Y. Lim - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Y. Lim

Research paper thumbnail of Dispelling the myths of epidural pain relief in childbirth

Singapore medical journal, 2006

Research paper thumbnail of Automated regular boluses for epidural analgesia: a comparison with continuous infusion

International Journal of Obstetric Anesthesia, 2005

Intermittent epidural bolus dosing is a method of drug delivery that can prolong the duration of ... more Intermittent epidural bolus dosing is a method of drug delivery that can prolong the duration of labour analgesia induced by a combined spinal epidural (CSE). In this randomized, double-blinded study, we compared the analgesic efficacy of two drug delivery systems: regular intermittent epidural boluses and continuous epidural infusion and assessed the incidence of breakthrough pain after CSE. With the approval of the Hospital Ethics Committee, we recruited 60 parturients into this randomized controlled trial. A CSE was performed with intrathecal fentanyl 25 mug in all patients. The parturients were then randomly allocated into two groups. The infusion group received a continuous epidural infusion of levobupivacaine 0.1% with fentanyl 2 microg/mL at a rate of 10 mL/h. The bolus group received 5-mL epidural boluses every half hour. The sample size was computed to detect a 40% reduction in the rate of breakthrough pain. The bolus group had a lower incidence of breakthrough pain than the infusion group (10% vs. 37%, P < 0.05). The bolus group also had significantly higher satisfaction scores for labour analgesia: 97+/-8 (mean+/-SD) vs. 89+/-7 (P < 0.05). Automated regular bolus delivery of epidural analgesia when compared with continuous infusion decreased the incidence of breakthrough pain and increased maternal satisfaction. In a busy obstetric unit, this may also serve to decrease the anesthetists' workload.

Research paper thumbnail of Maintenance of labour epidural analgesia - automated continual boluses versus continuous infusion

Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, 2004

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of the single use and reusable intubating laryngeal mask airway

Anaesthesia, 2007

We compared the times to intubate the trachea using the single use (Group S) and reusable (Group ... more We compared the times to intubate the trachea using the single use (Group S) and reusable (Group C) intubating laryngeal mask (ILMA TM), in 84 healthy patients with normal airways undergoing elective gynaecological surgery. There was no significant difference in the ease of insertion of the ILMA or the tracheal tube, or time to successful insertion (Group S, 101.4 s (SD 63.2) vs Group C, 90.4 s (SD 46.1), p = 0.366). The ILMA was successfully inserted on first attempt in 63% of Group S patients and in 68% of Group C patients. After one or two attempts the overall success rate for both groups was 93%. There was a failure to insert the ILMA in two patients in each group. There was no difference in side-effects (desaturation S p o 2 < 95%, bleeding, oesophageal intubation, lip, dental or mucosal injury, or sore throat postoperatively). We conclude that the disposable ILMA is an acceptable alternative to the reusable ILMA.

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of the Single-use LMA Supreme with the Reusable ProSeal LMA for Anaesthesia in Gynaecological Laparoscopic Surgery

Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, 2009

The Laryngeal Mask Airway Supreme (LMAS) is a new, single-use laryngeal mask airway with gastric ... more The Laryngeal Mask Airway Supreme (LMAS) is a new, single-use laryngeal mask airway with gastric access. We conducted a randomised controlled study comparing the LMAS with the reusable ProSeal Laryngeal Mask Airway (PLMA) in 70 patients undergoing general anaesthesia with paralysis for gynaecological laparoscopic surgery. Our primary outcome measure was the oropharynegal leak pressure. We also compared the two devices for ease of insertion, adequacy of ventilation and incidence of complications. Both devices had similar rates of successful insertion at the first attempt (LMAS 94% vs PLMA 91%). There was no difference in the time to establish an effective airway (LMAS 25±22 vs PLMA 24±9 seconds), although gastric tube insertion was faster for the LMAS (5±1 vs 7±3 seconds, P <0.001). The mean oropharyngeal leak pressure in the LMAS was significantly lower than in the PLMA (27.9±4.7 vs 31.7±6.3 cmH2O, P=0.007). This was consistent with a lower maximum tidal volume achieved with the ...

Research paper thumbnail of The ProSeal laryngeal mask airway is an effective alternative to laryngoscope-guided tracheal intubation for laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery

European Journal of Anaesthesiology, 2006

revealed sufficient ventilation and oxygenation with either device. Dynamic compliance was signif... more revealed sufficient ventilation and oxygenation with either device. Dynamic compliance was significantly higher when using the LT compared with the LMA. The number of patients in whom blood on the removed device during emergence was significantly higher with LMA than LT (p Ͻ 0.05). Conclusions: We have demonstrated that successful insertion is more likely with the LT than with the LMA. Insertion of the LMA requires more attempts and causes a greater number of complication. Using the LT and LMA resulted in comparable ventilation variables in this model of ASA physical status I and II patients undergoing routine surgical procedures. The newly developed LT may be a simple alternative device to secure the airway. References:

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of the GlideScope® video laryngoscope vs. the intubating laryngeal mask for females with normal airways

European Journal of Anaesthesiology, 2007

In this randomized clinical study, we compared the intubation success rates of the intubating lar... more In this randomized clinical study, we compared the intubation success rates of the intubating laryngeal mask airway with the GlideScope in patients with normal airways. The primary hypothesis was that the intubating laryngeal mask airway was equally effective as the GlideScope in terms of successful intubation times. Sixty ASA I and II adult patients undergoing elective gynaecological surgery were randomly allocated into either the intubating laryngeal mask airway group or the GlideScope group. After a standard anaesthetic intravenous induction, orotracheal intubation was performed. Time taken for successful tracheal intubation, ease of device insertion, difficulty of tracheal intubation, manoeuvres needed to aid tracheal intubation, number of intubation attempts, haemodynamic changes every 2.5 min interval for 5 min and complications during tracheal intubation were recorded. Time to successful intubation was longer (mean 68.4 s +/- 23.5 vs. 35.7 s +/- 10.7; P &lt; 0.05), mean difficulty score was higher (mean 16.7 +/- 16.3 vs. 7.3 +/- 13.1; P &lt; 0.05) and more intubation attempts were required in the intubating laryngeal mask airway group. The GlideScope improved intubation time and difficulty score for tracheal intubation when compared with the intubating laryngeal mask airway in our patients. Blind intubation through the intubating laryngeal mask airway offers no advantages over the GlideScope in patients with normal airways. Despite its limitations, the intubating laryngeal mask airway is a valuable adjunct, especially in cases of difficult airway management when it can provide ventilation in between intubation attempts.

Research paper thumbnail of Video and Optic Laryngoscopy Assisted Tracheal Intubation – the New Era

Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, 2009

With advances in technology, videoscopy and optic intubation have been gaining popularity, partic... more With advances in technology, videoscopy and optic intubation have been gaining popularity, particularly in patients with difficult airways or as rescue devices in failed intubation attempts. Their routine use is, however, an uncommon occurrence. This review paper will summarise some of those newly developed devices currently available to assist tracheal intubation, their advantages, disadvantages when compared with the conventional laryngoscope and finally, evidence to support their use in both elective and emergency airway management.

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of computer integrated patient controlled epidural analgesia vs. conventional patient controlled epidural analgesia for pain relief in labour

Anaesthesia, 2006

Computer integrated-patient controlled epidural analgesia (CI-PCEA) is a novel drug delivery syst... more Computer integrated-patient controlled epidural analgesia (CI-PCEA) is a novel drug delivery system. It automatically titrates the background infusion rate based on the individual parturient's need. In this randomised trial, we compared the local anaesthetic consumption by parturients using CI-PCEA with demand only patient controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) for labour analgesia. We recruited 40 parturients after approval by the ethics committee. Group PCEA (n = 20) received demand only PCEA. Group CI-PCEA (n = 20) received a similar PCEA regimen but the computer integration titrated the background infusion to 5, 10 or 15 ml.h)1 if the patient required one, two or three demand boluses, respectively, in the previous hour. The background infusion decreased by 5 ml.h)1 if there was no demand bolus in the previous hour. The sample size was calculated to show equivalence in local anaesthetic used. The time weighted consumption of local anaesthetic was similar in both groups (mean difference 0.7 mg.h)1 , 95% confidence interval [CI:)2.5, 1.1]; p = 0.425). The CI-PCEA group had higher maternal satisfaction scores: mean (SD) 93 (7) vs. 86 (11), p = 0.042. CI-PCEA does not increase the use of local anaesthetic when compared with demand only PCEA but does increase patient satisfaction.

Research paper thumbnail of Combined heart-liver transplantation with extended cardiopulmonary bypass

Singapore medical journal, 2011

We report a case of combined heart and liver transplantation for familial amyloid polyneuropathy.... more We report a case of combined heart and liver transplantation for familial amyloid polyneuropathy. This is the first such combined transplant performed in Asia, and differs from previously described cases, in that cardiopulmonary bypass was continued at partial flow during liver transplantation in our case. This was done in order to provide haemodynamic support to the cardiac graft and to protect it from the impending reperfusion insult that frequently accompanies liver transplantation. The utility of this management course is discussed, along with its actual and potential complications. We also describe the impact of a lung-protective ventilation strategy employed during cardiac transplantation.

Research paper thumbnail of Dispelling the myths of epidural pain relief in childbirth

Singapore medical journal, 2006

Research paper thumbnail of Automated regular boluses for epidural analgesia: a comparison with continuous infusion

International Journal of Obstetric Anesthesia, 2005

Intermittent epidural bolus dosing is a method of drug delivery that can prolong the duration of ... more Intermittent epidural bolus dosing is a method of drug delivery that can prolong the duration of labour analgesia induced by a combined spinal epidural (CSE). In this randomized, double-blinded study, we compared the analgesic efficacy of two drug delivery systems: regular intermittent epidural boluses and continuous epidural infusion and assessed the incidence of breakthrough pain after CSE. With the approval of the Hospital Ethics Committee, we recruited 60 parturients into this randomized controlled trial. A CSE was performed with intrathecal fentanyl 25 mug in all patients. The parturients were then randomly allocated into two groups. The infusion group received a continuous epidural infusion of levobupivacaine 0.1% with fentanyl 2 microg/mL at a rate of 10 mL/h. The bolus group received 5-mL epidural boluses every half hour. The sample size was computed to detect a 40% reduction in the rate of breakthrough pain. The bolus group had a lower incidence of breakthrough pain than the infusion group (10% vs. 37%, P &lt; 0.05). The bolus group also had significantly higher satisfaction scores for labour analgesia: 97+/-8 (mean+/-SD) vs. 89+/-7 (P &lt; 0.05). Automated regular bolus delivery of epidural analgesia when compared with continuous infusion decreased the incidence of breakthrough pain and increased maternal satisfaction. In a busy obstetric unit, this may also serve to decrease the anesthetists&#39; workload.

Research paper thumbnail of Maintenance of labour epidural analgesia - automated continual boluses versus continuous infusion

Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, 2004

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of the single use and reusable intubating laryngeal mask airway

Anaesthesia, 2007

We compared the times to intubate the trachea using the single use (Group S) and reusable (Group ... more We compared the times to intubate the trachea using the single use (Group S) and reusable (Group C) intubating laryngeal mask (ILMA TM), in 84 healthy patients with normal airways undergoing elective gynaecological surgery. There was no significant difference in the ease of insertion of the ILMA or the tracheal tube, or time to successful insertion (Group S, 101.4 s (SD 63.2) vs Group C, 90.4 s (SD 46.1), p = 0.366). The ILMA was successfully inserted on first attempt in 63% of Group S patients and in 68% of Group C patients. After one or two attempts the overall success rate for both groups was 93%. There was a failure to insert the ILMA in two patients in each group. There was no difference in side-effects (desaturation S p o 2 < 95%, bleeding, oesophageal intubation, lip, dental or mucosal injury, or sore throat postoperatively). We conclude that the disposable ILMA is an acceptable alternative to the reusable ILMA.

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of the Single-use LMA Supreme with the Reusable ProSeal LMA for Anaesthesia in Gynaecological Laparoscopic Surgery

Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, 2009

The Laryngeal Mask Airway Supreme (LMAS) is a new, single-use laryngeal mask airway with gastric ... more The Laryngeal Mask Airway Supreme (LMAS) is a new, single-use laryngeal mask airway with gastric access. We conducted a randomised controlled study comparing the LMAS with the reusable ProSeal Laryngeal Mask Airway (PLMA) in 70 patients undergoing general anaesthesia with paralysis for gynaecological laparoscopic surgery. Our primary outcome measure was the oropharynegal leak pressure. We also compared the two devices for ease of insertion, adequacy of ventilation and incidence of complications. Both devices had similar rates of successful insertion at the first attempt (LMAS 94% vs PLMA 91%). There was no difference in the time to establish an effective airway (LMAS 25±22 vs PLMA 24±9 seconds), although gastric tube insertion was faster for the LMAS (5±1 vs 7±3 seconds, P <0.001). The mean oropharyngeal leak pressure in the LMAS was significantly lower than in the PLMA (27.9±4.7 vs 31.7±6.3 cmH2O, P=0.007). This was consistent with a lower maximum tidal volume achieved with the ...

Research paper thumbnail of The ProSeal laryngeal mask airway is an effective alternative to laryngoscope-guided tracheal intubation for laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery

European Journal of Anaesthesiology, 2006

revealed sufficient ventilation and oxygenation with either device. Dynamic compliance was signif... more revealed sufficient ventilation and oxygenation with either device. Dynamic compliance was significantly higher when using the LT compared with the LMA. The number of patients in whom blood on the removed device during emergence was significantly higher with LMA than LT (p Ͻ 0.05). Conclusions: We have demonstrated that successful insertion is more likely with the LT than with the LMA. Insertion of the LMA requires more attempts and causes a greater number of complication. Using the LT and LMA resulted in comparable ventilation variables in this model of ASA physical status I and II patients undergoing routine surgical procedures. The newly developed LT may be a simple alternative device to secure the airway. References:

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of the GlideScope® video laryngoscope vs. the intubating laryngeal mask for females with normal airways

European Journal of Anaesthesiology, 2007

In this randomized clinical study, we compared the intubation success rates of the intubating lar... more In this randomized clinical study, we compared the intubation success rates of the intubating laryngeal mask airway with the GlideScope in patients with normal airways. The primary hypothesis was that the intubating laryngeal mask airway was equally effective as the GlideScope in terms of successful intubation times. Sixty ASA I and II adult patients undergoing elective gynaecological surgery were randomly allocated into either the intubating laryngeal mask airway group or the GlideScope group. After a standard anaesthetic intravenous induction, orotracheal intubation was performed. Time taken for successful tracheal intubation, ease of device insertion, difficulty of tracheal intubation, manoeuvres needed to aid tracheal intubation, number of intubation attempts, haemodynamic changes every 2.5 min interval for 5 min and complications during tracheal intubation were recorded. Time to successful intubation was longer (mean 68.4 s +/- 23.5 vs. 35.7 s +/- 10.7; P &lt; 0.05), mean difficulty score was higher (mean 16.7 +/- 16.3 vs. 7.3 +/- 13.1; P &lt; 0.05) and more intubation attempts were required in the intubating laryngeal mask airway group. The GlideScope improved intubation time and difficulty score for tracheal intubation when compared with the intubating laryngeal mask airway in our patients. Blind intubation through the intubating laryngeal mask airway offers no advantages over the GlideScope in patients with normal airways. Despite its limitations, the intubating laryngeal mask airway is a valuable adjunct, especially in cases of difficult airway management when it can provide ventilation in between intubation attempts.

Research paper thumbnail of Video and Optic Laryngoscopy Assisted Tracheal Intubation – the New Era

Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, 2009

With advances in technology, videoscopy and optic intubation have been gaining popularity, partic... more With advances in technology, videoscopy and optic intubation have been gaining popularity, particularly in patients with difficult airways or as rescue devices in failed intubation attempts. Their routine use is, however, an uncommon occurrence. This review paper will summarise some of those newly developed devices currently available to assist tracheal intubation, their advantages, disadvantages when compared with the conventional laryngoscope and finally, evidence to support their use in both elective and emergency airway management.

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of computer integrated patient controlled epidural analgesia vs. conventional patient controlled epidural analgesia for pain relief in labour

Anaesthesia, 2006

Computer integrated-patient controlled epidural analgesia (CI-PCEA) is a novel drug delivery syst... more Computer integrated-patient controlled epidural analgesia (CI-PCEA) is a novel drug delivery system. It automatically titrates the background infusion rate based on the individual parturient's need. In this randomised trial, we compared the local anaesthetic consumption by parturients using CI-PCEA with demand only patient controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) for labour analgesia. We recruited 40 parturients after approval by the ethics committee. Group PCEA (n = 20) received demand only PCEA. Group CI-PCEA (n = 20) received a similar PCEA regimen but the computer integration titrated the background infusion to 5, 10 or 15 ml.h)1 if the patient required one, two or three demand boluses, respectively, in the previous hour. The background infusion decreased by 5 ml.h)1 if there was no demand bolus in the previous hour. The sample size was calculated to show equivalence in local anaesthetic used. The time weighted consumption of local anaesthetic was similar in both groups (mean difference 0.7 mg.h)1 , 95% confidence interval [CI:)2.5, 1.1]; p = 0.425). The CI-PCEA group had higher maternal satisfaction scores: mean (SD) 93 (7) vs. 86 (11), p = 0.042. CI-PCEA does not increase the use of local anaesthetic when compared with demand only PCEA but does increase patient satisfaction.

Research paper thumbnail of Combined heart-liver transplantation with extended cardiopulmonary bypass

Singapore medical journal, 2011

We report a case of combined heart and liver transplantation for familial amyloid polyneuropathy.... more We report a case of combined heart and liver transplantation for familial amyloid polyneuropathy. This is the first such combined transplant performed in Asia, and differs from previously described cases, in that cardiopulmonary bypass was continued at partial flow during liver transplantation in our case. This was done in order to provide haemodynamic support to the cardiac graft and to protect it from the impending reperfusion insult that frequently accompanies liver transplantation. The utility of this management course is discussed, along with its actual and potential complications. We also describe the impact of a lung-protective ventilation strategy employed during cardiac transplantation.