Ultrasound-guided internal jugular venous cannulation: an introduction for non-radiologists to a technique that is here to stay

The availability of relatively low-cost, portable ultrasound units has increased interest among non-radiologists in performing image-guided central venous cannulation, especially in high-risk patients. The essential elements of this relatively simple method of increasing the success and safety of internal jugular cannulation are presented.

Fatal cardiac perforation caused by the dilator of a central venous catheterization kit

We report a case of cardiac perforation and tamponade caused by the dilator of a central venous catheterization kit. Standards for dilator manufacture and guidelines for safe use of these instruments are suggested.

Elective transtracheal jet ventilation for bronchoscopic removal of tracheal foreign body

We have shown that transtracheal jet ventilation can be used safely and effectively when removing a foreign body from the airway. In some cases, it may be wise to choose this method of ventilation initially, thus avoiding the difficulties associated with more conventional modes of controlled ventilation. This is especially true when the potential for loss of the airway during the procedure is significant. This technique also allows the bronchoscopist the benefit of unimpeded access to the airway and adequate uninterrupted time for his operative procedure.

Chronic neuralgia incidence following local anesthetic therapy for herpes zoster

We treated 72 patients, referred to a pain clinic for acute herpes zoster neuralgia, with local anesthetics administered by nerve block and infiltration. Only those patients with severe pain initially proved to be at risk for the development of chronic postherpetic neuralgia (defined as pain in the involved dermatomes lasting at least six months). Although local anesthetic injections effectively relieved the acute pain of active herpes zoster, they did not prevent the development of chronic postherpetic neuralgia.