Thoracic Fluid Content Research Articles

Improvement of hemodynamic parameters in aortic stenosis patients with transcatheter valve replacement by using impedance cardiography.

BackgroundThe hemodynamic changes of patients with aortic stenosis (AS) who underwent transcatheter valve replacement (TAVR) have not been completely investigated.Methods and resultsWe enrolled 74 patients with AS who underwent TAVR and assessed cardiac function changes at 1 week post-operation by impedance cardiography (ICG) in a supine position at rest for more than 15 min. Of the 74 patients, 47 had preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF ≥ 50%; preserved-LVEF group) and 27 had reduced LVEF (LVEF <50%; reduced-LVEF group). TAVR improved the cardiac structure and function, as evidenced by the decrease in the left ventricular end-diastolic (LVED), left atrial diameter (LAD), and an increase in the LVEF. We observed a decrease in N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) level compared to that before treatment. Moreover, patients with reduced LVEF had a more significant reduction of NT-proBNP than those with preserved LVEF. Meanwhile, the blood pressure of patients had no significant differences pre- and post-operation. Based on ICG, there were no changes in the parameter of cardiac preload [thoracic fluid content (TFC)]. We observed an improvement in parameters of diastolic cardiac function [left ventricular ejection time (LVET) and pre-ejection period (PEP)]. And we detected converse results in parameters of heart systolic function [systolic time ratio (STR), cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), stroke index (SI), and stroke volume (SV)] and cardiac afterload [stroke systemic vascular resistance (SSVR) and SSVR-index (SSVRI)]. In addition, TFC level was decreased in patients with thoracic volume overload after valve replacement. Subgroup analysis showed that the changes in those parameters were more noticeable in patients with reduced LVEF than that with preserved LVEF. Moreover, we observed no effects on parameters of heart systolic function and heart afterload in the LVEF ≥ 50% group before and after TAVR.ConclusionOur data revealed a beneficial effect of TAVR in diastolic function and preload as detected by the ICG. But the LV systolic function and cardiac afterload were not improved in patients with LVEF <50%. The result indicated that ICG could be used as an important technique to monitor the cardiac condition of patients after aortic valve replacement.

Thoracic Fluid Content in Neonates Presented with Respiratory Distress as a Predictive Tool for Transient Tachypnea of Newborn.

Respiratory conditions are the most common reason for admission of newborns to a neonatal care unit. The index of contractility (ICON) can be used to measure the thoracic fluid content (TFC) in neonates which is a significant parameter in cases presented with transient tachypnea of newborn (TTN). The objective was to compare TFC between newborn infants with TTN compared with other causes of respiratory distress (RD). We tested the hypothesis that TFC would be higher in infants with TTN. In total, 105 newborns were enrolled at the delivery room and were categorized into three groups: TTN, other causes of RD, and control, according to physical examination and Chest X-Ray. TFC was measured within the first 6 hours for all infants and at 24 and 48 hours for the first two groups. Demographic data showed higher male participants and use of antenatal steroid therapy in RD groups. TFC within the first 6 hours was higher in RD groups. However, TFC at 24 hours of ≤24 mL/kg, and TFC drop rate at 24 hours of >12% are statistically significant discriminators of TTN from non-TTN, with sensitivity and specificity of 97.1 and 47.1%, and 60 and 82.4%, respectively (Fig 1 and 2). ICON can be used in conjunction with clinical parameters and CXR as a tool for differentiation between TTN and other causes of RD within the first 24 hours of life by using the cutoff value of TFC at 24 hours and TFC drop rate. This will allow earlier and optimum management of different causes of RD. · Thoracic fluid content. · Neonatal respiratory distress. · Newborn.

The Use of Thoracic Fluid Content As A Guide For 6% HES Infusion during Hypervolemic Hemodilution Among Placenta Accreta Patients Undergoing Cesarean Section. A Randomized Controlled Trial

The Use of Thoracic Fluid Content As A Guide For 6% HES Infusion during Hypervolemic Hemodilution Among Placenta Accreta Patients Undergoing Cesarean Section. A Randomized Controlled Trial

Tools for assessing lung fluid in neonates with respiratory distress

BackgroundTransient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN), as a common cause of neonatal respiratory distress, needs to be distinguished from respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Various modalities such as lung ultrasonography, cytokine analysis, and electrical cardiometry for the evaluation of lung fluid can be helpful for the exact diagnosis, however, clinical diagnosis has been applied mainly. This study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of the various tools for the diagnosis of TTN and RDS in neonates.MethodsThis study evaluated 22 late-preterm and term infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of Gangnam Severance Hospital because of respiratory distress. Total 9 neonates were diagnosed with TTN and 13 had RDS. In addition to chest radiography, the LUS score was calculated by a neonatologist using the portable ultrasound device. Cytokines in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid supernatant were measured. Thoracic fluid content was measured using an electrical cardiometry device.ResultsWe enrolled 22 patients with median gestational age, 37.1 weeks, and birth weight 3100 g. There is no difference in patient characteristics between RDS and TTN group. Lung ultrasound score was significantly higher in RDS than TTN (11 vs 6, p = 0.001). Score 0 is shown in all infants with TTN. Score 1 is shown as significantly more in RDS than TTN. Between the TTN and RDS groups, there were significant differences in the changes of thoracic fluid content (2 vs − 1.5, p < 0.001), IL-1β levels (2.5 vs 11.3, p = 0.02), and TNF-α levels (20.1 vs 11.2, p = 0.04).ConclusionWe found lung ultrasound and electrical cardiometry to be reliable diagnostic tools for assessing infants with respiratory distress among late-preterm and term infants. Further studies with a large number of patients are needed to confirm their clinical usefulness.

Comparison of Changes in Thoracic Fluid Content Between On-Pump and Off-Pump CABG by Use of Electrical Cardiometry

To compare the changes in thoracic fluid content, PaO2/FIO2 ratio, plateau pressure, compliance, and postoperative ventilation duration in off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) and on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (ONCAB). Prospective observational study. Tertiary-care cardiac center. Over an 18-month period, from December 2019 to May 2021, 111 patients who underwent CAB grafting were enrolled. Group I constituted OPCAB patients and Group II the ONCAB patients. After induction, the authors measured thoracic fluid content (TFC), pulmonary compliance, airway pressures, and the PaO2/FIO2 ratio before skin incision (T1) and after skin closure (T2). The input, output, as well as the duration of postoperative ventilation, also were recorded. At T2, the ONCAB group had a significantly higher change in TFC than the OPCAB group (5.4 ± 1.86 kOhm-1v 4.32 ± 1.84 kOhm-1, p=0.012). The fluid balance was significantly higher in the OPCAB group compared with the ONCAB group (2,159.21 ± 108.73 mL v 1,792.50 ± 151.88 mL, p=0.0001). The decrease in PaO2/FIO2 ratio was significantly lower in the OPCAB group compared with the ONCAB group (-71.34 ± 23.42 v -123.65 ± 36.81, p=0.000). The increase in plateau pressure, decrease in compliance, and postoperative ventilation period were significantly higher in the patients who underwent ONCAB than the patients who underwent OPCAB (p < 0.05). The change in TFC was greater in the ONCAB group, despite the fact that the fluid balance was higher in the OPCAB group. A higher TFC in ONCAB led to lower PaO2/FIO2 ratio, lower compliance, higher plateau pressures, and longer postoperative ventilation.

Non-invasive Cardiac Output Monitoring and Assessment of Fluid Responsiveness in Children With Shock in the Emergency Department.

IntroductionThe assessment of fluid responsiveness is important in the management of shock but conventional methods of assessing fluid responsiveness are often inaccurate. Our study aims to evaluate changes in objective hemodynamic parameters as measured using electrical cardiometry (ICON® monitor) following the fluid bolus in children presenting with shock and to evaluate whether any specific hemodynamic parameter can best predict fluid responsiveness among children with shock.Materials and MethodsWe conducted a prospective observational study in children presenting with shock to our emergency department between June 2020 and March 2021. We collected the parameters such as heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and hemodynamic data such as cardiac output CO), cardiac index (CI), index of contractility (ICON), stroke volume (SV), stroke index (SI), corrected flow time (FTC), systolic time ratio (STR), variation of index of contractility (VIC), stroke volume variation (SVV), systemic vascular resistance (SVR), and thoracic fluid content (TFC) using the ICON monitor before and after fluid bolus (FB). We assessed percent change (Δ) and used paired-sample Student’s t-test to compare pre- and post-hemodynamic data and Mann–Whitney U-test to compare fluid responders and non-responders. P-Values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.ResultsWe recorded 42 fluid interventions in 40 patients during our study period. The median IQR age was 10.56 (4.8, 14.8) years with male/female ratio (1.2:1). There was a significant decrease in ΔRR [−1.61 (−14.8, 0); p = 0.012], ΔDBP [−5.5 (−14.4, 8); p = 0.027], ΔMAP [−2.2 (−11, 2); p = 0.018], ΔSVR [−5.8 (−20, 5.2); p = 0.025], and ΔSTR [−8.39 (−21, 3); p = 0.001] and significant increase in ΔTFC [6.2 (3.5, 11.4); p = 0.01] following FB. We defined fluid responders by an increase in SV by ≥10% after a single FB of 20 ml/kg crystalloid. Receiver operating curve analysis revealed that among all the parameters, 15% change in ICON had an excellent AUC (0.85) for the fluid responsiveness.ConclusionOur study showed significant changes in objective hemodynamic parameters, such as SVR, STR, and TFC following FB in children presenting with shock. A 15% change in ICON had an excellent predictive performance for the fluid responsiveness among our cohort of pediatric shock.

Effect of Carbohydrate-Enriched Drink Compared to Fasting on Hemodynamics in Healthy Volunteers. A Randomized Trial.

Fasting prior to surgery can cause dehydration and alter hemodynamics. This study aimed to determine the impact of a carbohydrate-enriched drink (NutriciaTM Pre-op®) on selected hemodynamical parameters, measured in a non-invasive manner. We enrolled 100 healthy volunteers and measured their weight, height, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate (HR), thoracic fluid content (TFC), thoracic fluid index (TFCI), stroke volume (SV), stroke volume variation (SVV), stroke index (SI), cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), heather index (HI), systolic time ration (STR), systemic time ratio index (STRI), systemic vascular resistance (SVR), and systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI) by a Niccomo™ device, implementing the impedance cardiography (ICG) method. Measurements were performed at the beginning of the study, and after 10 h and 12 h. We randomly allocated participants to the control group and the pre-op group. The pre-op group received 400 mL of Nutricia™ preOp®, as suggested in the ERAS guidelines, within 10 h of the study. Student’s t-test or the Mann–Whitney U test were used to compare the two groups, and p < 0.05 was considered significant. We did not observe any changes in hemodynamical parameters, blood pressure, and heart rate between the groups. We have proven that carbohydrate-enriched drink administration did not have a significant impact on the hemodynamical parameters of healthy volunteers.

Acromegaly: The Research and Practical Value of Noninvasive Hemodynamic Assessments via Impedance Cardiography.

BackgroundArterial hypertension (AH) that accompanies acromegaly (AC) may lead to cardiovascular dysfunction. Such consequences may be detected with impedance cardiography (ICG), which is a noninvasive method of hemodynamic assessment. Early detection of subclinical hemodynamic alterations in AC patients may be crucial for optimizing treatment and preventing cardiovascular remodeling. The purpose of this study was to identify the hemodynamic parameters of the cardiovascular system that differentiate patients with AC from those in the control group (CG), with a particular emphasis on potential targets for medical therapy.MethodsThis observational, prospective, clinical study involved a comparative analysis of 33 AC patients with no significant comorbidities and the controls selected via propensity score matching based on a set of baseline characteristics (age, sex, body mass index, mean blood pressure [MBP]), with comparable proportions of AH patients. The assessed hemodynamic parameters included the stroke volume index (SI), cardiac index, systemic vascular resistance index, velocity index (VI), acceleration index, Heather index (HI), and thoracic fluid content (TFC).ResultsBoth the AC group and the CG had well-controlled AH (mean blood pressure of 121/77 mmHg and 119/76 mmHg, respectively). In terms of baseline characteristics, the AC group was characterized by a higher hear rate and lower creatinine levels than the CG (76.2 bpm vs. 66.8 bpm [p = 0.001] and 0.755 mg/dL vs. 0.850 mg/dL [p = 0.035], respectively). ICG assessment of AC patients and CG patients showed the former to have higher heart rates (73.5 bpm vs. 65.2 bpm; p = 0.003), lower SI (43.8 mL/m2 vs. 53.4 mL/m2; p = 0.0001), lower VI (42.1 1/1000/s vs. 49.3 1/1000/s; p = 0.037), lower HI (8.49 Ohm/s2 vs. 13.4 Ohm/s2, p ≤ 0.0001), and higher thoracic fluid content (TFC) (38.4 1/kOhm vs. 28.1 1/kOhm; p ≤ 0.0001), respectively.ConclusionsEven with well-controlled hypertension, AC is associated with a high TFC, increased heart rate, and decreased indices of cardiac contractility. Hemodynamic changes in AC patients may be detected with the modern, noninvasive diagnostic tool, ICG.

Comparison of volume assessment methods in transurethral resection of the prostate

To compare the value of inferior vena cava (IVC) variation, thoracic fluid content (TFC), and central venous pressure (CVP) in transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for systemic volumetric load. Eighty male patients who had undergone TURP at our hospital from July to August 2021 were enrolled. Before and after anesthesia induction, IVC variation and TFC were recorded every 15 min and then 15 min after surgery. The ability of IVC variation, TFC, and CVP to predict fluid responsiveness was assessed using receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves. The Pearson correlation test was used to analyze the correlations among intraoperative IVC variation, TFC, CVP and the stroke volume index (SVI). ROC curve evaluation: the area under the ROC curve (AUC) of IVC variation was 0.82 (p &lt; 0.01), while that of CVP and TFC was 0.61 (p = 0.16) and 0.45 (p = 0.28), respectively. Since the operation began, ∆IVC variation showed a significant negative correlation with ∆SVI at different time points. ∆CVP and ∆TFC showed a poor correlation with ∆SVI. IVC variation was superior to TFC and CVP to predict fluid responsiveness and assess the volume status and volume responsiveness of patients undergoing TURP.

Cushing's Disease: Assessment of Early Cardiovascular Hemodynamic Dysfunction With Impedance Cardiography.

BackgroundCushing’s disease is a rare condition associated with a high cardiovascular risk and hypercortisolemia-related hemodynamic dysfunction, the extent of which can be assessed with a noninvasive method, called impedance cardiography. The standard methods for hemodynamic assessment, such as echocardiography or ambulatory blood pressure monitoring may be insufficient to fully evaluate patients with Cushing’s disease; therefore, impedance cardiography is being currently considered a new modality for assessing early hemodynamic dysfunction in this patient population. The use of impedance cardiography for diagnosis and treatment of Cushing’s disease may serve as personalized noninvasive hemodynamic status assessment and provide a better insight into the pathophysiology of Cushing’s disease. The purpose of this study was to assess the hemodynamic profile of Cushing’s disease patients and compare it with that in the control group.Material and MethodsThis observational prospective clinical study aimed to compare 54 patients with Cushing’s disease (mean age 41 years; with 64.8% of this population affected with arterial hypertension) and a matched 54-person control group (mean age 45 years; with 74.1% of this population affected with arterial hypertension). The hemodynamic parameters assessed with impedance cardiography included the stroke index (SI), cardiac index (CI), systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI), velocity index (VI), (ACI), Heather index (HI), and thoracic fluid content (TFC).ResultsThe Cushing’s disease group was characterized by a higher diastolic blood pressure and a younger age than the control group (82.9 vs. 79.1 mmHg, p=0.045; and 41.1 vs. 44.9 years, p=0.035, respectively). Impedance cardiography parameters in the Cushing’s disease group showed: lower values of SI (42.1 vs. 52.8 ml/m2; p ≤ 0.0001), CI (2.99 vs. 3.64 l/min/m2; p ≤ 0,0001), VI (42.9 vs. 52.1 1/1000/s; p=0.001), ACI (68.7 vs. 80.5 1/100/s2; p=0,037), HI (13.1 vs. 15.2 Ohm/s2; p=0.033), and TFC (25.5 vs. 27.7 1/kOhm; p=0.006) and a higher SVRI (2,515 vs. 1,893 dyn*s*cm-5*m2; p ≤ 0.0001) than those in the control group.ConclusionsCushing’s disease is associated with significantly greater vasoconstriction and left ventricular systolic dysfunction. An individual assessment with impedance cardiography may be useful in Cushing’s disease patients in order to identify subclinical cardiovascular complications of chronic hypercortisolemia as potential therapeutic targets.

Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) for the assessment of volume status and fluid management in patients with severe pre-eclampsia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background and Aims:Appropriate volume assessment and fluid management can prevent maternal deaths in the severely pre-eclamptic (SPE) parturients. We planned a systematic review and meta-analysis (MA) to evaluate the role and ability of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in the assessment of volume status and early detection of lung oedema in an SPE parturient.Methods:An e-literature search was done from several databases. Data were extracted under five domains including POCUS-derived parameters like echo comet score (ECS), lung ultrasound (LUS) scores, B-patterns, optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD), E/e' ratio, presence of pleural effusion, pulmonary interstitial syndrome and pulmonary congestion. The risk of bias was assessed. Extracted data were analysed using MetaXL and Revman 5.3. Heterogeneity in the studies was evaluated using the Cochrane Q test and I2 statistics. Funnel plots were used for the assessment of publication bias.Results:Seven prospective studies including 574 parturients (including 396 pre-eclamptics) were selected. POCUS included lung, optic nerve, cardiac and thoracic US. In two studies, the ECS and LUS scores pre-delivery were higher in pre-eclamptics. Two studies found a mean ONSD of 5–5.84 mm before delivery. MA revealed a significantly lower mean ECS score at post-delivery than pre-delivery, and the summary prevalence of B-pattern and pleural effusion among SPE parturients was found to be 0.28 (0.03–0.84) and 0.1 (0–0.2), respectively. A good correlation was observed between B-line patterns and diastolic dysfunction (increased E/e' ratio), LUS score and thoracic fluid content, ONSD and ECS in individual studies.Conclusion:POCUS parameters can be useful as early markers of fluid status and serve as useful tools in the precise clinical management of pre-eclampsia.

Abstract P223: Vitamin D Supplementation Improves Measures Of Arterial Stiffness And Vascular Function In Adolescents Suffering From Orthostatic Intolerance

Background: In previous work we identified a group of adolescents with orthostatic intolerance (OI) presenting as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome or syncope with impairment in autonomic and vascular response upon head up tilt. Low vitamin D level correlated with the severity of symptoms. In this pilot study we hypothesized that vitamin D supplementation will improve the vascular function in these adolescents. Methods: A cohort of twenty Adolescents (mean age= 16.2 years, 4 males) who are vitamin D deficient had a non-invasive measurements of brachial BP, aortic BP, augmentation index at heart rate of 75 beats per minute (AIx75), and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV) using the SphygmoCor XCEL System at baseline and after two months of vitamin D supplementation (2000-5000 IU daily based on baseline level). Both right and left side ankle pressure and ankle brachial index (ABI) were assessed using COLIN VP-1000 vascular profiling system. Impedance Cardiography (ICG) was used to estimate total arterial compliance (TAC) and thoracic fluid content (TFC) in supine position at rest and after hand grip challenge. Results: As shown in the table. Compared to baseline, vitamin D supplementation increased vitamin D level, increased TAC and TFC at baseline and under stress challenge. It also tended to reduced AIx75 and cf-PWV and reduced both right and left ankle pressure and ABI Conclusions: Vitamin D supplementation improved different measures of vascular function in adolescent. These data provides evidence of potential therapeutic benefit of vitamin D supplementation for patients suffering from orthostatic intolerance who are vitamin D deficient.

Predictive and prognostic roles of electrical cardiometry in noninvasive assessments of community‐acquired pneumonia patients with dyspnoea

Background:Thoracic impedance monitoring able to detect pneumonia in the very early phase of emerging infiltration prior the patient developed remarkable clinical symptoms. However, no studies have yet been conducted on the usefulness of predicting pneumonia patient outcomes with parameters from electrical cardiometry.Objective:In the present study, we evaluated whether parameters measured by electrical cardiometry can predict clinical outcomes including mortality and length of hospital stay in patients with community‐acquired pneumonia in the emergency department.Methods:Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected from enrolled patient. Electrical cardiometry monitoring was done with a portable electrical cardiometry device connected to the body surface sensor. The continuous data from electrical cardiometry were recorded, and parameters were stored on the electrical cardiometry device automatically and then the data were downloaded for further analysis.Results:Thoracic fluid content has shown to be significantly higher in the intensive care unit admission group and in the death group. Expired patients had higher value of thoracic fluid content at emergency department admission. From a receiver operating characteristics curve analysis, thoracic fluid content presented fair AUC values of 0.72 (95% confidence interval, 0.71–0.74) and 0.73 (0.62–0.82) for prediction of 28‐day mortality and intensive care unit admission. Arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2), the ratio of arterial partial pressure of oxygen to inspired oxygen fraction (PaO2/FiO2 ratio) also showed excellent AUC value for prediction of mortality and intensive care unit admission.Conclusion:Electrical cardiometry monitoring indicated new possibility to anticipate prognosis of community‐acquired pneumonia patient. Increased thoracic fluid content value would relate worse outcome of the patient like mortality and intensive care unit admission. Electrical cardiometry monitoring allows real‐time measurements of thoracic fluid content without restraining the patient or invasive catheters.

Maternal plasma pro-atrial and C-type natriuretic peptide levels and their associations with cardiovascular and renal function in the second half of normal pregnancy: a longitudinal study

BackgroundPhysiological adaptation in pregnancy is characterized by remodeling of endocrine, cardiovascular and renal functions leading to fluid retention, volume expansion, altered cardiac loading conditions and hyperdynamic circulation. Natriuretic peptides have been used as biomarkers of cardiovascular function, but their associations with gestational age-related changes in maternal cardiac, endothelial and renal function have not been elucidated. The aim of this study was to establish longitudinal reference values for maternal plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (proANP) and C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) and investigate their temporal association with cardiovascular and renal function in the second half of pregnancy.MethodsThis study was a prospective longitudinal study of 53 low-risk pregnancies. Women were examined every 3–5 weeks during 22–40 weeks of gestation (252 observations). Fasting maternal blood samples were obtained to measure proANP, CNP, creatinine, cystatin C, uric acid, and fibrinogen levels. Cardiac function and systemic hemodynamics were assessed noninvasively by impedance cardiography (ICG) and vascular endothelial function by flow-mediated vasodilation of brachial artery (FMD).ResultsThe plasma proANP (R2adj = 0.79; P = 0.007), CNP (R2adj = 0.54; P = 0.005) decreased between 22 and 40 weeks. The creatinine (R2adj = 0.90; P < 0.001), cystatin C (R2adj = 0.93; P = < 0.001) and uric acid (R2adj = 0.83; P < 0.001) increased significantly, whereas the estimated glomerular filtration rate (R2adj = 0.93; P < 0.001) decreased with gestational age. The FMD did not change significantly but fibrinogen (R2adj = 0.79; P < 0.001) increased with advancing gestation. The maternal systemic vascular resistance index (R2adj = 0.50; P < 0.001) increased, stroke index (R2adj = 0.62; P < 0.001) decreased, whereas the cardiac index (R2adj = 0.62; P = 0.438) and thoracic fluid content (R2adj = 0.72; P = 0.132) did not change significantly with gestation. The proANP was associated with thoracic fluid content (R2adj = 0.74; P < 0.001) and fibrinogen (R2adj = 0.78; P = 0.034) but not with other variables of systemic hemodynamics, endothelial function, or renal function. The CNP was not associated significantly with parameters of cardiovascular or renal function.ConclusionLongitudinal reference values for maternal plasma proANP and CNP were established. These natriuretic peptides decreased slightly with advancing gestation, but they did not reflect the temporal physiological changes in maternal systemic hemodynamics, vascular endothelial function and renal function during the second half of pregnancy. The proANP correlated with the thoracic fluid content reflecting volume load in pregnancy.

Rationale and design of the AMULET study: A new Model of telemedical care in patients with heart failure.

AimsHeart failure (HF) is characterized by high mortality and hospital readmission rates. Limited access to cardiologists restricts the application of guideline‐directed, patient‐tailored medical therapy. Some telemedicine solutions and novel non‐invasive diagnostic tools may facilitate real‐time detection of early HF decompensation symptoms, prompt initiation of appropriate treatment, and optimal management of medical resources. We describe the rationale and design of the AMULET trial, which investigates the effect of comprehensive outpatient intervention, based on individualized haemodynamic assessment and teleconsultations, on cardiovascular mortality and unplanned hospitalizations in HF patients.Methods and resultsThe AMULET trial is a multicentre, prospective, randomized, open‐label, and controlled parallel group trial (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03476590). Six hundred and five eligible patients with HF (left ventricular ejection fraction ≤49%, at least one hospitalization due to acute HF decompensation within 6 months prior to enrolment) were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either an intervention group or a standard care group. The planned follow‐up is 12 months. The AMULET interventions are performed in ambulatory care points operated by nurses, with the remote support of cardiologists. The comprehensive clinical evaluation comprises measurements of heart rate, blood pressure, body mass, thoracic fluid content, and total body water. A recommendation support module based on these objective parameters is implemented in remote therapeutic decision‐making. The primary complex endpoints are cardiovascular mortality and unplanned HF hospitalization.ConclusionsThe AMULET trial will provide a prospective assessment of the effect of comprehensive ambulatory intervention, based on telemedicine and haemodynamically guided therapy, on mortality and readmissions in HF patients.

Методика оценки количества жидкости в грудной клетке, основанная на антропометрических данных пациента и определении электрического импеданса грудной клетки

Актуальность. Определение в динамике объема жидкости в грудной клетке приобретает все более широкое распространение в клинических исследованиях и является перспективным методом мониторинга у пациентов отделений интенсивной терапии различного профиля. Наиболее доступными и экономичными методами мониторинга объема жидкости в грудной клетке в настоящее время являются методы, основанные на измерении электрического импеданса грудной клетки при сканировании ее высокочастотным током. Эти методики обеспечивают хорошую повторяемость результатов и практически не зависят от оператора. Цель работы: разработка собственной оригинальной методики определения содержания жидкости в грудной клетке. Материалы и методы. Электрический грудной импеданс измерялся при сканировании грудной клетки электрическим током частотой 32 КГц с наложением двух пар ленточных электродов по В. Кубичеку. Окружность основания шеи и грудной клетки в месте наложения электродов была тщательно измерена. Также опреде­лялось расстояние между измерительными электродами. Объем грудной клетки рассчитывался на основании модели усеченного конуса. Объем жидкости в грудной клетке рассчитывался по формуле V = γν/Z(R – r), где V — объем жидкости в грудной клетке; γ — усредненное значение электропроводности крови; ν — объем грудной клетки, рассчитанный на модели усеченного конуса; Z — величина электрического импеданса грудной клетки; R — радиус грудной клетки, а r — радиус основания шеи, внесение разницы между ними в формулу должно уменьшить ошибку, связанную с присутствием в грудной клетке соединительной ткани, обладающей электропроводностью, которая отличается от электропроводности крови. Исследования проведены как у практически здоровых добровольцев, так и у пациентов отделения политравмы с торакальной травмой и признаками дыхательной недостаточности. Результаты. Наши наблюдения показали, что величина объема жидкости в грудной клетке, вычисленная по предлагаемой нами методике, в норме приближается к 60 % — 59 ± 2 % объема грудной клетки, рассчитанного на основе модели усеченного конуса. В наиболее тяжелых случаях торакальной травмы относительное содержание жидкости в грудной клетке пострадавших достигало 75–80 %, а величина объема жидкости в грудной клетке, выраженная в условных единицах на 1/КΩ, находилась на уровне 45–50 условных 1/КΩ. Эти события были ассоциированы с наличием клинической картины острого респираторного дистресс-синдрома 2-й степени тяжести, и все пациенты находились на принудительной искусственной вентиляции легких (ИВЛ) с созданием постоянного положительного давления в дыхательных путях и респираторного плато на уровне 25–27 см Н2О. Положительная динамика процесса была ассоциирована с возрастанием величины индекса оксигенации, возможностью перевода пациентов на самостоятельное дыхание. При этом относительное содержание жидкости в грудной клетке пострадавших снижалось до 60–67 %, а у тех, кто нуждался в продолжении ИВЛ, — до 68–73 %. Величина объема жидкости в грудной клетке, выраженная в условных единицах на 1/КΩ, при быстром улучшении и возможности прекращения ИВЛ составляла 37–42 условных 1/КΩ, а при необходимости продол­жения ИВЛ — 43–46 условных 1/КΩ. Результаты определения объема жидкости в грудной клетке по методу авторов лучше соответствовали клинической картине торакальной травмы, тяжести проявлений синдрома острой дыхательной недостаточности, чем показатели методики NICOM. Выводы. Разработанная методика определения содержания жидкости в грудной клетке может быть применена в научных исследованиях и клинической практике в процессе проведения интенсивной терапии у пациентов с синдромом острой дыхательной недостаточности.

A pilot study of short-term hemodynamic effects of negative pressure ventilation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease assessed using electrical cardiometry.

BackgroundPulmonary rehabilitation combined with negative pressure ventilation (NPV) demonstrated benefits in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The effect of NPV remains unknown. This study aims to clarify the short‐term response of the hemodynamic outcome of NPV in patients with COPD undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation program by electrical cardiometry.MethodsThis is an observational retrospective study of COPD patients who had been treated in a pulmonary rehabilitation unit with NPV between January 2018 and December 2019 that were enrolled to analyze the hemodynamic outcomes.ResultsThirty patients with COPD that were undergoing a pulmonary rehabilitation program and were regularly receiving NPV were enrolled. Cardiac output (p < .001) and heart rate (p < .001) showed a significant decrease after NPV. Stroke volume did not demonstrate significant change (p = .15). There was a significant decrease in thoracic fluid content (p = .016) and a significant increase in stroke volume variation (p = .038) systemic vascular resistance (p < .001) and left ventricular ejection time (p < .001). Other hemodynamic parameters were all comparable before and after NPV.ConclusionsNegative pressure ventilation demonstrated an impact on hemodynamics in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation. Electrical cardiometry is a feasible method of determining the hemodynamic effects of negative pressure ventilation. Thoracic fluid content significantly decreased immediately after the NPV.

Thoracic Fluid Content (TFC) Measurement Using Impedance Cardiography Predicts Outcomes in Critically Ill Children.

Objective: Conventional methods of fluid assessment in critically ill children are difficult and/or inaccurate. Impedance cardiography has capability of measuring thoracic fluid content (TFC). There is an insufficient literature reporting correlation between TFC and conventional methods of fluid balance and whether TFC predicts outcomes in critically ill children. We hypothesized that TFC correlates with indices of fluid balance [FIMO (Fluid Intake Minus Output) and AFIMO (Adjusted Fluid Intake Minus Output)] and is a predictor of outcomes in critically ill children.Design: Retrospective chart review.Setting: Pediatric intensive care unit of a tertiary care teaching hospital.Patients: Children <21 years, admitted to our Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) between July- November 2018 with acute respiratory failure and/or shock and who were monitored for fluid status using ICON® monitor.Interventions: None.Measurements and Main Results: We collected demographic information, data on daily and cumulative fluid balance (CFB), ventilator, PICU and hospital days, occurrence of multi-organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), and mortality. We calculated AFIMO using insensible fluid loss. We analyzed data using correlation coefficient, chi-square test and multiple linear regression analysis. We analyzed a total 327 recordings of TFC, FIMO and AFIMO as daily records of fluid balance in 61 critically ill children during the study period. The initial TFC, FIMO, and AFIMO in ml [median (IQR)] were 30(23, 44), 300(268, 325), and 21.05(−171.3, 240.2), respectively. The peak TFC, FIMO, and AFIMO in ml were 36(26, 24), 322(286, 334), and 108.8(−143.6, 324.4) respectively. The initial CFB was 1134.2(325.6, 2774.4). TFC did not correlate well with FIMO or AFIMO (correlation coefficient of 0.02 and −0.03, respectively), but a significant proportion of patients with high TFC exhibited pulmonary plethora on x-ray chest (as defined by increased bronchovascular markings and/or presence of pleural effusion) (p = 0.015). The multiple linear regression analysis revealed that initial and peak TFC and peak and mean FIMO and AFIMO predicted outcomes (ventilator days, length of PICU, and hospital days) in critically ill children (p < 0.05).Conclusions: In our cohort of critically ill children with respiratory failure and/or shock, TFC did not correlate with conventional measures of fluid balance (FIMO/AFIMO), but a significant proportion of patients with high TFC had pulmonary plethora on chest x-ray. Both initial and peak TFC predicted outcomes in critically ill children.

The non-invasive evaluation of heart function in patients with an acute myocardial infarction: The role of impedance cardiography.

The purpose of this study was to analyze hemodynamic changes in patients treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) at an early stage of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and at 1-month follow-up. Patients with AMI (n = 27) who underwent PCI were analyzed using impedance cardiography (ICG). ICG data were collected continuously (beat by beat) during the whole PCI procedure and thereafter at every 60 s for the next 24 h. Blood pressure was taken every 10 min and stored for analysis. Additionally the following parameters were measured: cardiac index (CI), stroke volume index (SVi), left cardiac work index (LCWi), contractility index (CTi), ventricular ejection time (VET), systemic vascular resistance index (SVRi), thoracic fluid content index (TFCi) and heart rate (HR). In the first 24 h after PCI all the contractility parameters including CI, SVi, LCWi, CTi and VET significantly decreased, whereas HR, SVRi and TFCi increased compared to baseline. All of the parameters examined got normalized at 1 month. The CI, SVi, LCWi, CTi, SVRi did not significantly differ from baseline, however the HR and VET were significantly lower compared to first day after PCI CONCLUSIONS: Cardiac performance deteriorates early after PCI and normalizes after 1 month in patients with an AMI. ICG is useful for hemodynamic monitoring of AMI patients during and after invasive therapy.

Nurse-led ambulatory care supported by non-invasive haemodynamic assessment after acute heart failure decompensation.

Heart failure (HF) is characterized by frequent decompensation and an unpredictable trajectory. To prevent early hospital readmission, coordinated discharge planning and individual therapeutic approach are recommended.AimsWe aimed to assess the effect of 1 month of ambulatory care, led by nurses and supported by non‐invasive haemodynamic assessment, on the functional status, well‐being, and haemodynamic status of patients post‐acute HF decompensation.Methods and resultsThis study had a multicentre, prospective, and observational design and included patients with at least one hospitalization due to acute HF decompensation within 6 months prior to enrolment. The 1 month ambulatory care included three visits led by a nurse when the haemodynamic state of each patient was assessed non‐invasively by impedance cardiography, including thoracic fluid content assessment. The pharmacotherapy was modified basing on haemodynamic assessment. Sixty eight of 73 recruited patients (median age = 67 years; median left ventricular ejection fraction = 30%) finished 1 month follow‐up. A significant improvement was observed in both the patients' functional status as defined by New York Heart Association class (P = 0.013) and sense of well‐being as evaluated by a visual analogue score (P = 0.002). The detailed patients' assessment on subsequent visits resulted in changes of pharmacotherapy in a significant percentage of patients (Visit 2 = 39% and Visit 3 = 44%).ConclusionsThe proposed model of nurse‐led ambulatory care for patients after acute HF decompensation, with consequent assessment of the haemodynamic profile, resulted in: (i) improvement in the functional status, (ii) improvement in the well‐being, and (iii) high rate of pharmacotherapy modifications.