The utilization of large-scale databases for research in medical fields, including anesthesiology, has increased in popularity over the last decade, likely due to their structured content and relative ease of access. These databases have been used in a variety of perioperative studies, including analyses of risk stratification, preoperative testing, complications, and cost. While these databases contain a wealth of information that allows for an abundance of research opportunities, there are unique limitations to their use. A comprehensive understanding will afford the anesthesiology researcher the knowledge and tools to not only better interpret studies that utilized these databases, but also to conduct analyses of their own. This review details the content and composition of these databases, highlights the advantages of and limitations to their use, and offers information about their access and cost.

Despite widespread use of arterial catheters, there is remarkably little described about their stabilization in the literature. A brief review of arterial catheterization techniques is included. The fixation techniques described in the literature and in commercial product information are essentially to tape or suture the arterial catheter flat against the skin. Often the wrist is immobilized in the dorsiflexed position to prevent kinking or dislodging of the catheter. We describe a simple device made from a gauze pad and tape to elevate and protect the arterial line while minimizing its kinking during wrist flexion.

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