We recently reported a randomized, double-blinded, non-inferiority trial comparing erector spinae plane block (ESPB) with retrolaminar block (RLB) for perioperative analgesia in pediatric cardiac surgery.1 The primary objective of our study was the hemodynamic response to surgical incision, defined as a >10% rise in heart rate—an endpoint adapted from the landmark work of Holland and Bosenberg in mixed pediatric surgical populations.2 To our knowledge, this represents the first prospective application of incision-response as a primary endpoint in a pure pediatric cardiac sternotomy cohort.

The objective of this study was to compare visually assisted techniques (flexible bronchoscope and video laryngoscope) vs. blind insertion of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) probe. Primary objective was to evaluate first attempt success rate of probe insertion. Secondary objectives were the time required for probe insertion, number of attempts required for successful insertion, hemodynamic perturbation immediately following and at 3 minutes after probe insertion, operator satisfaction, and the incidence of complications related to probe insertion.

We recently reported a randomized, double-blinded, non-inferiority trial comparing erector spinae plane block (ESPB) with retrolaminar block (RLB) for perioperative analgesia in pediatric cardiac surgery.1 The primary objective of our study was the hemodynamic response to surgical incision, defined as a >10% rise in heart rate—an endpoint adapted from the landmark work of Holland and Bosenberg in mixed pediatric surgical populations.2 To our knowledge, this represents the first prospective application of incision-response as a primary endpoint in a pure pediatric cardiac sternotomy cohort.

Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is an established curative therapy for sickle cell disease (SCD) as it helps to stem multi-system complications.1 The American Society of Hematology guidelines recommend myeloablative conditioning (MAC) due to the lowest rates of graft rejection (GR) with busulfan-based myeloablation. GR rates are higher with reduced-intensity (RIC) and nonmyeloablative (NMA) conditioning, and there is a lack of data demonstrating fertility preservation with less intensive regimens.

Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is an established curative therapy for sickle cell disease (SCD) as it helps to stem multi-system complications.1 The American Society of Hematology guidelines recommend myeloablative conditioning (MAC) due to the lowest rates of graft rejection (GR) with busulfan-based myeloablation. GR rates are higher with reduced-intensity (RIC) and nonmyeloablative (NMA) conditioning, and there is a lack of data demonstrating fertility preservation with less intensive regimens.

Autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) consolidation remains the standard of care (SOC) for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM).2,3 In 2018, it was estimated that 14,000 patients received autologous HCTs in the United States.4 ASCT is also traditionally used to salvage relapse non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).5 With the emergence of chimeric antigen T-cell (CAR T) therapies now approved for MM6,7 and NHL8-12, role of ASCT is undergoing constant appraisal. CAR T-cell treatments are now offered as front-line therapies for MM and NHL, particularly in older patients who may not tolerate dose intensity of ASCT.

This month’s update is by the team at the Centre for Emergency Care and Trauma within the Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust. We used a mul...

High-pressure pneumatic guns, commonly used in industrial settings for tasks such as painting and cleaning, pose a significant risk of hand injuries s...

CJEM. 2026 Jan;28(1):7-8. doi: 10.1007/s43678-025-01078-y.

This study aims to examine the current practice patterns of Japanese urologists in treating male anterior urethral strictures and to compare these res...