Journal of critical care
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Journal of critical care · Feb 2024
ReviewThe human gut microbiome in critical illness: disruptions, consequences, and therapeutic frontiers.
With approximately 39 trillion cells and over 20 million genes, the human gut microbiome plays an integral role in both health and disease. Modern living has brought a widespread use of processed food and beverages, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory drugs, and invasive procedures, all of which profoundly disrupt the delicate homeostasis between the host and its microbiome. Of particular interest is the human gut microbiome, which is progressively being recognized as an important contributing factor in many aspects of critical illness, from predisposition to recovery. ⋯ Additionally, we explore the potential association between the gut microbiome and post-intensive care syndrome, shedding light on a previously underappreciated avenue that may enhance patient recuperation following critical illness. There is an impending need for future epidemiological studies to encompass detailed phenotypic analyses of gut microbiome perturbations. Interventions aimed at restoring the gut microbiome represent a promising therapeutic frontier in the quest to prevent and treat critical illnesses.
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Journal of critical care · Feb 2024
ReviewManagement of swallowing disorders in ICU patients - A multinational expert opinion.
Dysphagia is common in intensive care unit (ICU) patients, yet it remains underrecognized and often unmanaged despite being associated with life-threatening complications, prolonged ICU stays and hospitalization. ⋯ Given the lack of robust scientific evidence, two clinical management algorithms are proposed for use by multidisciplinary teams to improve early systematic detection and effective management of dysphagia in ICU patients. Additionally, emerging therapeutic options such as neurostimulation have the potential to improve the quality of ICU dysphagia care.
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Journal of critical care · Feb 2024
Review Meta AnalysisThe effect of intravenous milrinone in adult critically ill patients: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
Milrinone is widely used for enhancing myocardial contractility, however, there is inadequate data to suggest whether it is preferable to other inotropic agents in critically ill patients. To observe the effect of milrinone on prognosis in adult critically ill patients, we conducted this meta-analysis. ⋯ The meta-analysis showed when compared with control group, although no significant reduction in mortality and the incidence of myocardial infarction was found in the milrinone group, the incidence of ventricular arrhythmia decreased significantly in patients with cardiac surgery. More randomized controlled trials are needed to determine the reliable and conclusive evidence for milrinone's effects.