Stability and compatibility of an intramuscular fetal anesthetic cocktail for fetal intervention.

INTRODUCTION: To evaluate chemical stability and physical compatibility when combining fentanyl, rocuronium, and atropine in a fixed ratio to support intramuscular drug delivery during fetal intervention and surgery. METHODS: A highly concentrated combination of fentanyl, rocuronium, and atropine was created based on common prescribing practices at a maternal fetal care center. Chemical stability testing was completed using liquid chromatograph mass spectrometry-mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) to detect and quantitate atropine, rocuronium, and fentanyl, with fentanyl-d5 being an internal standard at 6-, 12, 24-, and 36-hours following sample preparation. Physical compatibility testing was completed using United State Pharmacopeia (USP)<788> recommended analytical technique of light obscuration (LO) in addition to novel backgrounded membrane imaging (BMI) at 6- and 24-hours following sample preparation. Physical compatibility was determined using USP<788> particle count limits for both techniques. RESULTS: Based on LC/MS-MS results, the samples retained expected medication concentrations at all time points tested. For physical compatibility testing, the particle counts met criteria to be considered compatible per USP<788> large volume particle count thresholds at 6 hours by both methods but exceeded tolerable thresholds at 24 hours. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: The combination of rocuronium, fentanyl, and atropine for intramuscular fetal administration are physically compatible and chemically stable for 6 hours.

Detection of Postpartum Hemorrhage Using Compensatory Reserve Index in Patients Undergoing Cesarean Delivery.

BACKGROUND: Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of maternal death worldwide. Early recognition and management are imperative for improved outcomes. The compensatory reserve index (CRI) is a novel physiological parameter that trends changes in intravascular volume, by continuously comparing extracted photoplethysmogram waveforms to a reference model that was derived from a human model of acute blood loss. This study sought to determine whether the CRI pattern was differential between those who do and do not experience PPH during cesarean delivery and compare these results to the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) standards for noninvasive monitoring. METHODS: Parturients undergoing cesarean delivery were enrolled between February 2020 and May 2021. A noninvasive CRI monitor was applied to collect continuous CRI values throughout the intraoperative and immediate postpartum periods. Patients were stratified based on blood loss into PPH versus non-PPH groups. PPH was defined as a quantitative blood loss >1000 mL. Function-on-scalar (FoS) regression was used to compare trends in CRI between groups (PPH versus non-PPH) during the 10 to 60-minute window after delivery. Two subanalyses excluding patients who received general anesthesia and preeclamptics were performed. RESULTS: Fifty-one patients were enrolled in the study. Thirteen (25.5%) patients experienced PPH. Pregnant patients who experienced PPH had, on average, lower postdelivery CRI values (-0.13; 95% CI, -0.13 to -0.12; P < .001) than those who did not experience PPH. This persisted even when adjusting for preeclampsia and administration of uterotonics. The average mean arterial pressure (MAP) measurements were not statistically significant (-1.67; 95% CI, -3.57 to 0.22; P = .09). Similar trends were seen when excluding patients who underwent general anesthesia. When excluding preeclamptics, CRI values remained lower in those who hemorrhaged (-0.18; 95% CI, -0.19 to -0.17; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: CRI detects changes in central volume status not distinguished by MAP. It has the potential to serve as a continuous, informative metric, notifying providers of acute changes in central volume status due to PPH during cesarean delivery.

Evolution of postoperative care: marked reduction of opioid consumption when ERAC pathway added to wound soaker therapy for cesarean delivery.

OBJECTIVE: Achieving functional recovery after cesarean delivery is critical to a parturient's ability to care for herself and her newborn. Adequate pain control is vital, and without it, many other aspects of the recovery process may be delayed. Reducing opioid consumption without compromising analgesia is of paramount importance, and enhanced recovery pathways have generated considerable interest given their ability to facilitate this. Our group's process for reducing opioid consumption for cesarean delivery patients evolved over time. We first demonstrated that providing additional incisional pain control with continuous bupivacaine infusions through wound catheters, with the concurrent use of neuraxial morphine, reduced postoperative opioid use. Iterations of an enhanced recovery after cesarean (ERAC) delivery pathway were then implemented after the Society for Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology's consensus statement for ERAC was issued to eliminate variability in both hospital course and in the treatment of postoperative pain. In this retrospective cohort analysis, we sought to identify whether adding ERAC protocols to our existing combination of neuraxial morphine and wound soaker catheters further reduced opioid consumption after cesarean delivery. METHODS: A retrospective cohort analysis of cesarean deliveries from 2015 through 2020 was performed. Deliveries were divided by analgesic pathway into four time-periods - time-point 1 [January 2015-April 2016, previous standard of care (control, N = 61)]: neuraxial morphine in addition to as needed opioid and non-opioid analgesics; time-point 2 [May 2016-May 2019, introduction of wound soaker (wound-soaker, N = 40)]: continuous wound catheter infusions of local anesthetic, neuraxial morphine in addition to as needed opioid and non-opioid analgesics; time-point 3 [May 2019-December 2019, wound soaker + early ERAC pathway (early ERAC, N = 78)]: continuous wound catheter infusion of local anesthetic, neuraxial morphine, in addition to scheduled non-opioid analgesics (acetaminophen and ibuprofen) every 6 h, alternating in relation to one another so that one is given every 3 h; time-point 4 [January 2020-July 2020, wound soaker + late ERAC pathway (late ERAC, N = 57)]: continuous wound catheter infusion of local anesthetic, neuraxial morphine in addition to non-opioid analgesics scheduled together every 6 h (to facilitate periods of uninterrupted rest). Cumulative and average daily opioid use for postoperative days (POD) 1-4 were analyzed using ANOVA and a mixed effect model, respectively. RESULTS: Average daily opioid consumption and total cumulative opioid consumption POD 1-4 (morphine milligram equivalents) for both early and late ERAC groups (23.9 ± 31.1 and 29.4 ± 35.1) were significantly reduced compared to control and wound soaker groups (185.1 ± 93.7 and 134.8 ± 77.1) (p < .001). CONCLUSION: The addition of ERAC protocols to our standardized multimodal analgesic regimen (local anesthetic wound infusion catheters and neuraxial morphine) for cesarean delivery significantly reduced postoperative opioid consumption.

Avoiding the Use of Halogenated Anesthetic Agents for Uterine Relaxation in Open Mid-Gestation Fetal Surgery: A Case Report.

INTRODUCTION: Profound uterine relaxation is required for open fetal surgery. This is typically achieved by the administration of high-dose halogenated anesthetic agents. However, this anesthetic technique is associated with adverse cardiovascular effects in the fetus and may have long-term neurocognitive effects as well. CASE PRESENTATION: We pre-sent reports for 2 patients in whom uterine relaxation was maintained with nitroglycerin and magnesium infusions without any exposure to halogenated anesthetic agents. There were no adverse fetal or maternal effects from this technique. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: To the best of our knowledge, these are the first reports of open fetal surgery being performed without the use of halogenated anesthetic agents. This has potential short- and long-term benefits for the fetus, particularly as more complex and longer duration minimally invasive procedures are developed.

Multicenter Study Evaluating Nitrous Oxide Use for Labor Analgesia at High- and Low-Altitude Institutions.

BACKGROUND: Nitrous oxide (N2O) has been used nationally as an analgesic in many clinical settings. While neuraxial analgesia is still the most commonly used labor analgesic in the United States, there is increasing use of N2O in labor. Given the reduction in the partial pressure of gases at a higher altitude, N2O has been reported to have reduced analgesic properties. However, there is no study to date evaluating the impact of altitude on labor analgesia and N2O. METHODS: We conducted a multicenter retrospective data analysis of a N2O registry collected from 4 institutions over a 3-year period. We compared the impact of altitude on 50% N2O administration for labor analgesia, conversion rates to another analgesic modality, as well as collected side effect frequencies and conversion predictors. Multivariable regression models were used to compare clinical characteristics and outcomes between parturients at high and low altitudes, while adjusting for race, ethnicity, education, and age (logistic and linear regressions for categorical and quantitative outcomes, respectively). RESULTS: A total of 1856 laboring parturients (age 18-50) were included in the analysis. The odds of converting from 50% N2O to another analgesic modality had no statistically significant difference between high- versus low-altitude institutions (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.13; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.90-1.42; P = .3). Yet, when parturients at low altitude converted from N2O, they were more likely (aOR, 3.03; 95% CI, 1.59-5.88) to choose neuraxial analgesia instead of another analgesic modality when compared to high-altitude parturients. This is possibly due to higher epidural rates at the low-altitude institutions. When parturients at high altitude did convert into another modality, they were more likely (aOR, 2.19; 95% CI, 1.14-4.21) to convert due to inadequate pain relief compared to low-altitude parturients; however, missing data may have affected this finding. Laboring individuals at low altitude were significantly more likely to experience side effects (aOR, 2.13; 95% CI, 1.45-3.12). Those requiring labor augmentation, assisted vaginal, or cesarean delivery converted to neuraxial analgesia significantly more often than those that delivered via spontaneous vaginal delivery (P < .05) in both high- and low-altitude groups. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study evaluating 50% N2O as a labor analgesic at high altitude. As expected, we found lower side effects at high altitude, likely due to the lower partial pressure of N2O. However, there was not a statistically significant increase in conversion from N2O to another analgesic modality at high altitude and no clinically significant differences in neonatal outcomes.

Anesthesia for Maternal-Fetal Interventions: A Survey of Fetal Therapy Centers in the North American Fetal Therapy Network.

INTRODUCTION: A wide range of fetal interventions are performed across fetal therapy centers (FTCs). We hypothesized that there is significant variability in anesthesia staffing and anesthetic techniques. METHODS: We conducted an online survey of anesthesiology directors at every FTC within the North American Fetal Therapy Network (NAFTNet). The survey included details of fetal interventions performed in 2018, anesthesia staffing models, anesthetic techniques, fetal monitoring, and postoperative management. RESULTS: There was a 92% response rate. Most FTCs are located within an adult hospital and employ a small team of anesthesiologists. There is heterogeneity when evaluating anesthesiology fellowship training and staffing, indicating there is a multidisciplinary specialty team-based approach even within anesthesiology. Minimally invasive fetal interventions were the most commonly performed. The majority of FTCs also performed ex utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) and open mid-gestation procedures under general anesthesia (GA). Compared to FTCs only performing minimally invasive procedures, FTCs performing open fetal procedures were more likely to have a pediatric surgeon as director and performed more minimally invasive procedures. CONCLUSIONS: There is considerable variability in anesthesia staffing, caseload, and anesthetic techniques among FTCs in NAFTNet. Most FTCs used maternal sedation for minimally invasive procedures and GA for EXIT and open fetal surgeries.

A Graceful EXIT impeded by obstetrical complications.

We report an ex utero intrapartum therapy-to-airway procedure in which obstetric factors dramatically influenced the sequence of events necessary to complete the procedure.

Continuous local bupivacaine wound infusion reduces oral opioid use for acute postoperative pain control following myelomeningocele repair.

BACKGROUND: For pregnancies complicated by fetal myelomeningocele who meet the established criteria, prenatal closure is a viable management option. Prenatal closure is an open procedure, with some techniques requiring greater dissection of maternal tissue than cesarean delivery; pain control is an important postoperative goal. Given the rising rates of opioid dependence and concerns regarding the fetal and neonatal effects of opioid use, our practice has turned to nonopioid pain management techniques. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare postoperative opioid use and pain scores in women undergoing open fetal myelomeningocele repair with and without continuous local bupivacaine wound infusion. STUDY DESIGN: This was a retrospective, single-center chart review of all consecutive patients who underwent open myelomeningocele repair from March 2013 to December 2019. Women were enrolled at the time of referral and locally followed for 2 weeks postoperatively. The control group received patient-controlled epidural analgesia for 48 hours with acetaminophen and oral and intravenous opioids as needed. The treatment group received patient-controlled epidural analgesia for 24 hours with acetaminophen, oral and intravenous opioids, and continuous local bupivacaine infusion. Pain scores, medication use, and postoperative milestones and complications through discharge were abstracted from the chart and compared. RESULTS: Of 72 subjects, 51 were in the control group and 21 in the treatment group. Total opioid use, including intravenous doses (165 vs 52.5 mg; P=.001) and daily average oral opioid use (30 vs 10.5 mg; P=.002) were lower in the treatment group. In addition, 24% of women in the treatment group used no opioid postoperatively, compared with 4% in the control group. There was no difference in postoperative day 1 to 4 pain scores, antiemetic use, or bowel function; the treatment group was discharged significantly earlier. CONCLUSION: Postoperative opioid use was reduced in women who received continuous local wound infusion of bupivacaine for incisional pain control after prenatal myelomeningocele repair. Pain control is paramount following open myelomeningocele repair; local bupivacaine wound infusion is an important adjunct to reduce opioid use postoperatively.

Nitrous Oxide Use During Labor: Satisfaction, Adverse Effects, and Predictors of Conversion to Neuraxial Analgesia.

INTRODUCTION: Women desire safe and effective choices for pain management during labor. Currently, neuraxial and opioid analgesia are the most common methods used in the United States. The purpose of this study was to investigate demographic characteristics, safety, and satisfaction in a cohort of parturients who used inhaled nitrous oxide (N2 O) analgesia and to determine predictors of conversion from N2 O to neuraxial analgesia. METHODS: This was a prospective chart review study. Individuals aged at least 18 years who used inhaled N2 O during the first or second stage of labor between March 1, 2016, and July 23, 2017, on the labor and delivery unit of one academic medical center (N = 463) and their neonates were included. Data describing maternal and neonatal factors are reported. Logistic regression and chi-square tests were used to model the effects of oxytocin augmentation, labor induction, parity, prior cesarean birth, pre-N2 O cervical dilatation, and post-N2 O cervical dilatation on the odds of conversion from N2 O to neuraxial analgesia. RESULTS: In this cohort, 31% who chose N2 O for analgesia did not convert to any other analgesic method. Significant positive predictors for conversion from N2 O to neuraxial analgesia included labor induction (odds ratio [OR], 2.9; 95% CI, 1.7-5.0), oxytocin augmentation (OR, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.6-6.0), and labor after cesarean (OR, 6.4; 95% CI, 2.5-16.5). Multiparity (OR, 0.4; 95% CI, 0.2-0.6) and post-N2 O cervical dilatation (OR, 0.8; 95% CI, 0.7-0.9) were negative predictors. Adverse effects related to N2 O use during labor were rare (8%) and were not a significant reason for conversion to neuraxial analgesia. Parturients had moderately high satisfaction with N2 O for pain management (11-point scale, mean [SD], 7.4 [2.9]). Five-minute Apgar scores were 7 or greater in 97.8% of the newborns. DISCUSSION: Understanding predictors of conversion from inhaled N2 O to neuraxial analgesia may assist perinatal care providers in their discussions with women about analgesia options during labor. N2 O is a useful, safe option for labor analgesia in the United States.

Continuous local bupivacaine wound infusion with neuraxial morphine reduces opioid consumption after cesarean delivery.

Background: As a part of a quality improvement program, maternal postoperative opioid use and pain scores were compared between those receiving continuous infusion of bupivacaine for local incisional pain control with multimodal pain management and neuraxial morphine versus multimodal pain management with neuraxial morphine alone. Objective: We compared postoperative opioid use and pain scores between the multimodal pain management group with neuraxial morphine and the group receiving multimodal pain management, neuraxial morphine, and continuous infusion of bupivacaine for local incisional pain control. Study design: A retrospective cohort analysis of cesarean deliveries from January of 2015 through March of 2016 was undertaken. Deliveries were grouped by utilization of continuous infusion of bupivacaine for local incisional pain control. For each postoperative day, the average daily opioid use, antiemetic use and pain scores were determined. Patients received 1-2 tablets oxycodone-acetaminophen (5-325 mg) every 4 h as needed with oxycodone 5-10 mg immediate release tablets every 4 h as needed for breakthrough pain in addition to acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Total dose of narcotic, antiemetic use, and pain scores was compared between groups utilizing t-test for continuous variables and chi square for categorical data. A linear mixed model with unstructured covariance was utilized to analyze the daily dose of narcotic and pain scores from postoperative day 1 through day 4. Results: Patients in the standard multimodal group with neuraxial morphine used more opioids versus those receiving continuous wound infusion of bupivacaine in total postoperative dosing (122.79 ± 61.92 mg versus 89.88 ± 51.38 mg, p = .0063). There was a statistically significant difference between the standard group and local infusion of bupivacaine group on postoperative days 1 and 2 (32.79 ± 15.56 mg versus 22.13 ± 15.73 mg, p = .0011 and 40.25 ± 19.84 mg versus 29.13 ± 14.58 mg, p = .0018, respectively). There was no difference in narcotic use for postoperative days 3 and 4. There was a higher mean number of antiemetic doses in the standard group (0.31 ± 0.70 versus 0.10 ± 0.30, p = .0396). Pain scores did not differ between groups, although there was a correlation between opioid dosing and pain scores. The standard group received more IV ketorolac (87.72 ± 42.01 mg versus 64.50 ± 53.3 mg, p = .0165) and more IV acetaminophen (634.89 ± 706.42 mg versus 375.0 ± 490.29 mg, p = .0315) within the first 24 h postoperatively. In addition, the standard group received more oral acetaminophen (6969.67 ± 3230.14 mg versus 5248.75 ± 2711.71 mg, p = .0064). No difference was seen in regard to ibuprofen between groups. These results remained constant when adjusted for differences in gestational age, variation in intraoperative opioid dosing, as well as differences in uterine incision type. Conclusion: We found a significant reduction in postoperative opioid use when continuous infusion of bupivacaine for local incisional pain control was added to our standard pain management with neuraxial morphine after cesarean delivery. As a result of this quality improvement initiative, we have implemented this intervention universally as a part of our multimodal postoperative pain management strategy.

Indomethacin Dosing and Constriction of the Ductus Arteriosus During Open Fetal Surgery for Myelomeningocele Repair.

INTRODUCTION: The use of perioperative tocolytic agents in fetal surgery is imperative to prevent preterm labor. Indomethacin, a well-known tocolytic agent, can cause ductus arteriosus (DA) constriction. We sought to determine whether a relationship exists between preoperative indomethacin dosing and fetal DA constriction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is an IRB-approved, single-center retrospective observational case series of 42 pregnant mothers who underwent open fetal myelomeningocele repair. Preoperatively, mothers received either 1 (QD) or 2 (BID) indomethacin doses. Maternal anesthetic drug exposures and fetal cardiac dysfunction measures were collected from surgical and anesthesia records and intraoperative fetal echocardiography. Pulsatility Index was used to calculate DA constriction severity. Comparative testing between groups was performed using t- and chi-square testing. RESULTS: DA constriction was observed in all fetuses receiving BID indomethacin and in 71.4% of those receiving QD dosing (p = 0.0002). Severe DA constriction was observed only in the BID group (35.7%). QD indomethacin group received more intraoperative magnesium sulfate (p < 0.0001). Minimal fetal cardiac dysfunction (9.5%) and bradycardia (9.5%) were observed in all groups independent of indomethacin dosing. CONCLUSIONS: DA constriction was the most frequent and severe in the BID indomethacin group. QD indomethacin and greater magnesium sulfate dosing was associated with reduced DA constriction.

Cost-Effectiveness and Cost-Utility Analysis of the Treatment of Emotional Disorders in Primary Care: PsicAP Clinical Trial. Description of the Sub-study Design.

Introduction: In the primary care (PC) setting in Spain, the prevalence of emotional disorders (EDs) such as anxiety, depression and somatoform disorder is high. In PC patients, these disorders are not always managed in accordance with the recommendations provided by clinical practice guidelines, resulting in major direct and indirect economic costs and suboptimal treatment outcomes. The aim is to analyze and compare the cost-effectiveness and cost-utility of group-based psychological therapy versus treatment as usual (TAU). Methods: Multicenter, randomized controlled trial involving 300 patients recruited from PC centers in Madrid, Spain, with symptoms or possible diagnosis of anxiety, mood (mild or moderate), or somatoform disorders. Patients will be randomized to one of two groups: an experimental group, which will receive group-based transdiagnostic cognitive-behavioral therapy (TD-CBT); and a control group, which will receive TAU (mainly pharmacological interventions) prescribed by their general practitioner (GP). Clinical assessment will be performed with the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ). Direct and indirect costs will be calculated and relevant socio-demographic variables will be registered. The Spanish version of the EuroQol 5D-5L will be administered. Patients will be assessed at baseline, immediately after treatment finalization, and at 6 and 12 months post-treatment. Discussion: To our knowledge, this is the first study to compare TD-CBT to TAU in the PC setting in Spain. This is the first comparative economic evaluation of these two treatment approaches in PC. The strength of the study is that it is a multicenter, randomized, controlled trial of psychotherapy and TAU for EDs in PC. Trial registration: Protocol code: ISCRCTN58437086; 20/05/2013.                                        EUDRACT: 2013-001955-11.                                        Protocol Version: 6, 11/01/2014.

Retrospective analysis of obstetric and anesthetic management of patients with placenta accreta spectrum disorders.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the management and maternal outcomes of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorders. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted of patients diagnosed with PAS disorders (placenta creta, increta, or percreta) who were treated at a US tertiary care center between February 1, 2011, and January 31, 2016. Obstetric management, anesthetic management, and maternal outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 43 cases were identified; placenta previa was diagnosed among 33 (77%). Median age was 33 years (range 23-42). Median blood loss was 1500 mL (interquartile range 1000-2500); blood loss was greatest among the 10 patients with placenta percreta (3250 mL, interquartile range 2200-6000). Transfusion of blood products was necessary among 14 (33%) patients, with no difference in frequency according to the degree of placental invasion (P=0.107). Surgical complications occurred among 10 (23%) patients. Overall, 30 (70%) patients received combined spinal-epidural plus general anesthesia, 4 (9%) received only general anesthesia, and 9 (21%) underwent surgery with combined spinal-epidural anesthesia. One patient experienced difficult airway and another experienced accidental dural puncture. CONCLUSION: Placenta previa and accreta coexist in many patients, leading to substantial bleeding related to the degree of myometrial invasion. An interdisciplinary team approach plus the use of combined spinal-epidural anesthesia, transitioning to general anesthesia, were advisable and safe.

Transdiagnostic Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Versus Treatment as Usual in Adult Patients With Emotional Disorders in the Primary Care Setting (PsicAP Study): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Demand for primary care (PC) services in Spain exceeds available resources. Part of this strong demand is due to the high prevalence of emotional disorders (EDs)-anxiety, depression, and somatic symptom disorders-and related comorbidities such as pain or chronic illnesses. EDs are often under- or misdiagnosed by general practitioners (GPs) and, consequently, treatment is frequently inadequate. OBJECTIVE: We aim to compare the short- and long-term effectiveness of group-delivered transdiagnostic cognitive behavioral therapy (TD-CBT) versus treatment as usual (TAU) in the treatment of EDs in the PC setting in Spain. We also aim to compare the effect of these treatments on disability, quality of life, cognitive-emotional factors, and treatment satisfaction. METHODS: Here we present the study design of a two-arm, single-blind, randomized controlled trial (N=1126) to compare TAU to TD-CBT for EDs. TAU will consist primarily of pharmacological treatment and practical advice from the GP while TD-CBT will be administered in seven 90-minute group sessions held over a period ranging from 12 to 14 weeks. Psychological assessments are carried out at baseline (ie, pretreatment); posttreatment; and at 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up. The study is conducted in approximately 26 PC centers from the National Health System in Spain. RESULTS: This study was initiated in December 2013 and will remain open to new participants until recruitment and follow-up has been completed. We expect all posttreatment evaluations to be completed by December 2017, and follow-up will end in December 2018. CONCLUSIONS: We expect the TD-CBT group to have better results compared to TAU on all posttreatment measures and that this improvement will be maintained during follow-up. This project could serve as a model for use in other areas or services of the National Health System in Spain and even in other countries. CLINICALTRIAL: International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN): 58437086; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN58437086 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6mbYjQSn3).

The PHQ-PD as a Screening Tool for Panic Disorder in the Primary Care Setting in Spain.

INTRODUCTION: Panic disorder is a common anxiety disorder and is highly prevalent in Spanish primary care centres. The use of validated tools can improve the detection of panic disorder in primary care populations, thus enabling referral for specialized treatment. The aim of this study is to determine the accuracy of the Patient Health Questionnaire-Panic Disorder (PHQ-PD) as a screening and diagnostic tool for panic disorder in Spanish primary care centres. METHOD: We compared the psychometric properties of the PHQ-PD to the reference standard, the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders (SCID-I) interview. General practitioners referred 178 patients who completed the entire PHQ test, including the PHQ-PD, to undergo the SCID-I. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and positive and negative likelihood ratios of the PHQ-PD were assessed. RESULTS: The operating characteristics of the PHQ-PD are moderate. The best cut-off score was 5 (sensitivity .77, specificity .72). Modifications to the questionnaire's algorithms improved test characteristics (sensitivity .77, specificity .72) compared to the original algorithm. The screening question alone yielded the highest sensitivity score (.83). CONCLUSION: Although the modified algorithm of the PHQ-PD only yielded moderate results as a diagnostic test for panic disorder, it was better than the original. Using only the first question of the PHQ-PD showed the best psychometric properties (sensitivity). Based on these findings, we suggest the use of the screening questions for screening purposes and the modified algorithm for diagnostic purposes.

A multi-factor model of panic disorder: results of a preliminary study integrating the role of perfectionism, stress, physiological anxiety and anxiety sensitivity / Modelo multifactorial del trastorno de pánico: resultados de un estudio preliminar sobre el papel del perfeccionismo, estrés, ansiedad fisiológica y sensibilidad a la ansiedad

Background: Panic disorder (PD) is a highly prevalent and disabling mental health problem associated with different factors including perfectionism, stress, physiological anxiety, and anxiety sensitivity regarding physical concerns; however, no studies have analyzed the joint relationship between these factors and PD in a multi-factor model using structural equation modeling. Method: A cross-sectional study was carried out to collect data on these factors and self-reported DSM-IV past-year PD symptoms in a large sample of the general population (N=936). Results: Perceived stress had a significant effect in increasing physiological anxiety, which in turn had an important association with physical concerns. Perfectionism and perceived stress had an indirect relation with past year PD via the mediator role of physiological anxiety and physical concerns. Physical concerns, on one hand, seemed to mediate the impact between perfectionism and PD and, on the other, partially mediated the role between physiological anxiety and PD. Conclusions: Although there is considerable evidence on the association between each of these factors and PD, this model can be considered a broader and productive framework of research on the nature and treatment of PD

Antecedentes: el trastorno de pánico (TP) es un desorden mental altamente prevalente e incapacitante asociado a diferentes factores como el perfeccionismo, estrés, ansiedad fisiológica, y sensibilidad a la ansiedad referente a preocupaciones físicas; sin embargo, no existen estudios que hayan analizado conjuntamente la relación entre dichos factores y el TP en un modelo multifactorial utilizando ecuaciones estructurales. Método: con el objetivo de recoger información sobre estos factores y síntomas autoinformados de TP en el último año según criterios DSM-IV, se llevó a cabo un estudio transversal en una amplia muestra de la población general (N=936). Resultados: el estrés percibido tuvo un efecto significativo a la hora de incrementar la ansiedad fisiológica, que a su vez se asoció de modo importante con las preocupaciones físicas. El perfeccionismo y el estrés percibido se relacionaron indirectamente con el TP durante el último año a través del efecto mediador de la ansiedad fisiológica y las preocupaciones físicas. Las preocupaciones físicas, por un lado, parece ser que mediaron el impacto entre el perfeccionismo y el TP y, por otro lado, mediaron parcialmente la relación entre ansiedad fisiológica y TP. Conclusiones: a pesar de la evidencia existente acerca de la relación entre cada uno de estos factores y el TP, se puede considerar este modelo como un marco teórico que recoge la investigación de forma conjunta y productiva sobre la naturaleza y tratamiento del TP

Flow patterns in the ductus arteriosus during open fetal myelomeningocele repair.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to perform a longitudinal evaluation of blood flow patterns in the ductus arteriosus (DA) during the perioperative period in fetal myelomeningocele (MMC) surgical patients. METHOD: Serial fetal echocardiograms were reviewed in 10 MMC cases where mothers received indomethacin and intravenous and inhaled anesthesia. One-way analysis of variance was utilized to evaluate for differences in peak systolic velocity, end-diastolic velocity (EDV), time-averaged mean velocity (TAMV), and Pulsatility Index (PI) throughout the monitoring period. Regression analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between PI and maternal hemodynamics and medications. RESULTS: The DA TAMV and EDV increased between baseline and inhaled anesthesia and decreased between inhaled anesthesia and postoperative day 2. PI decreased to a nadir during inhaled anesthesia and then increased through postoperative day 2. Three distinct ductal flow patterns, characterizing degree of ductal constriction, were observed. Two fetuses exhibited a severely constricted ductal flow pattern with concurrent moderate tricuspid insufficiency and right ventricular dysfunction during inhaled anesthesia. CONCLUSION: Abnormal DA flow patterns culminating in significant DA constriction occurred during fetal MMC repair. Limiting maternal exposure to indomethacin, supplemental oxygen, and inhaled anesthesia may reduce the incidence and severity of DA constriction and perhaps reduce fetal cardiac dysfunction during open fetal surgery.

Perievent panic attacks and panic disorder after mass trauma: a 12-month longitudinal study.

Panic attacks frequently lead to psychopathological disorders, including panic disorder. Even though panic disorder is a highly comorbid and disabling mental health problem associated with stressful life or traumatic events, perievent panic attacks and their association with panic disorder have hardly been investigated as a central topic after mass trauma. Using data from a longitudinal population-based assessment of Madrid residents after the March 11, 2004 train bombings (N = 1,589), with assessments conducted 1, 6, and 12 months after the attacks, the rate of perievent panic attacks was 10.9%. Level of exposure, previous life stressors, and negative emotionality were associated with perievent panic attacks (ß = .12, .15, and .10, respectively), which in turn mediated the relationship between exposure to the terrorist event and panic disorder in the following year. Previous life stressors (ß = .15) and low social support (ß = -.14) were directly associated with panic disorder during the subsequent year. The most vulnerable individuals who experienced perievent panic attacks were 3.7 times, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [2.1, 6.4], more likely to suffer from panic disorder in the following year. Results suggest that early identification of perievent panic attacks following mass trauma may be helpful for reducing panic disorder.

Evaluación e intervención de los problemas de ansiedad y depresión en atención primaria: un problema sin resolver / assessment and intervention of anxiety and depression disorders in primary care: an unsolved problem

Los problemas de salud mental, especialmente los de ansiedad y depresión, suponen aproximadamente una de cada cuatro consultas que reciben los médicos de atención primaria. En este trabajo se presenta una revisión que pretende responder a dos preguntas interrelacionadas. En primer lugar, ¿cómo abordan los médicos de atención primaria el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de la ansiedad y depresión? Y en segundo lugar, ¿cómo se puede solucionar el problema? Para responder a la segunda pregunta vamos a tratar los siguientes aspectos: las necesidades de formación de los médicos de atención primaria, el desarrollo de instrumentos de evaluación específicos para su uso en ese contexto, el desarrollo de técnicas psicoterapéuticas adaptadas a las características de la atención primaria, así como el incremento del número de profesionales sanitarios dedicados a la salud mental (AU)

The mental health problems, especially anxiety and depression, represent approximately one in every four visits received by primary care physicians. In this paper we present a review that aims to answer two interrelated questions. First, how primary care physicians diagnose and treat anxiety and depression? And secondly, how can we solve the problem? To answer the second question we will discuss the following aspects: the training needs of primary care physicians, the development of specific assessment tools for being used in this context, the development of psychotherapeutic techniques adapted to the characteristics of the primary care setting as well as the increasing number of health professionals dedicated to mental health (AU)

A depresión en atención primaria: Prevalencia, diagnóstico y tratamiento / No disponible

La depresión mayor es uno de los trastornos psicológicos más prevalentes y que más problemas de discapacidad genera en la actualidad. Una gran parte de las personas deprimidas acude a los servicios de atención primaria (AP) para buscar tratamiento. En este trabajo se presenta una revisión crítica de la literatura centrada en analizar la prevalencia, el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de la depresión en AP, haciendo especial hincapié en los estudios realizados en nuestro país. Los resultados indican que en España la prevalencia año de depresión en AP se encuentra en un rango entre el 9.6% y el 20.2%. Además, la depresión posee una alta comorbilidad cursando con otros problemas tanto físicos como psicológicos. Pese a su alta prevalencia, este trastorno no se diagnostica correctamente en un importante porcentaje de los casos y pocas veces recibe un tratamiento mínimamente adecuado, lo que a la larga produce más abandonos y recaídas, así como elevados costes. Se discute acerca de la necesidad de incluir tratamientos basados en la evidencia científica en AP, los cuales han demostrado ser más eficaces que la práctica habitual y que pueden reducir los costes sociales y sanitarios (AU)

Major depression is currently one of the most prevalent and most disabling mental disorders. A large number of people with depression seek treatment from primary care (PC) providers. We present a critical review of the literature focused on the prevalence, diagnosis and treatment of depression in PC, giving special emphasis to studies carried out in Spain. Results indicate that Spain’s12-month prevalence for depression in PC is between 9.6% and 20.2%. In addition, depression is highly comorbid with other physical and psychological conditions. In spite of its elevated prevalence, patients suffering from depression are often misdiagnosed and rarely receive minimally adequate treatment. This leads to higher drop-out and relapse rates together with an elevated cost burden. The need for scientifically-based treatments in PC is discussed, given the fact that they have shown higher efficacy rates when compared to treatment as usual and may help to reduce social and health-care costs (AU)