EDITORIALS:

Steven L. Shafer

Changes in Anesthesia & Analgesia for 2009
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 1-2. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Carsten Culmsee

Targeting β₂-Adrenoceptors for Neuroprotection After Cerebral Ischemia: Is Inhibition or Stimulation Best?
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 3-5. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Catherine A. McIntosh

Lake Wobegon for Anesthesia...Where Everyone Is Above Average Except Those Who Aren’t: Variability in the Management of Simulated Intraoperative Critical Incidents
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 6-9. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Donald Oxorn

The Intraoperative Quantification of Aortic Stenosis
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 10-12. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

CARDIOVASCULAR ANESTHESIOLOGY:

Jan N. Hilberath, Stanton K. Shernan, Scott Segal, Brian Smith, and Holger K. Eltzschig

The Feasibility of Epicardial Echocardiography for Measuring Aortic Valve Area by the Continuity Equation
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 17-22. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Measurement of the aortic valve area is an important component of a comprehensive intraoperative echocardiographic examination during cardiac surgery involving the aortic valve. We demonstrate that epicardial echocardiography can be used as an intraoperative alternative or adjunct to transesophageal echocardiography for measuring the aortic valve area.

Rui Li, Gordon T. C. Wong, Tak Ming Wong, Ye Zhang, Zhengyuan Xia, and Michael G. Irwin

Intrathecal Morphine Preconditioning Induces Cardioprotection via Activation of Delta, Kappa, and Mu Opioid Receptors in Rats
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 23-29. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Intrathecal morphine at a dose 1/1000th of the IV dose, conferred the same cardioprotection as ischemic myocardial preconditioning. This finding might have implications for when neuroaxial analgesia is planned perioperatively for patients with coronary artery disease.

Alexey A. Schramko, Raili T. Suojaranta-Ylinen, Anne H. Kuitunen, Sinikka I. Kukkonen, and Tomi T. Niemi

Rapidly Degradable Hydroxyethyl Starch Solutions Impair Blood Coagulation After Cardiac Surgery: A Prospective Randomized Trial
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 30-36. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: After elective open-heart surgery hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4 and hydroxyethyl starch 200/0.5 solutions cause a similar coagulation disturbance. Albumin does not impair hemostasis in this setting.

Itzhak Kronzon

PRO: Intraoperative Doppler Tissue Imaging Is a Valuable Addition to Cardiac Anesthesiologists’ Armamentarium (Editorial)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 37-40. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Claude Tousignant

CON: Intraoperative Doppler Tissue Imaging Is a Valuable Addition to Cardiac Anesthesiologists’ Armamentarium (Editorial)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 41-47. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Nikolaos Skubas

Intraoperative Doppler Tissue Imaging Is a Valuable Addition to Cardiac Anesthesiologists’ Armamentarium: A Core Review (Review Article)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 48-66. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Video Clips]  [Request Permissions]  

Andrew Maslow and Carl Schwartz

Echocardiographic Evaluation During Pulmonary Artery Stenting (Echo Rounds)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 67-69. [Full Text] [PDF] [Echo Loops]  [Request Permissions]  

K. Annette Mizuguchi, Thomas M. Burch, Bernard E. Bulwer, Amanda A. Fox, Robert J. Rizzo, and Stanton K. Shernan

Thrombus or Bilobar Left Atrial Appendage? Diagnosis by Real-Time Three-Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography (Echo Rounds)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 70-72. [Full Text] [PDF] [Echo Loop]  [Request Permissions]  

Nathaen Weitzel, Ferenc Puskas, Joseph Cleveland, Marilyn E. Levi, and Tamas Seres

Left Ventricular Assist Device Outflow Cannula Obstruction by the Rare Environmental Fungus Myceliophthora thermophila (Case Report)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 73-75. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Video Clip]  [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: We report here a unique case of left ventricular assist device outflow conduit obstruction by Myceliophthora thermophila a rare environmental thermophilic fungus. The obstruction was evaluated by visualization of the mass, Doppler interrogation of the flow using intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography and measurement of left ventricular internal dimensions.

Nirmala Jonnavithula, Padmaja Durga, Ravindra Pochiraju, Kiran Kumar Anne, and Gopinath Ramachandran

Routine Preoperative Coagulation Screening Detects a Rare Bleeding Disorder (Case Report)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 76-78. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: This case report exemplifies the importance of routine preoperative screening for coagulation disorders in patients undergoing major surgery.

PEDIATRIC ANESTHESIOLOGY:

Deepak Sharma, Jill Jelacic, Rohini Chennuri, Onuma Chaiwat, Wayne Chandler, and Monica S. Vavilala

Incidence and Risk Factors for Perioperative Hyperglycemia in Children with Traumatic Brain Injury
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 81-89. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Hyperglycemia after traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with poor outcome. In this study of children with TBI undergoing urgent/emergent craniotomy, perioperative hyperglycemia was common and hypoglycemia was not rare. Perioperative hyperglycemia was predicted by age < 4 yr, severe TBI and the presence of multiple lesions that include subdural hematoma.

Andreas W. Loepke, George K. Istaphanous, John J. McAuliffe, III, Lili Miles, Elizabeth A. Hughes, John C. McCann, Kathryn E. Harlow, C. Dean Kurth, Michael T. Williams, Charles V. Vorhees, and Steve C. Danzer

The Effects of Neonatal Isoflurane Exposure in Mice on Brain Cell Viability, Adult Behavior, Learning, and Memory
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 90-104. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: In neonatal mice, a 6-h exposure to 1.5% isoflurane, while promoting early neuroapoptosis, did not produce long-term neuronal loss or impairment of spatial learning and memory.

Robert Ramsdell, Jerrold Lerman, Donald Pickhardt, Doron Feldman, James Foster, and Timothy T. Houle

Subspecialty Impact Factors: The Contribution of Pediatric Anesthesia and Pain Articles
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 105-110. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: The subspecialty impact factor for Pediatric Anesthesia is generally less than the impact factor of the source journal, which could affect publishing decisions for both the authors and the journals.

AMBULATORY ANESTHESIOLOGY:

Sang-Hyun Park, Sung-Hee Han, Sang-Hwan Do, Jung-Won Kim, and Jin-Hee Kim

The Influence of Head and Neck Position on the Oropharyngeal Leak Pressure and Cuff Position of Three Supraglottic Airway Devices
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 112-117. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Oropharyngeal leak pressure of ProSeal laryngeal mask airway was significantly lower than that of laryngeal tube section or Cobra perilaryngeal airway in the neck extension and rotation position. In addition, on moving the head and neck from the neutral position use of the laryngeal tube section and Cobra perilaryngeal airway resulted in an increased incidence of gastric insufflation and difficulty in ventilation.

ANESTHETIC PHARMACOLOGY:

Juraj Sprung, Francis X. Whalen, Thomas Comfere, Zeljko J. Bosnjak, Zeljko Bajzer, Ognjen Gajic, Michael G. Sarr, Darrell R. Schroeder, Lavonne M. Liedl, Chetan P. Offord, and David O. Warner

Alveolar Recruitment and Arterial Desflurane Concentration During Bariatric Surgery
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 120-127. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: During bariatric surgery, the alveolar recruitment maneuver (RM) effectively improves intraoperative oxygenation but does not significantly affect the desflurane concentration in blood.

Christer H. Svensen, Peter M. Rodhe, Joel Olsson, Elisabet Børsheim, Asle Aarsland, and Robert G. Hahn

Arteriovenous Differences in Plasma Dilution and the Distribution Kinetics of Lactated Ringer's Solution
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 128-133. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: The arteriovenous difference in plasma dilution in the forearm was reversed 2.5 min after infusing Ringer's lactate solution, whereas kinetic analysis showed a corresponding value for the whole body of 14-20 min. Distribution of Ringer's occurs at various rates in different body regions rather than being a fixed-rate single process.

Xin Wang

Nicotinic Receptors Partly Mediate Brainstem Autonomic Dysfunction Evoked by the Inhaled Anesthetic Isoflurane
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 134-141. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Clinically relevant concentrations of isoflurane inhibit brainstem respiratory rhythmogenesis, prolong {gamma}-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSC) and, in the meantime, reduce GABAergic IPSC frequency in cardiac vagal neurons. The decrease of the frequency of GABAergic IPSCs is partially dependent upon inhibition of presynaptic {alpha}4{beta}2 nicotinic receptors. These mechanisms may contribute to cardiorespiratory homeostatic autonomic regulation impairment induced by isoflurane.

Xin Wang

Propofol and Isoflurane Enhancement of Tonic Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid Type A Current in Cardiac Vagal Neurons in the Nucleus Ambiguus
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 142-148. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: This study demonstrates that the general anesthetics propofol and isoflurane enhance phasic and tonic {gamma}-aminobutyric acid type A currents in cardiac vagal neurons, which is likely an important mechanism responsible for the changes of heart rate and autonomic regulation during general anesthesia.

Iman A. Elkiweri, Yan Ling Zhang, Uwe Christians, Ka-Yun Ng, Martha C. Tissot van Patot, and Thomas K. Henthorn

Competitive Substrates for P-Glycoprotein and Organic Anion Protein Transporters Differentially Reduce Blood Organ Transport of Fentanyl and Loperamide: Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics in Sprague-Dawley Rats
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 149-159. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: These findings suggest that transport proteins variably regulate fentanyl and loperamide pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics and may provide potential targets for therapeutics designed to modulate individual responses to opioids. The interindividual variability of fentanyl response may be related to currently unappreciated transporter interactions with other drugs, such as statins or variable transporter expression, thus affecting pharmacodynamics.

Jason A. Talavera, Steven K. Esser, Florin Amzica, Sean Hill, and Joseph F. Antognini

Modeling the Gabaergic Action of Etomidate on the Thalamocortical System
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 160-167. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Computer simulation of etomidate action on the thalamocortical system revealed that GABAergic tonic inhibition, as compared to phasic inhibition, had greater depressant effects on cerebral cortical neuronal function. Furthermore, GABAergic anesthetic action in the thalamus alone does not likely explain how etomidate produces unconsciousness.

Jason C. Sewell, Douglas E. Raines, Edmond I. Eger, II, Michael J. Laster, and John W. Sear

A Comparison of the Molecular Bases for N-Methyl-d-Aspartate-Receptor Inhibition Versus Immobilizing Activities of Volatile Aromatic Anesthetics
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 168-175. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Steric and electrostatic features of volatile aromatic anesthetics are described which may explain the in vitro N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor inhibitory potencies of these anesthetics and their immobilizing activities in vivo.

Pavle S. Milutinovic, Jing Zhao, and James M. Sonner

Tolerance to Isoflurane Does Not Occur in Developing Xenopus laevis Tadpoles
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 176-180. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Developing tadpoles exposed to up to 1.52% isoflurane continuously for 1 wk starting from the time of fertilization do not develop tolerance to isoflurane.

TECHNOLOGY, COMPUTING, AND SIMULATION:

Roger Dzwonczyk, Jeffrey T. Fujii, Orlando Simonetti, Ricardo Nieves-Ramos, and Sergio D. Bergese

Electrical Noise in the Intraoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging Setting
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 181-186. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Electrical noise during intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging interferes with electrocardiographic monitoring. Filters can reduce the impact of the interference on the electrocardiograph, but diagnostic features may still be obscured.

Ruben A. Lee, André A. J. van Zundert, Ralph L. J. G. Maassen, Remi J. Willems, Leon P. Beeke, Jan N. Schaaper, Johan van Dobbelsteen, and Peter A. Wieringa

Forces Applied to the Maxillary Incisors During Video-Assisted Intubation
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 187-191. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Video laryngoscopy helps reduce the forces applied to the maxillary incisors of patients during intubation, regardless of common metrics of intubation difficulty (e.g., Mallampati grade).

Anselm Bräuer, Henning Bovenschulte, Thorsten Perl, Wolfgang Zink, Michael John Murray English, and Michael Quintel

What Determines the Efficacy of Forced-Air Warming Systems? A Manikin Evaluation with Upper Body Blankets
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 192-198. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Current power units set to the maximum temperature supply all the heat energy required to obtain maximum benefit from the blankets. Further gains in efficacy will require improvements in blanket design.

Andrea Fanelli, Giorgio Danelli, Daniela Ghisi, Andrea Ortu, Elisa Moschini, and Guido Fanelli

The Efficacy of a Resistive Heating Under-Patient Blanket Versus a Forced-Air Warming System: A Randomized Controlled Trial (Brief Report)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 199-201. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Resistive under-patient heating blanket and forced-air warming systems provide similar warming capability in patients undergoing elective total hip replacement. The resistive heating blanket device may offer the advantage of greater positioning flexibility.

PATIENT SAFETY:

Jose M. Rodriguez-Paz, Lynette J. Mark, Kurt R. Herzer, James D. Michelson, Kelly L. Grogan, Joseph Herman, David Hunt, Linda Wardlow, Elwood P. Armour, and Peter J. Pronovost

A Novel Process for Introducing a New Intraoperative Program: A Multidisciplinary Paradigm for Mitigating Hazards and Improving Patient Safety (Special Article)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 202-210. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: The development and introduction of a novel comprehensive multidisciplinary process that includes in situ simulation allows clinicians to proactively identify hazards and design safe-care systems. Anesthesiologists can play a pivotal role in improving clinical safety by leading changes in improving teamwork, creating a protocol for delivery of therapy, and changing the system before exposing patients to unnecessary and preventable hazards. With the novel process described in this paper, we have been able to implement a new intraoperative program that proactively identified potential hazards.

Kelley Teed Watson and Paul G. Barash

The New Food and Drug Administration Drug Package Insert: Implications for Patient Safety and Clinical Care (Review Article)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 211-218. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [CME] [Request Permissions]  

David Liu, Tobias Grundgeiger, Penelope M. Sanderson, Simon A. Jenkins, and Terrence A. Leane

Interruptions and Blood Transfusion Checks: Lessons from the Simulated Operating Room (Brief Report)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 219-222. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Interruptions and distractions are a frequent but necessary part of life in the operating room. How the anesthesiologist deals with distractions may affect the incidence of errors, such as omission of the bedside blood product check.

CRITICAL CARE AND TRAUMA:

Marc Moritz Berger, C. Sjula Rozendal, Carolin Schieber, Martin Dehler, Stefanie Zügel, Hubert J. Bardenheuer, Peter Bärtsch, and Heimo Mairbäurl

The Effect of Endothelin-1 on Alveolar Fluid Clearance and Pulmonary Edema Formation in the Rat
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 225-231. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: This study shows that endothelin-1 (ET-1) inhibitis alveolar fluid clearance in anesthetized rats and in the isolated, ventilated, perfused rat lung by inhibition of amiloride-sensitive epithelial Na+ channels. This effect is mediated by the endothelin-B-receptor, and, in addition to increasing capillary pressure, contributes to pulmonary edema formation in situations when ET-1 expression is incresaed, e.g., in acute respiratory distress syndrome and at high-altitude.

Lone S. Avnon, Oleg Pikovsky, Neta Sion-Vardy, and Yaniv Almog

Acute Interstitial Pneumonia–Hamman-Rich Syndrome: Clinical Characteristics and Diagnostic and Therapeutic Considerations
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 232-237. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: This retrospective study suggests that acute interstitial pneumonia is a rapidly progressive disease frequently leading to respiratory failure and mechanical ventilation. We propose that transbronchial lung biopsy may be a logical first diagnostic step, to be followed by an open lung biopsy, if necessary.

Ali Dabbagh, Navid Sa’adat, and Zahra Heidari

Etomidate Infusion in the Critical Care Setting for Suppressing the Acute Phase of Cushing’s Syndrome (Case Report)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 238-239. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Although prolonged sedation with etomidate is contraindicated due to the endocrine complications of the drug, our young, female patient with typical Cushing's syndrome did not respond to other therapeutic methods. Etomidate infusion was successfully used to suppress the hypercortisolic state. This may be an option for other patients with Cushing's syndrome.

OBSTETRIC ANESTHESIOLOGY:

Damian J. Horstman, Edward T. Riley, and Brendan Carvalho

A Randomized Trial of Maximum Cephalad Sensory Blockade with Single-Shot Spinal Compared with Combined Spinal-Epidural Techniques for Cesarean Delivery
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 240-245. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: There were no differences in the cephalad extent of sensory blockade using single-shot spinal compared with combined spinal-epidural anesthetic techniques when equal intrathecal anesthetic doses were administered. This suggests that altering intrathecal dosing is not necessary.

Stephanie R. Goodman, Richard M. Smiley, Maria A. Negron, Paula A. Freedman, and Ruth Landau

A Randomized Trial of Breakthrough Pain During Combined Spinal-Epidural Versus Epidural Labor Analgesia in Parous Women
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 246-251. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Parous women were randomized to receive combined spinal-epidural or epidural labor analgesia, maintained with a continuous epidural infusion of bupivacaine and fentanyl. There was no difference in the number of patient requests for top-up doses between groups.

Shuying Lee, Eileen Lew, Yvonne Lim, and Alex T. Sia

Failure of Augmentation of Labor Epidural Analgesia for Intrapartum Cesarean Delivery: A Retrospective Review (Brief Report)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 252-254. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: A retrospective review of 1025 parturients with neuraxial labor analgesia who required intrapartum cesarean delivery, identified initiation of analgesia with an epidural technique (compared to a combined spinal-epidural technique), more than one episode of breakthrough pain during labor and prolonged duration of neuraxial labor analgesia to be associated with failed conversion to epidural anesthesia for cesarean delivery.

ECONOMICS, EDUCATION, AND POLICY:

Bernadette M. Henrichs, Michael S. Avidan, Dave J. Murray, John R. Boulet, Joe Kras, Beverley Krause, Rebecca Snider, and Alex S. Evers

Performance of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists and Anesthesiologists in a Simulation-Based Skills Assessment
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 255-262. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Clinical simulation can provide anesthesia practitioners with useful training in the recognition and management of intraoperative emergencies. In this study, anesthesiologists achieved modestly higher mean scores than nurse anesthetists, but there was a similar broad range of scores in both groups.

Sachin Kheterpal, Kevin K. Tremper, Amy Shanks, and Michelle Morris

Six-Year Follow-Up on Work Force and Finances of the United States Anesthesiology Training Programs: 2000 to 2006
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 263-272. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [CME] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: The results from this most recent survey of the United States anesthesiology training programs imply that departments' financial support also continues to increase and open faculty positions remain. The support is associated with the reimbursement for anesthesia work.

NEUROSURGICAL ANESTHESIOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE:

Ryu Komatsu, Kotoe Kamata, Keiko Hamada, Daniel I. Sessler, and Makoto Ozaki

Airway Scope and StyletScope for Tracheal Intubation in a Simulated Difficult Airway
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 273-279. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Direct laryngoscopy is difficult in patients whose cervical spine is immobilized by a rigid collar. The Airway Scope(R) and StyletScope(R) are laryngoscopes designed to facilitate difficult tracheal intubation. Both offer high success rates in these patients, however, Airway Scope is faster and less likely to cause esophageal intubation.

Ru-Quan Han, Yi-Bing Ouyang, Lijun Xu, Rani Agrawal, Andrew J. Patterson, and Rona G. Giffard

Postischemic Brain Injury Is Attenuated in Mice Lacking the β₂-Adrenergic Receptor
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 280-287. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Brain injury is reduced and neurological outcome improved after middle cerebral artery occlusion in mice lacking the {beta}2AR or in wild type mice pretreated with a selective {beta}2AR antagonist. This is consistent with a shift away from prosurvival signaling to prodeath signaling in the presence of {beta}2AR activation in cerebral ischemia.

Haruto Kato, Masahiko Kawaguchi, Satoki Inoue, Katsuji Hirai, and Hitoshi Furuya

The Effects of β-Adrenoceptor Antagonists on Proinflammatory Cytokine Concentrations After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Rats
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 288-295. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Interleukin-6 in cerebrospinal fluid increased in the acute stage of subarachnoid hemorrhage in rats. {beta}-Adrenoceptor antagonists with a {beta}2-adrenoceptor blocking action suppressed this elevation of interleukin-6 concentrations.

Srilata Moninigi, Dilip Kulkarni, and Gopinath Ramachanran

The Ninth Annual Conference of the Indian Society of Neuroanaesthesiology and Critical Care, Hyderabad, India, February 9–10, 2008 (Meeting Report)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 296-297. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

ANALGESIA:

Stephan A. Schug, Girish P. Joshi, Frederic Camu, Sharon Pan, and Raymond Cheung

Cardiovascular Safety of the Cyclooxygenase-2 Selective Inhibitors Parecoxib and Valdecoxib in the Postoperative Setting: An Analysis of Integrated Data
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 299-307. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Parecoxib and valdecoxib were not found to increase the risk of cardiovascular adverse events after noncardiac surgery, suggesting that the increased risk of cardiovascular thromboembolic events associated with parecoxib and valdecoxib after cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass cannot be generalized to patients undergoing noncardiac surgery.

W. Michael Hooten, Cynthia O. Townsend, Barbara K. Bruce, and David O. Warner

The Effects of Smoking Status on Opioid Tapering Among Patients with Chronic Pain
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 308-315. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Clinical observations suggest that there is an association between chronic opioid use and smoking which may affect the ability of smokers with chronic pain to eliminate the use of opioids. Despite an increased frequency of baseline opioid use, smoking did not affect the success of opioid tapering.

Mark J. Karbarz, Lin Luo, Leon Chang, Chui-Se Tham, James A. Palmer, Sandy J. Wilson, Michelle L. Wennerholm, Sean M. Brown, Brian P. Scott, Richard L. Apodaca, John M. Keith, Jiejun Wu, James Guy Breitenbucher, Sandra R. Chaplan, and Michael Webb

Biochemical and Biological Properties of 4-(3-phenyl-[1,2,4] thiadiazol-5-yl)-piperazine-1-carboxylic acid phenylamide, a Mechanism-Based Inhibitor of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (Technical Communication)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 316-329. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase produces antihyperalgesic effects in several preclinical animal pain models, including both neuropathic and inflammatory states. These data indicate that the enzyme may offer a new target for the treatment of a broad range of human clinical pain conditions.

Gita Shoeibi, Babak Babakhani, and Sussan Soltani Mohammadi

The Efficacy of Ilioinguinal-Iliohypogastric and Intercostal Nerve Co-Blockade for Postoperative Pain Relief in Kidney Recipients (Brief Report)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 330-333. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Combined Ilioinguinal-iliohypogastric and intercostal nerve (T11-T12) block can improve analgesia and reduce postoperative opioid consumption during the first 24 h after renal transplantation.

Zhongchi Luo, Mei Yu, S. David Smith, Mary Kritzer, Congwu Du, Yu Ma, Nora D. Volkow, Peter S. Glass, and Helene Benveniste

The Effect of Intravenous Lidocaine on Brain Activation During Non-Noxious and Acute Noxious Stimulation of the Forepaw: A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study in the Rat
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 334-344. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Preclinical results with functional brain imaging using blood-oxygen-level-dependent contrast suggest that the analgesic efficacy of systemic lidocaine is unlikely to be mediated through action on normal physiological pain pathways.

Brian M. Ilfeld, Linda T. Le, Joanne Ramjohn, Vanessa J. Loland, Anupama N. Wadhwa, J. C. Gerancher, Elizabeth M. Renehan, Daniel I. Sessler, Jonathan J. Shuster, Douglas W. Theriaque, Rosalita C. Maldonado, Edward R. Mariano, For the PAINfRE^TM Investigators, and Terese T. Horlocker

The Effects of Local Anesthetic Concentration and Dose on Continuous Infraclavicular Nerve Blocks: A Multicenter, Randomized, Observer-Masked, Controlled Study
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 345-350. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Patients with a continuous infraclavicular nerve block given a 0.4% ropivacaine infusion at 4 mL/h experienced an insensate limb three times more often than those given an equal basal dose, but as a 0.2% concentration at 8 mL/h. This is the opposite of the relationship previously reported for continuous popliteal-sciatic nerve blocks. The interaction between local anesthetic concentration and volume is thus complex and varies among catheter locations.

Johannes G. Förster, Tomi T. Niemi, Markku T. Salmenperä, Saana Ikonen, and Per H. Rosenberg

An Evaluation of the Epidural Catheter Position by Epidural Nerve Stimulation in Conjunction with Continuous Epidural Analgesia in Adult Surgical Patients
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 351-358. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: The epidural nerve stimulation test, which has been described as a simple and reliable way to confirm epidural catheter position, was associated with technical difficulties and interpretation problems. The role of the repeated use of the epidural stimulation test in improving the quality of analgesia in patients undergoing postoperative continuous epidural analgesia remains undetermined.

Antoun Nader, Mark C. Kendall, Kenneth D. Candido, Hubert Benzon, and Robert J. McCarthy

A Randomized Comparison of a Modified Intertendinous and Classic Posterior Approach to Popliteal Sciatic Nerve Block (Brief Report)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 359-363. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Compared to the classic posterior approach to popliteal sciatic nerve block, a modified intertendinous approach produced a more rapid onset of anesthesia when local anesthetic was injected after an evoked motor response of inversion.

Ana Ruíz, Xavier Sala, Xavier Bargalló, Paola Hurtado, Maria Jose Arguis, and Ana Carrera

The Influence of Arm Abduction on the Anatomic Relations of Infraclavicular Brachial Plexus: An Ultrasound Study (Brief Report)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 364-366. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Arm abduction reduces the depth of the brachial plexus at the infraclavicular level but does not have a marked influence on the position of the brachial plexus relative to the coracoid process or the pleura. Ultrasound examination may under-estimate the skin-to-plexus distance due to the transducer pressure on the skin and compression of the underlying tissues.

Olfa Kaabachi, Rami Ouezini, Walid Koubaa, Badii Ghrab, Amin Zargouni, and Ahmed Ben Abdelaziz

Tramadol as an Adjuvant to Lidocaine for Axillary Brachial Plexus Block (Brief Report)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 367-370. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: This study confirms the benefit of perineural use of tramadol. The prolongation of blocks and postoperative analgesia are dose-dependent. However, the delay of onset of the block with high-dose tramadol could limit its routine use.

Ban C. H. Tsui and Pradeep Kulkarni

Migration of a Thoracic Epidural Catheter into the Intercostal Space via the Intervertebral Foramen (Case Report)
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 371-373. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

IMPLICATIONS: Despite confirmation of correct catheter positioning during placement using objective means, catheter migration via various routes is still possible. We describe the migration of a thoracic epidural catheter into the intercostal space via the intervertebral foramen.

Mark H. Zornow

Do No Harm
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 374-375. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

James R. Anderson and Toby Schonfeld

Research, Not Quality Assurance
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 376. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Glenn S. Murphy, Joseph W. Szokol, Jesse H. Marymont, Steven B. Greenberg, Michael J. Avram, and Jeffery S. Vender

Research, Not Quality Assurance
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 376-377. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Steven L. Shafer

Editor's Note
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 377-378. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Anil Kumar and Asha Tyagi

Dixon and Massey's Method: The Starting Dose
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 378. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Jean Xavier Mazoit, Alain C. Van Elstraete, and Myriam Tirault

Dixon and Massey's Method: The Starting Dose
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 378-379. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Asha Tyagi

Sequential Allocation Method
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 379. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Michael P. Hutchens and Per Thorborg

Dexmedetomidine Sedation (and Cardiac Perforation, Pericardial Tamponade, Cardiac Arrest, and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) Leading to Refractory Cardiogenic Shock
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 379-380. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Gregory W. Fischer and Jeffrey H. Silverstein

Dexmedetomidine and Refractory Cardiogenic Shock
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 380. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Dusica Stamenkovic, Ivan Kangrga, and Menelaos Karanikolas

Caution Is Necessary When Dexmedetomidine Is Used Off-Label, Especially When Combined with Other Sedatives
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 380-381. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

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

Caution Is Necessary When Dexmedetomidine Is Used Off-Label, Especially When Combined with Other Sedatives
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 381-382. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Ajit Shah, Bipin Mistry, Ekaterina Gibiansky, and Leonid Gibiansky

Fospropofol Assay Issues and Impact on Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Evaluation
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 382. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

James C. Eisenach, Steven L. Shafer, and Brian J. Pollard

Fospropofol Assay Issues and Impact on Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Evaluation
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 382-383. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Timothy P. Turkstra and Philip M. Jones

Simplifying the Noncardiac Surgery Evaluation Pathway
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 383-384. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Choon L. Bong and Christian Seefelder

Peripheral Neuropathy Following Colonoscopy Is Not Uncommon
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 384-385. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Karl Zheng, Cosmin G. Guta, Vivek Kulkarni, and John Brock-Utne

Prevention of Corneal Abrasions in Patients with Autoimmune Dry Eyes
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 385-386. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Massimiliano Sorbello, Annalaura Paratore, Gianluigi Morello, Guido Merli, Angela Antonietta Belluoccio, and Flavia Petrini

Bonfils Fiberscope: Better Preoxygenate Rather than Oxygenate!
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 386. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Li Zhang, Somaletha Bhattacharya, Charles J. Coté, and Richard R. Anderson

Alexandrite 755 nm Laser-Induced Pulse Oximetry Dysfunction
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 386-387. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

BOOK AND MULTIMEDIA REVIEWS:

Douglas G. Merrill

Handbook of Ambulatory Anesthesia
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 388-389. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

Ricardo R. Rivera, Padma Gulur, and James P. Rathmell

Interventional Pain Management: Image-Guided Procedures, 2nd ed.
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 389-390. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

ERRATA:

ERRATUM
Anesth Analg 2009 108: 370. [Full Text] [PDF] [Request Permissions]  

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