Hypotensive Episodes Research Articles

The prevalence and associated factors of intraoperative hypotension following thoracic surgery in resources limited area, 2023. multi-centre approach

Background: Hypotension is an independent predictor of long-term patient morbidity and duration of hospital stay. Multiple factors contribute to the development of intraoperative hypotension. Prevention and treatment of these factors may reduce patients’ hypotension and its associated morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of intraoperative hypotension in patients undergoing elective thoracic surgery. Methods: This institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 174 adult patients who underwent elective thoracic surgery. A systematic random sampling technique was used, and quantitative data were collected through interviews and data retrieval from charts via a pretested questionnaire. Both bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the associations between independent and dependent variables. The level of statistical significance was defined as a P-value less than 0.05. The data were entered into Info 7.2.1 and analysed via SPSS version 26 software, which was used to calculate descriptive statistics, and bivariate and multivariate logistic regression were performed. Results: In general, information was collected from 174 patients during the study period. The results of the present study revealed that 65 (41%) patients developed intraoperative hypotension (95% CI: 36.43%-48%). Intraoperative blood loss was significantly associated with intraoperative hypotension [AOR=9.58, 95% CI (2.57--35.8)] (P=0.001). Conclusion and recommendation: The findings of this study revealed high rates of intraoperative hypotension episodes, which were 41%, in patients who underwent elective thoracic surgery. Age, ASA class, type of intraoperative blood loss, type of procedure pre-existence comorbidity and duration of surgery were predictors of intraoperative hypotension in patients who underwent elective thoracic surgery. The anaesthetist’s, surgeon and PACU staff’s understanding of these factors is very crucial for close follow-up of this group of patients.

Influence of orthostatic blood pressure changes on the effects of intensive blood pressure control in patients with type 2 diabetes

Abstract Background Intensive blood pressure (BP) control has been proven to reduce the risks of major cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (1). Excessive orthostatic BP changes should be fully addressed, given its high prevalence and associations with adverse events among T2DM patients (2-5). However, the benefits of intensive BP control among T2DM patients with significant orthostatic BP changes have been equivocal. Purpose To examine whether orthostatic BP changes modify the efficacy of intensive BP control on CVD outcomes in patients with T2DM. Methods The Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Blood Pressure trial (ACCORD BP) is a 2×2 factorial designed trial that aimed to evaluate the effects of intensive glycemia and BP control on major CVD events among T2DM patients (6). We enrolled participants with at least one record of orthostatic BP values for analysis. The composite CVD outcome in this study comprised cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, and hospitalized congestive heart failure. Associations between orthostatic BP changes and the composite CVD outcome and all-cause death, respectively, were presented by restricted cubic spline curves based on multivariable Cox models. We examined if the effects of intensive BP control varied across the orthostatic BP change for the composite CVD outcome and all-cause death. Results Among 4330 participants, 877 (20.3%) experienced episodes of orthostatic hypotension (OH) at baseline or during follow-up. There was no significant difference in the proportions of OH participants between the intensive and standard BP arms. U-shaped associations were observed between orthostatic systolic BP changes and the composite CVD outcome, as well as all-cause mortality (Figure 1). In the standard glycemia arm, intensive BP control was significantly associated with a lower risk of composite CVD outcome (HR 0.76, 95%CI 0.59-0.97). There was a beneficial association of intensive BP control with all-cause mortality without statistical significance (HR 0.85, 95%CI 0.56-1.30). The favorable effect of intensive BP control was not influenced by orthostatic BP changes (P for interaction 0.51 for the composite CVD outcome and 0.97 for all-cause mortality) (Figure 2). Beneficial effects of intensive BP control were not observed for participants in the intensive glycemia arm on the composite CVD outcome (HR 0.99, 95%CI 0.76-1.28) and all-cause mortality (HR 1.19, 0.79-1.80). Conclusion Orthostatic BP changes should not be a barrier to intensive BP control for T2DM patients treated with guideline-recommended standard glycemia control.

Effect of prophylactic infusion of norepinephrine on the prevention of hypotension during vertebroplasty: a randomized clinical trial

BackgroundTransient hypotension is a common occurrence during the implantation of bone cement. This placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial study investigated the effect of prophylactic infusion of norepinephrine on the incidence of hypotension in senior patients who underwent vertebroplasty.MethodsThe trial recruited patients who were greater than or equal to 65 years of age, had an American Society of Anesthesiologist physical status classification of I to III, and underwent vertebroplasty from August 2020 to August 2021 at the Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine in China. The patients were randomly grouped according to whether they received either a norepinephrine infusion of 0.05 µg/kg/min or an equivalent volume of saline 10 min before implantation of bone cement. Intraoperative hemodynamics were monitored continuously by the MostCare system at the following 7 time points: 10 min before implantation of bone cement and immediately, 30 s, 1, 3, 5, and 10 min after implantation of bone cement. We also recorded the number of hypotensive episodes and the total number of vasopressors after implantation of bone cement. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the risk factors associated with hypotension after implantation of bone cement.ResultsA total of 63 patients were randomized to the control group (n = 31; median [IQR] age, 74 [69–79] years) and the norepinephrine group (n = 32; median [IQR] age, 75 [71–79] years). The incidence of hypotension in the norepinephrine group was significantly lower than that in the control group after implantation of bone cement (12.5% vs. 45.2%; relative risk [RR], 3.61 [95% CI, 1.13–15.07]; P = 0.005). Moreover, the median (IQR) number of hypotensive episodes (0 [0–0] vs. 0 [0–2]; P = 0.005) and the total number of vasopressors (0 [0–0] vs. 0 [0–1]; P = 0.004) in the norepinephrine group were significantly lower than those in the control group. Furthermore, compared with the baseline, the MAP significantly decreased at 1 min (P = 0.007) and 3 min (P < 0.001) after bone cement implantation in the control group. However, the MAP at 3 min in the norepinephrine group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < 0.001). The incidence of complications was not different between the groups. In multivariable logistic regression, the FRAIL score (OR, 2.29; 95% CI, 1.21–4.31) was identified as a risk factor associated with hypotension.ConclusionProphylactic infusion of norepinephrine before bone cement implantation can stabilize hemodynamics and reduce the incidence of hypotension after implantation of bone cement.

Evidence of renal tubular injury in canine patients after elective desexing.

To investigate the frequency of perioperative acute kidney injury (AKI) in American Society of Anesthesiologists (SA) Grade I canine patients undergoing elective desexing using urine microscopy techniques and assess if pre- and intraoperative factors affect risk of developing AKI. Prospective observational clinical study conducted between September 2020 and October 2020. University teaching hospital. Thirty-two female and four male dogs between 5 months and 5 years of age classified as ASA I undergoing elective desexing surgery. Urinalysis was performed preoperatively and 20-24 h postoperatively to identify markers of renal tubular injury (RTI), particularly the presence of granular and renal tubular epithelial cell (RTEC) casts on sediment analysis. Dogs underwent a full physical examination and a preoperative assessment including measurement of urine specific gravity (USG), packed cell volume (PCV), total plasma protein and serum creatinine (sCr) was conducted as a part of the desexing programme. Anaesthetic records were examined for any evidence of intraoperative hypotension, defined as a mean arterial pressure (MAP) of <60 mmHg for any duration of time. MAP was measured using an indirect oscillometric technique. For analysis, animals were subdivided into affected and nonaffected groups, with affected animals those that hadpostoperative increases in granular and RTEC casts. Categorical and comparative analyses were then performed between groups to identify associations of increased casts with pre-, intra- and postoperative variables. A frequency of RTI of 5.6% was identified. This was accompanied by a significant association between increases in casts with total duration (p = 0.027) and number (p = 0.016) of hypotensive episodes. RTI is an anaesthetic consideration in ASA I veterinary patients undergoing elective desexing surgery. The identification of an association between the total duration and number of hypotensive episodes and the frequency of RTI highlights the importance of early detection of hypotension along with prompt and effective intervention in veterinary patients.

12391 When Pressure Drops, Consequences Rise: A Case Of Pituitary Apoplexy And Watershed Infarcts

Abstract Disclosure: D. Moreno Watashi: None. H.R. Alkaissi: None. M.B. Sharma: None. Introduction: Pituitary apoplexy (PA) results from sudden hemorrhaging and infarction of the pituitary gland, typically within a pituitary adenoma. The primary symptom is a sudden, severe headache, often followed by acute endocrine dysfunction, ophthalmoplegia and visual or neurological disturbances. Case Description: A 68-year-old male with a past medical history of hypertension presented to the emergency department with acute chest and upper back pain, beginning one day prior. No history of smoking, alcohol intake or drug use. Blood pressure (BP) on arrival was 180/95 mmHg. Initial labs revealed mild electrolyte abnormalities. Troponins were normal, but ECG showed diffuse T wave inversion and ST depression. CT angiography revealed a type B aortic dissection. He was managed in the critical care unit with continuous esmolol intravenous (IV) infusion and planned for endovascular repair. During his stay, he became disoriented and hypotensive. MRI from the brain incidentally discovered a pituitary macroadenoma measuring 2.9x2.2x3cm and recent infarcts, with a distribution concerning for hypoperfusion. Fundoscopy concerning for optic chiasm compression. Labs indicated secondary hypothyroidism and hypogonadism (TSH 0.3 uUI/ml, free T4 0.88 ng/dL, total testosterone 56.3 ng/dL). Neurosurgical intervention was deferred until after aortic repair. Endovascular aortic repair was performed with episodes of hypotension. Post-procedure, the patient developed fever (39.5°C) and worsening mental status. Head CT revealed an increased suprasellar extension of the pituitary macroadenoma and vasogenic edema, consistent with hemorrhage of the lesion. He was started on stress doses of hydrocortisone, levothyroxine 125mcg and managed conservatively due to a high surgical risk. Discussion: PA's extrinsic risk factors include angiographic procedures, endocrinological dynamic tests, anticoagulation therapy, exogenous estrogen administration, orthopedic and cardiac surgeries (due to BP fluctuations). The intrinsic risk factors are non-functioning adenomas, macroadenomas and suprasellar extension. Treatment is focused on immediate correction of endocrine derangements and relieving local compression. Stress dosage of corticosteroids should be administered IV as soon as the diagnosis is confirmed to prevent life-threatening corticotropic deficiency. Neurosurgical decompression via a transsphenoidal approach is the definitive therapy to relieve local compression with severe visual loss, obtundation or rapidly progressive course. The potential outcomes are based on the extent of hemorrhage, necrosis, and edema. PA should be treated as a medical emergency in the setting of hemodynamic changes from acute corticotropic deficiency and irreversible neurological damage from acute intracranial compression. The risk factors for PA should be known to assist in early diagnosis. Presentation: 6/1/2024

8191 Navigating The Maze Of Adrenal Insufficiency, A Complex Case Of Late Presentation

Abstract Disclosure: K.N. Pereira: None. V. Sundaram: None. V. Mehta: None. K. Desai: None. B. Agrawal: None. Adrenal insufficiency, a rare but potentially life-threatening endocrine disorder, arises from the inadequate production or ineffective response to adrenal hormones, particularly cortisol and aldosterone. It poses diagnostic challenges, especially in individuals with intricate medical histories and manifests as either primary (Addison's disease) or secondary. The subtlety of initial symptoms often leads to a delayed diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of a high index of suspicion among healthcare providers. Timely recognition and intervention are crucial to prevent adrenal crises, which includes severe hypotension, electrolyte imbalances and life-threatening complications. This case report delves into the presentation, diagnosis, and management of primary adrenal insufficiency in a 51-year-old female with a myriad of co-morbidities who presented with persistent low blood pressure, syncope episodes and dizziness both at rest and with exertion, despite being on midodrine with systolic blood pressure readings ranging from 60s to 80s mmHg. She was also noted to be bradycardic and laboratory results showed hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, hypoglycemia and anemia. She was given prompt fluid resuscitation, stress dose steroids and fludrocortisone, leading to a remarkable improvement in blood pressure and overall clinical status. Subsequent testing showed low serum cortisol level and elevated ACTH level, confirming the diagnosis of primary adrenal insufficiency. Continued steroids resulted in significant symptomatic improvement and with no further episodes of hypotension or syncope on ensuing follow ups. This case serves as a poignant illustration for the need for a heightened clinical suspicion, as the symptoms of adrenal insufficiency can often masquerade within the intricate tapestry of comorbidities. When the utilization of midodrine, aimed at managing orthostatic hypotension, did not abate symptoms, it prompted a thorough investigation into the possibility of underlying adrenal dysfunction. This case also highlights the collaborative, multidisciplinary approach in the management of adrenal insufficiency, with endocrinology playing a pivotal role. Presentation: 6/1/2024

8621 A Challenging Case of Preoperative Management of Pheochromocytoma Presenting With Recurrent Hypotension

Abstract Disclosure: N. Shripad: None. R. Osman: None. Introduction: Pheochromocytoma is a neuroendocrine tumor that clinically manifests due to the hypersecretion of catecholamines. Preoperative management typically involves alpha- and beta-adrenergic blockade. Patients commonly present with hypertension; however, in rare cases, patients may be hypotensive due to other comorbidities, posing a challenge to preoperative management. The following is a case of management of a pheochromocytoma with recurrent preoperative hypotension before the initiation of blood pressure-lowering agents. Case: A 47-year-old female presented to the hospital with dizziness and hypotension. The patient has a history of bilateral nephrectomy with left-sided adrenalectomy secondary to left-sided renal cell cancer and is hemodialysis-dependent. A right-sided pheochromocytoma was diagnosed a year ago on a follow-up CT scan done for monitoring renal cell cancer. The diagnosis was later confirmed with a DODATE scan and, eventually, a biopsy. Normetanephrine levels were between 581-735 pg/mL (0-88 pg/mL), with normal metanephrine levels. She denies having hyperadrenergic spells. She was started on metoprolol and doxazosin the year prior to presentation; however, she self-discontinued doxazosin after experiencing dizziness and palpitations on hemodialysis days. On admission, she was afebrile with a blood pressure of 103/66 mm Hg and a heart rate of 115 BPM. After an interdisciplinary decision was made for surgical resection, she was restarted on a lower dose of doxazosin (1 mg) and metoprolol was increased to the goal heart rate. Despite fewer hypotensive episodes on a reduced dose of doxazosin, the patient remained hypotensive on hemodialysis days. Salt tablets were started post-dialysis after clearance from nephrology, and an improvement in blood pressure was noted. She underwent a right adrenalectomy without receiving saline infusion before surgery due to concerns about volume overload. She was started on stress dose steroids due to her history of left adrenalectomy. She remained stable during and following surgery and did not require any vasopressor support. Discussion: Perioperative management of pheochromocytoma can be challenging in hypotensive patients and is poorly documented. Midodrine, an alpha-1 agonist that is typically used in dialysis-induced hypotension, is contraindicated in the setting of pheochromocytoma. We opted to manage our patient with a reduced dose of doxazosin and beta-blocker initially; however, with continued hypotensive episodes, the addition of salt tablets preoperatively on dialysis days helped to alleviate the hypotension. Although our patient did not require it, a preoperative overnight albumin infusion is a viable alternative to saline to prevent volume overload. Despite the limited literature, the patient was treated successfully through an interdisciplinary approach. Presentation: 6/3/2024

12564 A Rare Case Of Pembrolizumab Induced Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency

Abstract Disclosure: L. Escano Volquez: None. P. Desai: None. Pembrolizumab is an immune check-point inhibitor that blocks the PD1 receptor and is currently used in the treatment of a vast variety of malignancies. Despite adrenal insufficiency (AI) already being documented as a rare but potential side effect, its diagnosis is usually delayed due to vague presentation, increasing the risk of deleterious outcomes. We present a case of secondary AI while on pembrolizumab in which diagnosis was delayed due to unspecific clinical picture.This is a 66-year-old male who presented to the hospital with decreased appetite, nausea and generalized weakness. Patient was seen a month prior with similar symptoms which were thought to be secondary to poor oral intake in the setting of underlying malignancy. Medical history remarkable for squamous cell carcinoma of the skin with recent lung metastasis for which he was started on pembrolizumab a year ago. On arrival to the emergency department, patient was hypertensive with BP 144/68 mmHg, HR 88, and RR 15. Orthostatic vitals were positive. Physical examination otherwise unremarkable. Laboratory tests revealed mild hypernatremia of 147, potassium of 4.7, chloride 108, HCO3 18, anion gap 21, BUN 33, elevated creatinine 1.62 and elevated beta-hydroxybutyrate 5.4. EKG revealed sinus rhythm. Patient was admitted for further evaluation of orthostasis and starvation ketosis. Initial management included IV fluids and Midodrine. However, patient continued to have episodes of orthostatic hypotension. Lack of improvement of symptoms led to further workup which revealed low AM cortisol of 1.0 and a low ACTH level &amp;lt;3.0 pg/ml, concerning for secondary adrenal insufficiency. Patient was administered Solu-Medrol 40 mg IV before being transitioned to a daily hydrocortisone regimen with subsequent improvement of symptoms. Pembrolizumab induced AI is a very rare event. It is estimated that the incidence approaches 1% and symptoms can develop at any time throughout treatment. Despite its low incidence, it can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly. However, given its very heterogeneous and vague clinical presentation, a prompt diagnosis can be difficult. The clinical course of our patient and subsequent resolution of symptoms after appropriate treatment was started, supports the diagnosis of pembrolizumab induced adrenal insufficiency after a year of initiating treatment. This patient had prior hospitalizations and office visits with symptoms that are usually already present in individuals with underlying malignancy, which resulted in underestimation of his symptoms. This case highlights the importance of always considering AI as a potential adverse effect of immune check-point inhibitors. This will ensure a prompt diagnosis and treatment of an endocrine disorder that could otherwise lead to deleterious outcomes if left untreated. Presentation: 6/1/2024

8252 Central Adrenal Insufficiency Masquerading as Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH): A Case Report

Abstract Disclosure: J.G. Sazon: None. J.L. Reyes: None. J.V. Chua: None. S.A. Kho: None. Hyponatremia, the most common electrolyte imbalance encountered in clinical practice, has various causes and presentation. Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion (SIADH) is a frequent hospital-related cause, potentially leading to misdiagnosis with adrenal insufficiency due to shared clinical features which may cause potential deleterious effect. We present a case of a 41-year-old male hyponatremic patient with a two-month history of progressive generalized body weakness and lightheadedness, initially managed as SIADH. Upon admission, the patient persistently showed low serum sodium level (122mmol/L) (NV: 135-145mmol/L), exhibited signs of euvolemic hyponatremia despite fluid restriction, intravenous furosemide, and sodium chloride tablets. Further work-up revealed normocytic normochromic anemia (Hgb 107 g/L) (NV: 120-160g/L), elevated ESR of (31mm/hr) (NV: 0-15mm/hr), low Ft4 (2.97 pmol/L) (NV: 12-22 pmol/L) and normal TSH (2.2 uIU/mL) (NV: 0.27-4.20 uIU/mL). During hospital stay, he experienced an episode of hypotension at 80/50mmHg and hypoglycemia at 65 mg/dL. Investigation revealed adrenal insufficiency secondary to pituitary macroadenoma with apoplexy as showed in magnetic resonance imaging. Patient was started on Prednisone. Pre-operatively, hydrocortisone 100mg IV every 8 hours preoperatively. He underwent transsphenoidal surgery; excising a 2.5cm soft and grayish suprasellar mass. Post-operatively, he was given Prednisone and Levothyroxine resulting in symptom improvement and normal sodium levels.The occurrence of hyponatremia due to adrenal insufficiency is relatively uncommon, emphasizing the need for heightened suspicion when assessing patients with prolonged or recurring hyponatremia. This paper highlight the need to replace glucocorticoid prior supplementation of thyroid hormone in such cases, averting the occurrence of adrenal crisis. This case indicated a mechanism of persistent hyponatremia attributed to secondary adrenal insufficiency, with added therapeutic benefits observed through the use of glucocorticoids and transsphenoidal surgery. Presentation: 6/1/2024

Effects of Primer on Episodes of Hypotension during Therapeutic Plasma Exchange

Effects of Primer on Episodes of Hypotension during Therapeutic Plasma Exchange

Outcomes of burn patients presenting with hypotension within 48 hrs of admission to a level 1 Burn Centre

IntroductionBurns is one of the important presentations in trauma surgery in both first and third-world countries. Hypotension is often seen in the clinical presentation of a burn injury. Hypotension is the strongest independent predictor of an adverse outcome, according to a study done on emergency departments’ hospital outcomes; the lower the systolic, the worse the outcome. No direct study shows that presenting with or developing hypotension within 48hrs of admission and burn injury will have a worse outcome in our low-middle income setting. ObjectivesTo determine the outcomes of burn patients who developed hypotension within 48hrs of arrival at a Burn Centre in Johannesburg. In a singled time event. MethodsA retrospective descriptive study was conducted at a Level 1 Trauma Centre Burn unit in Johannesburg from 01 Jan 2019 – 31 Dec 2020. Patients who had a hypotensive episode at any point during the 48 h period were recruited. Hypotension was defined as a systolic blood pressure of less than 90mmhg. The patients were then divided into two groups: those who presented with or developed hypotension within 48hrs and those who did not. After that, the in-hospital mortality of both groups was to be determined. The study included all the patients who presented to the Burn Centre. Those younger than 18, or requiring readmission in the same study or delayed admissions of more than 24 h were excluded. Demographics, burn information, resuscitation data, outcomes and disposition status were evaluated. The STATA Statistics/Data Analysis version 16.0 was used to analyse the data. The level of significance was set at a p-value < 0.05. Ethical approval was obtained from the Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) (medical) of the University of the Witwatersrand with the clearance number: M220132. ResultsOf the 132 patients seen, only 105 met the study inclusion criteria. Most patients were male: 91/105 (86.6 %). Flame burns accounted for the majority of the burns, 64/105 (60.95 %), followed by electrical burns, 26/105 (24.76 %). Hot water and chemical burns only accounted for 11/105 (10.48 %) and 4 (3.81 %) cases. Hypotension within 48hrs was noted in 37/105(35 %) of the cases. Hypotensive patients had an increased burn depth (p = 0.03), higher inhalation rate component (p = <0.001), greater lactate levels(p = 0.00001), higher baux score(p = 0.00001) and more likelihood of being placed on the ventilator (p = <0.00001) or dialysis (p = 0.008). Mortality was noted in 16 (43 %) of the patients who developed hypotension compared to 5 (7.4 %) patients of non-hypotensive patients (p < 0.001). The mortality of patients who presented with or developed hypotension was 9.59 times (95 % CI 3.1–29.4; p = 0.00001) higher than those who did not develop hypotension. Age and TBSA affected by burn, were found to have significant predictive value for mortality (p < 0.0001), respectively. Propensity matching was limited due to sample size. TBSA and the development of hypotension were matched, and the odds ratio of developing mortality was still increased. ConclusionHypotension was seen among burn injury patients admitted to a specialized intensive care unit. Hypotension was associated with higher TBSA % and increased age. In terms of characteristics, increased used of organ support was more likely with hypotensive patients with ventilation, inotropes, and dialysis. Length of stay was decreased in hypotensive patients. The odds of mortality were much higher in hypotensive patients, with age and TBSA being significant variables.

Intraoperative hemodynamic instability during laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma without preoperative medical preparation compared with nonsecreting tumor

BackgroundControl of hemodynamic features during adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma is recommended to minimize perioperative cardiovascular complications. However, episodes of intraoperative hemodynamic instability have been observed during adrenalectomies with other indications than pheochromocytoma. The objective of this study was to compare the hemodynamic instability score assessed during unilateral adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma without preoperative medical preparation to hemodynamic instability score in nonsecreting tumor. MethodsThis was an observational study with prospective intraoperative hemodynamic data collection (every 20 seconds) and retrospective analysis. ResultsDuring the study period, 60 consecutive patients (30 pheochromocytomas vs 30 nonsecreting tumors) were included with a median number of data collections during total procedure time of 318 (interquartile range, 257–388). Mean cumulative intraoperative time outside the target blood pressure range expressed as a percentage of total procedure time was 13.3% vs 6.8% for systolic blood pressure >160 mm Hg (P = .01) and 2.4% vs 2.8% for mean arterial pressure <60 mm Hg (P = ns), respectively. The median hemodynamic instability score during total procedure time was 33 (interquartile range, 27–43) and 20 (interquartile range, 11–26) in the pheochromocytoma and nonsecreting tumor group, respectively (P < .01). Hemodynamic instability score were similar in patients with compared with without long-term antihypertensive treatment in each patient group (P = ns). The mean length of hospital stay was 2.0 ± 1.5 days, and 30-day morbidity rate was 6.6% (4/60) with no significant difference observed between both groups. ConclusionAlthough intraoperative hemodynamic instability remains greater in the pheochromocytoma group without preoperative medical preparation, both groups have similar hypotensive episodes. These data highlight the need to better understand the role of preoperative medical preparation in pheochromocytoma patients.

Right Ventricular Dysfunction in Patients Undergoing High-Risk PCI with Impella

Right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) is an important prognostic factor in several cardiac conditions, including acute and chronic heart failure. The impact of baseline RVD on clinical outcomes of patients undergoing high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention (HRPCI) supported by Impella is unknown. Patients from the single-arm, multicenter PROTECT III study of Impella-supported HRPCI were stratified based on the presence or absence of RVD. RVD was quantitatively assessed by an echocardiography core laboratory and was defined as fractional area change < 35%, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion < 17 mm or pulsed-wave Doppler S-wave of the lateral tricuspid annulus < 9.5 cm/s. Procedural outcomes, 90-day major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE: the composite of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke/TIA, and repeat revascularization), and 1-year mortality were assessed. Of the 239 patients who underwent RV function assessment, 124 were found to have RVD. Lower left ventricular ejection fraction, higher blood urea nitrogen levels, and more severe RV dilation were independently associated with RVD. The incidence of hypotensive episodes during PCI, the proportion of patients requiring prolonged Impella support, the completeness of revascularization, and the rate of in-hospital mortality did not differ significantly between patients with vs without RVD. However, 90-day MACCE rates were higher in those with RVD, and RVD was a robust predictor of 1-year mortality in multivariable Cox-regression analyses. In patients undergoing HRPCI with Impella, RVD was associated with more advanced biventricular failure. The use of Impella support during HRPCI facilitated effective revascularization, even in those with concomitant RVD. Nevertheless, RVD was associated with unfavorable long-term prognoses.

Comparing the cardiorespiratory safety of parenteral olanzapine and benzodiazepines to parenteral haloperidol/droperidol and benzodiazepines in emergency department patients

IntroductionThis study sought to assess the cardiorespiratory safety of parenteral olanzapine and benzodiazepine combination treatment compared to parenteral droperidol or haloperidol and benzodiazepine combination treatment. Materials and methodsThis was a retrospective chart review conducted in adult emergency department patients who received intramuscular (IM) or intravenous (IV) droperidol, haloperidol, or olanzapine within one hour of IM or IV benzodiazepine. Patients were stratified into groups based on whether they received either olanzapine in combination with a benzodiazepine (n = 48) or droperidol or haloperidol in combination with a benzodiazepine (n = 48). ResultsPatients in each group had a decrease in their systolic blood pressure (SBP) after IM/IV olanzapine and IM/IV droperidol or haloperidol when used in combination with an IM/IV benzodiazepine ((Olanzapine + benzodiazepine (mmHg), median (IQR): Pre-SBP: 132 (117–151) vs. Post-SBP: 117 (99–131), p < 0.01) (Droperidol or haloperidol + benzodiazepine (mmHg), median (IQR): Pre-SBP: 138 (122–149) vs. Post-SBP: 106 (98–127), p < 0.01)). Both groups had similar percent SBP decreases post-combination treatment (Olanzapine + benzodiazepine (15.6 %) vs. Droperidol or haloperidol + benzodiazepine (15.2 %); p = 0.55). We did not observe any statistically significant between group differences for hypotension (Olanzapine + benzodiazepine: 1/48, 2.1 % vs. Droperidol or haloperidol + benzodiazepine: 3/48, 6.3 %; p = 0.62)), escalation in oxygen requirements (Olanzapine + benzodiazepine: 7/48, 14.6 %) vs. Droperidol or haloperidol + benzodiazepine: 5/48, 10.4 %; p = 0.76)), or intubation due to cardiorespiratory depression (Olanzapine + benzodiazepine: 0/0, 0 % vs. Droperidol or haloperidol + benzodiazepine: 0/0, 0 %; p = 1.00)). ConclusionThis study found decreases in SBP after administering parenteral olanzapine and parenteral droperidol or haloperidol in combination with a parenteral benzodiazepine. The percent change in SBP and the frequency of hypotensive episodes post-combination treatment were not different between groups. There were also no differences between groups in need of increased oxygen requirements post-combination treatment or need for intubation due to cardiorespiratory depression. This study suggests parenteral olanzapine in combination with a parenteral benzodiazepine may have comparable cardiorespiratory safety versus parenteral droperidol or haloperidol in combination with a parenteral benzodiazepine when treating agitation in the adult ED.

The effect of the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 S protein on angiotensin II levels in rats

Autoantibodies against key molecules of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) are found in some patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. These autoantibodies include antibodies against angiotensin II and angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). The presence of antibodies to the RAS-related molecules is associated with episodes of hypotension or hypertension. The aim of this work was to study the effect of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 S protein and autoantibodies to ACE2 on angiotensin II levels in a model of induced multiple organ damage caused in rats by immunization with SARS-CoV-2 S protein. The effect of pre-existing autoimmune encephalomyelitis on change in angiotensin II level caused by immunization with S protein is also was studied. Wistar rats were immunized with S protein of SARS-CoV-2 emulsified in incomplete Freund’s adjuvant (IFA). At the time of injection of S protein 6 of the rats were intact (S group), in 4 of the rat experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis was previously induced by immunization with guinea pig myelin basic protein (EAE + S group). The control group of rats was injected with IFA. Antibodies to S protein, autoantibodies to ACE2, and angiotensin II level were determined in blood plasma by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. It was found that immunization with S protein leads to a transient decrease in the blood level of angiotensin II. The blood angiotensin II level was lower than normal in 3 out of 6 rats (50%) in group S, and in 3 out of 4 (75%) in the EAE + S group at week 6 after immunization. The decrease in angiotensin II level was significant in the EAE + S group relative to the control group (ANOVA, p = 0.0423). A deeper decrease in the angiotensin II level in the blood of EAE + S group than in S group was associated with a higher level of antibodies to S protein: the level of antibodies to S protein was significantly higher in the EAE + S group for 1-6 weeks after immunization with S protein compared to the S group of rats. Immunization of rats with S protein did not cause the production of anti-ACE2 autoantibodies in the EAE + S group, and in the S group it was weak and was not accompanied by an increase in angiotensin II levels. Thus, in rats immunized with S protein, a transient decrease in the level of angiotensin II was detected at the peak of production of antibodies to S protein, which may indicate that antibodies to S protein may contribute to a decrease in angiotensin II level in SARS-CoV-2 infection. In addition, pre-existing autoimmune disease leads to a stronger response to S protein, accompanied by a stronger decrease in angiotensin II level.

Effect of different dialysate temperatures on post dialysis fatigue in patients undergoing haemodialysis: a quasi-experimental study.

To compare the effects of warm and cold dialysate solutions on the duration of post-dialysis fatigue in patients undergoing maintenance haemodialysis. The quasi-experimental study was conducted at the Department of Nephrology, Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from May 9 to September 10, 2023, and comprised adult patients of either gender undergoing maintenance haemodialysis for a minimum of 3 months. The patient initially underwent haemodialysis with a dialysate temperature of 36°C for 2 weeks. During the subsequent washout period of one week when the dialysate temperature was not monitored, they underwent haemodialysis with a dialysate temperature of 37°C for another 2 weeks. Blood pressure was monitored every 30 minutes to record any hypotensive episodes. Patients were asked if they felt fatigued after the last haemodialysis session, and the duration was noted down. Data was analysed using SPSS 24. Of the 92 patients with mean age 49.1±16.1 years, 57(62%) were males. Post-dialysis fatigue was seen in 67(72.8%) and 75(81.5%) patients with dialysate temperatures at 36°C and 37°C, respectively (p<0.001). The duration of post-dialysis fatigue was also significantly longer at dialysate temperatures 37°C p<0.001). There was no significant difference in the proportion of hypotensive episodes in the two groups (p=0.445). Dialysate temperature 36°C was found to be associated with less frequent and shorter duration of postdialysis fatigue compared to dialysate temperature 37°C.

The Relationship between Dialysis Adequacy and Blood Pressure and Number of Intradialytic Hypotensive Episodes in Haemodialysis Patients

Dialysis adequacy is currently defined as the dose of dialysis that covers all functions of the kidney and is measured by adequate removal of harmful substances and excess fluid accumulated in the body. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between dialysis adequacy and blood pressure, as well as the number of intradialytic hypotensive episodes in hemodialysis patients. The study included 50 patients receiving four-hour hemodialysis three times a week at Muş State Hospital. Dialysis adequacy was based on Kt/V and URR values. Demographic data were collected by face-to-face interviews with the participants. Blood pressure, Kt/V, and URR were measured before the hemodialysis session, and then the total number of intradialytic hypotensive episodes within one hemodialysis session was recorded. There was no statistically significant correlation between Kt/V and systolic and diastolic blood pressure and number of intradialytic hypotensive episodes (P&gt;0.05). There was no statistically significant correlation between URR and systolic and diastolic blood pressure and number of intradialytic hypotensive episodes (P&gt;0.05). Our study shows that there is no significant relationship between dialysis adequacy and blood pressure and number of intradialytic hypotensive episodes. Further research is needed to understand how these relationships may vary among patient groups with different demographic and clinical characteristics.

Use of a quadratus lumborum block in queens undergoing ovariectomy: a randomised controlled trial.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the perioperative analgesic effect of a quadratus lumborum (QL) block in queens undergoing ovariectomy. A total of 37 healthy queens admitted for elective ovariectomy were randomised into two groups: control (CTRL, n = 19) and QL block (QL, n = 18). All cats were premedicated with dexmedetomidine 0.005 mg/kg, alfaxalone 1 mg/kg and methadone 0.1 mg/kg IM. Under general anaesthesia, cats allocated to the QL group received a bilateral ultrasound-guided QL block with 0.4 ml/kg of ropivacaine 0.4% (3.2 mg/kg). No treatment was administered to cats in the CTRL group. Intraoperative rescue fentanyl boluses were administered if haemodynamic and/or respiratory parameters exceeded 30% of the pre-incisional values. Postoperative methadone boluses were administered based on Feline Grimace Scale scores. Demographics, baseline vital parameter values, requirement for rescue analgesia, incidence of hypotension, sialorrhoea, vomiting and dysphoria, and number of cats accepting food at 6 h after extubation were compared between groups. A higher number of queens required intraoperative fentanyl in the CTRL group (14/18, 77.8%) compared with the QL group (1/19, 5.3%) (P <0.001). The median total fentanyl dose was 4 µg/kg (range 0-4) in the CTRL group and 0 µg/kg (range 0-4) in the QL group (P <0.001). No statistically significant difference was found between groups when comparing the number of animals requiring postoperative methadone, total methadone dose, episodes of hypotension, sialorrhoea, vomiting and dysphoria, and number of queens accepting food at 6 h postoperatively. No adverse effect or complication potentially related to the block was recorded. The QL block resulted in a lower intraoperative fentanyl requirement in queens undergoing ovariectomy. Further studies are needed to clarify the postoperative analgesic effect of this technique in cats.

Effectiveness and safety of intravenous labetalol in severe pre-eclampsia and eclampsia at a teaching institution in Chhattisgarh.

Severe hypertension in pregnancy deserves prompt recognition and urgent effective reduction in order to reduce the risk of complications such as eclampsia and HELLP syndrome and to achieve desirable neonatal outcomes. There is a need for effective and safe parenteral antihypertensive treatment. We studied the effectiveness and safety of intravenous labetalol use in severe hypertension in pregnancy and post-partum period in a teaching hospital in Chhattisgarh in 101 women. IV labetalol was given as bolus doses till the blood pressures were controlled. Neonatal outcomes were recorded, and adverse effects such as hypotension, hypoglycemia, and neonatal asphyxia were documented. Intravenous labetalol given as a single bolus of 20 mg was efficacious in controlling blood pressures in 93 out of 101 (93%) women, and the rest were controlled with 1 or 2 additional doses in 1-3 hours. No neonatal deaths happened beyond the 13 intrauterine fetal deaths at presentation. No women developed any episodes of hypotension, tachycardia of more than 100, or nausea or vomiting on labetalol. Intravenous labetalol, even as a single bolus dose, is highly efficacious and is free of any major adverse effects.

Insights Into Perioperative Hypertension Management in Europe: Results From a Survey Endorsed by the European Association of Cardiothoracic Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (EACTAIC)

Perioperative blood pressure control is crucial to ensure organ perfusion and avoid adverse events. However, no consensus on blood pressure targets is available. This study was designed to gain insights into current European perioperative hypertension management practices. Survey research. Online survey. The survey was administered to members of the European Association of Cardiothoracic Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care and distributed through the organization's social media. A 22-item questionnaire on the approach to perioperative hypertension control and its pharmacological management. The study included surveys completed between July 1 and October 30, 2023. In total, 339 participants completed the questionnaire; 70% were anesthesiologists, 17% were intensive care physicians, and 12% were cardiac surgeons. More than 50% of respondents declared dealing with perioperative hypertension in 20% to 50% of their surgeries, and most target the 120 to 140 mmHg systolic blood pressure (SBP) range during surgery. Respondents mostly rely on α-adrenoreceptor antagonists (29%), nitrates (23%), and calcium channel blockers (15%) to manage perioperative hypertension. Titratable control was the most appreciated attribute of intravenous antihypertensives. Antihypertensive treatment failure occurred in less than 20% of surgeries, and the highest risk of hypotensive episodes was perceived by participants to be when using nitroglycerin and nitroprusside. Perioperative SBP targets above 140 mmHg are uncommon among respondents, who predominantly target SBP values between 120 and 140 mmHg. The choice of intravenous antihypertensives is based on their manageability and user experience, and titratable control is the most appreciated characteristic.