Thermally Injured Patients
Abstract Each year, nearly 500,000 people in the United States seek treatment for burn injury, of whom 40,000 to 80,000 are hospitalized, and 3500 to 5000 die. Challenges in the…
ANESTHESIA
Autonomic Hyperreflexia
Abstract Autonomic hyperreflexia is a clinical syndrome occurring in patients with spinal cord injuries, typically at or above the T6 level. Episodes occur when a noxious stimulus below the spinal…
Antihistamines: H 1- and H 2-Blockers
Abstract This chapter focuses on adverse effects and accompanying complications of the H 1 and H 2 antihistamine medication classes. Basic pharmacology and common uses for each drug are outlined….
Antiemetics
Abstract Postoperative nausea and vomiting are a common postoperative challenge. Precipitating factors and prophylactic measures have changed repeatedly in the last decade in light of new evidence. New pharmacologic agents…
Antibiotics
Abstract Antibiotics commonly administered in the operating room for infection prophylaxis may cause mild to life-threatening complications. The frequency and type of complications depend on the antibiotic class. Vancomycin is…
Toxic Ingestion
Abstract Drug and alcohol abuse are often associated with trauma and significantly confound the initial evaluation of such patients. Adult intoxications are usually polysubstance in nature, and the resultant toxidromes,…
Spinal Cord Injury
Abstract Acute spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs with trauma and certain procedures in which the spinal cord or vasculature is at risk. Acute SCI is assessed by level of injury,…
Retrobulbar Block
Abstract Cataract surgery is probably the most frequently performed surgical procedure in industrialized nations. Patients’ multiple medical comorbidities and advanced age make ocular regional anesthesia a safe modality. The anesthesiologist…
Sedation of Pediatric Patients
Abstract Sedation can be categorized into several different levels from “minimal” to “deep” and (ultimately) as general anesthesia. Complications associated with sedation have been well documented. They are most commonly…
Pulmonary Hypertension
Abstract Pulmonary hypertension is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing surgery. It is important to understand the pathophysiology and causes. Early diagnosis and detection of right ventricular…
