Inequalities in healthcare access: how a man with exstrophy in rural India coped

We report a case of a 22-year-old man with adult exstrophy. The patient made a self-made urine collection device, which helped him to lead a normal life, carrying out his routine as well as occupational activities smoothly. This patient is a prime example of inequalities in healthcare distribution in low-income and middle-income countries. He was never taken to a proper medical centre to correct his condition nor was his mother ever given proper antenatal healthcare access. His background of being a poor person from rural India highlights the problems of inequalities in healthcare access.

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Case 33-2018: A 57-Year-Old Man with Confusion, Fever, Malaise, and Weight Loss

Presentation of Case. Dr. Joshua A. Cohen (Medicine): A 57-year-old man presented to this hospital with confusion, cough, fever, and unintentional weight loss. The patient had been in his usual state of health until approximately 7 weeks before this presentation, when malaise and anorexia…

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Arterial Stiffness in a Toddler with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 and Refractory Hypertension

Arterial hypertension is a common finding in patients with neurofibromatosis (NF) type 1. Renovascular hypertension due to renal artery stenosis or midaortic syndrome could be the underlying cause. We report the case of a 4-year-old girl with NF type 1 and midaortic syndrome whose changes in blood pressure and pulse wave velocity suggested the evolution of vasculopathy, diagnosis of renovascular hypertension, and provided insights of response to treatment. Hypertension persisted after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in the abdominal aorta, requiring escalation of antihypertensive treatment, while arterial stiffness demonstrated a mild decrease. Regular assessment of blood pressure using ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and noninvasive assessment of arterial stiffness may enhance the medical care of patients with NF type 1.

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Non-operative management of isolated spontaneous superior mesenteric artery dissection

Abstract

Isolated spontaneous superior mesenteric artery (SMA) dissection is a rare differential for patients presenting with abdominal pain. Due to limited cases reported, management strategies have been poorly defined. We present the case of a 49-year-old male with history of hypertension and ischemic colitis, presenting with abdominal pain. CT imaging demonstrated a thrombosed dissection of the SMA extending into second and third order braches. He was managed conservatively with therapeutic anticoagulation. His symptoms improved and upon discharge he was transitioned to aspirin and warfarin. Repeat CT imaging continued to show the dissection with resolution of the SMA thrombus. Spontaneous SMA dissection is exceedingly rare with no universally agreed upon standard of care for treatment. Operative intervention should be reserved for failed conservative management or vascular compromise. Understanding the current treatment options helps ensure a favorable patient outcome.

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Malignant proliferating trichilemmal tumor of the forearm: a case report of an unusual location of a rare cutaneous adnexal tumor

Abstract

Proliferating trichilemmal tumor (PTT) is a rare cutaneous adnexal neoplasm of the hair follicle that undergoes outer root sheath differentiation in the isthmus. Histological hallmarks include trichilemmal keratinization, lack of granular layer and lobular proliferation of squamous epithelium with glycogenated clear cells. It affects predominantly elderly women, especially over the scalp. In some cases, malignant transformation can occur. However, only a few cases are reported in the literature. We hereby describe the case of a patient diagnosed with malignant PTT (MPTT) in the dorsal forearm, 2 years after undergoing surgical excision of a squamous cell carcinoma in the same topography. Thus, providing a thorough description of the clinical presentation of MPTT will assist surgeons in diagnosing and treating this rare tumor.

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Resection of a mature cystic teratoma of the liver harboring a carcinoid tumor

Abstract

Cystic teratomas are rare pluripotent embryonic tumors which most commonly originate in gonadal organs. Extra-gonadal cystic teratomas are exceedingly uncommon, accounting for only 1% of all cystic teratomas, and have been reported in unusual locations including the kidney, mediastinum and liver. These extra-ovarian cystic teratomas have also been known to harbor other neoplasms including carcinoid tumors. In this report, we describe a unique case of a hepatic cystic teratoma occurring as a combined tumor with a carcinoid in a young female. The patient underwent elective laparoscopic resection of her tumor after extensive radiographic and endoscopic work-up for chronic, non-localizable abdominal pain. We believe the carcinoid tumor arose de novofrom committed differentiation of a cell line within the teratoma, and not metastatic spread.

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Decompressive laparotomy for a patient on VA-ECMO for massive pulmonary embolism that suffered traumatic liver laceration after mechanical CPR

Abstract

Massive pulmonary embolism (PE) is an embolus sufficiently obstructing pulmonary blood flow to cause right ventricular (RV) failure and hemodynamic instability. We have utilized veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) for early and aggressive intervention for massive PE patients. We present a case of a 61-year-old female placed on VA-ECMO for a massive PE while presenting in cardiac arrest and receiving mechanical cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) via the LUCAS 2.0 device (Physio-Control Inc., Lund, Sweden). The patient suffered a severe liver laceration secondary to mechanical CPR and required a decompressive laparotomy. This case highlights that mechanical CPR during other interventions can lead to malposition of the device and could result in solid organ injury.

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Rhabdomyolysis-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Diabetic Emergency: Underdiagnosed and an Important Association to Be Aware of

Rhabdomyolysis is a potentially life-threatening clinical syndrome associated with muscle injury which can cause a leakage of intracellular contents, manifested from the range of being asymptomatic to a life-threatening condition causing acute kidney injury and severe electrolyte abnormalities. Rhabdomyolysis has been associated with both diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic syndrome, though there is an increased association with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury with hyperosmolar nonketonic state compared with patients with diabetic ketoacidosis. Common clinical manifestations are muscle pain, dark urine, and generalized weakness. The causes of rhabdomyolysis are broadly categorized into three groups: traumatic, nontraumatic exertional, and nontraumatic nonexertional. Here, we present a case of rhabdomyolysis-induced acute kidney injury in a patient with hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state. The patient was discharged on insulin and needed intermittent dialysis for two months. Our case highlights the importance of the rare association of rhabdomyolysis causing acute kidney injury in a diabetic emergency.

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Multiple myeloma presenting as cutaneous leukocytoclastic vasculitis and eosinophilia disclosing a T helper type 1/T helper type 2 imbalance: a case report

Multiple myeloma is a very heterogeneous disease comprising a number of genetic entities that differ from each other in their evolution, mode of presentation, response to therapy, and prognosis. Due to its mor...

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Ileal schwannoma causing intussusception in an adult

Ileal schwannomas are extremely rare tumours. Very few cases have been previously reported. Most cases present with abdominal pain and gastrointestinal bleeding; intussusception is a rare presentation. Due to limitations in imaging modalities, arriving at a diagnosis preoperatively can be challenging. The only reliable method of diagnosis, and treatment, is resection of the tumour, followed by histological and immunohistochemical testing. This report details the rare case of intussusception as the presenting feature of an ileal schwannoma.

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Infected and obstructed kidney secondary to sloughed necrotic renal papilla

Description  

A 66-year-old Afro-Caribbean woman presented with a 1-day history of sharp left flank pain. This was associated with nausea and diarrhoea, without fever or urinary symptoms. Her medical history includes type 2 diabetes mellitus on insulin therapy but with suboptimal control (haemoglobin A1c 80 mmol/mol or 0.23 g/dL glucose levels) and related complications including chronic kidney disease, retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy, hypertension, sickle cell trait, obesity and osteoarthritis. Blood investigations demonstrated leucocytosis (white cell count 12.7x10⁹/L) and deranged renal function (creatinine 150 µmol/L; baseline 110 µmol/L). Urine dipstick test was positive for nitrites, ketones and glucose and urine culture isolated mixed growth of bacteria with Candida.

A CT abdomen/pelvis, initially planned on the working diagnosis of acute diverticulitis, revealed a mild left-sided hydroureteronephrosis associated with perinephric inflammatory stranding. Left posterolateral bladder wall thickening and left distal ureteric enhancement were also highlighted (figures 1 and 2). The patient was...

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Salmonella Enteritidis breast abscess: an unusual cause of breast abscess in the UK

Breast abscess is a common clinical condition mostly caused by Staphylococcus aureus. However, infections due to mixed organisms are observed in non-lactational women, mostly in smokers. Salmonella infection causing breast abscess is extremely rare in developed countries. We report a case of Salmonella enterica subsp enterica (I) serovar Enteritidis breast abscess in a 48-year-old woman, a UK citizen, who had recently travelled abroad. She was treated successfully with a combination of surgery and ciprofloxacin. Unusual causative organisms should be kept in mind in patients with recent travel abroad and pus should be sent for microbiology. Mastitis caused by Salmonella spp can present with a severely indurated area that may take a few weeks to resolve. Complete assessment with biopsy of the indurated area and breast imaging is mandatory to exclude malignancy.

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Linezolid-associated serotonin toxicity after escitalopram discontinuation: concomitant drug considerations

We report a case of a hospitalised patient who developed probable serotonin toxicity shortly after the initiation of linezolid in whom the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) escitalopram had been recently discontinued. On day 2 of linezolid administration, the patient reported severe anxiety and was observed to have full body jerking and twitching motions without mental status change. Notably, the patient was concomitantly receiving the antidepressant, trazodone and the benzodiazepine, clonazepam possibly affecting the severity and manifestations of serotonin toxicity. Linezolid was discontinued after 5 days and the patient's symptoms resolved. Serotonin toxicity can present with an array of symptoms and be life threatening if left unrecognised. This report highlights the clinical lessons that discontinuation of an SSRI upon initiation of linezolid does not eliminate the risk of serotonin toxicity and that other concomitant medications may worsen or improve some of the symptoms lending delay and uncertainty to the diagnosis.

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Neurocysticercosis: a reversible and rare cause of seizure in the developed world

Description 

A 22-year-old man, originally from India, presented to an emergency department in Canada with a new-onset seizure and collapse associated with a few seconds of right eye and tongue deviation. This event occurred following 6 weeks of difficulty concentrating and unilateral left-sided headache. On examination, no focal neurological deficits were found. A non-contrast CT head was requested which showed a left-sided occipital lesion. A follow-up brain MRI revealed the 'hole-with-dot' lesion pathognomonic for neurocysticercosis (NCC).

NCC is caused by the tapeworm Taenia solium and is the most common parasitic infection of the central nervous system, endemic to many low-income countries worldwide. T. solium is transmitted among humans via the faecal–oral route, with pigs acting as an intermediate host. Humans are a definitive host for the intestinal tapeworm which produces eggs containing an infective embryo (oncosphere). This embryo can actively cross the intestinal wall into the blood stream and deposit in...

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Adjacent schwannomas originating from intercostal and sympathetic nerves

Description 

Schwannomas are the most frequent type of intrathoracic neurogenic tumour, but the presence of multiple simultaneous schwannomas is a rare occurrence. We experienced a patient initially thought to have a single schwannoma based on preoperative imaging, but who was subsequently found to have two adjacent schwannomas arising from different nerves.

A 48-year-old woman showed an abnormal shadow on chest X-ray during a medical examination. CT-guided biopsy did not provide a definitive diagnosis, and she was therefore referred to our department. Her general condition was good and her neurological findings were normal. No skin pigmentation or subcutaneous nodules were observed. Chest CT revealed a 5.5 cm segmental lobular tumour in the right posterior mediastinum (figure 1A) and chest MRI showed that the tumour continued from the right intervertebral foramina (figure 1B). We suspected schwannoma of the intercostal nerve, and performed video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in the...

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Association between intraoperative phenylephrine administration and umbilical artery pH in women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: a retrospective cohort study

Abstract

Purpose

In healthy pregnant women undergoing Cesarean section, treatment of post-spinal hypotension (PSH) with phenylephrine is reportedly more efficacious than ephedrine in preventing a decline in umbilical artery pH (UApH), which is an indicator of fetal acidosis. However, phenylephrine has the potential to reduce placental blood flow and consequently decrease UApH in women who develop hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), due to decreased cardiac function and placental vascular abnormalities. We aimed to verify the association between decreased UApH and phenylephrine administered before delivery to treat PSH in women with HDP.

Methods

This single-center retrospective cohort study was conducted between April 2008 and October 2016 by assessing the records of pregnant women with confirmed or suspected HDP who underwent Cesarean section under spinal anesthesia. The association between phenylephrine and the primary endpoint of decreased UApH was investigated using logistic regression analysis and propensity score matching.

Results

In the original cohort of 107 pregnant women with HDP, neither univariate nor multivariate analysis indicated a significant association between phenylephrine treatment and decreased UApH [crude odds ratio (OR) = 2.26; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.75–6.77; P = 0.14], (adjusted OR = 1.80; 95% CI 0.55–5.93; P = 0.33). Thirty patients each who were not treated with phenylephrine (control group) and were treated with phenylephrine (phenylephrine group) were matched by propensity score analysis. UApH [median (interquartile range)] was not significantly different between control and phenylephrine groups [7.30 (7.25–7.35) vs. 7.27 (7.25–7.30); P = 0.14].

Conclusion

Intraoperative phenylephrine administration to treat PSH in women with HDP was not associated with decreased UApH.

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Making a difference in gender disparities

Across the globe, women are made vulnerable by modifiable determinants in their homes, communities and cultures. In "Barriers to healthcare for female patients in Papua New Guinea," Klaver and Coe address some of this risk. The authors present the case of a 25 year old woman who had complaints of abdominal distension, exertional dyspnea and amenorrhea. Despite trying to address these symptoms early on, she "had been turned away… [d]ue to limited resources and high levels of tribal fighting in the area…. The closest hospital where elective surgery was available was a 10-hour journey by dirt road for which she had neither transport nor funds to allow her to travel." Her husband had left her and taken a second wife due to her illness, and she had moved back to her family and was raising her child alone. "She currently had no contact with or financial support from her husband." She was diagnosed with HIV, treatment was initiated, and three months later had an ovarian cyst of 5.3 kg (12% of her body weight) removed in an uneventful elective surgery.

While there are multiple reasons for her delayed presentation to care and the severity of her symptoms, the authors make clear that tribal violence in the highlands of Papua New Guinea was a major factor in her delayed presentation. First, "Women are commonly targeted in the tribal fighting and subjected to rape and sexual violence as part of the conflict." Second, "Due to high levels of trauma and significant numbers of patients requiring emergency surgery… [the hospital] did not undertake elective procedures." Both of these facets of the tribal violence conspired against this patient to ensure she would remain in poor health.^[1]

Papua New Guinea is the only country in the pacific where women have a lower life expectancy than men. As described by the authors, "Many women are only allowed to attend… hospitals with the permission of their husbands, and any surgical procedure would certainly require… [his] consent." Many women in abusive relationships have no other options but to return to their abuser.^[2] Her amenorrhea caused her husband to abandon her for a second wife, and she was forced to provide for herself despite her condition. The author's hypothesize, "Had [her ill health]… not prevented her from working, she would likely never have voluntarily attended the hospital." These gender disparities are worsened in diseases associated with cultural stigma, such as HIV.^[3]

While the outcome from this case can be construed as positive, this woman still suffered for years because of discrimination against her gender. This is not only a problem in Papua New Guinea, but worldwide. Health professionals can act as advocates for these patients by ensuring they receive the proper care, being aware of the gender biases present in each culture, and fighting for their patients on a local, national and global level.

BMJ Case Reports invites authors to submit global health case reports that describe the disparities of healthcare based on gender. These cases could focus on:

-The factors contributing to these disparities

-The methods used to ensure equal care for all

-The unique contributions made by female practitioners in areas of gender disparities.

 

Manuscripts may be submitted by students, physicians, nurses and allied health professionals to BMJ Case Reports at www.bmjcasereports.com. For more information, review our guidance on how to write a global health case report and look through our online collection

 

To read more about gender disparities at BMJ Case Reports, please review:

-'The more we change, the more we remain the same': female feticide continues unabated in India

– Barriers to safe abortion access: uterine rupture as complication of unsafe abortion in a Ugandan girl

-HIV in India: the Jogini culture

 

To read more about gender disparities globally from other cited sources, please review:

^[1]ICRC report, 2016. The old ways are gone: Papua New Guinea's tribal wars become more destructive. Available at https://medium.com/@ICRC/the-old-ways-are-gone-papua-new-guineas-tribal-wars-become-more-destructive-ade38205196f

^[2]MSF, 2016. Papua New Guinea Report- "Return to abuser". http://www.msf.org/sites/msf.org/files/msf-pngreport-def-lr.pdf

^[3] Wardlow H. The (extra)ordinary ethics of being HIV-positive in rural Papua New Guinea. J R Anthropol Inst 2017;23:103–19.doi:10.1111/1467-9655.12546

 

The post Making a difference in gender disparities appeared first on BMJ Case Reports blog.

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Challenges and hurdles for patient safety in obstetric anesthesia in Japan

Abstract

The use of pain relief for labor has gained popularity in Japan. However, its acceptance is still low among laboring women: only 6.1% of Japanese parturients receive labor analgesia, in contrast with the United States, where approximately 70% receive labor analgesia. Unfortunately, several maternal deaths associated with labor analgesia have been reported in recent years in Japan and how to achieve safer obstetric care is a pressing concern. In this review, we focus on current approaches to labor analgesia in the United States as they compare to existing practices in Japan. We discuss challenges for the introduction and implementation of standard anesthesia practice into the Labor and Delivery Room (LDR; i.e., labor and delivery ward), aiming to secure safety for both mothers and fetus in every part of Japan in the near future.

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Dengue shock syndrome complicated with acute liver failure and kidney injury, infective endocarditis, and deep vein thrombosis: a case report

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease with a very high incidence in Southeast Asia. Most patients with dengue fever recover following a self-limiting febrile illness, while a small proportion may prog...

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Oesophageal adenocarcinoma following gastric band surgery in two patients

Abstract

Oesophageal adenocarcinoma following gastric band surgery has only been reported three times previously. The incidence is higher in morbidly obese patients, and its pathogenesis is correlated to reflux-induced microenvironmental changes. Bariatric surgery is transformative and its potential benefit for a substantial population is huge. Although no causal relationship with bariatric procedures has been evidenced to date, symptoms of adenocarcinoma—particularly anorexia, weight loss and dysphagia—can easily be overshadowed by alterations in eating patterns associated with weight-loss procedures. We report two cases of oesophageal adenocarcinoma in patients who had undergone a gastric banding procedure, and invite readers to consider the role that pre- and post-operative acid reflux dynamics may have precipitating neoplastic disease, and how endoscopic surveillance may play a role in prevention.

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Gastric outlet obstruction secondary to orbera intragastric balloon

Abstract

Intragastric balloons are used as a temporary restrictive method in obesity to induce weight loss. They are typically recommended when patients have mild obesity and have failed traditional first line treatments of diet, exercise and behaviour modification. We report a case of a 45-year-old female who presented with nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain two weeks following an uncomplicated insertion of an intragastric balloon. Following investigation, she was found to have a gastric outlet obstruction which required endoscopic removal of the balloon. While a rare occurrence, gastric outlet obstruction as seen in this case, highlights the importance of early recognition in order to proceed with swift diagnosis and intervention in order to prevent significant morbidity such as ischaemia and perforation.

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Surgical management of a giant right atrial myxoma

Abstract

Cardiac tumours represent around 0.2% of tumours overall, and primary cardiac tumours are even more uncommon. We report the case of a 72-year-old female with a 7 cm × 4 cm right atrial mass which was prolapsing through the tricuspid valve. The mass was resected and histological analysis confirmed a myxoma. This report describes a rare finding of a giant right atrial mxyoma and subsequent surgical management.

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Tulip piercing the aorta: a rare case of IVC filter aortic perforation and obstruction

ABSTRACT

Prolonged implantation of inferior vena cava (IVC) filters can lead to significant morbidity. We present a 25-year-old man with antiphospholipid syndrome, lower extremity deep vein thrombosis, and subsequent Gunther-Tulip IVC filter placement. More than 10 years following IVC filter placement he developed progressive abdominal and back pains. Cross-sectional angiography revealed that he had a chronic IVC occlusion, and IVC filter limb extensions into the infrarenal aorta, lumbar spine, and right psoas muscle. The IVC filter limb protruding into the aorta had also pierced through the backwall to lead to partial lumen thrombosis and obstruction. The patient underwent a transabdominal exposure of the infrarenal IVC and aorta, filter explantation and aortic patch angioplasty repair. This case highlights the severity of aortic injury from a protruding IVC filter limb that necessitated open aortic repair. Improved selection, monitoring and retrieval stewardship of IVC filters can help reduce the risk of unintended aortic complications.

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Hemothorax after emphysematous bullectomy using a linear staple device with bioabsorbable polyglycolic acid felt

Abstract

A linear stapler with bioabsorbable polyglycolic acid felt is widely used during the resection of emphysematous lung. Currently, an improved staple device with polyglycolic acid felt is being used owing to a history of complications, such as bleeding, that was associated with the previous model. Here, we report a case of a 69-year-old man who presented to our department for treatment of left lower lobe lung cancer using the new staple device. A left lower lobectomy and emphysematous bullectomy were performed. Reoperation was performed following the diagnosis of a postoperative hemothorax. During that operation, a staple with reinforcing material was found to be in contact with the proliferating vessels on the lung surface, resulting in an active bleed. The vessel was cauterized, and the bleeding stopped. This is the first case study to report bleeding associated with the improved staple device.

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A left ventricular assist device for a patient with peripartum cardiomyopathy

Abstract

Since its introduction in Japan in 1980, the extracorporeal left ventricular assist device has been used as a bridge to the recovery of cardiac function or to heart transplantation by many institutions. In this case report, we describe a 23-year-old female with peripartum cardiomyopathy. She had a persistently low cardiac index despite intensive care with intravenous inotropes, intra-aortic balloon pumping and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation; thus, we implanted an extracorporeal left ventricular assist device. Thereafter, her cardiac function gradually improved; the device was removed 2 months after the implantation. She currently has good heart function.

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Endo GIA stapler malfunction in a small bowel loop resection

Abstract

Endovascular gastrointestinal anastomosis (Endo-GIA) staplers are widely used in various surgical procedures despite difficulties in operating them and associated mechanical failures. We present a case of a patient whose post-operative recovery was complicated by intraoperative Endo-GIA stapler failure, which is rarely reported in literature. Our report describes the behavior and consequences of surgical stapler failure so surgeons can anticipate challenges of newer surgical devices while maintaining optimal patient outcomes.

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Primitive synovial sarcoma of suboccipital region in child

Abstract

Synovial sarcoma (SS) most commonly affects the lower limbs of males in the third to fifth decades of life, with masses of the head and neck accounting for 3–10% of all cases, mainly as a metastatic lesion. The lack of specific symptoms and radiological features in addition to the diversity of their microscopic aspects may cause confusion in the diagnosis; hence, knowledge of the unusual locations of SSs is very important. The immunohistochemistry, and more recently the cytogenetic studies, contribute to the differential diagnosis. We report the case of a 12-year-old girl with a rare primary SS in the suboccipital region, which underwent complete surgical resection.

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Segmental intestinal dilatation associated with ileal gastric heterotopia in a young woman

Abstract

Segmental intestinal dilatation (SID) is a rare gastrointestinal disorder characterized by marked bowel dilatation and can result in signs of intestinal obstruction, abdominal pain and gastrointestinal bleeding. SID is seen most commonly in pediatric patients, with most cases being reported in neonates and infants. Definitive treatment is resection of the dilated segment of bowel with primary anastomosis. This article describes a rare case of SID in an adult patient—a 26-year-old female who presented with chronic abdominal pain. The patient experienced complete resolution of symptoms following surgical resection.

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High-dose intraoperative remifentanil infusion increases early postoperative analgesic consumption: a prospective, randomized, double-blind controlled study

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine whether intraoperative infusion of remifentanil induces acute tolerance to opioids, and compare the postoperative pain and opioid consumption by the effect site concentrations of remifentanil.

Methods

One hundred and ninety-eight patients undergoing gastrectomy were randomly assigned to maintain target effect site concentrations of remifentanil at 0 (Group 1, n = 39), 2 (Group 2, n = 40), 4 (Group 3, n = 39), 8 (Group 4, n = 40), or 12 ng/ml (Group 5, n = 40) during operation. Postoperative pain intensities and fentanyl requirement were recorded at postoperative 2, 6, 24, and 48 h.

Results

Fentanyl requirement for postoperative 2 h was significantly greater in Group 5 compared to Group 1 (376 ± 116 vs. 283 ± 129 µg, P = 0.03). However, there were no differences in fentanyl requirements among the groups after postoperative 2 h. Also, total fentanyl consumption for 48 h was similar in all groups (Group 1; 3106 ± 629, Group 2; 2970 ± 705, Group 3; 3017 ± 555, Group 4; 3151 ± 606, and Group 5; 2984 ± 443 µg, P = 0.717). Pain scores at rest and during deep breathing were comparable in all groups at the time of each examination.

Conclusion

Intraoperative infusion of remifentanil with 12 ng/ml of effect site concentration in patients undergoing gastrectomy increases early postoperative fentanyl requirement. Acute opioid tolerance would be developed by higher concentration of remifentanil than dosage of common anesthetic practice.

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Hip Mobilization at Preterm Age May Accelerate Developmental Dysplasia Recovery

Purpose. Few studies have described mobilization approaches in developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). The present study describes the hip mobilization of a preterm infant (born at 33 6/7 weeks of gestational age) diagnosed with DDH. Design and Methods. During the 43-day hospital stay, the infant was seen twice a week (ten sessions, 20 minutes each). All sessions included hip approximation maneuvers, with the hip positioned in abduction, lateral rotation and flexion, and lower limbs passive mobilization, which were taught to the mother. Early intervention with auditory, tactile, visual, and vestibular stimulations was also performed. The infant was assessed with hip ultrasound before and after treatment. Results. At 34 2/7 weeks of gestational age, she was classified as Graf IIa (left: alpha: 55°, beta: 68°; right: alpha: 59°, beta: 64°). At 40 5/7 weeks, she was classified as Graf I for left (alpha: 67°; beta: 42°) and right (alpha: 66°; beta: 42°) hips. Practical Implications. The intervention seemed to accelerate the acquisition of stability of dysplasic hips in a preterm infant. The outcome supports further investigation of hip approximation maneuvers as part of early stimulation in preterm infants with DDH during hospital stay.

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Dexmedetomidine preserves the endothelial glycocalyx and improves survival in a rat heatstroke model

Abstract

Purpose

Heatstroke causes systemic inflammation, followed by vascular endothelial damage. The normal vascular endothelium is coated by endothelial glycocalyx (EGCX). Dexmedetomidine (DEX) has an anti-inflammatory effect, but there has been little investigation on the influence of heatstroke on EGCX and the effect of DEX on this condition. Therefore, we examined whether EGCX was disrupted in heatstroke and if DEX improved survival and preserves EGCX.

Methods

Anesthetized Wistar rats were randomly assigned to three groups: a DEX group treated with DEX (5 µg/kg/h) and 0.9% saline infused continuously at 10 ml/kg/h during heat exposure; a NSS group given 0.9% saline during heat exposure; and a SHAM group given 0.9% saline alone without heat exposure. Heatstroke was induced by exposure to an ambient temperature of 40 °C with relative humidity of 60%. The survival rate was assessed up to 2 h after the start of heat exposure. Plasma levels of syndecan-1 and the thickness of EGCX using electron microscopy were measured when the systolic blood pressure fell to less than 80 mmHg.

Results

The survival rate after 2 h of heat exposure was significantly higher in the DEX group compared to the NSS group (89% vs. 22%, P = 0.004). Plasma levels of syndecan-1 were 0.6 ± 1.3, 9.7 ± 5.9, and 2.1 ± 3.4 ng/ml in the SHAM, NSS and DEX groups, respectively (P = 0.013). The thickness of EGCX was significantly higher in the DEX group compared with the NSS group (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

EGCX was disrupted in heatstroke, and DEX improved survival and preserved EGCX.

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Post-mortem diagnosis of Pompe disease by exome sequencing in a Moroccan family: a case report

Pompe disease is an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder characterized by progressive myopathy with proximal muscle weakness, respiratory muscle dysfunction, and cardiomyopathy. Its prevalence ranges...

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Patterns of Hysteresis Between Induction and Emergence of Neuroanesthesia are Present in Spinal and Intracranial Surgeries

Background: Recovery of consciousness is usually seen as a passive process, with emergence from anesthesia depicted as the inverse process of induction resulting from the elimination of anesthetic drugs from their central nervous system sites of action. However, that need not be the case. Recently it has been argued that we might encounter hysteresis to changes in the state of consciousness, known as neural inertia. This phenomenon has been debated in neuroanesthesia, as manipulation of the brain might further influence recovery of consciousness. The present study is aimed at assessing hysteresis between induction and emergence under propofol-opioid neuroanesthesia in humans using estimated propofol concentrations in both spinal and intracranial surgeries. Methods: We identified the moments of loss (LOR) and recovery of responsiveness (ROR) in 21 craniotomies and 25 spinal surgeries. Propofol was given slowly until loss of responsiveness and stopped at the end of surgery. An opioid was present at induction and recovery. Propofol infused was recorded and plasma and effect-site concentrations were estimated using 2 pharmacokinetic models. Dose-response curves were generated. Estimated propofol plasma and effect-site concentrations were compared to assess hysteresis. Results: Estimated propofol concentrations at LOR and ROR showed hysteresis. Whether for spinal or intracranial surgeries, the EC50 of propofol at which half of the patients entered and exited the state of responsiveness was significantly different. Conclusions: Hysteresis was observed between propofol concentrations at LOR and ROR, in both patients presenting for spinal and intracranial surgeries. Manipulation of the brain does not appear to change patterns of hysteresis, suggesting that neural inertia may occur in humans, in a way similar to that found in animal species. These findings justify performing a clinical study in patients using measured propofol concentrations to assess neural inertia. Supported by the Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia with the reference projects SFRH/BD/98915/2013 and UID/SEM/50022/2013. The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose. Address correspondence to: Ana Leitão Ferreira, MSc, MS, Center of Clinical Investigation in Anesthesiology, Service of Anesthesiology, Hospital Center of Porto, Largo Professor Abel Salazar, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal (e-mail: ana.leitao.ferreira@gmail.com). Received April 12, 2018 Accepted September 14, 2018 Copyright © 2018 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved

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Journal Club

No abstract available

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Acute cholecystitis and gallbladder perforation leading to massive haemoperitoneum in a patient taking rivaroxaban

We present the case of an 80-year old man taking rivaroxaban for atrial fibrillation who sustained massive intra-abdominal bleeding in the setting of acute cholecystitis. CT scan on admission revealed evidence of active bleeding into the gallbladder lumen and gallbladder perforation. Immediate resuscitation was commenced with intravenous fluids, antibiotics and blood products. Despite attempts to correct coagulopathy, the patient's haemodynamic status deteriorated and an emergency laparotomy was performed, with open cholecystectomy, washout and haemostasis. The patient had a largely uneventful recovery and was discharged on day 11 of admission. Patients with coagulopathies, whether pharmacological or due to underlying disease processes, are at very high risk of severe haemorrhagic complications and subsequent morbidity. As such, prompt recognition and operative management of haemorrhagic perforated cholecystitis is of crucial importance.

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Infection of a tophaceous nodule of the wirst and hand

Tophaceous gout occurs years after recurrent attacks of acute inflammatory arthritis. The urate deposits are incriminated in the inflammatory process; however, their infection is exceptional. We report the observation of an infected gouty tophus of the pinky and the wrist of a 40-year-old man, presented as an excruciating inflammatory pain with buff-yellow swelling of the fifth right finger and wrist in a febrile context. As a matter of fact, the evolution was favourable after surgical excision and antibiotic therapy. The infection of a tophus is an exceptional complication of the gout. In daily practice, this diagnosis is really a difficult challenge for the clinician. The systematic bacteriological examination of the tophi with cutaneous fistulation is necessary to introduce prematurely an adapted treatment.

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Rare extraspinal cause of acute lumbar radiculopathy

A 60-year-old man presented to an outpatient pain management clinic with antalgic gait and left lower extremity (LLE) radiculopathy from an unknown aetiology. A lumbar MRI revealed minimal disc protrusion at L3 and a partially visualised left-sided kidney abnormality. Abdominal and pelvic CT demonstrated severe hydronephrosis of the left kidney compressing the left psoas major. The patient was immediately referred to an outside hospital for nephrology workup, and following nephrostomy tube, his radicular pain resolved. He remained asymptomatic at 4 weeks follow-up. We found two cases of postsurgical, retroperitoneal fluid collection that caused lumbar radiculopathy, but none associated with hydronephrosis. To our knowledge, this is the first case in the literature to report hydronephrosis as the potential aetiology of lumbar radiculopathy, which highlights an important clinical reminder: to consider extraspinal aetiologies in all patients who present with lumbar radiculopathy, when clinical symptoms, examination findings and diagnostic studies present with unusual characteristics.

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Coexisting polyarticular septic arthritis, gout and pseudogout

A case of a 67-year-old man with coexisting polyarticular septic arthritis due to group G Streptococcus, gout and pseudogout is presented. Septic arthritis of the left knee joint was further complicated by the development of an adjacent osteomyelitis. Appropriate management led to a full clinical recovery. Atypical clinical presentations in elderly, need for a sampling of more than one joint in polyarthritis and a summary of similar cases in literature is discussed.

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Rare vascular complication of acute meningococcal meningitis in a child

Description 

A 5-year-old boy presented with fever for 4 days and acute-onset weakness of the right upper and lower limb for 1  day. There was no history of headache, seizures, vomiting and altered sensorium, rash or bleeding from any site. On examination, he had normal mentation, neck stiffness, Kernig's sign, right-sided upper motor neuron facial palsy and right hemiparesis. The rest of the systemic examination was unremarkable. A clinical diagnosis of acute meningitis with left Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA) territory stroke was made.

Cerebrospinal fluid examination revealed 980 cells/µL (90% polymorphonuclear leucocytes and 10% lymphocytes), glucose 47 mg/dL, proteins 110 mg/dL and Neisseria meningitides antigen was positive; however, no organism could be isolated on microscopy and culture. He was unimmunised for meningococcal vaccine. Blood culture was sterile. Detailed stroke and immune deficiency work-up was negative. MRI of the brain showed altered signal changes in left frontal lobe, anterior limb of the internal capsule,...

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Unique retroinnominate course of the left brachiocephalic vein

Description  

A 4-year-old girl diagnosed with tetralogy of Fallot on transthoracic echocardiogram, was referred for a CT angiography (CTA) for preoperative anatomical assessment of the primary cardiac defect and associated cardiovascular anomalies. Review of CTA images revealed a unique anomalous course of the left brachiocephalic vein (*) where it was seen crossing the midline above the arch, anterior to the left common carotid artery (LCCA) and left subclavian artery (LSCA) but coursing posterior to the innominate artery, before joining the right brachiocephalic vein (RBCV) to form the right superior vena cava (RSVC) (figure 1A–D).

Figure 1

Volume rendered and axial maximum intensity projection images of CT angiography  (A–D) depicts the left brachiocephalic vein (*) traversing anterior to the left subclavian artery and left common carotid artery and posterior to the innominate artery, before joining the right brachiocephalic vein. LCCA, left common carotid artery; LSCA, left subclavian artery; RBCV, right...

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Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in aluminum phosphide poisoning in Nepal: a case report

Aluminum phosphide is a very common suicide agent in developing countries like Nepal. Due to the unavailability of a specific antidote, mortality is very high because the phosphine molecule that is formed lead...

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Uncommon presentation of desmoplastic fibroblastoma on the tongue of a female patient

Desmoplastic fibroblastoma (DF) is a rare benign soft tissue with spindle-to-stellate-shaped fibroblasts and myofibroblasts embedded in a prominent collagenous background. DF, mainly affecting subcutaneous and muscle tissue, very rarely occurs in the oral cavity. Hitherto, only one case of DF on the tongue has been reported. Here, we report another case. A 66-year-old woman was referred to our hospital with a mass formation in the tongue. On examination, a well-circumscribed, elastic, soft tumour with normal surface mucosa, measuring 13x12 mm, was observed on the left dorsal surface of her tongue. MRI and ultrasonography confirmed the mass, and a benign tongue tumour was suspected. The tumour was surgically resected under general anaesthesia 1 month later, leading to the histopathological diagnosis of DF. She experienced an uneventful clinical recovery after surgery, with no recurrence noted for more than 1 year postoperatively.

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Aggressive treatment in paediatric or young patients with drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome (DiHS)/drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is associated with future development of type III polyglandular autoimmune syndrome

We experienced a 6-year-old case of drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome (DiHS)/drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) with subsequent development autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's thyroiditis), type 1 diabetes with antithyroglobulin, thyroid peroxidase, insulinoma-associated antigen and anti-insulin antibodies at 4 months, alopecia at 7 months, vitiligo, uveitis due to Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease at 8 months after clinical resolution of the DiHS/DRESS. He was diagnosed as type III polyglandular autoimmune syndrome (PASIII) after DiHS/DRESS. Prompted by this case, we sought to determine which triggering factors were responsible for later development of PASIII in previously published cases with autoimmune sequelae. In the literature review, five patients with DIHS/DRESS were found to develop autoimmune sequelae consistent with PASIII. All cases with PASIII were much younger than those without them. Four out of the five patients were treated with intravenous immunoglobulin or pulsed prednisolone in the acute stage, although effective in short-term outcomes.

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Lemierres syndrome: a life-threatening sore throat

Description 

A 25-year-old previously healthy Japanese man presented to our emergency department with a 1-day history of dyspnoea, following a sore throat in the previous week. Physical examination revealed acute exudative tonsillitis and right-sided diminished breath sounds. The laboratory analysis revealed a significantly elevated C reactive protein level of 30.67 mg/dL. A CT scan with contrast revealed a thrombophlebitis of the left internal jugular vein, a right-sided empyema and bilateral septic pulmonary emboli (figure 1).

Figure 1

Axial CT scan with contrast of the neck (left) and the chest (right). A thrombus in the left internal jugular vein (arrow, left), empyema (asterisks) and septic pulmonary emboli (arrow, right) are depicted.

In addition to thoracocentesis, curettage and irrigation of the right-sided thoracic cavity were performed with video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. Gram staining of the purulent pleural fluid showed Gram-negative rods with abundant polymorphonuclear leukocytes....

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When things are not quite what they seem!

Description 

A 61-year-old man presented with recurrent presyncope, 12-lead ECG and echocardiographic features of a right ventricular (RV) cardiomyopathy, and non-sustained ventricular tachycardia on Holter monitoring. During defibrillator implant for presumed arrhythmogenic RV cardiomyopathy, ventricular pacing parameters were satisfactory and the following images were obtained (figure 1). The implantable cardioverter defibrillator lead appeared well sited in the RV apex on posterior-anterior fluoroscopy (figure 1A). However, screening in the left anterior oblique (LAO) projection raised doubts about the true lead position (figure 1B). On-table echocardiography and 12-lead ECG confirmed lead placement within the left ventricle (LV). Pullback of the lead, while screening, suggested passage to the systemic circulation via an atrial septal defect (ASD; figure 2A–D and video 1). Attempts to reposition the lead by advancing it from the superior vena cava (SVC) revealed an anomalous connection to a right pulmonary...

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Concurrent testicular torsion and acute incarcerated inguinal hernia in an adolescent boy

Testicular torsion and acute incarcerated inguinal hernia are both common surgical emergencies in the paediatric population. We present the unusual case of a 16-year-old adolescent boy who presented with both of these conditions concurrently. He had a history of a right inguinal hernia, but ultrasound confirmed a testicular torsion and we employed manual detorsion in the emergency department prior to taking him to the operating room. We successfully salvaged the testicle in addition to performing inguinal hernia reduction and repair. The goal of this report is to emphasise the importance of maintaining a broad differential and early utilisation of ultrasound in the patient with acute groin pain.

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Pleural tuberculosis: a key differential diagnosis for pleural thickening, even without obvious risk factors for tuberculosis in a low incidence setting

We report the case of a 64-year-old woman, presenting with pleuritic chest pain and weight loss. She had a previous history of breast malignancy and no clear risk factors for tuberculosis (TB). Initial investigations showed a right-sided pleural effusion and pleural thickening suggestive of malignancy, which would have been in keeping with the clinical presentation. Initial pleural biopsy showed features suggestive of possible TB infection, though no growth on cultures. A repeat biopsy was negative on initial microscopy, but was culture positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, also identifying isoniazid resistance. This case highlights that TB remains an important differential even in the absence of classical risk factors, and illustrates the diagnostic challenges it poses. It also highlights the value of culture positivity in identification of drug resistance and facilitation of appropriate treatment.

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Recurrent biliary dissemination of colon cancer liver metastasis: a case report

Most colorectal cancer liver metastases form nodules within the hepatic parenchyma, and hepatectomy is the only radical treatment for synchronous metastases. There is concern about intrabiliary tumor growth wh...

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A good beginning makes a good ending: association between acute pain trajectory and chronic postsurgical pain

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Poland syndrome accompanied by internal iliac artery supply disruption sequence: a case report

Poland syndrome is a congenital malformation characterized by ipsilateral hand and chest wall depression, including an absence or hypoplasia of the breast and pectoral muscles. These hypoplastic defects are re...

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Adult bilateral idiopathic occlusion of foramina of Monro: is foraminoplasty really safe and effective?

Idiopathic bilateral occlusion of foramina of Monro is an extremely rare condition in adults and only few cases are reported. Currently, foraminoplasty is indicated as first-line treatment. We reported the case of a 52-year-old woman who presented with headache, instability and urinary incontinence. The imaging demonstrated bilateral occlusion of foramina of Monro and consequent biventricular hydrocephalus. A ventriculo-peritoneal shunt allowed to treat the hydrocephalus, but it was necessary to remove it for the appearance of peritonitis from salpingitis. Since the initial symptomatology reappeared, according to the literature, we performed an endoscopic foraminoplasty with septostomy. The patient immediately developed short-term memory impairment and subsequently we observed the hydrocephalus recurrence. The positioning of a ventriculo-atrial shunt allowed to improve the symptoms, but the memory remained impaired. In case of bilateral true stenosis of foramina of Monro, foraminoplasty may lead to severe memory impairment. Therefore, cerebrospinal fluid shunting should be considered as an effective and safer treatment.

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Prenatal diagnosis and management of fetal discordant alpha-thalassaemia in dichorionic diamniotic (DCDA) twins

A 29-year-old nulliparous woman with a dichorionic diamniotic (DCDA) twin pregnancy was referred to our hospital at 16 weeks' gestation for prenatal diagnosis. She was diagnosed of Haemoglobin H Constant Spring (Hb H CS; --^SEA/α^CSα) and her husband of alpha thalassemia-1 trait (--^SEA/αα). Detailed ultrasound showed that left twin had fetal anaemia and early signs of hydrops while the right one was normal. Both twins were female. Amniocentesis in each sac was performed for prenatal diagnosis of thalassemia after a proper counselling with the couple. DNA analysis confirmed that the left fetus was affected with haemoglobin Bart's hydrops fetalis (--^SEA/--^SEA) while the right one was alpha thalassemia-1 trait (--^SEA/αα). Selective feticide with intracardiac injection of KCl was successfully performed on the hydropic fetus. Identification of the affected fetus is crucial for selective termination. Family counselling about the procedure and complications is also necessary.

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Histologically confirmed case of complete atrioventricular block due to hepatocellular carcinoma

A 72-year-old man, who had been diagnosed as having hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with multiple extrahepatic metastasis, complained a general fatigue which appeared 2 weeks before admission. Because bradycardia was detected on physical examination, ECG was performed which revealed the complete atrioventricular (AV) block. We stopped Ca-blocker and β-blocker, but the bradycardia persisted. He was admitted to our hospital for an emergent pacemaker implantation. On admission, he complained dyspnoea. After the surgery, he died due to deterioration of heart failure. The autopsy revealed cardiac metastasis of HCC on AV node, so it was suspected that cardiac metastasis caused the AV block. We thought that the cause of his death was the exacerbation of heart failure associated with bradycardia. It was likely that complete AV block as a very rare complication caused by cardiac metastasis of HCC influenced the prognosis of this patient.

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Umbilical cord anomalies: antenatal ultrasound findings and postnatal correlation

Umbilical cord anomalies are rare. The differential diagnosis for a cystic structure around the umbilical cord and its insertion include pseudocyst, omphalomesenteric duct cyst, haemangioma, omphalocele or anterior abdominal wall defects. Although cord anomalies can be detected through antenatal ultrasound scans (US), very often a definitive diagnosis cannot be made. This may affect the management of the infant at birth. In cases where antenatal US was not diagnostic, current evidence supports the use of MRI to help in making an accurate diagnosis. We report two cases of umbilical cord anomalies. The first case was diagnosed in antenatal US as an omphalocele, but was found to be an allantoic cyst with hamartoma on postnatal diagnosis. The second case was not detected on antenatal US, and was diagnosed postnatally as a small omphalocele with vitellointestinal duct remnants.

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Coronary artery vasospasm in a patient withChurg-Strauss syndrome

Patients with Churg-Strauss syndrome often suffer from unusual cardiac manifestations and sudden cardiac death. This differs from patients with other autoimmune disorders, who typically present with premature ischaemic heart disease. We report the case of a 56-year-old man with recurrent coronary vasospasm, including an inferoposterior ST-elevation myocardial infarction, complicated by bradycardic arrest. There was only minor coronary artery disease on coronary angiography. An elevated eosinophil count was noted. His medical history included allergic rhinitis with polyposis, adult-onset asthma and biopsy-proven eosinophilic oesophagitis. Review of his sinus biopsies demonstrated blood vessels with marked accumulation of eosinophils in extravascular areas. The patient, therefore, met the American College of Rheumatology criteria for Churg-Strauss syndrome. The patient was commenced on immunosuppression, with the return of the eosinophil count to within normal limits, and remains free of cardiovascular events over 24 months.

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Not just another diplopia: neurocysticercosis in a postpartum woman

Description 

A 23-year-old woman with a history of child birth 2 weeks back presented to the outpatient department with binocular diplopia and slight blurring of vision in both eyes (BE) for last 1 week. She also had four bouts of vomiting with associated nausea and hemicranial dull headache for last 3 days. The antenatal and immediate perinatal period was uneventful. Previous history as well as systemic history was not significant. The patient was afebrile. On systemic examination, neck stiffness could be elucidated. The blood pressure was recorded to be 124/74 mm Hg. Ocular examination revealed the visual acuity to be 20/40 in BE. There was restricted abduction of the right eye (figure 1) and diplopia charting revealed isolated sixth cranial nerve palsy. Pupillary reaction was brisk in BE with no evidence of relative afferent pupillary defect. Slit lamp evaluation of the anterior segment showed no abnormality. On fundus evaluation, bilateral disc oedema with ill-defined...

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Giant vesicle calculi leading to spontaneous bladder rupture and acute renal failure: an unusual presentation

Spontaneous rupture of the urinary bladder is extremely rare. We report a case of a 70-year-old man with spontaneous bladder rupture secondary to neglected giant vesicle calculi who presented as acute renal failure. The patient was stabilised with per-urethral catheterisation and extravesical drain placement. About 700 mL pus mixed with urine was drained through the per-urethral catheter and approximately 2000 mL of pus was drained through the extravesical drain. Cystolithotomy showed two large calculi which were removed.

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Acute aortic dissection: a missed diagnosis

A 60-year-old man with a history of indigestion and untreated hypertension presented with sudden-onset central chest pain which radiated to his back. Acute coronary syndrome was initially suspected but excluded in the emergency department before the patient was discharged. The pain subsequently abated to mild intermittent episodes and was misdiagnosed as indigestion. A week later the patient developed new shortness of breath and 'flu-like' symptoms with a positive d-dimer test. CT angiography revealed a Stanford type B aortic dissection which was causing hypoperfusion of the right kidney, resulting in an acute kidney injury. Due to uncontrolled hypertension despite rigorous antihypertensive medication and his failing renal function, the patient underwent endovascular repair and made a good recovery postoperatively.

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Proximal humerus deformity, in a four-limb amputee following meningococcal septicaemia

We present a challenging case of proximal humerus varus deformity in a four-limb amputee, caused by growth arrest from meningococcal septicaemia. The deformity resulted in a loss of function for our patient with inhibition of activities of daily living, requiring corrective osteotomy to help improve the range of motion of the shoulder. We describe in detail the management of our patient, highlight the importance of the orthopaedic manifestations of meningococcal septicaemia, and demonstrate the importance of monitoring potential deformities from growth arrest in these patients.

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Tuberous sclerosis complex: a clinical case with multiple ophthalmological manifestations

The tuberous sclerosis complex is a rare disease, with autosomal dominant transmission, with multisystemic involvement including ophthalmologic. Retinal hamartomas and retinal achromic patch are the most frequent ocular findings. Other ophthalmic signs and symptoms are relatively rare in this disease.

We describe the case of a young woman with tuberous sclerosis who presented with horizontal binocular diplopia and decreased visual acuity without complaints of nausea, vomiting or headache. She had right abducens nerve palsy, pale oedema of both optic discs and retinal hamartomas. An obstructive hydrocephalus caused by an intraventricular expansive lesion was identified in brain CT.

Observation by the ophthalmologist is indicated in all confirmed or suspected cases of tuberous sclerosis to aid in clinical diagnosis, monitoring of retinal hamartomas or identification of poorly symptomatic papilloedema.

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Chest pain following permanent pacemaker insertion... a case of pneumopericardium due to atrial lead perforation

Permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation is an increasingly common procedure with complication rate estimated between 3% and 6%. Cardiac perforation by pacemaker lead(s) is rare, but a previous study has shown that it is probably an underdiagnosed complication. We are presenting a case of a patient who presented 5 days after PPM insertion with new-onset pleuritic chest pain. She had a normal chest X-ray (CXR), and acceptable pacing checks. However, a CT scan of the chest showed pneumopericardium and pneumothorax secondary to atrial lead perforation. The pain only settled by replacing the atrial lead. A repeat chest CT scan a few months later showed complete resolution of the pneumopericardium and pneumothorax. We believe that cardiac perforation can be easily missed if associated with normal CXR and acceptable pacing parameters. Unexplained chest pain following PPM insertion might be the only clue for such complication, although it might not always be present.

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Solitary fibrous tumour of caecum wall: an unlikely cause of low gastrointestinal haemorrhage

Solitary fibrous tumour (SFT), previously denominated as haemangiopericytoma, is a rare, spindle cell neoplasm that was first described in the thoracic pleura. It is now known that this tumour may develop from almost any anatomic location. We report a case of SFT, in a 65-year-old man, which was located in the muscularis propria layer of the caecum with involvement of the serosa and the ileocecal appendix, location never described in the literature, and with an uncommon clinical presentation of hematochezia. A radical right hemicolectomy was performed, and the patient was asymptomatic without evidence of metastasis or relapse after 6 months of follow-up.

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Neck carbuncle associated with methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia

Description 

A 66-year-old man presented with a 14-day history of painful posterior neck swelling and fever for a week prior to presentation. A restricted neck movements was noted over the last 3 days. Generally, he had a fever of 37.5°C and tachycardia at 121 bpm, whereas the other vital signs were normal. Local physical examination showed large posterior neck swelling with erythema and multiple sinuses discharging pus.

A neck carbuncle was diagnosed (figure 1).1 2 Skin eruptions were noted also on the lower extremities and gluteal region.

Figure 1

Physical examination. (a) A pustule in posterior neck which is surrounded by an extensive erythematous swelling (white dotted circle). (b) The pustules that have the same features were seen at lower extremity and gluteal region.

Laboratory evaluation showed a haemoglobin level of 14.3 g/dL, leucocyte count of 38 800x109/L, sodium of 132 mmol/L, creatinine of...

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Iris Morphological Features in Patients with 360° Angle-Closure Neovascular Glaucoma: An Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography Study

Purpose: To investigate iris morphological features in 360° angle-closure neovascular glaucoma (NVG) by swept-source anterior segment optical coherence tomography (ASOCT). Patients and Methods: In this retrospective, clinic-based, comparative study, 14 patients with 360° angle-closure NVG and 14 healthy age-matched control subjects were enrolled. All patients enrolled had no prior glaucoma surgery but underwent cataract surgery with intraocular lens implantation. Horizontal scanning images of swept-source ASOCT were analyzed using software calipers in temporal and nasal angle areas. The iris thickness at 1 and 2 mm from the pupil edge, iris length, trabecular meshwork length, peripheral anterior synechia (PAS) length, PAS height ratio (PAS length/trabecular meshwork length), and pupil diameter were measured. Results: Between the groups, there were no statistically significant differences in iris length, trabecular meshwork length, and pupil diameter (p #x3e; 0.05). However, the iris thickness was significantly reduced in the NVG group compared with the control group in the temporal and nasal areas (0.306 vs. 0.563 mm/0.326 vs. 0.645 mm at 1 mm, 0.278 vs. 0.523 mm/0.282 vs. 0.546 mm at 2 mm, respectively) (mean, all p #x3c; 0.001). In the NVG group, PAS height ratios were 1.55 ± 0.45 (mean ± standard deviation) (range, 0.58–2.30) and 1.55 ± 0.78 (range, 0.68–3.68) at the temporal and nasal angles, respectively. Conclusions: In patients with 360° angle-closure NVG, the iris thickness decreased to about 50% of that in healthy subjects, and the PAS length exceeded the trabecular meshwork length by about 1.5 times.
Case Rep Ophthalmol 2018;9:449–456

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Hitherto unreported involvement pattern of Carvajal phenotype of cardiocutaneous syndrome: evaluation on cardiac MRI

Description 

An 11-year-old boy, born out of a consanguineous marriage, was admitted with gradually progressive dyspnoea, and facial and abdominal swelling for the past 1 year. On physical examination, he had woolly hair and patchy keratosis over the palms and soles (figure 1A,B). Chest radiograph showed gross cardiomegaly (figure 1C). ECG revealed left axis deviation. Transthoracic echocardiogram demonstrated biventricular dilatation with severe left ventricular dysfunction, trabecular configuration of both ventricles along with mild tricuspid and mitral valve regurgitation. Cardiac MRI revealed biventricular dilatation with severe global hypokinesia (left ventricular ejection fraction: 10%) and increased trabeculations in both the ventricles (figure 2A–D). Late gadolinium enhanced images showed extensive transmural enhancement predominantly of septum and lateral wall of left ventricle (figure 2E–F). In addition, enhancement was also seen in the right ventricular wall as well as involving the trabeculations. No genetic study was performed in...

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Superior mesenteric artery syndrome: a vicious cycle

Description 

A middle-aged cachectic woman with significant medical history of quadriplegia, chronic osteomyelitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, kyphoscoliosis and malnutrition presented with 3 days of persistent nausea and vomiting, absolute constipation and increasing abdominal distention. She has had similar episodes in the recent past, which were milder in nature, and were diagnosed as gastroenteritis. She was hypotensive (blood pressure 86/60 mm Hg) and tachycardic (130 bpm) on arrival, with a grossly distended abdomen and active vomiting. Initial blood tests detected hypokalaemia (K+ of 3.0 mmol/L), a raised white cell count of 23.4x10⁹/L and features of acute kidney injury. A nasogastric tube was inserted and over a litre of bilious gastric contents was immediately aspirated.

A non-contrast CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis was performed (as the patient is allergic to iodine contrast), which demonstrated marked distension of the stomach and duodenum terminating abruptly where the third part of the duodenum crosses over the...

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Non-uraemic calciphylaxis (NUC) postliver transplantation

Calciphylaxis is a rare and life-threatening disease characterized by cutaneous arteriolar stenosis and vascular thrombosis leading to skin ischaemia and necrosis. While calciphylaxis occurs mostly in patients with end-stage renal disease, the disorder has been described in patients with normal renal function, namely non-uraemic calciphylaxis (NUC). A 41-year-old African-American woman presented with a painful ulcerative rash on her thighs and right buttock 2 months after undergoing an orthotopic liver transplantation. She underwent debridement of the lesions and an excisional biopsy of one of the lesions, which revealed calciphylaxis. She was treated with sodium thiosulfate, cinacalcet and hyperbaric oxygen with complete resolution of the lesions 4–5 months after presentation. While she was treated with a course of high-dose glucocorticoids after the transplant, she did not have other risk factors for calciphylaxis. NUC should be considered in the differential diagnosis of necrotic skin lesions in postliver transplant patients.

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Anterior spinal cord syndrome as a rare complication of acute bacterial meningitis in an adult

Acute bacterial meningitis is not an uncommon central nervous system infection. In severe cases, it can be associated with various neurological or systemic complications. However, acute spinal cord dysfunction rarely occurs. We report a case of bacterial meningitis complicated with spinal cord infarction despite adequate treatment with antibiotics and corticosteroid therapy. He had residual paraplegia and was fully dependent in the activity of daily living.

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Rare recurrence of apical ballooning (takotsubo) syndrome in an elderly man

Apical ballooning syndrome (ABS) is an under recognised clinical entity characterised by acute reversible left ventricular systolic dysfunction that mimics acute myocardial infarction in the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease; typically occurring in the setting of profound stress.¹ ABS disproportionately affects older women and recurrences are infrequent. We, hereby, describe a rare phenomenon of recurrent ABS in an elderly male patient, 10 years apart, presenting with the same left ventricular morphological appearance following non-cardiac surgeries. The case illustrates the importance of considering ABS in the differential diagnosis of perioperative acute myocardial infarction in older men undergoing major surgery.

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Retinoblastoma presenting as haemorrhagic choroidal detachment in a 10-year-old girl

To report a case of retinoblastoma presenting as haemorrhagic choroidal detachment in a 10-year-old girl. The patient, apparently well, presented with sudden blurring of vision in the setting of blunt trauma. On examination and ocular ultrasound, haemorrhagic choroidal detachment was suspected. She underwent external drainage via sclerostomies. The haemorrhage resolved ultrasonographically, but the vision did not improve. Five months postoperatively, she presented with sudden eye pain, lid swelling and proptosis. The ancillary workups were consistent with panophthalmitis and was treated as such. Six months postoperatively, the pain and lid swelling persisted; hence, the painful near absolute eye was enucleated. The histopathology revealed small round blue cells with necrosis consistent with retinoblastoma. Immunohistochemistry was positive for synaptophysin and negative for S100 confirming retinoblastoma. Retinoblastoma is the most common intraocular malignancy in children. The importance of increased awareness of its various presentations is of utmost importance to prevent life-threatening and vision-impairing complications.

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Triphasic response of pituitary stalk injury following TBI: a relevant yet uncommonly recognised endocrine phenomenon

The triphasic response of pituitary stalk injury has previously been described in a minority of patients following intracranial surgery, however, this phenomenon can also occur after traumatic brain injury. We present the case of a 20-year-old male who experienced the triphasic response of pituitary stalk injury (central diabetes insipidus, syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone and central diabetes insipidus again) after striking his head on a concrete curb. His history and presentation highlight the importance of recognising the distinctive symptoms of each individual stage of pituitary stalk injury, and using the appropriate diagnostic tools and therapies to guide further management.

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Trans-Frontal Five-Fluorouracil (TraFFF): a novel technique for the application of adjuvant topical chemotherapeutic agents in sinonasal adenocarcinoma

Sinonasal adenocarcinoma has traditionally been treated with surgery (craniofacial or endoscopic) and adjuvant radiotherapy. Two large series have demonstrated favourable 5-year survival using surgery with adjuvant topical chemotherapy applied repeatedly over several weeks. The authors describe a novel, transnasal application of topical 5-fluorouracil. However, complete coverage of the frontal region of the anterior skull base can be difficult to achieve with a purely transnasal approach in an outpatient setting. We present a novel adjunct method of delivering chemotherapeutic agents into this key area used in a 37-year-old man with T2N0M0 ethmoid adenocarcinoma. The procedure was well tolerated in an outpatient setting and remains disease free at 3 years postoperatively. We suggest that frontal trephination is a useful adjunct to aid accurate placement of adjuvant topical chemotherapeutic agents in the treatment of sinonasal adenocarcinoma.

https://ift.tt/2AsDsl1

Transabdominal two-cavity approach for radical nephrectomy combined with inferior vena cava thrombectomy for malignant thrombus caused by renal cell carcinoma: a case series

Advanced renal cell carcinoma in some cases causes malignant intravascular thrombus with the potential for growth into the inferior vena cava or even the right atrium. Renal cell carcinoma is accompanied by ma...

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Monoclonal gammopathy in prostate carcinoma: a case report and review of literature

Monoclonal gammopathy is commonly associated with plasma cell dyscrasia. However, monoclonal gammopathy without bone marrow plasmacytosis in prostate carcinoma has rarely been reported. The association between...

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Comparative Effects of Sodium Bicarbonate and Intravenous Lipid Emulsions on Reversing Bupivacaine-Induced Electrophysiological Toxicity in a Porcine Experimental Model

BACKGROUND: Bupivacaine cardiotoxicity mainly manifests as inhibition of the cardiac sodium channel, which slows conduction, particularly at the ventricular level. Experimental studies have demonstrated that intravenous lipid emulsions (ILEs) can reduce the cardiotoxic effects of bupivacaine, but the extent of these effects is controversial. Sodium bicarbonate (B) represents the standard treatment of toxicity related to sodium channel–blocking drugs. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of ILEs and B on the speed of recovery from bupivacaine-induced effects on the electrocardiographic parameters. METHODS: Bupivacaine 4 mg/kg was administered to 24 anesthetized pigs. Three minutes after delivering the bupivacaine bolus, the animals were given the following: ILE 1.5 mL/kg followed by 0.25 mL/kg/min (ILE group) and B 2 mEq/kg followed by 1 mEq/kg/h (B group). Controls (C group) were given saline solution, 50 mL followed by 1 mL/kg/h. Electrophysiological parameters were evaluated in sinus rhythm and during right ventricular pacing at several time intervals up to 30 minutes. Data were analyzed as the area under the curve (AUC) for the first 10 minutes (AUC10) or 30 minutes (AUC30). RESULTS: Bupivacaine increased the sinus cycle length, PR interval, and QRS duration. AUC30 of the sinus rhythm QRS duration after antidote administration was significantly different among the 3 groups (P = .003). B group experienced faster recovery from intoxication than the C group (AUC10, P = .003; AUC30, P = .003) or the ILE group (AUC10, P = .018). During the first minute, 50% of the B group (versus 0% of the ILE and C groups) had recovered >30% of QRS duration (P = .011). The trend toward faster recovery in the ILE group than in the C group did not reach significance (AUC10, P = .23; AUC30, P = .06). Effects on the paced QRS duration at a rate of 150 bpm were more intense but with similar results (B versus C group: AUC10, P = .009; AUC30, P = .009; B versus ILE: AUC10, P = .015; AUC30, P = .024). The recovery process of the paced QRS tended to be slower for all antidotes. CONCLUSIONS: In a closed-chest swine model, B was an effective treatment for electrophysiological alterations caused by established bupivacaine toxicity. At clinical doses, B ameliorated bupivacaine electrocardiographic toxicity faster than ILE. Use-dependent effects of bupivacaine are prominent and delay the effects of both antidotes, but B produces faster recovery than ILE. Accepted for publication September 19, 2018. Funding: Supported by a research grant from the Ministry of Economy, Industry, and Competitiveness of Spain, and Fondos Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional. The authors declare no conflicts of interest. Supplemental digital content is available for this article. Direct URL citations appear in the printed text and are provided in the HTML and PDF versions of this article on the journal's website (https://ift.tt/KegmMq). Reprints will not be available from the authors. Address correspondence to Matilde Zaballos, MD, PhD, Department of Anesthesiology, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, C/Tellez, No. 52, 3º D, Madrid 28007, Spain. Address e-mail to mati@plagaro.net. © 2018 International Anesthesia Research Society

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Objective Epidural Space Identification Using Continuous Real-Time Pressure Sensing Technology: A Randomized Controlled Comparison With Fluoroscopy and Traditional Loss of Resistance

BACKGROUND: Performance of epidural anesthesia and analgesia depends on successful identification of the epidural space (ES). While multiple investigations have described objective and alternative methodologies to identify the ES, traditional loss of resistance (LOR) and fluoroscopy (FC) are currently standard of care in labor and delivery (L&D) and chronic pain (CP) management, respectively. While FC is associated with high success, it exposes patients to radiation and requires appropriate radiological equipment. LOR is simple but subjective and consequently associated with higher failure rates. The purpose of this investigation was to compare continuous, quantitative, real-time, needle-tip pressure sensing using a novel computer-controlled ES identification technology to FC and LOR for lumbar ES identification. METHODS: A total of 400 patients were enrolled in this prospective randomized controlled noninferiority trial. In the CP management arm, 240 patients scheduled to receive a lumbar epidural steroid injection had their ES identified either with FC or with needle-tip pressure measurement. In the L&D arm, 160 female patients undergoing lumbar epidural catheter placements were randomized to either LOR or needle-tip pressure measurement. Blinded observers determined successful ES identification in both arms. A modified intention-to-treat protocol was implemented, with patients not having the procedure for reasons preceding the intervention excluded. Noninferiority of needle-tip pressure measurement regarding the incidence of successful ES identification was claimed when the lower limit of the 97.27% confidence interval (CI) for the odds ratio (OR) was above 0.50 (50% less likely to identify the ES) and P value for noninferioirty <.023. results: demographics were similar between procedure groups with a mild imbalance in relation to gender when evaluated through standardized difference. noninferiority of needle-tip pressure measurement was demonstrated fc where pain management patients presented success rate es identification both methodologies ci p=".021" for and l experienced noninferior the novel technology vs or using priori delta conclusions: objective lumbar continuous quantitative real-time compuflo epidural computer controlled anesthesia system resulted rates compared lor cp respectively. benefits this may include nonexposure radiation contrast medium consequently reduced health care costs. accepted publication september funding: clinical trial funded by milestone scientific livingston nj. conflicts interest: see disclosures at end article. number: nct02378727 clinicaltrials.gov. reprints will not be available from authors. address correspondence ralf e. gebhard md department anesthesiology university miami miller school medicine nw ave c-300 fl e-mail rgebhard international research society>

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Distraction-Free Induction Zone: A Quality Improvement Initiative at a Large Academic Children’s Hospital to Improve the Quality and Safety of Anesthetic Care for Our Patients

BACKGROUND: Noise in the operating room may cause distractions during critical periods and impair reliable communication between staff. Even momentary inefficiency while administering anesthesia can lead to errors and serious consequences for the patient. Distractions to an anesthesia provider during critical periods such as induction and emergence are a patient safety issue. Because of concerns regarding unacceptable noise levels and distractions during induction of general anesthesia, our institution developed a quality improvement initiative, the "Distraction-Free Induction Zone." The specific aim of this project was to decrease the percentage of cases with a distraction, described as music, unnecessary conversations, or loud noises, occurring during induction of general anesthesia in pediatric otolaryngology operating rooms from 61% to 15%. METHODS: To complete this quality improvement initiative, a multidisciplinary team used improvement science methods, including The Model for Improvement with interventions tested via Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles. We used tools such as the Key Driver Diagram, Pareto Charts, Process Flow Chart, and Plan-Do-Study-Act worksheets. Data were manually collected and entered weekly in an Excel spreadsheet. Statistical process control methods, including a run chart and a P-control chart, were used for data analysis. Our measure was a composite measure in which observation of 1 of the 3 distractions during induction of general anesthesia categorized the case as a case with a distraction. RESULTS: We tested and implemented several interventions via Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles in which 3 main interventions collectively were associated with an observed decrease in distractions during induction of general anesthesia. These included educating the perioperative staff present in the operating room to help them understand that distractions to anesthesia providers represent a patient safety issue, the operating room circulating nurse taking responsibility to pause any music on arrival to the operating room, and the anesthesiologist reminding the staff in the operating room of induction time and/or asking for quiet during induction if a distraction occurs. The percentage of cases with a distraction during induction of general anesthesia in our pediatric otolaryngology operating rooms decreased from 61% to 15% by April 15, 2017 and to 10% by June 5, 2017. CONCLUSIONS: Using improvement science methods, we observed a decrease in distractions during induction of general anesthesia, improved a process, and encouraged change in culture at a large academic children's hospital to enhance the quality and safety of the anesthetic care we provide our patients. Accepted for publication September 19, 2018. Funding: None. The authors declare no conflicts of interest. Reprints will not be available from the authors. Address correspondence to Christy J. Crockett, MD, Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2200 Children's Way, Suite 3116, Nashville, TN 37232. Address e-mail to christy.crockett@vumc.org. © 2018 International Anesthesia Research Society

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In Reply: Encouraging a Bare Minimum While Striving for the Gold Standard A Response to the Updated WHO-WFSA Guidelines

No abstract available

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Encouraging a Bare Minimum While Striving for the Gold Standard: A Response to the Updated WHO-WFSA Guidelines

No abstract available

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Dexmedetomidine-Mediated Prevention of Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury Depends in Part on Cholinergic Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms

BACKGROUND: Organ ischemia-reperfusion injury often induces local and systemic inflammatory responses, which in turn worsen organ injury. These inflammatory responses can be regulated by the central nervous system, particularly by the vagal nerve and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, which are the key components of cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway. Activation of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway can suppress excessive inflammatory responses and be a potential strategy for prevention of ischemia-reperfusion injury of organs including the kidney. METHODS: Vagal nerve activity, plasma acetylcholine, catecholamine and inflammatory mediators, renal tissue injury, and cell death were measured in mice with bilateral renal ischemia/reperfusion with or without treatment with dexmedetomidine (Dex), an α2-adrenergic receptor agonist. RESULTS: Dex significantly increased the discharge frequency of the cervical vagal nerve by up to 142 Hz (mean) (P

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Ophthalmologic Anesthesia: Seeing the Forest for the Trees

No abstract available

https://ift.tt/2yxD1UZ

Perioperative Management and In-Hospital Outcomes After Minimally Invasive Repair of Pectus Excavatum: A Multicenter Registry Report From the Society for Pediatric Anesthesia Improvement Network

BACKGROUND: There are few comparative data on the analgesic options used to manage patients undergoing minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum (MIRPE). The Society for Pediatric Anesthesia Improvement Network was established to investigate outcomes for procedures where there is significant management variability. For our first study, we established a multicenter observational database to characterize the analgesic strategies used to manage pediatric patients undergoing MIRPE. Outcome data from the participating centers were used to assess the association between analgesic strategy and pain outcomes. METHODS: Fourteen institutions enrolled patients from June 2014 through August 2015. Network members agreed to an observational methodology where each institution managed patients based on their institutional standards and protocols. There was no requirement to standardize care. Patients were categorized based on analgesic strategy: epidural catheter (EC), paravertebral catheter (PVC), wound catheter (WC), no regional (NR) analgesia, and intrathecal morphine techniques. Primary outcomes, pain score and opioid consumption by postoperative day (POD), for each technique were compared while adjusting for confounders using multivariable modeling that included 5 covariates: age, sex, number of bars, Haller index, and use of preoperative pain medication. Pain scores were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance with Bonferroni correction. Opioid consumption was analyzed using a multivariable quantile regression. RESULTS: Data were collected on 348 patients and categorized based on primary analgesic strategy: EC (122), PVC (57), WC (41), NR (120), and intrathecal morphine (8). Compared to EC, daily median pain scores were higher in patients managed with PVC (POD 0), WC (POD 0, 1, 2, 3), and NR (POD 0, 1, 2), respectively (P

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In Response

No abstract available

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Surveying the Literature: Synopsis of Recent Key Publications

No abstract available

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Pharmacokinetics of Cefazolin and Vancomycin in Infants Undergoing Open-Heart Surgery With Cardiopulmonary Bypass

BACKGROUND: Gram-positive bacteria account for nearly three-quarters of all surgical site infections. Antibiotic prophylaxis against these bacteria with cephalosporins or, in select circumstances, with vancomycin is considered standard of care for prevention of surgical site infections. There is little evidence to describe the optimal dosing regimen for surgical site infection prophylaxis in infants undergoing cardiac surgery, and a great deal of institutional variability exists in dosing prophylactic antibiotics. We designed this study to describe an optimal dose regimen for cephalosporin and vancomycin based on pharmacokinetic evidence for infant open-heart surgery on cardiopulmonary bypass. METHODS: Two separate cohorts of infants undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass were evaluated. Plasma concentrations of vancomycin (cohort 1, N = 10) and cefazolin (cohort 2, N = 10) were measured, and mixed-effects pharmacokinetic models were constructed for each drug. Simulations of various dosing regimens were performed to describe an appropriate dosing regimen necessary to maintain antibiotic concentrations above the susceptibility cutoff for staphylococci. RESULTS: Both cefazolin and vancomycin plasma concentration versus time profiles were characterized by a 2-compartment model. Subject weight was a significant covariate for V1 for vancomycin. Subject age was a significant covariate for V1 for cefazolin. Cardiopulmonary bypass did not influence concentration versus time profiles. Simulations demonstrated that a 1-hour vancomycin infusion (15 mg·kg−1), repeated every 12 hours and a 10-minute infusion of cefazolin (30 mg·kg−1), repeated every 4 hours maintained plasma concentrations above 4 μg·mL−1 and 16 μg·mL−1, for vancomycin and cefazolin, respectively. Both concentrations are above the minimum inhibitory concentration 90 for most susceptible staphylococci. CONCLUSIONS: Prophylactic treatment of vancomycin 15 mg·kg−1 infused >1 hour with 12-hour redosing and cefazolin 30 mg·kg−1 infused >10 minutes with 4-hour redosing will maintain serum levels of each antibiotic above the susceptibility cut-offs for susceptible staphylococci in infants undergoing cardiac surgery. Cefazolin levels may be adequate for some, but not all, Gram-negative bacteria. The effect of cardiopulmonary bypass on pharmacokinetics is negligible. Accepted for publication September 19, 2018. Funding: None. The authors declare no conflicts of interest. Supplemental digital content is available for this article. Direct URL citations appear in the printed text and are provided in the HTML and PDF versions of this article on the journal's website (https://ift.tt/KegmMq). Clinical Trials Registry: NCT01619982. Reprints will not be available from the authors. Address correspondence to Jerry Ingrande, MD, MS, Department of Anesthesiology, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, 402 Dickinson St, Hillcrest, CA 92103. Address e-mail to jingrande@ucsd.edu. © 2018 International Anesthesia Research Society

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Cervical Spine Movement in a Cadaveric Model of Severe Spinal Instability: A Study Comparing Tracheal Intubation With 4 Different Laryngoscopes

Background: This study compared the Macintosh blade direct laryngoscope, Glidescope, C-Mac d-Blade, and McGrath MAC X-blade video laryngoscopes in 2 cadaveric models with severe cervical spinal instability. We hypothesized that the Glidescope video laryngoscope would allow for intubation with the least amount of cervical spine movement. Our secondary endpoints were glottic visualization and intubation success. Methods: In total, 2 fresh cadavers underwent maximal surgical destabilization from the craniocervical junction to the cervicothoracic junction by a neurosurgical spine specialist, with subsequent neutral positioning of the heads with surgical head fixation devices. On each cadaver, 8 experienced anesthesiologists performed four intubations with the 4 laryngoscopes in random order. Lateral radiographic measurements determined vertebral displacement during intubation. Results: Cervical spine displacements were not significantly different amongst video laryngoscopes. Cormack-Lehane Grade 1 views were achieved with all attempts with each of the 3 video laryngoscopes; intubation attempts with the Macintosh blade achieved only grade 3 or grade 4 views. Intubation was successful every time with a video laryngoscope but only during 1 of 16 intubation attempts with the Macintosh blade. Conclusions: In a cadaveric model with maximally destabilized cervical spines, cervical spine movement was observed during attempted laryngoscopy using each of 3 video laryngoscopes, although there was no significant difference between the laryngoscopes. Given cervical spine displacement occurred, these video laryngoscopes do not prevent cervical spine motion during laryngoscopy. However, with improved glottic visualization and intubation success, video laryngoscopes are superior to the Macintosh blade in both cervical spine safety and intubation efficacy in the model studied. Supported by Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose. Address correspondence to: Jia W. Romito, MD, Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Management, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390-9068 (e-mail: Jia.Romito@utsouthwestern.edu). Received March 5, 2018 Accepted September 19, 2018 Copyright © 2018 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved

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