Brain laryngeal mask (BLM) was used to assess its suitability in 50 spontaneously breathing patients by one lecturer and 4 Medical Officers. Insertion of the laryngeal mask was successful at the first attempt in 42 patients, second attempt in 7 and third attempt in one. The incidence of airway obstruction secondary to downfolding of the epiglottis, which was corrected by reinsertion, was 16%. Post-operative complications included clenching of teeth in 5 patients, vomiting in 2 and excessive salivation in 3. The incidence of sore throat was 10%.
Sixty patients who received massive blood transfusion intraoperatively and/or in the immediate post-operative period were analysed. Six patients had hypokalemia and two had hyperkalemia. The multifactorial changes leading to electrolyte disturbances especially involving potassium are discussed in relation to hypotension, hypothermia, acidosis, pH, and release of catecholamine. Potassium changes in relation to anaesthesia are discussed. The danger of routine administration of calcium during massive blood transfusion is stressed.