Challenges and patient outcomes in chronic subdural haematoma at the level of a regional care system A multi-centre, mixed-methods study from the East of England.

Background: Chronic subdural haematoma (cSDH) is a common neurosurgical pathology affecting older patients with other health conditions. A significant proportion (up-to 90%) of referrals for surgery in neurosciences units (NSU) come from secondary care. However, the organisation of this care and the experience of patients repatriated to non-specialist centres are currently unclear.

Observational study of peripheral skin temperature changes following spinal anaesthesia for caesarean birth.

Background: Spinal anaesthesia is widely used in obstetric anaesthesia practice but there is limited knowledge about the development of sympathetic blockade following spinal anaesthesia for caesarean birth. This study investigated the characteristics of sympathetic blockade by measuring peripheral skin temperature changes in the feet of patients given spinal anaesthesia for elective caesarean birth.

Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted involving 60 eligible parturients scheduled for elective caesarean birth with spinal anaesthesia.

Delays in investigation and management of acute arterial ischaemic stroke in children.

The aim of this study was to investigate the timing and course of investigation and diagnosis in children with acute arterial ischaemic stroke (AIS) and factors influencing this using a retrospective case-note review. Participants comprised 50 children (26 males, 24 females; median age at presentation 3 y 4 mo, range 2 mo-16 y 10 mo). Although all had brain infarction, symptoms resolved in less than 24 hours in 21 children (transient ischaemic attack [TIA] group).