Testing machine learning algorithms for the prediction of depositional fluxes of the radionuclides 7Be, 210Pb and 40K.

The monthly depositional fluxes of 7Be, 210Pb and 40K were measured at Malaga, (Southern Spain) from 2005 to 2018. In this work, the depositional fluxes of these radionuclides are investigated and their relations with several atmospheric variables have been studied by applying two popular machine learning methods: Random Forest and Neural Network algorithms. We extensively test different configurations of these algorithms and demonstrate their predictive ability for reproducing depositional fluxes. The models derived with Neural Networks achieve slightly better results, in average, although similar, having into account the uncertainties. The mean Pearson-R coefficients, evaluated with a k-fold cross-validation method, are around 0.85 for the three radionuclides using Neural Network models, while they go down to 0.83, 0.79 and 0.8 for 7Be, 210Pb and 40K, respectively, for the Random Forest models. Additionally, applying the Recursive Feature Elimination technique we determine the variables more correlated with the depositional fluxes of these radionuclides, which elucidates the main dependences of their temporal variability.

Current status of nuclear cardiology practice in Latin America and the Caribbean, in the era of multimodality cardiac imaging approach: 2022 update.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of mortality in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), with the risk in men being slightly higher than in women. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused a significant reduction in the number of cardiac diagnostic procedures globally and in particular in LAC. Nuclear cardiology is available in the region, but there is variability in terms of existing technology, radiopharmaceuticals, and human resources. In the region, there are 2385 single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and 315 PET scanners, Argentina and Brazil have the largest number. There is an increasing number of new technologies such as cadmium-zinc-telluride (CZT) cardiac-dedicated gamma cameras, SPECT/computed tomography (CT), and PET/CT. All countries performed myocardial perfusion imaging studies, mainly gated-SPECT; the rest are multi-gated acquisition, mainly for cardiac toxicity; detection of viability; rest gated SPECT in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy, and bone-avid tracer cardiac scintigraphy for transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis diagnosis. Regarding other non-nuclear cardiac imaging modalities, Argentina, Colombia, and Chile have the highest ratio of CT scanners, while Brazil, Argentina, and Chile show the highest ratio of MRI scanners. The development of nuclear cardiology and other advanced imaging modalities is challenged by the high cost of equipment, lack of equipment maintenance and service, insufficient-specific training both for imaging specialists and referring clinicians, and lack of awareness of cardiologists or other referring physicians on the clinical applications of nuclear cardiology. Another important aspect to consider is the necessity of implementing cardiac imaging multimodality training. A joint work of nuclear medicine specialists, radiologists, cardiologists, and clinicians, in general, is mandatory to achieve this goal. National, regional, and international cooperation including support from scientific professional societies such as the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology and Latin American Association of Biology and Nuclear Medicine Societies, cardiological societies, and organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency, and Pan American Health Organization, as well as government commitment are key factors in the overall efforts to tackle the burden of cardiovascular diseases in the region.

[Comparative study of the effect of two analgesic techniques in postoperative pain control in pediatric surgery]. / Estudio comparativo de dos técnicas analgésicas en el postoperatorio de Cirugía Pediátrica.

OBJECTIVE: The study purpose was to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of the association of paracetamol + metamizol versus tramadol in pediatric surgery. METHODS: A prospective, randomized and double-blinded study of 60 patients between 3 and 8 years, undergoing abdominal surgery in the ambulatory unit. Patients were divided into 2 groups who received paracetamol plus metamizol (Group I) or tramadol (Group II), prior to the end of the procedure. The anesthetic technique in all cases consisted of general anesthesia balanced. The study compared the pain intensity according to the Wong-Baker scale, the need of rescue analgesia, and the side effects every hour in the postoperative period. The statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square test and T-Student test. RESULTS: The analgesia time for Group I was 202 ± 25 minutes and 215 ± 17 minutes for Group II without statistical significance. There was no significant differences (p= 0.233) in the pain scores; only 3 children in the first group had more than 4 points on the Wong-Baker scale versus 5 children in the tramadol group. The overall side effects were significantly higher (p< 0.05) in Group II, 5 patients presented vomiting compared to no child in Group I. The average dose of morphine chloride was 0.6 ± 0.2 mg. CONCLUSIONS: Both techniques provide adequate pain control in the postoperative period of abdominal ambulatory surgery in pediatric patients. However, children treated with tramadol presented a greater number of side effects compared to the NSAIDs group.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la eficacia analgésica de la asociación paracetamol + metamizol frente a tramadol en Cirugía Pediátrica. MATERIAL Y METODOS: Se realiza un estudio prospectivo, randomizado y a doble ciego, se seleccionaron 60 pacientes de entre 3 y 8 años programados para cirugía abdominal ambulatoria, divididos en 2 grupos, al grupo I se les administró paracetamol y metamizol intravenosos y al grupo II tramadol intravenoso, previos a la finalización de la intervención. La técnica anestésica consistió en anestesia general balanceada. Se valoró en el periodo postoperatorio la intensidad del dolor según la escala de Wong-Baker, la necesidad de analgesia de rescate y los efectos indeseables. El análisis estadístico se realizó mediante el test de Chi-cuadrado y la t-Student. RESULTADOS: El tiempo de analgesia para el grupo I fue de 202 ± 25 minutos y para el grupo II 215 ± 17 minutos sin significación estadística. Solo 3 niños en el grupo I presentaron valores superiores a 4 en la escala de Wong-Baker y 5 en el grupo II sin diferencias significativas (p= 0,233). En el grupo II presentaron vómitos 5 pacientes frente a ningún niño en el grupo I con diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p< 0,05). La dosis media de cloruro mórfico fue de 0,6 ± 0,2 mg. CONCLUSIONES: Ambas técnicas proporcionan una analgesia adecuada en el postoperatorio de la cirugía abdominal ambulatoria. Destaca un mayor número de efectos secundarios en el grupo del tramadol frente al grupo de los AINEs.

[Adherence to the treatment of pre surgical nasoalveolar molding in cleft lip and palate]. / Adherencia al tratamiento de moldeado nasoalveolar en pacientes con fisura labiopalatina.

OBJECTIVES: The nasoalveolar molding device (NAM) designed to decrease the size of the defect and improve nasal asymmetry, facilitates surgical intervention improving the results. However, family involvement is highly necessary due to the fact that the treatment herein referred is long and tedious. The aim of this study is to determine adherence to treatment and possible variables that can determine their rejection. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients treated with NAM over the last 6 years (64 patients). Retrospective data collection and telephone surveys. 5 groups established depending on its respective adherence to the treatment (from rejection of the treatment to good adherence to it). Several aspects are herein analyzed related to the caregiver, the patient and the social background (degree of education, number of caregivers, distance to the hospital, etc.). Through the SPSS program, a descriptive study was carried out, analyzing the variables using chi2 with Fisher's exact correction. RESULTS: 46 surveys were completed (32 boys and 14 girls), 63% were unilateral, 91% had a cleft palate. Adherence to the treatment was good by 80%, and only 6% rejected the treatment. The adherence was significantly higher, if they had contacted with other families of patients (P < 0.01) and a higher tendency of abandonment of treatment in other nationalities than the Spanish one, although without significant differences. CONCLUSIONS: Adherence to treatment is very good in general, and we can not significantly determine the variables that can condition the rejection of treatment, but contacting with family members of patients or associations of patients makes the adherence greater.

OBJETIVOS: El dispositivo de moldeamiento nasoalveolar (NAM), diseñado para aproximar los segmentos fisurados y mejorar la asimetría nasal, facilita la intervención quirúrgica mejorando los resultados. Sin embargo, necesita gran colaboración por parte de la familia por ser largo, y a veces, tedioso. El objetivo de este trabajo es determinar la adherencia al tratamiento y las posibles variables que puedan determinar su rechazo. MATERIAL Y METODOS: Pacientes tratados con NAM en los últimos 6 años (64 pacientes). Recogida de datos retrospectiva (historias) y encuesta telefónica. Clasificación en 5 grupos según el seguimiento del tratamiento (rechazo del tratamiento hasta un cumplimiento correcto del tratamiento). Analizamos factores relacionados con el cuidador, el paciente y el contexto social (nivel de estudios, número de cuidadores, distancia al hospital, etc.). Mediante el programa SPSS se realizó un estudio descriptivo, analizando las variables mediante chi2 con corrección exacta de Fisher. RESULTADOS: Se completaron las 46 encuestas (32 niños y 14 niñas), el 63% fueron unilaterales, el 91% con fisura palatina. El cumplimiento terapéutico fue bueno en el 80%, y solo el 7% rechazaron el tratamiento. La adherencia fue mayor, de forma significativa, si habían contactado con otras familias de pacientes (P< 0,01) y tendencia a mayor abandono en otras nacionalidades distinta a la española, aunque sin significación estadística. CONCLUSIONES: El cumplimiento terapéutico de estos pacientes es bueno de forma general, y no podemos determinar de forma significativa las variables que pueden condicionar el rechazo al tratamiento, pero si, que el contacto con familiares de afectados o asociaciones de pacientes hacen que la adherencia sea mayor.

Adherencia al tratamiento de moldeado nasoalveolar en pacientes con fisura labiopalatina / No disponible

Objetivos: El dispositivo de moldeamiento nasoalveolar (NAM), diseñado para aproximar los segmentos fisurados y mejorar la asimetría nasal, facilita la intervención quirúrgica mejorando los resultados. Sin embargo, necesita gran colaboración por parte de la familia por ser largo, y a veces, tedioso. El objetivo de este trabajo es determinar la adherencia al tratamiento y las posibles variables que puedan determinar su rechazo. Material y métodos: Pacientes tratados con NAM en los últimos 6 años (64 pacientes). Recogida de datos retrospectiva (historias) y encuesta telefónica. Clasificación en 5 grupos según el seguimiento del tratamiento (rechazo del tratamiento hasta un cumplimiento correcto del tratamiento). Analizamos factores relacionados con el cuidador, el paciente y el contexto social (nivel de estudios, número de cuidadores, distancia al hospital, etc.). Mediante el programa SPSS se realizó un estudio descriptivo, analizando las variables mediante chi2 con corrección exacta de Fisher. Resultados: Se completaron las 46 encuestas (32 niños y 14 niñas), el 63% fueron unilaterales, el 91% con fisura palatina. El cumplimiento terapéutico fue bueno en el 80%, y solo el 7% rechazaron el tratamiento. La adherencia fue mayor, de forma significativa, si habían contactado con otras familias de pacientes (P< 0,01) y tendencia a mayor abandono en otras nacionalidades distinta a la española, aunque sin significación estadística. Conclusiones: El cumplimiento terapéutico de estos pacientes es bueno de forma general, y no podemos determinar de forma significativa las variables que pueden condicionar el rechazo al tratamiento, pero si, que el contacto con familiares de afectados o asociaciones de pacientes hacen que la adherencia sea mayor

Objectives: The nasoalveolar molding device (NAM) designed to decrease the size of the defect and improve nasal asymmetry, facilitates surgical intervention improving the results. However, family involvement is highly necessary due to the fact that the treatment herein referred is long and tedious. The aim of this study is to determine adherence to treatment and possible variables that can determine their rejection. Materials and methods: Patients treated with NAM over the last 6 years (64 patients). Retrospective data collection and telephone surveys. 5 groups established depending on its respective adherence to the treatment (from rejection of the treatment to good adherence to it). Several aspects are herein analyzed related to the caregiver, the patient and the social background (degree of education, number of caregivers, distance to the hospital, etc.). Through the SPSS program, a descriptive study was carried out, analyzing the variables using chi2 with Fisher’s exact correction. Results: 46 surveys were completed (32 boys and 14 girls), 63% were unilateral, 91% had a cleft palate. Adherence to the treatment was good by 80%, and only 6% rejected the treatment. The adherence was significantly higher, if they had contacted with other families of patients (P < 0.01) and a higher tendency of abandonment of treatment in other nationalities than the Spanish one, although without significant differences. Conclusions: Adherence to treatment is very good in general, and we can not significantly determine the variables that can condition the rejection of treatment, but contacting with family members of patients or associations of patients makes the adherence greater

Estudio comparativo de dos técnicas analgésicas en el postoperatorio de Cirugía Pediátrica / No disponible

Objetivo: Evaluar la eficacia analgésica de la asociación paracetamol + metamizol frente a tramadol en Cirugía Pediátrica. Material y métodos: Se realiza un estudio prospectivo, randomizado y a doble ciego, se seleccionaron 60 pacientes de entre 3 y 8 años programados para cirugía abdominal ambulatoria, divididos en 2 grupos, al grupo I se les administró paracetamol y metamizol intravenosos y al grupo II tramadol intravenoso, previos a la finalización de la intervención. La técnica anestésica consistió en anestesia general balanceada. Se valoró en el periodo postoperatorio la intensidad del dolor según la escala de Wong-Baker, la necesidad de analgesia de rescate y los efectos indeseables. El análisis estadístico se realizó mediante el test de Chi-cuadrado y la t-Student. Resultados: El tiempo de analgesia para el grupo I fue de 202 ± 25 minutos y para el grupo II 215 ± 17 minutos sin significación estadística. Solo 3 niños en el grupo I presentaron valores superiores a 4 en la escala de Wong-Baker y 5 en el grupo II sin diferencias significativas (p= 0,233). En el grupo II presentaron vómitos 5 pacientes frente a ningún niño en el grupo I con diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p< 0,05). La dosis media de cloruro mórfico fue de 0,6 ± 0,2 mg. Conclusiones: Ambas técnicas proporcionan una analgesia adecuada en el postoperatorio de la cirugía abdominal ambulatoria. Destaca un mayor número de efectos secundarios en el grupo del tramadol frente al grupo de los AINEs

Objective: The study purpose was to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of the association of paracetamol + metamizol versus tramadol in pediatric surgery. Methods: A prospective, randomized and double-blinded study of 60 patients between 3 and 8 years, undergoing abdominal surgery in the ambulatory unit. Patients were divided into 2 groups who received paracetamol plus metamizol (Group I) or tramadol (Group II), prior to the end of the procedure. The anesthetic technique in all cases consisted of general anesthesia balanced. The study compared the pain intensity according to the Wong-Baker scale, the need of rescue analgesia, and the side effects every hour in the postoperative period. The statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square test and T-Student test. Results: The analgesia time for Group I was 202 ± 25 minutes and 215 ± 17 minutes for Group II without statistical significance. There was no significant differences (p= 0.233) in the pain scores; only 3 children in the first group had more than 4 points on the Wong-Baker scale versus 5 children in the tramadol group. The overall side effects were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in Group II, 5 patients presented vomiting compared to no child in Group I. The average dose of morphine chloride was 0.6 ± 0.2 mg. Conclusions: Both techniques provide adequate pain control in the postoperative period of abdominal ambulatory surgery in pediatric patients. However, children treated with tramadol presented a greater number of side effects compared to the NSAIDs group

Gastric ischemia due to critical stenosis of the celiac trunk / Isquemia gástrica secundaria a estenosis crítica del tronco celíaco

Gastric ischemia (GI) results from diffuse or localized vascular insufficiency caused by different aetiologies such as systemic hypotension, vasculitis, disseminated thromboembolism and celiac or mesenteric stenosis. We present a case of gastric ischemia due to critical stenosis of the celiac artery treated using endovascular therapy. The celiac artery is the first major branch of the abdominal aorta and provides some of the blood supply to the stomach through the left gastric artery and other organs like the spleen (splenic artery branch) and the liver. Although the collateral blood supply to the stomach is protective, systemic hypotension or occlusion of the main arteries, as in the case of our patient, may result in gastric ischemia. The stent placement is an alternative to surgery in patients with high comorbidity and with good outcomes. The clinical awareness of this syndrome will allow gastroenterologists and radiologists to appropriately diagnose and manage affected patients (AU)

La isquemia gástrica resulta de la insuficiencia vascular difusa o localizada causada por diferentes etiologías como la hipotensión sistémica, la vasculitis, el tromboembolismo diseminado y la estenosis mesentérica o celíaca. Presentamos un caso de isquemia gástrica secundaria a estenosis crítica del tronco celíaco tratada endovascularmente. El tronco celíaco es la primera rama de la aorta abdominal y aporta gran parte del flujo de sangre al estómago a través de la arteria gástrica izquierda y de otros órganos como el bazo (a través de la rama esplénica) y el hígado. Aunque las colaterales que irrigan el estómago son protectoras, la hipotensión sistémica o la oclusión de las principales ramas como en el caso que presentamos, pueden llevar a la isquemia gástrica. La colocación de stents endovasculares es una alterativa terapéutica a la cirugía en pacientes con gran comorbilidad y con buenos resultados. La sospecha clínica de este síndrome puede llevar tanto a gastroenterólogos como a radiólogos a un correcto diagnóstico y tratamiento de los pacientes afectos (AU)

Gastric ischemia due to critical stenosis of the celiac trunk.

Gastric ischemia (GI) results from diffuse or localized vascular insufficiency caused by different aetiologies such as systemic hypotension, vasculitis, disseminated thromboembolism and celiac or mesenteric stenosis. We present a case of gastric ischemia due to critical stenosis of the celiac artery treated using endovascular therapy. The celiac artery is the first major branch of the abdominal aorta and provides some of the blood supply to the stomach through the left gastric artery and other organs like the spleen (splenic artery branch) and the liver. Although the collateral blood supply to the stomach is protective, systemic hypotension or occlusion of the main arteries, as in the case of our patient, may result in gastric ischemia. The stent placement is an alternative to surgery in patients with high comorbidity and with good outcomes. The clinical awareness of this syndrome will allow gastroenterologists and radiologists to appropriately diagnose and manage affected patients.

Phenotype and natural history of elderly onset inflammatory bowel disease: a multicentre, case-control study.

BACKGROUND: Onset during old age has been reported in upto 10% of total cases of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). AIM: To evaluate phenotypic characteristics and the use of therapeutic resources in patients with elderly onset IBD. METHODS: Case-control study including all those patients diagnosed with IBD over the age of 60 years since 2000 who were followed-up for >12 months, identified from the IBD databases. Elderly onset cases were compared with IBD patients aged 18 to 40 years at diagnosis, matched by year of diagnosis, gender and type of IBD (adult-onset). RESULTS: One thousand three hundred and seventy-four elderly onset and 1374 adult-onset cases were included (62% ulcerative colitis (UC), 38% Crohn's disease (CD)). Among UC patients, elderly onset cases had a lower proportion of extensive disease (33% vs 39%; P < 0.0001). In CD, elderly onset cases showed an increased rate of stenosing pattern (24% vs 13%; P < 0.0001) and exclusive colonic location (28% vs 16%; P < 0.0001), whereas penetrating pattern (12% vs 19%; P < 0.0001) was significantly less frequent. Regarding the use of therapeutic resources, there was a significantly lower use of corticosteroids (P < 0.0001), immunosuppressants (P < 0.0001) and anti-TNFs agents (P < 0.0001) in elderly onset cases. Regarding surgery, we found a significantly higher surgery rate among elderly onset UC cases (8.3% vs 5.1%; P < 0.009). Finally, elderly onset cases were characterised by a higher rate of hospitalisations (66% vs 49%; P < 0.0001) and neoplasms (14% vs 0.5%; P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Elderly onset IBD shows specific characteristics and they are managed differently, with a lower use of immunosuppressants and a higher rate of surgery in UC.

7Be, 210Pb and 40K depositions over 11 years in Málaga.

The monthly bulk depositional fluxes of three natural radionuclides (7Be, 210Pb and 40K) were measured at a Mediterranean coastal station (Málaga) over an 11-year period from 2005 to 2015. The mean annual depositional fluxes of 7Be, 210Pb and 40K were 1215, 144 and 67 Bq m-2 year-1 respectively, showing a clear seasonal trend with minimum values recorded during summer and maximum values in winter. The rainfall regime with dry summers allows estimating the dry deposition. Assuming constant dry deposition through each year, 7Be, 210Pb and 40K would account for 12.5, 26.5 and 33% of the bulk fallout respectively which indicates that deposition for 210Pb and 40K are significantly higher than 7Be. The precipitation-normalized enrichment factor alpha used to explain seasonal variations in the depositional fluxes of radionuclides with respect the rainfall, indicates higher depositional fluxes during spring and summer than expected from the amount of rainfall. Despite their different origin, 210Pb and 7Be monthly depositional fluxes have strong correlation. The atmospheric deposition fluxes of 7Be, 210Pb and 40K were controlled mainly by the amount of rainfall (r = 0.89, 0.91 and 0.66 respectively). Moreover, principal component analysis was applied to the datasets and deposition of radionuclides and rainfall in the same component highlighting the importance of the washout mechanism. The mean depositional velocity of aerosols evaluated using 7Be and 210Pb are similar and are compared to other published values.

Guías basadas en la evidencia para el uso de traqueostomía en el paciente crítico / Evidence-based guides in tracheostomy use in critical patients

OBJETIVOS: Proporcionar guías de traqueostomía para el paciente crítico, basadas en la evidencia científica disponible, y facilitar la identificación de áreas en las cuales se requieren mayores estudios. MÉTODOS: Un grupo de trabajo formado con representantes de 10 países pertenecientes a la Federación Panamericana e Ibérica de Sociedades de Medicina Crítica y Terapia Intensiva y a la Latin American Critical Care Trial Investigators Network (LACCTIN) desarrollaron estas recomendaciones basadas en el sistema Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). RESULTADOS: El grupo identificó 23 preguntas relevantes entre las 87 preguntas planteadas inicialmente. En la búsqueda inicial de la literatura se identificaron 333 estudios, de los cuales se escogieron un total de 226. El equipo de trabajo generó un total de 19 recomendaciones: 10 positivas (1B=3, 2C=3, 2D=4) y 9 negativas (1B=8, 2C=1). En 6 ocasiones no se pudieron establecer recomendaciones. CONCLUSIÓN: La traqueostomía percutánea se asocia a menor riesgo de infecciones en comparación con la traqueostomía quirúrgica. La traqueostomía precoz solo parece reducir la duración de la ventilación mecánica pero no la incidencia de neumonía, la duración de la estancia hospitalaria o la mortalidad a largo plazo. La evidencia no apoya el uso de broncoscopia de forma rutinaria ni el uso de máscara laríngea durante el procedimiento. Finalmente, el entrenamiento adecuado previo es tanto o más importante que la técnica utilizada para disminuir las complicaciones

OBJECTIVES: Provide evidence based guidelines for tracheostomy in critically ill adult patients and identify areas needing further research. METHODS: A task force composed of representatives of 10 member countries of the Pan-American and Iberic Federation of Societies of Critical and Intensive Therapy Medicine and of the Latin American Critical Care Trial Investigators Network developed recommendations based on the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system. RESULTS: The group identified 23 relevant questions among 87 issues that were initially identified. In the initial search, 333 relevant publications were identified of which 226 publications were chosen. The task force generated a total of 19 recommendations: 10 positive (1B=3, 2C=3, 2D=4) and 9 negative (1B=8, 2C=1). A recommendation was not possible in six questions. CONCLUSION: Percutaneous techniques are associated with a lower risk of infections compared to surgical tracheostomy. Early tracheostomy only seems to reduce the duration of ventilator use but not the incidence of pneumonia, the length of stay, or the long-term mortality rate. The evidence does not support the use of routine bronchoscopy guidance or laryngeal masks during the procedure. Finally, proper prior training is as important or even a more significant factor in reducing complications than the technique used

Evidence-based guides in tracheostomy use in critical patients

Objetivos: Proporcionar guías de traqueostomía para el paciente crítico, basadas en la evidencia científica disponible, y facilitar la identificación de áreas en las cuales se requieren mayores estudios. Métodos: Un grupo de trabajo formado con representantes de 10 países pertenecientes a la Federación Panamericana e Ibérica de Sociedades de Medicina Crítica y Terapia Intensiva y a la Latin American Critical Care Trial Investigators Network(LACCTIN) desarrollaron estas recomendaciones basadas en el sistema Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). Resultados: El grupo identificó 23 preguntas relevantes entre las 87 preguntas planteadas inicialmente. En la búsqueda inicial de la literatura se identificaron 333 estudios, de los cuales se escogieron un total de 226. El equipo de trabajo generó un total de 19 recomendaciones: 10 positivas (1B = 3, 2C = 3, 2D = 4) y 9 negativas (1B = 8, 2C = 1). En 6 ocasiones no se pudieron establecer recomendaciones. Conclusión: La traqueostomía percutánea se asocia a menor riesgo de infecciones en comparación con la traqueostomía quirúrgica. La traqueostomía precoz solo parece reducir la duración de la ventilación mecánica pero no la incidencia de neumonía, la duración de la estancia hospitalaria o la mortalidad a largo plazo. La evidencia no apoya el uso de broncoscopia de forma rutinaria ni el uso de máscara laríngea durante el procedimiento. Finalmente, el entrenamiento adecuado previo es tanto o más importante que la técnica utilizada para disminuir las complicaciones.(AU)

OBJECTIVES: Provide evidence based guidelines for tracheostomy in critically ill adult patients and identify areas needing further research. METHODS: A task force composed of representatives of 10 member countries of the Pan-American and Iberic Federation of Societies of Critical and Intensive Therapy Medicine and of the Latin American Critical Care Trial Investigators Network developed recommendations based on the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system. RESULTS: The group identified 23 relevant questions among 87 issues that were initially identified. In the initial search, 333 relevant publications were identified of which 226 publications were chosen. The task force generated a total of 19 recommendations: 10 positive (1B=3, 2C=3, 2D=4) and 9 negative (1B=8, 2C=1). A recommendation was not possible in six questions. CONCLUSION: Percutaneous techniques are associated with a lower risk of infections compared to surgical tracheostomy. Early tracheostomy only seems to reduce the duration of ventilator use but not the incidence of pneumonia, the length of stay, or the long-term mortality rate. The evidence does not support the use of routine bronchoscopy guidance or laryngeal masks during the procedure. Finally, proper prior training is as important or even a more significant factor in reducing complications than the technique used.(AU)

Evidence-based guides in tracheostomy use in critical patients. / Guías basadas en la evidencia para el uso de traqueostomía en el paciente crítico.

OBJECTIVES: Provide evidence based guidelines for tracheostomy in critically ill adult patients and identify areas needing further research. METHODS: A task force composed of representatives of 10 member countries of the Pan-American and Iberic Federation of Societies of Critical and Intensive Therapy Medicine and of the Latin American Critical Care Trial Investigators Network developed recommendations based on the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system. RESULTS: The group identified 23 relevant questions among 87 issues that were initially identified. In the initial search, 333 relevant publications were identified of which 226 publications were chosen. The task force generated a total of 19 recommendations: 10 positive (1B=3, 2C=3, 2D=4) and 9 negative (1B=8, 2C=1). A recommendation was not possible in six questions. CONCLUSION: Percutaneous techniques are associated with a lower risk of infections compared to surgical tracheostomy. Early tracheostomy only seems to reduce the duration of ventilator use but not the incidence of pneumonia, the length of stay, or the long-term mortality rate. The evidence does not support the use of routine bronchoscopy guidance or laryngeal masks during the procedure. Finally, proper prior training is as important or even a more significant factor in reducing complications than the technique used.

Esophageal lesions detected during small bowel capsule endoscopy : incidence, diagnostic and therapeutic impact.

BACKGROUND: Nowadays, capsule endoscopy is the first-line procedure for the visualization of the small bowel. Although it was primarily designed with this goal, it may also identify other segments of the gastrointestinal tract. The aim of the current study is to evaluate the incidence of esophageal abnormalities detected in patients undergoing small bowel capsule endoscopy and its impact on patient management. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This study is a retrospective analysis of data from 2217 consecutive capsule endoscopy procedures performed at a single tertiary-care centre between January 2008 and February 2016. Patient baseline characteristics, esophageal lesions, diagnosis and management before and after capsule endoscopy were recorded and a descriptive analysis was then performed. RESULTS: 2217 patients were finally included in the analysis. 1070 were male (48.2%) and the mean age was 56.1 ± 19.5 years (12-93). Obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (52.3%) and inflammatory bowel disease (18.3%) were the main procedure indications. Esophageal abnormalities were detected in 105 out of 2217 patients (4.7%). The most common lesions detected were peptic esophagitis (58.1%) and esophageal varices (17.1%). This information had a clinical/diagnostic impact of 3.3% and a therapeutic impact of 3.2%. CONCLUSION: Capsule endoscopy detects not only small bowel lesions, but also significant esophageal lesions that may be overlooked during initial gastroscopy. Therefore, all images of the esophagus should be read during small bowel capsule endoscopy, since it could provide relevant information that may result in changes on patient´s management.

Evolution After Anti-TNF Discontinuation in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Multicenter Long-Term Follow-Up Study.

OBJECTIVES: The aims of this study were to assess the risk of relapse after discontinuation of anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) drugs in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), to identify the factors associated with relapse, and to evaluate the overcome after retreatment with the same anti-TNF in those who relapsed. METHODS: This was a retrospective, observational, multicenter study. IBD patients who had been treated with anti-TNFs and in whom these drugs were discontinued after clinical remission was achieved were included. RESULTS: A total of 1,055 patients were included. The incidence rate of relapse was 19% and 17% per patient-year in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis patients, respectively. In both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis patients in deep remission, the incidence rate of relapse was 19% per patient-year. The treatment with adalimumab vs. infliximab (hazard ratio (HR)=1.29; 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.01-1.66), elective discontinuation of anti-TNFs (HR=1.90; 95% CI=1.07-3.37) or discontinuation because of adverse events (HR=2.33; 95% CI=1.27-2.02) vs. a top-down strategy, colonic localization (HR=1.51; 95% CI=1.13-2.02) vs. ileal, and stricturing behavior (HR=1.5; 95% CI=1.09-2.05) vs. inflammatory were associated with a higher risk of relapse in Crohn's disease patients, whereas treatment with immunomodulators after discontinuation (HR=0.67; 95% CI=0.51-0.87) and age (HR=0.98; 95% CI=0.97-0.99) were protective factors. None of the factors were predictive in ulcerative colitis patients. Retreatment of relapse with the same anti-TNF was effective (80% responded) and safe. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence rate of inflammatory bowel disease relapse after anti-TNF discontinuation is relevant. Some predictive factors of relapse after anti-TNF withdrawal have been identified. Retreatment with the same anti-TNF drug was effective and safe.

[Hepatocellular carcinoma in Navarre: study of characteristics and evolution in clinical practice]. / El hepatocarcinoma en la Comunidad Foral de Navarra: estudio de características y evolución en la práctica clínica habitual.

BACKGROUND: Hepatocellular carcinoma generally arises in a cirrhotic liver. The aim of screening is to improve survival. The aims of our study are to determine the characteristics and evolution of hepatocellular carcinoma and the effect of screening on survival, in clinical practice in Navarre. METHODS: Prospective and retrospective study of 111 patients diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma in public hospitals in Navarre between January 2009 and January 2015. Epidemiological, clinical, analytical, radiological characteristics, tumour staging, treatment and evolution were analyzed. Survival was compared between patients subjected to screening and those not. RESULTS: Mean age was 67 years. The patients (84.7%) were mainly male and 85.6% had cirrhosis. The most frequent aetiology was alcohol consumption (40.7%). 62.2% were diagnosed in early stages, 15.3% in intermediate and 22.5 % in advanced or terminal stages. 4.5% received transplants, 21.6% received surgical resection, 23.4% were treated with abla-tion techniques, 10.8 % with chemoembolization, 5.4% with radiembolization, 2.7% with embolization, 13.5 % with sorafenib and 18% symptomatically. Only 32 patients (28.8%) were subjected to screening. No statistical differences were found in survival depending on surveillance (32 month versus 34; p = 0.971). CONCLUSIONS: In Navarre, hepatocellular carcinoma generally appears against a background of cirrhosis, and alcohol is the most frequent aetiology. Hepatocellular carcinoma is diagnosed most frequently in early stages and out of screening practi-ces. Screening was not associated to better survival.

[Non-small bowel lesions detected with capsule endoscopy in patients with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding]. / Detección de lesiones fuera del intestino delgado con cápsula endoscópica en pacientes con hemorragia digestiva oculta.

Obscure gastrointestinal bleeding accounts for approximately 5-10% of patients presenting with gastrointestinal haemorrhage. The majority of lesions responsible were found to be located in the small bowel. Currently, capsule en-doscopy is the first-line tool to investigate the small bowel as it is a non-invasive, feasible and simple procedure. Howe-ver, capsule endoscopy sometimes identifies the source of bleeding outside the small bowel and within the reach of conventional endoscopy. We present the case of a 46 year-old man with few prior negative endoscopic procedures and iron-deficiency anaemia due to gastric GIST.

El hepatocarcinoma en la Comunidad Foral de Navarra: estudio de características y evolución en la práctica clínica habitual / Hepatocellular carcinoma in Navarre: study of characteristics and evolution in clinical practice

Fundamento: El hepatocarcinoma asienta generalmente sobre una cirrosis hepática. El cribado pretende mejorar la supervivencia. Los objetivos de nuestro trabajo son conocer las características del hepatocarcinoma, su evolución y la influencia del cribado en su supervivencia, en la práctica clínica en Navarra. Material y Métodos: Estudio prospectivo y retrospectivo de 111 pacientes diagnosticados de hepatocarcinoma en hospitales públicos navarros, entre enero de 2009 y enero de 2015. Se analizaron características epidemiológicas, clínicas, analíticas, radiológicas, estadio tumoral, tratamiento y evolución, y el efecto del cribado. Resultados: El 84,7% de los pacientes eran varones. La edad media fue 67 años. El 85,6% tenían cirrosis. La etiología más frecuente fue la enólica (40,7%). El 62,2% se diagnosticó en estadios tempranos, el 15,3% en intermedio y el 22,5% en avanzado o terminal. El 4,5% se trató mediante trasplante, el 21,6% con resección, el 23,4% mediante ablación, el 10,8% con quimioembolización, el 5,4% con radiembolización, el 2,7% con embolización, el 13,5% con sorafenib y el 18% de modo sintomático. Solamente 32 pacientes (28,8%) realizaban cribado. No se han encontrado diferencias significativas en la supervivencia según la realización de cribado (mediana de 32 y 34 meses; p = 0,971). Conclusiones: En Navarra, el hepatocarcinoma se desarrolla generalmente sobre una cirrosis, cuya etiología más frecuente es el consumo de alcohol. El hepatocarcinoma se ha diagnosticado con más frecuencia en estadios iniciales, fuera de cribado. El cribado no ha mejorado la supervivencia (AU)

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma generally arises in a cirrhotic liver. The aim of screening is to improve survival. The aims of our study are to determine the characteristics and evolution of hepatocellular carcinoma and the effect of screening on survival, in clinical practice in Navarre. Methods: Prospective and retrospective study of 111 patients diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma in public hospitals in Navarre between January 2009 and January 2015. Epidemiological, clinical, analytical, radiological characteristics, tumour staging, treatment and evolution were analyzed. Survival was compared between patients subjected to screening and those not. Results: Mean age was 67 years. The patients (84.7%) were mainly male and 85.6% had cirrhosis. The most frequent aetiology was alcohol consumption (40.7%). 62.2% were diagnosed in early stages, 15.3% in intermediate and 22.5 % in advanced or terminal stages. 4.5% received transplants, 21.6% received surgical resection, 23.4% were treated with ablation techniques, 10.8 % with chemoembolization, 5.4% with radiembolization, 2.7% with embolization, 13.5 % with sorafenib and 18% symptomatically. Only 32 patients (28.8%) were subjected to screening. No statistical differences were found in survival depending on surveillance (32 month versus 34; p = 0.971). Conclusions: In Navarre, hepatocellular carcinoma generally appears against a background of cirrhosis, and alcohol is the most frequent aetiology. Hepatocellular carcinoma is diagnosed most frequently in early stages and out of screening practices. Screening was not associated to better survival (AU)

Detección de lesiones fuera del intestino delgado con cápsula endoscópica en pacientes con hemorragia digestiva oculta / Non-small bowel lesions detected with capsule endoscopy in patients with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding

La hemorragia digestiva de origen oscuro constituye el 5-10% del total de hemorragias digestivas, siendo el intestino delgado la localización más frecuente. Por su sencillez y fiabilidad la enteroscopia con cápsula es la técnica de elección tras un primer estudio endoscópico negativo (gastroscopia e ileo-colonoscopia). Sin embargo, en ocasiones, el origen del sangrado no se identifica en el interior de éste, sino fuera y al alcance de la endoscopia convencional (esófago, estómago o colon). Presentamos el caso de un paciente de 46 años con anemia ferropénica y varios estudios endoscópicos previos negativos a quien se detectó un tumor gástrico (GIST) durante una enteroscopia con cápsula. El diagnóstico definitivo se obtuvo tras el estudio histológico de la pieza quirúrgica (AU)

Obscure gastrointestinal bleeding accounts for approximately 5-10% of patients presenting with gastrointestinal haemorrhage. The majority of lesions responsible were found to be located in the small bowel. Currently, capsule endoscopy is the first-line tool to investigate the small bowel as it is a non-invasive, feasible and simple procedure. However, capsule endoscopy sometimes identifies the source of bleeding outside the small bowel and within the reach of conventional endoscopy. We present the case of a 46 year-old man with few prior negative endoscopic procedures and iron-deficiency anaemia due to gastric GIST (AU)