Archives of Anesthesiology and Critical Care

The Effect of Gabapentin on Post-Cesarean Section Pain in Patients Undergoing Spinal Anesthesia

Alireza Sharifian Attar — 2026-01-01

Background: Caesarean section is associated with postoperative pain that results in patient dissatisfaction and necessitates the use of various analgesics. In this study, the effect of gabapentin on post-Caesarean-section pain relief was evaluated.
Methods: A total of 50 parturients undergoing spinal anesthesia for cesarean section were randomly assigned into intervention and control groups in this randomized clinical trial between 2022 and 2023. Patients in the case group received gabapentin 300 mg capsules one hour before surgery, while the control group received an identical placebo. The postoperative pain intensity and need for analgesics, as well as nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness, were evaluated at 0, 6, 12, and 24 hours after surgery.
Results: The mean age of patients in the gabapentin and placebo groups was 26.42±6.15 and 26.5±65.91, respectively (P=0.34). A significant difference was found in postoperative pain intensity and the need for analgesics between the case and control groups at zero (P=0.001 and P=0.003), six (P=0.007 and P=0.002), 12 (P=0.005 and P=0.001), and 24 (P=0.004 and P=0.021) hours after surgery. No significant differences were seen in the rates of nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness between the two groups at the different time points (P>0.05).
Conclusion: According to our findings, prescribing gabapentin 300mg before a cesarean section effectively reduces postoperative pain severity and the need for analgesics. This dose is also safe for the neonate.

Anesthesia Satisfaction and Associated Factors among Patients Admitted to the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit: A Cross-Sectional Analytical Study

Fatemeh Javaherforooshzadeh — 2026-01-01

Background: In perioperative care, patient satisfaction is a key quality indicator; however, very little information exists on anesthetic-specific satisfaction among cardiac surgery ICU patients. Patients admitted to the cardiac surgery intensive care unit (ICU) were evaluated in this study for their level of satisfaction.
Methods: Between 2019 and 2020, this cross-sectional analytical research included 186 consecutive adult patients undergoing open-heart surgery at Golestan Hospital, Ahvaz, Iran. The verified Evaluation du Vécu de l'Anesthésie Générale (EVAN-G) scale (score range: 0-100) measured anesthesia satisfaction 48 hours post-extubation. Multivariable linear regression identified predictors of satisfaction.
Results: The mean satisfaction score was 73.8 ± 14.2. High satisfaction (≥80) was reported by 52.7% (n=98). Significant predictors included: Preoperative anxiety therapy (β=8.6, p=0.003), Effective pain control (VAS<4) (β=12.1, p<0.001), Clinician communication quality (β=9.3, p<0.001) and, Absence of PONV (β=7.2, p=0.011). The regression model accounted for 63% of satisfaction variation (R²=0.63, p<0.001).
Conclusion: Modified variables linked with anesthesia satisfaction in patients in a cardiac ICU are active communication, pain management, and preoperative counseling.

Suppressing Postoperative Inflammation with Intravenous Ketamine as an Adjunct in Epidural Hysterectomy: A Clinical Study of C-Reactive Protein and Neutrophil–Lymphocyte Ratio

Rafly Suwandhi Wahid — 2026-01-01

Background: Hysterectomy often triggers a systemic inflammatory response, increasing biomarkers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), which can delay recovery and raise complication risks. Ketamine, a common anesthetic, possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may modulate this postoperative response. This study aimed to further examine the effects of ketamine on CRP and NLR levels in patients undergoing hysterectomy.
Methods: This double-blind randomized clinical trial included 28 adult female patients (ASA I–II) undergoing elective abdominal hysterectomy under epidural anesthesia. Patients were randomized to receive either 0.5 mg/kg intravenous ketamine (intervention group) or no ketamine (control group). Serum CRP and NLR were measured preoperatively and at 8 and 24 hours postoperatively. The visual analog scale was used to evaluate pain level, data were processed with the appropriate statistical test, and a p-value < 0.05 is considered significant.
Results: Our study discovers that intravenous ketamine reduced postoperative inflammatory markers significantly. Postoperative measurements at 8 and 24 ours proved that the ketamine group had lower CRP and NLR levels significantly (p<0.05). Patients receiving ketamine showed a non-significant reduction in VAS pain scores compared with controls. No participant in either group needed additional opioids for pain control.
Conclusion: Intravenous ketamine decreased postoperative inflammatory response significantly in hysterectomy patients receiving epidural anesthesia, as proved by lower CRP and NLR. Ketamine seemed to improve patient comfort by lowering pain intensity. Combining epidural anesthesia with ketamine may be a viable strategy to suppress inflammation and enhance recovery after hysterectomy.

Safety of Hypertonic Saline and Mannitol with HES in Supratentorial Brain Tumor Surgeries: A Comparative Study on Coagulation Parameters

Sohrab Salimi — 2026-01-01

Background: Managing intracranial pressure and brain swelling during supratentorial brain tumor surgery often involves hyperosmolar solutions like hypertonic saline and mannitol. However, using these solutions alongside hydroxyethyl starch (HES) could potentially affect blood clotting. This study aimed to compare the impact of hypertonic saline and mannitol, when combined with HES, on blood coagulation in patients undergoing these surgeries.

Materials and Methods: This clinical trial compared 20% mannitol and 3% hypertonic saline in patients undergoing brain tumor surgery. Patients were divided into two groups, each receiving one of these osmotic agents along with hydroxyethyl starch. The study focused on assessing any blood clotting abnormalities.

Results: The study included 30 patients (15 in each group). Their initial characteristics were similar. The study found no significant differences in blood coagulation tests between the groups. Additionally, osmolality levels and measures of brain tension were comparable in both groups. There were also no significant differences in intraoperative hemodynamic parameters.

Conclusion: Both hypertonic saline and mannitol, when used with HES, effectively manage intracranial pressure without significantly affecting blood clotting during supratentorial tumor surgeries. Further research is needed to refine fluid management strategies and minimize potential clotting risks in these procedures.

Comparison Effects of Chlorhexidine 0.12%, Povidone Iodine 1%, and Fluoride-Based Toothpaste as Oral Hygiene Agents on the Growth of Tracheal Bacterial Colonization and Antibiotic Resistance in Mechanical Ventilation Patients

Muhammad Fajrin Sulaeman — 2026-01-01

Background: Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP) is a common complication in mechanically ventilated ICU patients and is associated with bacterial colonization in the oral cavity. Poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of bacterial aspiration into the lower airway. Various oral hygiene agents such as chlorhexidine, povidone iodine 1%, and fluoride toothpaste are used to prevent this colonization, but their effectiveness is still variable. This study aimed to compare these three agents on tracheal microorganism growth and antibiotic resistance profile in mechanically ventilated patients.
Methods: This single-blind randomized clinical trial included 45 ICU patients on mechanical ventilation at Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo Hospital, Makassar. Subjects were allocated into three groups to receive oral hygiene using chlorhexidine 0.12%, povidone iodine 1%, or fluoride toothpaste twice daily for five days. Tracheal aspirates were collected at baseline (before intervention), Day 3, and Day 5 to assess microbial colony counts and antibiotic susceptibility profiles.
Results: The chlorhexidine group showed the most significant reduction in tracheal microorganism colony counts from 1833.33 566.5 to 1226.7 461.7 CFU/mL on day 5 (p < 0.001), compared to povidone iodine and fluoride. The highest antibiotic resistance was found in Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The chlorhexidine group also had the lowest number of multiresistant isolates.
Conclusion: Among the evaluated oral hygiene agents, chlorhexidine 0.12% was the most effective in reducing tracheal microbial colonization and showed a lower tendency for antibiotic resistance development. It is recommended as a superior oral care agent for preventing VAP in mechanically ventilated ICU patients.

Single Shot Pectoral Plane Block Type 2 (PECS II) Versus Serratus Anterior Plane Block for Postoperative Analgesia Following Modified Radical Mastectomy for Postoperative Acute and Long-Term Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Aparna Bagle — 2026-01-01

Background: Effective management of postoperative pain in breast cancer surgery is crucial to enhance recovery and quality of life. Regional anesthesia techniques such as Pecs II and Serratus Anterior Plane Block (SAPB) have emerged as alternatives to systemic opioids. To compare the efficacy of single-shot Pecs II block and SAPB in terms of acute and long-term (up-to 2 months) postoperative analgesia following modified radical mastectomy.
Methods: A single-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted on 46 ASA I-II female patients undergoing MRM, assigned to either Pecs II block (Group P) or SAPB (Group S), each with 30 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine. Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) scores at rest and during movement were recorded perioperatively and during 60-day follow-up. Secondary outcomes included time to first rescue analgesia, number of rescue analgesics in 48 hours, and adverse effects.
Results: Both blocks provided comparable acute pain relief in the first 48 hours (p>0.05). Group P showed significantly lower NRS scores at 15, 30, and 60 days at rest and on movement (p<0.05), indicating better long-term analgesia. There was no significant difference in rescue analgesic requirements or adverse effects.
Conclusion: Both Pecs II and SAPB offer effective acute postoperative pain control following MRM, while Pecs II provides superior long-term analgesia.

A Comparative Analysis of Opioid-Based Anesthesia (OBA) and Opioid-Free Anesthesia (OFA) in Modified Radical Mastectomy: Effect on Hemodynamics Changes Intraoperative, Inflammatory Cytokine (IL-6) Levels, Pain Degree, and Postoperative Opioid Requirements

Achmad Yusuf Toba — 2026-01-01

Background: Acute postoperative pain following modified radical mastectomy (MRM) remains a significant clinical problem, affecting patients’ quality of life. Opioid-based anesthesia (OBA), while effective for analgesia, is associated with adverse effects, including increased interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels, and the higher the IL-6 levels, the higher the likelihood of breast cancer recurrence. Opioid-free anesthesia (OFA) has emerged as a potential alternative to mitigate these effects. This study aimed to compare the impact of OBA and OFA on intraoperative hemodynamic stability, IL-6 levels, postoperative pain degree, and total postoperative opioid requirements.
Methods: This was a single-blind randomized clinical trial involving 30 patients undergoing MRM, allocated into two groups: Group I received OBA, and Group II received OFA. Parameters assessed included intraoperative hemodynamic changes, serum IL-6 levels, postoperative pain degree, and total postoperative opioid requirements.
Results: The OFA group had significantly lower IL-6 levels at 24 hours post-surgery. The OFA group also demonstrated more stable intraoperative hemodynamics, significantly lower postoperative pain degree, and reduced postoperative opioid (fentanyl) requirements compared to the OBA group.
Conclusion: OFA is better than OBA in modified radical mastectomy surgery. OFA significantly reduced IL-6 levels as a marker of inflammation, resulted in lower recurrence of breast cancer, reduced the degree of postoperative pain, maintained hemodynamic stability during the procedure, and reduced postoperative opioid requirements. These findings suggest that OFA is a more effective and safe anesthetic option in controlling pain and surgical stress response.

Early and Serial Assessment of N-Terminal Pro B-Type Natriuretic Peptide and Inferior Vena Cava Diameter for Mortality Prediction in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure

Ahmed Rostom Abdelmoniem — 2026-01-01

Background: Accurate assessment of volume status in cases with acutely decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is crucial for prognostication and management. While brain natriuretic peptide (pro-BNP) and echocardiographic inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter are commonly used surrogate markers, their combined prognostic value has not been thoroughly established.
Methods: This prospective cohort study included 100 adults with ADHF and reduced ejection fraction (EF <40%). Pro-BNP levels and IVC diameter were assessed on admission and after 72 hours. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality; secondary outcomes included complications and 30-day cardiovascular mortality. Repeated measures ANOVA, ROC analysis, and correlation testing were performed to evaluate predictive value.
Results: In-hospital mortality occurred in 21% of cases. Pro-BNP levels were significantly higher in non-survivors both on admission (median: 11,542 pg/mL vs. 6,350 pg/mL, p<0.001) and after 72 hours (3,695 pg/mL vs. 3,029 pg/mL, p<0.001). Similarly, IVC diameter was significantly greater in the mortality group at both time points (2.85 cm vs. 2.2 cm on admission, p<0.001; 2.15 cm vs. 1.9 cm after 72 hours, p=0.004). ROC analysis revealed strong predictive power for in-hospital mortality with admission Pro-BNP >8,856 pg/mL (AUC=0.89) and IVC diameter >2.55 cm (AUC=0.81). A combined model incorporating both parameters at admission yielded the highest diagnostic accuracy (AUC=0.89; NPV=95.4%).
Conclusion: Pro-BNP and IVC diameter are independent yet complementary predictors of in-hospital mortality in ADHF. Combined early assessment significantly enhances risk stratification and may guide intensive monitoring and therapeutic strategies.

Ultrasound-Based Clinical Profiles for Predicting the Risk of Intradialytic Hypotension in Critically Ill Patients on Intermittent Dialysis

Mohamed Hosny Abdalla — 2026-02-02

Background: Intradialytic hypotension (IDH) is a common and serious complication of intermittent hemodialysis (IHD) in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury (AKI). Accurate pre-dialysis risk stratification remains a challenge, particularly in the ICU. This study aims to determine whether ultrasound-based cardiopulmonary profiles could predict IDH in this high-risk population.
Methods: This prospective cohort study included 100 critically ill adults undergoing IHD for AKI. All patients underwent pre-dialysis echocardiography and lung/inferior vena cava (IVC) ultrasound to assess stroke volume, cardiac output, B-lines, and IVC collapsibility index (IVC-CI). Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of IDH.
Results: IDH occurred in 35% of patients. Significant predictors of IDH included lower systolic blood pressure (124.86 ±16.02 vs. 139.92 ±22.8 mmHg, P < 0.001), higher IVC-CI [51% (13–58) vs. 27.38% (13–60), P < 0.001], sepsis (88.6% vs. 70.8%, P = 0.044), and elevated potassium (5.17 ±1.34 vs. 4.62 ±0.87 mmol/L, P = 0.015). Multivariate analysis identified IVC-CI (OR = 1.097, P < 0.001) and SBP (OR = 0.942, P = 0.001) as independent predictors. IVC-CI >49.5% predicted IDH with 68.6% sensitivity and 87.7% specificity (AUC = 0.757, 95% CI: 0.652–0.862).
Conclusion: Ultrasound-derived IVC-CI is a valuable, noninvasive tool for predicting IDH in critically ill patients receiving IHD. Incorporating sonographic profiles into routine pre-dialysis evaluation may enhance risk stratification and improve dialysis safety.

Prophylactic Use of Fibrinogen Concentrate on Postoperative Blood Fibrinogen Levels, Amount of Bleeding, and the Need for Blood Transfusion in Normofibrinogenemic Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery

Khadijeh Ghavibonyeh — 2026-01-01

Background: Different studies investigated strategies to prevent perioperative bleeding in cardiac surgeries. The use of fibrinogen concentrate is one of these efforts. In this study, we will investigate the efficacy and proper dosage of fibrinogen concentrate as a prophylactic adjuvant for reducing postoperative bleeding in patients with normal blood fibrinogen under coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery.
Methods: Patients with preoperative normal plasma fibrinogen levels were randomly divided into two groups (15 patients in each). At the final stage of cardiac surgery and after reversal of heparin, the first group received 2gr of fibrinogen IV concentrate in 15 minutes, while the other group received the same volume of placebo. In each patient, postoperative haematocrit percentage, intraoperative and postoperative administered blood products, and postoperative drainage amount were collected.
Results: Although in the study group, the postoperative amount of plasma fibrinogen increased compared to preoperative and decreased in the control group, but this change was not statistically significant. Also there wasn’t any significant difference in terms of blood drainage and blood product consumption.
Conclusion: We did not find evidence of a significant difference in the change of fibrinogen blood level before and after the operation, the amount of drainage, and the consumption of blood products in the fibrinogen and placebo groups.

Intravenous Ibuprofen Versus Diclofenac Suppository for Perioperative Pain Control in Pediatric Tonsillectomy with or without Adenoidectomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Kareem Nagy Abbass — 2026-02-09

Background: This study aimed to compare the combination of intravenous ibuprofen and intravenous paracetamol versus combined diclofenac suppository and intravenous paracetamol for pain control after tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy in children.
Methods: This is a randomized controlled study involving 90 children aged between 1 and 7 years, classified as ASA I or II, scheduled to undergo tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy between February 2023 and February 2024 at Cairo University Hospitals.
Results: There was a statistically significant difference regarding FLACC score between the two groups (p=0.006) at 10 min after arrival to PACU, while it was not significantly different between the two groups on arrival or discharge from PACU (p=0.054 and 0.208, respectively). There was no statistically significant difference in PPPM between the two groups at 4, 12, and 24 hours postoperative (p=0.718, 0.470, and 0.738, respectively). Regarding the number of patients who received rescue analgesia (pethidine), they were fewer in group A (p=0.031), and the mean dose of pethidine received/kg as rescue analgesia was also significantly lower in group A (p=0.0316). The incidence of postoperative adverse events, i.e., nausea, vomiting, hypotension (low SBP = <70 + 2 (age in years)), bradycardia (less than 60 beats/min), drug allergic reaction, and postoperative bleeding requiring return to the operative room, was zero in the two groups.
Conclusion: The combination of intravenous ibuprofen and intravenous paracetamol was a more effective analgesic regimen than the combined rectal diclofenac and intravenous paracetamol in pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy without increased complications.

Structured Intraoperative Patient Handover among Anesthesia Providers and Its Role in Patient Safety and Team Communication: A Systematic Review

Mohammad Mehdi Azizi Darbandi — 2026-02-23

Background: Intraoperative handovers, the transfer of patient care between anesthesia providers, are common in the operating room and represent a critical juncture for communication failures. Ineffective handovers are associated with the loss of essential clinical information and an increased risk of adverse postoperative outcomes. This systematic review aimed to synthesize the existing evidence regarding the impact of structured intraoperative handovers on patient safety, communication quality, and continuity of care.
Methods: This systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. The study evaluated 17 published research studies (2000–2025) investigating structured intraoperative anesthesia handovers, including the utilization of checklists, SBAR (Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation), I-PASS, and cognitive aids. Data extraction focused on patient safety outcomes, communication quality, and the continuity of care.
Results: The findings demonstrate that non-standardized handovers commonly result in information loss and variability in clinical practice, thereby potentially compromising patient safety. In contrast, the use of standardized handover tools reliably promotes information transmission, bolsters team collaboration, and minimizes variability in patient-transfer procedures. Moreover, available data suggest that implementing structured intraoperative handovers is associated with reductions in postoperative morbidity, although study findings are heterogeneous.
Conclusion: Structured intraoperative handovers are a viable and economical technique to improve communication and patient safety under anesthesia. Standardization and targeted education may further optimize the outcomes. Future research should identify the optimal handover components, evaluate their long-term clinical impact, and guide the development of international implementation strategies.

Perioperative Anesthesia Management in a Patient with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A Case Report of Scleral Buckling Surgery

Hadis Daneshvar — 2026-01-01

This case report describes the anesthetic management of a 27-year-old man with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) who underwent scleral buckling surgery for retinal detachment. The patient who had joint hypermobility and mild mitral valve prolapse required careful anesthetic management. The surgery, which was performed under general anesthesia with a laryngeal mask airway and EDS-tailored monitoring, was uneventfully accomplished in 85 minutes. The patient was discharged the next day, recovering well, emphasizing the importance of careful preoperative evaluation, correct positioning, and multidisciplinary care for patients with hEDS undergoing complex ophthalmic surgery.

Prolonged Cerebral Salt Wasting Syndrome after Craniotomy Due to Subdural Hematoma and Intracranial Hemorrhage: A Case Report and Literature Review

Parviz Amri — 2026-01-01

Cerebral salt wasting syndrome (CSWS) is a cause of hyponatremia in patients with brain injury, but it often improves in a short time. In this article, a patient with prolonged CSWS after craniotomy for subdural hematoma (SDH) and intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is presented. A 73-year-old woman was transferred to the ICU due to a decreased level of consciousness (GCS= 9) with a diagnosis of SDH and ICH. The patient had a history of atrial fibrillation. The pupils were mid-sized and reactive. BP= 130/90 mm/Hg, HR=80/min, T=37.3, and initial tests were HB=12.7 gr/dl, Bun=12, Cr=0.7, Na=138 Meq/lit, K=4meq/lit, Ptt=25 Sec, INR=1.1, ESR=10. The patient was intubated 48 hours later due to a decreased level of consciousness and underwent craniotomy and hematoma drainage. From the 4th day after the operation, the patient developed hyponatremia and polyuria, but despite the administration of hypertonic sodium and normal saline, the hyponatremia persisted. On the 8th day after the operation, fludrocortisone was started, one tablet twice a day, and the patient showed a partial response to the treatment after one week, but the hyponatremia was corrected after 2 weeks. CSWS is more common and prolonged in severe and multiple brain injuries, and in these cases, the administration of fludrocortisone in addition to normal sodium and hypertonic sodium is helpful.

Medical Nutrition Therapy in Critically Ill Patients with Metabolic Encephalopathy, Diabetes Mellitus, Cerebral Infarction, and Status Epilepticus Complicated by Severe Protein-Energy Malnutrition: Case Report

Asrini Safitri — 2026-01-01

Glucose homeostasis disturbance is a common complication among patients in intensive care units (ICUs), frequently resulting in stress-induced dysglycemia. Individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM) are particularly susceptible to hyperglycemia and face a higher risk of severe hypoglycemia due to overtreatment. Particularly for patients on insulin or glucose-lowering drugs, it is crucial to maintain regular meal patterns in terms of timing, food type, and quantity. The 63-year-old female patient in this case study was referred from the neurology department after experiencing diminished awareness and going two days without eating. She had experienced multiple seizures lasting more than five minutes and presented with a nasogastric tube (NGT) insertion showing 150 mL of greenish gastric residual. The patient reported reduced intake over the past week due to nausea and headaches, occasional vomiting, intermittent fever, and a weight loss of 2.2 kg (4.8%) within one week. Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) was initiated to ensure adequate nutrient intake through enteral and parenteral routes, followed by a gradual transition to oral feeding. This approach aimed to improve the patient’s nutritional and metabolic status through personalized and adequate nutritional care. The patient's clinical condition was managed concurrently, with continuous monitoring of intake, anthropometry, and laboratory parameters to evaluate the intervention’s effectiveness. This case highlights that proper medical nutrition therapy for critically ill patients with metabolic encephalopathy, diabetes mellitus, cerebral infarction, and status epilepticus complicated by severe protein-energy malnutrition can lead to significant improvements in clinical outcomes.

Anesthetic Management of 50-Year-Old Male Patient with Pan-Facial Trauma: Challenges and Considerations

Bhavini Shah — 2026-01-01

Pan facial trauma, involving multiple fractures of the facial bones, presents significant challenges in anaesthetic management. These injuries often result from high-impact accidents and can lead to airway compromise, making intubation and ventilation difficult. The anaesthesiologist must navigate potential obstacles such as facial distortion, bleeding, and limited mouth opening, all while maintaining cervical spine precautions. The management of these cases requires a thorough preoperative assessment, careful planning, and often necessitates advanced airway techniques. This case report describes the anaesthetic management of a 50-year-old male patient with pan facial trauma scheduled for reconstructive surgery. It highlights the use of CMAC video laryngoscopy intubation as a safe and effective technique in securing the airway in a patient with anticipated difficult intubation. The report also discusses the rationale behind the anaesthetic choices made and the perioperative challenges encountered. By sharing this experience, we aim to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on managing complex airway scenarios in trauma patients and emphasize the importance of individualized anaesthetic planning in such cases.

Precision Fluid Management in a Severe DKA Patient with Complicated Acute Pancreatitis: Reducing Mortality and Length of ICU Stay

Mahmoud Sami Mohammed — 2026-01-01

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) may become life-threatening when accompanied by acute pancreatitis, sepsis, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), resulting in a cascade of inflammation and multi-organ dysfunction. We describe a 70-year-old male with severe DKA complicated by septic shock, ARDS, and multi-organ failure, who required individualized, precision-based fluid therapy. Aggressive but closely titrated resuscitation, guided by dynamic clinical markers, together with early initiation of Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT), achieved stabilization. This case highlights the value of adaptive fluid management and timely CRRT in critically ill patients with complex DKA.

Resuscitation to Reperfusion: Full Neurological Recovery in a STEMI Patient Undergoing Extended CPR and Rescue PCI at Madinat Zayed Hospital

Mahmoud Sami Mohammed — 2026-01-01

Acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) complicated by cardiac arrest presents a major clinical challenge, especially in resource-limited settings without immediate access to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We report a 37-year-old man with anterior STEMI who suffered prolonged ventricular fibrillation cardiac arrest. After 20 minutes of high-quality CPR and failed thrombolysis at a rural hospital, he was urgently transferred 250 km to a PCI-capable center. Emergent coronary angiography revealed complete proximal left anterior descending artery occlusion, treated successfully with thrombus aspiration and stenting. Comprehensive intensive care, including early antibiotics for aspiration pneumonia, meticulous hemodynamic management, and multidisciplinary rehabilitation, resulted in full neurological recovery. The patient was discharged hemodynamically stable with improving left ventricular function and remained asymptomatic at two-week follow-up. This case underscores the importance of organized regional care networks, adherence to advanced cardiac life support protocols, timely recognition of thrombolysis failure, and prompt transfer for PCI in achieving favorable outcomes in STEMI patients with cardiac arrest. Systems enabling rapid interhospital coordination can significantly improve survival and neurological outcomes, even in geographically isolated settings.

ICU Nurses: The Missing Link in Antimicrobial Stewardship in Critical Care

Anahita Babaei — 2026-01-01

Protocolizing Ourselves Out of Practice: Reflections on AI in Anesthesiology

Mounika Yerramshetty — 2026-01-01