Outcomes of percutaneous versus surgical tracheostomy in an Australian Quaternary Intensive Care Unit: An entropy-balanced retrospective study.

Background: Studies comparing percutaneous tracheostomy (PT) and surgical tracheostomy (ST) complications in the critically ill patient population with high acuity, complexity, and severity of illness are sparse. This study evaluated the outcomes of elective PT versus ST in such patients managed at a quaternary referral center.

Aims: The primary aim was to detect a difference in hospital mortality between the two techniques.

Emergence characteristics comparing endotracheal tube to reinforced laryngeal mask airway during endoscopic sinus surgery - A randomised controlled study.

Background And Aims: During endoscopic sinus surgery, anaesthetic conditions significantly impact the intraoperative surgical field and bleeding during emergence. While the endotracheal tube (ETT) has been traditionally used in sinus surgery, a reinforced laryngeal mask airway (RLMA) that produces less upper airway stimulation may result in smoother emergence.

Methods: A randomised controlled trial of 72 patients undergoing elective sinus surgery was conducted, with the allocation of airway technique to either ETT with a throat pack or RLMA.

Basophil activation test in the diagnostic workup of perioperative anaphylaxis due to neuromuscular blocking agents: A case series and implications for practice.

In Australia, neuromuscular blocking agents are the leading cause of perioperative anaphylaxis. Current investigation of suspected anaphylaxis includes tryptase levels, serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels, and skin testing, including intradermal testing and skin prick testing. The gold standard for the diagnosis of a hypersensitivity reaction is a challenge test, but this poses a risk to patient safety.

Effectiveness of erector spinae plane block for rib fracture analgesia: a systematic review protocol.

Objective: This systematic review will investigate the effectiveness of the ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block as an analgesic technique for patients with rib fractures compared with all other standard management techniques. Comparisons will be made with both nerve blocks (neuraxial techniques and peripheral nerve blocks) and systemic treatment (with patient-controlled analgesia and/or per required need analgesia for breakthrough pain).

Introduction: Erector spinae plane block is a well-established rescue analgesia option for patients with rib fractures.