinolysis is significantly higher in trauma compared with nontrauma patients, and hyperfibrinolysis is an independent factor predicting mortality in trauma patients. Rotational thromboelastometry provides real-time recognition of hyperfibrinolysis allowing early treatment. Language: en

BARRETT’S ESOPHAGUS is a condition in which an intestinal-type epithelium called specialized intestinal metaplasia or Barrett’s metaplasia replaces the stratified squamous epithelium that normally lines the distal esophagus.1 Barrett’s esophagus develops as a consequence of chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease and predisposes to the development of adenocarcinoma of the esophagus.1 Barrett’s esophagus is usually discovered during endoscopic examinations in middle-aged and older adults whose mean age at the time of diagnosis is approximately 55 years.1 Although arrett’s esophagus can affect children, it rarely occurs before he age of 5 years.2 This observation supports the hypothesis hat a Barrett’s esophagus is an acquired condition in the vast ajority of patients. The male-to-female ratio is approximately :1.3 The columnar metaplasia of a Barrett’s esophagus causes no symptoms. Most patients are seen initially for symptoms of the associated gastroesophageal reflux disease such as heartburn, regurgitation, and dysphagia. Estimates of the frequency of Barrett’s esophagus in the general population have varied widely, ranging from 0.9% to 4.5% depending in part on the population studied and the definitions used.4,5 The overall reiability of endoscopy with a biopsy for the detection of Barett’s esophagus is approximately 80%.6 A case of esophageal issection after transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) perormed during mitral valve repair in a patient whose past edical history was positive for Barrett’s esophagus is preented.

DESIGN: Prospective randomised controlled study. SETTING: Operation unit in a tertiary academic university hospital in a central European city. Period of the study was springtime and summer 2010. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS: Twenty-four anaesthesiologists with various levels of professional experience were allocated to intubate an airway manikin either with the SensaScope (group S) or with the conventional Macintosh 3 laryngoscope (group L). INTERVENTIONS: Each participant performed three consecutive intubations with normal anatomy followed by three intubations with difficult anatomy. The airway difficulty was simulated by inflation of the manikin's tongue base with 40 ml of air. The times taken to view the larynx and to insert the tracheal tube were noted. The resulting tube position and the occurrence of dental damage were recorded. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Those planned in the protocol. RESULTS: In normal anatomy, the laryngeal view (group L 5.9 ± 4.2 s vs. group S 9.2 ± 3.5 s) and intubation (group L 13.4 ± 7.6 s vs. group S 23.3 ± 8.6 s) was more rapidly obtained with conventional laryngoscopy (values presented as mean ± SD). In difficult anatomy, only the SensaScope permitted successful laryngeal view (group L impossible vs. group S 9.9 ± 4.8 s) and tracheal intubation (group L impossible vs. group S 23.4 ± 8.8 s). The latter always enabled correct tracheal tube position, whereas with laryngoscopy alone either oesophageal intubation or aborted attempts resulted. In the difficult airway setting, the frequency of simulated tooth damage was also significantly higher with conventional laryngoscopy (group L 26 of 36 vs. group S 6 of 36). CONCLUSIONS: The SensaScope performed fairly well in normal intubation anatomy, although its use was more complex than with conventional laryngoscopy and it required a slightly longer time. In the difficult airway setting, the SensaScope performed as well as in normal anatomy, whereas intubation by direct laryngoscopy proved to be impossible. The SensaScope enables the user to overcome severe airway difficulties caused by large tissue masses at the level of the tongue base or mouth floor.

Background and objective The present study compares the accuracy of a new continuous venous oxygenation monitoring system (PediaSat Oximetry Catheter) with laboratory blood oximetry in paediatric surgical patients. Methods Children and adolescents undergoing cardiac, orthopaedic or craniofacial surgery with major blood loss were included. A 4.5 Fr two-lumen or 5.5 Fr three-lumen central venous oximetry catheter (S PediaSat cvO 2 ) was inserted preoperatively into the superior vena cava. After in-vivo calibration of the PediaSat system, repeated blood samples were obtained from the distal port of the venous catheter and oximetrically analysed for haemoglobin and central venous oxygen saturation (S co-ox cvO 2 ). Central venous oxygen saturation values measured by the PediaSat (S PediaSat cvO 2 ) were compared with co-oximetry (S co-ox cvO 2 ) values from the simultaneously taken blood samples by Bland-Altman and simple regression analyses. Results Overall, 142 data pairs from 27 patients, aged from 0.6 to 19.0 years (median 5.3 years) were analysed. S PediaSat cvO 2 and S co-ox cvO 2 values ranged from 57 to 98% and from 57.1 to 95.8%, respectively. Correlation between S PediaSat cvO 2 and S co-ox cvO 2 was poor with r 2 equal to 0.28 (P < 0.0001). S PediaSat cvO 2 overestimated S co-ox cvO 2 (mean bias +2.6%), but limits of agreement (±2 SD of bias) were unacceptably high (-14.4/+19.6%). Sensitivity and specificity of S PediaSat cvO 2 to indicate a fall or rise of S co-ox cvO 2 between two subsequent measurements were only 0.42 and 0.24, respectively. Conclusion In paediatric and adolescent patients undergoing major surgery, the PediaSat system did not reliably reflect S co-ox cvO 2 values and cannot replace repeated invasive ScvO 2 assessments in the clinically relevant range of ScvO 2 .

Objective The aim of this study was to validate the revised SenTec V-Sign 2 sensor (SenTec AG, Therwil, Switzerland) for combined noninvasive continuous assessment of pulse rate, pulse oximetry (SpO2), and transcutaneous carbon dioxide tension (PtcCO2) in adults after cardiac surgery. Design A prospective clinical study. Setting A single-center university hospital. Participants Twenty adult patients aged 36 to 84 years after cardiac surgery. Interventions SpO2 and PtcCO2 values of three V-Sign 2 sensors (SenTec AG) attached at the earlobe, forehead, and cheek and SpO2 values of the Nellcor Durasensor (Model DS-100A; Nellcor Puritan Bennett Inc, Pleasanton, CA) were compared with simultaneous measurements of blood gases and end-expiratory carbon dioxide. Measurements and Main Results Measurements were performed during periods of hyper-, normo-, and hypocapnia and then at 30-minute intervals up to 5 hours. Bland-Altman analysis and simple regression analysis were used. Results The detection failures for PtcCO2 were 0.3% to 1.3%, for SpO2 10% to 25%, and for pulse rate 5% to 10%. The V-Sign 2 earlobe sensor provided the best results. The mean bias and limits of agreement for PtcCO2ear and PaCO2 were 1.1 and −3.4/+5.5 mmHg. The drift of PtcCO2 was negligible at all locations. The mean bias and limits of agreement of V-Sign SpO2ear and SaO2, as well as V-Sign pulse rate and the electrocardiogram, were −1.7% and −6.8/+3.9% and 1.2 beats/min and −3.3/+5.8 beats/min. End-expiratory carbon dioxide showed a weak correlation with PaCO2 (r2 = 0.47). Conclusions Transcutaneous capnometry using the revised V-Sign 2 sensor at the earlobe is a reliable monitoring tool during the recovery period of patients after cardiac surgery. This approach has the potential to reduce the number of arterial blood gas samples.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: In-vitro performance of the PediaSat system for continuous monitoring of central venous oxygen saturation by spectrophotometry has been evaluated. METHODS: PediaSat continuous fibre-optic oximetry catheters were inserted in a black testing chamber, connected with an extracorporeal circuit and filled with human whole blood. Oxygen inflow into the cardiopulmonary bypass system was varied, and the testing chamber was perfused with blood flow of 1000 ml min. Oxygen saturation values measured by PediaSat (SPediaSatO2) were compared with cooximetry (SCO-OXO2) values from simultaneously taken blood samples by Bland-Altman and simple regression analyses. RESULTS: Fifty data pairs were obtained. SPediaSatO2 and SCO-OXO2 values ranged between 28-98 and 24.9-99.5%, respectively. Correlation between SPediSatO2 and SCO-OXO2 was high with an r value equal to 0.96 (P < 0.0001). Overall, SPediaSatO2 only slightly overestimated SCO-OXO2 (mean bias +2.9%), and limits of agreement (+/-2 SD of bias) were acceptable (-6.8/+12.6%). Sensitivity and specificity of the first differences of SPediaSatO2 and SCO-OXO2 were 1.0 and 0.92, respectively. Subgroup analysis of SCO-OXO2 values below 70% resulted in an overestimation by SPediaSatO2, with a mean bias of +5.2% and limits of agreement of -4.7 and +15.1%. CONCLUSION: The current version of the PediaSat system does not reliably reflect SCO-OXO2 values below 70%, but it seems to be a useful tool providing an accurate trend of continuous central venous oxygen saturation.

SummaryFactor XIII (F XIII) is an essential parameter for final clot stability. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of the addition of factor (F)XIII on clot stability as assessed by Rotation Thromboelastometry (ROTEM®). In 90 intensive care patients ROTEM® measurements were performed after in vitro addition of F XIII 0.32 IU, 0.63 IU, 1.25 IU and compared to diluent controls (DC; aqua injectabile) resulting in approximate F XIII concentrations of 150, 300 and 600%. Baseline measurements without any additions were also performed. The following ROTEM® parameters were measured in FIBTEM and EXTEM tests: clotting time (CT), clot formation time (CFT), maximum clot firmness (MCF), maximum lysis (ML), maximum clot elasticity (MCE) and α-angle (αA). Additionally, laboratory values for FXIII, fibrinogen (FBG), platelets and haematocrit were contemporaneously determined. In the perioperative patient population mean FBG concentration was elevated at 5.2 g/l and mean FXIII concentration was low at 62%. The addition of FXIII led to a FBG concentration-dependent increase in MCF both in FIBTEM and EXTEM. Mean increases in MCF (FXIII vs. DC) of approximately 7 mm and 6 mm were observed in FIBTEM and EXTEM, respectively. F XIII addition also led to decreased CFT, increased αA, and reduced ML in FIBTEM and EXTEM. In vitro supplementation of FXIII to supraphysiologic levels increases maximum clot firmness, accelerates clot formation and increases clot stability in EXTEM and FIBTEM as assayed by ROTEM® in perioperative patients with high fibrinogen and low FXIII levels.

We investigated the in vitro performance of the CeVOX system for continuous monitoring of central venous oxygen saturation by spectrophotometry (Pulsion Medical Systems, Munich, Germany). Oxygen inflow into the system was varied, and oxygen saturation values measured by CeVOX were documented. Blood samples were simultaneously taken to assess oxygen saturation by co-oximetry, and values were compared by Bland-Altman analysis. Sixty-six data pairs were obtained at CeVOX and co-oximetry values of 16-99% and 5.5-100%, respectively. Overall, CeVOX values only slightly overestimated co-oximetry values (mean bias +2.4%), but limits of agreement (2 SD of bias) were wide (-11.8 to +16.6%). Saturation measured by CeVOX underestimated that measured by co-oximetry at higher oxygen concentrations and overestimated it at lower oxygen concentrations. There was a nearly linear correlation of the mean bias, suggesting a systematic error. We conclude that the current version of the CeVOX system does not reliably reflect oxygen saturation.

Objective: To assess the agreement between a novel approach of arterial and the pulmonary artery bolus thermodilution for measuring cardiac output in critically ill patients during aortic counterpulsation. Methods: Eighteen male patients aged 37-80years, undergoing preoperative insertion of an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) and elective coronary artery bypass grafting. A thin 1.3FG thermistor was introduced through the pressure lumen to the tip of an 8FG IABP catheter, and the pump rate was set at 1:1. After arrival in the intensive care unit cardiac output (CO) was measured under haemodynamic steady-state conditions hourly for 8-11h, and arterial bolus thermodilution (BCOiabp) and pulmonary artery bolus thermodilution (BCOpulm) were determined after the patients' admission to the intensive care unit. Results: A total of 198 data pairs were obtained: 177 with aortic counterpulsation and 21 without. During aortic counterpulsation, median CO was 6.8l/min for BCOiabp and 6.1l/min for BCOpulm, without aortic counterpulsation; corresponding values were 7.1l/min for BCOiabp and 6.5l/min for BCOpulm with aortic counterpulsation. Mean bias was +0.77l/min, limits of agreement ( ± 2SD) were -1.27/+2.81l/min, and mean error (2SD/[(BCOiabp+BCOpulm)/2] was 31.4%. Without aortic counterpulsation, corresponding values were +0.43l/min, -1.03/+1.87l/min, and 22.4%. Conclusions: Agreement between BCOiabp and BCOpulm was satisfactory for CO values between 2.0 and 10l/min only without aortic counterpulsation. BCOiabp CO measurements during aortic counterpulsation after coronary artery bypass grafting cannot be recommended at the present time

Objective: The aim of this study was to validate the V-Sign digital sensor (SenTec AG, Therweil, Switzerland) for combined noninvasive assessment of pulse oxymetric oxygen saturation (SpO2) and transcutaneous carbon dioxide tension (PtcCO2) in adults after cardiac surgery. Methods: In twenty one patients, aged 51-86years, simultaneous measurements of blood gases with the V-Sign Sensor and with two Nellcor Durasensors (model DS-100A), one at the opposite earlobe and one with a finger clip, were compared first during hyper-, normo- and hypocapnia and at different pulse rates using a pacemaker, and then at 2-h intervals up to 8h. Agreement was assessed by Bland-Altman analysis. Results: PtcCO2 data of three patients were excluded because of calibration failure of the device. Median (range) PtcCO2 for the remaining patients was 5.49 (3.3-7.6) kPa and arterial carbon dioxide tension (PaCO2) was 5.43 (3.61-7.41) kPa. Corresponding mean bias was +0.05kPa and limits of agreement (LOA) were −1.2/+1.3kPa. During normo- and hypoventilation, mean bias was good at +0.02 and +0.04kPa respectively, but limits of agreement were poor at −0.67/+0.69 and −0.81/+0.88kPa. In 10 patients, an initial overshoot of PtcCO2 was observed. Mean bias of SpO2 and pulse rate was close to zero (−1.5% and +0.001bpm respectively), but limits of agreement were unacceptably high (−21.4/+18.4% and −22.3/+22.3bpm). Conclusions: In the present state of development the SenTeC Digital monitor V-Sign device has serious limitations. Additional efforts are necessary to eliminate calibration failures and the initial overshoot of PtcCO2 as well as to improve detection of SpO2 and pulse rate

Objective: Cerebral near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) was evaluated for use in monitoring global oxygenation in adult patients after cardiac surgery. Design: Prospective, randomized clinical monitoring study. Setting: Intensive care unit for cardiac surgery; university hospital. Participants: The study included 35 patients scheduled for cardiac surgery with insertion of a pulmonary artery catheter; patients with known cerebral-vascular perfusion disturbances were excluded. Interventions: Noninvasive cerebral NIRS oxygen saturation (rSO 2 ) and conventional intensive care monitoring parameters were assessed. Measurements and Main Results: Simple regression analysis was used to assess the correlation of rSO 2 to hemodynamic parameters. There was fair-to-moderate intersubject correlation to hemoglobin concentration ( r = 0.45, p 2 ) ( r = 0.33, p 2 to detect substantial (≥1 standard deviation) changes in mixed venous oxygen saturation were 94% and 81%, respectively. Conclusions: Cerebral NIRS in adult patients might not be the tool to replace mixed venous oxygen monitoring. Further work has to be done to assess its potential to reflect intraindividual trends.

Summary The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of pulse dye densitometry with that of bolus thermodilution cardiac output measurement in patients before and after elective coronary artery bypass grafting. Twenty-eight patients were studied. Agreement between mean thermodilution and pulse dye densitometry cardiac output values was assessed by Bland-Altman analysis. Preoperative median [range] cardiac output was 3.87 [2.37-6.0] l.min(-1) by thermodilution, and 3.11 [1.7-5.45] l.min(-1) by pulse dye densitometry using indocyanine green 5 mg. Pulse dye densitometry underestimated cardiac output (mean bias - 0.42 l.min(-1)); the limits of agreement were +/- 1.91 l.min(-1), and mean error was 50.3%, indicating low precision. Preoperative median [range] cardiac output was 3.85 [2.2-6.0] l.min(-1) for bolus thermodilution cardiac output and 4.2 [2.0-7.2] l.min(-1) for pulse dye densitometry using indocyanine green 20 mg. Mean bias was + 0.566 l.min(-1), the limits of agreement were +/- 2.51 l.min(-1) and mean error was 60.9%. Postoperative cardiac output data were not analysed because pulse dye densitometry signals were low or absent in > 50% of the patients. We conclude that pulse dye densitometry using indocyanine green 5 mg or 20 mg is inaccurate in anaesthetised patients before coronary artery bypass surgery and cannot be used after surgery because of a high incidence of low pulse dye densitometry signal amplitudes.

Introduction: We aimed at quantifying the impact of continuous wound infusion with ropivacaine 0.33% on morphine administration and subjective pain relief in patients after open abdominal aortic repair in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study.Methods: Before closing the abdominal wound, 2 multihole ON-Q Soaker Catheters (I-Flow Corporation, Lake Forest, California, USA) were placed pre-peritoneally in opposite directions. Either ropivacaine 0.33% or saline 0.9% was delivered by an elastomeric pump at a rate of 2 mL/h for 72 hours in each of the catheters. Postoperative pain and morphine administration were assessed using the numerical rating scale (NRS) in 4-hour intervals. Total plasma concentrations of ropivacaine, unbound ropivacaine, and 1-acid glycoprotein (AAG) were measured daily. Mean arterial pressure, pulse rate, oxygen saturation, total amount of morphine administration, ventilation time, and length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) were recorded. At the end of the study period, the wound site and the condition of the catheters were assessed.Results: The study was terminated prematurely due to a malfunction of the elastomeric balloon pump resulting in toxic serum levels of total ropivacaine in 2 patients (11.4 mol/L and 10.0 mol/L, respectively) on the second postoperative day. Six patients had been allocated to the ropivacaine group, and 9 patients had been allocated to the control group. Demographic and surgical data were similar in both groups. During the first 3 postoperative days, no difference between the ropivacaine and the control group was found in NRS (P = .15, P = .46, and P = .88, respectively) and morphine administration (P = .48). Concentrations of unbound serum ropivacaine (0.11 0.08 mol/L) were below toxic level in all patients.Conclusion: Continuous wound infusion of ropivacaine 0.33% 2 mL/h using an elastomeric system was not reliable and did not improve postoperative pain control in patients after open abdominal aortic surgery.

The aim of this study was to validate the revised V-Sign™ 2 ear lobe sensor for combined assessment of pulse rate (PR), pulse oximetry (SpO2) and transcutaneous carbon dioxide tension (PtcCO2) in adults after cardiac surgery.

Introduction The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to investigate whether volatile anesthetics used for postoperative sedation have any beneficial effects on myocardial injury in cardiac surgery patients after on-pump valve replacement. Methods Anesthesia was performed with propofol. After arrival in the intensive care unit (ICU), 117 patients were randomized to be sedated for at least 4 hours with either propofol or sevoflurane. Sevoflurane was administered by using the anesthetic-conserving device. Troponin T, creatine kinase, creatine kinase from heart muscle tissue, myoglobin, and oxygenation index were determined on arrival at the ICU, 4 hours after sedation, and in the morning of the first postoperative day (POD1). Primary end points were cardiac injury markers on POD1. As secondary end points oxygenation, postoperative pulmonary complications, and ICU and hospital stay were documented. Results Fifty-six patients were analyzed in the propofol arm, and 46 patients in the sevoflurane arm. Treatment groups were comparable with regard to patient demographics and intraoperative characteristics. Concentration of troponin T as the most sensitive marker for myocardial injury at POD1 was significantly lower in the sevoflurane group compared with the propofol group (unadjusted difference, -0.4; 95% CI, -0.7 to -0.1; P < 0.01; adjusted difference, -0.2; 95% CI, -0.4 to -0.02; P = 0.03, respectively). Conclusions The data presented in this investigation indicate that late postconditioning with the volatile anesthetic sevoflurane might mediate cardiac protection, even with a late, brief, and low-dose application. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00924222.