Journal of critical care
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Journal of critical care · Dec 2020
Review Comparative StudyThe role of ultrasound in front-of-neck access for cricothyroid membrane identification: A systematic review.
Conventional palpation techniques for cricothyroid membrane (CTM) identification are inaccurate and unreliable. Ultrasound plays a multi-faceted role in airway management, however there is limited literature around its use for CTM identification prior to cricothyrotomies. This review sought to compare ultrasound to palpation in the general population, identify its indications in subjects with ill-defined neck anatomy, and determine its role in defining neck anatomy. ⋯ Ultrasound appears to be superior to palpation for CTM localization especially in those with difficult airway anatomy and objectively defines neck anatomy. Its pre-emptive use should be incorporated during difficult airway management.
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Journal of critical care · Dec 2020
ReviewLinking of global intensive care (LOGIC): An international benchmarking in critical care initiative.
Benchmarking is a common and effective method for measuring and analyzing ICU performance. With the existence of national registries, objective information can now be obtained to allow benchmarking of ICU care within and between countries. ⋯ We showed large differences in the utilization of ICU as well as resources and in outcomes. Despite the need for careful interpretation of differences due to variation in definitions and limited risk adjustment, LOGIC is a growing worldwide initiative that allows access to insightful epidemiologic data from ICUs in multiple databases and registries.
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Journal of critical care · Dec 2020
Case ReportsOctreotide for resuscitation of cardiac arrest due to carcinoid crisis precipitated by novel peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT): A case report.
Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) is an effective treatment for metastatic carcinoid tumours but can precipitate a carcinoid crisis through release of stored bioamines. Cardiac arrest is an uncommon manifestation of carcinoid crisis and has never been reported as a complication of PRRT. ⋯ Following resuscitation, severe carcinoid heart disease was diagnosed, and the patient subsequently underwent successful surgical valve replacement. Although there is no trial evidence, considering pharmacological rationale and successful outcome in this case, we suggest early administration of intravenous octreotide during resuscitation of patients suffering cardiac arrest post PRRT for carcinoid disease and recommend preventive strategies.
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Journal of critical care · Dec 2020
Predictors of survival after prolonged weaning from mechanical ventilation.
Weaning from mechanical ventilation is a key component of intensive care treatment; however, this process may be prolonged as some patients require care at specialised centres. Current data indicate that weaning from invasive mechanical ventilation is successful in approximately 65% of patients; however, data on long-term survival after discharge from a weaning centre are limited. ⋯ The identified predictors of survival after prolonged weaning could support therapeutic strategies during patients' intensive care unit stay. Patients should be closely monitored after discharge from a weaning centre.