Does Preoperative Coffee Consumption Prevent Intraoperative Hypotension in Cesarean Section Surgeries?

OBJECTIVE: In this study, we evaluated the effects of a cup of coffee given to patients before surgery in a cesarean section by means of intraoperative hypotension, ephedrine requirement, and the incidence of post-dural puncture headache (PDPH). METHODS: A total of 140 patients undergoing elective cesarean section with spinal anesthesia were included in this study. Participants who drank a single cup of filtered coffee two hours before spinal anesthesia were included in the coffee group, and those who drank water were in the control group. In each group, 70 patients were included. Hemodynamic parameters were recorded every three to five minutes after spinal anesthesia. Intraoperative use of ephedrine was recorded. The PDPH was monitored for three days. RESULTS: The incidence of intraoperative hypotension was 48.6% in the coffee group and 71.4% in the control group (p = 0.006). The rate of ephedrine usage (25.7%) was significantly lower in the coffee group (p = 0.001). The incidence of PDPH in the first 24 hours (2.9%) was significantly lower in the coffee group (11.4%). The visual analog scale (VAS) score was similar between groups (p = 0.048, p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Consumption of a single cup of coffee before spinal anesthesia reduced the incidence of intraoperative hypotension and the rate of ephedrine usage in cesarean sections.

Factors affecting mortality in COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis: An international ID-IRI study.

Background: This study aimed to identify factors that influence the mortality rate of patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19)-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA). Methods: In this cross-sectional study, data from 23 centers across 15 countries, spanning the period of March 2020 to December 2021, were retrospectively collected. The study population comprised patients who developed invasive pulmonary aspergillosis while being treated for COVID-19 in the intensive care unit. Cox regression and decision tree analyses were used to identify factors associated with mortality in patients with CAPA. Results: A total of 162 patients (males, 65.4 %; median age: 64 [25th-75th: 54.0-73.8] years) were included in the study, of whom 113 died during the 90-day follow-up period. The median duration from CAPA diagnosis to death was 12 (25th-75th: 7-19) days. In the multivariable Cox regression model, an age of ≥65 years (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.05, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.37-3.07), requiring vasopressor therapy at the time of CAPA diagnosis (HR: 1.80, 95 % CI: 1.17-2.76), and receiving renal replacement therapy at the time of CAPA diagnosis (HR: 2.27, 95 % CI: 1.35-3.82) were identified as predictors of mortality. Decision tree analysis revealed that patients with CAPA aged ≥65 years who received corticosteroid treatment for COVID-19 displayed higher mortality rates (estimated rate: 1.6, observed in 46 % of patients). Conclusion: This study concluded that elderly patients with CAPA who receive corticosteroids are at a significantly higher risk of mortality, particularly if they experience multiorgan failure.

Understanding clinical outcomes and factors influencing mortality in intensive care unit patients with COVID-19-associated candidemia.

BACKGROUND: During the COVID pandemic, research has shown an increase in candidemia cases following severe COVID infection and the identification of risk factors associated with candidemia. However, there is a lack of studies that specifically explore clinical outcomes and mortality rates related to candidemia after COVID infection. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this international study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes and identify factors influencing mortality in patients who developed candidemia during their COVID infection. PATIENTS/METHODS: This study included adult patients (18 years of age or older) admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) and diagnosed with COVID-associated candidemia (CAC). The research was conducted through ID-IRI network and in collaboration with 34 medical centres across 18 countries retrospectively, spanning from the beginning of the COVID pandemic until December 2021. RESULTS: A total of 293 patients diagnosed with CAC were included. The median age of the patients was 67, and 63% of them were male. The most common Candida species detected was C. albicans. The crude 30-day mortality rate was recorded at 62.4%. The logistic regression analysis identified several factors significantly impacting mortality, including age (odds ratio [OR] 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02-1.07, p < .0005), SOFA score (OR 1.307, 95% CI 1.17-1.45, p < .0005), invasive mechanical ventilation (OR 7.95, 95% CI 1.44-43.83, p < .017) and duration of mechanical ventilation (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.96-0.99, p < .020). CONCLUSIONS: By recognising these prognostic factors, medical professionals can customise their treatment approaches to offer more targeted care, leading to improved patient outcomes and higher survival rates for individuals with COVID-associated candidemia.

Severe and complicated soft tissue infections: a single-centre case series.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the demographic and clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, and economic burden of patients with a diagnosis of complicated skin and soft tissue infection (cSSTI). METHOD: The demographic and clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, surgical interventions, cost of treatment, and outcome of patients diagnosed with cSSTIs between January 2017 and December 2019 were retrospectively analysed. RESULTS: A total of 24 patients with cSSTIs were included in the study. The median age was 53 (22-85) years, and 14 (58%) were female. The most common comorbidity was diabetes (54%). On admission, 75% of patients presented with sepsis, and 70% had a high-grade Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotising Fasciitis (LRINEC) score. The causative microorganism was isolated from 21 (87%) patients, and the multidrug resistance rate of Gram-negative bacteria was 50%. The median number of debridements was 3 (1-12). In all, 11 patients were followed up in the intensive care unit, and the mortality rate was 29%. The presence of confusion (p=0.025), causative Gram-negative microorganisms (p=0.009), hyponatraemia (p=0.034), the need for intensive care (p=0.001), anti-meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus antibiotics (p=0.023) and the rate of antibiotic changes during treatment (p=0.019) were significantly higher in the non-survival patient group. Hyponatraemia was a significant independent risk factor for mortality (p=0.048). The median cost of per-patient treatment was $9453 USD in the non-surviving and $1536 in the surviving group. CONCLUSION: It is important to know possible factors and local resistance rates at the beginning of empirical antibacterial and surgical treatment. The presence of hyponatraemia, sepsis and a high LRINEC score can be considered to be the mortality predictors.

Gut barrier protein levels in serial blood samples from critically ill trauma patients during and after intensive care unit stay.

PURPOSE: In an effort to better manage critically ill patients hospitalised in the intensive care unit (ICU) after experiencing multiple traumas, the present study aimed to assess whether plasma levels of intestinal epithelial cell barrier proteins, including occludin, claudin-1, junctional adhesion molecule (JAM-1), tricellulin and zonulin, could be used as novel biomarkers. Additional potential markers such as intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (I-FABP), D-lactate, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and citrulline were also evaluated. We also aimed to determine the possible relationships between the clinical, laboratory, and nutritional status of patients and the measured marker levels. METHODS: Plasma samples from 29 patients (first, second, fifth and tenth days in the ICU and on days 7, 30 and 60 after hospital discharge) and 23 controls were subjected to commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) testing. RESULTS: On first day (admission) and on the second day, plasma I-FABP, D-lactate, citrulline, occludin, claudin-1, tricellulin and zonulin levels were high in trauma patients and positively correlated with lactate, C-reactive protein (CRP), number of days of ICU hospitalisation, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score and daily Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores (P < 0.05-P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: The results of the present study showed that occludin, claudin-1, tricellulin and zonulin proteins, as well as I-FABP, D-lactate and citrulline, may be used as promising biomarkers for the evaluation of disease severity in critically ill trauma patients, despite the complexity of the analysis of various barrier markers. However, our results should be supported by future studies.

Does serum butyrylcholinesterase level determine the severity and mortality of COVID-19 pneumonia?: Prospective study.

Background: The WHO emphasized the importance of knowing the risk factors for the severity of the disease in the COVID-19 pandemic. Our aim in this study was to determine the relationship between serum Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) level, which is rapidly affected by inflammation, and the severity of COVID-19 pneumonia and mortality. Methods: Patients diagnosed with COVID-19 pneumonia between March and May 2021 were included in the study. The patients were divided into two groups as severe and mild to moderate pneumonia according to the WHO's guidelines. Serum BChE levels were studied by ELISA method from the blood samples taken from the patients on the day of hospitalization. The severity of the disease and other factors affecting hospital mortality were also evaluated. Results: 147 patients with COVID-19 pneumonia were included in this study. Of these patients, 58% had severe pneumonia and 42% had mild to moderate pneumonia. The BChE level was median 13 (IQR: 11.2-21.5)ng/ml in patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia and median 20 (IQR: 10-35.7)ng/ml in patients with mild to moderate pneumonia (p: 0.001). Hospital with mortality rate was higher in patients with low BChE levels. However, statistically, BChE hasn't associated mortality in COVID-19 pneumonia [OR 1.002 (0.957-1.049) p: 0.490]. CRP, procalcitonin, lactate, and D-dimer levels were associated mortality in COVID-19 pneumonia. Conclusion: Being not statistically significant, the mortality rate was higher in patients with low BChE levels. BChE level is an important marker in determining the severity of COVID-19 pneumonia. Early prediction of the severity of COVID-19 pneumonia will enable early planning of the treatment process.

Self-reported antibiotic stewardship and infection control measures from 57 intensive care units: An international ID-IRI survey.

We explored the self-reported antibiotic stewardship (AS), and infection prevention and control (IPC) activities in intensive care units (ICUs) of different income settings. A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire to collect data about IPC and AS measures in participating ICUs. The study participants were Infectious Diseases-International Research Initiative (IDI-IR) members, committed as per their institutional agreement form. We analyzed responses from 57 ICUs in 24 countries (Lower-middle income (LMI), n = 13; Upper-middle income (UMI), n = 33; High-income (HI), n = 11). This represented (~5%) of centers represented in the ID-IRI. Surveillance programs were implemented in (76.9%-90.9%) of ICUs with fewer contact precaution measures in LMI ones (p = 0.02); (LMI:69.2%, UMI:97%, HI:100%). Participation in regional antimicrobial resistance programs was more significantly applied in HI (p = 0.02) (LMI:38.4%,UMI:81.8%,HI:72.2%). AS programs are implemented in 77.2% of institutions with AS champions in 66.7%. Infectious diseases physicians and microbiologists are members of many AS teams (59%&50%) respectively. Unqualified healthcare professionals(42.1%), and deficient incentives(28.1%) are the main barriers to implementing AS. We underscore the existing differences in IPC and AS programs' implementation, team composition, and faced barriers. Continuous collaboration and sharing best practices on APM is needed. The role of regional and international organizations should be encouraged. Global support for capacity building of healthcare practitioners is warranted.

The Effect of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells on the Mortality of Patients with Sepsis and Septic Shock: A Promising Therapy.

Purpose: Sepsis and septic shock are the major causes of death in intensive care units. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical safety and efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in sepsis and septic shock patients. Methods: Ten patients were enrolled in the study. Adipose-derived MSC infusions were given (1 × 106/kg, on the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, and 9th days of therapy) together with standard therapy. Before the MSC applications, blood samples were collected for cytokine assessment (TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10). The clinical and laboratory improvements were recorded and compared with control groups selected retrospectively. The clinical trial was registered on 16.03.2022 with the registration number NCT05283317. Results: In the study group, the ages of patients ranged from 22 to 68 years, and APACHE II scores ranged from 14 to 42. In the control group, ages ranged from 22 to 80 years and their APACHE II scores were between 14-35. The survival rate in the study group was 100% on the 14th day whereas it was 70% on the 28th day. A significant decrease in the SOFA score (adjusted), clinical, and laboratory improvements were observed during the MSC administration. However, no significant cytokine level changes were observed. In the control group, the survival rate of 20 patients was 70% on the 14th day, whereas 60% was on the 28th day. While deaths were observed in the control group in the first week of treatment, deaths in the MSCs group were observed between the 15th and 28th days. Conclusion: MSCs treatment may have a positive impact on the survival rates of sepsis during the early phase. However, further randomized controlled studies with a large group of patients are needed. Trial Registration. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05283317.

Serum micronutrient levels in critically ill patients receiving continuous renal replacement therapy: A prospective, observational study.

BACKGROUND: Acute kidney injury (AKI) treated with continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) may deplete micronutrient levels. Patients are also at risk for micronutrient depletion due to underlying illness(s), poor nutrient intake prior to intensive care unit (ICU) admission and/or increased requirements. We determined vitamin and trace element status before, during and after CRRT in critically ill patients. METHODS: This prospective observational study performed in mixed medical and surgical ICU patients. Serial serum vitamin B6 and vitamin C concentrations were measured by HPLC and folic acid by ECLIA. Serum chromium, copper, selenium, and zinc were measured using ICP-MS. Serum ceruloplasmin was measured by the Erel method. RESULTS: Fifty adult ICU patients with AKI were recruited. The median APACHE II score on ICU admission was high at 24.0 (6.0-33.0). The median days on CRRT was 2.0 (2.0-4.0) days. At baseline (within 10-15 minutes of CRRT initiation), serum vitamin C, selenium and zinc were below normal. Serum vitamin B6 levels at 72 hours on CRRT were significantly lower than at 24 hours (p = 0.011). Serum vitamin C values fell significantly at 24 and 72 hours during CRRT (p = 0.030 and p = 0.001), respectively, and remained low 24 and 48 hours after CRRT was stopped (p = 0.021). At baseline and during CRRT, 96% of participants had at least two or more micronutrient levels below the normal range. CONCLUSION: Serum vitamin C, selenium and zinc concentrations were below the normal range at baseline. CRRT was associated with a significant further decrease in levels of vitamin C, selenium and zinc.

Profiles of multidrug-resistant organisms among patients with bacteremia in intensive care units: an international ID-IRI survey.

Evaluating trends in antibiotic resistance is a requisite. The study aimed to analyze the profile of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) among hospitalized patients with bacteremia in intensive care units (ICUs) in a large geographical area. This is a 1-month cross-sectional survey for blood-borne pathogens in 57 ICUs from 24 countries with different income levels: lower-middle-income (LMI), upper-middle-income (UMI), and high-income (HI) countries. Multidrug-resistant (MDR), extensively drug-resistant (XDR), or pan-drug-resistant isolates were searched. Logistic regression analysis determined resistance predictors among MDROs. Community-acquired infections were comparable to hospital-acquired infections particularly in LMI (94/202; 46.5% vs 108/202; 53.5%). Although MDR (65.1%; 502/771) and XDR (4.9%; 38/771) were common, no pan-drug-resistant isolate was recovered. In total, 32.1% of MDR were Klebsiella pneumoniae, and 55.3% of XDR were Acinetobacter baumannii. The highest MDR and XDR rates were in UMI and LMI, respectively, with no XDR revealed from HI. Predictors of MDR acquisition were male gender (OR, 12.11; 95% CI, 3.025-15.585) and the hospital-acquired origin of bacteremia (OR, 2.643; 95%CI, 1.462-3.894), and XDR acquisition was due to bacteremia in UMI (OR, 3.344; 95%CI, 1.189-5.626) and admission to medical-surgical ICUs (OR, 1.481; 95% CI, 1.076-2.037). We confirm the urgent need to expand stewardship activities to community settings especially in LMI, with more paid attention to the drugs with a higher potential for resistance. Empowering microbiology laboratories and reports to direct prescribing decisions should be prioritized. Supporting stewardship in ICUs, the mixed medical-surgical ones in particular, is warranted.

Effect of Lingzhi or Reishi Medicinal Mushroom, Ganoderma lucidum (Agaricomycetes), Capsules on Colistin-Induced Nephrotoxicity.

The aim of this experimental study was to investigate the protective effect of Ganoderma lucidum capsules against colistin nephrotoxicity. The study animals were separated into four groups: control, colistin (9 mg/kg), colistin-G. lucidum 50 mg/kg, and colistin-G. lucidum 100 mg/kg. In the colistin group, serum blood urea nitrogen and creatinine values were found to be higher than those of the other groups (p < 0.001). The malondialdehyde, catalase, total oxidative stress, oxidative stress index, and oxidized glutathione values in serum and kidney tissue samples were determined to be higher in the colistin group than in the other groups (p < 0.001). The total antioxidative stress, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione values measured in the serum and kidney tissue samples were determined to be lower in the colistin group (p < 0.001). Oxidative stress is responsible for tubule damage in colistin nephrotoxicity, and when G. lucidum is used together with colistin, renal damage is reduced.

Effects of oral/enteral nutrition alone versus plus pantoprazole on gastrointestinal bleeding in critically ill patients with low risk factor: a multicenter, randomized controlled trial

Background/aim: Critically ill patients are at risk of developing gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding due to stress causing mucosal damage. Aim of the study was to determine the effect of oral/enteral nutrition with or without concomitant pantoprazole on upper GI bleeding in low risk critically ill patients. Materials and methods: This was a prospective, randomized, open-label, multicenter study conducted with intensive care unit (ICU) patients receiving oral/enteral nutritional support. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups including intervention group (received oral/EN plus pantoprazole) and control group (received only oral/EN). Results: A total of 300 patients (intervention group: 152, control group: 148) participated in the study. Overall, 226 (75%) patients were fed by orally and 74 (25%) patients fed by enteral tube feeding. Median duration of nutritional support 4 (range: 2­33) days. Overt upper GI bleeding was noted only in one patient (0.65%) who was in the intervention group. The overall length of ICU stay of 4 (2­105) days, while ICU stay was significantly longer in the intervention group than in the control group (P = 0.006). Conclusions: Our findings seems to indicate that in patients who are at low risk for GI bleeding and under oral/enteral nutritional support, the use of PPIs may not reduce the risk of bleeding, however these results are imprecise because of low event (GI bleeding) rate and limited power.

[Does dexmedetomidine prevent colistin nephrotoxicity?] / Dexmedetomidina impede a nefrotoxicidade da colistina?

BACKGROUND: In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of dexmedetomidine on colistin nephrotoxicity in rats. METHODS: Thirty-two Wistar albino rats were allocated into four groups. Intraperitoneal (ip) saline at 1mL.kg-1 was administered to the control group and 10mg.kg-1 ip colistin was given to the colistin group. In the DEX10 group 10mcg.kg-1 dexmedetomidine ip was given 20min before the injection of 10mg.kg-1 ip colistin. In the DEX20 group ip 20mcg.kg-1 dexmedetomidine was injected 20min before the administration of 10mg.kg-1 ip colistin. These treatments were continued twice a day for seven days. Samples were taken on the eighth day. BUN, Cr, KIM-1, TAS, and TOS were examined in blood samples and caspase-3 was examined in kidney tissue samples. RESULTS: The values for BUN, Cr and TOS were significantly higher in the colistin group than in the control group. BUN, Cr and TOS changes in the DEX10 and DEX20 groups were not significant compared with the control group but they were significantly lower compared with the colistin group. TAS values in the DEX10 group were significantly lower than in the control group. Apoptotic activity was significantly higher in the colistin group compared with the control group, but there was no significant difference in terms of caspase-3 staining activity when DEX10 and DEX20 groups were compared with the control group. CONCLUSION: Oxidative damage and apoptosis played roles in colistin nephrotoxicity, and colistin nephrotoxicity could be prevented by treatment with dexmedetomidine.

Efficacy of loading dose of colistin in Acinetobacter baumannii ventilator-associated pneumonia.

Colistin loading dose (LD) has been postulated as an advance in therapy. The clinical, microbiological effectiveness and nephrotoxicity of adding an LD to systemic colistin in ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii remain unknown. In this quasi experimental study, the efficacy, outcomes and nephrotoxicity in 30 adults who received intravenous colistin with LD for MDR A. baumannii ventilator associated pneumonia were compared with 22 in absence of LD. Adding LD, the clinical cure rate at 14 days of therapy increased from 47.6% to 56.7% (p>0.397). No significant differences in bacteriological clearance (80 vs 81%), ICU mortality (50% vs 54.2%) or ICU length of stay (median: 32 vs 36 days) were identified. Mortality increased (76.2% vs 35.5%, p=0.004) in patients with nephrotoxicity, with age (median 67.0 vs. 50.0 years, p=0.002) being the only risk factor for nephrotoxicity. The nephrotoxicity rate increased from 27.3% in absence of LD to 35.3% with LD and SOFA <8, and 69.2% (p= 0.065) with LD and SOFA >7. Overall, nephrotoxicity was more severe in the LD group according to RIFLE criteria (p=0.015). Adding LD to systemic colistin for MDR A. baumannii VAP had no significant effect on clinical cure rates, bacteriologic clearance or pre-defined outcomes. However, the nephrotoxicity rate increased with LD, with special risk in adults with high organ failure development or advanced age. Further evidence regarding the risks and benefits of LD is required. The development of newer agents and strategies is urgently needed.

Comparison between magnesium sulfate and dexmedetomidine in controlled hypotension during functional endoscopic sinus surgery / Comparação entre dexmedetomidina e sulfato de magnésio em hipotensão controlada durante cirurgia funcional endoscópica dos seios paranasais / Comparación entre el sulfato de magnesio y la dexmedetomidina en hipotensión controlada durante cirugía funcional endoscópica de los senos paranasales

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: It is crucial to decrease bleeding during functional endoscopic sinus surgery. Our primary goal was to investigate the effects of magnesium sulfate and dexmedetomidine used for controlled hypotension on the visibility of the surgical site. METHODS: 60 patients aged between 18 and 65 years were enrolled. In the magnesium sulfate group (Group M), patients were administered 40 mg/kg magnesium sulfate in 100 mL saline solution over 10 min as the intravenous loading dose 10 min before induction, with a subsequent 10-15 µg/kg/h infusion during surgery. In the dexmedetomidine group (Group D), patients were administered 1 µg/kg dexmedetomidine in 100 mL saline solution as the loading dose 10 min before surgery and 0.5-1 µg/kg/h dexmedetomidine during surgery. Deliberate hypotension was defined as a mean arterial pressure of 60-70 mmHg. RESULTS: Bleeding score was significantly decreased in Group D (p = 0.002). Mean arterial pressure values were significantly decreased in Group D compared to that in Group M, except for the initial stage, after induction and 5 min after intubation (p < 0.05). The number of patients who required nitroglycerine was significantly lower in Group D (p = 0.01) and surgeon satisfaction was significantly increased in the same group (p = 0.001). Aldrete recovery score ≥9 duration was significantly shorter in Group D (p = 0.001). There was no difference between the two groups in terms of recovery room verbal numerical rating scale. CONCLUSIONS: Dexmedetomidine can provide more effective controlled hypotension and thus contribute to improved visibility of the surgical site. .

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Diminuir o sangramento durante a cirurgia funcional endoscópica dos seios paranasais é essencial. Nosso objetivo primário foi investigar os efeitos de dexmedetomidina e sulfato de magnésio, usados para o controle da hipotensão, sobre a visibilidade do sítio cirúrgico. MÉTODOS: Foram incluídos no estudo 60 pacientes entre 18 e 65 anos. No grupo sulfato de magnésio (Grupo M), receberam 40 mg de sulfato de magnésio em 100 mL kg-1 de solução salina durante 10 minutos como dose de carga intravenosa 10 minutos antes da indução e infusão subsequente de 10-15 µg kg-1 h-1 durante a cirurgia. No grupo dexmedetomidina (Grupo D), receberam 1 µg kg-1 de dexmedetomidina em 100 mL de solução salina durante 10 minutos como dose de carga 10 minutos antes da cirurgia e 0,5-1 µg kg-1 h-1 de dexmedetomidina durante a cirurgia. Hipotensão controlada foi definida como pressão arterial média de 60-70 mmHg. RESULTADOS: O volume de sangramento diminuiu significativamente no grupo D (p = 0,002). Os valores da pressão arterial média foram significativamente menores no Grupo D, em comparação com o Grupo M, exceto no estágio inicial, pós-indução e cinco minutos pós-intubação (p < 0,05). No Grupo D, o número de pacientes que necessitou de nitroglicerina foi significativamente menor (p = 0,01) e o grau de satisfação do cirurgião foi significativamente maior (p = 0,001). O tempo de recuperação para atingir o escore de Aldrete ≥ 9 foi significativamente menor no grupo D (p = 0,001). Não houve diferença entre os dois grupos em relação aos escores da escala numérica de classificação verbal na sala de recuperação. CONCLUSÕES: Dexmedetomidina pode proporcionar um controle mais eficaz da hipotensão e contribuir, assim, para uma melhor visibilidade do sítio cirúrgico. .

JUSTIFICACIÓN Y OBJETIVOS: Disminuir el sangrado durante la cirugía funcional endoscópica de los senos paranasales es esencial. Nuestro objetivo primario fue investigar los efectos de la dexmedetomidina y del sulfato de magnesio, usados para el control de la hipotensión, sobre la visibilidad del campo quirúrgico. MÉTODOS: Fueron incluidos en el estudio 60 pacientes entre 18 y 65 años. En el grupo sulfato de magnesio (grupo M), recibieron 40 mg de sulfato de magnesio en 100 mL/kg-1 de solución salina durante 10 min como dosis de carga intravenosa 10 min antes de la inducción e infusión subsecuente de 10-15 µg/kg-1/h-1 durante la cirugía. En el grupo dexmedetomidina (grupo D), recibieron 1 µg/kg-1 de dexmedetomidina en 100 mL de solución salina durante 10 min como dosis de carga 10 min antes de la cirugía y 0,5-1 µg/kg-1/h-1 de dexmedetomidina durante la cirugía. La hipotensión controlada se definió como presión arterial media de 60-70 mmHg. RESULTADOS: El volumen de sangrado disminuyó significativamente en el grupo D (p = 0,002). Los valores de la presión arterial media fueron significativamente menores en el grupo D en comparación con el grupo M, excepto en el estadio inicial, postinducción y 5 min postintubación (p < 0,05). En el grupo D, el número de pacientes que necesitó nitroglicerina fue significativamente menor (p = 0,01) y el grado de satisfacción del cirujano fue significativamente mayor (p = 0,001). El tiempo de recuperación para alcanzar la puntuación de Aldrete ≥ 9 fue significativamente menor en el grupo D (p = 0,001). No hubo diferencia entre los 2 grupos con relación a las puntuaciones de la escala numérica de clasificación verbal en la sala de recuperación. CONCLUSIONES: La dexmedetomidina puede proporcionar un control más eficaz de la hipotensión y contribuir así a una mejor visibilidad del campo quirúrgico. .

[Comparison between magnesium sulfate and dexmedetomidine in controlled hypotension during functional endoscopic sinus surgery]. / Comparação entre dexmedetomidina e sulfato de magnésio em hipotensão controlada durante cirurgia funcional endoscópica dos seios paranasais.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: It is crucial to decrease bleeding during functional endoscopic sinus surgery. Our primary goal was to investigate the effects of magnesium sulfate and dexmedetomidine used for controlled hypotension on the visibility of the surgical site. METHODS: 60 patients aged between 18 and 65 years were enrolled. In the magnesium sulfate group (Group M), patients were administered 40mg/kg magnesium sulfate in 100mL saline solution over 10min as the intravenous loading dose 10min before induction, with a subsequent 10-15mg/kg/h infusion during surgery. In the dexmedetomidine group (Group D), patients were administered 1µg/kg dexmedetomidine in 100mL saline solution as the loading dose 10min before surgery and 0.5-1µg/kg/h dexmedetomidine during surgery. Deliberate hypotension was defined as a mean arterial pressure of 60-70mmHg. RESULTS: Bleeding score was significantly decreased in Group D (p=0.002). Mean arterial pressure values were significantly decreased in Group D compared to that in Group M, except for the initial stage, after induction and 5min after intubation (p<0.05). The number of patients who required nitroglycerine was significantly lower in Group D (p=0.01) and surgeon satisfaction was significantly increased in the same group (p=0.001). Aldrete recovery score ≥9 duration was significantly shorter in Group D (p=0.001). There was no difference between the two groups in terms of recovery room verbal numerical rating scale. CONCLUSIONS: Dexmedetomidine can provide more effective controlled hypotension and thus contribute to improved visibility of the surgical site.

Retrospective analysis of burn injuries caused by hot milk in 159 pediatric patients: 14 years of experience in a burn unit.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate the hot milk burns among the pediatric patients and to compare our experiences with similar studies in the literature. METHODS: A 14-year retrospective study was conducted on 159 pediatric patients with hot milk burn who hospitalized at the Burn Unit of Erciyes University Medical Faculty. RESULTS: There were 81 male and 78 female patients with a male to female ratio of 1.03:1. The mean age of the patients was 2.7±1.6 years. The initial injury was immersion in 59.7% of the patients and spillage in 40.3%. The mean burned body surface area of the patients was 18.6±10.8%. Twenty-two percent of the patients had moderate, and 78% had major burn trauma. Forty-nine percent of the patients received burn wound debridement and reconstruction with auto-skin grafts. Our burn unit's mortality rate was 1.5% among 542 pediatric patients with hot water, and 5.6% among 159 pediatric patients with hot milk burn during the same period, respectively. CONCLUSION: Hot milk burns should be considered as separately from other hot liquid burns which do not contain fat such as water, tea, and coffee. Physical and chemical properties of milk because of its high content of fat give rise to more tissue destruction, increased morbidity and mortality.

The effects of dexmedetomidine on early stage renal functions in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac angiography using non-ionic contrast media: a double-blind, randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: In this study we aimed to investigate the effects of dexmedetomidine on early stage renal function in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac angiography. METHODS: 60 pediatric patients between 6 and 72 months of age undergoing cardiac angiography were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups. The patients in both groups were administered 1 mg · kg(-1) ketamine, 1 mg · kg(-1) propofol as bolus and followed by 1 mg · kg(-1) · h(-1) ketamine and 50 µg · kg(-1) · min(-1) propofol infusion. Additionally, a loading dose of 1 µg · kg(-1) dexmedetomidine given over 10 min followed by 0.5 µg · kg(-1) · h(-1) dexmedetomidine infusion to patients in group D. The patients were evaluated for NGAL, creatinine, renin, endothelin-1, TAS and TOS blood levels before the procedure and 6th and 24th h after the procedure. pRIFLE criteria were used to define CIN and its incidence in the study. RESULTS: According to pRIFLE criteria contrast-induced acute kidney injury developed in 3 (10%) of the patients in group D and 11 (36.7%) of the patients in group C (P = 0.029, risk ratio = 0.27; 95% CI: 0.084-0.88). In patients who developed CIN, Endothelin-1 levels in groups C and D were significantly higher than baseline levels at 6th, 24th and 6th h, respectively. Renin levels were significantly increased at 6th and 24 th( ) h in patients with CIN in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Dexmedetomidine may be beneficial in protecting against contrast-induced nephropathy during pediatric angiography by preventing the elevation of vasoconstrictor agents such as plasma endothelin-1 and renin.

The effects of dexmedetomidine added to spinal levobupivacaine for transurethral endoscopic surgery.

BACKGROUND: Intrathecal α2 agonists prolong the duration of action of local anesthetics and reduce the required dose. Dexmedetomidine is an α2 receptor agonist and its α2/α1 selectivity is 8 times higher than that of clonidine. AIMS: In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of adding dexmedetomidine to intrathecal levobupivacaine on the onset time and duration of motor and sensory blocks. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled study. METHODS: Patients were randomly assigned into two groups. Group L (n= 30) patients received 3 mL (15 mg) of 0.5% levobupivacaine +0.3 mL normal saline and Group LD (n= 30) patients received 3 mL (15 mg) of 0.5% levobupivacaine + 0.3 mL (3 µg) dexmedetomidine. Sensory block onset time, block reaching time to T10 dermatome, the most elevated dermatome level, two dermatome regression time, sensory block complete regression time as well as motor block onset time, reaching Bromage 3 and regressing to Bromage 0 were recorded. RESULTS: Sensory and motor block onset times were shorter in Group LD than in Group L (p<0.001). The regression of the sensory block to S1 dermatome and Bromage 0 were longer in Group LD than Group L (p<0.001). The two dermatome regression time was longer in Group LD than Group L (p< 0.001). There were no statistically significant differences between groups in blood pressure and heart rate. There was no statistically significant difference between groups when adverse effects were compared. CONCLUSION: We conclude that intrathecal dexmedetomidine addition to levobupivacaine for spinal anaesthesia shortens sensory and motor block onset time and prolongs block duration without any significant adverse effects.

Ketamine-propofol vs ketamine-dexmedetomidine combinations in pediatric patients undergoing burn dressing changes.

The aim of this study was to compare ketamine-propofol (KP) and ketamine-dexmedetomidine (KD) combinations for deep sedation and analgesia during pediatric burn wound dressing changes. After obtaining approval from the University Ethics Committee, burn wound care or wound dressing changes were performed on 60 American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I and II inpatients aged between 8 and 60 months with second-degree burns ranging from 5 to 25% TBSA. After recording the demographic data, the heart rate, systolic arterial pressure, diastolic arterial pressure, peripheral oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, and Ramsey sedation scores were recorded for all patients before and during the procedure. Group KP (n = 30) received 1 mg kg⁻¹ ketamine + 1 mg kg⁻¹ propofol and group KD (n = 30) received 1 mg kg⁻¹ ketamine + 0.5 µg kg⁻¹ dexmedetomidine for induction. Additional propofol (1 mg kg⁻¹) for group KP and additional dexmedetomidine (0.5 µg kg⁻¹) for group KD were administered when required. No statistically significant differences in sedation scores and peripheral oxygen saturation and diastolic arterial pressure (P > .05) were found between the two groups. However, systolic blood pressure values in group KD showed a significant increase after induction (P < .05). The recovery time was longer in group KD than in group KP (P < .05). The respiratory rate was higher in group KD than in group KP beginning from the fifth minute of the procedure. A significant amount of respiratory depression and hypoxia was observed in group KP but not in KD (P < .05). Both the KP and KD combinations were effective for sedation and analgesia during dressing changes in the pediatric burn patients. The KD combination can be considered as an excellent alternative for pediatric wound dressing changes which does not result in respiratory depression.