Untitled Deck Flashcards
What are the differences between a Minnesota tube (MT) and Sengstaken–Blakemore tube (SBT)?
Both are used for bleeding UGI varices resistant to medical and/or endoscopic treatment. SBT has three ports – oesophageal balloon, gastric balloon, and gastric aspiration port. MT has an additional port for oesophageal suction to ↓ the risk of aspiration. The MT has a higher-volume gastric balloon (450–500 mL vs. 250–300 mL).
What is the evidence for a decompressive hemicraniectomy (DH) in malignant middle cerebral artery syndrome according to the DECIMAL, HAMLET, and DESTINY II trials?
Mortality: Decompressive hemicraniectomy significantly reduces mortality compared to conservative treatment in all three studies, especially when performed early (within 48 hours) after stroke onset. Neurological Disability: The findings on functional outcome are complex and depend on factors like age, stroke severity, and time to surgery. Overall: Decompressive hemicraniectomy offers a clear and substantial mortality benefit but may not guarantee good recovery.
How do you distinguish between moderate, severe, and life-threatening acute asthma?
Moderate: PEFR > 50%, no features of severe asthma. Severe: PEFR 33–50%, RR ≥ 25, HR ≥ 110, inability to complete sentences in one breath. Life-threatening: Features of severe asthma + at least one of: PEFR < 33%, SpO2 < 92%, normal or ↓ PCO2, cyanosis, confusion or coma, hypotension or ↓ HR, exhaustion or poor respiratory effort, silent chest, tachy(arrhythmia).
When is it safe to use suxamethonium after a significant burn injury?
Within the first 24 hours after the burn and one year after the burn.
