The Anesthesiologist provides continuous medical care before, during, and after operation to permit the surgeons to perform surgeries; sometimes quite challenging that could otherwise cause substantial threats to the patient's survival. Anesthesiologists, because of their combination of skills are uniquely qualified to care for dying patients suffering from end diseases like cancer. These skills include knowledge of analgesic and sedative pharmacology for the management of pain, awareness of perceptual alterations along with well-known skills in drug titration and experience with critically ill and highly anxious, often agitated patients under stressful circumstances. Anesthesiologists are physicians who provide medical care to patients in a wide variety of situations. This includes preoperative evaluation, consultation with the surgical team, creation of a plan for the anesthesia (which is different in each patient), airway management, intraoperative life support, pain control, intraoperative stabilization of all the vitals, postoperative pain management. Outside the operating room, Anesthesiologist's spectrum of action includes with general emergencies, trauma, intensive care units, acute and chronic pain management. In spite of providing these highly skilled services, Anesthesiologists are facing a lot of stress these days which predisposes them to burnout, fatigue, substance abuse, and suicide. The practice of anesthesia in Indian scenario is different as compared to the western countries. In India, the Anesthesiologists are dependent on surgeons for their work. The degree of stress faced is due to a number of factors like the type and quality of work, his/her relationship with surgeons and the support he/she receives from colleagues and family.

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Background: Pain in the perioperative setting or thereafter plays a significant role in delaying an otherwise successful recovery. Hence, mitigation of such postoperative pain assumes importance. Among the various agents employed for such mitigation, opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have for some time taken center stage. However, alas they are not without their share of adverse effects. This study was undertaken with the purpose of elucidating the efficacy of intravenous (IV) paracetamol as compared to IV tramadol in mitigating postoperative pain while observing its effect on hemodynamic stability and the presence of adverse drug reactions, if any. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 randomized cases aged ranges from 20 to 60 years of both sexes divided into two groups (each for paracetamol and tramadol) scheduled for laparotomies were administered IV paracetamol and tramadol for postoperative pain relief and assessed with visual analog scale (VAS) score and variations in vital parameters to ascertain extent of pain relief and post-operative nausea vomiting (PONV). Results : Data so collected was statistically interpreted, and observations extrapolated. Save for a perceptible decline in PONV with paracetamol group compared with tramadol group with a statistically significant P < 0.001, nothing statistically significant was observed in any other parameter, including VAS scores between either group. Conclusion : IV paracetamol is a safer alternative to tramadol with lesser PONV in the postoperative period translates into the lesser duration of hospitalization and hence earlier discharge.

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Background: The challenging task of postoperative pain relief comes within the realm of the anesthesiologist. Combined spinal epidural (CSE) anesthesia can be used as the sole technique for carrying out surgical procedures and managing postoperative pain using various drug regimes. Epidural administration of opioids in combination with local anesthetic agents in low dose offers new dimensions in the management of postoperative pain. Aims: Comparative evaluation of bupivacaine hydrochloride with nalbuphine versus bupivacaine with tramadol for postoperative analgesia in lower limb orthopedic surgeries under CSE anesthesia to know the quality of analgesia, incidence of side effects, surgical outcome and level of patient satisfaction. Settings and Design: A prospective, randomized and double-blind study was conducted involving 80 patients of American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I and II coming for elective lower limb orthopedic surgeries carried under spinal anesthesia. Materials and Methods: Anesthesia was given with 0.5% of 2.5 ml bupivacaine intrathecally in both the groups. Epidurally 0.25% bupivacaine along with 10 mg nalbuphine (group A) or tramadol 100 mg (group B) diluted to 2 ml to make a total volume of 10 ml was administered at sensory regression to T10. Statistical Analysis: The data were collected, compiled and statistically analyzed with the help of MS Excel, EPI Info 6 and SPSS to draw the relative conclusions. Results and Conclusions: The mean duration of analgesia in group A was 380 ± 11.49 min and in group B was 380 ± 9.8 min. The mean sedation score was found to be more in group B than group A. The mean patient satisfaction score in group A was 4.40 ± 0.871 and in group B was 3.90 ± 1.150 which was found to be statistically significant (P < 0.05). We concluded that the addition of nalbuphine with bupivacaine was effective for postoperative analgesia in terms of quality of analgesia and patient satisfaction score as compared to tramadol.

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We report a case of severe maxillofacial injury, who while undergoing later stages of reconstruction surgeries, presented with an inimitable kind of air leak during mask ventilation and its interesting management using a nasopharyngeal airway. The case also enlightens the importance of evaluating the available computed tomography images as a part of preanesthetic check-up.

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Substance abuse has crossed all social, economic, and geographic borders and is spreading its fangs in each and every sphere of society irrespective of age, gender, caste, creed, and religion. These days, we encounter several patients of substance dependence who visit different hospitals for elective surgical procedures or in emergency (e.g., roadside accidents and with various complications associated with substance abuse). These patients at that time may be either addicted to them or are intoxicated by them or on de addiction treatment. Acute or chronic use of these drugs affect the respiratory, cardiovascular, central nervous, renal, hematological, and hepatic system variably in individuals thus due to diverse clinical presentations a complete understanding of the path physiology and anesthetic implications of drug abuse is essential to tailor a safe anesthetic plan for these high-risk group of patients.

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Background: Dexmedetomidine a new drug, which is alpha-two agonist, is recommended by manufacturers as an adjuvant in epidural analgesia and anesthesia. Aims: To study the effects of dexmedetomidine on quality and efficacy of the epidural bupivacaine 0.5% for vaginal hysterectomies, by studying the onset of action, duration of action, highest dermatomal level achieved, degree of motor blockade, intraoperative and postoperative anesthesia and analgesia achieved. Setting and Design: Prospective randomized study. Materials and Methods: In this study, 60 American Society of Anesthesiologists I and II patients requiring vaginal hysterectomy were enrolled. Patients were randomly divided into two groups - Group I: Control group receiving epidural bupivacaine 0.5% 15–20 ml only. Group II: Group receiving of epidural bupivacaine 0.5% 15–20 ml with dexmedetomidine 05 mcg/kg. Following parameters were noted: Time to onset of T10 dermatomal level, maximum sensory level achieved, time for complete motor block, time for two segmental dermatomes regression, regression to S1 dermatome, time for first rescue analgesic and total top ups required during study. Statistical Analysis: Mean and standard deviation was calculated. We used two independent sample t-test to find the P value. Software used STATA 13.0. Results: The demographic profile was comparable between the groups. There was significant difference between two groups (P < 0.001) regarding onset of analgesia to T10 (17.12 ± 2.44 vs. 10.14 ± 2.94), time to achieve complete motor block (27.16 ± 4.52 vs. 22.98 ± 4.78), which was earlier in dexmedetomidine with bupivacaine group. Prolonged postoperative analgesia, less rescue top ups and adequate sedation score was found with dexmedetomidine group. The intraoperative hemodynamic changes were comparable in both the groups. The incidence of dry mouth, shivering and nausea was more with the dexmedetomidine group. Conclusion: We conclude that epidural dexmedetomidine 0.5 µg/kg is a good adjuvant providing early onset of sensory and motor block, adequate sedation and prolonged postoperative analgesia with minimal side-effects.

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Background: Preanesthesia assessment is an important aspect of patient care. If a patient shows lack of interest during preanesthesia check-up or tries to rush through, it may result in incomplete history and general physical examination, compromising patient care. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge of patients presenting for elective surgery to Tertiary Care Hospital in Rural India regarding value and importance of preanesthesia check-up. Settings and Design: This observational study was conducted in a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital in Rural India. 1000 patients posted for elective surgery coming to preadmission anesthesia consultation (PAC) clinic over a period of 3 months were included in this study. Methods: Patients were asked to fill a questionnaire consisting of 15 questions before start of preanesthesia assessment. Each question was provided with multiple possible choices, out of which patient had to choose the most appropriate according to him/her. Scoring was done, with each question answered correctly being given 1 mark while incorrect answer was awarded 0 marks. Statistical Analysis: Data were expressed as frequencies and percentage. Correlations studies were performed by unpaired t-test and one-way analysis of variance. Results: About 27.4% of patients knew that they had come to PAC clinic for preanesthesia assessment, the rest were not clear. Similarly, only 18.1% knew that only anesthesiologist can perform a preanesthesia examination. 16.5% patients said that they would discuss their fears or queries regarding anesthesia in PAC clinic while 58.6% said that they would share such feelings with the surgeon in ward. Conclusion: Patients had insufficient knowledge about preanesthesia assessment and its role in improving the outcome of surgery.

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From time immemorial, animals have served as models for humans. Like humans, animals too have to undergo several types of elective and emergency surgeries. Several anesthetic techniques and drugs used in humans are also used in animals. However, unlike humans, the animal kingdom includes a wide variety of species, breeds, and sizes. Different species have variable pharmacological responses, anatomy, temperament, behavior, and lifestyles. The anesthetic techniques and drugs have to suit different species and breeds. Nevertheless, there are several drugs and many peculiar anesthetic techniques used in animals but not in human beings. Keeping this in mind, literature was hand searched and electronically searched using the words "veterinary anesthesia," "anesthetic drugs and techniques in animals" using Google search engine. The interesting information so collected is presented in this article which highlights some challenging and amazing aspects of anesthetizing animals including the preanesthetic assessment, preparation, premedication, monitoring, induction of general anesthesia, intubation, equipment, regional blocks, neuraxial block, and perioperative complications.

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Background and Aim: Nausea and vomiting causes distress to patients and increases surgical complications. Though various antiemetics are available, their effectiveness and fetal safety profile when used in parturient remains debatable. This randomized, double-blind, comparative study was designed with an aim to compare the antiemetic effects of ondansetron and glycopyrrolate during cesarean section. Methods: Sixty-six parturients (American Society of Anesthesiologist physical status I-II) scheduled for elective cesarean section were randomized to receive intravenous ondansetron 4 mg (Group O, n = 32) or glycopyrrolate 0.2 mg (Group G, n = 31) before spinal anesthesia. Outcome measures studied were emesis, episodes of hypotension and bradycardia and pain, till 10 h postoperative. Statistical software used was Epi Info 7 and Microsoft Excel. Results: There was no significant difference in nausea and vomiting at all the study intervals between the two groups statistically. There was no difference in episodes of hypotension, but episodes of bradycardia were significantly less in glycopyrrolate group (26%) than in ondansetron group (56%) (P = 0.027). There was no difference in additional analgesic requirements. However, the incidence of dry mouth was significantly greater in glycopyrrolate group (21 [68%]) as compared to ondansetron group (5 [16%]) (P = 0.00). Conclusion: Effect of glycopyrrolate on nausea and vomiting during cesarean section are comparable to ondansetron, but with an increased incidence of dry mouth. Glycopyrrolate has no effect on hypotension or additional analgesic requirements, but the incidence of bradycardia is significantly less.

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Background : A sustained and effective oropharyngeal sealing with supraglottic airway (SGA) is required to maintain the ventilation during laparoscopic gynecological surgery in the Trendelenburg position. This study was conducted with I-gel™ and ProSeal LMA™, two prototype SGA devices with a gastric access. Materials and Methods: We enrolled 60 American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I and II patients and randomized to either I-gel or ProSeal LMA (PLMA) group. After induction of anesthesia using a standardized protocol, one of the SGA devices was inserted. The primary objective of this study was to compare the oropharyngeal leak (sealing) pressure of I-gel™ and ProSeal LMA™ after pneumoperitoneum and Trendelenberg position. The secondary objectives were to compare ease of insertion, cuff position as assessed by the fiberoptic view of the glottis, adequacy of ventilation and incidence of complication. Results : The baseline (before pneumoperitoneum) oropharyngeal leak pressure of I-gel was less than the PLMA (mean (standard deviation [SD]) 24 (4) vs. 29 (4) cmH₂ O, respectively; P < 0.001). After pneumoperitoneum, the leak airway pressure in I-gel group was significantly less than that of PLMA group (mean [SD] 27 (3) vs. 34.0 (4) cmH₂ O, respectively; P < 0.001). Peak airway pressure was increased after pneumoperitoneum compared to baseline in both the groups. However, end-tidal carbon dioxide was maintained within normal limits. The insertion parameters, fiberoptic view of the glottis, fiberoptic view of the drain tube, and complications were comparable between the groups. Conclusion : Both I-gel and PLMA are effective for ventilation in gynecological laparoscopic surgeries. However, PLMA provides better sealing as compared to I-gel.

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Background: To augment the subarachnoid block utility, the efficacy of newer molecules as an adjuvant is investigated constantly. Considering the favorable profile of dexmedetomidine, it could have a potential role as an adjuvant to ropivacaine. Aim: We evaluated the efficacy of two different doses of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to isobaric ropivacaine, intrathecally. Methods: Ninety patients scheduled for lower abdominal surgery under spinal anesthesia were randomized into three groups to receive 2.5 ml of isobaric ropivacaine (0.75%, 7.5 mg/ml) added to 5 µg (10 µg/ml) or 10 µg (20 µg/ml) of dexmedetomidine or 0.5 ml of normal saline in group A, B or C, respectively. Block characteristics were compared as a primary outcome. Statistical Analysis: One-way analysis of variance test, Fisher's exact test/Chi-square test, whichever appropriate. A P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Time to achieve desired block was least in group B and maximum in group C. The sensory-motor blockade remained significantly prolonged in group B compared to other groups. Hemodynamic parameters remained stable in all three groups. Conclusion: Among the investigated doses, dexmedetomidine augments the efficacy of intrathecal ropivacaine in a dose-dependent manner, without any untoward side effects.

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Background: Intubation is known to cause an exaggerated hemodynamic response in the form of tachycardia, hypertension, and dysrhythmias. In cervical spine instability, intubation has to be performed using cervical immobilization to prevent exacerbation of spinal cord injuries. Application of rigid cervical collar may reduce cervical spine movements, but it hinders tracheal intubation with a standard laryngoscope. The aim of this study was to compare the hemodynamic responses to fiberoptic bronchoscope (FOB) and McCoy laryngoscope in patients undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia with rigid cervical collar simulating cervical spine immobilization in the situation of cervical trauma. Methods: Thirty-two patients in the age range 20–50 years, of American Society of Anaesthesiologist I-II, and of either sex undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia were randomly allocated into each group. There were two groups according to the technique used for intubation: Group A (flexible FOB) and Group B (McCoy laryngoscope). Systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate (HR) were recorded at baseline, intraoperatively, immediately before and after induction, and immediately after intubation. Thereafter, every min for next 5 min. Statistical Analysis: Intergroup comparison of categorical data was done by Chi-square test. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Intergroup comparison of quantitative data was done by the parametric test (unpaired t-test), and probability was considered to be significant if <0.05. Results: Due to intubation response, HR and blood pressure increased significantly (P < 0.05) above preoperative values in McCoy group as compared to the fiberoptic group. Conclusion: We suggest that the flexible FOB is an effective and better method of intubation in a situation like traumatic cervical spine injury and provides stable hemodynamics.

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We present an unusual case of life-threatening hemothorax in a 15-year-old boy following subclavian vein tear during internal jugular vein (IJV) cannulation prior to initiation of surgery (mitral valve replacement). Successful IJV cannulation was done in the third attempt. However, we missed the subclavian tear which occurred during the first two initial attempts as there was no clinical evidence suggestive of it at that point of time. This undiagnosed hemothorax led to hemodynamic decompensation requiring high volume and inotropic support to wean the patient off cardiopulmonary bypass. This unusually high requirement of fluid and inotropes required the surgeon to look for noncardiac causes for the hemodynamic disturbance and he noticed a bulge in the right pleura, which on exploration had approximately 1.5 L of collected blood. It was then retrospectively analyzed that the cause of this hemothorax could have been the undue lateral orientation of the needle during IJV cannulation and the advancement of the dilator to its entire length could have injured the subclavian vein. Here, we also would like to discuss the safety precautions to be taken during the cannulation, like the needle orientation and the length to which the dilator must be advanced for safe central venous cannulation.

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Background: Postoperative pain control after major abdominal surgery is the prime concern of anesthesiologist. Among various methodologies, epidural analgesia is the most preferred technique because of the excellent quality of analgesia with minimum side-effects. Aim: The present study was designated to compare postoperative analgesic efficacy and safety of epidural tramadol as adjuvant to ropivacaine (0.2%) in adult upper abdominal surgery. Settings and Design: Prospective, randomized-controlled, double-blinded trial. Materials and Methods: Ninety patients planned for upper abdominal surgery under general anesthesia were randomized into three equal groups to receive epidural drug via epidural catheter at start of incisional wound closure: Group R to receive ropivacaine (0.2%); Group RT1 to receive tramadol 1 mg/kg with ropivacaine (0.2%); and RT2 to receive tramadol 2 mg/kg with ropivacaine (0.2%). Duration and quality of analgesia (visual analog scale [VAS] score), hemodynamic parameters, and adverse event were recorded and statistically analyzed. Statistical Analysis: One-way analysis of variance test, Fisher's exact test/Chi-square test, whichever appropriate. A P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Mean duration of analgesia after epidural bolus drug was significantly higher in Group RT2 (584 ± 58 min) when compared with RT1 (394 ± 46 min) or R Group (283 ± 35 min). VAS score was always lower in RT2 Group in comparison to other group during the study. Hemodynamic parameter remained stable in all three groups. Conclusion: We conclude that tramadol 2 mg/kg with ropivacaine (0.2%) provides more effective and longer-duration analgesia than tramadol 1 mg/kg with ropivacaine (0.2%).

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The spinal anesthesia has the definitive advantage that profound nerve block can be produced in a large part of the body by the relatively simple injection of a small amount of local anesthetic. Background and Aims: The use of adjuvant drugs with local anesthetics for spinal is intended to improve the success of regional anesthesia. The present study evaluated magnesium sulfate in two different doses and fentanyl as an adjuvant to bupivacaine for spinal anesthesia. Materials and Methods: Following Institutional Ethical Committee approval and written informed consent, a prospective randomized double-blinded study was conducted in 81 cases. Patients included were of either gender belonging to American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) I or ASA II status undergoing elective infraumbilical surgeries of <3 h. Patients were randomized into four groups and were administered an intrathecal solution of (1) Group NS: 3 cc of 0.5% bupivacaine + 0.5 cc of NS. (2) Group F: 3 cc of 0.5% bupivacaine + 25 mcg fentanyl (0.5 cc). (3) Group M 50: 3 cc of 0.5% bupivacaine + 50 mg magnesium sulfate diluted to 0.5 cc with NS. (4) Group M 100: 3 cc of 0.5% bupivacaine + 100 mg magnesium sulfate diluted to 0.5 cc with NS. The variables assessed were visual analog pain scale, pruritus, intensity of motor block and somnolence before and after intrathecal injection at 5, 10, 15, 30, 45, and 60 min in the 1^st h, at every 30 min in next hour and then hourly thereafter. Results: The mean duration of analgesia in normal saline group, fentanyl group, M 50 and M 100 groups are 272.8 (standard error [S.E.] of mean 22.9), 360.0 (S.E. of mean 28.8), 252.5 (S.E. of mean 15.0), 276.6 (S.E. of mean 29.5) min, respectively. Conclusion: The addition of magnesium sulfate in the two different doses (50, 100 mg) does not affect the quality of block or duration of analgesia. However, M 100 is as effective as fentanyl as far as the duration of analgesia is concerned.

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Adult onset congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is uncommon but not rare. Morgagni hernia is a rare variant of CDH. The defect tends to be small and patients may remain asymptomatic and diagnosed incidentally. When these patients become symptomatic, they usually present with gastrointestinal and cardiorespiratory symptoms or sometimes as an emergency due to obstruction or strangulation of herniated viscera. Chest radiograph, computed tomography scan, and magnetic resonance imaging are the imaging modalities used for diagnosis of CDH. Cardiopulmonary compromise due to mass effect of hernial contents on lungs, heart and great vessels, and obstruction or strangulation of herniated viscera poses the special challenge before anesthesiologists. Our patient was diagnosed to have Morgagni hernia, at the age of 72 years and underwent laparotomy for the same. This case highlights the key feature of the successful anesthetic management of adult onset CDH.

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Achondroplasia is a congenital, disfiguring condition which is the most common form of short-limbed dwarfism. Defective cartilage formation is the hallmark of this condition, which results in a wide spectrum of skeletal abnormalities including spinal defects. Various other systems such as cardiac, pulmonary, and neurological can be simultaneously affected adversely including airway defects. Anesthetic management of such individuals is complicated because of their multisystem affliction. Concomitant atlantoaxial dislocation can further amplify the difficulty during the administration of anesthesia in such patients. We report the successful anesthetic conduct of such a patient with the positive outcome.

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D-transposition of great arteries (D-TGA) is the most common cyanotic congenital heart disease diagnosed at birth. There is ventriculoarterial discordance leading to parallel circulation. The postnatal survival depends on intercirculatory mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood at various levels through atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect or patent ductus arteriosus. The anesthesiologist must have an understanding of concepts of shunting and other long-term consequences of transposition of great arteries (TGA) in order to tailor the anesthetic technique to optimize the hemodynamic variables and oxygenation in the perioperative period. The preoperative evaluation includes echocardiography to delineate the type of TGA, associated lesions and extent and direction of shunts. Oxygen saturation is influenced by the ratio of pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) to systemic vascular resistance. Thus, care should be taken to avoid an increase in PVR which can lead to decreased pulmonary blood flow leading to hypoxia. We report a case of an 8-year-old child with unrepaired D-TGA, who presented to us for craniotomy for drainage of brain abscess.

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Introduction: The intrathecal administration of combination of drugs has a synergistic effect on the subarachnoid block characteristics. This study was designed to study the efficacy of intrathecal midazolam in potentiating the analgesic duration of fentanyl along with prolonged sensorimotor blockade. Materials and Methods: In a double-blind study design, 75 adult patients were randomly divided into three groups: Group B, 3 ml of 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine; Group BF, 3 ml of 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine + 25 mcg of fentanyl; and Group BFM, 3 ml of 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine + 25 mcg of fentanyl + 1 mg of midazolam. Postoperative analgesia was assessed using visual analog scale scores and onset and duration of sensory and the motor blockade was recorded. Results: Mean duration of analgesia in Group B was 211.60 ± 16.12 min, in Group BF 420.80 ± 32.39 min and in Group BFM, it was 470.68 ± 37.51 min. There was statistically significant difference in duration of analgesia between Group B and BF (P = 0.000), between Group B and BFM (P = 0.000), and between Group BF and BFM (P = 0.000). Both the onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade was significantly prolonged in BFM group. Conclusion: Intrathecal midazolam potentiates the effect of intrathecal fentanyl in terms of prolonged duration of analgesia and prolonged motor and sensory block without any significant hemodynamic compromise.

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Here, we report a rare case of a 23-year-old term parturient with Eisenmenger syndrome due to Taussig–Bing anomaly presenting with gestational hypertension, oligohydramnios, and intrauterine growth retardation posted for elective cesarean section. Preoperatively, echocardiography of the patient was suggestive of double-outlet right ventricle (DORV) with large sub-pulmonic ventricular septal defect (VSD), right ventricular hypertrophy, bidirectional shunt and severe pulmonary artery hypertension. The surgery was successfully performed under a graded segmental epidural anesthesia with 2% lignocaine. Further contrast-enhanced computer tomography scan was done postoperatively and a diagnosis of Taussig–Bing anomaly (DORV with sub-pulmonic VSD) with transposition of the great arteries physiology was made. This is one of the rare cases of anesthetic management for cesarean section in a parturient with uncorrected Taussig–Bing anomaly being reported.

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Background: Nausea and vomiting are the most common effects after cesarean delivery with spinal anesthesia that was associated with problems such as pneumonia, delay in patient discharge, electrolyte abnormalities, and the maternal dissatisfaction. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of gabapentin in preventing nausea and vomiting after spinal anesthesia in cesarean delivery. Patients and Methods: This study as a double-blind clinical trial was done on 200 candidates of cesarean with a random distribution. Patients without cardiovascular diseases and in 1 and 2 American Society of Anesthesiologists were divided into two groups. Treatment group received 600 mg capsule (gabapentin) 1 h before surgery and the control group received placebo. The severity of nausea and vomiting were evaluated according to 4 Scores every hour to 4 h after the withdrawal of mother from the recovery section. Results: In this study, there is no significant difference in demographic information between these two groups. In the 1^st h, there is a significant difference between the severity of nausea and vomiting in these two groups, but there is not a significant difference between 2 and 4 h after surgery. However, the incidence of nausea between the two groups shows a significant correlation. Conclusions: A single dose of gabapentin 1 h before cesarean delivery decreases the incidence of nausea and vomiting after surgery.

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A 60-year-old woman posted for percutaneous nephrolithotomy with ureterolithotripsy was found to have a history of hypertension and ischemic heart disease from past 6 months on regular treatment. Pulse rate was irregularly irregular in a range of 56–60/min, unresponsive to atropine, with a sinus pause on the electrocardiogram. Although the patient was asymptomatic, anticipating unmasking of the sick sinus syndrome during general anesthesia in the prone position, a temporary pacemaker was implanted at right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) septum before the scheduled surgery. A balanced anesthesia technique with endotracheal intubation was administered. There were several episodes of continuous pacing by the temporary pacemaker intraoperatively, which may be attributed to unmasking of the sinus node dysfunction due to general anesthesia. At the end of surgery, patient was extubated after adequate reversal from neuromuscular blockade. Postoperative period remained uneventful, and the pacemaker wires were removed on the 2^nd postoperative day. With this case report, we highlight the importance of inserting a temporary pacemaker prior to anesthesia even in an asymptomatic patient if a sinus node dysfunction is suspected preoperatively and if intraoperative access to transvenous pacing is difficult such as in prone position. Pacing at RVOT septum minimizes ventricular dyssynchrony and improves hemodynamic parameters.

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Antiphospholipid antibody (APLA) syndrome is one of the most common thrombocytophilias but, unfortunately, goes unrecognized most often. It is an auto-immune disorder in which thrombotic events and a recurrent fetal loss occur in the presence of antibodies to phospholipids. It is the most common acquired hyper-coagulable state. There is a limited literature on peroperative management of patients with this syndrome. We report a case of APLA syndrome in a parturient due to its rarity and complexity.

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Calcinosis cutis is a rare clinical condition wherein calcium is deposited in the layers of the skin. Various types of calcinosis cutis have been described based on histology and location. Airway may be involved only if calcinosis cutis is associated with overlapping syndrome of connective tissue disorders and muscular dystrophy. I report a rare case of dystrophic calcinosis cutis without any connective tissue disorders with the unanticipated difficult airway. A young lady with dystrophic calcinosis cutis of the gluteal region was posted for surgical excision and flap cover procedure under general anesthesia. Unanticipated difficult airway situation arised and was effectively managed. Patient had an uneventful recovery.

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Postoperative alopecia has been reported as a rare complication after prolonged immobilization during general anesthesia. The constant pressure on the scalp is causative and may be exacerbated by hypoxemia or hypotension. There is a correlation between the length surgery duration under anesthesia and the development of permanent alopecia. Regular head turning schedules and vigilance for the condition should be used as prophylaxis to prevent permanent alopecia.

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Context: The airway management requires refined skills and technical help when associated with cleft lip and palate. Airtraq has improved our airway management skills and has been successfully used for rescue intubation in difficult pediatric airways. Aims: This study was to evaluate the efficacy of Airtraq as the primary intubation device in patients with cleft lip and palate. The study adheres to the STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational Studies Epidemiology Statement. Subjects and Methods: A total of 85 children posted consecutively for lip and palate repair were enrolled. Children were intubated with Ring Adair Elvin (RAE) tube using size 1 and 2 of Airtraq device. The design of Airtraq has an anatomical limitation to hold RAE tubes. The preformed bend of the tube was straightened with a malleable stylet. The intubations were assessed for device manipulations and time taken for glottis visualization and intubation, airway complications such as bleeding, laryngospasm and failed intubations. Statistical Analysis Used: The outcome data were reported as numbers and percentages or range with identified median value, where applicable. Results: The success rate of Airtraq guided intubations was 98.21%. The cumulative insertion times and intubation times were 31.50 ± 12.57 s and 48.04 ± 35.73 s respectively. Airtraq manipulations were applied in 25.45% subjects. Conclusions: The presence of cleft lip or palate did not hamper the insertion of Airtraq. The use of malleable stylet to facilitate the loading of the preformed tube into the guide channel is a simple and efficacious improvisation. Airtraq can be utilized as a primary intubation device in children with orofacial clefts.

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Aim: To evaluate the effect of intravenous (IV) clonidine premedication for the bloodless surgical field in patients undergoing middle ear or nasal surgery comparing three different doses. Subjects and Methods: This prospective randomized, clinical trial was performed on 90 normotensive patients belonging to American Society of Anesthesiologists grade I/II, aged 18–60 years, of either sex, undergoing routine middle ear or nasal surgery. These patients were divided into three Groups A, B, and C with 30 patients in each according to the dose of IV clonidine used as premedicant that is 3, 4, and 5 µg/kg, respectively. The hypotensive period commenced 10 min after the start of surgery till the surgeon's request for no hypotension required any longer. The target mean blood pressure for producing bloodless surgical field was 60–70 mmHg. During the hypotensive period, the surgeons were asked to rate the bleeding severity score on a six-point scale from 0 (no bleeding) to 5 (severe bleeding). Statistical Analysis Used: ANOVA, Chi-square test, Z-test, standard deviation and P value. Results: IV clonidine premedication in a dose of 4 and 5 µg/kg reduces bleeding and provides a clear field for surgery. It also reduces the requirement of isoflurane, fentanyl, and metoprolol for controlled hypotension. However, clonidine 5 µg/kg was not more effective than clonidine 4 µg/kg in producing these effects rather was associated with some side effects. Conclusion: IV clonidine premedication in a dose of 4 µg/kg is safe and effective for producing a bloodless surgical field in the middle ear and nasal surgery.

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Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common malignant tumor of the kidney and has got association with inferior vena cava (IVC) extension in 5–10% of the patients. In this case report, we present a case of a 22-year- young female who was posted for radical nephrectomy and tumor thrombectomy to remove the thrombus extending up to IVC- right atrium junction. The surgical procedure was complicated by intraoperative thromboembolism during tumour manipulation. Continual Trans esophageal monitoring helps in early diagnosis of thromembolic event. Immediate diagnosis and awareness of clinical management in such circumstances contribute to a decrease in the associated morbidity and mortality.

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Central venous catheterization (CVC) is routinely done procedure in ICU or during surgery for various indications. Right Internal jugular vein (IJV) is preferred vessel among different routes for CVC. Anatomic variations of neck vessels are not uncommon and may increase the complication rate especially in patients with altered coagulation profile. Anatomic landmark technique is commonly used for CVC but not without possibility of complications. Ultrasound (US) guided IJV Cannulation provides high success rate, less access time and lesser complications. Superiority of US over anatomic landmark technique has been established, but use of US in clinical practice is still limited. We report a case of idiopathic unilateral hypoplastic IJV in a patient with altered coagulation profile who required CVC, we also tried to find out the barriers for limited use of US.

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Ceftazidime is a widely used antibiotic with broad spectrum activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative microbes and is used prophylactically in neurosurgical patients prior to surgery. Neurotoxicity is a recognized complication of ceftazidime use but is reported predominantly after repeated administration in patients with impaired renal status. We encountered a patient with an intracranial tumor who developed generalized convulsions following a single dose of ceftazidime, which was infused rapidly and attempt to provide an explanation of this uncommon occurrence.

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Background: The aim of this study was to compare orbital muscle akinesia caused by rocuronium versus hyaluronidase when mixed with the local anesthetic in single-injection peribulbar anesthesia (PBA). Patients and Methods: Sixty patients were included in the study and subjected to cataract extraction using phacoemulsification technique with intraocular lens implantation. Group I received peribulbar block with 5 ml mixture of 30 IU/ml hyaluronidase and 2% lidocaine. Group II received peribulbar block with 5 ml mixture of rocuronium 5 mg and 2% lidocaine. The onset and duration of akinesia were assessed; the akinesia score at 2, 5, and 10 min was measured after injection. The need for supplementary injection was also recorded. Results and Conclusion: PBA using a mixture of rocuronium and lidocaine provides optimal globe akinesia and faster establishment of suitable conditions to start eye surgery and shortens the block onset time as compared with the addition of hyaluronidase to lidocaine.

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Context: Dexmedetomidine, a highly selective alpha-2 agonist has been used as an adjuvant analgesic in vascular, bariatric, and thoracic surgery. We assessed the efficacy of intravenous dexmedetomidine as an analgesic adjunct to local anesthetic infiltration for control of postoperative pain in arthroscopic knee surgery. Settings and Design: This was a randomized control study performed in a Tertiary Care Hospital. Materials and Methods: Forty-five adult patients scheduled for anterior/posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction were randomized into three groups. Group B (bupivacaine group) received bupivacaine intraarticularly and normal saline by the intravenous route. Group D (dexmedetomidine group) received Intravenous dexmedetomidine and normal saline intraarticularly. Group BD (bupivacaine + dexmedetomidine group) received a combination of intravenous dexmedetomidine and intraarticular bupivacaine. Patient's cardiorespiratory parameters, time to first rescue, total rescue analgesic consumption in first 24 h, visual analog scale for pain were assessed. Statistical Analysis: The data were analyzed using analysis of variance and Chi-square test. Results: The time to first request for rescue analgesia was significantly prolonged in Group D and Group BD patients (P < 0.05) compared to Group B. Total rescue analgesic consumption was least in Group BD. Group D and Group BD patients had lower heart rate and systolic and diastolic blood pressure values. Conclusion: Intravenous dexmedetomidine in combination with intraarticular bupivacaine decreased perioperative analgesic requirement in patients undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery. However, monitoring and vigilance are essential if dexmedetomidine is used as part of a multimodal analgesic regimen in view of its hemodynamic side effects.

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