Goal-directed Hemodynamic Therapy Research Articles

Intraoperative goal-directed hemodynamic therapy through fluid administration to optimize the stroke volume: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

ObjectiveTo evaluate the clinical impact of optimizing stroke volume (SV) through fluid administration as part of goal-directed hemodynamic therapy (GDHT) in adult patients undergoing elective major abdominal surgery. MethodsThis systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement and was registered in the PROSPERO database in January 2024. The intervention was defined as intraoperative GDHT based on the optimization or maximization of SV through fluid challenges, or by using dynamic indices of fluid responsiveness, including stroke volume variation, pulse pressure variation, and plethysmography variation index compared to usual fluid management. The primary outcome was postoperative complications. Secondary outcome variables included postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI), length of stay (LOS), intraoperative fluid administration, and 30-day mortality. ResultsA total of 29 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) met the inclusion criteria. There were no significant differences in the incidence of postoperative complications (RR 0.89; 95% CI, 0.78–1.00), postoperative AKI (OR 0.97; (95% IC, 0.55–1.70), and mortality (OR 0.80; 95% CI, 0.50–1.29). GDHT was associated with a reduced LOS compared to usual care (SMD: −0.17 [−0.32; −0.03]). The subgroup in which hydroxyethyl starch was used for hemodynamic optimization was associated with fewer complications (RR 0.79; 95% CI, 0.65–0.94), whereas the subgroup of patients in whom crystalloids were used was associated with an increased risk of postoperative complications (RR 1.08; 95% CI, 1.04–1.12). ConclusionsIn adults undergoing major surgery, goal-directed hemodynamic therapy focused on fluid-based stroke volume optimization did not reduce postoperative morbidity and mortality.

Impact of goal-directed hemodynamic therapy on perioperative outcomes in head and neck free flap surgery: A before-and-after pilot study.

Free flap reconstruction for head and neck cancer is associated with a high risk of perioperative complications. One of the modifiable risk factors associated with perioperative morbidity is intraoperative hypotension (IOH). The main aim of this pilot study is to determine if the intraoperative use of goal-directed hemodynamic therapy (GDHT) is associated with a reduction in the number of IOH events in this population. A before-and-after study design. The patients who had intraoperative GDHT were compared to patients from a previous period before the implementation of GDHT. The primary outcome was the number of IOH episodes defined as five or more successive minutes with a mean arterial pressure <65 mmHg. The secondary outcomes included major postoperative morbidity and 30-day mortality. A total of 414 patients were included. These were divided into two groups. The control group (n = 346; January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2019), and the monitored group (n = 68; January 1, 2020, to May 1, 2021). The median intraoperative administered fluid volume was similar between the control and monitored groups (2250 interquartile range[IQR][1607-3050] vs. 2210 IQR[1700-2807]mL). The monitored group was found to have an increased use of norepinephrine and dobutamine (respectively, 1.2% vs. 5.9% and 2.4% vs. 30.9%; p < 0.05). When adjusting for confounders (comorbidities, estimated blood loss,and duration of anesthesia) the incidence rate ratio (95% confidence interval) of number of IOH events was 0.94 (0.86-1.03), p = 0.24. The rate of postoperative flap and medical complications did not differ between the two groups. Even though the use of vasopressors/inotropes was higher in the monitored group, the number of IOH episodes and postoperative morbidity and mortality were similar between the two groups. Further change in hemodynamic management will require the use of specific blood pressure targets in the GDHT fluid algorithm.

Effect of Somatostatin on hepatic blood flow: preliminary results

Background: Somatostatin (SOMATO) administration affects hepatic blood flow (HBF); however, its clinical effect remains ill-defined. The aim of this study is to assess the clinical effects of SOMATO administration on HBF during major abdominal surgery by comparing HBF in patients with and without intra-operative SOMATO admin-istration. Methods: This retrospective analysis used data from two separate prospective studies including patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy and was approved by the Ghent University Hospital ethical committee. All patients received total intravenous an-esthesia, using target-controlled infusion, and guided by a depth of anesthesia monitor. Schnider model was used for propofol, and Minto model was used for remifentanil. All patients received goal-directed hemodynamic therapy guided and recorded by Pul-sioFlex monitoring (Getinge Group). Portal vein blood flow and arterial hepatic blood flow were measured using ultrasound transit time flow measurements (Medi-Stim®). Both PVF and HAF were indexed using cardiac index. Patients were divided in two groups, receiving SOMATO (group S) versus control group not receiving SOMATO (group C). The Shapiro-Wilk test was used for testing normal distribution. Statistical testing was done using a Welch T-test or a Wilcoxon test. Results: From 6/2017 to 10/2020, a total of thirty-seven patients were analyzed. Twenty-five patients received SOMATO (group S) whereas twelve patients did not (group C). In Group S, PVFi was significantly reduced in patients receiving SOMATO compared to the control group (p = 0.005). HAFi was similar in both groups. The net effect on total HBFi was significantly lower in group S (p = 0.027). Hemodynamic parameters did not differ between both groups. Conclusions: SOMATO significantly reduced PVFi in the surgical patients while HAFi remained similar in both groups. As a result, total HBFi was significantly lower in SO-MATO-treated patients.

Effect of using hypotension prediction index versus conventional goal-directed haemodynamic management to reduce intraoperative hypotension in non-cardiac surgery: A randomised controlled trial

Study objectiveIt remains unclear whether it is the hypotension prediction index itself or goal-directed haemodynamic therapy that mitigates intraoperative hypotension. DesignA single centre randomised controlled trial. SettingSapporo Medical University Hospital. PatientsA total of 64 adults patients undergoing major non-cardiac surgery under general anaesthesia. InterventionsPatients were randomly assigned to either group receiving conventional goal-directed therapy (FloTrac group) or combination of the hypotension prediction index and conventional goal-directed therapy (HPI group). To investigate the independent utility of the index, the peak rates of arterial pressure and dynamic arterial elastance were not included in the treatment algorithm for the HPI group. MeasurementsThe primary outcome was the time-weighted average of the areas under the threshold. Secondary outcomes were area under the threshold, the number of hypotension events, total duration of hypotension events, mean mean arterial pressure during the hypotension period, number of hypotension events with mean arterial pressure < 50 mmHg, amounts of fluids, blood products, blood loss, and urine output, frequency and amount of vasoactive agents, concentration of haemoglobin during the monitoring period, and 30-day mortality. Main resultsThe time-weighted average of the area below the threshold was lower in the HPI group than in the control group; 0.19 mmHg (interquartile range, 0.06–0.80 mmHg) vs. 0.66 mmHg (0.28–1.67 mmHg), with a median difference of −0.41 mmHg (95% confidence interval, −0.69 to −0.10 mmHg), p = 0.005. Norepinephrine was administered to 12 (40%) and 5 (17%) patients in the HPI and FloTrac groups, respectively (p = 0.045). No significant differences were observed in the volumes of fluid and blood products between the study groups. ConclusionsThe current randomised controlled trial results suggest that using the hypotension prediction index independently lowered the cumulative amount of intraoperative hypotension during major non-cardiac surgery.

The effect of goal-directed hemodynamic therapy on clinical outcomes in patients undergoing radical cystectomy: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThis study investigated the effects of intraoperative goal-directed hemodynamic therapy (GDHT) on postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing open radical cystectomy.MethodsThis prospective, single-center, randomized controlled trial included 82 patients scheduled for open radical cystectomy between September 2018 and November 2021. The GDHT group (n = 39) received the stroke volume index- and cardiac index-based hemodynamic management using advanced hemodynamic monitoring, while the control group (n = 36) received the standard care under the discretion of attending anesthesiologists during surgery. The primary outcome was the incidence of a composite of in-hospital postoperative complications during hospital stays.ResultsA total of 75 patients were included in the final analysis. There was no significant difference in the incidence of in-hospital postoperative complications (28/39 [71.8%] vs. 30/36 [83.3%], risk difference [95% CI], -0.12 [-0.30 to 0.07], P = 0.359) between the groups. The amounts of intraoperative fluid administered were similar between the groups (2700 [2175–3250] vs. 2900 [1950–3700] ml, median difference [95% CI] -200 [-875 to 825], P = 0.714). The secondary outcomes, including the incidence of seven major postoperative complications, duration of hospital stay, duration of intensive care unit stay, and grade of complications, were comparable between the two groups. Trends in postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate, serum creatinine, and C-reactive protein did not differ significantly between the two groups.ConclusionsIntraoperative GDHT did not reduce the incidence of postoperative in-hospital complications during the hospital stay in patients who underwent open radical cystectomy.Trial registrationThis study was registered at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov (Registration number: NCT03505112; date of registration: 23/04/2018).

Effects of goal-directed fluid management guided by a non-invasive device on the incidence of postoperative complications in neurosurgery: a pilot and feasibility randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThe positive effects of goal-directed hemodynamic therapy (GDHT) on patient-orientated outcomes have been demonstrated in various clinical scenarios; however, the effects of fluid management in neurosurgery remain unclear. Therefore, this study was aimed at assessing the safety and feasibility of GDHT using non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring in elective neurosurgery. The incidence of postoperative complications was compared between GDHT and control groups.MethodsWe conducted a single-center randomized pilot study with an enrollment target of 34 adult patients scheduled for elective neurosurgery. We randomly assigned the patients equally into control and GDHT groups. The control group received standard therapy during surgery and postoperatively, whereas the GDHT group received therapy guided by an algorithm based on non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring. In the GDHT group, we aimed to achieve and sustain an optimal cardiac index by using non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring and bolus administration of colloids and vasoactive drugs. The number of patients with adverse events, feasibility criteria, perioperative parameters, and incidence of postoperative complications was compared between groups.ResultsWe successfully achieved all feasibility criteria. The GDHT protocol was safe, because no patients in either group had unsatisfactory brain tissue relaxation after surgery or brain edema requiring therapy during surgery or 24 h after surgery. Major complications occurred in two (11.8%) patients in the GDHT group and six (35.3%) patients in the control group (p = 0.105).ConclusionsOur results suggested that a large randomized trial evaluating the effects of GDHT on the incidence of postoperative complications in elective neurosurgery should be safe and feasible. The rate of postoperative complications was comparable between groups.Trial registrationTrial registration: ClininalTrials.gov, registration number: NCT04754295, date of registration: February 15, 2021.

Intraoperative hemodynamic optimization using the hypotension prediction index vs. goal-directed hemodynamic therapy during elective major abdominal surgery: the Predict-H multicenter randomized controlled trial

BackgroundIntraoperative hypotension (IOH) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality after major abdominal surgery but remains significant even when using goal-directed hemodynamic therapy (GDHT) protocols. The Hypotension Prediction Index (HPI) is a machine learning-derived parameter that predicts arterial hypotension. We tested the hypothesis that an HPI-based protocol reduces the duration and severity of hypotension compared with a GDHT protocol during major abdominal surgery.MethodsThis is a parallel-arm double-blinded multicenter randomized trial involving adult patients undergoing elective major abdominal surgery at five centers. Patients were optimized according to a previously recommended GDHT protocol (GDHT group) or the HPI value (HPI group). Hemodynamic optimization in both groups started 15 min after the surgical incision. The primary outcome was the intraoperative time-weighted average of mean arterial pressure under 65 mmHg (TWA-MAP &amp;lt; 65 mmHg). Other metrics for IOH and secondary outcomes, including TWA below individual baseline values of intraoperative tissue oxygenation (StO2), postoperative AKIRisk, postoperative complications, length of stay, and 30-day mortality, were explored.ResultsEighty patients were randomized (40 patients in each group). TWA-MAP &amp;lt; 65 mmHg was 0.06 (25th–75th interquartile range: 0–0.27) mmHg in the GDTH group vs. 0 (0–0.04) mmHg in the HPI group (p = 0.015). Total time with MAP &amp;lt; 65 mmHg per patient was 4.6 (0–21) min in the GDHT group and 0 (0–3) min in the HPI group (p = 0.008). The TWA below the baseline StO2 was 0.40% (0.12%–2.41%) in the GDHT group and 0.95% (0.15%–3.20%) in the HPI group (p = 0.353). The AKIRisk values obtained in the GDHT group were 0.30 (0.14–0.53) and 0.34 (0.15–0.67) in the GDHT and HPI groups (p = 0.731), respectively. Both groups had similar postoperative complications, length of stay, and 30-day mortality.ConclusionsAn HPI-based protocol reduced intraoperative hypotension compared with a standard GDHT protocol, with no differences in tissue oxygenation and postoperative AKIRisk.

Goal-Directed Haemodynamic Therapy Improves Patient Outcomes in Kidney Transplantation.

Introduction: Kidney transplant graft function depends on optimised haemodynamics. However, high fluid volumes risk hypervolaemic complications. The Edwards Lifesciences ClearSight™ device permits fluid titration through markers of preload and beat-to-beat blood pressure monitoring. We evaluated the implementation of a novel goal-directed haemodynamic therapy protocol to determine whether patient outcomes had improved. Design: A retrospective evaluation of standard care versus goal-directed haemodynamic therapy in adults undergoing kidney transplantation was performed in a single centre between April 2016 and October 2019. Twenty-eight standard-of-care patients received intraoperative fixed-rate infusion and 28 patients received goal-directed haemodynamic therapy. The primary outcome was volume of fluid administered intraoperatively. Secondary outcomes included blood product and vasoactive drug exposure, graft and recipient outcomes. Results: Intraoperative fluid administered was significantly reduced in the goal-directed haemodynamic therapy cohort (4325 vs 2751 ml, P < .001). Exposure to vasopressor (67.9% vs 42.9%, P = .060) and blood products (17.9% vs 3.6%, P = .101) was unchanged. Immediate graft function (82.1% vs 75.0%, P = .515), dialysis requirement (14.3% vs 21.4%, P = .729) and creatinine changes post-operatively were unchanged. In the goal-directed haemodynamic therapy cohort, 1 patient had pulmonary oedema (3.6%) versus 21.4% in the standard cohort. Patients in the goal-directed haemodynamic therapy group were more likely to mobilise within 48 hours of surgery (number needed to treat = 3.5, P = .012). Conclusions: Protocolised goal-directed haemodynamic therapy in kidney transplantation was safe and may improve patient, graft, and surgical outcomes. Clinical trials assessing goal-directed approaches are needed.

Intraoperative respiratory and hemodynamic strategies for reducing nausea, vomiting, and pain after surgery: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

BackgroundDespite improved medical treatment strategies, postoperative pain, nausea, and vomiting remain major challenges. This systematic review investigated the relationship between perioperative respiratory and hemodynamic interventions and postoperative pain, nausea, and vomiting.MethodsPubMed and Embase were searched on March 8, 2021 for randomized clinical trials investigating the effect of perioperative respiratory or hemodynamic interventions in adults undergoing non‐cardiac surgery. Investigators reviewed trials for relevance, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. Meta‐analyses were performed when feasible. GRADE was used to assess the certainty of the evidence.ResultsThis review included 65 original trials; of these 48% had pain, nausea, and/or vomiting as the primary focus. No reduction of postoperative pain was found in meta‐analyses when comparing recruitment maneuvers with no recruitment, high (80%) to low (30%) fraction of oxygen, low (5–7 ml/kg) to high (9–12 ml/kg) tidal volume, or goal‐directed hemodynamic therapy to standard care. In the meta‐analysis comparing recruitment maneuvers with no recruitment maneuvers, patients undergoing laparoscopic gynecological surgery had less shoulder pain 24 h postoperatively (mean difference in the numeric rating scale from 0 to 10: −1.1, 95% CI: −1.7, −0.5). In meta‐analyses, comparing high to low fraction of inspired oxygen and goal‐directed hemodynamic therapy to standard care in patients undergoing abdominal surgery, the risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting was reduced (odds ratio: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.24, 0.87 and 0.48, 95% CI: 0.27, 0.85). The certainty in the evidence was mostly very low to low. The results should be considered exploratory given the lack of prespecified hypotheses and corresponding risk of Type 1 errors.ConclusionThere is limited evidence regarding the impact of intraoperative respiratory and hemodynamic interventions on postoperative pain or nausea and vomiting. More definitive trials are needed to guide clinical care within this area.

Effect of goal-directed haemodynamic therapy guided by non-invasive monitoring on perioperative complications in elderly hip fracture patients within an enhanced recovery pathway

BackgroundGoal-directed haemodynamic therapy (GDHT) has been shown to reduce morbidity and mortality in high-risk surgical patients. However, there is little evidence of its efficacy in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery. This study aims to evaluate the effect of GDHT guided by non-invasive haemodynamic monitoring on perioperative complications in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery.MethodsPatients > 64 years undergoing hip fracture surgery within an enhanced recovery pathway (ERP) were enrolled in this single-centre, non-randomized, intervention study with a historical control group and 12-month follow-up. Exclusion criteria were patients with pathological fractures, traffic-related fractures and refractures. Control group (CG) patients received standard care treatment. Intervention group (IG) patients received a GDHT protocol based on achieving an optimal stroke volume, in addition to a systolic blood pressure > 90 mmHg and an individualized cardiac index. No changes were made between groups in the ERP during the study period. Primary outcome was percentage of patients who developed intraoperative haemodynamic instability. Secondary outcomes were intraoperative arrhythmias, postoperative complications (cardiovascular, respiratory, infectious and renal complications), administered fluids, vasopressor requirements, perioperative transfusion, length of hospital stay, readmission and 1-year survival.ResultsIn total, 551 patients (CG=272; IG=279) were included. Intraoperative haemodynamic instability was lower in the IG (37.5% vs 28.0%; p=0.017). GDHT patients had fewer postoperative cardiovascular (18.8% vs 7.2%; p < 0.001), respiratory (15.1% vs 3.6%; p<0.001) and infectious complications (21% vs 3.9%; p<0.001) but not renal (12.1% vs 33.7%; p<0.001). IG patients had less vasopressor requirements (25.5% vs 39.7%; p<0.001) and received less fluids [2.600 ml (IQR 1700 to 2700) vs 850 ml (IQR 750 to 1050); p=0.001] than control group. Fewer patients required transfusion in GDHT group (73.5% vs 44.4%; p<0.001). For IG patients, median length of hospital stay was shorter [11 days (IQR 8 to 16) vs 8 days; (IQR 6 to 11) p < 0.001] and 1-year survival higher [73.4% (95%CI 67.7 to 78.3 vs 83.8% (95%CI 78.8 to 87.7) p<0.003].ConclusionsThe use of GDHT decreases intraoperative complications and postoperative cardiovascular, respiratory and infectious but not postoperative renal complications. This strategy was associated with a shorter hospital stay and increased 1-year survival.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT02479321.

Fluid and Hemodynamics.

Several components of an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) pathway act to improve and simplify perioperative fluid and hemodynamic therapy. Modern perioperative fluid management has shifted away from the liberal fluid therapy and toward more individualized approaches. Clinical evidence has also emphasized the importance of maintaining adequate mean arterial pressure and avoiding intraoperative hypotension. Goal-directed hemodynamic therapy (GDHT), or the use of cardiac output monitoring to guide fluid and vasopressor use, has been shown to reduce complications, but its role within ERAS pathways is likely best-suited to high-risk patients or those undergoing high-risk procedures. This article reviews the mechanisms by which ERAS pathways aid the provider in hemodynamic management, reviews trends, and evidence regarding fluid and hemodynamic therapy approaches, and provides guidance on the practical implementation of these concepts within ERAS pathways.

Liver Transplantation in Children and Impact of Intraoperative Goal Directed Therapies on Postoperative Outcome

Background: Liver transplantation is a hemorrhagic surgery with high postoperative complication rates in terms of organ dysfunction and infections. We conducted a retrospective observational monocentric study that had the objectives of determining predictors of postoperative outcome in children. In the initial cohort, 19 children underwent liver transplantation. A description of the postoperative outcomes of these patients was undertaken. Objective: To describe intraoperative and postoperative outcomes in children undergoing liver transplantation and to propose intraoperative management implementation measures for postoperative outcome improvement. Methods: Secondary analysis of liver transplanted patients included in the initial study. Results: There were 19 patients who underwent liver transplantation with a median age of 31[2-154] months. Five patients had re-operations (26.3%). Fourteen (73.7%) had intraoperative and/or postoperative complications. Five (26.3%) had intraoperative hemorrhagic shock. One (5.3%) had postoperative respiratory failure, one (5.3%) had postoperative multiple organ failure, two (10.5%) had postoperative neurologic failure and five (26.3%) had cardio-circulatory failure. One (5.3%) had postoperative pulmonary sepsis, five (26.3%) had postoperative abdominal sepsis, and six (31.6%) had postoperative septicemia. Intra-operative transfusion rate was 100%. In-hospital mortality rate was 10.5% (two patients). Conclusion: There were multiple postoperative adverse outcome predictors. Optimal intraoperative patient management with transfusion guided by point-of-care viscoelastic devices and goal-directed fluid and hemodynamic therapy with validated parameters and tools in children is a possible pathway to upgrade postoperative evolution in pediatric liver transplantation.

Effect of goal-directed fluid management guided by non-invasive device on incidence of postoperative complications in neurosurgery

Abstract Introduction: Goal-directed hemodynamic therapy aims to reduce the incidence of postoperative complications in patients undergoing surgical procedures. Optimal preload is mandatory to achieve adequate cardiac output and oxygen supply to organs and tissues. Neurosurgical patients are at risk of inadequate preload, decreased blood flow and reduced oxygen delivery, all of which can lead to organ dysfunction. Current knowledge regarding the effect of fluid management on patient-orientated outcomes in neurosurgery is limited. Therefore, this study aims to compare the safety and feasibility of goal-directed therapy with standard management in patients undergoing neurosurgical procedures. Methods and analysis: Patients undergoing neurosurgical operation will be randomised into two groups. Therapy in the first group of patients will be guided by standard perioperative monitoring. In the second group, perioperative therapy will be guided using non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring in addition to standard monitoring. Administration of fluids and vasoactive drugs will depend on the assessment of stroke volume variation and cardiac index. The safety of goal-directed hemodynamic therapy protocol will be assessed by comparing incidences of adverse events between groups.

Association of Troponin T levels and functional outcome 3\xa0months after subarachnoid hemorrhage

TroponinT levels are frequently elevated after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). However, their clinical impact on long term outcomes still remains unclear. This study evaluates the association of TroponinT and functional outcomes 3 months after SAH. Data were obtained in the frame of a randomized controlled trial exploring the association of Goal-directed hemodynamic therapy and outcomes after SAH (NCT01832389). TroponinT was measured daily for the first 14 days after admission or until discharge from the ICU. Outcome was assessed using Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) 3 months after discharge. Logistic regression was used to explore the association between initial TroponinT values stratified by tertiles and admission as well as outcome parameters. TroponinT measurements were analyzed in 105 patients. TroponinT values at admission were associated with outcome assessed by GOS in a univariate analysis. TroponinT was not predictive of vasospasm or delayed cerebral ischemia, but an association with pulmonary and cardiac complications was observed. After adjustment for age, history of arterial hypertension and World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) grade, TroponinT levels at admission were not independently associated with worse outcome (GOS 1–3) or death at 3 months. In summary, TroponinT levels at admission are associated with 3 months-GOS but have limited ability to independently predict outcome after SAH.

Perioperative fluid management-Goal Directed Therapy (GDT)

Perioperative goal-directed hemodynamic therapy is a protocolized treatment strategy aimed at optimization of global cardiovascular dynamics, including oxygen delivery to tissues and organ perfusion pressure. This is achieved by titrating fluids, vasopressors, and inotropes to predefined physiological target values of hemodynamic variables. Its scope is to reduce complications (acute kidney disease, pulmonary oedema, respiratory distress syndrome, wound infections), decrease major abdominal and systemic postoperative complications, length of stay and postoperative morbidity and mortality mainly in high-risk patients undergoing major surgery. Identifying patients in whom perioperative goal-directed hemodynamic therapy can actually improve postoperative outcomes is crucial. This is a review focusing on all the aspects of GDFT compared to standard fluid therapy during surgery.

Restricted, optimized or liberal fluid strategy in thoracic surgery: A narrative review.

Perioperative fluid balance has a major impact on clinical and functional outcome, regardless of the type of interventions. In thoracic surgery, patients are more vulnerable to intravenous fluid overload and to develop acute respiratory distress syndrome and other complications. New insight has been gained on the mechanisms causing pulmonary complications and the role of the endothelial glycocalix layer to control fluid transfer from the intravascular to the interstitial spaces and to promote tissue blood flow. With the implementation of standardized processes of care, the preoperative fasting period has become shorter, surgical approaches are less invasive and patients are allowed to resume oral intake shortly after surgery. Intraoperatively, body fluid homeostasis and adequate tissue oxygen delivery can be achieved using a normovolemic therapy targeting a “near-zero fluid balance” or a goal-directed hemodynamic therapy to maximize stroke volume and oxygen delivery according to the Franck–Starling relationship. In both fluid strategies, the use of cardiovascular drugs is advocated to counteract the anesthetic-induced vasorelaxation and maintain arterial pressure whereas fluid intake is limited to avoid cumulative fluid balance exceeding 1 liter and body weight gain (~1-1.5 kg). Modern hemodynamic monitors provide valuable physiological parameters to assess patient volume responsiveness and circulatory flow while guiding fluid administration and cardiovascular drug therapy. Given the lack of randomized clinical trials, controversial debate still surrounds the issues of the optimal fluid strategy and the type of fluids (crystalloids versus colloids). To avoid the risk of lung hydrostatic or inflammatory edema and to enhance the postoperative recovery process, fluid administration should be prescribed as any drug, adapted to the patient's requirement and the context of thoracic intervention.

Neuroprotective effects of intraoperative dexmedetomidine versus saline infusion combined with goal-directed haemodynamic therapy for patients undergoing cranial surgery: A randomised controlled trial.

By inhibiting neuroinflammation dexmedetomidine may be neuroprotective in patients undergoing cranial surgery, but it reduces cardiac output and cerebral blood flow. To investigate whether intra-operative dexmedetomidine combined with goal-directed haemodynamic therapy (GDHT) has neuroprotective effects in cranial surgery. A double-blind, single-institution, randomised controlled trial. A single university hospital, from April 2017 to April 2020. A total of 160 adults undergoing elective cranial surgery. Infusion of dexmedetomidine (0.5 μg kg-1 h-1) or saline combined with GDHT to optimise stroke volume during surgery. The proportion who developed postoperative neurological complications was compared. Postoperative disability was assessed using the Barthel Index at time points between admission and discharge, and also the 30-day modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Postoperative delirium was assessed. The concentration of a peri-operative serum neuroinflammatory mediator, high-mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1), was compared. Fewer patients in the dexmedetomidine group developed new postoperative neurological complications (26.3% vs. 43.8%; P = 0.031), but the number of patients developing severe neurological complications was comparable between the two groups (11.3% vs. 20.0%; P = 0.191). In the dexmedetomidine group the Barthel Index reduction [0 (-10 to 0)] was less than that in the control group [-5 (-15 to 0)]; P = 0.023, and there was a more favourable 30-day mRS (P = 0.013) with more patients without postoperative delirium (84.6% vs. 64.2%; P = 0.012). Furthermore, dexmedetomidine induced a significant reduction in peri-operative serum HMGB1 level from the baseline (222.5 ± 408.3 pg ml-1) to the first postoperative day (152.2 ± 280.0 pg ml-1) P = 0.0033. There was no significant change in the control group. The dexmedetomidine group had a lower cardiac index than did the control group (3.0 ± 0.8 vs. 3.4 ± 1.8 l min-1 m-2; P = 0.0482) without lactate accumulation. Dexmedetomidine infusion combined with GDHT may mitigate neuroinflammation without undesirable haemodynamic effects during cranial surgery and therefore be neuroprotective. Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT02878707.

Liver Transplantation in Children and Impact of Intraoperative Goal Directed Therapies on Postoperative Outcome

Background: Liver transplantation is a hemorrhagic surgery with high postoperative complication rates in terms of organ dysfunction and infections. We conducted a retrospective observational monocentric study that had the objectives of determining predictors of postoperative outcome in children. In the initial cohort, 19 children underwent liver transplantation. A description of the postoperative outcomes of these patients was undertaken. Objective: To describe intraoperative and postoperative outcomes in children undergoing liver transplantation and to propose intraoperative management implementation measures for postoperative outcome improvement. Methods: Secondary analysis of liver transplanted patients included in the initial study. Results: There were 19 patients who underwent liver transplantation with a median age of 31[2-154] months. Five patients had re-operations (26.3%). Fourteen (73.7%) had intraoperative and/or postoperative complications. Five (26.3%) had intraoperative hemorrhagic shock. One (5.3%) had postoperative respiratory failure, one (5.3%) had postoperative multiple organ failure, two (10.5%) had postoperative neurologic failure and five (26.3%) had cardio-circulatory failure. One (5.3%) had postoperative pulmonary sepsis, five (26.3%) had postoperative abdominal sepsis, and six (31.6%) had postoperative septicemia. Intra-operative transfusion rate was 100%. In-hospital mortality rate was 10.5% (two patients). Conclusion: There were multiple postoperative adverse outcome predictors. Optimal intraoperative patient management with transfusion guided by point-of-care viscoelastic devices and goal-directed fluid and hemodynamic therapy with validated parameters and tools in children is a possible pathway to upgrade postoperative evolution in pediatric liver transplantation.

Minimizing postoperative pulmonary complications in thoracic surgery patients.

Quantification and optimization of perioperative risk factors focusing on anesthesia-related strategies to reduce postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) after lung and esophageal surgery. There is an increasing amount of multimorbid patients undergoing thoracic surgery due to the demographic development and medical progress in perioperative medicine. Nevertheless, the rate of PPCs after thoracic surgery is still up to 30-50% with a significant influence on patients' outcome. PPCs are ranked first among the leading causes of early mortality after thoracic surgery. Although patients' risk factors are usually barely modifiable, current research focuses on procedural risk factors. From the surgical position, the minimal-invasive approach using video-assisted thoracoscopy and laparoscopy leads to a decreased rate of PPCs. The anesthesiological strategy to reduce the incidence of PPCs after thoracic surgery includes neuroaxial anesthesia, lung-protective ventilation, and goal-directed hemodynamic therapy. The main anesthesiological strategies to reduce PPCs after thoracic surgery include the use of epidural anesthesia, lung-protective ventilation: PEEP (positive end-expiratory pressure) of 5-8 mbar, tidal volume of 5 ml/kg BW (body weight) and goal-directed hemodynamics: CI (cardiac index) ≥ 2.5 l/min per m2, MAD (Mean arterial pressure) ≥ 70 mmHg, SVV (stroke volume variation) < 10% with a total amount of perioperative crystalloid fluids ≤ 6 ml/kg BW (body weight) per hour.

The effect of adding goal-directed hemodynamic management for elective patients in an established enhanced recovery program for colorectal surgery: results of quasi-experimental pragmatic trial

BackgroundRecent literature has demonstrated that hemodynamic instability in the intraoperative period places patients at risk of poor outcomes. Furthermore, recent studies have reported that stroke volume optimization and protocolized hemodynamic management may improve perioperative outcomes, especially surgical site infection (SSI), in certain high-risk populations. However, the optimal strategy for intraoperative management of all elective patients within an enhanced recovery program remains to be elucidated.MethodsWe performed a pre-post quasi-experimental study to assess the effect of adding goal-directed hemodynamic therapy to an enhanced recovery program (ERP) for colorectal surgery on SSI and other outcomes. Three groups were compared: “Pre-ERP,” defined as historical control (before enhanced recovery program); “ERP,” defined as enhanced recovery program using zero fluid balance; and “ERP+GDHT,” defined as enhanced recovery program plus goal-directed hemodynamic therapy. Outcomes were obtained through our National Surgical Quality Improvement Program participation.ResultsA total of 623 patients were included in the final analysis (Pre-ERP = 246, ERP = 140, and ERP + GDHT = 237). Demographics and baseline clinical characteristics were balanced between groups. We did not observe statistically significant differences in SSI or composite complication rates in unadjusted or adjusted analysis. There was no evidence of association between study group and 30-day readmission. American Society of Anesthesiologists status ≥ 3 and open surgical approach were significantly associated with increased risk of SSI, composite complication, and 30-day readmission (p < 0.05 for all) in all groups.ConclusionsThere was no evidence that addition of goal-directed hemodynamic therapy for all patients in an enhanced recovery program for colorectal surgery affects the risk of SSI, composite complications, or 30-day readmission. Further research is needed to investigate whether there is benefit of goal-directed hemodynamic therapy for select high-risk populations.Trial registrationNCT03189550. Registered 16 June 2017–Retrospectively registered, https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?cond=&term=NCT03189550&cntry=&state=&city=&dist=