EDITORIALS:

Francis X. McGowan, Jr and Peter J. Davis

Anesthetic-Related Neurotoxicity in the Developing Infant: Of Mice, Rats, Monkeys and, Possibly, Humans
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1599-1602. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Robert Hahn

Blood, Plasma, and Red Blood Cell Volumes in Intensive Care Unit Patients
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1603-1604. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Pekka O. Talke and Mervyn Maze

Expecting the Unexpected
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1605-1606. [Full Text] [PDF]  

CARDIOVASCULAR ANESTHESIOLOGY:

George Djaiani, Mohamed Ali, Michael A. Borger, Anna Woo, Jo Carroll, Christopher Feindel, Ludwik Fedorko, Jacek Karski, and Harry Rakowski

Epiaortic Scanning Modifies Planned Intraoperative Surgical Management But Not Cerebral Embolic Load During Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1611-1618. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: The use of epiaortic scanning before aortic manipulations led to modifications in intraoperative surgical management in nearly one-third of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Epiaortic scanning should be considered for assessment of the proximal thoracic aorta especially for patients at high risk of neurological injury.

Mohamed H. Bakri, Hassan Nagem, Daniel I. Sessler, Ramatia Mahboobi, Jarrod Dalton, Ozan Akça, Eric E. Roselli, and Steven R. Insler

Transdermal Oxygen Does Not Improve Sternal Wound Oxygenation in Patients Recovering from Cardiac Surgery
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1619-1626. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Supplemental postoperative inspired oxygen improves arterial and sternal wound tissue oxygenation after cardiac surgery; however, oxygen insufflated locally into the occlusive dressing over the wound did not improve wound oxygenation. Since interventions that improve tissue oxygenation reduce infection risk, supplemental inspired oxygen, but not local transdermal application, may reduce wound infection risk after cardiac surgery.

Daniel Dirkmann, Alexander A. Hanke, Klaus Görlinger, and Jürgen Peters

Hypothermia and Acidosis Synergistically Impair Coagulation in Human Whole Blood
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1627-1632. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Human whole blood coagulation is significantly impaired by hypothermia, but not by acidosis, as studied by rotational thromboelastometry. Hypothermia and acidosis combined synergistically impair coagulation.

Susan M. Martinelli, John D. Mitchell, Richard L. McCann, Mihai V. Podgoreanu, Joseph P. Mathew, and Madhav Swaminathan

Intraoperative Transesophageal Echocardiography Diagnosis of Residual Tumor Fragment After Surgical Removal of Renal Cell Carcinoma (Echo Rounds)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1633-1635. [Full Text] [PDF] [Video Loops]   

Daniel T. Redford, Thomas W. Quigley, Kimberly L. Gandy, and Brent J. Barber

Transesophageal Echocardiography for the Intraoperative Evaluation and Management of a Left Ventricular Vegetation (Echo Rounds)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1636-1638. [Full Text] [PDF] [Video Loop]   

Junko Nakahira, Toshiyuki Sawai, Takahiro Katsumata, Hideaki Imanaka, and Toshiaki Minami

Lambl’s Excrescence on Aortic Valve Detected by Transesophageal Echocardiography (Echo Rounds)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1639-1640. [Full Text] [PDF] [Video Loop]   

PEDIATRIC ANESTHESIOLOGY:

Cheng Wang and William Slikker, Jr

Strategies and Experimental Models for Evaluating Anesthetics: Effects on the Developing Nervous System (Special Article)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1643-1658. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: By applying pharmacogenomic and system biology approaches, along with the appropriate in vivo and in vitro nonhuman primate and rodent models, complex biological processes, such as the mechanisms underlying neuronal cell death induced by anesthetics in the developing brain, can be better understood. This understanding may further reveal the pathways involved in anesthetic-induced neuronal cell death, and suggest potential treatment regimens that protect or attenuate pediatric anesthetic toxicity.

Vesna Jevtovic-Todorovic and John W. Olney

PRO: Anesthesia-Induced Developmental Neuroapoptosis: Status of the Evidence (Editorial)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1659-1663. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Andreas W. Loepke, Francis X. McGowan, Jr, and Sulpicio G. Soriano

CON: The Toxic Effects of Anesthetics in the Developing Brain: The Clinical Perspective (Editorial)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1664-1669. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Vincent Degos, Gauthier Loron, Jean Mantz, and Pierre Gressens

Neuroprotective Strategies for the Neonatal Brain (Review Article)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1670-1680. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Injury to the perinatal brain is a leading cause of death and disability in children. Understanding the pathophysiology of perinatal brain damage will help to identify potential targets for neuroprotective strategies.

Andreas W. Loepke and Sulpicio G. Soriano

An Assessment of the Effects of General Anesthetics on Developing Brain Structure and Neurocognitive Function (Review Article)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1681-1707. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [CME]  

IMPLICATIONS: Data obtained in developing animals have demonstrated widespread neurodegeneration after anesthesia and have led to serious questions about the safety of pediatric anesthesia. Relevant reports in animals and humans are reviewed and their pertinence to clinical practice assessed.

Robert D. Sanders, Jing Xu, Yi Shu, Antonio Fidalgo, Daqing Ma, and Mervyn Maze

General Anesthetics Induce Apoptotic Neurodegeneration in the Neonatal Rat Spinal Cord (Review Article)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1708-1711. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Anesthesia induces apoptosis throughout the neonatal rat central nervous system, including the spinal cord; however, we have not discovered any functional consequences of the spinal cord injury.

Davide Cattano, Chainllie Young, Megan M.W. Straiko, and John W. Olney

Subanesthetic Doses of Propofol Induce Neuroapoptosis in the Infant Mouse Brain (Brief Report)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1712-1714. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Propofol is used for sedation and anesthesia in pediatric and obstetric medicine. Subanesthetic exposure of infant mice to other anesthetics (ketamine, midazolam, and isoflurane) triggers neuroapoptosis in the developing brain. We now report that propofol, in subanesthetic doses, triggers neuroapoptosis in the infant mouse brain.

Vivian M. Yuen, Theresa W. Hui, Michael G. Irwin, and Man K. Yuen

A Comparison of Intranasal Dexmedetomidine and Oral Midazolam for Premedication in Pediatric Anesthesia: A Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial (Brief Report)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1715-1721. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Intranasal dexmedetomidine at 1 {micro}g/kg produces satisfactory sedation in children between 2 and 12-yr-of-age. Behavior of the children at parental separation and at induction of anesthesia was comparable to those who received oral midazolam premedication.

AMBULATORY ANESTHESIOLOGY:

Jin Gu Kang, Jin Kyoung Kim, Han-Sin Jeong, Soo-Chan Jung, Moon Hee Ko, Shin Hong Park, Jae Keun Cho, Gil Joon Lee, Ji Won Choi, and Byung Dal Lee

A Prospective, Randomized Comparison of the Effects of Inhaled Sevoflurane Anesthesia and Propofol/Remifentanil Intravenous Anesthesia on Salivary Excretion During Laryngeal Microsurgery
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1723-1727. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: We evaluated the impact of anesthetics on salivary excretion with respect to obtaining a clear surgical field during laryngeal surgery. We found that salivary excretion under propofol/remifentanil anesthesia is greater than under sevoflurane anesthesia.

Ali Movafegh, Reza Alizadeh, Fatimah Hajimohamadi, Fatimah Esfehani, and Mohmad Nejatfar

Preoperative Oral Passiflora Incarnata Reduces Anxiety in Ambulatory Surgery Patients: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1728-1732. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: This study demonstrates that in the outpatient population, oral premedication with Passiflora incarnata reduces preoperative anxiety.

Mukadder Orhan-Sungur, Peter Kranke, Daniel Sessler, and Christian C. Apfel

Does Supplemental Oxygen Reduce Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting? A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1733-1738. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: This quantitative systematic review of all published outcomes studies and abstracts demonstrates that perioperative supplemental oxygen does not reduce the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting.

ANESTHETIC PHARMACOLOGY:

Burcu Tufanogullari, Paul F. White, Mariana P. Peixoto, Daniel Kianpour, Thomas Lacour, James Griffin, Gary Skrivanek, Amy Macaluso, Mary Shah, and David A. Provost

Dexmedetomidine Infusion During Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery: The Effect on Recovery Outcome Variables
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1741-1748. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: This placebo-controlled dose-ranging study found that dexmedetomidine infusion rates from 0.2 to 0.8 {micro}g {middle dot} kg-1 {middle dot} h-1 reduced the volatile anesthetic requirement and the need for opioid analgesics and antiemetics in the early postoperative period. Although adjunctive use of dexmedetomidine facilitated early recovery (e.g., postanesthesia care unit stay), it failed to improve later recovery end-points (e.g., hospital discharge, recovery of bowel function).

Johannes Wacker, Eliana Lucchinetti, Marina Jamnicki, José Aguirre, Luc Härter, Marius Keel, and Michael Zaugg

Delayed Inhibition of Agonist-Induced Granulocyte-Platelet Aggregation After Low-Dose Sevoflurane Inhalation in Humans
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1749-1758. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Data Supplement]   

IMPLICATIONS: In this human crossover study, we demonstrated for the first time that inhaling sevoflurane at low subanesthetic doses (<1 vol % end-tidal) inhibits agonist-induced detrimental granulocyte-platelet aggregation 24 h later and further attenuates thrombus formation.

Aubrey Yao, JongBun Kim, Richard Atherley, Steven L. Jinks, Earl Carstens, Sean Shargh, Alana Sulger, and Joseph F. Antognini

The Effects of Aromatic Anesthetics on Dorsal Horn Neuronal Responses to Noxious Stimulation
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1759-1764. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: In intact rats, depression of dorsal horn neurons responses to noxious stimulation by peri-MAC increases in fluorinated aromatic anesthetics correlate directly with the capacity of these anesthetics to block N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. Similarly, in decerebrate rats, the aromatic compound with stronger in vitro blocking actions (benzene) produces a much greater depression of responses to nociceptive stimulation than the compound with relatively weak blocking actions (hexafluorobenzene). These data suggest that depression of NMDA receptors underlies depression of dorsal horn neuronal responses to noxious stimulation in the peri-MAC range. Gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptors may have a supraspinal facilitatory effect.

Motohiko Hanazaki, Masataka Yokoyama, Kiyoshi Morita, Atsushi Kohjitani, Hiroyasu Sakai, Yoshihiko Chiba, and Miwa Misawa

Rho-Kinase Inhibitors Augment the Inhibitory Effect of Propofol on Rat Bronchial Smooth Muscle Contraction
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1765-1771. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Rho-kinase inhibitors augment the inhibitory effect of propofol in airway smooth muscle contraction.

Avery Tung, Stacy Herrera, Casimir A. Fornal, and Barry L. Jacobs

The Effect of Prolonged Anesthesia with Isoflurane, Propofol, Dexmedetomidine, or Ketamine on Neural Cell Proliferation in the Adult Rat
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1772-1777. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: New neuron production in adults may play a role in learning and memory. We found no effect of isoflurane, ketamine, propofol, or dexmedetomidine anesthesia on hippocampal cell proliferation in rats. These results suggest that anesthetic effects on cell proliferation are unlikely to play a role in postoperative cognitive changes.

Laurentius J.A. Rampaart, Jeroen P. Beekwilder, Gertrudis Th.H. van Kempen, Rutgeris J. van den Berg, and Dirk L. Ypey

The Local Anesthetic Butamben Inhibits Total and L-Type Barium Currents in PC12 Cells
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1778-1783. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Butamben (n-butyl-p-aminobenzoate), an experimental long-acting epidural local anesthetic in the treatment of chronic pain, inhibits the total barium current through expressed calcium channel types in PC12 cells, including Cav1.2/L-type channels. Because Cav1.2 channels may also occur in human nociceptive C fibers, this result allows the possibility that these L-type channels are involved in the analgesic action of butamben.

Tina C. Sichrovsky, Suneet Mittal, and Jonathan S. Steinberg

Dexmedetomidine Sedation Leading to Refractory Cardiogenic Shock (Case Report)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1784-1786. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Dexmedetomidine is usually well tolerated, with easily reversible side effects. However, a small percentage of patients seem to develop severe and refractory cardiovascular complications. In an effort to alert other physicians to use caution when administering dexmedetomidine, we report the death of a patient during an electrophysiologic procedure.

TECHNOLOGY, COMPUTING AND SIMULATION:

Penelope M. Sanderson, Marcus O. Watson, Walter John Russell, Simon Jenkins, David Liu, Norris Green, Kristen Llewelyn, Phil Cole, Vivian Shek, and Stas S. Krupenia

Advanced Auditory Displays and Head-Mounted Displays: Advantages and Disadvantages for Monitoring by the Distracted Anesthesiologist
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1787-1797. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Video Loops] [Data Supplement]   

IMPLICATIONS: Study tests whether auditory displays or head-mounted displays in combination with standard patient monitoring displays help distracted anesthesiologistsv to detect clinically significant events in simulated patients. Anesthesiologists were more likely to detect clinically significant events only when auditory displays were present.

Lyndon Siu, Adam Tucker, Shashi Kanth Manikappa, and John Monagle

Does Patient Position Influence Doppler Signal Quality from the USCOM Ultrasonic Cardiac Output Monitor?
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1798-1802. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: When using the USCOM1A Ultrasonic Cardiac Output Monitor to assess cardiac output, the sitting position should be avoided because it is difficult to obtain a reliable signal in this position. The supine, Trendelenburg, left lateral tilt (20 degrees), and right lateral tilt (20 degrees) positions were comparable with regards to signal acquisition and quality.

Federico Osorio, Mauricio Perilla, D. John Doyle, and J. Martin Palomo

Cone Beam Computed Tomography: An Innovative Tool for Airway Assessment (Technical Communication)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1803-1807. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Data Supplement]   

IMPLICATIONS: Cone beam computed tomography imaging technology offers the potential to be a tool for clinical airway assessment by providing two- and three-dimensional images of airway structures that may easily be navigated and manipulated using ordinary personal computers.

CTITICAL CARE AND TRAUMA:

Danny M. Takanishi, Mihae Yu, Fedor Lurie, Elisabeth Biuk-Aghai, Hideko Yamauchi, Hao Chih Ho, and Alyssa D. Chapital

Peripheral Blood Hematocrit in Critically Ill Surgical Patients: An Imprecise Surrogate of True Red Blood Cell Volume
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1808-1812. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [CME]  

IMPLICATIONS: The peripheral blood hematocrit assayed in the clinical laboratory may not provide an accurate estimate of red blood cell volume in critically ill surgical patients. Measurement of plasma volume and red blood cell volume may provide a more accurate guide for blood transfusion requirements.

CRITICAL CARE AND TRAUMA:

Stepani Bendel, Sari Karlsson, Ville Pettilä, Pekka Loisa, Marjut Varpula, Esko Ruokonen For the Finnsepsis Study Group

Free Cortisol in Sepsis and Septic Shock
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1813-1819. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Calculated free cortisol concentrations correlate well with total cortisol concentration, and free cortisol calculation does not predict unfavorable outcome better than total cortisol levels. Clinically, calculation of free cortisol does not help to identify patients who would benefit from corticoid treatment in severe sepsis and septic shock.

Sari Karlsson, Ville Pettilä, Jyrki Tenhunen, Vesa Lund, Seppo Hovilehto, Esko Ruokonen For the Finnsepsis Study Group

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1820-1826. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) concentrations are increased in patients with severe sepsis. Although nonsurvivors have significantly lower levels than patients with better outcome, VEGF concentrations do not predict hospital mortality.

OBSTETRIC ANESTHESIOLOGY:

Kyung Y. Yoo, Cheol W. Jeong, Myung W. Kang, Seok J. Kim, Sung T. Chung, Min H. Shin, and JongUn Lee

Bispectral Index Values During Sevoflurane-Nitrous Oxide General Anesthesia in Women Undergoing Cesarean Delivery: A Comparison Between Women With and Without Prior Labor
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1827-1832. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Intraoperative bispectral index values during 1% sevoflurane/50% nitrous oxide general anesthesia were lower, and postoperative analgesic consumption was reduced, in women with prior labor undergoing cesarean delivery compared with women without prior labor.

German E. Luzardo, Rachel A. Karlnoski, Brooke Williams, Devanand Mangar, and Enrico M. Camporesi

Anesthetic Management of a Parturient with Hyperhomocysteinemia (Case Report)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1833-1836. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Elevated levels of homocysteine are associated with an increased risk for vascular occlusive disease and thromboembolism. The risk may be exacerbated by the administration of nitrous oxide. This case report discusses the anesthetic management of pregnant patients with hyperhomocysteinemia, including anticoagulation and the theoretical risk of using nitrous oxide.

ECONOMICS, EDUCATION, AND POLICY:

Ellise Delphin and Melissa Davidson

Teaching and Evaluating Group Competency in Systems-Based Practice in Anesthesiology
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1837-1843. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education Outcomes Project has defined six core areas in which competence must be demonstrated by all trainees. Of these, systems-based practice remains difficult for hospital-based subspecialties to teach and assess because of its focus on interfacing with health care systems. We developed an innovative teaching tool method through resident team projects, which were assessed by the impact each project had on the organization and by the success of the implementation and outcome of the educational initiative.

NEUROSURGICAL ANESTHESIOLOGY:

Antoine Pianezza, Romain Barthélémy, Vincent Minville, Frédérique Martin, and Michel Faggianelli

Migraine with Atypical Aura in the Recovery Room: A Sometimes Complicated Diagnosis! (Case Report)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1844-1846. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: We report a case, which illustrates the difficulty of establishing the diagnosis of migraine with atypical aura in the perioperative period, when the pathology is unknown by both patient and anesthesiologist. It can lead to inappropriate treatment.

GENERAL ARTICLES:

Jesse M. Ehrenfeld, John L. Walsh, and Warren S. Sandberg

Right- and Left-Sided Mallinckrodt Double-Lumen Tubes Have Identical Clinical Performance
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1847-1852. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: We searched our anesthesia information management system database, looking for differences in oxygenation, ventilation and airway pressures between right- and left-sided double-lumen tubes when used by thoracic subspecialty anesthesiologists. By these criteria, the performance of right- and left-sided Mallinckrodt tubes was indistinguishable.

Yun Wang, Adrian W. Gelb, and Yun Yue

The Chinese Society of Anesthesiology: 2007 Annual Meeting Report (Meeting Report)
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1853-1854. [Full Text] [PDF]  

ANALGESIA:

Jérome Zakine, David Samarcq, Emmanuel Lorne, Mona Moubarak, Philippe Montravers, Sadek Beloucif, and Hervé Dupont

Postoperative Ketamine Administration Decreases Morphine Consumption in Major Abdominal Surgery: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled Study
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1856-1861. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Low doses of ketamine improve postoperative analgesia, but the optimal duration of ketamine administration is still unclear. This study demonstrated that postoperative pain and morphine consumption are reduced when ketamine administration is continued for 48 h postoperatively. No side effect due to ketamine administration was observed.

Feikje Wesseldijk, Durk Fekkes, Frank J. Huygen, Elly Bogaerts-Taal, and Freek J. Zijlstra

Increased Plasma Serotonin in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type 1
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1862-1867. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Plasma levels of serotonin (5-HT) are markedly elevated in complex regional pain syndrome 1 (CRPS1) patients. However, because of the lack of correlations with distinct disease characteristics, 5-HT is probably one of a number of mediators in CRPS1.

Michael J. Sheen, Shung-Tai Ho, Chian-Her Lee, Yu-Chi Tsung, and Fang-Lin Chang

Preoperative Gabapentin Prevents Intrathecal Morphine-Induced Pruritus After Orthopedic Surgery
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1868-1872. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Preoperative gabapentin 1200 mg decreased the incidence and severity of intrathecal morphine-induced pruritus and can be a clinically important adjunct both for its analgesic and antipruritic effects.

Hong Xie, James H. Woods, John R. Traynor, and Mei-Chuan Ko

The Spinal Antinociceptive Effects of Endomorphins in Rats: Behavioral and G Protein Functional Studies
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1873-1881. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Using pharmacological approaches, this study elucidates the efficacy and receptor binding selectivity of endomorphin-1 and -2 in the spinal cord and thalamus of rats. Both behavioral and G protein functional studies together demonstrate that intrathecal administration of endomorphins produced partial agonist actions selectively at spinal {micro}-opioid receptors.

Emmanuel Guntz, Hélène Dumont, Els Pastijn, Alban de Kerchove d’Exaerde, Karima Azdad, Maurice Sosnowski, Serge N. Schiffmann, and David Gall

Expression of Adenosine A_2A Receptors in the Rat Lumbar Spinal Cord and Implications in the Modulation of N-Methyl-d-Aspartate Receptor Currents
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1882-1889. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: This study shows that A2A receptors are present inside the dorsal horn of the spinal cord on a sample of neurons from the substantia gelatinosa and that activation of these receptors inhibits the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor activity. Therefore, adenosine could exert, through the activation of A2A receptors, a control of the wind-up phenomenon and consequently of hyperalgesia.

Rita Marincsák, Balázs I. Tóth, Gabriella Czifra, Tamás Szabó, László Kovács, and Tamás Bíró

The Analgesic Drug, Tramadol, Acts as an Agonist of the Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid-1
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1890-1896. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: We investigated the possible involvement of transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1) in the analgesic action of tramadol. We found that tramadol acts as an agonist of TRPV1. Our presented findings may equally explain both the desired analgesic as well as the often-seen, yet "unexpected," local side effects (e.g. initiation of burning pain and erythema) of tramadol.

Radica M. Stepanovic-Petrovic, Maja A. Tomic, Sonja M. Vuckovic, Sonja Paranos, Nenad D. Ugresic, Milica S. Prostran, Slobodan Milovanovic, and Bogdan Boskovic

The Antinociceptive Effects of Anticonvulsants in a Mouse Visceral Pain Model
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1897-1903. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: The anticonvulsants oxcarbazepine, gabapentin, and topiramate are effective analgesics in a writhing model of visceral pain in the mouse.

Sahoko Koyanagi, Shugaku Himukashi, Kumiko Mukaida, Tsutomu Shichino, and Kazuhiko Fukuda

Dopamine D₂-Like Receptor in the Nucleus Accumbens Is Involved in the Antinociceptive Effect of Nitrous Oxide
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1904-1909. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: We demonstrated that nitrous oxide activated mesolimbic dopaminergic neurons and that the antinociceptive effect of nitrous oxide was attenuated by a dopamine D2-like receptor antagonist. These results suggest that the mesolimbic dopaminergic system is involved in the antinociceptive effect of nitrous oxide.

Axel R. Sauter, Michael S. Dodgson, Audun Stubhaug, Anne Marie Halstensen, and Øivind Klaastad

Electrical Nerve Stimulation or Ultrasound Guidance for Lateral Sagittal Infraclavicular Blocks: A Randomized, Controlled, Observer-Blinded, Comparative Study
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1910-1915. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: Similar success is obtained using either nerve stimulation or ultrasound guidance during lateral sagittal infraclavicular block. Local anesthetic injection cranioposterior to the artery appears feasible using ultrasound guidance.

Jacques T. YaDeau, Vincent R. LaSala, Leonardo Paroli, Richard L. Kahn, Kethy M. Jules-Elysée, David S. Levine, Barbara L. Wukovits, and Jane Y. Lipnitsky

Clonidine and Analgesic Duration After Popliteal Fossa Nerve Blockade: Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1916-1920. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]  

IMPLICATIONS: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial examined the effect of adding clonidine to bupivacaine for popliteal fossa nerve blockade. Patients received placebo, intramuscular clonidine, or clonidine added to bupivacaine (n = 33 per group). Clonidine, when included with the local anesthetic, significantly prolonged analgesia by 3-4 h.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

David Wax

The Wild Wild Web
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1921. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Peter S. A. Glass and Paul F. White

The Wild Wild Web
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1921. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Barry L. Friedberg

Avoiding Emetogenic Triggers in the First Place Is More Effective than Using Antiemetics
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1921-1922. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Tong J. Gan, T. Meyer, C. C. Apfel, F. Chung, P. J. Davis, A. S. Habib, V. Hooper, A. Kovac, P. Kranke, P. Myles, B. Philip, G. Samsa, D. I. Sessler, J. Temo, M. R. Tramèr, C. Vander Kolk, and M. Watcha

Avoiding Emetogenic Triggers in the First Place Is More Effective than Using Antiemetics
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1922. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Christian Dürsteler, Anna Mases, and Margarita M. Puig

Universal PONV Prophylaxis in General Anesthesia: Should We Consider Its Immediate Implementation?
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1922. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Paul F. White and Peter S. A. Glass

Universal PONV Prophylaxis in General Anesthesia: Should We Consider Its Immediate Implementation?
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1922-1923. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Jeffrey L. Tong and Livia S. Malanjum

Reducing Epistaxis During Nasotracheal Intubation
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1923-1924. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Jae-Hyon Bahk and Kwang Suk Seo

Reducing Epistaxis During Nasotracheal Intubation
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1924. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Jacek B. Cywinski, Andrew Zura, and D. John Doyle

Unexpected Obstruction of a Parker Flex-Tip^TM Tracheal Tube in a Patient with Subglottic Stenosis
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1924. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Jeffrey D. Parker

Unexpected Obstruction of a Parker Flex-Tip^TM Tracheal Tube in a Patient with Subglottic Stenosis
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1924-1925. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Jeffrey L. Tong

Smaller Is Better Through the Nose
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1925. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Kazuna Sugiyama and Koki Okushima

Smaller Is Better Through the Nose
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1925-1926. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Paul S. Pagel

Additive Cardioprotection by Ethanol and Sevoflurane: Are Sarcolemmal K_ATP Channels Also Involved?
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1926. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Masami Miyamae, Shingo Sugioka, and Vincent M. Figueredo

Additive Cardioprotection by Ethanol and Sevoflurane: Are Sarcolemmal K_ATP Channels Also Involved?
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1926-1927. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Yoshi Misonoo, Kiyoshi Moriyama, Tatsuya Yamada, Itsuo Nakatsuka, and Junzo Takeda

Nasotracheal Intubation with a 32F Blue Line Endobroncheal Tube®
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1927. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Vijay Tarnal, Matthew Molyneux, and Kevin Tremper

Increasing the Likelihood of Successful Insertion of "Laser Tubes" in Patients with a Known Difficult Airway
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1927-1928. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Ian M. Randall, Joseph Costello, and Jose C. A. Carvalho

Transversus Abdominis Plane Block in a Patient with Debilitating Pain from an Abdominal Wall Hematoma Following Cesarean Delivery
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1928. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Carlo Pancaro, Tonya Miller, and R. Scott Dingeman

Anesthetic Management of a Child with Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba Syndrome
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1928-1929. [Full Text] [PDF]  

BOOK AND MULTIMEDIA REVIEWS:

Francois J. Archambault and Sandra Morris

Cardiopulmonary Bypass: Principles and Practice, 3rd ed.
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1930-1931. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Robert S. Holzman

Management of the Difficult and Failed Airway
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1931. [Full Text] [PDF]  

Jovan Popovic

Atlas of Ultrasound and Nerve Stimulation-Guided Regional Anesthesia
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1931-1932. [Full Text] [PDF]  

James L. Helstrom

Perioperative Medicine: Managing for Outcome
Anesth Analg 2008 106: 1932-1933. [Full Text] [PDF]  

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