Pediatric Airway Management

A 3-year-old child with recurrent croup presents for adenotonsillectomy. The child has a history of difficult intubation during previous anesthesia. Parents report occasional stridor during sleep and upper respiratory infections.

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Cardiac Patient for Non-Cardiac Surgery

A 68-year-old male with ischemic heart disease, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes scheduled for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. He has a history of myocardial infarction 2 years ago and takes multiple cardiac medications.

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Pharmacodynamics of Nitrous Oxide

Pharmacodynamics examines how nitrous oxide exerts its effects on the body. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for anesthesia trainees to appreciate both its therapeutic benefits and potential adverse effects

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Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide (N₂O) is frequently encountered in today’s clinical practice. This colorless, non-flammable gas has a fascinating history and remains one of the oldest anesthetic agents still in use today. It was first synthesized by English chemist Joseph Priestley in 1772, though he didn’t recognize its potential medical applications.

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TIVA – Total Intravenous Anesthesia

TIVA uses IV agents (propofol + remifentanil) for anesthesia without inhalational gases. Regimens: Propofol (TCI 2–6 mcg/mL or 100–200 mcg/kg/min) + remifentanil (TCI 2–6 ng/mL or 0.05–0.3 mcg/kg/min). Monitoring: BIS (40–60) ensures depth. Ideal for MH risk, PONV-prone patients, or neurosurgery. Enables precise titration and rapid emergence.

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Intravenous Induction Agents & Commonly Used Drugs

IV induction agents rapidly induce unconsciousness. Propofol is first-line for stable patients (antiemetic, rapid recovery). Etomidate is hemodynamically neutral for RSI in shock but causes adrenal suppression. Ketamine supports BP in hypovolemia/asthma but may increase ICP. Thiopental is now largely replaced due to cardiovascular risks.

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Clinical Scenarios & Adjuncts in IV Induction

Etomidate/ketamine for hemodynamic instability (e.g., septic shock). Propofol for raised ICP. Ketamine for bronchospasm. Adjuncts like opioids blunt intubation response; lidocaine reduces injection pain; muscle relaxants optimize intubation. Always tailor to comorbidities and hemodynamics.

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