1
|
Ruttmann K, Albaladejo-Fuertes S, Lindenberg N, Kunst C, Mehrl A, Kindl V, Gülow K, Schlosser-Hupf S, Schmid S, Müller M. Relationship between interprofessional collaboration and psychological distress experienced by healthcare professionals during COVID-19: a monocentric cross-sectional study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1292608. [PMID: 38660424 PMCID: PMC11039835 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1292608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, global healthcare systems have faced unprecedented challenges, leading to significant psychological distress among healthcare professionals. Recognizing the importance of enhanced interprofessional collaboration in alleviating this burden, as emphasized by the World Health Organization in 2020, we investigated whether such collaboration could mitigate staff psychological distress during crises. To our knowledge, no study has yet explored the role of interprofessional collaboration as a resilience factor in crises. Methods For this monocentric cross-sectional study at a German university hospital, we examined the relationship between the quality of interprofessional collaboration and the psychological distress of healthcare professionals during the initial pandemic wave. We employed validated mental health instruments, such as the GAD-7 and PHQ-2, to assess anxiety and depressive symptoms. Additionally, custom-designed questionnaires evaluated "Pandemic-Associated Burden and Anxiety (PAB; PAA)" and interprofessional crisis management experiences. A novel "Interprofessional collaboration and communication (IPC)" assessment tool was developed based on international competency frameworks, demonstrating strong reliability. Results The study involved 299 healthcare professionals (78.6% in direct contact with COVID-19 patients). Moderate levels of PAB/PAA were reported. However, a significant proportion experienced clinically relevant anxiety, as indicated by GAD-7. Negative IPC perceptions correlated with higher levels of psychological distress. Linear regression analysis showed associations between interprofessional collaboration and anxious and depressive symptoms, and pandemic-related burden. Conclusion Our findings highlight the vital role of enhanced interprofessional collaboration in strengthening the psychological well-being of healthcare professionals during crises. The study underscores the need to foster a collaborative environment and integrate interprofessional education for resilience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirstin Ruttmann
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Nursing Development Department of the Care Management Head Office, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sheila Albaladejo-Fuertes
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Nicole Lindenberg
- Department of Anaesthesiology, University Hospital of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Kunst
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Mehrl
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Vera Kindl
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Karsten Gülow
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sophie Schlosser-Hupf
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Schmid
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Martina Müller
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Schlosser-Hupf S, Aichner E, Meier M, Albaladejo-Fuertes S, Ruttmann K, Rusch S, Michels B, Mehrl A, Kunst C, Schmid S, Müller M. Evaluating the impact of interprofessional training wards on patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes: a mixed-methods analysis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1320027. [PMID: 38444410 PMCID: PMC10912604 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1320027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Interprofessional teamwork is pivotal in modern healthcare, prompting the establishment of interprofessional training wards since 1996. While these wards serve as hubs for optimizing healthcare professional collaboration and communication, research into patient outcomes remains notably sparse and geographically limited, predominantly examining patient satisfaction and sparingly exploring other metrics like mortality or self-discharge rates. This study seeks to bridge this gap, comparing patient outcomes in interprofessional training wards and conventional wards under the hypothesis that the former offers no disadvantage to patient outcomes. Materials and methods We explored patient outcomes within an interprofessional student ward called A-STAR at a University Hospital from October 2019 to December 2022. Engaging with patients discharged between May 2021 and April 2022, we utilized digital and paper-based anonymous questionnaires, catering to patient preference, to gather pertinent data. Results Analysis of outcomes for 1,482 A-STAR (interprofessional student ward) and 5,752 conventional ward patients revealed noteworthy findings. A-STAR patients tended to be younger (59 vs. 61 years, p < 0.01) and more frequently male (73.5% vs. 70.4%, p = 0.025). Vital clinical outcomes, such as discharges against medical advice, complication-driven readmissions, and ICU transfers, were statistically similar between groups, as were mortality rates (1.2% vs. 1.3%, p = 0.468). A-STAR demonstrated high patient satisfaction, underscored by positive reflections on team competence, ward atmosphere, and responsiveness to concerns, emphasizing the value placed on interprofessional collaboration. Patient narratives commended team kindness, lucid explanations, and proactive involvement. Discussion This data collectively underscores the safety and reliability of patient care within training wards, affirming that patients can trust the care provided in these settings. Patients on the interprofessional ward demonstrated high satisfaction levels: 96.7% appreciated the atmosphere and conduct of ward rounds. In comparison, 98.3% were satisfied with the discussion and information about their treatment during their hospital stay.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Schlosser-Hupf
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Aichner
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Marcus Meier
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sheila Albaladejo-Fuertes
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Kirstin Ruttmann
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- Nursing Development Department of the Care Management Head Office, University Hospital Regensburg, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sophia Rusch
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Bernhard Michels
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Mehrl
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Kunst
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Schmid
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Martina Müller
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Schmid S, Koch C, Zimmermann K, Buttenschoen J, Mehrl A, Pavel V, Schlosser-Hupf S, Fleischmann D, Krohn A, Schilling T, Müller M, Kratzer A. Interprofessional Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Carbapenems Improves ICU Care and Guideline Adherence in Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1730. [PMID: 38136763 PMCID: PMC10740747 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12121730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a severe, rapidly progressing disease in patients with liver cirrhosis. Meropenem is crucial for treating severe infections. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) offers an effective means to control drug dosages, especially vital for bactericidal antibiotics like meropenem. We aimed to assess the outcomes of implementing TDM for meropenem using an innovative interprofessional approach in ACLF patients on a medical intensive care unit (ICU). (2) Methods: The retrospective study was conducted on a medical ICU. The outcomes of an interprofessional approach comprising physicians, hospital pharmacists, and staff nurses to TDM for meropenem in critically ill patients with ACLF were examined in 25 patients. Meropenem was administered continuously via an infusion pump after the application of an initial loading dose. TDM was performed weekly using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Meropenem serum levels, implementation of the recommendations of the interprofessional team, and meropenem consumption were analyzed. (3) Results: Initial TDM for meropenem showed a mean meropenem serum concentration of 20.9 ± 9.6 mg/L in the 25 analyzed patients. Of note, in the initial TDM, only 16.0% of the patients had meropenem serum concentrations within the respective target range, while 84.0% exceeded this range. Follow-up TDM showed serum concentrations of 15.2 ± 5.7 mg/L (9.0-24.6) in Week 2 and 11.9 ± 2.3 mg/L (10.2-13.5) in Week 3. In Week 2, 41.7% of the patients had meropenem serum concentrations that were within the respective target range, while 58.3% of the patients were above this range. In Week 3, 50% of the analyzed serum concentrations of meropenem were within the targeted range, and 50% were above the range. In total, 100% of the advice given by the interprofessional team regarding meropenem dosing or a change in antibiotic therapy was implemented. During the intervention period, the meropenem application density was 37.9 recommended daily doses (RDD)/100 patient days (PD), compared to 42.1 RDD/100 PD in the control period, representing a 10.0% decrease. (4) Conclusions: Our interprofessional approach to TDM significantly reduced meropenem dosing, with all the team's recommendations being implemented. This method not only improved patient safety but also considerably decreased the application density of meropenem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Schmid
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (C.K.); (K.Z.); (J.B.); (A.M.); (V.P.); (S.S.-H.); (M.M.)
| | - Chiara Koch
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (C.K.); (K.Z.); (J.B.); (A.M.); (V.P.); (S.S.-H.); (M.M.)
| | - Katharina Zimmermann
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (C.K.); (K.Z.); (J.B.); (A.M.); (V.P.); (S.S.-H.); (M.M.)
| | - Jonas Buttenschoen
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (C.K.); (K.Z.); (J.B.); (A.M.); (V.P.); (S.S.-H.); (M.M.)
| | - Alexander Mehrl
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (C.K.); (K.Z.); (J.B.); (A.M.); (V.P.); (S.S.-H.); (M.M.)
| | - Vlad Pavel
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (C.K.); (K.Z.); (J.B.); (A.M.); (V.P.); (S.S.-H.); (M.M.)
| | - Sophie Schlosser-Hupf
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (C.K.); (K.Z.); (J.B.); (A.M.); (V.P.); (S.S.-H.); (M.M.)
| | - Daniel Fleischmann
- Hospital Pharmacy, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (D.F.); (A.K.)
| | - Alexander Krohn
- Department of Interdisciplinary Acute, Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine (DIANI), Klinikum Stuttgart, 70174 Stuttgart, Germany; (A.K.); (T.S.)
| | - Tobias Schilling
- Department of Interdisciplinary Acute, Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine (DIANI), Klinikum Stuttgart, 70174 Stuttgart, Germany; (A.K.); (T.S.)
| | - Martina Müller
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (C.K.); (K.Z.); (J.B.); (A.M.); (V.P.); (S.S.-H.); (M.M.)
| | - Alexander Kratzer
- Hospital Pharmacy, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (D.F.); (A.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Buttenschoen J, Pavel V, Mehrl A, Michels B, Albaladejo Fuertes S, Seydel B, Schlosser-Hupf S, Müller M, Schmid S. Bacterial Infection of an Alveolar Echinococcus Cyst from C. perfringens Septicemia: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. Medicina (Kaunas) 2023; 59:1828. [PMID: 37893546 PMCID: PMC10608314 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59101828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a highly variable disease able to present as structurally diverse cysts in different organs based on the host's immunological state as well as the time between diagnosis and the primary infection. Bacterial superinfections, especially with anaerobic pathogens from the Clostridiaceae genus, can further alter the radiological findings due to pneumobilia, newly formed abscess formations, and inflammatory changes. Materials and Methods: We present a case of a 71-year-old Caucasian male admitted to our intensive care unit with septic shock, pneumobilia, and a complex cyst of the liver with calcification, as shown by an initial CT. Because of the septic shock, the patient was started on broad-band antibiotics. Clostridiaceae infection was considered an important differential diagnosis due to the presence of pneumobilia observed in the initial CT, without a history of previous endoscopy. Furthermore, serology for echinococcus was positive, and blood cultures showed growth of C. perfringens. Therefore, the patient was additionally treated with albendazole. After recovery, further staging was conducted, showing complete remission of the cyst and a left-over lesion classified as Alveolar Echinococcosis Ulm Classification (AEUC) V. In summary, the patient had a pre-existing, controlled AE infection that became superinfected with C. perfringens, likely attributable to the anaerobic necrotic tissue, leading to septicemia. Results: The anaerobic tissue within the AE cyst provided an ideal medium for C. perfringens to replicate, leading to cyst infection, which subsequently caused septic shock and pneumobilia. The initial findings from CT and MRI were confounded by the superinfection, demonstrating the diagnostic challenges of AE, especially when presenting with complications. Conclusions: Diagnosing AE remains a demanding task, even with the excellent tools available through serology, coupled with CT, FDG-PET-CT, and MRI. Notably, older superinfected cysts can pose difficulties when integrated into the appropriate diagnostic context. Prompt diagnosis is critical for the accurate treatment of echinococcosis and its complications, such as bacterial superinfections. From a clinical perspective, septicemia from Clostridiaceae and infections with C. perfringens-pathogens capable of inducing pneumobilia-should be regarded as significant differential diagnoses for pneumobilia in the absence of a recent history of endoscopy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Stephan Schmid
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (J.B.); (V.P.); (A.M.); (B.M.); (S.A.F.); (B.S.); (S.S.-H.); (M.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pavel V, Scharf G, Mester P, Krauss LU, Gülow K, Mehrl A, Müller M, Schmid S. Partial splenic embolization as a rescue and emergency treatment for portal hypertension and gastroesophageal variceal hemorrhage. BMC Gastroenterol 2023; 23:180. [PMID: 37226088 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-023-02808-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Partial splenic embolization (PSE) is a non-surgical procedure which was initially used to treat hypersplenism. Furthermore, partial splenic embolization can be used for the treatment of different conditions, including gastroesophageal variceal hemorrhage. Here, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of emergency and non-emergency PSE in patients with gastroesophageal variceal hemorrhage and recurrent portal hypertensive gastropathy bleeding due to cirrhotic (CPH) and non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (NCPH). METHODS From December 2014 to July 2022, twenty-five patients with persistent esophageal variceal hemorrhage (EVH) and gastric variceal hemorrhage (GVH), recurrent EVH and GVH, controlled EVH with a high risk of recurrent bleeding, controlled GVH with a high risk of rebleeding, and portal hypertensive gastropathy due to CPH and NCPH underwent emergency and non-emergency PSE. PSE for treatment of persistent EVH and GVH was defined as emergency PSE. In all patients pharmacological and endoscopic treatment alone had not been sufficient to control variceal bleeding, and the placement of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) was contraindicated, not reasonable due to portal hemodynamics, or TIPS failure with recurrent esophageal bleeding had occurred. The patients were followed-up for six months. RESULTS All twenty-five patients, 12 with CPH and 13 with NCPH were successfully treated with PSE. In 13 out of 25 (52%) patients, PSE was performed under emergency conditions due to persistent EVH and GVH, clearly stopping the bleeding. Follow-up gastroscopy showed a significant regression of esophageal and gastric varices, classified as grade II or lower according to Paquet's classification after PSE in comparison to grade III to IV before PSE. During the follow-up period, no variceal re-bleeding occurred, neither in patients who were treated under emergency conditions nor in patients with non-emergency PSE. Furthermore, platelet count increased starting from day one after PSE, and after one week, thrombocyte levels had improved significantly. After six months, there was a sustained increase in the thrombocyte count at significantly higher levels. Fever, abdominal pain, and an increase in leucocyte count were transient side effects of the procedure. Severe complications were not observed. CONCLUSION This is the first study analyzing the efficacy of emergency and non-emergency PSE for the treatment of gastroesophageal hemorrhage and recurrent portal hypertensive gastropathy bleeding in patients with CPH and NCPH. We show that PSE is a successful rescue therapy for patients in whom pharmacological and endoscopic treatment options fail and the placement of a TIPS is contraindicated. In critically ill CPH and NCPH patients with fulminant gastroesophageal variceal bleeding, PSE showed good results and is therefore an effective tool for the rescue and emergency management of gastroesophageal hemorrhage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vlad Pavel
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gregor Scharf
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Patricia Mester
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Lea U Krauss
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Karsten Gülow
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Mehrl
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Martina Müller
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Schmid
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Krauß LU, Brosig AM, Schlosser S, Pavel V, Mehrl A, Gülow K, Kandulski A, Müller M, Schmid S. Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in ICU patients with acute hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis improves patient outcomes. Dig Dis 2023:000529975. [PMID: 36871551 DOI: 10.1159/000529975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute severe pancreatitis is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Hypertriglyceridemia is the third most common cause of acute pancreatitis and higher triglyceride levels increase the risk for severe acute pancreatitis. Plasma exchange is an effective treatment method to lower triglycerides. Our study aimed to investigate the efficiency of plasma exchange as a treatment option for acute hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis (HTGP), the impact on mortality assessed by the SOFA-, SAPS II-, BISAP Score, Ranson's, and Glasgow-Imrie Criteria as well as the overall length of stay in hospital and ICU. METHODS In this retrospective single-center cohort study, triglycerides before and after plasma exchange were compared. SOFA and SAPS II were taken on ICU admission and at discharge. To further characterize the patient cohort, BISAP Score (on admission), Ranson's Criteria (on admission and after 48 hours), and the Glasgow-Imrie Criteria (48 hours after admission) were calculated. RESULTS The study included 11 patients (91 % male; median age 45 years). Triglycerides were reduced from 4266 ± 3560.6 to 842 ± 575.9 mg/dl during plasmapheresis (P < .001). The median ICU length of stay was 3 ± 4.2 days. In-hospital mortality was 0 %. The SOFA score was significantly reduced from 4 ± 3.4 points on admission to 2 ± 2.1 points at discharge (P = .017). Triglycerides and cholesterol decreased from 3126 ± 3665 to 531 ± 273 mg/dl (P = .003) and from 438 ± 137.9 to 222 ± 59.5 mg/dl (P = .028), respectively. CONCLUSION Plasmapheresis is an efficient and safe treatment method for ICU patients with acute HTGP and significantly reduces triglycerides. Furthermore, plasmapheresis significantly improves the clinical outcomes of patients with HTGP.
Collapse
|
7
|
Maier J, Kandulski A, Donlon NE, Werner JM, Mehrl A, Müller M, Doenecke A, Schlitt HJ, Hornung M, Weiss ARR. Endoscopic vacuum therapy significantly improves clinical outcomes of anastomotic leakages after 2-stage, 3-stage, and transhiatal esophagectomies. Langenbecks Arch Surg 2023; 408:90. [PMID: 36790506 PMCID: PMC9931828 DOI: 10.1007/s00423-023-02826-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anastomotic leakages after esophagectomies continue to constitute significant morbidity and mortality. Intrathoracic anastomoses pose a high risk for mediastinitis, sepsis, and death, if a leak is not addressed timely and appropriately. However, there are no standardized treatment recommendations or algorithms as for how to treat these leakages. METHODS The study included all patients at the University Hospital Regensburg, who developed an anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy with gastric pull-up reconstruction from 2007 to 2022. Patients receiving conventional treatment options for an anastomotic leakage (stents, drainage tubes, clips, etc.) were compared to patients receiving endoscopic vacuum-assisted closure (eVAC) therapy as their mainstay of treatment. Treatment failure was defined as cervical esophagostomy formation or death. RESULTS In total, 37 patients developed an anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy with a gastric pull-up reconstruction. Twenty patients were included into the non-eVAC cohort, whereas 17 patients were treated with eVAC. Treatment failure was observed in 50% of patients (n = 10) in the non-eVAC cohort and in 6% of patients (n = 1) in the eVAC cohort (p < 0.05). The 90-day mortality in the non-eVAC cohort was 15% (n = 3) compared to 6% (n = 1) in the eVAC cohort. Cervical esophagostomy formation was required in 40% of cases (n = 8) in the non-eVAC cohort, whereas no patient in the eVAC cohort underwent cervical esophagostomy formation. CONCLUSION eVAC therapy for leaking esophagogastric anastomoses appears to be superior to other treatment strategies as it significantly reduces morbidity and mortality. Therefore, we suggest eVAC as an essential component in the treatment algorithm for anastomotic leakages following esophagectomies, especially in patients with intrathoracic anastomoses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Maier
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauss-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - A Kandulski
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - N E Donlon
- Department of Surgery, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin 7, Ireland
| | - J M Werner
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauss-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - A Mehrl
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - M Müller
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - A Doenecke
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauss-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - H J Schlitt
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauss-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - M Hornung
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauss-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - A R R Weiss
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauss-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Vogg J, Maier-Stocker C, Munker S, Mehrl A, Schlosser S, Tews HC, Gülow K, Müller M, Schmid S. Hepatic perfusion as a new predictor of prognosis and mortality in critical care patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1008450. [PMID: 36300192 PMCID: PMC9589036 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1008450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Liver diseases are frequent causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Liver diseases can lead to cirrhosis, with the risk of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). For the detection of changes in hepatic hemodynamics, Doppler ultrasonography is a well-established method. We investigated hepatic hemodynamics via serial Doppler ultrasonography to determine the predictive value of changes in hepatic perfusion for the outcome in patients with severe liver diseases compared to established prognostic models such as the MELD (Model for End-Stage Liver Disease) or CLIF-C (Chronic Liver Failure-Consortium) ACLF score. Methods In this prospective cohort study, hepatic perfusion was quantified at baseline before the initiation of treatment and every third day by means of serial measurements of the hepatic artery resistance index (HARI) and the maximum portal vein velocity (PVv) using Doppler ultrasonography in 50 consecutive patients with severe liver diseases admitted to a medical intensive care unit (MICU). The recorded hemodynamic parameters were compared to the MELD score, and the CLIF-C ACLF score to analyze their utility for the prediction of the outcome of patients with severe liver diseases, liver cirrhosis, and ACLF. Results The changes (delta) obtained by serial measurements of the MELD score, HARI, and PVv were analyzed through scatter plots. Bivariate correlation analysis yielded a new positive linear correlation between the delta-HARI and the delta-MELD score (r = 0.469; p < 0.001). In addition, our data revealed a new negative linear correlation between delta-PVv and the delta-MELD score (r = −0.279, p = 0.001). The leading cause of MICU mortality was acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). A subgroup analysis of patients with liver cirrhosis revealed a positive linear correlation between the delta-HARI and the delta-CLIF-C-ACLF score (r = 0.252, p = 0.005). Of clinical relevance, non-survivors of ACLF exhibited a significantly higher mean value for the delta-HARI (0.010 vs. −0.005; p = 0.015) and a lower mean value for the delta-PVv (−0.7 vs. 1.9 cm/s; p = 0.037) in comparison to survivors of ACLF. Conclusion This study shows the prognostic value of the assessment of hepatic perfusion in critical care patients with severe liver diseases by bedside Doppler ultrasound examination and its utility as an accurate predictor of the outcome in patients with ACLF. Increasing HARI and a decreasing PVv are predictors of an adverse outcome. Delta-HARI and delta-PVv are new biomarkers of prognosis and ACLF-related mortality in patients with liver diseases. Delta-HARI and delta-PVv may be helpful in guiding clinical decision-making, especially in catecholamine and fluid management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Vogg
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany,Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Constantin Maier-Stocker
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Munker
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany,Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Alexander Mehrl
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Sophie Schlosser
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Hauke Christian Tews
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Karsten Gülow
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Martina Müller
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Schmid
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany,*Correspondence: Stephan Schmid
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Haderer M, Neubert P, Rinner E, Scholtis A, Broncy L, Gschwendtner H, Kandulski A, Pavel V, Mehrl A, Brochhausen C, Schlosser S, Gülow K, Kunst C, Müller M. Novel pathomechanism for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis: disruption of cell junctions by cellular and bacterial proteases. Gut 2022; 71:580-592. [PMID: 33707230 PMCID: PMC8862089 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2020-321663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a life-threatening complication of liver cirrhosis with a 1-year mortality of 66%. Bacterial translocation (BT) from the intestine to the mesenteric lymph nodes is crucial for the pathogenesis of SBP. DESIGN Since BT presupposes a leaky intestinal epithelium, the integrity of mucus and epithelial cell junctions (E-cadherin and occludin) was examined in colonic biopsies from patients with liver cirrhosis and controls. SBP-inducing Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Proteus mirabilis (P. mirabilis) were isolated from ascites of patients with liver cirrhosis and co-cultured with Caco-2 cells to characterise bacteria-to-cell effects. RESULTS SBP-derived E. coli and P. mirabilis led to a marked reduction of cell-to-cell junctions in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner. This effect was enhanced by a direct interaction of live bacteria with epithelial cells. Degradation of occludin is mediated via increased ubiquitination by the proteasome. Remarkably, a novel bacterial protease activity is of pivotal importance for the cleavage of E-cadherin. CONCLUSION Patients with liver cirrhosis show a reduced thickness of colonic mucus, which allows bacteria-to-epithelial cell contact. Intestinal bacteria induce degradation of occludin by exploiting the proteasome of epithelial cells. We identified a novel bacterial protease activity of patient-derived SBP-inducing bacteria, which is responsible for the cleavage of E-cadherin structures. Inhibition of this protease activity leads to stabilisation of cell junctions. Thus, targeting these mechanisms by blocking the ubiquitin-proteasome system and/or the bacterial protease activity might interfere with BT and constitute a novel innovative therapeutic strategy to prevent SBP in patients with liver cirrhosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marika Haderer
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Philip Neubert
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Eva Rinner
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Annika Scholtis
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Lucile Broncy
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Heidi Gschwendtner
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Arne Kandulski
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Vlad Pavel
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Alexander Mehrl
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Christoph Brochhausen
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Sophie Schlosser
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Karsten Gülow
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Claudia Kunst
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Martina Müller
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology and Infectious diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Weigand K, Mehrl A, Goessmann H, Mueller M, Kandulski A. Endoscopic Necrosectomy of Walled-Off Necrosis following Severe Pancreatitis Using a Hot AxiosTM Stent - A Case Series. Dig Dis 2019; 38:1-4. [PMID: 31726460 DOI: 10.1159/000503991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Walled-off necrosis is a common complication of severe pancreatitis. Guidelines recommend endoscopic transgastric necrosectomy as therapy of choice. Different endoscopic approaches are possible. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed our series of 9 patients where necrosectomy was performed after application of a lumen-apposing metal stent (LAMS) delivered using a Hot AxiosTM Stent device. RESULTS In all 9 cases, the walled-off necrosis resolved completely. Necrosectomy was performed through the LAMS (mean: 5.7 times). Endoscopic necrosectomy was repeated every 3rd-7th day using 10- or 15-mm snares. There were no major complications. Especially, no early or delayed bleeding was seen. CONCLUSION The Hot AxiosTM Stent device is a safe method for necrosectomy of walled-off necrosis. It enables puncture, drainage, and LAMS insertion in a single delivery, followed by several courses of necrosectomy if needed without stent exchange.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kilian Weigand
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany,
| | - Alexander Mehrl
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Holger Goessmann
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Martina Mueller
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Arne Kandulski
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|