Pre-induction Jerky limb movements on operation table – Is it transient ischemic attack

Transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a diagnostic challenge for all physicians due to the temporariness of symptoms and the absence of any definitive diagnostic test. There is a very high risk of TIA being followed by an ischemic stroke, hence require urgent investigation and preventive strategies. At the same time, it is also important to distinguish TIA from other close differentials, to avoid wrong diagnoses leading to harmful, misdirected medical management. In this report, we will discuss the case of a middle-aged male patient with stable pre-operative vitals who was posted for total parotidectomy and suddenly developed jerky movement of the upper limb and transient aphasia on the operation theater table along with raised blood pressure. This is a very rare presentation of TIA that needs to be differentiated from other close differentials as this form is mostly associated with severe carotid occlusive disease and, hence, carries a high risk of stroke.

Efficacy of Phenylephrine in Preventing Hemodynamic Responses of Oxytocin during Elective Cesarean Section:A Randomized,Double-Blind ,Controlled Trial

This study compared hemodynamic changes and occurrence of complications following oxytocin administration with a prior injection of phenylephrine 100 μg or normal saline during elective cesarean section. Sixty-six healthy term parturients with uncomplicated, singleton pregnancy undergoing elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia were studied. They received either intravenous phenylephrine 100 μg or normal saline before oxytocin 3 IU was administered over 30 seconds. Oxytocin dose was repeated depending on the adequacy of uterine tone. There was no significant change in systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressures during the initial 3 minutes following oxytocin administration in the phenylephrine group but a significant fall in mean and diastolic pressures in the saline group. Heart rate did not change significantly, and no significant complications occurred in either of the groups. To conclude, phenylephrine 100 µg administered before oxytocin injection maintained hemodynamic parameters better than normal saline injection during elective cesarean section