Raj Sahajanandan - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Raj Sahajanandan

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia, 2022

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia

One lung ventilation (OLV) with collapse of the ipsilateral lung is a prerequisite for most thora... more One lung ventilation (OLV) with collapse of the ipsilateral lung is a prerequisite for most thoracic surgical procedures. Double-lumen tube (DLT) is still the preferred method to isolate the lungs and fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FOB) is the gold standard for the confirmation of correct placement of the DLT. However, both these procedures are considered as a high-aerosol-generating procedures and are hazardous to the health workers, particularly at this time of the COVID-19 pandemic. We did nine thoracic surgery cases categorized as essential, requiring OLV during the ongoing period of the COVID-19 between April 2020 and May 2020 where we used Full view DLT for lung isolation. We present our case series which shows that the Full view VDLT can minimize or circumvent the use of FOB during OLV, and reduce the time taken to isolate the lungs thus reducing aerosol in the theater. None of the nine patients required FOB for confirmation of initial positioning nor for diagnosis of intraoperative malposition. The time taken to isolate the lungs was significantly less and the surgical positioning was done under real-time monitoring by visualizing the blue cuff distal to carina at all times. The real-time monitoring by the Full view VDLT offers the additional advantage of detecting any malposition even before it results in loss of isolation or desaturation. We conclude that the Full view VDLT is an efficient and safe alternative for lung isolation at this time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Anesthesia: Essays and Researches

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia

Objectives: del Nido cardioplegia which was traditionally used for myocardial protection in pedia... more Objectives: del Nido cardioplegia which was traditionally used for myocardial protection in pediatric congenital heart surgery is now being extensively utilized in adult cardiac surgery. The aim of this study was to compare the safety and efficacy of del Nido cardioplegia (DNC) with blood cardioplegia (BC). Materials and Methods: This is a historical cohort study using secondary data. Two hundred and eighty six patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) or valve surgery were included. They were divided into 2 matched cohorts of which 143 patients received BC and 143 patients received DNC. Results: There was no difference in cardiopulmonary bypass time (P = 0.516) and clamp time (P = 0.650) between the groups. The redosing of cardioplegia was significantly less for DNC (1.13 vs. 2.35, P = <0.001). The post bypass hemoglobin was higher for DNC (9.1 vs. 8.7, P = 0.011). The intraoperative and postoperative blood transfusion was comparable (P = 0.344) (P = 0.40). The incidence of clamp release ventricular fibrillation (P = 0.207) was similar. The creatine kinase-MB isotype levels for the CABG patients were comparable on all 3 days (P = 0.104), (P = 0.106), and (P = 0.158). The postoperative left ventricle ejection fraction was lesser but within normal range in the DNC group (53.4 vs. 56.0, P = <0.001). The duration of ventilation (P = 0.186), ICU days (P = 0.931), and postoperative complications (P = 0.354) were comparable. There was no 30-day mortality or postoperative myocardial infarction in both the groups. Conclusion: DNC provides equivalent myocardial protection, efficacy, and surgical workflow and had comparable clinical outcomes to that of BC. This study shows that DNC is a safe alternate to BC in CABG and valve surgeries.

Journal of Anaesthesiology Clinical Pharmacology

Background and Aims: Cervical spine immobilization renders direct laryngoscopy difficult. The CMA... more Background and Aims: Cervical spine immobilization renders direct laryngoscopy difficult. The CMAC D blade and the channeled blade of the King Vision videolaryngoscopes, have both been used for difficult airway management. Our hypothesis is that the channeled blade of the King Vision would be superior to the CMAC D blade in terms of ease of intubation. We tested this hypothesis in a randomized comparison of the two videolaryngoscopes in patients with simulated cervical spine immobilization. Material and Methods: Hundred patients with no anticipated airway difficulty were randomly allocated to two groups after obtaining informed written consent. Following induction, manual inline stabilization (MILS) was applied to simulate a cervical spine injury and immobilzation. Patients were intubated with either of the two videolaryngoscopes. Time for visualization of the glottis, procedural time, intubation difficulty scale (IDS), and hemodynamic response were recorded. Results: The time to visualize the glottis was shorter in the CMAC D group as compared to the King Vision group (P < 0.001). The incidence of external laryngeal manipulation was less in the King Vision group (P < 0.001). The ease of intubation was superior in the King Vision group, based on the IDS (P < 0.001). The haemodynamic response was similar between the groups. Conclusion: King Vision channeled videolaryngoscope was difficult to introduce into the mouth of the patient during laryngoscopy. Once introduced into the mouth, the time for intubation was less and less external laryngeal manipulation maneuvers were performed to achieve successful intubation. The ease of endotracheal intubation was superior for the King Vision videolaryngoscope. The King Vision videolaryngoscope with proper tranining, could be a safe and portable alternative in patients with cervical spine immobilization.

Trials

Background Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs)/angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) ... more Background Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs)/angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are commonly prescribed to patients with hypertension. These drugs are cardioprotective in addition to their blood pressure-lowering effects. However, it is debatable whether hypertensive patients who present for non-cardiac surgery should continue or discontinue these drugs preoperatively. Continuing the drugs entails the risk of perioperative refractory hypotension and/or angioneurotic oedema, while discontinuing the drugs entails the risk of rebound hypertension and myocardial ischaemia. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of continuation vs withholding of ACEIs/ARBs on mortality and other major outcomes in hypertensive patients undergoing elective non-cardiac surgery. Methods The continuing vs withholding of ACEIs/ARBs in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery is a prospective, multi-centric, open-label randomised controlled trial. Two thousand one hundred hypertensive p...

Journal of Anaesthesiology Clinical Pharmacology

Supplemental material, sj-docx-1-jet-10.1177_15266028211067737 for A System for Accurate Deployme... more Supplemental material, sj-docx-1-jet-10.1177_15266028211067737 for A System for Accurate Deployment of Unconstrained Triple-Fenestrated Aortic Arch Endografts by George Joseph, Viji Samuel Thomson, Roy Thankachen, Albert Kota, Oommen K. George, John Jose, Elizabeth Joseph and Raj Sahajanandan in Journal of Endovascular Therapy

The Indian Anaesthetists Forum, 2022

Background: Anesthesiologists, with their skills and expertise at performing various aerosol-gene... more Background: Anesthesiologists, with their skills and expertise at performing various aerosol-generating procedures such as tracheal intubation and extubation, tracheostomies, and bronchoscopy-guided procedures, serve as frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. They are exposed to the risk of infection as well as highly stressful environments in the operating theaters and intensive care units. Appropriate knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) with regard to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) will help mitigate some of this stress. Materials and Methods: Owing to the nation's lockdown situation, an online questionnaire-based survey was conducted through WhatsApp, Facebook, and E-mail among anesthetists working at different health-care sectors in India. The KAP with regard to the use of PPE during the COVID-19 and its psychological impact were assessed by using a prevalidated questionnaire. All analyses were performed using SPSS version 25. Results: Among 301 study participants, 189 (62.8%) had good knowledge and 90% had favorable attitudes. Despite 66.4% of the study participants having received formal training regarding the use of PPE during the COVID-19 pandemic, good practices were seen only in 44.4%. Irrespective of the demographic variable assessed, 90% of the anesthesiologists felt that working was more stressful in the operating room during this pandemic, due to challenges with respect to effective communication, restrictions in movement and visibility attributed to PPE as well as an alteration in the usual routine. Conclusions: Despite adequate knowledge and attitudes regarding the use of appropriate PPE, the translation into practice was deficient. Emphasis on the checklist, protocol-based approaches, and regular updates on practice recommendations will help to improve adherence to quality practices. Donning of appropriate PPE contributes to significant physical and emotional stress among anesthesiologists during the COVID-19 pandemic. A platform to provide psychological support is the need of the hour.

Journal of Endovascular Therapy, 2022

Purpose: To achieve accurate rotational orientation and the axial position of unconstrained tripl... more Purpose: To achieve accurate rotational orientation and the axial position of unconstrained triple-fenestrated physician-modified endografts upon deployment in the aortic arch during total arch thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TA-TEVAR). Materials and Methods: Following a detailed study of reconstructed computerized tomography angiography images of patients’ arch anatomy, customized, sealable fenestrations with radio-opaque margins are created onsite on Valiant Captivia (Medtronic) endografts, transposing the arch branch ostial anatomic interrelationship onto the endograft precisely. Radio-opaque figure-of-8 markers, indicating the 12 o’clock (superior) position, are attached to the endograft on the surface and brought up to the surface under the endograft cover during resheathing. Resheathing without any twist in the endograft is achieved by lining up the welds in each endograft stent segment in a straight line. The fluoroscopic working view for arch endograft delivery and depl...

Journal of Anaesthesiology Clinical Pharmacology, 2021

Background and Aims: Double lumen tube (DLT) insertion for isolation of lung during thoracic surg... more Background and Aims: Double lumen tube (DLT) insertion for isolation of lung during thoracic surgery is challenging and is associated with considerable airway trauma. The advent of video laryngoscopy has revolutionized the management of difficult airway. Use of video laryngoscopy may reduce the time to intubate for DLTs even in patients with normal airway. Material and Methods: A total of 87 ASA 1–3 adults, scheduled to undergo elective thoracotomy, requiring a DLT were randomly allocated to videolaryngoscope (CMAC) arm or Macintosh laryngoscope arm. It was on open label study, and only the patient was blinded. The primary objective of this study was to compare the mean time taken for DLT intubation with CMAC (Mac 3) and Macintosh laryngoscope blade and the secondary objectives included the hemodynamic response to intubation, the level of difficulty using the intubation difficulty scale (IDS), and complications associated with intubation. Data was analysed using the statistical software SPSS (version 18.0). Results: The time taken for intubation was not significantly different (42.8 ± 14.8 s for CMAC and 42.5 ± 11.5 s for Macintosh laryngoscope P -0.908). The CMAC video laryngoscope was associated with an improved laryngoscopy grade (Grade I in 81.8% with CMAC and in 46.5% with Macintosh), less pressure applied on the tongue, and less external laryngeal pressure required. Hemodynamic responses to intubation were similar in both groups. Conclusion: Macintosh blade is as good as CMAC (mac 3) blade to facilitate DLT intubation in adult patients with no anticipated airway difficulty, however CMAC was superior as it offers better laryngoscopic view, needed less force, and fewer external laryngeal manipulations.

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia, 2018

Management of a patient with a giant bulla coming for a nonthoracic surgery is rare, and its anes... more Management of a patient with a giant bulla coming for a nonthoracic surgery is rare, and its anesthetic management is very challenging. It is imperative to isolate only the subsegmental bronchus, in which the bulla communicates to avoid respiratory morbidities such as pneumothorax, emphysema or atelectasis of the surrounding lung parenchyma, and postoperative respiratory failure. Herewith, we want to report the anesthetic challenges of a patient with giant bulla communicating into one of the subsegmental right upper lobe bronchus for splenectomy.

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia, 2021

Introduction: Fast tracking plays a crucial role in reducing perioperative morbidity and financia... more Introduction: Fast tracking plays a crucial role in reducing perioperative morbidity and financial burden by facilitating early extubation and discharge from hospital. Paravertebral block (PVB) is becoming more popular in paediatric surgeries as an alternative to epidural and caudal analgesia. There is scarcity of data regarding the efficacy and safety of PVB in paediatric cardiac surgery. Methods: We performed a review of records of paediatric cardiac patients who underwent cardiac surgery under general anaesthesia with single shot PVB and compared the analgesia and postoperative outcomes with matched historical controls who underwent cardiac surgery with same anaesthesia protocol without PVB. Results: The data from 200 children were analysed. 100 children who received paravertebral block were compared with a matched historical controls. The median time to extubation was shorter in the PVB group (0 hr, IQR 0-3 hrs) compared to the control group (16 hrs, IQR 4-20 hrs) (P value 0.017*). Intraoperative and postoperative fentanyl requirement was much lower in the PVB group (3.49 (0.91)) compared to the control group (9.86 (1.37)) P value <0.01*. Time to first rescue dose of analgesic was longer (7 hrs vs 5 hrs, P 0.01*), while time to extubation and duration of ICU stay were significantly less in PVB group . Mean postoperative pain scores were significantly lower in the PVB group at the time of ICU admission (0.85 vs 3.12, P 0.001*) till 4 hours (2.11 vs 3.32, P 0.001*). Conclusion: PVB provides an effective and safe anaesthetic approach which can form an important component of “fast-track” care in paediatric cardiac surgery.

BACKGROUND : Anesthetic induction and maintenance may cause hypotension which may result in grave... more BACKGROUND : Anesthetic induction and maintenance may cause hypotension which may result in grave consequences in patients with coronary artery disease especially when there is associated left ventricular dysfunction. A primary goal is to attenuate the stress response to endotracheal intubation and to prevent hypotension. It is a well-known fact that etomidate has a very stable cardiovascular profile. However it is known to suppress the cortisol levels which are involved in stress response. The objective of this study is to compare the effect of etomidate and midazolam on hemodynamics during induction in patients with impaired left ventricular function (EF 30-45%) who are undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. METHODS : 49 patients with mild to moderate left ventricular dysfunction (ejection fraction 30-45%) were randomly assigned to two groups after getting informed consent. Patients who were scheduled for elective CABG were only included in the study. The exclusion criteria w...

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia, 2018

Objective: The objective of the study is to compare the myocardial protective effects of isoflura... more Objective: The objective of the study is to compare the myocardial protective effects of isoflurane with propofol in patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass surgery on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), the cardio protection been assessed by changes in N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide (NT proBNP). Methodology and Design: This study is designed as a participant blinded, prospective randomized clinical trial. Setting: Christian Medical College Hospital, Vellore, India. Participants: Patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass surgery on CPB. Intervention: Anesthesia was maintained with 0.8–1.2 end tidal concentrations of isoflurane in the isoflurane group and in the propofol group, anesthesia was maintained with propofol infusion as described by Roberts et al. Measurements: Hemodynamic data were recorded at frequent intervals during the surgery and up to 24 h in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The other variables that were measured include duration of mechanical vent...

Journal of Anaesthesiology Clinical Pharmacology, 2009

Southern African Journal of Anaesthesia and Analgesia, 2013

There are only few reported cases of carcinoid heart disease caused by ovarian tumours. The main ... more There are only few reported cases of carcinoid heart disease caused by ovarian tumours. The main cause of morbidity and mortality in these patients is right heart failure. Most cases of carcinoid heart disease have liver metastases and undergo cardiac surgery, followed by liver resection. Ovarian carcinoids cause heart lesions without liver metastasis. Hence, we managed the primary tumour first under octreotide cover, followed by cardiac surgery with a favourable result.

The Indian Anaesthetists Forum, 2022

Background: Transfusion of blood and blood products is strongly associated with increased morbidi... more Background: Transfusion of blood and blood products is strongly associated with increased morbidity and mortality in cardiovascular surgery. This includes transfusion-related acute lung injury, transfusion-associated circulatory overload, renal injury, anaphylactic reactions to blood products, and sepsis. Transfusion of blood products based on the clinician's judgment often results in excessive transfusion. Research suggests that the use of point-of-care (POC) coagulation tests coupled to algorithm-based management decrease transfusion requirements in cardiac surgery. Objectives: To determine abnormal thromboelastograph (TEG) values among patients who received blood products based on clinical judgment and to determine if a POC coagulation test could have resulted in reduced transfusion rates in these patients. Methods: A total of 45 cardiac surgical patients who received blood products during a 3 months period were included in the audit. Coagulation profile and TEG were sent before transfusion for all patients. Data were entered using EPIDATA software. Descriptive analysis was used to define the data. The Fisher exact test was used to assess differences between groups for categorical variables. Results: The R time was abnormal in 4.4% of patients, the Alpha angle was abnormal in 51.1% of patients, maximum amplitude was abnormal in 2.2% of patients, and there was no evidence of fibrinolysis on TEG in these patients. Conclusion: Clinical judgment about the need for blood transfusion had poor correlation with dynamic tests of coagulation. A POC test-based algorithm would have avoided a significant amount of blood product transfusion both in terms of choice of therapy and the dose of component used.

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia, 2014

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is an important diagnostic tool. It provides structural an... more Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is an important diagnostic tool. It provides structural and functional assessment of cardiac structures which can improve the overall outcome of the patient. We present a case with right atrial myxoma in which TEE helped to find the attachment of the mass so that overall surgical plan was changed.

Indian Journal of Anaesthesia

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia, 2022

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia

One lung ventilation (OLV) with collapse of the ipsilateral lung is a prerequisite for most thora... more One lung ventilation (OLV) with collapse of the ipsilateral lung is a prerequisite for most thoracic surgical procedures. Double-lumen tube (DLT) is still the preferred method to isolate the lungs and fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FOB) is the gold standard for the confirmation of correct placement of the DLT. However, both these procedures are considered as a high-aerosol-generating procedures and are hazardous to the health workers, particularly at this time of the COVID-19 pandemic. We did nine thoracic surgery cases categorized as essential, requiring OLV during the ongoing period of the COVID-19 between April 2020 and May 2020 where we used Full view DLT for lung isolation. We present our case series which shows that the Full view VDLT can minimize or circumvent the use of FOB during OLV, and reduce the time taken to isolate the lungs thus reducing aerosol in the theater. None of the nine patients required FOB for confirmation of initial positioning nor for diagnosis of intraoperative malposition. The time taken to isolate the lungs was significantly less and the surgical positioning was done under real-time monitoring by visualizing the blue cuff distal to carina at all times. The real-time monitoring by the Full view VDLT offers the additional advantage of detecting any malposition even before it results in loss of isolation or desaturation. We conclude that the Full view VDLT is an efficient and safe alternative for lung isolation at this time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Anesthesia: Essays and Researches

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia

Objectives: del Nido cardioplegia which was traditionally used for myocardial protection in pedia... more Objectives: del Nido cardioplegia which was traditionally used for myocardial protection in pediatric congenital heart surgery is now being extensively utilized in adult cardiac surgery. The aim of this study was to compare the safety and efficacy of del Nido cardioplegia (DNC) with blood cardioplegia (BC). Materials and Methods: This is a historical cohort study using secondary data. Two hundred and eighty six patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) or valve surgery were included. They were divided into 2 matched cohorts of which 143 patients received BC and 143 patients received DNC. Results: There was no difference in cardiopulmonary bypass time (P = 0.516) and clamp time (P = 0.650) between the groups. The redosing of cardioplegia was significantly less for DNC (1.13 vs. 2.35, P = <0.001). The post bypass hemoglobin was higher for DNC (9.1 vs. 8.7, P = 0.011). The intraoperative and postoperative blood transfusion was comparable (P = 0.344) (P = 0.40). The incidence of clamp release ventricular fibrillation (P = 0.207) was similar. The creatine kinase-MB isotype levels for the CABG patients were comparable on all 3 days (P = 0.104), (P = 0.106), and (P = 0.158). The postoperative left ventricle ejection fraction was lesser but within normal range in the DNC group (53.4 vs. 56.0, P = <0.001). The duration of ventilation (P = 0.186), ICU days (P = 0.931), and postoperative complications (P = 0.354) were comparable. There was no 30-day mortality or postoperative myocardial infarction in both the groups. Conclusion: DNC provides equivalent myocardial protection, efficacy, and surgical workflow and had comparable clinical outcomes to that of BC. This study shows that DNC is a safe alternate to BC in CABG and valve surgeries.

Journal of Anaesthesiology Clinical Pharmacology

Background and Aims: Cervical spine immobilization renders direct laryngoscopy difficult. The CMA... more Background and Aims: Cervical spine immobilization renders direct laryngoscopy difficult. The CMAC D blade and the channeled blade of the King Vision videolaryngoscopes, have both been used for difficult airway management. Our hypothesis is that the channeled blade of the King Vision would be superior to the CMAC D blade in terms of ease of intubation. We tested this hypothesis in a randomized comparison of the two videolaryngoscopes in patients with simulated cervical spine immobilization. Material and Methods: Hundred patients with no anticipated airway difficulty were randomly allocated to two groups after obtaining informed written consent. Following induction, manual inline stabilization (MILS) was applied to simulate a cervical spine injury and immobilzation. Patients were intubated with either of the two videolaryngoscopes. Time for visualization of the glottis, procedural time, intubation difficulty scale (IDS), and hemodynamic response were recorded. Results: The time to visualize the glottis was shorter in the CMAC D group as compared to the King Vision group (P < 0.001). The incidence of external laryngeal manipulation was less in the King Vision group (P < 0.001). The ease of intubation was superior in the King Vision group, based on the IDS (P < 0.001). The haemodynamic response was similar between the groups. Conclusion: King Vision channeled videolaryngoscope was difficult to introduce into the mouth of the patient during laryngoscopy. Once introduced into the mouth, the time for intubation was less and less external laryngeal manipulation maneuvers were performed to achieve successful intubation. The ease of endotracheal intubation was superior for the King Vision videolaryngoscope. The King Vision videolaryngoscope with proper tranining, could be a safe and portable alternative in patients with cervical spine immobilization.

Trials

Background Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs)/angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) ... more Background Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs)/angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are commonly prescribed to patients with hypertension. These drugs are cardioprotective in addition to their blood pressure-lowering effects. However, it is debatable whether hypertensive patients who present for non-cardiac surgery should continue or discontinue these drugs preoperatively. Continuing the drugs entails the risk of perioperative refractory hypotension and/or angioneurotic oedema, while discontinuing the drugs entails the risk of rebound hypertension and myocardial ischaemia. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of continuation vs withholding of ACEIs/ARBs on mortality and other major outcomes in hypertensive patients undergoing elective non-cardiac surgery. Methods The continuing vs withholding of ACEIs/ARBs in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery is a prospective, multi-centric, open-label randomised controlled trial. Two thousand one hundred hypertensive p...

Journal of Anaesthesiology Clinical Pharmacology

Supplemental material, sj-docx-1-jet-10.1177_15266028211067737 for A System for Accurate Deployme... more Supplemental material, sj-docx-1-jet-10.1177_15266028211067737 for A System for Accurate Deployment of Unconstrained Triple-Fenestrated Aortic Arch Endografts by George Joseph, Viji Samuel Thomson, Roy Thankachen, Albert Kota, Oommen K. George, John Jose, Elizabeth Joseph and Raj Sahajanandan in Journal of Endovascular Therapy

The Indian Anaesthetists Forum, 2022

Background: Anesthesiologists, with their skills and expertise at performing various aerosol-gene... more Background: Anesthesiologists, with their skills and expertise at performing various aerosol-generating procedures such as tracheal intubation and extubation, tracheostomies, and bronchoscopy-guided procedures, serve as frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. They are exposed to the risk of infection as well as highly stressful environments in the operating theaters and intensive care units. Appropriate knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) with regard to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) will help mitigate some of this stress. Materials and Methods: Owing to the nation's lockdown situation, an online questionnaire-based survey was conducted through WhatsApp, Facebook, and E-mail among anesthetists working at different health-care sectors in India. The KAP with regard to the use of PPE during the COVID-19 and its psychological impact were assessed by using a prevalidated questionnaire. All analyses were performed using SPSS version 25. Results: Among 301 study participants, 189 (62.8%) had good knowledge and 90% had favorable attitudes. Despite 66.4% of the study participants having received formal training regarding the use of PPE during the COVID-19 pandemic, good practices were seen only in 44.4%. Irrespective of the demographic variable assessed, 90% of the anesthesiologists felt that working was more stressful in the operating room during this pandemic, due to challenges with respect to effective communication, restrictions in movement and visibility attributed to PPE as well as an alteration in the usual routine. Conclusions: Despite adequate knowledge and attitudes regarding the use of appropriate PPE, the translation into practice was deficient. Emphasis on the checklist, protocol-based approaches, and regular updates on practice recommendations will help to improve adherence to quality practices. Donning of appropriate PPE contributes to significant physical and emotional stress among anesthesiologists during the COVID-19 pandemic. A platform to provide psychological support is the need of the hour.

Journal of Endovascular Therapy, 2022

Purpose: To achieve accurate rotational orientation and the axial position of unconstrained tripl... more Purpose: To achieve accurate rotational orientation and the axial position of unconstrained triple-fenestrated physician-modified endografts upon deployment in the aortic arch during total arch thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TA-TEVAR). Materials and Methods: Following a detailed study of reconstructed computerized tomography angiography images of patients’ arch anatomy, customized, sealable fenestrations with radio-opaque margins are created onsite on Valiant Captivia (Medtronic) endografts, transposing the arch branch ostial anatomic interrelationship onto the endograft precisely. Radio-opaque figure-of-8 markers, indicating the 12 o’clock (superior) position, are attached to the endograft on the surface and brought up to the surface under the endograft cover during resheathing. Resheathing without any twist in the endograft is achieved by lining up the welds in each endograft stent segment in a straight line. The fluoroscopic working view for arch endograft delivery and depl...

Journal of Anaesthesiology Clinical Pharmacology, 2021

Background and Aims: Double lumen tube (DLT) insertion for isolation of lung during thoracic surg... more Background and Aims: Double lumen tube (DLT) insertion for isolation of lung during thoracic surgery is challenging and is associated with considerable airway trauma. The advent of video laryngoscopy has revolutionized the management of difficult airway. Use of video laryngoscopy may reduce the time to intubate for DLTs even in patients with normal airway. Material and Methods: A total of 87 ASA 1–3 adults, scheduled to undergo elective thoracotomy, requiring a DLT were randomly allocated to videolaryngoscope (CMAC) arm or Macintosh laryngoscope arm. It was on open label study, and only the patient was blinded. The primary objective of this study was to compare the mean time taken for DLT intubation with CMAC (Mac 3) and Macintosh laryngoscope blade and the secondary objectives included the hemodynamic response to intubation, the level of difficulty using the intubation difficulty scale (IDS), and complications associated with intubation. Data was analysed using the statistical software SPSS (version 18.0). Results: The time taken for intubation was not significantly different (42.8 ± 14.8 s for CMAC and 42.5 ± 11.5 s for Macintosh laryngoscope P -0.908). The CMAC video laryngoscope was associated with an improved laryngoscopy grade (Grade I in 81.8% with CMAC and in 46.5% with Macintosh), less pressure applied on the tongue, and less external laryngeal pressure required. Hemodynamic responses to intubation were similar in both groups. Conclusion: Macintosh blade is as good as CMAC (mac 3) blade to facilitate DLT intubation in adult patients with no anticipated airway difficulty, however CMAC was superior as it offers better laryngoscopic view, needed less force, and fewer external laryngeal manipulations.

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia, 2018

Management of a patient with a giant bulla coming for a nonthoracic surgery is rare, and its anes... more Management of a patient with a giant bulla coming for a nonthoracic surgery is rare, and its anesthetic management is very challenging. It is imperative to isolate only the subsegmental bronchus, in which the bulla communicates to avoid respiratory morbidities such as pneumothorax, emphysema or atelectasis of the surrounding lung parenchyma, and postoperative respiratory failure. Herewith, we want to report the anesthetic challenges of a patient with giant bulla communicating into one of the subsegmental right upper lobe bronchus for splenectomy.

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia, 2021

Introduction: Fast tracking plays a crucial role in reducing perioperative morbidity and financia... more Introduction: Fast tracking plays a crucial role in reducing perioperative morbidity and financial burden by facilitating early extubation and discharge from hospital. Paravertebral block (PVB) is becoming more popular in paediatric surgeries as an alternative to epidural and caudal analgesia. There is scarcity of data regarding the efficacy and safety of PVB in paediatric cardiac surgery. Methods: We performed a review of records of paediatric cardiac patients who underwent cardiac surgery under general anaesthesia with single shot PVB and compared the analgesia and postoperative outcomes with matched historical controls who underwent cardiac surgery with same anaesthesia protocol without PVB. Results: The data from 200 children were analysed. 100 children who received paravertebral block were compared with a matched historical controls. The median time to extubation was shorter in the PVB group (0 hr, IQR 0-3 hrs) compared to the control group (16 hrs, IQR 4-20 hrs) (P value 0.017*). Intraoperative and postoperative fentanyl requirement was much lower in the PVB group (3.49 (0.91)) compared to the control group (9.86 (1.37)) P value <0.01*. Time to first rescue dose of analgesic was longer (7 hrs vs 5 hrs, P 0.01*), while time to extubation and duration of ICU stay were significantly less in PVB group . Mean postoperative pain scores were significantly lower in the PVB group at the time of ICU admission (0.85 vs 3.12, P 0.001*) till 4 hours (2.11 vs 3.32, P 0.001*). Conclusion: PVB provides an effective and safe anaesthetic approach which can form an important component of “fast-track” care in paediatric cardiac surgery.

BACKGROUND : Anesthetic induction and maintenance may cause hypotension which may result in grave... more BACKGROUND : Anesthetic induction and maintenance may cause hypotension which may result in grave consequences in patients with coronary artery disease especially when there is associated left ventricular dysfunction. A primary goal is to attenuate the stress response to endotracheal intubation and to prevent hypotension. It is a well-known fact that etomidate has a very stable cardiovascular profile. However it is known to suppress the cortisol levels which are involved in stress response. The objective of this study is to compare the effect of etomidate and midazolam on hemodynamics during induction in patients with impaired left ventricular function (EF 30-45%) who are undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. METHODS : 49 patients with mild to moderate left ventricular dysfunction (ejection fraction 30-45%) were randomly assigned to two groups after getting informed consent. Patients who were scheduled for elective CABG were only included in the study. The exclusion criteria w...

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia, 2018

Objective: The objective of the study is to compare the myocardial protective effects of isoflura... more Objective: The objective of the study is to compare the myocardial protective effects of isoflurane with propofol in patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass surgery on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), the cardio protection been assessed by changes in N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide (NT proBNP). Methodology and Design: This study is designed as a participant blinded, prospective randomized clinical trial. Setting: Christian Medical College Hospital, Vellore, India. Participants: Patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass surgery on CPB. Intervention: Anesthesia was maintained with 0.8–1.2 end tidal concentrations of isoflurane in the isoflurane group and in the propofol group, anesthesia was maintained with propofol infusion as described by Roberts et al. Measurements: Hemodynamic data were recorded at frequent intervals during the surgery and up to 24 h in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The other variables that were measured include duration of mechanical vent...

Journal of Anaesthesiology Clinical Pharmacology, 2009

Southern African Journal of Anaesthesia and Analgesia, 2013

There are only few reported cases of carcinoid heart disease caused by ovarian tumours. The main ... more There are only few reported cases of carcinoid heart disease caused by ovarian tumours. The main cause of morbidity and mortality in these patients is right heart failure. Most cases of carcinoid heart disease have liver metastases and undergo cardiac surgery, followed by liver resection. Ovarian carcinoids cause heart lesions without liver metastasis. Hence, we managed the primary tumour first under octreotide cover, followed by cardiac surgery with a favourable result.

The Indian Anaesthetists Forum, 2022

Background: Transfusion of blood and blood products is strongly associated with increased morbidi... more Background: Transfusion of blood and blood products is strongly associated with increased morbidity and mortality in cardiovascular surgery. This includes transfusion-related acute lung injury, transfusion-associated circulatory overload, renal injury, anaphylactic reactions to blood products, and sepsis. Transfusion of blood products based on the clinician's judgment often results in excessive transfusion. Research suggests that the use of point-of-care (POC) coagulation tests coupled to algorithm-based management decrease transfusion requirements in cardiac surgery. Objectives: To determine abnormal thromboelastograph (TEG) values among patients who received blood products based on clinical judgment and to determine if a POC coagulation test could have resulted in reduced transfusion rates in these patients. Methods: A total of 45 cardiac surgical patients who received blood products during a 3 months period were included in the audit. Coagulation profile and TEG were sent before transfusion for all patients. Data were entered using EPIDATA software. Descriptive analysis was used to define the data. The Fisher exact test was used to assess differences between groups for categorical variables. Results: The R time was abnormal in 4.4% of patients, the Alpha angle was abnormal in 51.1% of patients, maximum amplitude was abnormal in 2.2% of patients, and there was no evidence of fibrinolysis on TEG in these patients. Conclusion: Clinical judgment about the need for blood transfusion had poor correlation with dynamic tests of coagulation. A POC test-based algorithm would have avoided a significant amount of blood product transfusion both in terms of choice of therapy and the dose of component used.

Annals of Cardiac Anaesthesia, 2014

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is an important diagnostic tool. It provides structural an... more Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is an important diagnostic tool. It provides structural and functional assessment of cardiac structures which can improve the overall outcome of the patient. We present a case with right atrial myxoma in which TEE helped to find the attachment of the mass so that overall surgical plan was changed.

Indian Journal of Anaesthesia