Hypothyroidism is relatively common comorbidity in elderly patients, due to structural and hormonal changes in the aging thyroid. Diagnosis of hypothyroidism, in this population, is considered challenging, since many symptoms are nonspecific and may be attributed to other common medical conditions. Continue reading
Acute uvular edema is a rare complication that can be presented in the postoperative period, usually after general anesthesia. If severe enough, it can even result in a compromised airway. In this case report, we present a case of postoperative acute uvular edema occurred in an orthopedic patient, after spinal anesthesia and infraclavicular brachial plexus nerve block combined with intravenous sedation. Continue reading
The aim of this study was to compare the level of sensory block in parturients with different body height, after spinal anesthesia with local anesthetic of fixed volume and consistence. This retrospective study was conducted on 107 women, which underwent caesarean section under spinal anesthesia. It was hypothesized that maternal height was not associated with level of sensory block. Parturients were divided into two groups, based on their body height. Group A (n=65) included those with height ≤165 cm and group B (n=42) those with height of ≥166 cm. Subarachnoid space was reached with a 25G needle through the L3-L4 spinal space. Then, ropivacaine 20mg and 10mcg fentanyl (in solution of 2.8 ml) was given...
Continue readingThis case report describes the rare occurrence of tetraplegia, caused by conversion disorder, in a patient who received spinal anesthesia for arthroscopic surgery. A 35-year-old female with a history of migraine headaches received spinal anesthesia for arthroscopic left knee surgery. On sensory block examination, she was noted to have a T10 level of blockade. During surgery and45 min after performing spinal anesthesia, patient reported bilateral loss of both sensation and motor function of her upper limbs. Patient was hemodynamic stable with absence of respiratory depression or any alteration of consciousness level. Physical signs and symptoms did not correlate with any known anatomical or neurological patterns. MRI imaging revealed no abnormalities. Psychiatric consultation was performed wherein familial stressor circumstances were identified, leading to diagnosis of conversion disorder.
Continue reading
