Hydrogen sulfide...when rotten eggs save lives

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which has a characteristic rotten egg smell, is a colorless, flammable, water-soluble gas that is primarily considered a toxic agent due to its ability to inhibit mitochondrial respiration through blockade of cytochrome c oxidase. Recent research has demonstrated that H2S in low quantities may have the potential to limit cell death (Lefer, 2007). Inhibition of respiration is potentially toxic; however, if depression of respiration occurs in a controlled manner, it may allow non-hibernating species exposed to inhaled H2S to enter a state akin to suspended animation (i.e., a slowing of cellular activity to a point where metabolic processes are inhibited but not terminal) and thereby increase tolerance to stress. H2S also may cause activation of ATP-dependent K+ channels, cause vasodilation properties, and serve as a free radical scavenger. H2S has been shown to protect against whole-body hypoxia, lethal hemorrhage, and ischemia-reperfusion injury in various organs including the kidney, lung, liver, and heart. Currently, effort is underway for development of gas-releasing molecules that could deliver H2S and other therapeutic gases to diseased tissue (Bannenberg and Vieira, 2009). Though H2S has clinical potential, further verification in preclinical models is necessary as is more information regarding the route of delivery, timing, formulation, and concentration of H2S.

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power injectable peripherally inserted central catheters

Clinical experience with power injectable peripherally inserted central catheters in intensive care patients Introduction In intensive care units (ICU), peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) may be an alternative option to standard central venous catheters, particularly in patients with coagulation disorders or at high risk for infection. Some limits of PICCs (such as low flow rates) may be overcome by the use of power-injectable catheters . Method We have retrospectively reviewed all the power injectable PICCs inserted in adult and pediatric patients in the ICU during a 12-month period, focusing on the rate of complications at insertion and during maintenance. Results We have collected 89 power injectable PICCs (in adults and in children), both multiple and single lumen. All insertions were successful. There were no major complications at insertion and no episodes of catheter-related blood stream infection. Non-infective complications ...

Things to Avoid in Anesthesia for Pregnant with Pulmonary hypertension

Anesthesia for Pregnant woman with Pulmonary Hypertension is a real challenge for anesthesiologist. It is very crucial to remember the pathophysiology of pulmonary hypertension in pregnant women and to avoid some practices that will worsen the cardiac status. 1-Avoid single shot spinal anesthesia. Some authorities consider pulmonary hypertension as absolute contraindication for single shot spinal anesthesia specially in patients with NYHA III ,IV. Spinal anesthesia causes major hemodynamic instability(decrease SVR, decrease VR, decrease in CO) The preferred neuroaxial techniques are (epidural anesthesia and CSE with minimal spinal dose) 2-Avoid PAC. Pulmonary Artery catheters insertion may lead to pulmonary artery rupture or thrombosis. TEE is better cardiac monitor/Arteial line is mandatory. 3-Avoid Nitrous oxide in gas mixture.N2O increase the PVR 4-If MV to be started, avoid High TV and PEEP 5-Avoid Oxytocin Boluses, or rapid administration of Pitocin. Oxytocin causes ...

The 12 decision making steps for post dural puncture headache treatment

Treatment decision-making algorithm for postdural puncture headache. 1. When diagnosis is made, all patients should receive supportive measures (reassurance, bed rest, analgesics, hydration, quiet environment). 2. Severity of symptoms should be classified using VAS scale (mild 1–3, moderate 4–6, severe 7–10). 3. Virtually all patients will improve in time even without additional therapy. (dashed lines) 4. Symptoms worsen or fail to resolve within 5 days. 5. Patient preference dictates the choice between pharmacologic (less effective) and epidural blood patch (EBP). 6. In patients with severe symptoms, EBP is strongly suggested. 7. The most common pharmacologic measure is caffeine prescription. 8. The failure, worsening, or recurrence of symptoms after pharmacologic measures favors the use of EBP. 9. In addition to EBP, other epidural treatment options can be considered in select patients (eg, dextran , saline). 10. A period of 24 h should lapse before repeating EBP. 11...

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