PurposeThis study aimed to investigate in-patient mortality and predictors of death associated with convulsive status epilepticus (CSE) in a large nationwide cohort and create a simplified predictive score for in-hospital mortality.MethodsRetrospective data from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database between 2007 and 2014 were analyzed, including 123,082 adults with CSE. Univariate logistic testing identified admission variables, neurological and medical complications associated with mortality. A simplified clinical prediction score, called MASH, was generated using variables that were frequent (>1%) and had a significant impact on mortality.ResultsThe overall hospital mortality rate was 3.5%. Univariate analysis revealed that older age, female gender, past medical history, and acute hospital conditions were related to mortality. After reclassification, a final multivariable model with 27 clinical variables was constructed, and the eight strongest predictors were included in the MASH score: hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy/cardiac arrest (2 points); age >60 years, acute symptomatic CSE, invasive mechanical ventilation, sepsis, metastases, and chronic liver failure (all 1 point); and medication nonadherence (-1 point). The mortality rate among patients with ≤0, 1, 2, 3, 4, or ≥5 of these risk factors progressively increased from 0.2%, 2.1%, 7.8%, 20.3%, 31.9%, to 50.0% (P < 0.0001). Additionally, a similar stepwise trend was observed regarding discharge to a facility versus home without services (P < 0.0001).ConclusionsThis study demonstrates that mortality in CSE cases occurs in 3.5% of adult hospital admissions. Identification of specific acute and chronic conditions using the standardized MASH score can help predict the risk of death or disability even in hospitals without advanced brain monitoring.

BackgroundHemoadsorption is currently employed to treat septic shock and other clinical conditions involving massive inflammatory mediator release. CytoSorb, a device utilizing synthetic resin microbeads, provides a large adsorption surface for blood purification. This study aimed to review the clinical course of patients with septic shock treated with CytoSorb in our hospital's intensive care unit (ICU).Patients and MethodsThis study retrospectively analyzed the clinical course of patients with septic shock treated with CytoSorb, focusing on treatment timing and the volume of blood processed.ResultsBetween July 1, 2016, and December 31, 2023, 175 patients (106 men, 69 women; median age: 67 years, interquartile [IQR]: 58-85) received CytoSorb therapy. Survivors exhibited a significantly lower simplified acute physiology score at admission than nonsurvivors. CytoSorb was initiated within 24 h of shock onset in 102 patients (58%, early starters) and between 25 and 48 h in 73 patients (42%, late starters). Hemodynamic improvements elevated mean arterial pressure and reduced lactate, procalcitonin, C-reactive protein, sequential organ failure assessment scores, and noradrenaline doses in survivors. These effects were more pronounced in early starters receiving intensive treatment, who also demonstrated significantly lower lactate levels and higher mean arterial pressure at the end of therapy. Overall, 86 patients (49%) died in the ICU. Survivors underwent longer treatment durations and processed greater blood volumes than nonsurvivors.ConclusionsIn patients with septic shock treated with CytoSorb within 48 h of onset, treatment intensity-rather than timing-was associated with lower ICU mortality rates.

ObjectiveObservational studies suggest links between inflammatory factors, metabolites, and sepsis, yet their causality is uncertain. This study employs Mendelian Randomization (MR) to investigate the causality between these factors and sepsis, aiming to uncover the precise relationship and identify novel treatment approaches.MethodsWe used summary data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) involving 91 inflammatory factors, 1400 metabolites as exposure, and STREPTO SEPSIS as outcome. Inverse variance weighting (IVW) and MR-Egger were used to evaluate the causal effect between exposure and outcome. Sensitivity analyses were performed using Cochrane's Q test, MR-Egger intercept method, MR-PRESSO method and leave-one-out method.ResultsThymic stromal lymphopoietin levels (TSLP) (OR = 1.269; 95%CI = 1.016-1.585;  = .036) and Interleukin 15 receptor subunit alpha levels (IL-15Rα) (OR = 0.894; 95%CI = 0.801-0.998;  = .046) had a significant causal relationship with sepsis. Forty-four metabolites were associated with sepsis, including Spermidine to choline ratio (OR = 1.447; 95%CI = 1.104-1.977;  = .009), 4-hydroxyhippurate levels (OR = 1.448; 95%CI = 1.117-1.877;  = .005), and Sphingomyelin (d18:1/20:1, d18:2/20:0) levels (OR = 1.371; 95%CI = 1.139-1.651;  < .001). TSLP was associated with 19 metabolites, and IL-15Rα was associated with 30 metabolites.ConclusionsThis study uncovers the causal link between sepsis and two inflammatory factors, TSLP and IL-15Rα, and suggests metabolites' potential in intervention. It also identifies 44 metabolites associated with sepsis, indicating possible biomarkers or therapeutic targets. The findings offer new perspectives on sepsis pathogenesis and could inform future treatment strategies.

Nephrotoxicity remains a significant concern in the management of critically ill patients receiving antibiotic therapy. The combination of Vancomycin and Piperacillin-Tazobactam (VPT) is frequently employed to combat multidrug-resistant infections. However, emerging evidence suggests a potential increase in the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) associated with this combination. This study aims to systematically review and analyze the nephrotoxic risk of the VPT combination in comparison to Vancomycin with Cefepime (VC) combination therapy. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A comprehensive search was performed in databases including PubMed and Google Scholar for studies published until 2024. Studies that reported AKI incidence in patients treated with VPT, or VC were included. The data were analyzed using random-effects models to estimate pooled incidence rates of AKI. Subgroup analyses were performed based on patient demographics and baseline renal function. A total of six studies involving 23 794 patients were included in the analysis. The pooled incidence of AKI in the VPT group was found to be 29.9% (95% CI: 25.3%-38.4%), significantly higher than that of the VC (22.7%) ( < .05). A comparative analysis demonstrated a significantly higher risk of AKI in patients on VPT compared to VC (1.503; 95% CI: 1.221-1.849  < .001). The findings of this study underscore a significant increase in the risk of AKI associated with the Vancomycin and Piperacillin-Tazobactam combination in critically ill patients. Clinicians should exercise caution when prescribing this combination, particularly for patients with pre-existing renal dysfunction.

BackgroundExtracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) serves as a critical intervention for patients with severe cardiac and pulmonary dysfunction. Given the high rates of mortality and morbidity, as well as the impact on families, palliative care (PC) integration is recommended. We aimed to examine the indications and outcomes of ECMO patients at a tertiary care hospital and evaluate the impact of PC consultation on patient outcomes.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study of 306 patients cannulated for venovenous (VV) or venoarterial (VA) ECMO from January 2020 to December 2022. We analyzed demographics, ECMO indications, and outcomes, comparing those who received PC consultations with those who did not.ResultsOf the 306 patients analyzed, 220 were on VA-ECMO and 86 on VV-ECMO. The overall in-hospital mortality rate was 49%. Patients on VV-ECMO had longer ECMO durations (8 vs 4 days) and hospital stays (31 vs 16 days, P < 0.001) than patients on VA-ECMO. PC consultations were associated with increased ECMO duration and hospital stay in both groups (P < 0.001). Mortality among patients who received PC consultations was not statistically different from those who did not (P = 0.68). Notably, patients with obesity on VA-ECMO had 2.3 times higher odds of in-hospital death (P = 0.027).ConclusionPC consultation is integral in managing patients on ECMO, focusing on holistic support for patients and their families. Further prospective studies are warranted to explore the psychosocial benefits of PC for patients on ECMO and their family members.

BackgroundOver half of ICU survivors experience post intensive care syndrome (PICS). Few PICS clinics were operational in the United States at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here we describe early experience of such a clinic at a large academic medical center. Our objective was to describe the (a) model of care (b) clinic interventions (c) short-term cognitive, psychiatric, and functional outcomes (d) one-year outcomes of COVID-19 ICU survivors at the Cleveland Clinic post-ICU recovery clinic (PIRC).MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study through a chart review of all patients seen in PIRC from April 2020 - December 2020. A total of 59 patients completed the visit with 49% being virtual, and 51% being in-person. The cohort was predominantly white (50.8%), and male (57.6%) with a median age of 58.2 years. We screened for cognitive and psychiatric impairments using several different validated questionnaires. Functional impairments were self-reported and detected after assessment by a physical therapist. Quantifiable clinic interventions were referrals, pharmacy medication reconciliation, and vaccine administration. One-year outcomes were health care utilization, and death.ResultsIn our cohort, 36%, 39.6%, and 17% of patients screened positive for cognitive impairment, anxiety and/or depression, and PTSD respectively. 42.3% of patients had lower extremity mobility impairment. 57.6% of patients required at least one referral after clinic. Of the 67.9% of patients who were working and 93.9% driving prior to hospitalization, only 24.6% and 73.2% had returned to those activities, respectively. The most common pharmacy intervention was discontinuation of a medication no longer in use. By one year, 34% of patients had hospital re-admissions with 5% requiring the ICU. There were no deaths.ConclusionsAdult survivors of COVID-19 critical illness have impairments in all PICS domains as well as high health care utilization in the first year after hospital discharge.MeSH TermsPost intensive care syndrome, COVID-19Key Points/SummaryAdult survivors of COVID-19 critical illness have impairments in all PICS domains as well as high health care utilization in the first year after hospital discharge. Post-ICU recovery clinics can help survivors with recovery.

ObjetivesExtracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) after surgery for congenital heart disease (CHD) provides hemodynamic support to patients when their myocardial function is temporarily affected. Postoperative infections in children with CHD on ECMO are a significant challenge, as they complicate recovery and affect outcomes during this critical period of hemodynamic support. The objective of this study was to analyze the mortality related to the micro-organism isolated in children with ECMO after surgery for CHD.MethodsRetrospective cohort study from January 2014 to December 2021 at a university hospital in Colombia. The primary outcome was the infection-related inpatient mortality of children undergoing surgery for CHD who received ECMO support, according to the type of microorganisms isolated in cultures.ResultsA total of 3307 surgeries for CHD were performed during the study period. Of these, 108 (3.3%) required veno-arterial ECMO after surgery. We found positive cultures in 35% of these patients. The incidence of infection was 14.5 cases per 1000 days of ECMO. The overall mortality of infected patients was 54.1%. Isolation of Gram-negative bacteria in cultures was associated with higher odds of dying compared with other isolations, regardless of age and type of CHD (aOR 6.92 95% CI 1.91-25.02; p < .01). We found no differences in hospital length of stay or PICU stay based on the type of bacteria isolated. The most commonly isolated Gram-negative bacteria was , which was associated with longer mechanical ventilation [26 (IQR 18.2-31.0) versus 11 (IQR 8.0-15.0) days; p < .01].ConclusionsThe presence of a Gram-negative bacterium as the cause of infection in any sample was associated with increased odds of mortality in children receiving ECMO support in the postoperative period following corrective surgery for congenital heart disease. Infections occurred in 1 out of 3 children on ECMO following surgery for CHD.

Telemedicine in the intensive care unit (tele-ICU) is an increasingly significant field that leverages advanced technology to provide remote critical care services for patients in the ICU. The primary goal of tele-ICU is to enhance access to expert intensive care specialists, improve clinical outcomes, and optimize the management of critical care capacity and resources. Numerous studies have demonstrated that telemedicine can improve the efficiency of resource utilization, foster adherence to clinical best practices, and directly enhance both the quality of care and patient outcomes in the ICU setting. Moreover, telemedicine facilitates greater access to critical care knowledge, strengthens collaboration between healthcare providers across different institutions, and supports the development of specialized training programs for critical care professionals. Currently, the most widely adopted tele-ICU model is the centralized hub-and-spoke model, where a central monitoring station oversees multiple ICUs at geographically distant locations. While this model has proven effective in many contexts, there remains significant potential for further advancements in tele-ICU practices. In this article, we propose two novel theoretical models of tele-ICU that aim to address current limitations, improve quality of care, optimize personnel deployment, and maximize resource utilization. These proposed models are intended to offer a more flexible, scalable, and efficient approach to delivering critical care in diverse healthcare settings, ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes and more sustainable healthcare practices.

Endotracheal intubation in the emergency department can be challenging due to difficult airways. The Cormack-Lehane score helps assess intubation difficulty based on laryngoscopic views, with higher scores indicating poorer visibility. This study examines whether point-of-care ultrasound measurements of anterior neck soft tissue thickness at the vocal cords and hyoid bone can predict difficult intubations with Macintosh blade. Prospective observational study included 100 patients over 18 years old who required rapid sequence intubation in emergency department at a tertiary care hospital in India, from March to December 2023. Patients with cervical spine pathology and pregnant women were excluded. Ultrasound measurements of anterior neck soft tissue thickness were taken at the vocal cords and hyoid bone. Direct laryngoscopy with a Macintosh blade was then performed, and the CL grade was recorded. Intubation difficulty was categorized based on CL grades 1-2 (easy) and 3-4 (difficult). Diagnostic performance metrics, including sensitivity, specificity, and Area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUROC), were calculated. The study found that increased anterior neck soft tissue thickness at both the hyoid bone and vocal cords was significantly associated with higher CL grades ( < .001). The AUROC values were 0.961 for hyoid bone measurements and 0.970 for vocal cords measurements, indicating high diagnostic accuracy. The sensitivity and specificity of these measurements suggest they are effective predictors of difficult intubation. Notably, higher ANS measurements correlated with a higher likelihood of requiring multiple intubation attempts. This study supports the use of ultrasound-measured anterior neck soft tissue thickness at the hyoid bone and vocal cords as effective predictors of difficult intubation. The high accuracy and statistical significance of these measurements suggest they can improve pre-intubation assessments and guide clinical decisions. Using these ultrasound measurements in routine practice could help better predict intubation challenges and improve patient outcome.

BackgroundThis study directly compares outcomes of phenobarbital and dexmedetomidine as adjuncts to symptom-triggered benzodiazepine treatment for alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS).MethodsThis is a retrospective cohort analysis at a single tertiary referral institution in a major urban center in the United States. In hospitalized patients above 18 years with AWS between May 1, 2018, and July 31, 2021 we compared the hospital length of stay (LOS), ICU LOS, mechanical ventilation incidence and duration of patients who received dexmedetomidine versus phenobarbital as adjuncts to lorazepam-based treatment. Patients were divided into two cohorts based on treatment they received - dexmedetomidine/lorazepam (DEX) versus phenobarbital/lorazepam (PHENO). The use of phenobarbital or dexmedetomidine was left to the discretion of the treating bedside physician.ResultsOne hundred fifty-six patients met inclusion criteria with 102 patients (65%) in the DEX group and 54 patients (35%) in the PHENO group. The PHENO group had a lower probability of intubation (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.15-0.70, p = 0.005) and shorter hospital LOS (IRR 0.45, 95% CI 0.31-0.64, p < 0.001), and ICU LOS (IRR 0.58, 95% CI 0.34-1.00, p = 0.050). For both hospital and ICU LOS, the PHENO group had shorter LOS than dexmedetomidine at lower doses of lorazepam (<3 mg), but this protective effect diminished at higher doses of lorazepam, at a rate of 10% (hospital LOS, IRR 1.10, 95% CI 1.05-1.16, p < 0.001) and 6% (ICU LOS, IRR 1.06, 95% CI 0.99-1.13, p = 0.074) per milligram increase in lorazepam.ConclusionsA symptom- triggered lorazepam regimen including early phenobarbital administration for severe alcohol withdrawal syndrome is associated with lower hospital LOS and need for intubation compared to a symptom triggered lorazepam regimen with dexmedetomidine adjunct.

The use of focused critical care echocardiography, diagnostic modality aimed to provide immediate and actionable information, represents a core competency of contemporary intensive care medicine. Resuscitative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a focused, goal-directed examination performed at the point of care, for the rapid evaluation of critically ill patients in whom transthoracic images are either logistically untenable, inadequate, or unobtainable. Some of the applications of TEE in the management of critically ill patients include the evaluation of patients in shock and cardiac arrest, the assessment of trauma patients, and the guidance of several endovascular procedures. Due to the indwelling nature of the transducer, TEE can provide consistently high-quality images and allows for continuous monitoring during hemodynamic interventions, making it ideally suited for the evaluation of critically ill patients. In this article, we review the evolving landscape of resuscitative TEE, discuss the rationale, supporting evidence, safety, and training for the use of this modality in critical care settings. We address the transdisciplinary evolution of TEE and the practical aspects of its implementation in emergency and critical care settings.

Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children: A Comprehensive Review over the Past Five Years This review explores many facets of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) over the previous 5 years. In the time since the COVID 19 pandemic gripped our medical systems, we can now explore the data that has been collected from the previous years. The literature has allowed us to better understand the impact of COVID 19 and the post illness occurrence of a severe systemic inflammatory disease on our youngest patient populations. This paper will outline the pathophysiology of MIS-C, the treatments utilized, short and long-term patient outcomes including epidemiological factors.

Distinguishing surgical intensive care unit (ICU) patients with ongoing bleeding who require hemorrhage control interventions (HCI) can be challenging. Guidelines recommend risk-stratification with clinical variables and prediction tools, however supporting evidence remains mixed.

The onset of diaphragmatic weakness begins within hours of commencing invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), which may contribute to the physical disability that can persist at five years after intensive care unit (ICU) discharge. Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has the potential to alleviate the negative effects of IMV.

Sepsis complicates acute pancreatitis (AP), increasing mortality risk. Few studies have examined how sepsis and its onset timing affect mortality in AP. This study evaluates the association between sepsis occurrence and all-cause mortality in AP, focusing specifically on the impact of sepsis onset timing.

BackgroundBlood lactate is commonly used in clinical medicine as a diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic guide. Lactate's growing importance in many disciplines of clinical medicine and academic enquiry is underscored by the tenfold increase in publications over the past 10 years. Lactate monitoring is presently shifting from single to serial measurements, offering a means of assessing response to therapy and to guide treatment decisions. With the promise of wearable lactate sensors and their potential integration in electronic patient records and early warning scores, the utility of serial lactate measurement deserves closer scrutiny.MethodsArticles included in this review were identified by searching MEDLINE, PubMed and EMBASE using the term "lactate" alone and in combination with "serial", "point of care", "clearance", "prognosis" and "clinical". Authors were assigned vetting of publications according to their specialty (anesthesiology, intensive care, trauma, emergency medicine, obstetrics, pediatrics and general hospital medicine). The manuscript was assembled in multidisciplinary groups guided by underlying pathology rather than hospital area.FindingsLactate's clinical utility as a dynamic parameter is increasingly recognized. Several publications in the last year highlight the value of serial measurements in guiding therapy. Outside acute clinical areas like the emergency room, operating room or intensive care, obtaining lactate levels is often fraught with difficulty and delays.InterpretationMeasuring serial lactate and lactate clearance offers regular feedback on response to therapy and patient status. Particularly on the ward, wearable devices integrated in early warning scores via the hospital IT system are likely to identify deteriorating patients earlier than having to rely on observations by an often-overstretched nursing workforce.

Biostatistics is an increasing focus in both the United States Medical Licensing exams (USMLE) and medical school curricula. Nonetheless, literature has documented that it is poorly understood among both practicing physicians and physician trainees. Our purpose is to narrow this knowledge gap by offering readers a "how-to" guide that both supplements essential biostatistics knowledge and assists in constructing research projects.

ObjectiveFluid resuscitation is an important intervention in children with septic shock. The composition of resuscitation fluid is a matter of debate. Our aim was to study the effects of balanced salt solution BSS) versus normal saline (NS) for resuscitation in pediatric septic shock.Data sourcesWe searched MEDLINE, Embase, LILAC, Cochrane Collaboration, ClinicalTrials.gov, and World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform.Study selectionTwo independent authors screened title and abstracts and then full papers of included studies.Data extractionTwo authors extracted data from full papers independently. Random-effects model was used for analysis of RCTs. We used Cochrane's risk of bias tool for assessing the quality of studies. Primary outcome was mortality and secondary outcomes were rates of acute kidney injury (AKI), need for renal replacement therapy (RRT), and adverse effects (hyperchloremia, metabolic acidosis, and fluid overload); and duration of PICU and hospital stay.Data synthesisFive RCTs with 992 children were included. Resuscitation with BSS versus NS was not associated with reduction in mortality (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.45-1.50, p = 0.52; RCTs = 5); with similar results on sensitivity analysis (RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.41-1.41, p = 0.52; 4 RCTs = 4). However, resuscitation with BSS was associated with lower rates of AKI (sensitivity analysis RR 0.64, 95% CI 0.50-0.82, p = 0.0004; RCTs = 3); lesser need for RRT (RR 0.52, 95% CI 0.35-0.76, p = 0.0008; RCTs = 2); and lower rate of hyperchloremia (RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.62-0.87, p = 0.0002; RCTs = 3). The data is scant for other secondary outcomes (metabolic acidosis, fluid overload, and duration of PICU and hospital stay) to make any suggestions. The overall 'risk of bias' was low and unclear in most domains.ConclusionUse of BSS as resuscitation fluid in pediatric septic shock was not associated with reduction in mortality. However, BSS was associated with decreased risk of AKI, need of RRT and hyperchloremia.Clinical Trial Registration (if any)PROSPERO (CRD42022332208).

There is substantial practice variation in the management strategies for atrial fibrillation (AF) with rapid ventricular rate (RVR) and hemodynamic instability in critically ill patients. This study aimed to evaluate the use and effectiveness of direct current cardioversion (DCCV) for unstable AF RVR in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) and delirium are major complications among patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). The impact of oral bacterial count on these conditions is not well understood. This study aimed to explore the association between oral bacterial load and the incidence of VAP and delirium in ICU patients.

Airway Pressure Release Ventilation (APRV) is an alternate mode of ventilation in acute respiratory failure (ARF), but there is inconsistent data to support its use over other modes of ventilation. Because of increased intrathoracic pressure for most of the respiratory cycle, a negative impact of APRV on intracranial pressure (ICP) and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) has been hypothesized. We evaluated the effects of APRV ventilation, with particular attention to ICP, CPP and ICP-directed therapy, in a real-world cohort of neuro-ICU patients. Retrospective single-center analysis from January 2021 to December 2023 of neurosurgical ICU patients with ICP monitoring. APRV was used as a rescue mode at the physician's discretion when the Horovitz index (PaO/FIO ratio) fell below 150 despite optimized conventional ventilation. Between 2021 and 2023, APRV was utilized in 29 patients undergoing a total of 60 episodes. Forty patients (66.7%) were female, median age was 49.5 (Q1 34; Q3 61.25) years.After transition to APRV, mean FiO2 decreased by 4.3% (t = 3.5, p < .001) and mean PaO2 increased by 22.7 mm Hg (t = 4.2, p < .001). The Horovitz index improved by 44.6 mm Hg (t = 4.9, p < .001). Mean compliance did not differ after transition to APRV (-1.5 ml/mbar, t = -0.9, p = .4).During the APRV episode, mean ICP was 1.2 mm Hg lower (t = 2.6, p = .01), while mean CPP was 1.6 mm Hg higher (t = -0.9, p = .4) and the intensity of ICP-directed therapy (TIL) was significantly lower (X= 92.771, p < .001). APRV was hemodynamically tolerated in 29 out of 33 patients, and was safe with regard to ICP, CPP, and the intensity of ICP-directed therapy. Oxygenation was increased by APRV. 4 out of 33 patients would not tolerate APRV for hemodynamic reasons, APRV therefore was stopped immediately.