Risk factors for clinically important upper gastrointestinal bleeding in patients requiring mechanical ventilation. Canadian Critical Care Trials Group

Defining Appropriate Use of Proton-Pump Inhibitors Among Medical Inpatients

BACKGROUND

Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly used among medical inpatients, both for prophylaxis against upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) and continuation of outpatient use. While PPIs reduce the risk of UGIB, they also appear to increase the risk of hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) and Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). Depending upon the underlying risks of these conditions and the changes in those risks with PPIs, use of proton-pump inhibitors may lead to a net benefit or net harm among medical inpatients.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to determine the net impact of PPIs on hospital mortality among medical inpatients.

DESIGN

A microsimulation model, using literature-derived estimates of the risks of UGIB, HAP, and CDI among medical inpatients, along with the changes in risk associated with PPI use for each of these outcomes. The primary outcome was change in inpatient mortality.

PARTICIPANTS

Simulated general medical inpatients outside the intensive care unit (ICU).

MAIN MEASURE

Change in overall mortality during hospitalization.

KEY RESULTS

New initiation of PPI therapy led to an increase in hospital mortality in about 90% of simulated patients. Continuation of outpatient PPI therapy on admission led to net increase in hospital mortality in 79% of simulated patients. Results were robust to both one-way and multivariate sensitivity analyses, with net harm occurring in at least two-thirds of patients in all scenarios.

CONCLUSIONS

For the majority of medical inpatients outside the ICU, use of PPIs likely leads to a net increase in hospital mortality. Even in patients at particularly high risk of UGIB, only those at the very lowest risk of HCAP and CDI should be considered for prophylactic PPI use. Continuation of outpatient PPIs may also increase expected hospital mortality. Apart from patients with active UGIB, use of PPIs in hospitalized patients should be discouraged.

Reduction in gastrointestinal bleeding by development and implementation of a protocol for stress ulcer prophylaxis: a before-after study

Background

The implementation of a protocol has been associated with improvements in the processes of care in clinical settings. Although stress ulcer prophylaxis is recommended for critically ill patients at high risk, there is currently no consensus on its use. Therefore, we herein developed a protocol for stress ulcer prophylaxis, and evaluated therapeutic outcomes in a before-after study.

Methods

The protocol was developed by considering the effectiveness, disadvantages (including adverse events) and cost of each agent based on previous findings. Patients who were admitted to the 8-bed emergency intensive care unit (ICU) of our hospital for more than 24 h during the year before and after implementation of the study were eligible. Each investigation item was evaluated retrospectively.

Results

There were 211 and 238 study patients before and after implementation of the protocol, respectively. The baseline characteristics of patients on/during ICU admission were similar in the two groups. The proportion of medicated patients was 79.6 % before and 84.5 % after protocol implementation. Before implementation of the protocol, 4.3 % of patients developed clinically important gastrointestinal bleeding, and this incidence decreased significantly to 0.8 % after its implementation (P = 0.019). The frequency at which medication was discontinued due to adverse events was slightly lower after implementation of the protocol. No significant differences were observed in the costs of stress ulcer prophylactic agents or mortality in the ICU.

Conclusions

The results of the present study indicated that the development and implementation of a protocol for stress ulcer prophylaxis, for which there are currently no criteria, improved a main outcome, clinically important gastrointestinal bleeding.

Long-term remote organ consequences following acute kidney injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) has been a global health epidemic problem with soaring incidence, increased long-term risks for multiple comorbidities and mortality, as well as elevated medical costs. Despite the improvement of patient outcomes following the advancements in preventive and therapeutic strategies, the mortality rates among critically ill patients with AKI remain as high as 40–60 %. The distant organ injury, a direct consequence of deleterious systemic effects, following AKI is an important explanation for this phenomenon. To date, most evidence of remote organ injury in AKI is obtained from animal models. Whereas the observations in humans are from a limited number of participants in a relatively short follow-up period, or just focusing on the cytokine levels rather than clinical solid outcomes. The remote organ injury is caused with four underlying mechanisms: (1) “classical” pattern of acute uremic state; (2) inflammatory nature of the injured kidneys; (3) modulating effect of AKI of the underlying disease process; and (4) healthcare dilemma. While cytokines/chemokines, leukocyte extravasation, oxidative stress, and certain channel dysregulation are the pathways involving in the remote organ damage. In the current review, we summarized the data from experimental studies to clinical outcome studies in the field of organ crosstalk following AKI. Further, the long-term consequences of distant organ-system, including liver, heart, brain, lung, gut, bone, immune system, and malignancy following AKI with temporary dialysis were reviewed and discussed.

Current Opinions on Stress-Related Mucosal Disease Prevention in Canadian Pediatric Intensive Care Units

OBJECTIVE

To describe current opinions about stress-related mucosal disease (SRMD) prevention in Canadian pediatric intensive care units (PICUs).

METHODS

A 22-question survey covering several aspects of SRMD was sent to all identified PICU attendings in Canada.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight percent of identified attendings completed the questionnaire. Thirty-eight percent were based in Quebec, 31% in Alberta, and 31% from other provinces. Most attendings (78%) had worked in a PICU for 6 years or more. When asked about risk factors for prescribing SRMD prevention drugs (more than 1 answer was accepted), the most popular answers were prior history of gastric ulceration/bleeding (33 respondents), coagulopathy (28 respondents), and major neurologic insult (18 respondents). Almost half of the attendings (48%) mentioned that they prescribe SRMD prophylaxis directly upon PICU admission to more than 25% of their patients. Forty-nine percent of respondents subjectively estimated that clinically significant upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB; defined as UGIB associated with either hypotension, transfusion within 24 hours of the event, or death) occurred in less than 1% of their patients. Fifty-seven respondents (93%) used ranitidine as first-line therapy (average dose: 4.1 mg/kg/day, mainly intravenously). As second-line therapy, 32 attendings (52%) used pantoprazole and 13 (21%) used omeprazole.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the paucity of guidelines on SRMD prevention and the low reported incidence of clinically significant UGIB, SRMD prevention is frequently used in Canadian PICUs. Ranitidine is the first-line drug used by most attendings.

Prevalence and outcome of gastrointestinal bleeding and use of acid suppressants in acutely ill adult intensive care patients

PURPOSE

To describe the prevalence of, risk factors for, and prognostic importance of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and use of acid suppressants in acutely ill adult intensive care patients.

METHODS

We included adults without GI bleeding who were acutely admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) during a 7-day period. The primary outcome was clinically important GI bleeding in ICU, and the analyses included estimations of baseline risk factors and potential associations with 90-day mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 1,034 patients in 97 ICUs in 11 countries were included. Clinically important GI bleeding occurred in 2.6 % (95 % confidence interval 1.6-3.6 %) of patients. The following variables at ICU admission were independently associated with clinically important GI bleeding: three or more co-existing diseases (odds ratio 8.9, 2.7-28.8), co-existing liver disease (7.6, 3.3-17.6), use of renal replacement therapy (6.9, 2.7-17.5), co-existing coagulopathy (5.2, 2.3-11.8), acute coagulopathy (4.2, 1.7-10.2), use of acid suppressants (3.6, 1.3-10.2) and higher organ failure score (1.4, 1.2-1.5). In ICU, 73 % (71-76 %) of patients received acid suppressants; most received proton pump inhibitors. In patients with clinically important GI bleeding, crude and adjusted odds for mortality were 3.7 (1.7-8.0) and 1.7 (0.7-4.3), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In ICU patients clinically important GI bleeding is rare, and acid suppressants are frequently used. Co-existing diseases, liver failure, coagulopathy and organ failures are the main risk factors for GI bleeding. Clinically important GI bleeding was not associated with increased adjusted 90-day mortality, which largely can be explained by severity of comorbidity, other organ failures and age.

Stress-related mucosal disease in the critically ill patient

Bleeding from stress-related mucosal disease in critically ill patients remains an important clinical management issue. Although only a small proportion (1-6%) of patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) will bleed, a substantial proportion exhibit clinical risk factors (mechanical ventilation for >48 h and a coagulopathy) that predict an increased risk of bleeding. Furthermore, upper gastrointestinal mucosal lesions can be found in 75-100% of patients in ICUs. Although uncommon, stress-ulcer bleeding is a severe complication with an estimated mortality of 40-50%, mostly from decompensating an underlying condition or multiorgan failure. Although the vast majority of patients in ICUs receive stress-ulcer prophylaxis, largely with PPIs, some controversy surrounds their efficacy and safety. Indeed, no single trial has shown that stress-ulcer prophylaxis reduces mortality. Some reports suggest that the use of PPIs increases the risk of nosocomial infections. However, several meta-analyses and cost-effectiveness studies suggest PPIs to be more clinically effective and cost-effective than histamine-2 receptor antagonists, without considerable increases in nosocomial pneumonia. To help clinicians use the most appropriate strategy for treatment of patients in the ICU, this Review presents the latest information on all aspects of stress-related mucosal disease.

Randomized Trials and Collaborative Research in Epilepsy Surgery: Future Directions

Background:

Although randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are the gold standard for evaluating therapeutic interventions, surgical RCTs are particularly challenging and few have been done in the field of epilepsy surgery. We assess the level of RCT activity in epilepsy surgery and propose feasible alternatives to develop sustainable research initiatives in this area.

Methods:

We undertook a systematic review of the world literature to assess the level of RCT activity in epilepsy surgery. Previous personal experience with RCTs in epilepsy surgery and examples of successful Canadian multicentre research networks were reviewed to propose initiatives for sustainable, valid research in epilepsy surgery.

Results:

We identified 12 RCTs in epilepsy surgery, including 692 patients, of whom 416 were involved in vagus nerve stimulation, 16 in various brain electrostimulation procedures, 180 in comparisons of different surgical techniques, and 80 in a comparison of medical versus surgical therapy. Most studies were of short duration (median = 3 months, range 3-12 months). In the area of resective surgery, only temporal lobe epilepsy has been subjected to any type of RCT comparison. All RCTs have been done within the last 13 years. There were no multicentre Canadian surgical studies.

Conclusion:

The adoption of RCTs in epilepsy surgery has been slow and difficult worldwide. Because of its universal health care system and its well established epilepsy surgery centres, Canada is in a strong position to create a national epilepsy surgery research initiative capable of undertaking high quality, sustainable research in epilepsy surgery.

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding caused by severe esophagitis: a unique clinical syndrome

BACKGROUND

We have recognized a unique clinical syndrome in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding who are found to have severe esophagitis.

AIM

We aimed to more clearly describe the clinical entity of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with severe esophagitis.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective matched case-control study designed to investigate clinical features in patients with carefully defined upper gastrointestinal bleeding and severe esophagitis. Patient data were captured prospectively via a Gastrointestinal Bleeding Healthcare Registry, which collects data on all patients admitted with gastrointestinal bleeding. Patients with endoscopically documented esophagitis (cases) were matched with randomly selected controls that had upper gastrointestinal bleeding caused by other lesions.

RESULTS

Epidemiologic features in patients with esophagitis were similar to those with other causes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. However, hematemesis was more common in patients with esophagitis 86% (102/119) than in controls 55% (196/357) (p < 0.0001), while melena was less common in patients with esophagitis 38% (45/119) than in controls 68% (244/357) (p < 0.0001). Additionally, the more severe the esophagitis, the more frequent was melena. Patients with esophagitis had less abnormal vital signs, lesser decreases in hematocrit, and lesser increases in BUN. Both pre- and postRockall scores were lower in patients with esophagitis compared with controls (p = 0.01, and p < 0.0001, respectively). Length of hospital stay (p = 0.002), rebleeding rate at 42 days (p = 0.0007), and mortality were less in patients with esophagitis than controls. Finally, analysis of patients with esophagitis and cirrhosis suggested that this group of patients had more severe bleeding than those without cirrhosis.

CONCLUSIONS

We have described a unique clinical syndrome in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding who have erosive esophagitis. This syndrome is manifest by typical clinical features and is associated with favorable outcomes.

[Prophylaxis for stress ulcer bleeding in the intensive care unit]

BACKGROUND

The critically ill patient can develop gastric erosions and, on occasion, stress ulcers with severe gastrointestinal bleeding that can be fatal.

AIMS

The purpose of this review was to provide current information on the pathophysiology, risk factors, and prophylaxis of digestive tract bleeding from stress ulcers in the intensive care unit.

METHODS

We identified articles through a PubMed search, covering the years 1970 to 2013. The most relevant articles were selected using the search phrases "stress ulcer", "stress ulcer bleeding prophylaxis", and "stress-related mucosal bleeding" in combination with "intensive care unit".

RESULTS

The incidence of clinically significant bleeding has decreased dramatically since 1980. The most important risk factors are respiratory failure and coagulopathy. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) are used in stress ulcer bleeding prophylaxis. Both drugs have been shown to be superior to placebo in reducing the risk for gastrointestinal bleeding and PPIs are at least as effective as H2RAs. Early enteral feeding has been shown to reduce the risk for stress ulcer bleeding, albeit in retrospective studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Admittance to the intensive care unit in itself does not justify prophylaxis. PPIs are at least as effective as H2RAs. We should individualize the treatment of each patient in the intensive care unit, determining risk and evaluating the need to begin prophylaxis.

Anaemia secondary to critical illness: an unexplained phenomenon

Almost all patients suffering critical illness become anaemic during their time in intensive care. The cause of this anaemia and its management has been a topic of debate in critical care medicine for the last two decades. Packed red cell transfusion has an associated cost and morbidity such that decreasing the number of units transfused would be of great benefit. Our understanding of the aetiology and importance of this anaemia is improving with recent and ongoing work to establish the cause, effect and best treatment options. This review aims to describe the current literature whilst suggesting that the nature of the anaemia should be considered with reference to the time point in critical illness. Finally, we suggest that using haemoglobin concentration as a measure of oxygen-carrying capacity has limitations and that ways of measuring haemoglobin mass should be explored.

Use of proton pump inhibitors for the provision of stress ulcer prophylaxis: clinical and economic consequences

The provision of stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP) for the prevention of clinically significant bleeding is widely recognized as a crucial component of care in critically ill patients. Nevertheless, SUP is often provided to non-critically ill patients despite a risk for clinically significant bleeding of roughly 0.1 %. The overuse of SUP therefore introduces added risks for adverse drug events and cost, with minimal expected benefit in clinical outcome. Historically, histamine-2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs) have been the preferred agent for SUP; however, recent data have revealed proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) as the most common modality (76 %). There are no high quality randomized controlled trials demonstrating superiority with PPIs compared with H2RAs for the prevention of clinically significant bleeding associated with stress ulcers. In contrast, PPIs have recently been linked to several adverse effects including Clostridium difficile diarrhea and pneumonia. These complications have substantial economic consequences and have a marked impact on the overall cost effectiveness of PPI therapy. Nevertheless, PPI use remains widespread in patients who are at both high and low risk for clinically significant bleeding. This article will describe the utilization of PPIs for SUP and present the clinical and economic consequences linked to their use/overuse.

Stress ulcer prophylaxis versus placebo or no prophylaxis in critically ill patients. A systematic review of randomised clinical trials with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

PURPOSE

To assess the effects of stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP) versus placebo or no prophylaxis on all-cause mortality, gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and hospital-acquired pneumonia in adult critically ill patients in the intensive care unit (ICU).

METHODS

We performed a systematic review using meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis (TSA). Eligible trials were randomised clinical trials comparing proton pump inhibitors or histamine 2 receptor antagonists with either placebo or no prophylaxis. Two reviewers independently assessed studies for inclusion and extracted data. The Cochrane Collaboration methodology was used. Risk ratios/relative risks (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated. The predefined outcome measures were all-cause mortality, GI bleeding, and hospital-acquired pneumonia.

RESULTS

Twenty trials (n = 1,971) were included; all were judged as having a high risk of bias. There was no statistically significant difference in mortality (fixed effect: RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.84-1.20; P = 0.87; I(2) = 0%) or hospital-acquired pneumonia (random effects: RR 1.23, 95% CI 0.86-1.78; P = 0.28; I(2) = 19%) between SUP patients and the no prophylaxis/placebo patients. These findings were confirmed in the TSA. With respect to GI bleeding, a statistically significant difference was found in the conventional meta-analysis (random effects: RR 0.44, 95% CI 0.28-0.68; P = 0.01; I(2) = 48%); however, TSA (TSA adjusted 95% CI 0.18-1.11) and subgroup analyses could not confirm this finding.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review using meta-analysis and TSA demonstrated that both the quality and the quantity of evidence supporting the use of SUP in adult ICU patients is low. Consequently, large randomised clinical trials are warranted.

Decreasing trend of upper gastrointestinal bleeding mortality risk over three decades

BACKGROUND

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) causes over $1 billion in medical expenses annually.

AIMS

The purpose of this study was to examine changes of UGIB mortality risks and trends over the last three decades.

METHODS

We analyzed the National Hospital Discharge Sample from 1979 to 2009. Patients with primary ICD-9 code representing a diagnosis of UGIB were included. The UGIB mortality risks and trends in each decade by anatomical sites, bleeding causes, comorbidities, and other important variables were analyzed.

RESULTS

UGIB mortality risk decreased by 35.4 % from 4.8 % in the first decade to 3.1 % in the third decade (P < 0.001). Age and number of hospitalization days were significant risk factors in all decades. Most significant decreases were observed in patients over 65 years and during the first day of admission. Gastric (P < 0.001) and esophageal (P = 0.018) bleedings showed significant decreasing mortality risk trends. Duodenal bleeding mortality risk was stable in three decades. Mortality risk declined significantly among patients with renal failure (from 50.0 to 4.0 %) and heart failure (from 17.9 to 5.2 %; both P < 0.001) while changes in cases with ischemic heart disease, cancer, and liver failure were less significant.

CONCLUSION

UGIB morality risks, especially of the first hospital day and geriatric patients, significantly decreased over the last three decades, presumably from recent advances in emergency medical care. Mortality risk of gastric, but not duodenal, bleeding had the most significant reduction. Critical care improvements in patients with various comorbidities may explain significant UGIB mortality risk reductions. This study provides invaluable insight into the causes and trends of UGIB mortality risks for future studies.

Risk factors and impact of major bleeding in critically ill patients receiving heparin thromboprophylaxis

PURPOSE

Bleeding frequently complicates critical illness and may have serious consequences. Our objectives are to describe the predictors of major bleeding and the association between bleeding and mortality in medical-surgical critically ill patients receiving heparin thromboprophylaxis.

METHODS

We prospectively studied patients from 67 intensive care units and six countries enrolled in a thromboprophylaxis trial (NCT00182143) comparing dalteparin with unfractionated heparin. Patients with trauma, orthopedic surgery or neurosurgery were excluded. Trained research coordinators used a validated tool to document bleeding, which underwent duplicate independent blinded adjudication. Major bleeding was defined as hypovolemic shock, bleeding into critical sites, requiring an invasive intervention or transfusion of at least two units of red blood cells, or associated with hypotension or tachycardia in the absence of other causes. Adjusted Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was used to identify major bleeding predictors and the association between bleeding and mortality.

RESULTS

Among 3,746 patients, bleeding occurred in 208 [5.6 %, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 4.9-6.3 %]. Time-dependent predictors were prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time [hazard ratio (HR) 1.10, 1.05-1.14 per 10 s increase], lower platelet count (HR 1.16, 1.09-1.24 per 50 × 10(9)/L decrease), therapeutic heparin (HR 3.26, 1.72-6.17), antiplatelet agents (HR 1.38, 1.02-1.88), renal replacement therapy (HR 1.75, 1.20-2.56), and recent surgery (HR 1.64, 1.01-2.65). Type of pharmacologic thromboprophylaxis was not associated with bleeding. Patients with bleeding had a higher risk of in-hospital death (HR 2.09, 1.69-2.57).

CONCLUSIONS

As major bleeding has modifiable risk factors and is associated with in-hospital mortality, strategies to mitigate these factors should be evaluated in critically ill patients.

Stress ulcer prophylaxis in the intensive care unit: is it indicated? A topical systematic review

Stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP) is regarded as standard of care in the intensive care unit (ICU). However, recent randomized, clinical trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses have questioned the rationale and level of evidence for this recommendation. The aim of the present systematic review was to evaluate if SUP in the critically ill patients is indicated.

DATA SOURCES

 MEDLINE including MeSH, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library.

PARTICIPANTS

patients in the ICU.

INTERVENTIONS

pharmacological and non-pharmacological SUP.

STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS

Risk of bias was assessed according to Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation, and risk of random errors in cumulative meta-analyses was assessed with trial sequential analysis. A total of 57 studies were included in the review. The literature on SUP in the ICU includes limited trial data and methodological weak studies. The reported incidence of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding varies considerably. Data on the incidence and severity of GI bleeding in general ICUs in the developed world as of today are lacking. The best intervention for SUP is yet to be settled by balancing efficacy and harm. In essence, it is unresolved if intensive care patients benefit overall from SUP. The following clinically research questions are unanswered: (1) What is the incidence of GI bleeding, and which interventions are used for SUP in general ICUs today?; (2) Which criteria are used to prescribe SUP?; (3) What is the best SUP intervention?; (4) Do intensive care patients benefit from SUP with proton pump inhibitors as compared with other SUP interventions? Systematic reviews of possible interventions and well-powered observational studies and RCTs are needed.

Risk factors for nosocomial gastrointestinal bleeding and use of acid-suppressive medication in non-critically ill patients

BACKGROUND

It is unknown whether there exist certain subsets of patients outside of the intensive care unit in whom the risk of nosocomial gastrointestinal bleeding is high enough that prophylactic use of acid-suppressive medication may be warranted.

OBJECTIVE

To identify risk factors for nosocomial gastrointestinal bleeding in a cohort of non-critically ill hospitalized patients, develop a risk scoring system, and use this system to identify patients most likely to benefit from acid suppression.

DESIGN

Cohort study.

PATIENTS

Adult patients admitted to an academic medical center from 2004 through 2007. Admissions with a principal diagnosis of gastrointestinal bleeding or a principal procedure code for cardiac catheterization were excluded.

MAIN MEASURES

Medication, laboratory, and other clinical data were obtained through electronic data repositories maintained at the medical center. The main outcome measure-nosocomial gastrointestinal bleeding occurring outside of the intensive care unit-was ascertained via ICD-9-CM coding and confirmed by chart review.

KEY RESULTS

Of 75,723 admissions (median age = 56 years; 40 % men), nosocomial gastrointestinal bleeding occurred in 203 (0.27 %). Independent risk factors for bleeding included age > 60 years, male sex, liver disease, acute renal failure, sepsis, being on a medicine service, prophylactic anticoagulants, and coagulopathy. Risk of bleeding increased as clinical risk score derived from these factors increased. Acid-suppressive medication was utilized in > 50 % of patients in each risk stratum. Our risk scoring system identified a high risk group in whom the number-needed-to-treat with acid-suppressive medication to prevent one bleeding event was < 100.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large cohort of non-critically ill hospitalized patients, we identified several independent risk factors for nosocomial gastrointestinal bleeding. With further validation at other medical centers, the risk model derived from these factors may help clinicians to direct acid-suppressive medication to those most likely to benefit.

Proton pump inhibitor use and the risk of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) could predispose individuals to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) by altering the intraluminal environment and bacterial flora. There is controversy regarding the risk of SIBO among PPI users because of conflicting results from prior studies. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to evaluate the association between PPI use and SIBO, using objective clinical outcome measures.

METHODS

Clinical studies comparing SIBO risk among adult users of PPIs vs nonusers were identified in MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the National Institutes of Health Clinical Trials databases through July 2012. Two reviewers independently extracted data on study characteristics and outcomes. The primary metameter was the odds ratio (OR) of SIBO among PPI users vs nonusers. Subgroup analyses were performed to examine the influence of study characteristics, such as SIBO diagnostic modality, on study outcome.

RESULTS

Eleven studies (n = 3134) met inclusion criteria. The pooled OR of SIBO in PPI users vs nonusers was 2.282 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.238-4.205). No significant single large study or temporal effect was seen. Subgroup analysis revealed an association between SIBO and PPI use in studies that used duodenal or jejunal aspirate cultures to diagnose SIBO (OR, 7.587; 95% CI, 1.805-31.894), but no relationship was found between SIBO and PPI use in studies that used the glucose hydrogen breath test (OR, 1.93; 95% CI, 0.69-5.42). Funnel plot analysis identified 4 outlying studies, indicating the possible presence of publication bias.

CONCLUSIONS

PPI use statistically was associated with SIBO risk, but only when the diagnosis was made by a highly accurate test (duodenal or jejunal aspirate culture). Differences in study results could arise from the use of different tests to diagnose SIBO.

Stress ulcer prophylaxis in non-critically ill patients: a prospective evaluation of current practice in a general surgery department

RATIONALE, AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

There is little evidence regarding the benefit of stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP) outside a critical care setting. Overprescription of SUP is not devoid of risks. This prospective study aimed to evaluate the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for SUP in a general surgery department.

METHOD

Data collection was performed prospectively during an 8-week period on patients hospitalized in a general surgery department (58 beds) by pharmacists. Patients with a PPI prescription for the treatment of ulcers, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, oesophagitis or epigastric pain were excluded. Patients admitted twice during the study period were not reincluded. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists guidelines on SUP were used to assess the appropriateness of de novo PPI prescriptions.

RESULTS

Among 255 patients in the study, 138 (54%) received a prophylaxis with PPI, of which 86 (62%) were de novo PPI prescriptions. A total of 129 patients (94%) received esomeprazole (according to the hospital drug policy). The most frequent dosage was at 40 mg once daily. Use of PPI for SUP was evaluated in 67 patients. A total of 53 patients (79%) had no risk factors for SUP. Twelve and two patients had one or two risk factors, respectively. At discharge, PPI prophylaxis was continued in 33% of patients with a de novo PPI prescription.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the overuse of PPIs in non-intensive care unit patients and the inappropriate continuation of PPI prescriptions at discharge. Treatment recommendations for SUP are needed to restrict PPI use for justified indications.

The effects of mechanical ventilation on hepato-splanchnic perfusion

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Mechanical ventilation is a cornerstone of ICU treatment. Because of its interaction with blood flow and intra-abdominal pressure, mechanical ventilation has the potential to alter hepato-splanchnic perfusion, abdominal organ function and thereby outcome of the most critically ill patients.

RECENT FINDINGS

Mechanical ventilation can alter hepato-splanchnic perfusion, but the effects are minimal (with moderate inspiratory pressures, tidal volumes, and positive end-expiratory pressure levels) or variable (with high ones). Routine nursing procedures may cause repeated episodes of inadequate hepato-splanchnic perfusion in critically ill patients, but an association between perfusion and multiple organ dysfunction cannot yet be determined. Clinical research continues to be challenging as a result of difficulties in measuring hepato-splanchnic blood flow at the bedside.

SUMMARY

Mechanical ventilation and attempts to improve oxygenation such as intratracheal suctioning and recruitment maneuvers, may have harmful consequences in patients with already limited cardiovascular reserves or deteriorated intestinal perfusion. Due to difficulties in assessing hepato-splanchnic perfusion, such effects are often not detected.

Update in critical care for the nephrologist: transfusion in nonhemorrhaging critically ill patients

A growing number of guidelines and recommendations advocate a restrictive transfusion strategy. Strong evidence exists that a hemoglobin threshold of less than 7 g/dL conserves resources and may improve outcomes in critically ill patients and that platelet counts greater than 10,000/μL are well tolerated. Patients with coronary artery disease can be safely managed with a restrictive transfusion strategy, utilizing a hemoglobin threshold of less than 7 or 8 g/dL; a threshold of less than 8 g/dL can be applied to patients with acute coronary syndromes. In the absence of coagulopathy with bleeding or high risk for bleeding, plasma transfusion should be withheld. Complications from transfusion are significant and previously under-recognized immunologic complications pose a more serious threat than infections. Erythropoietin and iron administration do not reduce transfusion needs in the critically ill. Interventions to reduce blood loss and educate clinicians are successful in reducing transfusion requirements.

Management by the intensivist of gastrointestinal bleeding in adults and children

Intensivists are regularly confronted with the question of gastrointestinal bleeding. To date, the latest international recommendations regarding prevention and treatment for gastrointestinal bleeding lack a specific approach to the critically ill patients. We present recommendations for management by the intensivist of gastrointestinal bleeding in adults and children, developed with the GRADE system by an experts group of the French-Language Society of Intensive Care (Société de Réanimation de Langue Française (SRLF), with the participation of the French Language Group of Paediatric Intensive Care and Emergencies (GFRUP), the French Society of Emergency Medicine (SFMU), the French Society of Gastroenterology (SNFGE), and the French Society of Digestive Endoscopy (SFED). The recommendations cover five fields of application: management of gastrointestinal bleeding before endoscopic diagnosis, treatment of upper gastrointestinal bleeding unrelated to portal hypertension, treatment of upper gastrointestinal bleeding related to portal hypertension, management of presumed lower gastrointestinal bleeding, and prevention of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in intensive care.

A cohort study of nutrition practices in the intensive care unit following abdominal aortic aneurysm repair

INTRODUCTION

Enteral nutrition within 48 hours of intensive care unit (ICU) admission is recommended for the ICU population. Major vascular surgery patients have a higher incidence of pre- and postoperative malnutrition compared with the general surgical population. Our objectives were to determine if early feeding (within 48 hours of admission) is achievable and well tolerated, identify factors that predict early feeding, and determine if there is an association between early feeding and in-hospital mortality among abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair patients.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted among 145 postsurgical AAA repair patients admitted to the ICU within 48 hours of surgery. Kaplan-Meier methods and Cox proportional hazard multiple regression were used to analyze the data.

RESULTS

Only 35 (24%) patients received early feeding. Patients were more likely to be fed early if they were male (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 2.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.8-6.7; P = .13), had endovascular AAA repair (aHR = 2.9; 95% CI, 1.4-6.2; P = .006), had less blood loss (<4 L) during surgery (aHR = 2.3; 95% CI, 0.7-7.2; P = .14), and had shorter length of ventilation (<48 hours) (aHR = 2.2; 95% CI, 1.1-4.8; P = .048). Of 44 patients fed via enteral nutrition (EN), 27 (61%) achieved nutrition adequacy (>80% EN goal) during ICU admission. After controlling for other factors, 14-day mortality was not related to feeding time (aHR = 1.1; P = .88).

CONCLUSION

Early feeding was achieved in a minority of patients following AAA repair, was related to type of surgery and duration of mechanical ventilation, and was tolerated as well as later introduced feedings. Randomized trials are needed to determine safety and benefits of early feeding in this patient group.

Prevention and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Complications in Patients on Mechanical Ventilation

There exists a complex, dynamic interaction between mechanical ventilation and the splanchnic vasculature that contributes to a myriad of gastrointestinal tract complications that arise during critical illness. Positive pressure-induced splanchnic hypoperfusion appears to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of these complications, the most prevalent of which are stress-related mucosal damage, gastrointestinal hypomotility and diarrhea. Furthermore, characteristics of the splanchnic vasculature make the gastrointestinal tract vulnerable to adverse effects related to positive pressure ventilation. While most of these complications seen in mechanically ventilated patients are reflections of altered gastrointestinal physiology, some may be attributed to medical interventions instituted to treat critical illness. Since maintenance of normal hemodynamics cannot always be achieved, pharmacologic prophylactic therapy has become a mainstay in the prevention of gastrointestinal complications in the intensive care unit. Improved understanding of the systemic effects of mechanical ventilation and greater application of lung-protective ventilatory strategies may potentially minimize positive pressure-induced reductions in splanchnic perfusion, systemic cytokine release and, consequently, reduce the incidence of gastrointestinal complications associated with mechanical ventilation. Herein, we discuss the pathophysiology of gastrointestinal complications associated with mechanical ventilation, summarize the most prevalent complications and focus on preventive strategies and available treatment options for these complications. The most common causes of gastrointestinal hemorrhage in mechanically ventilated patients are bleeding from stress-related mucosal damage and erosive esophagitis. In general, histamine H(2) receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors prevent stress-related mucosal disease by raising the gastric fluid pH. Proton pump inhibitors tend to provide more consistent pH control than histamine H(2) receptor antagonists. There is no consensus on the drug of choice for stress ulcer prophylaxis with several meta-analyses providing conflicting results on the superiority of any medication. Prevention of erosive esophagitis include careful use of nasogastric tubes and institution of strategies that improve gastric emptying. Many mechanically ventilated patients have gastrointestinal hypomotility and diarrhea. Treatment options for gastrointestinal motility are limited, thus, preventive measures such as correction of electrolyte abnormalities and avoidance of medications that impair gastrointestinal motility are crucial. Treatment of diarrhea depends on the underlying cause. When associated with Clostridium difficile infection antibacterial therapy should be discontinued, if possible, and treatment with oral metronidazole should be initiated.More studies are warranted to better understand the systemic effects of mechanical ventilation on the gastrointestinal tract and to investigate the impact of lung protective ventilatory strategies on gastrointestinal complications.

A review of stress-related mucosal disease

OBJECTIVE

To review and summarize the human and veterinary literature regarding stress-related mucosal disease (SRMD) pathogenesis, patient risk factors, and therapeutic options for prophylaxis and treatment.

ETIOLOGY

SRMD is a common sequela of critical illness in human patients. Development of SRMD results from splanchnic hypoperfusion, reperfusion injury, and exposure of the gastric mucosa to acid, pepsin, and bile acids following breakdown of the gastric mucosal defense system. Human patients with the highest risk of stress ulceration include those with respiratory failure necessitating mechanical ventilation greater than 48 h or coagulopathy. Currently, little is known about the incidence and pathophysiology of SRMD in critically ill veterinary patients.

DIAGNOSIS

A presumptive diagnosis can be made in high-risk patient populations following detection of occult or gross blood in nasogastric tube aspirates, hematemesis, or melena. Definitive diagnosis is achieved via esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Lesions are localized to the acid-producing portions of the stomach, the fundus, and body.

THERAPY

Therapy is aimed at optimization of tissue perfusion and oxygenation. Pharmacologic interventions are instituted to increase intraluminal pH and augment natural gastric defenses. Histamine(2)-receptor antagonists, proton pump inhibitors, and sucralfate are the mainstays of therapy. In people, clinically significant bleeding may necessitate additional interventions (eg, packed red blood cell transfusions, endoscopic, or surgical hemostasis).

PROGNOSIS

Mortality is increased in people with clinically significant bleeding compared to those patients who do not bleed. Institution of prophylaxis is recommended in high-risk patients. However, no consensus exists regarding initiation of prophylaxis, preference of frontline drug class, or indication for discontinuation of therapy. The prognosis of veterinary patients with SRMD remains unknown at this time.

Prevention of gastrointestinal bleeding due to stress ulceration: a review of current literature

Our objective was to audit our current stress ulcer prophylaxis protocol (routine prescription of ranitidine and early enteral feeding) by identifying whether routine prescription of histamine-2 receptor antagonists or proton pump inhibitors as prophylaxis against stress-related mucosal disease and subsequent upper gastrointestinal bleeding is supported in the literature. We also aimed to ascertain what literature evidence supports the role of early enteral feeding as an adjunctive prophylactic therapy, as well as to search for burn-patient specific evidence, since burn patients are at high risk for developing this condition, with the aim of changing our practice. PubMed and Cochrane databases were searched for relevant articles, yielding seven randomised controlled trials comparing histamine-2 receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors in the prevention of upper gastrointestinal bleeding associated with stress-related mucosal disease and three separate meta-analyses. Despite level 1 clinical evidence, no significant difference in efficacy between histamine-2 receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitor treatment groups was demonstrated. No significant difference was demonstrated in the incidence of nosocomial pneumonia between the two drugs given in this indication. However, enteral feeding was found to be safe and effective in preventing clinically significant upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Patients able to tolerate feeds demonstrated no additional benefit with concomitant pharmacological prophylactic therapy. Since all burn patients at the Royal Adelaide Hospital are fed from very early in their admission, the literature suggests that we, like our intensive care unit colleagues, should abolish our reliance on pharmacological prophylaxis, the routine prescription of which is not supported by the evidence.

Proton pump inhibitors vs. histamine 2 receptor antagonists for stress-related mucosal bleeding prophylaxis in critically ill patients: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

H2-receptor antagonists (H2RA) have been shown to reduce stress-related mucosal bleeding (SRMB), yet randomized controlled trials assessing proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have yielded conflicting results. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of PPIs vs. H2RAs in the prophylaxis of SRMB in critically ill adults with risk factors for bleeding.

METHODS

Tailored literature searches of the past four decades were conducted. Outcomes measured were the decreases in rates of clinically significant bleeding (B, primary outcome of the meta-analysis), nosocomial pneumonia (P), and mortality (M) (secondary outcomes). Study heterogeneity was sought and quantified. Results are reported as odd ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

Eight fully published randomized controlled trials and five abstracts met the inclusion criteria. Prophylactic PPI administration significantly decreased the incidence of bleeding (N = 1,587 patients, OR = 0.30; 95% CI: 0.17-0.54), number needed to treat = 39; 95% CI: 21-303 with no observed statistical heterogeneity among the relevant comparisons (P = 0.93, I2 = 0.0%). No statistical differences were noted for the development of nosocomial pneumonia (n = 7, N = 1,017 patients, OR = 1.05; 95% CI: 0.69-1.62) or mortality (n = 8, N = 1,260 patients, OR = 1.19; 95% CI: 0.84-1.68) or (and no heterogeneity was found for either: P = 0.85, I2 = 0.0%, and P = 0.96, I2 = 0%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In critically ill patients at risk for the development of SRMB, PPI prophylaxis significantly decreased rates of clinically significant bleeding compared with H2RA, without affecting the development of nosocomial pneumonia or mortality rates. The magnitude of the beneficial effect, and its clinical relevance, now requires further characterization using cost-effectiveness analysis considering the incidence of stress-related mucosal disease-related bleeding.

Use of wireless motility capsule to determine gastric emptying and small intestinal transit times in critically ill trauma patients

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to use a novel wireless motility capsule to compare gastric emptying and small bowel transit times in critically ill trauma patients and healthy volunteers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We evaluated gastric emptying, small bowel transit time, and total intestinal transit time in 8 critically ill trauma patients. These data were compared with those obtained in 87 healthy volunteers from a separate trial. Data were obtained with a motility capsule that wirelessly transmitted pH, pressure, and temperature to a recorder attached to each subject's abdomen.

RESULTS

The gastric emptying time was significantly longer in critically ill patients (median, 13.9; interquartile range [IQR], 6.6-48.3 hours) than in healthy volunteers (median, 3.0; IQR, 2.5-3.9 hours), P < .001. The small bowel transit time in critically ill patients was significantly longer than in healthy volunteers (median, 6.7 hours; IQR, 4.4-8.5 hours vs median, 3.8 hours; IQR, 3.1-4.7 hours), P = .01. Furthermore, the capsules passed after 10 (IQR, 8.5-13) days in the critical care group and 1.2 (IQR, 0.9-1.9) days in healthy volunteers (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Both gastric emptying and small bowel transit were delayed in critically ill trauma patients.

Gastrointestinal prophylaxis in neurocritical care

The aim of this study is to review and summarize the relevant literature regarding pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic methods of prophylaxis against gastrointestinal (GI) stress ulceration, and upper gastrointestinal bleeding in critically ill patients. Stress ulcers are a known complication of a variety of critical illnesses. The literature regarding epidemiology and management of stress ulcers and complications thereof, is vast and mostly encompasses patients in medical and surgical intensive care units. This article aims to extrapolate meaningful data for use with a population of critically ill neurologic and neurosurgical patients in the neurological intensive care unit setting. Studies were identified from the Cochrane Central Register of controlled trials and NLM PubMed for English articles dealing with an adult population. We also scanned bibliographies of relevant studies. The results show that H(2)A, sucralfate, and PPI all reduce the incidence of UGIB in neurocritically ill patients, but H(2)A blockers may cause encephalopathy and interact with anticonvulsant drugs, and have been associated with higher rates of nosocomial pneumonias, but causation remains unproven and controversial. For these reasons, we advocate against routine use of H(2)A for GI prophylaxis in neurocritical patients. There is a paucity of high-level evidence studies that apply to the neurocritical care population. From this study, it is concluded that stress ulcer prophylaxis among critically ill neurologic and neurosurgical patients is important in preventing ulcer-related GI hemorrhage that contributes to both morbidity and mortality. Further, prospective trials are needed to elucidate which methods of prophylaxis are most appropriate and efficacious for specific illnesses in this population.

Anemia in critical illness: insights into etiology, consequences, and management

Anemia is common in the intensive care unit, and may be associated with adverse consequences. However, current options for correcting anemia are not without problems and presently lack convincing efficacy for improving survival in critically ill patients. In this article we review normal red blood cell physiology; etiologies of anemia in the intensive care unit; its association with adverse outcomes; and the risks, benefits, and efficacy of various management strategies, including blood transfusion, erythropoietin, blood substitutes, iron therapy, and minimization of diagnostic phlebotomy.

Major adverse upper gastrointestinal events in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary coronary intervention and dual antiplatelet therapy

The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of composite short-term and long-term major adverse upper gastrointestinal (UGI) events (MAUGIEs; defined as gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, gastroduodenal ulcer, or UGI bleeding) in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention and routinely received dual-antiplatelet therapy. From May 2002 to September 2010, a total of 1,368 consecutive patients who experienced ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention were prospectively enrolled in the study. The incidence of in-hospital UGI bleeding complications and composite MAUGIEs was 8.9% and 9.9%, respectively. The in-hospital mortality rate was significantly higher in patients with in-hospital MAUGIEs than in those without (p <0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that age, advanced Killip score (≥3), and respiratory failure were the strongest independent predictors of in-hospital composite MAUGIEs (all p <0.003). The cumulative composite of MAUGIEs after uneventful discharge in patients without adverse UGI events who continuously received dual-antiplatelet therapy for 3 to 12 months, followed by aspirin therapy, was 10.4% during long-term (mean 4.0 years) follow-up. In conclusion, the results of this study show a remarkably high incidence of composite short-term and long-term MAUGIEs in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention and received routine dual-antiplatelet therapy. Age, advanced Killip score, and respiratory failure were significantly and independently predictive of in-hospital composite MAUGIEs.

Gastric pH and motility in a porcine model of acute lung injury using a wireless motility capsule

BACKGROUND

Evaluation of gastric pH and motility in a porcine model of acute lung injury using a novel, wireless motility capsule.

MATERIAL/METHODS

A motility capsule was applied into the stomach of 7 Pietrain pigs with acute lung injury induced by high volume saline lavage. Wireless transmission of pH, pressure and temperature data was performed by a recorder attached to the animal's abdomen. Gastric motility was evaluated using pH and pressure values, and capsule location was confirmed by autopsy.

RESULTS

Gastric pH values were statistically significantly different (P<0.003) in the animals over time and ranged from 1.15 to 9.94 [5.73 ± 0.47 (mean ± SD)] with an interquartile range of 0.11 to 2.07. The capsule pressure recordings ranged from 2 to 4 mmHg [2.6 ± 0.5 mmHg (mean ± SD)]. There was no change in pressure patterns or sudden rise of pH >3 pH units during 24 hours. All animals had a gastroparesis with the capsules located in the stomach as indicated by the pressure and pH data and confirmed by necropsy.

CONCLUSIONS

The preliminary data show that Pietrain pigs with acute lung injury have a high variability in gastric pH and severely disturbed gastric motility.

Feeding the patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

It is usually believed that in case of upper gastrointestinal bleeding patients must be systematically fasted. This review will focus on oral and/or enteral feeding in patients with or at risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

RECENT FINDINGS

In case of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, an endoscopy is always required in order to determine the pathophysiology of the bleeding, and in some case to perform an endoscopic treatment. In patients hospitalized in ICU, enteral nutrition is the best stress ulcer prophylaxis. In patients with enteral nutrition the concomitant use of histamine-2 receptor blockers or proton-pump inhibitors may be harmful. In case of bleeding due to gastric erosions, enteral nutrition can be resumed as soon as the patient tolerates. In patients with liver cirrhosis nonbleeding oesophageal varices are not a contraindication for enteral nutrition nor nasogastric tube. In patients hospitalized for acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding due to an ulcer with high risk of rebleeding (Forrest I-IIb) or with variceal bleeding it is recommended to wait at least 48 h after endoscopic therapy before initiating oral or enteral feeding. In case of ulcer with low risk of rebleeding (Forrest IIc and III) or in patients with gastritis, Mallory-Weiss, oesophagitis, or angiodysplasia, there is no need to delay refeeding, and they can be fed as soon as tolerated.

SUMMARY

Understanding the cause of the diagnosis is always necessary to adapt nutrition in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

Acid-suppressive medication use and the risk for nosocomial gastrointestinal tract bleeding

BACKGROUND

Acid-suppressive medications are increasingly prescribed for noncritically ill hospitalized patients, although the incidence of nosocomial gastrointestinal (GI) tract bleeding (GI bleeding) and magnitude of potential benefit from this practice are unknown. We aimed to define the incidence of nosocomial GI bleeding outside of the intensive care unit and examine the association between acid-suppressive medication use and this complication.

METHODS

We conducted a pharmacoepidemiologic cohort study of patients admitted to an academic medical center from 2004 through 2007, at least 18 years of age, and hospitalized for 3 or more days. Admissions with a primary diagnosis of GI bleeding were excluded. Acid-suppressive medication use was defined as any order for a proton pump inhibitor or histamine-2-receptor antagonist. The main outcome measure was nosocomial GI bleeding. A propensity matched generalized estimating equation was used to control for confounders.

RESULTS

The final cohort included 78,394 admissions (median age, 56 years; 41% men). Acid-suppressive medication was ordered in 59% of admissions, and nosocomial GI bleeding occurred in 224 admissions (0.29%). After matching on the propensity score, the adjusted odds ratio for nosocomial GI bleeding in the group exposed to acid-suppressive medication relative to the unexposed group was 0.63 (95% confidence interval, 0.42-0.93). The number needed to treat to prevent 1 episode of nosocomial GI bleeding was 770.

CONCLUSIONS

Nosocomial GI bleeding outside of the intensive care unit was rare. Despite a protective effect of acid-suppressive medication, the number needed to treat to prevent 1 case of nosocomial GI bleeding was relatively high, supporting the recommendation against routine use of prophylactic acid-suppressive medication in noncritically ill hospitalized patients.

When should stress ulcer prophylaxis be used in the ICU?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To discuss the risk factors and underlying illnesses that play a role in the pathophysiology of stress ulcer, and to evaluate the evidence pertaining to stress ulcer-related bleeding prophylaxis in critically ill patients.

RECENT FINDINGS

The use of stress ulcer prophylaxis is common in critical care medicine and is a major challenge to physicians in the ICU. The mechanism of stress ulcer is believed to be multifactorial, yet remains incompletely understood. The most widely used drugs for stress ulcer prophylaxis are intravenous histamine2-receptor antagonists. They raise gastric pH, but are associated with the development of tolerance, possible drug interactions, and neurologic manifestations. Sucralfate, which can be administered by the nasogastric route, can protect the gastric mucosa without raising pH, but may decrease absorption of concomitantly administered oral medications. Proton pump inhibitors are the most potent acid-inhibiting pharmacologic agents available. Proton pump inhibitors are at least as effective as histamine2-receptor antagonists, as a limited number of clinical trials have demonstrated. However, these trials were small, lacked an active comparator, varied in the number of risk factors, and used a different definition of clinically important bleeding than previously established.

SUMMARY

Routine prophylaxis against stress ulcers in the ICU is not well justified by current evidence. Patients at risk of stress ulcer-related bleeding are most likely to benefit from prophylaxis. Thus, healthcare professionals should continue to evaluate risk and assess the need for stress ulcer-related prophylaxis.

Evaluation of Continuation of Stress Ulcer Prophylaxis at Hospital Discharge

Purpose

Stress-related mucosal disease (SRMD) can adversely affect patient morbidity and mortality. The use of stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP) in patients with no risk factors for clinically important bleeding, however, is contributing to health care-related adverse events, drug interactions, and costs. The objective was to determine the percentage of hospitalized patients who receive SUP without an approved indication and to evaluate the financial impact of inappropriate prescribing as well as the risk for significant drug-drug interactions.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed of hospitalized adult cardiology, family medicine, and internal medicine patients between July 1, 2006 and June 30, 2007. Prescribing of acid suppressive therapy (AST) during hospital admission and indications for SUP were evaluated. Concomitant medications, cost of therapy, and discharge medications were assessed as secondary outcomes.

Results

Of the 4,603 patients admitted during the study period, 418 were randomly selected for study inclusion. Approximately 53% (221/418) of the selected patients received SUP during hospital admission, 93% (206/221) of whom had no indication for prophylaxis. Of those who continued AST at discharge (14%; 31/221), 84% (26/31) had no approved indication. Overuse of SUP resulted in 77 potential drug-drug interactions and an estimated 30-day outpatient cost of $37,950 for patients receiving these medications at discharge.

Conclusion

SUP is frequently prescribed to non–critically ill patients when the risk of SRMD is low. Use of SUP for patients who do not meet evidence-based criteria appears to contribute to increased health care expenditures, potential adverse events, and drug interactions.