Circulatory Failure Research Articles

Treatment of Acute Circulatory Failure Based on CO2-O2-Derived Indices: the Lactel randomized multicentre study

BackgroundAcute circulatory failure is critical in ICU patients. CO2-O2-derived indices including the central venous-to-arterial CO2 difference (P(v-a)CO2 gap) and the P(v-a)CO2 gap/Ca-vO2 ratio are markers for global metabolic demand and tissue hypoxia. Research QuestionDoes a resuscitation strategy using CO2-O2-derived indices improve tissular hypoperfusion compared to standard care? Study design and MethodsWe conducted a randomized, prospective, multicenter, single-blind study in three ICUs. Patients aged 18 years or older with acute circulatory failure and arterial blood lactate levels ≥ 3 mmol/L were included. Patients were randomized to receive either a CO2-O2-derived algorithm-based treatment or standard clinical practice. The primary outcome was lactate clearance >10% within 2 hours. Secondary outcomes include SOFA, mortality. ResultsOf the 179 patients enrolled (90 control, 89 treatment), there was no significant difference in achieving a lactate clearance over 10% at two hours between the control (50%) and interventional groups (43.8%), p=0.497. At 2 hours, the median change in lactate levels in the control group was -10.53% [-29.27; 5.68] while in the interventional group, it was -2.70% [-22.58; 19.1], p=0.096. Secondary outcomes did not differ between groups in SOFA scores (6 [3;9] vs 7 [4;10], p=0.719), ICU and hospital length of stay (4.5 days [2.0;10.8] vs 5.0 [2.0;10.0], p=0.963 and 11 days [3.0;27.0] vs 10 [3.0;21.0], p=0.493), or 28-day mortality (44.9% vs 33.3%, p=0.150). InterpretationAlgorithm-based resuscitation using CO2-O2-derived indices did not improve lactate clearance or clinical outcomes compared to standard care. Further research needed to identify specific patient subgroups who may benefit from this approach.

Research trends and hotspots on septic shock: a bibliometric study and visualization analysis

BackgroundSeptic shock, the most severe stage of sepsis, causes potential circulatory failure and abnormal cell metabolism which are severe enough to affect prognosis, increase mortality, and impose significant burdens on the medical system. Despite a growing number of studies exploring the pathophysiology, epidemiology, and risk factors, research trends and hotspots in septic shock remain lacking. This study aims to create a visual knowledge map, identify research hotspots, and predict prospective trends based on bibliometric analysis.MethodsWe searched for publications related to septic shock in Web of Science Core Collection up to June 15, 2023. CiteSpace5.5 R2, VOS viewer and Pathfinder were used to evaluate the annual publications, countries, institutions, journals and keywords. We also analyzed the collaboration among countries, institutions and authors, and identified research hotspots and frontiers.ResultsA total of 4,208 English papers were included in the analysis, and the annual publication displayed a slow upward trend. In terms of publication volume, the top three countries were the United States, France, and Germany, and the University of Pittsburgh (the United States) ranked first (n = 85) among all institutions, with Jeanlouis Vincent from Erasmus Medical Center (Netherlands) as the most published author (n = 32). According to the collaborative network, the United States had the highest level of cooperation, and the University of Pittsburgh, the University of Toronto, and Columbia University were the institutions with the most foreign cooperation. Additionally, the co-author network revealed that scholars such as Jeanlouis Vincent, Rinaldo Bellomo, and Djillali Annane, had the strongest collaborations. The co-citation network showed that the top 3 most cited articles were: Singer M (2016), Rhodes A (2017), Dellinger RP (2013), and the top 3 most cited journals were Crit Care Med (3,664 times), N Engl J Med (3,207 times), Intens Care Med (3,096 times) in this field. In the keyword co-occurrence network, the most frequent keywords were “septic shock” (2531), “sepsis” (1667), and “mortality” (569), indicating the current research hotspots. Pathobiology, fluid therapy, and endotoxic septic shock were emerging trends in research.ConclusionBy using bibliometrics, this study reviewed the studies in septic shock and revealed the hotspots and cutting-edge trends, including the pathogenesis of complications, the development of new biomarkers, the timing and methods of alternative treatments, and the rehabilitation trajectory, etc., which provided a reference for subsequent studies in septic shock.

Life-threatening complications in ophthalmic surgery: a systematic review.

Ophthalmic surgical procedures are widely acknowledged for their safety and efficacy. Undoubtedly, advances in ophthalmic surgery, along with the improvement of anaesthetic techniques, have contributed to the reduction in the occurrence of these events. However, although uncommon, systemic severe and life-threatening adverse events can still occur and it is imperative for an ophthalmologic surgeon to have a comprehensive understanding of them to act in terms of proactive prevention, prompt recognition, and optimal treatment, thus maximizing patients' outcomes. Among life-threatening complication following ophthalmic surgery, cardiovascular events represent the most common ones, including a range of different clinical entities: the oculocardiac reflex, potentially leading to haemodynamic instability and asystole; iatrogenic vascular air embolism, in form of venous air embolism or "pefluorocarbon syndrome", which can lead to obstruction of the pulmonary circulation, respiratory distress and cardiovascular collapse; postoperative venous thromboembolism, in the context of which the management of perioperative antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapy has a crucial role. Furthermore, among infectious complications, that are more commonly limited to the ocular tissues, necrotizing fasciitis represents a potentially lethal infection. This review aims to provide an up-to-date, evidence-based overview of potential life-threatening complications associated with ophthalmic surgery, exploring pathogenesis, risk factors, signs, symptoms, and, briefly, management strategies.

Corrected partial anomalous pulmonary vein connection associated with lung resection: a case report

IntroductionPartial anomalous pulmonary venous connection (PAPVC) is a potential cause of right-sided heart failure. Notably, a risk of sudden circulatory failure exists during lung surgery. Only a few reports of PAPVC complicated by lung cancer requiring lobectomy exist. Here, we report a case of left lower lung lobectomy complicated by an anomalous connection of the left upper pulmonary vein requiring revascularization.Case presentationA 66-year-old man was found with an abnormal mass shadow in the left lower lung field on chest radiography. Bronchoscopy revealed lung adenocarcinoma. Preoperative contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed that the left upper pulmonary vein did not perfuse the left atrium but was connected to the left brachiocephalic vein. Preoperative transthoracic echocardiography revealed right atrial and ventricular enlargement. The clinical diagnosis was stage IB (T2aN0M0). We decided to perform a left lower lobectomy and correct the PAPVC to maintain oxygenation after the lobectomy. The PAPVC was ligated, and the stump of the left upper pulmonary vein was anastomosed to the left atrial appendage without cardiopulmonary bypass. Postoperative contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed intact reconstructed vessels. Postoperative transthoracic echocardiography showed no right ventricular overload. The patient’s postoperative clinical course following the surgical procedure was uneventful. Furthermore, the patient was followed up without any complications.ConclusionsThis rare case of successful surgical correction can inform clinicians of similar cases.

Defining the causes for Fontan circulatory failure in total cavopulmonary connection patients.

This study aims to identify causes of failure in Fontan patients with a total cavopulmonary connection. We conducted a comprehensive review of all patients who underwent a total cavopulmonary connection procedure at our centre between 1988 and 2023, aiming to identify and analyze the factors contributing to Fontan failure (defined as mortality, heart transplantation, Fontan takedown, protein-losing enteropathy, plastic bronchitis, or New York Heart Association Functional Classification class III or IV). The study included 217 patients (median age at time of Fontan completion 3.7 years) with a median follow-up of 12.7 years (IQR, 7.2; 17.7). Systolic ventricular function decreased significantly over time in patients with right ventricular dominant morphology (P = 0.002), while systolic ventricular function remained stable in patients with left ventricular dominant morphology. Fontan failure occurred in 24 patients, with estimated freedom from Fontan failure rates of 97.7% (95% CI, 95-99) at 1 year, 93.9% (95% CI, 89-97) at 15 years and 77.2% (95% CI, 65-86) at 20 years follow-up. Systolic ventricular dysfunction was the most common cause of failure (29%), followed by atrioventricular valve regurgitation (16.7%), a high pulmonary vascular resistance (16.7%), restrictive pathophysiology (16.7%) and obstruction (12.5%). Patients with right ventricular dominance developed most often systolic ventricular dysfunction, while patients with left ventricular dominant morphology developed most often restrictive pathophysiology or a high pulmonary vascular resistance. Approximately 10% of patients experienced Fontan failure within 15 years postoperatively. Patients with right ventricular dominance experienced progressive decline due to systolic dysfunction, while those with left ventricular dominance exhibited failure due to restrictive pathophysiology or high pulmonary vascular resistance.

Hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction presenting as a life threatening acute medical emergency: A case study

Hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction can present clinically as one of the few endocrinological emergencies found in daily clinical practice. The HPA axis primarily deals with stress response, energy metabolism, immune function and neuropsychiatric function. Unfortunately the clinical presentation of HPA axis dysfunction is non-specific and often progresses insidiously resulting in late diagnosis, or in severe cases present with acute circulatory collapse. Here we present a case where a 60 year-old lady who presented with shock, altered mental status, bradycardia and hypoglycemia, was found to have HPA axis dysfunction and was managed effectively with glucocorticoids along with other supportive management.

Abstract 4136712: Fontan-specific morbidities impact on heart transplant outcomes: a multicenter study

Introduction: Fontan circulatory failure (FCF) is associated with poor long-term survival. The impact of Fontan-specific morbidities on outcomes in those evaluated for heart transplant (HT) are not well understood. Hypothesis: FCF-specific morbidities, their degree of severity, and the accumulation of morbidities are associated with mortality in individuals undergoing HT. Methods: This 20 center, retrospective cohort study of individuals with FCF from 2008-2023 collected data on FCF-specific morbidities, waitlist (WL), and post-HT outcomes. Each unique FCF morbidity was defined with graded severities (absent, mild, moderate, severe, and life-threatening) via a prior effort. The primary outcome was survival from WL to 1-year post-HT. Appropriate 2-group statistics and multivariable logistic regression compared surviving with those who died. Receiver operating characteristic curve determined the most discriminating value of total cumulative morbidities on mortality. Results: Of the 340 patients included, 51(15%) died between WL and 1 year post-HT. On univariate analysis, 7 of 27 FCF morbidities were associated with the mortality (p < 0.2) including: anatomic Fontan pathway obstruction, clinical hypoxia, chronic pleural effusions, sleep apnea, portal variceal disease, acute kidney injury within 1 year prior to WL, and mental health disorders. On multivariable analysis, only clinical hypoxia and portal variceal disease emerged as independent risk factor for mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.48, p = 0.03 and aOR 2.74 P=0.02 respectively). When assessing the impact of increasing severity of each morbidity, again worsening clinical hypoxia (aOR 1.42 increase with each increase in grade, p=0.01) and portal variceal disease (aOR 1.80 with each increase in grade, p=0.01) had differential effects on mortality. Risk of death increased with greater number of FCF morbidities. Having 2 or more of the 7 univariately significant morbidities was the value best discriminating survivors from those who died (Area under the curve 0.67; sensitivity 78%, negative predictive value 93%). Conclusion: Clinical hypoxia and portal variceal disease confer independent risk for non-survival in patients with Fontan from WL to 1 year after HT. Additionally, the magnitude of mortality risk for both hypoxia and varices worsens as disease severity worsens. Given the impact, consistent evaluation for these morbidities and timely referral for heart failure evaluation is warranted.

Changes in central venous-to-arterial PCO2 difference and central venous oxygen saturation as markers to define fluid responsiveness in critically ill patients: a pot-hoc analysis of a multi-center prospective study

BackgroundThe main aim of the study whether changes in central venous-to-arterial CO2 difference (ΔP(v–a)CO2) and central venous oxygen saturation (ΔScvO2) induced by volume expansion (VE) are reliable parameters to define fluid responsiveness (FR) in sedated and mechanically ventilated septic patients. We also sought to determine whether the degree of FR was related to baseline ScvO2 and P(v–a)CO2 levels.MethodsThis was a post-hoc analysis of a multicenter prospective study. We included 205 mechanically ventilated patients with acute circulatory failure. Cardiac index (CI), P(v–a)CO2, ScvO2, and other hemodynamic variables were measured before and after VE. A VE-induced increase in CI > 15% defined fluid responders. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) and the gray zones were determined for ΔP(v–a)CO2 and ΔScvO2.ResultsOne hundred fifteen patients (56.1%) were classified as fluid responders. The AUCs for ΔP(v–a)CO2 and ΔScvO2 to define FR were 0.831 (95% CI 0.772–0.880) (p < 0.001) and 0.801 (95% CI 0.739–0.853) (p < 0.001), respectively. ΔP(v–a)CO2 ≤ 2.1 mmHg and ΔScvO2 ≥ 3.4% after VE allowed the categorization between responders and non-responders with positive predictive values of 90% and 86% and negative predictive values of 58% and 64%, respectively. The gray zones for ΔP(v–a)CO2 (− 2 to 0 mmHg) and ΔScvO2 (− 1 to 5%) included 22% and 40.5% of patients, respectively. ΔP(v–a)CO2 and ΔScvO2 were independently associated with FR in multivariable analysis. No significant relationships were found between pre-infusion ScvO2 and P(v–a)CO2 levels and FR.ConclusionIn mechanically critically ill patients, ΔP(v–a)CO2 and ΔScvO2 are reliable parameters to define FR and can be used in the absence of CI measurement. The response to VE was independent of baseline ScvO2 and P(v–a)CO2 levels.Clinical trial registration The study was registered in the ClinicalTrials.gov registry: NCT03225378, date: July 20, 2017.

The Role of Echocardiography in Monitoring Patients Supported With Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a form of critical care support for patients with severe respiratory or circulatory failure where conventional medical treatments have failed. Two main configurations of ECMO exist: Venovenous (VV) to support failing lungs, and venoarterial (VA) for circulatory shock. Echocardiography is an invaluable tool in the assessment of patients requiring ECMO. It can be utilised for decision-making regarding the most appropriate configuration, detection and management of complications, and to guide weaning. This concise review is intended to be a primer on the role of echocardiography for patients requiring ECMO for circulatory failure.

Clinical characteristics and short-term outcomes of patients with critical acute pulmonary embolism requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: from the COMMAND VTE Registry-2

BackgroundExtracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) might be required as a treatment option in patients with critical pulmonary embolism (PE). However, the clinical features and outcomes of the use of ECMO for critical acute PE are still limited. The present study aimed to clarify the clinical characteristics, management strategies and outcomes of patients with acute PE requiring ECMO in the current era using data from a large-scale observational database.MethodsWe analyzed the data of the COMMAND VTE Registry-2: a physician-initiated, multicenter, retrospective cohort study enrolling consecutive patients with acute symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTE). Among 2035 patients with acute symptomatic PE, there were 76 patients (3.7%) requiring ECMO.ResultsOverall, the mean age was 58.4 years, and 34 patients (44.7%) were men. Cardiac arrest or circulatory collapse at diagnosis was reported in 67 patients (88.2%). The 30-day incidence of all-cause death was 30.3%, which were all PE-related deaths. The 30-day incidence of major bleeding was 54.0%, and the vast majority of bleedings were procedure site-related bleeding events and surgery-related bleeding (22.4%). The 30-day incidence of all-cause death was 6.3% in 16 patients with surgical intervention, 43.8% in 16 patients with catheter intervention, 25.0% in 16 patients with thrombolytic therapy, and 39.3% in 28 patients with anticoagulation only.ConclusionsThe current large real-world VTE registry in Japan revealed clinical features and outcomes of critical acute PE requiring ECMO in the current era, which suggested several unmet needs for future clinical trials.

Mechanisms and causes of death after abdominal surgery in low-income and middle-income countries: a secondary analysis of the FALCON trial

Death after surgery is devasting for patients, families, and communities, but remains common in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). We aimed to use high-quality data from an existing global randomised trial to describe the causes and mechanisms of postoperative mortality in LMICs. To do so, we developed a novel framework, learning from both existing classification systems and emerging insights during data analysis. This study was a preplanned secondary analysis of the FALCON trial in 54 hospitals across seven LMICs (Benin, Ghana, India, Mexico, Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa). FALCON was a pragmatic, 2 × 2 factorial, randomised controlled trial that compared the effectiveness of two types of interventions for skin preparation (10% aqueous povidone-iodine vs 2% alcoholic chlorhexidine) and sutures (triclosan-coated vs uncoated). Patients who did not have surgery or were lost to follow-up were excluded (n=231). The primary outcomes of the present analysis were the mechanism and cause of death within 30-days of surgery, determined using a modified verbal autopsy strategy from serious adverse event reports. Factors associated with mortality were explored in a mixed-effects Cox proportional hazards model. The FALCON trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03700749. This preplanned secondary analysis of the FALCON trial included 5558 patients who underwent abdominal surgery, of whom 4248 (76·4%) patients underwent surgery in tertiary, referral centres and 1310 (23·6%) underwent surgery in primary referral (ie, district or rural) hospitals. 3704 (66·7%) of 5558 surgeries were emergent. 306 (5·5%) of 5558 patients died within 30 days of surgery. 226 (74%) of 306 deaths were due to circulatory system failure, which included 173 (57%) deaths from sepsis and 29 (9%) deaths from hypovolaemic shock including bleeding. 47 (15%) deaths were due to respiratory failure. 60 (20%) of 306 patients died without a clear cause of death: 45 (15%) patients died with sepsis of unknown origin and 15 (5%) patients died of an unknown cause. 46 (15%) of 306 patients died within 24 h, 111 (36%) between 24 h and 72 h, 57 (19%) between >72 h and 168 h, and 92 (30%) more than 1 week after surgery. 248 (81%) of 306 patients died in hospital and 58 (19%) patients died out of hospital. The adjusted Cox regression model identified age (hazard ratio 1·01, 95% CI 1·01-1·02; p<0·0001), ASA grade III-V (4·93, 3·45-7·03; p<0·0001), presence of diabetes (1·47, 1·04-2·41; p=0·033), being an ex-smoker (1·59, 1·10-2·30; p=0·013), emergency surgery (2·08, 1·45-2·98; p<0·0001), cancer (1·98, 1·42-2·76; p<0·0001), and major surgery (3·94, 2·30-6·75; p<0·0001) as risk factors for postoperative mortality INTERPRETATION: Circulatory failure leads to most deaths after abdominal surgery, with sepsis accounting for almost two-thirds. Variability in timing of death highlights opportunities to intervene throughout the perioperative pathway, including after hospital discharge. A high proportion of patients without a clear cause of death reflects the need to improve capacity to rescue and cure by strengthening perioperative systems. National Institute for Health and Care Research Global Health Research Unit.

Potential new treatment for inferior vena cava injury using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation applying flow diversion effect

BackgroundRetrohepatic inferior vena cava (IVC) injuries remain among the most lethal and serious liver injuries. Gauze packing is currently the first choice for IVC injuries; however, laparotomy itself poses the risk of circulatory collapse. Thus, less invasive treatment strategies are needed.MethodsIn this study, we conducted an animal experiment to replicate and validate successful treatments for an actual case of retrohepatic IVC injury that we had encountered.ResultsA woman in her 80s presented to our hospital due to cardiac arrest caused by a pulmonary artery embolism. Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was introduced, and the patient was resuscitated. After resuscitation, contrast-enhanced CT revealed liver and retrohepatic IVC injuries, possibly caused by chest compressions. Liver injury was treated using transarterial embolization of the left hepatic artery. To treat the retrohepatic IVC injury, ECMO flow was increased to enhance the negative drainage pressure. The extravasation of the contrast medium had resolved in IVC angiography, and we opted for nonoperative management. The patient’s hemodynamic status gradually stabilized, and ECMO was withdrawn on day 6. We confirmed these findings in a dog model of retrohepatic IVC injury.ConclusionsOur findings from the patient and the animal model suggest that the flow diversion effect of ECMO can effectively manage active bleeding from the IVC by inserting a drainage cannula across the injured lesion. We think this procedure represents a novel treatment option for retrohepatic IVC injuries.

Noradrenaline dose cutoffs to characterise the severity of cardiovascular failure: Data-based development and external validation.

The vasopressor dose needed is a common measure to assess the severity of cardiovascular failure, but there is no consensus on the ranges of vasopressor doses determining different levels of cardiovascular support. We aimed to identify cutoffs for determining low, intermediate and high doses of noradrenaline (norepinephrine), the primary vasopressor used in intensive care, based on association with hospital mortality. We conducted a binational registry study to determine cutoffs between low, intermediate and high noradrenaline doses. We required the cutoffs to be statistically rational and practical (rounded to the first decimal and easy to remember), and to result in increasing mortality with increasing doses. The highest noradrenaline dose in the first 24 h after intensive care unit (ICU) admission was used. The cutoffs were developed using data from 8079 ICU patients treated in the ICU at Kuopio University Hospital, Finland, between 2013 and 2019. Subsequently, the cutoffs were validated in the eICU database, including 39,007 ICU admissions to 29 ICUs in the United States of America in 2014-2015. The log-rank statistic, with the Contal and O'Quigley method, was used to determine the cutoffs resulting in the most significant split between the noradrenaline dose groups with regard to hospital mortality. The two most prominent peaks in the log-rank statistic corresponded to noradrenaline doses 0.20 and 0.44 μg/kg/min. Accordingly, we determined three dose ranges: low (<0.2 μg/kg/min), intermediate (0.2-0.4 μg/kg/min) and high (>0.4 μg/kg/min). Mortality increased, whereas the number of patients decreased consistently with increasing noradrenaline doses in both cohorts. In the development cohort, hospital mortality was 6.5% in the group without noradrenaline administered and 14.0%, 26.4% and 40.2%, respectively, in the low-dose, intermediate-dose and high-dose groups. Compared to patients who received no noradrenaline, the hazard ratio for in-hospital death was 1.4 for the low-dose group, 4.0 for the intermediate-dose group and 7.5 for the high-dose group in the validation cohort (p < .001). The highest noradrenaline dose is a useful measure for quantifying circulatory failure. Cutoffs 0.2 and 0.4 μg/kg/min seem to be suitable for defining low, intermediate and high doses.

Systolic Function in the Fontan Circulation is Exercise, but not Preload, Recruitable

BackgroundFontan circulatory failure with impaired systolic function is well documented; however, its mechanisms are not fully understood. We aimed to explore the myocardial functional reserve in adolescent patients with Fontan circulation in response to exercise or acute preload increase. MethodsOur study comprised 32 patients (median age: 16.7 years, range: 15.4–17.9 years, 12 females) with Fontan circulation. Echocardiographic imaging was performed during exercise using a recumbent cycle ergometer and during heart catheterization with a rapid infusion of 0.9% saline infusion at 5 mL/kg body weight. We measured myocardial peak longitudinal strain (LS) in a 4-chamber view during specific time intervals before, during, and after the exercise (LSstress) and volume load (LScath). During catheterization, central venous pressure (CVP) and ventricular end-diastolic pressures (VEDP) were simultaneously recorded. A control group of 16 healthy individuals participated in the exercise test. ResultsThe mean LSstress was less negative for patients than for controls (P≤0.001 at all stages); however, it significantly improved from -18.4±5.5% at baseline to -22.0±6.5% (P=0.004) at maximal loading. LSstress at maximal loading did not correlate with changes in heart rate. During catheterization, the mean LScath was -19.6±6.0% at baseline and did not improve significantly at 1.00–2.00 min and at 4.00–6.00 min after saline infusion. In more than half of the patients, LScath worsened or improved with less than -2% after the saline infusion. Worsening in LScath correlated with CVP and VEDP in all conditions (P≤0.017). There was no difference in LSstress or LScath between the morphological right ventricle and the morphological left ventricle. ConclusionPatients with Fontan circulation demonstrate systolic myocardial functional reserve that can be recruited with exercise stress but not with an acute increase in preload.

Peri-Interventional Hemodynamic Management Strategies for Percutaneous Chemosaturation of the Liver in Metastatic Cancer.

Background: Hepatic chemosaturation for inoperable liver tumors is a palliative treatment option with a beneficial effect on survival. However, the procedure regularly leads to circulatory failure during the filtration phase, and hemodynamic management is challenging. Our study aimed to compare two different strategies for hemodynamic management during chemosaturation to develop hypotheses for improving patient care and reducing peri-interventional morbidity. Methods: We conducted a single-center retrospective cohort study including 66 procedures of chemosaturation between May 2016 and March 2024. Procedures were divided into two groups: group 1 was managed with norepinephrine as the only vasopressor and liberal use of hydroxyethyl starch (HES). Group 2 was managed with norepinephrine and vasopressin and the preferred use of balanced crystalloids. We compared these two groups with respect to hemodynamic parameters, laboratory values, and post-interventional complications. Results: The heart rate was highest and the mean arterial pressure (MAP) was lowest during the filtration phase in both groups (p = 0.868, p = 0.270). The vasoactive inotropic score (VIS) was significantly higher in group 2 during the filtration phase (31.5 vs. 89, p < 0.001). Group 1 received significantly more HES overall (1000 mL vs. 0 mL, p < 0.001). Lactate levels at admission to the ICU were higher in group 1 (22.9 vs. 14.45 mg/dL, p = 0.041). Platelet counts were lower in group 2 from directly after chemosaturation through day 2 (p = 0.022, p = 0.001, p = 0.032). The INR differed significantly directly after chemosaturation (1.13 vs. 1.26, p = 0.015). Overall, group 1 received significantly more blood products peri-interventionally. There were two bleedings and one ischemic stroke in the overall cohort. There was no peri-interventional mortality. Conclusions: Advanced hemodynamic management ensures low peri-interventional mortality and morbidity. High-dose vasopressors, including vasopressin and the preferred use of balanced crystalloids, are sufficient to stabilize circulatory function during chemosaturation.

Assessment of Microcirculatory Dysfunction by Measuring Subcutaneous Tissue Oxygen Saturation Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Patients with Circulatory Failure.

Patients with circulatory failure have high mortality rates and require prompt assessment of microcirculation. Despite the improvement in hemodynamic parameters, microcirculatory dysfunction persists. We measured subcutaneous regional tissue oxygen saturation (rSO2) with near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), which can assess microcirculation in patients with circulatory failure. A finger-worn oximeter with NIRS measured rSO2 in the forehead, thenar eminence, thumb, and knees. First, the rSO2 was measured in healthy adult volunteers (n = 10). Circulatory failure was defined as a systolic blood pressure ≤ 90 mmHg and lactate ≥ 2 mmol/L. The study included 35 patients without circulatory failure and SOFA score of 0 at ICU admission and 38 patients with circulatory failure at ICU admission. Both groups included a single-center prospective study of patients who were transported to the ICU of the Nihon University Hospital. The rSO2 was measured only on ICU admission in the non-circulatory failure group and later in the circulatory failure group. In the volunteer group, rSO2 at each site was approximately 58%. The rSO2 was significantly lower in the circulatory failure group than in the non-circulatory failure group (knee, p < 0.01). In the circulatory failure group, knee rSO2 showed a significant negative correlation with SOFA score (Day 0, ρ = -0.37, p = 0.02; Day 1, ρ = -0.53, p < 0.01; Day 2, ρ = -0.60, p < 0.01). Subcutaneous knee rSO2 was associated with SOFA score and was considered an indicator of microcirculatory dysfunction and organ damage.

Safety of left atrial appendage amputation during cardiothoracic surgery

Abstract Background Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) are at risk for ischemic strokes, often originating from the left atrial appendage (LAA). Preventive LAA amputation (LAAA) during cardiac surgery has been shown to reduce ischemic stroke risk, both in patients with and without AF. However, the short-term safety and functional implication of LAAA in non-AF patients remain poorly understood. Besides possible surgical complications, there are suggestions that LAAA could lead to postoperative AF or influence neurohumoral changes resulting in fluid overload. Purpose To evaluate the safety of LAAA in patients without a history of AF undergoing routine cardiac surgery. Methods Patients underwent elective cardiac surgery between May 5 2015 and April 18 2018 in two high volume centers. Main inclusion criteria were a CHA2DS2-VASc≥ 2 and no history of AF. Patients without a history of AF, that participated in the PREDICT-AF study underwent concomitant LAAA and were compared with patients undergoing cardiothoracic surgery who were approached for participation in PREDICT-AF, but declined and subsequently did not undergo LAAA. Informed consent for the retrospective use of data was obtained through an opt-out procedure in these patients. The primary outcome of this analysis was the number of patients with any serious adverse event within 30 days postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were AF within 30 days postoperatively, death, rethoracotomy, time on extra corporal circulation(ECC) and heart failure related symptoms assessed through congestion on x-chest and weight trends. Adverse events were independently adjudicated by a cardiothoracic surgeon using pre-specified definitions. Results 150 patients in PREDICT-AF underwent LAAA. 284 Eligible patients declined participation and formed the control group. Patients in the LAAA group were more frequently male (87.3% vs 72.5%; p=0.001), were taller (176.0cm ± 8.2 vs 172.6cm ± 9.9; p&amp;lt;0.001) and weighed more (86.1kg CI[80.0, 92.2] vs 81.6kg CI[71.9, 91.1]; p=0.001) compared to controls. There were no significant differences in occurrences of serious adverse events (8% vs 12%; p=0.265), deaths (1.3% vs 1.8%; p=1) or rethoracotomies (3.3% vs 1.8%; p=0.483) between the LAAA and control group. Also, there was no difference in the incidence of postoperative AF (57, 38% vs 90, 31.7%; p=0.225), ECC time (104.5 minutes CI[81.0, 129.0] vs 98.0 CI[80.0, 124.5] p=0.371) or the presence of chest x-ray congestion (26.0% vs 27.8%; p=0.771) between the groups (Figure 1A). The spline plot of perioperative weight change from baseline, reveals no notable differences between the two groups (Figure 1B). Conclusion LAAA during routine cardiothoracic surgery is not associated with more surgical complications, postoperative atrial fibrillation or heart failure related symptoms. Given the generally high AF risk in patients undergoing cardiothoracic surgery, a strategy to preemptively resect the LAA may be feasible and safe.Figure 1 A &amp; B

Successful management of anaphylactic shock prior to elective cesarean delivery: a case report

BackgroundAnaphylactic cardiovascular collapse is complicated by aortocaval compression during pregnancy, exacerbated by neuraxial anesthesia. Despite recommendations to administer perioperative antibiotics before anesthesia, common practice in Japan involves administering them after anesthesia induction. We report a case of possible antibiotics-induced anaphylaxis just before anesthesia for cesarean delivery.Case presentationA 24-year-old woman at 37 weeks of gestation presented for a scheduled repeat cesarean under spinal anesthesia. After starting administration of cefazolin prior to anesthesia, she developed anaphylactic symptoms. Hypotension refractory to adrenaline necessitated conversion to an emergency cesarean section under general anesthesia. A neonate was delivered with favorable Apgar scores. Post-delivery, the mother’s hemodynamics stabilized significantly. Elevated plasma tryptase confirmed anaphylaxis. Both mother and infant were discharged without further complications.ConclusionsThis case emphasizes the importance of administering prophylactic antibiotic before anesthesia in mitigating severity of shock induced by anaphylaxis and the crucial role of prompt emergency cesarean in achieving successful outcomes.

11 Is emergency department transfer always required following anaphylaxis and epinephrine use?

Abstract Background Patients known for anaphylaxis are advised to always carry 2 epinephrine auto-injectors (EAI) with them. With epinephrine being the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, current guidelines recommend prompt EAI administration, followed by observation in the emergency department (ED) for 4 hours. Data supporting transfer to the ED in all cases after epinephrine are sparse. Recent North American allergy guidelines no longer suggest that ED presentation after EAI use is required for all cases of anaphylaxis. Objectives We aimed to describe the need for additional ED treatment in children known for food-triggered anaphylaxis who received at least 1 EAI pre-hospital. Design/Methods Data on children under 18 years with food-induced anaphylaxis who received at least one dose of pre-hospital epinephrine was collected from the Cross-Canada Anaphylaxis REgistry (C-CARE) from seven hospitals. A standardized questionnaire obtained information on symptoms, allergens, comorbidities, and pre-hospital and in-hospital management. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with ED management, among children who received 1, 2 or 3 or more doses of epinephrine pre-hospital. Results From 2011 to 2023, 1054 children with known food-triggered anaphylaxis and who used one or more EAIs pre-hospital were enrolled in C-CARE. The mean age at reaction was 8.2 (standard deviation [SD] 5.3) years, 648 (60.8%) were male and 82 (7.8%) of reactions were severe (defined as loss of bowel control, cyanosis, respiratory arrest, hypotension and/or circulatory collapse, dysrhythmia, severe bradycardia and/or cardiac arrest, confusion, and loss of consciousness). Primary triggers included peanuts (n=280; 26.6%) followed by tree nuts (n=173; 16.4%). 193 patients (18.3%) had known asthma and 201 received additional dose(s) of epinephrine in the ED, the majority of whom (177, 88.1%) received one dose. Only 2.9% of patients required admission. Among all patients, reactions to egg were less likely to require additional epinephrine (aOR 0.90; 95% CI 0.83, 0.99), and more likely with severe reactions (aOR 1.24; 95% CI 1.14-1.35). Among patients who received only one EAI pre-hospital, severe reactions (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.19; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08-1.31) and reactions to tree nuts (aOR 1.12; 95% CI 1.04-1.20) were associated with increased odds of an additional dose of epinephrine in hospital. Conclusion One-fifth of anaphylaxis cases that used EAI require an additional dose of epinephrine in ED. Children with severe reactions and reactions to tree nuts are more likely to require additional doses; these cases should be considered for ED transfer and treatment following pre-hospital EAI use.

Incidence, predictability, and outcomes of systemic venous congestion following a fluid challenge in initially fluid-tolerant preload-responders after cardiac surgery: a pilot trial

BackgroundFluid administration has traditionally focused on preload responsiveness (PR). However, preventing fluid intolerance, particularly due to systemic venous congestion (VC), is equally important. This study evaluated the incidence and predictability of VC following a 7 ml/kg crystalloid infusion in fluid-tolerant preload-responders and its association with adverse outcomes.MethodsThis single-center, prospective, observational study (May 2023–July 2024) included 40 consecutive patients who were mechanically ventilated within 6 h of intensive care unit (ICU) admission after elective open-heart surgery and had acute circulatory failure. Patients were eligible if they were both fluid-tolerant and preload-responsive. PR was defined as a ≥ 12% increase in left-ventricular outflow tract velocity time integral (LVOT-VTI) 1 min after a passive leg raising (PLR) test. VC was defined by a portal vein pulsatility index (PVPI) ≥ 50%. Patients received a 7 ml/kg Ringer’s Lactate infusion over 10 min. The primary outcome was the incidence of VC 2 min post-infusion (early-VC). Secondary outcomes included VC at 20 min, the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) and severe AKI at 7 days, and ICU length of stay (LOS).Results45% of patients developed early-VC, with VC persisting in only 5% at 20 min. One-third of patients developed AKI, with 17.5% progressing to severe AKI. The median ICU LOS was 4 days. Patients with early-VC had significantly higher central venous pressure, lower mean perfusion pressure, worse baseline right ventricular function, and a higher incidence of severe AKI. While LVOT-VTI returned to baseline by 20 min in both groups, PVPI remained elevated in early-VC patients (p < 0.001). The LVOT-VTI versus PVPI regression line showed similar slopes (p = 0.755) but different intercepts (p < 0.001), indicating that, despite fluid tolerance and PR at baseline, early-VC patients had reduced right ventricular diastolic reserve (RVDR). Post-PLR PVPI predicted early-VC with an area under the curve of 0.998, using a threshold of 44.3% (p < 0.001).ConclusionPost-PLR PVPI effectively predicts fluid-induced early-VC in fluid-tolerant preload-responders, identifying those with poor RVDR. Its use can guide fluid management in cardiac surgery patients, helping to prevent unnecessary fluid administration and associated complications.Trial Registration: NCT06440772. Registered 30 May 2024. Retrospectively registered.