Pulmonary aspiration syndromes:

Severe aspiration pneumonia in the elderly

The global population is aging at an unprecedented rate, resulting in a growing and vulnerable elderly population in need of efficient comprehensive healthcare services that include long-term care and skilled nursing facilities. In this context, severe aspiration pneumonia, a condition that carries substantial morbidity, mortality, and financial burden, especially among elderly patients requiring admission to the intensive care unit, has attracted greater concern. Aspiration pneumonia is defined as a pulmonary infection related to aspiration or dysphagia in etiology. Prior episodes of coughing on food or liquid intake, a history of relevant underlying conditions, abnormalities on videofluoroscopy or water swallowing, and gravity-dependent shadow distribution on chest imaging are among the clues that suggest aspiration. Patients with aspiration pneumonia tend to be elderly, frail, and suffering from more comorbidities than those without this condition. Here, we comprehensively address the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and prognosis of severe aspiration community-acquired pneumonia in the elderly to optimize care of this high-risk demographic, enhance outcomes, and minimize the healthcare costs associated with this illness. Emphasizing preventive measures and effective management strategies is vital in ensuring the well-being of our aging population.

Effects of Thickening Agents on the Mucociliary Transport Function: Comparison by the Type of Thickening Agents and the Viscosity of Thickened Water

Thickening agents effectively prevent liquid aspiration, but their impact on the ease of discharging aspirated liquids from the trachea remains unclear due to alterations in the physical properties of liquids. This study clarifies the effects of thickening agents, comprising various raw materials, on mucociliary transport function, focusing on the viscosities of thickened waters. The subjects were 23 healthy adults. Five types of saccharin solution were prepared: a solution without a thickening agent, a starch-based nectar-like solution, a starch-based honey-like solution, a xanthan-gum-based nectar-like solution, and a xanthan-gum-based honey-like solution. Using these five types of saccharin solutions randomly, each subject underwent five trials of the saccharine dye test to evaluate the mucociliary transport function of the respiratory tract. The saccharin time was defined as the time from the placement of the saccharin solution on the nasal vestibule of the subject to when the subject reported that they became aware of the sweetness. The saccharin transit times for all samples of thickened water were longer compared to those of water without a thickening agent (p < 0.01). A comparison between thickened water samples with different viscosities showed that the saccharin transit time was longer when thickened water samples with high viscosity were prepared using the same thickening agent (p < 0.01). This suggests that while thickening reduces aspiration, the use of thickening agents may increase the difficulty in discharging aspirated fluids from the trachea.

Medical comorbidities in patients with prolonged disorder of consciousness: A narrative review

BACKGROUND

A few studies specifically addressed medical comorbidities (MCs) in patients with severe acquired traumatic or non-traumatic brain injury and prolonged disorders of consciousness (pDoC; i.e., patients in vegetative state/unresponsive wakefulness syndrome, VS/UWS, or in minimally conscious state, MCS).

OBJECTIVE

To provide an overview on incidence of MCs in patients with pDoC.

METHODS

Narrative review on most impacting MCs in patients with pDoC, both those directly related to brain damage (epilepsy, neurosurgical complications, spasticity, paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity, PSH), and those related to severe disability and prolonged immobility (respiratory comorbidities, endocrine disorders, metabolic abnormalities, heterotopic ossifications).

RESULTS

Patients with pDoC are at high risk to develop at least one MC. Moderate or severe respiratory and musculoskeletal comorbidities are the most common MCs. Epilepsy and PSH seem to be more frequent in patients in VS/UWS compared to patients in MCS, likely because of higher severity in the brain damage in VS. Endocrine metabolic, PSH and respiratory complications are less frequent in traumatic etiology, whereas neurogenic heterotopic ossifications are more frequent in traumatic etiology. Spasticity did not significantly differ between VS/UWS and MCS and in the three etiologies. MCs are associated with higher mortality rates, worse clinical improvement and can impact accuracy in the clinical diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The frequent occurrence of several MCs requires a specialized rehabilitative setting with high level of multidisciplinary medical expertise to prevent, appropriately recognize and treat them. Comprehensive rehabilitation could avoid possible progression to more serious complications that can negatively impact clinical outcomes.

Change over time and agreement between clinical markers of disease resolution in dogs with aspiration-induced lung injury

BACKGROUND

There is a lack of consensus regarding which markers of disease resolution to prioritise when assessing treatment response in client-owned dogs with aspiration-induced lung injury. This study describes the change over time and the agreement between the clinical markers used to determine disease resolution.

METHODS

Physical examination (PE), owner-reported clinical signs (CS-O), thoracic radiographs (TXR) scores and C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations were determined at enrolment, after 24, 48 and 72 hours, and after 7, 14 and 28 days.

RESULTS

PE scores were significantly improved at 48 hours, while CRP initially increased (24 hours) and then decreased (48 hours). PE, CS-O and CRP significantly improved earlier (7 days) than TXR (14 days). The median number of days to marker normalisation was 7, 9 and 14 for PE, CRP and CS-O, respectively. Marker agreement was excellent/very good at enrolment and fair/poor during disease recovery.

LIMITATIONS

Analysis did not control for differences aetiology of aspiration or the lack of standardisation in treatment approach.

CONCLUSIONS

PE was the earliest and most consistent marker indicating disease resolution. Serial CRP monitoring (72 hours) may provide an objective marker of early treatment response. Alongside PE normalisation, improvement in CS-O, CRP and TRX may assist in determining disease resolution and guide treatments, including limiting antibiotic exposure in dogs with aspiration-induced lung injury.

Validity and reliability of the Italian translation of the Yale Pharyngeal Residue Severity Rating Scale

Objective

In the dysphagic patient, pharyngeal residues (PR) are associated with aspiration and poor quality of life. The assessment of PR using validated scales during flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) is crucial for rehabilitation. This study aims to validate and test the reliability of the Italian version of the Yale Pharyngeal Residue Severity Rating Scale (IT-YPRSRS). The effects of training and experience in FEES on the scale were also determined.

Methods

The original YPRSRS was translated into Italian according to standardised guidelines. Thirty FEES images were selected after consensus and proposed to 22 naive raters who were asked to assess the severity of PR in each image. Raters were divided into two subgroups by years of experience at FEES, and randomly by training. Construct validity, inter-rater, and intra-rater reliability were assessed by kappa statistics.

Results

IT-YPRSRS showed substantial to almost perfect agreement (kappa > 0.75) in validity and reliability for both the overall sample (660 ratings), and valleculae/pyriform sinus sites (330 ratings each). No significant differences emerged between groups considering years of experience, and variable differences were observed by training.

Conclusions

The IT-YPRSRS demonstrated excellent validity and reliability in identifying location and severity of PR.

Acute respiratory distress and amniotic fluid embolism in pregnancy

Respiratory failure in pregnant and postpartum women is uncommon, but it is one of the leading causes of maternal admission into the intensive care unit and is associated with high mortality. The underlying causes include sequelae of underlying medical conditions, such as congenital heart diseases, but it is more often related to acute respiratory distress syndrome from obstetric complications like pre-eclampsia, effect of treatment like tocolysis, coincidental to pregnancy like transfusion-related acute lung injury, and accidental like amniotic fluid embolism. The pathophysiological mechanisms involved in many of these conditions remain to be clearly established, but maternal inflammatory response and activation of the immune and complement systems appear to play leading roles. Prompt recognition of maternal respiratory distress and related manifestations and aggressive and adequate supportive treatment, especially cardiopulmonary resuscitation, ventilation, maintenance of circulation, and timely termination of the pregnancy, play key roles in achieving survival of both mother and foetus.

Incidence, clinical signs, and videofluoroscopic swallow study abnormalities associated with airway penetration and aspiration in 100 dogs

BACKGROUND

Videofluoroscopic swallow studies (VFSS) utilizing penetration-aspiration (P-A) scoring assesses airway protection in people. On VFSS, penetration (ingesta or secretions immediately cranial to the vocal folds) and aspiration (material caudal to the vocal folds) are associated with increased risk of lung injury in people. Penetration-aspiration (P-A) scoring has been validated in animal models, but the incidence of P-A, clinical signs (CS), and dysphagic disorders associated with P-A in dogs are unknown.

OBJECTIVES

Using VFSS, identify the incidence of P-A, compare CS between dogs with and without P-A, and identify predisposing dysphagic abnormalities for P-A.

ANIMALS

One hundred client-owned dogs.

METHODS

Sequential VFSS and associated medical records from dogs presenting to the veterinary teaching hospitals at Auburn University (n = 53) and the University of Missouri (n = 47) were retrospectively reviewed. Statistical comparisons were made using Mann-Whitney tests, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) on ranks, multiple linear regression, and Spearman rank order correlation (P < .05).

RESULTS

On VFSS, the incidence of pathologic P-A was 39%. No significant differences in CS were found between dogs with or without P-A (P > .05), with 14/39 dogs with P-A presenting without respiratory CS. Pharyngeal (P < .001) and esophageal (P = .009), but not oral-preparatory (P = .2) dysphagia was more common with P-A. Pharyngeal weakness (P < .001) and esophago-oropharyngeal reflux (EOR; P = .05) were independent predictors of P-A and were moderately and weakly positively correlated with P-A score respectively (P < .001, r = 0.489; P = .04, r = 0.201).

CONCLUSIONS

Penetration-aspiration occurs in dogs in the absence of respiratory CS (i.e., occult P-A). Dogs with pharyngeal weakness and EOR should be considered at risk for P-A.

Pneumonia, Aspiration Pneumonia, or Frailty-Associated Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is a common reason for admission afflicting frail older adults. Those who are the frailest are more likely to be provided with a diagnosis of aspiration pneumonia. This diagnosis has no clear definition and no clinical consensus. It is therefore time to stop attempting to differentiate between pneumonia type and use the term frailty-associated pneumonia.

Airway Management during Massive Gastric Regurgitation Using VieScope or Macintosh Laryngoscope-A Randomized, Controlled Simulation Trial

In this model of massive gastric aspiration, we compared two different laryngoscopes (VieScope and Macintosh) in a randomized, controlled simulation study. The primary endpoint was time to intubation; the secondary endpoints were intubation success (i.e., tracheal tube position) and amount of pulmonary aspiration. Thirty-four anesthetists performed endotracheal intubation using VieScope and Macintosh laryngoscopy in a randomized order on an airway manikin simulating massive regurgitation of gastric fluid. The primary endpoint “time until intubation” could be achieved significantly faster (mean −12.4 s [95% confidence intervals (CI) −19.7 s; −7.3 s]) with Macintosh compared to VieScope (p < 0.001). Concerning “correct tube position”, no statistical difference was found between the devices (p = 1.0). The mean time to first ventilation was −11.1 s [95% CI −18.3 s; −5.3 s] when using Macintosh (p = 0.001). The mean volume of aspirated gastric fluid was lower in the Macintosh group: −90.0 mL [95% CI −235.0 mL; −27.5 mL] (p = 0.011). Data from this simulation study suggest that in a model of massive gastric regurgitation, airway management can be achieved faster and with less gastric aspiration when using a Macintosh laryngoscope compared to a VieScope laryngoscope.

Evaluation of aerodigestive disease and diagnosis of sliding hiatal hernia in brachycephalic and nonbrachycephalic dogs

Background

Aerodigestive diseases (AeroD), hybrid disorders between the respiratory and gastrointestinal (GI) tracts, may present without GI signs. Sliding hiatal hernia (sHH) is an important AeroD in brachycephalic dogs linked to respiratory pathology. The spectrum of other AeroD and respiratory clinical signs (CS) in brachycephalic and nonbrachycephalic dogs with sHH is unknown.

Objectives

Characterize CS of AeroD in dogs with sHH, compare CS between brachycephalic and nonbrachycephalic dogs, and compare thoracic radiographs and videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS) for diagnosing sHH.

Animals

Sixty‐seven client‐owned dogs with sHH.

Methods

Medical records of dogs with sHH presented to the veterinary teaching hospitals at Auburn University and the University of Missouri between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Between group, comparisons were made using Mann‐Whitney test, Chi‐square analysis, and Spearman correlation (P < .05).

Results

Dogs with sHH presented with exclusively GI signs (28/67), mixed respiratory and GI signs (22/67), or with exclusively respiratory signs (17/67). Wheras brachycephalic dogs were not significantly more likely to present with respiratory CS (P = .145), they were younger (P < .001), and more likely to present in respiratory distress (P = .02), and with radiographic evidence of aspiration pneumonia (P < .001) compared to nonbrachycephalic dogs. Six of 12 dogs with normal thoracic radiographs having sHH presented with respiratory CS. For detection of sHH, VFSS was superior to radiographs (P < .001).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Dogs with sHH may present with exclusively respiratory signs. Respiratory signs may be more severe in brachycephalic compared to nonbrachycephalic dogs. Videofluoroscopic swallow study was superior to thoracic radiographs for detection of sHH in dogs.

Differential diagnosis of pneumonia as a complication of nasal liquorrhea in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: Case report

Nasal liquorrhea the outflow of cerebrospinal fluid from the cerebrospinal fluid spaces of the cranial cavity into the nasal cavity or paranasal sinuses due to the presence of a congenital or acquired defect in the bones of the skull base and meninges of various etiologies. Nasal liquorrhea leads to potentially fatal complications: meningitis, meningoencephalitis, pneumocephalus, brain abscess. Also, with nasal liquorrhea, less dangerous complications may occur: aspiration bronchopneumonia and gastritis. The article presents a case of aspiration pneumonia in two patients with nasal liquorrhea treated at the Burdenko National Medical Research Center for Neurosurgery during the COVID-19 pandemic. Both patients noted the profuse nature of the nasal liquorrhea, complained of coughing in a horizontal position. In both cases, no RNA virus (SARS-CoV-2) was detected during the polymerase chain reaction. Antibodies (IgG, M) to coronavirus were not detected. Computed tomography of the chest organs in both cases revealed areas of frosted glass darkening. Since no data was obtained for coronavirus infection (negative tests for coronavirus, lack of antibodies), changes in the lungs were interpreted as a consequence of constant aspiration of CSF. The patients were admitted to a separate ward. Both patients underwent endoscopic endonasal plasty of the skull base defect. The postoperative period in both cases was uneventful. In both cases, the patients underwent computer tomography scan of the chest organs one month later. On the photographs, the signs of pneumonia completely regressed.

Residue localization and risk for aspiration in partial laryngectomy: the relevance of assertive therapeutic strategies and resources

Objective:

To describe the correlation between the residues, their anatomical location and the presence of laryngotracheal penetration and aspiration in patients after supracricoid laryngectomy undergoing cricohyoidoepiglotopexy reconstruction.

Methods:

This study included 70 patients treated by supracricoid laryngectomy with cricohyoidoepiglotopexy reconstruction in a referral national cancer hospital. The patients were submitted to swallowing videofluoroscopy, and the findings were classified by the penetration and aspiration scale. The images were described observing the presence or absence of residues and their anatomical location.

Results:

The prevalence of penetration in this study was 68.6% and aspiration was 34.3%. An association was found between the presence of residue on the tongue (p=0.005), posterior pharyngeal wall (p=0.013), pyriform recesses (p=0.002), valecula (p=0.061), and laryngeal penetration. The residue in the upper esophageal sphincter (p=0.039) was associated with the occurrence of laryngotracheal aspiration.

Conclusion:

Patients undergoing supracricoid laryngectomy with cricohioidoepiglotopexy reconstruction have food residues in different anatomical regions after swallowing. Penetration was associated with the presence of residues on the base of the tongue and posterior pharyngeal wall. Aspiration was associated with the presence of residues in the upper esophageal sphincter.

Interstitial pneumonia and diffuse alveolar damage in domestic animals

Classification of pneumonia in animals has been controversial, and the most problematic pattern is interstitial pneumonia. This is true from the gross and histologic perspectives, and also from a mechanistic point of view. Multiple infectious and noninfectious diseases are associated with interstitial pneumonia, all of them converging in the release of inflammatory mediators that generate local damage and attract inflammatory cells that inevitably trigger a second wave of damage. Diffuse alveolar damage is one of the more frequently identified histologic types of interstitial pneumonia and involves injury to alveolar epithelial and/or endothelial cells, with 3 distinct stages. The first is the “exudative” stage, with alveolar edema and hyaline membranes. The second is the “proliferative” stage, with hyperplasia and reactive atypia of type II pneumocytes, infiltration of lymphocytes, plasma cells, and macrophages in the interstitium and early proliferation of fibroblasts. These stages are reversible and often nonfatal. If damage persists, there is a third “fibrosing” stage, characterized by fibrosis of the interstitium due to proliferation of fibroblasts/myofibroblasts, persistence of type II pneumocytes, segments of squamous metaplasia of alveolar epithelium, plus inflammation. Understanding the lesion patterns associated with interstitial pneumonias, their causes, and the underlying mechanisms aid in accurate diagnosis that involves an interdisciplinary collaborative approach involving pathologists, clinicians, and radiologists.

Oral health status of inpatients with varying physical activity limitations in rehabilitation wards: A cross-sectional study

Poor oral hygiene can be potentially life-threatening in inpatients. However, no basic protocol on oral hygiene customized for inpatients exists, and lack of oral care related knowledge, attitude, and skills among caregivers could be detrimental to the general health of patients. This study sought to identify the oral care practices and oral health status of inpatients with varying physical activity limitations in a rehabilitation ward.Sixty-one inpatients in a rehabilitation ward were evaluated for their medical and physical conditions and oral health status. These were assessed using the bedside oral exam, decayed, missing, filled teeth index, plaque index, gingival index, and caries activity test.In total, 40 men and 21 women (mean age, 56.6 years) were included in this study. Among them, 50.8% of the patients could brush their teeth unassisted, whereas 49.2% required assistance from an assistant for oral care. The proportion of patients receiving nasogastric tube feeding was higher in the group that could not provide oral self-care; 36.7% and 33.3% of these patients showed moderate and severe dysfunction, respectively, based on bedside oral exam. Scores for the swallowing, tongue, and total domains of bedside oral exam were poorer for patients who could not provide oral self-care (P < .01). The caries activity test indicated a moderate risk for both groups.Our findings suggest that an oral care protocol that considers the physical activity limitations in inpatients in rehabilitation wards is necessary to minimize negative influences on the systemic health of these patients.

[Management of Adult Community-Acquired Pneumonia and Prevention - Update 2021 - Guideline of the German Respiratory Society (DGP), the Paul-Ehrlich-Society for Chemotherapy (PEG), the German Society for Infectious Diseases (DGI), the German Society of Medical Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine (DGIIN), the German Viological Society (DGV), the Competence Network CAPNETZ, the German College of General Practitioneers and Family Physicians (DEGAM), the German Society for Geriatric Medicine (DGG), the German Palliative Society (DGP), the Austrian Society of Pneumology Society (ÖGP), the Austrian Society for Infectious and Tropical Diseases (ÖGIT), the Swiss Respiratory Society (SGP) and the Swiss Society for Infectious Diseases Society (SSI)]

The present guideline provides a new and updated concept of the management of adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia. It replaces the previous guideline dating from 2016.The guideline was worked out and agreed on following the standards of methodology of a S3-guideline. This includes a systematic literature search and grading, a structured discussion of recommendations supported by the literature as well as the declaration and assessment of potential conflicts of interests.The guideline has a focus on specific clinical circumstances, an update on severity assessment, and includes recommendations for an individualized selection of antimicrobial treatment.The recommendations aim at the same time at a structured assessment of risk for adverse outcome as well as an early determination of treatment goals in order to reduce mortality in patients with curative treatment goal and to provide palliation for patients with treatment restrictions.

[Intraoperative Aspiration]

术中误吸是外科手术中常见的肺部并发症，麻醉和体位是导致术中误吸的主要因素。近年来，围手术期肺保护已受到外科和麻醉医师的广泛关注，如何加速术后康复进程，减少相关并发症发生，显著改善患者预后已成为当前外科治疗的主要目标。本文将以术中误吸为重点，从解剖、病理生理、表现、诊断、处理和预防等方面展开综述。

Exploring the utility of fibreoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing in young children- A comparison with videofluoroscopy

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

In adults, fibreoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) has established its place in the assessment of dysphagia and aspiration vis-à-vis the current gold standard, videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS), almost at parity. However, in children with quite a different set of factors in play, its role is not certain. The primary objective was to measure the accuracy of FEES in young children with dysphagia, compared to VFSS. The secondary objective was to correlate other endoscopic findings with aspiration in videofluoroscopy.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, observational.

METHODOLOGY

Sixty-five children, aged 0.4-36 months with suspected oropharyngeal dysphagia and aspiration underwent FEES and VFSS. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, accuracy and diagnostic agreement of FEES were calculated using VFSS as the gold standard. To test the statistical significance of the difference in two measurements, Mc Nemar's Chi-square test was used and to test the agreement between FEES and VFSS, Kappa value was calculated. To test the statistical significance of the association of endoscopic findings with VFSS findings, Chi-square test was used.

RESULTS

FEES performed in young children was found to be less sensitive (50%) but more specific of aspiration (82%) with an accuracy of 77% in comparison with VFSS. The reverse was true of penetration (81%, 44% and 59% respectively). The agreement between FEES and VFSS in young children, on all parameters were low (k = 0.061-0.302). Endoscopic findings such as glottic secretions (P = 0.02), weak or diminished laryngeal adductor reflex (LAR) (P = 0.001) and penetration (P = 0.01) were significantly associated with aspiration in VFSS. Excessive secretions in the hypopharynx had a stronger correlation with oesophageal dysmotility (P = 0.02) than pharyngeal dysphagia (P = 0.05).

CONCLUSION

FEES in young children appears to have a low agreement with VFSS unlike in adults. Aspiration observed in FEES is likely to be significant since specificity is high. FEES negative for aspiration may be interpreted taking into account, the aspiration risk of the subject and/or other endoscopic risk factors (penetration, weak/absent LAR & glottic secretions), if VFSS is not a viable alternative.

Aerodigestive Disease in Dogs

Aerodigestive disorders (AeroDs) in people encompass a wide range of clinical syndromes, reflecting the complex relationship between the respiratory and digestive tracts. In veterinary medicine, aspiration is used interchangeably with aspiration pneumonia. Although aspiration pneumonia is a common disorder in dogs, it does not reflect the breadth of AeroDs. Unfortunately, AeroDs rarely are investigated in veterinary medicine because of lack of clinical recognition, limitations in available diagnostics, and the fact that AeroDs may be caused by occult digestive disease. Recognizing patients with AerodD represents an area of significant clinical importance that may provide additional areas of clinical intervention.

Gastric Flora in Gastrostomy Fed Children with Neurological Impairment on Antacid Medication

This prospective cohort study aimed to: (1) describe types, concentrations and sensitivity profiles of bacteria found in gastric aspirates of neurologically impaired children; (2) compare flora between outpatients and those admitted with aspiration pneumonia; and (3) examine predictors of bacterial colonization. Gastric aspirates from gastrostomy fed, neurologically impaired children on antacid medication were measured for pH and sent for microbiological testing. The outpatient arm included 26 children at their baseline; the inpatient arm included 31 children with a clinical diagnosis of aspiration pneumonia. Descriptive statistics summarized the ecology and resistance patterns of microbial flora. Predictors of total bacterial colonization were explored with linear regression. High concentrations of potentially pathogenic fecal-type bacteria were detected in 50/57 (88%) gastric aspirates. pH was found to be the only predictor of bacterial growth; children with gastric pH ≥ 4 had significantly higher concentrations of aerobic growth, while those with no bacterial growth had a pH < 4. Further studies to evaluate optimal gastric pH, the role of gastric bacteria in causing aspiration pneumonia, and the optimal empiric therapy for aspiration pneumonia are recommended.

Is α-Amylase an Important Biomarker to Detect Aspiration of Oral Secretions in Ventilated Patients?

Alpha-amylase has emerged as a biomarker of interest in detecting aspiration of oral secretions. In several studies, most ventilated patients have α-amylase values detected in pulmonary secretions. Values of α-amylase are high (as expected) in oral secretions and lowest in bronchoalveolar lavage samples. Around 5-7% of oral α-amylase is detectable in tracheal secretions. Once secretions are aspirated, the duration of detection of α-amylase in pulmonary secretions is unknown. Evidence varies on the relationship between α-amylase and clinical outcomes. Although detection of α-amylase in pulmonary secretions is useful to identify that aspiration has occurred, the lack of standardized reference values, the lack of knowledge regarding duration of detection following aspiration, and mixed findings related to clinical outcomes, limit its usefulness as a measurement tool. If α-amylase is to be used in research and/or clinical practice, additional data are needed to assist in interpretation and application of findings.

Effect of Oral Glucose Water Administration 1 Hour Preoperatively in Children with Cyanotic Congenital Heart Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Guidelines recommend a clear liquid fasting time of 2 h before surgery, which is often exceeded, leading to adverse reactions (ARs) such as discomfort, thirst, and dehydration. We assessed the gastric contents and ARs after oral glucose water administration 1 h prior to surgery in children with cyanotic congenital heart disease (CCHD).

Material/Methods

This was a non-inferiority randomized controlled trial of children with CCHD enrolled at the Fujian Medical University Union Hospital from 09/2014 to 05/2017 and randomized to receive oral glucose water (10 g of glucose in 100 ml of warm water, 5 ml/kg) 2 h (2-h group, n=174) or 1 h (1-h group, n=170) before surgery. The primary endpoint was gastric volume. Secondary endpoints included pH of gastric content, preoperative blood glucose, and risk factors for aspiration pneumonia. Pre- and intraoperative ARs were recorded.

Results

The 1-h group showed smaller gastric content volumes (0.34±0.35 (95% CI: 0.29–0.39) vs. 0.43±0.33 (95% CI: 0.38–0.48) ml/kg, t=2.55, P<0.05) and higher blood glucose (6.21±0.78 (95% CI: 6.09–6.33) vs. 5.59±1.11 (95% CI: 5.43–5.76) mmol/L, t=−5.91, P<0.001). The 95% confidence interval of the volume difference between the 2 groups was 0.017–0.163, the upper limit value was 0.163 <δ=0.2 (P<0.01). The non-inferiority hypothesis was correct. The 1-h group showed lower incidence of crying, thirst and hypoxia (all P<0.05 vs. 2-h group). There were no differences in ARs between the 2 groups.

Conclusions

A 1-h fast prior to surgery was not inferior to a 2-h fast in terms of gastric residuals and ARs in pediatric patients with CCHD.

Clinical trial registration: http://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojen.aspx?proj=9563

Registration number: ChiCTR-IPR-14005270

Long-Term Radiologic Evaluation of Microaspirations among Patients after Esophagectomy

OBJECTIVES

Aspirations are common after esophagectomy. Data are lacking regarding its long-term radiological manifestations. The purpose of this study is to determine the incidence and radiological patterns of aspirations among long-term survivors and evaluate their clinical significance.

METHODS

The records of all patients who underwent esophagectomy between October 2003 and December 2011 and survived more than 3 years were reviewed. Preoperative, first routine postoperative, and latest chest computed tomography (CT)scans were reviewed. Imaging studies were reviewed for radiological signs suspicious of aspirations, conduit location, anastomotic site, and maximal intrathoracic diameter. Data regarding patients' complaints during clinic visits were also collected.

RESULTS

A total of 578 patients underwent esophagectomy during the study period. One-hundred twenty patients met the inclusion criteria. Median follow-up was 83.5 months. Cervical and intrathoracic anastomoses were performed in 103 and 17 patients, respectively. A higher rate of CT findings was found in postoperative imaging (n = 51 [42.5%] vs. n = 13 [10.8%] respectively, p < 0.05). Most of these were found in the lower lobes (61%). A higher rate of lesions was found among patients in whom the conduit was bulging to the right hemithorax compared with totally mediastinal or completely in the right hemithorax (54.5 vs. 35.2% and 34.6%, respectively, p < 0.05). No correlation was found with conduit diameter or anastomotic site. These lesions were more prevalent among patients who complained of reflux or cough during meals (NS).

CONCLUSIONS

A significantly higher rate of new CT findings was found in postoperative imaging of this post-esophagectomy cohort, suggesting a high incidence of aspirations. The locations of the conduit, rather than anastomosis site, seem to play a role in the development of these findings. Further research is needed to evaluate the clinical significance of these findings.

Chronic Aspiration Pneumonitis Caused by Spontaneous Cerebrospinal Fluid Fistulae of the Skull Base

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks of the skull base are associated with obesity, multiparity, and elevated intracranial pressure. Although spontaneous CSF leaks often present with rhinorrhea, they can be an underdiagnosed cause of chronic aspiration pneumonitis, a complication that has not been previously reported in detail.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed all patients undergoing surgical repair of CSF fistulae at the University of Southern California between 2011 and 2018 to identify those presenting with pulmonary symptoms including dyspnea, aspiration, chronic cough, and shortness of breath caused by chronic noniatrogenic CSF pneumonitis.

RESULTS

Symptomatic chronic pneumonitis was evident in six of 20 patients with spontaneous CSF rhinorrhea. Five women (mean body mass index = 36) had CSF leaks arising from the fovea ethmoidalis (n = 4) and lateral sphenoid region (n = 1). One man had a middle fossa floor dehiscence draining through the eustachian tube. All patients had bilateral ground-glass opacities in their lungs on computed tomography imaging that were attributed to spontaneous CSF fistulae arising from noniatrogenic skull base defects, and one patient underwent a biopsy of a lung lesion at another hospital showing chronic bronchiolitis and adjacent peribronchiolar metaplasia. Five patients underwent endoscopic endonasal repair using an autologous fascial graft and pedicled nasoseptal flap, and one underwent craniotomy for repair. All patients underwent successful repair with no complications or evidence of recurrence. Upon repair of the spontaneous CSF leaks, both pneumonitis symptoms and ground-glass opacities on imaging resolved in all six cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Skull base CSF fistulae should be considered as a reversible cause of chronic pneumonitis that is not alleviated or worsens with standard treatment.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 131:462-466, 2021.

Pulmonary manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux disease

INTRODUCTION

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a widespread condition with a significant impact on the quality of life and healthcare resources. In addition to its gastrointestinal problems, GERD has been linked to a variety of respiratory diseases either as a direct cause, or as a risk factor to the inability to control or worsening of the disease.

AREAS COVERED

We performed a literature search in the PubMed database for articles addressing GERD and pulmonary diseases. This review will discuss several different pulmonary diseases affected by GERD ranging from upper airway including chronic cough, vocal cord dysfunction, lower airway diseases including COPD, asthma, and bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome to parenchymal diseases such as interstitial lung diseases. The review will discuss several different pulmonary manifestations of GERD and their contribution to patient mortality and morbidity. It will also review the mechanisms leading to these diseases, diagnostic workup, and the role of the available treatment options.

EXPERT OPINION

GERD is often overlooked as a cause of respiratory symptoms and illnesses. The literature is sparse on the relation between GERD and respiratory diseases such as interstitial lung diseases and bronchiolitis obliterans including its role in pathogenesis, mechanisms of lung injury, and whether treatment of GERD is effective in managing such illnesses.

Nursing Home-Associated Pneumonia, Part II: Etiology and Treatment

This is the second of 2 parts of a narrative review of nursing home-associated pneumonia (NHAP) that deals with etiology and treatment in the nursing home. In the 1980s and 1990s, the etiology of NHAP was considered to be similar to community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). This belief was reflected in CAP guidelines until 2005 when the designation healthcare-associated pneumonia or HCAP was introduced and nursing home residents were included in the HCAP category. Patients in the HCAP group were thought to be at high risk for pneumonia because of multidrug resistant organisms and required empiric broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy much like people with hospital-acquired infection. Subsequent studies of the etiology of NHAP using sophisticated diagnostic testing found limited evidence of resistant organisms such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or resistant gram-negative organisms or atypical organisms. In terms of management of NHAP in the nursing home there are several considerations that are discussed: hospitalization decision, initial oral or parenteral therapy, timing of switch to an oral regimen if parenteral therapy is initially prescribed, duration of therapy with an emphasis on shorter courses, and follow-up during therapy including the use of the "antibiotic time out" protocol. The oral and parenteral antibiotic regimens recommended for treatment of NHAP in this report are based on limited information because there are no randomized controlled trials to define the optimum regimen. In conclusion, most residents with pneumonia can be treated successfully in the nursing home. However, there is an urgent need for a specific NHAP diagnosis and treatment guideline that will give providers guidance in the management of this infection in the nursing home.

Communicative and swallowing disorders in anoxic patients: A retrospective study on clinical outcomes and performance measures

BACKGROUND

Anoxic brain injury (ABI) is a neurological condition associated to a severe deterioration of brain functioning, whose symptomatology and clinical outcomes may be heterogeneous: cognitive deficits, language disorders like dysarthria and swallowing impairments. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of information on the rehabilitation outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To confirm the occurrence of communication and swallowing deficits in 37 ABI patients and to examine whether intensive rehabilitation may contribute to any improvements and its relation to ABI severity and functional autonomy.

METHODS

37 patients, hospitalized at IRCCS San Camillo Hospital from 2011 to 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. All patients completed a functional evaluation and a language and swallowing assessment, within one week from hospital admission (T0). The assessment was repeated after an intensive rehabilitation treatment (T1).

RESULTS

Results show that dysphagia is a frequent and severe outcome in anoxic patients, whereas communication disorders (aphasia and dysarthria) are less severe. Moreover, ABI patients seem to be positively sensitive to an intensive rehabilitation program.

CONCLUSIONS

An early multidisciplinary management of communicative-linguistic and swallowing functions is crucial in order to prevent adverse events and to plan a tailored rehabilitation pathway.

Impact of deep oropharyngeal suctioning on microaspiration, ventilator events, and clinical outcomes: A randomized clinical trial

AIMS

To evaluate a deep oropharyngeal suction intervention (NO-ASPIRATE) in intubated patients on microaspiration, ventilator-associated events and clinical outcomes.

DESIGN

Prospective, two-group, single-blind, randomized clinical trial.

METHODS

The study was conducted between 2014 - 2017 in 513 participants enroled within 24 hr of intubation and randomized into NO-ASPIRATE or usual care groups. Standard oral care was provided to all participants every 4 hr and deep oropharyngeal suctioning was added to the NO-ASPIRATE group. Oral and tracheal specimens were obtained to quantify α-amylase as an aspiration biomarker.

RESULTS

Data were analysed for 410 study completers enrolled at least 36 hr: NO-ASPIRATE (N = 206) and usual care (N = 204). Percent of tracheal specimens positive for α-amylase, mean tracheal α-amylase levels over time and ventilator-associated events were not different between groups. The NO-ASPIRATE group had a shorter hospital length of stay and a subgroup with moderate aspiration at baseline had significantly lower α-amylase levels across time.

CONCLUSION

Hospital length of stay was shorter in the NO-ASPIRATE group and a subgroup of intervention participants had lower α-amylase across time. Delivery of standardized oral care to all participants may have been an intervention itself and possibly associated with the lack of significant findings for most outcomes.

IMPACT

This trial compared usual care to oral care with a deep suctioning intervention on microaspiration and ventilator-associated events, as this has not been systematically studied. Further research on the usefulness of α-amylase as an aspiration biomarker and the role of oral suctioning, especially for certain populations, is indicated.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02284178.

New perspectives in aspiration community acquired Pneumonia

Introduction: Aspiration pneumonia is a subclass of community-acquired pneumonia that is expected to have an increasing contribution in mortality and morbidity, particularly in the elderly population over the next coming decades. While studies have revealed significant progress in identifying risk factors for aspiration pneumonia, the clinical presentation and diagnosis remain challenging to healthcare providers. Areas covered: We conducted a broad literature review using the MeSH heading in PubMed/MEDLINE of 'aspiration pneumonia' from January 1970 to July 2019. The understanding of the microbiology of aspiration pneumonia has evolved from a possible shift in the causative organisms away from anaerobes to traditional community-acquired pneumonia organisms. The importance of this shift is not yet known, but it has questioned the pathogenic role of anaerobes, appropriate anaerobic testing and the role of these pathogens in the pulmonary microbiome in patients with pneumonia. The identification of risk factors led to strategies to prevent or minimize the risk of aspiration pneumonia with moderate success. Expert opinion: Our expert opinion is that further research is needed to determine the role of the microbiome with aspiration pneumonia and patient risk factors. There is also a great need to develop clinical tools to help providers diagnose, treat, and prevent aspiration pneumonia.

Early Assessment and Management of Dysphagia After Lung Resection: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Aspiration resulting from oropharyngeal dysphagia has been recognized as a serious complication after lung resection. The primary aim of this study was to determine whether early detection of postoperative dysphagia would reduce pneumonia among these patients. The median length of hospital stay was assessed.

METHODS

In this single-center, randomized controlled trial, the experimental group underwent clinical assessment of dysphagia before the initiation of oral intake after surgery. Therapeutic interventions were implemented immediately for patients diagnosed with dysphagia. The risk of pneumonia and the median length of hospital stay were compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Between February 2014 and May 2016, 438 patients were randomized. Complete data from all randomized patients were analyzed. Eight cases out of 219 (3.7%) with postoperative dysphagia were detected in the experimental group. Pneumonia occurred in 14 cases out of 219 (6.4 %) in the experimental group and in 27 cases out of 219 (12.3 %) in the control group. The resulting risk reduction for pneumonia was 5.9% in the experimental group (95% confidence interval, 0.44-11.56; P = .033). The median length of hospital stay was 6 (5-8 [25th-75th percentile]) days in the experimental group and 7 (5-10 [25th-75th percentile]) days in the control group (P = .083).

CONCLUSIONS

Early detection of postoperative dysphagia can significantly decrease the risk of postoperative pneumonia in patients undergoing lung resection.

Nursing Home-Associated Pneumonia, Part I: Diagnosis

Pneumonia is 1 of the 3 most common infections identified in nursing home residents and is associated with the highest mortality of any infection in this setting. In regard to pneumonia in the nursing home setting, practitioners are focused primarily on identifying residents with this infection and choosing a treatment regimen. In this article, the diagnosis of this infection is addressed. Based on published studies and clinical experience, "bedside criteria" for the diagnosis of nursing home-associated pneumonia (NHAP) are proposed that are based primarily on objective respiratory signs and symptoms that can be readily identified by staff. It is also stressed that factors predisposing to aspiration should be identified because there is a risk for aspiration pneumonitis. A previously published decision tool to distinguish between aspiration pneumonia and aspiration pneumonitis is discussed. Because providers are often not present when there is a change in status of a resident, nursing staff are crucial to the diagnosis of NHAP. However, there is variability in staff experience and the ability to obtain and communicate clinical findings to assist providers in making decisions about diagnosis. To deal with this issue, templates have been developed to help staff collect the appropriate information before contacting the provider. The most important diagnostic test in a resident with suspected pneumonia is a chest radiograph. However, studies done more than a decade ago demonstrated considerable variability in radiologists' interpretation of chest radiographs of residents performed in the nursing home. Radiologic techniques have improved considerably with utilization of digital technology, but there have been no recent studies to determine if interpretation of these radiographs is more consistent. An alternative to radiographs is lung ultrasonography, which has been found to be more accurate than chest radiographs in identifying pneumonia in adults; however, this method has not been studied in the nursing home setting. Host biomarkers such as serum C-reactive protein and procalcitonin levels have been studied in adults with pneumonia to distinguish between bacterial and nonbacterial infection, but there has been limited study in NHAP and the findings are conflicting. Lastly, it is stressed that the provider should carefully document the clinical findings and testing that result in a diagnosis of pneumonia to enhance surveillance for infection as well as antimicrobial stewardship activities.

Nursing oral suction intervention to reduce aspiration and ventilator events (NO-ASPIRATE): A randomized clinical trial

AIM

The primary aim of this study is to compare an oropharyngeal suction intervention versus usual care on microaspiration in intubated patients. Secondary aims are to evaluate the intervention on ventilator-associated condition rates, time to occurrence and compare tracheal-oral α-amylase ratios between groups.

DESIGN

Prospective randomized clinical trial.

METHODS

The study received funding from the National Institutes of Health in February 2014 and Institutional Review Board approval in July 2013. Over 4 years, a convenience sample of 600 orally intubated, ventilated adult patients will be enrolled within 24 hr of intubation. The target sample is 400 participants randomized to the two groups. The intervention involves enhanced suctioning of the mouth and oropharynx every 4 hr, while the usual care group receives a sham suctioning. The research team will deliver usual oral care to all patients every 4 hr and collect oral and tracheal specimens every 12 hr, to quantify α-amylase levels to detect aspiration of oral secretions. Study completers must be enrolled at least 36 hr (baseline and three paired samples). Outcomes include α-amylase levels, percent of positive specimens, ventilator-associated conditions, length of stay, ventilator hours, and discharge disposition.

DISCUSSION

Enrolment has closed, and data analysis has begun. Subgroup analyses emerged, contributing to future research knowledge.

IMPACT

Standardized interventions have reduced but do not address all risk factors associated with ventilator-associated conditions. This study provides the potential to reduce microaspiration and associated sequelae in critically ill, intubated patients.

Risk factors and prognostic implications of aspiration pneumonia in older hip fracture patients: A multicenter retrospective analysis

AIM

The present study aimed to investigate the risk factors and prognostic implications of aspiration pneumonia in older hip fracture patients.

METHODS

A total of 394 female and 125 male hip fracture patients aged ≥60 years who underwent surgery between 2015 and 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. To identify risk factors of aspiration pneumonia, demographic factors, the American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, past medical history, known risk factors of aspiration and factors associated with surgery were compared between the aspiration pneumonia group and the control group. Regression analysis was also carried out. To assess the prognostic implications of aspiration pneumonia, hospital stay, frequency of the intensive care unit admission and in-hospital mortality rates were compared between groups.

RESULTS

Aspiration pneumonia was diagnosed in 8.8% of the hip fracture patients. Increased age, low body mass index, malnutrition, longer duration of surgery and delayed surgery were identified as risk factors of aspiration pneumonia. Regarding prognostic implications, hospital stay, the frequency of intensive care unit care and in-hospital mortality rates were significantly higher in the aspiration pneumonia group (P < 0.001, <0.001 and 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Older hip fracture patients with aspiration pneumonia showed worse prognostic outcome compared with patients without aspiration pneumonia. Longer duration of surgery and delayed surgery, as well as patient characteristics including increased age, low body mass index and malnutrition were identified as risk factors for aspiration pneumonia. Therefore, surgeons should try to reduce the operation time and the time interval between injury and surgery when treating older patients for hip fractures. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 119-123.

Causative treatment of acid aspiration induced acute lung injury - Recent trends from animal experiments and critical perspective

Aspiration of low-pH gastric fluid leads to an initial pneumonitis, which may become complicated by subsequent pneumonia or acute respiratory distress syndrome. Current treatment is at best supportive, but there is growing experimental evidence on the significant contribution of both neutrophils and platelets in the development of this inflammatory pulmonary reaction, a condition that can be attenuated by several medicinal products. This review aims to summarize novel findings in experimental models on pathomechanisms after an acid-aspiration event. Given the clinical relevance, specific emphasis is put on deduced potential experimental therapeutic approaches, which make use of the characteristic alteration of microcirculation in the injured lung.

Project SITUP: An Interdisciplinary Quality Improvement Initiative to Reduce Aspiration Pneumonia

The purpose of this quality improvement initiative was to improve oropharyngeal dysphagia screening and reduce aspiration pneumonia rates on 3 inpatient hospital medical units. Guided by a Plan-Do-Study-Act methodology, an interdisciplinary health team developed and implemented a systematic process for oropharyngeal dysphagia screening and management. As a result, use of the screening protocol increased, timely initiation of speech language pathology consultations increased, and aspiration pneumonia rates decreased.

Coordination of Pharyngeal and Laryngeal Swallowing Events During Single Liquid Swallows After Oral Endotracheal Intubation for Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

To evaluate timing and duration differences in airway protection and esophageal opening after oral intubation and mechanical ventilation for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) survivors versus age-matched healthy volunteers. Orally intubated adult (≥ 18 years old) patients receiving mechanical ventilation for ARDS were evaluated for swallowing impairments via a videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS) during usual care. Exclusion criteria were tracheostomy, neurological impairment, and head and neck cancer. Previously recruited healthy volunteers (n = 56) served as age-matched controls. All subjects were evaluated using 5-ml thin liquid barium boluses. VFSS recordings were reviewed frame-by-frame for the onsets of 9 pharyngeal and laryngeal events during swallowing. Eleven patients met inclusion criteria, with a median (interquartile range [IQR]) intubation duration of 14 (9, 16) days, and VFSSs completed a median of 5 (4, 13) days post-extubation. After arrival of the bolus in the pharynx, ARDS patients achieved maximum laryngeal closure a median (IQR) of 184 (158, 351) ms later than age-matched, healthy volunteers (p < 0.001) and it took longer to achieve laryngeal closure with a median (IQR) difference of 151 (103, 217) ms (p < 0.001), although there was no significant difference in duration of laryngeal closure. Pharyngoesophageal segment opening was a median (IQR) of - 116 (- 183, 1) ms (p = 0.004) shorter than in age-matched, healthy controls. Evaluation of swallowing physiology after oral endotracheal intubation in ARDS patients demonstrates slowed pharyngeal and laryngeal swallowing timing, suggesting swallow-related muscle weakness. These findings may highlight specific areas for further evaluation and potential therapeutic intervention to reduce post-extubation aspiration.

International consensus (ICON) on assessment of oropharyngeal dysphagia

OBJECTIVE

To present international recommendations regarding the proper evaluation of oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD), both objectively and subjectively (self-evaluation).

METHODS

Following a thorough review of the literature, 5 experts in the field from 4 different continents answered separately a questionnaire regarding the work-up of OD. Individual answers were presented and discussed during the world ENT conference that was held in Paris in June 2017. This article will present the recommendations issued from that meeting.

RESULTS

For the initial objective assessment of OD, it is recommended to perform either a functional endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) or a videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS). FEES is the more popular investigation given its increased ease of use and accessibility. When evaluating for the presence of aspiration during the objective evaluation of OD, it is recommended to perform either a FEES or a VFSS. In this case, FEES is the favored investigation given its likely increased sensitivity. In order to highlight the presence of oropharyngeal food residue following the deglutition process, it is recommended to perform either a FEES or a VFSS; FEES likely being the more sensitive investigation while VFSS allows a better quantification of the amount of pharyngeal residue. Is it also recommended to objectify the quality of the deglutition process by means of a score during the objective evaluation of OD. Finally, it is recommended to utilize a self-evaluation questionnaire during research studies exploring the deglutition process.

Gastric Aspiration and Its Role in Airway Inflammation

Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux (GOR) has been associated with chronic airway diseases while the passage of foreign matter into airways and lungs through aspiration has the potential to initiate a wide spectrum of pulmonary disorders. The clinical syndrome resulting from such aspiration will depend both on the quantity and nature of the aspirate as well as the individual host response. Aspiration of gastric fluids may cause damage to airway epithelium, not only because acidity is toxic to bronchial epithelial cells but also due to the effect of digestive enzymes such as pepsin and bile salts. Experimental models have shown that direct instillation of these factors to airways epithelia cause damage with a consequential inflammatory response. The pathophysiology of these responses is gradually being dissected, with better understanding of acute gastric aspiration injury, a major cause of acute lung injury, providing opportunities for therapeutic intervention and potentially, ultimately, improved understanding of the chronic airway response to aspiration. Ultimately, clarification of the inflammatory pathways which are related to micro-aspiration via pepsin and bile acid salts may eventually progress to pharmacological intervention and surgical studies to assess the clinical benefits of such therapies in driving symptom improvement or reducing disease progression.

The Correlation Between Clinical Characteristics and Radionuclide Salivagram Findings in Patients With Brain Lesions: A Preliminary Study

Objective

To evaluate the correlation between radionuclide salivagram findings and clinical characteristics in dysphagic patients with brain lesions.

Methods

The medical records of 35 dysphagic patients with brain lesions who simultaneously underwent both a videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) and radionuclide salivagram were analyzed retrospectively. The subjects were divided into two groups according to the presence of aspiration on a salivagram (group A, patients with aspiration on the salivagram; group B, patients with no aspiration on the salivagram). The differences between clinical characteristics and VFSS findings (penetration-aspiration scale [PAS]) between the two groups were analyzed.

Results

Eleven out of 35 patients displayed salivary aspiration on the radionuclide salivagram. There were no significant differences between the two groups according to age, sex, disease duration, PAS on VFSS and feeding methods (p≥0.05). The incidence of aspiration pneumonia was significantly higher in group A. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis with forward stepwise method, the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score was the only significant parameter in predicting positive findings in salivagrams (odds ratio=0.760; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.625–0.923; p=0.006). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of the MMSE score for positive detection in salivagrams was 0.855 (95% CI, 0.689–0.953; p<0.0001). The optimal cut-off value was 7 for the MMSE score (sensitivity 72.73%, specificity 100%).

Conclusion

In patients with brain lesions who complain of dysphagia, the MMSE score was correlated with salivary aspiration. If patients present with a score of 7 or less on the MMSE, performing a radionuclide salivagram may helpful for early detection of patients at high risk of aspiration pneumonia induced from salivary aspiration.

Diagnosis and treatment of community-acquired pneumonia in adults: 2016 clinical practice guidelines by the Chinese Thoracic Society, Chinese Medical Association

Community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) in adults is an infectious disease with high morbidity in China and the rest of the world. With the changing pattern in the etiological profile of CAP and advances in medical techniques in diagnosis and treatment over time, Chinese Thoracic Society of Chinese Medical Association updated its CAP guideline in 2016 to address the standard management of CAP in Chinese adults. Extensive and comprehensive literature search was made to collect the data and evidence for experts to review and evaluate the level of evidence. Corresponding recommendations are provided appropriately based on the level of evidence. This updated guideline covers comprehensive topics on CAP, including aetiology, antimicrobial resistance profile, diagnosis, empirical and targeted treatments, adjunctive and supportive therapies, as well as prophylaxis. The recommendations may help clinicians manage CAP patients more effectively and efficiently. CAP in pediatric patients and immunocompromised adults is beyond the scope of this guideline. This guideline is only applicable for the immunocompetent CAP patients aged 18 years and older. The recommendations on selection of antimicrobial agents and the dosing regimens are not mandatory. The clinicians are recommended to prescribe and adjust antimicrobial therapies primarily based on their local etiological profile and results of susceptibility testing, with reference to this guideline.

Risk factors of aspiration pneumonia related to improper oral hygiene behavior in community dysphagia persons with nasogastric tube feeding

Background/purpose

Aspiration pneumonia (AsP) was reported to be closely related to poor oral hygiene. This study aimed to investigate the association between caregivers' oral hygiene behavior with AsP in the community dysphagia persons with nasogastric tube feeding (DPNgTF).

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 128 DPNgTF and their corresponding caregivers. A self-reported structuralized questionnaire was used to measure the oral care behavior of caregivers. All data analyses were performed using the SPSS. The Chi-square was used for comparison of nonparametric data. Fisher's exact test was used when the expected frequency of any cell in the table was less than five. A p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Fifty-five DPNgTF had developed AsP (43.0%) and they had statistically significantly halitosis (adjusted OR = 4.46; 95%CI = 2.01–9.93), deposition of oropharyngeal secretion (OR = 4.39; 95%CI = 1.99–9.66), dry mouth (OR = 4.23; 95%CI = 1.81–9.85) and closing mouth and not allow to brush (adjusted OR = 2.83; 95%CI = 1.28–6.27). The poor oral hygiene status of DPNgTF was significantly correlated with the occurrence of AsP. The caregivers' oral care to DPNgTF after getting up (OR = 14.09; 95%CI = 2.92–68.08) and using sponge stick to care (OR = 3.29; 95%CI = 1.26–8.55) were the risk factors of AsP.

Conclusion

The implemented oral care after getting up only, using sponge stick has a higher risk compared to the implemented oral care prior to sleeping, using toothbrush. The importance of implementing oral care prior to sleeping by using toothbrush should be reinforced in DPNgTF. Guidelines of oral care and education courses for caregivers during the process in their career training are needed.

Time trends in incidence and outcomes of hospitalizations for aspiration pneumonia among elderly people in Spain (2003-2013)

BACKGROUND

Aspiration pneumonia (AP) is an infectious process causing high rates of mortality. The purpose of this study was: 1, to describe the incidence from 2003 to 2013 of AP hospitalizations; 2, to assess time trends in hospital outcomes variables, and; 3, to identify the factors independently associated with in-hospital mortality (IHM).

METHODS

A retrospective observational study using the Spanish National Hospital Database, with patients discharged between January 2003 and December 2013 was conducted. Inclusion criteria were: Subjects aged 75years or older whose medical diagnosis included AP events code according to the ICD-9-CM: 507.x in the primary diagnosis field. Patient variables, up to 14 discharge diagnoses per patient, and up to 20 procedures performed during the hospital stay (ICD-9-CM), Charlson Comorbidity Index, readmission, length of hospital stay (LOHS), and IHM were analyzed.

RESULTS

We included 111,319 admissions (53.13% women). LOHS decreased in both sexes (P<0.001) and was significantly higher in men (10.4±10.31 vs. 9.56±10.02days). Readmissions increased significantly in women during the study (13.94% in 2003 to 16.41% in 2013, P<0.001). In both sex, IHM was significantly higher in >94years old subjects (OR: 1.43, 95%CI 1.36-1.51) and in those with readmissions (OR: 1.20, 95%CI 1.15-1.23). For the entire population, time trend analyses showed a significant decrease in mortality from 2003 to 2013 (OR: 0.96, 95%CI 0.95-0.97).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with AP are older, male, and have more comorbidities than those without AP. Over time, LOHS and IHM decreased in both sexes, but readmissions increased significantly in women.

Identifying the Risk of Swallowing-Related Pulmonary Complications in Older Patients With Hip Fracture

To identify and potentially modify the risk of pulmonary complications in a group of older patients with hip fracture, the authors obtained speech and language pathology consultations for these patients. Then they performed a retrospective chart review of all patients 65 years and older who were admitted to their institution between June 2011 and July 2013 with acute hip fracture, were treated surgically, and had a speech and language pathology evaluation in the immediate perioperative period. The authors identified 52 patients who met the study criteria. According to the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification system, at the time of surgery, 1 patient (2%) was classified as ASA I, 12 patients (23%) were ASA II, 26 (50%) were ASA III, and 12 (23%) were ASA IV. Based on a speech and language pathology evaluation, 22 patients (42%) were diagnosed with dysphagia. Statistical analysis showed that ASA III status and ASA IV status were meaningful predictors of dysphagia and that dysphagia itself was a strong risk factor for pulmonary aspiration, pneumonia, and aspiration pneumonitis. Evaluation by a speech and language pathologist, particularly of patients classified as ASA III or ASA IV, may be an efficient means of averting pulmonary morbidity that is common in older patients with hip fracture.