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BACKGROUND: Trunk pressure biofeedback is considered a reliable indicator for assessing core muscle strength. It not only reflects the status of an individual’s trunk strength but also has a close relationship with the function of respiratory muscles. OBJECTIVE: To explore the correlation between trunk pressure biofeedback and diaphragmatic function in young adults. METHODS: A total of 80 young adults from Shangrao Normal University, China were enrolled, including 34 males and 46 females, with an average age of (19.83±1.45) years. Diaphragmatic thickness and mobility were measured using a bedside musculoskeletal ultrasound system. Maximum inspiratory pressure was determined using a portable pulmonary function tester. Lumbar and abdominal pressures in prone and supine positions were assessed using a pressure biofeedback device. The degree of correlation between trunk pressure biofeedback and diaphragmatic function was determined using Pearson or Spearman correlation coefficients. A multivariate linear regression analysis was used to determine predictive models for diaphragmatic function. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Grouped by sex, age, height, body mass, trunk pressure biofeedback values, diaphragm thickness during quiet inspiration and expiration, diaphragmatic thickening ratio during quiet breathing, diaphragmatic thickness during deep inspiration and expiration, diaphragmatic thickening ratio during deep breathing, diaphragmatic mobility during deep inspiration, and maximum inspiratory pressure were higher in the male group than the female group (all P < 0.05). Grouped by physical activity level, trunk pressure biofeedback values and maximum inspiratory pressure were lower in the sedentary group than in the exercise group (both P < 0.05). Both anterior and posterior trunk pressure biofeedback were significantly correlated with diaphragmatic thickness during quiet inspiration and expiration, diaphragmatic thickening ratio during quiet breathing, diaphragmatic thickness during deep inspiration and expiration, diaphragmatic thickening ratio during deep breathing, diaphragmatic mobility during deep inspiration, and maximum inspiratory pressure (all P < 0.01). Anterior trunk pressure biofeedback entered the predictive model for diaphragmatic thickness during quiet inspiration (F=27.228, P < 0.001), during deep inspiration (F=38.615, P < 0.001), and along with age for diaphragmatic mobility during deep inspiration (F=15.408, P < 0.001). Anterior trunk pressure biofeedback, body mass, and age entered the predictive model for maximum inspiratory pressure (F=22.314, P < 0.001). To conclude, there is a strong correlation between trunk pressure biofeedback and diaphragmatic thickness, diaphragmatic mobility, and maximum inspiratory pressure. The rapid and simple measurement of trunk pressure biofeedback can serve as a method for screening the diaphragmatic function in healthy young adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Muscle strength and mass strongly influence performance. The role of the trunk, upper limbs, and lower limbs in a specific performance is important but unclear in terms of muscle strength, muscle mass, and the degree of influence of each part. Standing long jump is a performance that produces results by not only the muscles of the lower limbs working together but also the entire body, including the trunk and upper limbs. To determine the influence of muscle strength and the mass of each body part on standing long jump, 31 healthy young adults (18 males and 13 females) participated in this study. Abdominal trunk muscle strength, grip strength, and knee extension muscle strength were measured, each of which was defined as trunk, upper limb, and lower limb muscle strength. The trunk, upper limb, and lower limb muscle masses were measured using a body composition analyzer. Performance was measured using the standing long jump test (jumping power). Factors influencing standing long jump were examined. A multiple regression analysis revealed that trunk (β = 0.367, p = 0.006) and upper limb (β = 0.608, p < 0.001) muscle strength values were extracted for standing long jump (adjusted R2 = 0.574, p < 0.01). Trunk and upper limb muscle strength influence standing long jumps.

Muscle strength and mass strongly influence performance. The role of the trunk, upper limbs, and lower limbs in a specific performance is important but unclear in terms of muscle strength, muscle mass, and the degree of influence of each part. Standing long jump is a performance that produces results by not only the muscles of the lower limbs working together but also the entire body, including the trunk and upper limbs. To determine the influence of muscle strength and the mass of each body part on standing long jump, 31 healthy young adults (18 males and 13 females) participated in this study. Abdominal trunk muscle strength, grip strength, and knee extension muscle strength were measured, each of which was defined as trunk, upper limb, and lower limb muscle strength. The trunk, upper limb, and lower limb muscle masses were measured using a body composition analyzer. Performance was measured using the standing long jump test (jumping power). Factors influencing standing long jump were examined. A multiple regression analysis revealed that trunk (β = 0.367, p = 0.006) and upper limb (β = 0.608, p < 0.001) muscle strength values were extracted for standing long jump (adjusted R2 = 0.574, p < 0.01). Trunk and upper limb muscle strength influence standing long jumps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The International Continence Society recommends zeroing of transducers to the atmospheric pressure for invasive urodynamics. The range of abdominal pressure relative to atmospheric pressure is well‐known in adults but has not been described in children. This prospective observational study was carried out to establish baseline abdominal in children. Materials and Methods: Prospective, multicenter, observational study of 100 children aged 0‐18 years undergoing invasive urodynamics using water‐filled systems. Initial resting abdominal pressure, intravesical pressure and detrusor pressure were recorded in supine, sitting, and standing position (as age‐ and diagnosis‐appropriate). This data was analyzed using SPSS 20.0.0 with regard to age, gender, height, weight, body mass index, and underlying diagnosis (classified as neurogenic or non‐neurogenic). Nonparametric tests were used (2‐sided p < 0.05, significant). Results: Initial resting abdominal pressure (inter‐quartile range) in children was between 5 and 15 cmH2O in the supine, 13−20 cmH2O in the sitting, and 15−21 cmH2O in the standing position. These pressures were not consistently influenced by age, gender, height, weight or underlying diagnosis. The initial resting detrusor pressure was noted to be 0−4 cmH2O without any difference based on posture. Limitations include use of two‐tube technique, relatively small number of subjects across each age group, wide range of underlying diagnoses and need for manual smoothing of some traces. Conclusion: This study defines initial resting abdominal pressure at urodynamics in children and notes that, as with adults, it is possible to define widely applicable ranges regardless of individual characteristics. These pressures appear lower than those noted historically in adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background We have previously reported a simple correction method for estimating pleural pressure (Ppl) using central venous pressure (CVP). However, it remains unclear whether this method is applicable to patients with varying levels of intravascular volumes and/or chest wall compliance. This study aimed to investigate the accuracy of our method under different conditions of intravascular volume and chest wall compliance. Results Ten anesthetized and paralyzed pigs (43.2 ± 1.8 kg) were mechanically ventilated and subjected to lung injury by saline lung lavage. Each pig was subjected to three different intravascular volumes and two different intraabdominal pressures. For each condition, the changes in the esophageal pressure (ΔPes) and the estimated ΔPpl using ΔCVP (cΔCVP-derived ΔPpl) were compared to the directly measured change in pleural pressure (Δd-Ppl), which was the gold standard estimate in this study. The cΔCVP-derived ΔPpl was calculated as κ × ΔCVP, where “κ” was the ratio of the change in airway pressure to the change in CVP during the occlusion test. The means and standard deviations of the Δd-Ppl, ΔPes, and cΔCVP-derived ΔPpl for all pigs under all conditions were 7.6 ± 4.5, 7.2 ± 3.6, and 8.0 ± 4.8 cmH2O, respectively. The repeated measures correlations showed that both the ΔPes and cΔCVP-derived ΔPpl showed a strong correlation with the Δd-Ppl (ΔPes: r = 0.95, p

Background: We have previously reported a simple correction method for estimating pleural pressure (Ppl) using central venous pressure (CVP). However, it remains unclear whether this method is applicable to patients with varying levels of intravascular volumes and/or chest wall compliance. This study aimed to investigate the accuracy of our method under different conditions of intravascular volume and chest wall compliance. Results: Ten anesthetized and paralyzed pigs (43.2 ± 1.8 kg) were mechanically ventilated and subjected to lung injury by saline lung lavage. Each pig was subjected to three different intravascular volumes and two different intraabdominal pressures. For each condition, the changes in the esophageal pressure (ΔPes) and the estimated ΔPpl using ΔCVP (cΔCVP-derived ΔPpl) were compared to the directly measured change in pleural pressure (Δd-Ppl), which was the gold standard estimate in this study. The cΔCVP-derived ΔPpl was calculated as κ × ΔCVP, where "κ" was the ratio of the change in airway pressure to the change in CVP during the occlusion test. The means and standard deviations of the Δd-Ppl, ΔPes, and cΔCVP-derived ΔPpl for all pigs under all conditions were 7.6 ± 4.5, 7.2 ± 3.6, and 8.0 ± 4.8 cmH2O, respectively. The repeated measures correlations showed that both the ΔPes and cΔCVP-derived ΔPpl showed a strong correlation with the Δd-Ppl (ΔPes: r = 0.95, p < 0.0001; cΔCVP-derived ΔPpl: r = 0.97, p < 0.0001, respectively). In the Bland–Altman analysis to test the performance of the cΔCVP-derived ΔPpl to predict the Δd-Ppl, the ΔPes and cΔCVP-derived ΔPpl showed almost the same bias and precision (ΔPes: 0.5 and 1.7 cmH2O; cΔCVP-derived ΔPpl: − 0.3 and 1.9 cmH2O, respectively). No significant difference was found in the bias and precision depending on the intravascular volume and intraabdominal pressure in both comparisons between the ΔPes and Δd-Ppl, and cΔCVP-derived ΔPpl and Δd-Ppl. Conclusions: The CVP method can estimate the ΔPpl with reasonable accuracy, similar to Pes measurement. The accuracy was not affected by the intravascular volume or chest wall compliance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)-derived parameters in healthy volunteers and critically ill patients and to assess its prognostic value in an ICU patient cohort. Design: Retrospective, observational data analysis. Setting: Single centre, tertiary-level ICU (Ziekenhuis Netwerk Antwerpen, ZNA Stuivenberg Hospital). Patients: 101 patients and 101 healthy subjects, participants of International Fluid Academy Days. Measurements and main results: Compared to healthy volunteers, both male and female ICU patients had significantly higher values for total body water (TBW), extracellular water (ECW), extracellular fluid (ECF), plasma, and interstitial fluid volumes. The phase angle was significantly lower and the malnutrition index was significantly higher in ICU patients, regardless of gender. Non-survivors in the ICU had significantly higher extracellular water content (ECW, 50.7 ± 5.1 vs. 48.9 ± 4.3%, p = 0.047) and accordingly significantly lower intracellular water (ICW, 49.2 ± 5.1 vs. 51.1 ± 4.3%, p = 0.047). The malnutrition index was also significantly higher in non-survivors compared to survivors (0.94 ± 0.17 vs. 0.87 ± 0.16, p = 0.048), as was the capillary leak index (ECW/ICW). Conclusions: Compared to healthy volunteers, this study observed a higher malnutrition index and TBW in ICU patients with an accumulation of fluids in the extracellular compartment. ICU non-survivors showed similar results, indicating that ICU patients and a fortiori non-survivors are generally overhydrated, with increased TBW and ECW, and more undernourished, as indicated by a higher malnutrition index. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) is an important vital sign in critically ill patients and has a negative impact on morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to validate a novel non-invasive ultrasonographic approach to IAP measurement against the gold standard intra-bladder pressure (IBP) method. We conducted a prospective observational study in an adult medical ICU of a university hospital. IAP measurements using ultrasonography by two independent operators, with different experience levels (experienced, IAPUS1; inexperienced, IAPUS2), were compared with the gold standard IBP method performed by a third blinded operator. For the ultrasonographic method, decremental external pressure was applied on the anterior abdominal wall using a bottle filled with decreasing volumes of water. Ultrasonography looked at peritoneal rebound upon brisk withdrawal of the external pressure. The loss of peritoneal rebound was identified as the point where IAP was equal to or above the applied external pressure. Twenty-one patients underwent 74 IAP readings (range 2–15 mmHg). The number of readings per patient was 3.5 ± 2.5, and the abdominal wall thickness was 24.6 ± 13.1 mm. Bland and Altman's analysis showed a bias (0.39 and 0.61 mmHg) and precision (1.38 and 1.51 mmHg) for the comparison of IAPUS1 and IAPUS2 and vs. IBP, respectively with small limits of agreement that were in line with the research guidelines of the Abdominal Compartment Society (WSACS). Our novel ultrasound-based IAP method displayed good correlation and agreement between IAP and IBP at levels up to 15 mmHg and is an excellent solution for quick decision-making in critically ill patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Low intra‐abdominal pressure (IAP) and high perineal pressure (PP) are safe conditions for pelvic floor. This study aims to measure IAP and PP in Beninese post‐partum women during abdominal exercises and determine what exercise presents less risk for pelvic floor after delivery. Methods: IAP and PP were measured at rest and during exercises performed in random order: Cough, pelvic floor contraction (PFC), Curl‐up, diaphragmatic aspiration (DA), Drawing‐in, DA + Curl‐up and Drawing‐in+Curl‐up, using a Micro‐Full biofeedback PHENIX‐Vivaltis with dual‐channel probe. Results were presented as change from rest (maximal value during exercise minus value at rest) and expressed in percentage of this change for the reference exercise, Cough for IAP and PFC for PP. The ANOVA repeated measures test was used to compare pressures between exercises. Results: Seventeen postpartum women participated to this study. The maximal IAP and PP change were the highest (100%), respectively, during cough and PFC. During DA, IAP was the lowest (−7%) and PP was 51%. During Curl‐up, IAP was moderate (43%) and significantly higher than during PFC (33%), Drawing‐in (16%) and DA. PP was low (29%) and similar to that during Drawing‐in (23%). Compared to Curl‐up, Drawing‐in+Curl‐up increased PP (50%) but did not decrease IAP (40%). DA + Curl‐up increased PP (58%) and decreased IAP (31%) compared to Curl‐up but not compared to DA. Conclusion: DA is safe and Curl‐up presents little risk for the pelvic floor. According to interindividual variations observed in IAP and PP, intrinsic factors should be considered in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and hypothesis: "Dropped pabd at void" occurs when pabd decreases below the previous resting pressure during voiding time. We sought clinical factors associated with this phenomenon and evaluated whether its correction modifies the urodynamic diagnosis. Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional study of non-neurological consecutive symptomatic women. The following definitions were used: "dropped pabd at void": decrease in pabd at Qmax ≥ 5 cmH2O; bladder outflow obstruction (BOO) (pdetQmax ≥ 25 cmH2O + Qmax ≤ 12 ml/s and female BOO index (pdetQmax – 2.2*Qmax) > 18; "low detrusor contraction strength": PIP1 (pdetQmax + Qmax) < 30. In patients with "dropped pabd at void", pdetQmax was corrected. Results: A total of 360 women were analyzed. Ninety-five percent of the women had a variation in pabd at Qmax between −13 and 53 cmH2O. "Dropped pabd at void" was found in 100 women (27.8%). History of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) surgery was significantly higher (p = 0.016) and symptoms of mixed urinary incontinence were significantly lower (p = 0.030) in patients with "dropped pabd at void". On multivariate analysis only the history of SUI surgery maintained its significance (OR = 1.787 [95% CI: 1.058, 3.017], p = 0.030). When correcting pdetQmax in women with "dropped pabd at void", 2 or 5 patients lost BOO diagnosis (depending on how it was diagnosed) and 7 patients gained a "low detrusor contraction strength" diagnosis. Conclusions: Approximately one-quarter of women had "dropped pabd at void", which was associated with a history of SUI surgery. Correction of pdetQmax would lead to a 2.5% to 3.33% diagnostic modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) present complications and organ failure, which require treatment in critical care units. These extrapancreatic complications determine the clinical outcome of the disease. Intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) deteriorates the prognosis of SAP. In this paper, relevant recent literature was reviewed, as well as the authors' own experiences, concerning the clinical importance of IAH and its treatment in SAP. The principal observations confirmed that IAH is a frequent consequence of SAP but is practically absent in mild disease. Common manifestations of AP such as pain, abdominal distension, and paralytic ileus contribute to increased abdominal pressure, as well as fluid loss in third space and aggressive fluid replacement therapy. A severe increase in IAP can evolve to abdominal compartment syndrome and new onset organ failure. Conservative measures are useful, but invasive interventions are necessary in several cases. Percutaneous drainage of major collections is preferred when possible, but open decompressive laparotomy is the final possibility in some cases in order to definitively reduce abdominal pressure. Intra-abdominal pressure should be measured in all SAP cases that worsen despite adequate treatment in critical care units. Conservative measures must be introduced to treat IAH, including negative fluid balance, digestive decompression by gastric–rectal tube, and prokinetics, including neostigmine. In the case of insufficient responses to these measures, minimally invasive interventions should be preferred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: Numerical in-silico human spine stability finite element analysis.Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the contribution of major torso tissues toward static spine stability, mainly the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF), abdominal wall with its intra-abdominal pressure (IAP), and spinal muscles inclusive of their intramuscular pressure.Summary Of Background Data: Given the numerous redundancies involved in the spine, current methodologies for assessing static spinal stability are limited to specific tissues and could lead to inconclusive results. A three-dimensional finite element model of the spine, with structured analysis of major torso tissues, allows for objective investigation of static spine stability.Methods: A novel previously fully validated spine model was employed. Major torso tissues, mainly the muscles, TLF, and IAP were individually, and in combinations, activated under a 350N external spine perturbation. The stability contribution exerted by these tissues, or their ability to restore the spine to the unperturbed position, was assessed in different case-scenarios.Results: Individual activations recorded significantly different stability contributions, with the highest being the TLF at 75%. Combined or synergistic activations showed an increase of up to 93% stability contribution when all tissues were simultaneously activated with a corresponding decrease in the tensile load exerted by the tissues themselves.Conclusion: This investigation demonstrated torso tissues exhibiting different roles toward static spine stability. The TLF appeared able to dissipate and absorb excessive loads, the muscles acted as antagonistic to external perturbations, and the IAP played a role limiting movement. Furthermore, the different combinations explored suggested an optimized engagement and coordination between different tissues to achieve a specific task, while minimizing individual work.Level of Evidence: N/A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract As exemplified by prone positioning, regional variations of lung and chest wall properties provide possibilities for modifying transpulmonary pressures and suggest that clinical interventions related to the judicious application of external pressure may yield benefit. Recent observations made in late-phase patients with severe ARDS caused by COVID-19 (C-ARDS) have revealed unexpected mechanical responses to local chest wall compressions over the sternum and abdomen in the supine position that challenge the clinician’s assumptions and conventional bedside approaches to lung protection. These findings appear to open avenues for mechanism-defining research investigation with possible therapeutic implications for all forms and stages of ARDS.

Abstract Background This study examined the feasibility of transabdominal intestinal ultrasonography in evaluating acute gastrointestinal injury (AGI). Methods A total of 116 patients were included. Intestinal ultrasonography was conducted daily within 1 week after admission to the intensive care unit. Ultrasonography indicators including intestinal diameter, changes in the intestinal folds, thickness of the intestinal wall, stratification of the intestinal wall, and intestinal peristalsis (movement of the intestinal contents) were observed to determine the acute gastrointestinal injury ultrasonography (AGIUS) score. The gastrointestinal and urinary tract sonography ultrasound (GUTS) protocol score was also calculated. During the first week of the study, the gastrointestinal failure (GIF) score was determined daily. The correlations between transabdominal intestinal scores (AGIUS and GUTS) and the GIF score were analyzed to clarify the feasibility of evaluating AGI through observation of the intestine. The utility of intestinal ultrasonography indicators in predicting feeding intolerance was investigated to improve the ability of clinicians to manage AGI. Results A total of 751 ultrasonic examinations were performed with 511 images (68%) considered to be of “good quality.” AGIUS and GUTS scores differed significantly between AGI patients (GIF score 0–2) and non-AGI patients (GIF score 3–4) (p 10/min) have increased risk for feeding intolerance (16/83 vs. 25/33, p

As exemplified by prone positioning, regional variations of lung and chest wall properties provide possibilities for modifying transpulmonary pressures and suggest that clinical interventions related to the judicious application of external pressure may yield benefit. Recent observations made in late-phase patients with severe ARDS caused by COVID-19 (C-ARDS) have revealed unexpected mechanical responses to local chest wall compressions over the sternum and abdomen in the supine position that challenge the clinician's assumptions and conventional bedside approaches to lung protection. These findings appear to open avenues for mechanism-defining research investigation with possible therapeutic implications for all forms and stages of ARDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) present complications and organ failure, which require treatment in critical care units. These extrapancreatic complications determine the clinical outcome of the disease. Intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) deteriorates the prognosis of SAP. In this paper, relevant recent literature was reviewed, as well as the authors’ own experiences, concerning the clinical importance of IAH and its treatment in SAP. The principal observations confirmed that IAH is a frequent consequence of SAP but is practically absent in mild disease. Common manifestations of AP such as pain, abdominal distension, and paralytic ileus contribute to increased abdominal pressure, as well as fluid loss in third space and aggressive fluid replacement therapy. A severe increase in IAP can evolve to abdominal compartment syndrome and new onset organ failure. Conservative measures are useful, but invasive interventions are necessary in several cases. Percutaneous drainage of major collections is preferred when possible, but open decompressive laparotomy is the final possibility in some cases in order to definitively reduce abdominal pressure. Intra-abdominal pressure should be measured in all SAP cases that worsen despite adequate treatment in critical care units. Conservative measures must be introduced to treat IAH, including negative fluid balance, digestive decompression by gastric–rectal tube, and prokinetics, including neostigmine. In the case of insufficient responses to these measures, minimally invasive interventions should be preferred.

During pneumoperitoneum, intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) is usually kept at 12-14 mmHg. There is no clinical benefit in IAP increments if they do not increase intra-abdominal volume IAV. We aimed to estimate IAV (DIAV) and respiratory driving pressure changes (DPRS) in relation to changes in IAP (DIAP). We carried out a patient-level meta-analysis of 204 adult patients with available data on IAV and DPRS during pneumoperitoneum from three trials assessing the effect of IAP on postoperative recovery and airway pressure during laparoscopic surgery under general anesthesia. The primary endpoint was DIAV, and the secondary endpoint was DPRS. The endpoints' response to DIAP was modeled using mixed multivariable Bayesian regression to estimate which mathematical function best fitted it. IAP values on the pressure-volume (PV) curve where the endpoint rate of change according to IAP decreased were identified. Abdomino-thoracic transmission (ATT) rate, that is, the rate DPRS change to DIAP was also estimated. The best-fitting function was sigmoid logistic and linear for IAV and DPRS response, respectively. Increments in IAV reached a plateau at 6.0 [95%CI 5.9-6.2] L. DIAV for each DIAP decreased at IAP ranging from 9.8 [95%CI 9.7-9.9] to 12.2 [12.0-12.3] mmHg. ATT rate was 0.65 [95%CI 0.62-0.68]. One mmHg of IAP raised DPRS 0.88 cmH2O. During pneumoperitoneum, IAP has a nonlinear relationship with IAV and a linear one with DPRS. IAP should be set below the point where IAV gains diminish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Chronic pain after tension-free inguinal hernia repair is a common postoperative complication. An important cause of chronic pain is nerve injury. OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of iliohypogastric nerve preposition on chronic pain after inguinal hernia repair and analyze its mechanics. METHODS: Totally 76 male inguinal hernia patients, from August 2013 to November 2016, aged 36-95 years in Second People’s Hospital of Lianyungang were selected. The patients were all treated with large-size polypropylene non-absorbable mesh insertion. The iliohypogastric nerve was placed in front of the mesh. Pain was followed up at 3, 6, and 12 months after operation. This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Second People’s Hospital of Lianyungang. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) No chronic pain or recurrence was found in the 76 patients at 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery. (2) The pressure included vertical pressure and tangent pressure formed from intra-abdominal pressure on abdominal wall, directly affecting abdominal wall and artificial repair materials. This was the basic cause of the relative mechanical relationship between nerve and mesh. (3) The results showed that the tension-free inguinal hernia repair with the iliohypogastric nerve preposition could reduce the incidence of postoperative chronic pain, which may be related to the effect of postoperative abdominal pressure on tissue repair, especially the repair around the mesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The shape and cross-sectional area (CSA) of internal jugular vein (IJV) are easily affected by external factors. That causes venous collapsibility. We tried to distend IJV by increasing the pressure on patients' abdomen in order to improve the success rate of internal jugular vein catheterization (IJVC).Materials and Methods: Patients undergoing IJVC were randomly allocated to two groups: Group 1 and Group 2. For patients in Group 1, the pressure on abdomen was increased by placing a 3000 ml bag of normal saline (NS). No special treatment was arranged for patients in Group 2. Transverse images of right IJV were captured at the outer edge which was parallel to the cricoid by ultrasonography. CSA, circumference (CF), transverse diameter (TD) and anteroposterior diameter (APD) of right IJV were measured and compared. All patients underwent ultrasound-guided short-axis puncturing. The success rates of one-off puncturing in two groups were recorded and compared.Results: The results under ultrasonography assessments show that CF, CSA, APD and success rate of puncturing in Group 1 were significantly higher than that of Group 2 (P < 0.05), while TD was not significantly increased (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference in complications between two groups (P > 0.05).Conclusion: Pressure on the abdomen could significantly increase CSA of IJV. That helps improving the success rate of one-off puncturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Chronic low back pain patients may experience spinal instability. Abdominal belts (ABs) have been shown to improve spine stability, trunk stiffness, and resiliency to spinal perturbations. However, research on the contributing mechanisms is inconclusive. ABs may increase intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) and reduce paraspinal soft tissue contribution to spine stability without increasing spinal compressive loads. A finite element model (FEM) of the spine inclusive of the T1-S1 vertebrae, intervertebral discs (IVDs), ribcage, pelvis, soft tissues, and abdominal cavity, without active muscle forces was developed. An identical FEM with an AB was developed. Both FEMs underwent trunk flexion. Following validation, the models' intervertebral rotation (IVR), IAP, IVD pressure, and tensile stress in the multifidus (MF), erector spinae (ES), and thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) were compared. The inclusion of an AB resulted in a 3.8 kPa IAP increase, but a decreased average soft tissue tensile stress of 0.28 kPa. The TLF withstood the majority of tension being transferred across the paraspinal soft tissues (>70 %). The average IVR in the AB model decreased by 10 %, with the lumbar spine experiencing the largest reduction. The lumbar IVDs of the AB model likewise showed a 31 % reduction in average IVD pressure. Using an AB improved trunk bending stiffness, primarily in the lumbar spine. Wearing an AB had minimal effect on reducing tensile stress in the ES. The skewed stress distribution towards the TLF suggests its large contribution to spine stability and the potential advantage in unloading the structure when wearing an AB, measured herein at 8 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Elevated intraabdominal pressure (IAP) it is known to have an impact on renal function trough the pressure transmitted from the abdominal cavity to the vasculature responsible for the renal blood flow. Intraabdominal pressure is found to be frequent in intensive care patients and also to be a predictor of mortality. Intra-abdominal high pressure is an entity that can have serious impact on intensive care admitted patients, studies concluding that if this condition progresses to abdominal compartment syndrome mortality is as high as 80%.

Objective: To compare bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)-derived parameters in healthy volunteers and critically ill patients and to assess its prognostic value in an ICU patient cohort., Design: Retrospective, observational data analysis., Setting: Single centre, tertiary-level ICU (Ziekenhuis Netwerk Antwerpen, ZNA Stuivenberg Hospital)., Patients: 101 patients and 101 healthy subjects, participants of International Fluid Academy Days., Measurements and Main Results: Compared to healthy volunteers, both male and female ICU patients had significantly higher values for total body water (TBW), extracellular water (ECW), extracellular fluid (ECF), plasma, and interstitial fluid volumes. The phase angle was significantly lower and the malnutrition index was significantly higher in ICU patients, regardless of gender. Non-survivors in the ICU had significantly higher extracellular water content (ECW, 50.7 ± 5.1 vs. 48.9 ± 4.3%, p = 0.047) and accordingly significantly lower intracellular water (ICW, 49.2 ± 5.1 vs. 51.1 ± 4.3%, p = 0.047). The malnutrition index was also significantly higher in non-survivors compared to survivors (0.94 ± 0.17 vs. 0.87 ± 0.16, p = 0.048), as was the capillary leak index (ECW/ICW)., Conclusions: Compared to healthy volunteers, this study observed a higher malnutrition index and TBW in ICU patients with an accumulation of fluids in the extracellular compartment. ICU non-survivors showed similar results, indicating that ICU patients and a fortiori non-survivors are generally overhydrated, with increased TBW and ECW, and more undernourished, as indicated by a higher malnutrition index.

Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction is a common symptom after spinal cord injury. Here, the case of a 45-year-old male patient who was treated with indwelling urinary catheter during spinal surgery for a fall fracture injury of the T12 thoracic vertebra, associated with decreased muscle strength of both lower extremities, is described. During hospitalization in the rehabilitation department, conventional anticoagulation therapy was administered, and the urinary catheter was removed with the patient urinating by increasing abdominal pressure. At 8 days following urinary catheter removal, the patient was found to have a slight subconjunctival haemorrhage of the left eye, which gradually developed into massive subconjunctival haemorrhage in both eyes. After re-indwelling the urinary catheter, the bilateral subconjunctival haemorrhage gradually improved. No abnormal indicators were found during re-examination of coagulation function and platelet count, and the results of ophthalmological examination were normal. For patients with neurogenic bladder dysfunction associated with spinal cord injury, the risk of bleeding during the anticoagulation period should be carefully assessed to eliminate possible underlying bleeding risk factors (including past medical history and appropriate use of anticoagulant drugs) when considering spontaneous urination through the mode of abdominal pressure.

Objectives: To compare the initial resting intravesical pressure (pves) and abdominal pressure (pabd) in the sitting position with the typical range of values, to assess the correlation between such pressures and patient xipho‐pubic distance, body weight, height and body mass index (BMI), and to estimate if xipho‐pubic distance can be a guide to interpret initial resting pressures in urodynamic testing. Methods: Women with lower urinary tract symptomatology referred for urodynamic testing were consecutively enrolled in a prospective study. Conventional cystometry was done following “good urodynamic practices”. The correlation between initial resting pves and pabd and xipho‐pubic distance, body weight, height and BMI were studied using simple and multiple linear regression analysis. Statistical significance was defined as P < 0.05. Results: One hundred women aged (mean ± SD) 59.2 ± 13.3 were studied. There was a significant correlation between both pves and pabd, and xipho‐pubic distance, body weight and BMI and no correlation with height. Over the multiple analysis, xipho‐pubic distance and body weight correlated independently with pves; body weight correlated independently with pabd. Three patients had pves and/or pabd out of typical range, with BMIs values of 18.48, 18.72 and 35.81 kg/m2. There was a wide range of difference between xipho‐pubic distance and initial resting pressures. Conclusions: Out of range initial resting pressures occur in underweight (or close to) or severely obese patients. Xipho‐pubic distance and body weight correlated independently with pves. Body weight correlated independently with pabd. Xipho‐pubic distance cannot be a guide to interpret the initial resting pressures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thiol/disulfide homeostasis is a significant parameter in determining the oxidative stress response after ischemia and reperfusion. We aimed to investigate the effects of applying different intraabdominal pressure (IAP) on thiol/disulfide homeostasis, ischemia-modified albumin (IMA) levels, and hemodynamics in pediatric laparoscopic surgery.Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from 36 pediatric patients who were planned to undergo laparoscopic surgery for nonpalpable testis or varicocele under general anesthesia, immediately after intubation as the baseline and 5 minutes after abdominal desufflation for determining the thiol/disulfide, and IMA levels. The patients were divided into two groups; group 1 received a pneumoperitoneum pressure of 8 mm Hg (n = 18), and group 2 received 12 mm Hg (n = 18). The clinical characteristics and thiol/disulfide homeostasis and IMA levels of the patients were compared.Results: No difference was detected regarding the clinical features between the groups. The comparison after intubation and after desufflation in group 1 demonstrated lower native thiol (453 ± 67 versus 422 ± 57 μmol/L, P = .059) and total thiol (497 ± 73 versus 466 ± 62 μmol/L, P = .061) levels, which was statistically insignificant. The serum native thiol level was found lower than baseline in group 2 where a 12 mm Hg IAP was applied, this difference was not statistically significant (429 ± 47 versus 412 ± 53 μmol/L, P = .078). The comparison of serum IMA levels after desufflation with the baseline (0.505 ± 0.018 versus 0.632 ± 0.022) in group 2 was found statistically significantly high (P = .031). The comparison of the perioperative heart rate and SpO2 levels with before induction was found statistically insignificant.Conclusions: Neither of 8 nor 12 mm Hg IAPs in pediatric laparoscopic surgery caused any changes in novel indicators of thiol/disulfide homeostasis parameters; however, 12 mm Hg IAP increased the levels of IMA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The standard sensor for abdominal pressure (Pabd) measurement in urodynamics (UD) is a rectal sensor. In patients where the rectum is not available due to prior surgery or when external anal sphincter (EAS) tone is poor, rectal sensor may slip, making Pabd recording unreliable. Vaginal Pabd measurement and wireless vaginal sensors have been tried. We present our preliminary series of a novel nasogastric tube (NG) sensor for Pabd measurement. Methods: We identified patients undergoing UD with a NG Pabd sensor from a prospectively maintained UD database of a tertiary care urological center between July 2013 and December 2016. Results: Out of 1325 urodynamic procedures done, 46 (3.5%) were performed using NG Pabd sensor. The median (IQR) age was 44 (12) years. Indications for UD in these patients were neurogenic bladder in 22 (47.8%), urinary retention in 17 (37%), post‐meningomyelocele repair in four (8.7%), traumatic paraplegia in two (4.3%), and cervical myelopathy in one (2.2%). The indications for NG Pabd sensor were lax EAS tone (40; 86.9%), post‐abdominoperineal resection (2; 4.3%), and painful thrombosed hemorrhoids (4; 8.7%). It was possible to make definitive urodynamic diagnosis in all patients using NG Pabd sensor. Initial calibration and NG Pabd excursions throughout the study were similar to that of rectal Pabd sensor. There were no problems with NG tube tolerance. Conclusion: Use of nasogastric sensor is feasible, accurate, cost‐effective, and viable alternative for Pabd measurement in patients with poor anal tone or absent rectum due to postoperative status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to explore the possibility of using rabbit bladder as a model for experimental detrusor electrostimulation research. In a study of urinary bladder activity induced through electrostimulation of the ventral roots, the functional and morphological parameters of the rabbit detrusor were investigated. Under general anaesthesia, open electrostimulation of ventral spinal roots leading towards the detrusor (usually S2, S3) was performed in 20 rabbits. Detrusor response was recorded by repeated electromyography and cystometry in two groups: animals with naturally concentrated urine content (Group A, eight rabbits) and animals after flushing and filling the bladder with saline (Group B, 12 rabbits). Histological examination of bladder wall was performed in both groups. The measured values were compared to one another as well as with data from the veterinary and human literature. The histological specimens were compared with histological specimens of human bladder. The reaction of detrusor fibres was detectable by electromyography in all cases. Elevation of intravesical pressure as a consequence of detrusor contraction was more difficult to detect, as this depends more on the density of the intravesical content. The pressure rise in Group B had a higher amplitude - up to 15 cm H2O versus 5 cm H2O in the first group (P = 0.00046). Histological examination of bladder wall from the two groups of rabbits showed no differences. In comparison with the bladder wall in humans, the only differences found were significantly thinner detrusor layers relative to the overall thickness of bladder wall. It is possible to use rabbit bladder for research into experimentally electrostimulation-induced activity of the detrusor or for experimental detrusor reinnervation research. It is necessary, however, to take into account certain limits - the lower contractility of the bladder wall and the need for qualitative control of bladder content. The present results also suggest that the physiological micturition of rabbits is probably more dependent on abdominal pressure than in humans.

No abstract available. Article truncated after 150 words. A 29 year old woman with history of a Whipple procedure for pancreatic cancer and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis cirrhosis presented with a massive upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) likely from esophageal varices and developed hemorrhagic shock. Emergent upper endoscopy could not be performed due to hemodynamic instability. Therefore, a Minnesota Tube was placed emergently for balloon tamponade of the bleeding. A transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt was also placed emergently to decrease bleeding by reducing portal pressure. By this time, the patient had received 4 liters of normal saline, 14 units of packed red blood cells, 6 units of platelets, and 4 units of fresh frozen plasma. The Minnesota tube did control the bleeding somewhat, however, there was continued bloody drainage from the stomach port of the Minnesota tube. The patient’s abdomen became remarkably distended and was dull to percussion throughout. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis revealed severe dilatation of ...

Background: Colonoscopy outcome is limited by endoscope looping, which leads to patient discomfort, prolonged procedure, and increased sedation requirement. Traditional manual abdominal pressure is imprecise and manually intensive. A hands-free abdominal compression device (ACD) may improve colonoscopy outcome. We aimed to assess the effect of a novel ACD on colonoscopy outcomes compared to manual pressure.Materials and Methods: This was a prospective single-blinded study of patients undergoing outpatient colonoscopy. The ACD (N-Doe Pillow™) was applied on 50 consecutive patients. Endoscopists were blinded to device usage. Control cases using manual pressure were randomly selected in a 2:1 manner. Primary outcome was cecal intubation time. Secondary outcomes included sedation requirement and complications. Subgroup analyses evaluated ACD effect on endoscopists with different experiences and patients at higher risk of difficult colonoscopy. Fisher's exact and Student's t-tests were performed for univariate analyses. Multivariate analysis was performed using generalized linear regression.Results: Fifty patients undergoing colonoscopy with ACD assistance were compared to 100 matched controls. Mean cecal intubation time was significantly reduced in the ACD group compared to controls (6.38 minutes versus 11.8 minutes, P < .0001). Multivariate analysis showed that ACD use was independently associated with reduction in cecal intubation time (β-coeff: -4.11, P = .007). Subgroup analyses revealed a trend toward increased improvement in cecal intubation time among junior endoscopists and obese patients.Conclusions: A novel, hands-free ACD significantly decreased cecal intubation time in this prospective, single-blinded, match-controlled study. A trend toward more improvement was seen among junior faculty, suggesting an application for trainees and/or endoscopists with smaller case volumes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This experimental study was designed to evaluate the renal tissue oxygenation under the coexistence of abdominal compartment syndrome and sepsis. Material and methods Fourteen non-breed dogs were divided into two groups: the control group (8) and the study group (6). Sepsis was established with intravenous endotoxin infusion at 100 μg/kg for over 30 min. Insufflation of CO 2 in the peritoneal cavity was used for the increase in intra-abdominal pressure (IAP). A special catheter placed and fixed in the renal cortex at a depth of 3 mm from the renal capsule was used for the measurement of renal tissue oxygenation. Results Study parameters were recorded at the starting phase, at IAP of 15 mmHg and 30 mmHg and after decompression of the abdomen in the control group, and at the same intervals plus the induction of sepsis, prior to increasing abdominal pressure, in the study group. With the elevation of the IAP a reduction of renal tissue oxygenation presents itself, which is more pronounced in the presence of sepsis, especially for IAP over 15 mmHg. Like other parameters, after abdominal decompression the renal tissue oxygenation returns to the initial levels, independently of sepsis. Conclusions The afferent arterioles vasoconstriction, which takes place during sepsis, and the intra-renal shunt, which occurs and leads to blood diversion to the medulla from the renal cortex due to the combination of intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) and sepsis, seem to explain this finding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]