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Percutaneous Tracheostomy in Critically ill patients
Percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT) is a commonly performed procedure in critically sick patients. It can be safely performed bedside by intensivists. This has resulted in decline in the use of surgical tracheostomy in intensive care unit (ICU) except in a few selected cases. Most common indication of tracheostomy in ICU is needed for prolonged ventilation. About 10% of patients requiring at least 3 days of mechanical ventilator support get tracheostomized during ICU stay. The ideal timing of PDT remains undecided at present. Contraindications and complications become fewer with increase in experience. Various methods of performing PDT have been discovered in the last two decades. Preoperative work up, patient selection and post tracheostomy care form key components of a successful PDT. Bronchoscopy and ultrasound have been found to be useful procedural adjuncts, especially in presence of unfavorable anatomy.
About the Speaker

Dr Hazem Lashin
FRCP FFICM FHEA PhD Consultant in Critical Care Medicine Faculty Tutor in Intensive Care Medicine Clinical Lead for High Dependency Unit Barts Heart Centre, St Bartholomew’s Hospital West Smithfield, London, EC1A 7BE
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Preparing your Practice for Adoption of AI
Preparing Your Practice for Adoption of AI" involves building a foundation of digital literacy, data readiness, and ethical awareness among clinicians and staff. Successful integration starts with identifying key workflows where AI can enhance efficiency, accuracy, or patient outcomes. It’s essential to choose tools that align with your practice’s goals while ensuring transparency, security, and compliance. Training, change management, and continuous evaluation are critical to fostering trust and long-term adoption. Ultimately, AI should support—not replace—the human touch in medicine.
Acne: Disorders and Treatment Approaches
Acne is a common dermatological condition caused by clogged pores, excess sebum production, bacterial growth, and inflammation. It can manifest as blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, or cysts, often leading to scarring if untreated. Various factors, including hormonal changes, diet, stress, and genetics, influence its severity. Treatment approaches range from topical and oral medications, such as retinoids, antibiotics, and hormonal therapy, to advanced procedures like chemical peels and laser therapy. A personalized skincare regimen, along with lifestyle modifications, plays a crucial role in managing and preventing acne.
Approach to Child with Status Epilepticus
Status epilepticus (SE) in children is a neurological emergency defined as a seizure lasting >5 minutes or recurrent seizures without recovery between episodes. Initial assessment includes airway, breathing, and circulation stabilization, followed by rapid glucose and electrolyte correction. First-line treatment involves benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam or midazolam). If seizures persist, second-line agents like phenytoin, levetiracetam, or valproate are administered. Refractory SE requires ICU admission and continuous infusion of anesthetics like midazolam or thiopental. Etiology must be identified (e.g., infection, metabolic, structural, or toxic causes). Prompt intervention reduces risk of neurological damage and improves outcomes. Continuous EEG monitoring may be necessary.
Management of Postoperative Pain: Best Practices for GP’s
Effective management of postoperative pain is crucial for promoting recovery and preventing complications. General practitioners should start by assessing pain severity using appropriate scales, then tailor the treatment plan based on the patient's medical history and the type of surgery. A combination of pharmacological approaches, such as non-opioid analgesics (e.g., NSAIDs) and opioids when necessary, should be used to minimize pain while reducing the risk of addiction. Multimodal strategies, including physical therapy and non-pharmacological techniques like cold therapy or mindfulness, can further enhance pain relief. Close follow-up is essential to adjust the treatment as needed and ensure the patient's pain is well-controlled.
Approach to Chronic Abdominal Pain in Children
Chronic abdominal pain in children requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach. Begin with a detailed history focusing on pain characteristics, dietary habits, psychosocial stressors, and family history. Conduct a thorough physical examination to identify red flags such as weight loss, gastrointestinal bleeding, or fever. Initial investigations may include blood tests, stool studies, and abdominal imaging. Functional abdominal pain disorders like irritable bowel syndrome are common, especially if no organic cause is found. Management includes reassurance, dietary modifications, behavioral therapy, and pharmacologic treatment when necessary. Coordination with pediatric gastroenterology, psychology, and nutrition specialists can enhance outcomes and improve the child’s quality of life.