No abstract

Analysis of the tree model by recursive partitioning structure analysis accomplished a high correct and close prediction rate for selection of an appropriate ETT size. The intuitive and easy-to-interpret tree model would be a quick and helpful tool for selection of an ETT tube for pediatric patients.

We present a case of combined general anesthesia with muscle relaxant and epidural analgesia for hemicolectomy in a 56-year-old woman with Pompe disease. Progressive pulmonary function loss predisposes Pompe disease patients to an increased risk of aspiration pneumonia, atelectasis, and all pulmonary infections. Given the impaired cough resulting from abdominal muscle weakness, patients with Pompe disease who undergo abdominal major surgery are prone to great risks of postoperative pulmonary complications. In our case, to optimize the patient's pulmonary toilet during the postoperative period, epidural block was provided as well as general anesthesia. Although she had a severe scoliotic spine and a worst pulmonary function test, the attempt of epidural block provided excellent pain control and pulmonary toilet care.

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of 5% lidocaine patch in reducing propofol-induced pain and cannula-induced pain.MethodsIn a randomized, double-blind study, 126 patients were divided into one of three groups: pretreatment with a 5% lidocaine patch (Lidotop®) and premixed 2 ml of normal saline with 1.5 mg/kg of 1% propofol (Group A); pretreatment with a placebo patch and premixed 2 ml of normal saline with 1.5 mg/kg of 1% propofol (Group B); or pretreatment with a placebo patch and premixed 2 ml of 2% lidocaine (40 mg) with 1.5 mg/kg of 1% propofol (Group C) for induction of anesthesia. Pain severity was evaluated on a four-point verbal rating scale during intravenous cannulation, propofol injection, and 24 h after the operation (recall).ResultsEighteen patients (47.4%) in Group A complained of cannula-induced pain compared with 35 (94.6%) in Group B and 36 (94.7%) in Group C (P < 0.001). Group A patients showed significantly lower incidence of propofol-induced pain and recall of propofol-induced pain compared with Group B (P < 0.001 and P = 0.01), whereas there was no difference compared with Group C.ConclusionsPreoperative transdermal administration of 5% lidocaine patch is an effective and simple method in reducing propofol-induced pain as well as cannula-induced pain.