Correlation between nasal anatomical characteristics in newborns and short binasal prong dimensions

Abstract Objective: To correlate the nasal anatomical characteristics of newborns with the dimensions of short binasal prongs. Method: Observational, cross-sectional study carried out in two hospitals in southern Brazil. The authors evaluated 1620 newborns with neonatal data and nasal dimensions. To measure the dimensions of the nasal region, the authors considered the width of the medial columella, the right nostril diameter, and the left nostril diameter. These data were correlated with the dimensions of two models of short binasal prongs. Results: Of the total newborns evaluated, 807 were female (49.8%), and 813 were male (50.2%). The majority were white (96.2%). The mean gestational age was 37.4 ± 2.9 weeks, ranging from 22 to 42 weeks. The birth weight was 2946.8 ± 699.3 g, ranging from 490.0 to 4740.0 g. Most of the nasal measures were significantly larger than both prong model measurements. Conclusion: The sizes of short binasal prongs available on the Brazilian market do not match the nasal anatomical characteristics of newborns.

ChatGPT's learning and reasoning capacity in anesthesiology

Introduction: Over the past few months, ChatGPT has raised a lot of interest given its ability to perform complex tasks through natural language and conversation. However, its use in clinical decision-making is limited and its application in the field of anesthesiology is unknown. Objective: To assess ChatGPT's basic and clinical reasoning and its learning ability in a performance test on general and specific anesthesia topics. Methods: A three-phase assessment was conducted. Basic knowledge of anesthesia was assessed in the first phase, followed by a review of difficult airway management and, finally, measurement of decision-making ability in ten clinical cases. The second and the third phases were conducted before and after feeding ChatGPT with the 2022 guidelines of the American Society of Anesthesiologists on difficult airway management. Results: On average, ChatGPT succeded 65% of the time in the first phase and 48% of the time in the second phase. Agreement in clinical cases was 20%, with 90% relevance and 10% error rate. After learning, ChatGPT improved in the second phase, and was correct 59% of the time, with agreement in clinical cases also increasing to 40%. Conclusions: ChatGPT showed acceptable accuracy in the basic knowledge test, high relevance in the management of specific difficult airway clinical cases, and the ability to improve after learning.

Introducción: En los últimos meses, ChatGPT ha suscitado un gran interés debido a su capacidad para realizar tareas complejas a través del lenguaje natural y la conversación. Sin embargo, su uso en la toma de decisiones clínicas es limitado y su aplicación en el campo de anestesiología es desconocido. Objetivo: Evaluar el razonamiento básico, clínico y la capacidad de aprendizaje de ChatGPT en una prueba de rendimiento sobre temas generales y específicos de anestesiología. Métodos: Se llevó a cabo una evaluación dividida en tres fases. Se valoraron conocimientos básicos de anestesiología en la primera fase, seguida de una revisión del manejo de vía aérea difícil y, finalmente, se midió la toma de decisiones en diez casos clínicos. La segunda y tercera fases se realizaron antes y después de alimentar a ChatGPT con las guías de la Sociedad Americana de Anestesiólogos del manejo de la vía aérea difícil del 2022. Resultados: ChatGPT obtuvo una tasa de acierto promedio del 65 % en la primera fase y del 48 % en la segunda fase. En los casos clínicos, obtuvo una concordancia del 20 %, una relevancia del 90 % y una tasa de error del 10 %. Posterior al aprendizaje, ChatGPT mejoró su tasa de acierto al 59 % en la segunda fase y aumentó la concordancia al 40 % en los casos clínicos. Conclusiones: ChatGPT demostró una precisión aceptable en la prueba de conocimientos básicos, una alta relevancia en el manejo de los casos clínicos específicos de vía aérea difícil y la capacidad de mejoría secundaria a un aprendizaje.

Should videolaryngoscopy be routinely used for airway management? An approach from different scenarios in medical practice

During the past two decades, the videolaryngoscope (VDL) has become a valuable and effective tool for the management of the airway, not just in the realm of anesthesiology, but also in other medical specialties in clinical scenarios requiring tracheal intubation. In countries such as the United States, this represents over 15 million cases in the operating room and 650,000 outside the OR. The overall accumulated incidence of difficult airway is 6.8% events in routine practice and between 0.1 and 0.3 % of failed intubations, both associated with complications such as desaturation, airway injury, hemodynamic instability and death. Notwithstanding the fact that the VDL has proven advantages such as improved visualization of the glottis, higher first attempt success rates, and a shortened learning curve, most of the time its use is limited to rescue attempts or as a secondary option. The aim of this article is to comment the advantages and limitations of the VDL vs. the direct laryngoscope in a wide range of clinical settings, including the operating room, intensive care units, emergency departments, pediatrics, obstetrics, and Covid-19 to consider its routine use.

En las últimas dos décadas, el videolaringoscopio (VDL) se ha convertido en una herramienta valiosa y eficaz para el manejo de la vía aérea no solo en el ámbito de anestesiología, sino en otras especialidades médicas durante escenarios clínicos que requieren la intubación traqueal y las cuales, en países como Estados Unidos corresponden anualmente a más de 15 millones dentro de salas de cirugía y 650.000 fuera de ella. Aproximadamente, hay una incidencia global acumulada de 6,8 % de eventos de vía aérea difícil en la práctica rutinaria y 0,1 al 0,3 % de intubaciones fallidas, ambas asociadas a complicaciones como desaturación, daño en la vía aérea, inestabilidad hemodinámica y muerte. Pese a que el VDL ha demostrado ventajas como mejoría de la visualización de la glotis, aumento de tasa de éxito al primer intento y menor curva de aprendizaje, su uso en la mayoría de las veces se ve limitado como dispositivo de rescate o de manera secundaria. El propósito de este artículo es comentar acerca de las ventajas y limitaciones del VDL vs. el laringoscopio directo en un variado número de escenarios clínicos, como salas de cirugía, unidades de cuidado intensivo, emergenciología, pediatría, obstetricia y covid-19, con el fin de considerar si su uso debiera hacerse de manera rutinaria.

Cambios en Mecánica Respiratoria en Usuarios Pediátricos en Ventilación Mecánica Post Cirugía de Cardiopatía Congénita Sometidos a Kinesiología Respiratoria versus Succión Endotraqueal. Revisión Estructurada / Changes in Respiratory Mechanics in Pediatric Users on Mechanical Ventilation Post Congenital Heart Disease Surgery Undergoing Respiratory Kinesiology versus Endotracheal Suction. Structured Review

Introducción. Las cardiopatías congénitas (CC) en Chile corresponden a la segunda causa de muerte en menores de 1 año, requiriendo cirugías paliativas y/o correctivas el 65% de estas. En el post operatorio frecuentemente se utiliza ventilación mecánica invasiva (VM) y succión endotraqueal (SET) para remover secreciones. Sin embargo, la kinesiología respiratoria (KTR) ha mostrado mejoras significativas en la distensibilidad toracopulmonar (Cest) y resistencia de vía aérea (Rva) en otros grupos de usuarios pediátricos y adultos en VM. Objetivo. Comparar los cambios en la Cest y Rva en usuarios pediátricos en VM post cirugía de cardiopatía congénita (CCC) sometidos a KTR versus SET exclusiva. Métodos. Revisión sistemática de estudios publicados en bases de datos PUBMED, PeDro, Scielo y Google Scholar que comparan el uso de KTR ó SET sobre los cambios en mecánica ventilatoria en usuarios pediátricos en VM post cirugía de cardiopatía congénita, limitados a inglés, español y portugués, excluyendo a sujetos con traqueostomía o con oxigenación por membrana extracorpórea. Se utilizó guía PRISMA para la selección de artículos. Se revisaron 397 artículos y se seleccionó 1 artículo extra de los artículos sugeridos. Se eliminó 1 artículo por duplicidad. Por títulos y resúmenes se seleccionaron 2 artículos, los cuales al leer el texto completo fueron retirados debido a que la población no correspondía a cardiópatas. Resultados. El final de artículos seleccionados fue de 0 artículos, debido a lo cual se removió el operador Booleano "NOT", y se removió la población de cardiopatías. De este modo quedaron 2 artículos seleccionados para la revisión cualitativa final donde se compara KTR versus SET, y KTR en kinesiólogos especialistas y no especialistas, mostrando ambos aumento en la Cest y disminución de la Rva a favor de la KTR, hasta los 30 minutos post intervención. Conclusiones. No se encontraron artículos que demuestren cambios en Cest y Rva con el uso de KTR + SET versus SET exclusiva, en usuarios pediátricos ventilados posterior a CCC. Con la remoción de filtros seleccionamos 2 artículos que demuestran aumento de Cest y disminución de Rva en sujetos pediátricos en VM, uno comparando con SET, y por grupos de especialistas y no especialistas en respiratorio. Se sugieren estudios primarios para evaluar los efectos de esta intervención en esta población.

Introduction. Congenital heart diseases (CHD) are the second general cause for children death under 1 year. In Chile, approximately 65% CHD need surgery, could was palliative or corrective. In the postoperative period, invasive mechanical ventilation (MV) is frequently used as a life support method, but it is associated with complications. Tracheal suction (SET) is regularly used to remove secretions; however, respiratory chest physiotherapy (KTR) has shown significant improvements in thoraco-pulmonary compliance and airway resistance in other groups of pediatrics and adult's users in MV. Objetive. to compare changes in thoraco-pulmonary compliance and airway resistance in pediatric subjects under mechanical ventilation after congenital heart disease surgery comparing chest physiotherapy and exclusive tracheal suction. Methods. systematic review of studies published in PUBMED, PeDro, Scielo and Google Scholar databases who compares KTR or SET use on changes in ventilatory mechanics in pediatric users under MV after congenital heart disease surgery, limited to English, Spanish and Portuguese languages, excluding user with tracheostomy or extracorporeal membrane of oxygenation. It was use the PRISMA guide to articles selection. A search was carried out, with a total of 397 articles reviewed (English: PubMed = 3, PeDro = 8, Scholar = 383; Spanish: Scholar = 3, Scielo = 0; and Portuguese: Scielo = 0). One extra article was selected from the suggested articles, and 1 article was eliminated due to duplication. By titles and abstracts, 2 articles were selected, but the population did not correspond to heart disease. Results. the final selected articles were 0 articles. By this reason, it were removed: Boolean operator "NOT", and congenital heart disease population. Thus, 2 articles were selected for the final qualitative review where it was compares KTR versus SET, and KTR by specialist and non-specialist. Both articles shown improvement in compliance and resistance until 30 minutes post intervention. The CC population was in a 40 to 60% range in both studies. Conclusions. it was no found articles that demonstrate changes in compliance and resistance in the airway with the use of KTR + SET versus exclusive SET in pediatric users after CCC connected to MV. After filter remotion, we found 2 studies shown improves in increase compliance and reduce resistance in pediatric user in MV, ones comparing with SET, and the other one comparing between specialists in respiratory pediatric physiotherapy and not specialists. It suggests to made primary clinical studies about this intervention in CC population.

Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Aortic Valve Replacement in Obese Patients: A Propensity-Matched Study

ABSTRACT Introduction: Obese patients are at risk of complications after cardiac surgery. The aim of this study is to investigate safety and efficacy of a minimally invasive approach via upper sternotomy in this setting. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 203 obese patients who underwent isolated, elective aortic valve replacement between January 2014 and January 2023 - 106 with minimally invasive aortic valve replacement (MIAVR) and 97 with conventional aortic valve replacement (CAVR). To account for baseline differences, a propensity-matching analysis was performed obtaining two balanced groups of 91 patients each. Results: The 30-day mortality rate was comparable between groups (1.1% MIAVR vs. 0% CAVR, P=0.99). MIAVR patients had faster extubation than CAVR patients (6 ± 2 vs. 9 ± 2 hours, P<0.01). Continuous positive airway pressure therapy was less common in the MIAVR than in the CAVR group (3.3% vs. 13.2%, P=0.03). Other postoperative complications did not differ significantly. Intensive care unit stay (1.8 ± 1.2 vs. 3.2 ± 1.4 days, P<0.01), but not hospital stay (6.7 ± 2.1 vs. 7.2 ± 1.9 days, P=0.09), was shorter for MIAVR than for CAVR patients. Follow-up survival was comparable (logrank P-value = 0.58). Conclusion: MIAVR via upper sternotomy has been shown to be a safe and effective option for obese patients. Respiratory outcome was promising with shorter mechanical ventilation time and reduced need for post-extubation support. The length of stay in the intensive care unit was reduced. These advantages might be important for the obese patient to whom minimally invasive surgery should not be denied.

Postoperative Prognostic Nutritional Index and Fibrinogen Could Well Predict Poor Prognosis of Acute Type A Aortic Dissection Patients After Surgery

ABSTRACT Introduction: Inflammatory and immunological factors play pivotal roles in the prognosis of acute type A aortic dissection. We aimed to evaluate the prognostic values of immune-inflammatory parameters in acute type A aortic dissection patients after surgery. Methods: A total of 127 acute type A aortic dissection patients were included. Perioperative clinical data were collected through the hospital's information system. The outcomes studied were delayed extubation, reintubation, and 30-day mortality. Multivariate logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic analysis were used to screen the risk factors of poor prognosis. Results: Of all participants, 94 were male, and mean age was 51.95±11.89 years. The postoperative prognostic nutritional indexes were lower in delayed extubation patients, reintubation patients, and patients who died within 30 days. After multivariate regression analysis, the postoperative prognostic nutritional index was a protective parameter of poor prognosis. The odds ratios (95% confidence interval) of postoperative prognostic nutritional index were 0.898 (0.815, 0.989) for delayed extubation and 0.792 (0.696, 0.901) for 30-day mortality. Low postoperative fibrinogen could also well predict poor clinical outcomes. The odds ratios (95% confidence interval) of postoperative fibrinogen were 0.487 (0.291, 0.813) for delayed extubation, 0.292 (0.124, 0.687) for reintubation, and 0.249 (0.093, 0.669) for 30-day mortality. Conclusion: Postoperative prognostic nutritional index and postoperative fibrinogen could be two promising markers to identify poor prognosis of acute type A aortic dissection patients after surgery.

Recommendations from the Brazilian Society of Anesthesiology (SBA) for difficult airway management in pediatric care

Abstract Difficult airway management in pediatrics during anesthesia represents a major challenge, requiring a careful approach, advanced technical expertise, and accurate protocols. The task force of the Brazilian Society of Anesthesiology (SBA) presents a report containing updated recommendations for the management of difficult airways in children and neonates. These recommendations have been developed based on the consensus of a panel of experts, with the objective of offering strategies to overcome challenges during airway management in pediatric patients. Grounded in evidence published in international guidelines and expert opinions, the report highlights crucial steps for the appropriate management of difficult airways in pediatrics, encompassing assessment, preparation, positioning, pre-oxygenation, minimizing trauma, and, paramountly, the maintenance of arterial oxygenation. The report also delves into additional strategies involving the use of advanced tools, such as video laryngoscopy, flexible intubating bronchoscopy, and supraglottic devices. Emphasis is placed on the simplicity of implementing the outlined recommendations, with a focus on the significance of continuous education, training through realistic simulations, and familiarity with the latest available technologies. These practices are deemed essential to ensure procedural safety and contribute to the enhancement of anesthesia outcomes in pediatrics.

Recommendations from the Brazilian Society of Anesthesiology (SBA) for difficult airway management in adults

Abstract Difficult airway management represents a major challenge, requiring a careful approach, advanced technical expertise, and accurate protocols. The task force of the Brazilian Society of Anesthesiology (SBA) presents a report with updated recommendations for the management of difficult airway in adults. These recommendations were developed based on the consensus of a group of expert anesthesiologists, aiming to provide strategies for managing difficulties during tracheal intubation. They are based on evidence published in international guidelines and opinions of experts. The report underlines the essential steps for proper difficult airway management, encompassing assessment, preparation, positioning, pre-oxygenation, minimizing trauma, and maintaining arterial oxygenation. Additional strategies for using advanced tools, such as video laryngoscopy, flexible bronchoscopy, and supraglottic devices, are discussed. The report considers recent advances in understanding crisis management, and the implementation seeks to further patient safety and improve clinical outcomes. The recommendations are outlined to be uncomplicated and easy to implement. The report underscores the importance of ongoing education, training in realistic simulations, and familiarity with the latest technologies available.

Metoprolol for prevention of bucking at orotracheal extubation: a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised trial

Abstract Background: Respiratory responses to extubation can cause serious postoperative complications. Beta-blockers, such as metoprolol, can interfere with the cough pathway. However, whether metoprolol can effectively control respiratory reflexes during extubation remains unclear. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of intravenous metoprolol in attenuating respiratory responses to tracheal extubation. Methods: Randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. Setting: Tertiary referral center located in Brasília, Brazil. Recruitment: June 2021 to December 2021. Sample: 222 patients of both sexes with an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I-III aged 18-80 years. Patients were randomly assigned to receive intravenous metoprolol 5 mg IV or placebo at the end of surgery. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who developed bucking secondary to endotracheal tube stimulation of the tracheal mucosa during extubation. Secondary outcomes included coughing, bronchospasm, laryngospasm, Mean Blood Pressure (MAP), and Heart Rate (HR) levels. Results: Two hundred and seven participants were included in the final analysis: 102 in the metoprolol group and 105 in the placebo group. Patients who received metoprolol had a significantly lower risk of bucking (43.1% vs. 64.8%, Relative Risk [RR = 0.66], 95% Confidence Interval [95% CI 0.51-0.87], p = 0.003). In the metoprolol group, 6 (5.9%) patients had moderate/severe coughing compared with 33 (31.4%) in the placebo group (RR = 0.19; 95% CI 0.08-0.43, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Metoprolol reduced the risk of bucking at extubation in patients undergoing general anesthesia compared to placebo.

Facial soft tissue changes and volumetric analysis of upper airways in patients undergoing surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion using a transpalatal distractor

Abstract Objective To verify changes in facial soft tissue using the RadiANT-DICOM-viewer and Dolphin Imaging software, through linear measurements of tomographic points in a 3D reconstruction of the face and volumetric evaluation with three-dimensional measurements of the upper airways of patients with transverse maxillary discrepancy undergoing Surgically Assisted Rapid Maxillary Expansion (SARME). Methods Retrospective, transverse, and descriptive study, through the analysis of computed tomography scans of the face of patients with transverse maxillary discrepancy, treated from July 2019 to December 2022. The sample consisted of 15 patients of both sexes, aged 21-42 years old, who underwent surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion using the transpalatal distractor. Analysis was performed through linear, angular, and three-dimensional measurements in millimeters, in the preoperative and late four-month postoperative period, in frontal 3D tomographic images of the face, in the region of the width of the nose and alar base and also angular measurement in the lateral tomography for the angle nasolabial and upper airways of rhinopharynx, oropharynx and hypopharynx. Results There was an increase in nasal width with an average of 1.3467 mm and an increase in the alar base with an average of 1.7333 mm. A significant difference was found in the pre- and postoperative assessments of the measurements of nasal width, alar base and nasolabial angle, as well as the upper airways in all their extension. The results favour a better understanding of the professional and the patient regarding the diagnosis and management of patients with transverse maxillary width discrepancies. Conclusion Although our study shows an increase in soft tissues after SARME, no aesthetic changes are observed clinically, and all patients report significant respiratory improvement. SARME may therefore contribute to the improvement of professionals working in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery and orthodontics. Level of evidence: Level 4.

Association of biomarkers with successful ventilatory weaning in COVID-19 patients: an observational study / Associação entre biomarcadores e sucesso do desmame ventilatório em pacientes com COVID-19: um estudo observacional

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the association of biomarkers with successful ventilatory weaning in COVID-19 patients. Methods: An observational, retrospective, and single-center study was conducted between March 2020 and April 2021. C-reactive protein, total lymphocytes, and the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio were evaluated during attrition and extubation, and the variation in these biomarker values was measured. The primary outcome was successful extubation. ROC curves were drawn to find the best cutoff points for the biomarkers based on sensitivity and specificity. Statistical analysis was performed using logistic regression. Results: Of the 2,377 patients admitted to the intensive care unit, 458 were included in the analysis, 356 in the Successful Weaning Group and 102 in the Failure Group. The cutoff points found from the ROC curves were −62.4% for C-reactive protein, +45.7% for total lymphocytes, and −32.9% for neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio. These points were significantly associated with greater extubation success. In the multivariate analysis, only C-reactive protein variation remained statistically significant (OR 2.6; 95%CI 1.51 - 4.5; p < 0.001). Conclusion: In this study, a decrease in C-reactive protein levels was associated with successful extubation in COVID-19 patients. Total lymphocytes and the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio did not maintain the association after multivariate analysis. However, a decrease in C-reactive protein levels should not be used as a sole variable to identify COVID-19 patients suitable for weaning; as in our study, the area under the ROC curve demonstrated poor accuracy in discriminating extubation outcomes, with low sensitivity and specificity.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a associação de biomarcadores com o sucesso do desmame ventilatório em pacientes com COVID-19. Métodos: Trata-se de estudo observacional, retrospectivo e de centro único realizado entre março de 2020 e abril de 2021. Foram avaliados a proteína C-reativa, os linfócitos totais e a relação neutrófilos/linfócitos durante o atrito e a extubação; mediu-se a variação desses valores de biomarcadores. O desfecho primário foi o sucesso da extubação. As curvas ROC foram desenhadas para encontrar os melhores pontos de corte dos biomarcadores segundo a sensibilidade e a especificidade. A análise estatística foi realizada por meio de regressão logística. Resultados: Dos 2.377 pacientes admitidos na unidade de terapia intensiva, 458 foram incluídos na análise, 356 no Grupo Sucesso do desmame e 102 no Grupo Fracasso do desmame. Os pontos de corte encontrados nas curvas ROC foram −62,4% para proteína C-reativa, +45,7% para linfócitos totais e −32,9% para relação neutrófilo/linfócito. Esses pontos foram significativamente associados ao maior sucesso da extubação. Na análise multivariada, apenas a variação da proteína C-reativa permaneceu estatisticamente significativa (RC 2,6; IC95% 1,51 - 4,5; p < 0,001). Conclusão: Neste estudo, uma diminuição nos níveis de proteína C-reativa foi associada ao sucesso da extubação em pacientes com COVID-19. Os linfócitos totais e a relação neutrófilos/linfócitos não mantiveram a associação após a análise multivariada. No entanto, uma diminuição nos níveis de proteína C-reativa não deve ser usada como única variável para identificar pacientes com COVID-19 adequados para o desmame; como em nosso estudo, a área sob a curva ROC demonstrou baixa precisão na discriminação dos resultados de extubação, com baixas sensibilidade e especificidade.

Site of Tracheostomy and Its Influence on The Surgical Outcome and Quality of Life After Tracheal Resection and Anastomosis in Patients with Tracheal Stenosis

Abstract Introduction With the advances in critical care, the incidence of post intubation tracheal stenosis is increasing. Tracheal resection and anastomosis have been the gold standard for the management of grades III and IV stenosis. Scientific evidence from the literature on the determining factors and outcomes of surgery is not well described. Objective This study was aimed at determining the influence of tracheostoma site on the surgical outcomes and postoperative quality of life of patients undergoing tracheal resection anastomosis. Methods Thirteen patients who underwent tracheal resection and anastomosis during a period of 3 years were followed up prospectively for 3 months to determine the degree of improvement in their quality of life postsurgery by comparing the pre and postoperative validated Tamil/vernacular version of RAND SF-36 scores and Medical Research Council (MRC) dyspnea score. Results As per preoperative computed tomography (CT), the mean length of stenosis was found to be 1.5 cm while the mean length of trachea resected was 4.75 cm. We achieved a decannulation rate of 61.53%. There was an estimated loss of 3.20 +/- 1.90 cm of normal trachea from the lower border of the stenosis until the lower border of the stoma that was lost during resection. Analysis of SF-36 and MRC dyspnea scores revealed significant improvement in the domains of physical function postoperatively in comparison with the preoperative scores (p < 0.05). Conclusion Diligent placement of tracheostomy in an emergency setting with respect to the stenotic segment plays a pivotal role in minimizing the length of the resected segment of normal trachea.

A Simplified Protocol for Tracheostomy Decannulation in Patients Weaned off Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation

Abstract Introduction The criteria for the removal of the tracheostomy tube (decannulation) vary from center to center. Some perform an endoscopic evaluation under anesthesia or computed tomography, which adds to the cost and discomfort. We use a simple two-part protocol to determine the eligibility and carry out the decannulation: part I consists of airway and swallowing assessment through an office-based flexible laryngotracheoscopy, and part II involves a tracheostomy capping trial. Objective The primary objective was to determine the safety and efficacy of the simplified decannulation protocol followed at our center among the patients who were weaned off the mechanical ventilator and exhibited good swallowing function clinically. Methods Of the patients considered for decannulation between November 1st, 2018, and October 31st, 2020, those who had undergone tracheostomy for prolonged mechanical ventilation were included. The efficacy to predict successful decannulation was calculated by the decannulation rate among patients who had been deemed eligible for decannulation in part I of the protocol, and the safety profile was defined by the protocol's ability to correctly predict the chances of risk-free decannulation among those submitted to part II of the protocol. Results Among the 48 patients included (mean age: 46.5 years; male-to-female ratio: 3:1), the efficacy of our protocol in predicting the successful decannulation was of 87.5%, and it was was safe or reliable in 95.45%. Also, in our cohort, the decannulation success and the duration of tracheotomy dependence were significantly affected by the neurological status of the patients. Conclusion The decannulation protocol consisting of office-based flexible laryngotracheoscopy and capping trial of the tracheostomy tube can safely and effectively aid the decannulation process.

Cricothyrotomy - In Unanticipated Difficult Intubation Cases with Respiratory Compromise

Abstract Introduction Cricothyrotomy, percutaneous dilation tracheostomy, and tracheostomy are all cost-effective and safe techniques used in the management of critically ill patients who need an artificial airway other than endotracheal tube ventilation. The present study focused on enlightening on elective and emergency procedures performed on conditions present with difficult airways and also attempts to shed light on the aspects of securing an airway in anticipated and unanticipated difficult intubation. Objective The objective of the study was to compare the three procedures conducted during difficult airway/failed intubation situations. Methods The present retrospective observational study was conducted collecting data from patient files obtained at a tertiary healthcare center from 2013 to 2018. The difficult intubation cases were managed by ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeons. The study compared three methods: Cricothyrotomy, percutaneous dilation tracheostomy, and tracheostomy based on factors such as procedure duration, complications, and the instruments required for each procedure. Results The study enrolled 85 patients, 61 males and 24 females, aged between 30 and 70 years old. To perform cricothyrotomy, only a simple blade was required. Cricothyrotomy had the shortest operating time (4.1±3.1 minutes) and the shortest time of full oxygen saturation (3 min). Percutaneous tracheostomy had the least amount of bleeding (1%). Cricothyrotomy significantly showed the least intraoperative bleeding than percutaneous dilation, tracheostomy, and tracheostomy (p = 0.001). Conclusion Cricothyrotomy is preferable as it takes less time to perform, causes less bleeding, and takes the least time for full oxygen saturation than tracheostomy and percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy in "can't intubate, can't oxygenate" patients.

Comparison of rocuronium priming vs. standard rapid sequence intubation technique in emergency department patients requiring intubation

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: In our study, we aimed to compare the effect of standard rapid sequence intubation protocol and the application of rocuronium priming technique on the procedure time and hemodynamic profile. METHODS: Patients who applied to the emergency department and needed rapid sequence intubation were included in our study, which we conducted with a randomized controlled design. Randomization in the study was made according to the order of arrival of the cases. Rapid sequence intubation was performed in the standard group. In the priming group, 10% of the rocuronium dose was administered approximately 3 min before the induction agent. Intubation time, amount of drug used, vital signs, and end-tidal CO2 level before and after intubation used to confirm intubation were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 52 patients were included in the study, of which 26 patients were included in the standard group and 26 patients in the priming group. While intubation time was 121.2±21.9 s in the standard group, it was calculated as 68.4±11.6 s in the priming group (p<0.001). While the mean arterial pressure was 58.3±26.6 mmHg in the standard group after intubation, it was 80.6±21.1 mmHg in the priming group (p=0.002). CONCLUSION: It was observed that priming with rocuronium shortened the intubation time and preserved the hemodynamic profile better. Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT05343702.

Hospital cohort study on survival predictors for intubated coronavirus disease 2019 patients

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess the predictors of survival among patients with coronavirus disease 2019 who underwent tracheal intubation, as part of a hospital cohort study. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study in the Rio do Sul County Hospital, Santa Catarina, Brazil, from April 2020 to May 2021, focused on patients aged 18 years or older intubated for coronavirus disease 2019. We assessed the 90-day survival of intubated patients by estimating the hazard ratio using a Cox proportional hazards regression model. RESULTS: The study included 132 participants, with an average age of approximately 60 years. Tracheal intubation was successfully accomplished in 97% of cases within two attempts. The overall mortality rate was 62.9%. Notably, mortality rates were significantly higher in patients aged over 60 years (hazard ratio=2.57; 95%CI 1.54-4.29; p<0.001), those with blood oxygen saturation below 85% (hazard ratio=1.92; 95%CI 1.03-3.57; p=0.04), instances where tracheal intubation was carried out using a conventional laryngoscope (hazard ratio=2.59; 95%CI 1.22-5.48; p=0.013), and when performed by emergency physicians (hazard ratio=3.96; 95%CI 1.51-10.4; p=0.005). CONCLUSION: Our analysis unveiled that the risk of death in intubated coronavirus disease 2019 patients is four times higher when an emergency physician, as opposed to an anesthesiologist, leads the tracheal intubation team.

Pathogenesis of Airway Mucus Hypersecretion in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Intervention of Traditional Chinese Medicine： A Review / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease （COPD） is one of the most common chronic diseases of the respiratory system in the clinic. The disease has a long course and is difficult to cure， which seriously threatens human health. Airway mucus hypersecretion （AMH） is an independent risk factor for COPD and has a significant impact on the development and prognosis of the disease. The review finds that the abnormal proliferation of goblet cells and the excessive secretion of mucin are the direct causes of AMH. The pathogenesis of AMH may be closely related to the inhalation of heterogeneous particles， airway inflammation， the imbalance of mucin/water salt ratio， and the regulation of related signaling pathways. Traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） believes that AMH of COPD belongs to the category of lung distension with phlegm-fluid retention syndrome， and the disease is mainly treated from phlegm on the basis of lung distension. This article summarizes the relevant research in the field of TCM in recent years and finds that the single TCM that effectively intervened AMH of COPD is mainly phlegm-resolving TCM， and the main active ingredients of TCM are flavonoids， terpenoids， phenols， and alkaloids. The main TCM compounds are mainly designed to remove heat-phlegm， warmly resolve cold-phlegm， dry dampness to eliminate phlegm， invigorate Qi， promote blood circulation and dispel phlegm， and invigorate lung， spleen， and kidney. Its mechanism of action may be direct inhibition or indirect inhibition of airway epithelial goblet cell metaplasia and mucin expression by inhibiting airway inflammation， regulating aquaporins to correct the imbalance of mucin/water salt ratio， and regulating signaling pathways， so as to reduce mucus oversecretion in COPD. However， there are still some problems. For example， the research mainly focuses on TCM compounds instead of the single TCM or its effective components. The research on the mechanism of action is not thorough enough， and the research results are not interoperable. The clinical transformation rate of basic research is insufficient. This article systematically reviews the research status of AMH in the treatment of COPD with TCM and puts forward some thoughts on the existing problems， so as to provide a reference for clinical rational medication and in-depth research.

Value of biotargeted drugs in airway mucus therapy of asthma / 中国临床药理学与治疗学

Airway mucus plug is a common phenotype in asthma that increases the risk of acute asthma attacks by causing aggravation of airflow obstruction. Given its important role in asthma, treatment targeting airway mucus plugs may be a strategy to control asthma progression and prevent fatal asthma exacerbations. Previous studies have shown that acidosophils and T2 type inflammation are related with the formation of mucus plugs, and biotargeted drugs targeting the above pathways may be effective in the treatment of airway mucus plugs.

Induced sputum testing in chronic airway disease and the prospects for its development / 中国临床药理学与治疗学

Induced sputum testing is a non-invasive test that reflects the nature and extent of airway inflammation and plays an important role in the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of chronic airway diseases. This article outlines the development history of induced sputum technology, introduces the principle and operation of induced sputum technology, evaluates its safety, summarizes the three main test components, elaborates the role of this technology in various chronic airway diseases, such as reflecting the type of airway inflammation, predicting the efficacy of medication, and combining it with transcriptomics to study disease mechanisms, and briefly summarizes its innovations and makes a vision for the future.

Influencing factors of survival of patients with airway stenosis requiring clinical interventions after lung transplantation / 器官移植

Objective To analyze the influencing factors of survival of patients with airway stenosis requiring clinical interventions after lung transplantation. Methods Clinical data of 66 patients with airway stenosis requiring clinical interventions after lung transplantation were retrospectively analyzed. Univariate and multivariate Cox’s regression models were adopted to analyze the influencing factors of survival of all patients with airway stenosis and those with early airway stenosis. Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate the overall survival and delineate the survival curve. Results For 66 patients with airway stenosis, the median airway stenosis-free time was 72 (52,102) d, 27% (18/66) for central airway stenosis and 73% (48/66) for distal airway stenosis. Postoperative mechanical ventilation time [hazard ratio (HR) 1.037, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.005-1.070, P=0.024] and type of surgery (HR 0.400, 95%CI 0.177-0.903, P=0.027) were correlated with the survival of patients with airway stenosis after lung transplantation. The longer the postoperative mechanical ventilation time, the higher the risk of mortality of the recipients. The overall survival of airway stenosis recipients undergoing bilateral lung transplantation was better than that of their counterparts after single lung transplantation. Subgroup analysis showed that grade 3 primary graft dysfunction (PGD) (HR 4.577, 95%CI 1.439-14.555, P=0.010) and immunosuppressive drugs (HR 0.079, 95%CI 0.022-0.287, P<0.001) were associated with the survival of patients with early airway stenosis after lung transplantation. The overall survival of patients with early airway stenosis after lung transplantation without grade 3 PGD was better compared with that of those with grade 3 PGD. The overall survival of patients with early airway stenosis after lung transplantation treated with tacrolimus was superior to that of their counterparts treated with cyclosporine. Conclusions Long postoperative mechanical ventilation time, single lung transplantation, grade 3 PGD and use of cyclosporine may affect the survival of patients with airway stenosis after lung transplantation.