A Comparison of Efficacy between Low-dose Dexmedetomidine and Propofol for Prophylaxis of Postoperative Delirium in Elderly Patients Undergoing Hip Fracture Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Aims and background

The efficacy of dexmedetomidine and propofol in preventing postoperative delirium is controversial. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of dexmedetomidine and propofol for preventing postoperative delirium in extubated elderly patients undergoing hip fracture surgery.

Materials and methods

This randomized controlled trial included participants undergoing hip fracture surgery. Participants were randomly assigned to receive dexmedetomidine, propofol, or placebo intravenously during intensive care unit (ICU) admission (8 p.m. to 6 a.m.). The drug dosages were adjusted to achieve the Richmond Agitation Sedation Scale (RASS) of 0 to -1. The primary outcome was postoperative delirium. The secondary outcomes were postoperative complications, fentanyl consumption, and length of hospital stay.

Results

108 participants were enrolled (n = 36 per group). Postoperative delirium incidences were 8.3%, 22.2%, and 5.6% in the dexmedetomidine, propofol, and placebo groups, respectively. The hazard ratios of dexmedetomidine and propofol compared with placebo were 1.49 (95% CI, 0.25, 8.95; p = 0.66) and 4.18 (95% CI, 0.88, 19.69; p = 0.07). The incidence of bradycardia was higher in the dexmedetomidine group compared with others (13.9%; p = 0.01) but not for hypotension (8.3%; p = 0.32). The median length of hospital stays (8 days, IQR: 7, 11) and fentanyl consumption (240 µg, IQR: 120, 400) were not different among groups.

Conclusion

This study did not successfully demonstrate the impact of nocturnal low-dose dexmedetomidine and propofol in preventing postoperative delirium among elderly patients undergoing hip fracture surgery. While not statistically significant, it is noteworthy that propofol exhibited a comparatively higher delirium rate.

How to cite this article

Ekkapat G, Kampitak W, Theerasuwipakorn N, Kittipongpattana J, Engsusophon P, Phannajit J, et al. A Comparison of Efficacy between Low-dose Dexmedetomidine and Propofol for Prophylaxis of Postoperative Delirium in Elderly Patients Undergoing Hip Fracture Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Indian J Crit Care Med 2024;28(5):467-474.

Prevalence of arterial stiffness and associated factors in Thai hemodialysis patients: A multicenter cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Hemodialysis (HD) patients have higher risks of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality compared to the general population. Cardio-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) is associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in HD patients. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and associated factors of arterial stiffness in Thai HD patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional multicenter study was conducted at 4 HD centers in Bangkok, Thailand. cfPWV and peripheral blood pressure were assessed using SphygmoCor XCEL Model EM4C (AtCor medical Inc., Sydney, Australia). Significant arterial stiffness was defined by cfPWV > 10 m/s. Univariate and multivariable regression models were used to identify factors associated with arterial stiffness.

RESULTS

144 HD patients were assessed for arterial stiffness by cfPWV measurement. The mean age of the patients was 57.8 ± 12.8 years, with 50% male and a mean dialysis vintage of 7.6 years. The mean cfPWV was 11.7 ± 3.0 m/s. The prevalence of increased arterial stiffness was 73.6%. Multivariable analysis showed that older age, hypertension, lower HD adequacy, and higher fasting plasma glucose were independently associated with arterial stiffness.

CONCLUSION

There was a high prevalence of arterial stiffness among HD patients. Some modifiable factors found to be independently associated, including dialysis adequacy and glycemic control, should be further investigated to identify approaches to retard vascular stiffness.

Immunogenicity and safety of heterologous versus homologous prime-boost schedules with inactivated and adenoviral vectored SARS-CoV-2 vaccines - A prospective multi-center study

Background

During the peak of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic in Thailand when the emergence of delta variant reduced the efficacy of inactivated vaccine, Thailand had abundance of inactivated vaccine but mRNA vaccine was not available and the supply of adenoviral-vectored vaccine was limited. The heterologous vaccination using CoronaVac and ChAdOx1-nCoV-19 vaccines was applied. We aim to compare the immunogenicity of immune response of primary vaccination with homologous ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 and heterologous vaccination with CoronaVac and ChAdOx1 nCoV-19.

Methods

A total of 430 adults, scheduled to receive ChAdOx1-nCoV-19 as their second dose of primary COVID-19 vaccination, were enrolled. Participants were classified into two groups based on the first dose vaccine as CoronaVac (heterologous group) or ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (homologous group). The primary outcome was antibodies to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein receptor binding domain (anti-RBD) titres at 28 days after the second dose of vaccination. Secondary outcomes were anti-RBD titres at 90 days, surrogate viral neutralizing test (sVNT) at 28 and 90 days, and adverse events.

Findings

In 358 participants with correct vaccine interval, the anti-RBD geometric mean titre ratio for the heterologous versus homologous group was 0.55 (95%CI; 0.44-0.067); p < 0.001 at day 28, and 0.80 (95%CI; 0.65-1.00); P = 0.05 at day 90. Median sVNT neutralizing activity was not significantly different in the heterologous versus homologous group at 28 days (93.5 vs 92.7 %); p = 0.13, but significantly higher in the heterologous group at day 90 (82.9 vs 76.4 %); p = 0.01.

Interpretation

The homologous vaccination resulted in higher anti-RBD titres at 28 days after vaccination, but titres in the homologous group showed more rapid decline at 90 days. In the sVNT assay, median neutralization was similar at 28 days, but was longer-lasting and higher in the heterologous group at 90 days.

Funding

This research received funding from the Royal College of Physicians of Thailand special grant 2021 for research initiative during COVID-19 pandemic.

Association of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure and chronic kidney disease outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Several studies have reported an increased risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) outcomes after long-term exposure (more than 1 year) to particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of ≤ 2.5 µm (PM2.5). However, the conclusions remain inconsistent. Therefore, we conducted this meta-analysis to examine the association between long-term PM2.5 exposure and CKD outcomes. A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled trials, and Embase for relevant studies published until August 10, 2023. The main outcomes were incidence and prevalence of CKD as well as incidence of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). The random-effect model meta-analyses were used to estimate the risk of each outcome among studies. Twenty two studies were identified, including 14 cohort studies, and 8 cross-sectional studies, with a total of 7,967,388 participants. This meta-analysis revealed that each 10 μg/m3 increment in PM2.5 was significantly associated with increased risks of both incidence and prevalence of CKD [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.31 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.24 to 1.40), adjusted OR 1.31 (95% CI 1.03 to 1.67), respectively]. In addition, the relationship with ESKD incidence is suggestive of increased risk but not conclusive (adjusted OR 1.16; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.36). The incidence and prevalence of CKD outcomes had a consistent association across all subgroups and adjustment variables. Our study observed an association between long-term PM2.5 exposure and the risks of CKD. However, more dedicated studies are required to show causation that warrants urgent action on PM2.5 to mitigate the global burden of CKD.

Incremental versus conventional haemodialysis in end-stage kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Appropriate dialysis prescription in the transitional setting from chronic kidney disease to end-stage kidney disease is still challenging. Conventional thrice-weekly haemodialysis (HD) might be associated with rapid loss of residual kidney function (RKF) and high mortality. The benefits and risks of incremental HD compared with conventional HD were explored in this systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Scopus and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials up to April 2023 for studies that compared the impacts of incremental (once- or twice-weekly HD) and conventional thrice-weekly HD on cardiovascular events, RKF, vascular access complications, quality of life, hospitalization and mortality.

Results

A total of 36 articles (138 939 participants) were included in this meta-analysis. The mortality rate and cardiovascular events were similar between incremental and conventional HD {odds ratio [OR] 0.87 [95% confidence interval (CI)] 0.72-1.04 and OR 0.67 [95% CI 0.43-1.05], respectively}. However, hospitalization and loss of RKF were significantly lower in patients treated with incremental HD [OR 0.44 (95% CI 0.27-0.72) and OR 0.31 (95% CI 0.25-0.39), respectively]. In a sensitivity analysis that included studies restricted to those with RKF or urine output criteria, incremental HD had significantly lower cardiovascular events [OR 0.22 (95% CI 0.08-0.63)] and mortality [OR 0.54 (95% CI 0.37-0.79)]. Vascular access complications, hyperkalaemia and volume overload were not statistically different between groups.

Conclusions

Incremental HD has been shown to be safe and may provide superior benefits in clinical outcomes, particularly in appropriately selected patients. Large-scale randomized controlled trials are required to confirm these potential advantages.

Effect of canagliflozin in non-diabetic obese patients with albuminuria: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) has been shown to improve renal outcomes in both diabetic and non-diabetic kidney disease. However, the effect of SGLT2i on renal outcomes in patients with non-diabetic obesity is still not established.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this double-blind, randomized controlled trial, we assigned non-diabetic patients with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2, persistent 24-hour urine albumin-creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥ 10 mg/gCr, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73m2, who had been treated with renin-angiotensin system blockade, to canagliflozin 100 mg daily or placebo for 24 weeks. The reduction in UACR and eGFR at 12 and 24 weeks were explored. (Thai Clinical Trials Registry 20190203003).

RESULTS

Of 247 non-diabetic obese patients screened, 32 patients met inclusion criteria and underwent randomization. The median baseline of UACR was 69.1 mg/gCr. There were no statistically significant differences in albuminuria reduction between the groups at 12 weeks and 24 weeks. The estimated GFR in the canagliflozin group decreased significantly from baseline at 12 weeks (-5.39 mL/min/1.73m2; 95% CI -9.81 to -0.97; p = 0.017) but not at 24 weeks (-1.16 mL/min/1.73m2; 95% CI -5.58 to 3.26; p = 0.66), and there was no significant change from baseline in the placebo group at both 12 and 24 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Canagliflozin 100 mg daily was well tolerated but did not significantly reduce UACR in non-diabetic obese patients with microalbuminuria. However, a significant temporary decline in eGFR might reflect a subtle reduction in glomerular hyperfiltration.

Long-term kidney outcomes after leptospirosis: a prospective multicentre cohort study in Thailand

BACKGROUND

Leptospirosis is one of the most important public-health zoonotic diseases in the tropics that can cause severe organ dysfunction and death. Currently there are insufficient data on long-term renal dysfunction in patients after leptospirosis infection.

METHODS

A prospective multicentre cohort study was conducted at 15 hospitals in the Sisaket province of Thailand. Confirmed leptospirosis patients admitted from 1 December 2015 to 30 November 2018 were followed between 1 February 2020 and 31 October 2020 (median 4.1 years after hospital discharge). The primary outcome was a composite of major kidney adverse events (MAKEs) including all-cause mortality, dialysis and new-onset chronic kidney disease (CKD).

RESULTS

Of the 217 confirmed leptospirosis cases enrolled, 32.7% were classified as having severe leptospirosis. Fifteen cases (6.9%) were deceased at the time of hospital admission. After a median follow-up time of 4.18 years, 30 patients had died and 33 patients developed CKD. Patients with severe leptospirosis had a significantly higher risk of MAKEs {adjusted hazard ratio 2.45 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.44-4.18]}. Patients with intensive care unit admission, pulmonary haemorrhage and acute kidney injury also had a higher risk of MAKEs and all-cause mortality. Participants with severe leptospirosis in the follow-up cohort showed a higher risk of developing CKD compared with non-severe leptospirosis [adjusted odds ratio 3.22 (95% CI 1.04-9.96)], especially renal magnesium and phosphate wasting.

CONCLUSION

Leptospirosis patients, especially severe leptospirosis, are associated with long-term kidney sequelae. Our finding reflects the importance of long-term follow-up and the urgent need for specific interventions.

Impact of late gadolinium-enhanced cardiac MRI on arrhythmic and mortality outcomes in nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy: updated systematic review and meta-analysis

Risk stratification based mainly on the impairment of left ventricular ejection fraction has limited performance in patients with nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM). Evidence is rapidly growing for the impact of myocardial scar identified by late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) on cardiovascular events. We aim to assess the prognostic value of LGE on long-term arrhythmic and mortality outcomes in patients with NIDCM. PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases were searched from inception to January 21, 2022. Studies that included disease-specific subpopulations of NIDCM were excluded. Data were independently extracted and combined via random-effects meta-analysis using a generic inverse-variance strategy. Data from 60 studies comprising 15,217 patients were analyzed with a 3-year median follow-up. The presence of LGE was associated with major ventricular arrhythmic events (pooled OR: 3.99; 95% CI 3.08, 5.16), all-cause mortality (pooled OR: 2.14; 95% CI 1.81, 2.52), cardiovascular mortality (pooled OR 2.83; 95% CI 2.23, 3.60), and heart failure hospitalization (pooled OR: 2.53; 95% CI 1.78, 3.59). Real-world evidence suggests that the presence of LGE on CMR was a strong predictor of adverse long-term outcomes in patients with NIDCM. Scar assessment should be incorporated as a primary determinant in the patient selection criteria for primary prophylactic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator placement.

Enhancing healthcare quality and outcomes for peritoneal dialysis patients in Thailand: An evaluation of key performance indicators and PDOPPS cohort representativeness

AIM

To assess whether the peritoneal dialysis (PD) centres included in the Peritoneal Dialysis Outcomes and Practise Patterns Study (PDOPPS) in Thailand are representative of other PD centres in the country, based on 8 key performance indicators (KPIs 1-8).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted comparing PD-related clinical outcomes between PD centres included in the PDOPPS (the PDOPPS group) and those not included (the non-PDOPPS group) from January 2018 to December 2019. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors associated with achieving the target KPIs.

RESULTS

Of 181 PD centres, 22 (12%) were included in the PDOPPS. PD centres in the PDOPPS group were larger and tended to serve more PD patients than those in the non-PDOPPS group. However, the process and outcome KPIs (KPIs 1-8) were comparable between the 2 groups. Large hospitals (≥120 beds), providing care to ≥100 PD cases and having experience for >10 years were independent predictors of achieving the peritonitis rate target of <0.5 episodes/year. Most PD centres in Thailand showed weaknesses in off-target haemoglobin levels and culture-negative peritonitis rate.

CONCLUSIONS

The PD centres included in Thai PDOPPS were found to be representative of other PD centres in Thailand in terms of clinical outcomes. Thus, Thai PDOPPS findings may apply to the broader PD population in Thailand.

Constipation and clinical outcomes in peritoneal dialysis: Results from Thailand PDOPPS

BACKGROUND

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are widely recognized as valuable predictors of clinical outcomes in peritoneal dialysis (PD). Our study aimed to explore the connections between patient-reported constipation and clinical outcomes.

METHODS

We assessed constipation in patients across 22 facilities participating in the Thailand Peritoneal Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (PDOPPS) from 2014 to 2017. Constipation diagnosis utilized objective assessment tools such as the Bristol stool form scale (BSFS) and a self-reported questionnaire known as the constipation severity score (CSS). The BSFS is a 7-level scale that visually inspects feces based on texture and morphology, while the CSS measures constipation duration and severity using a 5-point Likert scale for various factors. We employed Cox proportional hazards model regression to determine the associations between constipation and clinical outcomes, including mortality, hemodialysis (HD) transfer and peritonitis.

RESULTS

Among 975 randomly selected PD patients from 22 facilities, 845 provided written informed consent, and 729 completed CSS questionnaire. Constipation was prevalent in the PD population (13%), particularly among older patients, those who were caregiver dependent, had diabetes and poorer nutritional status (indicated by lower time-averaged serum albumin, potassium, creatinine and phosphate concentrations). Twenty-seven percent of which experiencing symptoms of constipation for over a year. Notably, self-reported constipation at baseline was significantly associated with a shorter time to first peritonitis and higher rates of peritonitis and death. However, no significant association was found between constipation and HD transfer after adjusting for various factors, including age, gender, PD vintage, comorbidities, shared frailty by study sites and serum albumin.

CONCLUSION

Patient-reported constipation independently correlated with increased risks of peritonitis and all-cause mortality, though no such correlation was observed with HD transfer. These findings underscore the need for further investigation to identify effective interventions for constipation in PD patients.

Effect of Menaquinone-7 Supplementation on Arterial Stiffness in Chronic Hemodialysis Patients: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

There is a very high prevalence of subclinical vitamin K deficiency in patients requiring hemodialysis (HD), and this problem is associated with vascular calcification and arterial stiffness. Vitamin K2 (MK-7) supplementation can improve vitamin K status in HD patients. However, the benefits of vitamin K supplementation on arterial stiffness have still not been established. The present study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of menaquinone-7 (MK-7) supplementation on arterial stiffness in chronic HD patients.

METHODS

This open-label multicenter randomized clinical trial was conducted in 96 HD patients who had arterial stiffness, defined by high carotid femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV ≥ 10 m/s). The patients were randomly assigned to receive oral MK-7 (375 mcg once daily) for 24 weeks (n = 50) or standard care (control group; n = 46). The change in cfPWV was the primary outcome.

RESULTS

Baseline parameters were comparable between the two groups. There was no significant difference in the change in cPWV at 24 weeks between the MK-7 group and standard care [-6.0% (-20.2, 2.3) vs. -6.8% (-19.0, 7.3), p = 0.24]. However, we found that MK-7 significantly decreased cPWV in patients with diabetes [-10.0% (-15.9, -0.8) vs. 3.8% (-5.8, 11.6), p = 0.008]. In addition, the MK-7 group had a lower rate of arterial stiffness progression, compared to controls (30.2% vs. 39.5%, p = 0.37), especially in diabetes patients (21.4% vs. 72.7%, p = 0.01). No serious adverse events were observed during the 24 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Vitamin K supplements provided a beneficial impact in lowering the rate of arterial stiffness progression in chronic hemodialysis patients with diabetes. Possible benefits on cardiovascular outcomes require further investigation.

Network meta-analysis and systematic review comparing efficacy and safety between very high power short duration, high power short duration, and conventional radiofrequency ablation of atrial fibrillation

BACKGROUND

High-power short-duration (HPSD) atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation with a power of 40-50 W was proved to be safe and effective. Very high-power short-duration (vHPSD) AF ablation is a novel method using >50 W to obtain more durable AF ablation. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of vHPSD ablation compared with HPSD ablation and conventional power ablation.

METHODS

A literature search for studies that reported AF ablation outcomes, including short-term freedom from atrial arrhythmia, first-pass isolation (FPI) rate, procedure time, and major complications, was conducted utilizing MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases. All relevant studies were included in this analysis. A random-effects model of network meta-analysis and surface under cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) were used to rank the treatment for all outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 29 studies with 9721 patients were included in the analysis. According to the SUCRA analysis, HPSD ablation had the highest probability of maintaining sinus rhythm. Point estimation showed an odds ratio of 1.5 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.2-1.9) between HPSD ablation and conventional power ablation and an odds ratio of 1.3 (95% CI: 0.78-2.2) between vHPSD ablation and conventional power ablation. While the odds ratio of FPI between HPSD ablation and conventional power ablation was 3.6 (95% CI: 1.5-8.9), the odds ratio between vHPSD ablation and conventional power ablation was 2.2 (95% CI: 0.61-8.6). The procedure times of vHPSD and HPSD ablations were comparable and, therefore, shorter than that of conventional power ablation. Major complications were low in all techniques.

CONCLUSION

vHPSD ablation did not yield higher efficacy than HPSD ablation and conventional power ablation. With the safety concern, vHPSD ablation outcomes were comparable with those of other techniques.

The impacts of hypoxia-inducible factor stabilizers on laboratory parameters and clinical outcomes in chronic kidney disease patients with renal anemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Renal anemia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with poor outcomes. Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) stabilizer, which induces endogenous erythropoietin synthesis and enhances iron mobilization, is a novel treatment of anemia in CKD. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to analyze the effect of HIF stabilizers in anemic CKD patients. This meta-analysis included 43 officially published articles and 3 unpublished studies (27 338 patients). HIF stabilizer treatment significantly increased hemoglobin level when compared with placebo (mean difference (MD) 1.19 g/dL; 95% CI 0.94 to 1.44 g/dL; p &lt; 0.001). There was no significant difference in hemoglobin level when compared with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs). Significant reductions of ferritin and TSAT were observed, while total iron-binding capacity was increased in the HIF stabilizer group compared with placebo or ESAs. HIF stabilizers significantly reduced hepcidin, HDL, LDL, and triglyceride levels. Acute kidney injury and thrombotic events were significantly observed in patients receiving HIF stabilizers. There were no significant differences in myocardial infarction, stroke, dialysis initiation, pulmonary hypertension, and mortality between HIF stabilizer and control groups. The present meta-analysis provided evidence that HIF-stabilizers increased hemoglobin and TIBC levels and reduced hepcidin, ferritin, and TSAT in CKD patients with renal anemia. Long-term follow-up studies on clinical outcomes of HIF stabilizers are still needed.

Higher blood pressure versus normotension targets to prevent acute kidney injury: a systematic review and meta-regression of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Renal hypoperfusion is one of the most common causes of acute kidney injury (AKI), especially in shock and perioperative patients. An optimal blood pressure (BP) target to prevent AKI remains undetermined. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of available randomized clinical trial (RCT) results to address this knowledge gap.

METHODS

From inception to May 13, 2022, we searched Ovid Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, SCOPUS, clinicaltrials.gov, and WHO ICTRP for RCTs comparing higher BP target versus normotension in hemodynamically unstable patients (shock, post-cardiac arrest, or surgery patients). The outcomes of interest were post-intervention AKI rate and renal replacement therapy (RRT) rate. Two investigators independently screened the citations and reviewed the full texts for eligible studies according to a predefined form.

RESULTS

Twelve trials were included, enrolling a total of 5759 participants, with shock, non-cardiac, and cardiac surgery patients accounting for 3282 (57.0%), 1687 (29.3%) and 790 (13.7%) patients, respectively. Compared to lower mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) targets that served as normotension, targeting higher MAP had no significant effect on AKI rates in shock (RR [95% CI] = 1.10 [0.93, 1.29]), in cardiac-surgery (RR [95% CI] = 0.87 [0.73, 1.03]) and non-cardiac surgery patients (RR [95% CI] = 1.25 [0.98, 1.60]) using random-effects meta-analyses. In shock patients with premorbid hypertension, however, targeting MAP above 70 mmHg resulted in significantly lower RRT risks, RR [95%CI] = 1.20 [1.03, 1.41], p < 0.05.

CONCLUSIONS

Targeting a higher MAP in shock or perioperative patients may not be superior to normotension, except in shock patients with premorbid hypertension. Further studies are needed to assess the effects of a high MAP target to preventing AKI in hypertensive patients across common settings of hemodynamic instability. Trial registration This systematic review has been registered on PROSPERO ( CRD42021286203 ) on November 19, 2021, prior to data extraction and analysis.

Efficacy of Potassium Supplementation in Hypokalemic Patients Receiving Peritoneal Dialysis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE

Hypokalemia is a common electrolyte abnormality in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) and has been associated with increased risks of peritonitis and death. Whether correction of hypokalemia improves these outcomes is unknown.

STUDY DESIGN

Multicenter, open-label, prospective, randomized controlled trial.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

Adult (aged ≥18 years) PD patients with hypokalemia (defined as at least 3 values or an average value <3.5 mEq/L in the past 6 months). Randomization was stratified according to center and residual urine output (≤100 or >100 mL/day).

INTERVENTIONS

Random assignment to either protocol-based potassium supplementation (titratable dose of oral potassium chloride to maintain serum potassium of 4-5 mEq/L) or conventional potassium supplementation (reactive supplementation when serum potassium is <3.5 mEq/L) over 52 weeks. Treatment groups were compared using intention-to-treat analyses implemented using Cox proportional hazards regression.

OUTCOME

The primary outcome was time from randomization to first peritonitis episode (any organism). Secondary outcomes were all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, hospitalization, and conversion to hemodialysis.

RESULTS

A total of 167 patients with time-averaged serum potassium concentrations of 3.33 ± 0.28 mEq/L were enrolled from 6 PD centers: 85 were assigned to receive protocol-based treatment, and 82 were assigned to conventional treatment. The median follow-up time was 401 (IQR, 315-417) days. During the study period, serum potassium levels in the protocol-based treatment group increased to 4.36 ± 0.70 mEq/L compared with 3.57 ± 0.65 mEq/L in the group treated conventionally (mean difference, 0.66 [95% CI, 0.53-0.79] mEq/L; P < 0.001). The median time to first peritonitis episode was significantly longer in the protocol-based group (223 [IQR, 147-247] vs 133 [IQR, 41-197] days, P = 0.03). Compared with conventional treatment, the protocol-based group had a significantly lower hazard of peritonitis (HR, 0.47 [95% CI, 0.24-0.93]) but did not differ significantly with respect to any of the secondary outcomes. Asymptomatic hyperkalemia (>6 mEq/L) without characteristic electrocardiographic changes occurred in 3 patients (4%) in the protocol-based treatment group.

LIMITATIONS

Not double-masked.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with reactive potassium supplementation when the serum potassium level falls below 3.5 mEq/L, protocol-based oral potassium treatment to maintain a serum potassium concentration in the range of 4-5 mEq/L may reduce the risk of peritonitis in patients receiving PD who have hypokalemia.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Registered at the Thai Clinical Trials Registry with study number TCTR20190725004.

Benefits of Switching Mycophenolic Acid to Sirolimus on Serological Response after a SARS-CoV-2 Booster Dose among Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Pilot Study

Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) have a suboptimal immune response to COVID-19 vaccination due to the effects of immunosuppression, mostly mycophenolic acid (MPA). This study investigated the benefits of switching from the standard immunosuppressive regimen (tacrolimus (TAC), MPA, and prednisolone) to a regimen of mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor (mTORi), TAC and prednisolone two weeks pre- and two weeks post-BNT162b2 booster vaccination. A single-center, opened-label pilot study was conducted in KTRs, who received two doses of ChAdOx-1 and a single dose of BNT162b2. The participants were randomly assigned to continue the standard regimen (control group, n = 14) or switched to a sirolimus (an mTORi), TAC, and prednisolone (switching group, n = 14) regimen two weeks before and two weeks after receiving a booster dose of BNT162b2. The anti-SARS-CoV-2 S antibody level after vaccination in the switching group was significantly greater than the control group (4051.0 [IQR 3142.0-6466.0] BAU/mL vs. 2081.0 [IQR 1077.0-3960.0] BAU/mL, respectively; p = 0.01). One participant who was initially seronegative in the control group remained seronegative after the booster dose. These findings suggest humoral immune response benefits of switching the standard immunosuppressive regimen to the regimen of mTORi, TAC, and prednisolone in KTRs during vaccination.

Oral Health-Related Quality of Life, A Proxy of Poor Outcomes in Patients on Peritoneal Dialysis

Introduction

We sought to evaluate the associations of poor oral health hygiene with clinical outcomes in patients receiving peritoneal dialysis (PD).

Methods

As part of the multinational Peritoneal Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (PDOPPS), PD patients from 22 participating PD centers throughout Thailand were enrolled from May 2016 to December 2019. The data were obtained from questionnaires that formed part of the PDOPPS. Oral health-related quality of life (HRQoL) used in this study was the short form of the oral health impact profile (oral health impact profile [OHIP]-14, including 7 facets and 14 items). Patient outcomes were assessed by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Cox proportional hazards model regression was used to estimate associations between oral HRQoL and clinical outcomes.

Results

Of 5090 PD participants, 675 were randomly selected, provided informed consent, and completely responded to the OHIP-14 questionnaire. The median follow-up time of the study was 3.5 (interquartile range = 2.7–5.1 months) years. Poor oral health was associated with lower educational levels, diabetes, older age, marriage, and worse nutritional indicators (including lower time-averaged serum albumin and phosphate concentrations). After adjusting for age, sex, comorbidities, serum albumin, shared frailty by study sites, and PD vintage, poor oral health was associated with increased risks of peritonitis (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 1.45, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06–2.00) and all-cause mortality (adjusted HR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.04–2.32) but not hemodialysis (HD) transfer (adjusted HR = 1.89, 95% CI: 0.87–4.10) compared to participants with good oral health.

Conclusion

Poor oral health status was present in one-fourth of PD patients and was independently associated with a higher risk of peritonitis and death.

Global prevalence and clinical manifestations of cutaneous adverse reactions following COVID-19 vaccination: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Although vaccination is widely accepted as an effective method of preventing and controlling the COVID-19 pandemic, many people are concerned about possible cutaneous side effects which can delay or prevent them from being vaccinated. The objectives of this systematic review were to assess the global prevalence and clinical manifestations of cutaneous adverse reactions following COVID-19 vaccination. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for articles published from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2021, and reference lists for each selected article were screened. Case reports, case series, observational studies, and randomized controlled trials that provided information on cutaneous adverse reactions following COVID-19 vaccines were included. A total of 300 studies were included in a systematic review of which 32 studies with 946,366 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of cutaneous manifestations following COVID-19 vaccination was 3.8% (95% CI, 2.7%-5.3%). COVID-19 vaccines based on the mRNA platform had a higher prevalence than other platforms at 6.9% (95% CI, 3.8%-12.3%). Various cutaneous manifestations have been reported from injection site reactions which were the most common (72.16%) to uncommon adverse reactions such as delayed inflammatory reactions to tissue filler (0.07%) and flares of pre-existing dermatoses (0.07%). Severe cutaneous reactions such as anaphylaxis have also been reported, but in rare cases (0.05%). In conclusion, cutaneous adverse reactions are common, especially in those receiving mRNA vaccines. Most reactions are mild and are not contraindications to subsequent vaccination except for anaphylaxis, which rarely occurs. COVID-19 vaccination may also be associated with flares of pre-existing dermatoses and delayed inflammatory reactions to tissue filler. Patients with a history of allergies, pre-existing skin conditions, or scheduled for filler injections should receive additional pre-counseling and monitoring. A better understanding of potential side effects may strengthen public confidence in those wary of new vaccine technologies.

Association Between Indoxyl Sulfate and Dialysis Initiation and Cardiac Outcomes in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients

Introduction

Indoxyl sulfate, a protein-bound uremic toxin, has been reported as an atherosclerosis and fibrosis accelerator. This study aimed to determine whether serum indoxyl sulfate is associated with cardiac abnormalities, cardiovascular events, and renal progression to dialysis in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

The prospective study enrolled 89 patients with CKD stage 3 to 5 patients. Serum biochemistry data and indoxyl sulfate were measured. All patients underwent echocardiographic examination. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) was calculated using two-dimensional speckle tracking. The clinical outcomes including cardiovascular event and dialysis initiation were recorded during a 2-year follow-up.

Results

Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the median value of serum indoxyl sulfate (low and high indoxyl sulfate groups). Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that patients with higher indoxyl sulfate (≥6.124 mg/L) were significantly associated with renal progression to dialysis (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in cardiovascular events between 2 groups (p = 0.082). In addition, serum indoxyl sulfate level was independently associated with GLS (r = 0.62; p = 0.01). The risk of cardiovascular events was significantly higher in patients with impaired GLS (>−16%) (p = 0.015).

Conclusion

Serum indoxyl sulfate level was a significant predictor for CKD progression to dialysis and was correlated with GLS, a speckle tracking echocardiography parameter representing early LV systolic dysfunction. Furthermore, GLS was associated with cardiovascular events in CKD patients. Serum indoxyl sulfate measurement may help to identify the high dialysis and cardiovascular risk CKD patients beyond traditional risk factors.

Erectile dysfunction among Thai patients with COVID-19 infection

Background

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is suspected to be the symptom manifestation of COVID-19. However, scarce data was presented this day. Our study was conducted to determine the prevalence of ED and its associated factors among Thai patients with COVID-19.

Methods

Sexually active males with COVID-19, hospitalized between May and July 2021 at one university hospital in Bangkok, were screened for erectile dysfunction by the International Index of Erectile Function 5 (IIEF-5). Demographic data and COVID-19 treatment history were collected. Mental health status, including depression and anxiety, was evaluated with the Thai Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), respectively. The sample size was calculated, and logistic regression was used to analyze the association.

Results

One hundred fifty-three men with COVID-19 were recruited. ED prevalence was 64.7%, of which severity was mostly mild. Logistic regression, adjusted for age, BMI, and medical comorbidities, portrayed a significant association between ED and mental health status. Higher risk of ED was found in participants with major depression [adjusted OR 8.45, 95% CI: 1.01–70.96, P=0.049] and higher GAD-7 total score [adjusted OR 1.15, 95% CI: 1.01–1.31, P=0.039].

Conclusions

Thai patients with COVID-19 had high prevalence of ED, which was associated with mental disorders. Thus, screening for mental problems is recommended in individuals with COVID-19 and ED.

Effects of Phosphate Binders on Bone Biomarkers and Bone Density in Hemodialysis Patients

BACKGROUNDS

The incidences of osteoporosis, fracture, and vascular calcification increase concordantly with the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD-mineral bone disease (CKD-MBD) induced by hyperphosphatemia is a major pathophysiologic mechanism. The effects of phosphate binders on bone turnover biomarkers and bone mineral density (BMD) in hemodialysis patients are still inconclusive. Our aim is to demonstrate the effects of these phosphate binders on different aspects of CKD-MBD.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective cohort of 65 hemodialysis patients to investigate the effect of 12-month monotherapy of phosphate binders composing calcium-based phosphate binders (CPB) or non-calcium-based phosphate binders (NCPB), including sevelamer and lanthanum, on bone turnover biomarkers and BMD changes. The performance of bone turnover biomarkers to predict low BMD was attentively determined.

RESULTS

When compared with CPB, NCPB use was associated with higher levels of bone turnover biomarkers. NCPB was also associated with lower BMD at lumbar and distal radius. Total procollagen type 1 N-terminal propeptide (P1NP), bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BALP), and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRAP5b) provided the best performance for diagnosing low BMD in hemodialysis patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Switching from CPB to NCPB might increase bone biomarkers and prevent the development of adynamic bone disease. On the contrary, NCPB should be cautiously used in hemodialysis patients who already had low BMD. P1NP, BALP, and TRAP5b could be used to guide the appropriate management, including anti-resorptive and anabolic medications, and predict low BMD in hemodialysis patients treated with phosphate binders. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Comparative Efficacy between Sodium Bicarbonate and Heparin as A Locking Solution for Tunneled Central Venous Catheters Among Patients Requiring Maintenance Hemodialysis

Background:

Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) is one of the promising solutions that has good safety profile and theoretical advantages regarding antimicrobial and antithrombotic properties but there are still limited reports.

Objective:

To compare the efficacy in lowering rate of catheter loss due to catheter-related thrombosis (CRT) or catheter-related blood stream infection (CRBSI) between sodium bicarbonate and heparin lock in prevalent chronic hemodialysis (HD) patients.

Design:

A multicenter, randomized, open-label study

Setting:

In a developing country, Thailand

Patients:

Chronic HD patients with tunneled central venous catheter

Measurements:

Catheter loss rate, rate of catheter-related blood stream infection, catheter-related thrombosis, and exit site or tunnel infection

Methods:

The prospective multicenter randomized controlled trial was conducted, we randomly assigned 118 patients undergoing HD with tunneled central venous catheter to receive a catheter locking solution of sodium bicarbonate or heparin. The primary outcome was a catheter loss rate due to CRT or CRBSI, while the secondary outcome was a composite outcome of CRT, CRBSI, or exit site/tunnel infection (ESI/TI).

Results:

The present study was stopped early due to an excess of catheter-related thrombosis in the sodium bicarbonate group. From the first 6 weeks of follow-up, there were no catheter losses due to CRT or CRBSI in both groups. The sodium bicarbonate group had a significantly higher rate of the secondary composite outcomes and this was entirely caused by CRT with the median time to thrombosis of 23.6 days. Every CRT event could be successfully rescued by using a single dose of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA).

Limitations:

Short follow-up period.

Conclusions:

In prevalent HD patients with tunneled CVCs, use of a sodium bicarbonate locking solution for prevention of CRT is inferior to heparin and is associated with a high rate of catheter-related thrombosis.

Trial registration:

The study was registered with the Thai Clinical Trials Registry TCTR 20200610003

Protein-Bound Uremic Toxins Lowering Effect of Sevelamer in Pre-Dialysis Chronic Kidney Disease Patients with Hyperphosphatemia: A Randomized Controlled Trial

P-cresyl sulfate and indoxyl sulfate are strongly associated with cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD). This randomized controlled trial was conducted to compare the effects between sevelamer and calcium carbonate on protein-bound uremic toxins in pre-dialysis CKD patients with hyperphosphatemia. Forty pre-dialysis CKD patients with persistent hyperphosphatemia were randomly assigned to receive either 2400 mg of sevelamer daily or 1500 mg of calcium carbonate daily for 24 weeks. A significant decrease of total serum p-cresyl sulfate was observed in sevelamer therapy compared to calcium carbonate therapy (mean difference between two groups −5.61 mg/L; 95% CI −11.01 to −0.27 mg/L; p = 0.04). There was no significant difference in serum indoxyl sulfate levels (p = 0.36). Sevelamer had effects in terms of lowering fibroblast growth factor 23 (p = 0.01) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (p = 0.04). Sevelamer showed benefits in terms of retarding CKD progression. Changes in vascular stiffness were not found in this study.

Factors Associated with the Incidence and Mortality of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) after 126-million Cases: A Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

This meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the current global incidence and mortality of COVID-19 and also explored the associated factors including geographic variations, transmission scenarios, country economic status, and healthcare performance.

METHODS

The search was conducted in online databases based on reports from national authorities by March 28, 2021. Random-effects model meta-analyses and meta-regression analyses were used to generate summary estimates and explored sources of heterogeneity.

RESULTS

The cumulative number of confirmed COVID-19 cases was 125,704,789 reported by 216 countries. The pooled Daily Cumulative Index (DCI) was 1423.87 cases/day which was highest in South America (2759.15 cases/day) followed by North America (2252.49 cases/day), Europe (1858.44 cases/day), Asia (1484.84 cases/day), Africa (193.09 cases/day), and Australia/Oceania (18.55 cases/day). The overall pooled mortality rate of COVID-19 was 1.53%. Higher income countries and countries with community transmission had higher DCI. By meta-regression, country total health expenditure per capita, percentage of universal health coverage, and total number of tests were associated with higher DCI. On the contrary, country Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita were negatively correlated with mortality rate.

CONCLUSION

To date, 216 countries around the world are affected by COVID-19. Higher income, GDP, and countries' investments on heath are associated with higher DCI while higher GDP correlates with lower mortality. Community transmission route have more impact on the incidence and mortality of COVID-19.

The impact of phosphate lowering agents on clinical and laboratory outcomes in chronic kidney disease patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Besides reducing hyperphosphatemia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, phosphate lowering agents might provide beneficial effects on clinical and laboratory parameters. This meta-analysis was conducted to comprehensively examine the impact of all phosphate lowering agents on various aspects of clinical and laboratory outcomes in CKD patients.

METHOD

A systematic literature search was performed in MEDLINE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials until July 2020 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which compared the effects of each phosphate lowering agent with controls, comprising placebo and all other phosphate lowering agents. Various clinical and laboratory outcomes were analyzed. Random effects model was used to compute the standardized mean difference for continuous variables and the risk ratio (RR) for binary variables.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis included 127 RCTs with 20,215 patients. Sevelamer and lanthanum significantly reduced all-cause mortality (RR 0.610, 95% CI 0.401-0.929 and 0.467, 95% CI 0.337-0.647, respectively) but not cardiovascular (CV) mortality or CV events. Hospitalization rates were significantly diminished by sevelamer (RR 0.527; 95% CI 0.308-0.902). Certain phosphate lowering agents improved biochemical parameters including serum phosphate, calcium, coronary artery calcium scores, fibroblast growth factor-23, bone biomarkers, and lipid profiles. Intact parathyroid hormone and bone mineral density were not significantly changed.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to decreasing serum phosphate levels, various beneficial effects on clinical and laboratory parameters of phosphate lowering agents might play potential roles in diminishing morbidity and mortality in CKD patients.

Effectiveness of fibroblast growth factor 23 lowering modalities in chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

The heightened fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) level in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with increased cardiovascular disease and mortality. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesize the available strategies to reduce FGF23 in CKD patients.

METHODS

We conducted a meta-analysis by searching the databases of MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and single-arm studies that examined the effects of dietary phosphate restriction, phosphate binders, iron supplements, calcimimetics, parathyroidectomy, dialysis techniques, and the outcome of preservation of residual renal function (RRF) on FGF23 levels in CKD patients. Random-effects model meta-analyses were used to compute changes in the outcome of interests.

RESULTS

A total of 41 articles (7590 patients), comprising 36 RCTs, 5 prospective studies were included in this meta-analysis. Dietary phosphate restriction less than 800 mg per day yielded insignificant effect on FGF23 reduction. Interestingly sevelamer, lanthanum, iron-based phosphate binders, and iron supplement significantly lowered FGF23 levels. In CKD patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism, calcimimetics prescription could significantly reduce FGF23 levels, while surgical parathyroidectomy had no significant effect. In dialysis patients, preservation of RRF and hemoperfusion as well as hemodiafiltration provided a significant decrease in FGF23 levels.

CONCLUSIONS

The present meta-analysis demonstrated that non-calcium-based phosphate binders including sevelamer, lanthanum, and iron-based phosphate binders, iron supplements, calcimimetics, hemoperfusion, and preservation of RRF could effectively reduce FGF23 in CKD patients.

Protein-bound uremic toxin lowering strategies in chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Accumulation of protein-bound uremic toxins, including indoxyl sulfate and p-cresyl sulfate, are associated with increased cardiovascular disease and mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD). We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesize the available strategies for lowering protein-bound uremic toxin levels in CKD patients.

METHODS

We conducted a meta-analysis by searching the databases of MEDLINE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the effect of dietary protein restrictions, biotic supplements (including prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics), AST-120, dialysis techniques, and the outcome of preservation of residual renal function (RRF) on indoxyl sulfate and p-cresyl sulfate levels. Random-effect model meta-analyses were used to compute changes in the outcomes of interest.

RESULTS

A total of 38 articles (2,492 patients), comprising 28 RCTs, 8 single-arm or prospective cohort studies, and 2 cross-sectional studies were included in this meta-analysis. When compared with placebo, prebiotics, synbiotics, and AST-120 provided significantly lower levels of both serum indoxyl sulfate and p-cresyl sulfate. There were no significant reductions in serum indoxyl sulfate and p-cresyl sulfate levels in patients receiving probiotics. Preservation of RRF in dialysis patients resulted in lower levels of both of the protein-bound uremic toxins. When compared with conventional hemodialysis, hemodiafiltration significantly decreased serum p-cresyl sulfate alone, whereas a significant change in serum indoxyl sulfate levels was observed only in studies with long-term observation periods. Very low protein diet (VLPD) and other oral medications yielded insignificant differences in protein-bound uremic toxins.

CONCLUSIONS

The present meta-analysis demonstrated that prebiotics, synbiotics, and AST-120 can effectively reduce both serum indoxyl sulfate and p-cresyl sulfate in CKD patients when compared with placebo. Preservation of RRF was associated with lower serum indoxyl sulfate and p-cresyl sulfate levels. The effect of biotic supplements was detected only in dialysis patients. For non-dialysis CKD patients, the results were limited due to the small number of studies. Further studies are needed to determine the efficacy in these populations.