Search

Introduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD) significantly impact patient outcomes and healthcare costs. Recent studies have shown interest in cardiac troponin I (cTnI) as a potential prognostic marker in AECOPD. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of cTnI during AECOPD. Methods: This prospective observational study included 90 patients admitted with AECOPD over 18 months. Patients were divided into two groups based on admission cTnI levels: elevated (>0.01 ng/ml) and normal (<0.01 ng/ml). Demographic data, medical history, physical examination findings, and diagnostic test results were recorded. Outcomes including ICU admission, need for ventilation, length of stay, and mortality were assessed. Methods: This prospective observational study included 90 patients admitted with AECOPD over 18 months. Patients were divided into two groups based on admission cTnI levels: elevated (>0.01 ng/ml) and normal (<0.01 ng/ml). Demographic data, medical history, physical examination findings, and diagnostic test results were recorded. Outcomes including ICU admission, need for ventilation, length of stay, and mortality were assessed. Conclusion: Elevated cTnI during AECOPD is associated with higher disease severity and increased need for intensive care. While it does not predict length of stay or in-hospital mortality, cTnI can serve as a valuable marker for identifying high-risk patients at admission. Further studies are needed to evaluate long-term outcomes in patients with elevated cTnI during AECOPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Respiratory disorders are a frequent cause of admission in the newborn. Respiratory diseases have unique physiologic, a n a t o m i c a n d c l i n i c a l characteristics during this period necessitating special management. K n o w l e d g e o f t h e pathophysiology of pulmonary diseases and their differential impact on the lungs of differing stages of maturity is essential to the safe and efficacious applications of special techniques of treatment. Principles of respiratory management include establishment of the airway, ensuring oxygenation, assisted ventilation, assessing adequacy of vent i l a t ion, cor r e c t ion of metabolic abnormalities and alleviation of cause of distress. The goal of treatment is safe and effective assistance to oxygen delivery and carbon dioxide removal from the tissues. Inspired oxygen should be administered in a controlled manner to provide adequate but not excessive blood oxygen tension levels. Mechanical ventilation may be required to treat metabolic abnormalities. There is the need for continuous monitoring and re- evaluation. This article is intended to present an overview of the embryology of the respiratory system, pulmonary physiology in the newborn, the principles of oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation. It also discusses the complications that can follow.

Objective: To describe seizure activity in juvenile dogs successfully weaned from long‐term mechanical ventilation. Case Series Summary: Three juvenile dogs (all approximately 3 months old) underwent long‐term mechanical ventilation with IV anesthesia for suspected noncardiogenic pulmonary edema. Within 24 hours of extubation and within 10 hours of discontinuing midazolam continuous infusions, all dogs experienced seizures, which is 1 sign of iatrogenic withdrawal syndrome. Each dog was treated with an anticonvulsant protocol, and none experienced seizures after being discharged. New or Unique Information Provided: Each dog received IV anesthesia, including fentanyl, dexmedetomidine, midazolam, and propofol, during mechanical ventilation and subsequently experienced seizures after successful weaning from mechanical ventilation. Juvenile dogs may be at risk for seizures after weaning from mechanical ventilation and IV anesthesia. Neurological monitoring and further research into an appropriate weaning protocol may prove beneficial in juvenile dogs requiring prolonged anesthesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Salud Uninorte is the property of Fundacion Universidad del Norte and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable neurodegenerative disease of the motor neurons. Given the evolutive characteristics of this disease, palliative care principles should be a foundation of ALS care. A multidisciplinary medical intervention is of paramount importance in the different phases of disease. The involvement of the palliative care team improves quality of life and symptoms, and prognosis. Early initiation is of paramount importance to ensuring patient-centered care, when the patient has still the capability to communicate effectively and participate in his medical care. Advance care planning supports patients and family members in understanding and sharing their preferences according to their personal values and life goals regarding future medical treatment. The principal problems which require intensive supportive care include cognitive disturbances, psychological distress, pain, sialorrhrea, nutrition, and ventilatory support. Communication skills of health-care professionals are mandatory to manage the inevitability of death. Palliative sedation has peculiar aspects in this population, particularly with the decision of withdrawing ventilatory support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objectives of this study were to evaluate an automated device for ventilatory support based on AMBU manufactured in March 2020. Methods: The ESSI-1 INC was evaluated through pulmonary mechanics and physiology parameters through compensatory spirometer tests (TISSOTs), and an artificial lung Model5600i Dual Adult PNEU VIEW SYSTEM; it was also compared to the anesthetic ventilatory support equipment (AEONMED 7500) in porcine models, measuring ventilatory, hemodynamic and gasometric parameters. Results: This equipment (ESSI-1 INC) was successfully tested by mechanical and biological models, such as pigs in which its performance was evaluated in terms of variability of tidal volume, ventilation frequency, and I/E relationship versus the manual performance of two medical interns. All the results turned out as expected and were satisfactory. Conclusions: It is safe and effective equipment and should be tested and used in diverse clinical conditions to standardize the ventilatory safety and care of patients who require it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Serotonin is a mediator of pulmonary hypoxic vasoconstriction. Experimental studies have shown that serotonin-mediated pulmonary vasoconstriction can be inhibited by cyproheptadine. The aim of this study is to assess whether treatment with cyproheptadine compared to usual care increases ventilatory support-free days during the first 28 days in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) requiring ventilatory support. Materials and methods: This randomized, single-center, open-label clinical trial included patients who were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) requiring ventilatory support due to COVID-19. Patients allocated to the intervention group received cyproheptadine for 10 days. The primary outcome was ventilator-free days during the first 28 days. Results: Nineteen patients were randomized to receive cyproheptadine and 21 to the control group. The number of ventilatory support-free days during the first 28 days was not different between the two groups (15.0; 95% CI, 0.0-24.0 days in the control group vs 7.0; 95% CI, 0.0-19.0 days in the intervention group; p = 0.284). Conclusion: In patients with COVID-19 and in need of ventilatory support, the use of cyproheptadine plus usual care, compared with usual care alone, did not increase the number of ventilatory support-free days in 28 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is characterized by muscle weakness caused by autoantibodies that bind to the postsynaptic membrane at the neuromuscular junction and impair acetylcholine receptor function. Weakness of respiratory muscles represents the most severe MG manifestation, and 10–15% of all patients experience an MG crisis with the need of mechanical ventilatory support at least once in their life. MG patients with respiratory muscle weakness need active immunosuppressive drug treatment long term, and they need regular specialist follow-up. Comorbidities affecting respiratory function need attention and optimal treatment. Respiratory tract infections can lead to MG exacerbations and precipitate an MG crisis. Intravenous immunoglobulin and plasma exchange are the core treatments for severe MG exacerbations. High-dose corticosteroids, complement inhibitors, and FcRn blockers represent fast-acting treatments that are effective in most MG patients. Neonatal myasthenia is a transient condition with muscle weakness in the newborn caused by mother's muscle antibodies. In rare cases, treatment of respiratory muscle weakness in the baby is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Concern has risen about the effects of COVID-19 in interstitial lung disease (ILD) patients. The aim of our study was to determine clinical characteristics and prognostic factors of ILD patients admitted for COVID-19. Methods: Ancillary analysis of an international, multicenter COVID-19 registry (HOPE: Health Outcome Predictive Evaluation) was performed. The subgroup of ILD patients was selected and compared with the rest of the cohort. Results: A total of 114 patients with ILDs were evaluated. Mean ± SD age was 72.4 ± 13.6 years, and 65.8% were men. ILD patients were older, had more comorbidities, received more home oxygen therapy and more frequently had respiratory failure upon admission than non-ILD patients (all p < 0.05). In laboratory findings, ILD patients more frequently had elevated LDH, C-reactive protein, and D-dimer levels (all p < 0.05). A multivariate analysis showed that chronic kidney disease and respiratory insufficiency on admission were predictors of ventilatory support, and that older age, kidney disease and elevated LDH were predictors of death. Conclusions: Our data show that ILD patients admitted for COVID-19 are older, have more comorbidities, more frequently require ventilatory support and have higher mortality than those without ILDs. Older age, kidney disease and LDH were independent predictors of mortality in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study aim. To evaluate the efficacy of hemoadsorption in patients with severe COVID-19 on mechanical lung ventilation (MLV) and noninvasive respiratory support.Material and methods. We retrospectively analysed longitudinal clinical and laboratory parameters of 49 patients with severe coronavirus infection who were treated in the First Intensive care unit of Grodno University Hospital from September 2020 to November 2021 and underwent hemoadsorption using the Hemo-Proteasosorb sorbent. All patients were divided into two groups: Hemo-Proteasosorb + MLV (22 patients who underwent hemoadsorption while being on MLV) and Hemo-Proteasosorb without MLV (27 patients who had hemoadsorption while receiving the low- and high-flow oxygen therapy or noninvasive lung ventilation).Results. In the Hemo-Proteasosorb + MLV group a decrease in procalcitonin (PCT) (from 0.27 [0.12–2.08] down to 0.14 [0.05–1.77], P=0.027), C-reactive protein (CRP) (from 135.4 [10.6–303.0] down to 64.3 [1.2–147.0], P=0.003), fibrinogen (from 11.7 [4.9–19.49] to 8.2 [3.7–14.7], P=0.00004), and D-dimer (from 1432.0 [443.0–6390.0] to 1087.0 [415.0–3247.0], P=0.006) was seen on day 3 after the hemoadsorption session. The Hemo-Proteasosorb without MLV group also demonstrated a reduction in the levels of CRP (from 4 [10.6–303.0] to 64.3 [1.2–147.0], P=0.003), fibrinogen (from 11.7 [4.9–19.49] to 8.2 [3.7–14.7], P=0.00004), D-dimer (from 1432.0 [443.0–6390.0] to 1087.0 [415.0–3247.0], P=0.006) on day 3 after the hemoadsorption session. The Hemo-Proteasosorb without MLV group also showed a decrease in PCT (from 0.29 [0.14–21.25] to 0.14 [0.04–11.91], P=0.002), CRP (from 132.6 [30.7–183.0] to 28.55 [5.3–182.0], P=0.0002), fibrinogen (from 10.2 [4.41–15.5] to 6.5 [2.8–11.9], P=0.00005), D-dimer (from 1445.0 [365.0–4830.0] to 1049.0 [301.0–3302.0], P=0.005), while an increase in SpO₂/FiO₂ (from 238 [88–461] up to 320 [98–471], P=0.011) was registered. On days 5–7, positive changes in SpO₂/FiO₂ index (238 [88–461] vs 320 [96–471], P=0.0020) were observed in the Hemo-Proteasosorb without MLV group, as well as a trend toward further reduction in the levels of CRP (132.6 [30.7–183.0] vs 23.85 [2.2–200.0], P=0.0001) and fibrinogen (10.2 [4.41–15.5] to 5.11 [2.3–11.5], P=0.0017). The patients were assessed using the NEWS2 score at all the stages of the study. On days 2–3 of the study, a reduction in the mean NEWS2 score was noted in the Hemo-Proteasosorb + MLV group (8.0 [4.0–11.0] vs 6.0 [2.0–10.0], P=0.0002), whereas on days 5–7 its increase was seen vs stage 2 of the study with its values still lower than those prior to hemoadsorption (8.0 [4.0–11.0] vs 7.0 [2.0–9.0], P=0.011). On day 3 of treatment, in the Haemo-Proteasorb without MLV group we observed a decreased mean NEWS2 score (7.0 [3.0–9.0] vs 5.0 [1.0–9.0], P=0.00002), on days 5–7, this trend was still present (7.0 [3.0–9.0] vs 3.0 [1.0–8.0], P=0.00002).Conclusion. Hemoadsorption was beneficial for patients with severe COVID-19 during both oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation due to decreased levels of inflammatory markers, hypercoagulation, and reduced NEWS2 scores.

Abstract Background Acute heart failure patients are often encountered in emergency departments (ED) from 11% to 57% using emergency medical services (EMS). Our aim was to evaluate the association of EMS use with acute heart failure patients’ ED management and short-term outcomes. Methods This was a sub-analysis of a European EURODEM study. Data on patients presenting with dyspnoea were collected prospectively from European EDs. Patients with ED diagnosis of acute heart failure were categorized into two groups: those using EMS and those self-presenting (non- EMS). The independent association between EMS use and 30-day mortality was evaluated with logistic regression. Results Of the 500 acute heart failure patients, with information about the arrival mode to the ED, 309 (61.8%) arrived by EMS. These patients were older (median age 80 vs. 75 years, p 30/min in 17.1% patients vs. 7.5%, p = 0.005). The only difference in ED management appeared in the use of ventilatory support: 78.3% of EMS patients vs. 67.5% of non- EMS patients received supplementary oxygen (p = 0.007), and non-invasive ventilation was administered to 12.5% of EMS patients vs. 4.2% non- EMS patients (p = 0.002). EMS patients were more often hospitalized (82.4% vs. 65.9%, p

We report the polysomnography findings of a 2‐year‐old girl who was previously diagnosed with CCHS and treated with bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) and O2 supplementation for a year. The girl had convulsions 2 times in the last 10 days. After we replaced her nasal cannula with a nasal mask and adjusted the parameters of the BiPAP, her sleep and ventilation were improved. The polysomnographies measured under spontaneous breathing without oxygen supplementation showed that her sleep structure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation during sleep were improved 1 month and 1 year after effective BiPAP treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were reports of a shortage of ventilators and oxygen supply, particularly in resource-limited settings. We report the preliminary evaluation of a non-invasive positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) mask in hospitalized non-critically ill patients with COVID-19., Methods: We randomly assigned hospitalized adult patients with confirmed COVID-19 infection and requiring greater than 40% supplemental oxygen to either standard care oxygen delivery (control) or via Materialise passive non-invasive PEEP device mask (intervention; Belgium). The primary outcome was a change in mean respiratory rate from baseline over the first three hours after the commencement of the intervention. Secondary outcomes included dyspnea score, need for escalation of respiratory or cardiovascular support, days alive and free of ICU, and day-28 mortality., Results: Between April 30, 2021, and October 10, 2021, we enrolled 132 (65 control, 67 intervention) patients in the study. The mean respiratory rates at baseline were 23 ± 3 and 23 ± 3 in the control and intervention groups, with no significant differences at three hours (23 ± 2.3 vs. 23 ± 2.1, p=0.14). The control group had a higher mean dyspnea score compared to the intervention group (day 5: 5.4 ± 1.6 vs. 4.7 ± 1.4, p=0.015; day 6: 4.7 ± 1.7 vs. 4.0 ± 0.7, p=0.008). A higher proportion of patients in the control group required escalation of respiratory support (38%), as compared to intervention (12%) (p=0.0004). The two groups had no significant differences across other secondary outcomes or with respect to adverse events (barotrauma, aspiration pneumonia, need for vasopressor support)., Conclusions: The use of the novel mask compared to standard care in hospitalized non-critically ill patients with COVID-19 was not associated with reductions in the respiratory rate but was associated with a reduction in the need for escalation of respiratory support without an increase in adverse effects. Large-scale clinical trials of this device are warranted., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. The George Institute for Global Health Institutional Ethics Committee issued approval 15/2020. The study was registered in April 2021 with the Clinical Trial Registry - India (CTRI registration number: CTRI/2021/04/0331750). Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: The trial was supported by internal research funds from The George Institute for Global Health. The masks used in the intervention arm of the trial were supplied by Materialise, Belgium. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Gupta et al.)

Abstract We report the polysomnography findings of a 2‐year‐old girl who was previously diagnosed with CCHS and treated with bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) and O2 supplementation for a year. The girl had convulsions 2 times in the last 10 days. After we replaced her nasal cannula with a nasal mask and adjusted the parameters of the BiPAP, her sleep and ventilation were improved. The polysomnographies measured under spontaneous breathing without oxygen supplementation showed that her sleep structure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation during sleep were improved 1 month and 1 year after effective BiPAP treatment.

Objective: To determine the relation between days on ventilatory support and overall mortality to total days of pre-ventilator illness in COVID-19 patients. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Pak Emirates Military Hospital Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Mar to Aug 2020. Methodology: A total of 140 admitted patients within the prescribed time frame were observed in the established COVIDIntensive Care Units of Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi. The criteria for inclusion in the study were patients of any age and gender on ventilatory support with a confirmatory diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 both by RT-PCR, and radiological evidence on HRCT Chest. Results: The mean age of patients was 59.39 ± 13.517 years. Patients who presented with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 and more than ten days of illness with respiratory compromise had a higher occurrence to be placed on mechanical ventilation. There was a strong linear and positive correlation between the total days of illness on presentation and the total days on ventilatory support (p-value <0.01). This linear relationship consequently translated into overall mortality of 78.6% with a 21.4% survival rate. Conclusion: To conclude, the total days of illness in critical COVID-19 patients had a linear relationship to days on ventilatory support and overall mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The World Health Organization labelled the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic on March 11, 2020, the first day COVID-19 cases were diagnosed in Turkey. Since then, people's main concerns have been whether their lives or the lives of their relatives would be at risk if they became infected. The objective of this study was to determine the risk factors that increase mortality in COVID-19 patients treated in ICUs and to facilitate the appropriate precautions. Methods: In this study, patients who were diagnosed with COVID-19 [positive on a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test] and monitored in the Pandemic Hospital at Diyarbakır Dicle University between 15 March 15 and 15 May, 2020, were evaluated for risk factors for mortality. Results: A total of 50 ICU patients were included in the study. Of them, 52% were males, and the mean age was 63.8±17.6 years. A comparison of deceased and surviving patients showed that being female, older than 62, and a smoker and having diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and/or coronary artery disease significantly increased mortality. An investigation of the findings from the patients' lung tomography examinations revealed that relatively prominent pulmonary involvement and localization did not affect mortality. Conclusions: Because patients who are advanced in age, female and smokers and have comorbidities are in the high-risk group, measurements related to treating the COVID-19 disease should be improved. Laboratory parameters are useful for the evaluation of mortality and morbidity, while mechanical ventilation increased mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common, preventable, and treatable disease characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation that is due to airway and/or alveolar abnormalities, usually caused by significant exposure to noxious particles or gases. The chronic airflow limitation that characterizes COPD is caused by a mixture of small airway disease (e.g. obstructive bronchiolitis) and parenchymal destruction (emphysema), the relative contributions of which vary from person to person. Aim The aim of the study was to determine the effect of systemic corticosteroids in patients with severe acute exacerbations of COPD admitted to the ICU receiving ventilatory support. Patients and methods A total of 100 patients with acute exacerbations of COPD leading to hypoxemia and respiratory acidosis with pH less than 7.35 and PaCO2 more than 45 mmHg admitted to the ICU who were receiving ventilator support (invasive or noninvasive mechanical ventilation) were included. Results It was noticed that steroid group had significantly lower duration of mechanical ventilation (4.67±2.76 vs. 2.76±1.11 days; P=0.01), ICU stay (5.33±2.87 vs. 7.89±3.36 days; P=0.04), and hospital stay (11.65±3.89 vs. 16.67±4.44 days; P=0.03). Conclusion Corticosteroid therapy was associated with significantly lower duration of mechanical ventilation, ICU stay, and hospital stay.

Objective: To describe the transportation and clinical outcome of 9 dogs transported to a referral hospital on mechanical ventilation (MV). Design: Retrospective case series (2015–2020). Setting: University teaching hospital. Animals: Nine dogs transported to a referral center on MV. Interventions: All dogs underwent MV during vehicular transport. Measurement and Main Results: The medical records of 9 dogs transported on a MV to a university teaching hospital were reviewed. Data collected included signalment, reason for MV, ventilator settings, sedation protocol, monitoring in transit, distance traveled, complications, clinical outcome, and cost. All dogs transported survived transport to the referral hospital and 8 of 9 were successfully weaned from the ventilator and discharged home. Conclusions: MV during transport in this setting was practical and safe. Dogs in this study had a high survival rate compared to previous studies of dogs undergoing MV, likely due to selection of cases assessed to have a correctable underlying disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute heart failure patients are often encountered in emergency departments (ED) from 11% to 57% using emergency medical services (EMS). Our aim was to evaluate the association of EMS use with acute heart failure patients' ED management and short-term outcomes.Methods: This was a sub-analysis of a European EURODEM study. Data on patients presenting with dyspnoea were collected prospectively from European EDs. Patients with ED diagnosis of acute heart failure were categorized into two groups: those using EMS and those self-presenting (non- EMS). The independent association between EMS use and 30-day mortality was evaluated with logistic regression.Results: Of the 500 acute heart failure patients, with information about the arrival mode to the ED, 309 (61.8%) arrived by EMS. These patients were older (median age 80 vs. 75 years, p < 0.001), more often female (56.4% vs. 42.1%, p = 0.002) and had more dementia (18.7% vs. 7.2%, p < 0.001). On admission, EMS patients had more often confusion (14.2% vs. 2.1%, p < 0.001) and higher respiratory rate (24/min vs. 21/min, p = 0.014; respiratory rate > 30/min in 17.1% patients vs. 7.5%, p = 0.005). The only difference in ED management appeared in the use of ventilatory support: 78.3% of EMS patients vs. 67.5% of non- EMS patients received supplementary oxygen (p = 0.007), and non-invasive ventilation was administered to 12.5% of EMS patients vs. 4.2% non- EMS patients (p = 0.002). EMS patients were more often hospitalized (82.4% vs. 65.9%, p < 0.001), had higher in-hospital mortality (8.7% vs. 3.1%, p = 0.014) and 30-day mortality (14.3% vs. 4.9%, p < 0.001). The use of EMS was an independent predictor of 30-day mortality (OR = 2.54, 95% CI 1.11-5.81, p = 0.027).Conclusion: Most acute heart failure patients arrive at ED by EMS. These patients suffer from more severe respiratory distress and receive more often ventilatory support. EMS use is an independent predictor of 30-day mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The current COVID-19 pandemic had its first reported cases in December 2019 in Wuhan, Hubei province, China. COVID-19's pandemic status was recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11, 2020. COVID-19 is a respiratory disease resulting from the infection caused by the new coronavirus. Most cases of infection are not serious, but some infected individuals require hospitalization and intensive care. Objective: To describe the clinical and epidemiological profile of patients admitted to the ICU-Covid-19 of Hospital Júlio Müller, Cuiabá-MT, from April to November 2020. Methodology: This is a retrospective, observational and descriptive study, carried out from the collection of information from medical records of patients admitted to the ICU COVID-19. Results: The sample of 99 patients corresponds to 51% male and 49% female, aged between 18 and 104 years, with a mean age of 49.5 years. Of these, 33% do not have any adjuvant disease; 67% have preexisting diseases, with 58% being cardiovascular diseases. As for ventilatory devices on admission of patients, 35% used invasive ventilatory support and 65% used spontaneous ventilation. Regarding the patients' outcome, 30% progressed to death, 69% progressed to ICU discharge and 1% was transferred from a hospital unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and objectives The ongoing respiratory sequelae of COVID-19 pneumonia remain unclear, and the ideal follow-up of these patients is still a work in progress. We describe our experience of using a pre-follow-up multidisciplinary team (MDT) to decide the follow-up stream in patients hospitalised for COVID-19 pneumonia. Methods We reviewed all patients with a clinico-radiological diagnosis of COVID-19 admitted to hospital during a 3-month period and assigned a follow-up stream based on British Thoracic Society guidance. Results We changed the follow-up pathway in 71% (277/392) and refined the pathway in 67% (261/392) of indeterminate cases. We also created an automated process for the general practitioner to book follow-up imaging and will use this process going forward. Conclusion These findings highlight the importance of the MDT review of cases with suspected COVID-19 pneumonia prior to clinic attendance to ensure appropriate patients are followed up and to optimise utilisation of outpatient imaging and clinics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: India, along with the rest of the world, faced the challenging severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. The second wave in India lagged behind that in the Western world, due to different timing of seasons. There is scarce data about the differences between the two waves, for intensive care unit (ICU) patients. We present the data of 3,498 patients from 9 ICUs of western Maharashtra. Materials and methods: We collected prospective data of hospitalized, RT-PCR confirmed, coronavirus-2019 (COVID-19) patients, from nine tertiary centers, after institutional ethics committee (IEC) approval. Then, we segregated and analyzed the data of patients admitted to the ICU, for comorbidities, high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) score, ventilatory support, etc. The primary outcomes were ICU and hospital mortality. We also performed multivariable analysis for predictors of ICU mortality. Results: Overall, there were 3,498 ICU patients. In the first wave, 1,921 patients needed ICU admission, while in the second wave, 1,577 patients. Patients in the second wave had significantly higher ICU (26.1 vs 13.4%, p <0.001) and hospital mortality (29.9 vs 18.2%, p <0.001) and need for ventilatory support of any type. More patients received steroids during the second wave. On multivariable regression, male gender, ICU admission during the second wave, increasing HRCT score, and need for intubation and mechanical ventilation were significant predictors of ICU mortality. Conclusion: ICU patients admitted during the two waves were of the similar age, but there were more females, and more patients had comorbidities during the second wave. The ICU and hospital mortality were significantly higher during the second wave. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND. Ultrasound study significantly expanded the possibilities of bedside diagnosis in patients with respiratory failure. Using ultrasound, it is possible to determine the volume of lung damage in the form of collapsed alveoli and infiltration areas with preserved airness of the lung tissue. AIM OF STuDY To study the possibility of assessing the recruitment maneuver of the alveoli based on changes in the ultrasound signs of lung tissue damage.MATERIAL AND METHODS. A prospective study was performed in the Clinic of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation of S.M. Kirov Military Medical Academy. The study included 36 patients who were treated in the period from 2010 to 2017 with a duration of respiratory support of at least 48 hours and oxygenation index less than 300 mmHg. For 36 patients, 48 alveoli recruitment maneuvers were performed according to a step-by-step method under the control of dynamic compliance and average tidal volume. Ultrasound determined the type and extent of destruction of lung tissue by signs of infiltration and consolidation.RESULTS. In the studied patients, after carrying out a maneuver of recruitment of the alveoli, arterial blood oxygenation indices increased statistically significantly, PaCO2 level decreased, pulmonary tissue compliance improved, respiratory volume grew. All this confirmed the mobilization of the alveoli and improved lung ventilation. Ultrasonographic evaluation of lung tissue showed a significant decrease in the severity of the ultrasound sign of infiltration after recruitment maneuver from 46.5 (38; 57.5) to 37.5 (30.5; 49.5). However, recruitment had practically no effect on the volume of the consolidated area of lung tissue: the general consolidation index before (4 (3; 5)) and after (4 (3; 5)) the maneuver had no statistically significant differences.CONCLUSIONS. The pneumonia-affected consolidated lung tissue has a low recruitment potential and the volume of consolidation does not change with the growth of PEEP. After the recruitment maneuver, the number of B-lines decreases, indicating a decrease in infiltration and an increase in lung airness.Authors declare lack of the conflicts of interests.

The goal of this position paper on ventilatory support at home for children is to provide expert consensus from Australia and New Zealand on optimal care for children requiring ventilatory support at home, both non-invasive and invasive. It was compiled by members of the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand (TSANZ) and the Australasian Sleep Association (ASA). This document provides recommendations to support the development of improved services for Australian and New Zealand children who require long-term ventilatory support. Issues relevant to providers of equipment and areas of research need are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been almost two years since COVID-19, a disease caused by a new coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2, was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. The entire scientific and medical community was put to the test during the following months to find the best therapeutic strategy to save lives. Although some antivirals and anti-inflammatory drugs are being tested in different clinical trials with some controversial results, this short review will focus on corticosteroids usefulness and ventilatory support principles, as they have become two essential therapeutic pillars for those patients who need hospital admission due to respiratory failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Notfall & Rettungsmedizin is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Our aim was to assess the effectivity of continuous flow ventilatory support (CFVS) in those COPD patients undergoing cardiac surgery who developed hypercapnic respiratory failure.Materials and methods. CFVS was applied in 11 COPD (Stage 2.55±0.52 on average) patients undergoing cardiac surgery, after weaning from «conventional» pressure controlled (PCV) or pressure support ventilation (PSV) mode. All of these patients had hypercapnea with respiratory failure that has been manifested after 15±10 hours after postoperative weaning from ventilator. CFVS was applied using nasotracheal catheter (diameter 5–6 mm) with average inspiratory flow Qin = 26±2,3 l/min while using FiO2 of 0.3–0.35.Results. Only one out of 11 patients failed to recover from hypercapnic respiratory failure using CFVS and had to be intubated instead. Spontaneous ventilation frequency was gradually decreasing from 24.8±3.6 breaths/min to 16±2 breaths/min after initiation of CFVS (P

Abstract Background Despite significant advances in neonatology, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) remains the most common cause of serious morbidity and mortality in premature infants. The aim of the present study was to determine associations between the respiratory severity score (RSS) with death or BPD in premature infants. Methods This was a retrospective study conducted between January 2010 and December 2014. We enrolled preterm infants with a gestational age of less than 28 weeks who were supported by mechanical ventilation for more than a week during the first 4 weeks of life. We collected the RSS scores on day of life 2, 7, 14, 21 and 28. The correlations between postnatal RSSs and death or severe BPD were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression. Results Of the 138 eligible infants, 66 infants (47.8%) either died or developed severe BPD. The RSS cut-off values for predicting severe BPD or death were 3.0 for postnatal day (PND) 14 with an odds ratio (OR) of 11.265 (p = 0.0006, 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.842 to 44.646), 3.6 for PND 21 with an OR of 15.162 (p = 0.0003, 95% CI, 3.467 to 66.316), and 3.24 for PND 28 with an OR of 10.713 (p = 0.0005, 95% CI, 2.825 to 40.630). Conclusion Strong correlations were observed between the RSSs on PND 14, 21, and 28 and death or subsequent severe BPD. The RSS could provide a simple estimate of severe BPD or death., Further research with a larger study population is necessary to validate the usefulness of the RSS for predicting severe BPD or death.

The novel Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has posed several challenges for neuromuscular disorder (NMD) patients. The risk of a severe course of SARS-CoV-2 infection is increased in all but the mildest forms of NMDs. High-risk conditions include reduced airway clearance due to oropharyngeal weakness and risk of worsening with fever, fasting or infection Isolation requirements may have an impact on treatment regimens administered in hospital settings, such as nusinersen, glucosidase alfa, intravenous immunoglobulin, and rituximab infusions. In addition, specific drugs for SARS-CoV2 infection under investigation impair neuromuscular function significantly; chloroquine and azithromycin are not recommended in myasthenia gravis without available ventilatory support and prolonged prone positioning may influence options for treatment. Other therapeutics may affect specific NMDs (metabolic, mitochondrial, myotonic diseases) and experimental approaches for Coronavirus disease 2019 may be offered "compassionately" only after consulting the patient's NMD specialist. In parallel, the reorganization of hospital and outpatient services may change the management of non-infected NMD patients and their caregivers, favouring at-distance approaches. However, the literature on the validation of telehealth in this subgroup of patients is scant. Thus, as the first wave of the pandemic is progressing, clinicians and researchers should address these crucial open issues to ensure adequate caring for NMD patients. This manuscript summarizes available evidence so far and provides guidance for both general neurologists and NMD specialists dealing with NMD patients in the time of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to describe longitudinally the current invasive and non-invasive ventilation practices in premature infants in a single neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). It's a retrospective chart review including 682 babies born at gestational age ≤35 weeks, admitted to the NICU at Erasme Hospital, between 1st of January 2001 and 31st of December 2011, the different ventilatory support used were analyzed. This population was stratified depending on gestational age and the recruitment period on 3 groups. All infants born <28 weeks of GA (group 1) needed some kind of respiratory support of which 22% non-invasive. Among babies born after 28 to 31 weeks (group 2), 10.2% didn't need any ventilatory support and 42% needed a non-invasive respiratory support. In neonates from 32 to 35 weeks of GA (group 3) respiratory support was needed in 34.9%, 65% of which was noninvasive. The median duration of endotracheal ventilation was: 6, 1 and 2 days, and of noninvasive support: 41, 17 and 2 days in group 1, 2 and 3 respectively. One single premature baby could pass along the first weeks through all modes. In premature infants whose respiratory support was needed, the median age at the end of support was remarkably constant at 33 - 34 weeks of corrected age. We conclude that is an important diversity and a significant complementarity between modes of respiratory support for premature infants. Invasive ventilation decreased significantly for group 2, but is still remarkably long for group 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: 3D printing and distributed manufacturing represent a paradigm shift in the health system that is becoming critical during the COVID-19 pandemic. University hospitals are also taking on the role of manufacturers of custom-made solutions thanks to 3D printing technology. Case Presentation: We present a monocentric observational case study regarding the distributed manufacturing of three groups of products during the period of the COVID-19 pandemic from 14 March to 10 May 2020: personal protective equipment, ventilatory support, and diagnostic and consumable products. Networking during this period has enabled the delivery of a total of 17,276 units of products manufactured using 3D printing technology. The most manufactured product was the face shields and ear savers, while the one that achieved the greatest clinical impact was the mechanical ventilation adapters and swabs. The products were manufactured by individuals in 57.3% of the cases, and our hospital acted as the main delivery node in a hub with 10 other hospitals. The main advantage of this production model is the fast response to stock needs, being able to adapt almost in real time. Conclusions: The role of 3D printing in the hospital environment allows the reconciliation of in-house and distributed manufacturing with traditional production, providing custom-made adaptation of the specifications, as well as maximum efficiency in the working and availability of resources, which is of special importance at critical times for health systems such as the current COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review aims to verify the main epidemiologic, clinical, laboratory-related, and therapeutic aspects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in critically ill pediatric patients. An extensive review of the medical literature on COVID-19 was performed, mainly focusing on the critical care of pediatric patients, considering expert opinions and recent reports related to this new disease. Experts from a large Brazilian public university analyzed all recently published material to produce a report aiming to standardize the care of critically ill children and adolescents. The report emphasizes on the clinical presentations of the disease and ventilatory support in pediatric patients with COVID-19. It establishes a flowchart to guide health practitioners on triaging critical cases. COVID-19 is essentially an unknown clinical condition for the majority of pediatric intensive care professionals. Guidelines developed by experts can help all practitioners standardize their attitudes and improve the treatment of COVID-19.

Facing the possibility of a surge of COVID-19-infected patients requiring ventilatory support in Intensive Care Units (ICU), the Singapore Hospice Council and the Chapter of Palliative Medicine Physicians forward its position on the guiding principles that ought to drive the allocation of ICU beds and its role in care of these patients and their families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 34 year old G2P1L1 at 35 weeks 6 days previous LSCS with bilateral congenital vocal cord palsy was referred to our tertiary care hospital with worsening of congenital stridor. On examination her respiratory rate was 32/min, heart rate was 132/min and temperature of 96.4oF. Obstetric examination revealed a gravid uterus of 36 weeks size, cephalic presentation with good fetal heart sound, not in labour. On further evaluation, ABG suggested worsening respiratory acidosis and hence taken up for emergency LSCS under SA and delivered a live baby girl of 2.5kg with good APGAR. She was intubated during immediate postoperative period due to acute respiratory acidosis. She was extubated after 24 hours once her arterial blood gas analysis (ABG) showed improvement. Postnatal period was uneventful. Otorhinolaryngologist planned for cordectomy after 6 weeks. Patient improved symptomatically and discharged on 7th postoperative day.

Objective: To describe the use of noninvasive ventilation to prevent tracheal intubation in children in a pediatric intensive care unit and to analyze the factors related to respiratory failure. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed from January 2016 to May 2018. The study population included children aged 1 to 14 years who were subjected to noninvasive ventilation as the first therapeutic choice for acute respiratory failure. Biological, clinical and managerial data were analyzed by applying a model with the variables that obtained significance = 0.20 in a bivariate analysis. Logistic regression was performed using the ENTER method. The level of significance was set at 5%. Results: The children had a mean age of 68.7 ± 42.3 months, 96.6% had respiratory disease as a primary diagnosis, and 15.8% had comorbidities. Of the 209 patients, noninvasive ventilation was the first option for ventilatory support in 86.6% of the patients, and the fraction of inspired oxygen was = 0.40 in 47% of the cases. The lethality rate was 1.4%. The data for the use of noninvasive ventilation showed a high success rate of 95.3% (84.32 - 106). The Pediatric Risk of Mortality (PRISM) score and the length of stay in the intensive care unit were the significant clinical variables for the success or failure of noninvasive ventilation. Conclusion: A high rate of effectiveness was found for the use of noninvasive ventilation for acute episodes of respiratory failure. A higher PRISM score on admission, comorbidities associated with respiratory symptoms and oxygen use = 40% were independent factors related to noninvasive ventilation failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research in the area of adult invasive mechanical ventilation is rich and diverse. With more than 3,200 articles on mechanical ventilation published in 2018, isolating the most relevant literature is a challenge. Separated into 5 themes (ie, ventilatory support, hyperoxia, ventilator-associated events, prevention of events, and ventilator liberation), this article will describe the most important papers published on adult invasive mechanical ventilation in 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims A/H1N1/09 influenza is associated with a high risk of complications in patients with chronic diseases. In view of patients with cirrhosis being recognized as another high-risk group for influenza morbidity and mortality, we report a cluster of suspected A/H1N1/09 infection in 110 patients admitted to a hepatology intensive care unit. Methods The pattern of spread, clinical outcome, and respiratory parameters of A/H1N1/09 of 22 positive cirrhotic patients were compared with those from a control group of 88 patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) with influenza-like pneumonia who tested negative for A/H1N1/09. Results A/H1N1/09 infection was confirmed in 22 (20%) patients. Eighteen of 22 (81.8%) CLD patients with A/H1N1/09 died of pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome despite timely antiviral treatment. In contrast, only 35 (40%)of the control group of cirrhotic patients without A/H1N1/09 died. On univariate analysis, age > 45 years [OR 1.3; 95% CI 1.1–5.7, (P = 0.054)], encephalopathy > grade 2 [OR 5.4; 95% CI 2.8–12.3, (P = 0.042)], serum bilirubin >8 mg/dl [OR 2.1; 95% CI 1.8–12.3, (P = 0.052)], serum creatinine >1.8 mg/dl [OR 2.8; 95% CI 1.9–9.2, (P = 0.042)], PaO 2 /FiO 2 ratio <200 [OR 4.5; 95% CI 3.1–18.5, (P = 0.026)] and INR > 2.5 [OR 2.2; 95% CI 1.8–6.7, (P = 0.032)] were risk factors for mortality at presentation. However, on multivariate analysis only PaO 2 /FiO 2 ratio <200 and serum creatinine >1.8 mg/dl remained predictors of mortality. Secondary infections, whether fungal or bacterial, were noted to be independent risk factors for disease severity in patients with cirrhosis. Conclusion Early detection and referral, and early antiviral treatment with a strict control of nosocomial spread is essential in patients with cirrhosis during epidemic influenza. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]