Search

We have developed the racetrack-shaped RF magnetron plasma with weak rubber magnets (ferrite and neodymium) for the full utilization of the circular target and the reduction of the magnet weight. The magnetic field simulations are analyzed for the ferrite rubber magnets, the neodymium rubber magnets, and the neodymium rubber magnets including the neodymium metal magnets. The magnetic flux density indicates a mountain like profile between the magnets, having a maximum for the neodymium rubber and metal magnets. It is found that the ion flux to the target has a peak in the gap between two rubber magnets and the value remarkably increases with the addition of neodymium metal magnets. The erosion of the circular copper target, with 100 mm in diameter, has been studied by rotating the racetrack-shaped RF magnetron plasma for the neodymium rubber magnets including the neodymium metal magnets. It is seen that radial profile of the erosion depth keeps roughly constant until r = 20 mm and then decreases gradually away from the center for RF power of 40 W, Ar gas pressure of 2 Pa and sputtering time of 4 h. The target utilization is approximately 72% estimated from the erosion profile.

The i-gel (Intersurgical Ltd., Wokingham, Berkshire, UK) is a new single-use noninflatable supraglottic airway device. It is composed of a soft, gel-like, transparent, thermoplastic elastomer, which provides a perilaryngeal seal without cuff inflation. In this case report, we describe the airway management using i-gel in two patients scheduled for awake craniotomy. One patient underwent the implantation of brain stimulator electrodes and the other patient underwent the removal of a glioma near Broca's area. After anesthesia was induced with propofol and remifentanil, airway was secured using i-gel. Anesthesia was maintained using oxygen, air and propofol, supplemented with an infusion of remifentanil. Anesthesia was discontinued after completion of craniotomy. The i-gel was removed when patients opened their eyes upon calling their names out. The i-gel was reinserted before the closure of the dura without difficulties despite the fact that necks were rotated about 30 degrees rightward, and remained in place until the end of surgery. All procedures finished uneventfully and without adverse events. We conclude that i-gel is effective in asleep-awake-asleep technique because of its easiness in reinsertion under condition of rotated neck.