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Aspirin is widely used for its antiplatelet effects in the prevention of cardiovascular events, but it also raises specific considerations in the context of anesthesia due to its impact on bleeding risk. The primary concern with aspirin in the perioperative setting is its irreversible inhibition of cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), which leads to decreased thromboxane A2 production, impairing platelet aggregation and prolonging bleeding time (1). This effect requires careful management strategies, particularly when neuraxial anesthesia or other regional anesthetic techniques are planned, as these are associated with a risk of hematoma formation.

The American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (ASRA) guidelines indicate that low-dose aspirin therapy does not significantly increase the risk of spinal hematoma following epidural or spinal anesthesia and can generally be continued in the perioperative period (2). However, other studies emphasize the need for vigilance and individualized assessment, especially in patients receiving higher doses or those with other risk factors for bleeding (3). The decision to continue or discontinue aspirin therapy must balance the risk of thrombosis against the potential for bleeding complications, taking into account the specific surgical procedure, patient comorbidities, and type of anesthesia.

The perioperative continuation of aspirin in patients at risk for vascular complications, such as those with coronary stents, is supported by evidence that the benefits of maintaining aspirin therapy generally outweigh the risks (4). Discontinuation of aspirin therapy can lead to a rebound prothrombotic state, increasing the likelihood of myocardial infarction or stroke, particularly in high-risk patients (5). This is particularly relevant in non-cardiac surgery, where the risk of bleeding is lower, and the consequences of a thrombotic event can be severe.

On the other hand, for procedures where major bleeding would pose significant risks, such as intracranial procedures, the decision-making process becomes more complex. In these scenarios, some guidelines suggest stopping aspirin at least seven days before surgery and anesthesia to allow for sufficient platelet recovery, while others emphasize a case-by-case approach (1). This is further complicated by the lack of a reliable, rapid method to reverse aspirin’s effects, unlike other anticoagulants for which specific reversal agents exist.

The importance of interdisciplinary communication cannot be overstated in managing anesthesia for patients on aspirin therapy. Anesthesiologists must work closely with surgeons and the patient’s primary care or cardiology teams to evaluate the risks and benefits of continuing aspirin therapy perioperatively. The anesthetic plan should include strategies for managing potential bleeding, such as availability of blood products and the use of less invasive surgical techniques where feasible.

Anesthesia considerations for patients on aspirin therapy require a nuanced approach that weighs the thrombotic risks of discontinuation against the bleeding risks of continuation. Guidelines generally support the continuation of low-dose aspirin for most surgeries, especially where the risk of major bleeding is low, but emphasize individual risk assessment for each patient. Anesthesia providers must remain vigilant and adaptable, employing a multidisciplinary approach to optimize patient outcomes.

References

1. Song JW, Soh S, Shim JK. Dual antiplatelet therapy and non-cardiac surgery: evolving issues and anesthetic implications. Korean J Anesthesiol. 2017.
2. Horlocker TT, Wedel DJ, Benzon H, et al. Regional anesthesia in the anticoagulated patient: defining the risks (the second ASRA Consensus Conference on Neuraxial Anesthesia and Anticoagulation). Reg Anesth Pain Med. 2003.
3. Macdonald R. Aspirin and extradural blocks. Br J Anaesth. 1991;66(1):1-6.
4. Vela Vásquez RS, et al. Aspirin and spinal haematoma after neuraxial anaesthesia: Myth or reality? Br J Anaesth. 2015;115(5):688-695.
5. Devereaux PJ, Mrkobrada M, Sessler DI, et al. Aspirin in patients undergoing noncardiac surgery. N Engl J Med. 2014;370(16):1494-1503

Loss of consciousness (LOC) is a medical event characterized by a disruption in someone’s awareness and responsiveness to their environment. Anesthesia providers often intentionally induce LOC during surgical procedures using anesthetics such as propofol. Decades of research have aimed to shed light on the neural mechanisms behind anesthesia-induced LOC, including the associated neuroanatomy and neurotransmission. Studies suggest that propofol, a widely used anesthetic, exerts its effects via the neurotransmitters dopamine, GABA, and glutamate.

Propofol is a well-established intravenous anesthetic known for its smooth induction, rapid terminal half-life, and low incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting.¹ Dynamic causal modeling of neural activity suggested that propofol-induced LOC impaired backward connectivity from frontal to parietal cortices. Additional Bayesian model selection alluded that backward connectivity in higher-order associative cortical regions may be a crucial bottleneck for conscious awareness.² Through an in-depth analysis into these higher-order associative areas, studies found the prefrontal cortex (PFC), and especially the medial prefrontal cortex, displayed significant changes in neurotransmission during anesthesia induction and emergence. As such, it is suggested that propofol induces LOC at least partially through impacts on the PFC.³

Studies on nicotine abuse have demonstrated the impact of dopamine firing in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) on the modulation of extracellular dopamine levels in the PFC. In a 2016 study, researchers performed in vivo and in vitro analysis on 90 rats, including observation, microdialysis, and histology. Intravenous administration of propofol and the subsequent LOC caused a significant increase in the PFC levels of the dopamine metabolite 3,4-Dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), while decreasing the PFC levels of dopamine neurotransmitters (NT). Both DOPAC and dopamine NT levels returned to baseline after emergence from anesthesia. Therefore, it is proposed propofol induces LOC through facilitating the catabolism of dopamine NT into its metabolite, DOPAC, in the PFC.⁴ 

Since propofol is known to exert its anesthetic effects through the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, the above researchers blocked the GABA_A receptors in the PFC and found delayed induction of LOC and hastened emergence from LOC. Since blocking GABA reduces (but does not eliminate) the effect of propofol, these results indicate propofol induces LOC at least partially through the GABA neurotransmitters and GABA_A receptors in the PFC.⁴ 

In early 2009, 10 healthy human volunteers (aged 20- 40) participated in a noninvasive magnetic resonance spectroscopy study. At a propofol injection concentration of 1.5 μg/ml, subjects began showing sedative qualities; by 3.0 μg/ml, they lost consciousness. During LOC, the researchers observed significantly decreased levels of glutamate, the brain’s primary excitatory neurotransmitter, in all patients, along with up-regulated levels of GABA.⁵

The effects of propofol on neurotransmitters during loss of consciousness highlight the drug’s profound effect on neural activity. By modulating critical neurotransmitters like dopamine, GABA, and glutamate in the PFC, propofol can induce LOC, which is essential for various medical procedures. Understanding these pharmacological mechanisms not only enhances our ability to use propofol safely and effectively, but also provides invaluable insights into the neural processes underlying consciousness. Continued research in this area is key to advancing anesthetic practices and improving patient outcomes. 

References 

1. Sahinovic, Marko M., et al. “Clinical Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Propofol.” Clinical Pharmacokinetics, vol. 57, no. 12, Dec. 2018, pp. 1539–58. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40262-018-0672-3
2. Boly, Mélanie, et al. “Connectivity Changes Underlying Spectral EEG Changes During Propofol-Induced Loss of Consciousness.” Journal of Neuroscience, vol. 32, no. 20, May 2012, pp. 7082–90. https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.3769-11.2012
3. Leon-Dominguez, Umberto, et al. “Molecular Concentration of DeoxyHb in Human Prefrontal Cortex Predicts the Emergence and Suppression of Consciousness.” NeuroImage, vol. 85, Jan. 2014, pp. 616–25. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroimage.2013.07.023
4. Wang, Yuan, et al. “Effects of Propofol on the Dopamine, Metabolites and GABAA Receptors in Media Prefrontal Cortex in Freely Moving Rats.” American Journal of Translational Research, vol. 8, no. 5, May 2016, pp. 2301–08. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4891442/
5. Zhang, Hui, et al. “Effect of Propofol on the Levels of Neurotransmitters in Normal Human Brain: A Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Study.” Neuroscience Letters, vol. 467, no. 3, Dec. 2009, pp. 247–51. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neulet.2009.10.052

Edema is characterized by a noticeable swelling caused by the expansion of interstitial fluid volume. Pitting edema is identified by a depression in the tissue that remains for at least five seconds after applying pressure to the swollen area. This type of edema indicates the movement of excess interstitial water in response to pressure. A number of conditions affecting the circulatory and/or lymphatic system can cause pitting edema, most often in peripheral areas. Signs of pitting edema indicate potential risk factors for surgery and anesthesia and the need for the OR team to investigate the patient’s condition and medical history.

Peripheral edema typically occurs in dependent areas, appearing mainly in the lower extremities of ambulatory patients and over the sacrum in bedridden patients. It can also occur in the upper extremities, though less frequently. Several clinical conditions are linked to the development of edema, including heart failure, cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, and other conditions such as venous and lymphatic diseases. Determining the cause of edema depends on whether it is unilateral or bilateral. The sudden onset of unilateral leg edema often raises concerns about deep vein thrombosis (DVT). In addition to edema, DVT patients may experience calf tenderness, pain, or firmness along a vein, or unilateral warmth or erythema. The most common cause of chronic unilateral or asymmetric edema is chronic venous disease in the lower extremities. Acute bilateral leg edema is rare and may be due to medications, acute heart failure, or acute nephrotic syndrome. Chronic bilateral leg edema is usually caused by chronic venous disease, although heart failure and pulmonary hypertension are often underdiagnosed. Less common causes of chronic bilateral leg edema include renal and liver diseases.

If present, pitting edema should be assessed by the OR team before surgery due to its association with increased perioperative complications. For instance, patients with pitting edema caused by a DVT need anticoagulation therapy to lower the risk of recurrent DVT, heart attack, and stroke. However, while on blood thinners, these patients face an increased risk of surgical bleeding. Therefore, it is advisable to delay surgery if the patient is clinically stable or to consider withholding anticoagulation during the perioperative period.

In patients with bilateral edema due to liver disease, evaluating surgical risk involves assessing the severity of liver disease, the urgency of surgery (and alternatives to surgery), and any coexisting medical conditions. Surgery is contraindicated in patients with acute liver failure, alcoholic hepatitis, and severe chronic hepatitis, as the risks surpass the benefits. For patients with less severe liver disease, physicians commonly use surgical risk calculators, such as the Child-Turcotte-Pugh score, to determine if the benefits of surgery outweigh the risks.

Finally, for patients with pitting edema due to heart failure, obtaining a chest X-ray can help determine the presence of pulmonary edema (fluid accumulation in the lungs), which significantly increases surgical risk. Patients experiencing an acute exacerbation of heart failure may have shortness of breath due to pulmonary edema, and this condition should be managed with diuretics before surgery to prevent cardiopulmonary complications.

Lastly, the OR and PACU teams should recognize that pitting edema may worsen after surgery due to the release of inflammatory signals that increase capillary permeability, allowing more fluid to accumulate in the interstitial space. Additionally, patients often receive IV fluids during the perioperative period, which can further exacerbate edema. Ultimately, the decision to proceed with surgery is influenced by the urgency of the procedure (emergency, urgent, or elective), the severity of symptoms, the presence of comorbid conditions, and the specific risks associated with the proposed surgery.

References

Lawenda BD, Mondry TE, Johnstone PA. Lymphedema: a primer on the identification and management of a chronic condition in oncologic treatment. CA Cancer J Clin. 2009 Jan-Feb;59(1):8-24. doi: 10.3322/caac.20001. PMID: 19147865.

Hull R, Hirsh J, Sackett DL, Taylor DW, Carter C, Turpie AG, Powers P, Gent M. Clinical validity of a negative venogram in patients with clinically suspected venous thrombosis. Circulation. 1981 Sep;64(3):622-5. doi: 10.1161/01.cir.64.3.622. PMID: 7261292.

Gorman WP, Davis KR, Donnelly R. ABC of arterial and venous disease. Swollen lower limb-1: general assessment and deep vein thrombosis. BMJ. 2000 May 27;320(7247):1453-6. doi: 10.1136/bmj.320.7247.1453. PMCID: PMCID: PMC1127644.

Blankfield RP, Finkelhor RS, Alexander JJ, Flocke SA, Maiocco J, Goodwin M, Zyzanski SJ. Etiology and diagnosis of bilateral leg edema in primary care. Am J Med. 1998 Sep;105(3):192-7. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9343(98)00235-6. PMID: 9753021.

Guazzi M, Polese A, Magrini F, Fiorentini C, Olivari MT. Negative influences of ascites on the cardiac function of cirrhotic patients. Am J Med. 1975 Aug;59(2):165-70. doi: 10.1016/0002-9343(75)90350-2. PMID: 1155476.

Matthay MA. Resolution of pulmonary edema. Thirty years of progress. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2014 Jun 1;189(11):1301-8. doi: 10.1164/rccm.201403-0535OE. PMID: 24881936; PMCID: PMC4098087.

Calcium is crucial for various physiological processes, especially muscle contraction. In skeletal muscle, calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum initiates an action potential leading to muscle contraction. Calcium also triggers contractions in smooth and cardiac muscle. Intercalated discs enable the transmission of contraction signals between cardiac myocytes, leading to synchronized muscle contractions throughout the heart. This coordination ensures that electrical impulses travel from the atria to the ventricles, driving blood flow through the circulatory system. Disruptions in calcium levels, such as hypocalcemia, can interfere with these normal physiological processes and impact anesthesia protocols.

Acute hypocalcemia (below 8.5 mg/dL) can cause syncope, congestive heart failure, numbness and tingling, bronchospasm and wheezing, laryngospasm and dysphagia, irritability, depression, fatigue, and seizures. The hallmark of acute hypocalcemia is tetany, characterized by neuromuscular irritability. Electromyographically, tetany involves repetitive, high-frequency discharges following a single stimulus. Peripheral neuron hyperexcitability is a significant pathophysiological effect of hypocalcemia, occurring at all levels of the nervous system, including motor endplates, spinal reflexes, and the central nervous system. Chronic hypocalcemia can result in coarse hair, brittle nails, psoriasis, dry skin, pruritus, poor dentition, and cataracts. Common physical exam findings of hypocalcemia include neural hyperexcitability, psychological disturbances, and cardiac arrhythmias.

The major factors influencing serum calcium concentration are parathyroid hormone (PTH), vitamin D, fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), the calcium ion itself, and phosphate. Low serum calcium levels are most often caused by disorders of PTH or vitamin D. Hypocalcemia with low PTH occurs when there is decreased secretion of PTH due to destruction of the parathyroid glands (e.g. postsurgical, autoimmune), abnormal parathyroid gland development, or altered regulation of PTH production and secretion. Among the various causes of hypocalcemia, postsurgical hypoparathyroidism and autoimmune hypoparathyroidism are two of the more common ones. Hypocalcemia with high PTH occurs when PTH rises in response to low serum calcium levels to mobilize calcium from the kidneys and bones and to increase vitamin D production. Chronic hypocalcemia occurs when these actions are inadequate to restore serum calcium to normal levels. A high serum PTH in a patient with hypocalcemia may be secondary to vitamin D deficiency, chronic kidney disease, or pseudohypoparathyroidism, which is a rare condition.

During anesthesia, various factors can alter serum ionized calcium levels, thereby increasing the risk of adverse effects from hypocalcemia in susceptible patients. These factors include malnutrition and low albumin levels, abnormal acid-base balance and electrolyte levels, medications used during the peri-operative period, transfusion of large volumes of citrated blood, and the use of cardiopulmonary bypass. Anesthetists should aim to prevent further changes in plasma calcium concentration and promptly recognize and treat the adverse effects of hypocalcemia, especially those affecting the heart. Preoperative evaluations typically include an assessment of electrolytes, including calcium, though abnormalities may potentially also arise intraoperatively or postoperatively.

The treatment of hypocalcemia depends on its severity and underlying cause. Patients with severe symptoms (such as bronchospasm, seizures, or decreased cardiac function) require rapid correction with intravenous calcium therapy. For those with milder symptoms of neuromuscular irritability, initial treatment with oral calcium supplementation is sufficient. Intravenous calcium is also indicated to prevent acute hypocalcemia in patients with mild hypocalcemia or chronic hypocalcemia who cannot take or absorb oral supplements, often due to complex surgical procedures requiring prolonged recovery.

In conclusion, understanding the role of calcium in physiological processes, the diverse factors influencing its concentration, and the appropriate management strategies for hypocalcemia is essential for ensuring optimal patient care, particularly for anesthesia and surgery.

References

Riccardi D, Brown EM. Physiology and pathophysiology of the calcium-sensing receptor in the kidney. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol. 2010 Mar;298(3):F485-99. doi: 10.1152/ajprenal.00608.2009. PMID: 19923405; PMCID: PMC2838589.

Hannan FM, Thakker RV. Investigating hypocalcaemia. BMJ. 2013 May 9;346:f2213. doi: 10.1136/bmj.f2213. PMID: 23661111.

Desai TK, Carlson RW, Geheb MA. Prevalence and clinical implications of hypocalcemia in acutely ill patients in a medical intensive care setting. Am J Med. 1988 Feb;84(2):209-14. doi: 10.1016/0002-9343(88)90415-9. PMID: 3407650.

Zivin JR, Gooley T, Zager RA, Ryan MJ. Hypocalcemia: a pervasive metabolic abnormality in the critically ill. Am J Kidney Dis. 2001 Apr;37(4):689-98. doi: 10.1016/s0272-6386(01)80116-5. PMID: 11273867.

Kluger MT, Tham EJ, Coleman NA, Runciman WB, Bullock MF. Inadequate pre-operative evaluation and preparation: a review of 197 reports from the Australian incident monitoring study. Anaesthesia. 2000 Dec;55(12):1173-8. doi: 10.1046/j.1365-2044.2000.01725.x. PMID: 11121926.

Blitz JD, Kendale SM, Jain SK, Cuff GE, Kim JT, Rosenberg AD. Preoperative Evaluation Clinic Visit Is Associated with Decreased Risk of In-hospital Postoperative Mortality. Anesthesiology. 2016 Aug;125(2):280-94. doi: 10.1097/ALN.0000000000001193. PMID: 27433746.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are advanced practice nurses who specialize in providing anesthesia care to patients across a wide range of clinical settings. Their role is crucial in ensuring safe and effective anesthesia administration during surgical procedures, obstetric deliveries, and pain management interventions. CRNAs must fulfill rigorous and comprehensive training requirements that encompass both academic education and clinical experience ¹.

The path to becoming a CRNA typically begins with earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited nursing program. This undergraduate education provides aspiring CRNAs with a strong foundation in nursing theory, patient care principles, and basic sciences. During their BSN program, students may have the opportunity to gain exposure to anesthesia-related topics through elective courses or clinical rotations ².

Following completion of their BSN degree, aspiring CRNAs must obtain a valid Registered Nurse (RN) license by passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This licensure is a prerequisite for entering graduate-level nurse anesthesia programs, which are accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) ².

The core component of training requirements for CRNAs is a graduate-level education program in nurse anesthesia that awards a nurse anesthesia practice (DNAP) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. Depending on the institution and the level of the degree, these programs typically require full-time enrollment and last a few years ².

CRNA educational programs are intensive and interdisciplinary, covering a wide range of topics essential for anesthesia practice. Coursework may include advanced physiology and pharmacology, principles of anesthesia practice, anesthesia equipment and technology, patient assessment and monitoring, anesthesia techniques and procedures, and professional ethics and standards. Students also receive instruction in advanced nursing concepts, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice ³.

In addition to classroom instruction, training requirements for CRNAs include extensive clinical practicum experience under the supervision of qualified preceptors. These clinical rotations take place in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, obstetric units, and pain management clinics. Through hands-on experience, students develop proficiency in anesthesia delivery, airway management, patient monitoring, and crisis management, preparing them for independent practice as CRNAs ³.

Upon successful completion of their graduate program, CRNA graduates must pass the National Certification Examination (NCE), administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA). This rigorous exam assesses the candidate’s knowledge, skills, and competencies in anesthesia practice and is a prerequisite for obtaining certification as a CRNA ⁴.

Once certified, CRNAs must maintain their credentials through continuing education and professional development activities. This includes participation in continuing education courses, attendance at conferences and workshops, and engagement in quality improvement initiatives within their practice settings ⁵.

The training requirements for CRNAs are extensive and demanding, encompassing academic education, clinical experience, and national certification. Through a combination of rigorous coursework and hands-on clinical training, aspiring CRNAs acquire the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary for safe and effective anesthesia practice. By adhering to high standards of education and professional development, CRNAs uphold the highest standards of patient care and contribute to the delivery of quality anesthesia services across healthcare settings.

References

1.        AANA | How to Become a CRNA. Available at: https://www.aana.com/about-us/about-crnas/become-a-crna/. (Accessed: 28th April 2024)

2.        How To Become A Nurse Anesthetist | NurseJournal.org. Available at: https://nursejournal.org/nurse-anesthetist/how-to-become-a-crna/. (Accessed: 28th April 2024)

3.        How To Become a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) in 6 Steps | Indeed.com. Available at: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-crna. (Accessed: 28th April 2024)

4.        Requirements to Practice as a Nurse Anesthetist in the United States – Council on Accreditation. Available at: https://www.coacrna.org/about-coa/requirements-to-practice-as-a-nurse-anesthetist-in-the-united-states/. (Accessed: 28th April 2024)

5.        AANA | Continuing Education. Available at: https://www.aana.com/ce/. (Accessed: 28th April 2024)

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine in the coronal, axial, and/or sagittal planes. The condition is most frequently idiopathic and diagnosed in adolescence, but it can also be a congenital or neuromuscular condition. According to the National Scoliosis Foundation, scoliosis patients make up over 600,000 of private physician office visits, 30,000 children are fitted with a brace, and 38,000 patients undergo spinal fusion surgery per year.¹ Naturally, this deformation of the spine can have an effect on the administration and spread of neuraxial, or spinal, anesthesia, with disparities in spread being a well-recognized complication for patients with scoliosis.

As reported by a pilot study by Ballarapu et al. in 2020 in the Indian Journal of Anaesthesia, many anesthesiologists are reluctant to administer neuraxial anesthesia in patients with scoliosis out of fear of postoperative complications (including potential neurological deficits), needing multiple attempts, and the unpredictability in the level and pattern of blockade during spinal anesthesia in these patients.² Given the prevalence of scoliosis in our population and these known potential complications, it is important for surgeons and anesthesiologists to be familiar with the differences of neuraxial anesthesia in patients with scoliosis, as well as to work to develop a more sophisticated standard of care for these patients. 

A 2013 paper in Regional Anesthesia by researchers from the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine reports on a case in which computerized tomography was used to assist in the placement of an epidural catheter in a patient with severe scoliosis and congenital dwarfism. An anesthesiologist typically administers neuraxial anesthesia by using spinal landmarks as guidance or by using ultrasound guidance. Due to the risks posed in trying to administer neuraxial anesthesia to a patient with such pronounced scoliosis (including neural injury, spinal hematoma, post-dural puncture headache, or infection as well as, more generally, a decrease in procedure efficiency and increase in patient discomfort and decrease in patient satisfaction), the computerized tomography data, corroborated by fluoroscopic images and ultrasound, were determined to be necessary precautions prior to operating on this patient. The surgical procedure was conducted without complications, and there were no adverse effects of the surgery. The authors suggested an algorithm to guide neuraxial techniques in scoliotic patients, taking the etiology and severity of a patient’s scoliosis into account in determining what techniques may be necessary in reducing risk of injury or discomfort for the patient in administering neuraxial anesthesia.³

A later (2016) report by Sharma and McConachie in Journal of Obstetric Anaesthesia and Critical Care reviewed further findings and techniques on how to safely administer neuraxial anesthesia in scoliotic patients. Noting that neuraxial blocks, despite being the preferred form of anesthesia for parturient patients in particular, were historically avoided in patients who had scoliosis or previous back surgery due to its comparative difficulty, higher chance of complications, and decreased efficacy, these authors also spotlight the use of ultrasound technology as a potential key element in overcoming these difficulties in providing neuraxial blocks to patients with scoliosis. They found through their review of recent literature that the use of ultrasound reduced the number of attempts and necessary levels of epidural catheter placement for all parturient patients, including those with a history of severe scoliosis or scoliosis repair. By allowing for the identification of interspinous spaces, ultrasound assisted with the insertion angle of the Tuohy needle and with the identification of the epidural space in these cases.⁴

All in all, as detailed in a 2020 review on the topic,⁵ ultrasound-guided placement of neuraxial blocks has become common practice for patients with severe scoliosis. Using this technique, it is possible to minimize the risk of misplacement, complications, or postoperative pain. Due to this technique becoming commonplace, and due to the prevalence of patients with either scoliosis or other conditions that increase the difficulty of administering neuraxial anesthesia (such as obesity, prior history of back surgery, or non-scoliotic abnormalities of the spine), it is important that anesthesiologists who routinely perform lumbar neuraxial blocks be familiar with both the sonoanatomy of the lumbar vertebrae and the techniques for ultrasound-guided placement of neuraxial blocks.

References

(1)  Scoliosis – Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment. https://www.aans.org/en/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Scoliosis.

(2)  Ballarapu, G.; Nallam, S.; Samantaray, A.; Kumar, V. K.; Reddy, A. Thoracolumbar Curve and Cobb Angle in Determining Spread of Spinal Anesthesia in Scoliosis. An Observational Prospective Pilot Study. Indian J Anaesth 2020, 64 (7), 594. https://doi.org/10.4103/ija.IJA_914_19.

(3)  Bowens, C.; Dobie, K. H.; Devin, C. J.; Corey, J. M. An Approach to Neuraxial Anaesthesia for the Severely Scoliotic Spine. Br J Anaesth 2013, 111 (5), 807–811. https://doi.org/10.1093/bja/aet161.

(4)  Sharma, M.; McConachie, I. Neuraxial Blocks in Parturients with Scoliosis and after Spinal Surgery. J Obstet Anaesth Crit Care 2016, 6 (2), 70. https://doi.org/10.4103/2249-4472.191594.

(5)  Yoo, S.; Kim, Y.; Park, S.-K.; Ji, S.-H.; Kim, J.-T. Ultrasonography for Lumbar Neuraxial Block. Anesth Pain Med 2020, 15 (4), 397–408. https://doi.org/10.17085/apm.20065.

Each year, more than 300 million surgical procedures are performed worldwide, with approximately 5% (15 million) conducted under spinal anesthesia (SA). This technique involves administering local anesthetics or opioids, or both, into the spinal space to induce numbness and weakness in the lower body, enabling pain-free surgery. One major application of spinal anesthesia is for cesarean delivery (C-section). In terms of medication selection, an area of ongoing research and discussion is whether hyperbaric spinal anesthesia is superior.

Bupivacaine, a long-acting local anesthetic, is the most common drug, often supplemented with opioids such as fentanyl, sufentanil, or morphine. It comes in two commercially available formulations: isobaric bupivacaine (IB) and hyperbaric bupivacaine (HB). IB has a density equal to that of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), while HB has a density heavier than CSF. The denser (hyperbaric) bupivacaine is produced by adding glucose (80 mg/mL) to isobaric or plain bupivacaine. The difference in densities of the two preparations is believed to affect their diffusion patterns and thus determine their effectiveness, spread, and side-effect profile. In general, hyperbaric spinal anesthesia should spread more downwards, in the direction of gravity, because of its greater density. 

To be reliably hyperbaric in all patients, an anesthetic solution must have a baricity of at least 1.0015 at 37°C. The addition of dextrose to the anesthetic solution is the most common method used to achieve this. Because dextrose is neurologically benign, the concentrations used are usually far higher than those needed to increase baricity above 1.0015. The distribution of hyperbaric spinal anesthetic solutions in CSF is influenced by the patient’s position, with significant differences observed between horizontal or head-down positions and seated positions. 

The uptake of local anesthetics injected into the subarachnoid space determines which neuronal functions are affected during spinal anesthesia, while their elimination from the subarachnoid space determines the duration of these effects. The distribution of local anesthetics within CSF determines the extent of altered neuronal function. The physical characteristics of spinal anesthetic solutions, including weight/density of the solution, amount of anesthetic given, concentration of anesthetic in the injectate, and volume of anesthetic solution injected, are major determinants of their spread in CSF. 

Anesthesiologists performing spinal anesthesia must choose between the two most commonly available formulations, hyperbaric or isobaric bupivacaine. Despite more than 30 years of use, there is still disagreement regarding the preferred formulation. This decision is often based on personal experience, training, local institutional practices, and drug availability. 

Baricity is a significant factor in maternal hemodynamic changes during elective cesarean section, as demonstrated by a hospital-based prospective cohort study by Heloll et al. However, other studies have shown different findings, such as Uppal et al.’s meta-analysis. These authors show that isobaric bupivacaine produces greater changes in blood pressure, incidence of hypotension, and vasopressor requirement than hyperbaric bupivacaine after SA for elective cesarean section. Hyperbaric bupivacaine allows for a relatively rapid onset of motor block, with a shorter duration of motor and sensory block, while isobaric bupivacaine has a slower onset and provides a longer duration of both sensory and motor block. 

A recent Cochrane review found that intrathecal hyperbaric bupivacaine had a more rapid onset of sensory blockade at the 4th thoracic vertebra (T4) level than isobaric bupivacaine. However, the overall quality of evidence for most outcomes is low or very low according to the GRADE method. Various advantages of isobaric and hyperbaric bupivacaine have been described, but no definitive evidence exists to recommend one form over the other.

References

1. Wildsmith JAW, McClure JH, Brown DT, Scott DB. Effects of posture on the spread of isobaric and hyperbaric amethocaine. Br J Anaesth. 1981 Mar;53(3):273-8.

2. Greene NM. Distribution of Local Anesthetic Solutions within the Subarachnoid Space. Anesthesia & Analgesia. 1985 July;64(7):715-730. 

3. Helill SE, Sahile WA, Abdo RA, Wolde GD, Halil HM. The effects of isobaric and hyperbaric bupivacaine on maternal hemodynamic changes post spinal anesthesia for elective cesarean delivery: A prospective cohort study. PLOS ONE 2019;14(12):e0226030. 

4. Uppal V, Retter S, Shanthanna H, Prabhakar C, McKeen DM. Hyperbaric Versus Isobaric Bupivacaine for Spinal Anesthesia: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis for Adult Patients Undergoing Noncesarean Delivery Surgery. Anesthesia & Analgesia 2017;125(5):1627-1637. 

5. Sng BL, Siddiqui FJ, Leong WL, Assam PN, Chan ES, Tan KH, Sia AT. Hyperbaric versus isobaric bupivacaine for spinal anaesthesia for caesarean section. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016 Sep 15;9(9):CD005143.  

6. Solakovic N. Comparison of hemodynamic effects of hyperbaric and isobaric bupivacaine in spinal anesthesia. Med Arh. 2010;64:11–14. 

7. Muralidhar V, Kaul HL. Comparative evaluation of spinal anaesthesia with four different bupivacaine (0.5%) solutions with varying glucose concentrations. J Anaesthesiol Clin Pharmacol. 1999;15:165–168. 

Awake spine surgery, a ground-breaking approach in modern surgical practices, challenges traditional norms by allowing patients to remain conscious during certain spinal procedures ¹. In awake spine surgery, patients are consciously engaged throughout the procedure, providing real-time feedback to the surgical team and promoting a more personalized approach to care. This innovative technique is particularly advantageous for certain spinal surgeries, such as deformity corrections, where maintaining neurological function is critical. Spinal anesthesia is a key component of awake spine surgery.

Central to the success of awake spine surgery is the administration of spinal anesthesia. Unlike general anesthesia, which induces a state of unconsciousness, spinal anesthesia targets a specific region of the spine, numbing the part of the body served by nerves in that region of the spine while allowing the patient to remain awake and responsive. This technique not only minimizes the risks associated with general anesthesia but also offers distinct advantages in terms of patient collaboration and intraoperative monitoring.

A recent meta-analysis demonstrated the benefits of spinal anesthesia in awake spine surgery relative to general anesthesia in patients who had undergone various lumbar procedures ². Benefits may include reduced duration of anesthesia, cost, operative time, and postoperative complications. It is also associated with reduced cardiopulmonary complications and opioid consumption ³. Finally, spinal anesthesia for awake spine surgery avoids the negative systemic effects of general anesthesia. Relatedly, with the absence of general anesthesia-related grogginess, patients undergoing awake spine surgery often experience a quicker recovery. This rapid recovery facilitates early mobilization and may contribute to shorter hospital stays ⁴. Large prospective trials are necessary, however, to confirm these promising data.

Despite the potential for improving outcomes, awake spine surgery has been met with a certain degree of resistance and has yet to become widely adopted in many healthcare institutions. A recent manuscript sought to lay forth the fundamental steps critical to the initiation of an awake spine surgery program ³. The authors highlight that the development of an awake spine surgery program is a challenging one but one that has many advantages to patients and healthcare systems.

The success of awake spine surgery with spinal anesthesia hinges on appropriate patient selection and thorough preoperative education. Patients must be carefully screened to ensure they are suitable candidates for the procedure. Indeed, although no direct studies have identified the ideal candidate, there are certain contraindications. The contraindications for awake spine surgery include surgeries involving more than two vertebrae, surgeries with unpredictable durations, and patients with risks of respiratory compromise, among others ³.Additionally, educating patients about the awake spine surgery process, the role of spinal anesthesia, and the expected outcomes is crucial in fostering informed decision-making and allaying any anxieties.

In conclusion, awake spine surgery with spinal anesthesia allows patients to actively participate in their surgical experience, enhancing safety, reduces recovery time, and provides an alternative to traditional general anesthesia.

The evolving landscape of awake spine surgery will continue to stimulate ongoing research to refine techniques and expand indications, however. As technology advances, innovative approaches to intraoperative monitoring, pain management, and patient experience are likely to shape the future of awake spine surgery.

References

1. Awake spinal surgery: A paradigm shift in neurosurgery – Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/neurology-neurosurgery/news/awake-spinal-surgery-a-paradigm-shift-in-neurosurgery/mac-20531255. (Accessed: 30th January 2024)

2. Perez-Roman, R. J., Govindarajan, V., Bryant, J. P. & Wang, M. Y. Spinal anesthesia in awake surgical procedures of the lumbar spine: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 3709 patients. Neurosurg. Focus 51, (2021). doi: 10.3171/2021.9.FOCUS21464.

3. Waguia, R. et al. How to start an awake spine program: Protocol and illustrative cases. IBRO Neurosci. Reports 13, 69 (2022). doi: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2022.05.009

4. A Guide to Awake Spine Surgery – Desert Institute for Spine Care. Available at: https://www.sciatica.com/blog/what-is-awake-spine-surgery/. (Accessed: 30th January 2024)

As part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act to improve transparency, accountability, and performance in healthcare services, the Quality Rating System (QRS) was developed to rate healthcare entities based on price and quality. This system plays a crucial role in guiding consumers, healthcare providers, and policymakers towards informed decision-making [1]. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) calculates these quality ratings on a scale from 1 to 5 different measures [2]. Entities include qualified health insurance plans, healthcare facilities, and even individual providers.

CMS quality ratings extend to hospitals and various healthcare facilities, offering a standardized approach to evaluating their performance. These ratings consider factors such as mortality rates, readmission rates, patient safety, and the effectiveness of healthcare services. Patients can access these ratings to make informed decisions about where to seek medical treatment. Thus, hospitals are incentivized to achieve high ratings to attract patients and remain profitable [3]. Hospitals can also use these ratings to improve the quality of services they provide.

The scope of CMS quality ratings encompasses not only healthcare facilities but individual providers as well. Doctors, clinicians, groups, virtual groups, and Accountable Care Organizations are also subject to CMS ratings and performance review under the Doctors and Clinicians section of Medicare Care Compare and in the Provider Data Catalog [4]. Metrics such as patient satisfaction, adherence to clinical guidelines, and costs are assessed. These ratings help patients choose healthcare professionals who align with their preferences and healthcare needs. Further, providers and facilities are continuously incentivized to improve their performance and quality. This fosters a culture of accountability and encourages the adoption of best practices to achieve better patient outcomes and experiences [4].

Nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and other long-term care facilities are also included in CMS quality ratings [5]. The Nursing Home Quality Initiative focuses on factors such as resident well-being, safety, and the quality of services provided for post- acute centers and for longer-term patients with chronic needs [5,6].

The scope of CMS quality ratings is vast and highlights a movement within healthcare towards standardization. The standardization of healthcare quality measurement allows patients not only to access information about health plans, but also incentivizes the healthcare industry to improve the quality of services and thus, overall patient outcomes. Further, by providing a comprehensive assessment of the performance of healthcare entities, these ratings promote transparency and accountability. As healthcare continues to evolve, quality ratings will remain a critical tool in the pursuit of delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.

References

1. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating. 2019 Available online: https://www.medicare.gov/hospitalcompare/Data/Hospital-overall-ratings-calculation.html

2. Kurian N, Maid J, Mitra S, Rhyne L, Korvink M, Gunn LH. Predicting Hospital Overall Quality Star Ratings in the USA. Healthcare (Basel). 2021 Apr 20;9(4):486.

3. Yaraghi N., Wang W., Gao G.G., Agarwal R. How online quality ratings influence patients’ choice of medical providers: Controlled experimental survey study. J. Med. Int. Res. 2018;20

4. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 2021 Quality Payment Program (QPP);2021 Available online: https://www.cms.gov/files/document/2021-qpp-performance-information-medicare-care-compare-presentation-slides.pdf-0

5. Tamara Konetzka R, Yan K, Werner RM. Two Decades of Nursing Home Compare: What Have We Learned? Medical Care Research and Review. 2021;78(4):295-310.

6. Harris Y., Clauser S. B. Achieving improvement through nursing home quality measurement. Health Care Financing Review. 2002;23(4), 5–18.

Procedural anxiety in children is a common and challenging phenomenon, often occurring during medical procedures such as vaccinations, blood draws, and diagnostic tests [1]. Common contributors include fear of pain, unfamiliar environments, and separation from caregivers. Cognitive factors, such as age-related development, also play a significant role in shaping a child’s response to medical procedures. The emotional distress associated with these procedures not only affects the child’s immediate well-being but can also have long-term implications for their attitude towards healthcare. Further, by alleviating a child’s anxiety, healthcare providers are better able to complete their procedures with ease [1]. Healthcare providers should focus on effective strategies to reduce procedural anxiety in children which may include environmental, behavioral, pharmacological, or technological interventions.

The first essential step in mediating a child’s procedural anxiety is performing an accurate evaluation of the patient’s emotional state and level of distress [1]. Assessment involves a clinician making observations of a child’s behavioral cues, responsiveness, and willingness to engage with the clinician. Parent anxiety level can also play a significant role in these interactions.

Creating a child-friendly and supportive environment is a fundamental part of a broader strategy to reduce procedural anxiety in children [3]. This includes modifications such as colorful and engaging décor and age-appropriate toys. Practices may wish to involve child life specialists who can help create a more comfortable atmosphere. Further, interacting with parents to reduce parental anxiety can also reduce any anxiety a parent may inadvertently transfer to their child [1]. Pre-procedural education for parents is essential to prepare them for supporting their child effectively. Providing information about the procedure in an age-appropriate manner as well as helping parents to avoid use of fear-inducing words, like needle or shots, can also contribute to reducing procedural anxiety [2].

Cognitive-behavioral interventions focusing on changing thought patterns and behaviors associated with anxiety in children before and during the procedure may also effectively reduce procedural anxiety. Techniques such as distraction, arousing curiosity, guided imagery, and relaxation exercises have shown promise in reducing procedural anxiety [2, 3, 4]. For example, pointing out a color or item in the room for a child to focus on can distract from the procedure. Often, technology such as a parent phone or iPad with interactive games can be used as a distraction technique to shift a child’s focus away from the procedure. In some cases, pharmacological interventions such as intranasal or oral anxiolytics based on the child’s age, medical history, and the nature of the procedure may be considered [1].

Procedural anxiety in children is a multifaceted phenomenon, but utilizing a combination of environmental modifications, parental involvement, cognitive-behavioral and technological interventions, and when necessary, pharmacological approaches can significantly reduce anxiety levels. By performing comprehensive assessments of a child’s anxiety and employing these techniques, healthcare providers can contribute to a positive healthcare experience for children, promoting their overall well-being and future engagement with healthcare.

References

1. Krauss BS, Krauss BA, Green SM. Managing Procedural Anxiety in Children. New England Journal of Medicine. 2016;374(16):e19.

2. Cohen LL. Behavioral approaches to anxiety and pain management for pediatric venous access. Pediatrics 2008;122:Suppl 3:S134-9.

3. Corrie E. Chumpitazi, Cindy Chang, Zaza Atanelov, Ann M. Dietrich, Samuel Hiu‐Fung Lam, Emily Rose, Tim Ruttan, Sam Shahid, Michael J. Stoner, Carmen Sulton, Mohsen Saidinejad, . (2022) Managing acute pain in children presenting to the emergency department without opioids. Journal of the American College of Emergency Physicians Open 3:2.

4. Bandstra NF, Skinner L, Leblanc C, et al. The role of child life in pediatric pain management: a survey of child life specialists. J Pain. 2008;9(4):320‐329.