Leucoglycemic index predicts post-operative vasopressor-inotropic requirement after adult cardiac surgery (LEUCOGLYPTICS): A retrospective single-center study.

Background and Aims: Cardiac surgery often necessitates considerable post-operative vasoactive-inotropic support. Given an encouraging literature on the prognostic potential of leucoglycemic index (LGI) [serum glucose (mg/dl) × total leucocytes count (cells/mm3)/1000], we aimed to evaluate whether intensive care unit (ICU)-admission LGI can predict post-operative vasopressor-inotropic requirements following cardiac surgery on cardio-pulmonary bypass (CPB). Material and Methods: The data of patients undergoing cardiac surgery at our tertiary care center between January 2015 and December 2020 was retrospectively reviewed. The vasopressor-inotropic requirement was estimated using the VIS (vasoactive-inotropic score) values over the first post-operative 72 hrs. Subsequently, VISi (indexed VIS) was computed as maxVIS[0-24hrs] + maxVIS[24-48hrs] +2 × maxVIS[48-72hrs]/10), and the study participants were divided into h-VISi (VISi ≥3) and l-VISi (VISi <3). Results: Out of 2138 patients, 479 (22.40%) patients categorized as h-VISi. On univariate analysis: LGI, age, European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation score (EuroSCORE II), left-ventricle ejection fraction, prior congestive heart failure (CHF), chronic renal failure, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, combined surgeries, CPB and aortic cross-clamp (ACC) duration, blood transfusion, and immediate post-operative glucose were significant h-VISi predictors. Subsequent to multi-variate analysis, the predictive performance of LGI (OR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.03-1.14; P = 0.002) prior CHF (OR: 2.35; 95% CI: 1.44-3.82; P = 0.001), CPB time (OR: 1.08; 95% CI: 1.02-1.14; P = 0.019), ACC time (OR: 1.03; 95% CI: 1.02-1.04; P = 0.008), and EuroSCORE II (OR: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.06-1.21; P < 0.001) remained significant. With 1484.75 emerging as the h-VISi predictive cut-off, patients with LGI ≥ 1484.75 also had a higher incidence of vasoplegia, low-cardiac output syndrome, new-onset atrial fibrillation, acute kidney injury, and mortality. LGI additionally exhibited a significant positive correlation with duration of mechanical ventilation and ICU stay (R = 0.495 and 0.564, P value < 0.001). Conclusion: An elevated LGI of greater than 1484.75 independently predicted a VISindex ≥3 following adult cardiac surgery on CPB.

Factors associated with increased lactate levels in cardiac surgeries: scoping review / Factores relacionados a la elevación del nivel de lactato en cirugías cardíacas: revisión de ámbito / Fatores associados à elevação do nível de lactato em cirurgias cardíacas: revisão de escopo

ABSTRACT Objectives: to map the factors associated with increased lactate levels in the postoperative period of cardiac surgery using extracorporeal circulation. Methods: this is a scoping review carried out in December 2022, across ten data sources. It was prepared in accordance with the recommendations of the Joanna Briggs Institute and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews checklist. Results: the most recurrent findings in studies regarding the factors responsible for the increase in lactate were: tissue hypoperfusion, cardiopulmonary bypass time and use of vasoactive drugs. In 95% of studies, increased lactate was related to increased patient mortality. Conclusions: discussing the causes of possible complications in cardiac surgery patients is important for preparing the team and preventing complications, in addition to ensuring quality recovery.

RESUMEN Objetivos: mapear los factores relacionados a la elevación del nivel de lactato en el posoperatorio de cirugía cardíaca con uso de circulación extracorporea. Métodos: se trata de una revisión de ámbito realizada en diciembre de 2022, en diez fuentes de datos. Fue elaborada conforme las recomendaciones del Instituto Joanna Briggs y del checklist Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews. Resultados: los hallados más recurrentes en los estudios sobre los factores responsables por el aumento del lactato fueron: hipoperfusión tisular, tiempo de circulación extracorporea y uso de fármacos vasoactivos. En 95% de los estudios, el aumento del lactato se relacionó al aumento de la mortalidad de los pacientes. Conclusiones: discutir sobre las causas de posibles complicaciones en pacientes de cirugía cardíaca se hace importante para el preparo del equipo y prevención de intercurrencias, además garantizar recuperación de calidad.

RESUMO Objetivos: mapear os fatores associados à elevação do nível de lactato no pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca com uso de circulação extracorpórea. Métodos: trata-se de uma revisão de escopo realizada em dezembro de 2022, em dez fontes de dados. Foi elaborada conforme as recomendações do Instituto Joanna Briggs e do checklist Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews. Resultados: os achados mais recorrentes nos estudos a respeito dos fatores responsáveis pelo aumento do lactato foram: hipoperfusão tecidual, tempo de circulação extracorpórea e uso de fármacos vasoativos. Em 95% dos estudos, o aumento do lactato relacionou-se ao aumento da mortalidade dos pacientes. Conclusões: discutir sobre as causas de possíveis complicações em pacientes de cirurgia cardíaca faz-se importante para o preparo da equipe e prevenção de intercorrências, além de garantir recuperação de qualidade.

Rehabilitation after lumbar spine surgery in adults: a systematic review with meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The role of rehabilitation after surgery in patients with low back pain is well recognized. The aim of this systematic review is to summarize and update the existing evidence according to the type of clinical condition and rehabilitation approach. METHODS: This systematic review included RCTs on the effectiveness of rehabilitation after surgery for lumbar disc herniation, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis. We searched the literature for randomized controlled trials indexed in MEDLINE, Embase, CINHAL, CENTRAL, Scopus, PEDro, and Web of Science databases, up to April 15, 2023. We used Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool to assess each study. We conducted a quantitative synthesis when population, intervention, control, and outcome were sufficiently homogeneous; otherwise, we conducted a qualitative analysis. RESULTS: Forty-five studies (3.036 subjects) were included and analyzed according to the population considered: lumbar stenosis (1 trial), spondylolisthesis (3 trials), and disc herniation (41 trials). Regarding lumbar stenosis, a supervised active exercise program appears to improve outcomes related to pain, disability, and quality of life both in the short- and mid-term (1 study, n = 60). Concerning spondylolisthesis, kinesiophobia is reduced in the home exercises group compared to usual care, at 3-months follow-up (3 studies, n = 98). For disk herniation, supervised exercises are better than non-supervised exercises to reduce pain (MD -1.14; 95% CIs -1.65, -0.62; 5 trials, n = 250) and disability (SMD -0.70; 95% CIs -1.14, -0.26; 4 trials, n = 175). Supervised exercises are better than advice in reducing pain (SMD -0.91; 95% CIs -1.61, -0.21; 5 trials, n = 341) and disability (SMD -0.80; 95% CIs -1.59, -0.01; 4 trials, n = 261), in the short-term. Supervised exercises are equal to no treatment in reducing pain and disability, at 3 and 6 months after intervention (2 trials, n = 166). These results are supported by a very low to low quality of evidence. CONCLUSIONS: Our research suggests that supervised exercise may be effective in improving patient's pain and disability after lumbar surgery, but RCTs regarding lumbar spinal stenosis and lumbar spondylolisthesis are still scarce, with significant heterogeneity of proposed interventions.

The Impact of Early Enteral Nutrition on Post-operative Hospital Stay and Complications in Infants Undergoing Congenital Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Introduction: The congenital cardiac diseases (CHDs) are the leading cause of death in children. The CHDs detection and management have greatly improved over the past few decades. This review aimed to assess the effectiveness of early enteral nutrition (EEN) on postoperative outcomes in infants undergoing congenital cardiac surgery. Methods: Electronic databases PubMed, Clinical Key, UpToDate, the Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar were searched for studies published in the English language, between 2004 and 2021. This review carried out based on PRISMA statement and studies qualities assessed using "Downs and Black score". Hospital stay, intensive care unit (ICU) stay, mechanical ventilation support, aortic cross clamping and cardiopulmonary bypass were as primary outcomes. Similarly infections, vomiting and mortality were as secondary outcomes of included studies. Results: This review consists of 887 infants from 10 studies. Of these, 470 infants were assigned to the intervention group and 417 to the control group. The post-operative hospital stay shorted in the EEN group than the control group (SMD=-0.63, 95% CI: -1.03 to -0.22, P=0.0, I2=87%). Similarly, EEN group lessen the ICU stay (SMD=-0.15, 95% CI: -0.42, 0.11, P=0.0, I2=71%), mechanical ventilation support (SMD=-0.31, 95% CI: -0.51, -08, P=0.08, I2=47%), aortic cross clamping (SMD=-0.92, 95% CI: -0.31, 2.4, P=0.00, I2=96%), and cardiopulmonary bypass (SMD=-0.0, 95% CI: -0.42 to 43, P=0.00, I2=71%). Secondary postoperative complications such as infections (RR=0.68, 95% CI: 0.43 to 1.08, P=0.40, I2=3%). vomiting (RR=1.47, 95% CI: 0.80 to 2.69, P=0.90, I2=0%) and postoperative mortality (RR=0.42, 95% CI: 0.03 to 5.82, P=0.00: I2=80%) significantly reduced. Conclusion: Postoperative outcomes were improved in the intervention group compared to the control group, including shorter hospital stays, ICU stays, mechanical ventilation, and less postoperative complications.

Clinical evaluation of usefulness and effectiveness of sitting type continuous passive motion machines in patients with total knee arthroplasty: a study protocol for a single-blinded randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is an important management strategy for patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) refractory to conservative management. Postoperative range of motion (ROM) exercise is important to recover patients' activities of daily living. Continuous passive motion (CPM) is a machine that provides passive ROM exercises of the knee joint in a pre-defined arc of motion. The short- and long-term effects of CPM exercise are controversial. We hypothesized that the inconsistent results of the CPM exercise are due to poor fitting of CPM machines and measurement errors. This study aims to present a protocol for investigating a new type of CPM machine that could be applied in a sitting position in comparison with the conventional type of CPM machine for patients with unilateral TKAs. METHODS: This study presents the protocol of a prospective, multicenter, single-blinded, three-armed randomized controlled trial (RCT). One hundred and twenty-six patients receiving unilateral TKAs will be recruited at the physical medicine and rehabilitation clinics of two urban tertiary medical hospitals. The patients were randomly divided into three groups with a 1:1:1 allocation. The intervention group will receive two weeks of post-operative rehabilitation using a new type of CPM machine. The control group will receive 2 weeks of post-operative rehabilitation using conventional CPM machines. The third group will receive post-operative rehabilitation with both types of CPM machines. The primary outcome will be the change in the passive ROM of the affected knee joint from baseline to 2 weeks after baseline assessment. The secondary outcomes will be pain and functional measurements, and will include patient-reported outcomes and performance tests surveyed at multiple time points up to 3 months after TKA. DISCUSSION: This is the first RCT to investigate the effect of a new type of CPM machine. The results of this RCT will determine whether the position of the patients during CPM exercise is important in post-operative rehabilitation protocols after TKAs and will provide evidence for the development of proper rehabilitation guidelines after TKAs. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Research Information Service of Republic of Korea, KCT0005520, Registered on 21 October 2020, https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/search/detailSearch.do/21750.

Assessment of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) concentrations in the perioperative period can predict risk of recurrence in patients with non-metastatic breast cancer.

BACKGROUND: Circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is a potential non-invasive biomarker of disease status in patients with cancer, and provides important diagnostic and prognostic information in breast cancer. The goal of this study was to quantify cfDNA concentrations during the perioperative period and investigate its potential utility to detect recurrence outcomes in patients with breast cancer. METHODS: Sixty-two (n = 62) patients with non-metastatic breast cancer, undergoing curative-intent surgery were screened for inclusion. Blood samples were collected from these patients: pre-operatively (Preop) and post-operatively (PO) at either of the following PO time points; PO week 1-2, PO week 3-4 and PO weeks 5-12 following surgery. cfDNA was extracted and quantified using nanodrop spectrophotometer. RESULTS: In a cohort of 62 patients (age, median (IQR), 51.5(45.0-65.0) years), with a median follow-up of 90 months (interquartile range (IQR),60-120 months), significant association was observed between cfDNA concentrations and risk of recurrence in patients with breast cancer. The group of patients who had disease recurrence during follow-up had significantly higher cfDNA concentrations (cutoff:400 ng/ml) compared to the group of patients who remain disease-free (Preop and PO period: p < 0.0001). The median Recurrence Free Survival (RFS) between the Disease Recurrence (DR) and the Disease Free (DF) groups of patients with breast cancer were 12(20-28.5) months and 72.00 (96-120) months; p < 0.0001). Univariate and multivariate cox regression analysis indicated that postoperative cfDNA concentration (Hazard ratio:5.0, 95% Confidence Interval:1.19-21.28, p = 0.028) was an independent negative prognostic factor for RFS in patients with non-metastatic breast cancer. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrated that high postoperative cfDNA is associated with increased risk of future recurrence in patients with non-metastatic breast cancer. Further, prospective studies are warranted to validate its clinical utility in breast cancer.

Incidencia de hipotermia perioperatoria inadvertida, en perros sometidos a anestesia general inhalatoria / Incidence of inadvertent perioperatory hypothermia, in dogs submitted to inhalation general anesthesia

RESUMEN La incidencia de hipotermia perioperatoria inadvertida es una de las principales complicaciones perianestésicas en caninos. El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la incidencia de hipotermia perioperatoria inadvertida en 49 perros sometidos a anestesia general inhalatoria. Al finalizar el periodo preanestésico, transanestésico y postanestésico, se registró la temperatura corporal, de acuerdo con los siguientes rangos: hipertermia (>39,5°C), normotermia (38,5-39,5°C), hipotermia leve (38,4-36,5°C), hipotermia moderada (36,4-34,0°C), hipotermia severa (<34°C). En preanestesia, el 65% de los animales mostraron hipotermia leve y 2% hipotermia moderada. En transanestesia, 55% de los animales tuvieron hipotermia leve, 37% hipotermia moderada y 6,1% hipotermia severa. En postanestesia, 59% de los animales tuvieron hipotermia leve, 29% hipotermia moderada y 6% hipotermia severa. Se encontraron diferencias al comparar la temperatura basal, con la final transanestésica y postanestésica, respectivamente (p<0,001); del mismo modo, se obtuvieron diferencias al comparar la temperatura inicial, con la final del periodo transanestésico (p<0,001). Por otra parte, no hubo relación estadística entre las diferentes clasificaciones ASA, los procedimientos realizados, el sexo y los rangos etarios evaluados, así como tampoco hubo diferencia en el tiempo de extubación frente al tipo de procedimiento realizado. Los resultados de este estudio sugieren que, bajo las condiciones aquí planteadas, la incidencia de hipotermia preanestésica es mínima, mientras la aparición de hipotermia transanestésica y postanestésica de carácter leve, moderada y severa es mayor.

ABSTRACT The incidence of inadvertent perioperative hypothermia is one of the main perianesthetic complications in canines. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the incidence of inadvertent perioperative hypothermia in 49 dogs undergoing inhalation general anesthesia. At the end of the pre-anesthetic, trans-anesthetic, and post-anesthetic periods, body temperature was recorded, according to the following ranges: hyperthermia (>39.5°C), normothermia (38.5-39.5°C), mild hypothermia (38,4-36.5°C), moderate hypothermia (36.4-34.0°C), severe hypothermia (<34°C). In pre-anesthesia, 65% of the animals showed mild hypothermia, and 2% moderate hypothermia. In transanesthesia, 55% of the animals had mild hypothermia, 37% moderate hypothermia, and 6% severe hypothermia. In post-anesthesia 59% of the animals had mild hypothermia, 29% moderate hypothermia, and 6% severe hypothermia. Differences were found when comparing the basal temperature with the final trans-anesthetic and post-anesthetic respectively (p<0.001); Similarly, differences were obtained when comparing the initial temperature with the end of the trans-anesthetic period (p<0.001). On the other hand, there was no statistical relationship between the different ASA classifications, the procedures performed, sex, and the evaluated age ranges; as well as there was no difference in the extubation time compared to the type of procedure performed. The results of this study suggest that, under the conditions outlined here, the incidence of pre-anesthetic hypothermia is minimal, while the appearance of mild, moderate, and severe trans-anesthetic and post-anesthetic hypothermia is higher.

Qualidade do sono em pacientes pós-cirurgia cardíaca com diferentes índices de massa corporal / Sleep quality in patients in patients submitted to coronary artery bypass grafting with different body mass indexes

INTRODUÇÃO: Evidências mostram que existe correlação positiva entre o Índice de Massa Corpórea (IMC) e a qualidade do sono. A avaliação de como o IMC pode influenciar a qualidade do sono de pacientes no pós-operatório pode ser útil para tomada de decisão relacionada ao tratamento fisioterapêutico. OBJETIVO: Comparar a qualidade do sono em pacientes pós-cirurgia cardíaca em diferentes IMC. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo transversal. Pacientes de ambos os sexos, com idade superior a 18 anos e submetidos a revascularização do miocárdio via esternotomia mediana e circulação extracorpórea foram incluídos. O Questionário do Índice de Qualidade do Sono de Pittsburgh, que mede a qualidade retrospectiva do sono, foi aplicado, na alta da Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI), em pacientes de ambos os sexos agrupados por IMC em grupos eutrófico, sobrepeso e obesidade, para investigar as alterações no comportamento do sono pós-cirurgia cardíaca desses grupos. Pontuações de 0-4 indicam boa qualidade do sono e de 5-10 indicam qualidade ruim. Os dados foram expressos em média e desvio padrão. Para comparação entre os grupos o teste de ANOVA foi usado. Foi considerado como significativo um p<0,05. RESULTADOS: O estudo foi composto por 120 pacientes, com uma predominância do sexo masculino num total de 79 (65,83%) pacientes e idade em torno de 60,22 ± 1,34 anos. As pontuações das variáveis desse questionário como Duração do sono (Grupo eutrófico:0, sobrepeso:0, obesidade:2, p=0,02), Distúrbio do sono (Grupo eutrófico:1, sobrepeso:1, obesidade:2, p=0,01) e Disfunção diurna (Grupo eutrófico:1, sobrepeso:1, obesidade:2, p=0,04) foram estatisticamente significativos. Comparando a pontuação geral entre os grupos eutrófico:2, sobrepeso:5 e obesidade:10 identificou-se que a qualidade do sono tende a piorar à medida que o IMC aumenta. CONCLUSÃO: Os pacientes que apresentavam um IMC maior, como do grupo obesidade, apresentaram pior qualidade do sono, enquanto os pacientes do grupo eutrófico possuíram melhor qualidade do sono.

INTRODUCTION: Evidence shows that there is a positive correlation between the Body Mass Index (BMI) and sleep quality. The assessment of how the BMI can influence the sleep quality of patients in the postoperative period can be useful for decision making related to physiotherapeutic treatment. OBJECTIVES: To compare the sleep quality in patients undergoing CABG at different BMI. METHODS: Patients of both sexes, aged 18 years or over and submitted to coronary artery bypass grafting via median sternotomy and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) were included. This is an observational study. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index Questionnaire, which measures the retrospective sleep quality, was applied, upon discharge from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), in patients of both sexes grouped by BMI into eutrophic, overweight, and obesity groups to investigate changes in sleep behavior post-cardiac surgery in these groups. The data were expressed as means and standard deviations. For comparison between groups, the ANOVA test was used. P <0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: The study consisted of 120 patients, with a predominance of males in a total of 79 (65.83%) patients and age around 60,22 ± 1,34 years. The scores of the variables in this questionnaire such as Sleep Duration (Eutrophic Group:0, Overweight:0, Obesity:2, p=0.02), Sleep Disturbances (Eutrophic Group:1, Overweight:1, Obesity:2, p=0.01) and Daytime Dysfunction (Eutrophic Group:1, Overweight:1, Obesity:2, p=0.04) were statistically significant. Comparing the total score between the groups eutrophic:2, overweight:5, and obesity:10, it was found that sleep quality tends to worsen as the BMI increases. CONCLUSION: Patients with a higher BMI, as in the obesity group, had worse sleep quality, while patients in the eutrophic group had better sleep quality.

Automated weaning from mechanical ventilation: Results of a Bayesian network meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Mechanical ventilation (MV) weaning is a crucial step. Automated weaning modes reduce MV duration but the question of the best automated mode remains unanswered. Our objective was to compare the major automated modes for MV weaning in critically ill and post-operative adult patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted a network Bayesian meta-analysis to compare different automated modes. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane central registry for randomized control trials comparing automated weaning modes either to another automated mode or to standard-of-care. The primary outcome was the duration of MV weaning extracted from the original trials. RESULTS: 663 articles were screened and 26 trials (2097patients) were included in the final analysis. All automated modes included in the study (ASV°, Intellivent ASV, Smartcare, Automode°, PAV° and MRV°) outperformed standard-of-care but no automated mode reduced the duration of mechanical ventilation weaning as compared to others in the network meta-analysis. CONCLUSION: Compared to standard weaning practice, all automated modes significantly reduced the duration of MV weaning in critically ill and post-operative adult patients. When cross-compared using a network meta-analysis, no specific mode was different in reducing the duration of MV weaning. The study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42015024742).

Patient anxiety of verticalization on day 0 after a Cesarean section.

PURPOSE: The ERAS protocol recommends fast mobilization of a patient along with providing psychological comfort; however, early verticalization can generate mental discomfort. In the post-operative period after Caesarean section (CC), a patient may experience pain, anxiety and negative affect. The main aim of the study was to investigate levels of patient anxiety concerning verticalization on day 0 after CC using. Also, the dependence between anxiety of verticalization and the following: pain, anxiety as a permanent disposition, resistance to pain, negative and positive emotions, and positive orientation was described. METHODS: The study included 150 women on day 0 after their CC. The measurement of anxiety concerning verticalization, pain, and also negative and positive emotions was conducted twice. During the first measurement, variables such as anxiety levels as a constant disposition, level of pain resistance and positive orientation were also monitored. RESULTS: Patients upon arrival at the post-operative room declared a higher level of anxiety of verticalization (p < 0.05) (Median = 4; IQR = 5) when compared to 6 h after surgery (Median = 3; IQR = 4). A weak correlation of anxiety and pain was noted (r = 0.264; p < 0.01) in the second measurement. In both measurements, negative emotions and pain resistance proved to be the strongest variables explaining anxiety concerning verticalization. CONCLUSIONS: Low levels of pain experienced by a patient after CC do not explain the variance in anxiety of verticalization. The use of the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) of anxiety allows care givers to gain patients' psychological perspective in different moments after CC.

Critical care considerations in the post-operative period for the lung transplant patient.

The post-operative management of a lung transplant recipient can be complex. Several factors including medical comorbidities, severity of illness at the time of transplant and intra-operative events can affect graft function and overall survival. During the immediate post-operative period, it becomes essential for early recognition of disease-specific sequelae as they can impact the patient's outcome and quality of life. This often necessitates a multidisciplinary team of pulmonologists, surgeons, medical sub-specialists as well as skilled nurses and respiratory therapists familiar with caring for these patients. Based on the experiences of a high-volume transplant center, this chapter will outline key considerations within each organ system in this specific patient population in the Intensive Care Unit.

Analysis of factors associated with prolonged post-operative course after surgical repair of aortic coarctation.

OBJECTIVE: We sought to describe patient characteristics associated with prolonged post-operative length of stay in a contemporary cohort of infants who underwent isolated repair of aortic coarctation. METHODS: We reviewed patients less than 1 year of age who underwent isolated repair of aortic coarctation at our institution from 2009 to 2016. Prolonged post-operative length of stay was defined as length of stay within the upper tertile for the cohort. Bivariate and multi-variable analyses were performed to determine independent risk factors for prolonged length of stay. RESULTS: We reviewed 95 consecutive patients who underwent isolated repair of aortic coarctation, of whom 71 were neonates at the time of diagnosis. The median post-operative length of stay was 6.5 days. The upper tertile for post-operative length of stay was greater than 10 days; 32 patients within this tertile and 1 patient who died at 8.5 days after surgery were analysed as having prolonged post-operative length of stay. In a multi-variable analysis, pre-maturity (odds ratio: 3.5, 95% confidence interval: 1.2, 10.7), genetic anomalies (odds ratio: 4.7, 95% confidence interval: 1.2, 18), absence of pre-operative oral feeding (odds ratio: 7.4, 95% confidence interval: 2.4, 22.3), and 12-hour vasoactive-ventilation-renal score greater than 25 (odds ratio: 7.4, 95% confidence interval: 1.9, 29) were independently associated with prolonged length of stay. CONCLUSIONS: In neonates and infants who underwent isolated repair of aortic coarctation, pre-maturity, genetic anomalies, lack of pre-operative oral feedings, and 12-hour vasoactive-ventilation-renal score more than 25 were independent risk factors for prolonged post-operative length of stay. Further study on the relationship between pre-operative oral feedings and post-operative length of stay should be pursued.

Inhaled hypertonic saline after pediatric lung transplant-Caution required?

Management of pulmonary infection following lung transplant is multifaceted and includes respiratory physiotherapy. Inhaled hypertonic saline (HTS) has been introduced as an adjunct to physiotherapy in pediatric transplant patients. There are no published studies investigating the use of HTS in this population. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of inhaled HTS, in the acute post-operative period, in pediatric lung transplant patients. A retrospective case-note review was completed at a single UK pediatric transplant center. An intervention group who received HTS was compared to a historical control group. Participants were frequency matched for age, gender, and diagnosis (14 per group); median age in years was 13.7(IQR 12.7-15.3) in the controls and 14.8(IQR 12.4-16.1) in the intervention group. Primary outcome was the requirement of invasive and non-invasive ventilation. Secondary outcomes included oxygen use and length of stay. Median days of invasive ventilation were shorter in the control group (1, 95% CI 1-1) compared to the intervention group (2, 95% CI 1-2.5) (P < .05). Days of non-invasive ventilation and oxygen were higher in the HTS group, but this was not statistically significant. The controls displayed shorter median length of stay (23 days, 95% CI 20-24) compared to the intervention group (31 days, 95% CI 24.5-39) (P < .05). The results of this small study provide uncertainty regarding the safety of inhaled hypertonic saline after lung transplant. There was a trend of poorer acute outcomes in patients who received HTS. However, the findings should be interpreted with caution and further investigation using larger samples is required.

Carbapenems versus ciprofloxacin/metronidazole for decreasing complications and hospital stay following complicated acute appendicitis surgery: A prospective cohort in an Ecuadorian population.

BACKGROUND: After appendectomy due to complicated acute appendicitis (CAA), there are some alternatives as antibiotic scheme: ciprofloxacin/metronidazole; as well as monoscheme based on carbapenems: ertapenem, meropenem, and imipenem. AIM: This study aims to prove the efficacy of carbapenems versus ciprofloxacin/metronidazole in CAA post-operative management in terms of preventing complications during post-operative period and decreasing hospital stay. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was an observational, analytical, longitudinal, and prospective cohort study (March 2014-November 2016). Patients were classified into two groups, according to the prescribed antibiotic scheme: some carbapenems or ciprofloxacin/metronidazole. RESULTS: Ninety-eight patients were enrolled. There was an requirement for antibiotic therapy rotation only in the ciprofloxacin/metronidazole (7/49, 14.3%; p = 0.004). Carbapenems reached a mean hospital stay of 4.45 days, in contrast with ciprofloxacin/metronidazole, 8.29 days (p = 0.020). In post-surgical follow-up, there were more cases of curative resolution in the group in the carbapenems group (35/49 vs. 15/49 p < 0.001) as well as a greater number of cases with some late infection in the ciprofloxacin/metronidazole group (1/49 vs. 10/49, p = 0.010). CONCLUSION: In the post-operative management of CAA, carbapenems represent an important indication to be considered as first-line antibiotic therapy.

ANTECEDENTES: Tras la cirugía por apendicitis aguda complicada existen varias alternativas de esquema antibiótico, entre las que destacan ciprofloxacino/metronidazol, o bien monoterapia con algún carbapenémico, como ertapenem, meropenem e imipenem. OBJETIVO: Determinar la eficacia de los carbapenémicos en comparación con ciprofloxacino/metronidazol en el manejo posquirúrgico de la apendicitis aguda complicada, en términos de prevención de complicaciones durante el ­posoperatorio y de reducción de la estancia hospitalaria. MÉTODO: Estudio observacional, analítico, longitudinal, prospectivo y de cohorte, de marzo de 2014 a noviembre de 2016. Los pacientes fueron clasificados en dos grupos según el esquema antibiótico prescrito: un carbapenémico o ciprofloxacino/metronidazol. RESULTADOS: Se seleccionaron 98 pacientes. Solo hubo necesidad de rotación de antibiótico en el grupo de ciprofloxacino/metronidazol (7 de 49, 14.3%; p = 0.004). En el grupo de carbapenémico, la media de estancia hospitalaria fue de 4.45 días, y en el grupo de ciprofloxacino/metronidazol fue de 8.29 días (p = 0.020). En el seguimiento posquirúrgico hubo más casos de resolución curativa en el grupo de carbapenémico (35 de 49 vs. 15 de 49; p < 0.001), así como un mayor número de casos con alguna infección tardía en el grupo de ciprofloxacino/metronidazol (1 de 49 vs. 10 de 49; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIÓN: En el manejo posquirúrgico de la apendicitis aguda complicada, los carbapenémicos representan una importante indicación que debe considerarse como antibioticoterapia de primera línea.

Análise do grau de dependência de cuidados de enfermagem em uma unidade de recuperação pós-anestésica / Análisis del grado de dependencia de los cuidados de enfermería en una unidad de recuperación post anestesia / Analysis of the degree of dependence of nursing care in a post-anesthetic recovery unit

Resumo O objetivo desta pesquisa foi analisar o grau de dependência de pacientes em uma Unidade de Recuperação Pós-Anestésica, comparando as necessidades de cuidados de enfermagem. Trata-se de um estudo quantitativo, transversal e descritivo. Dois instrumentos validados foram utilizados para classificar os pacientes de acordo com o grau de dependência e o índice Kappa para avaliar a concordância entre os instrumentos. Verificou-se uma prevalência na população masculina de 45 (64,3%), a especialidade médica mais atendida foi a neurocirurgia com 48 (68,6%). 65 pacientes (92,9%) foram geralmente classificados como graves e 59 (84%) a 60 (86%) que necessitaram de cuidados intensivos de enfermagem de acordo com os instrumentos que avaliam o grau de dependência. Conclui-se que o aumento da necessidade de cuidados depende inteiramente da gravidade do paciente e pode-se verificar que a faixa etária e os procedimentos invasivos realizados são variáveis que envolvem diretamente os cuidados prestados, uma vez que esses fatores contribuem diretamente para o aumento da o grau de dependência e duração da permanência no serviço de saúde.

Abstract The objective of this research was to analyze the degree of dependence of patients in a Post Anesthesia Recovery Unit comparing nursing care needs. It is a quantitative, cross-sectional and descriptive study. Two validated instruments were used to classify patients according to the degree of dependence, and the Kappa index was used to assess the agreement between the instruments. It was found that there is a prevalence of the male population of 45 (64.3%), the most attended medical specialty was neurosurgery with 48 (68.6%). 65 patients (92.9%) were generally classified as serious and 59 (84%) to 60 (86%) who required intensive nursing care according to the instruments that assess the degree of dependence. It is concluded that the increase in the need for care depends entirely on the severity of the patient, and it can be verified that the age group and the invasive procedures performed are variables that directly involve the care provided since these factors contribute directly to the increase in the degree of dependence and duration of stay in the health service.

Resumen El objetivo de esta investigación fue analizar el grado de dependencia de los pacientes en una Unidad de Recuperación Post anestesia comparando las necesidades de atención de enfermería. Es un estudio cuantitativo, transversal y descriptivo. Se utilizaron dos instrumentos validados para clasificar a los pacientes según el grado de dependencia, y se utilizó el índice Kappa para evaluar el acuerdo entre los instrumentos. Se encontró que hay una prevalencia de la población masculina de 45 (64.3%), la especialidad médica más atendida fue la neurocirugía con 48 (68.6%). 65 pacientes (92,9%) estaban en general clasificados como graves y 59 (84%) a 60 (86%) que requerían atención de enfermería intensiva según los instrumentos que evalúan el grado de dependencia. Se concluye que el aumento en la necesidad de atención depende totalmente de la gravedad del paciente, y se puede verificar que el grupo de edad y los procedimientos invasivos realizados son variables que implican directamente la atención brindada, ya que estos factores contribuyen directamente al aumento en el grado de dependencia y duración de la estancia en el servicio de salud.

Evaluation of communication to general practitioners when opioid-naïve post-surgical patients are discharged from hospital on opioids.

BACKGROUND: To address the opioid crisis, much work has focused on minimizing opioid supply to surgical patients upon hospital discharge. Research is limited regarding handover to primary care providers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the communication of post-operative opioid prescribing information provided by hospitals to general practitioners (GPs). METHODS: This study comprised two components. First, a retrospective audit of discharge summaries for opioid-naïve surgical patients supplied with an opioid on discharge was conducted to evaluate accuracy of opioid documentation and presence of an opioid management plan. Second, a survey was distributed to GPs to seek their opinions regarding adequacy of communication about hospital-initiated opioids in discharge summaries, challenges experienced in opioid management and suggestions for improvement. RESULTS: Discharge summaries for 285 patients were audited. Twenty-seven (9.5%) patients had no discharge summary completed. Of the remaining 258, 63 (24.4%) summaries had at least one discrepancy between the opioid(s) listed and the opioid(s) dispensed. Only 33 (12.8%) summaries contained an opioid management plan. From 57 GP-completed surveys, 41 (71.9%) GPs rarely or never received an opioid management plan from hospital surgical units and 34 (59.7%) were dissatisfied/very dissatisfied with information provided about opioid supply and management. Qualitative responses highlighted difficulties GPs experience managing opioid treatment for post-surgical patients after discharge, differing patient expectations and the need to improve communication at times of transition. CONCLUSION: When opioid-naive patients are discharged from hospital on opioids, communication from hospitals to GPs is poor. Future interventions should focus on strategies to improve this.

The Etiology and Prognosis of Delayed Postoperative Leukocytosis in Lung Transplant Recipients.

BACKGROUND: Leukocytosis (white blood cell count >12 000/µL) in the delayed postoperative period (4-7 days) after lung transplantation is due to diverse etiologies. We aimed to describe the etiologies of delayed postoperative leukocytosis in lung transplant recipients and to evaluate the association of leukocytosis causes with short-term survival. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of 274 lung transplantations performed in our institution during 2006 to 2013. RESULTS: Delayed postoperative leukocytosis was seen in 159 (58.0%) of lung transplant recipients. In 57 (35.8%) of them, the etiology of the leukocytosis was not identified. The etiologies of leukocytosis that were identified were infection (n = 39), second surgery, acute rejection (n = 12), primary graft dysfunction (n = 3), multiple etiologies (n = 17), and other causes (n = 10). On multivariate analysis, delayed postoperative leukocytosis was one of the variables that most significantly associated with decreased survival in the entire sample (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.52, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-2.29, P = .040). On additional analysis for mortality assessing each leukocytosis subgroup, the data were acute graft rejection (HR = 8.21, 95% CI: 4.09-16.49, P < .001), second surgery (HR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.08-3.90, P = .020), primary graft dysfunction (HR = 2.72, 95% CI: 0.65-11.33, P = .169), other causes (HR = 1.30, 95% CI: 0.47-3.62, P = .620), and unknown etiology (HR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.54-1.62, P = .800). CONCLUSIONS: Delayed post-lung transplant leukocytosis is a poor prognostic sign, especially when attributed to acute graft rejection, infection, and multiple etiologies. In the absence of an identifiable etiology, it can be attributed to postoperative reactive stress, is not associated with increased mortality, and likely does not warrant further diagnostic investigation.

Nursing outcome "airway permeability" in postoperative patients / Resultado de enfermería "permeabilidad de las vías aéreas" en pacientes en el posoperatorio / Resultado de enfermagem "permeabilidade das vias aéreas" em pacientes no pós-operatório

ABSTRACT Objectives: to evaluate the evolution of clinical indicators that characterize airway permeability in patients in the postoperative period of thoracoabdominal surgeries and to analyze their relationship with the occurrence of the diagnosis "ineffective airway clearance". Methods: descriptive, quantitative, longitudinal research with 60 patients who were followed for five consecutive days. Eleven indicators of the nursing outcome "respiratory status: airway permeability" were used. Results: on the first day of evaluation, the most compromised indicators were: respiratory rate, cough, depth of breath and use of accessory muscles. During follow-up, most of the indicators presented a slight deviation from normal variation and, in the last evaluation, there was a predominance of indicators with some degree of impairment. Conclusions: with the aid of the Nursing Outcomes Classification, it was observed that patients submitted to thoracoabdominal surgeries may present compromised airway permeability even days after surgery.

RESUMEN Objetivos: valorar la evolución de los indicadores clínicos que caracterizan la permeabilidad de las vías aéreas en pacientes en el posoperatorio de cirugías toracoabdominales y evaluar su relación con la ocurrencia del diagnóstico "desobstrucción ineficaz de las vías aéreas". Métodos: investigación descriptiva, cuantitativa, longitudinal en la cual participaron 60 pacientes que recibieron seguimiento por cinco días. Se utilizaron 11 indicadores del resultado de enfermería "estado respiratorio: permeabilidad de las vías aéreas". Resultados: en el primer día de evaluación, los indicadores más comprometidos fueron: frecuencia respiratoria, tos, profundidad de la respiración y utilización de músculos accesorios. Durante el seguimiento, se verificó que la mayor parte de los indicadores presentó una leve desviación de la variación normal y, en la última evaluación, hubo un predominio de indicadores con algún grado de comprometimiento. Conclusiones: con la ayuda de la Clasificación de los resultados de enfermería, se observó que los pacientes sometidos a cirugías toracoabdominales pueden presentar comprometimiento de la permeabilidad de las vías aéreas incluso después de algunos días de realizar el procedimiento quirúrgico.

RESUMO Objetivos: avaliar a evolução dos indicadores clínicos que caracterizam a permeabilidade das vias aéreas em pacientes no pós-operatório de cirurgias toracoabdominais e analisar sua relação com a ocorrência do diagnóstico "desobstrução ineficaz das vias aéreas". Métodos: pesquisa descritiva, quantitativa, longitudinal realizada com 60 pacientes que foram acompanhados por cinco dias consecutivos. Foram utilizados 11 indicadores do resultado de enfermagem "estado respiratório: permeabilidade das vias aéreas". Resultados: no primeiro dia de avaliação os indicadores mais comprometidos foram: frequência respiratória, tosse, profundidade da respiração e uso de músculos acessórios. Durante o acompanhamento, verificou-se que a maior parte dos indicadores apresentou desvio leve da variação normal e, na última avaliação, houve predomínio de indicadores com algum grau de comprometimento. Conclusões: com auxílio da Classificação dos resultados de enfermagem, observou-se que pacientes submetidos a cirurgias toracoabdominais podem apresentar comprometimento da permeabilidade das vias aéreas mesmo após dias da realização do procedimento cirúrgico.

Premorbid Alterations of Spontaneous Brain Activity in Elderly Patients With Early Post-operative Cognitive Dysfunction: A Pilot Resting-State Functional MRI Study.

Background: Elderly patients with pre-existing cognitive impairment are susceptible to post-operative cognitive dysfunction (POCD). In this study, we investigated whether there is pre-existing local homogeneity and functional connectivity alteration in the brain before surgery for POCD patients as compared to that in non-POCD patients. Methods: Eighty elderly patients undergoing major thoracic or abdominal surgeries were recruited. Resting-state functional MRI was scanned at least 1 day before surgery. Neuropsychological tests (NPTs) were performed before surgery and at discharge, respectively. Pre-operative regional homogeneity (ReHo) and resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) were compared between POCD patients and non-POCD patients, respectively. Partial correlation between NPTs and ReHo or RSFC was analyzed by adjusting for confounding factors. Results: Significant difference (P < 0.001, Gaussian Random Field (GRF) correction which is a multiple comparisons correction method at cluster level, cluster size > 49) in ReHo between POCD patients and non-POCD patients was detected in right hippocampus/parahippocampus. Pre-operative RSFC between right hippocampus/parahippocampus and right middle/inferior temporal gyrus increased in POCD patients (P < 0.001, GRF correction for multiple comparisons) when compared with that in non-POCD patients.RSFC significantly correlated with composite Z-score (r = 0.46, 95% CI [0.234, 0.767], P = 0.002) or Digit Symbol Substitution Test Z-scores (r = 0.31, 95% CI [0.068, 0.643], P = 0.046) after adjusting for confounding factors. Conclusions: The results suggest that premorbid alterations of spontaneous brain activity might exist in elderly patients who develop early POCD. The neural mechanism by which patients with pre-operative abnormal spontaneous activity are susceptible to POCD requires further study.