Induction Agent Research Articles

Selection of induction agents for safe and effective rapid sequence intubation⁠

Rapid sequence intubation (RSI) is a critical procedure in emergency airway management, requiring rapid induction of unconsciousness and muscle relaxation to facilitate safe intubation. The choice of induction agent plays a pivotal role in optimizing outcomes, as each agent exhibits unique pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles. Etomidate is frequently chosen for its hemodynamic stability, making it suitable for critically ill patients; however, concerns regarding adrenal suppression warrant caution in septic or prolonged critical illness cases. Ketamine is particularly advantageous in patients with reactive airway diseases or hypotension, owing to its bronchodilatory effects and ability to preserve respiratory drive, although its psychotomimetic side effects must be managed carefully. Propofol, characterized by its rapid onset and short duration, provides excellent intubating conditions but may cause significant hypotension, limiting its use in hemodynamically unstable patients. Thiopental, once widely used, is now less favored due to cardiovascular depression and prolonged recovery times. Patient-specific factors, including age, comorbidities, and clinical status, heavily influence agent selection. Pediatric and geriatric populations pose unique challenges, necessitating dose adjustments and close monitoring. Emerging agents like dexmedetomidine offer novel benefits such as sedation with preserved respiratory function, though slower onset limits its utility in emergency settings. The complexity of decision-making underscores the importance of understanding the nuances of each agent’s efficacy and safety. Despite advancements in pharmacological options, limitations in evidence, variability in patient responses, and resource constraints highlight the need for individualized approaches and adaptable guidelines. Further research is essential to bridge gaps in knowledge and establish standardized practices to enhance safety and effectiveness in RSI across diverse clinical scenarios.

P1040 Steroid use and dependency in South Indian Inflammatory Bowel Disease patients- A multi-center clinical audit

Abstract Background Corticosteroids are effective induction agents for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) but are ineffective for maintenance. Their judicious use and steroid-sparing strategies are advocated by societal guidelines, but data from India are scarce. Methods An audit of steroid use in the last 12 months was conducted in unselected IBD outpatients from 4 large centres in South India using the steroid assessment tool (1). Cases that met the ECCO criteria for steroid dependency or excess were assessed to see whether steroid prescriptions were definitely avoidable, probably avoidable or unavoidable (2). Definitely avoidable and probably avoidable steroid uses were termed as inappropriate steroid excess. Categorical data were reported in proportions. Chi-square and Fischer test (expected count <5) was used to assess the association of factors associated with outcomes. Statistical significance was determined at 5% level of significance. Results Of 400 patients (61% male) enrolled in the study, 279 (70%) patients had ulcerative colitis (UC) and 121 (30%) patients had Crohn’s disease (CD). Baseline characteristics are outlined in Table 1. Among these, steroids were given to 208 (52%) IBD patients, and 127 (32%) patients were identified as having steroid excess or dependence:84 (66%) with UC and 43 (34%) with CD. CD patients with mild-inactive disease tended to have more steroid dependency (p<0.001), although rates of steroid use (P=0.123) and dependency were similar in overall CD (35.5%) and UC (30%) patients. Inappropriate “steroid excess” was noted in 48% of IBD patients (UC (52%) and CD (40%)) (p=0.226) (Fig. 1). The annual incidence of inappropriate steroid excess was 15.25 % (Percentage of inappropriate excess to the total cohort). Notably, 12.5% (n=26) patients commenced steroids without any biochemical or endoscopic evaluation and 128 (61%) patients did not receive any concomitant bone protection. Conclusion In this first study from India, steroid dependency or excess was observed in 32% of IBD patients with inappropriate steroid excess seen in 15.2%. Despite limitations posed by cost, access and logistical challenges, these observations are sobering and have triggered a quality improvement programme to improve quality of care for our patients.

ANESTHETIC CONSIDERATIONS FOR CRITICALLY ILL PATIENTS WITH SEPSIS

Objective: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition characterized by organ dysfunction due to a dysregulated host response to infection. Critically ill patients with sepsis often require surgical interventions, presenting significant anesthetic challenges due to profound physiological alterations and multiple organ dysfunctions. Methods: This systematic review aims to synthesize current evidence on anesthetic management strategies for critically ill patients with sepsis. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases for studies published up to October 2023. Inclusion criteria encompassed clinical trials, observational studies, reviews, and guidelines focusing on anesthetic considerations in septic patients. Results: Key findings indicate that thorough preoperative assessment, vigilant hemodynamic monitoring, careful selection of anesthetic agents, and tailored ventilatory strategies are crucial for improving perioperative outcomes. Hemodynamic instability necessitates the use of invasive monitoring and vasoactive medications like norepinephrine. Etomidate and ketamine are preferred induction agents due to their hemodynamic stability, with considerations for their side effects. Maintenance anesthesia often favors total intravenous techniques to minimize cardiovascular depression. Protective lung ventilation strategies are essential due to the high risk of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Postoperative care requires multidisciplinary collaboration to manage ongoing sepsis and prevent complications. Conclusion: This review highlights the importance of individualized anesthetic plans and suggests that adherence to evidence-based practices can enhance patient outcomes in this high-risk group.

Underuse of Rapid Sequence Intubation Outside the Emergency Department: Insights from Emergency Physicians‒a Preliminary, Retrospective Observational Study.

Rapid sequence intubation (RSI) involves the administration of induction agents and neuromuscular blockers before endotracheal intubation (ETI). However, RSI seems to be underutilized outside emergency departments (ED). We compared RSI adoption rates and ETI outcomes outside and within EDs and investigated whether RSI adoption affected ETI outcomes outside EDs. This retrospective study included adults who underwent emergency ETI outside the operating room at a university hospital between March 2022 and February 2023. The exclusion criteria included CPR, intentional RSI avoidance, and tube exchange via the introducer. The primary outcome was the first-pass success rate. Secondary outcomes included multiple (≥3) attempts, prolonged (>5 min) ETI, and complications. The association between RSI adoption and outcomes outside the ED was assessed using multivariable logistic regression. A total of 490 ETI cases were included: 290 males, 68.3±14.7 y. Cases outside ED (n=286) received less RSI than cases at ED (n=204): 12.6% vs. 86.8%, p<0.001. They showed less first-attempt success (62.2% vs. 88.2%) and more multiple attempts (11.5% vs. 2.0%), total time of ETI (8.4±8.3 vs. 2.5±2.5 min, p<0.001), and complications (32.2% vs. 19.6%, p=0.003). However, multivariable logistic regression revealed no significant association between RSI adoption and outcomes outside the ED: odds ratio 1.74 [95% CI: 0.783-3.84], 0.167 [0.022-1.30], 1.04 [0.405-2.69]), and 1.50 [0.664-3.40]), respectively. Outside the ED, RSI adoption was lower and ETI outcomes were poorer than those within the ED. However, no association was found between RSI adoption and ETI outcomes outside the ED.

Intubation Practices in Community Emergency Departments

This study analyzes emergency medicine airway management trends and outcomes among community emergency departments. A multicenter, retrospective chart review was conducted on 11,475 intubations from 15 different community emergency departments between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2022. Data collected included patient's age, sex, rapid sequence intubation medications, use of cricoid pressure, method of intubation, number of attempts, admission diagnosis, and all-cause mortality rates. Active cardiopulmonary resuscitation occurred in 11.4% of intubations. When rapid sequence intubation was employed, the most frequently used induction agents were etomidate (91.6%), propofol (4.3%), and ketamine (4.1%). From 2015 to 2022, the use of rocuronium (versus succinylcholine) increased from 33.9% to 61.9%, a difference of 28% (95% confidence interval [CI] 21.1% to 34.9%). During the same period, video laryngoscopy (versus direct laryngoscopy) increased from 27.4% to 77.7%, a difference of 50.3% (95% CI 44.2% to 56.4%). Only 46% of intubations used cricoid pressure. Physicians had a first-pass success rate of 80.5% and a failure rate of 0.2%. The most common documented admission diagnoses among intubated patients were respiratory etiologies (27.8%), neurologic causes (21.4%), and sepsis (16.0%). All-cause mortality rates were high for intubated patients at 24 hours (19.7%), 7 days (29.4%), 30 days (38.4%), and 1 year (45.4%). Physicians intubating in community emergency departments have similar rates of first-pass success and failure seen in academic Level-1 trauma centers despite treating medically sick patients with high all-cause mortality rates. Dramatic shifts in choice of paralytic and method for intubation were seen.

Comparison of the Insertion Conditions and Haemodynamic Changes during I-Gel Insertion using Propofol, Ketamine-Propofol (Ketofol) and Thiopentone Intravenous Induction Agents: An Interventional Study

Introduction: The I-gel was designed to mitigate adverse reactions by providing the advantages of a secure airway without the complications associated with visualisation and tracheal intubation, specifically reducing the risk of barotrauma and vocal cord damage. Insertion requires a good induction agent and adequate depth of anaesthesia to achieve proper jaw relaxation and to prevent effects such as coughing, gagging, laryngospasm and any movements. Induction agents like propofol, ketamine and thiopentone have facilitated Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMA) insertion with ease. Aim: To compare insertion conditions and haemodynamic changes during I-gel insertion using propofol, ketamine-propofol (ketofol) and thiopentone as intravenous induction agents. Materials and Methods: An interventional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital, Anaesthesiology Department of Dhiraj General Hospital in Piparia, Vadodara, Gujarat, India from August 1, 2023, to July 31, 2024. within one year after receiving ethical clearance from the institutional ethical committee. A total of 36 patients with American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I and II, aged 18-60 years, were randomly divided into three groups. The induction agents administered before I-gel insertion for general anaesthesia in groups 1, 2 and 3 were propofol (2 mg/kg), ketofol (1 mg/kg ketamine and 1 mg/kg propofol) and thiopentone (4 mg/kg), respectively. Intubating conditions such as jaw mobility, number of attempts, ease of insertion, duration of insertion and haemodynamic response during I-gel insertion were recorded. The Kruskal-Wallis test and Chi-square test were used for quantitative and qualitative parameters, respectively. A p-value of ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of Group-1, Group-2 and Group-3 was 34.67±5.97 years, 33.25±8.70 years and 36±8.48 years, respectively. Complete jaw relaxation and mouth opening were better in the ketofol group than in the propofol group (p-value: 0.003) and were significantly lower in the thiopentone group. Induction time was faster in the ketofol group than in the other groups. Patients in the ketofol and propofol groups exhibited better intubating conditions and preserved haemodynamics following I-gel insertion compared to those in the thiopentone group. Conclusion: Compared to propofol and thiopentone, ketofol demonstrated a faster onset of action and ensured better insertion conditions and greater haemodynamic stability, making it a preferred choice for I-gel insertion.

Update on the therapeutic role of metformin in the management of polycystic ovary syndrome: Effects on pathophysiologic process and fertility outcomes.

Influential guidelines have supported the role of metformin in the management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) for a number of years. However, regulatory approvals for this therapeutic indication are still exceptional and exist only in a few countries, including for the originator, Glucophage®. PCOS is an insulin-resistant state, which drives hyperandrogenism and anovulatory infertility. The metabolic action of metformin involves amelioration of insulin resistance, which helps to resolve hormonal and metabolic disturbances and increases ovulation, pregnancy, and live birth rates relative to placebo. A combination of metformin with clomifene citrate (another widely used treatment for PCOS) is more effective than either alone and is a useful option in women with clomifene-resistant PCOS. Combining metformin with letrozole (1st-line agent for ovulation induction in women with PCOS and no other infertility risk factors) is not more effective than letrozole alone. Continuing metformin to the end of the 1st trimester at an effective dose (e.g. 1000-2000 mg/day) may help to reduce the rate of miscarriages. Metformin also has an adjunctive role in women with PCOS receiving assisted reproduction technology (ART) using the long gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist protocol, where it appears to increase the pregnancy rate and to reduce the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. There is no role for metformin in women receiving short ART protocols. Where a successful pregnancy is achieved, metformin is generally safe for the mother and neonate. Further research is needed to define with greater precision the optimal dosage and times to initiate and discontinue metformin in women with PCOS who achieve pregnancy.

Anesthetic approaches and 2-year recurrence rates in non-muscle invasive bladder cancer: a randomized clinical trial

BackgroundThe effect of anesthesia methods on non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) recurrence post-resection remains uncertain. We aimed to compare the oncological outcomes of spinal anesthesia (SA) and general anesthesia (GA)...

Efficacy and safety of misoprostol compared with dinoprostone for labor induction at term: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BackgroundLabor induction is a common obstetric intervention, increasingly performed worldwide, often using prostaglandins like misoprostol and dinoprostone.ObjectiveThis study aims to compare the effectiveness and safety of intravaginal misoprostol versus dinoprostone for inducing labor, examining their impact on various maternal and neonatal outcomes.MethodsA systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using four databases—PubMed, Google Scholar, EBSCO, and the Cochrane Library—from January 2000 to April 2023. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving singleton pregnancies at term (37–42 weeks) with unfavorable cervices, where intravaginal misoprostol was compared to dinoprostone. Key outcomes evaluated for effectiveness included vaginal delivery within 24 h, overall vaginal delivery rate, and need for oxytocin augmentation. Safety outcomes assessed were tachysystole, uterine hyperstimulation, abnormal cardiotocography, NICU admissions, cesarean delivery, and APGAR scores. Risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model in Review Manager (RevMan) version 5.4.1.ResultsEight RCTs with a total of 1,801 participants (937 in the misoprostol group and 864 in the dinoprostone group) met the inclusion criteria. Misoprostol required a significantly less oxytocin augmentation than dinoprostone [RR = 0.83; 95% CI (0.71, 0.97), p = 0.02]. Other outcomes, including rates of cesarean delivery, uterine tachysystole, hyperstimulation, and NICU admissions, showed no significant differences between the two groups, indicating comparable safety and efficacy profiles.ConclusionThis meta-analysis demonstrates that intravaginal misoprostol is an effective and safe alternative to dinoprostone for labor induction at term. Misoprostol achieved comparable efficacy and safety outcomes while requiring less oxytocin augmentation, supporting its potential as a practical induction agent in clinical settings.

Changes in hemodynamic parameters with different anaesthesia induction agents in elderly patients with coronary heart disease

Background. Coronary heart disease (CHD) is one of the most common diseases in Ukraine and worldwide. Open myocardial revascularisation procedures require general anaesthesia with endotracheal intubation. Prevention of peri-intubation hypotension in elderly patients with CHD is relevant today. The purpose was to improve the safety of surgery in elderly CHD patients by determining the induction schedule for anaesthesia with minimal cardiodepressant and vasodilator effects. Materials and methods. A cohort prospective randomized study of 40 patients with ASA III–IV who underwent off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting. Their mean age was 67.00 ± 5.78 years. The participants were divided into 2 groups based on the type of induction agent: group 1 — propofol 1.5 mg/kg, fentanyl 2.0 μg/kg; group 2 — propofol 1.5 mg/kg, fentanyl 2.0 μg/kg, ketamine 0.5 mg/kg. Relaxation: pipecuronium bromide 0.1 mg/kg. Hemodynamic parameters were recorded at the following stages: 1) upon arrival to the operating room; 2) before it; 3) after intubation; 4) 25 minutes after intubation. Results. After the administration of induction drugs, a significant difference was observed only in mean arterial pressure (MAP): group 1 — 72.71 ± 4.76 %, group 2 — 81.29 ± 5.4 % of the baseline, p = 0.0001. At the third stage, a statistically significant difference between the groups was determined in three indicators: MAP (86.74 ± 8.82 %, 92.34 ± 7.26 %; p &lt; 0.05), stroke volume index (SVI) (99.91 ± 2.94 %, 109.63 ± 8.16 %, p &lt; 0.05), cardiac index (CI) (96.63 ± 11.77 %, 110.38 ± 12.37 %, p &lt; 0.05). At the fourth stage, a statistical difference between the groups was observed in MAP (74.87 ± 7.90 % in group 1 vs. 86.47 ± 6.07 % in group 2, p &lt; 0.05), SVI (87.09 ± 5.30 % in group 1 vs. 108.21 ± 8.32 % in group 2, p &lt; 0.05), ejection fraction (88.26 ± 3.58 % in group 1 vs. 106.89 ± 6.22 % in group 2, p &lt; 0.05), CI (79.59 ± 10.11 % in group 1 vs. 108.29 ± 9.95 % in group 2, p &lt; 0.05), systemic vascular resistance index (91.13 ± 9.34 % in group 1 vs. 77.86 ± 9.83 % in group 2, p &lt; 0.05). Conclusions. The addition of ketamine to the classic combination of propofol and fentanyl increases the effectiveness and reduces the percentage of possible potential complications by stabilizing hemodynamics during anaesthetic support for coronary artery bypass grafting in older patients with CHD.

COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PROPOFOL AUTO-COINDUCTION VERSUS KETAMINE PROPOFOL COINDUCTION USING PRIMING PRINCIPLE BY BISPECTRAL INDEX ANALYSIS FOR DAY CARE SURGERY

Aim:The aim of our study was to do the comparison of Propofol Auto-coinduction versus Ketamine Propofol coinduction using priming principle by bispectral index analysis for day care surgery. Methods:150 patients participated in our study at Govt. Medical College and Rajindra Hospital, Patiala. Patients aged above 18 years and ASA Grade I and II scheduled to undergo elective surgery were included in this prospective, randomized controlled trial. All patients were randomly assigned into 3 groups of 50 each. Group A- patients were given Propofol 0.5mg/kg body wt., Group B- patients were given Ketamine 0.5mg/kg body wt., Group C- patients were given normal saline 2.5ml 2 minutes before induction. Patients were induced with injection Propofol 1% at rate of 30mg/10 sec until BIS value reaches to 40. Induction dose requirements of Propofol, Haemodynamic parameters including HR, MAP, SBP, DBP,SPO2, ECG, RR were recorded. Incidence of post op complications / side effects were also recorded. Data was tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis. Results: Groups were comparable to each other with respect to age, weight, gender, ASA status. Significant difference was found in HR, SBP, DBP between Group A and Group B at 1 minute and 2 minute after coinduction. MAP shows statistically highly significant (p &lt; 0.001) results after 1minute and 2 minute of coinduction. Total dose of propofol required and mean BIS value shows highly significant results when compared between groups. Conclusion: In conclusion, our study identified that overall dosage of propofol was significantly lower when modest doses of propofol and ketamine were given beforehand than when a placebo was used. When used as an induction agent, ketamine offers better haemodynamic stability.

Induction Agents for Tracheal Intubation in Critically Ill Patients.

Concise definitive review of the use of induction agents in critically ill patients undergoing tracheal intubation and their association with outcomes. Original publications were retrieved through a PubMed search with search terms related to induction agents for tracheal intubation in critically ill patients. We included randomized controlled trials and observational studies that reported patient outcomes. Data from included studies, including choice of induction agents and clinically relevant outcomes, were extracted. Etomidate and ketamine have been the most studied induction agents in critical care during last years. Recent studies on etomidate investigated the clinical impact of its recognized adrenal suppression in terms of morbidity and mortality. Etomidate may carry a non-negligible mortality risk without definitive hemodynamic benefits compared with ketamine. Available data then support the use of ketamine over etomidate, since the difference in the hemodynamic profile seems to be of minor clinical relevance. No multicenter randomized studies are available comparing propofol to other induction agents but evidence from a large observational study identified an association of propofol with post-intubation cardiovascular instability in critically ill patients. Despite the observational nature of these findings cannot exclude the role of confounders, the association of propofol with post-induction cardiovascular instability is pharmacologically plausible, justifying its avoidance in favor of drugs with a better safety profile in critical care such as ketamine. Although no definitive conclusions can be drawn based on the available evidence, recent evidence pointed out the potential negative effect of etomidate on survival and the association of propofol with cardiovascular instability. Ketamine may be considered the drug with a safer profile, widespread availability and low cost but future research should provide definitive data on optimal drug selection, its dosage in the context of critical illness and concomitant interventions to minimize the risk of peri-intubation complications.

Ketamine Versus Etomidate for Rapid Sequence Intubation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials.

To compare the safety and efficacy of ketamine and etomidate as induction agents to facilitate emergent endotracheal intubation. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Clinical Trials Register, and ClinicalTrials.gov from inception to April 3, 2024. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared ketamine to etomidate to facilitate emergent endotracheal intubation in adults. Reviewers screened abstracts, full texts, and extracted data independently and in duplicate. We pooled data using a random-effects model, assessed risk of bias using the modified Cochrane tool and certainty of evidence using the Grading Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. We pre-registered the protocol on PROSPERO (CRD42023472450). We included seven RCTs (n = 2384 patients). Based on pooled analysis, compared with etomidate, ketamine probably increases hemodynamic instability in the peri-intubation period (relative risk [RR], 1.29; 95% CI, 1.07-1.57; moderate certainty) but probably decreases the need for initiation of continuous infusion vasopressors (RR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.57-1.00; moderate certainty) and results in less adrenal suppression (RR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.45-0.66; moderate certainty). Ketamine probably has no effect on successful intubation on the first attempt (RR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.97-1.05; moderate certainty) or organ dysfunction measured as the maximum Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score during the first 3 days in ICU (mean difference, 0.55 SOFA points lower; 95% CI, 1.12 lower to 0.03 higher; moderate certainty) and may have no effect on mortality (RR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.83-1.21; low certainty) when compared with etomidate. Compared with etomidate, ketamine probably results in more hemodynamic instability during the peri-intubation period and appears to have no effect on successful intubation on the first attempt or mortality. However, ketamine results in decreased need for the initiation of vasopressor use and decreases adrenal suppression compared with etomidate.

Outcome of video laryngoscopy versus direct laryngoscopy for emergency tracheal intubation in emergency department: a propensity score matching analysis

BackgroundThe high incidence of airway management failure in the emergency department (ED) necessitates a comparative analysis of laryngoscopy methods. This study aims to compare the success and complications associated with video-assisted laryngoscopy (VL) and direct laryngoscopy (DL) in emergency tracheal intubation in ED.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study was conducted at the ED of Thammasat University Hospital. It involved adult patients undergoing emergency tracheal intubation using either VL (GlideScope®) or DL (Macintosh®). The outcomes assessed were success rates of intubation and occurrence of peri-intubation adverse events. Propensity score matching and multivariable risk regression analysis were employed for statistical evaluation.ResultsThe study included 3,424 patients, with 342 in the VL group and 3,082 in the DL group. The initial analysis revealed no significant differences in the intubation success rates between the two methods. However, the VL group experienced fewer peri-intubation adverse events (33% compared to 40%). After propensity score matching, a higher first-attempt success rate was observed in the DL group (88.9% vs. 81.3%, risk difference: 7.6, 95% CI: 1.9 to 13.2, p=0.009), but there was no statistically significant difference in peri-intubation adverse events. VL had a lower first-attempt success rate among low-experience intubators. Subgroup analyses of intubators with moderate and high experience, as well as patients who received both induction agents and neuromuscular blocking agents, show results consistent with the analysis of the entire cohort.ConclusionBoth VL and DL have comparable first-attempt success rates and peri-intubation adverse events. VL is particularly beneficial when used by moderately or highly experienced intubator. The choice of intubation method, combined with clinical experience and technique plays a critical role in the success and safety of emergency intubations.

SAFETY AND MATERNAL-FETAL OUTCOMES OF ISOSORBIDE MONONITRATE AND MISOPROSTOL COMBINATION VERSUS MISOPROSTOL ALONE FOR LABOR INDUCTION: A RANDOMIZED DOUBLE-BLIND STUDY

Objective: The induction of labor is essential in managing pregnancies where early delivery benefits outweigh the risks. Misoprostol is a common agent for labor induction but has side effects like uterine hyperstimulation. Isosorbide mononitrate (ISMN), a nitric oxide donor, may enhance cervical ripening and reduce complications when used with misoprostol. This study evaluates the safety and maternal-fetal outcomes of ISMN combined with misoprostol versus misoprostol alone. Methods: A randomized, double-blind study was conducted at Dr. R. P. G. M. C. Kangra. Patients meeting the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to receive either ISMN with misoprostol or misoprostol with a placebo. Primary outcomes measured were maternal complications (e. g., uterine hyperstimulation, headache, postpartum hemorrhage) and neonatal outcomes (e. g., birth weight, APGAR scores, NICU admission). Secondary outcomes included the need for oxytocin augmentation and the duration of labor stages. Results: The study included 100 patients divided into two groups of 50 each. The ISMN and misoprostol group had significantly fewer headaches and dizziness but showed no significant difference in uterine hyperstimulation or postpartum hemorrhage compared to the misoprostol alone group. The ISMN group required less oxytocin augmentation, and their total labor duration was shorter, though not significantly. Neonatal outcomes were similar across both groups. Conclusion: The combination of ISMN and misoprostol appears to be a safer and potentially more effective alternative to misoprostol alone for labor induction, with fewer maternal complications and similar neonatal outcomes. Further large-scale studies are recommended to confirm these findings and inform clinical practice.

Impact of induction agents and maintenance immunosuppression on torque teno virus loads and year-one complications after kidney transplantation.

Torque teno virus load (TTVL) is gaining importance as a surrogate parameter to assess immunocompetence in kidney transplant recipients. Although the dynamics of TTVL have been investigated before, the impact of different induction agents and variations in immunosuppressive maintenance therapies on TTVL remain unknown. In this retrospective study, TTVL was quantified in 537 plasma or serum samples from 134 patients transplanted between 2018 and 2021. TTVL was examined pre-transplantation and 30-, 90-, 180-, and 360-days post-transplant. To assess the influence of induction therapy on TTVL, 67 patients receiving anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) induction were matched with 67 patients receiving an interleukin-2 receptor antagonist (IL2-RA) induction in terms of age, sex, and donor modality. Following transplantation, there was a steep increase in TTVL post-transplant for all patients with peak viral loads at 90 days post-transplant (median TTVL [IQR] 7.97×106, [4.50×105-1.12×108]) followed by subsequently declining viral loads. Compared to patients receiving IL2-RA as induction therapy, patients receiving ATG had significantly higher peak viral loads 3 months post-transplant (median TTVL [IQR] 2.82×107 [3.93×106-1.30×108] vs. median TTVL [IQR] 2.40×106 [5.73×104-2.60×107]; P<0.001). Throughout all post-transplant time points, patients receiving additional rituximab for induction along with higher tacrolimus target levels exhibited the highest TTVL.Patients whose TTVL 3-months post-transplant exceeded the currently proposed cutoff to predict infections within the first year post-transplant [6.2 log10] showed a trend towards a higher risk of being hospitalized with an infection in the following 9 months, albeit without being statistically significant (HR=1.642, P=0.07). Higher TTVL reflects the greater immunosuppressive burden in immunological high-risk patients receiving intensive immunosuppression. The choice of induction agent and intensified immunosuppressive maintenance therapy notably affects TTVL at 3 months post-transplant and beyond, necessitating careful consideration when interpreting and applying TTVL cutoffs to monitor immunocompetence post-transplant.

INDUCTION OF LABOUR WITH SUBLINGUAL MISOPROSTOL COMPARED TO VAGINAL DINOPROSTONE IN TERMS OF NEONATAL OUTCOME IN WOMEN WITH PROLONGED PREGNANCY

Labor induction in postdate pregnancies can impact neonatal outcomes, including Apgar scores and the need for NICU care. Various induction agents, such as sublingual misoprostol and vaginal dinoprostone, offer differing efficacies. This study aims to compare the neonatal outcomes of these two agents to determine the more effective option for labor induction in postdate pregnancies. Objective: To compare neonatal outcomes, specifically Apgar scores &lt;7 at 1 minute and NICU admissions within the first 24 hours, between neonates born to postdate women induced with sublingual misoprostol versus vaginal dinoprostone. Methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Unit 1, Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi, from January 2024 to July 2024. After Institutional Research Forum approval, 200 women meeting the selection criteria were randomized via the lottery method into two groups. Group I received 25 mcg of sublingual misoprostol every 4 hours up to 4 doses, and Group II received 3 mg vaginal dinoprostone every 6 hours up to 2 doses. Neonatal Apgar scores were recorded at delivery, and NICU admissions were monitored within 24 hours. Data were documented on structured proforma and analyzed using SPSS. Results: The mean maternal age in Group I was 27.17±4.71 years and in Group II 28.33±4.25 years. Both groups had comparable gestational ages (41.60±0.49 vs. 41.68±0.46 weeks) and parity (1.64±0.79 vs. 2.05±0.83). Group I neonates had higher mean Apgar scores at 1 minute (7.25±2.08) compared to Group II (6.62±2.07), with significant group differences (p=0.04). NICU admissions were required in 30% of neonates, with 48.8% needing NICU care, and fewer admissions in Group I (p=0.04). NICU care showed a significant association with maternal age over 28 years (p=0.000) and nulliparous status (p=0.007) but was not significantly different for those under 28 years or multiparous. Conclusion: Sublingual misoprostol demonstrated superior efficacy to vaginal dinoprostone in labor induction for prolonged pregnancies, with improved neonatal outcomes, including higher Apgar scores and fewer NICU admissions. Age and parity influenced outcomes, highlighting sublingual misoprostol as an effective choice for better neonatal health.

3D‐printing continuous plant fiber/polylactic acid composites with lightweight and high strength

AbstractContinuous plant yarn‐reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) composites were produced through in situ 3D printing, focusing on how plant fiber attributes influence the crystallization, mechanical, and rheological properties of the printed composites. The aim of this study was to assess the viability of plant fibers as substitutes for synthetic ones in engineering additive manufacturing. Plant fibers promoted the crystallization of PLA due to their shear induction and nucleation agent induction effects. The inherent triangular void defect during printing decreased with increasing plant fiber‐volume fraction. Rheological analysis revealed a transition to more elastic behavior post‐fiber addition, indicating solid‐like properties. The tensile strength of flax fiber‐yarn/PLA composite (volume fraction of 50.79%) was 342.37% higher than that of pure PLA, with a 22.2% lower density than pure PLA. Flax fiber demonstrated a superior reinforcement effect than carbon fiber in compressive strength for 3D printed honeycomb sheets with lower energy consumption and footprint. Optimizing fiber characteristics holds promise for high‐performance 3D‐printed natural fiber composites, particularly in vehicle applications.Highlights Plant fiber/polylactic acid (PLA) composites were in situ printed with a volume fraction of 50.79%. Plant fibers promoted the crystallization of PLA during the printing process. The tensile strength of flax fiber/PLA increased by 342.3% with a 22.2% lower density than PLA. Flax fiber showed a better reinforcement than carbon fiber in a compressive test of printed honeycomb.

The influence of anesthetic drug strategy on the incidence of post-induction hypotension in elective, non-cardiac surgery – A prospective observational cohort study

Study objectivesTo identify the influence of modifiable factors in anesthesia induction strategy on post-induction hypotension (PIH), specifically the type, dosage and speed of administration of induction agents. A secondary aim was to identify patient related non-modifiable factors associated with PIH. DesignSingle-center, prospective observational cohort study. SettingOperating room. PatientsAdult, ASA I-IV patients undergoing elective, non-cardiac surgery under general anesthesia (GA). InterventionsNone. MeasurementsContinuous non-invasive blood pressure using finger-cuff technology. PIH was defined as mean arterial pressure (MAP) <65 mmHg ≥1 min, and, separately, as a > 30 % decrease from baseline MAP ≥1 min. Main resultsStudy measurements were performed in 760 patients, of which 720 were suitable for analysis. A total of 238 patients (33.1 %) experienced PIH according to the 65 mmHg threshold, and 287 (39.9 %) using the 30 % decrease in MAP threshold. Remifentanil administration was associated with increased risk of PIH according to either definition (MAP <65 mmHg: OR 1.88, 95 %CI 1.31–2.69, p < 0.001, 30 % MAP decrease: OR 1.66, 95 %CI 1.15–2.40, p = 0.007). Pre-emptive vasopressor use (before or during first minute of GA) was associated with reduced risk of PIH (MAP <65 mmHg: OR 0.65, 95 %CI 0.45–0.95, p = 0.027, MAP 30 % decrease: OR 0.58, 95 %CI 0.40–0.84, p = 0.004). Speed of propofol bolus administration, propofol bolus dose, and esketamine use were not associated with PIH in multivariable analysis. Propofol bolus dose decreased with increasing age and American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification. ConclusionsPIH was common in this patient cohort, regardless of the definition used. Two of the five examined modifiable factors were associated with PIH: remifentanil infusion was associated with an increased risk, and pre-emptive vasopressor use was associated with a decreased risk of PIH. No association between propofol dose and PIH was found, most likely due dose adjustment based on clinical assessment rather than a true absence of effect. Clinical registration numberThis study was registered in the Dutch Medical Research in Humans (OMON) register on 18 June 2019 (ID: NL7810). The study was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the Amsterdam UMC, location AMC, the Netherlands in December 2018 (NL 6748.018.18; 2018).

Comparison of Drug-Assisted Tracheal Intubation Using Benzodiazepines and Induction Agents for First-Pass Intubation Success in Emergency Airway Management: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Objective: To determine first-pass intubation success between benzodiazepines and induction agents in adult patients who underwent drug-assisted intubation in the emergency department (ED). Materials and Methods: A retrospective chart review observational study collected the data of patients who underwent drug-assisted intubation in the ED of a university teaching hospital between January 1, 2021 and August 31, 2022. Two hundred seven patients were enrolled in the present study. The benzodiazepine and induction agent groups were compared in terms of baseline characteristics, and clinical management. Each benzodiazepine and induction agent were compared in first-pass intubation success, time to intubation success, adverse events, and 24-hour mortality. Results: Of the 207 patients included in the present study, 35 patients used benzodiazepine, and 172 patients used induction agents. The two groups had no differences in baseline characteristics. The first-pass intubation success rate was not significantly different among the medications with 90% in nine diazepam patients, 92% in 23 midazolam patients, 89.8% in 79 etomidate patients, and 94% in 79 propofol patients (p=0.553). Complications associated with intubation included hypotension, desaturation, tachycardia, bradycardia, arrhythmia, cardiac arrest, and pneumonia. No differences in 24-hour survival were observed. Conclusion: The sedative medications used during drug-assisted intubation should be chosen based on patient comorbidities and characteristics, as well as physician preferences and experiences. There were no differences between the benzodiazepine and induction agent groups in terms of first-pass intubation success, adverse events, or 24-hour survival. The use of benzodiazepines in settings with limited resources may be considered.