Volume-controlled breaths differ from PC breaths in that a preset volume is delivered with each breath instead of a preset pressure. Therefore, peak pressures must be monitored closely to avoid barotrauma. Red Man's Syndrome is a condition in which the patient's body turns to a red gloss or sheen, develops hypotension, and or experiences pruritis. This condition is precipitated by a rapid infusion of the antibiotic Vancomycin, which in turn follows a massive release of histamine. Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation is a condition in which a patient may have excessive clotting, uncontrolled bleeding, or both.
Infections are the most common cause.
Our patient presented with disseminated intravascular clotting, which was the result of a widespread exposure of the circulating blood to procoagulant activity capable of activating the fibrinolytic enzyme system converting fibrinogen into fibrin. Fibrin in turn caused occlusion of the posterior tibial artery resulting in tissue necrosis and amputation of the limb below the knee. There are several complications associated with a tracheostomy. Immediate postoperative complications include the risk for pneumothorax, stomal hemorrhage, and accidental decannulation. Tracheal stenosis is also a major complication of a tracheostomy tube.