Ultrashort acting remifentanil is not superior to long-acting sufentanil in preserving cognitive function-a randomized study.

Study Objective: Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a well-known complication after cardiac surgery and may cause permanent disabilities with severe consequences for quality of life. The objectives of this study were, first, to estimate the frequency of POCD after on-pump cardiac surgery in patients randomized to remifentanil- or sufentanil-based anesthesia and, second, to evaluate the association between POCD and quality of recovery and perioperative hemodynamics, respectively.

Design: Randomized study.

Outcome of accidental hypothermia with or without circulatory arrest: experience from the Danish Præstø Fjord boating accident.

Background: Resuscitation guidelines for the treatment of accidental hypothermia are based primarily on isolated cases. Mortality rates are high despite aggressive treatment aimed at restoring spontaneous circulation and normothermia.

Methods: The present report is based on a boating accident where 15 healthy subjects (median age 16 (range 15-45) years) were immersed in 2 °C salt water.

Central venous oxygen saturation cannot replace mixed venous saturation in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Objective: It has been argued that venous oxygen saturation from a central venous catheter (ScvO(2)) could be an inexpensive alternative to mixed venous oxygen saturation (SvO(2)). The aim was to evaluate whether ScvO(2) measurements could replace SvO(2) readings after cardiac surgery and to analyze factors influencing any differences found.

Design: A prospective observational study.