Anesthesia
Articles tagged with Anesthesia
AI-embodied surgical robots can revolutionize surgery—if regulatory questions addressed
Experts warn that AI-enhanced surgical robotics could enable true personalized surgery and enhance surgical team performance. However, regulatory reforms are needed to address risks from adaptive systems and ensure patient benefits.
Say Cheese3D: A new model for tracking facial expression
Researchers have developed a new tool called Cheese3D to track subtle changes in mouse facial expression, enabling scientists to study and interpret brain function with greater accuracy. The system uses AI to quantify facial movements, opening up new possibilities for studying autism, behavioral therapy, and disease states.
OYE Therapeutics achieves first patient first dose in 505(b)(2) bridging study
OYE-101, a novel intravenous caffeine formulation, has been developed to accelerate recovery from general anesthesia and deep sedation. The company's lead program is being evaluated in a scientific bridging study to support a 505(b)(2) NDA for OYE-101.
Continuous wearable monitoring reduces time with low oxygen after surgery, study finds
A large randomized trial shows that continuous wearable monitoring reduces time with dangerously low oxygen levels after surgery, leading to improved composite outcomes and safety. The study found a 30-minute reduction in hypoxemia and a significant risk reduction for desaturation events.
Continuous wearable monitoring reduces time with low oxygen after surgery, study finds
A large randomized trial shows measurable improvements in postoperative patients who received continuous wearable monitoring, reducing time with dangerously low oxygen levels and composite outcomes. The study found a statistically significant 14% risk reduction for dangerous desaturation events and overall safety improvement.
Three anesthesia drugs all have the same effect in the brain, MIT researchers find
Researchers discovered that three anesthesia drugs, propofol, ketamine, and dexmedetomidine, have the same destabilizing effect on the brain, causing a loss of consciousness. This common mechanism could lead to the development of a universal anesthesia-delivery system to monitor patients more effectively.
Ketamine may fight chronic fatigue, study suggests
A study suggests ketamine may rapidly alleviate chronic fatigue symptoms in some individuals. Participants who received ketamine experienced a significant energy boost, which could be beneficial for those struggling with the debilitating condition.
OYE Therapeutics will initiate clinical development of its caffeine injection
OYE-101, a novel intravenous caffeine formulation, aims to accelerate recovery from general anesthesia and deep sedation in adults. The FDA-cleared treatment also seeks to address opioid-induced respiratory depression and related overdose situations.
Landmark study uncovers new mechanism behind common pediatric anesthetic's potential neurotoxicity
Researchers discovered that sevoflurane impairs neurogenesis and cognitive function by inhibiting fatty acid β-oxidation in neural stem/progenitor cells. Enhancing FAO activity in NSPCs attenuates sevoflurane-induced neurogenesis impairment, suggesting a new mechanism of sevoflurane neurodevelopmental toxicity.
Coenzyme Q2 identified as a novel anesthetic with unique mitochondrial mechanism
A recent study published in Current Molecular Pharmacology reveals CoQ2's sedative-hypnotic properties, inducing reversible loss of righting reflex and altering electroencephalogram activity. The compound disrupts mitochondrial membrane potential by inducing excessive proton leak and inhibiting electron transport chain complexes I and IV.
OYE Therapeutics closes $5M convertible note round, advancing toward clinical development
The company has secured $5 million in funding to support Phase 1 and pivotal trials for its therapies aimed at addressing opioid-induced respiratory depression and improving anesthesia recovery. This financing marks a transformative moment for OYE Therapeutics, positioning the company to enter clinical development with confidence.
Tubeless anesthesia with preserved spontaneous breathing: safe and effective in enhanced recovery after thoracoscopic wedge resection of the lung
Researchers found that tubeless anesthesia significantly reduces postoperative complications, promotes enhanced recovery, and lowers costs in selected patients. The study also showed improved respiratory function and reduced intubation times.
Music therapy during surgery reduces anesthetic use and stress responses
A new study published in Music and Medicine reveals that intraoperative music therapy significantly reduces the amount of propofol required during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Patients who received therapeutic music experienced smoother awakenings, reduced physiological stress markers, and improved patient outcomes.
Kraig S. de Lanzac, M.D., MBA, FASA, elected first vice president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists
Dr. Kraig S. de Lanzac, a renowned anesthesiologist, has been elected as the first vice president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). He will serve for one year and is committed to advocating for members on critical issues impacting their specialty.
American Society of Anesthesiologists names Patrick Giam, M.D., FASA, new president
Patrick Giam, M.D., FASA, has been named president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), the nation's largest organization of anesthesiologists. Dr. Giam will serve for one year and is committed to advocating for anesthesiologist-led care and ensuring fair payment.
Excessive daytime sleepiness may raise risk of cognitive problems after surgery
A new study suggests that people over 60 who experience excessive daytime sleepiness may be at a higher risk of developing cognitive problems after surgery. The study found that those with moderate to severe daytime sleepiness had greater global cognitive decline six weeks after surgery.
Anesthesiologist-led care helps hip-fracture patients get to surgery faster, with fewer complications
A study found that anesthesiologist-led care for patients undergoing surgery for hip fractures leads to faster surgery times and fewer complications. This approach reduces unnecessary delays, allowing patients to receive timely treatment and start recovery sooner, ultimately improving their outcomes.
Cesarean delivery linked to higher risk of pain and sleep problems after childbirth
A new study suggests that women who give birth via cesarean delivery are more likely to experience severe pain that disrupts sleep and activities of daily living. The study also found a higher risk of developing sleep disorders, such as insomnia or obstructive sleep apnea, after giving birth by C-section.
Non-English primary language may raise risk of delirium after surgery, study finds
A new study found that speaking a non-English primary language increases the risk of postoperative delirium in U.S. patients, particularly those with lower estimated household incomes. The study, which analyzed 49,588 patients, suggests that language barriers and confusion may contribute to this increased risk.
Children fast from clear liquids much longer before surgery than guidelines recommend, large study shows
Most children, including nearly 80% of infants, do not follow recommended guidelines for pre-surgery fasting from clear liquids. Prolonged fasting can be harmful and increase dehydration, pain, anxiety, and nausea. The study suggests allowing healthy children to drink clear liquids up to two hours before surgery.
Food insecurity, loneliness can increase the risk of developing chronic pain after surgery
Research suggests that individuals experiencing social isolation or food insecurity are more likely to develop chronic pain following surgery. Limited access to nutritious food can slow wound healing, while stress from loneliness can overstimulate the nervous system and increase pain severity.
American Society of Anesthesiologists honors John M. Zerwas, M.D., FASA, with Distinguished Service Award
John M. Zerwas, M.D., FASA, received the American Society of Anesthesiologists' Distinguished Service Award for his lifelong dedication to advancing anesthesia care. As chancellor of The University of Texas System, Dr. Zerwas has led efforts to expand access to higher education and graduate medical education.
Artificial intelligence emerging as powerful patient safety tool in pediatric anesthesia
A systematic review suggests AI improves accuracy and decision-making in pediatric anesthesia, enabling anesthesiologists to intervene sooner when complications occur. AI offers personalized, real-time decision support, potentially reducing complications and outcomes in children.
Adults 65 years and older not immune to the opioid epidemic, new study finds
Fentanyl-stimulant overdose deaths among adults aged 65 and older have surged 9,000% over the past eight years, matching rates found among younger adults. Chronic health conditions, multiple medications, and slower drug processing contribute to increased vulnerability in this age group.
Mother’s ZIP code, lack of access to prenatal care can negatively impact baby’s health at birth, new studies show
Research highlights how limited access to healthcare in rural areas affects newborn health, with babies born to rural mothers more likely to experience complications at birth. The study also found that women without prenatal care are 2.6 times more likely to have infants with non-reassuring Apgar scores.
Psilocybin targets brain circuits to relieve chronic pain, depression
Researchers at Penn Medicine have identified specific brain circuits impacted by psilocybin, which could lead to new paths forward for pain and mental health management options. The study found that psilocybin reduces both pain and depression-like behaviors with benefits lasting almost two weeks.
New study reveals how the brain organizes and directs its slowest activity
A new study by Universidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche researchers reveals that brain slow waves are guided by neuronal excitability, not anatomy. The discovery uses advanced computational models to analyze local and global brain activity, shedding light on states like deep sleep and anesthesia.
Could a local anesthetic that doesn’t impair motor function be within reach?
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital report an alternative local anesthetic, 2',6'-pipecolylxylidine (PPX), that selectively blocks pain while leaving motor function intact. PPX has been found to be less toxic than conventional anesthetics and may enable longer-lasting pain relief.
No sign of toxic effects of inhaled anesthesia in young children
A new clinical trial found no significant neurodevelopmental effects on infants and young children after brief inhaled anesthesia and surgery. The study used a balanced strategy with lower doses of sevoflurane and did not show meaningful short-term differences in IQ or child behavior problems.
Groundbreaking resource simplifies spinal biomechanics for residents and students
The new book Spinal Surgery Biomechanics: Principles for Residents offers a comprehensive exploration of core biomechanical concepts essential for mastering spinal surgical procedures. It bridges the gap between theory and practice, providing a biomechanical framework that supports surgical planning and patient safety.
New research further investigates safety of general anesthesia in infants
A new study published in PNAS found that prolonged and repeated exposure to GABA anesthetic agents in infants under two months leads to accelerated visual cortical development. This may suggest the use of non-GABA-active anesthetics for newborns, as a large multicenter clinical trial is currently underway.
High-tech monitoring during heart surgery doesn’t lower risk of complications
A large clinical study found that high-tech oxygen level monitoring during heart surgery did not lower the risk of serious complications afterward. Fewer pneumonia cases were reported in patients with advanced monitoring, but this difference may have been coincidental.
Near tripling in US reported lidocaine local anesthetic poisonings/deaths over past decade
An analysis of National Poison Data System reports found a near tripling in US reported lidocaine local anesthetic poisonings/deaths over the past decade, contrasting with a substantial fall in reports associated with other local anesthetics. The increase was primarily driven by a rise in reports of death associated with lidocaine.
Global first in surgical training: SURGhub reaches record 19,000 healthcare workers across 190 countries — meeting soaring demand in underserved regions
SURGhub has transformed surgical education in low-resource and conflict-affected regions by reaching over 19,000 healthcare workers with high-quality training. The platform's accessibility and culturally relevant content are bridging a gap that has left millions without access to safe surgical care when needed.
No evidence to support the practice of having patients fast prior to surgery to prevent post-surgery vomiting
A new analysis of published data finds no association between pre-surgery fasting and post-procedure vomiting, contradicting long-standing recommendations. Research included 801 patients in experimental groups and 990 control group patients, with results showing that aspiration pneumonia is rare.
Anesthesia for tattoos should follow same safety standards as elective surgery
The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) recommends that tattoos following the same safety standards as elective surgery. Patients opting for anesthesia or sedation should be administered by a qualified anesthesia professional in an equipped facility to handle emergencies and monitor patient safety.
OYE Therapeutics Inc. announces research collaboration with military
The research aims to improve the survivability of wounded soldiers, enhance combat safety, and accelerate postoperative recovery in a multicenter pivotal clinical study. OYE's technology has shown promise in reducing mortality rates, lowering healthcare costs, and improving surgical workflow efficiency.
Different anesthetics, same result: Unconsciousness by shifting brainwave phase
A recent MIT study identified a potential signature of unconsciousness that can be measured to improve anesthesiology care. Researchers found that different anesthetics affect brain wave phase in the same way, leading to misaligned local communications and functions.
In kids, EEG monitoring of consciousness safely reduces anesthetic use
A clinical trial found that using EEG to monitor consciousness safely reduced anesthetic use in children, resulting in quicker recovery, reduced delirium, and lower healthcare costs. The study also showed a significant reduction in pediatric anesthesia emergence delirium.
Research Spotlight: Combining dexmedetomidine with spinal anesthesia prolongs pain relief and decreases shivering during surgery
Combining dexmedetomidine with spinal anesthesia prolongs pain relief and reduces shivering during surgery, suggesting improved recovery outcomes. However, it may slightly increase the risk of a slower heart rate.
Sustainable anesthesia: Charité lowers CO2 emissions in the OR by 80 percent
Charité has reduced annual CO2 emissions from anesthesia by over 80% since 2018 by switching to more environmentally friendly anesthetics. The hospital's efforts have resulted in significant savings and no medical drawbacks for patients.
Use of greener anesthesia protects patients and the environment
A study at Michigan Medicine found that using less polluting inhaled anesthetic agents reduced CO2 equivalents by over 14 kg per case. This resulted in a 50% decrease in harmful emissions without impacting patient safety or outcomes.
DARPA-ABC program supports Wyss Institute-led collaboration toward deeper understanding of anesthesia and safe drugs enabling anesthesia without the need for extensive monitoring
A multidisciplinary team led by the Wyss Institute aims to create novel anesthesia-inducing drugs that can safely induce an anesthesia-like state without compromising vital functions. The project leverages expertise from Harvard's MCB, MIT, and Tufts University to develop safe battlefield-ready anesthetics.
Equally effective pain relief without opioids in bariatric surgery
A randomized clinical study found that an opioid-free treatment pathway is both safe and effective for bariatric surgery patients. The alternative method, which combines three different medicines, significantly reduces the need for opioids during treatment.
Recommendations may help reduce delirium in older patients having surgery
A new practice advisory from the American Society of Anesthesiologists recommends strategies to reduce postoperative neurocognitive disorders in older adults. The evidence-based guidelines aim to minimize cognitive and functional changes after surgery, which can lead to loss of independence.
American Society of Anesthesiologists’ statement regarding Anthem’s policy reversal on anesthesia care payment
Anthem's revised policy reverses its previous plan to stop paying for anesthesia care after a certain time limit, a move that would have compromised patient safety. The American Society of Anesthesiologists welcomed the decision, highlighting the need for fair payment for anesthesiologists to ensure adequate care for vulnerable patients.
Harassment, incivility, disrespect in the workplace contributes to anesthesia workforce shortage, compromises patient safety
The American Society of Anesthesiologists recommends fostering better work environments to combat harassment, incivility, and disrespect. These behaviors negatively affect clinician well-being, patient health, and disproportionately impact anesthesiology.
This nifty AI tool helps neurosurgeons find sneaky cancer cells
Researchers developed a new AI-powered diagnostic system, FastGlioma, which reveals invisible cancerous tissue in brain tumor surgery. The technique may delay or prevent recurrence of high-grade tumors and improve patient survival.
Most patients can continue diabetes, weight loss GLP-1 drugs before surgery, those at highest risk for GI problems should follow liquid diet before procedure
A new clinical guidance from the American Society of Anesthesiologists recommends continuing GLP-1 drugs for patients with diabetes and weight loss before elective surgery, except for those at highest risk for gastrointestinal problems. Patients at high risk should follow a liquid diet or other measures to minimize risks.
Strategy to reduce the amount of propofol waste in the operating room
A study published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia found that using a single syringe pump for induction and maintenance of anesthesia reduces propofol waste by 30-50%. This eco-friendly approach can also save hospitals money by reducing the number of propofol vials needed. The researchers analyzed data from over 300 surgeries and ...
American Society of Anesthesiologists names Donald E. Arnold, M.D., FACHE, FASA, new president
Donald E. Arnold, M.D., FACHE, FASA, chair of Mercy Hospital's Department of Anesthesiology, has been named the American Society of Anesthesiologists' new president. He will focus on addressing challenges facing anesthesiology, including the broken Medicare physician payment system and workforce imbalances.
Wearable cameras allow AI to detect medication errors
A team of researchers developed a wearable camera system that uses artificial intelligence to detect potential medication delivery errors. The AI achieved high sensitivity and specificity in identifying vial-swap errors, making it a critical safeguard in operating rooms, intensive-care units, and emergency-medicine settings.
Black patients more likely to die after coronary bypass surgery
A study of over 1 million patients found that Black patients are 22% more likely to die after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery compared to white patients. The research highlights ongoing disparities in cardiovascular health care delivery, particularly among Black patients.
Poor sleep quality raises the risk of delirium after surgery, study finds
A new study suggests that poor sleep quality before surgery can increase the risk of postoperative delirium. Researchers assessed sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and found a correlation between poor sleep and increased incidence of delirium.
Black patients less likely to receive multimodal pain management options after surgery
A study found that Black patients are less likely to receive multimodal analgesia options, which combine multiple types of pain medication, compared to white patients. This disparity is particularly pronounced for oral opioids, with Black patients being more than 70% likely to receive them in addition to IV opioids.
Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs may reduce the risk of postoperative delirium
A recent study found that non-salicylate NSAIDs like ibuprofen can lower the risk of postoperative delirium compared to acetaminophen and salicylate NSAIDs. This may make surgical procedures safer by reducing opioid use, potentially leading to fewer complications.
Black, Asian, Hispanic trauma patients less likely to get lifesaving helicopter transport, finds first-of-its-kind study
Researchers analyzed data from over 7.5 million records to find that Black, Asian, and Hispanic trauma patients are less likely to receive lifesaving helicopter ambulance services compared to white patients. The study highlights racial disparities in trauma care and recommends a multifaceted approach to address these issues.
Easy-to-use tool helps screen for anxiety, depression in children having surgery
Researchers developed a computerized assessment tool to quickly identify anxious and depressed children before surgery. The study found over half had anxiety and one-third had depression, highlighting the need for comprehensive screening in pediatric patients.
Routine blood test can identify laboring women at risk for preeclampsia, prompt interventions to protect mom and baby
Researchers found that a simple blood test can predict a woman's risk of developing preeclampsia by measuring the ratio of fibrinogen and albumin levels. Women with a higher FAR are more likely to develop preeclampsia, prompting extra precautions to ensure their blood pressure and fluid levels remain stable.