Perfil epidemiológico de óbitos decorrentes da Covid-19 em um município do sudoeste do Paraná / Epidemiological profile of death resulting from Covid-19 in a municipality in southwest of Paraná / Perfil epidemiológico de las muertes por Covid-19 en un municipio del suroeste de Paraná

Introdução: No final do ano de 2019 surgiu na China uma doença infectocontagiosa de característica respiratória e alto grau de disseminação até então desconhecida. No Brasil o primeiro caso de Covid-19 foi confirmado no final de fevereiro de 2020 e a primeira morte em meados de março. Segundo dados da plataforma Coronavírus Brasil, em 17 de março de 2021, houve registro de 11.603.535 casos confirmados e 282.127 óbitos. Objetivo: Descrever o perfil de pessoas que morreram tendo como causa básica do óbito a Covid-19, em um município do Sudoeste do Paraná, entre os anos de 2020 e 2021. Metodologia: Trata-se de um estudo transversal, descritivo, documental de caráter quantitativo que foi realizado na prefeitura municipal de Francisco Beltrão. Resultados: Houve prevalência de óbitos em pacientes do sexo masculino, idosos, com presença de alguma comorbidade associada, sendo hipertensão a mais citada (50,8%). Os sintomas mais prevalentes foram tosse (74,4%), dispneia (56,3%) e saturação < 95% (48,3%), necessitando ainda de hospitalização em algum período da doença (94,1%), sendo os leitos de Sistema Único de Saúde os mais procurados (74,4%). Quanto à taxa de ocupação 49,6% dos casos necessitou apenas de leitos de enfermaria e 42% unidades de terapia intensiva. Discussão: Diversas pesquisas apontam que o sexo masculino é o mais acometido por condições graves de saúde, devido à demora na busca de assistência médica. No que se refere à idade, neste estudo, a prevalência de óbitos se deu entre 71 e 75 anos (15,1%) o que justifica que o envelhecimento é um fator de risco elevado para complicações da doença. Durante a análise dos dados, notou- se que grande parte dos pacientes que tiveram como desfecho o óbito, possuíam algum fator associado, dentre os mais citados, verificou-se a Hipertensão Arterial Sistêmica (50,8%) Diabetes Mellitus (24,8%), doenças cardiovasculares (23,9%) e obesidade (14,7%). No que diz respeito à hospitalização, nesse estudo notou-se que 74,4% da amostra foram hospitalizadas em leitos de SUS, 18,5% em hospitais particulares e 7,1% não possuíam essa informação. Conclusão: É possível observar a importância do estudo epidemiológico para identificar o perfil da população em risco, podendo auxiliar no planejamento do atendimento, rastreamento e controle da doença, além de conhecer a evolução da patologia, a fim de buscar ações adequadas para seu enfrentamento.

Introduction: At the end of 2019, a previously unknown infectious disease with respiratory characteristics and a high degree of dissemination emerged in China. In Brazil the first case of Covid-19 was confirmed in late February 2020 and the first death in mid-March. According to data from the Coronavirus Brazil platform, as of March 17, 2021, 11,603,535 confirmed cases and 282,127 deaths were recorded. Objective: To describe the profile of people who died with Covid-19 as the underlying cause of death in a city in southwestern Paraná between the years 2020 and 2021. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional, descriptive, documental, quantitative study carried out at the Francisco Beltrão City Hall. Results: There was a prevalence of deaths in male patients, elderly, with the presence of some associated comorbidity, hypertension being the most cited (50.8%). The most prevalent symptoms were cough (74.4%), dyspnea (56.3%) and saturation < 95% (48.3%), requiring hospitalization in some period of the disease (94.1%), and the Unified Health System beds were the most sought (74.4%). As for the occupancy rate, 49.6% of the cases required only ward beds and 42% intensive care units. Discussion: Several studies show that men are the most affected by serious health conditions, due to the delay in seeking medical assistance. Regarding age, in this study, the prevalence of deaths was between 71 and 75 years (15.1%), which justifies that aging is a high risk factor for disease complications. During data analysis, it was noted that most patients who died had some associated factor, among the most cited were systemic arterial hypertension (50.8%), diabetes mellitus (24.8%), cardiovascular diseases (23.9%) and obesity (14.7%). Regarding hospitalization, in this study it was noted that 74.4% of the sample were hospitalized in SUS beds, 18.5% in private hospitals, and 7.1% did not have this information. Conclusion: It is possible to observe the importance of the epidemiological study to identify the profile of the population at risk, which can help in planning care, tracking and control of the disease, besides knowing the evolution of the pathology in order to seek appropriate actions for its confrontation

Introducción: A finales del año 2019 apareció en China una enfermedad infecto- contagiosa de característica respiratoria y alto grado de diseminación desconocida hasta entonces. En Brasil se confirmó el primer caso de Covid-19 a finales de febrero de 2020 y la primera muerte a mediados de marzo. Según los datos de la plataforma Coronavirus Brasil, hasta el 17 de marzo de 2021, había 11.603.535 casos confirmados y 282.127 muertes. Objetivo: Describir el perfil de las personas fallecidas con Covid-19 como causa subyacente de muerte en una ciudad del sudoeste de Paraná entre los años 2020 y 2021. Metodología: Se trata de un estudio transversal, descriptivo, documental de carácter cuantitativo que se realizó en la prefectura municipal de Francisco Beltrão. Resultados: Hubo una prevalencia de muertes en pacientes masculinos, de edad avanzada, con presencia de alguna comorbilidad asociada, siendo la hipertensión la más citada (50,8%). Los síntomas más prevalentes fueron la tos (74,4%), la disnea (56,3%) y la saturación < 95% (48,3%), requiriendo hospitalización en algún periodo de la enfermedad (94,1%), siendo las camas del Sistema Único de Salud las más solicitadas (74,4%). En cuanto a la tasa de ocupación, el 49,6% de los casos sólo necesitaban camas de sala y el 42% unidades de cuidados intensivos. Discusión: Varias investigaciones señalan que el género masculino es el más afectado por las condiciones de salud graves, debido al retraso en la búsqueda de asistencia médica. En cuanto a la edad, en este estudio, la prevalencia de muertes se produjo entre los 71 y los 75 años (15,1%), lo que justifica que el envejecimiento sea un factor de riesgo elevado para las complicaciones de la enfermedad. Durante el análisis de los datos, se observó que la mayoría de los pacientes que fallecieron tenían algún factor asociado, entre los más citados estaban la Hipertensión Arterial Sistémica (50,8%), la Diabetes Mellitus (24,8%), las enfermedades cardiovasculares (23,9%) y la obesidad (14,7%). En lo que respecta a la hospitalización, en este estudio se observó que el 74,4% de la muestra estaba hospitalizada en camas del SUS, el 18,5% en hospitales privados y el 7,1% no tenía esta información. Conclusión: Es posible observar la importancia del estudio epidemiológico para identificar el perfil de la población en riesgo, pudiendo ayudar en la planificación de la atención, el rastreo y el control de la enfermedad, además de conocer la evolución de la patología, con el fin de buscar las acciones adecuadas para su enfrentamiento.

Mechanisms by which exercise training benefits patients with copd mecanismos pelo qual o treinamento de exercício beneficia pacientes com dpoc running title: exercise training / Mecanismos pelos quais o treinamento de exercício beneficia pacientes com o título dpoc running: treinamento de exercício / Mecanismos por los que el entrenamiento de ejercicio beneficia a los pacientes con epoc mecanismos por los que el entrenamiento de ejercicio beneficia a los pacientes con epoc running title: exercise training

The clinical consequences of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) include fatigue, dyspnea and progressive impairment of exercise capacity. It also produces significant systemic consequences such as nutritional depletion, physical deconditioning, systemic inflammation, and structural and functional changes in the respiratory and locomotor muscles. Regular exercise provides improvements in the health of patients with stable COPD and can relieve the symptoms, increasing the exercise capacity and improving the quality of life, while also reducing hospitalization and, to some extent, the risk of morbidity and mortality. Training with progressive exercises is associated with metabolic and neurohumoral adaptations, heart rate variability, with adaptations in the pulmonary and skeletal muscles, as well as the inflammatory, cardiovascular and respiratory systems. This review will focus on current knowledge of the mechanisms by which physical training can provide beneficial effects in COPD patients. Results: After analyzing the titles, abstracts and content, out of 500 articles found, 489 were excluded, leaving 11 articles. Studies have shown the beneficial effect of aerobic training on COPD. Conclusion: Physical training should be considered a therapeutic option in patients with COPD, regardless of being terrestrial or aquatic, as it can have beneficial effects on the systems.

As consequências clínicas da doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC) são: fadiga, dispnéia e comprometimento progressivo da capacidade do exercício, além disso, também produz consequências sistêmicas significativas como depleção nutricional, descondicionamento físico, inflamação sistêmica, mudanças estruturais e funcionais de músculos respiratórios e locomotores. O treinamento físico regular traz como beneficíos efeitos da melhoria da saúde em pacientes com DPOC estável e pode aliviar os sintomas, melhorar a capacidade de exercício e a qualidade de vida, reduzir a hospitalização e, em certa medida, o risco de morbi-mortalidade. Já o treinamento com exercícios progressivos está associado a adaptações metabólicas, neurohumorais, variabilidade da frequência cardíaca, inflamatórias, dos músculos pulmonares e esqueléticos, cardiovasculares e respiratórias. Esta revisão enfocará o conhecimento atual dos mecanismos pelos quais o treinamento físico pode ter efeitos benéficos em pacientes com DPOC. Resultados: Após análise dos títulos, resumos e conteúdo, dos 500 artigos encontrados, 489 foram excluídos, restando 11 artigos. Estudos têm demonstrado o efeito benéfico do treinamento aeróbico na DPOC. Conclusão: O treinamento físico deve ser considerado uma opção terapêutica em pacientes com DPOC, independente de ser terrestre ou aquático, pois pode ter efeitos benéficos nos sistemas.

Las consecuencias clínicas de la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) incluyen fatiga, disnea y deterioro progresivo de la capacidad de ejercicio. También produce importantes consecuencias sistémicas como el agotamiento nutricional, el desacondicionamiento físico, la inflamación sistémica y los cambios estructurales y funcionales en los músculos respiratorios y locomotores. El ejercicio regular proporciona mejoras en la salud de los pacientes con EPOC estable y puede aliviar los síntomas, aumentando la capacidad de ejercicio y mejorando la calidad de vida, al tiempo que reduce la hospitalización y, en cierta medida, el riesgo de morbilidad y mortalidad. El entrenamiento con ejercicios progresivos se asocia a adaptaciones metabólicas y neurohumorales, a la variabilidad de la frecuencia cardíaca, con adaptaciones en los músculos pulmonares y esqueléticos, así como en los sistemas inflamatorio, cardiovascular y respiratorio. Esta revisión se centrará en el conocimiento actual de los mecanismos por los que el entrenamiento físico puede proporcionar efectos beneficiosos en los pacientes con EPOC. Resultados: Tras analizar los títulos, resúmenes y contenido, de los 500 artículos encontrados se excluyeron 489, quedando 11 artículos. Los estudios han demostrado el efecto beneficioso del entrenamiento aeróbico en la EPOC. Conclusiones: El entrenamiento físico debe considerarse una opción terapéutica en pacientes con EPOC, independientemente de que sea terrestre o acuático, ya que puede tener efectos beneficiosos sobre los sistemas.

Relationships between self-reported dyspnea, health conditions and frailty among Brazilian community-dwelling older adults: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT CONTEXT: Dyspnea is a symptom present in several chronic diseases commonly seen among older adults. Since individuals with dyspnea tend to stay at rest, with consequently reduced levels of physical activity, they are likely to be at greater risk of developing frailty, especially at older ages. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study at community level, Brazil. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the relationships between self-reported dyspnea, health conditions and frailty status in a sample of community-dwelling older adults. METHOD: Secondary data from the follow-up of the Frailty in Brazilian Elderly (FIBRA) study, involving 415 community-dwelling older adults (mean age: 80.3 ± 4.68 years), were used. The variables analyzed were sociodemographic characteristics, reported dyspnea, clinical data and frailty phenotype. Associations between dyspnea and other variables (age, sex, education and body mass index) were verified through the crude (c) and adjusted (a) odds ratios. RESULTS: The prevalence of dyspnea in the entire sample was 21.0%. Dyspnea was more present in individuals with pulmonary diseases, heart disease, cancer and depression. Older adults with multimorbidities (adjusted odds ratio, ORa = 2.91; 95% confidence interval, CI = 1.41-5.99) and polypharmacy (ORa = 2.02; 95% CI = 1.15-3.54) were more likely to have dyspnea. Those who reported dyspnea were 2.54 times more likely to be frail (ORa = 2.54; 95% CI = 1.08-5.97), and fatigue was their most prevalent phenotype component. CONCLUSION: Dyspnea was associated with different diseases, multimorbidities, polypharmacy and frailty. Recognizing the factors associated with dyspnea may contribute to its early identification and prevention of its negative outcomes among older adults.

Capacidade funcional de indivíduos com doenças crônicas / Functional capacity of individuals with chronic diseases

Introdução: As doenças crônicas são condições complexas de saúde associadas a sintomas variados, que aumentam a propensão a exacerbações, redução da capacidade funcional e piora da qualidade de vida (QV). Assim, restabelecer a capacidade funcional pode ser um importante alvo terapêutico, reduzindo a morbidade e a mortalidade. Para tal, torna-se necessária a monitorização dessa importante variável. Objetivo: Investigar a capacidade funcional de indivíduos com doenças crônicas. Métodos: Estudo transversal de amostra por conveniência com indivíduos adultos com doenças crônicas, o qual analisou o nível de capacidade funcional utilizando o Teste de Caminhada de 6 Minutos (TC6M) e o teste de sentar e levantar. A capacidade cardiorrespiratória por meio do questionário Duke Activity Status Index (DASI) e dispneia pelo Medical Research Council (MRC). Para avaliar o impacto da doença na vida do indivíduo, foi analisada a qualidade de vida (QV) pelo Questionário do Hospital Saint George na Doença Respiratória (SGRQ), o Questionário STOP-BANG para a detecção do risco de Síndrome Apneia Obstrutiva do Sono (SAOS) e para a avaliação da Sonolência Excessiva Diurna (SES) foi utilizado o questionário de Epworth. Os dados foram analisados no programa estatístico SigmaPlot versão 11.0 (Systat Software). Resultados: Foram estudados 77 indivíduos com doenças crônicas, sendo o principal diagnóstico a DPOC. A maior parte apresentou dispneia grau 2, aproximadamente 39% Sonolência Diurna e, aproximadamente, 25% alto risco de SAOS. A QV foi reduzida em todos os domínios, principalmente no domínio que analisou o impacto da doença na vida. A capacidade cardiorrespiratória foi baixa. A distância percorrida média no TC6m correspondeu a 72,72% do valor predito, demonstrando baixa capacidade funcional. Conclusão: Os indivíduos, com doenças crônicas, estudados apresentaram condições de saúde comprometidas de maneira multidimensional, com redução da capacidade funcional. Houve redução da qualidade de vida e da qualidade de sono, com a presença de distúrbio do sono em uma parcela significativa, além da presença de uma variedade de condições que repercutiram negativamente na sua vida. (AU)

Efficacy and Safety of Lianhua Qingwen for Patients with COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis / 中国结合医学杂志

BACKGROUND@#Corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread around the world since its outbreak, and there is no ascertained effective drug up to now. Lianhua Qingwen (LHQW) has been widely used in China and overseas Chinese, which had some advantages in the treatment of COVID-19.@*OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate the efficacy and safety of LHQW for COVID-19 by conducting a systematic review with meta-analysis.@*METHODS@#A comprehensive literature search was conducted in 12 electronic databases from their establishment to October 30, 2021. Note Express 3.2.0 was used for screening of trials, and the data was independently extracted in duplicate by 2 researchers. The risk of bias of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and retrospective studies were assessed by using the Cochrane collaboration tool and Newcastle Ottawa Scale, respectively, followed by data analysis using RevMan 5.3. The RCTs or retrospective studies to treat COVID-19 using LHQW were included. The intervention measures in the experimental group were LHQW alone or combined with chemical drugs (LCWC), and that in the control group were chemical drugs (CDs). Outcome measures included computed tomography (CT) recovery rate, disappearance rates of primary (fever, cough, fatigue), respiratory, gastrointestinal and other symptoms, exacerbation rate and adverse reaction. Subgroup analysis was conducted according to whether LHQW was combined with CDs and the different treatment methods in the control group.@*RESULTS@#Nine trials with 1,152 participants with COVID-19 were included. The CT recovery rates of LHQW and LCWC were 1.36 and 1.32 times of CDs, respectively (P<0.05). Compared with CDs, LCWC remarkably increased the disappearance rates of fever, cough, fatigue, expectoration, shortness of breath, and muscle soreness (P<0.05). LHQW also obviously decreased the exacerbation rate, which was 0.45 times of CDs alone (P<0.05). There was no obvious difference between LCWC and CDs in adverse reaction (P>0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#LHQW was more suitable for treating COVID-19 patients with obvious expectoration, shortness of breath and muscle soreness. LHQW had advantages in treating COVID-19 with no obvious exacerbation. (PROSPERO No. CRD42021235937).

Prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms and dyspnea and related factors in residents in China / 中华流行病学杂志

Objective: To understand the prevalence of chronic cough, chronic expectoration and dyspnea and related factors in residents aged ≥40 years in China, and provide basic data for the prevention and control of chronic respiratory diseases. Methods: Data were from 2014-2015 chronic obstructive pulmonary disease surveillance in China. The information about chronic respiratory symptoms were collected by face-to-face interview. The prevalence rates of chronic cough, chronic expectoration, dyspnea and chronic respiratory symptoms and their 95%CI were estimated with complex sampling weights. Results: A total of 75 082 subjects were included in the analysis. The prevalence rates of chronic cough, chronic expectoration, dyspnea and chronic respiratory symptoms in the Chinese aged ≥40 years were 3.75% (95%CI: 3.38%-4.11%), 5.83% (95%CI: 5.40%-6.26%), 2.45% (95%CI: 2.02%-2.87%) and 8.93% (95%CI: 8.25%-9.62%), respectively. The prevalence rates of chronic cough, chronic expectoration, dyspnea and chronic respiratory symptoms in patients with chronic respiratory diseases were relatively higher, which were 10.27%, 13.85%, 6.43%, 20.72% respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age, region, education level, occupation, BMI, family history of respiratory diseases, history of severe respiratory infections in childhood, exposure to dust or chemicals in workplace and smoking status affected the prevalence of chronic cough, chronic expectoration and dyspnea. The prevalence of the three types of chronic respiratory symptoms increased significantly with age, which were higher in western region, smokers and underweight/obese subjects. The three prevalence rates mentioned above were higher in those with a history of severe respiratory infection in childhood, those exposed to biomass fuel in household, and those exposed to dust or chemicals in workplace. Conclusions: The prevalence rate of chronic respiratory symptoms was high in residents aged ≥40 years in China. Many factors affected the prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms. Comprehensive prevention and control measures targeting risk factors should be taken to reduce the burden of chronic respiratory diseases.

Perfil clínico e fatores associados ao óbito de pacientes COVID-19 nos primeiros meses da pandemia / Perfil clínico y factores asociados a la muerte de pacientes COVID-19 en los primeros meses de la pandemia / Clinical profile and factors associated with the death of COVID-19 patients in the first months of the pandemic

RESUMO Objetivo analisar as características individuais, clínicas e os fatores associados à mortalidade de pacientes com COVID-19, em hospital público do estado do Paraná, Brasil. Métodos estudo seccional, retrospectivo, documental (n= 86), com pacientes adultos internados, de março a junho de 2020. Resultados a mortalidade foi de 12,8%, o grupo de maior risco foi de idosos com comorbidades, especialmente, cardiovasculares. A chance de óbito foi 58 vezes maior em idosos, comparada aos adultos, e oito vezes maior naqueles com comorbidades, comparadas aos hígidos. A maioria dos pacientes apresentou sintomatologia respiratória, febre e mialgia. Tratamento à base de antibióticos, anticoagulantes e antivirais, associado ao suporte ventilatório. As principais complicações foram hipóxia, insuficiência renal aguda e infecção secundária. Conclusão e implicações para a prática idosos com comorbidades cardiovasculares que necessitaram de cuidados intensivos apresentaram maior chance de óbito. Os resultados de um dos centros de referência na pandemia possibilitam discutir medidas epidemiológicas adotadas, com ênfase em conceitos restritivos nos primeiros meses.

RESUMEN Objetivo analizar las características individuales, clínicas y los factores asociados a la mortalidad en pacientes con COVID-19 en un hospital público del estado de Paraná. Métodos estudio transversal, retrospectivo, documental (n = 86), con pacientes adultos hospitalizados, de marzo a junio de 2020. Resultados la mortalidad fue del 12,8%, grupo de mayor riesgo para los ancianos con comorbilidades, especialmente enfermedades cardiovasculares. La probabilidad de muerte fue 58 veces mayor en los ancianos en comparación con los adultos y ocho veces mayor en aquellos con comorbilidades en comparación con los sanos. La mayoría de los pacientes presentaban síntomas respiratorios, fiebre y mialgia. Tratamiento a base de antibióticos, anticoagulantes y antivirales, asociado al soporte ventilatorio. Las principales complicaciones fueron hipoxia, insuficiencia renal aguda e infección secundaria. Conclusión e implicaciones para la práctica los ancianos con comorbilidades cardiovasculares que requirieron cuidados intensivos tenían una mayor probabilidad de muerte. Los resultados de uno de los centros de referencia pandémica permiten discutir las medidas epidemiológicas adoptadas, con énfasis en conceptos restrictivos en los primeros meses.

ABSTRACT Objective to analyze the individual and clinical characteristics and the factors associated with mortality in patients with COVID-19, in a public hospital in the state of Paraná, Brazil. Methods a cross-sectional, retrospective, documentary study (n= 86), with adult inpatients, from March to June 2020. Results mortality was 12.8%, the highest risk group was the elderly with comorbidities, especially cardiovascular ones. The chance of death was 58 times higher in the elderly compared to adults, and eight times higher in those with comorbidities compared to the healthy ones. Most patients presented with respiratory symptoms, fever, and myalgia. Treatment was based on antibiotics, anticoagulants and antivirals, associated with ventilatory support. The main complications were hypoxia, acute renal failure, and secondary infection. Conclusion and implications for practice elderly people with cardiovascular comorbidities who required intensive care had a higher chance of death. The results from one of the reference centers in the pandemic make it possible to discuss epidemiological measures adopted, with emphasis on restrictive concepts in the first months.

Effects of the breath stacking technique after upper abdominal surgery: a randomized clinical trial / Efeitos da técnica de breath stacking após cirurgia abdominal alta: ensaio clínico randomizado

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the effect of the association of the breath stacking (BS) technique associated with routine physiotherapy on pulmonary function, lung volumes, maximum respiratory pressures, vital signs, peripheral oxygenation, thoracoabdominal mobility, and pain in the surgical incision in patients submitted to upper abdominal surgery during the postoperative period, as well as to analyze BS safety. Methods: This was a randomized clinical trial involving 34 patients divided into a control group (CG; n = 16), who underwent conventional physiotherapy only, and the BS group (BSG; n = 18), who underwent conventional physiotherapy and BS. Both groups performed two daily sessions from postoperative day 2 until hospital discharge. The primary outcomes were FVC and Vt. The safety of BS was assessed by the incidence of gastrointestinal, hemodynamic, and respiratory repercussions. Results: Although FVC significantly increased at hospital discharge in both groups, the effect was greater on the BSG. Significant increases in FEV1, FEV1/FVC ratio, PEF, and FEF25-75% occurred only in the BSG. There were also significant increases in Ve and Vt in the BSG, but not when compared with the CG values at discharge. MIP and MEP significantly increased in both groups, with a greater effect on the BSG. There was a significant decrease in RR, as well as a significant increase in SpO2 only in the BSG. SpO2 acutely increased after BS; however, no changes were observed in the degree of dyspnea, vital signs, or signs of respiratory distress, and no gastrointestinal and hemodynamic repercussions were observed. Conclusions: BS has proven to be safe and effective for recovering pulmonary function; improving lung volumes, maximum respiratory pressures, and peripheral oxygenation; and reducing respiratory work during the postoperative period after upper abdominal surgery.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito da técnica de breath stacking (BS) associada à fisioterapia de rotina na função pulmonar, volumes pulmonares, pressões respiratórias máximas, sinais vitais, oxigenação periférica, mobilidade toracoabdominal e dor na incisão cirúrgica em pacientes no pós-operatório de cirurgia abdominal alta, bem como analisar a segurança do BS. Métodos: Trata-se de um ensaio clínico randomizado com 34 pacientes divididos em grupo controle (n = 16), que realizou apenas a fisioterapia convencional, e grupo BS (n = 18), que realizou a fisioterapia convencional e BS. Ambos os grupos realizaram duas sessões diárias desde o 2º dia do pós-operatório até a alta hospitalar. Os desfechos primários foram CVF e Vt. A segurança do BS foi avaliada pela incidência de repercussões gastrointestinais, hemodinâmicas e respiratórias. Resultados: Embora a CVF tenha aumentado significativamente no momento da alta hospitalar em ambos os grupos, o efeito foi maior no grupo BS. Aumentos significativos do VEF1, VEF1/CVF, PFE e FEF25-75% ocorreram apenas no grupo BS. Também houve aumentos significativos do Ve e do Vt no grupo BS, mas não em comparação com os valores do grupo controle no momento da alta. A PImáx e a PEmáx aumentaram significativamente em ambos os grupos, com efeito maior no grupo BS. Houve uma diminuição significativa da FR e um aumento significativo da SpO2 apenas no grupo BS. A SpO2 aumentou agudamente após o BS; entretanto, não foram observadas alterações no grau de dispneia, sinais vitais e sinais de desconforto respiratório, e não foram observadas repercussões gastrointestinais e hemodinâmicas. Conclusões: O BS mostrou-se seguro e eficaz na recuperação da função pulmonar; melhoria dos volumes pulmonares, pressões respiratórias máximas e oxigenação periférica; e redução do trabalho respiratório no pós-operatório de cirurgia abdominal alta.

Comportamiento clínico y secuelas de la COVID-19 en niños / Clinical behavior and sequels of COVID-19 in children

La COVID 19 es una enfermedad que, habitualmente, no resulta grave en la edad pediátrica, excepto en niños con comorbilidades significativas subyacentes. Es muy importante reconocer los cuadros post COVID, como el síndrome inflamatorio multisistémico (SIM-C) y la COVID-19 prolongada o long COVID que pueden afectar de manera significativa a la población de niños y adolescentes. La pandemia COVID-19 también ha tenido un fuerte impacto en los aspectos sociales, emocionales y nutricionales. El aislamiento prolongado impactó en los controles de salud de niños y adolescentes con enfermedades crónicas y las coberturas de las vacunas de calendario disminuyeron significativamente. Es claro que la vacunación contra el SARSCov-2 en niños, niñas y adolescentes no sólo busca cuidar de su salud; también busca preservar la vida social y presencialidad escolar, reducir el riesgo de los cuadros post COVID-19 y mejorar la inmunidad de rebaño de la población general.

COVID-19 is a disease that is not usually serious in children, except in children with significant underlying comorbidities. Is very important to recognize post-COVID conditions such as multisystem inflammatory syndrome (SIM-C) and prolonged COVID ­ 19 or long COVID, which can significantly affect the population of children and adolescents. The COVID -19 pandemic has also had a strong impact on social, emotional, and nutritional aspects. Prolonged isolation had an impact on health checkups for children and adolescents with chronic diseases, and coverage of scheduled vaccinations decreased significantly. It is clear that vaccination against SARSCov-2 in children and adolescents not only seeks to take care of their health , it also seeks to preserve social life and school presence, reduce the risk of post-COVID-19 conditions and improve herd immunity in the general population.

Oxigenoterapia domiciliaria y capacidad aeróbica en pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar intersticial difusa. Estudio transversal / Home Oxygen Therapy And Aerobic Capacity In Patients With Diffuse Interstitial Lung Disease. Cross-Sectional Study

Introducción: La enfermedad pulmonar intersticial difusa es un grupo de enfermedades que causan un trastorno de la capacidad aeróbica y calidad de vida, además, ocasionan una gran tasa de morbimortalidad para esta población. El uso de oxigenoterapia domiciliaria mayor a 15 horas diarias tiene beneficios en pacientes hipoxémicos crónicos, sin embargo, poco se ha comparado su uso con pacientes que no lo reciben. Objetivo: Describir las características clínicas, capacidad aeróbica funcional y calidad de vida relacionada con la salud de dos grupos de pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar intersticial difusa, uno con indicación de oxigenoterapia domiciliaria y otro grupo sin indicación. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo transversal, que incluyó 41 pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar intersticial difusa que firmaron consentimiento informado. En ambos grupos, características demográficas y clínicas, ansiedad/depresión, calidad de vida relacionada con la salud con el cuestionario Saint George y la capacidad aeróbica funcional con la prueba de marcha de seis minutos fueron medidas. Se compararon los grupos con la prueba t de student para muestras independientes. Resultados: El grupo enfermedad pulmonar intersticial difusa con oxigenoterapia domiciliaria presentó mayor porcentaje de antecedente de tabaquismo (p = 0,041), menor distancia caminada en la prueba de marcha de seis minutos (304,1 ± 108,7 vs. 390,3 ± 95,6 p = 0,01), y menor porcentaje de la distancia predicha (58,37 ± 20,45 vs. 73,34 ± 22,90, p = 0,034) frente al grupo enfermedad pulmonar intersticial difusa sin oxigenoterapia domiciliaria. Conclusiones: Los pacientes con enfermedad pulmonar intersticial difusa con indicación de oxigenoterapia domiciliaria presentan menor capacidad aeróbica funcional comparada con pacientes sin indicación(AU)

Introduction: Diffuse interstitial lung disease is a group of diseases that cause a disorder of aerobic capacity and quality of life; in addition, they cause a high rate of morbidity and mortality for this population. The use of home oxygen therapy greater than 15 hours a day has benefits in chronic hypoxemic patients, however, little has been compared to patients who do not receive it. Objective: Describe the clinical characteristics, functional aerobic capacity and health-related quality of life of two groups of patients with diffuse interstitial lung disease, one with indication for home oxygen therapy and another group without indication. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study included 41 patients with diffuse interstitial lung disease who signed informed consent. In both groups, demographic and clinical characteristics, anxiety/depression, health quality of life related with the Saint George questionnaire, and functional aerobic capacity with the six-minute gait test were measured. The groups were compared with the student's t-test for independent samples. Results: The diffuse interstitial lung disease group with home oxygen therapy presented a higher percentage of smoking history (p = 0.041), a shorter distance walked in the six-minute gait test (304.1 ± 108.7 vs. 390.3 ± 95.6 p = 0.01), and a lower percentage of the predicted distance (58.37 ± 20.45 vs. 73.34 ± 22.90, p = 0.034) compared to the diffuse interstitial lung disease group without home oxygen therapy. Conclusions: Patients with diffuse interstitial lung disease with indication of home oxygen therapy have lower functional aerobic capacity compared to patients without indication(AU)

Caracterización de la apnea del sueño en pacientes cardiópatas e internación por enfermedad grave por COVID-19 / Characterization of sleep apnea and hospitalization for severe illness due to COVID-19

La COVID-19 ha generado mundialmente una morbi-mortalidad considerable, particularmente entre aquellos con comorbilidades crónicas: hipertensión, diabetes y enfermedad cardiovascular. Investigaciones han demostrado que la apnea del sueño puede agravar el pronóstico vital, al causar o agudizar la disfunción endotelial, inflamación, estrés oxidativo, microaspiración y lesiones pulmonares, lo que amplifica el riesgo de hospitalización e incluso de sufrir de insuficiencia respiratoria. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo y transversal, se evaluaron 187 pacientes cardiópatas con clínica sugestiva a apnea obstructiva del sueño con resultaron positivo para SARS-CoV-2, entre 2020-2021.Se aplicaron la metodología de Castro et al., 2021 y cuestionario de STOP-BANG para valorar la disnea y caracterizar la AOS respectivamente. Se corroboró la fuerte asociación entre la enfermedad cardíaca y la presencia de AOS; más de la mitad de los pacientes estudiados presentaron, enfermedad grave por COVID-19, con disnea moderada-grave, que amerito hospitalización con cuidados intensivos, observándose mayor frecuencia en el sexo masculino, con más de 50 años y con IMC >30. Sin embargo, las féminas presentaron valores significativos de STOP-BANG, lo que sugiere a la HTA y obesidad como factores de riesgo para AOS, independiente al sexo. Se recomienda realizar el descarte de AOS como rutina médica, que permita establecer la epidemiología y estrategias para abordaje adecuado de estos pacientes(AU)

COVID-19 has generated considerable morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly among those with chronic comorbidities: hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Research has shown that sleep apnea can worsen the vital prognosis, by causing or exacerbating endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, oxidative stress, microaspiration and lung damage, which amplifies the risk of hospitalization and even respiratory failure. A retrospective and cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out, 187 heart patients with clinical signs suggestive of obstructive sleep apnea were evaluated and were positive for SARS-CoV-2, between 2020-2021. The methodology of Castro et al., 2021 and questionnaire were applied. STOP-BANG to assess dyspnea and characterize OSA, respectively. The strong association between heart disease and the presence of OSA was confirmed; More than half of the patients studied presented severe disease due to COVID-19, with moderate-severe dyspnea, which required hospitalization with intensive care, with a higher frequency observed in males, over 50 years of age and with BMI >30. However, females presented significant STOP-BANG values, which suggests hypertension and obesity as risk factors for OSA, regardless of gender. It is recommended to rule out OSA as a medical routine, which allows establishing the epidemiology and strategies for an adequate approach to these patients(AU)

Síndrome pos-COVID-19: solo sabemos que sabemos poco / Pos-COVID-19 syndrome: we only know how little we know

La COVID-19 puede producir síntomas persistentes luego de la infección inicial. En cuadros más graves, pueden corresponder a la evolución propia de una patología crítica o a secuelas inflamatorias/fibróticas pulmonares, entre otras. Esto puede confirmarse por estudios respiratorios e imagenológicos. En el caso de la COVID-19 no grave, el denominado síndrome pos-COVID-19, se trata de síntomas persistentes luego de al menos 28 días sin una secuela orgánica clara. Los síntomas más comunes en este caso son fatiga, cefalea y disnea, que pueden persistir meses luego de la infección inicial. Su curso puede ser oscilante e incluso aumentar progresivamente. El espectro de síntomas es muy amplio y requiere una adecuada evaluación del paciente. Se cree que tiene su origen en la desregulación inmunológica luego de la infección inicial. Su evaluación y seguimiento requieren un adecuado manejo sintomático y acompañamiento por el profesional a cargo. (AU)

Patients who underwent COVID-19 can develop persisting symptoms and sequelae. Severe cases may exhibit systemic complications of critical care and/or inflammatory/fibrotic lung injury. Imaging and respiratory function tests can assist in the evaluation of both. Nonsevere cases can also develop persisting symptoms for more than 28 days, which has been defined as the post COVID-19 syndrome. The most common symptoms in said syndrome are fatigue, headache and dyspnea, which can last for months. Its course can be oscillating or even increase progressively within the first months. The considerable range of symptoms requires proper patient assessment. Post-infectious immune disregulation is believed to be the source of this syndrome. Proper assessment and followup warrant measured symptom management and emphatic care by the attending physician. (AU)

Lineamientos técnicos para la atención en cuidados paliativos para el Sistema Nacional Integrado de Salud / Technical guidelines for palliative care for the National Integrated Health System

Los presentes lineamientos técnicos constituyen un instrumentos de consulta para proporcionar la atención que requieren los pacientes que cumplen los requisitos establecidos por los equipos interdisciplinarios tanto comunitarios como hospitalarios (unidades del Dolor y Cuidados Paliativos), tomando en cuenta la población blanco, la oferta de servicios, criterios de referencia, retorno e interconsulta; para lo cual se ha diseñado el flujograma correspondiente, que permite visualizar descriptivamente los pasos para la atención de los pacientes con enfermedades oncológicas, no oncológicas y crónicas degenerativas en estado crónico avanzado y/o terminal

These technical guidelines constitute a consultation instrument to provide the care required by patients who meet the requirements established by both community and hospital interdisciplinary teams (Pain and Palliative Care units), taking into account the target population, the offer of services reference criteria, return and interconsultation; for which the corresponding flowchart has been designed, which allows a descriptive visualization of the steps for the care of patients with oncological, non-oncological and chronic degenerative diseases in an advanced and/or terminal chronic state

Frecuencia de lesiones coronarias epicárdicas en pacientes con cardiopatía dilatada en un Departamento de Cardiología en el periodo 2015 - 2021 / Frequency of epicardial coronary lesions in patients with Dilated Heart Disease in a Department of Cardiology in the period from 2015 to 2021

RESUMEN Introducción: la cardiopatía dilatada definida como la dilatación de cavidades cardiacas de múltiples etiologías tiene una prevalencia en adultos de alrededor de 1/2.500 individuos. La ecocardiografía transtorácica determina la dilatación de cavidades y evalúa la función ventricular mientras que la cinecoronariografía permite identificar la etiología principalmente isquémica por afección de arterias coronarias epicárdicas. La utilización de la cinecoronariografía como primera línea para el diagnóstico etiológico, implica riesgos propios de un método invasivo con un alto costo en recursos económicos, por lo cual es imperioso determinar el posible resultado de dicho procedimiento. Objetivo: determinar la frecuencia de lesiones coronarias epicárdicas en pacientes con Cardiopatía Dilatada en un Departamento de Cardiología en el periodo del 2015 ­ 2021. Metodología: estudio observacional, descriptivo, retrospectivo y de corte transversal con muestreo no probabilístico por conveniencia, mediante la revisión en la base de datos en un Departamento de Cardiología. Resultados: este estudio incluyó a 88 pacientes, con disnea en clase funcional II-IV de la NYHA y cardiopatía dilatada por ecocardiografía, de etiología no filiada. De éste grupo, 66 % eran varones y 34 % mujeres, la media de edad fue de 56 ± 11,19 años. Al ser sometidos a cinecoronariografía diagnostica, se constató que el 23 % presentó lesiones coronarias epicárdicas, siendo la más frecuente la lesión de un vaso (55 %), predominando el sexo masculino en aquellos con o sin lesiones coronarias epicárdicas. Conclusiones: la frecuencia de lesiones coronarias epicárdicas en pacientes con cardiopatía dilatada, es baja.

ABSTRACT Introduction: dilated heart disease defined as the dilation of cardiac cavities of multiple etiologies has a prevalence in adults of around 1/2.500 individuals. Transthoracic echocardiography determines chamber dilation and evaluates ventricular function, while coronary angiography can identify the mainly ischemic etiology due to involvement of the epicardial coronary arteries. The use of coronary angiography as the first line for the etiological diagnosis implies risks of an invasive method with a high cost in economic resources, for which it is imperative to determine the possible result of said procedure. Objective: to determine the frequency of epicardial coronary lesions in patients with Dilated Heart Disease in a Departmento de Cardiología in the period 2015-2021. Methodology: observational, descriptive, retrospective and cross-sectional study with non-probabilistic convenience sampling, by reviewing the database in a Departmento de Cardiología. Results: this study included 88 patients, with dyspnea in NYHA functional class II-IV and dilated heart disease by echocardiography, of unknown etiology. Out of this group, 66% were men and 34 % women, the mean age was 56 ± 11.19 years. When undergoing diagnostic cinecoronariography, it was found that 23 % had epicardial coronary lesions, the most frequent being a lesion of a vessel (55 %), with the male sex predominating in those with or without epicardial coronary lesions. Conclusions: the frequency of epicardial coronary lesions in patients with dilated heart disease is low.

Dyspnea and COVID-19: A Review of Confounding Diagnoses during the Postpartum Period / Dispneia e COVID-19: uma revisão de diagnósticos confundidores no período pós-parto

Abstract The puerperium is a complex period that begins with placental delivery and lasts for 6 weeks, during which readaptation of the female organism and redistribution of blood volume occur. This period is conducive to the occurrence of thromboembolic events. In the context of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the virus responsible for COVID-19, the attention of the scientific community and health professionals has been focused on obtaining insights on different aspects of this disease, including etiology, transmission, diagnosis, and treatment. Regarding the pregnancy-postpartum cycle, it is opportune to review the clinical conditions that can occur during this period and to investigate dyspnea as a postpartum symptom in order to avoid its immediate association with COVID-19 without further investigation, which can lead to overlooking the diagnosis of other important and occasionally fatal conditions.

Resumo O puerpério é um período complexo que se inicia com a dequitação placentária e dura por 6 semanas, no qual a readaptação do organismo materno e a redistribuição do volume sanguíneo ocorrem, além de ser também um cenário propício para eventos pró-trombóticos. No contexto da pandemia de SARS-CoV-2, vírus responsável pela COVID-19, a atenção da comunidade científica e dos profissionais da saúde está voltada a elucidar os aspectos da doença, como a etiologia, a transmissão, o diagnóstico e o tratamento. Considerando o ciclo gravídico-puerperal, é oportuna a revisão de condições clínicas que ocorrem durante este período e que apresentam a dispneia como sintoma, a fimde evitar que ela seja automaticamente associada à COVID-19 sem investigações aprofundadas, o que pode levar à negligência do diagnóstico de outras condições importantes e que podem ser, por vezes, fatais.

National Early Warning Score 2 Lactate (NEWS2-L) in Predicting Early Clinical Deterioration in Patients with Dyspnoea in Prehospital Care / National Early Warning Score 2 y ácido láctico (NEWS2-L) en la predicción del deterioro clínico precoz en pacientes con disnea en los cuidados prehospitalarios / National Early Warning Score 2 e ácido láctico (NEWS2-L) na predição de deterioração clínica precoce em pacientes com dispneia no atendimento pré-hospitalar

Objective. To evaluate the ability of the NEWS2-L (National Early Warning Score 2 Lactate) scale to predict the risk of early clinical deterioration (mortality within 48 hours) in patients with dyspnoea treated by the Medical Emergency Services compared with NEWS2 and lactate in isolation. Methods. Prospective, multi-centre study of a cohort of 638 patients with dyspnoea treated in the ambulance and priority-transferred to a hospital emergency service in the cities of Valladolid, Salamanca, Segovia or Burgos (Spain). We collected clinical, analytical and demographic data. The main outcome measure was all-cause mortality within 48 hours. The recommendations of the Royal College of Physicians were followed to calculate NEWS2. When NEWS2 and LA prehospital values were obtained, the two values were added together to obtain the NEWS2-L. Results. Mortality within 48 hours was fifty-six patients (8.8%). The NEWS2-L scale obtained an area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) for mortality within 48 hours of 0.854 (CI 95% 0.790­0.917), at seven days of 0.788 (CI 95% 0.729­0.848) and at 30 days of 0.744 (CI 95% 0.692­0.796); in all cases p<0.001, with a significant decrease between the value at 48 hours and at 30 days. Conclusion. The NEWS2-L scale was found to be significantly superior to the NEWS2 scale and similar to lactate in predicting early clinical deterioration in patients with dyspnoea. This scale can help a nurse detect these patients early, as part of their regular practice, and thus guide therapeutic efforts.

Objetivo. Evaluar la capacidad de la escala NEWS2-L (National Early Warning Score 2-lactate) para predecir el riesgo de deterioro clínico precoz (mortalidad hasta las 48h) en pacientes con disnea atendidos por Servicios de Emergencias Médicas, comparado con la escala NEWS2 y el ácido láctico en solitario. Métodos. Estudio prospectivo multicéntrico de cohorte de 638 pacientes con disnea atendidos en ambulancia y trasladados con alta prioridad a un servicio de urgencias hospitalarias en las ciudades de Valladolid, Salamanca, Segovia y Burgos (España). Se tomó información de variables clínicas, analíticas y demográficas, de las cuales la de resultado principal fue la mortalidad por cualquier causa hasta las 48 horas. Para el cálculo del NEWS2 se siguieron las recomendaciones del Royal College of Physicians. Una vez obtenidos los valores del NEWS2 y del AL prehospitalario se sumaron ambos valores y se obtuvo la NEWS2-L. Resultados. La mortalidad, antes de las 48, horas fue de 56 pacientes (8.8%). La escala NEWS2-L obtuvo un Área Bajo la Curva ­ Característica Operativa del Receptor (ABC-COR) para la mortalidad antes de las 48 horas de 0.854 (IC95% 0.790-0.917), a siete días de 0.788 (IC95% 0.729-0.848) y a 30 días de 0.744 (IC95% 0.692-0.796); en todos los casos p<0.001), lo que experimentó un descenso importante entre su valor a las 48 h y a los 30 días. Conclusión. La escala NEWS2-L mostró ser significativamente superior a la escala NEWS2 y similar al ácido láctico en la predicción del deterioro clínico precoz en pacientes con disnea. Esta escala es una ayuda para que la enfermera en su práctica habitual detecte a estos pacientes en forma temprana y así poder orientar los esfuerzos terapéuticos.

Objetivo. Avaliar a capacidade da escala NEWS2-L (National Early Warning Score 2-lactato) de predizer o risco de deterioração clínica precoce (mortalidade de até 48h) em pacientes com dispneia tratados em Serviços de Emergência Médica, em comparação com a escala NEWS2 e a ácido láctico em solitário. Métodos. Estudo prospectivo de coorte multicêntrico de 638 pacientes com dispneia atendidos por ambulância e transferidos com alta prioridade para um serviço de emergência hospitalar nas cidades de Valladolid, Salamanca, Segovia e Burgos (Espanha). As informações foram obtidas a partir de variáveis clínicas, analíticas e demográficas, sendo a principal variável de desfecho a mortalidade por todas as causas em até 48 horas. Para o cálculo do NEWS2, foram seguidas as recomendações do Royal College of Physicians. Uma vez obtidos os valores do NEWS2 e do AL pré-hospitalar, ambos os valores foram somados e o NEWS2-L foi obtido. Resultados. A mortalidade antes de 48 horas foi de 56 pacientes (8,8%). A escala NEWS2-L obteve uma área sob a curva - característica operacional do receptor (ABC-COR) para mortalidade antes de 48 horas de 0.854 (IC 95% 0.790-0.917), em sete dias de 0.788 (IC 95% 0.729-0.848) e aos 30 dias de 0.744 (95% CI 0.692-0.796); em todos os casos p <0,001), experimentando uma diminuição significativa entre o seu valor às 48 he aos 30 dias. Conclusão. A escala NEWS2-L mostrou ser significativamente superior à escala NEWS2 e semelhante ao ácido láctico na predição da deterioração clínica precoce em pacientes com dispneia. Essa escala é um auxílio para o enfermeiro em sua prática habitual detectar precocemente esses pacientes e, assim, ser capaz de orientar os esforços terapêuticos.

Stents metálicos autoexpandibles para el manejo endoscópico de las fístulas esofagogástricas / Self-expanding metal stents for endoscopic management of esophageal and gastric fistulas

Resumen Objetivos: mostrar la eficacia y seguridad de los stents metálicos autoexpandibles para el manejo endoscópico de las fístulas esofágicas. Materiales y métodos: se evalúo una serie de casos de manera retrospectiva entre el 2007 y el 2017, en los que se manejaron a 11 pacientes con un stent metálico autoexpandible para el manejo de fístula esofágica, en quienes se realizó el diagnóstico por clínica, endoscopia digestiva alta o estudios radiológicos en la unidad de gastroenterología del Hospital Universitario San Ignacio (HUSI) de Bogotá D. C., Colombia. Resultados: el principal síntoma inicial fue la disnea en 27,3 % de los casos, seguido por tos en un 18,2 %. El hallazgo más frecuentemente encontrado durante el seguimiento fue el derrame pleural en el 36,4 %, se realizó el diagnóstico de fístula en el 45,5 % con esofagograma y el tipo de lesión más reportada fue la fuga en la anastomosis esofagoentérica, con un 45,5 %, seguida de la esofagopleural, con un 36,4 %; y estos pacientes fueron manejados con un stent metálico autoexpandible. En el 100 % hubo éxito técnico y la resolución del defecto se evidenció en el 72,7 % de los casos. La única complicación reportada fue el desplazamiento del stent en el 27,3 %, y en un paciente se requirió el cambio del stent en 3 oportunidades. El promedio de estancia hospitalaria fue de 41,5 días. Conclusiones: el manejo endoscópico de las fístulas esofagogástricas con stents metálicos autoexpandibles es efectivo y seguro, con una baja tasa de complicaciones.

Abstract Objective: To demonstrate the efficacy and safety of self-expanding metal stents for endoscopic management of esophageal fistulas. Materials and methods: Retrospective case series between 2007 and 2017. A total of 11 patients were treated with self-expanding metal stents for esophageal fistula management, after being diagnosed based on symptoms, upper endoscopy, and/or radiological studies in the gastroenterology unit of the Hospital Universitario San Ignacio (HUSI) in Bogotá D.C, Colombia. Results: The most common initial symptom was dyspnea in 27.3% of cases, followed by cough in 18.2%. The most frequent finding during follow-up was pleural effusion in 36.4% of the cases, of which 45.5% received a diagnosis of fistula through esophagogram. The most reported lesion was esophagoenteric anastomotic leak with 45.5%, followed by esophagopleural injury with 36.4%; these patients were those who received self-expanding metal stent management. Technical success was achieved in 100% of the cases, and the defect was resolved in in 72.7% of them. The only complication reported was stent migration in 27.3%, requiring 3 changes in 1 patient. The average hospital stay was 41.5 days. Conclusions: Endoscopic management of esophagogastric fistulas with self-expanding metal stents is effective and safe, with a low complication rate.