Decrease In Vascular Resistance Research Articles

Overview of acute liver failure in India.

Acute liver failure (ALF) is an infrequent, but serious complication subsequent to severe acute liver injury (sALI) due to various hepatotoxic agents such as hepatotropic virus(es) and drugs such as anti-tubercular medications, paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics and anti-cancer and anti-epileptic therapy and due to metabolic and autoimmune disease flares. ALF after sALI presents with encephalopathy associated with prolonged international normalized ratio (INR). Mortality in ALF is high and ranges between 50% and 80%. Due to severe liver damage, multiple sequels consequent to hepatic dysfunction result in complications such as hyperammonemia that culminates in encephalopathy associated with cerebral edema; innate immune paralysis resulting in increased frequency of infections and endotoxemia causing decrease in systemic vascular resistance (SVR) and tissue hypoperfusion and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) released from damaged hepatic parenchyma inducing pro-inflammatory cytokine storm, which may cause other organ dysfunctions. Certain etiologies such as hepatitis E virus and hepatitis A virus-related ALF or paracetamol-ALF (hyper-acute presentation) have better survival than remaining causes. In addition, if etiology-specific treatment (antivirals for ALF related to hepatitis B virus (HBV) or Herpes simplex virus (HSV) or N-acetylcysteine for paracetamol) is available, then the outcome with treatment is better. About half of the patients can be salvaged with medical therapy. All patients need intensive care and organ support to provide time for the liver to regenerate. Various prognostic models to predict high probability of mortality have been described, which should be used to select patient early during the disease for liver transplantation, which is associated with high long-term survival in these sick patients. The Indian National Association for Study of the Liver (INASL) recommends the ALF-Early Dynamic (ALFED) model as a preferred prognostic model in the Indian scenario, where hepatitis viruses are a dominant etiology of ALF and occur on a naïve liver with good regenerative capacity.

WHY HAPPENS A PROGRESSIVE DECREASE OF BLOOD PRESSURE AFTER RENAL DENERVATION

Objective: Long-term follow-up data from the SYMPLICITY 3 trial (Bhatt et al, Lancet, 2022) and the Global Symplicty Register data (Mahfoud et al, JACC, 2020) show a further decrease in BP over time up to 3 years post procedure. Yet these observations lack a mechanistic explanation. A decrease in vascular resistance could possibly explain the observed phenomenon. Scanning Laser Doppler Flowmetry (SLDF) allows the non-invasive assessment of vascular resistance and capillary density by using the retinal vasculature as a mirror of the systemic circulation. Design and method: Retinal parameters were assessed using SLDF together with office and 24-hour ambulatory BP before and 6 as well as 12 months after renal denervation in 63 patients with treatment resistant hypertension (TRH) (NCT01687725). SLDF allows the assessment of retinal capillary flow (RCF), pulsed retinal capillary flow (systolic retinal capillary flow – diastolic retinal capillary flow) (pRCF), retinal vascular resistance, capillary area (CapA) and intercapillary distance (ICD). Results: Mean age of the study cohort was 60±11 years, mean BMI 30.6±4.9 kg/m2. Patients took 5.8 antihypertensive medications on average. There was a significant reduction of systolic and diastolic 24-hour ambulatory as well office BP 6 as well as 12 months after RDN (table 1). There was no significant reduction in the number of antihypertensive medications taken between baseline and 12 months after RDN (5.8vs.5.7 antihypertensive pills, p=0.159). Retinal vascular resistance was reduced 6 months after RDN (table 1), pRCF was reduced 6 as well as 12 months after RDN and capillary density improved 12 months after RDN. Conclusions: In high-risk patients with TRH endovascular RDN improved vascular resistance and reversed capillary rarefaction in the retinal circulation, a prognostic marker of further end-organ damage. The reduction of pRCF indicates a decrease of shear stress on the vascular wall by the pulsed blood flow. Increment of capillary density was observed not already 6 months, but only 12 months after RDN. We conclude that, improvement of capillary rarefaction happens slowly after RDN and requires long-term effective BP control and, that reduction in vascular resistance might explain the prolonged BP reduction after RDN.

Incidence of hypotension in lower segment Caesarean section - a comparison of intrathecal Fentanyl- Bupivacaine combination with Bupivacaine alone

Introduction: After subarachnoid block with conventional heavy Bupivacaine, hypotension is the most common complication and is caused by decrease in systemic vascular resistance and/or cardiac output. Even with standard doses of the drug for parturient, there are evidences of severe hypotension and other complications despite adequate analgesia and anaesthesia. Adjuvants are used to enhance the quality of blocks with less complications. Objectives: It was to evaluate the effectiveness of combining bupivacaine and fentanyl for spinal anesthesia during lower segment Caesarean section (LSCS) as opposed to using bupivacaine alone for the incidence of hypotension. Methodology: This is a prospective study of 210 patients aged 18-35 years of American society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status II undergoing elective lower segment Caesarean section, randomly assigned to two groups: Group A, received a mixture of intrathecal 2ml of 0.5% Bupivacaine and 10 mcg Fentanyl(2.2ml) and Group B, received only 2.2 ml of Bupivacaine. Noninvasive blood pressure was checked at 1,2,4,6,10,20,40 and 60 min after subarachnoid block and then post-surgery. Results: The occurrence of hypotension was higher in Group B (26.6%) compared to Group A (8.6%). Conclusion: Our study suggests that the intrathecal Fentanyl-Bupivacaine combination is effective in reducing the incidence of hypotension after SAB for elective LSCS. Additional research is needed to determine this combination’s optimal dosage and timing.

The Effect of Mannitol and Hypertonic Sodium Administration on Hemodynamic Parameters Under LiDCO Monitoring in Patients Undergoing Elective Craniotomy

In craniotomy surgery, it is important to maintain hemodynamics and prevent the increase of intracranial pressure. Using semi-invasive methods such as LiDCO monitoring is a good option in this situation. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of mannitol and hypertonic sodium on hemodynamic parameters in patients undergoing elective craniotomy. This randomized clinical trial was done on 40 patients of both genders. Patients whose ages were between 18-65 years, who had American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score I and II, and who underwent craniotomy surgery were eligible for this study. Participants were divided into two groups receiving hypertonic sodium and mannitol. Hemodynamic parameters were evaluated before surgery, 20 minutes, and 60 minutes after surgery in both groups, under Lithium dilution cardiac output (LiDCO) monitoring. The results showed that there was no difference between groups in terms of the average fluid intake, the duration of the operation, the amount of urinary output, and the primary hemodynamic characteristics. Significant differences were recorded in the evaluation of hemodynamic parameters. The results demonstrated a reduction in systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure during 20 to 60 minutes after mannitol injection compared to hypertonic sodium injection. Additionally, the effectiveness of both therapies on maintaining cardiac function was similar, but the use of mannitol led to a greater decrease in arterial and peripheral vascular resistance. It can be concluded that mannitol may be more effective than hypertonic sodium during craniotomy procedures in terms of reducing blood pressure monitored with LiDCO.

Biological activity of a benzene sulfonamide on perfusion pressure and coronary resistance using an isolated rat heart model

There are studies which indicate that some sulfonamide derivatives can produce changes in the cardiovascular system; however, their biological activity on perfusion presure and coronary resistance is not clear. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect exerted by benzenesulfonamide, and their derivatives (2,5-dichloro- N-(4-nitro-phenyl)-benzene-sulfonamide, 2-hydrazino-carbonyl-benzenesulfonamide, 4-(2-amino-ethyl)-benze- ne-sulfonamide, and 4-[3-(4-nitro-phenyl)-ureido]-benzene- sulfonamide) on perfusion pressure and coronary reistance. To evaluate the biological activity of benzenesulfonamide and their derivatives on perfusion pressure and coronary reistance an isolated rat heart model was used. Furthermore, theoretical interaction of 4-(2-amino-ethyl)-benzenesul- fonamide with Calcium channel surface was determined using 6jp5 protein, nifedipine, amlodipine, verapamil and BayK 8644 as theoretical tools in a DockingServer program. The Results showed that 4-(2-amino-ethyl)-ben- zenesulfonamide decreased perfusion pressure and coronary resistance compared to benzenesulfonamide, 2,5-dichloro- N-(4-nitro-phenyl)-benzene-sulfonamide, 2-hydrazinocar- bonyl-benze-nesulfonamide, 4-[3-(4-nitro-phenyl)-ureido]- benenesulfonamide and the control conditions. Besides, theoretical data suggest that 4-(2-aminoethyl)benzenesulfo- namide could interact with aminoacid residues such as Glu614 and Ala320 involved in 6jp5 protein surface. This phenomenon could result in an ligand-Calcium channel complex formation to produce a decrease in perfusion pressure and vascular resistance. It is noteworthy that biological and experimental models used in this study is an invaluable research tool for investigating questions across the spectrum of physiologic functions of cardiovascular system such as perfusion pressure and coronary resistance

Effect of Acute Vasodilator Testing Using Oxygen in Pulmonary Hypertension Due to Left Heart Disease.

Pulmonary vasodilators, including oxygen, have not shown consistent beneficial effects on pulmonary hypertension due to valvular heart disease (PH-VHD). Therefore, the study aimed to assess the effect of 100% fractional inspiration of oxygen (FiO2) on pulmonary and systemic hemodynamics in patients with combined pre- and post-capillary pulmonary hypertension (CpcPH) and isolated post-capillary pulmonary hypertension (IpcPH) due to PH-VHD. This prospective study was conducted among patients with PH-VHD undergoing mitral or aortic valve replacement or repair. The study was conducted after induction of anesthesia and pulmonary artery catheterization. Cardiac output was obtained using thermodilution and all direct, and derived hemodynamic variables were obtained at 30% and 100% FiO2. The patients were stratified a priori into responders {(≥10mmHg fall in mean pulmonary artery pressure (MPAP)} and non-responders. Fifty-seven patients completed the acute vasodilator test. The mean age and body mass index of the study population was 41.8 ± 14.1years and 21.4 ± 4.6kg/m2, respectively. There was a significant decrease in MPAP (40.77 ± 12.07mmHg vs 36.74 ± 13.3mmHg; P < .001) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) {(median; Interquartile range (IQR); 388; 371 vs 323; 362dynes sec.cm-5; P < .001) at 100% FiO2. Transpulmonary gradient (TPG) and diastolic pulmonary gradient (DPG) also decreased significantly (P < .001 and P < .001). Cardiac output did not change significantly. The magnitude of decrease in MPAP, PVR, TPG, DPG, and pulmonary artery compliance (PAC) between CpcPH and IpcPH was comparable. Responders did not show a significantly greater fall in MPAP, PVR, TPG, DPG, and PAC after surgery. Hyperoxia may lead to reduction in MPAP and PVR in both hemodynamic phenotypes of PH-VHD. A larger sample size is required to support or refute the findings of this study.

Younger age at initiation of subcutaneous treprostinil is associated with better response in pediatric Group 1 pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Children with severe Group 1 pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) have an unpredictable response to subcutaneous treprostinil (TRE) therapy, which may be influenced by age, disease severity, or other unknown variables at time of initiation. In this retrospective single-center cohort study, we hypothesized that younger age at TRE initiation, early hemodynamic response (a decrease in pulmonary vascular resistance by ≥30% at follow-up catheterization), and less severe baseline hemodynamics (Rp:Rs < 1.1) would each be associated with better clinical outcomes. In 40 pediatric patients with Group I PAH aged 17 days-18 years treated with subcutaneous TRE, younger age (cut-off of 6-years of age, AUC 0.824) at TRE initiation was associated with superior 5-year freedom from adverse events (94% vs. 39%, p = 0.002), better WHO functional class (I or II: 88% vs. 39% p = 0.003), and better echocardiographic indices of right ventricular function at most recent follow-up. Neither early hemodynamic response nor less severe baseline hemodynamics were associated with better outcomes. Patients who did not have a significant early hemodynamic response to TRE by first follow-up catheterization were unlikely to show subsequent improvement in PVRi (1/8, 13%). These findings may help clinicians counsel families and guide clinical decision making regarding the timing of advanced therapies.

Overview of the Incidence of Hypotension After Spinal Anesthesia Induction in Sectio Caesarea Patients During Intra Anesthesia at Juanda Kuningan Hospital West Java

Purpose: This study aimed to identify the incidence of hypotension after spinal anesthesia induction in SC patients during intra-anesthesia based on Body Mass Index (BMI), age, and baseline systolic blood pressure at Juanda Kuningan Hospital. Methods: This study used a quantitative descriptive method with a cross sectional approach. The sample in this study were all SC patients with spinal anesthesia techniques who met the criteria. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling with the slovin formula resulting in 90 respondents. And data analysis using univariate analysis. Findings: The results showed that the majority of respondents who experienced mild hypotension with excessive BMI status were 50 respondents (58.8%), the majority of respondents who experienced mild hypotension with early adulthood were 52 respondents (61.2%) and the majority of respondents who experienced mild hypotension with initial systolic blood pressure were at initial systolic blood pressure &lt;120 mmHg and 120-130 mmHg as many as 31 respondents (36.5%). Conclusions: The results of this study illustrate that the majority of respondents will experience hypotension after spinal anesthesia induction. This is because spinal anesthesia can block sympathetic nerves, resulting in a decrease in circulating arterial tone, this condition causes peripheral arterial vasodilation. This vasodilating effect can result in a decrease in vascular resistance (hypotension). For further researchers to be able to develop this study to look for other variables that may be associated with the incidence of hypotension after induction of spinal anesthesia in SC patients so that the results of the study will show more variation.

Evaluating the role of serum uric acid in the risk stratification and therapeutic response of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with congenital heart disease (PAH-CHD).

Background: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a malignant pulmonary vascular disease that negatively impacts quality of life, exercise capacity, and mortality. This study sought to investigate the relationship between serum uric acid (UA) level and the disease severity and treatment response of patients with PAH and congenital heart disease (PAH-CHD). Methods: This study included 225 CHD patients and 40 healthy subjects. Serum UA was measured in all patients, and UA levels and haemodynamic parameters were re-evaluated in 20 patients who had received PAH-specific drug treatment for at least 7 ± 1month. Results: Serum UA levels were significantly higher in PAH-CHD patients than in CHD patients with a normal pulmonary artery pressure and normal subjects (347.7 ± 105.7μmol/L vs. 278.3 ± 84.6μmol/L; 347.7 ± 105.7μmol/L vs. 255.7 ± 44.5μmol/L, p < 0.05). UA levels in the intermediate and high risk groups were significantly higher than those in the low-risk group (365.6 ± 107.8μmol/L vs. 311.2 ± 82.8μmol/L; 451.6 ± 117.6μmol/L vs. 311.2 ± 82.8μmol/L, p < 0.05). Serum UA levels positively correlated with mean pulmonary arterial pressure, WHO functional class, pulmonary vascular resistance, and NT-proBNP (r = 0.343, 0.357, 0.406, 0.398; p < 0.001), and negatively with mixed venous oxygen saturation (SvO2) and arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) (r = -0.293, -0.329; p < 0.001). UA significantly decreased from 352.7 ± 97.5 to 294.4 ± 56.8μmol/L (p = 0.001) after PAH-specific drug treatment for at least 6months, along with significant decreases in mean pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance and increases in cardiac index and mixed SvO2. Conclusion: Serum UA can be used as a practical and economic biomarker for risk stratification and the evaluation of PAH-specific drug treatment effects for patients with PAH-CHD.

Normothermic &lt;i&gt;ex vivo&lt;/i&gt; lung perfusion using a developed solution followed by orthotopic left lung transplantation (experimental study)

The continued unavailability of adequate organs for transplantation to meet the existing demand has resulted in a major challenge in transplantology. This is especially felt in lung transplantation (LTx). LTx is the only effective method of treatment for patients with end-stage lung diseases. Normothermic ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) has been proposed to increase the number of donor organs suitable for transplant – EVLP has proven itself in a number of clinical trials. The ability to restore suboptimal donor lungs, previously considered unsuitable for transplantation, can improve organ functionality, and thus increase the number of lung transplants. However, widespread implementation of ex vivo perfusion is associated with high financial costs for consumables and perfusate.Objective: to test the developed solution on an ex vivo lung perfusion model, followed by orthotopic LT under experimental conditions.Materials and methods. The experiment included lung explantation stages, static hypothermic storage, EVLP and orthotopic left LTx. Perfusion was performed in a closed perfusion system. We used our own made human albumin-based perfusion solution as perfusate. Perfusion lasted for 2 hours, and evaluation was carried out every 30 minutes. In all cases, static hypothermic storage after perfusion lasted for 4 hours. The orthotopic single-lung transplantation procedure was performed using assisted circulation, supplemented by membrane oxygenation. Postoperative follow-up was 2 hours, after which the experimental animal was euthanized.Results. Respiratory index before lung explantation was 310 ± 40 mmHg. The PaO2/FiO2 ratio had positive growth dynamics throughout the entire EVLP procedure. Oxygenation index was 437 ± 25 mm Hg after 120 minutes of perfusion. Throughout the entire EVLP procedure, there was a steady decrease in pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR). Initial PVR was 300 ± 100 dyn×s/cm5; throughout the EVLP, PVR tended to fall, reaching 38,5 ± 12 dyn×s/cm5 at the end of perfusion.Conclusion. A safe and effective EVLP using our perfusate is possible. The developed orthotopic left lung transplantation protocol under circulatory support conditions, supplemented by membrane oxygenation, showed it is efficient and reliable.

Effects of Melatonin Administration on Vasomotor Activity and Histological Structure of Isolated Thoracic Aorta in Rats Treated with Thyroxine

Objective: The goal of this study was to examine the effect of in vivo melatonin (MEL) administration on isolated thoracic aorta in rats with thyroxine treatment and its duty in aortic response to contractile agents, such as potassium chloride (KCl) and phenylephrine (PE). In addition, immunohistological alterations were also examined.&#x0D; Methods: Experimental groups were as follows: control group (n= 5), thyroxine group (n= 5), melatonin group (n= 6), and thyroxine + melatonin group (n= 6). L-thyroxine was given by intraperitoneal (i.p) administration at 0.3 mg/kg/day for 14 days. MEL was administered i.p., at 3 mg/kg/day for 14 days. The thoracic aorta was isolated from rats euthanized by cervical dislocation. Then, vascular rings were prepared.&#x0D; Concentration-response curves for KCl and PE applications were recorded in an isolated organ bath. Tissue samples were fixed in 10% formalin for histopathological and immunohistological evaluation.&#x0D; Results: KCl and PE-induced contractions were reduced significantly in the thoracic aortic rings of the thyroxine-treated rats. MEL administration partially attenuated the reduction in the contraction responses due to thyroxine treatment. Immunohistological findings showed that MEL inhibits the thickening of the vessel wall by probably suppressing collagen formation due to thyroxine treatment in the aortic tissue.&#x0D; Conclusion: Our results suggest that MEL may attenuate the decrease in vascular resistance caused by thyroxine treatment.

Anesthetic management of omphalopagus twins with pentalogy of Fallot undergoing separation surgery

The management of conjoined twins has several special aspects, mostly linked to the parents of the twins, such as communication, ethics and trust issues. A multidisciplinary team approach plus high level of vigilance at each perioperative stage is required. Conjoined omphalopagus twins, aged one year, were planned for separation surgery. They had fused liver, fused portal and hepatic veins, and partially fused intestines. Patient B appeared with complications of pentalogy of Fallot (PoF). The patient also had polycythemia (hemoglobin 14.7 g/dL, hematocrit 50%). Radiological features showed anterior abdominal wall with images of interconnected intestinal system between the two. In thoracoabdominopagus conjoined twins, the possibility of shared circulation becomes important especially associated with injection of intravenous drugs. The goal of anesthesia in PoF is to maintain cardiac output by maintaining heart rate, contractility and preload; and preventing right to left shunting via ventricular septal defect (VSD). Induction can cause vasodilation and the resultant decrease in systemic vascular resistance (SVR) can exacerbate right-to-left shunts. Monitoring end tidal CO2 (EtCO2) is needed. We present a report of anesthesia for such a case.&#x0D; Abbreviations: ASD: Atrial Septal Defect; PoF: Pentalogy of Fallot; VSD: Ventricular Septal Defect; SVR: Systemic Vascular Resistance&#x0D; Key words: Conjoined Twins; Pentalogy of Fallot; Congenital Heart Disease; Cyanosis; Anesthesia&#x0D; Citation: Purwoko, Santosa SB, Novianto B, Ganitafuri H. Anesthetic management of omphalopagus twins with pentalogy of Fallot undergoing separation surgery. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2023;27(3):434−440.&#x0D; DOI: 10.35975/apic.v27i3.2224&#x0D; Received: May 24, 2022; Reviewed: Sep 18, 2022; Accepted: Jan 04, 2023

Patophysiological basis of folate cycle disorders and vitamin D deficiency in the development of syncope in childhood

There are many reports about the role of vitamins B6, B9, B12, and D in the development of cardiovascular diseases. However, most of them relate mainly to the adult population and are limited relative to grades in children with syncope. Understanding the role of these vitamins in the pathogenesis of syncope will help expand the range of therapeutic and preventive care for children. The purpose of the study was to analyse current scientific achievements regarding the role of the folate cycle and vitamin D in the genesis of syncope in childhood. The PubMed Medline and Scopus databases were used and the following search terms were used: “syncope” and “vitamin B”; “syncope” and “homocysteine”; “syncope” and “vitamin D”. The paper summarises the role of vitamin B12 deficiency in delayed myelination and nerve conduction, increased serum norepinephrine levels, and possible pathogenetic mechanisms for the development of noncardiogenic syncope. Scientific facts of the effect of vitamins B1, B6, and B9 on the functioning of the cardiovascular and nervous systems in children are described. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in 60-73% of children with vasovagal syncope and its relationship with the symptoms of the disease was established. Probable pathogenetic mechanisms of vitamin D deficiency in the development of syncope, namely a decrease in peripheral vascular resistance, a violation of neuronal conduction of the baroreflective mechanism, and heart muscle dysfunction, are analysed. The findings will allow doctors and researchers to better approach the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of syncope in childhood and can serve as a basis for developing new strategies to manage the condition and improve medical practices

Hypertension in pregnancy: challenges in the management

Pregnancy is a cardiovascular and metabolic challenge to the human female body.During pregnancy, systemic vascular resistance and blood pressure decrease, whereas cardiac output and blood volume increase to safeguard an adequate circulation in the utero-placental arterial bed.Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy affect approximately from 5 to 10% of all pregnant women, and are the main contributors of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Hypertension in pregnancy includes a wide spectrum of conditions, including pre-eclampsia and eclampsia, pre-eclampsia superimposed on chronic hypertension, chronic hypertension, and gestational hypertension. Endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress and an exaggerated inflammatory response are features related to hypertensive disorders. To reduce the risk of maternal and foetal complications due to haemodynamic maladaptation, the current management includes rest at home or in the hospital, closes monitoring of maternal and foetal signs and symptoms, early start of antihypertensive therapy, and timely delivery regarding maternal and foetal survival chances. Thresholds to initiate blood pressure lowering treatment during pregnancy are 160 mmHg systole or 110 mmHg diastole. Below these thresholds, treatment must be individualized because current evidence does not support aggressive medical interventions. Alpha-methyldopa and dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers are among the recommended antihypertensives. The major goal is to prevent maternal complications without compromising uteroplacental perfusion and fetal circulation. Before an antihypertensive agent is prescribed, the potential risk to the fetus from intrauterine drug exposure should be carefully reviewed. Bangladesh J Medicine 2023; Vol. 34, No. 2(1) Supplement: 186

Exploring Sex Differences of Beta-Blockers in the Treatment of Hypertension: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

In the prevention of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, early recognition and adequate treatment of hypertension are of leading importance. However, the efficacy of antihypertensives may be depending on sex disparities. Our objective was to evaluate and quantify the sex-diverse effects of beta-blockers (BB) on hypertension and cardiac function. We focussed on comparing hypertensive female versus male individuals. A systematic search was performed for studies on BBs from inception to May 2020. A total of 66 studies were included that contained baseline and follow up measurements on blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and cardiac function. Data also had to be stratified for sex. Mean differences were calculated using a random-effects model. In females as compared to males, BB treatment decreased systolic BP 11.1 mmHg (95% CI, -14.5; -7.8) vs. 11.1 mmHg (95% CI, -14.0; -8.2), diastolic BP 8.0 mmHg (95% CI, -10.6; -5.3) vs. 8.0 mmHg (95% CI, -10.1; -6.0), and HR 10.8 beats per minute (bpm) (95% CI, -17.4; -4.2) vs. 9.8 bpm (95% CI, -11.1; -8.4)), respectively, in both sexes' absolute and relative changes comparably. Left ventricular ejection fraction increased only in males (3.7% (95% CI, 0.6; 6.9)). Changes in left ventricular mass and cardiac output (CO) were only reported in males and changed -20.6 g (95% CI, -56.3; 15.1) and -0.1 L (95% CI, -0.5; 0.2), respectively. BBs comparably lowered BP and HR in both sexes. The lack of change in CO in males suggests that the reduction in BP is primarily due to a decrease in vascular resistance. Furthermore, females were underrepresented compared to males. We recommend that future research should include more females and sex-stratified data when researching the treatment effects of antihypertensives.

Chronic kidney disease and pregnancy: an interdisciplinary assessment of gestational risks and complications. A literature review

Chronic kidney disease represents a heterogeneous group of diseases characterized by changes in the kidneys structure and functions. It significantly increases the risks of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. These risks increase with worsening renal dysfunction corresponding to an increase in the degree of proteinuria and arterial hypertension. Anatomical and physiological changes in the kidneys during pregnancy are characterized by dilatation of the pelvicalyceal system, a decrease in systemic and renal vascular resistance, and an increase in the glomerular filtration rate. These clinically significant changes can complicate the diagnosis of the renal dysfunction, as well as its progression. Pregnancy can affect the kidney as it can manifest as declining kidney function, especially in the context of concomitant arterial hypertension and proteinuria, while chronic kidney disease, regardless of the stage, contributes to a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes including preeclampsia, premature birth and fetal growth restriction.&#x0D; Optimization strategies of pregnancy outcomes include strict control of blood pressure, treatment of hypertension and proteinuria, and prevention of preeclampsia. The latter is difficult to diagnose in pregnant women with chronic kidney disease. Serum markers such as soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 and placental growth factor may aid in definitive diagnosis. The choice of delivery mode in women with chronic kidney disease should be based on common obstetric indications. A multidisciplinary team, including an obstetrician-gynecologist, a nephrologist, an anaesthesiologist and a neonatologist, must focus on preconception medical care, antenatal care and treatment of pregnant women with chronic kidney disease for a successful pregnancy outcome.

Pregnancy in Patients with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Light of New ESC Guidelines on Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is defined as an elevated mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) of >20 mmHg together with a pulmonary arterial wedge pressure (PAWP) of ≤15 mmHg and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) of>2 Wood units (WU). Although the total mortality of pregnant women with PAH has decreased significantly in recent years and is reported to be around 12% in some databases, total mortality is still at an unacceptably high percentage. Moreover, some subgroups, such as patients with Eisenmenger's syndrome, have a particularly high mortality rate of up to 36%. Pregnancy in patients with PAH is contraindicated; its appearance is an indication for a planned termination. Education of patients with PAH, including counseling on effective contraception, is essential. During pregnancy, blood volume, heart rate, and cardiac output increase, while PVR and systemic vascular resistance decrease. The hemostatic balance is shifted towards hypercoagulability. Among PAH-specific drugs, the use of inhaled or intravenous prostacyclins, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers (in patients with preserved vasoreactivity) is acceptable. Endothelin receptor antagonists and riociguat are contraindicated. Childbirth can take place through either vaginal delivery or caesarean section; similarly, neuraxial and general anesthesia have proven indications. In a situation where all pharmacological options have been used in pregnant or postpartum patients in a serious condition, veno-arterial ECMO is a useful therapeutic option. For PAH patients who want to become mothers, an option that does not endanger their lives is adoption.

Safe and Effective Balloon Pulmonary Angioplasty in the Outpatient Setting: The Michigan Medicine Experience.

Balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) is currently performed at select centers worldwide, with the current standard of practice being postprocedural inpatient monitoring for 24 to 72 hours. We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of BPA in a cohort of patients with chronic thrombo-embolic pulmonary disease (CTEPD) and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) and outline a protocol for implementation in the outpatient setting. All patients with distal, inoperable CTEPH, residual symptoms after pulmonary endarterectomy, or symptomatic CTEPD from July 1, 2020, to June 30, 2022, were evaluated by a multidisciplinary chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension team for consideration of BPA. Patients undergoing each BPA session adhered to a regimented protocol developed and implemented at our institution. Safety and efficacy were retrospectively evaluated with a mean follow-up time of 8.5 months. Eighteen patients underwent a total of 78 BPA sessions. Overall, there was a significant improvement in World Health Organization functional class and mean improvement in 6-minute walking distance of +67 m. Hemodynamic parameters significantly improved with a mean decrease in mean pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance of 7.3 ± 5.8 mm Hg and 1.7 ± 1.5 Wood units, respectively (P <.05). Complication rates were low with 3 (3.9%) of 78 patients developing scant hemoptysis and 1 (1.3%) of 78 experiencing vascular injury requiring inpatient hospitalization. BPA is both safe and effective when implemented in the outpatient setting using a regimented protocol provided there are necessary contingencies in place.

Diagnostic Assessment of Respiratory and Hemodynamic Changes Related to Prone Position in COVID-19 Patients.

To study the respiratory patterns and the hemodynamic variations related to postural changes in inpatients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19). This report is a prospective study in a cohort of inpatients admitted with COVID-19. We recruited 10 patients admitted to the hospital with moderate or severe COVID-19 who showed improvement in oxygen saturation with prone positioning. We performed cardiorespiratory polygraphy and hemodynamic evaluations by thoracic electrical bioimpedance. We observed a median minimum oxygen saturation of 85.00% (IQR: 7.00) in the supine position versus 91.00% (IQR: 8.00) (P = 0.173) in the prone position. The airflow restriction in the supine position was 2.70% (IQR: 6.55) versus 1.55% (IQR: 2.80) (P = 0.383) in the prone position. A total of 36.4% of patients were classified as having a normo-hemodynamic state in the supine position, whereas 54.5% were classified in this group in the prone position (P = 0.668). A decrease in vascular resistance was observed in the prone position (18.2% of vasoconstriction) compared to the supine position (36.4% of vasoconstriction) (P = 0.871). This brief report describes the effects of prone positioning on respiratory and hemodynamic variables in 10 patients with moderate or severe COVID-19.

Anomalous origin of the left main coronary artery from the right pulmonary artery: a case report

Anomalous origin of the left coronary from the right pulmonary artery (AOLCARPA) is an extremely rare anomaly, which has been reported in only a few patients worldwide [1] An 8-month-old male patient weighing 5.7 kg came to our hospital with chief complaints of tachypnea while feeding and failure to thrive. ECG of the patient showed sinus tachycardia. The patient had a heart rate of 140/min and saturation of 99% on room air. Chest radiograph showed cardiomegaly. Transthoracic echocardiography showed moderate mitral regurgitation, dilated left atrium and ventricle, severe left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, global LV hypokinesia with an LV ejection fraction of 15–20%. Flow pattern in the left anterior descending artery and the left circumflex artery was reversed and the right coronary artery (RCA) was dilated. The left main coronary artery (LMCA) origin was not clear. As the diagnosis was unclear, computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA) was done to delineate the coronary anatomy, which showed an anomalous origin of LMCA from the right pulmonary artery (RPA) (Figs. 1 and 2Figs 1, 2). Blood investigations including complete blood count, and liver and kidney function tests were normal. Preoperative medication of the patient included digoxin, spironolactone, furosemide, and milrinone infusion. The patient was posted for corrective repair of anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the RPA.Figure 1: Computed tomography coronary angiography showing left main coronary artery (LMCA) arising from the right pulmonary artery (RPA). PROX LAD, proximal left anterior descending artery.Figure 2: (a) Midesophageal (ME) ascending aortic short-axis (SAX) view showing retrograde flow from left main coronary artery (LMCA) to right pulmonary artery (RPA). (b) Midesophageal (ME) four-chamber view showing dilated left ventricle (LV) and mitral regurgitation jet. (c) Origin of LMCA from RPA. LPA, left pulmonary artery; Asc Aorta, ascending aorta.On the day of surgery, the patient was taken to the operating room. Preoperative inotropic support of intravenous infusion of milrinone 0.5 µg/kg/min was continued. After attaching a multiparameter monitor with a five-lead ECG, noninvasive blood pressure monitor, and a pulse oximeter, general anesthesia was induced with intravenous fentanyl 2 µg/kg, midazolam 0.1 mg/kg, vecuronium 0.1 mg/kg, and endotracheal intubation was done. Femoral artery was cannulated for invasive arterial blood pressure monitoring, and central venous catheter was inserted in the right internal jugular vein. Anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane and intermittent boluses of fentanyl and vecuronium. Intraoperative ventilation was instituted with the goals of avoiding hypocarbia, hyperoxia, and alkalosis. An FiO2 of 0.35 was kept with PaO2 targets of 80–100 mm Hg to maintain pulmonary vascular resistance End-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) was maintained between 40 and 42 mm Hg. Pre-bypass transesophageal echocardiography (TOE) examination was carried out with a pediatric 9T probe (Vivid I, GE; Vingmed Ultrasound, Horten, Norway). ME ascending aorta short-axis view showed the origin of LMCA from RPA (Fig. 2a). Midesophageal four-chamber view showed dilated LV and moderate mitral regurgitation (Fig. 2b). Heparin 400 IU/kg was given, and cardiopulmonary bypass was instituted. Cardiopulmonary bypass was established using aortobicaval cannulation with looping of both pulmonary artery branches. Myocardial preservation was obtained with antegrade cold blood potassium cardioplegia into the aorta and main pulmonary artery. Under low pump flows, LMCA origin was identified originating from the RPA (Fig. 2c). Medial trap door was made in the aorta and LMCA was anastomosed to the aorta (coronary translocation). Posterior annuloplasty of the mitral valve was performed through the trans-septal approach. Weaning from the cardiopulmonary bypass was uneventful with minimal inotropic support (milrinone 0.5 µg/kg/min; Epinephrine 0.04 µg/kg/min). The chest was kept open with a sterile membrane cover electively and the patient was shifted to the pediatric ICU with stable hemodynamics. AOLCARPA is an extremely rare congenital coronary anomaly. Only 10–20% of neonates survive till adulthood, and it depends on the adequacy of LV perfusion through collaterals to LCA from RCA and the proportion of coronary steal from the LCA to pulmonary artery [2] Coronary angiogram is usually done to delineate the anatomy and for the diagnosis. In this case, the origin of LMCA could not be visualized on transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) leading to inconclusive diagnosis. CTCA delineated the exact anatomy and showed its origin from RPA. Intraoperative TOE examination also revealed it as a case of AOLCARPA. Anesthetic management of patients presenting with ALOCARPA includes rapid and smooth intubation, while avoiding swings in blood pressure and heart rate. A decrease in pulmonary vascular resistance is avoided by preventing hyperventilation, hyperoxia and hypocarbia [3] The aim is to maintain a PaO2 of 80–100 mm Hg and an EtCO2 of 40–45 mm Hg. Both reduction and increase in afterload can hamper RCA perfusion and stroke volume, respectively. An optimum preload is required to ensure adequate cardiac output. CTCA and TOE examinations are useful modalities for delineating the coronary anatomy and help in planning the perioperative surgical and anesthetic management of the patient.