Authors: Frédérique Hovaguimian, M.D., M.Clin.Res.Meth.et al Anesthesiology published on 5 2016. Background: Blood transfusions are associated with morbidity and mortality. However, restrictive thresholds could harm patients less able to tolerate anemia. Using a context-specific approach (according to patient characteristics and clinical settings), the authors conducted a systematic review to quantify the effects of transfusion strategies. Methods: The authors searched […]
Read MoreAuthors: Sebastian Zaremba, M.D. et al Anesthesiology published on 5 2016. Background: Bariatric surgery patients are vulnerable to sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) early after recovery from surgery and anesthesia. The authors hypothesized that continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) improves postoperative oxygenation and SDB and mitigates opioid-induced respiratory depression. Methods: In a randomized crossover trial, patients after bariatric surgery received […]
Read MoreAnesthesia & Analgesia: May 2016 – Volume 122 – Issue 5 – p 1603–1613 AUTHORS: Glance, Laurent G. MD et al BACKGROUND: In creating the Merit-Based Incentive Payment System, Congress has mandated pay-for-performance (P4P) for all physicians, including anesthesiologists. There are currently no National Quality Forum–endorsed risk-adjusted outcome metrics for anesthesiologists to use as the […]
Read MoreAuthors: Eun-Ho Lee, M.D. et al Anesthesiology 5 2016, Vol.124, 1001-1011 Background: Hypoalbuminemia may increase the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI). The authors investigated whether the immediate preoperative administration of 20% albumin solution affects the incidence of AKI after off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery. Methods: In this prospective, single-center, randomized, parallel-arm double-blind trial, 220 patients with preoperative […]
Read MoreStudy finds fentanyl transdermal patches are too often prescribed to opioid-naïve and elderly patients, raising their risks of fatal adverse drug events. Interview with Caleb Alexander, MD Fentanyl patches are a highly potent options for cancer and non-cancer pain patients, but are contraindicated in opioid naïve patients. However, new research indicates that physicians may be […]
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