Evaluation of an intraoperative algorithm based on near-infrared refracted spectroscopy monitoring, in the intraoperative decision for shunt placement, in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy.

Background: We evaluated whether the use of an intraoperative algorithm based on cerebral oximetry with near-infrared refracted spectroscopy (NIRS) monitoring, could aid in the intraoperative decision for shunt placement, in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy (CEA).

Methods: In this prospective, randomized, controlled study were included 253 patients who underwent CEA under general anesthesia. They were randomly allocated in Group A (n=83) using NIRS monitoring and the suggested algorithm, Group B (n=84) using NIRS monitoring without the algorithm and Group C (n=86) who served as controls.

Impact of pregabalin treatment on pain, pain-related sleep interference and general well-being in patients with neuropathic pain: a non-interventional, multicentre, post-marketing study.

Background And Objectives: Numerous controlled clinical trials have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of pregabalin in the treatment of neuropathic pain. The objectives of the present study were to assess the impact of pregabalin under real-world conditions on pain, pain-related sleep interference and general well-being, and to assess the tolerability and safety of pregabalin in patients diagnosed with neuropathic pain of central or peripheral origin.

Methods: This was a non-interventional, multicentre study in which pregabalin was administered for 8 weeks, at the therapeutic dosages of 150-600 mg/day, to patients with a diagnosis of neuropathic pain.

Prophylactic intravenous ondansetron and dolasetron in intrathecal morphine-induced pruritus: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study.

Pruritus is the most common side effect of intrathecal morphine for postoperative pain relief. Activation of central 5-hydroxytryptamine subtype 3 (5-HT3) receptors is one of its possible mechanisms. The role of 5-HT3 antagonists in the prevention of pruritus has not been clearly established.