Similar to pheochromocytomas, paragangliomas can secrete catecholamines, although they are usually non-functional and clinical presentation is non-specific. We present a case of accidental, intra-operatively diagnosed neuroendocrine-active sympathetic paraganglioma, which was suspected and confirmed during elective retroperitoneal tumor removal.

Ventilator-associated pneumonia is a frequent complication in intensive care surgical patients, particularly those with high severity scores on admission. We studied the incidence and clinical outcome of ventilator-associated pneumonia...

In the last few decades, epidural administration of various drugs has gained popularity and widespread clinical acceptance. Epidural administration of local anesthetics and opioids has been considered “state of the art” in acute pain management (thoracic and major abdominal surgery, labor). Its advantage is that it yields profound, long-lasting, dose-dependent analgesia, leaving other sensory and motor functions intact. It facilitates early patient mobilization and ambulation and therefore reduces the risk of postoperative thromboembolism and respiratory complications. The increment in the elderly population caused an increase in musculoskeletal and spine diseases and thus, epidural steroid injections have become highly effective for chronic pain treatment. There are many factors that have an impact on drug physiology and pharmacology in the epidural space and, therefore, can modify epidural anesthesia or the expected effect of another medication. This chapter provides insight into this complex and comprehensive topic to demonstrate a predictable pattern that can provide a safe and accurate guide to clinical practice.

The implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly prevalent due to advancements in technology and has the potential to significantly enhance the future of anesthesia and critical care. This article concisely summarizes contemporary AI technology utilized in anesthesia and in the intensive care unit (ICU). The current data indicates that the incorporation of AI could have a substantial impact on areas such as chronic disease management and anesthesia education methods, necessitating the development of specialized studies to investigate these applications. Nevertheless, current AI implementations predominantly function as decision-support tools rather than replacements for clinical judgment, despite the immense potential of AI to enhance the capabilities of anesthesiologists. Additionally, the limitations and ethical considerations of AI implementation in this domain are discussed.