Anesthesiology
Articles tagged with Anesthesiology
Frontiers in Science Deep Dive webinar series: AI-embodied surgical robots can revolutionize surgery—if regulatory questions addressed
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.
Combining cannabis with opioids offers no added pain relief for knee arthritis patients
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that combining cannabis with opioids did not improve acute pain relief for people with knee arthritis. The study also showed that using the two drugs together increased side effects such as drowsiness and impaired thinking without added pain relief.
New study shows limitations of naloxone in reversing overdoses from powerful synthetic opioids
A new study found that naloxone may not be sufficient to reverse respiratory depression caused by potent synthetic opioids like fentanyl and sufentanil. The study's findings raise concerns for patient safety, observation practices, and dosing strategies.
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.
Blood banks face o-negative shortages; anesthesiologists call for donations, changes in emergency infusion practices to protect supply
The US is experiencing a significant blood donation shortage due to severe winter weather, with critically low supplies of O-negative blood. Anesthesiologists are urging increased donations and changing infusion practices to preserve this rare blood type essential for emergency care.
National health insurers vs. anesthesiology practices: ASA weighs in on No Surprises Act dispute
The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) has filed an amicus curiae brief to support NorthStar Anesthesia in a lawsuit with UnitedHealthcare. ASA warns that insurers bypassing Congress' framework undermines the No Surprises Act and threatens patient access to care. The organization advocates for administrative remedies over frau...
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.
Early translational study supports the role of high-dose inhaled nitric oxide as a potential antimicrobial therapy
Researchers at Mass General Brigham report preclinical efficacy and human safety data for high-dose inhaled nitric oxide as a potential antimicrobial therapy. The treatment demonstrated strong antipseudomonal effects and was safe and feasible in early human studies.
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.
Stress among older adults linked to worse surgery recovery
A new study from Duke University found that even mild stress before surgery can lead to delirium, uncontrolled pain, and longer hospital stays in older adults. Over 40% of patients reported moderate to high distress levels similar to those with advanced cancer.
Nationally renowned anesthesiology physician-scientist and clinical operations leader David Mintz, MD, PhD, named Chair of the Department of Anesthesiology at the UM School of Medicine
Dr. Mintz brings exceptional clinical care, research, and education expertise to the role. He will lead transformative initiatives in perioperative operations, improving financial performance, employee satisfaction, quality, safety, and patient experience.
NEJM Group launches NEJM Clinician
NEJM Clinician curates highly relevant clinical insights from over 150 peer-reviewed journals to give physicians clear guidance without the noise. The weekly publication delivers summaries and commentary in a concise, 30-minute read, helping healthcare providers stay informed and confident in their decisions.
Prehab can improve recovery after surgery, but barriers remain
A large clinical trial published in JAMA Surgery shows that prehabilitation can reduce disability after surgery in older adults with frailty, provided they fully participate in the program. Participants who completed at least 75% of exercises had significantly lower levels of disability after surgery.
Pain during a C-section? New study challenges fears about general anesthesia
Research from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine finds that general anesthesia may be a suitable option for women undergoing C-sections, offering them more control over their delivery experience. The study analyzed 30 years' worth of data and found small differences in newborn health between babies born under general ane...
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.
Brains and stock markets follow the same rules in crisis, study finds
Researchers discovered that brains and economies follow similar rules in crisis, using physics principles to predict collapse and recovery. The study found that networks closer to first-order transition show faster collapse and slower recovery after a crisis.
Study examines trends for use of medications for opioid use disorder among surgical patients
Rates of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) use increased among surgical patients from 2016 to 2022, with buprenorphine being the primary driver. MOUD use was highest in debridement and orthopedic procedures, highlighting the need for clinical practice guidelines to coordinate care and pain management.
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.
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.
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.
Tailoring & teamwork help hospitals reduce wasteful pre-surgery testing
A new study shows that a multi-step effort to reduce unneeded pre-operative testing, using a tailored program for each hospital, can lead to significant reductions in wasteful tests. The findings have already spurred an expansion of the program to 16 more Michigan hospitals.
Lidocaine poisonings rise despite overall drop in local anesthetic toxicity
Despite a 50% decrease in total local anesthetic poisonings, lidocaine-related incidents have increased by over 50% since 2016. The findings highlight the need for updated recommendations to mitigate risks associated with high-dose delivery methods and accidental overdose.
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.
From shortage to success: How MUSC anesthesia team navigated IV fluid crisis
The MUSC anesthesia team reduced IV fluid use by 60% without increasing related problems. They implemented strategies like oral hydration and used smaller syringe IV fluids to conserve resources.
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.
American Society of Anesthesiologists hosts ANESTHESIOLOGY® 2025
Researchers will present findings on the risks of delirium in non-English speaking older adults and chronic pain after surgery for those experiencing food insecurity or loneliness. ANESTHESIOLOGY 2025 also explores rising fentanyl overdose deaths among older and younger adults alike.
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.
Study identifies postoperative delirium as preventable “acute brain failure” with major health and financial implications
A new study identifies postoperative delirium as a preventable complication affecting roughly one in 30 older adult patients, significantly increasing their risk for poor outcomes. Simple cost-effective strategies can curb downstream costs and suffering associated with this condition.
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.
First trial of computerized decision support tool reduces time on ventilator for children with lung failure
A computerized decision support tool reduced the time children with lung failure spent on ventilation by shortening weaning time and improving respiratory muscle strength. The intervention group had better functional status at ICU discharge than the control group.
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.
Clotting factor concentrate better than frozen plasma for preventing bleeding after heart surgery, according to clinical trial results
A clinical trial has shown that administering clotting factor concentrate (4F-PCC) significantly reduces the risk of severe bleeding after major open-heart surgery. This innovative treatment approach offers a more effective alternative to frozen plasma for managing surgical bleeding.
AI in engineering
The article explores the role of AI in engineering, highlighting benefits such as improved transportation and manufacturing, but also raises concerns about safety, privacy, bias, and governance. The authors discuss weaknesses in data-driven models and call for research into regulatory frameworks to address these issues.
Ketamine for mental health should only be provided by trained professionals
The American Society of Anesthesiologists recommends that ketamine be administered in monitored settings with periodic face-to-face visits to patients. Patients who struggle with mental health issues are urged to discuss their options with primary care physicians or mental health professionals.
US news rates UCSF health a top hospital for maternity care
UCSF Medical Center has received the highest possible rating for maternity care, reflecting its commitment to clinical excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration. The hospital's maternal care teams include a broad array of expertise, including nurse practitioners, midwives, and obstetrician anesthesiologists.
Cardiovascular disease symptoms surprisingly high in young refugees
A study published in Nature Mental Health found that nearly half of young asylum seekers in the US exhibit worrisome symptoms of cardiovascular disease, including heart palpitations and chest pain. This unexpected prevalence highlights the need for clinicians to consider cardiovascular concerns when evaluating this younger population.
JMIR Perioperative Medicine invites submissions on clinician wellness and burnout
JMIR Perioperative Medicine is launching a new theme issue exploring burnout among perioperative clinicians, including anesthesiologists and advanced practice providers. The call for papers aims to examine the critical issue of burnout within perioperative medicine.
Scientists trained AI to detect faces in pain. In goats
Researchers trained an AI model on goat faces in pain, achieving 62-80% accuracy. This technology may help clinicians treat pain effectively in patients who cannot speak. The goal is to develop a more generalizable system for pain assessment in animals and eventually humans.
Research quantifying “nociception” could help improve management of surgical pain
Researchers at MIT and MGH developed statistical models based on rigorous physiological data from over 100 surgeries, providing accurate measures of nociception. The new models aim to help anesthesiologists optimize drug doses and minimize post-operative pain and side effects.
How the brain's inner chamber governs our state of consciousness
A new study published in Nature Communications reveals how propofol sedation alters the connections between brain cells in the thalamus and cortex, shedding light on the neural mechanisms underlying consciousness. The researchers found that disruptions to the matrix cells' activity play a crucial role in the transition to unconsciousness.
Researchers to develop predictive model for opioid addiction in high-risk patients
Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine are developing an AI model to predict opioid addiction in high-risk patients. The model uses generative artificial intelligence to analyze genomic, social determinants of health, clinical, procedural, and demographic data to identify patients at greatest risk.
Study models how ketamine’s molecular action leads to its effects on the brain
A new study uses computational modeling to understand how ketamine affects individual neurons, leading to changes in brain network function. The model predicts that ketamine can disinhibit network activity by shutting down certain inhibitory interneurons.
More women on hospital teams mean better surgery outcomes
A recent study published in the British Journal of Surgery found that hospitals with a higher proportion of female surgeons and anesthesiologists had better post-operative outcomes for patients. The study suggests that a team diversity threshold of 35% female members is crucial for optimal performance.
Morphine tolerance results from Tiam1-mediated maladaptive plasticity in spinal neurons
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that blocking Tiam1 activity in spinal neurons abrogates morphine tolerance and hyperalgesia in a mouse model. Prolonged morphine treatment increased activated Tiam1 levels, leading to dendritic spine morphological changes.
Improving palliative care in ICUs with telemedicine
Researchers are studying the impact of telemedicine on palliative care in ICUs, aiming to improve patient outcomes and reduce ICU stays. The EPIC project is a five-year study funded by €6.3 million from the European Commission.