Thirty-four patients undergoing thoracotomy were entered into a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to compare the effects of patient-controlled, lumbar epidural (PCA-E) fentanyl with patient-controlled intravenous (PCA-iv) Trente-quatre patients devant subir une thoracotomie ont dtd ~valu~s dans le cadre d'une Etude h double insu, au hasard et avec contrOles placebo afin de comparer les effets du fentanyl Epidural contr~le par le patient (PCA-E) au fentanyl intraveineux contr61E par le patient (PCA-iv) face au besoin en mddicaments, ~ l' efficacit~ analg~sique et ~ la fonction respiratoire. Avant la fermeture du thorax, les patients ont refu 2 mg 9 kg -t de fentanyl par voie PCA-iv (n = 15) (1857 +-693 Izg vs 2573Epidural fentanyl has been investigated in patients undergoing a variety of surgical procedures with conflicting CAN J ANAESTH 1992 / 39:3 / pp214-9

A standardized blinded laxative taper shows promise as a treatment option for laxative dependency in patients with eating disorders. The laxative taper may be less costly and more available than inpatient or psychologically based treatment because it can be given on an outpatient basis under the supervision of a pharmacist.

SUMMARY In preparation of the large bowel prior to barium enema a double blind trial of 257 patients was performed comparing a regime of oral mannitol with a regime of magnesium citrate, bisacodyl and a 3 day low residue diet. Faecal residue and the quality of mucosal coating with barium were assessed. No significant differences were found between the sexes or in the mucosal coating. MCB regime was significantly better than the mannitol regime in cleansing of the large bowel, though there is room for improvement with the former.