Hemoadsorption: Consensus report of the 30th Acute Disease Quality Initiative workgroup.

Adsorption-based extracorporeal therapies have been subject to technical developments and clinical application for close to five decades. More recently, new technological developments in membrane and sorbent manipulation have made it possible to deliver more biocompatible extracorporeal adsorption therapies to patients with a variety of conditions. There are several key rationales based on physicochemical principles and clinical considerations that justify the application and investigation of such therapies as evidenced by multiple ex-vivo, experimental, and clinical observations. Accordingly, unspecific adsorptive extracorporeal therapies have now been applied to the treatment of a wide array of conditions from poisoning to drug overdoses, to inflammatory states and sepsis, and acute or chronic liver and kidney failure. In response to the rapidly expanding knowledge base and increased clinical evidence, we convened an Acute Disease Quality Initiative (ADQI) consensus conference dedicated to such treatment. The data show that hemoadsorption has clinically acceptable short-term biocompatibility and safety, technical feasibility, and experimental demonstration of specified target molecule removal. Pilot studies demonstrate potentially beneficial effects on physiology and larger studies of endotoxin-based hemoadsorption have identified possible target phenotypes for larger randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Moreover, in a variety of endogenous and exogenous intoxications, removal of target molecules has been confirmed in vivo. However, some studies have raised concerns about harm or failed to deliver benefits. Thus, despite many achievements, modern hemoadsorption remains a novel and experimental intervention with limited data, and a large research agenda.

Spallation and particles infusion into the extracorporeal circuit during CRRT: a preventable phenomenon.

Patients in intensive care are exposed to the risk of microparticle infusion via extracorporeal lines and the resulting complications. A possible source of microparticle release could be the extracorporeal circuit used in blood purification techniques, such as continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). Disposable components of CRRT circuits, such as replacement bags and circuit tubing, might release microparticles such as salt crystals produced by precipitation in replacement bags and plastic microparticles produced by spallation. In-line filtration has proven effective in retaining microparticles both in in-vitro and in-vivo studies. In our study, we performed an in-vitro model of CRRT-treatment with the aim of detecting the microparticles produced and released into the circuit by means of a qualitative and quantitative analysis, after sampling the replacement and patient lines straddling a series of in-line filters. Working pressures and flows were monitored during the experiment. This study showed that microparticles are indeed produced and released into the CRRT circuit. The inclusion of in-line filters in the replacement lines allows to reduce the burden of microparticles infused into the bloodstream during extracorporeal treatments, reducing the concentration of microparticles from 14 mg/mL pre in-line filter to 11 mg/mL post in-line filter. Particle infusion and related damage must be counted among the pathophysiological mechanisms supporting iatrogenic damage due to artificial cross-talk between organs during CRRT applied to critically ill patients. This damage can be reduced by using in-line filters in the extracorporeal circuit.

Renal implications of pneumoperitoneum in laparoscopic surgery: mechanisms, risk factors, and preventive strategies.

Pneumoperitoneum, which is established for laparoscopic surgery, has systemic implications on the renal system and may contribute to acute kidney injury or postoperative renal dysfunction. Specifically, when the pressure exceeds 10 mmHg, pneumoperitoneum decreases renal blood flow, leading to renal dysfunction and temporary oliguria. The renal effects of pneumoperitoneum stem from both the direct effects of increased intra-abdominal pressure and indirect factors such as carbon dioxide absorption, neuroendocrine influences, and tissue damage resulting from oxidative stress. While pneumoperitoneum can exacerbate renal dysfunction in patients with pre-existing kidney issues, preserving the function of the remaining kidney is crucial in certain procedures such as laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy. However, available evidence on the effects of pneumoperitoneum on renal function is limited and of moderate quality. This review focuses on exploring the pathophysiological hypotheses underlying kidney damage, mechanisms leading to oliguria and kidney damage, and fluid management strategies for surgical patients during pneumoperitoneum.

Dissemination of clinical and scientific practice through social media: a SIAARTI consensus-based document.

BACKGROUND: Dissemination of medical practice and scientific information through social media (SoMe) by clinicians and researchers is increasing. Broad exposure of information can promote connectivity within the scientific community, overcome barriers to access to sources, increase debate, and reveal layperson perspectives and preferences. On the other hand, practices lacking scientific evidence may also be promoted, laypeople may misunderstand the professional message, and clinician may suffer erosion of professional status. The aim of this project was to enhance awareness and advise the anesthesia community and clinicians at large about the potential risks advocate for responsible use of SoMe to disseminate information related to medical practices and knowledge. METHODS: A modified Delphi process with prespecified consensus criteria was conducted among a multidisciplinary panel of experts, including anesthesiologists-intensivists, clinical psychologists, and forensic medicine specialists. Six items were identified: Ethics and deontological principles, the practice of sharing information via social media, legal aspects, psychological aspects, self-promotion, and criteria for appropriate dissemination. Statements and rationales were produced and subjected to blinded panelists' votes. After reaching consensus, a document was written which then underwent external review by experts uninvolved in the consensus process. The project was promoted by the Italian Society of Anesthesia Analgesia Resuscitation and Intensive Care (SIAARTI). RESULTS: Twelve statements were produced, and consensus was achieved for all. The panel concluded that the general principles guiding dissemination of professional information via SoMe must remain in line with the general principles of ethics, deontology, and scientific validity that guide the medical profession and science in general. Professional equity must be maintained while communicating via SoMe. Medical practices lacking support by scientific evidence should not be disseminated. Patients' informed consent must be obtained before dissemination of information, images, or data. Self-promotion must not be prioritized over any of these principles. CONCLUSIONS: When sharing medical practices and scientific information on SoMe, healthcare professionals are advised to act conscientiously and ethically. Local regulations should be adhered to. Institutional training on the potential risks and proper of SoMe for such purpose may contribute to preservation of professional integrity.

The Requirements of Managing Phase I Clinical Trials Risks: The British and Italian Case Studies.

Phase I clinical trials represent a critical point in drug development because the investigational medicinal product is being tested in humans for the first time. For this reason, it is essential to evaluate and identify the Maximum Tolerated Dose (MTD) and the safety of the new compound. To mitigate the possible risks associated with drug administration and treatment, the European Competent Authority issued various guidelines to provide provisions and harmonize risk management processes. In the UK and Italy, particular attention should be paid to the Medicines & Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) phase I accreditation scheme and the specific rules set by the Italian Drug Authority through the AIFA Determination no. 809/2015. Both reference documents are based on the concept of quality risk management while conducting phase I clinical studies. Moreover, the AIFA determination outlines specific requirements for those sites that want to conduct non-profit phase I clinical trials. Indeed, the document reports peculiar activities to the "Clinical Trial Quality Team", which is a team that should support the clinical site researchers in designing, starting, performing, and closing non-profit phase I studies. In this paper, we provide a general overview of the main European guidelines concerning the management of risks during phase I trials, focusing on the main peculiarities of the schemes and rules set by the MHRA and AIFA.

The Effect of Positive Pressure Ventilation on Acute Kidney Injury in COVID-19 Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: An Observational Study.

INTRODUCTION: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is frequent in critically ill COVID-19 patients and is associated with a higher mortality risk. By increasing intrathoracic pressure, positive pressure ventilation (PPV) may reduce renal perfusion pressure by reducing venous return to the heart or by increasing renal venous congestion. This study's aim was to evaluate the association between AKI and haemodynamic and ventilatory parameters in COVID-19 patients with ARDS. METHODS: This is a single-centre retrospective observational study. Consecutive patients diagnosed with COVID-19 who met ARDS criteria and required invasive mechanical ventilation were enrolled. The relationship between respiratory and haemodynamic parameters influenced by PPV and AKI development was evaluated. AKI was defined according to KDIGO criteria. AKI recovery was evaluated a month after ICU admission and patients were classified as "recovered," if serum creatinine (sCr) value returned to baseline, or as having "acute kidney disease" (AKD), if criteria for AKI stage 1 or greater persisted. The 6-month all-cause mortality was collected. RESULTS: A total of 144 patients were included in the analysis. AKI occurred in 69 (48%) patients and 26 (18%) required renal replacement therapy. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, sex, hypertension, cumulative dose of furosemide, fluid balance, and plateau pressure were independently associated with AKI. Mortality at 6 months was 50% in the AKI group and 32% in the non-AKI group (p = 0.03). Among 36 patients who developed AKI and were discharged alive from the hospital, 56% had a full renal recovery after a month, while 14%, 6%, and 14% were classified as having an AKD of stage 0, 2, and 3, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: In our cohort, AKI was independently associated with multiple variables, including high plateau pressure, suggesting a possible role of PPV on AKI development. Further studies are needed to clarify the role of mechanical ventilation on renal function.

The use of extracorporeal blood purification therapies and sequential extracorporeal support in patients with septic shock (EROICASS): a study protocol for a national, non-interventional, observational multicenter, prospective study.

BACKGROUND: Septic shock, a critical condition characterized by organ failure, presents a substantial mortality risk in intensive care units (ICUs), with the 28-day mortality rate possibly reaching 40%. Conventional management of septic shock typically involves the administration of antibiotics, supportive care for organ dysfunction, and, if necessary, surgical intervention to address the source of infection. In recent decades, extracorporeal blood purification therapies (EBPT) have emerged as potential interventions aimed at modulating the inflammatory response and restoring homeostasis in patients with sepsis. Likewise, sequential extracorporeal therapy in sepsis (SETS) interventions offer comprehensive organ support in the setting of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). The EROICASS study will assess and describe the utilization of EBPT in patients with septic shock. Additionally, we will evaluate the potential association between EBPT treatment utilization and 90-day mortality in septic shock cases in Italy. METHODS: The EROICASS study is a national, non-interventional, multicenter observational prospective cohort study. All consecutive patients with septic shock at participating centers will be prospectively enrolled, with data collection extending from intensive care unit (ICU) admission to hospital discharge. Variables including patient demographics, clinical parameters, EBPT/SETS utilization, and outcomes will be recorded using a web-based data capture system. Statistical analyses will encompass descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, multivariable regression models, and survival analysis to elucidate the associations between EBPT/SETS utilization and patient outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The EROICASS study provides valuable insights into the utilization and outcomes of EBPT and SETS in septic shock management. Through analysis of usage patterns and clinical data, this study aims to guide treatment decisions and enhance patient care. The implications of these findings may impact clinical guidelines, potentially improving survival rates and patient outcomes in septic shock cases.

Sampling from Extracorporeal Circuit: A Step Forward for Dose Monitoring in Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy.

INTRODUCTION: Continuous renal replacement therapies (CRRTs) require constant monitoring and periodic treatment readjustments, being applied to highly complex patients, with rapidly changing clinical needs. To promote precision medicine in the field of renal replacement therapy and encourage dynamic prescription, the Acute Dialysis Quality Initiative (ADQI) recommends periodically measuring the solutes extracorporeal clearance with the aim of assessing the current treatment delivery and the gap from the therapeutic prescription (often intended as effluent dose). To perform this procedure, it is therefore necessary to obtain blood and effluent samples from the extracorporeal circuit to measure the concentrations of a target solute (usually represented by urea) in prefilter, postfilter, and effluent lines. However, samples must be collected simultaneously from the extracorporeal circuit ports, with the same suction flow at an unknown rate. METHODS: The proposed study takes the first step toward identifying the technical factors that should be considered in determining the optimal suction rate to collect samples from the extracorporeal circuit to measure the extracorporeal clearance for a specific solute. RESULTS: The results obtained identify the low suction rate (i.e., 1 mL/min) as an ideal parameter for an adequate sampling method. Low velocities do not perturb the external circulation system and ensure stability prevailing pressures in the circuit. Higher velocities can be performed only with blood flows above 120 mL/min preferably in conditions of appropriate filtration fraction. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSIONS: The specific value of aspiration flow rate must be proportioned to the prescription of CRRT treatments set by the clinician.

Standardization of Nomenclature for the Mechanisms and Materials Utilized for Extracorporeal Blood Purification.

In order to develop a standardized nomenclature for the mechanisms and materials utilized during extracorporeal blood purification, a consensus expert conference was convened in November 2022. Standardized nomenclature serves as a common language for reporting research findings, new device development, and education. It is also critically important to support patient safety, allow comparisons between techniques, materials, and devices, and be essential for defining and naming innovative technologies and classifying devices for regulatory approval. The multidisciplinary conference developed detailed descriptions of the performance characteristics of devices (membranes, filters, and sorbents), solute and fluid transport mechanisms, flow parameters, and methods of treatment evaluation. In addition, nomenclature for adsorptive blood purification techniques was proposed. This report summarizes these activities and highlights the need for standardization of nomenclature in the future to harmonize research, education, and innovation in extracorporeal blood purification therapies.

Sequential Extracorporeal Blood Purification Is Associated with Prolonged Survival among ICU Patients with COVID-19 and Confirmed Bacterial Superinfection.

INTRODUCTION: This study investigates the impact of sequential extracorporeal treatments with oXiris® or CytoSorb® plus Seraph-100® on the clinical and laboratory parameters of critically ill COVID-19 patients with bacterial superinfection. METHODS: Patients admitted to the intensive care unit with COVID-19, bacterial superinfection, and undergoing blood purification (BP) were enrolled in this prospective, single-center, observational study. "standard BP" with oXiris® or CytoSorb® were used in 35 COVID-19 patients with bacterial infection. Seraph-100® was added in 33 patients when available serially in the same oXiris® circuit or as sequential treatment with CytoSorb® as a sequential BP. RESULTS: A significant reduction in SOFA score 3 days after treatment was observed in patients undergoing sequential BP (11.3 vs. 8.17, p < 0.01) compared to those undergoing "standard BP" (11.0 vs. 10.3, p > 0.05). The difference between the observed and expected mortality rate based on APACHE IV was greater in the sequential BP group (42.4% vs. 81.7%, p < 0.001) than the "standard BP" (74.2% vs. 81.7%, p > 0.05). Patients treated with sequential BP had a longer survival than those treated with "standard BP" (22.4 vs. 18.7 months; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The sequential approach may enhance the positive effect of BP on organ dysfunction among critically ill patients with COVID-19 and bacterial superinfection.

Oxiris Membrane in Sepsis and Multiple Organ Failure.

Sepsis and multiple organ failure (MOF) are characterized by multiple hemodynamic changes and imbalanced immune response of the patient. Oxiris is a highly adsorptive membrane with the ability to remove cytokines and endotoxins, as well as to perform renal replacement therapy. Here we describe the evolution from previous AN69 to the 3-in-1 Oxiris membrane, and review its characteristics and performance. In clinical practice, Oxiris showed consistent effects in mean arterial pressure recovery, a decrease in vasopressor needs, and reduction of the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score. These results have been reproduced by several independent studies addressing both sepsis and, to a lesser extent, COVID-19 patients. In addition, more recent studies in sepsis showed improvements in MOF duration and the length of stay in the ICU, as well as some promising results regarding mortality. Finally, we review ongoing clinical trials and discuss its potential significance to clinical practice improvement and to further reinforce knowledge on the use of blood purification in sepsis and acute kidney injury.

The adult and pediatric palliative care: differences and shared issues.

Adult and pediatric palliative care (PC) share common aims and ethical principles but differ in many organizational and practical aspects. The aim of this narrative review is to analyze these differences and focus on which key aspects of pediatric palliative care could integrate adult services for a better care of suffering patients.Interventions which are peculiar of pediatric PC respect to adult PC include: an earlier referral to the PC service to identify the needs and plan the interventions at an earlier stage of the disease; consequently, a more systematic cooperation with the disease-specific physicians to reduce the burden of treatments; a better integration with the community and the social surroundings of the patients, to prevent social isolation and preserve their social role; a more dynamic organization of the PC services, to give patients the chance of being stabilized at in-hospital or residential settings and subsequently discharged and cared at home whenever possible and desired; the implementation of respite care for adults, to help the families coping with the burden of the disease of their beloved and promote the home-based PC.This review underlines the relevance of some key-aspects of pediatric PC that can be beneficial also within PC of adults. Its findings give the chance for a more dynamic and modern organization of adult PC services and may serve as a basis of future research for new interventions.

Novel Biomarkers for Early Detection of Acute Kidney Injury and Prediction of Long-Term Kidney Function Decline after Partial Nephrectomy.

BACKGROUND: Identifying acute kidney injury (AKI) within few hours of onset is certainly helpful. However, early prediction of a long-term eGFR decline may be an even more important goal. Our aim was to identify and compare serum [creatinine, kineticGFR, cystatin C, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL)] and urinary (NephroCheck, NGAL, proteinuria, albuminuria, acantocytes at urinary sediment) predictors of AKI that might efficiently predict long-term GFR decline after robotic Nephron-Spearing Surgery (rNSS). METHODS: Monocentric prospective observational study. Patients scheduled for rNSS for suspected localized Renal Cell Carcinoma from May 2017 to October 2017 were enrolled. Samples were collected preoperatively and postoperatively (timepoints: 4 h, 10 h, 24 h, 48 h), while kidney function was re-assessed up to 24 months. RESULTS: 38 patients were included; 16 (42%) developed clinical AKI. The eGFR decline at 24 months was more pronounced after postoperative AKI (-20.75 vs. -7.20, p < 0.0001). KineticGFR at 4 h (p = 0.008) and NephroCheck at 10 h (p = 0.001) were, at multivariable linear regression analysis, efficient predictors of post-operative AKI and long-term eGFR decline if compared to creatinine (R2 0.33 vs. 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: NephroCheck and kineticGFR have emerged as promising noninvasive, accurate, and early biomarkers of postoperative AKI and long-term GFR decline after rNSS. Combining NephroCheck and kineticGFR in clinical practice would allow to identify high risk of postoperative AKI and long-term GFR decline as early as 10 h after surgery.

Relationship between intensive care surge capacity and hospital factors: an extensive experience.

As a prolonged surge scenario, the COVID-19 pandemic has offered an unparalleled opportunity to improve hospital surge capacity (SC) understanding and the ability to manage it. In this study, the authors report the experience of a large hospital network and evaluate potential relationships between Intensive Care Units SC (ICU-SC) and some hospital-related variables: bed occupancy, emergency department admissions, ward admission from ED, and elective surgery procedures. Pearson's partial correlation coefficient (r) has been used to define the relationship between SC and the daily values of the above variables, collected through a dedicated digital platform that also ensured a regular quality check of the data. The observation has concerned several levels of analysis, namely two different types of SC calculation (SC base-SCb and SC actual-SCa), hospital category level and multi-hospital level, and two consecutive pandemic waves. Among the 16 hospitals observed, the correlation was shown to be moderate-positive with non-ICU bed occupancy (r/ = 0.62, r/ = 0.54), strong/moderate with ICU bed occupancy (r/ = 0.72, r/ = 0.54), and moderate with ward admissions from ED (r/ = 0.50, r/ = 0.51) On the contrary, the correlation proved to be moderate-negative with ED admissions (r/ = - 0.69, r/ = - 0.62) and low with the number of elective surgery procedures (r/ = - 0.10, r/ = - 0.16). This study identified a positive correlation between SC and three variables monitored: ICU bed occupancy, non-ICU bed occupancy, and ward admissions from ED. On the contrary, the correlation was negative for ED admission and the number of elective surgery procedures. The results have been confirmed across all levels of analysis adopted.

Biomarker-guided intervention to prevent acute kidney injury after major surgery (BigpAK-2 trial): study protocol for an international, prospective, randomised controlled multicentre trial.

INTRODUCTION: Previous studies demonstrated that the implementation of the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guideline-based bundle, consisting of different supportive measures in patients at high risk for acute kidney injury (AKI), might reduce rate and severity of AKI after surgery. However, the effects of the care bundle in broader population of patients undergoing surgery require confirmation. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: The BigpAK-2 trial is an international, randomised, controlled, multicentre trial. The trial aims to enrol 1302 patients undergoing major surgery who are subsequently admitted to the intensive care or high dependency unit and are at high-risk for postoperative AKI as identified by urinary biomarkers (tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2*insulin like growth factor binding protein 7 (TIMP-2)*IGFBP7)). Eligible patients will be randomised to receive either standard of care (control) or a KDIGO-based AKI care bundle (intervention). The primary endpoint is the incidence of moderate or severe AKI (stage 2 or 3) within 72 hours after surgery, according to the KDIGO 2012 criteria. Secondary endpoints include adherence to the KDIGO care bundle, occurrence and severity of any stage of AKI, change in biomarker values during 12 hours after initial measurement of (TIMP-2)*(IGFBP7), number of free days of mechanical ventilation and vasopressors, need for renal replacement therapy (RRT), duration of RRT, renal recovery, 30-day and 60-day mortality, intensive care unit length-of-stay and hospital length-of-stay and major adverse kidney events. An add-on study will investigate blood and urine samples from recruited patients for immunological functions and kidney damage. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: The BigpAK-2 trial was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Medical Faculty of the University of Münster and subsequently by the corresponding Ethics Committee of the participating sites. A study amendment was approved subsequently. In the UK, the trial was adopted as an NIHR portfolio study. Results will be disseminated widely and published in peer-reviewed journals, presented at conferences and will guide patient care and further research. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT04647396.

Sepsis-associated acute kidney injury: consensus report of the 28th Acute Disease Quality Initiative workgroup.

Sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI) is common in critically ill patients and is strongly associated with adverse outcomes, including an increased risk of chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular events and death. The pathophysiology of SA-AKI remains elusive, although microcirculatory dysfunction, cellular metabolic reprogramming and dysregulated inflammatory responses have been implicated in preclinical studies. SA-AKI is best defined as the occurrence of AKI within 7 days of sepsis onset (diagnosed according to Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcome criteria and Sepsis 3 criteria, respectively). Improving outcomes in SA-AKI is challenging, as patients can present with either clinical or subclinical AKI. Early identification of patients at risk of AKI, or at risk of progressing to severe and/or persistent AKI, is crucial to the timely initiation of adequate supportive measures, including limiting further insults to the kidney. Accordingly, the discovery of biomarkers associated with AKI that can aid in early diagnosis is an area of intensive investigation. Additionally, high-quality evidence on best-practice care of patients with AKI, sepsis and SA-AKI has continued to accrue. Although specific therapeutic options are limited, several clinical trials have evaluated the use of care bundles and extracorporeal techniques as potential therapeutic approaches. Here we provide graded recommendations for managing SA-AKI and highlight priorities for future research.

Kinetics of the Cell Cycle Arrest Biomarkers (TIMP2 and IGFBP7) for the Diagnosis of Acute Kidney Injury in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients.

BACKGROUND: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is highly prevalent in critical COVID-19 patients. The diagnosis and staging of AKI are based on serum creatinine (sCr) and urinary output criteria, with limitations in the functional markers. New cell-cycle arrest biomarkers [TIMP2]*[IGFBP7] have been proposed for early detection of AKI, but their role in critically ill COVID-19 patients is poorly understood. METHODS: We conducted an observational study to assess the performance of [TIMP2]*[IGFBP7] for the detection of AKI in critical COVID-19 patients admitted to our intensive care unit (ICU). We sampled urinary [TIMP2]*[IGFBP7] levels at ICU admission, 12 h, 24 h, and 48 h, and compared the results to the development of AKI, as well as baseline and laboratory data. RESULTS: Forty-one patients were enrolled. The median age was 66 years [57-72] and most were males (85%). Thirteen patients (31.7%) developed no/mild stage AKI, 19 patients (46.3%) moderate AKI, and nine patients (22.0%) severe AKI. The ICU mortality was 29.3%. sCr levels in the Emergency Department or at ICU admission were not significantly different according to AKI stage. [TIMP-2]*[IGFBP-7] urinary levels were elevated in severe AKI at 12 h after ICU admission, but not at ICU admission or 24 h or 48 h after ICU admission. CONCLUSION: Urinary biomarkers [TIMP-2]*[IGFBP-7] were generally increased in this population with a high prevalence of AKI, and were higher in patients with severe AKI measured at 12 h from ICU admission. Further studies are needed to evaluate the best timing of these biomarkers in this population.

Safety and Effectiveness of Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Combined With Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy.

Patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) often suffer from acute kidney injury (AKI), requiring continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). In our clinical practice, we connected the inlet line of a CRRT machine to the postoxygenator Luer port and the outlet line to the inlet Luer port of the oxygenator. In this case series, we analyzed the interaction between the two machines. Between December 31, 2017, and December 31, 2019, we enrolled 15 patients from the ICU of the San Matteo Hospital, Pavia, Italy. All of them suffered from severe acute respiratory distress syndrome and AKI stage 3. We analyzed 570 hours of CRRT combined with venovenous ECMO and collected 261,751 CRRT data. No discontinuation of CRRT occurred before 48 hours. Most of the alarms occurred within 24 hours of the connection: 22/10,831 (0.2%) showed an outranged inlet pressure, 11/10831 (0.11%) showed an outranged transmembrane pressure, 14/10,831 (0.13%) showed an outranged inlet pressure, and 138/10,831 (1.27%) an outranged effluent pressure. The rate per minute set for the ECMO circuit was correlated with the inlet (ß = 5.38; CI, 95% 1.42-9.35; p = 0.008), transmembrane (ß = 4.6; CI, 95% 1.97-7.24; p = 0.001), effluent (ß = 3.02; CI, 95% 1.15-4.90; p = 0.002), and outlet pressures (ß = 597; CI, 95% 2.31-9.63; p = 0.001) of the CRRT circuit. We reported that our configuration could be safe and effective, however well-designed studies would be beneficial for determining the potential risks and benefits.

Palliative Care for Patients with Kidney Disease.

Interest in palliative care has increased in recent times, particularly in its multidisciplinary approach developed to meet the needs of patients with a life-threatening disease and their families. Although the modern concept of palliative simultaneous care postulates the adoption of these qualitative treatments early on during the life-threatening disease (and potentially just after the diagnosis), palliative care is still reserved for patients at the end of their life in most of the clinical realities, and thus is consequently mistaken for hospice care. Patients with acute or chronic kidney disease (CKD) usually experience poor quality of life and decreased survival expectancy and thus may benefit from palliative care. Palliative care requires close collaboration among multiple health care providers, patients, and their families to share the diagnosis, prognosis, realistic treatment goals, and treatment decisions. Several approaches, such as conservative management, extracorporeal, and peritoneal palliative dialysis, can be attempted to globally meet the needs of patients with kidney disease (e.g., physical, social, psychological, or spiritual needs). Particularly for frail patients, pharmacologic management or peritoneal dialysis may be more appropriate than extracorporeal treatment. Extracorporeal dialysis treatment may be disproportionate in these patients and associated with a high burden of symptoms correlated with this invasive procedure. For those patients undergoing extracorporeal dialysis, individualized goal setting and a broader concept of adequacy should be considered as the foundations of extracorporeal palliative dialysis. Interestingly, little evidence is available on palliative and end of life care for acute kidney injury (AKI) patients. In this review, the main variables influencing medical decision-making about palliative care in patients with kidney disease are described, as well as the different approaches that can fulfill the needs of patients with CKD and AKI.