High-value care for critically ill oncohematological patients: what do we know thus far?

The number of patients with cancer requiring intensive care unit admission is increasing around the world. The improvement in the pathophysiological understanding of this group of patients, as well as the increasingly better and more targeted treatment options for their underlying disease, has led to a significant increase in their survival over the past three decades. Within the organizational concepts, it is necessary to know what adds value in the care of critical oncohematological patients. Practices in medicine that do not benefit patients and possibly cause harm are called low-value practices, while high-value practices are defined as high-quality care at relatively low cost. In this article, we discuss ten domains with high-value evidence in the care of cancer patients: (1) intensive care unit admission policies; (2) intensive care unit organization; (3) etiological investigation of hypoxemia; (4) management of acute respiratory failure; (5) management of febrile neutropenia; (6) urgent chemotherapy treatment in critically ill patients; (7) patient and family experience; (8) palliative care; (9) care of intensive care unit staff; and (10) long-term impact of critical disease on the cancer population. The disclosure of such policies is expected to have the potential to change health care standards. We understand that it is a lengthy process, and initiatives such as this paper are one of the first steps in raising awareness and beginning a discussion about high-value care in various health scenarios.

Development of a Risk Score for AKI onset in COVID-19 Patients: COV-AKI Score.

PURPOSE: Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) in COVID-19 patients is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. In the present study, we aimed to develop a prognostic score to predict AKI development in these patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a retrospective observational study of 2334 COVID 19 patients admitted to 23 different hospitals in Brazil, between January 10th and August 30rd, 2020. The primary outcome of AKI was defined as any increase in serum creatinine (SCr) by 0.3 mg/dL within 48 h or a change in SCr by ≥ 1.5 times of baseline within 1 week, based on Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. All patients aged ≥ 18 y/o admitted with confirmed SARS-COV-2 infection were included. Discrimination of variables was calculated by the Receiver Operator Characteristic Curve (ROC curve) utilizing area under curve. Some continuous variables were categorized through ROC curve. The cutoff points were calculated using the value with the best sensitivity and specificity. RESULTS: A total of 1131 patients with COVID-19 admitted to the ICU were included. Patients mean age was 52 ± 15,8 y/o., with a prevalence of males 60% (n = 678). The risk of AKI was 33% (n = 376), 78% (n = 293) of which did not require dialysis. Overall mortality was 11% (n = 127), while for AKI patients, mortality rate was 21% (n = 80). Variables selected for the logistic regression model and inclusion in the final prognostic score were the following: age, diabetes, ACEis, ARBs, chronic kidney disease and hypertension. CONCLUSION: AKI development in COVID 19 patients is accurately predicted by common clinical variables, allowing early interventions to attenuate the impact of AKI in these patients.

High-value care for critically ill oncohematological patients: what do we know thus far? / Cuidados de alto valor para pacientes oncohematológicos graves: o que sabemos até agora?

ABSTRACT The number of patients with cancer requiring intensive care unit admission is increasing around the world. The improvement in the pathophysiological understanding of this group of patients, as well as the increasingly better and more targeted treatment options for their underlying disease, has led to a significant increase in their survival over the past three decades. Within the organizational concepts, it is necessary to know what adds value in the care of critical oncohematological patients. Practices in medicine that do not benefit patients and possibly cause harm are called low-value practices, while high-value practices are defined as high-quality care at relatively low cost. In this article, we discuss ten domains with high-value evidence in the care of cancer patients: (1) intensive care unit admission policies; (2) intensive care unit organization; (3) etiological investigation of hypoxemia; (4) management of acute respiratory failure; (5) management of febrile neutropenia; (6) urgent chemotherapy treatment in critically ill patients; (7) patient and family experience; (8) palliative care; (9) care of intensive care unit staff; and (10) long-term impact of critical disease on the cancer population. The disclosure of such policies is expected to have the potential to change health care standards. We understand that it is a lengthy process, and initiatives such as this paper are one of the first steps in raising awareness and beginning a discussion about high-value care in various health scenarios.

RESUMO O número de pacientes oncológicos com necessidade de internação em unidades de terapia intensiva está aumentando em todo o mundo. A maior compreensão fisiopatológica desse grupo de pacientes, bem como opções de tratamento cada vez melhores e mais direcionadas à doença subjacente, tem levado a um aumento significativo da sobrevida nas últimas três décadas. Dentro dos conceitos organizacionais é necessário saber o que agrega valor ao cuidado de pacientes onco-hematológicos graves. As práticas terapêuticas não benéficas aos pacientes e possivelmente causadoras de danos são chamadas práticas de baixo valor, enquanto as práticas de alto valor são definidas como cuidados de alta qualidade a um custo relativamente baixo. Neste artigo discutimos dez domínios com evidências de alto valor no cuidado de pacientes com câncer: (1) políticas de internação na unidade de terapia intensiva; (2) organização da unidade de terapia intensiva; (3) investigação etiológica da hipoxemia; (4) manejo da insuficiência respiratória aguda; (5) manejo da neutropenia febril; (6) tratamento quimioterápico de urgência em pacientes graves; (7) experiência do paciente e da família; (8) cuidados paliativos; (9) cuidados com a equipe da unidade de terapia intensiva; e (10) impacto a longo prazo da doença grave na população oncológica. Esperase que a divulgação dessas políticas traga mudanças aos padrões atuais do cuidado em saúde. Entendemos que é um processo longo, e iniciativas como o presente artigo são um dos primeiros passos para aumentar a conscientização e possibilitar discussão sobre cuidados de alto valor em vários cenários de saúde.

IMPACTO-MR: um estudo brasileiro de plataforma nacional para avaliar infecções e multirresistência em unidades de terapia intensiva / IMPACTO-MR: a Brazilian nationwide platform study to assess infections and multidrug resistance in intensive care units

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever o IMPACTO-MR, um estudo brasileiro de plataforma nacional em unidades de terapia intensiva focado no impacto das infecções por bactérias multirresistentes relacionadas à assistência à saúde. Métodos: Descrevemos a plataforma IMPACTO-MR, seu desenvolvimento, critérios para seleção das unidades de terapia intensiva, caracterização da coleta de dados, objetivos e projetos de pesquisa futuros a serem realizados na plataforma. Resultados: Os dados principais foram coletados por meio do Epimed Monitor System® e consistiram em dados demográficos, dados de comorbidades, estado funcional, escores clínicos, diagnóstico de internação e diagnósticos secundários, dados laboratoriais, clínicos e microbiológicos e suporte de órgãos durante a internação na unidade de terapia intensiva, entre outros. De outubro de 2019 a dezembro de 2020, 33.983 pacientes de 51 unidades de terapia intensiva foram incluídos no banco de dados principal. Conclusão: A plataforma IMPACTO-MR é um banco de dados clínico brasileiro de unidades de terapia intensiva focado na pesquisa do impacto das infecções por bactérias multirresistentes relacionadas à assistência à saúde. Essa plataforma fornece dados para o desenvolvimento e pesquisa de unidades de terapia intensiva individuais e ensaios clínicos observacionais e prospectivos multicêntricos.

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the IMPACTO-MR, a Brazilian nationwide intensive care unit platform study focused on the impact of health care-associated infections due to multidrug-resistant bacteria. Methods: We described the IMPACTO-MR platform, its development, criteria for intensive care unit selection, characterization of core data collection, objectives, and future research projects to be held within the platform. Results: The core data were collected using the Epimed Monitor System® and consisted of demographic data, comorbidity data, functional status, clinical scores, admission diagnosis and secondary diagnoses, laboratory, clinical, and microbiological data, and organ support during intensive care unit stay, among others. From October 2019 to December 2020, 33,983 patients from 51 intensive care units were included in the core database. Conclusion: The IMPACTO-MR platform is a nationwide Brazilian intensive care unit clinical database focused on researching the impact of health care-associated infections due to multidrug-resistant bacteria. This platform provides data for individual intensive care unit development and research and multicenter observational and prospective trials.

Perception of the Disclosure of Adverse Events in a Latin American Culture: A National Survey.

Introduction: Adverse events are common and are responsible for a significant burden in the healthcare setting. Such issues can vary according to the local culture and relevant policies. The current literature on the subject primarily addresses Anglo-Saxon cultures; this study focused on understanding the perception of disclosure in a middle-income country in Latin America. Methods: In this descriptive study conducted from June-August, 2021, an online self-administered survey about disclosure practice used a convenience sample of 995 Brazilian healthcare professionals. Results: Based on two different outcomes presented following a hypothetical adverse event (outcome 1: death; outcome 2: no permanent damage), 77.9% of participants fully agree that disclosure should be performed in both scenarios. Although 67.1% claimed that disclosure changes the perception of the institution by those involved, only 8.3% fully agree that there would be a reduction in trust regarding the institution. Despite only 11.5% of participants fully agreeing that disclosure increases the chance of legal action against professionals and institutions, 92.7% fully or partially agree that judicialization was possible in scenario 1, and 72.4% agree it was possible in scenario 2. Of the participants, 64.2% claimed they already faced a "disclosure" situation, and 44.3% fully believe that the person directly involved in the adverse event should participate in the disclosure. Conclusion: In this sample of professionals from a middle-income country in Latin America, the practice of disclosure was considered ethical, and the majority of respondents affirmed that it should always be performed. Nonetheless, this call for transparency collides with participants' perception of a higher risk of legal action when disclosure is performed after a negative outcome situation.

Oferta de oxigênio, remoção de dióxido de carbono, transferência de energia aos pulmões e comportamento da hipertensão pulmonar durante o suporte com oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea: um modelo matemático / Oxygen delivery, carbon dioxide removal, energy transfer to lungs and pulmonary hypertension behavior during venous-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support: a mathematical modeling approach

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever a transferência de energia do ventilador mecânico para os pulmões; o acoplamento entre a transferência de oxigênio por oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea venovenosa (ECMO-VV) e o consumo de oxigênio do paciente; a remoção de dióxido de carbono com ECMO; e o efeito potencial da oxigenação venosa sistêmica na pressão arterial pulmonar. Métodos: Modelo matemático com cenários hipotéticos e utilização de simulações matemáticas por computador. Resultados: A transição de ventilação protetora para ventilação ultraprotetora em um paciente com síndrome da angústia respiratória aguda grave e complacência respiratória estática de 20mL/cmH2O reduziu a transferência de energia do ventilador para os pulmões de 35,3 para 2,6 joules por minuto. Em um paciente hipotético, hiperdinâmico e ligeiramente anêmico com consumo de oxigênio de 200mL/minuto, é possível atingir saturação arterial de oxigênio de 80%, ao mesmo tempo em que se mantém o equilíbrio entre a transferência de oxigênio pela ECMO e o consumo de oxigênio do paciente. O dióxido de carbono é facilmente removido e a pressão parcial de dióxido de carbono normal é facilmente obtida. A oxigenação do sangue venoso, por meio do circuito da ECMO, pode direcionar o estímulo da pressão parcial de oxigênio na vasoconstrição pulmonar por hipóxia para valores normais. Conclusão: A ventilação ultraprotetora reduz amplamente a transferência de energia do ventilador para os pulmões. A hipoxemia grave no suporte com ECMO-VV pode ocorrer, a despeito do acoplamento entre a transferência de oxigênio, por meio da ECMO, e o consumo de oxigênio do paciente. A faixa normal de pressão parcial de dióxido de carbono é fácil de atingir. O suporte com ECMO-VV potencialmente alivia a vasoconstrição pulmonar hipóxica.

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe (1) the energy transfer from the ventilator to the lungs, (2) the match between venous-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) oxygen transfer and patient oxygen consumption (VO2), (3) carbon dioxide removal with ECMO, and (4) the potential effect of systemic venous oxygenation on pulmonary artery pressure. Methods: Mathematical modeling approach with hypothetical scenarios using computer simulation. Results: The transition from protective ventilation to ultraprotective ventilation in a patient with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome and a static respiratory compliance of 20mL/cm H2O reduced the energy transfer from the ventilator to the lungs from 35.3 to 2.6 joules/minute. A hypothetical patient, hyperdynamic and slightly anemic with VO2 = 200mL/minute, can reach an arterial oxygen saturation of 80%, while maintaining the match between the oxygen transfer by ECMO and the VO2 of the patient. Carbon dioxide is easily removed, and normal PaCO2 is easily reached. Venous blood oxygenation through the ECMO circuit may drive the PO2 stimulus of pulmonary hypoxic vasoconstriction to normal values. Conclusion: Ultraprotective ventilation largely reduces the energy transfer from the ventilator to the lungs. Severe hypoxemia on venous-venous-ECMO support may occur despite the matching between the oxygen transfer by ECMO and the VO2 of the patient. The normal range of PaCO2 is easy to reach. Venous-venous-ECMO support potentially relieves hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction.

Oxygen delivery, carbon dioxide removal, energy transfer to lungs and pulmonary hypertension behavior during venous-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support: a mathematical modeling approach. / Oferta de oxigênio, remoção de dióxido de carbono, transferência de energia aos pulmões e comportamento da hipertensão pulmonar durante o suporte com oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea: um modelo matemático.

OBJECTIVE: To describe (1) the energy transfer from the ventilator to the lungs, (2) the match between venous-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) oxygen transfer and patient oxygen consumption (VO2), (3) carbon dioxide removal with ECMO, and (4) the potential effect of systemic venous oxygenation on pulmonary artery pressure. METHODS: Mathematical modeling approach with hypothetical scenarios using computer simulation. RESULTS: The transition from protective ventilation to ultraprotective ventilation in a patient with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome and a static respiratory compliance of 20mL/cm H2O reduced the energy transfer from the ventilator to the lungs from 35.3 to 2.6 joules/minute. A hypothetical patient, hyperdynamic and slightly anemic with VO2 = 200mL/minute, can reach an arterial oxygen saturation of 80%, while maintaining the match between the oxygen transfer by ECMO and the VO2 of the patient. Carbon dioxide is easily removed, and normal PaCO2 is easily reached. Venous blood oxygenation through the ECMO circuit may drive the PO2 stimulus of pulmonary hypoxic vasoconstriction to normal values. CONCLUSION: Ultraprotective ventilation largely reduces the energy transfer from the ventilator to the lungs. Severe hypoxemia on venous-venous-ECMO support may occur despite the matching between the oxygen transfer by ECMO and the VO2 of the patient. The normal range of PaCO2 is easy to reach. Venous-venous-ECMO support potentially relieves hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction.

OBJETIVO: Descrever a transferência de energia do ventilador mecânico para os pulmões; o acoplamento entre a transferência de oxigênio por oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea venovenosa (ECMO-VV) e o consumo de oxigênio do paciente; a remoção de dióxido de carbono com ECMO; e o efeito potencial da oxigenação venosa sistêmica na pressão arterial pulmonar. MÉTODOS: Modelo matemático com cenários hipotéticos e utilização de simulações matemáticas por computador. RESULTADOS: A transição de ventilação protetora para ventilação ultraprotetora em um paciente com síndrome da angústia respiratória aguda grave e complacência respiratória estática de 20mL/cmH2O reduziu a transferência de energia do ventilador para os pulmões de 35,3 para 2,6 joules por minuto. Em um paciente hipotético, hiperdinâmico e ligeiramente anêmico com consumo de oxigênio de 200mL/minuto, é possível atingir saturação arterial de oxigênio de 80%, ao mesmo tempo em que se mantém o equilíbrio entre a transferência de oxigênio pela ECMO e o consumo de oxigênio do paciente. O dióxido de carbono é facilmente removido e a pressão parcial de dióxido de carbono normal é facilmente obtida. A oxigenação do sangue venoso, por meio do circuito da ECMO, pode direcionar o estímulo da pressão parcial de oxigênio na vasoconstrição pulmonar por hipóxia para valores normais. CONCLUSÃO: A ventilação ultraprotetora reduz amplamente a transferência de energia do ventilador para os pulmões. A hipoxemia grave no suporte com ECMO-VV pode ocorrer, a despeito do acoplamento entre a transferência de oxigênio, por meio da ECMO, e o consumo de oxigênio do paciente. A faixa normal de pressão parcial de dióxido de carbono é fácil de atingir. O suporte com ECMO-VV potencialmente alivia a vasoconstrição pulmonar hipóxica.

Early Versus Late Initiation of Renal Replacement Therapy in Critically Ill Patients: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Early initiation of renal replacement therapy (RRT) effect on survival and renal recovery of critically ill patients is still uncertain. We aimed to systematically review current evidence comparing outcomes of early versus late initiation of RRT in critically ill patients. METHODS: We searched the Medline (via Pubmed), LILACS, Science Direct, and CENTRAL databases from inception until November 2016 for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) or observational studies comparing early versus late initiation of RRT in critically ill patients. The primary outcome was mortality. Duration of mechanical ventilation, intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS), hospital LOS, and renal function recovery were secondary outcomes. Meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis (TSA) were used for the primary outcome. RESULTS: Sixty-two studies were retrieved and analyzed, including 11 RCTs. There was no difference in mortality between early and late initiation of RRT among RCTs (odds ratio [OR] = 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.52-1.19; I2 = 63.1%). Trial sequential analysis of mortality across all RCTs achieved futility boundaries at both 1% and 5% type I error rates, although a subgroup analysis of studies including only acute kidney injury patients was not conclusive. There was also no difference in time on mechanical ventilation, ICU and hospital LOS, or renal recovery among studies. Early initiation of RRT was associated with reduced mortality among prospective (OR = 0.69; 95% CI: 0.49-0.96; I2 = 85.9%) and retrospective (OR = 0.61; 95% CI: 0.41-0.92; I2 = 90.9%) observational studies, both with substantial heterogeneity. However, subgroup analysis excluding low-quality observational studies did not achieve statistical significance. CONCLUSION: Pooled analysis of randomized trials indicates early initiation of RRT is not associated with lower mortality rates. The potential benefit of reduced mortality associated with early initiation of RRT was limited to low-quality observational studies.

Characterization of patients transported with extracorporeal respiratory and/or cardiovascular support in the State of São Paulo, Brazil. / Caracterização de pacientes transportados com suporte respiratório e/ou cardiovascular extracorpóreo no Estado de São Paulo − Brasil.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the transport of severely ill patients with extracorporeal respiratory or cardiovascular support. METHODS: A series of 18 patients in the state of São Paulo, Brazil is described. All patients were consecutively evaluated by a multidisciplinary team at the hospital of origin. The patients were rescued, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support was provided on site. The patients were then transported to referral hospitals for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support. Data were retrieved from a prospectively collected database. RESULTS: From 2011 to 2017, 18 patients aged 29 (25 - 31) years with a SAPS 3 of 84 (68 - 92) and main primary diagnosis of leptospirosis and influenza A (H1N1) virus were transported to three referral hospitals in São Paulo. A median distance of 39 (15 - 82) km was traveled on each rescue mission during a period of 360 (308 - 431) min. A median of one (0 - 2) nurse, three (2 - 3) physicians, and one (0 - 1) physical therapist was present per rescue. Seventeen rescues were made by ambulance, and one rescue was made by helicopter. The observed complications were interruption in the energy supply to the pump in two cases (11%) and oxygen saturation < 70% in two cases. Thirteen patients (72%) survived and were discharged from the hospital. Among the nonsurvivors, there were two cases of brain death, two cases of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, and one case of irreversible pulmonary fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS: Transportation with extracorporeal support occurred without serious complications, and the hospital survival rate was high.

OBJETIVO: Caracterizar pacientes graves transportados em suporte respiratório ou cardiovascular extracorpóreo. MÉTODOS: Descrição de uma série de 18 casos registrados no Estado de São Paulo. Todos os pacientes foram consecutivamente avaliados por uma equipe multidisciplinar no hospital de origem. Os pacientes foram resgatados, sendo a oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea instalada in loco. Os pacientes foram, então, transportados para os hospitais referenciados já em oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea. Os dados foram recuperados de um banco de dados prospectivamente coletado. RESULTADOS: De 2011 até 2017, 18 pacientes com 29 (25 - 31) anos, SAPS3 de 84 (68 - 92), com principais diagnósticos de leptospirose e influenza A (H1N1) foram transportados no Estado de São Paulo para três hospitais referenciados. Uma distância mediana de 39 (15 - 82) km foi percorrida em cada missão, em um tempo de 360 (308 - 431) minutos. As medianas de um (0 - 2) enfermeiro, três (2 - 3) médicos e um (0 - 1) fisioterapeuta foram necessárias por missão. Dezessete transportes foram realizados por ambulância e um por helicóptero. Existiram intercorrências: em duas ocasiões (11%), houve falha de fornecimento de energia para a bomba e, em duas ocasiões, queda da saturação de oxigênio < 70%. Treze pacientes (72%) sobreviveram para a alta hospitalar. Dos pacientes não sobreviventes, dois tiveram morte encefálica; dois, disfunção de múltiplos órgãos; e um, fibrose pulmonar considerada irreversível. CONCLUSÕES: O transporte com suporte extracorpóreo ocorreu sem intercorrências maiores, com uma sobrevida hospitalar alta dos pacientes.

Caracterização de pacientes transportados com suporte respiratório e/ou cardiovascular extracorpóreo no Estado de São Paulo - Brasil / Characterization of patients transported with extracorporeal respiratory and/or cardiovascular support in the State of São Paulo, Brazil

RESUMO Objetivo: Caracterizar pacientes graves transportados em suporte respiratório ou cardiovascular extracorpóreo. Métodos: Descrição de uma série de 18 casos registrados no Estado de São Paulo. Todos os pacientes foram consecutivamente avaliados por uma equipe multidisciplinar no hospital de origem. Os pacientes foram resgatados, sendo a oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea instalada in loco. Os pacientes foram, então, transportados para os hospitais referenciados já em oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea. Os dados foram recuperados de um banco de dados prospectivamente coletado. Resultados: De 2011 até 2017, 18 pacientes com 29 (25 - 31) anos, SAPS3 de 84 (68 - 92), com principais diagnósticos de leptospirose e influenza A (H1N1) foram transportados no Estado de São Paulo para três hospitais referenciados. Uma distância mediana de 39 (15 - 82) km foi percorrida em cada missão, em um tempo de 360 (308 - 431) minutos. As medianas de um (0 - 2) enfermeiro, três (2 - 3) médicos e um (0 - 1) fisioterapeuta foram necessárias por missão. Dezessete transportes foram realizados por ambulância e um por helicóptero. Existiram intercorrências: em duas ocasiões (11%), houve falha de fornecimento de energia para a bomba e, em duas ocasiões, queda da saturação de oxigênio < 70%. Treze pacientes (72%) sobreviveram para a alta hospitalar. Dos pacientes não sobreviventes, dois tiveram morte encefálica; dois, disfunção de múltiplos órgãos; e um, fibrose pulmonar considerada irreversível. Conclusões: O transporte com suporte extracorpóreo ocorreu sem intercorrências maiores, com uma sobrevida hospitalar alta dos pacientes.

ABSTRACT Objective: To characterize the transport of severely ill patients with extracorporeal respiratory or cardiovascular support. Methods: A series of 18 patients in the state of São Paulo, Brazil is described. All patients were consecutively evaluated by a multidisciplinary team at the hospital of origin. The patients were rescued, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support was provided on site. The patients were then transported to referral hospitals for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support. Data were retrieved from a prospectively collected database. Results: From 2011 to 2017, 18 patients aged 29 (25 - 31) years with a SAPS 3 of 84 (68 - 92) and main primary diagnosis of leptospirosis and influenza A (H1N1) virus were transported to three referral hospitals in São Paulo. A median distance of 39 (15 - 82) km was traveled on each rescue mission during a period of 360 (308 - 431) min. A median of one (0 - 2) nurse, three (2 - 3) physicians, and one (0 - 1) physical therapist was present per rescue. Seventeen rescues were made by ambulance, and one rescue was made by helicopter. The observed complications were interruption in the energy supply to the pump in two cases (11%) and oxygen saturation < 70% in two cases. Thirteen patients (72%) survived and were discharged from the hospital. Among the nonsurvivors, there were two cases of brain death, two cases of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, and one case of irreversible pulmonary fibrosis. Conclusions: Transportation with extracorporeal support occurred without serious complications, and the hospital survival rate was high.

Effect of continuous dialysis on blood ph in acidemic hypercapnic animals with severe acute kidney injury: a randomized experimental study comparing high vs. low bicarbonate affluent.

BACKGROUND: Controlling blood pH during acute ventilatory failure and hypercapnia in individuals suffering from severe acute kidney injury (AKI) and undergoing continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is of paramount importance in critical care settings. In this situation, the optimal concentration of sodium bicarbonate in the dialysate is still an unsolved question in critical care since high concentrations may worsen carbon dioxide levels and low concentrations may not be as effective in controlling pH. METHODS: We performed a randomized, non-blinded, experimental study. AKI was induced in 12 female pigs via renal hilum ligation and hypoventilation by reducing the tidal volume during mechanical ventilation with the goal of achieving a pH between 7.10-7.15. After achieving the target pH, animals were randomized to undergo isovolemic hemodialysis with one of two bicarbonate concentrations in the dialysate (40 mEq/L [group 40] vs. 20 mEq/L [group 20]). RESULTS: Hemodynamic, respiratory, and laboratory data were collected. The median pH value at CRRT initiation was 7.14 [7.12, 7.15] in group 20 and 7.13 [7.09, 7.14] in group 40 (P = ns). The median baseline PaCO2 was 74 [72, 81] mmHg in group 20 vs. 79 [63, 85] mmHg in group 40 (P = ns). After 3 h of CRRT, the pH value was 7.05 [6.95, 7.09] in group 20 and 7.12 [7.1, 7.14] in group 40 (P < 0.05), with corresponding values of PaCO2 of 85 [79, 88] mmHg vs. 81 [63, 100] mmHg (P = ns). The difference in pH after 3 h was due to a metabolic component [standard base excess -10.4 [-12.5, -9.5] mEq/L in group 20 vs. -7.6 [-9.2, -5.1] mEq/L in group 40) (P < 0.05)]. Despite the increased infusion of bicarbonate in group 40, the blood CO2 content did not change during the experiment. The 12-h survival rate was higher in group 40 (67% vs. 0, P = 0.032). CONCLUSIONS: A higher bicarbonate concentration in the dialysate of animals undergoing hypercapnic respiratory failure was associated with improved blood pH control without increasing the PaCO2 levels.

Extracorporeal respiratory support in adult patients.

In patients with severe respiratory failure, either hypoxemic or hypercapnic, life support with mechanical ventilation alone can be insufficient to meet their needs, especially if one tries to avoid ventilator settings that can cause injury to the lungs. In those patients, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), which is also very effective in removing carbon dioxide from the blood, can provide life support, allowing the application of protective lung ventilation. In this review article, we aim to explore some of the most relevant aspects of using ECMO for respiratory support. We discuss the history of respiratory support using ECMO in adults, as well as the clinical evidence; costs; indications; installation of the equipment; ventilator settings; daily care of the patient and the system; common troubleshooting; weaning; and discontinuation.

Em pacientes com insuficiência respiratória grave (hipoxêmica ou hipercápnica), o suporte somente com ventilação mecânica pode ser insuficiente para suas necessidades, especialmente quando se tenta evitar o uso de parâmetros ventilatórios que possam causar danos aos pulmões. Nesses pacientes, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO, oxigenação extracorpórea por membrana), que também é muito eficaz na remoção de dióxido de carbono do sangue, pode manter a vida, permitindo o uso de ventilação pulmonar protetora. No presente artigo de revisão, objetivamos explorar alguns dos aspectos mais relevantes do suporte respiratório por ECMO. Discutimos a história do suporte respiratório por ECMO em adultos; evidências clínicas; custos; indicações; instalação do equipamento; parâmetros ventilatórios; cuidado diário do paciente e do sistema; solução de problemas comuns; desmame e descontinuação.

Extracorporeal respiratory support in adult patients / Suporte respiratório extracorpóreo em pacientes adultos

ABSTRACT In patients with severe respiratory failure, either hypoxemic or hypercapnic, life support with mechanical ventilation alone can be insufficient to meet their needs, especially if one tries to avoid ventilator settings that can cause injury to the lungs. In those patients, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), which is also very effective in removing carbon dioxide from the blood, can provide life support, allowing the application of protective lung ventilation. In this review article, we aim to explore some of the most relevant aspects of using ECMO for respiratory support. We discuss the history of respiratory support using ECMO in adults, as well as the clinical evidence; costs; indications; installation of the equipment; ventilator settings; daily care of the patient and the system; common troubleshooting; weaning; and discontinuation.

RESUMO Em pacientes com insuficiência respiratória grave (hipoxêmica ou hipercápnica), o suporte somente com ventilação mecânica pode ser insuficiente para suas necessidades, especialmente quando se tenta evitar o uso de parâmetros ventilatórios que possam causar danos aos pulmões. Nesses pacientes, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO, oxigenação extracorpórea por membrana), que também é muito eficaz na remoção de dióxido de carbono do sangue, pode manter a vida, permitindo o uso de ventilação pulmonar protetora. No presente artigo de revisão, objetivamos explorar alguns dos aspectos mais relevantes do suporte respiratório por ECMO. Discutimos a história do suporte respiratório por ECMO em adultos; evidências clínicas; custos; indicações; instalação do equipamento; parâmetros ventilatórios; cuidado diário do paciente e do sistema; solução de problemas comuns; desmame e descontinuação.

Sepsis-3 definitions predict ICU mortality in a low-middle-income country.

BACKGROUND: Sepsis-3 definitions were published recently and validated only in high-income countries. The aim of this study was to assess the new criteria's accuracy in stratifying mortality as compared to its predecessor (Sepsis-2) in a Brazilian public intensive care unit (ICU) and to investigate whether the addition of lactate values would improve stratification. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study conducted between 2010 and 2015 in a public university's 19-bed ICU. Data from patients admitted to the ICU with sepsis were retrieved from a prospectively collected database. ICU mortality was compared across categories of both Sepsis-2 definitions (sepsis, severe sepsis and septic shock) and Sepsis-3 definitions (infection, sepsis and septic shock). Area under the receiving operator characteristic curves were constructed, and the net reclassification index and integrated discrimination index for the addition of lactate as a categorical variable to each stratum of definition were evaluated. RESULTS: The medical records of 957 patients were retrieved from a prospectively collected database. Mean age was 52 ± 19 years, median SAPS 3 was 65 [50,79], respiratory tract infection was the most common cause (42%, 402 patients), and 311 (32%) patients died in ICU. The ICU mortality rate was progressively higher across categories of sepsis as defined by the Sepsis-3 consensus: infection with no organ dysfunction-7/103 (7%); sepsis-106/419 (25%); and septic shock-198/435 (46%) (P < 0.001). For Sepsis-2 definitions, ICU mortality was different only across the categories of severe sepsis [43/252-(17%)] and septic shock [250/572-(44%)] (P < 0.001); sepsis had a mortality of 18/135-(13%) (P = 0.430 vs. severe sepsis). When combined with lactate, the definitions' accuracy in stratifying ICU mortality only improved with lactate levels above 4 mmol/L. This improvement occurred in the severe sepsis and septic shock groups (Sepsis-2) and the no-dysfunction and septic shock groups (Sepsis-3). Multivariate analysis demonstrated similar findings. CONCLUSIONS: In a Brazilian ICU, the new Sepsis-3 definitions were accurate in stratifying mortality and were superior to the previous definitions. We also observed that the new definitions' accuracy improved progressively with severity. Serum lactate improved accuracy for values higher than 4 mmol/L in the no-dysfunction and septic shock groups.

Insights about serum sodium behavior after 24 hours of continuous renal replacement therapy. / Análise do comportamento do sódio ao longo de 24 horas de terapia renal substitutiva.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical and laboratorial factors associated with serum sodium variation during continuous renal replacement therapy and to assess whether the perfect admixture formula could predict 24-hour sodium variation. METHODS: Thirty-six continuous renal replacement therapy sessions of 33 patients, in which the affluent prescription was unchanged during the first 24 hours, were retrieved from a prospective collected database and then analyzed. A mixed linear model was performed to investigate the factors associated with large serum sodium variations (≥ 8mEq/L), and a Bland-Altman plot was generated to assess the agreement between the predicted and observed variations. RESULTS: In continuous renal replacement therapy 24-hour sessions, SAPS 3 (p = 0.022) and baseline hypernatremia (p = 0.023) were statistically significant predictors of serum sodium variations ≥ 8mEq/L in univariate analysis, but only hypernatremia demonstrated an independent association (ß = 0.429, p < 0.001). The perfect admixture formula for sodium prediction at 24 hours demonstrated poor agreement with the observed values. CONCLUSIONS: Hypernatremia at the time of continuous renal replacement therapy initiation is an important factor associated with clinically significant serum sodium variation. The use of 4% citrate or acid citrate dextrose - formula A 2.2% as anticoagulants was not associated with higher serum sodium variations. A mathematical prediction for the serum sodium concentration after 24 hours was not feasible.

Análise do comportamento do sódio ao longo de 24 horas de terapia renal substitutiva / Insights about serum sodium behavior after 24 hours of continuous renal replacement therapy

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar os fatores clínicos e laboratoriais associados com a variação dos níveis séricos de sódio durante terapia renal substitutiva contínua e avaliar se a fórmula de mixagem perfeita pode prever a variação do sódio nas 24 horas. Métodos: A partir de uma base de dados coletada de forma prospectiva, recuperamos e analisamos os dados referentes a 36 sessões de terapia renal substitutiva realizadas em 33 pacientes, nas quais a prescrição de afluentes permaneceu inalterada durante as primeiras 24 horas. Aplicamos um modelo linear misto para investigar os fatores associados com grandes variações dos níveis séricos de sódio (≥ 8mEq/L) e geramos um gráfico de Bland-Altman para avaliar a concordância entre as variações previstas e observadas. Resultados: Nas sessões de terapia renal substitutiva de 24 horas identificamos que SAPS 3 (p = 0,022) e hipernatremia basal (p = 0,023) foram preditores estatisticamente significantes de variações séricas do sódio ≥ 8mEq/L na análise univariada, porém apenas hipernatremia demonstrou uma associação independente (β = 0,429; p < 0,001). A fórmula de mixagem perfeita para previsão do nível de sódio após 24 horas demonstrou baixa concordância com os valores observados. Conclusões: A presença de hipernatremia por ocasião do início da terapia renal substitutiva é um fator importante associado com variações clinicamente significativas dos níveis séricos de sódio. O uso de citrato 4% ou da fórmula A de ácido citrato dextrose 2,2% como anticoagulantes não se associou com variações mais acentuadas dos níveis séricos de sódio. Não foi viável desenvolver uma predição matemática da concentração do sódio após 24 horas.

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical and laboratorial factors associated with serum sodium variation during continuous renal replacement therapy and to assess whether the perfect admixture formula could predict 24-hour sodium variation. Methods: Thirty-six continuous renal replacement therapy sessions of 33 patients, in which the affluent prescription was unchanged during the first 24 hours, were retrieved from a prospective collected database and then analyzed. A mixed linear model was performed to investigate the factors associated with large serum sodium variations (≥ 8mEq/L), and a Bland-Altman plot was generated to assess the agreement between the predicted and observed variations. Results: In continuous renal replacement therapy 24-hour sessions, SAPS 3 (p = 0.022) and baseline hypernatremia (p = 0.023) were statistically significant predictors of serum sodium variations ≥ 8mEq/L in univariate analysis, but only hypernatremia demonstrated an independent association (β = 0.429, p < 0.001). The perfect admixture formula for sodium prediction at 24 hours demonstrated poor agreement with the observed values. Conclusions: Hypernatremia at the time of continuous renal replacement therapy initiation is an important factor associated with clinically significant serum sodium variation. The use of 4% citrate or acid citrate dextrose - formula A 2.2% as anticoagulants was not associated with higher serum sodium variations. A mathematical prediction for the serum sodium concentration after 24 hours was not feasible.

Metabolic acid-base adaptation triggered by acute persistent hypercapnia in mechanically ventilated patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: Hypercapnia resulting from protective ventilation in acute respiratory distress syndrome triggers metabolic pH compensation, which is not entirely characterized. We aimed to describe this metabolic compensation. METHODS: The data were retrieved from a prospective collected database. Variables from patients' admission and from hypercapnia installation until the third day after installation were gathered. Forty-one patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome were analyzed, including twenty-six with persistent hypercapnia (PaCO2 > 50mmHg > 24 hours) and 15 non-hypercapnic (control group). An acid-base quantitative physicochemical approach was used for the analysis. RESULTS: The mean ages in the hypercapnic and control groups were 48 ± 18 years and 44 ± 14 years, respectively. After the induction of hypercapnia, pH markedly decreased and gradually improved in the ensuing 72 hours, consistent with increases in the standard base excess. The metabolic acid-base adaptation occurred because of decreases in the serum lactate and strong ion gap and increases in the inorganic apparent strong ion difference. Furthermore, the elevation in the inorganic apparent strong ion difference occurred due to slight increases in serum sodium, magnesium, potassium and calcium. Serum chloride did not decrease for up to 72 hours after the initiation of hypercapnia. CONCLUSION: In this explanatory study, the results indicate that metabolic acid-base adaptation, which is triggered by acute persistent hypercapnia in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome, is complex. Furthermore, further rapid increases in the standard base excess of hypercapnic patients involve decreases in serum lactate and unmeasured anions and increases in the inorganic apparent strong ion difference by means of slight increases in serum sodium, magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Serum chloride is not reduced.

Adaptação metabólica diante de hipercapnia persistente aguda em pacientes submetidos à ventilação mecânica por síndrome do desconforto respiratório agudo / Metabolic acid-base adaptation triggered by acute persistent hypercapnia in mechanically ventilated patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome

RESUMO Objetivo: A hipercapnia resultante da ventilação protetora na síndrome do desconforto respiratório agudo desencadeia uma compensação metabólica do pH que ainda não foi completamente caracterizada. Nosso objetivo foi descrever esta compensação metabólica. Métodos: Os dados foram recuperados a partir de uma base de dados registrada de forma prospectiva. Foram obtidas as variáveis dos pacientes no momento da admissão e quando da instalação da hipercapnia até o terceiro dia após sua instalação. Analisamos 41 pacientes com síndrome do desconforto respiratório agudo, incluindo 26 com hipercapnia persistente (pressão parcial de gás carbônico acima de 50mmHg por mais de 24 horas) e 15 sem hipercapnia (Grupo Controle). Para a realização da análise, utilizamos uma abordagem físico-química quantitativa do metabolismo acidobásico. Resultados: As médias de idade dos Grupos com Hipercapnia e Controle foram, respectivamente, de 48 ± 18 anos e 44 ± 14 anos. Após a indução da hipercapnia, o pH diminuiu acentuadamente e melhorou gradualmente nas 72 horas seguintes, de forma coerente com os aumentos observados no excesso de base padrão. A adaptação metabólica acidobásica ocorreu em razão de diminuições do lactato sérico e do strong ion gap e de aumentos na diferença aparente de strong ions inorgânicos. Além do mais, a elevação da diferença aparente de strong ions inorgânicos ocorreu por conta de ligeiros aumentos séricos de sódio, magnésio, potássio e cálcio. O cloreto sérico não diminuiu por até 72 horas após o início da hipercapnia. Conclusão: A adaptação metabólica acidobásica, que é desencadeada pela hipercapnia aguda persistente em pacientes com síndrome do desconforto respiratório agudo, foi complexa. Mais ainda, aumentos mais rápidos no excesso de base padrão em pacientes com hipercapnia envolveram diminuições séricas de lactato e íons não medidos, e aumentos na diferença aparente de strong ions inorgânicos, por meio de ligeiros aumentos séricos de sódio, magnésio, cálcio e potássio. Não ocorreu redução do cloreto sérico.

ABSTRACT Objective: Hypercapnia resulting from protective ventilation in acute respiratory distress syndrome triggers metabolic pH compensation, which is not entirely characterized. We aimed to describe this metabolic compensation. Methods: The data were retrieved from a prospective collected database. Variables from patients' admission and from hypercapnia installation until the third day after installation were gathered. Forty-one patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome were analyzed, including twenty-six with persistent hypercapnia (PaCO2 > 50mmHg > 24 hours) and 15 non-hypercapnic (control group). An acid-base quantitative physicochemical approach was used for the analysis. Results: The mean ages in the hypercapnic and control groups were 48 ± 18 years and 44 ± 14 years, respectively. After the induction of hypercapnia, pH markedly decreased and gradually improved in the ensuing 72 hours, consistent with increases in the standard base excess. The metabolic acid-base adaptation occurred because of decreases in the serum lactate and strong ion gap and increases in the inorganic apparent strong ion difference. Furthermore, the elevation in the inorganic apparent strong ion difference occurred due to slight increases in serum sodium, magnesium, potassium and calcium. Serum chloride did not decrease for up to 72 hours after the initiation of hypercapnia. Conclusion: In this explanatory study, the results indicate that metabolic acid-base adaptation, which is triggered by acute persistent hypercapnia in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome, is complex. Furthermore, further rapid increases in the standard base excess of hypercapnic patients involve decreases in serum lactate and unmeasured anions and increases in the inorganic apparent strong ion difference by means of slight increases in serum sodium, magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Serum chloride is not reduced.

Do Biliary Salts Have Role on Acute Kidney Injury Development?

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a major complication in patients with acute liver failure and chronic liver disease. Hemodynamic changes appear to be the principal alterations in these conditions, therefore there should be no known structural abnormalities responsible for AKI. On the other hand, several authors have published data on structural changes known as bile cast nephropathy or cholemic nephrosis, which basically consist of the presence of bile casts in tubular lumen analogous to those observed in myeloma. Although these findings are well documented, there is a lack of reproducibility by other authors. This paper aims to discuss, through evidence-based medical literature, the role of biliary salts on kidney injury development.