Superior Hypogastric Plexus Nerve Block in Minimally Invasive Gynecology: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Study Objective: To assess the efficacy of a superior hypogastric plexus nerve block in reducing opioid requirements in the first 24 hours after minimally invasive gynecologic surgery.

Design: Patient-blinded randomized controlled trial.

Setting: Single-center academic institution (Sydney Women's Endosurgery Centre).

Perimortem caesarean section: Two cases performed in New Zealand hospitals.

Perimortem caesarean section is a term many obstetricians are familiar with despite few encountering it first-hand. It is estimated the intervention will be needed every 53 000 maternities. Despite this rarity it is vital clinicians are trained in detecting and intervening where perimortem caesarean is required.

Use of implantable cardioverter defibrillators in the New Zealand context from 2000 to 2007.

Background: Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) therapy is now standard of care for prevention of sudden cardiac death in high-risk patient groups. In order to determine if the potential benefit of ICD therapy is being realised, ongoing monitoring of ICD therapy is required. This study was conducted to examine ICD therapy in two New Zealand tertiary hospitals.