Hyperchloraemia in sepsis

Chloride represents—quantitatively—the most prevalent, negatively charged, strong plasma electrolyte. Control of chloride concentration is a probable major mechanism for regulating the body’s acid–base balance and for maintaining homeostasis of the entire internal environment. The difference between the concentrations of chloride and sodium constitutes the major contributor to the strong ion difference (SID); SID is the key pH regulator in the body, according to the physicochemical approach. Hyperchloraemia resulting from either underlying diseases or medical interventions is common in intensive care units. Recent studies have demonstrated the importance of hyperchloraemia in metabolic acidosis and in other pathophysiological disorders present in sepsis. The aim of this narrative review is to present the current knowledge about the effects of hyperchloraemia, in relation to the underlying pathophysiology, in septic patients.

A Short Incision for Carotid Endarterectomy Results in Decreased Morbidity

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effect of a short incision (<5 cm) on the complication rate of the carotid endarterectomy (CEA).

DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From January 1994 to December 2005, 874 patients underwent 1048 primary carotid endarterectomy (CEA) procedures. Seven hundred and sixty nine operations were performed through a long neck incision (group A), while 279 were performed through a smaller incision (<5 cm) according to a standard protocol (group B). Preoperative and postoperative cranial nerve assessment was completed on all patients. The main outcome measures were stroke, death, cranial and cervical nerve injuries rates.

RESULTS

The 30-day mortality rate was 0.26% in group A and 0.35% in group B (p=.792). The stroke rate was 0.13% and 0% in group A and B respectively (p=.839). The mean length of stay was 2.59 days in group A and 1.67 days in group B (p<.0001). In group A the overall incidence of motor and sensory nerve deficits was 13.5% (104 CEA, 92 patients) but in group B 2.9% (8 CEA, 7 patients, p<.0001, odds ratio [OR] 0.189, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.091-0.393).

CONCLUSIONS

Carotid endarterectomy through a small incision is a feasible and safe approach that provides cosmetic results and fewer nerve complications without compromising the safety of the procedure.

Chest wall ectopic synovial bursa cyst

We report an unusual case of chest wall tumor in a 27-year-old patient. A complete resection was accomplished, and the patient had an excellent postoperative course. Histologically, the mass was confirmed to be an ectopic synovial bursa cyst. Although rare, synovial cysts should be considered in any case of a fluctuating chest wall mass. We also discuss the etiology and diagnostic approach of cystic masses of the chest wall.