Lower Mortality Research Articles

Impact of anticoagulation therapy on outcomes in patients with cirrhosis and portal vein thrombosis: A large-scale retrospective cohort study

IntroductionPortal vein thrombosis in cirrhotic patients presents a significant clinical challenge. This study aims to (1) explore the impact of anticoagulation therapy on patient outcomes; (2) comparative outcomes in portal vein thrombosis treated between direct oral anticoagulant and Vitamin K Antagonist (VKA). Materials and methodsWe leveraged the TriNetX database to analyze a cohort comprising 4224 patients with liver cirrhosis and PVT who were treated with anticoagulation, alongside a comparison group of 15,300 patients with the same conditions but not receiving anticoagulation therapy. ResultsThe anticoagulated group showed a significant reduction in mortality (27.9 % vs. 34.2 %, HR = 0.723, 95 % CI: 0.678–0.770, P < 0.001). When comparing direct oral anticoagulant versus. VKA, in compensated liver cirrhosis, the direct oral anticoagulant group exhibited significantly lower mortality rates compared to VKA (17.7 % vs. 26.5 %, HR = 0.655, 95 % CI: 0.452–0.951, P = 0.025), with no significant difference in liver transplantation rates (4.0 % vs. 4.7 %, P = 0.080). In decompensated liver cirrhosis, the direct oral anticoagulant group exhibited lower mortality compared to the VKA group (23.6 % vs. 30.6 %, HR = 0.732, 95 % CI: 0.629–0.851, P < 0.001), and a higher frequency of liver transplantation was observed in the VKA group (10.6 % vs. 16.0 %, HR = 0.622, 95 % CI: 0.494–0.784, P < 0.001). Hospitalization rates were significantly lower in the direct oral anticoagulant group compared to the VKA group in decompensated cirrhosis (33.4 % vs. 38.3 %, HR = 0.830, 95 % CI: 0.695–0.992, P = 1.937). ConclusionsOur study offers compelling evidence supporting the use of anticoagulation therapy in liver cirrhosis with portal vein thrombosis. The use of DOACs in patients with both compensated and decompensated liver cirrhosis showed a marked mortality benefit.

Mortality and failure-to-rescue after esophagectomy in the procedure-targeted National Surgical Quality Improvement Program registry.

The association between procedural volume and esophagectomy outcomes has been established, but the relationship between higher levels of care and esophagectomy outcomes has not been explored. This study aims to investigate whether hospital participation in the American College of Surgeons (ACS) National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) esophagectomy-targeted registry is associated with superior outcomes. The 2016-2020 ACS NSQIP standard and esophagectomy-targeted registries were queried. Esophagectomy outcomes were analyzed overall and stratified by esophagectomy type (Ivor Lewis vs. transhiatal vs. 3-field McKeown). A total of 2181 and 5449 esophagectomy cases were identified in the standard and targeted databases (68% Ivor Lewis esophagectomy). The median age was 65years and 80% were male. Preoperative characteristics were largely comparable. On univariate analysis, targeted hospitals were associated with lower mortality (2% vs. 4%, p<0.01) andfailure-to-rescue rates (11% vs. 17%, p<0.01), higher likelihood of an optimal outcome (62% vs. 58%, p=0.01), and shorter hospital stay (median 9 vs. 10days, p<0.01). On multivariable analysis, Ivor Lewis esophagectomy at targeted centers was associated with reduced odds of mortality [odds ratio (OR) 0.57 and 95% confidence intervals 0.35-0.90] and failure-to-rescue [OR 0.54 (0.33-0.90)] with no difference in serious morbidity or optimal outcome. There was no statistically significant difference in odds of mortality or failure to rescue in targeted versus standard centers when performing transhiatal or McKeown esophagectomy. Esophagectomy performed at hospitals participating in the targeted ACS NSQIP is associated with roughly half the risk of mortality compared to the standard registry. The factors underlying this relationship may be valuable in quality improvement.

Complete vs. incomplete percutaneous revascularization in patients with chronic total coronary artery occlusion.

There is current controversy surrounding the benefits of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of chronic total coronary occlusions (CTO). We aimed to evaluate the impact of complete percutaneous revascularization on major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in patients with CTO. A retrospective observational study was conducted of consecutive patients referred for invasive coronary angiography at a single center between January 2018 and December 2019 and at least a CTO. The patients were divided into two groups according to the result of the procedure: complete revascularization of CTO (CR-CTO) versus incomplete revascularization (ICR-CTO) (patients with at least one non-recanalized CTO). Short- and mid-term clinical outcomes were evaluated. The primary endpoint was a composite of MACE that included all-cause death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, or unplanned revascularization. In total, 359 patients with CTO were included. The median age was 68 years [interquartile range (IQR) 60-77 years], 66 (18%) were women and 169 (47.3%) had diabetes mellitus. In all, 167 (46.5%) patients received complete revascularization. After a median follow-up of 42 months (IQR 46-50 months), the primary endpoint occurred in 39 (23.4%) patients in the CR-CTO group and in 75 (39.1%) in the ICR-CTO group (HR 0.50, 95% CI 0.34-0.74; p < 0.001). This association remained significant in an inverse probability weighted model considering prognostic factors (adjusted HR 0.61, 95% CI 0.41-0.92; p = 0.018) and was driven by lower rates of all-cause death (adjusted OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.23-0.84; p = 0.01). Complete revascularization of CTO was associated with a lower risk of MACE in the midterm follow up.

OUTCOMES OF DISTAL FEMUR FRACTURE IN THE ELDERLY TREATED WITH EITHER SINGLE PLATE OR DUAL PLATING OR NAIL-PLATE COMBINATION: A RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS FROM A SINGLE CENTRE

IntroductionDistal femur fracture fixation in elderly presents significant challenges due to osteoporosis and associated comorbidities. There has been an evolution in the management of these fractures with a description of various surgical techniques and fixation methods; however, currently, there is no consensus on the standard of care. Non-union rates of up to 19% and mortality rates of up to 26 % at one year have been reported in the literature. Delay in surgery and delay in mobilisation post-operatively have been identified as two main factors for high rate of mortality. As biomechanical studies have proved better stability with dual plating or nail-plate combination, a trend has been shifting for past few years towards rigid fixation to allow early mobilisation. Our study aims to compare outcomes of distal femur fractures managed with either single plate (SP), dual plating (DP) or nail-plate construct (NP).MethodsA retrospective review of patients aged above 65 years with distal femur fractures (both native and peri-prosthetic) who underwent surgical management between June 2020 and May 2023 was conducted. Patients were divided into three groups based on mode of fixation - single plate or dual plating or nail-plate construct. AO/OTA classification was used for non-periprosthetic, and Unified classification system (UCS) was used for periprosthetic fractures. Data on patient demographics, fracture characteristics, surgical details, postoperative complications, re-operation rate, radiological outcomes and mortality rate were evaluated. Primary objective was to compare re-operation rate and mortality rate between 3 groups at 30 days, 6 months and at 1 year.ResultsA cohort of 32 patients with distal femur fractures were included in this study. 91% were females and mean age was 80.97 (range 68–97). 18 (53%) were non-periprosthetic fracture and 14 (47%) were periprosthetic fractures.18 patients underwent single plate fixation (AO/OTA 33A – 8, 33B/C – 2, UCS V3B – 5, V3C – 3),10 patients had dual plate fixation (AO/OTA 33A – 1, 33B/C – 4, UCS V3B – 3, V3C – 2) and 4 patients underwent nail-plate combination fixation (AO/OTA 33A – 4). 70.5% patients had surgery within 36 hours of admission and 90% within 48 hours. Analysis showed no re-operation at 30 days, 6 months in all 3 groups. At 1 year one patient had re-operation in dual-plating periprosthetic group (Distal femur replacement done for failed fixation). Three patients (16%) in single plate group had re-operation at 2 years (2 for peri-implant fracture and 1 for infection). None of the patients treated with Nail-plate combination had re-operation. Mortality rate at 30 days was 0% in among all the 3 groups. At 6 months, it was 16% in single plate group and 0% in DP and NP groups at 6 months and at 1 year mortality rate was 27% in SP group, 10% in DP and 0% in NP group. Combined mortality rate was 0% at 30 days, 9% at 6 months and 18.7% at one year.ConclusionOur analysis provides insights into fixation methods of distal femur fractures in elderly patients. We conclude that a lower re-operation rate and mortality rate can be achieved with early surgery and rigid fixation with either dual plating or nail-plate construct to allow early mobilisation. Further prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings and guide the selection of optimal surgical strategies for these challenging fractures.

An Expert-Based Review on the Relevance and Management of Type 2 Endoleaks Following Endovascular Repair of Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (rAAAs) are life-threatening and require emergent surgical therapy. Endovascular aortic repair for rupture (rEVAR) has become the leading strategy due to its minimal invasive approach with expected lower morbidity and mortality, especially in patients presenting with hemodynamic instability and relevant comorbidities. Following rEVAR, intraoperative angiography or early postinterventional computed tomography angiography have to exclude early type 1 or 3 endoleaks requiring immediate reintervention. Persistent type 2 endoleaks (T2ELs) after rEVAR, in contrast to elective cases, can cause possibly lethal situations due to continuing extravascular blood loss through the remaining aortic aneurysm rupture site. Therefore, early identification of relevant persistent T2ELs associated with continuous bleeding and hemodynamic instability and immediate management is mandatory in the acute postoperative setting following rEVAR. Different techniques and concepts for the occlusion of T2ELs after rEVAR are available, and most of them are also used for relevant T2ELs after elective EVAR. In addition to various interventional embolization procedures for persistent T2ELs, some patients require open surgical occlusion of T2EL-feeding arteries, abdominal compartment decompression or direct surgical patch occlusion of the aneurysm rupture site after rEVAR. So far, in the acute situation of rAAAs, indications for preemptive or intraoperative T2EL embolization during rEVAR have not been established. In the long term, persistent T2ELs after rEVAR can lead to continuous aneurysm expansion with the possible development of secondary proximal type I endoleaks and an increased risk of re-rupture requiring regular follow-up and early consideration for reintervention. To date, only very few studies have investigated T2ELs after rEVAR or compared outcomes with those from elective EVAR regarding the special aspects of persisting T2ELs. This narrative review is intended to present the current knowledge on the incidence, natural history, relevance and strategies for T2EL management after rEVAR.

Living Donor Availability Improves Patient Survival in a North American Center: An Intention-to-treat Analysis.

Assess the impact of having a living donor on waitlist outcomes and overall survival through an intention-to-treat analysis. Living-donor liver transplantation (LDLT) offers an alternative to deceased donation in the face of organ shortage. An as-treated analysis revealed that undergoing LDLT, compared to staying on the waiting list, is associated with improved survival, even at Model for End-stage Liver Disease-sodium (MELD-Na) score of 11. Liver transplant candidates listed at the Ajmera Transplant Centre (2000-2021) were categorized as pLDLT (having a potential living donor) or pDDLT (without a living donor). Employing Cox proportional-hazard regression with time-dependent covariates, we evaluated pLDLT's impact on waitlist dropout and overall survival through a risk-adjusted analysis. Of 4,124 candidates, 984 (24%) had potential living donors. The pLDLT group experienced significantly lower overall waitlist dropouts (5.2%vs. 34.4%, P<0.001) and mortality (3.8%vs. 24.4%, P<0.001) compared to the pDDLT group. Possessing a living donor correlated with a 26% decline in the risk of waitlist dropout (adjusted hazard ratio 0.74, 95%CI 0.55-0.99, P=0.042). The pLDLT group also demonstrated superior survival outcomes at 1- (84.9%vs. 80.1%), 5- (77.6%vs. 61.7%), and 10-year (65.6%vs.52.9%) from listing (log-rank P<0.001) with a 35% reduced risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio 0.65, 95%CI 0.56-0.76, P<0.001). Moreover, the predicted hazard ratios consistently remained below 1 across the MELD-Na range 11-26. Having a potential living donor significantly improves survival in end-stage liver disease patients, even with MELD-Na scores as low as 11. This emphasizes the need to promote awareness and adoption of LDLT in liver transplant programs worldwide.

The utility of axial imaging among selected patients in the early postoperative period after pancreatectomy

BackgroundPostoperative computed tomography imaging has been shown to play an important role in avoiding failure-to-rescue. We sought to examine the impact of the timing of such imaging studies on outcomes after pancreatectomy. MethodsPatients who underwent pancreatic resection at our institution from 2017 to 2022 were reviewed retrospectively to identify those undergoing computed tomography for any indication before discharge. Patients were subdivided by the postoperative day that the first computed tomography scan was obtained: immediate (postoperative day <3), early (postoperative day 3–7), and delayed (postoperative day >7). ResultsOf 370 patients, 110 (30%) had a computed tomography during the initial surgical stay. The 3 timing groups were similar in age, comorbidities, pathology, operative time, and number of scans. When comparing the early with the delayed group, we found that antibiotic usage, percutaneous drainage, and overall invasive interventions during surgical stay were all similar. However, those patients who were scanned in the early period had significantly shorter length of stay (17.05 vs 22.82, P = .0008) and fewer composite days hospitalized (20.1 vs 24.9, P = .01) relative to the delayed group. Importantly, early computed tomography imaging was found to be the only independent predictor of a postoperative length of stay ≤15 days on multivariate analysis. Surgical stay mortality rates were significantly lower in the early compared with delayed group (0% vs 11%, P = .02). A change in treatment was observed in 59% after computed tomography, with 15% undergoing invasive interventions, 27% treated medically, and 16% with expectant management. ConclusionIn our cohort, patients imaged early after pancreatectomy experienced shorter hospital stays and lower inpatient mortality relative to those scanned after the first postoperative week.

Machine Learning Predicts Unplanned Care Escalations for Post-Anesthesia Care Unit Patients during the Perioperative Period: A Single-Center Retrospective Study

Background: Despite low mortality for elective procedures in the United States and developed countries, some patients have unexpected care escalations (UCE) following post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) discharge. Studies indicate patient risk factors for UCE, but determining which factors are most important is unclear. Machine learning (ML) can predict clinical events. We hypothesized that ML could predict patient UCE after PACU discharge in surgical patients and identify specific risk factors. Methods: We conducted a single center, retrospective analysis of all patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery (elective and emergent). We collected data from pre-operative visits, intra-operative records, PACU admissions, and the rate of UCE. We trained a ML model with this data and tested the model on an independent data set to determine its efficacy. Finally, we evaluated the individual patient and clinical factors most likely to predict UCE risk. Results: Our study revealed that ML could predict UCE risk which was approximately 5% in both the training and testing groups. We were able to identify patient risk factors such as patient vital signs, emergent procedure, ASA Status, and non-surgical anesthesia time as significant variable. We plotted Shapley values for significant variables for each patient to help determine which of these variables had the greatest effect on UCE risk. Of note, the UCE risk factors identified frequently by ML were in alignment with anesthesiologist clinical practice and the current literature. Conclusions: We used ML to analyze data from a single-center, retrospective cohort of non-cardiac surgical patients, some of whom had an UCE. ML assigned risk prediction for patients to have UCE and determined perioperative factors associated with increased risk. We advocate to use ML to augment anesthesiologist clinical decision-making, help decide proper disposition from the PACU, and ensure the safest possible care of our patients.

Impact of Renin-Angiotensin System Blockade on Mortality and Allograft Loss among Renal Transplant Recipients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The blockade of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has a beneficial effect on reducing the levels of proteinuria and blood pressure in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and reduces the risk of developing end-stage kidney disease in CKD patients. Nonetheless, a debate persists regarding the impact of RAS inhibitors on outcomes such as mortality and graft survival in renal transplant patients. To assess the effect of RAS inhibitors on graft recipients in the past decade, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched Embase, PubMed, and the Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials from January 1, 2012, to August 1, 2022. We included 14 articles, comprising 5 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 9 cohort studies, including 45,377 patients. These studies compared patient or graft survival between an RAS inhibitor treatment arm and a control arm. The meta-analysis revealed that RAS blockade was significantly associated with lower mortality in cohort studies (risk ratio [RR] = 0.66, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.55-0.79), reduced allograft loss in cohort studies (RR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.54-0.71), and significant changes in systolic blood pressure in RCTs. Subgroup analysis of the groups of interest (interventions involving RAS blockade, follow-up period of ≥5 years) showed consistently reduced mortality (RR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.56-0.81) and reduced allograft loss (RR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.54-0.70). Our results demonstrated that the application of RAS blockade among renal transplant recipients was associated with lower mortality and allograft loss in cohort studies but not in RCTs. More powered clinical trials are needed to evaluate the effects of RAS blockade in renal transplant recipients.

Genomic surveillance and vaccine response to the dominant SARS-CoV-2 XBB lineage in Rio Grande do Sul

The COVID-19 pandemic has been marked by novel viral variants, posing challenges to global public health. Recombination, a viral evolution mechanism, is implicated in SARS-CoV-2's ongoing evolution. The XBB recombinant lineage, known for evading antibody-mediated immunity, exhibits higher transmissibility without increased disease severity. We investigated the prevalence and genomic features of XBB in SARS-CoV-2-positive cases in Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil. We sequenced 357 samples from epidemiological weeks (EW) 47/2022 to 17/2023, and included 389 publicly available sequences. Clinical and epidemiological data were obtained from DATASUS, e-SUS, and SIVEP GRIPE (data recording systems of the Brazilian Ministry of Health). Of these, 143 were classified as XBB and 586 were other Omicron lineages. In March 2023 (EW 10), XBB became dominant, accounting for 83.3% of cases. 97.7% of XBB-infected patients successfully recovered from the infection, with a low mortality rate (2.3%). Even after receiving three vaccine doses and having been previously infected, 59.5% of the patients experienced reinfection with XBB. However, for 54% of the individuals, the interval between their XBB infection and the last vaccine dose exceeded one year, potentially leading to a decline in antibody levels. In addition, we identified 90 mutations in RS circulating XBB, spread throughout the genome, notably in the Spike protein region associated with immune resistance. This study provides insights into the dynamics and impact of a recombinant variant becoming predominant for the first time in the state. Continued surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 genomic evolution is crucial for effective public health management.

Transsphenoidal Approach for Pituitary Macroadenoma: Complications

Transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) is a popular method for resecting pituitary tumors, but it has been associated with severe consequences such as perioperative medical issues, endocrine problems, and surgical complications. The pituitary gland, a bilobed endocrine organ, contains eight hormones and is surrounded by the sella turcica, tuberculum sellae, dorsum sellae, and cavernous sinus dura. The gland's structure is complex, with the optic chiasm and sphenoid sinus being significant structures. The sphenoid sinus, which grows with age and has variable septal and cavitary architecture, can make the transsphenoidal approach more difficult to perform in cases of bleeding, vision loss, or cranial nerve palsy. Understanding the anatomy of the sphenoid sinus is crucial for a safe sellar approach and tumor removal. The operative microscope introduced in the 1960s has further improved surgical outcomes with low morbidity and mortality rates. Pituitary adenomas are extra-arachnoidal tumors that develop outside the boundaries of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). They can cause iatrogenic leaks if the arachnoid membrane is ruptured and a cerebrospinal fluid fistula is introduced. Delayed postoperative epistaxis can result from the sphenopalatine artery and the intracavernous internal carotid artery (ICA). Loss of vision can result from physical injuries to the optic nerves or chiasm, which can occur at multiple stages of the operation. Other causes include cerebral vasospasm, traction injury, empty sella syndrome with chiasm prolapse, ophthalmoplegia, and internal injuries to the carotid artery. Injuries to the sphenoid sinus, including proximity to essential tissues, thin or absent bone, and loss of bone, increase the risk of iatrogenic injury. Packing is the initial therapy, and postoperative angiography should be performed afterward. Embolization is considered in situations where packing is inadequate or when there is development to pseudo-aneurysms or carotid cavernous fistulae. Chronic Insipidus Diabetes (DI) is a common disturbance in patients following transsphenoidal surgery (TSS), causing water and electrolyte problems. DI can manifest in various clinical patterns, including transitory, permanent, and triphasic phenotypes. Postoperative syndrome of antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) is also a risk factor, with hyponatremia often delayed and symptomatic. Improved or newly developed hypopituitarism is a risk, with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis being the most susceptible. Transcranial procedures with HPA or other axis deficits may cause damage to normal residual glands, especially in large tumors. Transsphenoidal techniques can mitigate the risk of dissecting an attenuated gland, but understanding pituitary physiology and sellar anatomy is crucial for improving the procedure and encouraging innovation. Transcranial procedures have a low death rate and risk of significant impairment, but understanding the underlying medical, endocrine, and surgical consequences is essential for successful PA excision.

Clinical Outcome Using Different Catheter Interventional Treatment Modalities in High-Risk Pulmonary Artery Embolism.

For patients with high-risk pulmonary artery embolism (PE), catheter-directed therapies pose a viable alternative treatment option to systemic thrombolysis or anticoagulation. Right now, there are multiple devices available which have been proven to be safe and effective in lower-risk settings. There is, however, little data comparing their efficacies in high-risk PE. We performed a retrospective, single-center study on patients with high-risk PE undergoing catheter interventional treatment. Patients receiving large-bore catheter thrombectomy were compared to patients receiving alternative treatment forms. Of the 20 patients included, 9 received large-bore thrombectomy, and 11 received alternative interventional treatments. While the baseline characteristics were comparable between the two groups, periprocedural and in-hospital mortality tended to be significantly lower with large-bore thrombectomy when compared to other treatment forms (0 vs. 55% and 33 vs. 82%, p = 0.07 and 0.01, respectively). In this small, retrospective study, large-bore thrombectomy was associated with lower mortality as compared to alternative treatment forms. Future prospective research is needed to corroborate these findings.

Increasing the number of midwives is necessary but not sufficient: using global data to support the case for investment in both midwife availability and the enabling work environment in low- and middle-income countries

BackgroundMost countries are off-track to achieve global maternal and newborn health goals. Global stakeholders agree that investment in midwifery is an important element of the solution. During a global shortage of health workers, strategic decisions must be made about how to configure services to achieve the best possible outcomes with the available resources. This paper aims to assess the relationship between the strength of low- and middle-income countries’ (LMICs’) midwifery profession and key maternal and newborn health outcomes, and thus to prompt policy dialogue about service configuration.MethodsUsing the most recent available data from publicly available global databases for the period 2000–2020, we conducted an ecological study to examine the association between the number of midwives per 10,000 population and: (i) maternal mortality, (ii) neonatal mortality, and (iii) caesarean birth rate in LMICs. We developed a composite measure of the strength of the midwifery profession, and examined its relationship with maternal mortality.ResultsIn LMICs (especially low-income countries), higher availability of midwives is associated with lower maternal and neonatal mortality. In upper-middle-income countries, higher availability of midwives is associated with caesarean birth rates close to 10–15%. However, some countries achieved good outcomes without increasing midwife availability, and some have increased midwife availability and not achieved good outcomes. Similarly, while stronger midwifery service structures are associated with greater reductions in maternal mortality, this is not true in every country.ConclusionsA complex web of health system factors and social determinants contribute to maternal and newborn health outcomes, but there is enough evidence from this and other studies to indicate that midwives can be a highly cost-effective element of national strategies to improve these outcomes.

Diverging Trends in Survival and Functional Outcome between Males and Females after Intracerebral Hemorrhage.

Compared to ischemic stroke, sex differences in patient outcomes following intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) are underreported. We aimed to determine sex differences in mortality and functional outcomes in a large, unselected Swedish cohort. In this observational study, data on 22,789 patients with spontaneous ICH registered in the Swedish Stroke Register between 2012 and 2019 were used to compare sex differences in 90-day mortality and functional outcome using multivariable Cox and logistic regression analyses, adjusting for relevant confounders. Multiple imputation was used to impute missing data. The crude 90-day mortality rate was 36.7% in females (3,820/10,405) and 31.7% in males (3,929/12,384) (female hazard ratio [HR] 1.20 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15-1.25). In multivariable analysis, the HR for 90-day mortality following ICH in females was 0.89 (95% CI: 0.85-0.94). Age was an important driving factor for the effect of sex on mortality. After adjustment for age, vascular risk factors, and stroke severity, the 90-day functional outcome in pre-stroke independent patients was worse in females compared to males (odds ratio: 1.27 95% CI: 1.16-1.40). In this large observational study, despite lower 90-day mortality, the female sex was independently associated with a worse functional outcome compared to males after ICH, even after adjusting for significant covariates. These diverging trends have not been previously reported for ICH. Given the observational design, our findings should be interpreted with caution, thus further external validation is warranted.

Independent effects of the glucose-to-glycated hemoglobin ratio on mortality in critically ill patients with atrial fibrillation

BackgroundThe glucose-to-glycated hemoglobin ratio (GAR) represents stress hyperglycemia, which has been closely associated with adverse outcomes in cardio-cerebrovascular diseases. No studies have examined the association between stress hyperglycemia and atrial fibrillation (AF) in critically ill patients. This study aims to explore the relationship between GAR and the prognosis of critically ill patients with AF.MethodsA retrospective cohort of patients was selected from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database. The GAR was calculated based on fasting blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin levels measured after admission. The primary outcome was the 30-day mortality rate, with secondary outcomes being the 90-day and 365-day mortality rates. The GAR was divided into tertiles, and Kaplan–Meier analysis was employed to compare differences in mortality rates between groups. The Cox proportional hazards model and restricted cubic splines (RCS) were utilized to evaluate the relationship between the GAR and mortality. Subsequently, a segmented regression model was constructed to analyze threshold effects in cases where nonlinear relationships were determined.ResultsIn this cohort, the second tertile of the GAR exhibited lower mortality rates at 30 days (10.56% vs 6.33% vs 14.51%), 90 days (17.11% vs 10.09% vs 17.88%), and 365 days (25.30% vs 16.15% vs 22.72%). In the third tertile, the risk of mortality at 30 days increased by 165% (HR = 2.65, 95% CI 1.99–3.54, p < 0.001), at 90 days increased by 113% (HR = 2.13, 95% CI 1.68–2.70, p < 0.001), and at 365 days increased by 70% (HR = 1.70, 95% CI 1.68–2.70, p < 0.001). The association between the GAR and patient mortality demonstrated a “J-shaped” non-linear correlation. Once the GAR exceeded 15.915, each incremental unit increase in the ratio was associated with a 27.2% increase in the risk of 30-day mortality in critically ill atrial fibrillation patients (HR = 1.262, 95% CI 1.214–1.333, p < 0.001).ConclusionThe GAR is associated with both short-term and long-term mortality in critically ill patients with AF in a J-shaped relationship. Both low and excessively high GAR values indicate poor prognosis.

Recognition patterns of acute kidney injury in hospitalized patients

Abstract Background and Objectives Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) during hospitalization is associated with increased complications and mortality. Despite efforts to standardize AKI management, its recognition in clinical practice is limited. Methods To assess and characterize different patterns of AKI diagnosis, we collected clinical data, serum creatinine (sCr) levels, comorbidities, and outcomes from adult patients using the Hospital Discharge Form (HDF). AKI diagnosis was based on administrative data and according to KDIGO criteria by evaluating sCr variations during hospitalization. Additionally, patients were also categorized based on the timing of AKI onset. Results Among 56 820 patients, 42 900 (75.5%) had no AKI, 1 893 (3.3%) had AKI diagnosed by sCr changes and coded in HDF (Full-AKI), 2 529 (4.4%) had AKI reported on HDF but not meeting sCr-based criteria (HDF-AKI), and 9 498 (16.7%) had undetected AKI diagnosed by sCr changes but not coded in HDF (KDIGO-AKI). Overall, AKI incidence was 24.5%, with a 68% undetection rate. Patients with KDIGO-AKI were younger, had a higher proportion of females, lower comorbidity burden, milder AKI stages, more frequent admissions to surgical wards, and lower mortality compared to Full-AKI. All AKI groups had worse outcomes than those without AKI, and AKI, even if undetected, was independently associated with mortality risk. Patients with AKI at admission had different profiles and better outcomes than those developing AKI later. Conclusions AKI recognition in hospitalized patients is highly heterogeneous, with a significant prevalence of undetection. This variability may be affected by patients ‘characteristics, AKI-related factors, diagnostic approaches, and in-hospital patient management. AKI remains a major risk factor, emphasizing the importance of ensuring proper diagnosis for all patients.

Pre-Injury Statin Exposure is Associated With Improved Outcomes in Injured Patients That Receive Whole Blood.

Introduction: Whole blood (WB) is associated with improved mortality while lowering blood product utilization. Furthermore, statin medications are associated with favorable outcomes in traumatic brain injury and risk reduction of venous thromboembolism. However, the use of statin medications has not been evaluated in those receiving WB. The objective of this study is to determine the effects of pre-injury statin exposure on patients receiving WB.Methods: Patients that underwent WB first resuscitation and received pre-injury statins were compared to those that did not receive pre-injury statins. Demographics as well as complication rates, blood product transfusion volumes, and mortality were evaluated. Univariate and multivariable analyses were used to determine independent predictors of mortality.Results: In the study period, 785 patients received WB as part of their resuscitation. One hundred and thirty five patients (17.3%) took statin medications prior to injury. Patients that were exposed to a pre-injury statin had a lower mortality rate than those that were not exposed (21.5% vs 32.5%, P = .01). After adjusting for imbalances, age, ISS, Glasgow Coma Scale, admission systolic blood pressures, and pre-injury statin use were independent predictors of mortality following multiple logistic regression. When evaluating outcomes based on statin intensity, the use of high-intensity statins was associated with lower mortality (OR: .37, 95% CI: .13-.93), whereas moderate and low-intensity statins were not.Conclusion: In patients resuscitated with WB, pre-injury statins use was associated with improved outcomes. Specifically, patients that received high-intensity pre-injury statins appeared to be the population that benefited.

Two-year mortality and seizure recurrence following status epilepticus in Auckland, New Zealand: A prospective cohort study

PurposeTo document the 2-year mortality and seizure recurrence rate of a prospective cohort of patients identified with status epilepticus (SE). MethodsPatients presenting to any hospital in the Auckland region between April 6 2015, and April 5 2016, with a seizure lasting 10 min or longer were identified. Follow up was at 2 years post index SE episode via telephone calls and detailed review of clinical notes. ResultsWe identified 367 patients with SE over the course of one year. 335/367 (91.3 %) were successfully followed up at the 2-year mark. Two-year all-cause mortality was 50/335 (14.9 %), and 49/267 (18.4 %) when febrile SE was excluded. Two-year seizure recurrence was 197/335 (58.8 %). On univariate analyses, children (preschoolers 2 to < 5 years and children 5 to < 15 years), Asian ethnicity, SE duration <30 mins and acute (febrile) aetiology were associated with lower mortality, while older age >60 and progressive causes were associated with higher mortality on both univariate and multivariate analyses. Age < 2 years and acute aetiology were associated with lower seizure recurrence, while non convulsive status epilepticus (NCSE) with coma and a history of epilepsy were associated with higher seizure recurrence. On multivariate analyses, a history of epilepsy, as well as having both acute and remote causes were associated with higher seizure recurrence. ConclusionsAll-cause mortality in both the paediatric and adult populations at 2 years was lower than most previous reports. Older age, SE duration ≥30 mins and progressive aetiologies were associated with the highest 2-year mortality, while febrile SE had the lowest mortality. A history of epilepsy, NCSE with coma, and having both acute and remote causes were associated with higher seizure recurrence at 2 years. Future studies should focus on functional measures of outcome and long-term quality of life.

Is the Timing of Surgery a Sufficient Predictive Factor for Outcomes in Patients with Proximal Femur Fractures? A Systematic Review.

(1) Background: Hip fractures are currently recognized as major public health problems, raising many issues in terms of both patients' quality of life and the cost associated with caring for this type of fracture. Many authors debate whether to operate as soon as possible or to postpone surgery until the patient is stable. The purpose of this review was to review the literature and obtain additional information about the moment of surgery, the time to surgery, length of hospital stay, and how all of these factors influence patient mortality and complications. (2) Methods: The systematic search was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and PICO guidelines, using the Google Scholar platform, for articles published between 2015 and 2023. Quality assessment was performed. (3) Results: After applying the inclusion criteria, 20 articles were included in the final list. Those who had surgery within 48 h had lower in-hospital and 30-day mortality rates than those who operated within 24 h. The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score is an important predictive factor for surgical delay, length of hospital stay (LOS), complications, and mortality. (4) Conclusions: Performing surgery in the first 48 h after admission is beneficial to patients after medical stabilization. Avoidance of delayed surgery will improve postoperative complications, LOS, and mortality.

Chronic Kidney Disease and Charcot Neuro-Osteoarthropathy of Foot in Diabetes.

Charcot neuro-osteoarthropathy (CNO) occurs late in diabetes and may cause fracture, deformity, and higher mortality. Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) affects bone metabolism and contributes to mortality. However, there is no data on prevalence of CNO and its outcomes with coexisting DKD (or chronic kidney disease [CKD]). To ascertain the prevalence of CKD (pick CKD or DKD) among patients with CNO and delineate the remission of active CNO and subsequent lower extremity amputation and all-cause mortality during prospective follow-up. Consecutive patients with diabetic CNO (active or inactive) were enrolled and subsequently divided into those with and without CKD (pick CKD or DKD) (Group A and Group B, respectively). A preestablished timeframe of 36 weeks was utilized to evaluate the remission proportion of active CNO. A total of 493 CNO patients were observed and 449 subjects (150 patients had active CNO) were further evaluated. The overall prevalence of diabetic nephropathy (DKD or CKD?) CNO was 43.7%. The proportion of patients achieving remission was significantly lower in Group A compared to Group B (OR 0.468, CI [0.239-0.934], P = .025), however, the median time for achieving remission was similar between the 2 groups (14 weeks vs 16 weeks, P = .885). Overall, all-cause mortality was notably higher Group A compared to Group B (OR 2.23, 95% CI [1.474-3.368]) over a median follow-up of 4 years. No significant differences were observed in rates of diabetic foot ulcers (58.2% vs 54.9%; P = .584) and amputations (17.4% vs 15.12%; P = .889) between Group A and Group B. Patients of CNO with coexisting CKD have poor prognosis both in terms of likelihood of active CNO remission and higher mortality.