In the past, there have been few reliable neurological measures to track consciousness during sedation because individuals vary considerably in their susceptibility to anesthetics.
To address this issue, the Cambridge scientists used electroencephalography to characterize changes in brain networks. By tracking patients’ brain waves, anesthesiologists can ascertain the correct drug dosage to sedate a patient.
The scientists published their study in the January issue of PLOS Computational Biology.
“Our findings highlight novel markers that prognosticate individual differences in susceptibility to propofol and track drug exposure,” wrote the study authors. “These advances could inform accurate drug titration and brain state monitoring during anesthesia.”
The thought of waking up during a surgical procedure is a nightmarish notion for both patients and their anesthesiologists. Luckily, scientists from the University of Cambridge in the U.K. have figured out a new way to prevent such incidents from occurring.
In the past, there have been few reliable neurological measures to track consciousness during sedation because individuals vary considerably in their susceptibility to anesthetics.
To address this issue, the Cambridge scientists used electroencephalography to characterize changes in brain networks. By tracking patients’ brain waves, anesthesiologists can ascertain the correct drug dosage to sedate a patient.
The scientists published their study in the January issue of PLOS Computational Biology.
“Our findings highlight novel markers that prognosticate individual differences in susceptibility to propofol and track drug exposure,” wrote the study authors. “These advances could inform accurate drug titration and brain state monitoring during anesthesia.”
More articles on surgical quality:
‘Doctor screwed up’ and other tweets help researchers mine patient error data
The hidden value in a hospital: 3 ways anesthesia can impact the bottom line
New national guidelines released to improve quality of geriatric surgery: 3 takeaways
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