Vascular resistance index and the immediate hemodynamic success of lower limb distal artery revascularization.

Background: Revascularization surgery is used to attempt to restore blood flow to the foot in patients with critical ischemia (CI) caused by peripheral arterial occlusive disease of the lower limbs (LL). Ultrasonography with Doppler (USD) SAH emerged in recent years as a highly valuable method for planning this surgical intervention. Objectives: To evaluate the relationship between the resistance index (RI), measured with USD, and immediate hemodynamic success of LL revascularization surgery in patients with CI. Methods: The study design was a prospective cohort assessing 46 patients with LL CLI who underwent operations to perform infrainguinal revascularization by angioplasty or bypass from August 2019 to February 2022. All patients underwent preoperative clinical vascular assessment with USD including measurement of the RI of distal LL arteries, LL arteriography, and measurement of the ankle-brachial index (ABI). All patients had their ABI measured again in the immediate postoperative period. Results: Forty-six patients were assessed, 25 (54.3%) of whom were male. Age varied from 32 to 89 years (mean: 67.83). Hemodynamic success was assessed by comparison of preoperative and postoperative ABI, showing that hemodynamic success was achieved in 31 (67.4%) patients after revascularization surgery (ABI increased by 0.15 or more). A positive correlation (p ≤ 0.05) was observed between the RI of the distal revascularized LL artery and immediate hemodynamic success assessed by ABI (lower RI and hemodynamic success). Conclusions: This study observed a positive correlation between the resistance index of the distal artery and immediate hemodynamic success of lower limb revascularizations, as assessed by the ankle-brachial index, so that the lower the RI the greater the hemodynamic success achieved.

Correlation between the vascular resistance index and arteriography for assessment of the distal arterial bed in chronic limb threatening ischemia.

Background: Patients with chronic limb threatening ischemia (CLTI) of the lower limbs (LL) undergo arteriography for revascularization surgery planning. Doppler ultrasound (DU) is non-invasive and can provide information about the distal arteries through measurement of the resistance index (RI). Objectives: To correlate the Rutherford Angiographic Classification with the RI for assessment of the distal arterial bed of the LL. Methods: A cross-sectional study, conducted at a public tertiary hospital with 120 patients with LL CLTI, from September 2019 to April 2022. The RI of arteries that were candidates for revascularization was compared with the images of the same arteries obtained using arteriography, using the Rutherford Angiographic Classification of the distal bed. Results: A total of 120 LL were assessed in 120 patients with a mean age of 68.6 years. The sample was 50.0% male and 90.0% of the patients in the sample were classified as Rutherford category five. The RI values found for the arteries of the leg exhibited a statistically significant positive correlation with the Rutherford Classification (anterior tibial, p< 0.01; posterior tibial, p = 0.012 fibular, p = 0.034; and dorsalis pedis, p < 0.001). Conclusions: In this study, RIs for the arteries of the leg measured using Doppler ultrasound exhibited a positive correlation with the Rutherford Classification. This index could be useful for assessment of the distal arterial bed of the lower limbs of patients with chronic limb threatening ischemia.

Relação entre o índice de resistência vascular e o sucesso hemodinâmico de revascularizações distais dos membros inferiores / Vascular resistance index and the immediate hemodynamic success of lower limb distal artery revascularization

Resumo Contexto A cirurgia de revascularização é proposta para restaurar o fluxo sanguíneo para o pé nos casos de isquemia crítica (IC) devido a doença arterial obstrutiva periférica dos membros inferiores (MMII). O uso de ultrassonografia com Doppler (USD) vem despontando nos últimos anos como um método de grande valor para o planejamento cirúrgico dessa intervenção. Objetivos Avaliar a relação entre o índice de resistência (IR), mensurado por meio de USD, e o sucesso hemodinâmico imediato da cirurgia de revascularização dos MMII em pacientes com IC. Métodos O tipo de estudo empregado foi a coorte prospectiva, na qual foram avaliados 46 pacientes portadores de IC dos MMII submetidos à operação de revascularização infrainguinal por angioplastia ou em ponte de agosto de 2019 a fevereiro de 2022. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos à avaliação clínica vascular, à USD com medida do IR das artérias distais dos MMII, à arteriografia dos MMII e à aferição do índice tornozelo-braquial (ITB) no período pré-operatório. No pós-operatório imediato, todos os pacientes foram submetidos à nova aferição do ITB. Resultados Entre os 46 pacientes avaliados, 25 (54,3%) eram do sexo masculino. A idade variou de 32 a 89 anos (média de 67,83). Quanto ao sucesso hemodinâmico, avaliado pela comparação do ITB pré e pós-operatório, constatou-se que 31 (67,4%) pacientes apresentaram sucesso hemodinâmico após cirurgia de revascularização (aumento do ITB em 0,15 ou mais). Foi observada correlação positiva (p ≤ 0,05) entre o IR da artéria distal revascularizada do MMII e o sucesso hemodinâmico imediato avaliado pela aferição do ITB (IR menor e sucesso hemodinâmico). Conclusões Na presente pesquisa foi observada uma correlação positiva entre o índice de resistência arterial distal e o sucesso hemodinâmico nas revascularizações dos membros inferiores, avaliada através do índice tornozelobraquial, de forma que, quanto menor foi o IR, maior o sucesso hemodinâmico obtido.

Abstract Background Revascularization surgery is used to attempt to restore blood flow to the foot in patients with critical ischemia (CI) caused by peripheral arterial occlusive disease of the lower limbs (LL). Ultrasonography with Doppler (USD) SAH emerged in recent years as a highly valuable method for planning this surgical intervention. Objectives To evaluate the relationship between the resistance index (RI), measured with USD, and immediate hemodynamic success of LL revascularization surgery in patients with CI. Methods The study design was a prospective cohort assessing 46 patients with LL CLI who underwent operations to perform infrainguinal revascularization by angioplasty or bypass from August 2019 to February 2022. All patients underwent preoperative clinical vascular assessment with USD including measurement of the RI of distal LL arteries, LL arteriography, and measurement of the ankle-brachial index (ABI). All patients had their ABI measured again in the immediate postoperative period. Results Forty-six patients were assessed, 25 (54.3%) of whom were male. Age varied from 32 to 89 years (mean: 67.83). Hemodynamic success was assessed by comparison of preoperative and postoperative ABI, showing that hemodynamic success was achieved in 31 (67.4%) patients after revascularization surgery (ABI increased by 0.15 or more). A positive correlation (p ≤ 0.05) was observed between the RI of the distal revascularized LL artery and immediate hemodynamic success assessed by ABI (lower RI and hemodynamic success). Conclusions This study observed a positive correlation between the resistance index of the distal artery and immediate hemodynamic success of lower limb revascularizations, as assessed by the ankle-brachial index, so that the lower the RI the greater the hemodynamic success achieved.

Correlação entre o índice de resistência vascular e a arteriografia na avaliação do leito arterial distal na isquemia crítica dos membros inferiores / Correlation between the vascular resistance index and arteriography for assessment of the distal arterial bed in chronic limb threatening ischemia

Resumo Contexto Pacientes com isquemia crítica (IC) dos membros inferiores (MMII) precisam de arteriografia para o planejamento da cirurgia de revascularização. A ultrassonografia Doppler (UD) não é invasiva e, através da aferição do índice de resistência (IR), pode fornecer informações sobre as artérias distais. Objetivos Correlacionar a Classificação Angiográfica de Rutherford com o IR na avaliação do leito arterial distal dos MMII. Métodos Estudo transversal, realizado em hospital público terciário, com 120 pacientes portadores de IC dos MMII, entre setembro de 2019 a abril de 2022. Foi comparado o IR das artérias da perna passíveis de serem receptoras de revascularização com a imagem obtida através da arteriografia dessas artérias em acordo com a Classificação Angiográfica de leito distal de Rutherford. Resultados Foram avaliados 120 MMII em 120 pacientes com idade média de 68,6 anos. A amostra foi composta de 50,0% de pacientes do sexo masculino. Na amostra, 90,0% pacientes encontravam-se na classe cinco de Rutherford. Os valores do IR encontrados para as artérias de perna apresentaram uma correlação positiva, estatisticamente significativa, quando comparados com a Classificação de Rutherford (tibial anterior, p< 0,01; tibial posterior, p = 0,012 e fibular, p = 0,034 e artéria dorsal do pé, p < 0,001). Conclusões Neste estudo, os IRs das artérias da perna obtidos através da ultrassonografia Doppler apresentaram uma correlação positiva quando comparados à classificação de Rutherford. Em pacientes com isquemia crítica, esse índice pode ser útil na avaliação do leito arterial distal dos membros inferiores.

Abstract Background Patients with chronic limb threatening ischemia (CLTI) of the lower limbs (LL) undergo arteriography for revascularization surgery planning. Doppler ultrasound (DU) is non-invasive and can provide information about the distal arteries through measurement of the resistance index (RI). Objectives To correlate the Rutherford Angiographic Classification with the RI for assessment of the distal arterial bed of the LL. Methods A cross-sectional study, conducted at a public tertiary hospital with 120 patients with LL CLTI, from September 2019 to April 2022. The RI of arteries that were candidates for revascularization was compared with the images of the same arteries obtained using arteriography, using the Rutherford Angiographic Classification of the distal bed. Results A total of 120 LL were assessed in 120 patients with a mean age of 68.6 years. The sample was 50.0% male and 90.0% of the patients in the sample were classified as Rutherford category five. The RI values found for the arteries of the leg exhibited a statistically significant positive correlation with the Rutherford Classification (anterior tibial, p< 0.01; posterior tibial, p = 0.012 fibular, p = 0.034; and dorsalis pedis, p < 0.001). Conclusions In this study, RIs for the arteries of the leg measured using Doppler ultrasound exhibited a positive correlation with the Rutherford Classification. This index could be useful for assessment of the distal arterial bed of the lower limbs of patients with chronic limb threatening ischemia.

Bacterial cellulose biomaterials for the treatment of lower limb ulcers.

Chronic ulcers of the lower limbs are common and recurrent, especially in the elderly population, they are disabling injuries that generate a great socioeconomic burden. This scenario encourages the development of new, low-cost therapeutic alternatives. The present study aims to describe the use of bacterial cellulose in the treatment of lower limb ulcers. This is an integrative literature review, carried out in the PubMed and Science Direct databases by associating the descriptors, with the inclusion criteria being clinical studies in the last 5 years, available in full in English, Portuguese and Spanish. Five clinical trials were analyzed and the main therapeutic effects obtained in the experimental groups that used bacterial cellulose dressings were a reduction in the area of the wounds, one of the studies showed a reduction of 44.18cm2 in the area of the wound, the initial lesions measured on average 89.46cm2 and at the end of the follow-up, they had an average of 45.28cm2, since the reduction in pain and the decrease in the number of exchanges were advantages described in all groups that used the BS. It is concluded that BC dressings are an alternative for the treatment of lower limb ulcers, their use also reduces operational costs related to the treatment of ulcers.

Effect of Obesity and Bariatric Surgery on Saphenous Veins.

PURPOSE: Obesity is a risk factor for chronic venous disease (CVD) of the lower limbs (LL), affecting venous anatomy and physiology. Weight loss after bariatric surgery (BS) can reduce intra-abdominal pressure, improve mobility, and ultimately improve venous hemodynamics and CVD-related symptoms. There are no studies in the literature that adequately assess the effect of the obesity and BS on the LL veins, especially the saphenous veins (SV). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of obesity and BS on the saphenous veins. METHODS: This is a longitudinal prospective study carried out from 2019 to 2021 with 19 patients, totaling 38 LL, underwent clinical evaluation (CEAP Classification) and by Doppler ultrasonography, to analyze their SV diameter and reflux measurements, in the preoperative period and again 6 months to 2 years after BS being performed. RESULTS: There was no statistical difference between the groups regarding the characteristics of reflux in the SV among the evaluated LL. There was no significant increase in the diameter of the great SV in the majority of its segments. The groups were similar in terms of the small SV diameters. Moreover, a significant reduction in the clinical class of CEAP was observed after BS. CONCLUSION: Obesity and bariatric surgery had no influence on diameter or reflux in saphenous veins, but a reduction in the CEAP Clinical Classification was observed in the postoperative period.

Bacterial cellulose biomaterials for the treatment of lower limb ulcers / Biomateriais de celulose bacteriana para o tratamento de úlceras de membros inferiores

ABSTRACT Chronic ulcers of the lower limbs are common and recurrent, especially in the elderly population, they are disabling injuries that generate a great socioeconomic burden. This scenario encourages the development of new, low-cost therapeutic alternatives. The present study aims to describe the use of bacterial cellulose in the treatment of lower limb ulcers. This is an integrative literature review, carried out in the PubMed and Science Direct databases by associating the descriptors, with the inclusion criteria being clinical studies in the last 5 years, available in full in English, Portuguese and Spanish. Five clinical trials were analyzed and the main therapeutic effects obtained in the experimental groups that used bacterial cellulose dressings were a reduction in the area of the wounds, one of the studies showed a reduction of 44.18cm2 in the area of the wound, the initial lesions measured on average 89.46cm2 and at the end of the follow-up, they had an average of 45.28cm2, since the reduction in pain and the decrease in the number of exchanges were advantages described in all groups that used the BS. It is concluded that BC dressings are an alternative for the treatment of lower limb ulcers, their use also reduces operational costs related to the treatment of ulcers.

RESUMO As úlceras crônicas de membros inferiores são comuns e recorrentes principalmente na população idosa, são lesões incapacitantes e que geram grande ônus socioeconômico. Tal cenário incentiva o desenvolvimento de novas alternativas terapêuticas e de baixo custo. O presente estudo tem como objetivo descrever o uso da celulose bacteriana no tratamento de úlceras de membros inferiores. Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, realizada nas bases de dados PubMed e Science Direct por meio da associação dos descritores, tendo como critério de inclusão estudos clínicos nos últimos 5 anos, disponíveis na integra em inglês, português e espanhol. Cinco ensaios clínicos foram analisados e os principais efeitos terapêuticos obtidos nos grupos experimentais que utilizaram os curativos de celulose bacteriana foram redução da área das feridas, um dos estudos apontou uma redução de 44,18cm2 da área da ferida, as lesões iniciais mediam em média 89,46cm2 e ao término do acompanhamento apresentaram uma média de 45,28cm2, já a redução da dor e diminuição do número de trocas foram vantagens descritas em todos os grupos que utilizaram a CB. Conclui-se que os curativos de CB são uma alternativa para o tratamento das úlceras de MMII, sua utilização reduz também os custos operacionais relacionados ao tratamento de úlceras.

Ultrasound findings in severe COVID-19: a deeper look through the carotid arteries.

Objective: To investigate vascular and perivascular abnormalities in the carotid arteries using ultrasound, as well as to evaluate their association with mortality and clinical variables in hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study in which 53 hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19 were evaluated and underwent carotid ultrasound. We documented the carotid ultrasound findings in these patients. Clinical, demographic, laboratory, and imaging features were analyzed and compared by statistical analysis to detect correlations between them. Results: Carotid ultrasound demonstrated luminal surface irregularity in 29 patients (55%), carotid plaques in 30 (57%), perivascular infiltration in four (8%), and increased intima-media thickness (IMT) in 31 (58%). Of the 31 patients with increased IMT, 19 (61%) died, and the association between increased IMT and COVID-19-related mortality was significant (p = 0.03). Logistic regression showed that the risk of death was 85% in patients who had increased IMT in combination with acute kidney injury at admission or a history of chronic kidney disease (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19, carotid ultrasound can show increased IMT, luminal surface irregularity, carotid plaques, and perivascular infiltrates. The combination of increased IMT and kidney damage appears to increase the risk of death in such patients.

Objetivo: Investigar anormalidades vasculares e perivasculares nas artérias carótidas por meio de ultrassonografia e avaliar sua associação com mortalidade e variáveis clínicas em pacientes hospitalizados com COVID-19. Materiais e Métodos: Neste estudo prospectivo, 53 pacientes hospitalizados com COVID-19 grave foram avaliados e submetidos a ultrassonografia de carótida. Descrevemos os achados ultrassonográficos de carótida nesses pacientes. As correlações de características clínicas, demográficas, laboratoriais e de imagem foram analisadas e comparadas por meio de análise estatística. Resultados: A ultrassonografia carotídea demonstrou irregularidade da superfície luminal em 29 pacientes (55%), placas carotídeas em 30 pacientes (57%), infiltração perivascular em quatro pacientes (7,5%) e aumento da espessura médio-intimal (EMI) em 31 pacientes (58%). Dos pacientes com EMI aumentada, 19 (61%) morreram, com associação observada entre EMI aumentada e mortalidade por COVID-19 (p = 0,03). Um modelo de regressão logística mostrou que a probabilidade de óbito foi de 85% em pacientes com EMI aumentada e história de nefropatia crônica ou lesão renal aguda na internação (p < 0,05). Conclusão: Aumento da EMI, irregularidade da superfície luminal, placas carotídeas e infiltrados perivasculares foram encontrados na ultrassonografia carotídea em pacientes hospitalizados com COVID-19 grave. O aumento da EMI associado a danos nos rins pode aumentar o risco de morte.

Effects of complex decongestive therapy and aquatic physiotherapy on markers of the inflammatory process in individuals with lymphedema.

BACKGROUND: Chronic lymphedema is a progressive and inflammatory disease caused by impaired lymphatic transport. PURPOSE: This study evaluates the effects of complex decongestive therapy (CDT) and aquatic physiotherapy on markers of the inflammatory process and lower limb volumes in individuals with lymphedema. METHODS: A randomized controlled clinical trial was carried out with three groups: patients with lymphedema submitted to CDT, patients with lymphedema submitted to aquatic physiotherapy, and control group of individuals without lymphedema. The evaluation was performed through blood count, CRP measurements, C3, C4 complement, measurement of serum levels of cytokines interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukins 4 (IL-4), 6 (IL-6), and 10 (IL-10), and the volume of a lower limb using the volume formula of a truncated cone. The study was registered with the Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (RBR-4tpkszn). RESULTS: Our work showed a reduction in the TNF-α levels of patients in the CDT group (p = .028). Significant differences were found between the control group and the CDT group for IL-10 (p = .049) and Monocytes (p = .039). No significant reduction in limb volume was found. CONCLUSION: Our results show that CDT was able to significantly reduce the inflammatory marker TNF-α in patients with lymphedema, suggesting an anti-inflammatory effect of the therapy.

Ultrasound findings in severe COVID-19: a deeper look through the carotid arteries / Achados ultrassonográficos na COVID-19 grave: um olhar aprofundado baseado nas artérias carótidas

Abstract Objective: To investigate vascular and perivascular abnormalities in the carotid arteries using ultrasound, as well as to evaluate their association with mortality and clinical variables in hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study in which 53 hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19 were evaluated and underwent carotid ultrasound. We documented the carotid ultrasound findings in these patients. Clinical, demographic, laboratory, and imaging features were analyzed and compared by statistical analysis to detect correlations between them. Results: Carotid ultrasound demonstrated luminal surface irregularity in 29 patients (55%), carotid plaques in 30 (57%), perivascular infiltration in four (8%), and increased intima-media thickness (IMT) in 31 (58%). Of the 31 patients with increased IMT, 19 (61%) died, and the association between increased IMT and COVID-19-related mortality was significant (p = 0.03). Logistic regression showed that the risk of death was 85% in patients who had increased IMT in combination with acute kidney injury at admission or a history of chronic kidney disease (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19, carotid ultrasound can show increased IMT, luminal surface irregularity, carotid plaques, and perivascular infiltrates. The combination of increased IMT and kidney damage appears to increase the risk of death in such patients.

Resumo Objetivo: Investigar anormalidades vasculares e perivasculares nas artérias carótidas por meio de ultrassonografia e avaliar sua associação com mortalidade e variáveis clínicas em pacientes hospitalizados com COVID-19. Materiais e Métodos: Neste estudo prospectivo, 53 pacientes hospitalizados com COVID-19 grave foram avaliados e submetidos a ultrassonografia de carótida. Descrevemos os achados ultrassonográficos de carótida nesses pacientes. As correlações de características clínicas, demográficas, laboratoriais e de imagem foram analisadas e comparadas por meio de análise estatística. Resultados: A ultrassonografia carotídea demonstrou irregularidade da superfície luminal em 29 pacientes (55%), placas carotídeas em 30 pacientes (57%), infiltração perivascular em quatro pacientes (7,5%) e aumento da espessura médio-intimal (EMI) em 31 pacientes (58%). Dos pacientes com EMI aumentada, 19 (61%) morreram, com associação observada entre EMI aumentada e mortalidade por COVID-19 (p = 0,03). Um modelo de regressão logística mostrou que a probabilidade de óbito foi de 85% em pacientes com EMI aumentada e história de nefropatia crônica ou lesão renal aguda na internação (p < 0,05). Conclusão: Aumento da EMI, irregularidade da superfície luminal, placas carotídeas e infiltrados perivasculares foram encontrados na ultrassonografia carotídea em pacientes hospitalizados com COVID-19 grave. O aumento da EMI associado a danos nos rins pode aumentar o risco de morte.

Padrões tomográficos de agentes etiológicos da pneumonia durante o primeiro ano após transplante renal.

Objetivo: Avaliar os padrões tomográficos relacionados aos agentes etiológicos da pneumonia em pacientes durante o primeiro ano após transplante renal. Materiais e Métodos: Foram analisados dados de prontuários de 956 pacientes submetidos a transplante renal, no período de 2013 a 2018, em um centro transplantador renal do nordeste do Brasil. Nos pacientes que desenvolveram pneumonia, os agentes etiológicos foram classificados em bactérias piogênicas, micobactérias, fungos, vírus e pneumonia polimicrobiana, enquanto os padrões tomográficos foram classificados em consolidação, broncopneumonia, pneumonia intersticial e nódulos e massas. Para verificar associação estatística entre micro-organismos e padrões tomográficos, foi utilizado o teste exato de Fisher, com p < 0,001. Resultados: Foram encontrados 101 casos de pneumonia, dos quais 60 (59,4%) tiveram agente etiológico identificado, sendo as bactérias piogênicas as mais frequentes, detectadas em 22 (36,7%) dos casos. Entre os pacientes com agente causal identificado, o padrão tomográfico predominante foi o de nódulos e massas, identificado em 25 (41,7%) casos. Foi observada associação entre bactérias piogênicas e o padrão de consolidação, fungos com nódulos e massas, bem como entre agentes virais e padrão intersticial. Conclusão: Foi demonstrada associação estatística entre micro-organismos causadores de pneumonia e padrões tomográficos, informação que pode contribuir para o planejamento da terapia de pacientes transplantados renais.

Padrões tomográficos de agentes etiológicos da pneumonia durante o primeiro ano após transplante renal / Tomography patterns of pneumonia caused by various etiologic agents during the first year after kidney transplantation

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar os padrões tomográficos relacionados aos agentes etiológicos da pneumonia em pacientes durante o primeiro ano após transplante renal. Materiais e Métodos: Foram analisados dados de prontuários de 956 pacientes submetidos a transplante renal, no período de 2013 a 2018, em um centro transplantador renal do nordeste do Brasil. Nos pacientes que desenvolveram pneumonia, os agentes etiológicos foram classificados em bactérias piogênicas, micobactérias, fungos, vírus e pneumonia polimicrobiana, enquanto os padrões tomográficos foram classificados em consolidação, broncopneumonia, pneumonia intersticial e nódulos e massas. Para verificar associação estatística entre micro-organismos e padrões tomográficos, foi utilizado o teste exato de Fisher, com p < 0,001. Resultados: Foram encontrados 101 casos de pneumonia, dos quais 60 (59,4%) tiveram agente etiológico identificado, sendo as bactérias piogênicas as mais frequentes, detectadas em 22 (36,7%) dos casos. Entre os pacientes com agente causal identificado, o padrão tomográfico predominante foi o de nódulos e massas, identificado em 25 (41,7%) casos. Foi observada associação entre bactérias piogênicas e o padrão de consolidação, fungos com nódulos e massas, bem como entre agentes virais e padrão intersticial. Conclusão: Foi demonstrada associação estatística entre micro-organismos causadores de pneumonia e padrões tomográficos, informação que pode contribuir para o planejamento da terapia de pacientes transplantados renais.

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the tomography patterns of pneumonia attributed to various etiological agents during the first year after kidney transplantation. Materials and Methods: We analyzed the medical records of 956 patients who underwent kidney transplantation between 2013 and 2018 at a transplant center in northeastern Brazil. Among the kidney transplant recipients who developed pneumonia, the etiologic agents were categorized as pyogenic bacteria, mycobacteria, fungi, viruses, or polymicrobial pneumonia. The tomography patterns were categorized as consolidation, bronchopneumonia, interstitial pneumonia, or nodules/masses. To determine the statistical association between the causative microorganism and the tomography pattern, we used Fisher's exact test, for which the level of significance was set at p < 0.001. Results: Among 101 cases of pneumonia reported in kidney transplant recipients, the etiologic agent was identified in 60 (59.4%), the most common category being pyogenic bacteria, which were implicated in 22 cases (36.7%). Among the 60 patients in whom had the causal agent was identified, the pattern in which nodules and masses predominated was the most common, being identified in 25 cases (41.7%). We detected associations between pyogenic bacteria and consolidation, between fungi and nodules/masses, and between viruses and interstitial pneumonia. Conclusion: There were statistical associations between tomography patterns and the microorganisms that cause pneumonia. This knowledge could facilitate the treatment planning for kidney transplant patients.

Evaluation of pentoxifylline and ferrous sulfate for treatment of lower limb venous ulcers.

BACKGROUND: Venous ulcers (VU) are the most advanced stage of chronic venous disease (CVD) of the lower limbs. They are frequently associated with episodes of hemorrhage that can provoke chronic anemia (CA), delaying healing. There are no studies in the literature analyzing the prevalence of CA among patients with VU of the lower limbs and few studies have analyzed use of pentoxifylline to treat VU of the lower limbs. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the prevalence of CA in patients with lower limb VU and responses to treatment with ferrous sulfate (SF) compared with a combination of SF plus pentoxifylline as adjuvant treatment for VU of the lower limbs. METHODS: A total of 67 patients with lower limb VU were recruited from a Lymphedema and Angiodysplasia Clinic at the Hospital das Clínicas, Recife, PE, Brazil. After initial clinical and laboratory assessments, patients diagnosed with CA were randomized into one of two groups: a control group, given SF (900 mg/day oral route), or a study group, treated with SF (900 mg/day oral route) and pentoxifylline (1,200 mg/day). All were reassessed after 90 days. RESULTS: Twenty-seven patients (40%) had CA. After treatment, increases were observed in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, iron kinetics had improved, and both depth and area of VU had reduced in both groups, without statistically significant differences. CONCLUSIONS: A high prevalence of anemia was detected in the study population. The combination of SF and pentoxifylline was not more effective than SF alone for adjuvant treatment of VU of the lower limbs.

Nursing in mechanical prevention of venous thromboembolism in surgical patients. / Enfermagem na prevenção mecânica de tromboembolismo venoso em pacientes cirúrgicos.

OBJECTIVE: This theoretical study aims to discuss the role of nurses in the mechanical prevention of venous thromboembolism in surgical patients. METHOD: The study considered the updated versions of the main international guidelines and reviews on the topic. Non-pharmacological measures to prevent venous thromboembolism in surgical patients and the role of nurses are discussed. RESULTS: It is important that surgical nurses include in their activities risk of assessments for venous thromboembolism and non-pharmacological prophylactic measures, based on scientific evidence and well-designed institutional protocols. CONCLUSION: Among the mechanical measures, the use of graduated compression stockings and intermittent pneumatic compression should be ensured by nurses.

COVID-19 and obesity: the meeting of two pandemics

ABSTRACT COVID-19 and obesity are two pandemic diseases that the world is currently facing. Both activate the immune system and mediate inflammation. A sequence of disease phases in patients with severe COVID-19 results in a cytokine storm, which amplifies the subclinical inflammation that already exists in patients with obesity. Pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemotactic factors increase insulin resistance in obesity. Therefore, a greater systemic inflammatory response is establishe, along with an increased risk of thrombotic phenomena and hyperglycemic conditions. These changes further impair pulmonary, cardiac, hepatic, and renal functions, in addition to hindering glycemic control in people with diabetes and pre-diabetes. This review explains the pathophysiological mechanisms of these two pandemic diseases, provides a deeper understanding of this harmful interaction and lists possible therapeutic strategies for this risk group.

COVID-19 and obesity: the meeting of two pandemics.

COVID-19 and obesity are two pandemic diseases that the world is currently facing. Both activate the immune system and mediate inflammation. A sequence of disease phases in patients with severe COVID-19 results in a cytokine storm, which amplifies the subclinical inflammation that already exists in patients with obesity. Pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemotactic factors increase insulin resistance in obesity. Therefore, a greater systemic inflammatory response is establishe, along with an increased risk of thrombotic phenomena and hyperglycemic conditions. These changes further impair pulmonary, cardiac, hepatic, and renal functions, in addition to hindering glycemic control in people with diabetes and pre-diabetes. This review explains the pathophysiological mechanisms of these two pandemic diseases, provides a deeper understanding of this harmful interaction and lists possible therapeutic strategies for this risk group.

Avaliação da pentoxifilina e do sulfato ferroso no tratamento da úlcera varicosa dos membros inferiores / Evaluation of pentoxifylline and ferrous sulfate for treatment of lower limb venous ulcers

Resumo Contexto A úlcera varicosa (UV) é o estágio mais avançado da doença venosa crônica (DVC) dos membros inferiores (MMII), frequentemente associada a episódios de hemorragia que podem provocar anemia crônica (AC) e retardar a sua cicatrização. Não há, na literatura, trabalhos que avaliem a prevalência da AC nos portadores de UV dos MMII, e poucos trabalhos analisam o uso da pentoxifilina no tratamento das UV dos MMII. Objetivos Avaliar a prevalência da AC nos pacientes portadores de UV de MMII e a resposta terapêutica ao sulfato ferroso (SF) e a associação da pentoxifilina com SF no tratamento adjuvante das UV dos MMII. Métodos Foram avaliados 67 pacientes portadores de UV de MMII atendidos no ambulatório de Cirurgia Vascular do Hospital das Clínicas, Recife, PE. Após as avaliações clínica e laboratorial iniciais, os pacientes diagnosticados com AC foram randomizados em dois grupos: o grupo controle, que recebeu SF (900 mg/dia via oral), e o grupo de estudo, tratado com SF (900 mg/dia via oral) e pentoxifilina (1.200 mg/dia). Todos foram reavaliados após 90 dias. Resultados Entre os pacientes avaliados, 27 (40%) apresentavam AC. Após o tratamento, foram observados aumento dos níveis de hemoglobina e de hematócrito e melhora das taxas da cinética do ferro, assim como a diminuição da profundidade e da área das UV em ambos os grupos, sem diferença estatística. Conclusões Foi encontrada alta prevalência de anemia na população estudada. A associação do SF com a pentoxifilina não se mostrou mais eficaz do que o emprego isolado do SF no tratamento adjuvante da UV dos MMII.

Abstract Background Venous ulcers (VU) are the most advanced stage of chronic venous disease (CVD) of the lower limbs. They are frequently associated with episodes of hemorrhage that can provoke chronic anemia (CA), delaying healing. There are no studies in the literature analyzing the prevalence of CA among patients with VU of the lower limbs and few studies have analyzed use of pentoxifylline to treat VU of the lower limbs. Objectives To evaluate the prevalence of CA in patients with lower limb VU and responses to treatment with ferrous sulfate (SF) compared with a combination of SF plus pentoxifylline as adjuvant treatment for VU of the lower limbs. Methods A total of 67 patients with lower limb VU were recruited from a Lymphedema and Angiodysplasia Clinic at the Hospital das Clínicas, Recife, PE, Brazil. After initial clinical and laboratory assessments, patients diagnosed with CA were randomized into one of two groups: a control group, given SF (900 mg/day oral route), or a study group, treated with SF (900 mg/day oral route) and pentoxifylline (1,200 mg/day). All were reassessed after 90 days. Results Twenty-seven patients (40%) had CA. After treatment, increases were observed in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, iron kinetics had improved, and both depth and area of VU had reduced in both groups, without statistically significant differences. Conclusions A high prevalence of anemia was detected in the study population. The combination of SF and pentoxifylline was not more effective than SF alone for adjuvant treatment of VU of the lower limbs.

Enfermagem na prevenção mecânica de tromboembolismo venoso em pacientes cirúrgicos / La enfermería en la prevención mecánica del tromboembolismo venoso en pacientes quirúrgicos / Nursing in mechanical prevention of venous thromboembolism in surgical patients

RESUMO Objetivo O estudo teórico apresentado tem por objetivo discorrer sobre o papel do enfermeiro na prevenção mecânica do tromboembolismo venoso em pacientes cirúrgicos. Método O estudo considerou as versões atualizadas dos principais guidelines internacionais e revisões acerca do tema. Além de serem discutidas as medidas não farmacológicas de prevenção de tromboembolismo venoso em pacientes cirúrgicos e o papel do enfermeiro. Resultados É importante que o enfermeiro cirúrgico inclua, em suas atividades, as avaliações de risco do tromboembolismo venoso e as medidas profiláticas não farmacológicas, baseadas em evidências científicas e protocolos institucionais bem delineados. Conclusão Dentre as medidas mecânicas, o uso de meias elásticas de compressão graduada e a compressão pneumática intermitente devem ser asseguradas pelos enfermeiros.

RESUMEN Objetivo El estudio teórico presentado tiene como objetivo discurrir sobre el papel del enfermero en la prevención mecánica del tromboembolismo venoso de pacientes quirúrgicos. Método El estudio tuvo en cuenta las versiones actualizadas de las principales directrices y revisiones internacionales sobre el tema, además de discutir las medidas no farmacológicas para la prevención del tromboembolismo venoso en pacientes quirúrgicos y el papel del enfermero. Resultados Es importante que el enfermero quirúrgico incluya, en sus actividades, evaluaciones de riesgo de tromboembolismo venoso y medidas profilácticas no farmacológicas, basadas en la evidencia científica y en protocolos institucionales bien diseñados. Conclusión Entre las medidas mecánicas, los enfermeros deben garantizar el uso de medias elásticas de compresión graduada y la compresión neumática intermitente.

ABSTRACT Objective This theoretical study aims to discuss the role of nurses in the mechanical prevention of venous thromboembolism in surgical patients. Method The study considered the updated versions of the main international guidelines and reviews on the topic. Non-pharmacological measures to prevent venous thromboembolism in surgical patients and the role of nurses are discussed. Results It is important that surgical nurses include in their activities risk of assessments for venous thromboembolism and non-pharmacological prophylactic measures, based on scientific evidence and well-designed institutional protocols. Conclusion Among the mechanical measures, the use of graduated compression stockings and intermittent pneumatic compression should be ensured by nurses.

Quality of life assessment before and after surgery for lower limb varicose veins.

BACKGROUND: Lower limb varicose veins are one of the most prevalent diseases in the global population. The disease is chronic and has a great impact on patients' quality of life, limiting daily activities and functional performance. Several authors have emphasized the importance of including quality of life assessment in management of patients with chronic venous disease. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate quality of life before and after surgical treatment of patients with varicose veins. METHODS: A before and after study design was employed. Ninety-two people with varicose veins of the lower limbs were treated surgically. Patients were divided into subsets according to age and CEAP clinical classification. Quality of life was assessed using the VEINES QOL/SYM questionnaire, administered during the preoperative period and 60 days after the operation. RESULTS: The sample comprised 92 subjects, 82.6% (76) of whom were women and mean age was 45.7±12.11 years. CEAP class 2 was the most frequent clinical classification, in 57.6% of patients. There was a significant difference in scores before and after surgery among patients aged from 30 to 40 years. There was no difference between preoperative and postoperative scores between different CEAP groups. CONCLUSIONS: No difference in quality of life was observed after surgery in most of the patients in the present study.

Avaliação da qualidade de vida em pacientes portadores de varizes de membros inferiores submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico / Quality of life assessment before and after surgery for lower limb varicose veins

Resumo Contexto As varizes dos membros inferiores representam uma das doenças mais prevalentes na população mundial e resultam em grande impacto na qualidade de vida dos pacientes devido às limitações nas atividades diárias e no desempenho funcional. Vários autores têm ressaltado a importância da avaliação da qualidade de vida na abordagem de pacientes portadores de doença venosa crônica. Objetivos Avaliar a qualidade de vida antes e após o tratamento cirúrgico de pacientes portadores de varizes dos membros inferiores. Métodos Através de estudo de antes e depois, foram avaliados 92 portadores de varizes dos membros inferiores submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico. Os pacientes foram divididos em grupos de acordo com a faixa etária e a classificação clínica CEAP. A qualidade de vida foi avaliada através do questionário VEINES QOL/SYM, aplicado no pré-operatório e 60 dias após a operação. Resultados Do total de 92 indivíduos analisados, 82,6% (76) eram mulheres. Com relação à idade, a média foi de 45,7±12,11. A classe CEAP 2 foi a mais encontrada, em 57,6% dos pacientes. Foi encontrada diferença significativa entre os escores antes e após a cirurgia para os pacientes na faixa etária entre 30 e 40 anos. Não houve diferença entre os escores nos momentos pré e pós-operatório entre os grupos CEAP. Conclusões Não foi encontrada diferença na qualidade de vida antes e após a cirurgia na maioria dos pacientes do estudo.

Abstract Background Lower limb varicose veins are one of the most prevalent diseases in the global population. The disease is chronic and has a great impact on patients' quality of life, limiting daily activities and functional performance. Several authors have emphasized the importance of including quality of life assessment in management of patients with chronic venous disease. Objectives To evaluate quality of life before and after surgical treatment of patients with varicose veins. Methods A before and after study design was employed. Ninety-two people with varicose veins of the lower limbs were treated surgically. Patients were divided into subsets according to age and CEAP clinical classification. Quality of life was assessed using the VEINES QOL/SYM questionnaire, administered during the preoperative period and 60 days after the operation. Results The sample comprised 92 subjects, 82.6% (76) of whom were women and mean age was 45.7±12.11 years. CEAP class 2 was the most frequent clinical classification, in 57.6% of patients. There was a significant difference in scores before and after surgery among patients aged from 30 to 40 years. There was no difference between preoperative and postoperative scores between different CEAP groups. Conclusions No difference in quality of life was observed after surgery in most of the patients in the present study.