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Long B, Gottlieb M. Emergency medicine updates: Upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Am J Emerg Med 2024; 81:116-123. [PMID: 38723362 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2024.04.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a condition commonly seen in the emergency department (ED). Therefore, it is important for emergency clinicians to be aware of the current evidence regarding the diagnosis and management of this disease. OBJECTIVE This paper evaluates key evidence-based updates concerning UGIB for the emergency clinician. DISCUSSION UGIB most frequently presents with hematemesis. There are numerous causes, with the most common peptic ulcer disease, though variceal bleeding in particular can be severe. Nasogastric tube lavage for diagnosis is not recommended based on the current evidence. A hemoglobin transfusion threshold of 7 g/dL is recommended (8 g/dL in those with myocardial ischemia), but patients with severe bleeding and hemodynamic instability require emergent transfusion regardless of their level. Medications that may be used in UGIB include proton pump inhibitors, prokinetic agents, and vasoactive medications. Antibiotics are recommended for those with cirrhosis and suspected variceal bleeding. Endoscopy is the diagnostic and therapeutic modality of choice and should be performed within 24 h of presentation in non-variceal bleeding after resuscitation, though patients with variceal bleeding may require endoscopy within 12 h. Transcatheter arterial embolization or surgical intervention may be necessary. Intubation should be avoided if possible. If intubation is necessary, several considerations are required, including resuscitation prior to induction, utilizing preoxygenation and appropriate suction, and administering a prokinetic agent. There are a variety of tools available for risk stratification, including the Glasgow Blatchford Score. CONCLUSIONS An understanding of literature updates can improve the ED care of patients with UGIB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brit Long
- SAUSHEC, Emergency Medicine, Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Michael Gottlieb
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
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2
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Karvellas CJ, Gustot T, Fernandez J. Management of the acute on chronic liver failure in the intensive care unit. Liver Int 2023. [PMID: 37365997 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF) reflects the development of organ failure(s) in a patient with cirrhosis and is associated with high short-term mortality. Given that ACLF has many different 'phenotypes', medical management needs to take into account the relationship between precipitating insult, organ systems involved and underlying physiology of chronic liver disease/cirrhosis. The goals of intensive care management of patients suffering ACLF are to rapidly recognize and treat inciting events (e.g. infection, severe alcoholic hepatitis and bleeding) and to aggressively support failing organ systems to ensure that patients may successfully undergo liver transplantation or recovery. Management of these patients is complex since they are prone to develop new organ failures and infectious or bleeding complications. ICU therapy parallels that applied in the general ICU population in some complications but differs in others. Given that liver transplantation in ACLF is an emerging and evolving field, multidisciplinary teams with expertise in critical care and transplant medicine best accomplish management of the critically ill ACLF patient. The focus of this review is to identify the common complications of ACLF and to describe the proper management in critically ill patients awaiting liver transplantation in our centres, including organ support, prognostic assessment and how to assess when recovery is unlikely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constantine J Karvellas
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology (Liver Unit), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Thierry Gustot
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepato-Pancreatology and Digestive Oncology, H.U.B., CUB Hôpital Erasme, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Javier Fernandez
- Liver ICU, Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS and CIBERehd, Barcelona, Spain
- EF CLIF, EASL-CLIF Consortium, Barcelona, Spain
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3
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Pallio S, Melita G, Shahini E, Vitello A, Sinagra E, Lattanzi B, Facciorusso A, Ramai D, Maida M. Diagnosis and Management of Esophagogastric Varices. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13061031. [PMID: 36980343 PMCID: PMC10047815 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13061031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute variceal bleeding (AVB) is a potentially fatal complication of clinically significant portal hypertension and is one of the most common causes of acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Thus, esophagogastric varices represent a major economic and population health issue. Patients with advanced chronic liver disease typically undergo an upper endoscopy to screen for esophagogastric varices. However, upper endoscopy is not recommended for patients with liver stiffness < 20 KPa and platelet count > 150 × 109/L as there is a low probability of high-risk varices. Patients with high-risk varices should receive primary prophylaxis with either nonselective beta-blockers or endoscopic band ligation. In cases of AVB, patients should receive upper endoscopy within 12 h after resuscitation and hemodynamic stability, whereas endoscopy should be performed as soon as possible if patients are unstable. In cases of suspected variceal bleeding, starting vasoactive therapy as soon as possible in combination with endoscopic treatment is recommended. On the other hand, in cases of uncontrolled bleeding, balloon tamponade or self-expandable metal stents can be used as a bridge to more definitive therapy such as transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt. This article aims to offer a comprehensive review of recommendations from international guidelines as well as recent updates on the management of esophagogastric varices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Socrate Pallio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppinella Melita
- Human Pathology of Adult and Child Department, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy
| | - Endrit Shahini
- Gastroenterology Unit, National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. de Bellis" Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vitello
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, S. Elia-Raimondi Hospital, 93100 Caltanissetta, Italy
| | - Emanuele Sinagra
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione Instituto San Raffaele Giglio, 90015 Cefalù, Italy
| | - Barbara Lattanzi
- Gastroenterology and Emergency Endoscopy Unit, Sandro Pertini Hospital, 00100 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Facciorusso
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Foggia, 00161 Foggia, Italy
| | - Daryl Ramai
- Gastroenterology & Hepatology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Marcello Maida
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, S. Elia-Raimondi Hospital, 93100 Caltanissetta, Italy
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Whitford RC, Liebman J, Baez J. Bougie-Facilitated Tamponade Balloon Placement for Massive Esophagogastric Variceal Hemorrhage: A Case Series and Novel Procedural Technique Description. J Emerg Med 2023; 64:338-344. [PMID: 36868943 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2022.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Balloon tamponade of esophagogastric variceal hemorrhage is a lifesaving but challenging procedure. One difficulty that often arises is coiling of the tube in the oropharynx. We describe a novel use of the bougie as an external stylet to help guide placemat of the balloon to help overcome this challenge. DISCUSSION We describe four cases in which the bougie was successfully utilized as an external stylet to place a tamponade balloon (3 Minnesota tubes, 1 Sengstaken-Blakemore tube) without any apparent complication. The straight end of the bougie is inserted approximately 0.5 cm into the most proximal of the gastric aspiration ports. The tube is then inserted into the esophagus under direct or video laryngoscopic visualization using the bougie to help "push" the tube into place as an external stylet. Once the gastric balloon is fully inflated and withdrawn to the gastroesophageal junction, the bougie is gently removed. CONCLUSION The bougie may be considered as an adjunct for placement of tamponade balloons for massive esophagogastric variceal hemorrhage when placement proves refractory to traditional techniques. We think this can be a valuable tool in the emergency physician's procedural repertoire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert C Whitford
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Division of Cardiovascular Critical Care, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky; Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky.
| | - Jeremy Liebman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Bon Secours Mercy Health Hospital System, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Jessica Baez
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
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Keung CY, Morgan A, Le ST, Robertson M, Urquhart P, Swan MP. Survival outcomes and predictors of mortality, re-bleeding and complications for acute severe variceal bleeding requiring balloon tamponade. World J Hepatol 2022; 14:1584-1597. [PMID: 36157875 PMCID: PMC9453467 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i8.1584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute severe variceal bleeding (AVB) refractory to medical and endoscopic therapy is infrequent but associated with high mortality. Historical cohort studies from 1970-1980s no longer represent the current population as balloon tamponade is no longer first-line therapy for variceal bleeding; treatments including vasoactive therapies, intravenous antibiotics, endoscopic variceal band ligation are routinely used, and there is improved access to definitive treatments including transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts. However, only a few studies from the current era exist to describe the practice of balloon tamponade, its outcomes, and predictors with a requirement for further updated information.
AIM To describe current management of AVB requiring balloon tamponade and identify the outcomes and predictors of mortality, re-bleeding and complications.
METHODS A retrospective multi-centre cohort study of 80 adult patients across two large tertiary health networks from 2008 to 2019 in Australia who underwent balloon tamponade using a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube (SBT) were included for analysis. Patients were identified using coding for balloon tamponade. The primary outcome of this study was all-cause mortality at 6 wk after the index AVB. Secondary outcomes included re-bleeding during hospitalisation and complications of balloon tamponade. Predictors of these outcomes were determined using univariate and multivariate binomial regression.
RESULTS The all-cause mortality rates during admission and at 6-, 26- and 52 wk were 48.8%, 51.2% and 53.8%, respectively. Primary haemostasis was achieved in 91.3% and re-bleeding during hospitalisation occurred in 34.2%. Independent predictors of 6 wk mortality on multivariate analysis included the Model for Endstage Liver disease (MELD) score (OR 1.21, 95%CI 1.06-1.41, P = 0.006), advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (OR 11.51, 95%CI 1.61-82.20, P = 0.015) and re-bleeding (OR 13.06, 95%CI 3.06-55.71, P < 0.001). There were no relevant predictors of re-bleeding but a large proportion in which this occurred did not survive 6 wk (76.0% vs 24%). Although mucosal trauma was the most common documented complication after SBT insertion (89.5%), serious complications from SBT insertion were uncommon (6.3%) and included 1 patient who died from oesophageal perforation.
CONCLUSION In refractory AVB, balloon tamponade salvage therapy is associated with high rates of primary haemostasis with low rates of serious complications. Re-bleeding and mortality however, remain high.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Y Keung
- Department of Gastroenterology, Monash Health, Melbourne 3168, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Eastern Health, Melbourne 3128, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne 3168, Victoria, Australia
| | - Aparna Morgan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Monash Health, Melbourne 3168, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suong T Le
- Department of Gastroenterology, Monash Health, Melbourne 3168, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne 3168, Victoria, Australia
- Monash Digital Therapeutics and Innovation Laboratory, Monash University, Melbourne 3168, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marcus Robertson
- Department of Gastroenterology, Monash Health, Melbourne 3168, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne 3168, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul Urquhart
- Department of Gastroenterology, Eastern Health, Melbourne 3128, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael P Swan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Monash Health, Melbourne 3168, Victoria, Australia
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Mowry C, Kohli R, Bhat C, Truesdale A, Menard-Katcher P, Scallon A, Kriss M. Gastroesophageal Balloon Tamponade Simulation Training with 3D Printed Model Improves Knowledge, Skill, and Confidence. Dig Dis Sci 2022; 68:1187-1194. [PMID: 35989387 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-022-07665-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastroesophageal balloon tamponade (BT) tube placement is a life-saving procedure for refractory bleeding from gastroesophageal varices performed by gastroenterologists, intensivists, internists, and emergency medicine physicians. Despite a recognized need for procedural training, no standard curriculum or assessment tools exist. Given the infrequent performance of this procedure, the development of a representative and accessible simulation model would permit hands-on training to practice and maintain proficiency with BT tube placement. AIMS To assess BT tube placement performance before and after a novel simulation-based learning module in gastroenterology fellows and faculty. METHODS A 16-item knowledge questionnaire and 22-item procedural skill checklist utilizing a novel 3D printed esophagus model were developed to assess participant knowledge, procedural skills, and confidence prior to our simulation-based intervention and again 8-12 weeks after. Performance metrics were compared pre- and post-intervention within groups and between participant groups. RESULTS Fifteen gastroenterology fellows (of 15 eligible; 100%) and 14 gastroenterology faculty (of 29 eligible; 48%) completed training. Fellows demonstrated improvement in knowledge (55% to 79%, p < 0.001) and procedural skill (35% to 57%, p < 0.001) following training. Baseline faculty performance did not differ from fellows' performance and post-intervention showed similar improvement in knowledge (61% to 77%, p = 0.001) and procedural skill (40% to 49%, p = 0.147). Overall satisfaction with training was high in both groups post-intervention and faculty felt more confident teaching fellows. CONCLUSION The presented learning module offers a unique, low stakes opportunity for learners to improve skills, gain knowledge, and build confidence in placing BT tubes using a realistic simulation model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Mowry
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Ruhail Kohli
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Courtney Bhat
- Division of Digestive and Liver Health, Department of Medicine, Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Aimee Truesdale
- Division of Digestive and Liver Health, Department of Medicine, Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Paul Menard-Katcher
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Campus Box B146, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Andrew Scallon
- Optogenetics and Neural Engineering (ONE) Core, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Michael Kriss
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Campus Box B146, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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7
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Bridwell RE, Long B, Ramzy M, Gottlieb M. Balloon Tamponade for the Management of Gastrointestinal Bleeding. J Emerg Med 2022; 62:545-558. [PMID: 35065859 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2021.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute gastrointestinal bleeding is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires rapid intervention. In critically ill patients who are refractory to other therapies, balloon tamponade devices can be lifesaving. OBJECTIVE We provide a review of balloon tamponade devices for gastric and esophageal variceal bleeding for emergency clinicians. DISCUSSION Balloon tamponade is intended for hemodynamically unstable patients with massive gastrointestinal bleeding and inability to perform endoscopy, failed endoscopy, delay in endoscopy, or the need to stabilize before transfer. There are 3 main tamponade devices: the Linton-Nachlas tube, the Sengstaken-Blakemore tube, and the Minnesota tube. Each tamponade device has some unique features including the number of balloons and ports. We describe the technique with pearls and pitfalls for placement. CONCLUSIONS It is essential for emergency physicians to be familiar with balloon tamponade for acute gastrointestinal bleeding. We review the common balloon tamponade devices, and this article is intended to serve as a resource for those interested in expanding their knowledge of balloon tamponade. © 2022 Elsevier Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E Bridwell
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Brit Long
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Mark Ramzy
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Critical Care, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Michael Gottlieb
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
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8
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Abstract
Acute variceal bleeding is a complication of portal hypertension, usually due to cirrhosis, with high morbidity and mortality. There are 3 scenarios for endoscopic treatment of esophageal varices: prevention of first variceal bleed, treatment of active variceal bleed, and prevention of rebleeding. Patients with cirrhosis should be screened for esophageal varices. Recommended endoscopic therapy for acute variceal bleeding is endoscopic variceal banding. Although banding is the first-choice treatment, sclerotherapy may have a role. Treatment with Sengstaken-Blakemore tube or self-expanding covered metallic esophageal stent can be used for acute variceal bleeding refractory to standard pharmacologic and endoscopic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc J Zuckerman
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 4800 Alberta Avenue, El Paso, TX 79905, USA.
| | - Sherif Elhanafi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 4800 Alberta Avenue, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
| | - Antonio Mendoza Ladd
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 4800 Alberta Avenue, El Paso, TX 79905, USA
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Pandhi MB, Kuei AJ, Lipnik AJ, Gaba RC. Emergent Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Creation in Acute Variceal Bleeding. Semin Intervent Radiol 2020; 37:3-13. [PMID: 32139965 DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-3402015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Emergent transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation is most commonly employed in the setting of acute variceal hemorrhage. Given a propensity for decompensation, these patients often require a multidisciplinary, multimodal approach involving prompt diagnosis, pharmacologic therapy, and endoscopic intervention. While successful in the majority of cases, failure to medically control initial bleeding can prompt interventional radiology consultation for emergent portal decompression via TIPS creation. This article discusses TIPS creation in emergent, acute variceal hemorrhage, reviewing the natural history of gastroesophageal varices, presentation and diagnosis of acute variceal hemorrhage, pharmacologic therapy, endoscopic approaches, patient selection and risk stratification for TIPS, technical considerations for TIPS creation, adjunctive embolotherapy, and the role of salvage TIPS versus early TIPS in acute variceal hemorrhage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mithil B Pandhi
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Andrew J Kuei
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Andrew J Lipnik
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ron C Gaba
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.,Division of Interventional Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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10
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Neeki MM, Raj V, Archambeau B, Arabian S, Hussain F. Novel Application of Balloon Tamponade in Management of Acute Lower Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage. Clin Pract Cases Emerg Med 2019; 3:243-247. [PMID: 31404316 PMCID: PMC6682236 DOI: 10.5811/cpcem.2019.3.41772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
We present a case of acute lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in the emergency department, in which specialists were not emergently available to render their support. A quick intervention using balloon tamponade technique with a Minnesota tube helped stabilize the patient until intensive care, gastroenterology, and surgical specialists could intervene. We also review previous cases from the literature in which a balloon tamponade method was used to control GI hemorrhage. Our novel application of the Minnesota tube is important for emergency physicians to consider for cases of acute lower GI bleeding, particularly in emergent presentations when specialists are not readily available in-hospital.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael M Neeki
- Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, Colton, California
| | - Vikram Raj
- Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, Colton, California
| | - Benjamin Archambeau
- Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, Colton, California
| | - Sarkis Arabian
- Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Colton, California
| | - Farabi Hussain
- Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Department of Surgery, Colton, California
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11
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Dong V, Karvellas CJ. Acute-on-chronic liver failure: Objective admission and support criteria in the intensive care unit. JHEP Rep 2019; 1:44-52. [PMID: 32039351 PMCID: PMC7001553 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2019.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cirrhosis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality throughout the world. Significant complications include variceal bleeding, hepatic encephalopathy, hepatorenal syndrome, and infection. When these complications are severe, admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) is often required for organ support and management. Intensive care therapy can also serve as a bridge to liver transplantation. Along with decompensation of cirrhosis, the concept of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) has emerged. This involves an acute precipitating event, such as the development of infection in a patient with cirrhosis, which leads to acute deterioration of hepatic function and extrahepatic organ failure. Extrahepatic complications often include renal, cardiovascular, and respiratory failures. Patients with significant extrahepatic and hepatic failures need ICU admission for organ support. Again, in patients who are deemed suitable liver transplant candidates, intensive care management may allow bridging to liver transplantation. However, patients with a Chronic Liver Failure Consortium ACLF score greater than 70 at 48 to 72 hours post-ICU admission do not seem to benefit from ongoing intensive support and a palliative approach may be more appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Dong
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Constantine J Karvellas
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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12
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Williams KL, Dunne C, Parsons MH. Emergency Department Presentation of a Patient with a Severe Upper Gastrointestinal Bleed: A Simulation Case for Training Emergency Medicine Residents. Cureus 2019; 11:e3908. [PMID: 30931181 PMCID: PMC6426558 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.3908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Emergency medicine practitioners frequently encounter acute presentations requiring quick, directed treatment to ensure the best patient outcome. Training residents in the appropriate clinical and procedural skills often proves difficult when treating the patient who is critically unwell. Simulation-based medical education is an effective modality that enables teaching around life-threatening medical conditions in a safe space for learners while avoiding adverse complications for patients. Severe gastrointestinal bleeding is one such condition that emergency medicine practitioners would benefit from encountering first in a simulation environment due to its high rate of morbidity and mortality if not quickly managed appropriately. This report describes a simulated scenario of an undifferentiated patient who is acutely unwell and then becomes hemodynamically unstable secondary to a severe gastrointestinal bleed. Delivery of the case is facilitated by the detailed technical report herein. It contains a stepwise, detailed summary of appropriate learners' actions and suggestions for learning objectives relating to the case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry-Lynn Williams
- Medical Education and Simulation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, CAN
| | - Cody Dunne
- Medical Education and Simulation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, CAN
| | - Michael H Parsons
- Emergency Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, CAN
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13
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Wang HS, Lin J, Wang F, Miao L. Tracheal injury characterized by subcutaneous emphysema and dyspnea after improper placement of a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018; 97:e11289. [PMID: 30045253 PMCID: PMC6078672 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000011289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Tracheal injury characterized by subcutaneous emphysema and dyspnea can occur following the use of a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube. Should tracheal injury occur, it may be possible to manage resultant airway obstruction with a tracheal stent. PATIENT CONCERNS We describe the case of a 51-year-old patient who developed a tracheal injury when a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube was inadvertently inserted into the patient's trachea. DIAGNOSES Liver cirrhosis, gastric-fundus variceal bleeding, tracheal injury. INTERVENTIONS Polyglycol and tissue glue were injected intravenously, and endoscopic variceal ligation was performed. A Sengstaken-Blakemore tube was used to stop the bleeding. A covered tracheal stent was placed via fiberoptic bronchoscopy to relieve the tracheal injury due to improper placement of a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube. OUTCOMES After placement of the tracheal stent, the patient was able to breathe spontaneously and subsequently recovered. LESSONS Some precautions must be taken to avoid placing a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube in the trachea. If a tracheal injury occurs following misplacement of a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube, it may be possible to manage resultant airway obstruction by placing a tracheal stent.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jie Lin
- Institute of Digestive Endoscopy and Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Fei Wang
- Institute of Digestive Endoscopy and Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Lin Miao
- Nanjing Medical Univerity
- Institute of Digestive Endoscopy and Medical Center for Digestive Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, PR China
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14
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Olson JC, Karvellas CJ. Critical care management of the patient with cirrhosis awaiting liver transplant in the intensive care unit. Liver Transpl 2017; 23:1465-1476. [PMID: 28688155 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Patients with cirrhosis who are awaiting liver transplantation (LT) are at high risk for developing critical illnesses. Current liver allocation policies that dictate a "sickest first" approach coupled with a mismatch between need and availability of organs result in longer wait times, and thus, patients are becoming increasingly ill while awaiting organ transplantation. Even patients with well-compensated cirrhosis may suffer acute deterioration; the syndrome of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) results in multisystem organ dysfunction and a marked increase in associated short-term morbidity and mortality. For patients on transplant waiting lists, the development of multisystem organ failure may eliminate candidacy for transplant by virtue of being "too sick" to safely undergo transplantation surgery. The goals of intensive care management of patients suffering ACLF are to rapidly recognize and treat inciting events (eg, infection and bleeding) and to aggressively support failing organ systems to ensure that patients may successfully undergo LT. Management of the critically ill ACLF patient awaiting transplantation is best accomplished by multidisciplinary teams with expertise in critical care and transplant medicine. Such teams are well suited to address the needs of this unique patient population and to identify patients who may be too ill to proceed to transplantation surgery. The focus of this review is to identify the common complications of ACLF and to describe our approach management in critically ill patients awaiting LT in our centers. Liver Transplantation 23 1465-1476 2017 AASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jody C Olson
- Divisions of Critical Care Medicine and Hepatology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - Constantine J Karvellas
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Division of Division of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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