Surgical decompression for cerebral oedema in acute ischaemic stroke
Abstract Background Large cerebral infarction has a high case fatality. Despite the use of conventional medical treatments such as hyperventilation, mannitol, diuretics, corticosteroids and barbiturates, the outcome of this condition remains poor. Decompressive surgery to relieve intracranial pressure is performed in some cases, although evidence of any clinical benefits has not been available until recently. […]
Human albumin solution for resuscitation and volume expansion in critically ill patients
Abstract Background Human albumin solutions are used for a range of medical and surgical problems. Licensed indications are the emergency treatment of shock and other conditions where restoration of blood volume is urgent, such as in burns and hypoproteinaemia. Human albumin solutions are more expensive than other colloids and crystalloids. Objectives To quantify the effect […]
Cooling therapy for acute stroke
Abstract Background Increased body temperatures are common in patients with acute stroke and are associated with poor outcome. In animal models of focal cerebral ischaemia, temperature-lowering therapy reduces infarct volume. In patients with acute stroke, lowering temperature may therefore improve outcome. This is an update of a Cochrane review first published in 1999. Objectives To […]
Emergency intubation for acutely ill and injured patients
Abstract Background Emergency intubation has been widely advocated as a life saving procedure in severe acute illness and injury associated with real or potential compromises to the patient’s airway and ventilation. However, some initial data have suggested a lack of observed benefit. Objectives To determine in acutely ill and injured patients who have real or […]
Hypertonic versus near isotonic crystalloid for fluid resuscitation in critically ill patients
Abstract Background Hypertonic solutions are considered to have a greater ability to expand blood volume and thus elevate blood pressure and can be administered as a small volume infusion over a short time period. On the other hand, the use of hypertonic solutions for volume replacement may also have important disadvantages. Objectives To determine whether […]
Hypothermia to reduce neurological damage following coronary artery bypass surgery
Abstract Background Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) may be life saving, but known side effects include neurological damage and cognitive impairment. The temperature used during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) may be important with regard to these adverse outcomes, where hypothermia is used as a means of neuroprotection. Objectives To assess the effectiveness of hypothermia during CABG […]