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Rahim Y, Reddy R, Naeem M, Tsaknis G. Medical thoracoscopy with talc pleurodesis for refractory hepatic hydrothorax: A case series of three successes. Respir Med Case Rep 2024; 50:102039. [PMID: 38817846 PMCID: PMC11137508 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmcr.2024.102039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Medical thoracoscopy with chemical pleurodesis is a last resort for managing patients who suffer. from recurrent hepatic hydrothorax. However, despite pleurodesis, the rapid fluid build-up can hinder the successful apposition of the pleural surfaces. To improve the chances of success, we investigated the effectiveness of abdominal paracentesis before chemical pleurodesis via medical thoracoscopy to reduce significant fluid shifts from the peritoneal to the pleural cavity. We present a series of three patients with liver cirrhosis complicated by hepatic hydrothorax who underwent medical thoracoscopy with talc pleurodesis. Before the procedure, we optimised medical treatment, and if needed, we performed large-volume paracentesis to prevent rapid reaccumulation of pleural fluid. All study subjects achieved treatment success, defined as relief of breathlessness and absence of pleural effusion at 12 months. Complications related to the treatment included hepatic encephalopathy and acute kidney injury, which were managed conservatively. To manage symptomatic and recurrent hepatic hydrothorax, medical thoracoscopy with talc pleurodesis, preceded by the evacuation of ascites, can be considered as a treatment option. This procedure should be considered early for those who do not respond to medical management and are not suitable candidates for TIPS or liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y. Rahim
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Kettering General Hospital, Kettering, UK
| | - R.V. Reddy
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Kettering General Hospital, Kettering, UK
| | - M. Naeem
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Kettering General Hospital, Kettering, UK
| | - G. Tsaknis
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Kettering General Hospital, Kettering, UK
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2
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Han SK, Baik SK, Kim MY. [Pulmonary Complications in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis]. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY = TAEHAN SOHWAGI HAKHOE CHI 2023; 82:213-223. [PMID: 37997217 DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2023.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Portal hypertension is a clinical syndrome defined by an increased portal venous pressure. The most frequent cause of portal hypertension is liver cirrhosis, and many of the complications of cirrhosis, such as ascites and gastroesophageal variceal bleeding, are related to portal hypertension. Portal hypertension is a pathological condition caused by the accumulation of blood flow in the portal system. This blood flow retention reduces the effective circulation volume. To compensate for these changes, neurotransmitter hormone changes and metabolic abnormalities occur, which cause complications in organs other than the liver. A hepatic hydrothorax is fluid accumulation in the pleural space resulting from increased portal pressure. Hepatopulmonary syndrome and portopulmonary hypertension are the pulmonary complications in cirrhosis by deforming the vascular structure. Symptoms, such as dyspnea and hypoxia, affect the survival and the quality of life of patients. These lung complications are usually underestimated in the management of cirrhosis. This review briefly introduces the type of lung complications of cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seul Ki Han
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Cell Therapy and Tissue Engineering Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Regeneration Medicine Research Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Soon Koo Baik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Cell Therapy and Tissue Engineering Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Regeneration Medicine Research Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Moon Young Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Cell Therapy and Tissue Engineering Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
- Regeneration Medicine Research Center, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
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3
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Cadranel JFD, Ollivier-Hourmand I, Cadranel J, Thevenot T, Zougmore H, Nguyen-Khac E, Bureau C, Allaire M, Nousbaum JB, Loustaud-Ratti V, Causse X, Sogni P, Hanslik B, Bourliere M, Peron JM, Ganne-Carrie N, Dao T, Thabut D, Maitre B, Debzi N, Smadhi R, Sombie R, Kpossou R, Nouel O, Bissonnette J, Ruiz I, Medmoun M, Dastis SN, Deltenre P, Artru F, Raherison C, Elkrief L, Lemagoarou T. International survey among hepatologists and pulmonologists on the hepatic hydrothorax: plea for recommendations. BMC Gastroenterol 2023; 23:305. [PMID: 37697230 PMCID: PMC10496231 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-023-02931-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Hepatic hydrothorax is a pleural effusion related to portal hypertension; its diagnosis and therapeutic management may be difficult. The aims of this article are which follows: To gather the practices of hepatogastroenterologists or pulmonologists practitioners regarding the diagnosis and management of the hepatic hydrothorax. METHODS Practitioners from 13 French- speaking countries were invited to answer an online questionnaire on the hepatic hydrothorax diagnosis and its management. RESULTS Five hundred twenty-eight practitioners (80% from France) responded to this survey. 75% were hepatogastroenterologists, 20% pulmonologists and the remaining 5% belonged to other specialities. The Hepatic hydrothorax can be located on the left lung for 64% of the responders (66% hepatogastroenterologists vs 57% pulmonologists; p = 0.25); The Hepatic hydrothorax can exist in the absence of clinical ascites for 91% of the responders (93% hepatogastroenterologists vs 88% pulmonologists; p = 0.27). An Ultrasound pleural scanning was systematically performed before a puncture for 43% of the responders (36% hepatogastroenterologists vs 70% pulmonologists; p < 0.001). A chest X-ray was performed before a puncture for 73% of the respondeurs (79% hepatogastroenterologists vs 54% pulmonologists; p < 0.001). In case of a spontaneous bacterial empyema, an albumin infusion was used by 73% hepatogastroenterologists and 20% pulmonologists (p < 0.001). A drain was used by 37% of the responders (37% hepatogastroenterologists vs 31% pulmonologists; p = 0.26).An Indwelling pleural catheter was used by 50% pulmonologists and 22% hepatogastroenterologists (p < 0.01). TIPS was recommended by 78% of the responders (85% hepatogastroenterologists vs 52% pulmonologists; p < 0.001) and a liver transplantation, by 76% of the responders (86% hepatogastroenterologists vs 44% pulmonologists; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The results of this large study provide important data on practices of French speaking hepatogastroenterologists and pulmonologists; it appears that recommendations are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Honoré Zougmore
- Hepatogastroenterology and Nutrition Department GHPSO Boulevard Laennec, 60100, Creil, France
| | | | | | - Manon Allaire
- Hepatogastroenterology Department, La Pitié Salpétrière, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Marc Bourliere
- Hepatogastroenterology department, Saint-Joseph, Marseille, France
| | | | | | - Thong Dao
- Hepatogastroenterology department, CHU Caen, Caen, France
| | - Dominique Thabut
- Hepatogastroenterology Department, La Pitié Salpétrière, Paris, France
| | | | - Nabil Debzi
- Hepatology Department CHU Mustapha, Alger, Algérie, Algeria
| | - Ryad Smadhi
- Hepatogastroenterology and Nutrition Department GHPSO Boulevard Laennec, 60100, Creil, France
- Hepatology Department CHU Mustapha, Alger, Algérie, Algeria
| | - Roger Sombie
- Gastroenterology Department, CHU Yalgado Ouedraogo Ouagadougou, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Raimi Kpossou
- Hepatogastroenterology Deparment, National Hospital and University Center Hubert Koutoukou Maga, Cotonou, Benin
| | - Olivier Nouel
- Hepatogastroenterology Department, St Brieuc, France
| | - Julien Bissonnette
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, University of Montreal Hospital, Montreal, Canada
| | - Isaac Ruiz
- Department of Hepatology and Liver Transplantation, University of Montreal Hospital, Montreal, Canada
| | - Mourad Medmoun
- Hepatogastroenterology and Nutrition Department GHPSO Boulevard Laennec, 60100, Creil, France
| | | | | | - Florent Artru
- Hepatogastroenterology Department, Lausanne, Suisse, Switzerland
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Panackel C, Fawaz M, Jacob M, Raja K. Pulmonary Assessment of the Liver Transplant Recipient. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2023; 13:895-911. [PMID: 37693254 PMCID: PMC10483013 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2023.04.003] [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: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Respiratory symptoms and hypoxemia can complicate chronic liver disease and portal hypertension. Various pulmonary disorders affecting the pleura, lung parenchyma, and pulmonary vasculature are seen in end-stage liver disease, complicating liver transplantation (LT). Approximately 8% of cirrhotic patients in an intensive care unit develop severe pulmonary problems. These disorders affect waiting list mortality and posttransplant outcomes. A thorough history, physical examination, and appropriate laboratory tests help diagnose and assess the severity to risk stratify pulmonary diseases before LT. Hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS), portopulmonary hypertension (POPH), and hepatic hydrothorax (HH) are respiratory consequences specific to cirrhosis and portal hypertension. HPS is seen in 5-30% of cirrhosis cases and is characterized by impaired oxygenation due to intrapulmonary vascular dilatations and arteriovenous shunts. Severe HPS is an indication of LT. The majority of patients with HPS resolve their hypoxemia after LT. When pulmonary arterial hypertension occurs in patients with portal hypertension, it is called POPH. All other causes of pulmonary arterial hypertension should be ruled out before labeling as POPH. Since severe POPH (mean pulmonary artery pressure [mPAP] >50 mm Hg) is a relative contraindication for LT, it is crucial to screen for POPH before LT. Those with moderate POPH (mPAP >35 mm Hg), who improve with medical therapy, will benefit from LT. A transudative pleural effusion called hepatic hydrothorax (HH) is seen in 5-10% of people with cirrhosis. Refractory cases of HH benefit from LT. In recent years, increasing clinical expertise and advances in the medical field have resulted in better outcomes in patients with moderate to severe pulmonary disorders, who undergo LT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammed Fawaz
- Integrated Liver Care, Aster Medcity, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Mathew Jacob
- Integrated Liver Care, Aster Medcity, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Kaiser Raja
- King's College Hospital London, Dubai Hills, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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5
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Porcel JM. Expert Review on Contemporary Management of Common Benign Pleural Effusions. Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2023. [PMID: 37263288 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1769096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) and cirrhosis are frequently associated with pleural effusions (PEs). Despite their apparently benign nature, both HF-related effusions and hepatic hydrothorax (HH) have poor prognosis because they represent an advanced stage of the disease. Optimization of medical therapy in these two entities involve not only the use of diuretics, but also other pharmacological therapies. For instance, all HF patients with reduced or mildly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction can benefit from angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors, beta blockers, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors. Conversely, it is better for HH patients to avoid nonselective beta blockers. Refractory cardiac- and cirrhosis-related PEs are commonly managed by iterative therapeutic thoracentesis. When repeated aspirations are needed, thereby diminishing quality of life, the insertion of an indwelling pleural catheter (IPC) may be warranted. However, in selected HH patients who are diuretic-resistant or diuretic-intractable, placement of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts should be considered as a bridge to liver transplantation, whereas in transplant candidates the role of IPC is debatable. Another benign condition, pleural tuberculosis (TB) is a serious health problem in developing countries. Diagnostic certainty is still a concern due to the paucibacillary nature of the infection, although the use of more sensitive nucleic acid amplification tests is becoming more widespread. Its treatment is the same as that of pulmonary TB, but the potential drug interactions between antiretroviral and anti-TB drugs in HIV-coinfected patients as well as the current recommended guidelines for the different types of anti-TB drugs resistance should be followed.
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Affiliation(s)
- José M Porcel
- Pleural Medicine Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Arnau de Vilanova University Hospital, IRBLleida, University of Lleida, Lleida, Spain
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6
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Early thoracentesis correlated with survival benefit in patients with spontaneous bacterial empyema. Dig Liver Dis 2022; 54:1015-1020. [PMID: 35351372 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2022.02.007] [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: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spontaneous bacterial empyema (SBEM) is a rare complication of hepatic hydrothorax characterized by hydrothorax infection in the absence of pneumonia. AIMS AND METHODS We conducted this study to compare clinical outcomes in SBEM patients who underwent early thoracentesis (ET) (≤ 24 h from presentation) versus those who underwent delayed thoracentesis (DT). All patients diagnosed with SBEM at Mayo Clinic Rochester, Minnesota from January 1st 1999 to December 31st 2020 were reviewed. Demographics, pleural fluid studies, laboratory results and clinical outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS A total of 54 SBEM patients (27 ET and 27 DT) were identified with 38 (70.4%) of patients presenting with right-sided effusions. Both groups had similar baseline characteristics. The rate of ICU admission was significantly higher in the DT group (15 (55.6%) vs. 7 (25.9%) patients, P = 0.027). Patients with DT had similar rate of AKI (11 (40.7%) vs. 6 (22.2%) patients, P = 0.074). In-hospital mortality (11 (40.7%) vs. 2 (7.4%) patients, P = 0.004), 3-month mortality (16 (59.3%) vs. 2 (7.4%) patients, P < 0.001) and 1-year mortality rate (21 (77.8%) vs. 6 (22.2%) patients, P < 0.001) were higher in the DT group. CONCLUSION Patients with SBEM who underwent thoracentesis after 24 h from presentation (DT) had higher rates of mortality and ICU admission compared to patients who received early thoracentesis. Thoracentesis should be performed early in patients with suspected SBEM since it may improve survival.
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7
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Porcel JM. Nonmalignant Pleural Effusions. Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2022; 43:570-582. [PMID: 36104027 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1748186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Although the potential causes of nonmalignant pleural effusions are many, the management of a few, including complicated pleural infections and refractory heart failure and hepatic hydrothoraces, can be challenging and requires the assistance of interventional pulmonologists. A pragmatic approach to complicated parapneumonic effusions or empyemas is the insertion of a small-bore chest tube (e.g., 14-16 Fr) through which fibrinolytics (e.g., urokinase and alteplase) and DNase are administered in combination. Therapeutic thoracenteses are usually reserved for small to moderate effusions that are expected to be completely aspirated at a single time, whereas video-assisted thoracic surgery should be considered after failure of intrapleural enzyme therapy. Refractory cardiac and liver-induced pleural effusions portend a poor prognosis. In cases of heart failure-related effusions, therapeutic thoracentesis is the first-line palliative therapy. However, if it is frequently needed, an indwelling pleural catheter (IPC) is recommended. In patients with hepatic hydrothorax, repeated therapeutic thoracenteses are commonly performed while a multidisciplinary decision on the most appropriate definitive management is taken. The percutaneous creation of a portosystemic shunt may be used as a bridge to liver transplantation or as a potential definitive therapy in nontransplant candidates. In general, an IPC should be avoided because of the high risk of complications, particularly infections, that may jeopardize candidacy for liver transplantation. Even so, in noncandidates for liver transplant or surgical correction of diaphragmatic defects, IPC is a therapeutic option as valid as serial thoracenteses.
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Affiliation(s)
- José M Porcel
- Pleural Medicine Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Arnau de Vilanova University Hospital, IRBLleida, University of Lleida, Lleida, Spain
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8
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Husnain SMN, Shojaee S. Hepatic Hydrothorax and Congestive Heart Failure Induced Pleural Effusion. Clin Chest Med 2021; 42:625-635. [PMID: 34774170 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccm.2021.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Pleural effusions (PEs) are frequently encountered in routine clinical practice, affecting more than 3000 people per million population every year. Heart and liver failures are two of the most common causes of transudative PE. Because these effusions have nonmalignant etiologies, they are commonly referred to as benign effusions despite of the poor prognosis they foretell in their refractory stages. Like malignant effusions, symptom management is important and plays a significant role in palliation when these effusions become refractory to medical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samira Shojaee
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Section of Interventional Pulmonology, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, 1200 East Broad Street, PO Box 980050, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
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Gilbert CR, Shojaee S, Maldonado F, Yarmus LB, Bedawi E, Feller-Kopman D, Rahman NM, Akulian JA, Gorden JA. Pleural Interventions in the Management of Hepatic Hydrothorax. Chest 2021; 161:276-283. [PMID: 34390708 DOI: 10.1016/j.chest.2021.08.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic hydrothorax can be present in 5% to 15% of patients with underlying cirrhosis and portal hypertension, often reflecting advanced liver disease. Its impact can be variable, because patients may have small pleural effusions and minimal pulmonary symptoms or massive pleural effusions and respiratory failure. Management of hepatic hydrothorax can be difficult because these patients often have a number of comorbidities and potential for complications. Minimal high-quality data are available for guidance specifically related to hepatic hydrothorax, potentially resulting in pulmonary or critical care physician struggling for best management options. We therefore provide a Case-based presentation with management options based on currently available data and opinion. We discuss the role of pleural interventions, including thoracentesis, tube thoracostomy, indwelling tunneled pleural catheter, pleurodesis, and surgical interventions. In general, we recommend that management be conducted within a multidisciplinary team including pulmonology, hepatology, and transplant surgery. Patients with refractory hepatic hydrothorax that are not transplant candidates should be managed with palliative intent; we suggest indwelling tunneled pleural catheter placement unless otherwise contraindicated. For patients with unclear or incomplete hepatology treatment plans or those unable to undergo more definitive procedures, we recommend serial thoracentesis. In patients who are transplant candidates, we often consider serial thoracentesis as a standard treatment, while also evaluating the role indwelling tunneled pleural catheter placement may play within the course of disease and transplant evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher R Gilbert
- Thoracic Surgery and Interventional Pulmonology, Swedish Cancer Institute, Seattle, WA.
| | - Samira Shojaee
- Division of Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Fabien Maldonado
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN
| | - Lonny B Yarmus
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Eihab Bedawi
- Oxford Centre for Respiratory Medicine, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - David Feller-Kopman
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Najib M Rahman
- Oxford Centre for Respiratory Medicine, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Jason A Akulian
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Jed A Gorden
- Thoracic Surgery and Interventional Pulmonology, Swedish Cancer Institute, Seattle, WA
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Selvan M, Collins H, Griffiths W, Gelson W, Herre J. Case Report: Indwelling Pleural Catheter Based Management of Refractory Hepatic Hydrothorax as a Bridge to Liver Transplantation. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:695977. [PMID: 34322505 PMCID: PMC8311019 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.695977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Liver transplantation is the treatment of choice for decompensated liver disease, and by extension for hepatic hydrothorax. Persistent pleural effusions make it challenging for patients to maintain physiological fitness for transplantation. Indwelling pleural catheters (IPCs) provide controlled pleural fluid removal, including peri-operatively. The immune dysfunction of cirrhosis heightens susceptibility to bacterial infection and concerns exist regarding the sepsis potential from a tunnelled drain. Method: Six patients were identified who underwent IPC insertion for hepatic hydrothorax before successful liver transplantation, between November 2016 and November 2017. Results: All patients had recurrent transudative right sided pleural effusions. Mean age was 49 years (range 24–64) and mean United Kingdom Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score was 58. Four patients required correction of coagulopathy before insertion. There were no complications secondary to bleeding. Three patients were taught self-drainage at home of up to 1 litre (L) daily. A protocol was developed to ensure weekly review, pleural fluid culture and drainage of larger volumes in hospital. For every 2–3 L of pleural fluid drained, 100 mls of 20% Human Albumin Solution (HAS) was administered. On average an IPC was in situ for 58 days before surgery and drained 19 L of fluid in hospital. There was a small increase in average BMI (0.2) and serum albumin (2.1 g/L) at transplantation. There was one episode of stage one acute kidney injury secondary to high volume drainage. No further ascitic or pleural procedures were needed while an IPC was in situ. One thoracentesis was required after IPC removal. On average IPCs remained in situ for 7 days post transplantation and drained a further 2 L of fluid. Pleural fluid sampling was acquired on 92% of drainages in hospital. Of 44 fluid cultures, 2 cultured bacteria. Two patients had their IPCs and all other lines removed post transplantation due to suspected infection. Conclusion: Our case series describes a novel protocol and successful use of IPCs in the management of refractory hepatic hydrothorax as a bridge to liver transplantation. The protocol includes albumin replacement during pleural drainage, regular clinical review and culture of pleural fluid, with the option of self-drainage at home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayurun Selvan
- Respiratory Medicine, Cambridge University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah Collins
- Respiratory Medicine, Cambridge University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - William Griffiths
- Cambridge Liver Unit, Cambridge University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - William Gelson
- Cambridge Liver Unit, Cambridge University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jurgen Herre
- Respiratory Medicine, Cambridge University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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11
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Tajarernmuang P, Gonzalez AV, Valenti D, Beaudoin S. Overuse of small chest drains for pleural effusions: a retrospective practice review. Int J Health Care Qual Assur 2021; ahead-of-print. [PMID: 33909374 DOI: 10.1108/ijhcqa-11-2020-0231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Small-bore drains (≤ 16 Fr) are used in many centers to manage all pleural effusions. The goal of this study was to determine the proportion of avoidable chest drains and associated complications when a strategy of routine chest drain insertion is in place. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH We retrospectively reviewed consecutive pleural procedures performed in the Radiology Department of the McGill University Health Centre over one year (August 2015-July 2016). Drain insertion was the default drainage strategy. An interdisciplinary workgroup established criteria for drain insertion, namely: pneumothorax, pleural infection (confirmed/highly suspected), massive effusion (more than 2/3 of hemithorax with severe dyspnea /hypoxemia), effusions in ventilated patients and hemothorax. Drains inserted without any of these criteria were deemed potentially avoidable. FINDINGS A total of 288 procedures performed in 205 patients were reviewed: 249 (86.5%) drain insertions and 39 (13.5%) thoracenteses. Out of 249 chest drains, 113 (45.4%) were placed in the absence of drain insertion criteria and were deemed potentially avoidable. Of those, 33.6% were inserted for malignant effusions (without subsequent pleurodesis) and 34.5% for transudative effusions (median drainage duration of 2 and 4 days, respectively). Major complications were seen in 21.5% of all procedures. Pneumothorax requiring intervention (2.1%), bleeding (0.7%) and organ puncture or drain misplacement (2%) only occurred with drain insertion. Narcotics were prescribed more frequently following drain insertion vs. thoracentesis (27.1% vs. 9.1%, p = 0.03). ORIGINALITY/VALUE Routine use of chest drains for pleural effusions leads to avoidable drain insertions in a large proportion of cases and causes unnecessary harms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pattraporn Tajarernmuang
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Allergy, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Anne V Gonzalez
- Respiratory Division, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - David Valenti
- Radiology Department, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Stéphane Beaudoin
- Respiratory Division, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
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12
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Banini BA, Alwatari Y, Stovall M, Ogden N, Gershman E, Shah RD, Strife BJ, Shojaee S, Sterling RK. Multidisciplinary Management of Hepatic Hydrothorax in 2020: An Evidence-Based Review and Guidance. Hepatology 2020; 72:1851-1863. [PMID: 32585037 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bubu A Banini
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Yahya Alwatari
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Madeline Stovall
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Nathan Ogden
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Evgeni Gershman
- Division of Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Rachit D Shah
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Brian J Strife
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Samira Shojaee
- Division of Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Richard K Sterling
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
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Abstract
Patients with advanced chronic liver diseases, particularly with decompensated liver cirrhosis, can develop specific pulmonary complications independently of any pre-existing lung disease. Especially when dyspnea occurs in combination with liver cirrhosis, patients should be evaluated for hepato-pulmonary syndrome (HPS), porto-pulmonary hypertension (PPHT), hepatic hydrothorax and spontaneous bacterial empyema, which represent the clinically most relevant pulmonary complications of liver cirrhosis. Importantly, the pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnosis and the corresponding therapeutic options differ between these entities, highlighting the role of specific diagnostics in patients with liver cirrhosis who present with dyspnea. Liver transplantation may offer a curative therapy, including selected cases of HPS and PPHT. In this review article, we summarize the pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnostic algorithms and treatment options of the 4 specific pulmonary complications in patients with liver cirrhosis.
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Abstract
The most common pulmonary complications of chronic liver disease are hepatic hydrothorax, hepatopulmonary syndrome, and portopulmonary hypertension. Hepatic hydrothorax is a transudative pleural effusion in a patient with cirrhosis and no evidence of underlying cardiopulmonary disease. Hepatic hydrothorax develops owing to the movement of ascitic fluid into the pleural space. Hepatopulmonary syndrome and portopulmonary hypertension are pathologically linked by the presence of portal hypertension; however, their pathophysiologic mechanisms are significantly different. Hepatopulmonary syndrome is characterized by low pulmonary vascular resistance secondary to intrapulmonary vascular dilatations and hypoxemia; portopulmonary hypertension features elevated pulmonary vascular resistance and constriction/obstruction within the pulmonary vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Cartin-Ceba
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 13400 East Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, USA.
| | - Michael J Krowka
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Rochester, 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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Bateman M, Alkhatib A, John T, Parikh M, Kheir F. Pleural Effusion Outcomes in Intensive Care: Analysis of a Large Clinical Database. J Intensive Care Med 2019; 35:48-54. [PMID: 31640451 DOI: 10.1177/0885066619872449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pleural effusions are common in critically ill patients. However, the management of pleural fluid on relevant clinical outcomes is poorly studied. We evaluated the impact of pleural effusion in the intensive care unit (ICU). METHODS A large observational ICU database Multiparameter Intelligent Monitoring in Intensive Care III was utilized. Analyses used matched patients with the same admission diagnosis, age, gender, and disease severity. RESULTS Of 50 765, 3897 (7.7%) of critically ill adult patients had pleural effusions. Compared to patients without effusion, patients with effusion had higher in-hospital (38.7% vs 31.3%, P < .0001), 1-month (43.1% vs 36.1%, P < .0001), 6-month (63.6% vs 55.7%, P < .0001), and 1-year mortality (73.8% vs 66.1%, P < .0001), as well as increased length of hospital stay (17.6 vs 12.7 days, P < .0001), ICU stay (7.3 vs 5.1 days, P < .0001), need for mechanical ventilation (63.1% vs 55.7%, P < .0001), and duration of mechanical ventilation (8.7 vs 6.3 days, P < .0001). A total of 1503 patients (38.6%) underwent pleural fluid drainage. Patients in the drainage group had higher in-hospital (43.9% vs 35.4%, P = .0002), 1-month (47.7% vs 39.7%, P = .0005), 6-month (67.1% vs 61.8%, P = .0161), and 1-year mortality (77.1% vs 72.1%, P = .0147), as well as increased lengths of hospital stay (22.1 vs 16.0 days, P < .0001), ICU stay (9.2d vs 6.4 days, P < .0001), and duration of mechanical ventilation (11.7 vs 7.1 days, P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS The presence of a pleural effusion was associated with increased mortality in critically ill patients regardless of disease severity. Drainage of pleural effusion was associated with worse outcomes in a large, heterogeneous cohort of ICU patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjorie Bateman
- Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Ala Alkhatib
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases, Critical Care and Environmental Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Thomas John
- Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Malhar Parikh
- Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Fayez Kheir
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases, Critical Care and Environmental Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
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