A complex obstetric case.

A 33-year-old primigravida presented with severe sepsis, severe pre-eclampsia, peripartum cardiomyopathy and the haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets syndrome manifesting over the course of 24 h causing a diagnostic conundrum and a difficult sequence of physiological problems to overcome. We describe a previously unreported sequence of events involving a pre-eclamptic, septic parturient to improve anaesthetic and intensive care physician awareness of confounding factors that complicate assessment and management of these patients.

Perioperative Considerations in Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma.

Patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma are complex, with the potential for significant complications, and require extensive pre-, peri-, and postoperative management. This article discusses, in depth, the necessary considerations in the treatment of these patients.

Structured airway intervention improves safety of endotracheal intubation in an intensive care unit.

Each year the Royal College of Anaesthetists undertakes a national audit project of procedures and practices within the specialty that have the potential to be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The fourth National Audit Project (NAP4), endorsed by the Difficult Airway Society, audited advanced airway management and its complications in general theatres, labour wards, critical care units and emergency departments. The NAP4 data allowed the authors to benchmark their own practice against national standards.