Difference In Central Venous Pressure Research Articles

Association between intrarenal venous flow from Doppler ultrasonography and acute kidney injury in patients with sepsis in critical care: a prospective, exploratory observational study

BackgroundIntrarenal venous flow (IRVF) patterns assessed using Doppler renal ultrasonography are real-time bedside visualizations of renal vein hemodynamics. Although this technique has the potential to detect renal congestion during sepsis resuscitation, there have been few studies on this method. We aimed to examine the relationship between IRVF patterns, clinical parameters, and outcomes in critically ill adult patients with sepsis. We hypothesized that discontinuous IRVF was associated with elevated central venous pressure (CVP) and subsequent acute kidney injury (AKI) or death.MethodsWe conducted a prospective observational study in two tertiary-care hospitals, enrolling adult patients with sepsis who stayed in the intensive care unit for at least 24 h, had central venous catheters placed, and received invasive mechanical ventilation. Renal ultrasonography was performed at a single time point at the bedside after sepsis resuscitation, and IRVF patterns (discontinuous vs. continuous) were confirmed by a blinded assessor. The primary outcome was CVP obtained at the time of renal ultrasonography. We also repeatedly assessed a composite of Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes of Stage 3 AKI or death over the course of a week as a secondary outcome. The association of IRVF patterns with CVP was examined using Student's t-test (primary analysis) and that with composite outcomes was assessed using a generalized estimating equation analysis, to account for intra-individual correlations. A sample size of 32 was set in order to detect a 5-mmHg difference in CVP between IRVF patterns.ResultsOf the 38 patients who met the eligibility criteria, 22 (57.9%) showed discontinuous IRVF patterns that suggested blunted renal venous flow. IRVF patterns were not associated with CVP (discontinuous flow group: mean 9.24 cm H2O [standard deviation: 3.19], continuous flow group: 10.65 cm H2O [standard deviation: 2.53], p = 0.154). By contrast, the composite outcome incidence was significantly higher in the discontinuous IRVF pattern group (odds ratio: 9.67; 95% confidence interval: 2.13–44.03, p = 0.003).ConclusionsIRVF patterns were not associated with CVP but were associated with subsequent AKI in critically ill adult patients with sepsis. IRVF may be useful for capturing renal congestion at the bedside that is related to clinical patient outcomes.Graphical abstract

Study of changes in cardiac output, stroke volume, and cardiac index with two doses of mannitol infusion during supratentorial craniotomy

BackgroundMannitol is used extensively in supratentorial surgeries to reduce intracranial pressure. The optimum dose of mannitol is still a matter of debate. We have done this prospective, comparative and randomized study to compare the changes in cardiac output (CO), stroke volume (SV), cardiac index (CI), central venous pressure (CVP), brain relaxation, and side effects in two doses of mannitol infusion. We have divided 60 enrolled patients randomly into two groups. We infused 0.7gm kg-1, 20% mannitol in 20 min duration in Group A and 1.4gm kg-1 of 20% mannitol in 20 min in Group B. Flotrac transducer was connected to assess SV, CO, and CI. We recorded and analyzed brain relaxation score, HR, MAP, CVP, SV, CO, and CI at predefined time intervals after mannitol infusion. Chi-square test and unpaired t test were used to analyze categorical and continuous variables between two groups.ResultsWe have found statistically significant and better brain relaxation in Group B than Group A. Significant (p<0.05) difference in CVP was found between the groups at 10, 20 min after start of infusion, and 5, 10, and 15 min after termination of infusion. We found significant (p<0.05) difference in SV, CO, and CI between the groups at most of the time periods.ConclusionsWe can conclude that higher dose of mannitol provides better brain relaxation intraoperatively without significant adverse effects. We assessed more changes in hemodynamic and cardiac parameters with higher dose of mannitol that did not cause clinical deterioration.

Comparison of mean systemic pressure in patients with acute circulatory failure receiving passive leg raising vs. pneumatic leg compression

Background: Driving pressure of venous return (VR) is determined by a pressure gradient between mean systemic pressure (Pms) and central venous pressure (CVP). While passive leg raising (PLR) and pneumatic leg compression PC (PC) can increase VR, no study has explored the effects of these two procedures on Pms and VR-related hemodynamic variables. Methods: Forty patients with acute circulatory failure were enrolled in this analysis. All patients obtained both PLR and PC, and were measured for Pms, CVP, mean arterial pressure (MAP), cardiac output (CO), VR resistance (RVR), and systemic vascular resistance (SVR) at baseline and immediately after procedures. To minimize carry over effect, the patients were divided in 2 groups based on procedure sequence which were 1) patients receiving PLR first then PC (PLR-first), and 2) patients receiving PC first then PLR (PC-first). Both groups waited for a washout period before performing the 2 second procedure. Primary outcome was difference in Pms between PLR and PC procedures. Secondary outcome were differences in CVP, MAP, CO, RVR, and SVR between PLR and PC procedures. Results: No difference was found in baseline characteristics and no carry over effect was observed between the 2 groups of patients. Compared with baseline, both PLR and PC significantly increased Pms, CVP, MAP, and CO. PLR increased Pms (9.0±2.3 vs 4.8±1.7 mmHg, p&lt;0.001), CVP (4.5±1.2 vs. 1.6±0.7 mmHg, p&lt;0.001), MAP (22.5±5.6 vs. 14.4±5.0 mmHg, p&lt;0.001), and CO (1.5±0.5 vs. 0.5±0.2 L/min, p&lt;0.001) more than PC. However, PC, also significantly increased RVR (16 ± 27.2 dyn.s/cm5, p=0.001) and SVR (78.4 ± 7.2 dyn.s/cm5, p&lt;0.001) but no difference in PLR group. Conclusion: Among patients with acute circulatory failure, PLR increased Pms, CVP, MAP, and CO more than PC.

Comparison of mean systemic pressure in patients with acute circulatory failure receiving passive leg raising vs. pneumatic leg compression

Background: Driving pressure of venous return (VR) is determined by a pressure gradient between mean systemic pressure (Pms) and central venous pressure (CVP). While passive leg raising (PLR) and pneumatic leg compression PC (PC) can increase VR, no study has explored the effects of these two procedures on Pms and VR-related hemodynamic variables. Methods: Forty patients with acute circulatory failure were enrolled in this analysis. All patients obtained both PLR and PC, and were measured for Pms, CVP, mean arterial pressure (MAP), cardiac output (CO), VR resistance (RVR), and systemic vascular resistance (SVR) at baseline and immediately after procedures. To minimize carry over effect, the patients were divided in 2 groups based on procedure sequence which were 1) patients receiving PLR first then PC (PLR-first), and 2) patients receiving PC first then PLR (PC-first). Both groups waited for a washout period before performing the 2 second procedure. Primary outcome was difference in Pms between PLR and PC procedures. Secondary outcome were differences in CVP, MAP, CO, RVR, and SVR between PLR and PC procedures. Results: No difference was found in baseline characteristics and no carry over effect was observed between the 2 groups of patients. Compared with baseline, both PLR and PC significantly increased Pms, CVP, MAP, and CO. PLR increased Pms (9.0±2.3 vs 4.8±1.7 mmHg, p&lt;0.001), CVP (4.5±1.2 vs. 1.6±0.7 mmHg, p&lt;0.001), MAP (22.5±5.6 vs. 14.4±5.0 mmHg, p&lt;0.001), and CO (1.5±0.5 vs. 0.5±0.2 L/min, p&lt;0.001) more than PC. However, PC, also significantly increased RVR (16 ± 27.2 dyn.s/cm5, p=0.001) and SVR (78.4 ± 7.2 dyn.s/cm5, p&lt;0.001) but no difference in PLR group. Conclusion: Among patients with acute circulatory failure, PLR increased Pms, CVP, MAP, and CO more than PC.

The mid-term outcome of Fontan conversion compared with primary total cavopulmonary connection

Background: The indication of Fontan conversion (FC) from atriopulmonary connection (APC) to total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) is unclear. We sought to analyze the mid-term outcome of prophylactic and therapeutic Fontan conversion compared with that of primary TCPC. Methods: Patients with a univentricular heart who underwent cardiac catheterization at >18 years of age between July 2005 and July 2019 were included and divided into three groups: symptomatic APC patients who underwent therapeutic FC (t-FC, n = 13), asymptomatic APC patients after prophylactic FC (p-FC, n = 15), and patients who had primary TCPC procedure (pTCPC, n = 24). Results: The mean last follow up was at the age of 32.0 ± 7.8, 26.8 ± 3.8, and 27.3 ± 7 years (p = 0.07) in t-FC, p-FC, and pTCPC, respectively. There was no late death. All of t-FC and 12 (80%) of p-FC cases underwent concomitant arrhythmic surgery. Consequently, five and four patients in t-FC and p-FC groups required pacemaker implantations mostly due to sinus node dysfunction. Thromboembolism was seen in 2 cases in both t-FC (15%) and p-FC (13%), and 1 case in pTCPC (4%) (p = 0.50). The last cardiac catheterization was performed at the age of 29.5 ± 8.5, 24.6 ± 3.8, and 26.3 ± 7.1 years (p = 0.11) in t-FC, p-FC, and pTCPC patients, respectively. There was no significant difference in central venous pressure, aortic pressure, and cardiac index among the three groups. There was no late supraventricular tachyarrhythmic event seen in t-FC and p-FC, whereas two patients in pTCPC had newly developed atrial flutter. Conclusions: FC is a safe and feasible procedure to bring APC patients back onto the same track of primary TCPC patients in terms of hemodynamics as well as arrhythmia. The antiarrhythmic procedure should be carefully chosen because sinus node dysfunction can frequently occur and FC itself would reduce the risk of arrhythmia.

Effects of interposed abdominal pulling-pressing cardiopulmonary resuscitation on hemodynamics and oxygen metabolism in patients with cardiac arrest

To analyze the effect of interposed abdominal pulling-pressing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (IAPP-CPR) and standard cardiopulmonary resuscitation (S-CPR) on hemodynamics and oxygen metabolism in patients with cardiac arrest, and to evaluate the treatment effect of IAPP-CPR. The patients with cardiac arrest, cardiac arrest time less than 30 minutes, and with S-CPR indications admitted to intensive care unit (ICU) of the First People's Hospital of Lianyungang from January 2017 to January 2019 were enrolled. The patients were divided into IAPP-CPR group and S-CPR group according to whether the patients had IAPP-CPR indication or not. The patients in the S-CPR group were operated according to the 2015 American Heart Association (AHA) CPR guidelines; and the patients in the IAPP-CPR group received the IAPP-CPR on the basis of the S-CRP. During the relaxation period, the patients were subjected to abdominal lifting and compressing with amplitude of 4-5 cm, frequency of 100-120 times/min, and the time ratio of lifting to compressing was 1:1. Hemodynamic changes during resuscitation were recorded in the two groups. Hemodynamics, oxygen metabolism, arterial blood gas analysis and prognostic indicators were recorded at 30 minutes after successful resuscitation. During the study period, 77 patients were selected, 24 patients were excluded from giving up treatment and quitting, 53 patients were enrolled in the analysis finally, with 28 patients in the S-CPR group and 25 in the IAPP-CPR group. (1) The heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and coronary perfusion pressure (CPP) showed an upward trend during resuscitation, and a more significant increase was shown in the IAPP-CPR group. (2) Hemodynamics after successful resuscitation: there were 16 patients with successful resuscitation in the IAPP-CPR group and 13 in the S-CPR group. The MAP, CPP, global ejection fraction (GEF) and stroke volume (SV) of patients with successful resuscitation at 30 minutes after resuscitation in the IAPP-CPR group were significantly higher than those in the S-CPR group [MAP mmHg (1 mmHg = 0.133 kPa): 52.88±3.11 vs. 39.39±4.62, CPP (mmHg): 36.56±6.89 vs. 29.61±6.92, GEF: 0.217±0.036 vs. 0.178±0.027, SV (mL): 38.43±5.25 vs. 32.92±8.28, all P < 0.05], but there was no significant difference in central venous pressure (CVP) or HR between the two groups. (3) Oxygen metabolism after successful resuscitation: the cardiac output (CO), arterial oxygen content (CaO2), oxygen transport (DO2) and oxygen consumption (VO2) of patients with successful resuscitation at 30 minutes after resuscitation in the IAPP-CPR group were significantly higher than those in the S-CPR group [CO (L/min): 2.23±0.38 vs. 1.99±0.29, CaO2 (mL/L): 158.0±11.8 vs. 141.4±8.2, DO2 (mL/L): 245.8±29.9 vs. 209.1±28.0, VO2 (mL/L): 138.2±24.9 vs. 112.8±18.1, all P < 0.05]. (4) Arterial blood gas after successful resuscitation: the values of the pH, arterial oxygen partial pressure (PaO2), arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2), oxygenation index (PaO2/FiO2) and central venous oxygen saturation (ScvO2) of patients with successful resuscitation at 30 minutes after resuscitation in the IAPP-CPR were significantly higher than those in the S-CPR group [pH value: 7.13±0.22 vs. 7.00±0.23, PaO2 (mmHg): 73.68±13.80 vs. 65.32±15.32, PaCO2 (mmHg): 36.24±11.77 vs. 29.12±7.82, PaO2/FiO2 (mmHg): 73.68±13.80 vs. 65.32±15.32, ScvO2: 0.628±0.074 vs. 0.589±0.066, all P < 0.05], and the blood lactic acid (Lac) level was significantly lower than that in the S-CPR group (mmoL/L: 9.80±4.28 vs. 12.18±3.63, P < 0.05). (5) The patients in the IAPP-CPR group had a shorter time for cardiac arrest to restoration of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) than that in the S-CPR group (minutes: 10.63±2.94 vs. 14.54±3.84, P < 0.01), and the rate of ROSC, CPR successful rate and 28-day survival rate were significantly higher than those in the S-CPR group [64.0% (16/25) vs. 46.4% (13/28), 60.0% (15/25) vs. 28.6% (8/28), 52.0% (13/25) vs. 21.4% (6/28), all P < 0.05]. There was no significant difference in incidence of rib fracture between the IAPP-CPR and S-CPR groups [92.0% (23/25) vs. 89.3% (25/28), P > 0.05], and no abdominal bleeding was found in both group. IAPP-CPR can produce better hemodynamic effect during and after resuscitation than S-CPR, and oxygen metabolism and arterial blood gas analysis parameters at 30 minutes after resuscitation were better than S-CPR, with higher ROSC rate, CPR successful rate and 28-day survival rate, and no significant difference in complications between the two resuscitation methods.

Early Identification of Acute Lung Injury in a Porcine Model of Hemorrhagic Shock

BackgroundAcute lung injury (ALI) is a frequent complication after severe trauma. Lung-protective ventilation strategies and damage control resuscitation have been proposed for the prevention of ALI; however, there are no clinical or laboratory parameters to predict who is at risk of developing ALI after trauma. In the present study, we explored pulmonary inflammatory markers as a potential predictor of ALI using a porcine model of hemorrhagic shock. Materials and methodsFemale swine were randomized to mechanical ventilation with low tidal volume (VT) (6 mL/kg) or high VT (12 mL/kg). After equilibration, animals underwent pressure-controlled hemorrhage (mean arterial pressure [MAP] 35 ± 5 mmHg) for 1 h, followed by resuscitation with fresh whole blood or Hextend. They were maintained at MAP of 50 ± 5 mmHg for 3 h in the postresuscitation phase. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluids were collected hourly and analyzed for inflammatory markers. Lung samples were taken, and porcine neutrophil antibody staining was used to evaluate the presence of neutrophils. ELISA evaluated serum porcine surfactant protein D levels. Sham animals were used as negative controls. ResultsPigs that underwent hemorrhagic shock had higher heart rates, lower cardiac output, lower MAPs, and worse acidosis compared with sham at the early time points (P < 0.05 each). There were no significant differences in central venous pressure or pulmonary capillary wedge pressure between groups. Pulmonary neutrophil infiltration, as defined by neutrophil antibody staining on lung samples, was greater in the shock groups regardless of resuscitation fluid (P < 0.05 each). Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid neutrophil levels were not different between groups. There were no differences in levels of porcine surfactant protein D between groups at any time points, and the levels did not change over time in each respective group. ConclusionsOur study demonstrates the reproducibility of a porcine model of hemorrhagic shock that is consistent with physiologic changes in humans in hemorrhagic shock. Pulmonary neutrophil infiltration may serve as an early marker for ALI; however, the practicality of this finding has yet to be determined.

Effect of goal-directed therapy bundle based on PiCCO parameters to the prevention and treatment of acute kidney injury in patients after cardiopulmonary bypass cardiac operation: a prospective observational study

To explore the effect of goal-directed therapy bundle based on pulse-indicated continuous cardiac output (PiCCO) parameters to the prevention and treatment of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients after cardiopulmonary bypass cardiac operation. A prospective observational study was conducted. The adult patients with selective cardiopulmonary bypass cardiac operation admitted to the Third People's Hospital of Chengdu from December 2015 to January 2018 were enrolled. All patients were divided into two groups based on informed consent for PiCCO monitor at the time of admission to the intensive care unit (ICU): regular monitoring and treatment group (group A) and goal-directed therapy group based on PiCCO parameters (group B). In group A, the restrictive capacity management strategy was implemented to maintain the mean arterial pressure (MAP) > 65 mmHg (1 mmHg = 0.133 kPa) and the central venous pressure (CVP) between 8 mmHg and 10 mmHg. In group B, volume and hemodynamic status were optimized depending on PiCCO parameters to a goal of cardiac index (CI) > 41.68 mL×s-1×m-2, global end diastolic volume index (GEDVI) > 700 mL/m2 or intrathoracic blood volume index (ITBVI) > 850 mL/m2, extravascular lung water index (EVLWI) < 10 mL/kg, and MAP > 65 mmHg. Then the changes in hemodynamics and different prognosis of the patients in two groups were observed. Risk factors affecting the AKI were analyzed by Logistic regression. 171 cases were included, with 68 in group A and 103 in group B. There were no significant differences in gender, age, pre-operative scores by European system for cardiac operative risk evaluation (EuroScore), operation ways, operation time, cardiopulmonary bypass time, intraoperative dominant liquid equilibrium quantity, the use of intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation (IABP) during operation, and serum creatinine (SCr) level at the time of admission to ICU between the two groups. There were no significant differences in CVP within 24 hours after admission to ICU between the two groups. MAP in group B was significantly higher than that in group A at 8 hours and 16 hours after ICU admission (mmHg: 68.9±6.3 vs. 66.7±5.1, 69.0±4.9 vs. 67.0±5.3, both P < 0.05). Sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score in group B was significantly lower than that in group A at 24 hours after ICU admission (5.7±2.2 vs. 6.9±2.8, P < 0.05). Dominant liquid equilibrium quantity in group B was significant higher than that in group A at 24 hours after ICU admission (mL/kg: 7.1±6.2 vs. -0.1±8.2, P < 0.01), but there was no significant difference of that between groups at 48 hours and 72 hours after ICU admission. Compared with group A, incidence of combination with AKI during 72 hours after ICU admission was significantly decreased in group B [48.5% vs. 69.1%; odds ratio (OR) = 0.422, 95% confidence interval (95%CI) = 0.222-0.802, P < 0.05], and incidence of moderate to severe AKI was also significantly decreased in group B (19.4% vs. 35.3%; OR = 0.442, 95%CI = 0.220-0.887, P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in usage of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) after ICU admission between both groups (group A was 4.4%, group B was 4.9%, P > 0.05). It was shown by correlation analysis that only MAP and CI at 8 hours after ICU admission were significantly negatively correlated with AKI (MAP and AKI: r = -0.697, P = 0.000; CI and AKI: r = -0.664, P = 0.000). It was shown by Logistic regressive analysis that the MAP and CI at 8 hours after ICU admission were independent risk factors that influence the incidence of AKI at 72 hours after ICU admission (MAP: OR = 0.736, 95%CI = 0.636-0.851, P = 0.000; CI: OR = 0.006, 95%CI = 0.001-0.063, P = 0.000). There were no significant differences in the duration of mechanical ventilation, the length of ICU stay, the post-operation complications (except AKI), 7-day and 28-day mortality between the two groups. Goal-directed therapy bundle based on PiCCO parameters reduced the incidence of AKI in patients after cardiopulmonary bypass cardiac operation and improved the severity of systemic disease. However, it did not reduce the duration of mechanical ventilation, length of ICU stay, the incidence of complications (except AKI), short-term mortality. The MAP and CI at 8 hours after ICU admission were independent risk factors that influence the incidence of AKI in patients after cardiopulmonary bypass cardiac operation.

Intraoperative vasoplegic syndrome in patients with fulminant myocarditis on ventricular assist device placement.

Fulminant myocarditis is uncommon, but life-threatening, and some patients need mechanical circulatory support. This study was performed to evaluate how different types of mechanical circulatory support-biventricular assist device (BiVAD) or left ventricular assist device (LVAD) placement-affect intraoperative hemodynamic status. From January 2013 to September 2016, the patients who underwent BiVAD or LVAD placement for fulminant myocarditis were analyzed. The mean arterial pressure (MAP), mean pulmonary arterial pressure, central venous pressure (CVP), vasoactive score, and inotropic score were recorded at five time points: after the induction of anesthesia; at weaning, 30min after weaning, and 60min after weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB); and at the end of surgery. The vasoactive and inotropic scores were calculated as follows: vasoactive score = norepinephrine (µg/kg/min) × 100 + milrinone (µg/kg/min) × 10 + olprinone (µg/kg/min) × 25: inotropic score = dopamine (µg/kg/min) × 1 + dobutamine (µg/kg/min) × 1 + epinephrine (µg/kg/min) × 100. We enrolled 16 patients of fulminant myocarditis. Ten of them underwent BiVAD placement, and the other underwent LVAD placement. After weaning from CPB, the BiVAD group had a significantly lower MAP but no difference in CVP. The vasoactive score was significantly higher in the BiVAD group at weaning of CPB (p = 0.015), 30min after weaning (p = 0.004), 60min after weaning (p = 0.005), and at the end of surgery (p < 0.016). Patients with BiVAD placement required more vasoactive support to maintain optimal hemodynamic status compared with those with LVAD placement. This result indicates that BiVAD placement was more associated with vasoplegic syndrome.

Variability of peripheral arterial peak velocity predicts fluid responsiveness in patients with septic shock

To explore the accuracy of fluid responsiveness assessment by variability of peripheral arterial peak velocity and variability of inferior vena cava diameter (ΔIVC) in patients with septic shock. A prospective study was conducted. The patients with septic shock undergoing mechanical ventilation (MV) admitted to intensive care unit (ICU) of Beijing Electric Power Hospital from January 2016 to December 2017 were enrolled. According to sepsis bundles of septic shock, volume expansion (VE) was conducted. The increase in cardiac index (ΔCI) after VE ≥ 10% was defined as liquid reaction positive (responsive group), ΔCI < 10% was defined as the liquid reaction negative (non-responsive group). The hemodynamic parameters [central venous pressure (CVP), intrathoracic blood volume index (ITBVI), stroke volume variation (SVV), ΔIVC, variability of carotid Doppler peak velocity (ΔCDPV), and variability of brachial artery peak velocity (ΔVpeak-BA)] before and after VE were monitored. The correlations between the hemodynamic parameters and ΔCI were explored by Pearson correlation analysis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was plotted to analyze the predictive value of all hemodynamic parameters on fluid responsiveness. During the study, 74 patients with septic shock were included, of whom 9 were excluded because of peripheral artery stenosis, recurrent arrhythmia or abdominal distension influencing the ultrasound examination, and 65 patients were finally enrolled in the analysis. There were 31 patients in the responsive group and 34 in the non-responsive group. SVV, ΔIVC, ΔCDPV and ΔVpeak-BA before VE in responsive group were significantly higher than those of the non-responsive group [SVV: (12.3±2.4)% vs. (9.2±2.1)%, ΔIVC: (22.3±5.3)% vs. (15.5±3.7)%, ΔCDPV: (15.3±3.3)% vs. (10.3±2.4)%, ΔVpeak-BA: (14.5±3.3)% vs. (9.6±2.3)%, all P < 0.05]. There was no significant difference in CVP [mmHg (1 mmHg = 0.133 kPa): 7.5±2.5 vs. 8.2±2.6] or ITBVI (mL/m2: 875.2±173.2 vs. 853.2±192.0) between the responsive group and non-responsive group (both P > 0.05). There was no significant difference in hemodynamic parameter after VE between the two groups. Correlation analysis showed that SVV, ΔIVC, ΔCDPV, and ΔVpeak-BA before VE showed significant linearity correlation with ΔCI (r value was 0.832, 0.813, 0.854, and 0.814, respectively, all P < 0.05), but no correlation was found between CVP and ΔCI (r = -0.342, P > 0.05) as well as ITBVI and ΔCI (r = -0.338, P > 0.05). ROC curve analysis showed that the area under ROC curve (AUC) of SVV, ΔIVC, ΔCDPV, and ΔVpeak-BA before VE for predicting fluid responsiveness was 0.857, 0.826, 0.906, and 0.866, respectively, which was significantly higher than that of CVP (AUC = 0.611) and ITBVI (AUC = 0.679). When the optimal cut-off value of SVV for predicting fluid responsiveness was 11.5%, the sensitivity was 70.4%, and the specificity was 94.7%. When the optimal cut-off value of ΔIVC was 20.5%, the sensitivity was 60.3%, and the specificity was 89.7%. When the optimal cut-off value of ΔCDPV was 13.0%, the sensitivity was 75.2%, and the specificity was 94.9%. When the optimal cut-off value of ΔVpeak-BA was 12.7%, the sensitivity was 64.8%, and the specificity was 89.7%. Ultrasound assessment of ΔIVC, ΔCDPV, and ΔVpeak-BA could predict fluid responsiveness in patients with septic shock receiving mechanical ventilation. ΔCDPV had the highest predictive value among these parameters.

Fontan circulation over 30 years. What should we learn from those patients?

This study aimed to evaluate Fontan circulation which was observed over 30 years. Forty patients who underwent a Fontan operation between 1974 and 1986 and survived (group S, n = 20) or died in the late period (group LD, n = 20) were evaluated. The median age at operation was 10 years (range 2-32 years). The diagnoses were tricuspid atresia in 21, single ventricle in 9, and others in 10. The Fontan procedure was a right atrium-pulmonary artery graft in 2, atriopulmonary connection in 28, and right atrium-right ventricle anastomosis in 10 (Björk in 4, graft in 6). Causes of late death were congestive heart failure in 6, sudden death in 4, arrhythmia in 4, and others in 6. Sixteen patients underwent reoperation 23.3 ± 6.5 years after Fontan. Cardiac catheterization was performed at 1 month and 12 years. There were no significant differences in central venous pressure, ventricular ejection fraction, or pulmonary vascular resistance between the two groups. However, changes in ventricular end-diastolic volume suggested volume and pressure overload in group LD. In group S, the latest chest radiographs showed cardiothoracic ratio 51.3% ± 7.6%, oxygen saturation 94% ± 2%, brain natriuretic peptide 153 ± 111 pg ċ mL-1, and Holter monitoring revealed sinus rhythm in 10 patients. New York Heart Association class was I in 12 patients, II in 6, and III in 2. For long-term Fontan survival, timely total cavopulmonary connection conversion and medication to decrease ventricular volume and pressure load might be important.

Intraoperative management and early postoperative outcomes of pediatric renal transplants.

Smaller children are presenting for renal transplantation as the treatment of choice for end-stage renal disease. Adult donor organs are more successful than pediatric deceased donor organs. An adult kidney may sequester ~75% of the circulating volume of a 5 year-old child and requires significantly increased cardiac output to maintain renal perfusion. Treatment includes volume, inotropic or vasopressor agents, or central neuroaxial blockade for sympatholysis. We describe the perioperative anesthestic management as a guide to clinical outcomes. A retrospective chart review of renal transplant patients between 2006 and 2014 was performed. We recorded patient demographics, surgical and anesthetic factors and postoperative outcome. One hundred and fifty-six children underwent renal transplantation, of which 38% were from living donors. There were 99/156 (63.5%) males. Median age was 10 years (range 1-17 years) and the mean weight was 36.2 kg (sd 20.6 kg; range 7.6-109.6 kg). There were 36 children ≤5 years of age and 14 children ≤2 years of age. One hundred and nineteen (77%) were dialysis dependent. Pharmacological support to increase renal perfusion included mannitol in 95%, and dopamine in 83%. Furosemide was used in 82% of cases. Inotropic therapy continued into the postoperative period in 34%. Radiological pulmonary edema was diagnosed in 33% and clinical pulmonary edema in 7%. Intraoperative use of dopamine delayed the time to creatinine nadir in all grafts (9.5 days vs 6.5 days, P = 0.04) and in deceased donor grafts (12.9 vs 7.4 days, P = 0.007). Patients who received dopamine had no significant difference in central venous pressure (CVP) preclamp removal, 14 mmHg vs 11.5 mmHg (P = 0.12) but a higher CVP after clamp removal, 14.3 mmHg vs 11.8 mmHg (P = 0.003). Dopamine use was common and was an independent risk factor for delayed time to creatinine nadir. Many different agents were used to enhance renal perfusion. The 'supra-physiological' hemodynamics resulted in pulmonary edema in 33% of patients.

Echocardiographic indices related with acute coronary anatomy in acute phase of myocardial infarction: our experience

Inferior acute myocardial infarction (IAMI) is often associated with right ventricle involvement (RVAMI). Echocardiogram (Echo) shows the ischemic involvement of the right ventricle with an initial dilatation (RVD) and segmental cinetic abnormalities (RVSCS). During RVAMI the normal convexity of the interatrial septum (IAS) toward right atrium is inverted (IASI). 53 patients with IAMI were studied with ECG, echo and hemodinamic monitoring by a Swan-Ganz catheter. Echo was early performed and patients were subdivided into three groups: 1. IAMI with RVSCS and/or RVD with IASI (12 patients); 2. IAMI with RVSCS and/or RVD without IASI (8 patients); 3. IAMI without VSCS, RVD IASI (33 patients). ECG showed RV involvement only in A and B groups (ST-T segment elevation more than 2 mm in V3 r - V5 r). Echo-Doppler showed no statistically differences between the two groups on RV protodiastolic pression; no hemodinamic differences between the two groups (p = n.s.); no statistically differences in central venous pressure, right ventricular pressure, cardiac output, wedge pressure. Complications (arrhytmias, heart failure, ipotension, pericarditis, 3rd A-V block) were so subdivided: group A: 6 patients (50%); group B: 2 patients (24%); group C: 4 patients (12%) with statistical significance (p<0.03) between all three groups. Coronarography showed that in group A significative lesions were localized in the proximal tract of the right coronary and/or in the proximal tract of the circumflex coronary; on the contrary in B and C groups the lesions were localized in medium and distal tract of the two vessels. Mortality at six months was 41 % in group A (5 patients); 20 % in group B (2 patients); 6 % in group C (2 patients), with p<0.01 between all three groups. Echo after six months showed IASI only in two patients of group A. Patients with IASI revealed complications (residual angina, ventricular ipercinetic arrytmias). IASI in patients with IAMI and RVAMI seems to identify a group with higher risk in developing complications and with a more adverse prognosis.

Cerebral blood velocity regulation during progressive blood loss compared with lower body negative pressure in humans.

Lower body negative pressure (LBNP) is often used to simulate blood loss in humans. It is unknown if cerebral blood flow responses to actual blood loss are analogous to simulated blood loss during LBNP. Nine healthy men were studied at baseline, during three levels of LBNP (5 min at -15, -30, and -45 mmHg), and during three levels of blood loss (333, 667, and 1,000 ml). LBNP and blood loss conditions were randomized. Intra-arterial mean arterial pressure (MAP) during LBNP was similar to that during blood loss (P ≥ 0.42). Central venous pressure (2.8 ± 0.7 vs. 4.0 ± 0.8, 1.2 ± 0.6 vs. 3.5 ± 0.8, and 0.2 ± 0.9 vs. 2.1 ± 0.9 mmHg for levels 1, 2, and 3, respectively, P ≤ 0.003) and stroke volume (71 ± 4 vs. 80 ± 3, 60 ± 3 vs. 74 ± 3, and 51 ± 2 vs. 68 ± 4 ml for levels 1, 2, and 3, respectively, P ≤ 0.002) were lower during LBNP than blood loss. Despite differences in central venous pressure, middle cerebral artery velocity (MCAv) and cerebrovascular conductance were similar between LBNP and blood loss at each level (MCAv at level 3: 62 ± 6 vs. 66 ± 5 cm/s, P = 0.37; cerebrovascular conductance at level 3: 0.72 ± 0.05 vs. 0.73 ± 0.05 cm·s(-1)·mmHg(-1), P = 0.53). While the slope of the MAP-MCAv relationship was slightly different between LBNP and blood loss (0.41 ± 0.03 and 0.66 ± 0.04 cm·s(-1)·mmHg(-1), respectively, P = 0.05), time domain gain between MAP and MCAv at maximal LBNP/blood loss (P = 0.23) and low-frequency MAP-mean MCAv transfer function coherence, gain, and phase were similar (P ≥ 0.10). Our results suggest that cerebral hemodynamic responses to LBNP to -45 mmHg and blood loss up to 1,000 ml follow a similar trajectory, and the arterial pressure-cerebral blood velocity relationship is not altered from baseline under these conditions.

EFFICIENCY OF TRANSPULMONARY THERMODILUTION IN THE OPTIMIZATION OF INTENSIVE TREATMENT IN PATIENTS WITH SEVERE NOSOCOMIAL PNEUMONIA

Objective: to evaluate the efficiency of transpulmonary thermodilution (TPTD) for the choice of measures to correct hemodynamics in patients with severe nosocomial pneumonia (NP). Subjects and methods. The investigation enrolled 107 NP patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU). Group 1 patients were intensively treated in accordance with a protocol for hemodynamic correction during early goaldirected therapy for sepsis. In Group 2, infusion thera py and sympathomimetic agents were prescribed depending on the results of TPTD. Results. Patients in both groups did not differ in the examined clinical and laboratory indicators. On day 1 of intensive therapy, in Group 2 (a TPTD controlled intensive treatment group) the prescription of sympathomimetic drugs was virtually twice more active than in Group 1; and the value of positive hydrobalance was, twice less. In 5 days, the frequency of use of sympathomimetic agents had no intergroup differences and, in 7 days became less in Group 2 patients. After the therapy patients in Group 2 did not require substantial amounts of infusion and great positive hydrobalance, resulting in lower central venous pressure (CVP) values. After 5 days of intensive therapy, the positive hydrobalance in Group 2 patients was 5 times less and on day 7 this indicator became negative. There were no intergroup differences in CVP on day 1; however, this indicator was higher in Group 1 patients from day 2 to the end of the followup period. At days 5—7, Group 2 patients exhibited elevated SvO2 values and hypolactatemia. At day 3, the SOFA severity was somewhat higher in Group 2 than in Group 1, then substantially reduced and on days 5—7 it was 2—2.5 scores lower in Group 2 than in Group 1. The mortality in ICU was 49% and 33% in Groups 1 and 2, respectively (χχ2=3.899; pConclusion. The determination of infusion amounts and indications for the use of sympathomimetic drugs on the basis of the integrated assessment of global enddiastolic volume index, cardiac index, and total peripheral vascular resistance index results in improved clinical outcomes in mechanically ventilated patients with severe NP. This approach ensures the use of sympathomimetic agents and to avoid hypervolemic loading.

Bicarbonate- versus lactate-buffered solutions for acute continuous haemodiafiltration or haemofiltration.

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a severe loss of kidney function that results in patients' inability to appropriately excrete nitrogenous wastes and creatinine. Continuous haemodiafiltration (HDF) or haemofiltration (HF) are commonly used renal replacement therapies for people with AKI. Buffered dialysates and solutions used in HDF or HF have varying effects on acid-base physiology and several electrolytes. The benefits and harms of bicarbonate- versus lactate-buffered HDF or HF solutions for treating patients with AKI remain unclear. To assess the benefits and harms of bicarbonate- versus lactate-buffered solutions for HDF or HF for treating people with AKI. We searched the Cochrane Renal Group's Specialised Register to 6 January 2015 through contact with the Trials' Search Co-ordinator using search terms relevant to this review. We also searched the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database. All randomised controlled trials (RCT) and quasi-RCTs that reported comparisons of bicarbonate-buffered solutions with lactate-buffered solutions for AKI were selected for inclusion irrespective of publication status or language. Two authors independently assessed titles and abstracts, and where necessary the full text of studies, to determine which satisfied our inclusion criteria. Data were extracted by two authors who independently assessed studies for eligibility and quality using a standardised data extraction form. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Results were expressed as risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). We identified four studies (171 patients) that met our inclusion criteria. Overall, study quality was suboptimal. There were significant reporting omissions related to methodological issues and potential harms. Outcome measures were not defined or reported adequately. The studies were small and lacked follow-up phases.Serum lactate levels were significantly lower in patients treated with bicarbonate-buffered solutions (4 studies, 171 participants: MD -1.09 mmol/L, 95% CI -1.30 to -0.87; I(2) = 0%). There were no differences in mortality (3 studies, 163 participants: RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.50 to 1.15; I(2) = 0%); serum bicarbonate levels (3 studies, 163 participants: MD 0.27 mmol/L, 95% CI -1.45 to 1.99; I(2) = 78%), serum creatinine (2 studies, 137 participants: MD -22.81 µmol/L, 95% CI -129.61 to 83.99; I(2) = 73%), serum base excess (3 studies, 145 participants: MD 0.80, 95% CI -0.91 to 2.50; I(2) = 38%), serum pH (4 studies, 171 participants: MD 0.01, 95% CI -0.02 to 0.03; I(2) = 70%) or carbon dioxide partial pressure (3 studies, 151 participants: MD -1.04, 95% CI -3.84 to 1.76; I(2) = 83%). A single study reported fewer cardiovascular events (RR 0.39, 95% CI 0.20 to 0.79), higher mean arterial pressure (10.25 mm Hg, 95% CI 6.68 to 13.82) and less hypotensive events (RR 0.44, 95% CI 0.26 to 0.75) in patients receiving bicarbonate-buffered solutions. One study reported no significant difference in central venous pressure (MD 2.00 cm H2O, 95% CI -0.7 to, 4.77). Total length of hospital and ICU stay and relapse were not reported by any of the included studies. There were no significant different between bicarbonate- and lactate-buffered solutions for mortality, serum bicarbonate levels, serum creatinine, serum base excess, serum pH, carbon dioxide partial pressure, central venous pressure and serum electrolytes. Patients treated with bicarbonate-buffered solutions may experience fewer cardiovascular events, lower serum lactate levels, higher mean arterial pressure and less hypotensive events. With the exception of mortality, we were not able to assess the main primary outcomes of this review - length of time in ICU, total length of hospital stay and relapse.

No central venous pressure protein losing enteropathy relation? Blame the albumin

I read, with great interest, the paper ‘Haemodynamic characteristics before and after the onset of protein losing enteropathy in patients after the Fontan operation’ by Ohuchi et al. [1]. Reviewing 354 Fontan survivors, the authors successfully stratify them for the risk of protein losing enteropathy (PLE) using the central venous pressure (CVP) measured early postoperation. The significant difference in CVP between those 26 affected with PLE and 56 others considered ‘excellent Fontan survivors’ then disappears at the time of PLE diagnosis. The authors speculate that the failure to find a relationship between CVP and PLE at this point is due to the vasoactive drug regimens these patients inevitably endure. Another explanation could be the drop in oncotic pressure due to hypoalbuminaemia, the primary consequence of PLE. As Bull notes, the maximum sustainable blood pressure in mmHg, given an albumin level of A (g/100 ml), is given by CVP = 5.2 × A [2]. Above this pressure, systemic or pulmonary oedema is generated. The authors report a mean drop of 2.6 mmHg in patients’ CVP at the time of PLE diagnosis from their immediate post-Fontan measurement. This would correspond to a mean drop of 0.5 g/100 ml in albumin levels. A potentially useful consequence of this relation is in treatment planning for patients at diagnosis of PLE. Correcting CVP values for albumin could predict those who would benefit from interventions to lower pulmonary vascular resistance, either pharmacologically through the use of sildenafil or through use of a stent.

Total cavopulmonary connection in patients with apicocaval juxtaposition: optimal conduit route using preoperative angiogram and flow simulation†

Single ventricle with apicocaval juxtaposition (ACJ) is a rare, complex anomaly, in which the optimal position of the conduit for completion of total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) is still controversial. The purpose of this study was to identify a preoperative method for optimal conduit position using the IVC anatomy and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Twenty-four patients with ACJ (5.3 ± 5.7 years) who underwent TCPC were enrolled. A conduit was placed ipsilateral to the cardiac apex in each of 11 patients, of which 9 were intra-atrial and 2 extracardiac (group A) and, in a further 13 patients, extracardiac on the contralateral side (group B). As control, 10 patients with tricuspid atresia were also enrolled (group C). The location of the IVC in relation to the spine was evaluated from the frontal view of preoperative angiogram, using the following index: IVC-index = IVC width overlapping the vertebra/width of the vertebra × 100%. Energy loss was calculated by CFD simulation. IVC-index of group B was larger than groups A and C (45 ± 26 vs. 20 ± 21 and 28 ± 19%, P = 0.03). Postoperative catheterizations showed that, due to its curvature, conduit length in group B was significantly longer than the others (65 ± 12 vs. 36 ± 14 and 44 ± 10 mm, P < 0.001), although there was no statistical difference in central venous pressure or cardiac output. CFD studies revealed less energy loss in group A conduits compared with group B (1.6 ± 0.3 vs. 3.6 ± 0.6 mW, P = 0.05), although this did not appear to be clinically significant. Moreover, CFD simulation showed significant energy loss within the Fontan circulation when the conduit was either compressed or kinked: 4.9 and 18.2 mW respectively. In patients with ACJ, placement of a straighter and shorter conduit on the ventricular apical side provides better laminar blood flow with less energy loss. However, conduit compression and kinking are far more detrimental to the Fontan circulation. A preoperative IVC-index is pivotal for avoiding these factors and deciding the optimal conduit route.

Evaluation of Central Venous Pressure Monitoring in Children Undergoing Craniofacial Reconstruction Surgery

Massive hemorrhage during craniofacial surgery is common and often results in hypovolemia and hypotension. We conducted this study to assess the effect of the addition of routine central venous pressure (CVP) monitoring on the incidence of intraoperative hypotension and to evaluate the relationship between CVP and hypotension in this population. Data from our prospective craniofacial perioperative registry for children 6 to 24 months of age undergoing cranial vault reconstruction with CVP monitoring were compared with data from a historical cohort without CVP monitoring. The incidence and duration of hypotension in the 2 cohorts were compared. In the cohort of subjects with CVP monitoring who experienced hypotension, CVP at the onset of hypotension (T0) was compared with CVP 5 minutes before (T-5) and 5 minutes after (T+5) the onset of hypotension and with the baseline CVP. The amount of time spent at various CVP levels below the baseline, and the associated incidence of hypotension were also determined. Data from 57 registry subjects were compared with data from 115 historical cohort subjects. The median total duration of hypotension in subjects experiencing hypotension was 278 seconds in the CVP cohort versus 165 seconds in the historical cohort; the median difference was 98 seconds (95% confidence interval [CI], -45 to 345 seconds). The incidence of hypotension was 18% in the CVP cohort versus 21% in the historical cohort; the difference in the incidence of hypotension was -3% (95% CI, -10% to 15%). Analysis using a linear mixed effects model showed a significant decrease in CVP from T-5 to T0 (95% CI, -0.9 to -2.2 mm Hg), a significant increase in CVP from T0 to T+5 (95% CI, 1.0-2.4 mm Hg), no significant difference in CVP between T-5 and T+5 (95% CI, -0.9 to 0.9 mm Hg), and a significant decrease in CVP from baseline to T0 (95% CI, -3.4 to -2.1 mm Hg). CVP at T0 was less than the baseline CVP in 97% of hypotensive episodes. When all cases were examined, CVP was ≥3 mm Hg below the baseline for 16% of the total time studied, with an associated incidence of hypotension of 2%. The implementation of routine CVP monitoring was not associated with a decreased incidence and likely was not associated with a decreased duration of hypotension in this population experiencing massive hemorrhage. Hypotension was associated with a decrease in CVP, and resolution of hypotension was associated with an increase in CVP to prehypotensive levels. However, significant decreases in CVP below the baseline were common and usually not associated with hypotension. The routine use of CVP monitoring in these children is of questionable utility as a means to decrease the incidence and duration of hypotension.

Optimal positive end-expiratory pressure during robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.

BackgroundIncreased intra-abdominal pressure during laparoscopic surgery causes cephalad displacement of the diaphragm, resulting in the formation of atelectasis, which can be overcome by positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP). The aim of this prospective study was to investigate the level of optimal PEEP to maintain adequate arterial oxygenation and hemodynamics during robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RLRP).MethodsOne hundred patients undergoing RLRP were randomly allocated to one of five groups (n = 20) (0, 3, 5, 7 and 10 cmH2O of PEEP). Hemodynamic variables and respiratory parameters were measured at baseline with the patient in the supine position; at 30 min, 1, 2, 3 and 4 h during CO2 insufflation with the patient in the post-Trendelenburg position; and after deflation in the supine position with increasing PEEP.ResultsThe PaO2 levels and alveolar-arterial difference in oxygen tension (AaDO2) were improved in patients with PEEPs compared with patients in whom PEEP was not used. The application of PEEP (10 cmH2O) resulted in higher PaO2 levels compared to those with lower PEEP levels, but excessive peak airway pressure (PAP) was sometimes observed. The application of a PEEP of 7 cmH2O resulted in similar PaO2 levels without causing excessive PAP. There was a significant difference in central venous pressure between the groups, but there were no significant differences in heart rate, mean arterial pressure or minute ventilation between the groups.ConclusionsA PEEP of 7 cmH2O is associated with the greater improvement of PaO2 and AaDO2 without causing excessive PAP during RLRP.