Serum iron, zinc, copper, selenium, and bromide concentrations after coronary bypass operation.

The effect of surgical trauma on serum trace elements was studied in 10 patients undergoing coronary bypass surgery. After the initial decrease due to the hemodilution during operation serum iron, zinc, copper and selenium remained depressed for the immediate postoperative period. Zinc was still at significantly lower level 2 months after the operation.

Peripheral blood T- and B-lymphocytes in operating theatre personnel.

The effect of operating theatre work on peripheral blood T- and B-lymphocytes was studied by the rosette method. There was no statistically significant difference between operating theatre personnel and the controls in the number of T- and B-lymphocytes. This study supports the view that work in operating theatres does not cause changes in the immune response.

Morphine concentrations in plasma after intramuscular administration.

Plasma morphine concentrations were measured by a radioimmunoassay technique following the intramuscular administration of morphine 0.2 mg/kg body weight as a preoperative medication. The highest plasma concentrations were obtained about one hour after the administration of the drug and there was a sevenfold variation in these concentrations between individuals.