Propofol versus sevoflurane for fiberoptic intubation under spontaneous breathing anesthesia in patients difficult to intubate.

Background: The most recommended technique for the management of patients with a difficult airway is fiberoptic intubation (FOI). The aim of this study was to compare propofol and sevoflurane for FOI performance in patients who were difficult to intubate.

Methods: Seventy-eight patients scheduled for maxillo-facial surgery were included in this prospective, randomized study.

[The LTD laryngeal tube: a new single-use airway device].

Objectives: Clinical study of a new supraglottic single use airway device, the LTD with evaluation of insertion, efficiency during intermittent positive pressure ventilation and side effects.

Study Design: Prospective, open clinical study.

Patients And Methods: Fifty adult patients [33 years (26-55)] were scheduled for elective surgery (orthopaedic, plastic or maxillo-facial) under general anaesthesia less than two hours in dorsal position.

[Should adjuvant treatments (antiplatelet agents, anticoagulants, normovolaemic haemodilution and vasodilators) be used in cervicofacial and maxillofacial free flaps reconstructive surgery?].

The ENT and maxillo-facial reconstruction with free flaps has become a standard. The objective of the adjuvant treatments is to limit failures (approximately 6%) related to ischaemia/reperfusion. French surgical centres use specific protocols depending on the surgeon.

[Postoperative antero-external tibial compartment syndrome: co-responsibility of the operating table].

A 26-year-old, ASA1 patient underwent maxillofacial surgery under general anaesthesia, of 12-hour duration in the supine position. Postoperatively he developed rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure. In the subsequent days, a bilateral leg compartment syndrome occurred with anterior tibial motor nerve injury requiring fasciotomies and excision of necrotic muscles.