The clinical indications for diagnostic flow cytometry studies are an evolving consensus, as the knowledge of antigenic definition of hematolymphoid malignancies and the prognostic significance of antigen expression evolves. Additionally the standard of care is not routinely communicated to practicing clinicians and diagnostic services, especially as may relate to new technologies. Accordingly there is often uncertainty on the part of clinicians, payers of medical services, diagnostic physicians and scientists as to the appropriate use of diagnostic flow cytometry. In an attempt to communicate contemporary diagnostic utility of immunophenotypic flow cytometry in the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with hematolymphoid malignancies, the Clinical Cytometry Society organized a two day meeting of international experts in this area to reach a consensus as to this diagnostic tool. This report summarizes the appropriate use of diagnostic flow cytometry as determined by unanimous approval of these experienced practitioners. q 2007 Clinical Cytometry Society

A prospective survey was conducted over a one-month period in all surgical patients admitted to the recovery room of a university-affiliated teaching hospital. Complications arising in the recovery room were documented by the nursing staff according to predefined criteria and were critically evaluated. A total of 443 patients were admitted to the recovery room and in 133 (30%) of these, some form of complication was noted. There were 86 patients with complications referable to the central nervous system, 68 with abnormal cardiovascular parameters, 24 with nausea and/or vomiting and 10 with abnormalities referable to the respiratory system. Many patients had more than one complication. The results are discussed, with emphasis on their relevance to current anaesthetic practice. It is concluded that many patients exhibit recovery room complications when they are specifically sought. The recovery period remains a time of great potential danger to patients.

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