Publications by authors named "Christopher M Heard"

Background: Intrathecal baclofen is widely accepted as a treatment option for severe spasticity through its γ-Aminobutyric acid-B (GABAB ) agonist properties. Abrupt cessation can lead to severe and life-threatening withdrawal characterized by altered mental status, autonomic dysreflexia, rigidity, and seizures. This symptomatic presentation is similar to alcohol withdrawal, which is mediated by modification of GABAA expression.

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Background: The aim of this review was to determine whether dexmedetomidine alone provided satisfactory conditions for children undergoing magnetice resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods: A retrospective review of 21 patients was undertaken, (age range: 1-8 years, weight 10-27 kg) who received dexmedetomidine to provide deep sedation for an MRI procedure.

Results: In the initial eight patients who received dexmedetomidine (bolus 0.

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In this study, we compared the effect of isoflurane and desflurane on the posterior tibial somatosensory evoked potential recorded by scalp electrodes during correction of idiopathic scoliosis in pediatric patients. Depth of sedation was controlled by maintaining bispectral index (BIS) at 60 throughout the study. Comparison of patients breathing desflurane and isoflurane showed an evoked cortical amplitude (N37-P45) of 0.

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Background: A synergistic effect has been described when rocuronium (Roc) and mivacurium (Miv) are combined in equal (i.e. 1:1) ED95 proportions at various total doses.

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Background: Opioids are frequently used for sedation in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). With time the dosing often increases because of tolerance. On cessation of the sedation there is a risk of the opioid withdrawal syndrome.

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Objectives: To evaluate carbon dioxide clearance in normal rabbits during high-frequency oscillatory ventilation with helium-oxygen mixtures by using a low bias flow oscillation (LBFO) system designed to conserve expensive gas.

Design: A prospective, paired-controlled, interventional, in vivo animal laboratory study.

Setting: Animal laboratory of a health science university.

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Objective: To compare the Bispectral Index with clinical sedation assessment using the Ramsay score in normal sedated and paralyzed critically ill children.

Design: Prospective observational study.

Setting: Multidisciplinary 18-bed pediatric intensive care unit at a university-affiliated children's hospital.

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