Bio


Clemens M. Ortner, M.D., M.Sc., DESA, is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine at Stanford School of Medicine. He is teaching applications of point-of-care ultrasound in Obstetric Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine. Dr. Ortner is originally from Vienna, Austria, where he received his medical degree at the Medical University of Vienna, in Austria, and the University of Paris XI, in France. After completing residency training as a Diplomate of the European Society of Anesthesiology (DESA) at the Medical University of Vienna, he went for fellowship training in Obstetric Anesthesiology at the University of Washington (UW) in Seattle, Washington. In addition to his clinical expertise in Critical Care Medicine, Obstetric and Cardiac Anesthesiology, Dr. Ortner published original articles on chronic postoperative pain, and Preeclampsia. As recognition for his scientific work he was awarded Honorary Lecturer at the University of Cape Town in South Africa, and the academic title of 'Privat Dozent' and "Associate Professor" at the Medical University of Vienna in Austria. Dr. Ortner has received several awards and honors for his accomplishments in clinical research and education. Besides his clinical work at anesthesia attending physician at Stanford Hospital and Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Dr. Ortner is directing the anesthesia residency curriculum for applications of Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Anesthesiology and Critical Care of the Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine at Stanford School of Medicine.

Clinical Focus


  • Obstetric Anesthesiology
  • Point of Care Ultrasound
  • Anesthesia

Academic Appointments


  • Clinical Associate Professor, Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine

Honors & Awards


  • Research in Education Award, Society of Obstetric Anesthesiology and Perinatology (2013)
  • Gertie Marx Best Paper Award, Society of Obstetric Anesthesiology and Perinatology (2011)
  • Best Abstract Award, Austrian Society of Anesthesiology, Resuscitation and Intensive Care (2009)

Professional Education


  • Board Certification: National Board of Echocardiography, Advanced Perioperative Transesophageal Echocardiography (2018)
  • Board Certification: National Board of Echocardiography, Basic Perioperative Transesophageal Echocardiography (2016)
  • Board Certification: Austria Medical Chamber, Anesthesia (2010)
  • Fellowship: Medical University of Vienna (2016) Austria
  • Fellowship: University of Washington Dept of Surgery (2011) WA
  • Residency: Medical University of Vienna (2010) Austria
  • Internship: Medical University of Vienna (2010) Austria
  • Medical Education: Medical University of Vienna (2002) Austria

Current Research and Scholarly Interests


Point of Care Ultrasound in Women diagnosed with severe Preeclampsia

All Publications


  • Feasibility of Focused Cardiac Ultrasound Performed by Trainees During Cesarean Delivery. Anesthesia and analgesia Ortner, C. M., Sheikh, M., Athar, M. W., Padilla, C., Guo, N., Carvalho, B. 2023

    Abstract

    Anesthesiology experts advocate for formal education in maternal critical care, including the use of focused cardiac ultrasound (FCU) in high-acuity obstetric units. While benefits and feasibility of FCU performed by experts have been well documented, little evidence exists on the feasibility of FCU acquired by examiners with limited experience. The primary aim of this study was to assess how often echocardiographic images of sufficient quality to guide clinical decision-making were attained by trainees with limited experience performing FCU in term parturients undergoing cesarean delivery (CD).In this prospective cohort study, healthy term parturients (American Society of Anesthesiologists [ASA] ≤ 3, ≥37 weeks of gestation) with singleton pregnancy, body mass index (BMI) <40 kg/m2, and no history of congenital and acquired cardiac disease undergoing scheduled, elective CD were recruited by a trainee. After undergoing standardized training, including an 8-hour online E-learning module, a 1-day hands-on FCU course, and 20 to 30 supervised scans until the trainee was assessed competent in image acquisition, 8 trainees with limited FCU experience performed apical 4-chamber (A4CH), parasternal long-axis (PLAX), and short-axis (PSAX) view preoperatively after spinal anesthesia (SPA) and intraoperatively after neonatal delivery (ND). Obtained FCU images were graded 1 to 5 by 2 blinded instructors (1 = no image to 5 = perfect image obtainable; ≥3 defined as image quality sufficient for clinical decision-making).Following the screening of 95 women, 8 trainees with limited FCU experience each performed a median of 5 [3-8] FCUs in a total of 64 women. Images of sufficient quality were obtainable in 61 (95.3 %) and 57 (89.1 %) of women after SPA and ND, respectively. FCU images of perfect image quality were obtainable in 9 (14.1 %) and 7 (10.9 %) women preoperatively after SPA and intraoperatively after ND, respectively. A PLAX, PSAX, and A4CH view with grade ≥3 was obtained in 53 (82.8 %), 58 (90.6 %) and 40 (62.5 %) of women preoperatively after SPA and in 50 (78.1 %), 49 (76.6 %), and 29 (45.3 %) of women intraoperatively after ND. Left ventricular function could be assessed in 39 of 40 women (97.5 %) preoperatively after SPA and 39 of 40 (97.5%) intraoperatively after ND. Right ventricular function could be assessed in 31 of 40 (77.5 %) after SPA and in 23 of 40 (59%) after ND. We observed a difference in image grading between different trainees in the AP4CH-view (P = .0001). No difference in image grading was found between preoperative and intraoperative FCUs.FCU is feasible in the parturient undergoing CD and images of sufficient quality for clinical decision-making were obtained by trainees with limited experience in almost all parturients. Image acquisition and quality in the A4CH view may be impacted by the individual trainee performing the FCU.

    View details for DOI 10.1213/ANE.0000000000006747

    View details for PubMedID 38127663

  • Will Point-of-Care Ultrasound Be the New Standard of Care in the Management of Women Diagnosed With Preeclampsia? Anesthesia and analgesia Ortner, C. M., Lucovnik, M., Zieleskiewicz, L. 2023; 137 (6): 1154-1157

    View details for DOI 10.1213/ANE.0000000000006551

    View details for PubMedID 37973130

  • Point of care ultrasonography: And now, where shall we go in perioperative medicine? Anaesthesia, critical care & pain medicine Zieleskiewicz, L., Ortner, C., Bruckert, V., Via, G., Bouvet, L. 1800: 101014

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.accpm.2021.101014

    View details for PubMedID 34954222

  • Point-of-Care Lung Ultrasound Pattern in Healthy Parturients: Prevalence of Pulmonary Interstitial Syndrome Following Vaginal Delivery, Elective and Unplanned Intrapartum Cesarean Delivery. Anesthesia and analgesia Macias, P. n., Wilson, J. G., Austin, N. S., Guo, N. n., Carvalho, B. n., Ortner, C. M. 2021

    Abstract

    Pregnancy-related cardiovascular physiologic changes increase the likelihood of pulmonary edema, with the risk of fluid extravasating into the pulmonary interstitium being potentially at a maximum during the early postpartum period. Data on the impact of labor and peripartum hemodynamic strain on lung ultrasound (LUS) are limited, and the prevalence of subclinical pulmonary interstitial syndrome in peripartum women is poorly described. The primary aim of this exploratory study was to estimate the prevalence of pulmonary interstitial syndrome in healthy term parturients undergoing vaginal (VD), elective (eCD), and unplanned intrapartum cesarean deliveries (uCD). Secondary aims were to estimate the prevalence of positive lung regions (≥3 B-lines on LUS per region) and to assess the associations between positive lung regions and possible contributing factors.In this prospective observational cohort study, healthy women at term undergoing VD, eCD, or uCD were enrolled. Following international consensus recommendations, a LUS examination was performed within 4 hours after delivery applying an 8-region technique. Pulmonary interstitial syndrome was defined by the presence of 2 or more positive lung regions per hemithorax. Ultrasound studies were reviewed by 2 blinded reviewers and assessed for interobserver reliability.Seventy-five women were assessed (n = 25 per group). No pulmonary interstitial syndrome was found in the VD and eCD groups (each 0 of 25; 0%, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0-13.7). Pulmonary interstitial syndrome was found in 2 of 25 (8%, 95% CI, 1-26) women undergoing an uCD (P = .490 for VD versus uCD and P = .490 for eCD versus uCD). In 1 woman, this correlated clinically with the development of pulmonary edema. One or more positive lung regions were present in 5 of 25 (20%), 6 of 25 (24%), and 11 of 25 (44%) parturients following VD, eCD, and uCD, respectively (P = .136). Positive lung regions were predominantly found in lateral lung regions. The number of positive lung regions showed a weak correlation with patient age (r = 0.25, 95% CI, 0.05-0.47; P = .033). No significant association was found between LUS pattern and parity, duration of labor, labor augmentation, labor induction, estimated total intravenous fluid intake, or net intravenous fluid intake.Although many focal areas of increased extravascular lung water (20%-44% prevalence) can be identified on LUS, the overall prevalence of pulmonary interstitial syndrome was 2.7% (2 of 75; 95% CI, 0.3-9.3) among healthy term parturients soon after delivery. Focal areas of positive lung water regions were weakly correlated with maternal age.

    View details for DOI 10.1213/ANE.0000000000005464

    View details for PubMedID 33721873

  • High altitude trekking after lung transplantation: a prospective study using lung ultrasound to detect comets tails for interstitial pulmonary edema in lung transplant recipients and healthy volunteers TRANSPLANT INTERNATIONAL Weber, U., Schiefer, J., Muehlbacher, J., Bernardi, M., Ortner, C., Jaksch, P. 2018; 31 (11): 1245–53

    Abstract

    The intensity of physical activity which can be tolerated after lung transplantation and the tolerance to prolonged exercise at high altitude are poorly investigated. Lung ultrasound comet tails have been used in the diagnosis of interstitial pulmonary edema and high pulmonary altitude edema. The aim was to assess the number of lung ultrasound comet tails and to monitor changes in the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) during a climb to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro in 10 lung transplant recipients and 10 healthy controls at three different altitude levels: 1360, 3505, 4900 m. Lung transplant recipients showed a constant increase in comet tail scores with altitude, whereas control subjects only showed an increase at the highest measurement point. Differences between groups (transplant versus control) reached significance only after the first ascend: 0.9 (95% CI: -0.41; 2.21) vs. 0.1 (95% CI: -0.12; 0.32) (P = 0.2; 1360 m), 2.33 (95% CI: 0.64; 4.02) vs. 0.3 (95% CI: -0.18; 0.78) (P = 0.04; 3505 m), and 4.11 (95% CI: 0.13; 0.34) vs. 2.9 (95% CI: 0.49; 5.31) (P = 0.15; 4900 m); ONSD increased significantly in both groups from 3.53 (95% CI: 0.34; 0.66) at 1360 m to 4.11 (95% CI: 0.36; 0.71) at 4900 m (P < 0.05). Lungs of transplant recipients are able to adapt to altitude and capable of performing prolonged exercise at high altitude after slow ascend.

    View details for DOI 10.1111/tri.13307

    View details for Web of Science ID 000447163400008

    View details for PubMedID 29928768

  • Point-of-Care Ultrasound Abnormalities in Late-Onset Severe Preeclampsia: Prevalence and Association With Serum Albumin and Brain Natriuretic Peptide. Anesthesia and analgesia Ortner, C. M., Krishnamoorthy, V., Neethling, E., Flint, M., Swanevelder, J. L., Lombard, C., Fawcus, S., Dyer, R. A. 2018

    Abstract

    Pilot studies applying point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in preeclampsia indicate the presence of pulmonary interstitial edema, cerebral edema, and cardiac dysfunction. Laboratory markers of oncotic pressure (albumin) and cardiac dysfunction (brain natriuretic peptide [BNP]) may be abnormal, but the clinical application remains unclear. We investigated the prevalence of pulmonary interstitial syndrome (PIS), cardiac dysfunction, and increased optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) in late-onset preeclampsia with severe features. The primary aim was to examine the association between PIS or ONSD and maternal serum albumin level. The secondary aims were to explore the association between cardiac dysfunction and PIS, ONSD, BNP, and serum albumin level and between POCUS-derived parameters and a suspicious or pathological cardiotocograph.Ninety-five women were enrolled in this prospective observational cohort study. A POCUS examination of lungs, heart, and ONSD was performed. PIS was defined as a bilateral B-line pattern on lung ultrasound and diastolic dysfunction according to an algorithm of the American Society of Echocardiography. ONSD >5.8 mm was interpreted as compatible with raised intracranial pressure (>20 mm Hg). Serum BNP and albumin levels were also measured.PIS, diastolic dysfunction, systolic dysfunction, and raised left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) were present in 23 (24%), 31 (33%), 9 (10%), and 20 (25%) women, respectively. ONSD was increased in 27 (28%) women. Concerning the primary outcome, there was no association between albumin level and PIS (P = .4) or ONSD (P = .63). With respect to secondary outcomes, there was no association between albumin level and systolic dysfunction (P = .21) or raised LVEDP (P = .44). PIS was associated with diastolic dysfunction (P = .02) and raised LVEDP (P = .009; negative predictive value, 85%). BNP level was associated with systolic (P < .001) and diastolic dysfunction (P = .003) and LVEDP (P = .007). No association was found between POCUS abnormalities and a suspicious/pathological cardiotocograph (P = .07).PIS, diastolic dysfunction, and increased ONSD were common in preeclampsia with severe features. Cardiac ultrasound abnormalities may be more useful than albumin levels in predicting PIS. The absence of PIS may exclude raised LVEDP. The further clinical relevance of PIS and raised ONSD remains to be established. BNP level was associated with cardiac ultrasound abnormalities. Although this study was not designed to directly influence clinical management, the findings suggest that POCUS may serve as a useful adjunct to clinical examination for the obstetric anesthesiologist managing these complex patients.

    View details for DOI 10.1213/ANE.0000000000003759

    View details for PubMedID 30211771

  • [Which medications are safe while breastfeeding? : A synopsis for the anesthetist, obstetrician and pediatrician]. Wiener medizinische Wochenschrift (1946) Fischer, A., Ortner, C., Hartmann, T., Jochberger, S., Klein, K. U. 2018

    Abstract

    Pharmacokinetic data on drug administration during lactation are often inconsistent or missing. For legal reasons medicinal drug product information generally advises to interrupt breastfeeding for 24 h after medication intake. However this is not standard of care in clinical practice as the mother should be instructed to initiate breastfeeding as soon as possible after giving birth. At the same time the medication exposure over the breast milk for the newborn should be minimized. Aim of this article is to summarize pharmacokinetic data and to give important clinical information on medications frequently administered during the lactation period. As a general rule a mother can start breastfeeding following anesthesia as soon as she is able to get her baby latched on her breast.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/s10354-018-0637-z

    View details for PubMedID 29691694

  • [Recent standards in management of obstetric anesthesia]. Wiener medizinische Wochenschrift (1946) van Erp, M., Ortner, C., Jochberger, S., Klein, K. U. 2017; 167 (15-16): 374-389

    Abstract

    The following article contains information not only for the clinical working anaesthesiologist, but also for other specialists involved in obstetric affairs. Besides a synopsis of a German translation of the current "Practice Guidelines for Obstetric Anaesthesia 2016" [1], written by the American Society of Anesthesiologists, the authors provide personal information regarding major topics of obstetric anaesthesia including pre-anaesthesia patient evaluation, equipment and staff at the delivery room, use of general anaesthesia, peridural analgesia, spinal anaesthesia, combined spinal-epidural anaesthesia, single shot spinal anaesthesia, and programmed intermittent epidural bolus.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/s10354-017-0584-0

    View details for PubMedID 28744777

  • [Pain therapy during labour]. Wiener medizinische Wochenschrift Jochberger, S., Ortner, C., Klein, K. U. 2017

    Abstract

    To date the gold standard of treating labour pain is regional analgesia by application of epidural analgesia. When offering epidural analgesia, the programmed intermittent epidural bolus (PIEB) is more effective in terms of pain reduction, less motor blocks and higher satisfaction of the parturient compared to continuous application via perfusor pump. An upcoming alternative to epidural analgesia is remifentanil, a short acting and potent opioid. Remifentanil, however, requires haemodynamic monitoring as cardiac and respiratory impairment has been described. Nitrous oxide has been used for decades in the Anglosphere but it is a greenhouse gas, and interactions with Vitamin B12are possible. Using novel extraction systems, nitrous oxide has become more attractive for treatment of the initial phase of labour pain in Central Europe. In order to provide the parturient with the best possible and with a tailored pain concept an interdisciplinary approach with obstetricians, midwives and anaesthesiologists is required.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/s10354-017-0571-5

    View details for PubMedID 28577077

  • Outcomes and trends of peripartum maternal admission to the intensive care unit. Wiener klinische Wochenschrift Farr, A., Lenz-Gebhart, A., Einig, S., Ortner, C., Holzer, I., Elhenicky, M., Husslein, P. W., Lehner, R. 2017

    Abstract

    The number of pregnant women with severe comorbidities is increasing. The aim of the present study was to analyze outcomes and determine trends in women who required peripartum admission to the intensive care unit (ICU).In this retrospective study, we identified all women who were admitted to the ICU between the second trimester of pregnancy and 6 weeks postpartum. Women with ICU admission between 2011 and 2014 were assigned to the study group, whereas those admitted between 1996 and 2003 were assigned to the historical group. Comorbidities, characteristics, outcomes, and treatment efforts were assessed. Descriptive analysis, Fisher's exact test, unpaired Student's t-test and one-way ANOVA were performed.We identified 238 cases, including 135 (56.7%) in the study group and 103 (43.3%) in the historical group. In 83 (34.9%) women, deterioration of the pre-existing medical condition was causal for ICU admission. Overall, preterm delivery and mean gestational age were 81.5% and 31.6 ± 6.2 weeks, respectively. In comparison to the historical group, women of the study group were older (p = 0.005), more frequently presented with multiple comorbidities (p = 0.003), pre-existing conditions (p < 0.001), and congenital heart disease (p = 0.012). Moreover, they had a shorter length of stay at the ICU than those of the historical group (p = 0.02).Peripartum ICU admissions are increasing in frequency. As maternal characteristics are changing, adequate risk stratification with multidisciplinary care are essential, and access to intermediate care units would be preferable for patients with short-term admission.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/s00508-016-1161-z

    View details for PubMedID 28101669

    View details for PubMedCentralID PMC5599431

  • Hormonal and Clinical Predictors for Post-egg Retrieval Pain in Women Undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology Procedures CLINICAL JOURNAL OF PAIN Vuilleumier, P. H., Dinges, E., Ciliberto, C., Ortner, C. M., Zarutskie, P., Landau, R. 2016; 32 (4): 313-320

    Abstract

    The intensity of post-egg retrieval pain is underestimated, with few studies examining postprocedural pain and predictors to identify women at risk for severe pain. We evaluated the influence of preprocedural hormonal levels, ovarian factors, and mechanical temporal summation (mTS) as predictors for post-egg retrieval pain in women undergoing in vitro fertilization.Eighteen women scheduled for ultrasound-guided egg retrieval under standardized anesthesia and postprocedural analgesia were enrolled. Preprocedural mTS, questionnaires, clinical data related to anesthesia and the procedure itself, postprocedural pain scores, and pain medication for breakthrough pain were recorded. Statistical analysis included Pearson product-moment correlations, Mann-Whitney U tests, and multiple linear regressions.Average peak post-egg retrieval pain during the first 24 hours was 5.0±1.6 on a numerical response scale (0=no pain, 10=worst pain imaginable). Peak post-egg retrieval pain was correlated with basal antimullerian hormone (AMH) (r=0.549, P=0.018), preprocedural peak estradiol (r=0.582, P=0.011), total number of follicles (r=0.517, P=0.028), and number of retrieved eggs (r=0.510, P=0.031). Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (n=4) was associated with higher basal AMH (P=0.004), higher peak pain scores (P=0.049), but not with peak estradiol (P=0.13). The mTS did not correlate with peak postprocedural pain (r=0.266, P=0.286), or peak estradiol level (r=0.090, P=0.899).Peak post-egg retrieval pain intensity was higher than anticipated. Our results suggest that post-egg retrieval pain can be predicted by baseline AMH, high peak estradiol, and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Further studies to evaluate intraprocedural and postprocedural pain in this population are needed, as well as clinical trials to assess postprocedural analgesia in women presenting with high hormonal levels.

    View details for DOI 10.1097/AJP.0000000000000251

    View details for Web of Science ID 000373827200006

    View details for PubMedID 25968448

  • Strong ion and weak acid analysis in severe preeclampsia: potential clinical significance BRITISH JOURNAL OF ANAESTHESIA Ortner, C. M., Combrinck, B., Allie, S., Story, D., Landau, R., Cain, K., Dyer, R. A. 2015; 115 (2): 275-284

    Abstract

    The influence of common disturbances seen in preeclampsia, such as changes in strong ions and weak acids (particularly albumin) on acid-base status, has not been fully elucidated. The aims of this study were to provide a comprehensive acid-base analysis in severe preeclampsia and to identify potential new biological predictors of disease severity.Fifty women with severe preeclampsia, 25 healthy non-pregnant- and 46 healthy pregnant controls (26-40 weeks' gestation), were enrolled in this prospective case-control study. Acid-base analysis was performed by applying the physicochemical approach of Stewart and Gilfix.Mean [sd] base excess was similar in preeclamptic- and healthy pregnant women (-3.3 [2.3], and -2.8 [1.5] mEq/L respectively). In preeclampsia, there were greater offsetting contributions to the base excess, in the form of hyperchloraemia (BE(Cl) -2 [2.3] vs -0.4 [2.3] mEq/L, P<0.001) and hypoalbuminaemia (BE(Alb) 3.6 [1] vs 2.1 [0.8] mEq/L, P<0.001). In preeclampsia, hypoalbuminaemic metabolic alkalosis was associated with a non-reassuring/abnormal fetal heart tracing (P<0.001). Quantitative analysis in healthy pregnancy revealed respiratory and hypoalbuminaemic alkalosis that was metabolically offset by acidosis, secondary to unmeasured anions and dilution.While the overall base excess in severe preeclampsia is similar to that in healthy pregnancy, preeclampsia is associated with a greater imbalance offsetting hypoalbuminaemic alkalosis and hyperchloraemic acidosis. Rather than the absolute value of base excess, the magnitude of these opposing contributors may be a better indicator of the severity of this disease. Hypoalbuminaemic alkalosis may also be a predictor of fetal compromise.clinicaltrials.gov: NCT 02164370.

    View details for DOI 10.1093/bja/aev221

    View details for Web of Science ID 000358808100018

    View details for PubMedID 26170350

  • The effects of low-dose ketamine on the analgesia nociception index (ANI) measured with the novel PhysioDoloris (TM) analgesia monitor: a pilot study JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MONITORING AND COMPUTING Bollag, L., Ortner, C. M., Jelacic, S., Rivat, C., Landau, R., Richebe, P. 2015; 29 (2): 291-295

    Abstract

    The PhysioDoloris™ analgesia monitor assesses nociception effects on the autonomic nervous system by analyzing changes in heart rate variability (HRV). This non-invasive device analyses ECG signals and determines the analgesia nociception index (ANI), allowing for quantitative assessment of the analgesia/nociception balance in anesthetized patients. Ketamine, an analgesic adjuvant with sympathomimetic properties, has been shown to improve perioperative pain management. The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate whether low-dose ketamine, due to its intrinsic effect on the sino-atrial node, affects HRV and, therefore, interferes with ANI measurements. This pilot study included 20 women undergoing abdominal hysterectomies. Anesthesia and analgesia were maintained with sevoflurane and fentanyl respectively, in a standardized manner. Five minutes after intubation, 0.5 μg kg(-1) of intravenous (i.v.) ketamine was administered. ANI, bispectral index (BIS), heart rate and blood pressure were recorded from the induction of anesthesia until 5 min after skin incision. There was not any significant decrease in mean (±SD) ANI values after intubation (2.11±20.11, p=0.35) or i.v. ketamine administration (1.31±15.26, p=0.28). The mean (±SD) reduction in ANI values after skin incision was statistically significant (13.65±15.44, p=0.01), which is consistent with increased nociception. A single i.v. bolus of 0.5 μg kg(-1) ketamine did not influence the ANI values of 20 women under standardized general anesthesia conditions and absent noxious stimulation. These results suggest that the ANI derived from the PhysioDoloris™ analgesia monitor is feasible under such clinical conditions.

    View details for DOI 10.1007/s10877-014-9600-8

    View details for Web of Science ID 000352742400012

    View details for PubMedID 25062948

  • Osteogenesis imperfecta: cesarean deliveries in identical twins INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OBSTETRIC ANESTHESIA Dinges, E., Ortner, C., Bollag, L., DAVIES, J., Landau, R. 2015; 24 (1): 64-68

    Abstract

    Osteogenesis imperfecta is a congenital disorder resulting in multiple fractures and extremely short stature, usually necessitating cesarean delivery. Identical twins with severe osteogenesis imperfecta each of whom underwent a cesarean delivery with different anesthetic modalities are presented. A review of the literature and anesthetic options for cesarean delivery and postoperative analgesia for women with osteogenesis imperfecta are discussed.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ijoa.2014.07.006

    View details for Web of Science ID 000349725800012

    View details for PubMedID 25433579

  • The Short-FormMcGill Pain Questionnaire-Revised to Evaluate Persistent Pain and Surgery-Related Symptoms in Healthy Women Undergoing a Planned Cesarean Delivery REGIONAL ANESTHESIA AND PAIN MEDICINE Ortner, C. M., Turk, D. C., Theodore, B. R., Siaulys, M. M., Bollag, L. A., Landau, R. 2014; 39 (6): 478-486

    Abstract

    The incidence of chronic pain after cesarean delivery (CD) has been estimated to range between 0.3% and 18%. This wide range may be explained by differing study methodologies. Furthermore, a comprehensive characterization of pain quality is lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate persistent pain in a healthy obstetric population undergoing planned CD and to provide a comprehensive description of pain quality.Three hundred eighty-one women with no pain history undergoing CD were included in this prospective, observational cohort study. Spinal anesthesia was standardized, and postoperative pain was recorded at 24 hours. In each woman, pain was assessed at 8 weeks, and 6 and 12 months using questionnaires of pain intensity and interference. Pain quality was assessed using the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire-Revised.The incidence of persistent pain at 8 weeks was 11% (95% confidence interval, 8%-14%), with pain reported as being mild and interfering with common daily activities by 32% of women. At 6 and 12 months, the incidence was 3% (95% confidence interval, 2%-6%) and 0.6% (95% confidence interval, 0%-2%) respectively, with pain rarely interfering with daily activities. However, 22% of women described other surgery-related symptoms at 12 months.The incidence of chronic pain at 12 months after planned CD is low (0.6%) and if present symptoms are mostly mild and not interfering with common daily activities. Using Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire-Revised, this study provides a comprehensive evaluation of pain quality that can be used as a basis in future post-CD pain trials.

    View details for DOI 10.1097/AAP.0000000000000158

    View details for Web of Science ID 000344933500007

    View details for PubMedID 25304476

  • Repeated simulation-based training for performing general anesthesia for emergency cesarean delivery: long-term retention and recurring mistakes INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OBSTETRIC ANESTHESIA Ortner, C. M., Richebe, P., Bollag, L. A., Ross, B. K., Landau, R. 2014; 23 (4): 341-347

    Abstract

    The percentage of women undergoing cesarean delivery under general anesthesia has significantly decreased, which limits training opportunities for its safe administration. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how effective simulation-based training was in the learning and long-term retention of skills to perform general anesthesia for an emergent cesarean delivery.During an eight-week obstetric anesthesia rotation, 24 residents attended lectures and simulation-based training to perform general anesthesia for emergent cesarean delivery. Performance assessments using a validated weighted scaling system were made during the first (pre-test) and fifth weeks (post-test) of training, and eight months later (post-retention test). Resident's competency level (weighted score) and errors were assessed at each testing session. Six obstetric anesthesia attending physicians, unfamiliar with the simulation scenario, generated a mean attendings' performance score. The results were compared.At one week of training, residents' performance was significantly below mean attendings' performance score (pre-test: 135±22 vs. 159±11, P=0.013). At five weeks, residents' performance was similar to mean attendings' performance score (post-test: 159±21) and remained at that level at eight months (post-retention test: 164±16). Of the important obstetric-specific tasks, left uterine displacement was missed by 46% of residents at eight months.Following lectures and simulation-enhanced training, anesthesia residents reached and retained for up to eight months a competency level in a simulator comparable to that of obstetric anesthesia attending physicians. Errors in performance and missed tasks may be used to improve residency training and continuing medical education.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ijoa.2014.04.008

    View details for Web of Science ID 000345203200008

    View details for PubMedID 25066817

  • Chronic pain after childbirth INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OBSTETRIC ANESTHESIA Landau, R., Bollag, L., Ortner, C. 2013; 22 (2): 133-145

    Abstract

    With over four million deliveries annually in the United States alone and a constant increase in cesarean delivery rate, childbirth is likely to have a huge impact on the occurrence of acute and possibly chronic postpartum pain. Recent awareness that chronic pain may occur after childbirth has prompted clinicians and researchers to investigate this topic. Current evidence points towards a relatively low incidence of chronic pain after cesarean delivery, with rates ranging between 1% and 18%. To provide a potential mechanistic explanation for the relatively low occurrence of chronic pain after cesarean delivery compared with that after other types of surgery, it has been proposed that endogenous secretion of oxytocin may confer specific protection. Clinical interventions to reduce the incidence and severity of chronic post-surgical pain have not been consistently effective. Likely explanations are that the drugs that have been investigated were truly ineffective or that the effect was too modest because with a low incidence of chronic pain, studies were likely to be underpowered and failed to demonstrate an effect. In addition, since not all women require preventive therapies, preoperative testing that may identify women vulnerable to pain may be highly beneficial. Further research is needed to identify valid models that predict persistent pain to allow targeted interventions to women most likely to benefit from more tailored anti-hyperalgesic therapies.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ijoa.2013.01.008

    View details for Web of Science ID 000318137700009

    View details for PubMedID 23477888

  • Preoperative scar hyperalgesia is associated with post-operative pain in women undergoing a repeat Caesarean delivery EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PAIN Ortner, C. M., Granot, M., Richebe, P., Cardoso, M., Bollag, L., Landau, R. 2013; 17 (1): 111-123

    Abstract

    Over 1.4 million Caesarean deliveries are performed annually in the United States, out of which 30% are elective repeat procedures. Post-operative hyperalgesia is associated with an increased risk for persistent post-surgical pain; however, there are no data on whether residual scar hyperalgesia (SHA) from a previous Caesarean delivery (CD) persists until the next delivery. We hypothesized that residual SHA may be present in a substantial proportion of women and is associated with increased post-operative pain.One hundred and sixty-three women scheduled for a repeat CD under spinal anaesthesia were enrolled into the study. Mechanical temporal summation (mTS) and SHA index were measured preoperatively. SHA was considered present when the index was >0. Post-operative pain scores at 12, 24 and 48 h and wound hyperalgesia (WHA) at 48 h were recorded.SHA was present in 67 women 41% with a median SHA index of 0.42 (Q (25)  = 0.25; Q (75)  = 1.1, range 0.03-4.25). Women with SHA had overall higher post-operative pain scores and SHA was correlated with preoperative mTS (r = 0.164, p < 0.05), post-operative pain severity (r = 0.25, p < 0.002) and WHA at 48 h (r = 0.608, p < 0.001). Severe pain (visual analogue pain scale-S48 ≥ 7, n = 20) was predicted with a sensitivity and specificity of 60% and 62%, respectively. Positive predictive value was 18% and negative predictive value was 92%.Preoperative SHA is present in 41% of women scheduled for repeat CD and is associated with increased mTS and post-operative pain. Screening for preoperative SHA may predict women at risk for increased post-operative pain, and guide post-operative analgesia to include anti-hyperalgesic drugs.

    View details for DOI 10.1002/j.1532-2149.2012.00171.x

    View details for Web of Science ID 000312300800014

    View details for PubMedID 22689634

  • Effect of Transversus Abdominis Plane Block With and Without Clonidine on Post-Cesarean Delivery Wound Hyperalgesia and Pain REGIONAL ANESTHESIA AND PAIN MEDICINE Bollag, L., Richebe, P., Siaulys, M., Ortner, C. M., Gofeld, M., Landau, R. 2012; 37 (5): 508-514

    Abstract

    The transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is an established technique to manage post-cesarean delivery pain. Transversus abdominis plane blocks with a local anesthetic only offer no analgesic benefits compared with intrathecal morphine. Adjuvants to extend TAP block duration and possibly reduce wound hyperalgesia, known to be a risk factor for chronic pain, have not been studied. We hypothesized that a TAP block with clonidine will affect postsurgical wound hyperalgesia and improve pain outcomes.Ninety women were randomly assigned to receive 1 of 3 TAP blocks after cesarean delivery: saline (placebo), bupivacaine (BupTAP), or bupivacaine + clonidine (CloTAP). The primary outcome was wound hyperalgesia index at 48 hours. Secondary outcomes included pain scores, analgesic consumption, and pain descriptors up to 12 months.Wound hyperalgesia index at 48 hours (median [25th-75th percentiles]) was 1.07 (0.48-3.26) in the placebo group, 1.27 (0.59-2.95) in the BupTAP group, and 0.74 (0.09-2.25) in the CloTAP group (P = 0.48). Morphine request in the postanesthesia care unit was significantly higher in the placebo group compared with the other TAP groups (P = 0.01). Postoperative pain scores and requests for breakthrough medication at 48 hours (30% in the placebo group, 24% in the BupTAP group, and 12% in the CloTAP group, P = 0.25) or chronic pain descriptors reported up to 12 months did not differ significantly among groups.Adding clonidine to a TAP block with bupivacaine did not affect wound hyperalgesia index and it did not improve short-term or long-term pain scores in women undergoing elective cesarean delivery. Further studies are warranted to determine the benefits of antihyperalgesic adjuvants in TAP solutions for specific individuals at risk for chronic pain.

    View details for DOI 10.1097/AAP.0b013e318259ce35

    View details for Web of Science ID 000308673000010

    View details for PubMedID 22683707

  • Dose response of tramadol and its combination with paracetamol in UVB induced hyperalgesia EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PAIN Ortner, C. M., Steiner, I., Margeta, K., Schulz, M., Gustorff, B. 2012; 16 (4): 562-573

    Abstract

    Combining tramadol with paracetamol is an established analgesic treatment strategy. However, dosing and differential effects on peripheral and central hyperalgesia are still to be determined. After Ethics Committee approval, 32 volunteers have been included in this 2 phased, double blinded, placebo controlled, cross-over study. A defined small skin area was irradiated with a UVB source inducing hyperalgesia. Twenty-four hours after irradiation, heat pain-, cold pain threshold (HPPT, CPPT), mechanical pain sensitivity to pin prick (MPS) in the area of pin prick hyperalgesia (AsH) and MPS in the sunburn were determined. In phase I, measurements have been repeated 30 min after receiving cumulative 0.3, 0.6 and 1 mg/kg of intravenous (i.v.) tramadol or active placebo. Only at 1 mg/kg tramadol and solely for MPS in the sunburn a reduction to placebo could be demonstrated (p = 0.024). Accordingly in phase II, the trial has been repeated using 1 mg/kg tramadol and paracetamol or placebo in a cumulative i.v. dose of 330, 660 and 990 mg. Now the addition of 330 mg paracetamol to tramadol reduced thermal hyperalgesia by 1.15 °C (CI 0.55; 1.76). This effect, however, did not increase with higher doses. Tramadol showed week anti-hyperalgesia reducing CPPT, MPS and AsH compared to baseline measurements (p < 0.05). Paracetamol also reduced secondary hyperalgesia, but no combination effect with tramadol could be shown. We conclude, in inflammatory hyperalgesia tramadol alone exerts only weak anti-hyperalgesia. Even adding a small dose paracetamol enhances thermal anti-hyperalgesia.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ejpain.2011.08.007

    View details for Web of Science ID 000305947000011

    View details for PubMedID 22396084

  • Transversus abdominis plane catheters for post-cesarean delivery analgesia: a series of five cases INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OBSTETRIC ANESTHESIA Bollag, L., Richebe, P., Ortner, C., Landau, R. 2012; 21 (2): 176-180

    Abstract

    We present five cases of women who received ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane catheters for post-cesarean delivery analgesia. Pain relief was maintained with repeated boluses of local anesthetic combined with oral acetaminophen and ibuprofen unless contraindicated. We conclude that repeated dosing through transversus abdominis plane catheters may be offered to women as an alternative or adjuvant to intrathecal morphine. Larger studies to evaluate the safety and further refinements of this novel procedure are warranted.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ijoa.2011.10.007

    View details for Web of Science ID 000303619600013

    View details for PubMedID 22153133

  • Evaluation of performance of two different chest tubes with either a sharp or a blunt tip for thoracostomy in 100 human cadavers SCANDINAVIAN JOURNAL OF TRAUMA RESUSCITATION & EMERGENCY MEDICINE Ortner, C. M., Ruetzler, K., Schaumann, N., Lorenz, V., Schellongowski, P., Schuster, E., Salem, R. M., Frass, M. 2012; 20

    Abstract

    Emergent placement of a chest tube is a potentially life-saving procedure, but rate of misplacement and organ injury is up to 30%. In principle, chest tube insertion can be performed by using Trocar or Non-trocar techniques. If using trocar technique, two different chest tubes (equipped with sharp or blunt tip) are currently commercially available. This study was performed to detect any difference with respect to time until tube insertion, to success and to misplacement rate.Twenty emergency physicians performed five tube thoracostomies using both blunt and sharp tipped tube kits in 100 fresh human cadavers (100 thoracostomies with each kit). Time until tube insertion served as primary outcome. Complications and success rate were examined by pathological dissection and served as further outcomes parameters.Difference in mean time until tube insertion (63 s vs. 59 s) was statistically not significant. In both groups, time for insertion decreased from the 1st to the 5th attempt and showed dependency on the cadaver's BMI and on the individual physician. Success rate differed between both groups (92% using blunt vs. 86% using sharp tipped kits) and injuries and misplacements occurred significantly more frequently using chest tubes with sharp tips (p = 0.04).Data suggest that chest drain insertion with trocars is associated with a 6-14% operator-related complication rate. No difference in average time could be found. However, misplacements and organ injuries occurred more frequently using sharp tips. Consequently, if using a trocar technique, the use of blunt tipped kits is recommended.

    View details for DOI 10.1186/1757-7241-20-10

    View details for Web of Science ID 000302259600001

    View details for PubMedID 22300972

    View details for PubMedCentralID PMC3395864

  • Patient-controlled oral analgesia following cesarean section: tramadol versus a combination of tramadol and acetaminophen ACTA OBSTETRICIA ET GYNECOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA Ortner, C. M., Kimberger, O., Gustorff, B. 2011; 90 (8): 925-926
  • Challenges in Interpreting Joined Allelic Combinations of OPRM1 and COMT Genes ANESTHESIA AND ANALGESIA Landau, R., Ortner, C., Carvalho, B. 2011; 113 (2): 432-432

    View details for DOI 10.1213/ANE.0b013e31821f154f

    View details for Web of Science ID 000293064500047

    View details for PubMedID 21788333

  • On the ropivacaine-reducing effect of low-dose sufentanil in intrathecal labor analgesia ACTA ANAESTHESIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA Ortner, C. M., Posch, M., Roessler, B., Faybik, P., Ruetzler, K., Grabovica, J., Kimberger, O., Gustorff, B. 2010; 54 (8): 1000-1006

    Abstract

    Combining ropivacaine with sufentanil for intrathecal (i.t.) analgesia in labor is well recognized, but information on dosing is limited. This study aimed to determine the ED 50 of i.t. ropivacaine and to assess the effect of adding defined low doses of sufentanil.This was a two-phase, double-blind, randomized and prospective study. One hundred and fifteen parturients receiving combined spinal epidural analgesia were allocated to one of four groups to receive ropivacaine or sufentanil alone or in combination. In phase one, sufentanil dose-response was calculated using logistic regression. In phase two, ED 50 of ropivacaine and of the combination with a fixed dosage of sufentanil at ED 20 and ED 40 was evaluated using the technique of up-down sequential allocation. Analgesic effectiveness was assessed 15 min after injection using a 100 mm visual analog scale, with <10 mm lasting for 45 min defined as effective. Furthermore, side effects and duration were recorded.The ED 50 of i.t. ropivacaine was 4.6 mg [95% confidence intervals (95% CI) 4.28, 5.31]. Adding sufentanil at ED 20 significantly decreased the ED 50 of i.t. ropivacaine to 2.1 mg (95%CI 1.75, 2.5) (P<0.005); at ED 40, the reduction was similar (P<0.005). Combining sufentanil with ropivacaine resulted in a dose-independent prolongation of analgesia. Besides pruritus, which was well tolerated, there were no differences in side effects.Adding sufentanil at ED 20 results in a more than 50% dose-sparing effect of ropivacaine and considerably prolongs analgesia. Increasing dosage implicates no clinical benefit.

    View details for DOI 10.1111/j.1399-6576.2010.02254.x

    View details for Web of Science ID 000280616700011

    View details for PubMedID 20546210