Anesthesia Updates
Anesthesia Updates by NYSORA is your go-to podcast for staying at the forefront of anesthesiology. Hosted by Dr. Hadzic and the NYSORA educational team, each 10-15 minute episode reviews the latest developments, publications, and clinical trends, so you can stay ahead without wading through lengthy research articles. Whether it's the newest guidelines, emerging practices, or essential updates, this podcast delivers highly relevant information that will keep your practice on the cutting edge—one episode at a time.
Episodes
Phrenic-Sparing Blocks for Shoulder Surgery
How can we preserve respiratory function without compromising shoulder analgesia? We discuss Nanda’s et al. 2026 review on phrenic-sparing regional anesthesia, from modified interscalene techniques to distal block strategies, and how to match the approach to the patient’s respiratory reserve.Read more about the study HERE.======================================Where else to find us: Web -
When the Fasting Clock Fails: Gastric POCUS and Aspiration Risk
A patient may have followed fasting instructions perfectly, but does that mean the stomach is actually empty? In this episode, we discuss the ASRA Pain Medicine narrative review and expert practice recommendations by Haskins and colleagues examining gastric point-of-care ultrasound in medically complex patients. We explore when fasting history may be unreliable, which patient populations may benef
Pediatric Paralysis: Block, Monitor, Reverse
New pediatric neuromuscular blockade guidelines are reshaping everyday anesthesia practice. We unpack what they mean for intubation, quantitative monitoring, sugammadex reversal, and high-risk patients, with clinical insights from guideline lead author Professor Veyckemans.Read more about the study HERE.======================================Where else to find us: Web - https:/
Opioid-Free Anesthesia: Better Recovery or Different Risks?
In this 100th episode of the NYSORA Podcast, we explore the debate over opioid-free versus conventional anesthesia with Dr. Cao. From reduced postoperative nausea and vomiting to potential cardiovascular risks, we examine the evidence, trade-offs, and which patients may benefit most from an opioid-free approach.Read more about the study HERE.======================================Where else to fi
Massive Transfusion, Massive Potassium: Preventing Hyperkalemia
Massive transfusion can save a life, but it can also deliver a dangerous potassium load. In this episode, we explore a 2026 Anesthesiology review by Zhou and colleagues on preventing and managing hyperkalemia during supramassive hemorrhage. We discuss stored blood, intraoperative red-cell washing, CRRT, and the limitations of conventional hyperkalemia treatment. Read more about the study HERE.====
Video Laryngoscopy: The New Standard for Double-Lumen Tubes?
Double-lumen tube intubation is one of the most technically demanding airway procedures in anesthesia. In this episode, we discuss a large 916-patient multicenter randomized trial published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia comparing video laryngoscopy with direct laryngoscopy for double-lumen tube placement. We examine whether video laryngoscopy improves first-pass success, reduces airway tra
Patient Blood Management: Evidence-Based or Guideline Chaos?
If patient blood management (PBM) is evidence-based, why are guidelines so different around the world? In this episode, we explore a 2026 systematic review published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia that analyzed 40 national and institutional PBM guidelines. Discover where global consensus exists, where recommendations diverge, and what these inconsistencies mean for anesthesiologists managin
The PENG Block Myth? New Anatomy, New Insights
Does the PENG block really work the way we thought? Based on a landmark 2026 study in Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine, this episode explores new anatomical evidence suggesting the PENG block is predominantly an intramuscular block, not a true fascial plane block, and what that means for analgesia, femoral nerve involvement, and everyday clinical practice. Read more about this study HERE.==
Total Knee Arthroplasty: More Blocks or Better Strategy?
Total knee arthroplasty presents one of anesthesia's biggest challenges: providing excellent pain relief while preserving the muscle strength needed for early mobilization. In this episode, we discuss a 2026 BJA Education review by Carvalho and colleagues that examines the latest evidence on perioperative optimization, spinal anesthesia, multimodal analgesia, and motor-sparing regional anesthe
Coffee and the Heart: Guilty Pleasure or Clinical Prescription?
Coffee has long been blamed for hypertension and arrhythmias, but does the evidence support those concerns? In this episode, we review the 2026 American Heart Association Scientific Statement on caffeine and cardiovascular disease, exploring its effects on blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, stroke, and coronary artery disease. Discover why moderate coffee consumption may be safer,
Is It Time to Bring Back Spinal Lidocaine?
For years, spinal lidocaine has been avoided because of concerns about transient neurologic symptoms (TNS). But does modern evidence tell a different story? In this episode, we examine a new study published in Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine, showing an unexpectedly low incidence of TNS in more than 1,000 outpatient hip and knee arthroplasty patients.Read more about this topic HERE.=======
SGLT2 Inhibitors Before Surgery: Time to Rethink?
Should every patient stop their SGLT2 inhibitor before surgery? A new consensus published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia challenges the long-standing FDA recommendation of a universal 3–4 day hold. In this episode, we unpack the evidence, discuss which patients may actual ly benefit from continuing therapy, and explain how to balance the risk of euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis against the
Frailty or Age?
Two patients may both be 85 years old, but one sails through surgery while the other struggles to recover. What's the difference? In this episode, we explore a 2026 paper on frailty in anesthesia and discuss why physiological reserve, not chronological age, may be the most important predictor of perioperative outcomes. Read more about this topic HERE. ======================================Wher
AI and Anesthesia Education
Can an AI-powered virtual patient teach anesthesiology residents how to perform a preoperative assessment? In this episode, we discuss a 2026 Anesthesiology study by Barra and colleagues that tested AI-driven avatars as a tool for preanesthesia assessment training. The results suggest that virtual patients may improve learner confidence while dramatically reducing the cost and logistical burden of
Rethinking Diabetes Meds in the OR
Every fifth patient you anesthetize has diabetes, and the medications they're on are no longer just a pre-op checkbox. In this podcast, we dissect the latest evidence: why GLP-1 agonists may be safer to continue than to stop, what the SGLT-2 data is really telling us, and the shift toward highly personalized, evidence-based risk assessments..Read more about this topic HERE.===================
Pediatric Regional Anesthesia: What the Evidence Actually Says
In pediatric regional anesthesia, the margin for error is razor-thin, and some of our longest-held assumptions are starting to crack. In this podcast, we dissect the latest controversies: neonatal dosing limits, the adjuvant debate, compartment syndrome fear, and whether awake blocks in children are ready for prime time. Read more about this topic HERE.======================================Where e
Spinal Additives for C-Sections: Enhanced Recovery or Delayed Mobility
In this episode, we unpack a massive 2026 systematic review and network meta-analysis covering nearly 15,000 patients and 166 clinical trials on intrathecal adjuvants used during cesarean delivery. From morphine and dexmedetomidine to fentanyl combinations and off-label spinal agents, we explore which medications truly extend pain relief, reduce opioid use, and improve recovery, without increasing
Can AI Say “I Don’t Know”?
In this episode, we explore a 2026 New England Journal of Medicine article that asks a deceptively simple question: Can AI say "I don't know"? From the Hippocratic oath to the “Pikachu problem”, we examine why calibrated uncertainty is a safety mechanism, not a weakness, and what clinicians should demand from AI tools at the point of care.======================================Where e
Rethinking Maternal Cardiac Arrest: Beyond the ACLS Algorithm
Why would amniotic fluid embolism achieve higher ROSC rates than hemorrhage in maternal cardiac arrest? In this episode, we discuss the main findings from a landmark 2026 Anesthesiology study analyzing nearly 780,000 delivery hospitalizations and uncover what really drives survival in peripartum cardiac arrest. From hemorrhage physiology and AFE to high neuraxial blocks, failed epidural conversion
Fluids for Hypotension: First Reflex or Fatal Mistake?
When blood pressure drops after induction, the reflex is often fluids, but that’s usually the wrong move. This episode discusses the real driver: vasodilation. Based on a 2026 Anesthesiology review, we explore how to choose the right vasopressor, avoid common pitfalls, and apply physiology, not habit, at the bedside. For more information on this topic, click HERE. =================================
Can Nerve Blocks Protect the Heart?
A 2026 Anesthesiology study suggests that peripheral nerve blocks may reduce myocardial injury after hip fracture surgery. Is this real cardioprotection or just good pain control? We discuss the data, the physiology, and where to be cautious. Read more about this study HERE. ======================================Where else to find us: Web - https://www.nysora.com/Instagram- instagram.com/nysora
Stop Before You Block: The Moment That Prevents Errors
A wrong-side nerve block is a “never event”, yet it still happens. In this episode, we focus on one critical safeguard: Stop Before You Block. Why does this simple step fail in practice, and how can we make it work where it matters most, at the bedside?--------------------------------------------------------- Where else to find us: Web - LINKInstagram - LINKLinkedIn -
Why Surgery Triggers Exhaustion and Muscle Loss
Postoperative fatigue and muscle weakness affect most surgical patients, but they’re often overlooked. In this episode, we discuss the biology behind POF and POAW, and what anesthesia and perioperative care can do to reduce their impact.Read more about this topic on NYSORA.com.===========================================Where else to find us:Web - LINKInstagram - LINKLinkedIn -
Rethinking Shoulder Analgesia: Beyond the Interscalene Block
Why do both traditional and diaphragm-sparing shoulder blocks fall short? This episode explores the role of articular branches, mechanoreceptors, and capsular targeting in achieving true joint analgesia.Based on Chong et al., 2026, examining the functional anatomy of the axillary nerve.Read more about this on NYSORA.com. ===========================================Where else to find us:Web -
Mixing Local Anesthetics: Smart Shortcut or Hidden Risk?
Mixing lidocaine, ropivacaine, and bicarbonate is routine in many hospitals, but is it actually safe? In this episode, we discuss the main findings from a 2026 article by Gasteiger et al. (Anesthesiology), which questions the stability, efficacy, and safety of common local anesthetic mixtures. From crystal formation to reduced block performance, we explore why combining drugs may do more harm than
The Rise of Videolaryngoscopy
A new 2025 international guideline is pushing for videolaryngoscopy to become the universal standard for tracheal intubation. In this podcast, we explore how a simple camera and screen are transforming airway management, improving team coordination, and increasing first-pass success in critical situations. We also discuss the surprising barriers to adoption, from the “paradox of expertise” to cost
PENG vs QL Block: What’s Better After Hip Replacement?
In this episode, we discuss a 2026 randomized trial comparing the PENG block and lateral quadratus lumborum block for total hip arthroplasty. Both techniques preserve mobility and perform well in the PACU, but differences emerge after discharge. We explore which block provides better pain control, reduces opioid use, and what this means for real-world recovery.Read more about this topic on NYSORA.
Rib Fracture Analgesia: Comfort vs Function - Which Block Really Wins?
A new BJA trial compares paravertebral block (PVB) and PEFB for rib fracture pain. While PEFB matches early pain control, it fails in durability, leading to more rescue interventions. PVB, though more complex, better restores cough and respiratory function.The key shift: stop focusing on pain at rest and start treating for function.===========================================Where else to find us:W
Does General Anesthesia Harm C-Section Babies
One in three births in the U.S. occurs by cesarean delivery.But when it comes to neonatal outcomes, does the anesthetic technique matter? A new meta-analysis of 36 randomized trials involving more than 3,400 neonates compared regional and general anesthesia. This episode reviews the key findings and explores their implications for daily clinical practice.===========================================
Airway Management in Thoracic Anesthesia: What’s Next?
Airway management in thoracic anesthesia is evolving rapidly. New guidelines from the EACTAIC Thoracic Group highlight a shift toward structured risk stratification, advanced imaging, video-assisted devices, and emerging digital technologies. In this episode, we explore what’s changed, what’s coming next, and what thoracic anesthesiologists should be doing today.===================================
Old Question, New Data: Spinal or General?
Neuraxial anesthesia has long been associated with better outcomes in total hip and knee arthroplasty—but does that advantage still hold in modern practice? In this episode, we discuss the main findings from new large-scale data showing that neuraxial anesthesia continues to reduce perioperative complications, even as anesthesia techniques and patient populations evolve.Where else to find us: Web-
Popliteal Plexus Block: Worth the Add?
Motor-sparing regional anesthesia is the backbone of modern total knee arthroplasty analgesia. But posterior knee pain remains a blind spot. In this episode, we discuss the main findings from new randomized trial data on whether adding a popliteal plexus block to a femoral triangle block actually moves the needle, on opioids, pain, and mobility.Where else to find us: Web- http://www.nysora.com
Opioid-Free Anesthesia — Ideal, Illusion, or Overreach?
Opioid-free anesthesia sounds appealing, but does it actually improve outcomes? In this episode, we discuss the main findings from a clinical focus review in Anesthesiology by Shanthanna et al. and discuss why avoiding opioids altogether may add complexity without clear benefit. The real win isn’t “opioid-free,” it’s opioid-sparing, procedure-specific, and regional-first anesthesia. Evidence over
Chronic Widespread Pain Is Not Just a Pain Problem
Chronic widespread pain isn’t just a quality-of-life issue; it may be an early warning sign for cognitive decline. In this episode, we discuss the main findings from new longitudinal evidence linking widespread pain to mild cognitive impairment, dementia risk, brain structural changes, and inflammation, and what this means for clinicians today.Where else to find us: Web- http://www.nysora.com
Stellate Ganglion Block: New Hype, Evidence, and Real-World Expectations
In this episode of NYSORA Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic reveals why the stellate ganglion block (SGB) has re-emerged as a hot topic in perioperative medicine. Drawing on a landmark 2025 narrative review from MD Anderson published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia, we explore what SGB can—and cannot—realistically offer today. From arrhythmia control and postoperative recovery to immune
Fascial Plane Blocks Are No Longer Optional
In this episode, we review the 2026 American Society of Anesthesiologists Practice Guideline on perioperative pain management using local and regional analgesia, based on evidence from more than 600 randomized trials. The guideline delivers a clear message: fascial plane blocks are a core component of modern multimodal analgesia, not an optional add-on. We discuss where the evidence is strongest,
The Power of Anterior QLB
In this episode, we’re discussing a 2025 randomized controlled trial by Turunc and colleagues published in Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine. The study asks a practical, ERAS-focused question: Does adding a bilateral anterior subcostal quadratus lumborum block actually improve analgesia in laparoscopic colorectal surgery? And more importantly, does it meaningfully reduce opioids?Where else t
The Cannabis Paradox: Worse Pain After Surgery
This episode discusses the main findings of a new study from Sajdeya et al., 2025, published in Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine. The research asks a timely, important question: Does cannabis use affect postoperative pain in older adults? We've seen rising cannabis use among seniors, up to 5% nationally, but almost no data on how it affects acute surgical pain. This study finally gives
Rethinking DOACs for Neuraxial & Deep Blocks
This episode discusses the main findings from a 2025 review by Suleiman et al. published in BJA, examining how we should manage direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in patients having neuraxial anesthesia and deep peripheral nerve blocks. Traditionally, the ASRA guidelines have leaned heavily on long DOAC interruption times and selective drug level testing to avoid the rare but devastating complicat
Hemodialysis on the table: Rethinking the Risks
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, we discuss a 2025 Anesthesiology Clinical Focus Review on the perioperative management of patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis. This review reshapes how we assess, prepare, and manage a rapidly growing surgical population at exceptionally high perioperative risk. From hidden cardiovascular disease and fluid shifts to electrolyte traps, medicatio
Rethinking Unanticipated Difficult Intubation
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, we discuss one of the most significant airway guideline updates in a decade. The Difficult Airway Society’s 2025 guidelines reshape how we approach unanticipated difficult tracheal intubation in adults. From first-attempt success and videolaryngoscopy for all, to peroxygenation, physiologically difficult airways, linear algorithms, and a renewed emphas
No Tube, No Problem: High-Flow Nasal Oxygen in General Anesthesia
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic discusses a 2025 Anesthesia & Analgesia trial that challenges a long-standing airway management routine.Could high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) replace the laryngeal mask airway (LMA) for short general anesthesia cases without muscle paralysis? This randomized trial puts it to the test, reporting surprising results on safety, comfort, and ca
Mix or Match? The Best Formula for Infraclavicular Blocks
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic discusses a 2025 RAPM study comparing the classic lidocaine–bupivacaine mix to 0.5% bupivacaine alone for infraclavicular blocks. The results? Mixing speeds onset but slashes duration by nearly 14 hours. Tune in to learn why faster isn’t always better, how adjuvants like dexamethasone already optimize your block, and when it’s finally time t
Bleeding in the Young: Rethinking Hemostasis in Pediatric Surgery
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic discusses a 2025 review that reshapes how we manage bleeding in children. From restrictive transfusion thresholds and viscoelastic testing to the revival of whole blood and smarter use of TXA, pediatric hemostasis is entering a new era. Tune in to learn why kids aren’t just “small adults,” how to individualize transfusion decisions, and the
Non-Insulin Diabetes Drugs: Stop or Continue Before Surgery?
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic discusses the main findings from a 2025 BJA review by Tinsley et al. The study reported how to manage non-insulin diabetes medicines in the perioperative period safely. From metformin’s misunderstood safety profile to the hidden risks of SGLT-2 inhibitors and GLP-1 agonists, you’ll learn which drugs to hold, which to continue, and how to pre
Regional + Local: The Pain-Relief Power Duo After Hip Surgery
A 2025 Anesthesiology meta-analysis shows that the best pain control after total hip arthroplasty comes from combining regional anesthesia with local infiltration analgesia (LIA). While LIA alone is effective, adding a quadratus lumborum or pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block significantly improves pain relief, reduces opioid use, and preserves mobility. The takeaway: stop choosing between techn
Hypotension and Delirium: No Clear Link?
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic unpacks a landmark 2025 study, which challenges the long-held belief that intraoperative hypotension (MAP < 65 mm Hg) contributes to postoperative delirium in older adults. With nearly 40,000 patients analyzed and no association found, it’s time to rethink reflexively chasing MAP thresholds. Tune in to hear why blood pressure might not be
Block, Reverse, Remember: Cutting Delirium Risk After Anesthesia
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic delves into a 2025 study, which analyzed over 53,000 surgical cases. The key finding? Neuromuscular blockers increase the risk of postoperative delirium in older adults, unless they’re properly reversed. Whether you use sugammadex or neostigmine, reversal agents significantly reduce this risk. Tune in to hear what this means for your clinica
Myocardial Injury Under the Radar
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic unpacks the latest evidence on pharmacologic agents for perioperative cardioprotection in noncardiac surgery. From beta-blockers and statins to the evolving debate around RAAS inhibitors and aspirin, we cover what works, what doesn’t, and what’s still unclear. Plus, we discuss whether tighter blood pressure control or postoperative therapy i
Anemia and Transfusion in Children: Hidden Risks in Plain Sight
In this episode, Dr. Hadzic discusses the main findings from a new study from the British Journal of Anaesthesia (2025). The study reported that 1 in 4 children having noncardiac surgery has preoperative anemia, and that both anemia and transfusion independently, and especially together, increase 30-day mortality and complications. Despite strong global guidelines for blood management and anesthes
Anesthesia for the Diabetic Parturient
In this episode of UPDATES IN ANESTHESIOLOGY, Dr. Hadzic reviews a 2025 paper from Anesthesiology on managing obstetric anesthesia for patients with diabetes. From prelabor planning to postpartum glucose shifts, this episode covers everything you need to provide safe and effective anesthesia care for this growing population of high-risk parturients.Where else to find us: Web- http://www.nysora.c
AI in Anesthesiology: Hype, Reality, and What Comes Next
In this episode of the NYSORA Podcast: Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic breaks down what anesthesiologists need to know about using AI in clinical practice. We cover recent studies showing where AI like ChatGPT performs well (like data analysis) — and where it can be risky, especially in complex patient cases. You’ll also learn how NYSORA’s Anesthesia Assistant App, powered by Maia, gives yo
Hepatopulmonary Syndrome: What Anesthesiologists Must Know
In this episode of UPDATES IN ANESTHESIOLOGY, Dr. Hadzic unpacks Hepatopulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a frequently missed but life-threatening complication of chronic liver disease. Drawing on a 2025 review from Current Opinion in Anesthesiology, we cover the mechanisms of HPS, key diagnostic clues like platypnea and orthodeoxia, and why liver transplantation remains the only curative therapy. You’ll a
Taming Postoperative Delirium: Guideline Updates You Need to Know
In this episode of NYSORA’s Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic breaks down the 2024 ESAIC guidelines on postoperative delirium (POD) in adults. Discover the latest evidence on risk factors, why inflammation, not just anesthesia, may be the real culprit, and why multicomponent nonpharmacological strategies are your best bet. Learn what works, what doesn’t, and how to protect your patients from t
Pain, Pills, and Pitfalls: Analgesic Harms in Multimorbid Patients
In this episode, Dr. Hadzic unpacks a 2025 British Journal of Anaesthesia systematic review led by Dr. Grant and colleagues, exploring the hidden dangers of common analgesics, opioids, NSAIDs, and gabapentinoids in patients with multiple chronic conditions. With over 2.6 million patients studied, the findings reveal clear red flags and critical evidence gaps. Tune in for practical insights, risk-r
Sugammadex: The Reversal Agent with a catch?
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic unpacks the latest evidence on sugammadex-induced anaphylaxis from the 2025 Anesthesiology review by Dr. Savic and colleagues. We explore the benefits that make sugammadex the preferred reversal agent over neostigmine, and the rare but serious risk of hypersensitivity reactions. You'll learn about proposed mechanisms, diagnostic pitfalls
Sugammadex vs Neostigmine: A Faster Recovery for Bariatric OSA Patients?
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic reviews a double-blind RCT from Anesthesia & Analgesia (March 2025) led by Dr. Ajetunmobi and colleagues. The study compared sugammadex and neostigmine for neuromuscular blockade reversal in morbidly obese patients with OSA undergoing bariatric surgery. Despite sugammadex’s pharmacologic advantages, the study found no significant differe
AI vs Anesthesiology: Can Chatbots Replace Clinical Judgment?
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic discusses a 2025 study by Corpman et al. evaluating ChatGPT-4, Bard, and other AI chatbots as decision support tools in regional anesthesia. The findings? AI is getting smarter, but it still makes major clinical errors. Enter MAIA, NYSORA’s purpose-built AI assistant, designed by anesthesiologists to bridge the gap between innovation and sa
Better Blood, Better Outcomes: The Real Power of PBM in Joint Surgery
In this episode of UPDATES IN ANESTHESIOLOGY, Dr. Hadzic breaks down a landmark study by Garcia-Casanovas et al., published in Anesthesiology (July 2025), involving over 30,000 joint arthroplasty patients across 43 hospitals. The study shows that higher adherence to patient blood management (PBM) guidelines isn't just about fewer transfusions; it leads to fewer complications, shorter hospital
New Guidelines Favor Restrictive Platelet Transfusion
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic reviews the newly published 2025 international clinical practice guidelines on platelet transfusion, co-led by Dr. Ryan Metcalf from the University of Utah and Dr. Simon Stanworth from Oxford, and published in JAMA. Based on evidence from over 30 studies, these guidelines recommend restrictive platelet transfusion thresholds in both adult an
The Silent Stroke: Unmasking Hidden Brain Injuries After Surgery
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic breaks down the results from the PRECISION study published in Anesthesiology (2025). Led by Dr. Cui and colleagues, this prospective trial reveals that nearly 1 in 9 older patients undergoing noncardiac surgery, especially neurosurgical, experience covert strokes detectable only by MRI. These “silent” strokes double the risk of postoperative
Going Green in the OR: TIVA vs Gas – Who Wins the Carbon Battle?
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic breaks down the largest real-world study to date comparing the environmental impact of general anesthesia strategies. With over 35,000 cases analyzed, discover why TIVA with propofol has emerged as the lowest carbon emitter, outperforming even optimized sevoflurane techniques. We’ll explore the GHG numbers, plastic waste concerns, and clinic
Apnoeic Oxygenation Safety Checklist for Airway Surgery
In this episode of UPDATES IN ANESTHESIOLOGY, Dr. Hadzic discusses a new international consensus on apnoeic oxygenation using high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) during laryngotracheal surgery. Featuring insights from a newly published 19-item safety checklist in the European Journal of Anaesthesiology, we break down what every clinician needs to know, from patient selection to post-op care, to improve
To Cut or Not to Cut: Rethinking Hip Fracture Care in the Frail Elderly
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic unpacks the FRAIL-HIP study published in JAMA Surgery, which challenges the routine use of surgery for proximal femoral fractures in frail, institutionalized older adults. You'll hear how nonoperative management, guided by a structured shared decision-making process, can lead to comparable quality of life, fewer adverse events, and even
Ketamine vs. The Rest: Choosing the Safest Induction Agent in Critical Care
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic breaks down the latest evidence comparing ketamine, etomidate, and propofol for tracheal intubation in critically ill patients. Drawing from a 2025 review in Critical Care Medicine, we explore why ketamine is emerging as the safest and most reliable option, while etomidate shows a potential mortality risk, and propofol continues to raise red
Dexmedetomidine: The Kidney's Secret Ally in Surgery?
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic explores groundbreaking findings from Chotinaruemol and colleagues, published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia (2025), revealing how dexmedetomidine may do more than sedate. It could protect the kidneys from ischemia-reperfusion injury. From cellular survival pathways to improved surgical outcomes, we break down how DEX works, when it w
Contaminated Ultrasound Gel – A Wake-Up Call for Infection Control
In this episode, Dr. Hadzic discusses the CDC's May 2025 nationwide alert on bloodstream infections linked to non-sterile, multi-use ultrasound gel. Learn how this outbreak unfolded, what it means for ultrasound-guided procedures, and why sterile gel and validated probe covers—like EZCOVER®—are now essential for every percutaneous procedure. Practical, evidence-based takeaways to help you enha
Ventilators and Young Minds: Uncovering Hidden Risks After Surgery
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic explores a groundbreaking study from Columbia University, published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia (2025), revealing that children who require mechanical ventilation during surgery face nearly double the risk of developing neurodevelopmental and behavioral disorders after discharge. Tune in to learn what factors may drive this associa
Tube Tip in Pharynx Ventilation as A Rescue?
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic breaks down a study by Dr. Travis Markham and colleagues from Anesthesia & Analgesia (2025) that introduces a game-changing airway rescue technique: Tube Tip in Pharynx (TTIP) ventilation. Discover how this simple, low-tech maneuver outperformed standard facemask ventilation in patients with potentially difficult airways and proved to be
IV Antihypertensives and Brain Perfusion: Friend or Foe?
In this episode of NYSORA Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic breaks down a 2025 systematic review from the British Journal of Anaesthesia exploring how intravenous antihypertensives impact cerebral blood flow. Discover why nitroprusside and nitroglycerin demand extra caution, why nicardipine and labetalol remain safer bets, and how to avoid putting your patients at risk of cerebral hypoperfusio
Transfuse or Not to Transfuse? Rethinking Hemoglobin Thresholds in TBI
In this episode, Dr. Hadzic breaks down the latest meta-analysis on transfusion strategies in traumatic brain injury patients. Are we under-transfusing and compromising brain recovery? Evidence now points to a liberal transfusion strategy with a 9 g/dL threshold improving neurologic outcomes, without increasing mortality. But watch out: ARDS risk rises. Tune in to hear why current guidelines may n
Sugammadex in Crisis: Can It Save a CICV Scenario?
In this episode of NYSORA Podcast: Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic breaks down a 2025 systematic review by Dr. Nancy Abou Nafeh and colleagues, exploring whether sugammadex can truly rescue patients in 'cannot intubate, cannot ventilate' (CICV) emergencies. With a 75% success rate in reported cases but crucial limitations in timing, dosing, and airway obstruction, we explore the real
HPI in the OR: Prediction Without Prevention?
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic unpacks a major 2025 multicenter trial by Dr. Javier Ripollés-Melchor and colleagues, exploring whether the Hypotension Prediction Index (HPI) can actually reduce postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) in abdominal surgery. Despite HPI’s promise in predicting intraoperative hypotension, the trial found no reduction in AKI or overall complic
Neuraxial Anesthesia Isn't Dead: Reclaiming Its Role After REGAIN
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic explores the ongoing role of neuraxial anesthesia in hip fracture surgery following the widely publicized REGAIN and RAGA trials. Despite claims of equivalence between general and neuraxial techniques, Dr. Alexander Stone and colleagues argue that these trials may have lacked the statistical power and mechanistic clarity to support such a co
Hyperkalemia Management: Time for a Re-Evaluation?
In this episode of UPDATES IN ANESTHESIOLOGY, Dr. Hadzic breaks down a 2025 systematic review on hyperkalemia treatment strategies. Spoiler: Insulin + glucose and beta2-agonists lower potassium fast, but the role of calcium chloride and bicarbonate isn’t as solid as once thought—especially during cardiac arrest. Tune in to learn what the evidence says, how it should reshape your clinical practice,
ECMO in Perioperative Cardiac Arrest: A Game Changer?
In this episode of the NYSORA Podcast, Dr. Hadzic dives into a groundbreaking study by Kapoor et al. (Anesthesiology, 2025) on extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) for perioperative cardiac arrest. The study reveals impressive survival rates (57.6%) and excellent neurologic outcomes (89.5%) with ECMO use in carefully selected patients. Learn how early ECMO activation, shorter CPR ti
More Protein, More Problems? The PRECISE Trial Shakes Up ICU Nutrition
In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic unpacks the groundbreaking PRECISe trial, a major study published in The Lancet that challenges the long-standing belief that higher protein intake benefits critically ill patients. Contrary to expectations, patients receiving high-protein enteral nutrition (2.0 g/kg/day) had worse long-term quality of life and no functional recovery advanta
Gastric Emptying in Pregnancy: Rethinking Aspiration Risk & Fasting Guidelines
In this episode of the NYSORA Podcast: Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic explores the latest evidence on gastric emptying in pregnancy and its implications for anesthesia, based on a 2025 review by Jacob Lawson et al., published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia.Key topics include:✅ How gastric emptying changes across pregnancy and postpartum✅ The impact of opioids, epidurals, and spinal a
Optimizing Perioperative Care for Older Adults: Key Insights from the 2025 ASA Practice Advisory
n this episode of the NYSORA Podcast: Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic unpacks the 2025 ASA Practice Advisory on Perioperative Care of Older Adults, published in Anesthesiology and led by Dr. Frederick Sieber from Johns Hopkins. With the aging population growing rapidly, anesthesiologists must be prepared to manage frailty, cognitive impairment, and postoperative delirium in older surgical pa
Rethinking Opioids: Is Buprenorphine the Future of Post-Op Pain Management?
Could buprenorphine be the game-changer for postoperative pain management? In this episode of Updates in Anesthesiology, Dr. Hadzic breaks down an important meta-analysis from Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine that compares buprenorphine to full agonist opioids. Discover why this partial agonist may offer superior pain relief, longer-lasting effects, and a safer profile—all while reducing op
