Fasting may not be required before percutaneous coronary intervention.

Implications for practice and research: The results of this study suggest that percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) can be safely conducted without preprocedural fasting. Revision is needed of current fasting protocols. The findings of Hamid and colleagues must be confirmed by further randomised trials.

Metabolic effects of an oral carbohydrate-whey protein supplement after fasting in volunteers: A randomized controlled crossover trial.

OBJECTIVE: Oral supplements containing carbohydrates (CHOs) can be used to reduce preoperative fasting time. The aim of this study was to investigate the early metabolic and acute phase responses to a clear, oral supplement containing CHO and whey protein (WP) in young, healthy volunteers during a fasting-induced organic response. METHODS: In this controlled crossover clinical trial, volunteers were randomized into groups after a 12-h fast: the CHO+WP group consumed 200 mL CHO enriched with WP (n = 30); the CHO group members consumed 200 mL water plus maltodextrin (n = 30), and the Fast group was fasted only (n = 30). Blood samples were collected after fasting and 3 h after ingestion of the supplement. The samples were analyzed for glucose, glycated hemoglobin, insulin, C-reactive protein, ß-hydroxybutyrate, triacylglycerols, albumin, chlorine, and sodium. After 7 d, the groups were inverted, so all volunteers entered the three groups. RESULTS: The nutritional intervention did not change the biochemical parameters related to the acute phase response or insulin resistance; however, there was a statistically significant reduction (P < 0.001) in serum ß-hydroxybutyrate in the CHO+WP group (0.05 ± 0.08 mmol/L) compared with the other two groups (Fast group: 0.11 ± 0.08 mmol/L; CHO group: 0.09 ± 0.13 mmol/L). CONCLUSIONS: After overnight fasting, the oral supplement containing CHO and WP decreased ketosis. These findings may help select the most efficient oral supplement to be given 2 to 3 h before elective surgeries.

PERIOPERATIVE CARE IN DIGESTIVE SURGERY: THE ERAS AND ACERTO PROTOCOLS - BRAZILIAN COLLEGE OF DIGESTIVE SURGERY POSITION PAPER.

BACKGROUND: The concept introduced by protocols of enhanced recovery after surgery modifies perioperative traditional care in digestive surgery. The integration of these modern recommendations components during the perioperative period is of great importance to ensure fewer postoperative complications, reduced length of hospital stay, and decreased surgical costs. AIMS: To emphasize the most important points of a multimodal perioperative care protocol. METHODS: Careful analysis of each recommendation of both ERAS and ACERTO protocols, justifying their inclusion in the multimodal care recommended for digestive surgery patients. RESULTS: Enhanced recovery programs (ERPs) such as ERAS and ACERTO protocols are a cornerstone in modern perioperative care. Nutritional therapy is fundamental in digestive surgery, and thus, both preoperative and postoperative nutrition care are key to ensuring fewer postoperative complications and reducing the length of hospital stay. The concept of prehabilitation is another key element in ERPs. The handling of crystalloid fluids in a perfect balance is vital. Fluid overload can delay the recovery of patients and increase postoperative complications. Abbreviation of preoperative fasting for two hours before anesthesia is now accepted by various guidelines of both surgical and anesthesiology societies. Combined with early postoperative refeeding, these prescriptions are not only safe but can also enhance the recovery of patients undergoing digestive procedures. CONCLUSIONS: This position paper from the Brazilian College of Digestive Surgery strongly emphasizes that the implementation of ERPs in digestive surgery represents a paradigm shift in perioperative care, transcending traditional practices and embracing an intelligent approach to patient well-being.

FUTURE OF THE LANGUAGE MODELS IN HEALTHCARE: THE ROLE OF CHATGPT.

The field of medicine has always been at the forefront of technological innovation, constantly seeking new strategies to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. Guidelines for clinical practice to orientate medical teams regarding diagnosis, treatment, and prevention measures have increased over the years. The purpose is to gather the most medical knowledge to construct an orientation for practice. Evidence-based guidelines follow several main characteristics of a systematic review, including systematic and unbiased search, selection, and extraction of the source of evidence. In recent years, the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence has provided clinicians and patients with access to personalized, data-driven insights, support and new opportunities for healthcare professionals to improve patient outcomes, increase efficiency, and reduce costs. One of the most exciting developments in Artificial Intelligence has been the emergence of chatbots. A chatbot is a computer program used to simulate conversations with human users. Recently, OpenAI, a research organization focused on machine learning, developed ChatGPT, a large language model that generates human-like text. ChatGPT uses a type of AI known as a deep learning model. ChatGPT can quickly search and select pieces of evidence through numerous databases to provide answers to complex questions, reducing the time and effort required to research a particular topic manually. Consequently, language models can accelerate the creation of clinical practice guidelines. While there is no doubt that ChatGPT has the potential to revolutionize the way healthcare is delivered, it is essential to note that it should not be used as a substitute for human healthcare professionals. Instead, ChatGPT should be considered a tool that can be used to augment and support the work of healthcare professionals, helping them to provide better care to their patients.

COST-EFFECTIVENESS OF THE USE OF ACERTO PROTOCOL IN MAJOR DIGESTIVE SURGERY.

OBJECTIVE: Hospital costs in surgery constitute a burden for the health system in all over the world. Multimodal protocols such as the ACERTO project enhance postoperative recovery. The aim of this study was to analyze the hospital costs in patients undergoing major digestive surgical procedures with or without the perioperative care strategies proposed by the ACERTO project. METHODS: Retrospective data from elective patients undergoing major digestive surgical procedures in a university hospital between January 2002 and December 2011 were collected. The investigation involved two phases: between January 2002 and December 2005, covering cases admitted before the implementation of the ACERTO protocol (pre-ACERTO period), and cases operated between January 2006 and December 2011, after implementation (ACERTO period). The primary outcome was the comparison of hospital costs between the two periods. As secondary end point, we compared length of stay (LOS), postoperative complications, surgical-site infection (SSI) rate, and mortality. RESULTS: We analyzed 381 patients (239 of the pre-ACERTO period and 142 of the ACERTO period) who underwent major procedures on the gastrointestinal tract. Patients operated after within the ACERTO protocol postoperative LOS had a median of 3 days shorter (p=0.001) when compared with pre-ACERTO period [median (IQR): 10 (12) days vs. 13 (12) days]. Mortality was similar between the two periods. Postoperative complications risk, however, was 29% greater (RR: 1.29; 95%CI 1.11-1.50) in the pre-ACERTO period (p=0.002). SSI risk was also greater in pre-ACERTO period (RR: 1.33; 95%CI 1.14-1.50). Costs (mean and SE) per patients were R$24,562.84 (1,349.33) before the implementation and R$19,912.81 (1,459.89) after the ACERTO protocol (p=0.02). CONCLUSION: The implementation of the ACERTO project in this University Hospital reduced the hospital costs in major digestive procedures. Moreover, the implementation of this modern perioperative care strategy also reduced postoperative complications, SSI risks, and LOS.

Hypophosphatemia and risk of refeeding syndrome in critically ill patients before and after nutritional therapy.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence of hypophosphatemia as a marker of refeeding syndrome (RFS) before and after the start of nutritional therapy (NT) in critically ill patients. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study including 917 adult patients admitted at the intensive care unit (ICU) of a tertiary hospital in Cuiabá-MT/Brasil. We assessed the frequency of hypophosphatemia (phosphorus <2.5mg/dl) as a risk marker for RFS. Serum phosphorus levels were measured and compared at admission (P1) and after the start of NT (P2). RESULTS: We observed a significant increase (36.3%) of hypophosphatemia and, consequently, a greater risk of RFS from P1 to P2 (25.6 vs 34.9%; p<0.001). After the start of NT, malnourished patients had a greater fall of serum phosphorus. Patients receiving NT had an approximately 1.5 times greater risk of developing RFS (OR= 1.44 95%CI 1.10-1,89; p= 0.01) when compared to those who received an oral diet. Parenteral nutrition was more associated with hypophosphatemia than either enteral nutrition (p=0,001) or parenteral nutrition supplemented with enteral nutrition (p=0,002). CONCLUSION: The frequency of critically ill patients with hypophosphatemia and at risk for RFS on admission is high and this risk increases after the start of NT, especially in malnourished patients and those receiving parenteral nutrition.

Intravenous overload of fluids and sodium may contribute to the lower infusion of enteral nutrition in critically ill patients. / A sobrecarga intravenosa de fluidos e sódio pode contribuir para a menor infusão de nutrição enteral em pacientes críticos.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of intravenous infusion of fluids and sodium on the first day of admission on infusion of enteral nutrition in the first 5 days in intensive care patients. METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted with critical nonsurgical patients admitted for at least 5 days who were on mechanical ventilation and receiving enteral nutrition. The amount of intravenous fluids and sodium infused on the first day and the volume of enteral nutrition infused in the first 5 days were investigated. The volume of intravenous fluids > 35mL/kg or ≤ 35mL/kg of body weight and sodium (above or below the 25th percentile) infused on the first day was compared with infused enteral nutrition. RESULTS: A total of 86 patients were studied, with a mean (± standard deviation) of 65 ± 17 years, of which 54.7% were female. On the first day, 3,393.7 ± 1,417.0mL of fluid (48.2 ± 23.0mL/kg) and 12.2 ± 5.1g of sodium were administered. Fifty-eight (67.4%) patients received more than 35mL/kg of fluids. In 5 days, 67 ± 19.8% (2,993.8 ± 1,324.4mL) of the prescribed enteral nutrition was received. Patients who received > 35mL/kg of intravenous fluids also received less enteral nutrition in 5 days (2,781.4 ± 1,337.9 versus 3,433.6 ± 1,202.2mL; p = 0.03) versus those who received ≤ 35mL/kg. Patients with intravenous sodium infusion above the 25th percentile (≥ 8.73g) on the first day received less enteral nutrition volume in 5 days (2,827.2 ± 1,398.0 versus 3,509.3 ± 911.9mL; p = 0.02). CONCLUSION: The results of this study support the assumption that the administration of intravenous fluids > 35mL/kg and sodium ≥ 8.73g on the first day of hospitalization may contribute to the lower infusion of enteral nutrition in critically ill patients.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos da administração intravenosa de fluidos e sódio no primeiro dia de internação com a infusão de nutrição enteral em pacientes de terapia intensiva. MÉTODOS: Estudo de coorte prospectivo realizado com pacientes críticos, não cirúrgicos, em ventilação mecânica internados pelo menos há 5 dias com nutrição enteral. Investigaram-se a quantidade de fluidos e sódio administrados por via venosa no primeiro dia e o volume de nutrição enteral infundido nos primeiros 5 dias. Comparou-se o volume de fluidos intravenosos do primeiro dia > 35mL/kg ou ≤ 35mL/kg de peso corporal e de sódio (acima ou abaixo do percentil 25), com o total de nutrição enteral infundida. RESULTADOS: Estudaram-se 86 pacientes com média (± desvio padrão) de 65 ± 17 anos, sendo 54,7% do sexo feminino. Foram administrados, no primeiro dia, 3.393,7 ± 1.417,0mL de fluidos (48,2 ± 23,0mL/kg) e 12,2 ± 5,1g de sódio. Cinquenta e oito (67,4%) pacientes receberam mais de 35mL/kg de fluidos. Em 5 dias, foram ofertados 67 ± 19,8% (2.993,8 ± 1.324,4mL) da nutrição enteral. Os pacientes que receberam > 35mL/kg de fluidos intravenosos também receberam menos nutrição enteral em 5 dias (2.781,4 ± 1.337,9 versus 3.433,6 ± 1.202,2mL; p = 0,03) versus quem recebeu ≤ 35mL/kg. Pacientes com infusão de sódio intravenoso acima do percentil 25 (≥ 8,73g) no primeiro dia receberam menos volume de nutrição enteral em 5 dias (2.827,2 ± 1.398,0 versus 3.509,3 ± 911,9mL; p = 0,02). CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados deste estudo apoiam o pressuposto de que a administração de fluidos intravenosos no primeiro dia de internação > 35mL/kg e de sódio ≥ 8,73g pode contribuir para a menor infusão de nutrição enteral em pacientes críticos.

FACTORS RELATED TO THE REDUCTION OF THE RISK OF COMPLICATIONS IN COLORECTAL SURGERY WITHIN PERIOPERATIVE CARE RECOMMENDED BY THE ACERTO PROTOCOL.

BACKGROUND: Perioperative care multimodal protocol significantly improve outcome in surgery. AIM: To investigate risk factors to various endpoints in patients submitted to elective colorectal operations under the ACERTO protocol. METHODS: Cohort study analyzing through a logistic regression model able to assess independent risk factors for morbidity and mortality, patients submitted to elective open colon and/or rectum resection and primary anastomosis who were either exposed or non-exposed to demographic, clinical, and ACERTO interventions. RESULTS: Two hundred thirty four patients were analyzed and submitted to 156 (66.7%) rectal and 78 (33.3%) colonic procedures. The length of hospital postoperative stay (LOS) ≥ 7 days was related to rectal surgery and high NNIS risk index; preoperative fasting ≤4 h (OR=0.250; CI95=0.114-0.551) and intravenous volume of crystalloid infused > 30ml/kg/day (OR=0.290; CI95=0.119-0.706). The risk of postoperative site infection (SSI) was approximately four times greater in malnourished; eight in rectal surgery and four in high NNIS index. The duration of preoperative fasting ≤4 h was a protective factor by reducing by 81.3% the risk of surgical site infection (SSI). An increased risk for anastomotic fistula was found in malnutrition, rectal surgery and high NNIS index. Conversely, preoperative fasting ≤4 h (OR=0.11; CI95=0.05-0.25; p<0.0001) decreased the risk of fistula. Factors associated with pneumonia-atelectasis were cancer and rectal surgery, while preoperative fasting ≤ 4 h (OR=0.10; CI95=0.04-0.24; p<0.0001) and intravenous crystalloid ≤ 30 ml/kg/day (OR=0.36; CI95=0.13-0.97, p=0.044) shown to decrease the risk. Mortality was lower with preoperative fasting ≤4 h and intravenous crystalloids infused ≤30 ml/kg/day. CONCLUSION: This study allows to conclude that rectal procedures, high NNIS index, preoperative fasting higher than 4 h and intravenous fluids greater than 30 ml/kg/day during the first 48 h after surgery are independent risk factors for: 1) prolonged LOS; 2) surgical site infection and anastomotic fistula associated with malnutrition; 3) postoperative pneumonia-atelectasis; and 4) postoperative mortality.

Benefits of Fasting Abbreviation with Carbohydrates and Omega-3 Infusion During CABG: a Double-Blind Controlled Randomized Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To assess postoperative clinical data considering the association of preoperative fasting with carbohydrate (CHO) loading and intraoperative infusion of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFA). METHODS: 57 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) were randomly assigned to receive 12.5% maltodextrin (200 mL, 2 h before anesthesia), (CHO, n=14); water (200 mL, 2 h before anesthesia), (control, n=14); 12.5% maltodextrin (200 mL, 2 h before anesthesia) plus intraoperative infusion of ω-3 PUFA (0.2 g/kg), (CHO+W3, n=15); or water (200 mL, 2 h before anesthesia) plus intraoperative infusion of ω-3 PUFA (0.2 g/kg), (W3, n=14). The need for vasoactive drugs was analyzed, in addition to postoperative inflammation and metabolic control. RESULTS: There were two deaths (3.5%). Patients in CHO groups presented a lower incidence of hospital infection (RR=0.29, 95% CI 0.09-0.94; P=0.023), needed fewer vasoactive drugs during surgery and ICU stay (P<0.05); and had better blood glucose levels in the first six hours of recovery (P=0.015), requiring less exogenous insulin (P=0.018). Incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) varied significantly among groups (P=0.009). Subjects who receive ω-3 PUFA groups had fewer occurrences of POAF (RR=4.83, 95% CI 1.56-15.02; P=0.001). Patients in the W3 group had lower ultrasensitive-CRP levels at 36 h postoperatively (P=0.008). Interleukin-10 levels varied among groups (P=0.013), with the highest levels observed in the postoperative of patients who received intraoperative infusion of ω-3 PUFA (P=0.049). CONCLUSION: Fasting abbreviation with carbohydrate loading and intraoperative infusion of ω-3 PUFA is safe and supports faster postoperative recovery in patients undergoing on-pump CABG.

Perioperative care in digestive surgery: the eras and acerto protocols - brazilian college of digestive surgery position paper / Cuidados perioperatórios em cirurgia digestiva: protocolos eras e acerto - posicionamento do colégio brasileiro de cirurgia digestiva

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The concept introduced by protocols of enhanced recovery after surgery modifies perioperative traditional care in digestive surgery. The integration of these modern recommendations components during the perioperative period is of great importance to ensure fewer postoperative complications, reduced length of hospital stay, and decreased surgical costs. AIMS: To emphasize the most important points of a multimodal perioperative care protocol. METHODS: Careful analysis of each recommendation of both ERAS and ACERTO protocols, justifying their inclusion in the multimodal care recommended for digestive surgery patients. RESULTS: Enhanced recovery programs (ERPs) such as ERAS and ACERTO protocols are a cornerstone in modern perioperative care. Nutritional therapy is fundamental in digestive surgery, and thus, both preoperative and postoperative nutrition care are key to ensuring fewer postoperative complications and reducing the length of hospital stay. The concept of prehabilitation is another key element in ERPs. The handling of crystalloid fluids in a perfect balance is vital. Fluid overload can delay the recovery of patients and increase postoperative complications. Abbreviation of preoperative fasting for two hours before anesthesia is now accepted by various guidelines of both surgical and anesthesiology societies. Combined with early postoperative refeeding, these prescriptions are not only safe but can also enhance the recovery of patients undergoing digestive procedures. CONCLUSIONS: This position paper from the Brazilian College of Digestive Surgery strongly emphasizes that the implementation of ERPs in digestive surgery represents a paradigm shift in perioperative care, transcending traditional practices and embracing an intelligent approach to patient well-being.

RESUMO RACIONAL: O conceito introduzido pelos protocolos de recuperação após a cirurgia modifica os cuidados perioperatórios tradicionais em cirurgia digestiva. A integração desses componentes modernos de recomendações, durante o período perioperatório, é de grande importância para garantir menos complicações pós-operatórias, redução do tempo de internação hospitalar e diminuição dos custos cirúrgicos. OBJETIVOS: Enfatizar os pontos mais importantes de um protocolo multimodal de cuidados perioperatórios. MÉTODOS: Análise criteriosa de cada recomendação dos protocolos ERAS e ACERTO, justificando sua inclusão no atendimento multimodal recomendado para pacientes de cirurgia digestiva. RESULTADOS: Os programas de recuperação avançada (PRAs), tais como os protocolos ERAS e ACERTO, são a base dos cuidados perioperatórios modernos. A terapia nutricional é de grande importância na cirurgia digestiva e, portanto, tanto os cuidados nutricionais pré-operatórios, quanto pós-operatórios são fundamentais para garantir menos complicações pós-operatórias e reduzir o tempo de internação hospitalar. O conceito de pré-habilitação é outro elemento-chave nos PRAs. O manuseio de fluidos cristalóides em perfeito equilíbrio é vital. A sobrecarga de fluidos pode atrasar a recuperação dos pacientes e aumentar as complicações pós-operatórias. A abreviação do jejum pré-operatório para duas horas antes da anestesia é agora aceita por diversas diretrizes das sociedades cirúrgicas e de anestesiologia. Combinadas com a realimentação pós-operatória precoce, essas prescrições não são apenas seguras, mas também podem melhorar a recuperação de pacientes submetidos a procedimentos digestivos. CONCLUSÕES: Este posicionamento do Colégio Brasileiro de Cirurgia Digestiva enfatiza fortemente que a implementação de PRAs em cirurgia digestive, representa uma mudança de paradigma no cuidado perioperatório, transcendendo as práticas tradicionais e adotando uma abordagem inteligente para o bem-estar do paciente.

Future of the language models in healthcare: the role of chatgpt / Futuro dos modelos de linguagem nos cuidados em saúde: o papel do chatgpt

ABSTRACT The field of medicine has always been at the forefront of technological innovation, constantly seeking new strategies to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. Guidelines for clinical practice to orientate medical teams regarding diagnosis, treatment, and prevention measures have increased over the years. The purpose is to gather the most medical knowledge to construct an orientation for practice. Evidence-based guidelines follow several main characteristics of a systematic review, including systematic and unbiased search, selection, and extraction of the source of evidence. In recent years, the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence has provided clinicians and patients with access to personalized, data-driven insights, support and new opportunities for healthcare professionals to improve patient outcomes, increase efficiency, and reduce costs. One of the most exciting developments in Artificial Intelligence has been the emergence of chatbots. A chatbot is a computer program used to simulate conversations with human users. Recently, OpenAI, a research organization focused on machine learning, developed ChatGPT, a large language model that generates human-like text. ChatGPT uses a type of AI known as a deep learning model. ChatGPT can quickly search and select pieces of evidence through numerous databases to provide answers to complex questions, reducing the time and effort required to research a particular topic manually. Consequently, language models can accelerate the creation of clinical practice guidelines. While there is no doubt that ChatGPT has the potential to revolutionize the way healthcare is delivered, it is essential to note that it should not be used as a substitute for human healthcare professionals. Instead, ChatGPT should be considered a tool that can be used to augment and support the work of healthcare professionals, helping them to provide better care to their patients.

RESUMO A área da medicina sempre esteve na vanguarda da inovação tecnológica, buscando constantemente novas estratégias para diagnosticar, tratar e prevenir doenças. As diretrizes para a prática clínica são para orientar as equipes médicas quanto ao diagnóstico, tratamento e medidas de prevenção aumentaram ao longo dos anos. O objetivo é reunir o máximo de conhecimento médico para construir uma orientação para a prática. As diretrizes baseadas em evidências seguem várias das principais características de uma revisão sistemática, incluindo busca sistemática e imparcial, seleção e extração da fonte de evidência. Nos últimos anos, o rápido avanço da inteligência artificial forneceu aos médicos e pacientes acesso a informações personalizadas e baseadas em dados, suporte e novas oportunidades para os profissionais de saúde melhorarem os resultados dos pacientes, aumentarem a eficiência e reduzirem custos. Um dos desenvolvimentos mais empolgantes da Inteligência Artificial foi o surgimento dos chatbots. Um chatbot é um programa de computador para simular conversas com usuários humanos. Recentemente, a OpenAI, uma organização de pesquisa focada em aprendizado de máquina, desenvolveu o ChatGPT, um grande modelo de linguagem que gera texto semelhante ao humano. O ChatGPT usa um tipo de inteligência artificial conhecido como modelo de aprendizado profundo. O ChatGPT pode pesquisar e selecionar rapidamente evidências em vários bancos de dados para fornecer respostas a perguntas complexas, reduzindo o tempo e o esforço necessários para pesquisar um tópico específico manualmente. Consequentemente, os modelos de linguagem podem acelerar a criação de diretrizes de prática clínica. Embora não haja dúvida de que o ChatGPT tem potencial para revolucionar a forma como os cuidados de saúde são prestados, é essencial observar que não deve ser usado como substituto de profissionais de saúde humanos. Em vez disso, o ChatGPT deve ser visto como uma ferramenta que pode ser usada para aumentar e apoiar o trabalho dos profissionais de saúde, ajudando-os a prestar melhores cuidados aos seus pacientes.

Efficacy of National Nosocomial Infection Surveillance score, acute-phase proteins, and interleukin-6 for predicting postoperative infections following major gastrointestinal surgery.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Postoperative infections should be detected earlier. We investigated the efficacy of the National Nosocomial Infection Surveillance (NNIS) score, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and various acute-phase proteins for predicting postoperative infections. DESIGN AND SETTING: Case series study at the Júlio Müller University Hospital. METHODS: Thirty-two patients who underwent major gastrointestinal procedures between June 2004 and February 2005 were studied. The NNIS score and the evolution of serum IL-6 and various acute-phase proteins (C-reactive protein [CRP], albumin, prealbumin and transferrin) were correlated with postoperative infections and length of hospital stay (LOS). RESULTS: NNIS > 1 (p = 0.01) and low preoperative albumin (p = 0.02) significantly correlated with infection. IL-6 and CRP increased significantly more in patients with infections. Multivariate analysis showed greater risk of infection when NNIS > 1 (odds ratio, OR = 10.66; 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.1-102.0; p = 0.04); preoperative albumin < 3 g/dl (OR = 8.77; 95% CI: 1.13-67.86; p = 0.03); CRP > 30 mg/l on the second postoperative day (OR = 8.27; 95% CI: 1.05-64.79; p = 0.03) and > 12 mg/l on the fifth postoperative day (OR = 25.92; 95% CI: 2.17-332.71; p < 0.01); and IL-6 > 25 pg/ml on the fifth postoperative day (OR = 15.46; 95% CI: 1.19-230.30; p = 0.03). Longer LOS was associated with cancer, transferrin, IL-6 and albumin (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: NNIS, albumin, CRP and IL-6 may be useful as predictive markers for postoperative infections. For predicting LOS, malignant condition, transferrin, albumin and IL-6 are useful.

Rapid restoration of colonic goblet cells induced by a hydrolyzed diet containing probiotics in experimental malnutrition.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of the addition of probiotic bacteria to a hydrolyzed diet on the recovery of goblet cells during renutrition in an animal model of malnutrition. METHODS: Twenty-six male Wistar rats (200-250g) were included in the study. Six were kept under normal conditions (sham group) while twenty received an aproteic diet for 15 days, and were randomized thereafter to receive a hydrolyzed diet containing (n=6; probiotic group) or not (n=6; hydrolyzed group) probiotics (10(6) cfu/g of Streptococcus thermophilus e Lactobacillus helveticus); or immediately killed (n=8; aproteic group). Histological slides containing cecal and sigmoid biopsies were used to counting the number of goblet cells and the goblet cells/colonocytes ratio. RESULTS: Malnutrition diminished the population of goblet cells in all sites. Goblet cells/colonocytes ratio of the probiotic group was significantly greater than hydrolyzed group at the ceccum (0.39 +/- 0.03 vs. 0.34 +/-0.02; p=0.02). Only rats fed with probiotics showed complete restoration of the normal goblet cells/colonocytes ratio at the sigmoid (0.37 +/- 0,02 vs. 0.22 +/- 0,03; p<0,001). CONCLUSION: Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus helveticus added to a renutrition diet enhance the recovery of mucosal atrophy induced by malnutrition and especially induce a rapid restoration of goblet cells population in the malnourished colonic mucosa.

Effects of budesonide and probiotics enemas on the systemic inflammatory response of rats with experimental colitis.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of enemas containing probiotics and budesonide on the systemic inflammatory response in experimental colitis. METHODS: Fifty male Wistar rats with experimental colitis induced by 10% acetic acid enema were randomized to five groups (10 rats each) according to the treatment: group 1--saline solution, group 2--budesonide (0.75 mg/kg/day), group 3--probiotics (1mg/day), group 4--probiotics plus budesonide, and group 5--control, with not-treated rats. The following variables were studied: body weight, serum levels of albumin, C-reactive protein and interleucine-6 (IL-6). RESULTS: All animals lost weight between the beginning and the end of the experiment (280+ 16 mg versus 249+21 mg, p< 0.001). There was a significant decrease in the serum albumin between the normal pre-induction level (3.45 + 0.49 mg/dL) and the 1st day after colitis induction (1.61+051 mg/dL, p< 0.001) in all treated groups when compared to the control group. C- reactive protein increased after induction and diminished on the 7th day in all groups. In the control group there was an increase in the IL-6 after colitis induction. None of the treated groups significantly differed from IL-6 pre-colitis status (p>0.05). Only probiotic rats presented a significant decrease of IL-6 than controls (0,30+/-0,08 mg/dL vs. 0,19+/-0,03 mg/dL; p<0.01). CONCLUSION: Probiotics are effective to diminished inflammatory status mediated by IL-6 in experimental colitis.

Effects of budesonide and probiotics enemas on the colonic mucosa of rats with experimental colitis.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of enemas containing probiotics and budesonide on the colonic mucosa in experimental colitis. METHODS: Fifty male Wistar rats with experimental colitis induced by 10% acetic acid enema were randomized to five groups (10 rats each) according to the treatment: group 1--saline solution, group 2--budesonide (0.75 mg/kg/day), group 3--probiotics (1mg/day), group 4--probiotics plus budesonide, and group 5--control, with not-treated rats. The following variables were studied: body weight, macroscopic and microscopic score of the colonic mucosa, and DNA content of the mucosa. RESULTS: All animals lost weight between the beginning and the end of the experiment (280+ 16 mg versus 249+21 mg, p< 0.001). There was no significant difference among the groups in relation to both the macroscopic and histological score. The budesonide + probiotic group showed higher DNA content than control group (1.24+ 0.15 versus 0.92+ 0.30 mg/100 mg of tissue, p=0.01). CONCLUSION: Budesonide in addition to probiotics enhances the mucosal trophism in experimental colitis.

The intestinal tract as the major source of interleukin 6 production during abdominal aortic clamping and hind limb ischaemia-reperfusion injury.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate whether the hind limbs or intestinal tract is the most important initiator of the inflammatory response secondary aortic clamping and hind limb ischemia/reperfusion injury. METHODS: Blood samples of Wistar rats obtained from posterior cava vein, portal vein, and heart cavity during either laparotomy (control group, n=8) or laparotomy + 2 h of aortic clamping and bilateral hind limb ischemia (ischemia group, n=8), or 2 h after ischemia and 2 h of reperfusion (ischemia-reperfusion group, n=8) were assayed for interleukin 6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP). RESULTS: Serum IL-6 at the heart (223.6+/-197.9 [10-832] pg/mL) was higher (p<0.001) than at both portal (133.08+/-108.52 [4-372] pg/mL) and posterior cava veins (127.58+/-109.15 [8-388] pg/mL). CRP was not significant different among groups. CONCLUSION: The splanchnic region is also a source of inflammatory response secondary to ischemia and reperfusion of the hind limbs.

Cost-effectiveness of the use of acerto protocol in major digestive surgery / Custo-efetividade do uso do protocolo acerto em cirurgia digestiva de grande porte

ABSTRACT - BACKGROUND: Hospital costs in surgery constitute a burden for the health system in all over the world. Multimodal protocols such as the ACERTO project enhance postoperative recovery. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyze the hospital costs in patients undergoing major digestive surgical procedures with or without the perioperative care strategies proposed by the ACERTO project. METHODS: Retrospective data from elective patients undergoing major digestive surgical procedures in a university hospital between January 2002 and December 2011 were collected. The investigation involved two phases: between January 2002 and December 2005, covering cases admitted before the implementation of the ACERTO protocol (pre-ACERTO period), and cases operated between January 2006 and December 2011, after implementation (ACERTO period). The primary outcome was the comparison of hospital costs between the two periods. As secondary end point, we compared length of stay (LOS), postoperative complications, surgical-site infection (SSI) rate, and mortality. RESULTS: We analyzed 381 patients (239 of the pre-ACERTO period and 142 of the ACERTO period) who underwent major procedures on the gastrointestinal tract. Patients operated after within the ACERTO protocol postoperative LOS had a median of 3 days shorter (p=0.001) when compared with pre-ACERTO period [median (IQR): 10 (12) days vs. 13 (12) days]. Mortality was similar between the two periods. Postoperative complications risk, however, was 29% greater (RR: 1.29; 95%CI 1.11-1.50) in the pre-ACERTO period (p=0.002). SSI risk was also greater in pre-ACERTO period (RR: 1.33; 95%CI 1.14-1.50). Costs (mean and SE) per patients were R$24,562.84 (1,349.33) before the implementation and R$19,912.81 (1,459.89) after the ACERTO protocol (p=0.02). CONCLUSION: The implementation of the ACERTO project in this University Hospital reduced the hospital costs in major digestive procedures. Moreover, the implementation of this modern perioperative care strategy also reduced postoperative complications, SSI risks, and LOS.

RESUMO - RACIONAL: Custos hospitalares em cirurgia constituem um peso para o sistema de saúde. Protocolos multimodais como o projeto ACERTO aceleram a recuperação pós-operatória. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi o de analisar custos hospitalares em pacientes submetidos a procedimentos cirúrgicos de grande porte no aparelho digestivo com ou sem as estratégias de cuidados perioperatórios proposta pelo projeto ACERTO. MÉTODOS: Foram coletados dados retrospectivos de pacientes eletivos submetidos a procedimentos cirúrgicos de grande porte no aparelho digestivo em um Hospital Universitário entre Janeiro de 2002 e Dezembro de 2011. O estudo envolveu duas fases: Entre Janeiro de 2002 a Dezembro 2005 envolvendo casos internados antes da implementação do protocolo ACERTO (período pré-ACERTO) e casos operados entre Janeiro de 2006 a Dezembro de 2011, após a implementação (período ACERTO). O desfecho primário foi a comparação de custos hospitalares entre os dois períodos. Como desfechos secundários, comparou-se o tempo de internação (LOS), complicações pós-operatórias, taxa de infecção de sitio cirúrgico (ISS) e a mortalidade. RESULTADOS: Foram analisados 381 pacientes (239 do período pré-ACERTO e 142 do período ACERTO) submetidos a procedimento cirúrgicos de grande porte no trato gastrointestinal. Pacientes operados dentro do protocolo ACERTO apresentaram mediana (IQR) mediana de tempo de internação três dias menor (p=0.001) quando comparados ao período pré-ACERTO (mediana (IQR): 10 (12) vs. 13 (12) dias). A mortalidade foi similar entre os dois períodos. Entretanto, o risco de complicações pós-operatórias foi 29% maior (RR: 1.29; IC95%: 1.11 - 1.50) no período pré-ACERTO (p=0.002). O risco de SSI também foi maior no período pré-ACERTO (RR: 1.33; 95%CI: 1.14-1.50). Custos (media e SE) per paciente foram de R$ 24562,84 (1349,33) antes da implementação e R$ 19912,81 (1459,89) após o protocolo ACERTO (p=0.02). CONCLUSÕES: A implementação do projeto ACERTO neste hospital universitário reduziu custos hospitalares em cirurgias digestivas de grande porte. Além disso, a prescrição de estratégias modernas de cuidados perioperatórios também reduziu riscos de complicações pós-operatórias e de SSI e o tempo de internação.

CHANGING PARADIGMS IN PREOPERATIVE FASTING: RESULTS OF A JOINT EFFORT IN PEDIATRIC SURGERY.

BACKGROUND:: Current researches associate long fasting periods to several adverse consequences. The fasting abbreviation to 2 h to clear liquids associated with the use of drinks containing carbohydrates attenuates endocrinometabolic response to surgical trauma, but often is observed children advised to not intake food from 00:00 h till the scheduled surgical time, regardless of what it is. AIM:: To evaluate the safety of a protocol of preoperative fasting abbreviation with a beverage containing carbohydrates, and early postoperative feeding in children underwent elective small/mid-size surgical procedures during a national task-force on pediatric surgery. METHODS:: Thirty-six patients were prospectively included, and for several reasons five were excluded. All 31 who remained in the study received a nutritional supplement containing 150 ml of water plus 12.5% maltodextrin 2 h before the procedure. Data of the pre-operative fasting time, anesthetic complications and time of postoperative refeeding, were collected. RESULTS:: Twenty-three (74.2%) were males, the median age was 5 y, and the median weight was 20 kg. The median time of pre-operative fasting was 145 min and the time of post-operative refeeding was 135 min. There were no adverse effects on the anesthetic procedures or during surgery. Post-operatively, two children (6.5%) vomited. CONCLUSION:: The abbreviation of pre-operative fasting to 2 h with beverage containing carbohydrate in pediatric surgery is safe. Early refeeding in elective small/mid-size procedures can be prescribed. RACIONAL:: Trabalhos atuais associam longos períodos de jejum com diversas consequências adversas. A abreviação do jejum de 2 h para líquidos claros associado ao uso de bebidas contendo carboidratos atenua resposta endocrinometabólica ao trauma, porém frequentemente as crianças são orientadas a não ingerir alimentos a partir das 00:00 h do dia anterior à operação, independente do horário do procedimento cirúrgico. OBJETIVO:: Avaliar a segurança de um protocolo de abreviação do jejum pré-operatório, com o uso de bebida contendo carboidratos, e realimentação precoce. MÉTODOS:: Foram avaliados prospectivamente 36 crianças submetidas a procedimentos cirúrgicos eletivos de pequeno e médio porte. Cinco foram posteriormente excluídos do estudo. Todos os 31 remanescentes receberam suplemento nutricional com maltodextrina 12,5% em 150 ml de água aproximadamente 2 h antes do procedimento. Foram coletados dados do tempo de jejum pré-operatório, complicações anestésicas e tempo de realimentação. RESULTADOS:: Vinte e três (74,2%) eram do gênero masculino, com idade mediana de cinco anos e peso mediano de 20 kg. O tempo mediano de jejum pré-operatório foi de 145 min e o tempo mediano para realimentação foi de 135 min. Não houve eventos adversos durante a anestesia ou operação. No período pós-operatório, duas (6,5%) crianças vomitaram. CONCLUSÃO:: A abreviação de jejum pré-operatório para 2 h com uso de bebida contendo carboidratos, em operações eletivas de crianças, é seguro e não está associado ao maior risco de broncoaspiração pulmonar. Realimentação precoce pode ser prescrita nos procedimentos cirúrgicos analisados.

[Nutritional risk in surgery evaluated by body mass index adjusted or not to elderly patients]. / Risco nutricional em cirurgia avaliado pelo índice de massa corporal ajustado ou não para pacientes idosos.

BACKGROUND: Standard body mass index cut-off points for malnutrition are routinely used for adults independently of their age. The hypothesis of this study was that a cut-off point higher than the usual for the diagnosis of malnutrition might be more precise to access the nutritional risk of aged surgical patients. AIM: To evaluate the morbimortality in aged surgical patients and its association with nutritional status assessed by body mass index using either the standard and a higher cut-off point for malnutrition. PATIENTS AND METHODS: All patients admitted for operative procedures (n = 1,912) were allocated to either two groups: <65 years (n = 1,627) or >65 years old (n = 285). The body mass index was used to access the nutritional status. Two different cut-off points for malnutrition (18.5 or 24 kg/m(2)) were used in the group of older patients. Endpoints of the study were length of stay, morbidity and mortality. RESULTS: Length of stay was higher in patients over 65 years (6 [1-75] days vs. 4 [1-137] days). Both postoperative complications (37/285; 13.0% vs. 109/1627; 6.7%; OR 2.1; IC95% 1.40-3.09) and deaths (15/285; 5.3% vs. 34/1627; 2.1%; OR 2.6; IC95% 1.40-4.84) were most common in the older group. Using a higher cut-off (24 kg/m(2)), the length of stay (8 [1-75] days vs. 4 [1-43] days), postoperative complications (28/152; 18.4% versus 9/133; 6.8%; OR 3,1; IC95% 1.41-6.86) and re-operations (16/152; 10.5% versus 3/133; 2.2%; OR 5.1; IC95% 1.45-17.91) were greater in malnourished patients. However these correlations were not statistically significant with the cut-off point for malnutrition in 18.5 kg/m(2). CONCLUSIONS: Morbimortality is higher in surgical patients over 65 years old. In these, the cut-off point set in 24 kg/m(2) was most associated with the occurrence of postoperative complications, re-operations and length of stay.