The aim of this study was to review the various anesthetic options which can be considered for laparoscopic surgeries in the patients with the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The literature search was performed in the Google, PubMed, and Medscape using key words “analgesia, anesthesia, general, laparoscopy, lung diseases, obstructive.” More than thirty-five free full articles and books published from the year 1994 to 2014 were retrieved and studied. Retrospective data observed from various studies and case reports showed regional anesthesia (RA) to be valid and safer option in the patients who are not good candidates of general anesthesia like patients having obstructive pulmonary diseases. It showed better postoperative patient outcome with respect to safety, efficacy, postoperative pulmonary complications, and analgesia. So depending upon disease severity RA in various forms such as spinal anesthesia, paravertebral block, continuous epidural anesthesia, combined spinal epidural anesthesia (CSEA), and CSEA with bi-level positive airway pressure should be considered.

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Dental anxiety and fear of needle injection is one of the most common problems encountered by dental practitioners, especially in the pediatric patient. In consequences, it might affect the patient's quality of life. Several methods are suggested to lower the discomfort of local anesthesia injection during dental procedures. Desensitization of injection site is one of the recommended strategies. Among chemical anesthetic topical agents that are effective but might have allergic side effects, using some nonpharmacological and safe techniques might be useful. This study aimed to overview the efficacy of using cooling techniques, mostly by ice or popsicles, warming or pH buffering of drug, and using modern devices to diminish the discomfort of local anesthesia injection during dental procedures.

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Dental pain management is one of the most critical aspects of modern dentistry. Irreversible pulpitis and further root canal therapy might cause an untolerated pain to the patients. The improvements in anesthetic agents and techniques were one of the advantages of studying nerve biology and stimulation. This article tried to overview of the nerve activities in inflammatory environments or induced pain. Furthermore, the proper advises, and supplementary techniques were reviewed for better pain management of irreversible pulpitis.

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Background: Postoperative pain management by surgical site infiltration has an edge over other methods of analgesia as it is simple and has lesser side effects. This study was designed to compare the analgesic effects provided by bupivacaine, a classical long-acting local anesthetic and ropivacaine, a new amino amide local anesthetic agent. Subjects and Methods: Ninety patients scheduled for elective inguinal herniorrhaphy were randomly allocated to one of the three groups: Group I - R 0.5, group II - R 0.25, and group III - B 0.25. General anesthesia was given. The surgical site was infiltrated before incision with 20 ml of drugs - ropivacaine 0.5% in group I, ropivacaine 0.25% in group II, bupivacaine 0.25% in group III. Intraoperatively hemodynamics were recorded every 15 min until the end of surgery and at the time of skin incision, at the time of cord pulling, and at the time of skin closure. Postoperatively, rest pain, pain on coughing, and pain on movements were assessed using visual analog scale (VAS) score immediately at the end of the surgery and hourly up to 4 h. The time of the first request for rescue analgesia was noted. Results: VAS scores at rest, during coughing and movements were higher in group R 0.25 and the time of rescue analgesia was shorter with group R 0.25 when compared with other groups. Conclusion: Ropivacaine is less potent than bupivacaine at equal concentrations.

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Background: The purpose of this study was to compare the safety and efficacy of postoperative analgesia with epidural buprenorphine and butorphanol tartrate. Methods: Sixty patients who were scheduled for elective laparoscopic hysterectomies were randomly enrolled in the study. At the end of the surgery, in study Group A 1 ml (0.3 mg) of buprenorphine and in Group B 1 ml (1 mg) of butorphanol tartrate both diluted to 10 ml with normal saline was injected through the epidural catheter. Visual analog pain scales (VAPSs) were assessed every hour till the 6^th h, then 2^nd hourly till the 12^th h. To assess sedation, Ramsay sedation score was used. The total duration of postoperative analgesia was taken as the period from the time of giving epidural drug until the patients first complain of pain and the VAPS is more than 6. Patients were observed for any side effects such as respiratory depression, nausea, vomiting, hypotension, bradycardia, pruritus, and headache. Results: Buprenorphine had a longer duration of analgesia when compared to butorphanol tartrate (586.17 ± 73.64 vs. 342.53 ± 47.42 [P < 0.001]). Nausea, vomiting (13% vs. 10%), and headache (20% vs. 13%) were more in buprenorphine group; however, sedation score and pruritus (3% vs. 6%) were found to be more with butorphanol. Conclusion: Epidural buprenorphine significantly reduced pain and increased the quality of analgesia with a longer duration of action and was a better alternative to butorphanol for postoperative pain relief.

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Context: To assess the analgesic efficacy of the combination of bupivacaine and buprenorphine in alleviating postoperative pain following laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Aims: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is comparatively advantageous as it offers less pain in the postoperative period and requires a shorter hospital stay. There are only a few studies performed to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of intraperitoneal instillation of buprenorphine and bupivacaine during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Settings and Design: The present research is a randomized, double-blind controlled study conducted in the Department of Anaesthesiology, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital Ludhiana, Punjab after formal ethical approval from Hospital's Ethics Committee. Subjects and Methods: This study analyzed 90 adults admitted for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. After the procedure, subjects were divided into three equal groups to conduct the study. Three Groups A, B, and C had intraperitoneal instillation of the 25 ml of physiological saline (0.9% normal saline), 0.25% of bupivacaine, 0.25% bupivacaine, and 0.3 mg buprenorphine, respectively. Necessary vitals were monitored and recorded. Visual analog scale (VAS) and verbal rating scale (VRS) scores were recorded and analyzed systematically. Statistical Analysis Used: All observations were analyzed using analysis of variance and Student's t-test. Results: The mean pain scores were highest in Group A compared to Group B and Group C. Mean VAS and VRS scores were highest in Group C comparatively and lowest in Group A. Conclusion: Combination of buprenorphine and bupivacaine intraperitoneally is comparatively more effective in relieving postoperative pain in comparison to intraperitoneal instillation of bupivacaine alone for postoperative pain management after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

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Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) in the pediatric population is a challenging task for any anesthesiologist, moreover considering the high incidence of associated congenital anomalies which are individual predictors of poor prognosis. A thorough preoperative evaluation, knowledge of the physiology of one lung ventilation - pertaining to various methods of lung isolation, individualized meticulous planning, and continuous vigilance to detect any untoward event at the earliest with good communication between the anesthesiology and surgical teams contributes to a safe and successful surgery. We present a case series of anesthetic management of congenital diaphragmatic hernia with VATS.

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Background: Unanticipated difficult intubation can be challenging to anesthesiologists, and various bedside tests have been tried to predict difficult intubation. Aims: The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of difficult intubation in the Indian population and also to determine the diagnostic accuracy of bedside tests in predicting difficult intubation. Settings and Design: In this study, 200 patients belonging to age group 18–60 years of American Society of Anesthesiologists I and II, scheduled for surgery under general anesthesia requiring endotracheal intubation were enrolled. Patients with upper airway pathology, neck mass, and cervical spine injury were excluded from the study. Materials and Methods: An attending anesthesiologist conducted preoperative assessment and recorded parameters such as body mass index, modified Mallampati grading, inter-incisor distance, neck circumference, and thyromental distance (NC/TMD). After standard anesthetic induction, laryngoscopy was performed, and intubation difficulty assessed using intubation difficulty scale on the basis of seven variables. Statistical Analysis: The Chi-square test or student t-test was performed when appropriate. The binary multivariate logistic regression (forward-Wald) model was used to determine the independent risk factors. Results: Among the 200 patients, 26 patients had difficult intubation with an incidence of 13%. Among different variables, the Mallampati score and NC/TMD were independently associated with difficult intubation. Receiver operating characteristic curve showed a cut-off point of 3 or 4 for Mallampati score and 5.62 for NC/TMD to predict difficult intubation. Conclusion: The diagnostic accuracy of NC/TM ratio and Mallampatti score were better compared to other bedside tests to predict difficult intubation in Indian population.

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Anesthetic management of pheochromocytoma is complicated and challenging. Extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma is a rare neuroendocrine tumor that produces, stores and secretes catecholamines. The main-stay in the management of pheochromocytoma surgeries is Preoperative preparation which has improved perioperative outcome. Modern anesthetic drugs with advanced monitoring have contributed to intraoperative stability. Resection of the tumor results in acute withdrawal of catecholamines, which may lead to severe hypotension. In perioperative period, adequate hydration should be maintained. Beta-blockers, nitroglycerine, sodium nitroprusside and phenylephrine are required to avoid hemodynamic fluctuations and should be used appropriately.

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Aims: The present study is undertaken to compare the hemodynamic effects using vecuronium versus rocuronium for maintenance in patients undergoing general surgical procedures. Settings and Design: It is a prospective, randomized, and cohort study. Subjects and Methods: 100 patients were randomly divided into two groups. All patients were induced with 5 mg/kg of thiopentone sodium, and intubation conditions were achieved with 1.5 mg/kg of suxamethonium, using a well-lubricated cuffed endotracheal tube of appropriate size. When the patient started to breathe spontaneously, they were administered either 0.6 mg/kg of rocuronium (Group A) or 0.1 mg/kg of vecuronium (Group B). Hemodynamic parameters (heart rate and mean arterial pressure [MAP]) were monitored before administering the drug; at 1, 5, 10, 15, and 20 min after the drug and at the end of the surgery. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were compiled, analyzed and presented as frequency, proportions, mean, standard deviation, percentages, and t-test using SPSS (version 16). A P < 0.05 was considered as significant. Results: The heart rate increased significantly at 1-min and 5-min after administration of rocuronium (83.76 ± 10.37 and 86.8 ± 9.98), unlike vecuronium. However, it gradually declined towards normal, and change in heart rate with either drug was not significant beyond 10 min. The MAP decreased significantly at 1-min after administration of rocuronium (96.68 ± 7.57) which later showed a gradual increasing trend when compared to vecuronium which had no statistically significant change at any time. Conclusions: For short surgical procedures rocuronium is a good alternative to vecuronium, as the drug is reasonably cardio stable, produces excellent intubation conditions, has a shorter duration of action, and shows minimal cumulative effect.

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Background: Pressor response is a part of stress response caused by reflex sympathetic discharge due to direct laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation resulting in tachycardia, hypertension and arrhythmias. Both clonidine, and gabapentin administered orally can effectively blunt this detrimental hemodynamic response. Aim: To study the effect of oral clonidine to blunt the pressor response to direct laryngoscopy and to compare it with oral gabapentin. To observe for postoperative sedation and side effects if any. Settings and Design: Sixty patients of American Society of Anaesthesiologist Grade I and II scheduled for surgery under general anesthesia were considered in this prospective randomized double-blind study. They were randomly allocated into two groups of 30 each using computerized randomization. Materials and Methods: Group A was given oral clonidine 5 μg/kg and Group B was given oral gabapentin 800 mg. Both the drugs were given 90 min prior to surgery. Heart rate (HR) and blood pressure were monitored at baseline, 0, 1, 3, 5, 10, 15, and 30^th min of laryngoscopy. Sedation was monitored by Ramsay Sedation Scale score and side effects were noted. Results: HR decreased in both groups at 0 and 1 min, increased at 3^rd min and gradually decreased by 30^th min. Statistically, significant difference was found between two groups at 1, 3, 5, 10, and 15^th min (P < 0.05). Though there was no significant difference in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure between the two groups, there was no rise in these parameters. Gabapentin produced more sedation than clonidine postoperatively, and few side effects were noted. Conclusion: Both oral clonidine and gabapentin are effective in obtunding pressor response to direct laryngoscopy, clonidine being better in terms of controlling HR. Gabapentin produces more postoperative sedation than clonidine.

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Objective: To compare the effects of different regimens of hyoscine as antisialagogue in patients undergoing ketofol sedation for colonoscopy procedures. Patients and Methods: In this prospective double-blind randomized controlled trial 200 American Society of Anesthesiologists I-II aged 20–60-year-old undergoing colonoscopy were randomly assigned into four equal groups, group A received 5 mg hyoscine intravenous, group B received 10 mg, group C received 20 mg intravenous, and control group (D) that was received saline. All patients were sedated using ketofol titrated to achieve Ramsey Sedation Score 4, hemodynamic variables and occurrence of increased secretions were evaluated and recorded. Results: Hyoscine in a dose of 10 mg was the optimum dose to achieve least salivation with the least side effect while hyoscine 5 mg was not efficient to achieve dry field or good surgical conditions. However, hyoscine 20 mg achieved dry field and fair surgical conditions in expenses of tachycardia. Conclusion: Hyoscine 10 mg was the least effective dose that significantly reduced hypersalivation in patients receiving ketofol sedation for colonoscopy procedures, this dose was as effective as 20 mg in draying secretion but with significantly less tachycardia.

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Context: Laryngeal mask airway supreme (LMA-S) has an inflatable cuff while i-gel has a noninflatable cuff made of thermoplastic elastomer. Aims: To study the efficacy of ventilation and the laryngeal seal pressures (LSPs) with either device. Our secondary objectives were to compare the ease of insertion, adequacy of positioning the device, hemodynamic response to device insertion, and any postoperative oropharyngeal morbidity. Settings and Design: A prospective, randomized, single-blinded study at Teaching Medical School in South India. Materials and Methods: Forty-two patients posted for surgery under general anesthesia were randomly divided into two groups - LMA-S and i-gel. After a standardized premedication and anesthesia induction sequence, the supra-glottic devices were introduced. Ease of insertion was assessed from the number of attempts taken to insert, insertion time, and any maneuvers required to insert the device. Position of the device was assessed by the ease of gastric catheter placement and the fibreoptic grading of laryngeal visualization. Efficacy of ventilation was determined from the LSP, peak inspiratory pressure (PIP), and end-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO₂)values. Any postoperative oropharyngeal morbidity was also recorded. Statistical Analysis: Descriptive analysis was reported as a mean and standard deviation, median, and range of continuous variables. Demographics were analyzed using a unpaired t-test for parametric data and Chi-square test for nonparametric data. Respiratory and hemodynamic data was analyzed using one-way ANOVA to find statistical difference within and between the two groups. Results: LMA-S was successfully inserted in 95% of patients and i-gel in 85.5% of patients. There was a significant difference (P = 0.021) in the LSPs between the two groups (18.15 cmH₂O in LMA-S and 21.28 cmH₂O in the i-gel group). There was no significant difference in the PIPs, leak fraction, and the EtCO₂values. Conclusion: Both devices are suitable for positive pressure ventilation (PPV) in anesthetized paralyzed patients. However, i-gel gives a better laryngeal seal when compared to LMA-S and may be chosen preferentially for PPV.

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In patients with concomitant occurrence of maxillofacial and basilar skull fractures, open reduction and internal fixation is the treatment. It requires intermittent intra operative dental occlusion which precludes oral or nasal intubation. In such cases submental intubation (SMI) is a recognized technique in practice. We describe a modified technique for smooth exteriorization of the endotracheal tube (ETT) during SMI. As the SMI technique is unusual for the performer, emphasis is laid on the applied aspects to minimize probable complications during the procedure. With the modified technique we performed SMI uneventfully on five patients

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Aims: Our study aimed at comparing the onset, degree and recovery time of sensory and motor block, the hemodynamic effects and postoperative pain relief using intrathecal bupivacaine alone, bupivacaine along with fentanyl and clonidine. Materials and Methods: A total of 90 patients, undergoing transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) surgeries under spinal anesthesia were studied. Patients were randomly divided in a double-blind manner into three groups of 30 patients each. Group A (control) patients given subarachnoid block with 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine with 0.5 ml of normal saline. Group B patients were given subarachnoid block with 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine along with fentanyl 25 μg. Group C patients were given subarachnoid block with 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine 10 mg along with clonidine 30 μg and 0.3 ml of normal saline. After administering the subarachnoid block, vitals were recorded before and after surgery. Level of sensory block, the duration of motor block (DOMB), duration of sensory blockade (DOSB), the quality of postoperative analgesia using linear visual analog scale (VAS), and side effects were evaluated. Results: The time required to attain a maximum height of the block was significantly more in Group B as compared to Groups A and C, which was statistically significant. However, there was no statistically significant difference between Groups A and C. The mean DOSB in Groups A, B, and C were 90.83 ± 9.48 min, 135.33 ± 12.59 min, and 155.17 ± 17.49 min, respectively. The mean DOMB in Groups A, B, and C were 83.83 ± 6.52 min, 115.50 ± 14.70 min and 120.67 ± 11.50, respectively. Time of the first request of analgesia in Groups A, B and C in postoperative period were 132.50 ± 21.53 min, 296.00 ± 50.07 min, and 311.83 ± 65.34 min. patients had. VAS was significantly of higher value in Group A than Groups B and C. Conclusions: Intrathecal clonidine in a combination of bupivacaine for TURP provides more satisfactory anesthesia and analgesia and has less side effects.

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Tumor lysis syndrome in an onco.metabolic emergency resulting from massive lysis of rapidly proliferating malignant cells seen commonly in patients with hematological malignancies such as acute lymphocytic leukemia and Burkitt's lymphoma and is quite rare in solid tumors. Spontaneous development of tumor lysis has been described among other trigger factors such as corticosteroid therapy, anesthesia, tumor manipulation during surgery and pyrexia. We describe such a case in a 5-year-old boy posted for excision and staging of a massive Wilms' tumor who developed a hyperkalemic cardiac arrest during the procedure and its subsequent intraoperative and postoperative management. Intraoperative cardiac arrest is a stressful situation for both the anesthesiologist and the surgeon, more so when it involves a child. The aim of this report is to make the anesthesiologist aware of the possibility and occurrence of such a phenomenon in children and be adequately prepared for such an emergency.

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The management of cardiac arrest in pregnancy is an important task for the emergency physicians. Some reasons for cardiac arrest are reversible and should be recognized and managed promptly. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation follows general advanced cardiac life support guidelines with several modifications for pregnant women, taking into account the lives of both mother and fetus. Here, we present the case of 23-year-old pregnant patient who came to Guru Nanak Dev Hospital, Amritsar; in shock, had a cardiac arrest, successfully resuscitated in Intensive Care Unit (ICU), delivered by emergency cesarean section and was discharged from ICU on 9^th day in healthy state.

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Context: Alpha-2 adrenergic agonists clonidine and dexmedetomidine, are well known to produce analgesia through an opioid independent mechanism. Alpha-2 agonists are used as an adjuvant to local anesthetic agents to extend the duration of spinal, epidural and brachial plexus blocks. Aims: We compared clonidine and dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to Ropivacaine in cervical epidural anesthesia (CEA) with respect to onset and duration of sensory block, duration of analgesia and adverse effects. Subjects and Methods: A total 150 American Society of Anesthesiologists Class I or II adult female patients who were scheduled to undergo modified radical mastectomy were randomly allocated to the following two groups to receive CEA: Group D receive 15 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine combined with 1 μg/kg of dexmedetomidine; Group C received 15 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine combined with 1.5 μg/kg of clonidine. The onset of sensory block, duration of analgesia, mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), sedation scores, and the incidences of adverse effects, such as hypotension, bradycardia, and oxygen desaturation were recorded. Results: The addition of dexmedetomidine to ropivacaine (Group D) resulted in faster onset of sensory block time compared with the addition of clonidine to ropivacaine (Group C) (95% confidence interval [CI]: 14.53 ± 2.96 vs. 16.72 ± 4.43 P = 0.032). The duration of analgesia block in Group D was significantly longer than that in Group C (95% CI: 234.65 ± 23.76 vs. 286.76 ± 34.65; P = 0.037). The Ramsay sedation score at in Group D were significantly higher between 20 and 60 min as compared to Group C (P < 0.022). MAP level and HR level in Group D and Group C were comparable. Conclusion: The addition of dexmedetomidine to low dose ropivacaine for CEA could shorten the onset of sensory block and extend the duration of analgesia with optimum sedation without episodes of hypoxemia as compared to addition of clonidine to ropivacaine.

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Background: Regional anesthesia has been the choice of preference for elective cesarean sections. This study was designed to determine whether preoperative administration of 6% hetastarch decreases the incidence of hypotension. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on 50 nonlaboring American Society of Anesthesiologists class I and II women undergoing elective cesarean section. Patients were randomly divided into two groups and were preloaded either with 1000 ml Ringer's lactate (RL) or 500 ml of 6% hetastarch 30 min prior to the surgery. Spinal anesthesia was performed with patients in the left lateral position and 2 cc (10 mg) of 0.5% of bupivacaine injected into subarachnoid space. Hemodynamic variables (heart rate, noninvasive blood pressure, and SpO₂) were recorded from prior to preloading until the recovery from the subarachnoid blockade. Results: Our study showed the incidence of hypotension to be 28% in the hetastarch group and 80% in the RL group. Rescue ephedrine requirements for the treatment of hypotension were significantly less in patients who were preloaded with 6% hetastarch prior to cesarean section. The neonatal outcome, as determined by Apgar scores was good and similar in both groups. Conclusion: Hence, we conclude that 6% hydroxyl ethyl starch is more effective than lactated Ringers solution and that its routine use for preloading prior to spinal anesthesia should be considered.

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The physiological changes occurring during pregnancy and labor may reveal or exacerbate the symptoms of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). The addition of obstetric hemorrhage to this presents a unique challenge to the anesthesiologists and intensivists managing these patients in the operation theatres and the Intensive Care Units. Here we present a case of HOCM with automatic implantable cardioverter defibrillator in situ and postpartum hemorrhagic shock.

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Pulmonary complications, especially postoperative pulmonary complications, are an important cause of morbidity and mortality in neurosurgical patients. Hypoxemia due to mucus plug causing lung collapse is a rare event. We report a case of a 40-year-old female with right cerebellopontine angle space occupying lesion, scheduled for elective craniotomy and tumor excision. The patient underwent surgery uneventfully and was shifted to Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for monitoring. Eight hours after extubation, she developed hypoxemia due to mucus plug resulting in left lung collapse. She was intubated, and mucus plug was aspirated through sterile endobronchial tube suction which resulted in reexpansion of the collapsed lung. The patient was managed with postural drainage, chest physiotherapy, and antibiotics and extubated after 24 h. This type of pulmonary complication may have a catastrophic course, especially in neurosurgical patients, if not diagnosed and managed in time.

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Background and Aim: Dexmedetomidine and clonidine are commonly used drugs for sedation during regional anesthesia. However, data regarding arousal time from sedation with these drugs is sparse. Hence, we designed a study to compare arousal time from sedation with dexmedetomidine and clonidine during spinal anesthesia. We also tried to find out the correlation between clinical and objective method used for assessing the depth of sedation. Materials and Methods: In this study, 120 patients were randomly assigned in two groups to receive either dexmedetomidine (Group DE, n = 60) or Clonidine (Group CL, n = 60). Group DE received 1 μg/kg of dexmedetomidine followed by infusion at 0.5 μg/kg/h while Group CL received 1 μg/kg of clonidine followed by infusion at 1 μg/kg/h and titration until targeted Ramsay sedation scale (RSS) score of 3–5 was achieved and maintained. RSS and bispectral (BIS) were monitored until arousal of the patients. The time to achieve RSS of 2 and BIS of 90 during recovery, the correlation between BIS and RSS score in both the study groups and duration of postoperative analgesia were noted. Statistical Analysis Used: Chi-square tests for nonparametric data and Student's t-test for parametric data were used. Correlation between RSS and BIS was calculated with spearman correlation method. Results: Arousal time from sedation and time to reach BIS score 90 was lower for Group DE as compared to Group CL (P = 0.001). Dexmedetomidine also increased the time to first postoperative analgesic request when compared with clonidine (198.23 ± 33.15 min vs. 150.65 ± 28.55 min, P = 0.01). Conclusions: Intravenous dexmedetomidine infusion has shorter arousal time from sedation than clonidine during spinal anesthesia. A strong correlation exists between BIS and RSS during recovery from sedation.

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Background: Clonidine added to bupivacaine prolongs the duration of anesthesia and postoperative analgesia with minimal side effects. Ropivacaine has lower lipid solubility and better safety profile as compared to bupivacaine. This study is designed to evaluate the effects of low-dose clonidine when added to hyperbaric ropivacaine. Materials and Methods: Ninety patients belonging to American Society of Anesthesiologists-I scheduled for lower limb or lower abdominal surgeries under spinal anesthesia were randomly allocated into three groups (n = 30). Group R: 0.5% hyperbaric ropivacaine 12 mg + saline, Group 15C: 0.5% hyperbaric ropivacaine 12 mg + 15 mcg clonidine and Group 30C: 0.5% hyperbaric ropivacaine 12 mg + 30 mcg clonidine for spinal anesthesia in a total volume of 3.2 ml. Block characteristics, hemodynamic parameters, and side effects were monitored. Results: Addition of low-dose clonidine to hyperbaric ropivacaine, significantly prolongs the duration of sensory and motor blockade as well as postoperative analgesia compared with placebo (mean ± standard deviation min; 152.50 ± 15.3, 246 ± 23.5, and 217 ± 37.73, respectively with 15 mcg clonidine, 193 ± 16.59, 284 ± 23.28, and 234.83 ± 36.45, respectively with 30 mcg clonidine, 131 ± 14.7, 211.5 ± 24.39, and 192.33 ± 37.02, respectively with saline). The addition of low-dose clonidine significantly increases the incidence of intra-operative hypotension (46.7% and 83.3%, respectively compared to 16.7%), bradycardia (6.7% and 23.3%, respectively compared to 0%). Conclusions: Addition of low-dose clonidine to intrathecal hyperbaric ropivacaine causes a significant prolongation of the duration of sensory and motor blockade as well as postoperative analgesia compared with saline placebo. However, it increases the incidence of hypotension and bradycardia which can be managed with routine clinical measures.

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Background: Propofol has been used for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia. However, patients experience vascular pain during its injection. Aims: The objective of this study was to compare the effect of the lipid type used in propofol preparations and that of lidocaine on the immediate and delayed vascular pain induced by propofol administration. Materials and Methods: In this double-blinded clinical study, 150 patients at American Society of Anesthesiologists level I-II were randomly divided into three equally sized groups. A propofol with medium and long-chain triglycerides (propofol-MCT/LCT) was administered to the first group. The second group received propofol containing propofol-LCT, and the third group received propofol-LCT and pretreatment lidocaine 20 mg. The incidence and the intensity of immediate (during injection) and delayed injection pain (after 20 s) were evaluated on a verbal analog scale (1–10) until patients' unconsciousness. Statistical Analysis: Sample size was calculated with SigmaPlot version 12.5 software. Data were analyzed with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16, one-way analysis of variance, and post-hoc Tukey. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The demographic parameters of the three groups were similar. The lidocaine group experienced the least immediate vascular pain. The intensity of pain was highest in the propofol-LCT group (P = 0.04). Additionally, the intensity of delayed pain was lowest in the propofol-MCT/LCT group (P = 0.01). The incidence of pain associated with the propofol administration was 26.5, 44, and 18%, respectively, in propofol-MCT/LCT, propofol-LCT, and lidocaine and propofol-LCT groups. Conclusion: The results indicate an effect of the lipid type on delayed pain reduction, especially propofol-MCT/LCT. On the other hand, the lidocaine decreases immediate propofol-LCT vascular pain.

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Context: Intra-abdominal sepsis following laparotomy for acute abdomen remains still a challenging condition. The understanding of various perioperative risk factors by anesthesiologists are crucial in optimum management these patients. Aims: The objective of this study is to assess the perioperative risk factors, which predicts the outcome of treatment. Settings and Design: This retrospective observational study of 603 patients who underwent Laparotomies between March 2012 and March 2015 at our University Medical College. Of 603 patients, 52 consecutive patients with intra-abdomen sepsis who underwent surgical procedures and admitted in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) were selected and analyzed for prognostic risk factors in relation to severity of the disease. Subjects and Methods: 52 consecutive patients who developed intra-abdominal sepsis following laparotomy was allocated one of two groups; Group Sepsis, patients with peritonitis without systemic hypotension (mean arterial pressure [MAP] >60 mm of Hg); and Group septic shock, patients with peritonitis with systemic hypotension (mean arterial pressure [MAP] <60 mm of Hg) and patients were analyzed for prognostic risk factors Statistical Analysis Used: Categorical variables were analyzed by using Fisher's exact (two-tail) test and continuous variable were analyzed by using Mann–Whitney (two-tail) U-test. Results: Out of 603 patients who underwent laparotomy 52 patients developed an intra-abdominal septic complication. Of these 52 cases studied 28 patients developed septic shock and required a longer duration of admission in ICU and more inotropic support. Preoperative albumin and hematocrit level were significantly low in septic shock patients as compared to the patients with sepsis without systemic hypotension. PaCO₂: FiO₂was also significantly low in these patients. Conclusions: Preoperative low hematocrit, low albumin level, and delay in laparotomy more than 72 h were also associated with adverse outcome in the patients with intra-abdominal sepsis. Clinicians should maintain equipoise on this topic pending prospective randomized clinical trials.

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Background and Aim: To assess the amount of propofol required for induction based on bispectral index (BIS) after administering epidural anesthesia with ropivacaine alone and ropivacaine with dexmedetomidine in patients undergoing lower extremities and abdominal surgeries. Subjects and Methods: A double-blinded randomized clinical trial was carried out in 60 patients over a period of 2 years in a tertiary care hospital. American Society of Anaesthesiologists I or II in age group 18–65 years were included in the study. Group R received epidural anesthesia with ropivacaine alone, and Group D received ropivacaine and dexmedetomidine. General anesthesia was induced with propofol under BIS monitoring after 15 min. Onset of sensory and motor block, time for loss of consciousness and total amount of propofol used during induction to achieve the BIS value < 55 were recorded. Student's t-test and Chi-square test were used to find the significance of study parameters. Results: Time of onset of sensory block (Group R 11.30 ± 1.64/Group D 8.27 ± 0.83 min), motor block (Group R 14.16 ± 1.33/Group D 12.63 ± 1.22 min), time for loss of consciousness (Group R 90.57 ± 11.05/Group D 73.67 ± 16.34 s), and total amount of propofol (Group R 129.83 ± 22.38/Group D 92.13 ± 12.93 s) were reduced in Group D which was statistically significant with P < 0.001. Conclusion: Epidural ropivacaine with dexmedetomidine significantly reduces the total propofol dose required for induction of anesthesia. Also, it decreases the onset time of sensory and motor block and provides good hemodynamic stability.

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Acute normovolemic haemodilution (ANH) has been used in neurosurgical operations to reduce the incidence of homologous blood transfusions. We report a case of anterior communicating artery aneurysm in a patient with atypical antibodies in the serum, who was posted for clipping of the said aneurysm, and was managed with ANH in the perioperative period in order to avoid blood transfusions.

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Nasogastric tubes are commonly used in anesthetic practice for gastric decompression in surgical patients intraoperatively. The indications for its use are associated with a number of potential complications. Knotting of small-bore nasogastric tubes is usually common both during insertion and removal as compared to wide bore nasogastric tubes. Knotting of wide bore nasogastric tube is a rare complication and if occurs usually seen in long standing cases. We hereby report a case of incidental knotting of wide bore nasogastric tube that occurred intraoperatively.

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Persistent hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia of infancy (PHHI) is rare and an important cause of hypoglycemia in neonates. It can lead to brain damage or death secondary to severe hypoglycemia. We present the anesthetic management in a diagnosed case of PHHI in an 8-day-old male neonate for total pancreatectomy.

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Management of homicidal cut-throat injuries requires a multi-disciplinary approach. The role of an anesthesiologist in instituting an airway using an endotracheal intubation or tracheostomy before wound exploration and repair of transected tissues, is challenging, as, such injuries are most of the time associated with distortion of the normal anatomy of the airway. We hereby report a case of 60-year-old lady diagnosed as homicidal cut-throat injury with vocal cords exposed externally and injury of thyroid cartilage and pharyngeal muscles. Patients with cut-throat injury may present with airway compromise, aspiration, and acute blood loss with hypoxemia because of injury to the airway and major vessels. Securing an airway becomes the first priority in patients with cut-throat injuries. It could be done by an endotracheal intubation, cricothyroidotomy, or by an emergency tracheostomy. For the effective management of patients with a cut-throat injury, there is a need for a multidisciplinary approach by a team consisting of an otorhinolaryngologist, anesthesiologist, and a psychiatrist.

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Congenital eventration of the diaphragm is a rare disorder, the perioperative management of which is challenging. The introduction of thoracoscopic repair of these defects has considerably reduced the perioperative morbidity and mortality in these patients. In spite of the advantages of thoracoscopy which include smaller chest incisions, reduced postoperative pain, and more rapid postoperative recovery compared with thoracotomy, it is still inherent with complications unique to it. A clear understanding of the pathophysiologic changes, potential complications and institution of appropriate monitoring and good planning is essential for the safe conduct of thoracoscopic procedures in neonates. We describe the anesthetic management of staged thoracoscopic repair of bilateral congenital eventration of the diaphragm in a neonate.

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Rosai-Dorfman's disease (RDD) is a rare multisystemic histiocytic disorder, commonly presenting as cervical lymphadenopathy in a young male. Its extranodal form is very unusual. We report a case of extranodal RDD presenting as a large vallecular mass. Management of an airway mass is always a challenge to the anesthesiologist. This problem is accentuated when the mass is due to RDD, as RDD can involve multiple system of the body such as central nervous system, upper respiratory tract, orbit and eyelid, gastrointestinal tract, and skin. Autoimmune phenomenon though rare is also an important concern. Individualized plan based upon thorough evaluation and anticipation is the key for better outcome.

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Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) is a bridge to definitive management in a patient with compromised systolic function. It is a life-saving mechanical support to the failing myocardium. It is a procedure that should be employed judiciously with utmost caution. In this correspondence, we aim to highlight a rather serious complication associated with IABP use. A patient with triple vessel disease was posted for coronary artery bypass grafting with poor left ventricular function (ejection fraction 30%) and previous myocardial infarction 4 months back. An IABP was inserted in the left femoral artery following which he developed irreversible ischemia of the left lower limb leading to amputation of the limb. This catastrophic complication is one of the most dreaded impediments in the use of IABP. The clinician needs to weigh the pros and cons carefully and employ this vital procedure only when its use is explicitly justified.

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The incidence of drug and alcohol abuse is on rise despite increasing awareness and education about health hazards related to it. Anesthesiologist may come across patients with alcohol abuse in elective as well as emergency situations. We report a rare case of excessive requirement of anesthetics in a pediatric patient of only six years for MRI, addicted to palm wine, an alcoholic beverage created from the sap of various species of palm tree.

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Here, we present the case of a 42 year old female patient, ASA1 and donor for renal transplant surgery of her husband. The pre-anesthesia visit did not reveal any co-morbidity on history and the physical examination was also within normal limits. The patient was taken to the operating room and routine monitoring in the form of non-invasive blood pressure (NIBP), SpO₂ probe and five lead electrocardiogram were applied. Anesthesia was induced with midazolam 1mg intravenous (i/v), fentanyl 100 μg i.v, propofol 100mg i/v and vecuronium bromide 5 mg. i/v. At the end of surgery, anesthesia was reversed and breathing attempts were observed. Suddenly the monitor displayed a drop in the ETCO2 to 5-6 mmHg. Immediately the ventilator circuit was checked which was found to be in place and on chest auscultation, bilateral equal air entry was heard. Sudden bradycardia with heart beat dropping to 32 beats per minute and a blood pressure reading of 90/50 mmHg was displayed on the monitor. Surgeons were informed about the possibility of an intra-abdominal bleed. On surgical exploration, the renal artery pedicle ligature was found to have slipped away resulting in torrential amount of bleeding. The bleeder having been identified was secured and a complete inspection of other possible bleeding sites was done. Post operatively, the patient was shifted to the intensive care unit with inotropic support. It was decided to keep the patient mechanically ventilated on volume control mode of ventilation. The patient remained stable on post-operative day 5, the patient was shifted to the ward.

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