Cricoid ring: Shape, size, and variability in infants and children.

Background: Knowledge regarding the shape, size, and variability of the cricoid ring is important to properly choose the correct endotracheal tube (ETT) in the pediatric patient. Studies have measured the size of the cricoid ring using methodologies such as moulages, magnetic resonance imaging, and video-bronchoscopy. In the present study, computed tomography (CT) -based images were used to determine the shape, size, and configuration of the cricoid ring in the pediatric population taking into considerations growth and development.

Estimation of the depth of the thoracic epidural space in children using magnetic resonance imaging.

Background: The estimation of the distance from the skin to the thoracic epidural space or skin to epidural depth (SED) may increase the success rate and decrease the incidence of complications during placement of a thoracic epidural catheter. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most comprehensive imaging modality of the spine, allowing for the accurate determination of tissue spaces and distances. The present study uses MRI-derived measurements to measure the SED and define the ratio between the straight and inclined SEDs at two thoracic levels (T and T) in children.

Pediatric upper airway dimensions using three-dimensional computed tomography imaging.

Introduction: Computed tomography- (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based measurements have recently suggested that the narrowest dimension of the pediatric airway is the subglottic region. These data are contrary to the previously held tenets of a funnel- or conical-shaped airway. The current study evaluates airway volumes and shapes using three-dimensional CT images of the air way column in spontaneously breathing children.

Upper airway in infants-a computed tomography-based analysis.

Background: Recent studies suggest that the pediatric airway is elliptical with the subglottis rather than the cricoid as the narrowest part contrary to the old belief of a funnel-shaped airway. The shape of the airway in neonates and infants has not been studied separately. This study seeks to define the shape of the upper airway in neonates and infants, and determine if there are differences in airway shape between infants and older children.

Erythromelalgia in the pediatric patient: role of computed-tomography-guided lumbar sympathetic blockade.

Erythromelalgia (EM) is an uncommon condition characterized by erythema, increased skin temperature, and burning pain, most frequently occurring in the lower extremities. The pain is generally very severe and treatment can be extremely challenging, especially in the pediatric and adolescent population. We report a series of three cases of primary EM in pediatric patients involving the lower extremities, refractory to medical treatment that responded favorably to computed-tomography-guided lumbar sympathetic blockade.

PERIOPERATIVE CARE OF A CHILD WITH CRISPONI SYNDROME.

Crisponi syndrome is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by intermittent episodes of muscular contraction of the facial muscles with trismus and excessive salivation simulating a tetanic spasm. These episodes occur in response to tactile stimulation or during crying. Associated physical and constitutional findings include characteristic facial anomalies, camptodactyly, intermittent hyperthermia, and feeding difficulties.

Oxymetazoline Metered Dose Spray: Factors Affecting Delivery Volume.

Objectives: The current study compared the amount of oxymetazoline delivered by various anesthesia providers when holding the bottle in the upright and inverted position. Additionally, the amount delivered from a full bottle and a half-full bottle was also investigated.

Methods: Using an analytical balance that was calibrated to zero, we evaluated the impact the position of the bottle and the volume of oxymetazoline in the bottle had on the amount being delivered by both anesthesia staff and trainees.

Endotracheal tubes and the cricoid: Is there a good fit?

Background: Choosing an appropriately sized endotracheal tube (ETT) is important in pediatric patients as an inappropriately sized ETT may result in multiple endotracheal intubation attempts or excessive pressure on the tracheal mucosa with the potential for airway damage. Although age-based formulas are generally used with choice of an ETT based on the internal diameter (ID), measurements of the outer diameter (OD) of the ETT would seem to be a more scientific approach to determine the proper size of an ETT. However, the variable OD of the ETT despite the same ID makes the selection of a proper sized ETT more difficult.

Cricoid and left bronchial diameter in the pediatric population.

Background: Lung isolation in the pediatric population can be problematic. The diameter and length of the right and left mainstem bronchi are not well described in young children. Information regarding these measurements may help determine the appropriate size of endotracheal tubes for endobronchial intubation as well as the development of lung isolation devices for the pediatric population.

General anesthesia for the heaviest man in the world.

The prevalence of obesity has increased greatly over the last 20 years, resulting in an increase in the number of bariatric and nonbariatric surgeries in this population. We present the case of a 20-year-old male, weighing 610 kg (1345 lb), and believed to be the heaviest living man in the world. After 4 months of rigorous in-hospital weight reduction, now weighing 510 kg (1125 lb), he underwent a laparoscopic gastric sleeve procedure under general anesthesia.