bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malignant Hyperthermia and Day Stay Surgery
Authors: Pollock N. , Langton E. , Mcdonnell N. , Tiemessen J. , Stowell K.
Published: January 2019

Patients who are malignant hyperthermia susceptible are often admitted overnight for observation, even after minor surgery. They may be declined care in a stand-alone day stay unit. This prospective audit set out to investigate whether patients susceptible to malignant hyperthermia can be safely treated as day stay patients.

The audit was conducted for four years from late 2000. All patients who were known to be susceptible to malignant hyperthermia, and their untested relatives, who received day stay anaesthesia were included in the audit. Malignant hyperthermia status, age, duration of anaesthesia, anaesthetic technique, type of procedure, intraoperative and postanaesthesia care unit observations and complications were recorded. All patients received a trigger-free anaesthetic technique. Detailed postanaesthesia care unit monitoring was undertaken and patients were observed for two and a half hours postoperatively.

Seventy-two patients were included in the audit. General anaesthesia was administered to 85% and regional to 15%. Only minor complications arose in the postoperative period, and none suggested a malignant hyperthermia reaction. Postanaesthesia care unit nursing staff contacted 49 (68%) of the patients the following day, and there was no evidence of malignant hyperthermia reactions.

This audit suggests that malignant hyperthermia susceptible patients can be safely managed as day stay patients in appropriate facilities, with appropriate postoperative care.
Motor Neurone Disease Presenting as Postoperative Respiratory Failure
Authors: Walker H. C. , Dinsdale D. , Abernethy D. A.
Published: January 2019

We present the case of a woman who developed respiratory failure in the postoperative period secondary to previously unsuspected motor neurone disease. This case highlights the difficulty in detecting subtle neuromuscular weakness during anaesthetic pre-assessment.
Myotonic Dystrophy and Pain Management of a Patient Undergoing Total Abdominal Hysterectomy in a Metropolitan General Hospital
Authors: Sivathondan D.
Published: January 2019

Patients with myotonic dystrophy presenting for surgery are exposed to the adverse effects of anaesthetics, especially if the condition has not been diagnosed. Respiratory depression due to increased sensitivity to anaesthetic and opioid drugs is of major concern in patients undergoing major surgery. Meticulous pre- and postoperative management, including pain management, is necessary to avoid morbidity and mortality.
Comparison of the AMBU® Laryngeal Mask and the LMA Classic in Anaesthetised, Spontaneously Breathing Patients
Authors: Ng S. Y. , Teoh W. H. L. , Lim Y. , Cheong V. G.
Published: January 2019

There may be a role for single-use laryngeal mask airways with concerns about inability to adequately sterilise laryngeal mask airways to eradicate prion proteins. A single-blinded prospective randomised controlled trial was conducted to compare the clinical performance of the single-use AMBU®LMA with the reuseable LMA Classic. There was no difference in time to insertion, successful insertion at first attempt, oropharyngeal leak pressure, haemodynamic response to insertion or complications of placement. The AMBU®LMA was easier to insert. There was a suggestion of reduced postoperative sore throat and pharyngeal trauma for the AMBU® LMA group. The AMBU®LMA is a viable alternative to the LMA Classic for airway management in spontaneously breathing patients.
Anaesthesia for Emergency Caesarean Section, 2000-2004, at the Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne
Authors: Popham P. , Buettner A. , Mendola M.
Published: January 2019

The provision of anaesthesia for emergency caesarean section is a major part of the workload of obstetric anaesthetists and the urgency often dictates the mode of anaesthesia that can be provided. We have audited the provision of anaesthesia for ‘immediate’ caesarean sections over a four-year period following the introduction of a ‘Code Green’ system to coordinate a rapid response to an obstetric decision to proceed with an ‘immediate’ caesarean section.

The records of all patients for whom a Code Green was called between July 2000 and June 2004 were studied. The reasons for the call, interval timings (for example decision-to-delivery interval) and type of anaesthesia used were collected.

There were 444 Code Green procedures, of which 47 were excluded due to incomplete data. The most common indication was ‘fetal distress’ and the three most common types of anaesthesia used were general (n=206), Epidural top-up (n=106) and spinal (n = 65). Mean decision-to-delivery intervals (±SD) for all caesarean sections were 17 (±6) minutes with general anaesthesia, 19 (±9) minutes with epidural and 26 (±9) minutes with spinal anaesthesia. Forty-five percent of calls were made between the hours of 0700 and 1700 h. General anaesthesia was most used between the hours of 0700 and 1700 h.

A swift response to the call for an immediate caesarean section can be achieved when suitable facilities and procedures are in place. Administering an epidural bolus into an already established epidural catheter that is working effectively can allow a decision-to-delivery interval almost as short as general anaesthesia.
Severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Pregnancy. Caesarean Section in the Second Trimester to Improve Maternal Ventilation
Authors: Oram M. P. , Seal P. , Mckinstry C. E.
Published: January 2019

We report the case of a 25-year-old woman in the second trimester of pregnancy with acute respiratory distress syndrome associated with miliary tuberculosis. Delivery of the baby by caesarean section at 24 weeks gestation resulted in an immediate and sustained improvement in respiratory function and maternal survival. We believe this to be the first report suggesting a role for caesarean section, performed with the aim of an improvement in maternal respiratory function, at such an early point in pregnancy.
Adjuncts and Alternatives to Oxime Therapy in Organophosphate Poisoning—is There Evidence of Benefit in Human Poisoning? A Review
Authors: Peter J. V. , Moran J. L. , Pichamuthu K. , Chacko B.
Published: January 2019

Organophosphate poisoning is common in developing countries. The morbidity and mortality with organophosphate poisoning is relatively high despite the use of atropine as specific antidotal therapy and oximes to reactivate acetylcholinesterase. Several adjunct and alternative therapies have been explored in animal and human studies. We reviewed the literature to ascertain if there was evidence of benefit of such therapies. Adjunct and alternative therapies included treatments to reduce poison absorption by topical application of creams, enhance toxin elimination by haemoperfusion or bioremediation and neutralise the poison by scavenging free organophosphate with cholinesterase-rich human plasma. In addition, magnesium, clonidine, diazepam, N-acetyl cysteine and adenosine receptor agonists have also been used to counteract poison effects. Detailed assessment was limited by the paucity of trials on adjunct/alternative therapies. The limited evidence from the review process suggested potential benefit from the use of human plasma infusion, early initiation of haemoperfusion and intravenous magnesium, in addition to standard therapy with atropine and pralidoxime. There appeared to be no additional benefit with alkalinisation or use of glycopyrrolate instead of atropine in human trials. Diazepam administration has been advocated by military authorities if symptoms developed following exposure to organophosphate. Bioremediation, clonidine, N-acetyl cysteine and adenosine receptor agonists have been evaluated only in animal models. The impact of adjunct and alternate therapies on outcomes in human poisoning needs to be further explored before implementation as standard treatment.
Comparison of the Laryngeal Mask (LMA™) and Laryngeal Tube (LT®) with the Perilaryngeal Airway (CobraPLA®) in Brief Paediatric Surgical Procedures
Authors: Kaya G. , Koyuncu O. , Turan N. , Turan A.
Published: January 2019

We compared the laryngeal mask airway (LMA™) and the laryngeal tube (LT®) with the perilaryngeal airway (CobraPLA®, PLA) in anaesthetised, paralysed children having brief surgical procedures.

After obtaining informed consent, 90 paediatric ASA Status 1 and 2 patients awaiting short surgical procedures were randomised to have their airways managed with an LMA, LT or PLA. Anaesthesia was induced with sevoflurane (2.5 to 4%) and muscle paralysis with mivacurium (0.2 mg/kg intravenously). The number of insertion attempts, time taken to insert the device, haemodynamic responses to insertion (mean arterial blood pressure, heart rate, pulse oximetry and end-tidal CO 2 ), clinical performance and occurrence of postoperative sore throat were recorded.

When the airway device was removed, it was examined for visible blood. Patients and parents were asked about the occurrence of sore throat, dysphonia and dysphagia 24 hours postoperatively.

Heart rate, mean arterial blood pressure, pulse oximetry and end tidal CO 2 did not differ among the groups. Insertion times for the devices were similar (LMA: 19 ± 11 seconds, LT: 21 ± 12 seconds, PLA: 18 ± 12 seconds), as were the rates of successful insertion at first attempt (LMA 66.7%; LT 70.0%; PLA 73.3%). The number and type of airway interventions to achieve an effective airway were comparable. When the airways were removed, positive blood traces were noted on 20% of the LMAs, 20% of the PLAs and 10% of the LTs.

Haemodynamic, ventilation and oxygenation variables throughout the surgery were similar with LMA, LT and PLA and there were no significant differences in insertion time or signs or symptoms of mucosal trauma when these devices were used in paralysed children.
The Glostavent: Evolution of an Anaesthetic Machine for Developing Countries
Authors: Beringer R. M. , Eltringham R. J.
Published: January 2019

The sophisticated anaesthetic machines designed for use in modern hospitals are not appropriate for many parts of the developing world, as they are reliant on regular servicing by skilled engineers and an uninterrupted supply of electricity and compressed gases, which are not always available. The Glostavent has been designed specifically to meet the challenges faced by anaesthetists working in these countries. It is robust, simple to use, economical, easy to service and will continue to run during an interruption of the supply of oxygen or electricity. Feedback from widespread use throughout the developing world over the last 10 years has led to significant improvements to the original design. This article describes the basic components of the original version and the modifications which have been introduced as a result of practical experience in the developing world.
Dose Requirements for Propofol Anaesthesia for Dental Treatment for Autistic Patients Compared with Intellectually Impaired Patients
Authors: Asahi Y. , Kubota K. , Omichi S.
Published: January 2019

We had clinical grounds to suspect that patients with autism had greater propofol requirements during dental procedures than patients with intellectual impairment without autism. This hypothesis was tested by an audit of a standard anaesthetic technique. The audit was approved by our Hospital Ethics Committee.

We compared the propofol requirements and effect using a standardised protocol during dental treatment in 56 autistic patients (age range three to 35 years) and 56 intellectually impaired patients (age range four to 42 years). Patients in each disability group were divided into three subgroups by age: six years or younger, seven to 19 years and 20 years or older. Combative patients received oral midazolam premedication, other patients received a single intravenous bolus of midazolam at induction. Otherwise, standardised propofol boluses and infusion were the only anaesthetic agents used.

The propofol infusion rates of the intellectually impaired group showed significant decline with age (propofol rate of requirement mg.kg−1.h−1 mean [SD]): <six years 13.6 (3.6), seven to 19 years 9.5 (3.0) (P=0.008 cf 19years group 8.5 (2.4) (P=0.001 cf <six years group).

The propofol requirement was greater in the autism group than in the intellectual disability group, and the proportion of the cases where bolus propofol administration was needed after induction was significantly higher in the autistic patient group than in the intellectually impaired patients (P <0.002). This suggests that autistic patients have greater propofol requirements for anaesthesia during ordinary dental treatment compared with intellectually impaired patients.
A New Degraded Auditory Stimulus Test to Measure Implicit Memory during Anaesthesia in Children
Authors: Phelan L. , Sheppard S. J. , Davidson A. J.
Published: January 2019

It remains unclear whether children form implicit memories during general anaesthesia. This is partly due to a lack of tests for implicit memory that are appropriate for the anaesthesia setting. The aim of this study was to assess a new implicit memory test that could be more suitable for use with children during anaesthesia. Ninety-three children aged five to 12 years who were undergoing elective surgery were studied. Patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups preoperatively and exposed to a familiar animal sound, followed by a distract or task. Two animal sounds were tested; in one group children were exposed to one animal sound preoperatively, while in the other group they were exposed to the other. After surgery the children were played degraded versions of the animal sounds that had been mixed with white noise and became increasingly clearer over the 60 second recording. Children who explicitly recalled hearing the sound preoperatively were excluded. Response times for recognition were recorded and compared. The analysis revealed evidence for a significant priming effect for one of the two animal sounds tested. The speed and simplicity of administration of this test suggest the degraded auditory stimulus test would be a promising tool to detect implicit memory during anaesthesia in children. However as we found evidence for priming with only one of the sounds, the choice of sound is important.
Magnetic Resonance Scanning of the Upper Airway following Difficult Intubation Reveals an Unexpected Lingual Tonsil
Authors: Greenland K. B. , Cumpston P. H. V , Huang J.
Published: January 2019

We present a case of a 40-year-old woman requiring elective surgery who had an unexpected Grade 4 Cormack and Lehane laryngoscopy view. Both curved and straight laryngoscope blades in the sniffing and hyperextended head and neck positions were used. Endotracheal intubation was accomplished with some difficulty using a No. 3 Macintosh blade and Frova intubating catheter in the sniffing position. The cause of the difficult laryngoscopy was a lingual tonsil as shown in postoperative magnetic resonance scans.

We feel that a comprehensive postoperative evaluation should be conducted after every difficult laryngoscopy (Cormack and Lehane Grade 3b and 4). The use of magnetic resonance imaging may provide important objective information for both the anaesthetist and the patient, allowing a better understanding of causes and possible solutions for future airway management.
Ultrasound-guided Transversus Abdominis Plane Block for Neonatal Abdominal Surgery
Authors: Fredrickson M.J. , Seal P.
Published: January 2019

This paper describes four neonates having abdominal procedures with intraoperative and early postoperative analgesia provided by a transversus abdominis plane regional block. Analgesia for neonatal upper and midabdominal surgery usually involves regional anaesthesia and/or systemic opioid. All these analgesia techniques have problems specific to the neonatal period. Neonates are sensitive to the respiratory depressant effects of systemic opioid, while the low threshold for local anaesthetic toxicity limits regional anaesthesia/analgesia, which in neonatal upper abdominal surgery is often limited to local anaesthetic infiltration.

The transversus abdominis plane block has been shown to provide effective analgesia following a variety of abdominal surgeries in both adults and children. We report four neonates who underwent minor or major abdominal surgery under general anaesthesia supplemented by ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane block. Perioperative opioids were administered to one neonate who required postoperative ventilation. Ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane bock is a technically feasible alternative to local anaesthetic wound infiltration in the neonate and warrants further evaluation.
A Retrospective Analysis of Deep Neck Infections at Royal Perth Hospital
Authors: Matzelle S. J. , Heard A. M. B. , Khong G. L. S. , Riley R. H. , Eakins P. D.
Published: January 2019

Serious deep neck infections may result in life-threatening airway complications. The aim of this study was to review the management of patients requiring surgical drainage with deep neck infections and to identify possible factors that may predict a greater risk of airway complications. In this study the authors reviewed the notes of patients requiring surgical drainage of deep neck infections who were admitted to Royal Perth Hospital over a seven-year period (2000 to 2007). One hundred and twenty-nine suitable patients were identified, of whom 15.5% encountered airway complications including one death due to airway obstruction. Airway complications were more common if there was no consultant anaesthetist present (odds ratio 4.01 [confidence interval 1.20 to 13.46], P=0.02). Deep neck infections are still relatively common and are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Patients with deep neck infections represent an anaesthetic challenge which should be managed by those with an appropriate level of experience.
Analgesia after Caesarean Delivery
Authors: Mcdonnell N. J. , Keating M. L. , Muchatuta N. A. , Pavy T. J. G. , Paech M. J.
Published: January 2019

As the number of women giving birth by caesarean increases throughout most of the developed world, so too is research into postoperative pain relief for these women. Like most other post-surgical populations, the new mother needs effective pain relief so that she can mobilise early but she also has the added responsibility of needing to care for her newborn baby. There is no ‘gold standard’ for post-caesarean pain management; the number of options is large and the choice of method is at least partly determined by drug availability, regional and individual preferences, resource limitations and financial considerations. Most methods rely on opioids, supplemented with anti-inflammatory analgesics, nerve blocks or other adjunctive techniques. The aim of this review is to detail commonly used opioid-based methods and to review the evidence supporting non-opioid methods, when incorporated into a multimodal approach to post-caesarean pain management. Areas of promising research are also discussed.
Estimating the Net Effect of Unmeasured Ions in Human Extracellular Fluid using a new Mathematical Model. Part I: Theoretical Considerations
Authors: Anstey C. M.
Published: January 2019

A theoretical framework for the formulation of a derived variable to be used for the prediction of the net effect of unmeasured charged species present in human extracellular fluid was explored. This new variable was based on contemporary strong ion and classical buffer base theories and tested against the standard base excess using simulation. It proved to be more accurate in predicting the existence of unmeasured charged species in the extracellular fluid when disturbances of either strong ions, weak acids or both were present.
Can Learning to Sustain Life be BASIC? Teaching for the Initial Management of the Critically Ill in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Douglas A. E. , Holley A. , Udy A. , Lipman J. , Gomersall C. D. , Joynt G. M. , Freebairn R. C. , Boots R. J.
Published: January 2019

Commonly in Australia and New Zealand, initial intensive care support of critically ill patients is by non-intensive care trained medical and nursing staff. Basic Assessment and Support in Intensive Care (BASIC) is an internationally run short course to assist practitioners to gain knowledge and skills to manage the early hours of critical illness.

The aim of this study was to assess the performance and acceptance of the BASIC course as conducted in an Australian metropolitan teaching hospital and a major regional centre in New Zealand.

Performance on pre- and post-course multiple choice examinations and the overall course assessment by all participants attending between 2005 and 2009 was analysed.

Of 796 participants, 338 (42%) were in Australia and 458 (58%) in New Zealand. Compared to New Zealand, Australian non-intensive care consultants and junior medical staff attended more commonly at 9% vs 4% and 62% vs 42% respectively, while nurses more frequently attended in New Zealand (47% compared to 12%, P <0.001). The pre-course open book examination result averaged 79% (95% confidence interval 78 to 80) and the post-course closed book examination was 64% (95% confidence interval 63 to 65). The post-course examination score was predicted by pre-course examination score (β =0.22, 95% confidence interval 0.17 to 0.27), nursing occupation, (β=-3.96, 95% confidence interval -5.03 to -2.90) and the availability of a scenario-based simulation module (β=0.22, 95% confidence interval 0.17 to 0.27, R2=0.38, P <0.001). Participants generally found they had learned a great deal from the program and that the course material was of an appropriate level.

The BASIC course was found to be a positive learning experience for health care practitioners inexperienced in the management of the critically ill.
A Multi-Centre Multi-National Survey of Anaesthetists Regarding the Range of Anaesthetic and Surgical Practices for Paediatric Scoliosis Surgery
Authors: Palmer G. M. , Pirakalathanan P. , Skinner A. V.
Published: January 2019

Institutional responses to a detailed multi-national survey were used to characterise the range of current anaesthetic and surgical practices for paediatric scoliosis surgery. Questions addressed surgical practice, anaesthetic agents, blood-sparing techniques, neurophysiological monitoring used and recalled major complications. Twenty-seven (87%) institutions responded. The median number of cases of these institutions was 40 per year (range 5 to 700). Common practices included inhaled volatile anaesthetic maintenance (80%), omission of nitrous oxide (81%), intravenous remifentanil (88% [range 0.05 to 2.00 μg.kg-1.min-1]), and double intravenous antiemetic agent prophylaxis (59%); multimodal analgesia with paracetamol and parenteral opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammartory drugs and epidural local anaesthetic or opioid infusion (UK) and intrathecal opioids and sub-anaesthetic doses of intravenous ketamine by infusion (Australia); use of cell-saver (81%), controlled hypotension (77%) and antifibrinolytic agents (74%) (intravenous aprotinin [59%] or tranexamic acid [44%]); and epidural somatosensory (92%), neurogenic motor-evoked (32%), compound motor action (31%) and transcranial motor-evoked potential monitoring (54%), with routine wake-up test used infrequently (19%). Fifty-four neurological or cardiac adverse events or deaths were recalled. While institutional practices varied, common themes were identified. The information obtained may suggest new strategies to various centres and could be useful for planning multi-centre audits and trials.
Fever with Multiple Organ Failure: Not Always Sepsis
Authors: Davlouros P. A. , Velissaris D. , Tsiola A. , Filos K. S. , Alexopoulos D.
Published: January 2019

We present the case of a 52-year-old female admitted with fever and multiple organ failure, initially treated for presumed sepsis. However, the combination of multiple organ failure, hyperthermia and vascular instability raised the suspicion of a phaeochromocytoma multisystem crisis. An emergency abdominal ultrasound in the intensive care unit disclosed a large tumour of the right adrenal. Despite specific medical treatment for the presumed adrenal emergency and multiple organ failure, the patient succumbed. Postmortem examination verified the diagnosis of phaeochromocytoma.
John Urban Human and the Divided Airway
Authors: Haridas R. P.
Published: January 2019

The divided airway, a device to aid in blind orotracheal intubation, was patented in 1936 by John Urban Human. However, the inventor did not describe or openly promote his airway and his identity as its inventor was not known to his contemporaries. A biography of John Urban Human and a description of the divided airway are provided.
Storage, Display and Access – Innovations at the Harry Daly Museum and the Richard Bailey Library of the Australian Society of Anaesthetists, Sydney
Authors: Stanbury P.
Published: January 2019

Open storage with simple access to collection items and books is a well-established form of museum display. It is particularly suited to collections in which many examples of slightly differing artefacts are acquired during the process of research and field work. In the long run, open storage saves curatorial time, relieves storage space problems and increases visitor interest and participation. Simple access procedures are essential when busy professionals require information for their ongoing research or immediate application.
Ventilation - How Often are we Correct?
Authors: Dennis D. , Jacob W. , Van Heerden P. V.
Published: January 2019

Traditional mechanical ventilation used tidal volumes (Vt) of between 10 to 15 ml/kg of body weight in order to achieve normal values of pH and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2). Many clinicians today however, adopt lower volumes as a conservative ‘safe’ ventilation strategy in most mechanically ventilated patients. The method by which this is done varies between facilities, but anecdotally doctors use Vt of 6 to 8 ml/kg, and they commonly estimate these volumes at the bedside. This observational study was undertaken in a 23-bed level 3 intensive care unit at a metropolitan tertiary hospital in order to determine whether or not intensive care clinicians are accurately determining the Vt during mechanical ventilation which they purport to do. The primary outcome measure was the Vt being delivered at the time of observation. Thirty patients were recruited into the study, resulting in 55 observations of synchronised intermittent mandatory ventilation with autoflow mode ventilator settings. Although volumes between 6 to 8 ml/kg were recorded in 33 (60%) observations, more detailed exploration of the individual's clinical circumstances reflects that the actual dialled volumes were correct in all but two patients. Intensive care unit mortality was 13% (n=2) in those patients receiving higher than anticipated Vts (n=15). This study has demonstrated that while we achieve a protective ventilation strategy by adopting lower Vts in most mechanically ventilated patients, we should be constantly monitoring exactly what volume is being achieved, not just what is dialled up to be delivered.
Increased Sedation Requirements in Patients Receiving Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Respiratory and Cardiorespiratory Failure
Authors: Shekar K. , Roberts J. A. , Mullany D. V. , Corley A. , Fisquet S. , Bull T. N. , Barnett A. G. , Fraser J. F.
Published: January 2019

Critically ill patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are often noted to have increased sedation requirements. However, data related to sedation in this complex group of patients is limited. The aim of our study was to characterise the sedation requirements in adult patients receiving ECMO for cardiorespiratory failure. A retrospective chart review was performed to collect sedation data for 30 consecutive patients who received venovenous or venoarterial ECMO between April 2009 and March 2011. To test for a difference in doses over time we used a regression model. The dose of midazolam received on ECMO support increased by an average of 18 mg per day (95% confidence interval 8, 29 mg, P=0.001), while the dose of morphine increased by 29 mg per day (95% confidence interval 4, 53 mg, P=0.021) The venovenous group received a daily midazolam dose that was 157 mg higher than the venoarterial group (95% confidence interval 53, 261 mg, P=0.005). We did not observe any significant increase in fentanyl doses over time (95% confidence interval 1269, 4337 μg, P=0.94). There is a significant increase in dose requirement for morphine and midazolam during ECMO. Patients on venovenous ECMO received higher sedative doses as compared to patients on venoarterial ECMO. Future research should focus on mechanisms behind these changes and also identify drugs that are most suitable for sedation during ECMO.
Predictors of Severity in Deep Neck Infections Admitted to the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Garcia T. , Rios M. , Paiva J. A.
Published: January 2019

A retrospective study was performed on adult patients admitted for surgical drainage of deep neck infections and admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) during a period of 52 months. Severe infection was defined as septic shock/severe sepsis, mediastinitis, empyema or necrotising fasciitis. Complicated course was defined as ICU stay >8 days, reintubation, tracheostomy, renal replacement therapy, critical illness, myopathy or mortality. Chi-square or Fisher's exact test were used to assess differences and the significance level was controlled for multiple comparisons applying Bonferroni's correction.

Fifty-four patients were studied. Variables associated with severe infection (43%) were abscess location (retropharyngeal [52 vs 7%; P P=0.002]), Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II >7 (78 vs 13%; P 29 (73 vs 21%; P 2 (77 vs 21%; P P 7 (67 vs 14%; P=0.001), Simplified Acute Physiology Score II >29 (62 vs 18%; P=0.002) and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score >2 (68 vs 17%; P <0.001).

Serious complications occur frequently in patients with deep neck infections surgically drained and admitted to the ICU. Higher severity scores are associated with both severe infection and a complicated course. Retropharyngeal and parapharyngeal locations are associated with severe infection and a complicated course respectively.
Anaphylaxis to Muscle Relaxants: An Audit of Ten Years of Allergy Testing at the Royal Adelaide Hospital
Authors: Brereton A. , Russell W. J.
Published: January 2019

We audited patients with anaphylaxis to muscle relaxants during anaesthesia referred to the Department of Anaesthesia at the Royal Adelaide Hospital between the start of 2000 and the end of 2009. Of the 220 patients tested during this period, 43 had a positive intradermal test to the muscle relaxant given during their anaesthetic. The majority of these were to rocuronium and suxamethonium. Where rocuronium was the index agent, 65% of patients cross-reacted with another relaxant and 29% of patients with suxamethonium as their index agent demonstrated cross-reaction with another relaxant.
Approaching Families for Organ Donation—Intensivists’ Perspectives
Authors: Mullins G. C. , Simes D. , Yuen K. J.
Published: January 2019

In Australia the initial approach to families for organ donation is almost always undertaken by intensivists. There is, however, a paucity of literature on intensivists’ views on this approach and how their approach compares with recommendations in published literature on this subject.

This study consisted of a survey of the views of intensive care consultants and senior intensive care registrars in the four major teaching hospitals in Perth, Western Australia, on how they approached families for organ donation. The study also includes a review of recently published literature on approaching families for organ donation.

The survey results indicate that most intensive care consultants felt adequately trained to approach families for organ donation, but almost half of the group surveyed would prefer a collaborative approach with either a donor co-ordinator or a colleague with additional training on this subject. Despite recommendations in the literature and from the Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Society to determine the registration status of potential donors on the Australian Organ Donation Registry prior to discussions with families, this was not always undertaken. In addition, the benefits of organ donation were not always discussed with families, nor were the reasons for refusal of consent sensitively explored.
Dr Pugh: A Poisoner?
Authors: Paull J. D. , Morris G. M.
Published: January 2019

On 16 February 1845 the Reverend W. H. Browne, rector of St John's Church in Launceston, Van Diemen's Land, wrote in his journal, “My dear Wife died very suddenly almost immediately after and in consequence of taking a preparation of Hyd. Cyan. Acid prepared & supplied by Dr Pugh”1. This journal entry raises a number of questions. Was Dr Pugh treating a condition which he thought merited that treatment or was it a ghastly mistake? Was Caroline Browne suffering from pulmonary tuberculosis? Was hydrocyanic acid an accepted treatment at that time? Did Mrs Browne take the wrong dose? Was an incorrect concentration of the drug prepared by Dr Pugh? Did he use the wrong pharmacopoeia in preparing the hydrocyanic acid? Why was there no inquest? Only some of these questions can be answered.
Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection in Pregnancy Requiring Emergency Caesarean Delivery Followed by Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Authors: Weinberg L. , Ong M. , Tan C. O. , Mcdonnell N. J. , Lo C. , Chiam E.
Published: January 2019

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection is a rare and often fatal condition of pregnancy. The long-term morbidity is unknown, but a small cohort of patients develop severe ventricular dysfunction as a consequence. We describe a 37-week gestation parturient who presented with cardiogenic shock secondary to spontaneous left main coronary artery dissection. Despite rapid diagnosis, stabilisation with an intra-aortic balloon pump and prompt transfer to a tertiary centre for emergency caesarean delivery and coronary artery bypass grafting, the patient developed a severe postoperative dilated ischaemic cardiomyopathy. There is little information about the long-term outcomes and the specific anaesthesia management of combined emergency caesarean delivery and cardiac surgery in pregnancy for spontaneous coronary artery dissection. Therefore, we outline our multidisciplinary management of this critically ill pregnant woman.
Validating a Process-of-Care Checklist for Intensive Care Units
Authors: Conroy K. M. , Elliott D. , Burrell A. R.
Published: January 2019

Early evidence suggests that checklists are one way of ensuring required processes of care are delivered to intensive care unit patients. Evidence to date however, has not explicitly detailed methods of checklist validation in these settings. This study aimed to test the validity of a ‘process-of-care’ checklist for measuring and ensuring daily care delivery in an intensive care unit. A retrospective audit of a random selection of patient medical records was undertaken to compare with checklist data completed during the same time frame. Documentation in the patients’ medical records was used as a proxy measure for actual completion of care. A specific audit tool extracted information from both the checklist and the medical record on the following processes of care: nutrition, weaning from ventilation, pain, glucose control, sit out of bed, bowel management, deep vein thrombosis and stress ulcer prophylaxis. These two data sources were compared using the Spearman's rho correlation coefficient. The two forms of documentation were significantly correlated ( P=0.01) for all but one of the checklist items (pain). Findings provided support for the concurrent validity of an intensive care unit process-of-care checklist. Further research is required for checklist validity and reliability testing prior to, or in conjunction with, a planned prospective intervention study.
Utility of Thromboelastography in Managing Acquired Factor VIII Inhibitor Associated Massive Haemorrhage
Authors: Fisher C. , Mo A. , Warrillow S. , Smith C. , Jones D.
Published: January 2019

Disorders of clotting and coagulation are common in the intensive care unit. Diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of these disorders are traditionally based on conventional coagulation tests such as activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and international normalised ratio (INR). We present here a patient who developed massive postoperative haemorrhage secondary to an acquired factor VIII inhibitor. The case highlights the utility and sensitivity of thromboelastography (TEG) in the diagnosis of the condition and monitoring the response to therapy.
The Effect of High-Fidelity Simulation on the Confidence and Decision-Making Ability of Anaesthesia Trainees in Managing Subsequent Simulated ‘Can't Intubate, Can't Oxygenate’ scenarios
Authors: Mccrossin K. E. , White H. T. , Sane S.
Published: January 2019

The decision to attempt a percutaneous airway in a recognised ‘Can't Intubate, Can't Oxygenate’ (CICO) situation may occur too late to avoid a poor outcome. Our study was designed to investigate the effect of high-fidelity simulation on the confidence and decision-making ability of anaesthesia trainees in managing CICO scenarios in subsequent simulation. Nine anaesthesia trainees from Logan Hospital participated. Pre-study questionnaires surveying confidence levels in various anaesthetic crises were completed. All participants underwent an education session based on algorithms developed for failed intubation and ventilation, and techniques for securing percutaneous airway access. However, only four of the nine participated in a high-fidelity simulation session. All nine participants were then filmed during ‘mini-simulation’ assessment sessions and completed post-study questionnaires identical to those at the commencement of the study. The four trainees who had undertaken the initial high-fidelity simulation had a lower median time to laryngeal mask airway attempt (60 versus 115 seconds) and time to percutaneous airway attempt (111 versus 172 seconds) in the subsequent simulation. The median number of deviations from the Difficult Airway Society algorithm was 0 for the simulation group compared to 1 for the non-simulation group. This small study suggests that high-fidelity simulation shortens the decision-making time of anaesthesia trainees in subsequent simulated CICO scenarios. This observation warrants follow-up in larger prospective trials.
The Epidemiology of Adult Rapid Response Team patients in Australia
Authors: Jones D.
Published: January 2019

Rapid Response Teams (RRT) are specialised teams that review deteriorating ward patients in an attempt to prevent morbidity and mortality. Most studies have assessed the effect of implementing an RRT into a hospital. There is much less literature on the characteristics and outcomes of RRT patients themselves. This article reviews the epidemiology of adult RRT patients in Australia and proposes three models of RRT syndromes. The number of RRT calls varies considerably in Australian hospitals from 1.35 to 71.3/1000 hospital admissions. Common causes of RRT calls include sepsis, atrial fibrillation, seizures and pulmonary oedema. Approximately 20% of patients to whom an RRT has responded have more than one RRT call, and up to one-third have issues around end-of-life care. Calls are least common overnight. Between 10 to 25% of patients are admitted to a critical care area after the call. The in-hospital mortality for RRT patients is approximately 25% overall but only 15% in patients without a limitation of medical therapy. RRT syndromes can be conceptually described by the trigger for the call (e.g. hypotension) or the clinical condition causing the call (e.g. sepsis). Alternatively, the RRT call can be described by the major theme of the call: “end-of-life care”, “requiring critical care” and “stable enough to initially remain on the ward”. Based on these themes, education strategies and quality improvement initiatives may be developed to reduce the incidence of RRT calls, further improving patient outcome.
Comparison of Massimo Pronto-7 and Hemocue Hb 201+ with Laboratory Haemoglobin Estimation: A Clinical Study
Authors: Hiscock R. , Simmons S. W. , Carstensen B. , Gurrin L. C.
Published: January 2019

We prospectively studied agreement in haemoglobin estimation between two point-of-care devices (Pronto-7® Pulse CO-Oximetry™, Masimo Corporation, Irvine, California, USA and HemoCue® Hb 201+, HemoCue, Angelholm, Sweden) and an automated laboratory analyser (Sysmex XE5000, Sysmex Corporation, Kobe, Japan). Venous blood sampling and finger co-oximeter readings were performed on 141 pregnant women undergoing routine mid-trimester haemoglobin assessment. Three replicate measures were performed and analysis used Bayesian-based variance component modelling to provide estimates of repeatability, between person within method bias and precision. Repeatability, assessed by coefficient of variation, was higher for Pronto-7® (2.3%) compared to HemoCue® (5.2%). Fixed bias (mean difference, device - laboratory) was +1.18 (standard deviation 1.19) g/dl and - 0.01 (standard deviation 1.34) g/dl for Pronto-7® and HemoCue® respectively, with no statistical evidence of proportional bias. Based upon a single device reading, the 95% prediction limits for Pronto-7® were −1.2 to 3.6 g.dl-1 and HemoCue® were −2.7 to 2.7 g/dl. For both devices precision was not meaningfully improved by averaging replicate readings. However, repeated readings may allow detection of aberrant results. Overall both devices are imprecise and 95% prediction limits wide. We present further prediction limits, derived from the posterior distribution and adjusted for any fixed bias for set levels of probability (certainty). These may be used to support clinical decisions when using these point-of-care devices.
Fixed Drug Eruption to Propofol
Authors: Allchurch L. G. V. , Crilly H.
Published: January 2019

We present a case of fixed drug eruption to propofol following a series of sedations of a patient for a number of day case procedures. The patient experienced oedema and blistering of his penis, increasing in severity and duration following each subsequent exposure. The diagnosis was confirmed by punch biopsy following an intravenous challenge test with propofol. Whilst reports of fixed drug eruptions to anaesthetic induction agents are uncommon, a number of drugs used commonly by anaesthetists are known triggers. We discuss fixed drug eruptions in relation to anaesthetic practice, aiming to raise awareness of this adverse drug reaction.
Toxic Leukoencephalopathy in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Holyoak A. L. , Trout M. J. , White R. P. , Prematuranga S. , Senthuran S.
Published: January 2019

In this article, we report two cases of acute toxic leukoencephalopathy to highlight this acute clinicoradiological syndrome as an important, although uncommon, consideration in the undifferentiated comatose patient who fails to wake following drug overdose or has unexplained neurology with a history of drug exposure. We then review the current literature and discuss potential differential diagnoses in this setting, along with proposed treatments for this condition. The cases presented demonstrate a more fulminant onset than previously well-defined acute toxic leukoencephalopathy subtypes and highlight the prognostic importance of magnetic resonance imaging in diagnosing a condition from which significant functional recovery seems possible.
A Retrospective Survey of Substance Abuse in Anaesthetists in Australia and New Zealand from 2004 to 2013
Authors: Fry R. A. , Fry L. E. , Castanelli D. J.
Published: January 2019

A questionnaire on substance abuse was distributed electronically to the heads of 185 Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists accredited anaesthesia departments in Australia and New Zealand. The response rate was 57%. From January 2004 to December 2013, 61 cases of substance abuse were identified, giving an estimated incidence of 1.2 cases per 1000 anaesthetist years. Of 44 detailed reports completed, the majority were aged between 30 and 49 years, were male and of specialist grade. However, when corrected for gender and grade, the estimated overall incidence was higher in females and twice as high for trainees compared with specialists. When compared with prior surveys, the pattern of substance abuse in Australia and New Zealand appears to have changed significantly, with a notable increase in propofol and alcohol abuse and a decrease in reported cases of opioid abuse. Common presenting features of abuse included intoxication and witnessed abuse. Seventy percent of cases had more than one comorbid condition, most frequently either mental health or family problems. Only 32% of abusers had made a long-term recovery within the specialty. Death was the eventual outcome in 18% overall, with a particularly high mortality associated with propofol abuse (45%). Trainee suicide from all causes was reported at three times the rate of specialists. The findings indicate that substance abuse remains a significant problem in Australia and New Zealand and is associated with a significant mortality rate.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Method Comparison Studies of Masimo Pulse Co-Oximeters (Radical-7™ or Pronto-7™) and HemoCue® Absorption Spectrometers (B-Hemoglobin or 201+) with Laboratory Haemoglobin Estimation
Authors: Hiscock R. , Kumar D. , Simmons S. W.
Published: January 2019

We assessed agreement in haemoglobin measurement between Masimo pulse co-oximeters (Rad-7™ and Pronto-7™) and HemoCue® photometers (201+ or B-Hemoglobin) with laboratory-based determination and identified 39 relevant studies (2915 patients in Masimo group and 3084 patients in HemoCue group). In the Masimo group, the overall mean difference was -0.03 g/dl (95% prediction interval -0.30 to 0.23) and 95% limits of agreement -3.0 to 2.9 g/dl compared to 0.08 g/dl (95% prediction interval -0.04 to 0.20) and 95% limits of agreement -1.3 to 1.4 g/dl in the HemoCue group. Only B-Hemoglobin exhibited bias (0.53, 95% prediction interval 0.27 to 0.78). The overall standard deviation of difference was larger (1.42 g/dl versus 0.64 g/dl) for Masimo pulse co-oximeters compared to HemoCue photometers. Masimo devices and HemoCue 201+ both provide an unbiased, pooled estimate of laboratory haemoglobin. However, Masimo devices have lower precision and wider 95% limits of agreement than HemoCue devices. Clinicians should carefully consider these limits of agreement before basing transfusion or other clinical decisions on these point-of-care measurements alone.