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BACKGROUND: One key element of lung-protective ventilation is the use of a low tidal volume (V(T)). A sex difference in use of low tidal volume ventilation (LTVV) has been described in critically ill ICU patients. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine whether a sex difference in use of LTVV also exists in operating room patients, and if present what factors drive this difference. DESIGN, PATIENTS AND SETTING: This is a posthoc analysis of LAS VEGAS, a 1-week worldwide observational study in adults requiring intra-operative ventilation during general anaesthesia for surgery in 146 hospitals in 29 countries. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Women and men were compared with respect to use of LTVV, defined as V(T) of 8 ml kg(−1) or less predicted bodyweight (PBW). A V(T) was deemed ‘default’ if the set V(T) was a round number. A mediation analysis assessed which factors may explain the sex difference in use of LTVV during intra-operative ventilation. RESULTS: This analysis includes 9864 patients, of whom 5425 (55%) were women. A default V(T) was often set, both in women and men; mode V(T) was 500 ml. Median [IQR] V(T) was higher in women than in men (8.6 [7.7 to 9.6] vs. 7.6 [6.8 to 8.4] ml kg(−1) PBW, P*** < 0.001). Compared with men, women were twice as likely not to receive LTVV [68.8 vs. 36.0%; relative risk ratio 2.1 (95% CI 1.9 to 2.1), P*** < 0.001]. In the mediation analysis, patients’ height and actual body weight (ABW) explained 81 and 18% of the sex difference in use of LTVV, respectively; it was not explained by the use of a default V(T). CONCLUSION: In this worldwide cohort of patients receiving intra-operative ventilation during general anaesthesia for surgery, women received a higher V(T) than men during intra-operative ventilation. The risk for a female not to receive LTVV during surgery was double that of males. Height and ABW were the two mediators of the sex difference in use of LTVV. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was registered at Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT01601223

INTRODUCTION The aims of this randomized prospective mannequin study were to determine the amount of attempts required for successful intubation using different fiberscopes (Bonfils and SensaScope) by inexperienced anesthesiologists in a difficult airway scenario and to build the associated learning curves. METHODS Difficult airway simulation was achieved with tongue edema in mannequin. After approval of volunteers, we asked 15 anesthesiology residents without any experience with fiberscopes to intubate with each device in a random order. Intubation success (endotracheal intubation within 120 seconds), the degree of difficulty of intubation, and reality of simulation using a 10-point scale were recorded. Learning curves were generated with cumulative sum method. RESULTS With Bonfils, 13 volunteers were able to pass lower decision boundary with a median number of 26 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 21.4-25.9] attempts, whereas in SensaScope, the same outcome was observed in 10 residents with a median number of attempts of 26 (95% CI = 23.5-32.5). Total success rate was found significantly higher with Bonfils compared with SensaScope (550/600 vs 512/600, respectively, P < 0.001). Intubation with Bonfils was considered as less difficult compared with SensaScope [median = 4 (95% CI = 3.32-4.42) and 6 (95% CI = 4.96-6.64), P = 0.01, respectively]. The reality of the simulation was rated as a median of 5 (95% CI = 4.37-5.8). CONCLUSIONS Although a similar number of attempts were required to reach predetermined competency for both fiberscopes, only 10 of residents were able to obtain the targeted success using SensaScope as compared with 13 with Bonfils. Inexperienced residents found intubation via Bonfils less difficult than SensaScope. High individual variability in obtaining competency observed in this study with cumulative sum analysis underlines the importance of defining success a priori to simulation, the need for follow-up of individual progress, and the need to offer adequate trials to achieve competency. Therefore, learning opportunities should be adapted accordingly.

PLOS ONE 17(1), e0262110 (2022). doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0262110, Published by PLOS, San Francisco, California, US

Objectives Pre-operative airway evaluation is essential to decrease the proportion of possible mortality and morbidity due to difficult airway (DA). The study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of pre-operative ultrasonographic airway assessment (UAA) and indirect laryngoscopy (IL) in predicting DA. Study design Prospective obsevational study. Methods Preoperative clinical examination (body mass index [BMI], mallampati classification [MP], thyromental distance, sternomental distance, neck circumference), UAA (epiglottis-skin distance [ESD], hyoid bone-skin distance [HSD], the thickness of tongue root [ToTR], anterior commissure-skin distance [ACSD]) and IL with the rigid 70-degree laryngoscope were performed to predict DA (Cormack-Lehane grade 3 and 4). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PP), and negative predictive values of the parameters were assessed. Results Twenty-two of 140 (15.7%) patients were diagnosed with DA. The cut-off points of ESD, HSD, ToTR, ACSD, and BMI were 2.09 cm, 0.835 cm, 4.05 cm, 0.545 cm, and 27.10, respectively. AUC values were 0.874, 0.885, 0.871, 0.658, and 0.751 in the same order. AUC values for IL and MP were 0.773 and 0.925, respectively. MP and HSD had the best sensitivity (91%), IL grading had the best specificity (100%), and PP (100%) value among all measurements. The best-balanced sensitivity (91%), specificity (97%), and PP (88%) values were obtained by combining the IL with MP and ESD or with MP and HSD. Conclusions Ultrasonographic measurements and IL were found significantly correlated to predict DA. Combined parameters, the IL with MP and ESD or with MP and HSD, are the best parameters in predicting the DA. Level of evidence 4 Laryngoscope, 131:E555-E560, 2021.

Objective In this prospective randomized study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of tracheal intubation with four different laryngoscopes [Macintosh direct laryngoscope-classic laryngoscope (CL), McCoy (MC), C-Mac video-laryngoscope (CM) and McGrath video-laryngoscope (MG)] on haemodynamic responses in patients with a normal airway. Methods One hundred and sixty patients were included. Succeeding haemodynamic measurements were performed immediately after intubation (T2) and for 5 min with 1-min intervals (T3-T4-T5-T6-T7). The primary outcome was the heart rate (HR) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) change triggered by the four different laryngoscopes. The intubation time, the number of intubation attempts, need for stylet or additional manipulation, glottic view and traumatic complications caused by intubation procedure were recorded as secondary outcomes. Results HR values significantly increased with the completion of laryngoscopy and intubation at T2 for the CL, MC and CM groups. Lesser fluctuation in HR and SBP was observed in the MG group. Intubation time was significantly shorter in the MG group (p

Objective Microlaryngeal surgery requires teamwork between surgeons and anesthesiologists. High-frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) is an artificial breathing technique, preferred during endolaryngeal interventions, which offers a good solution for the requirements. Most studies investigating independent risk factors for intraoperative complications during HFJV in endolaryngeal surgery (ELS) has been retrospective and not standardized and the anesthetic approach has not been standardized. This prospective cohort study aimed to identify risk factors of complications related to HFJV in ELS under a standardized anesthesia regimen. Methods 243 patients who underwent ELS with infraglottic HFJV were investigated. Infraglottic jet ventilation catheter was placed and anesthesia was standardized. Demographic and operative data were noted. Hemodynamics, SpO2 and end-tidal CO2 were recorded at regular intervals. Complications such as hemodynamic disturbances, respiratory problems, barotrauma, equipment failure and requirement for conventional ventilation were also documented. Results 222 patients were included. Hypoxia, hypercapnia and the need for intubation were observed in 20(9%), 4(1.8%), 10(4.5%) patients. Bradycardia, hypotension and arrhythmia were observed in six (2.7%), 24(10.8%), and four (1.8%) patients respectively. Respiratory complications were associated with body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.001, OR: 1.57, 95%CI: 1.31–1.88) and previous major airway surgery (p < 0.001, OR: 34.0, 95%CI:3.52–328.24), whereas hemodynamic complications were associated with duration of the operation (p = 0.034, OR:1.04, 95%CI:1.0–1.09) and history of previous major airway surgery (p = 0.005, OR:9.57, 95%CI:1.97–46.49). Conclusion Infraglottic HFJV can be evaluated as an alternative breathing technique to conventional ventilation during endolaryngeal interventions. However, longer operation and previous laryngeal surgeries can increase the incidence of respiratory complications.

Background and objectives: Postoperative cognitive dysfunction is common after cardiac surgery. Adequate cerebral perfusion is essential and near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) can measure cerebral oxygenation. Aim of this study is to compare incidence of early and late postoperative cognitive dysfunction in elderly patients treated with conventional or near infrared spectroscopy monitoring. Methods: Patients undergoing coronary surgery above 60 years, were included and randomized to 2 groups; control and NIRS groups. Peroperative management was NIRS guided in GN; and with conventional approach in control group. Test battery was performed before surgery, at first week and 3rd month postoperatively. The battery comprised clock drawing, memory, word list generation, digit spam and visuospatial skills subtests. Postoperative cognitive dysfunction was defined as drop of 1 SD (standard deviation) from baseline on two or more tests. Mann-Whitney U test was used for comparison of quantitative measurements; Chi-square exact test to compare quantitative data. Results: Twenty-one patients in control group and 19 in NIRS group completed study. Demographic and operative data were similar. At first week postoperative cognitive dysfunction were present in 9 (45%) and 7 (41%) of patients in control group and NIRS group respectively. At third month 10 patients (50%) were assessed as postoperative cognitive dysfunction; incidence was 4 (24%) in NIRS group (p:0.055). Early and late postoperative cognitive dysfunction group had significantly longer ICU stay (1.74 + 0.56 vs. 2.94 + 0.95; p

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos A disfuncao cognitiva no pos‐operatorio e comum apos cirurgia cardiaca. A perfusao cerebral adequada e essencial e a espectroscopia no infravermelho proximo (NIRS) pode medir a oxigenacao cerebral. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a incidencia de disfuncao cognitiva no pos‐operatorio, precoce e tardio, em pacientes idosos tratados com monitoracao convencional ou espectroscopia no infravermelho proximo. Metodos Os pacientes submetidos a cirurgia coronariana, acima de 60 anos, foram incluidos e randomicamente alocados em dois grupos: grupo controle e grupo NIRS. O manejo dos pacientes no periodo perioperatorio foi feito com NIRS no grupo NH e com abordagem convencional no grupo controle A bateria de testes foi feita antes da cirurgia, na primeira semana e no terceiro mes de pos‐operatorio. A bateria incluiu o desenho do relogio, a memoria, a geracao de uma lista de palavras, a sequencia de digitos e subtestes que exigem habilidades visuoespaciais.Disfuncao cognitiva no pos‐operatorio foi definida como queda de um DP (desvio‐padrao) da fase basal em dois ou mais testes. O teste U de Mann Whitney foi usado para comparacao de medidas quantitativa e o teste exato do qui‐quadrado para comparar dados quantitativos. Resultados Vinte e um pacientes do grupo controle e 19 do grupo NIRS concluiram o estudo. Os dados demograficos e operacionais foram semelhantes. Na primeira semana, nove pacientes (45%) do GC e sete pacientes (41%) do grupo NIRS apresentaram disfuncao cognitiva no pos‐operatorio. No terceiro mes, 10 pacientes (50%) foram avaliados como disfuncao cognitiva no pos‐operatorio; a incidencia foi de quatro (24%) no grupo NIRS (p = 0,055). O grupo que apresentou disfuncao cognitiva no pos‐operatorio precoce e tardio teve uma permanencia significativamente maior na UTI (1,74 + 0,56 vs. 2,94 + 0,95; p Conclusao Neste estudo piloto, a monitoracao convencional e a espectroscopia no infravermelho proximo resultaram em taxas semelhantes de disfuncao cognitiva no pos‐operatorio precoce. A disfuncao cognitiva tardia tende a melhorar com espectroscopia no infravermelho proximo. Os declinios cognitivos precoces e tardios foram associados a internacoes prolongadas tanto em UTI quanto hospitalares.

SummaryBackground The aim of this prospective study was to investigate the success of ultrasound in pediatric patients in determining the appropriate sized cuffed endotracheal tube and to compare the results with conventional height-based (Broselow) tape and age-based formula tube size. Methods One hundred and fifty-two children of 1-10 years of age, who received general anesthesia for adenotonsillectomy were enrolled to the study. In all participants, the transverse diameter of the subglottis was measured with ultrasound during apnea. An endotracheal tube was chosen with the outer diameter matched to the measured subglottic airway diameter. An age-based (Motoyama-Khine) and height-based (Broselow) endotracheal tube size was calculated. If there was resistance to passage of the tube into the trachea or an airway pressure >25 cmH20 was required to detect an audible leak, the endotracheal tube was replaced with internal diameter of 0.5 mm smaller. If there was an audible leak at airway pressure 25 cmH20 or a cuff pressure > 25 cmH2O was required to seal, the tube was changed to the 0.5 mm larger internal diameter. Best-fit tube internal diameter was the resultant tube internal diameter that met the previously stated conditions. The need for endotracheal tube replacement and peak airway pressure were recorded. Results The internal diameter of ultrasound determined tube was the same as best-fit tube in 88% of children. Endotracheal tube was replaced in 15 patients with a one size larger, and in three patients with one size smaller tube. Using Bland-Altman analysis, a better agreement was observed with ultrasound measurement rather than height-based estimation and age-based formulas. Conclusion Our findings show that subglottic diameter measured by ultrasound appears to be a reliable predictor for the assessment of the subglottic diameter of the airway in estimating appropriate size pediatric endotracheal tube.

Resumo Introducao A disfuncao cognitiva pos‐operatoria (DCPO) e um resultado adverso cirurgico que e mais comum apos cirurgias cardiacas abertas. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar o papel dos niveis de glicose no sangue rigorosamente controlados durante a cirurgia coronariana no declinio cognitivo precoce e tardio. Metodos Foram randomizados em dois grupos 40 pacientes acima de 50 anos e submetidos a cirurgia coronariana eletiva. No grupo “controle rigoroso” (GI), a glicemia foi mantida entre 80‐120 mg.dL −1 ; enquanto no grupo “liberal” (GII), variou entre 80‐180 mg.dL −1 . A bateria de testes neuropsicologicos foi feita tres vezes: fase basal, antes da cirurgia e na primeira e 12a semana de acompanhamento no pos‐operatorio. DCPO foi definida como uma queda de um desvio padrao da fase basal em dois ou mais testes. Resultados Na primeira semana de pos‐operatorio, os testes neurocognitivos mostraram que 10 pacientes no GI e 11 pacientes no GII apresentaram DCPO. A incidencia de DCPO precoce foi semelhante entre os grupos. No entanto, a avaliacao tardia revelou que a disfuncao cognitiva persistiu em cinco pacientes no GII, enquanto nenhum paciente foi classificado como cognitivamente prejudicado no GI ( p = 0,047). Conclusao Sugerimos que o controle glicemico rigoroso no perioperatorio de cirurgia coronariana pode desempenhar um papel na prevencao da deterioracao cognitiva persistente.

Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of a thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) for postoperative analgesia in cases of a laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed under general anesthesia. Methods A total of 78 patients aged 18-70 years, with an American Society of Anesthesiologists classification of I-III who were to undergo an elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were enrolled. The patients were randomly separated into 2 groups: Group 1 (38 patients) received a TPVB performed unilaterally at T6 before surgery and Group 2 (40 patients) received only general anesthesia. Postoperatively, both groups received patient-controlled analgesia with an infusion pump. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores at rest and with movement were recorded during the first 24 hours after surgery. Tramadol consumption during the first 24 hours, nausea and vomiting rate, time to first passage of bowel gas and defecation, nutrition, mobilization, and discharge were also noted. Results The patients who received an ultrasonography-guided TPVB had significantly lower postoperative VAS scores at rest and on movement at 4, 6, 12,18, and 24 hours and significantly lower levels of postoperative tramadol consumption. It was observed that 77.5% of the patients in Group 2 needed at least 1 dose of additional fentanyl intraoperatively. Group 2 had a significantly higher vomiting rate and it was observed that the time of first bowel gas and defecation, nutrition, and mobilization was later. There was no significant difference between groups in the discharge time. Conclusion Preoperatively performed TPVB provided efficient analgesia after a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. A TPVB can also reduce perioperative and postoperative opioid requirements.

Background Endotracheal tube size can be predicted according to ultrasound measurement of subglottic airway diameter. The learning curve for this method is not yet established. The aim was to evaluate the learning curve of anesthesiology residents in ultrasound measurement of subglottic airway diameter for prediction of endotracheal tube size using cumulative sum analysis. Methods Sixteen anesthesiology residents measured transverse subglottic airway diameter in children undergoing general anesthesia with cuffed endotracheal intubation. Each resident performed 30 ultrasound examinations. Primary outcome was the successful prediction of endotracheal tube size according to ultrasound measurement. Cumulative sum analysis was performed with acceptable and unacceptable failure rates set as 20 and 40%, respectively. Results Ten out of 16 residents (62.5%) were deemed successful as they were able to pass lower decision boundary, whereas six residents' CUSUM scores were between the decisions lines deeming them indeterminate. The overall success rate for determining the correct endotracheal tube size was 77.5%. Median number of attempts to cross lower decision boundary was 29 with minimum of 18 and maximum of 29 attempts among successful residents. Conclusion Learning curves constructed with cumulative sum analysis in this study showed that only 62.5% of residents were able to correctly predict cuffed endotracheal tube size with 80% success rate. Considerable variability in achieving competency necessitates objective follow-up of individual improvement.

Objective The aim of this feasibility study was to investigate the first attempt success of ultrasonography (USG) in paediatric patients in predicting an appropriate cuffed endotracheal tube (ETT) size. Methods Fifty children who were 1-10 years of age and who received general anaesthesia with endotracheal intubation for adenoidectomy or adenotonsillectomy were enrolled in the study. In all participants, the transverse diameter of the subglottic airway was measured with USG at the cricoid level without ventilation. The outer diameter (OD) of the maximum allowable ETT was chosen according to the measured subglottic airway diameter. In the presence of resistance to passage of the tube into the trachea or in the absence of an audible leak at airway pressure of >25 cm H2O, the ETT was replaced with a tube whose internal diameter (ID) was 0.5 mm smaller. If a leak was audible at airway pressures of 25 cm H2O or if a peak airway pressure of >25 cm H2O was observed during ventilation, the tube was changed to a tube one size larger. The OD of the best-fit ETT was converted to the ID. The best-fit ID, the requirement for ETT replacement, the duration of airway diameter measurement by USG and the peak airway pressure were recorded. Results The success rate of the first attempt with USG was 86%; the ETT was replaced in five patients with a tube one size larger and in two patients with a tube one size smaller. Conclusion Our findings show the subglottic diameter measured by USG to be a reliable predictor in estimating the appropriate paediatric ETT size.

Wegener granulomatosis (WG) is a multisystemic disorder characterised by granulomatous inflammation of the respiratory system. The growing of proliferative tissue towards the larynx and trachea may cause airway obstruction on account of subglottic stenosis. In this situation, the surgical goal is to eliminate the airway obstruction by providing natural airway anatomy. While mild lesions do not require surgical intervention, in fixed lesions, surgical intervention is required, such as tracheostomy, laser resection and dilatation. In tracheostomised patients, granuloma formation surrounding the tracheostomy cannula may occur in the trachea. Inflammation and newly formed granulation tissue result in severe stenosis in the airways. During surgical treatment of such patients, airway management is important. In this case report, we will discuss gas exchange and airway management with jet ventilation (JV) during excision of the granulation tissue with endolaryngeal laser surgery, leading to subglottic stenosis in tracheostomised patients in WG.

Background The use of neuromuscular blocking agents is still controversial in myasthenic patients but rocuronium could be useful after the introduction of sugammadex as a selective antagonist. The aim of the study was to evaluate the use of rocuronium-sugammadex in myasthenic patients undergoing thoracoscopic thymectomy. Methods After ethical approval, 10 myasthenic patients undergoing videothoracoscopic-assisted thymectomy were enrolled in the study. Neuromuscular block was achieved with 0.3 mg/kg rocuronium and additional doses were given according to train-of-four (TOF) monitoring or movement of the diaphragm. Sugammadex 2 mg/kg was given after surgery. Recovery time (time to obtain a TOF value > 0.9) was recorded for all subjects. Result All patients were extubated in the operating room after administration of sugammadex. Mean rocuronium dose was 48 mg and the average operation time was 62 min. Recovery time after sugammadex administration was 111 s (min 35; max 240). Conclusions A rapid recovery of neuromuscular function was found in myasthenic patients receiving rocuronium when sugammadex was used for reversal. This combination could be a rational alternative for myasthenic patients for whom neuromuscular blockade is mandatory during surgery.

Introduction The performance of laryngoscopes that have been developed for difficult airways can vary widely. The aim of the study was to compare Macintosh, McCoy, McGrath MAC, and C-MAC laryngoscopes in cervical immobilization and tongue edema scenarios in a mannequin, primarily to evaluate the time to intubation. Methods In this randomized crossover study, 41 anesthesiology residents used 4 laryngoscopes in a mannequin (SimMan 3G) in 2 different scenarios. Intubation time (insertion of the blade between the teeth, to placement of the endotracheal tube into the trachea) longer than 120 seconds or inability to successfully place the endotracheal tube into the trachea after 5 or more attempts was defined as intubation failure. Besides intubation time, laryngoscopic view, number of intubation attempts, presence of esophageal intubation, need for stylet, difficulty of intubation, and success rate were recorded as secondary outcomes. Results Intubation time was observed from longest to shortest as McGrath > McCoy > C-MAC > Macintosh in both scenarios. Laryngeal view was better with C-MAC laryngoscope. McGrath laryngoscope performed poorly specifically in tongue edema scenarios, which resulted in higher number of intubation attempts, esophageal intubation, need for intubation stylets, and overall intubation failure. Conclusions The short intubation time observed with the Macintosh underlines the necessity of familiarity in success. Tongue edema is a more challenging scenario for simulated difficult airway and the McGrath may not be a good choice for such a scenario.

OBJECTIVE Determining the blood flow through intra and extra-cranial arteries during neck extension may be helpful but is a controversial issue. We aimed to elucidate the changes in cerebral blood flow related to head positioning during thyroid surgery by carotid Doppler examination and regional oxygen saturation variations. METHODS Thirty patients were recruited to the study. Patients were positioned with a final position of thyroidectomy consisting a 30° semi Fowler with the extension of neck and head. Values of peak systolic velocity, average velocity, arterial diameter and blood flow volume of the common carotid artery were calculated. Bilateral regional cerebral oxygen saturation were monitored continuously. RESULTS At the end of the operation, peak systolic velocity, average velocity and blood flowvolume of the common carotid artery decreased significantly compared to the baseline measurement (p

Following the use of an endotracheal or tracheostomy tube, circumferential lesions, stenosis, or granulomatous lesions at the cuff level or tip of the tube may be observed on the tracheal wall. This injury mainly occurs due to excessive pressure of the cuff on the tracheal wall and may be prevented by a high-volume, low-pressure cuff and a carefully monitored tracheostomy tube. Although there is an overall improvement in the design of high-volume cuffs, hyperinflation of these cuffs may still contribute to tracheal injuries. If the size of the granuloma is limited, the lesion is treated by excision (microlaryngeal surgery) under general anaesthesia. Using jet ventilation during the operation minimizes the trauma caused by intubation and reduces the risk of oedema and the risk of barotrauma, as it provides ventilation over a possible stenosis. In addition to providing better visualization of the surgical field and superior surgeon comfort, jet ventilation also increases the success of the operation. In this case report, we aimed to present a successful anaesthesia technique performed by jet ventilation in a patient with a postintubation granuloma, which was excised by microlaryngeal surgery without the need for reintubation.

We report a case of anesthetic management of a 43-year-old patient with Eagle’s syndrome (ES) in whom post-extubation acute airway obstruction occurred due to bilateral hypoglossal nerve paralysis. After an accurate examination, elongated bilateral stylohyoid ligament was observed and surgical resection was planned. After completion of the surgery following extubation, significant dysfunction in swallowing, speech function, and tongue motion was observed. The clinical situation was evaluated as bilateral hypoglossal nerve paralysis related to the procedure. The patient was closely observed over 48 h in the intensive care unit. After 2 days, the patient was discharged to a surgical ward. Following clinical assessment, the patient was discharged from hospital for monthly return. At the 6-month follow-up, there were no further episodes of paresthesia and other symptoms. In conclusion, patients with ES represent a real challenge for physicians from diagnosis to treatment, especially regarding perioperative complications, and close collaboration between surgeons and anesthesiologists is of crucial importance.

In this prospective, randomized study we compared the recovery profiles of bispectral index (BIS)-guided anesthesia regimens with desflurane or propofol in ambulatory arthroscopy. Fifty ASA I-II adult patients who underwent knee arthroscopy were randomized to receive desflurane (D) or propofol (P) infusion accompanied by remifentanil and nitrous oxide during maintenance, titrated to maintain a bispectral index value between 50 and 60. Initial awakening, fast-track eligibility, and home readiness as well as intraoperative hemodynamics, were compared. The groups did not differ with respect to demographics, duration of operation, or intraoperative vital signs. Although the times for initial awakening parameters were shorter in group D, the differences between the groups were not significant. The time needed for the White fast-track score to reach 12 was shorter in group P than group D (9 +/- 3.5 min vs 12.5 +/- 5.3 min). However, home readiness did not differ significantly between the groups. Desflurane is an alternative to propofol for BIS-guided ambulatory anesthesia. Using desflurane in combination with opioid analgesics blunted its rapid emergence characteristics, and the higher frequency of emetic symptoms with desflurane diminished the success of its fast-track eligibility.

Objective: To investigate the relationship between peripheral and central venous pressures in different patient positions (supine, prone, lithotomy, Trendelenburg, and Fowler), different catheter diameters (18 G and 20 G), and catheterization sites (dorsal hand and forearm) during surgical procedures. Design: Prospective clinical study. Settings: University hospital. Participants: Five hundred adult patients Interventions: Peripheral over-the-needle intravenous catheters were placed in the dorsal hand or forearm. Central venous catheters were inserted via the internal jugular or subclavian vein after induction of anesthesia. Measurements and Main Results: Simultaneous measure-ments of central and peripheral venous pressures were made during stable conditions at random time points in surgery; 1953 paired measurements were performed. Mean central venous pressure was 11 ± 3.7 mmHg and peripheral venous pressure was 13 ± 4 mmHg (p = 0.0001). The overall correlation between central venous and peripheral venous pressures was found to be statistically significant (r = 0.89, r2 = 0.8, p = 0.0001). Mean difference between peripheral and central venous pressure was 2 ± 1.8 mmHg. Ninety-five percent limits of agreement were 5.6 to −1.6 mmHg. Conclusion: It has been assumed that replacing central venous pressure by peripheral venous pressure would cause problems in clinical interpretation. If the validity of this data is confirmed by further studies, the authors suggest that central venous pressure could be estimated by using regression equations to compare the 2 methods.

To investigate the relationship between end-tidal carbon dioxide levels and augmentation of pulmonary blood flow achieved by insertion of systemic-pulmonary shunts.Prospective clinical study.University hospital.Nineteen cyanotic children with tetralogy of Fallot.Modified Blalock-Taussig shunt operations were performed on the left side in 14 patients and on the right side in 5 patients.End-tidal carbon dioxide tension was recorded, and an arterial blood gas sample was obtained simultaneously after thoracotomy (T0) and after completion of systemic-pulmonary shunt (T1). End-tidal carbon dioxide tension was significantly higher ( p0.01), and arterial to end-tidal carbon dioxide tension difference was significantly lower (p0.01) at T1 when compared with T0. The increase in end-tidal carbon dioxide showed a statistically significant correlation with the response of arterial oxygen saturation (r = 0.61, p0.01). The fall in arterial to end-tidal carbon dioxide tension difference correlated inversely with the change of oxygen saturation (r = -0.81, p0.0001).It is concluded that end-tidal carbon dioxide tension alterations offer an alternative intraoperative tool to monitor pulmonary blood flow during modified Blalock-Taussig shunt procedures.

Objective: To compare the effects of thiopental and propofol during defibrillation threshold testing (DFT) on hemodynamics and recovery profile in patients requiring automatic internal cardioverter-defibrilator placement. Design: Prospective clinical investigation. Setting: University hospital. Participants: Thirty-four adult patients. Interventions: After administration of midazolam, 0.025 mg/kg, and fentanyl, 0.5 to 1 μg/kg, surgery was performed under topical infiltration with 1% lidocaine. In group I (GI) (n = 17), patients received thiopental by slow injection and patients in group II (GII) (n = 17) received propofol before induction of ventricular fibrillation (VF). Measurements and main results: Patients received 4.1 ± 1.4 mg of midazolam, 114 ± 34 μg of fentanyl, and 280 ± 78 mg of thiopental in GI; and 4.6 ± 1.7 mg of midazolam, 119 ± 62 μg of fentanyl, and 147 ± 40 mg of propofol in GII (p > 0.05). Hemodynamics did not show significant differences between the groups at any recording time. Average time needed to regain the pretest sedation level was 16.4 ± 8.8 minutes in GI and 10.9 ± 5.5 minutes in GII (p = 0.03). Time required to achieve a score of 10 using a modified Aldrete score was 26.4 ± 9.3 minutes in GI and 17.4 ± 4.9 in GII (p = 0.001). Seven patients in GII (41%) and 1 patient in GI (6%) became hypotensive after DFT (p = 0.04). Conclusions: Deepening the sedation level by slow injection of thiopental or propofol before DFT provided satisfactory conditions during brief episodes of VF. Delay in recovery of arterial pressure after DFT with propofol and delay in arousal and discharge of patients with thiopental are major disadvantages of the regimens.

Objective: This study assessed the surgical and post-operative outcome of single-stage complete unifocalization and repair procedure in patients with complex pulmonary atresia. Methods: From 1999 to 2001. we performed complete unifocalization and correction in 10 patients with complex pulmonary atresia. Their ages ranged from 10 months to 17 years. All patients were evaluated with pulmonary angiography and divided into two groups according to the development of native pulmonary arteries. Group I patients had hypoplastic pulmonary arteries and MAPCAs and Group II patients had only MAPCAs without native pulmonary arteries. With median sternotomy, all MAPCAs were prepared and anastomozed to native pulmonary arteries in group I patients or on a pericardial roll in group II patients without using cardiopulmonary bypass. Right ventricle to pulmonary arterial continuity was established with a valved conduit under CPB. VSD was closed in two patients. Results: Eight patients had complete repair without VSD closure. They were followed periodically with pulmonary angiography. Two patients developed congestive heart failure. One of them was reoperated and VSD was closed. The other patient died because of untraceable congestive heart failure. The decision for VSD closure was made in two patients due to suitable pulmonary arterial vascular tree. However, one of them had to be reoperated and VSD patch was removed. This patient died because of sepsis on the postoperative 26th day. We are following the rest of the patients with echocardiography and pulmonary angiography. Conclusion: Single stage complete unifocalization and repair should be the treatment of choice in patients with complex pulmonary atresia. This procedure provides a significant development in neopulmonary arterial system. However, the accurate criterias for VSD closure are still controversial. After the operation, these patients had to be followed closely with echocardiography and pulmonary angiography because of the absolute risk of congestive heart failure in patients with VSD left open.

In this clinical, randomized, prospective study, we compared the effects of three different analgesia techniques (thoracic epidural analgesia [TEA] with and without preoperative initiation and IV patient-controlled analgesia [IV-PCA]) on postthoracotomy pain in 69 patients. In two groups, a thoracic epidural catheter was inserted preoperatively. Group Pre-TEA had bupivacaine and morphine solution preoperatively and intraoperatively. Postoperative analgesia was maintained with epidural PCA with a similar solution. Group Post-TEA, with no intraoperative medication, had the same postoperative analgesia as Group Pre-TEA plus the bolus dose. Group IV-PCA received only IV-PCA with morphine for postoperative analgesia. Pain was evaluated every 4 h during the first 48 h at rest, cough, and movement. Pre-TEA was associated with decreased pain compared with the other groups. Six months later, the patients were asked about their pain. The incidence and the intensity of pain were most frequent in Group IV-PCA (78%) and were the least in Group Pre-TEA (45%) (Group Pre-TEA versus Group IV-PCA, P = 0.0233; Group Pre-TEA versus Group IV-PCA, P = 0.014). Patients having pain on the second postoperative day had 83% chronic pain. TEA with preoperative initiation is a preferable method in preventing acute and long-term thoracotomy pain.Preoperatively initiated thoracic epidural analgesia has the most satisfying results in controlling postthoracotomy pain in the acute and long-term period, and it is associated with a decreased incidence (and intensity) of chronic pain compared with postoperative (epidural or IV) analgesia. Chronic pain has an incidence of 62%.

To investigate plasma levels of the betabeta isomer of S-100 protein and to assess the relationship between post-cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) levels of this marker and a variety of perioperative and patient factors in children undergoing cardiac surgery.Prospective study.University hospital.Twenty-five children.Blood samples (2 mL) for S-100 determinations were collected after the induction of anesthesia, 30 minutes after aortic cross-clamping, 1 hour after the termination of CPB, and 5 and 24 hours after the operation. Electroencephalogram activity was recorded, and neurologic examination was performed on all children 1 day before and 10 days after the operation. Lowest values of nasopharyngeal temperature, mean arterial pressure, arterial carbon dioxide tension (PaCO2), pH, and hematocrit during CPB were recorded.The overall change in S-100 during the study period was found to be statistically significant (p0.0001). Correlation between deltaS-100 and age (r = -0.45; p = 0.04), body surface area (r = -0.63; p = 0.002), nasopharyngeal temperature (r = -0.55; p = 0.01), and PaCO2 (r = -0.55; p = 0.009) was statistically significant in infants and children. Multivariate regression analysis indicated significant effects of PaCO2 and body surface area on deltaS-100 levels and area under the curve values.In contrast to newborns, infants and older children showed prominent increases in S-100 protein concentration. Lack of pathologic electroencephalogram findings and neurologic signs in the postoperative period precludes the clinical use of S-100 protein concentration as a sensitive marker of cerebral injury.

Objective: To evaluate the use of ketamine in comparison with isoflurane in the maintenance of anesthesia in children with tetralogy of Fallot. Design: Prospective, randomized study. Setting: University hospital. Participants: Fifty children scheduled for correction of tetralogy of Fallot. Interventions: After intubation, patients were assigned randomly to receive 2 different anesthesia maintenance regimens: group I, isoflurane, 0 to 1% plus fentanyl, 0.1 μg/kg/min; group II, ketamine, 0 to 5 mg/kg/h, plus fentanyl, 0.1 μg/kg/min. Isoflurane concentration and ketamine infusion rate were adjusted to maintain arterial pressure within 25% of baseline. Hemodynamic and respiratory parameters were recorded at the end of 4 intervals: T0, before induction of anesthesia; T1, induction to 10 minutes postintubation; T2, 10 minutes postintubation to poststernotomy; and T3, poststernotomy to completion of catheterizations. Measurements and Main Results: In comparing group I with group II, significant differences were observed in mean arterial pressure (p < 0.0001), heart rate (p < 0.01), arterial oxygen saturation (p < 0.0001), arterial oxygen tension (p < 0.001), arterial carbon dioxide tension (p < 0.001), arterial pH (p < 0.0001), base excess (p < 0.05), and arterial to end-tidal carbon dioxide tension difference (p < 0.01) at T3. Conclusion: The use of ketamine anesthesia is recommended as an alternative maintenance regimen in children undergoing definitive correction of tetralogy of Fallot. Copyright © 2000 by W.B. Saunders Company

Pressure controlled ventilation (PCV) is an alternative mode of ventilation which is used widely in severe respiratory failure. In this study, PCV was used for one-lung anaesthesia and its effects on airway pressures, arterial oxygenation and haemodynamic state were compared with volume controlled ventilation (VCV). We studied 48 patients undergoing thoracotomy. After two-lung ventilation with VCV, patients were allocated randomly to one of two groups. In the first group (n = 24), one-lung ventilation was started by VCV and the ventilation mode was then switched to PCV. Ventilation modes were performed in the opposite order in the second group (n = 24). We observed that peak airway pressure (P = 0.000001), plateau pressure (P = 0.01) and pulmonary shunt (P = 0.03) were significantly higher during VCV, whereas arterial oxygen tension (P = 0.02) was significantly higher during PCV. Peak airway pressure (Paw) decreased consistently during PCV in every patient and the percentage reduction in Paw was 4-35% (mean 16.1 (SD 8.4) %). Arterial oxygen tension increased in 31 patients using PCV and the improvement in arterial oxygenation during PCV correlated inversely with preoperative respiratory function tests. We conclude that PCV appeared to be an alternative to VCV in patients requiring one-lung anaesthesia and may be superior to VCV in patients with respiratory disease.

To compare the effects of pressure- and flow-triggered pressure-support ventilation on weaning parameters during recovery from acute respiratory failure.Prospective, randomized, clinical trial.Intensive care unit in a university hospital.Sixteen orotracheally intubated adult patients recovering from acute respiratory failure of various etiologies, without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.Randomized application of pressure- and flow-triggered pressure-support ventilation at 100% and 75% ventilatory support levels in each triggering system. A total of four conditions were applied for 30 mins each in all patients.Ventilatory, respiratory, and hemodynamic data were measured. For the measurement of weaning parameters, pressure and volume signals were directed to a computerized respiratory monitor by means of an esophageal probe and a flow sensor between the "Y" piece of the ventilatory circuit and the endotracheal tube. During both pressure-triggered (trigger sensitivity of -1 cm H2O) and flow-triggered (trigger sensitivity of 0.7 to 2.0 L/min) pressure-support ventilation with a ventilator, peak airway pressures were applied so as to decrease the work of breathing performed by the patient to zero (full ventilatory support). Partial ventilatory support was applied at 75% of the peak airway pressures achieved during full ventilatory support with each triggering system. A total of four experimental conditions were evaluated at identical FiO2 and positive and-expiratory pressure levels during pressure-support ventilation in each patient. Total ventilation volumes, arterial blood gas data, and hemodynamics did not differ among the four experimental conditions. During partial ventilatory support, the work of breathing, rapid shallow breathing index, and esophageal pressure increased significantly with both triggering systems when compared with data obtained at full ventilatory support. The mean data for the weaning parameters during the condition of partial ventilatory support were comparable between pressure- and flow-triggered pressure-support ventilation (i.e., 0.38 +/- 0.24 vs. 0.42 +/- 0.26 joule/L for work of breathing, 2.6 +/- 1.6 vs. 3.3 +/- 1.7 cm H2O for tracheal occlusion pressure, and 40.2 +/- 12.9 vs. 50.4 +/- 18.3 breaths/min/L for rapid shallow breathing index, respectively).The application of either a pressure- or flow-triggered system during pressure-support ventilation with the ventilator did not significantly affect short-term changes in gas exchange, respiratory mechanics, and inspiratory workload in patients recovering from acute respiratory failure of various etiologies without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Background: In this clinical randomized study, the effects of four anaesthesia techniques during one-lung ventilation [total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) with or without thoracic epidural anaesthesia (TEA) (G-TIVA-TEA and G-TIVA), isoflurane anaesthesia with or without TEA (G-ISO-TEA and G-ISO)] on pulmonary venous admixture (Qs/Qt) and oxygenation (OLV) were investigated. Methods: In 100 patients (four groups, 25 patients in each) undergoing thoracotomy, a thoracic epidural catheter was inserted pre-operatively. In G-TIVA-TEA and G-ISO-TEA, bupivacaine 0.1% + 0.1 mg/ml morphine was administered intra-operatively (10 ml of first bolus + 7 ml/h infusion). Propofol infusion or isoflurane concentration was adjusted to keep a bispectral index (BIS) of between 40 and 50 in all groups. FiO2 was 0.8 during OLV and 0.5 before and after OLV. Partial arterial and central venous oxygen pressures (PaO2 and PvO2), arterial and venous oxygen saturations and Qs/Qt values were recorded before, during and after OLV. Results: During OLV, PaO2 was significantly higher and Qs/QT significantly lower in G-TIVA-TEA and G-TIVA compared with G-ISO-TEA and G-ISO (PaO2: 188 ± 36; 201 ± 39; 159 ± 33; 173 ± 42 mmHg, respectively; Qs/Qt: 31.2 ± 7.4; 28.2 ± 7; 36.7 ± 7.1; 33.7 ± 7.7%, respectively). No statistical changes were observed in patients with TEA compared with without TEA in any measurement. Conclusion: During OLV, TEA does not significantly affect the oxygenation and Qs/Qt and can be used safely regardless of whether TIVA or inhalation techniques are used.

The success rate of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) may differ from institution to institution, even within different sites in the same institution. A variety of factors may influence the outcome. In this study, we assessed the adequacy of CPR attempts guided by the current standards and aimed to define the factors influencing the outcome following in-hospital cardiac arrest. One hundred and thirty-four patients who required CPR were studied prospectively. Different variables for the CPR performance were recorded using forms designed for this study in the light of the guidelines. In these CPR forms various data including the demographics, history, monitoring, number, composition and experience of the anaesthesiologists, the site of CPR, time of day, the delay before onset of CPR, tracheal intubation, duration of arrest, initial rhythm in ECG monitored patients, management of CPR, drug administration and reversible causes of cardiac arrest were recorded. Our rates of immediate survival, survival at 24 h and survival to discharge 49.3%, 28.5% and 13.4%, respectively. The extent of monitoring prior to arrest, the attendance of one or more experienced anesthesiologists in the CPR team, CPR during office hours, CPR in ICU or operating room, early initiation of CPR and tracheal intubation prior to arrest were found as the factors increasing discharge survival. We conclude that early initiation of CPR with an experienced team in a well-equipped hospital sites increases the discharge survival rate following cardiac arrest.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of PEEP on oxygenation and airway pressures during PCV-OLV. Design: Randomized, crossover, clinical study. Setting: University hospital. Participants: Twenty-five patients undergoing thoracotomy. Interventions: During the first 5 minutes of OLV, all patients were ventilated with VCV (PEEP: 0) (VCV-ZEEP). Afterward, ventilation was changed to PCV with PEEP: 0 (PCV-ZEEP) or PEEP: 4 cmH 2 O (PCV-PEEP) for 20 minutes. In the following 20 minutes, PCV-PEEP and PCV-ZEEP were applied in reverse sequence. Measurements and Main Results: At the end of VCV-ZEEP airway pressures (peak airway pressure, plateau airway pressure, mean airway pressure, and pause airway pressure) were recorded. At the end of PCV-PEEP and PCV-ZEEP airway pressures, PaO 2 and Qs/Qt were recorded. Ppeak and Pplat were significantly lower with PCV-PEEP compared with VCV-ZEEP (eg, Ppeak: 33.4 ± 4.2, 28.3 ± 4.1, and 28.9 ± 3.7 cmH 2 O in VCV-ZEEP, PCV-ZEEP, and PCV-PEEP, respectively; p v VCV-ZEEP and PCV-PEEP v VCV-ZEEP). PCV-PEEP was associated with an increased PaO 2 (230.3 ± 69.8 v 189.0 ± 54.8 mmHg, p v 38.4% ± 5.7%, p Conclusion: During OLV, PCV with a low level of PEEP leads to improved oxygenation with lower airway pressures.

Objective: In patients with functional single ventricular physiology, the avoidance of cardiopulmonary bypass offers many advantages including earlier extubation, decreased necessity of inotropic support, improved hemodynamical status and reduced likehood of postoperative prolonged pleural effusion. We believe that the bidirectional cavopulmonary anastomosis operations may be performed with transient external shunt techniques. The purpose of this prospective study is the peri- and post-operative comparison of different transient external shunt methods used in bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt operations. Methods: Between years 1997 and 2000, 30 patients have undergone bidirectional cavo-pulmonary shunt operation by using three different types of external shunt. The mean patient age was 13 months (range, 3 months– 3 years). Previous operations had been performed in ten patients (33%). All patients were divided into three groups according to type of external shunt used. In group A (ten patients), the transient external shunt was constructed between superior vena cava and right atrium by uniting two standard venous cannulas with a Y-connector. In group B (ten patients), the external shunt was performed with a single short venous cannula constructed between superior vena cava and right atrium. In group C (ten patients), the external shunt was constructed between superior vena cava and left pulmonary artery by using a single short venous cannula. During operation, central venous pressure (CVP), arterial O2 saturation and mean arterial blood pressure were recorded continuously. Results: All operations are completed without the establishment of cardiopulmonary bypass. Hospital mortality was 3.3%. One patient in group A died because of low cardiac output at the end of postoperative day 2. All patients were extubated within 4 h. In groups A –C mean superior vena caval pressures were measured 28, 24 and 21 mmHg, respectively during superior vena cava-right pulmonary artery anastomosis. In both groups A and B patients, arterial O2 saturation decreased to a minimum 53 ^ 2 and 53 ^ 2%, respectively during the operation. In the group C, minimum arterial O2 saturation was measured 82 ^ 2%. Although mean arterial pressure decreased in all groups during clampage; in group C patients, this drop is not significant. Conclusion: Based on the study presented here, bidirectional cavo-pulmonary anastomosis can be carried out by using different types of transient external shunt. The best hemodynamical condition and arterial O2 levels were achieved with the shunt constructed between superior vena cava and left pulmonary artery. q 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.

Interest in combining local and general anaesthesia has lead to studies investigating possible interactions. In a prospective, randomized, double-blind study, we tested whether local anaesthetics administered i.m. potentiate the hypnotic effect of propofol.Sixty patients (three groups, n=20) undergoing lower abdominal surgery with total i.v. propofol anaesthesia were investigated. Patients in Group B received i.m. bupivacaine (5 mg ml(-1)) 1 mg kg(-1), patients in Group L received i.m. lidocaine (100 mg ml(-1)) 2 mg kg(-1) and patients in Group C received i.m. saline 5 ml before operation. Hypnosis was measured with bispectral index (BIS).The induction (BIS45), and the maintenance doses of propofol (BIS between 40 and 50) were significantly less in Group B and Group L compared with the control group. Induction doses were 1.58 (SD 0.39), 1.56 (0.24) and 2.03 (0.33) mg kg(-1) respectively; P0.0001. Maintenance doses were 6.33 (2.06), 7.08 (1.23) and 9.95 (2.02) mg kg(-1) respectively in the first hour; P0.0001. Groups B and L were associated with an attenuated haemodynamic response to both induction and intubation.I.M. administered local anaesthetics are associated with a decrease in both the induction and maintenance doses of propofol during total i.v. anaesthesia and a reduction in haemodynamic responses.

Objective: To examine the clinical applicability of substituting central venous oxygen saturation (ScvO2) for mixed venous oxygen saturation (SmvO2) in monitoring global tissue oxygenation. Design: Prospective clinical investigation. Setting: University hospital. Participants: Seventy-three adult patients. Interventions: Venous oxygen saturation was recorded, and oxygen saturation difference between SmvO2 and ScvO2 (ΔSmvcv) was calculated in 2 groups of patients (group I, sepsis patients [n = 41], and group II, general anesthesia for cardiovascular surgery patients [n = 32]) during initial placement of pulmonary artery catheters. Measurements and Main Results: Patients were classified as follows: class A, patients having a ΔSmvcv >−5%; class B, patients having a ΔSmvcv between −5% and +5%; and class C, patients having a ΔSmvcv >+5 %. Statistically significant differences were observed in cardiac index, oxygen delivery index, and oxygen extraction ratio between class A and B in both groups. Class C of group II showed the worst correlation between SmvO2 and ScvO2 and had significantly lower arterial carbon dioxide tension values than class A and B. Conclusion: Pulmonary artery blood sampling should not be replaced with central venous blood. Hypocapnia and increased oxygen extraction ratio seem to be the major factors that worsen the relationship between ScvO2 and SmvO2. Copyright © 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company

Objective: To evaluate lung isolation with Fogarty catheters and to analyze respiratory consequences of one-lung ventilation (OLV) in children with suppurative lung disease. Dign: Prospective. Setting: University hospital. Participants: Fifteen children undergoing thoracotomy. Interventions: Bronchial blockade with a 7F Fogarty catheter was attempted. In case of incomplete blockade or failure in directing the catheter into the desired mainstem bronchus, endobronchial intubation was done. Volume-controlled ventilation was performed with fraction of inspired oxygen (FIO2), 0.5; inspiratory-to-expiratory (I: E) ratio, 1:2; and 10 mL/kg tidal volume during two-lung ventilation (TLV). FIO2 was increased to 1.0 by the initiation of OLV. If peak airway pressure exceeded basal values during TLV by 35%, tidal volume was reduced to 8 mL/kg, inspiratory pause was zeroed, and I:E ratio was increased to 1:1. Hemodynamic and respiratory parameters were recorded during TLV and 30 minutes after initiation of OLV. Peripheral oxygen saturation and end-tidal carbon dioxide tension were recorded every 5 minutes. Measurements and Main Results: Right lung isolation was successfully obtained by Fogarty catheters in 10 children undergoing right thoracotomy. Endobronchial intubation was performed in 2 children (40%) undergoing left thoracotomy. Three children (20%) developed episodes of severe hypercapnia and hypoxia requiring treatment during OLV. All of the parameters recorded at 30 minutes of OLV revealed statistically significant differences from TLV. OLV was transiently discontinued in 1 child. Conclusion: The use of Fogarty embolectomy catheters for lung isolation in children undergoing thoracotomy is recommended. Respiratory problems are not rare during OLV in children with suppurative lung disease and require immediate management. Copyright © 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company