Mechanisms of complex regional pain syndrome.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain disorder characterized by a diverse array of symptoms, including pain that is disproportionate to the initial triggering event, accompanied by autonomic, sensory, motor, and sudomotor disturbances. The primary pathology of both types of CRPS (Type I, also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy, RSD; Type II, also known as causalgia) is featured by allodynia, edema, changes in skin color and temperature, and dystrophy, predominantly affecting extremities. Recent studies started to unravel the complex pathogenic mechanisms of CRPS, particularly from an autoimmune and neuroimmune interaction perspective. CRPS is now recognized as a systemic disease that stems from a complex interplay of inflammatory, immunologic, neurogenic, genetic, and psychologic factors. The relative contributions of these factors may vary among patients and even within a single patient over time. Key mechanisms underlying clinical manifestations include peripheral and central sensitization, sympathetic dysregulation, and alterations in somatosensory processing. Enhanced understanding of the mechanisms of CRPS is crucial for the development of effective therapeutic interventions. While our mechanistic understanding of CRPS remains incomplete, this article updates recent research advancements and sheds light on the etiology, pathogenesis, and molecular underpinnings of CRPS.

Effect of chamomile intake on blood coagulation tests in healthy volunteers: a randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover trial.

BACKGROUND: Chamomile is consumed worldwide for enjoyment and its potentially desirable properties. Widespread patient resource websites, however, discourage preoperative chamomile intake, lest bleeding could worsen. This precaution, though, stems largely from indirect evidence in one case report. To evaluate if chamomile ingestion impacts coagulation assays via coumarin-like substances, we designed a randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Healthy volunteers were randomized to three interventions in a cross-over-design spanning 5 weeks per subject. Interventions included 7-day consumption of chamomile tea (3 tea bags × 3 times daily = 9 tea bags daily), a chamomile extract capsule (3 times daily), or a placebo capsule (3 times daily). A 7-day washout period elapsed between intervention periods. The primary outcome was the change in prothrombin time (PT) before vs. after each intervention. Secondary outcomes included changes in the international normalized ratio (INR), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), thrombin time (TT), reptilase time (RT), and fibrinogen (FG) surrounding each intervention. RESULTS: All 12 enrolled subjects were randomized and completed the study. The primary outcome of PT change (mean ± SD) was similar across interventions (chamomile tea = - 0.2 ± 0.4 s, extract capsule = - 0.2 ± 0.4 s, and placebo capsule = 0.1 ± 0.5 s; p = 0.34). INR change was 0 s (p = 0.07) for each intervention. The aPTT, TT, RT, and FG, did not change significantly across interventions (p = 0.8, p = 0.08, p = 0.8, and p = 0.2 respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Chamomile intake by tea or capsule does not prolong PT. These findings challenge the notion to avoid perioperative chamomile intake in patients not taking warfarin. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05006378; Principal Investigator: Jonathon Schwartz, M.D.; Registered August 16, 2021.

Labor Analgesia in Brugada Syndrome and the Importance of Contingency Planning.

Brugada syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder that affects cardiac sodium channels and predisposes patients to an increased risk of sudden cardiac death. Obstetric anesthesia management in patients with Brugada syndrome poses a challenge due to the prevalence of local anesthetic use for labor analgesia or cesarean section. However, central neuraxial techniques and local anesthetics have been used safely in parturients with this syndrome and may be offered to patients during preadmission counseling. We present the case of a primigravida who opted for further labor analgesia via a combined spinal-epidural technique. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of a lidocaine infusion administered via an epidural catheter to a laboring parturient with Brugada syndrome. We further discuss the use of local anesthetics, other medications, and central neuraxial techniques in those with Brugada syndrome to assist anesthesiologists caring for expectant mothers.

Postoperative pain: a review of emerging therapeutic options.

INTRODUCTION: Postoperative pain is often managed by opioid medications, even though they carry a risk of adverse effects such as vomiting, constipation, sedation, respiratory depression and physical dependence. Furthermore, opioid use in the healthcare setting has likely contributed to the epidemic. However, the mismanagement of postoperative pain can result in delayed recovery time, impaired physical function, increased risk of morbidity and mortality, chronic pain, and higher healthcare costs. AREAS COVERED: This review explores emerging therapeutic options and strategies in the management of acute postoperative pain and focuses on opioid-sparing, multimodal analgesia. This includes regional anesthetic techniques, non opioid pharmacotherapy, novel opioids and non-pharmacologic therapy. We have also discussed examples of novel analgesics and formulations which have potential benefits in reducing postoperative pain and opioid use after surgery. EXPERT OPINION: The development of novel regional anesthesia techniques allows for opioid minimization in increasing number of surgical procedures. This synergizes with the availability of novel non-opioid analgesic adjucts. In addition, several novel opioid drugs have been developed which may be pathway selective and associated with less adverse effect than conventional opioids.