General anesthesia induces a state of unconsciousness, amnesia, and immobility via the suspension of neural activity, including physiological processes mediated by the spinal cord. Research on the mechanisms of anesthesia has been extensively conducted at both micro- and macro- levels.…
Older individuals contemplating surgery often express concerns regarding potential complications, returning home, and the anticipated improvement in their quality of life. Notably, the avoidance of new or worsening disability becomes a paramount consideration with advancing age. To better guide patients,…
Over the past couple of decades, drug shortages have become a relatively common occurrence in clinical settings. According to an American Hospital Association (AHA) survey of community hospitals, nearly 50% of responding hospitals reported at least 21 drug shortages within…
In July 2020, remimazolam, a novel short-acting drug, was approved in the US for procedural sedation in adults (1). Like midazolam (a common anesthetic adjunct), remimazolam is a benzodiazepine and operates by modulating γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor activity to induce…
Medicare, the federal health insurance program that provides coverage for Americans aged 65 and older, has been a cornerstone of the nation’s healthcare system for decades. As healthcare costs have continued to rise, the need for fiscal responsibility and sustainability…
Experimental design is at the heart of scientific inquiry. Its primary purpose is to ensure that the data obtained is sufficiently reliable and valid to draw meaningful conclusions. Anesthesia research, which delves into the science of inducing a loss of…
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a life-saving technique that provides temporary support for patients with severe cardiac or respiratory failure (or both) [1,2]. It is implemented in cases where no other treatment is likely to be successful and all other…
Approximately 10 million people in the U.S. suffer from osteoporosis, a disease that slows the growth of healthy bone and weakens bones over time. Osteoporosis affects nearly 20% of women aged 50 and over and can increase the risk of…
Cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, results in major physiological and health changes. Impacts on everyday life can be significant and are relatively well-known. Impacts on other areas are also important. In particular, there are unique considerations for patients…
Anesthesia is an important part of many medical procedures, especially surgery. While most uses of anesthesia remain uneventful, accidents or mistakes may occur in rare cases, ranging from failing to understand a patient’s medical history to improperly administering anesthesia during…