Dexamethasone had no analgesic or opioid sparing effect in our set-up after thyroid surgery. Dexamethasone reduced the incidence of PONV and led to a modest increase in blood sugar. A medium dose seems as effective as a higher dose.

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In the course of 1994-1995 we found three nearly identical cases involving fracture of polyurethane catheters from subcutaneous implantable vascular ports. This resulted in complications: leakage of drugs and infusions and thereby soft tissue damage. The leakage occurred in the costoclavicular space in all instances. We assume that the catheters have been subjected to repeated pinching, resulting in material fatigue. In order to eliminate the risk of this serious complication, the subclavian route should be avoided and preference given to the approach via the internal jugular vein.

Trauma patients may suffer significant blood loss, and noninvasive methods to diagnose hypovolemia in these patients are needed. Physiologic effects of hypovolemia, aiming to maintain blood pressure, are largely mediated by increased sympathetic nervous activity. Trauma patients may however experience pain,