Intraoperative hypotension—defined as a decrease in blood pressure during surgery—is a common and potentially serious complication. Recognizing intraoperative hypotension is crucial. Effective treatment is vital to prevent adverse outcomes such as organ hypoperfusion, myocardial ischemia, and postoperative morbidity. But what constitutes intraoperative hypotension? When is a “good” BP bad? Case Read More …
The Case My OR table almost seriously injured my patient. We had just completed a rotator cuff repair on a healthy 50-year-old man, performed on a Captain’s Table. After dressing the wound, with the patient still in the beach chair position, I extubated him. He was awake but drowsy and Read More …
Unplanned extubation is a serious risk that can occur in various medical settings, particularly in the OR. The article outlines three cases illustrating challenges and strategies for managing unplanned extubation during surgeries. It highlights prevention measures, potential complications, and the importance of vigilance in securing endotracheal tubes to enhance patient safety. Read More …
The ability to tactfully and effectively challenge another provider when you see a problem is key to patient safety. Challenging another provider is difficult. We all have egos we protect. You will often be called upon to stand by or to help a colleague. But what if you don’t agree Read More …
Deciding when to extubate a patient safely can sometimes be a difficult decision. Removal of an endotracheal tube when you are not sure of the diagnosis is a risk not to be taken lightly. This case discusses assessing extubation criteria in the face of ambiguous respiratory symptoms. Read More …
The text discusses common pitfalls in intubation, emphasizing the significance of proper patient positioning, especially under stressful circumstances. It highlights a case where distractions, time pressure, and inexperience led to complications. The author stresses the importance of adhering to protocols, teamwork, and continuous learning to ensure effective and safe intubation practices. Read More …
Operating room (OR) fires pose a significant risk during surgeries, often overlooked. Common causes include oxygen leakage, flammable substances, and ignition sources. Proper precautions, like assessing fire risk factors, mindful oxygen use, and ensuring flammable materials are dry, can prevent fires. Awareness and readiness are crucial to safeguard patients and staff. Read More …
Post describes detailed account of a challenging intubation procedure for a micro preemie. Case description and discussion of high-risk factors. #FOAMED #anesthesia # neonatology Read More …
Content describes significant greenhouse effect of anesthetic waste gases on global warming. Practical steps to limit waste gas exposure. #FOAMED #anesthesia Read More …
Anesthesia waste gas exposure carries health risks. Article provides a comprehensive overview of waste gas exposure and strategies to minimize exposure. #FOAMED #anesthesia Read More …
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the risks and disadvantages associated with Nitrous oxide in anesthesia. such as inhibition of methionine synthetase, immune system suppression, increased risk of infection, myocardial ischemia, CNS risk, and pre-existing vitamin deficiencies. Scenarios to limit or avoid N2O exposure are discussed. #FOAMED #anesthesia Read More …
The size of a patient’s tidal volume vs. dead space determines whether breathing is sufficient. Speaking doesn’t indicate effective breathing. Anatomical dead space affects ventilation. Minute ventilation may not reflect alveolar ventilation. This is crucial for assessing respiratory distress. Supplemental oxygen may delay hypoxia but not hypoventilation. Always consider dead space in evaluating respiratory status. Read More …
Acute withdrawal from mood stabilizers risks short and long term neurologic dysfunction which could impact our anesthetic management. Case report discussed. #anesthesia #FOAMED Read More …
Given the difficulty of working with a volunteer team in the developing world, how do we take strangers and quickly transform them into a cohesive, well-functioning team in a difficult environment? Let’s look at some of the tools we use. Read More …
Airway disasters during volunteer medical missions to Developing World are often preventable if you screen carefully, prepare, & communicate. Read More …
Dr. Whitten’s articles are trending #1 and #3 on Anesthesiology News this month. Quick links to “10 Rules for Approaching Difficult Intubation” (http://bit.ly/2vpRwvp) and “10 Common Pediatric Airway Problems” (http://bit.ly/38JFbAC) are provided. Read More …
During volunteer missions, anesthesia equipment hazards include old, poorly maintained equipment in a foreign, stressful environment. Prevention requires vigilance, preparation, and ingenuity. #FOAMED #anesthesia Read More …
Anesthetic mortality during volunteer medical missions overseas is 20X higher than US statistics. Article discusses risks inhalation anesthesia/Halothane. Read More …
Perioperative hypothermia is a common, and often preventable, complication of anesthesia with potentially serious patient outcomes. Preventing it requires understanding its physiology and causes. Read More …
Children younger than 5 have a much higher risk of developing pediatric respiratory failure. Article discusses why a higher risk of hypoxia, an immature cardiovascular system, and inefficient mechanics of breathing increases risk of respiratory failure. #FOAMED #anesthesi Read More …