Chest
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Comparative Study
Bedside detection of retained tracheobronchial secretions in patients receiving mechanical ventilation: is it time for tracheal suctioning?
To identify parameters that indicate retained secretions and the need for tracheal suctioning (TS) in patients receiving mechanical ventilation (MV). ⋯ A sawtooth pattern and/or respiratory sounds over the trachea are good indicators of retained secretions in patients receiving MV and may indicate the need for TS. Conversely, the absence of a sawtooth pattern may rule out retained secretions.
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Comparative Study
Simple predictors of uvulopalatopharyngoplasty outcome in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.
Our objective was to determine whether baseline polysomnography, cephalometry, and anthropometry data could predict uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) success or failure. ⋯ The presence of a baseline AHI < 38 and an MP-H < or = 20 mm, and the absence of retrognathia are predictors of improvement after UPPP. Based on these findings, we would advocate the continued evaluation of cephalometric measurements and careful consideration of surgical treatment options for OSA.