Intravenous fluid therapy in patients with severe acute pancreatitis admitted to the intensive care unit: a narrative review

Nonlinear association between estimated plasma volume status and acute kidney injury in acute pancreatitis patients

BACKGROUND

Acute pancreatitis (AP), a severe pancreatic inflammatory condition, with a mortality rate reaching up to 40%. Recently, AP shows a steadily elevating prevalence, which causes the greater number of hospital admissions, imposing the substantial economic burden. Acute kidney injury (AKI) complicates take up approximately 15% of AP cases, with an associated mortality rate of 74.7%-81%.

AIM

To evaluate the efficacy of estimated plasma volume status (ePVS) in forecasting AKI in patients with AP.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, AP cases were recruited from the First College of Clinical Medical Science of China Three Gorges University between January 2019 and October 2023. Electronic medical records were adopted for data extraction, including demographic data and clinical characteristics. The association between ePVS and AKI was analyzed using multivariate logistic regression models, with potential confounders being adjusted. Nonlinear relationship was examined with smooth curve fitting, and infection points were calculated. Further analyses were performed on stratified subgroups and interaction tests were conducted.

RESULTS

Among the 1508 AP patients, 251 (16.6%) developed AKI. ePVS was calculated using Duarte (D-ePVS) and Kaplan-Hakim (KH-ePVS) formulas. After adjusting for covariates, the AKI risk exhibited 46% [odds ratio (OR) = 1.46, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.96-2.24] and 11% (OR = 1.11, 95%CI: 0.72-1.72) increases in the low tertile (T1) of D-ePVS and KH-ePVS, respectively, and 101% (OR = 2.01, 95%CI: 1.31-3.05) and 51% (OR = 1.51, 95%CI: 1.00-2.29) increases in the high tertile (T3) relative to the reference tertile (T2). Nonlinear curve fitting revealed a U-shaped association of D-ePVS with AKI and a J-shaped association for KH-ePVS, with inflection points at 4.3 dL/g and -2.8%, respectively. Significant interactions were not observed in age, gender, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, sequential organ failure assessment score, or AP severity (all P for interaction > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicated that ePVS demonstrated the nonlinear association with AKI incidence in AP patients. A U-shaped curve was observed with an inflection point at 4.3 dL/g for the Duarte formula, and a J-shaped curve at -2.8% for the Kaplan-Hakim formula.

Cardiovascular comorbidities predict mortality in acute pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

The in-hospital mortality of acute pancreatitis (AP) is determined by severity of AP, but also significantly impacted by patients' comorbidities. Therefore, we aimed to examine the association between comorbid risk-profiles and survival in hospitalized patients admitted with AP.

METHODS

We utilized the German nationwide inpatient statistics to identify all AP patient-cases (ICD code K85) admitted to hospitals in Germany between 2005 and 2019. Hospitalization cases for AP were stratified by survival, and risk factors for in-hospital mortality were examined.

RESULTS

In total, 797,364 hospitalization-cases of patients admitted due to AP (median age 56.0 [IQR 44.0-71.0] years, 39.2 % females) were treated in Germany 2005-2019. Of these, 22,022 (2.8 %) patients died during hospitalization. AP survivors were younger (56.0 [44.0-71.0] vs. 76.0 [64.0-84.0], P < 0.001), more often males (61.0 % vs. 54.1 %, P < 0.001), and were less often afflicted by cardiovascular risk factors and diseases than non-survivors. Cardiovascular diseases (OR 2.08 (95 %CI 2.02-2.15), P < 0.001) and raising number of cardiovascular diseases (OR 1.48 (95 %CI 1.45-1.50), P < 0.001) were independently associated with increasing mortality. In particular, heart failure (OR 2.16 [95 %CI 2.09-2.24], P < 0.001), peripheral artery disease (OR 1.25 [1.15-1.35], P < 0.001), atrial fibrillation/flutter (OR 1.61 [95 %CI 1.55-1.66], P < 0.001), myocardial infarction (OR 4.71 [95 %CI 4.28-5.18], P < 0.001), pulmonary embolism (OR 12.19 [95 %CI 10.91-13.62], P < 0.001), and stroke (OR 7.21 [95 %CI 6.42-8.11], P < 0.001) were independently associated with in-hospital mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Between 2005 and 2019, the in-hospital mortality among hospitalized AP patients was 2.8 % in Germany. Presence of cardiovascular diseases was associated with significantly reduced survival in AP patients.

Analysis of clinical indicators and survival prediction in trauma patients

BackgroundAccurate prognostic assessment of critically ill trauma patients in emergency departments is crucial for early intervention and improving survival rates. This study investigates the relationship between blood parameters, disease severity, and patient outcomes.ObjectiveTo explore the relationship between blood parameters and the severity and prognosis of critically ill trauma patients in an emergency trauma center. The goal is to facilitate early diagnosis, implement measures to improve survival rates, and enhance patient outcomes.MethodsThis retrospective study analyzed the blood parameters of 569 critically ill trauma patients admitted to the trauma center from 2020 to August 2023. The analysis focused on examining the relationship between these parameters and the severity and prognosis of the patients.ResultsCompared to the improved and non-recovered groups, the mortality group had longer times from injury to hospital admission, higher ISS and NEWS scores, lower GCS scores, more acidic blood gas analysis, electrolyte imbalances, and poorer liver and kidney function as well as coagulation indicators.ConclusionLow pH, high PaCO2, high lactate, high potassium, high NLR, high D-Dimer, high ISS, and high NEWS are independent risk factors. Conversely, high PLT, albumin, and GCS scores are independent protective factors. These indicators can effectively predict the prognosis of trauma patients.

Lactated Ringer's solution versus saline fluid resuscitation for reducing progression to moderate-to-severe acute pancreatitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Fluid resuscitation represents a pivotal early therapeutic intervention in the management of acute pancreatitis (AP), yet a consensus on the optimal fluid type remains elusive. The present study endeavors to elucidate the differential effects of lactated Ringer's solution (LR) and normal saline (NS) in the initial treatment of AP.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted through the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) databases, spanning from inception until July 2024. The primary outcome of interest was the likelihood of developing moderate-to-severe AP.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis synthesized evidence from six randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and four observational studies, involving a total of 1500 AP patients. Patients were stratified into two groups based on the administered fluid: LR (n = 689) and NS (n = 811). Our findings revealed that, compared to the NS group, patients in the LR group demonstrated a significantly lower risk of moderate-to-severe AP (OR 0.48; 95%Cl 0.34 to 0.67; P < 0.001; I2  = 0%), a shorter hospital stay (MD = -0.74, 95% confidence interval [CI] -1.20 to -0.28, P = 0.001; I2  = 0%), and a reduced intensive care unit (ICU) admission rate [relative risk (RR) = 0.42, 95% CI 0.20-0.89, P = 0.02; I2  = 0%]. Moreover, the LR group also showed a lower incidence of local complications (RR = 0.58, 95% CI 0.34-0.98, P = 0.04). Conversely, no statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of mortality, organ failure rates, Fluid administered 24 h, systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS).

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis underscores the superior efficacy of LR solution in comparison to NS. It provides compelling evidence of LR's ability to significantly mitigate the onset of moderate to severe pancreatitis. Additionally, our findings reveal that LR is associated with a reduced need for ICU admissions, a lower incidence of local complications, and a shorter overall hospital stay, thereby offering a more favorable clinical outcome. However, no notable differences were discerned in other complications. Subgroup analyses further suggest LR's potential to curb pancreatic necrosis and other indices, albeit these findings necessitate corroboration through extensive experimentation.

Fluid therapy in acute pancreatitis comparing balanced solutions and normal saline: A systematic review, meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

BACKGROUND

Isotonic crystalloids are recommended as the first choice for fluid therapy in acute pancreatitis (AP), with normal saline (NS) and lactate Ringer's (LR) used most often. Evidence based recommendations on the type of fluid are conflicting and generally come from small single-center randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We therefore conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the effect of balanced solutions (BS) versus NS on patient-centered clinical outcomes in AP.

METHODS

From four databases searched up to October 2024, we included only RCTs of adult patients with AP that compared the use of BS (including LR, acetate Ringer's, etc.) with NS. The primary outcome was the disease advances from AP to moderately severe and severe AP (MSAP/SAP). Trial sequential analyses (TSA) were conducted to control for type-I and type-II errors and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) was used to assess the quality of evidence.

RESULTS

Six RCTs were identified and included, involving 260 patients treated with BS and 298 patients with NS. Patients who received the BS had less MSAP/SAP [odds ratio (OR) = 0.50, 95 % confidence interval (CI): 0.29 to 0.85, P = 0.01, I2 = 0 %; 5 studies, 299 patients], reduced need of ICU admission (OR = 0.60, 95 % CI: 0.39 to 0.93, P = 0.02, I2 = 0 %; 5 studies, 507 patients) and shorter length of hospital stay [mean difference (MD) = -0.88, 95 % CI:1.48 to -0.28, P = 0.004, I2 = 0 %; 6 studies, 558 patients; confirmed by TSA with high certainty] compared with those who received NS. The evidence for most of the clinical outcomes was rated as moderate to low due to the risk of bias, imprecision and inconsistency.

CONCLUSIONS

BS, compared with NS, was associated with improved clinical outcomes in patients with AP. However, given the moderate to low quality of evidence for most of the outcomes assessed, further trials are warranted.

Advances in the Management of Fluid Resuscitation in Acute Pancreatitis: A Systematic Review

Background/Objectives: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory condition with diverse origins, often resulting in significant morbidity and mortality due to systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and multiorgan failure. Fluid resuscitation is pivotal in early management, and it is aimed at preventing hypovolemia-induced ischemia and necrosis. This review evaluates fluid therapy strategies in AP, including fluid types, resuscitation rates, and clinical outcomes. Methods: This systematic review was conducted in January 2025 using databases such as PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar, focusing on studies published between 2010 and 2024. Search terms included "acute pancreatitis", "fluid resuscitation", and related keywords. Studies involving adults with AP were analyzed to compare the outcomes of crystalloid and colloid use, aggressive vs. moderate fluid resuscitation, and administration timings. The primary outcomes were mortality and severe complications, while secondary outcomes included organ failure, SIRS, and length of hospital stay. Results: Crystalloids, particularly Ringer's lactate (RL), are superior to normal saline in reducing SIRS, organ failure, and intensive care unit stays without significantly affecting mortality rates. Colloids were associated with adverse events such as renal impairment and coagulopathy, limiting their use. Aggressive fluid resuscitation increased the risk of fluid overload, respiratory failure, and acute kidney injury, particularly in severe AP, while moderate hydration protocols achieved comparable clinical outcomes with fewer complications. Conclusions: Moderate fluid resuscitation using RL is recommended for managing AP, balancing efficacy with safety. Further research is needed to establish optimal endpoints and protocols for fluid therapy, ensuring improved patient outcomes while minimizing complications.

Practical management of severe acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis (AP) represents one of the most common reasons for hospital admission and intensive care treatment in internal medicine. The incidence of AP is increasing, posing significant financial burden on healthcare systems due to the necessity for frequent medical interventions. Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is a potentially life-threatening condition with substantial morbidity and mortality. The management of SAP requires prolonged hospitalization and the expertise of a multidisciplinary team, comprising emergency physicians, intensivists, internists, gastroenterologists, visceral surgeons, and experts in nutrition, infectious disease, endoscopy, as well as diagnostic and interventional radiology. Effective management and beneficial patient outcomes depend on continuous interdisciplinary collaboration. This review synthesizes recent evidence guiding the practical management of SAP, with a particular focus on emergency and intensive care settings. Both established as well as new diagnostic and therapeutic paradigms are highlighted, including workup, risk stratification, fluid management, analgesia, nutrition, organ support, imaging modalities and their timing, along with anti-infective strategies. Furthermore, the review explores interventions for local and vascular complications of SAP, with particular attention to the indications, timing and selection between endoscopic (both endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)), percutaneous and surgical approaches. Similarly, the management of biliary AP due to obstructive gallstones, including the imaging, timing of ERCP and cholecystectomy, are discussed. By integrating new evidence with relevant guidance for everyday clinical practice, this review aims to enhance the interdisciplinary approach essential for improving outcomes in SAP management.

Construction of a nursing management program for early fluid resuscitation in patients with acute pancreatitis: a Delphi study in China

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

To construct a set of scientific and feasible nursing management protocols for early fluid resuscitation in acute pancreatitis (AP) patients that can be used to guide clinical practice and enhance the treatment efficacy in these patients.

BACKGROUND

Fluid resuscitation is a key means of early treatment for AP patients and has become a clinical consensus. Nurses are important practitioners of fluid resuscitation, and there is a lack of specific enforceable nursing management programs.

METHODS

Through literature research, on-site research, semi-structured interviews, and other preliminary preparations of the first draft of the nursing management program for early fluid resuscitation in acute pancreatitis, the Delphi method was used to conduct two rounds of correspondence with medical and nursing experts, and then statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

Fifteen and 14 questionnaires were distributed in two rounds, respectively, and 15 and 14 questionnaires were recovered, respectively. The positive coefficient of experts was 100%, the authority coefficient was 0.970 and 0.975, respectively; the coefficient of variation coefficient was 0.05-0.21 and 0.00-0.20, respectively; the expert coordination coefficients of all levels of indices in this study are 0.166-0.335 and 0.189-0.364, respectively. The P values of the first, second, and third level indices are < 0.05 according to the test of Kendall's harmony coefficient. A total of 5 primary indicators, 11 secondary indicators, and 36 tertiary indicators were used to construct the Nursing Management Program for Early Fluid Resuscitation in Acute Pancreatitis.

CONCLUSIONS

The constructed nursing management plan for early fluid resuscitation in acute pancreatitis patients puts forward clear requirements and standards for nursing care in the early stage of AP treatment. This plan is scientific, represent good clinical practice, are feasible for nurses to follow, and construct a standardized protocol for the management of early fluid resuscitation in patients with acute pancreatitis.

Balanced Solution Versus Normal Saline in Predicted Severe Acute Pancreatitis: A Stepped Wedge Cluster Randomized Trial

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effect of balanced multielectrolyte solutions (BMESs) versus normal saline (NS) for intravenous fluid on chloride levels and clinical outcomes in patients with predicted severe acute pancreatitis (pSAP).

BACKGROUND

Isotonic crystalloids are recommended for initial fluid therapy in acute pancreatitis, but whether the use of BMES in preference to NS confers clinical benefits is unknown.

METHODS

In this multicenter, stepped-wedge, cluster-randomized trial, we enrolled patients with pSAP (acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II score ≥8 and C-reactive protein >150 mg/L) admitted within 72 hours of the advent of symptoms. The study sites were randomly assigned to staggered start dates for a one-way crossover from the NS phase (NS for intravenous fluid) to the BMES phase (sterofudin for intravenous fluid). The primary endpoint was the serum chloride concentration on trial day 3. Secondary endpoints included a composite of clinical and laboratory measures.

RESULTS

Overall, 259 patients were enrolled from 11 sites to receive NS (n = 147) or BMES (n = 112). On trial day 3, the mean chloride level was significantly lower in patients who received BMES [101.8 mmol/L (SD: 4.8) vs 105.8 mmol/L (SD: 5.9), difference -4.3 mmol/L (95% CI: -5.6 to -3.0 mmol/L) ; P < 0.001]. For secondary endpoints, patients who received BMES had less systemic inflammatory response syndrome (19/112, 17.0% vs 43/147, 29.3%, P = 0.024) and increased organ failure-free days [3.9 days (SD: 2.7) vs 3.5 days (SD: 2.7), P < 0.001] by trial day 7. They also spent more time alive and out of the intensive care unit [26.4 days (SD: 5.2) vs 25.0 days (SD: 6.4), P = 0.009] and hospital [19.8 days (SD: 6.1) vs 16.3 days (SD: 7.2), P < 0.001] by trial day 30.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with pSAP, using BMES in preference to NS resulted in a significantly more physiological serum chloride level, which was associated with multiple clinical benefits (Trial registration number: ChiCTR2100044432).

Micheliolide ameliorates severe acute pancreatitis in mice through potentiating Nrf2-mediated anti-inflammation and anti-oxidation effects

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is an acute inflammatory injury disease with significant mortality rate and currently without effective strategy being available. Inflammation and oxidative stress play central roles in the etiology of SAP. Micheliolide (MCL), an active monomeric component isolated from Michelia champaca, has been proved its multiple therapeutic properties including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cancer. Nevertheless, the therapeutic effect and underlying mechanism of MCL in SAP still remain unclear. Here, we found that caerulein with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced SAP murine models exhibited severe pancreatic injury, including necrosis, edema, and vacuolation of acinar cells in the pancreas, elevated serum levels of amylase and lipase, and reduced number of the exocrine cells. As expected, MCL treatment alleviated these side effects. Mechanistically, MCL triggered nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation, thereby activating Nrf2-regulated antioxidative pathways and inhibiting nuclear factor kappa B p65 (NF-κB p65)-mediated inflammatory response, resulting in protection against pancreatic injury in SAP mice. In addition, Nrf2 gene deficiency abolished the beneficial effects of MCL on SAP-induced pancreatic inflammation and oxidative stress and blocked the ability of MCL to alleviate the pancreatic injury in SAP mice. Collectively, these findings indicated that the suppression of SAP-induced pancreatic injury by MCL was at least in part due to Nrf2-mediated anti-oxidation effect and inhibition of inflammation.

Association between hematocrit-to-albumin ratio and acute kidney injury in patients with acute pancreatitis: a retrospective cohort study

Acute pancreatitis (AP) can result in acute kidney injury (AKI), which is linked to poor outcomes. We aimed to assess the relationship between the hematocrit-to-albumin ratio (HAR) and AKI in this population. This retrospective cohort study included consecutive patients diagnosed with AP and admitted to hospital. Data were systematically extracted from electronic medical records, covering baseline demographic and clinical characteristics. Total 1514 AP patients were enrolled, with 17% (257/1514) developing AKI. Multivariable-adjusted regression analysis, curve fitting, threshold effects analyses, and subgroup analyses were conducted to evaluate the relationship between HAR and AKI incidence in AP patients. Compared to the reference tertile of HAR, the adjusted OR values for the lower and higher tertiles of HAR were 1.25 (95% CI, 0.82-1.91, P = 0.297) and 1.50 (95% CI, 1.03-2.20, P = 0.037), respectively, after adjusting for covariates. The curve fitting results showed a J-shaped relationship between HAR and AKI (non-linear, p = 0.001), with an inflection point of 8.969. Furthermore, validation using the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC-IV) database AP population revealed a similar relationship with an inflection point at 10.257. Our findings suggest a J-shaped relationship between HAR and AKI in AP patients, indicating higher risk of AKI when HAR exceeds 8.969.

Disentangling the phenotypic patterns of hypertension and chronic hypotension

OBJECTIVE

2017 blood pressure (BP) categories focus on cardiac risk. We hypothesize that studying the balance between mechanisms that increase or decrease BP across the medical phenome will lead to new insights. We devised a classifier that uses BP measures to assign individuals to mutually exclusive categories centered in the upper (Htn), lower (Hotn) and middle (Naf) zones of the BP spectrum; and examined the epidemiologic and phenotypic patterns of these BP-categories.

METHODS

We classified a cohort of 832,560 deidentified electronic health records by BP-category; compared the frequency of BP-categories and four subtypes of Htn and Hotn by sex and age-decade; visualized the distributions of systolic, diastolic, mean arterial and pulse pressures stratified by BP-category; and ran Phenome-wide Association Studies (PheWAS) for Htn and Hotn. We paired knowledgebases for hypertension and hypotension and computed aggregate knowledgebase status (KB-status) indicating known associations. We assessed alignment of PheWAS results with KB-status for phecodes in the knowledgebase, and paired PheWAS correlations with KB-status to surface phenotypic patterns.

RESULTS

BP-categories represent distinct distributions within the multimodal distributions of systolic and diastolic pressure. They are centered in the upper, lower, and middle zones of mean arterial pressure and provide a different signal than pulse pressure. For phecodes in the knowledgebase, 85% of positive correlations align with KB-status. Phenotypic patterns for Htn and Hotn overlap for several phecodes and are separate for others. Our analysis suggests five candidates for hypothesis testing research, two where the prevalence of the association with Htn or Hotn may be under appreciated, three where mechanisms that increase and decrease blood pressure may be affecting one another's expression.

CONCLUSION

PairedPheWAS methods may open a phenome-wide path to disentangling hypertension and chronic hypotension. Our classifier provides a starting point for assigning individuals to BP-categories representing the upper, lower, and middle zones of the BP spectrum. 4.7 % of individuals matching 2017 BP categories for normal, elevated BP or isolated hypertension, have diastolic pressure < 60. Research is needed to fine-tune the classifier, provide external validation, evaluate the clinical significance of diastolic pressure < 60, and test the candidate hypotheses.

Vitamin B12 protects necrosis of acinar cells in pancreatic tissues with acute pancreatitis

Pharmacological agents regarding the most optimal treatments of acute pancreatitis remain. One-carbon metabolism nutrients as therapeutic agents in many diseases might be involved in acute pancreatitis. The roles are acquired exploration in acute pancreatitis. We utilized Mendelian randomization to assess the causal impact of folate, homocysteine, and vitamin B12 (VB12) on acute pancreatitis. Wild-type and corresponding genetically modified mouse models were used to verify the genetic correlating findings. A negative association between genetically predicted serum VB12 levels and risks of acute pancreatitis was identified in human population. The transcobalamin receptor (TCblR)/CD320 gene ablation that decreased cellular VB12 uptake and ATP production in pancreatic tissues promoted necrosis, resulting in much severe pathological changes of induced acute pancreatitis in mice. VB12 pretreatment and posttreatment dramatically increased ATP levels in pancreatic tissues and reduced the necrosis, then the elevated levels of amylase in serum, the levels of CK-19, the activity of trypsin, and T lymphocyte infiltration in pancreatic tissues, prevented the pancreatic gross loss and ameliorated histopathological changes of mouse pancreases with induced acute pancreatitis. The results reveal that VB12 is potential as a therapeutic agent to inhibit tissue injuries and adaptive inflammatory responses in the pancreas in patients with acute pancreatitis.

Association between wait time of central venous pressure and 28-day mortality in critically patients with acute pancreatitis: A restrospective cohort study

Hemodynamic management is crucial in patients with acute pancreatitis. Central venous pressure (CVP) is widely used to assess volume status. Our aim was to determine the optimal time window for obtaining CVP measurements to prevent adverse outcomes in patients. This study utilized data from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC) IV database. The primary outcome under investigation was the 28-day mortality, while secondary outcomes included 90-day mortality and 1-year mortality. To categorize the study population, a CVP waiting time of 12 hours was employed as the grouping criterion, followed by the utilization of Cox regression analysis to compare the outcomes between the 2 groups. Our study included a total of 233 patients, among whom 154 cases (66.1%) underwent CVP measurements within 12 hours after admission to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed a significantly increased risk of 28-day mortality in patients from the delayed CVP monitoring group compared to those who underwent early CVP measurements (HR = 2.87; 95% CI: 1.35-6.13; P = .006). Additionally, consistent results were observed for the risks of 90-day mortality (HR = 1.91; 95% CI: 1.09-3.35; P = .023) and 1-year mortality (HR = 1.84; 95% CI: 1.09-3.10; P = .023). In the ICU, an extended waiting time for CVP measurements in patients with acute pancreatitis was associated with an increased risk of 28-day mortality.

A New Method for Detecting Dehydration of the Human Body Using Non-Contact Millimeter Wave Radiometry

Dehydration is a common problem in the aging population. Medical professionals can detect dehydration using either blood or urine tests. This requires experimental tests in the lab as well as urine and blood samples to be obtained from the patients. This paper proposed 100 GHz millimeter wave radiometry for early detection of dehydration. Reflectance measurements were performed on healthy and dehydrated patients of both genders (120 males and 80 females) in the aging population. Based on the cause of dehydration, the patient groups were divided into three categories: (1) patients dehydrated due to less thirst sensation, (2) patients dehydrated due to illnesses (vomiting and diarrhea), and (3) patients dehydrated due to diabetes. Reflectance measurements were performed on eight locations: (1) the palm, (2) the back of the hand, (3) the fingers, (4) the inner wrist, (5) the outer wrist, (6) the volar side of the arm, (7) the dorsal surface of the arm, and (8) the elbow. Skin dehydrated due to vomiting and diarrhea was found to have lower reflectance at all the measurement locations compared with healthy and other types of dehydrated skin. The elbow region showed the highest difference in reflectance between healthy and dehydrated skin. This indicates that radiometric sensitivity is sufficient to detect dehydration in a few seconds. This will reduce the patient's waiting time and the healthcare professional's intervention time as well as allow early treatment of dehydration, thus avoiding admission to hospitals.

Clinical Effect of the Traditional Japanese Herbal Medicine "Goreisan" on Water Balance in Patients With Severe Acute Pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Since severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) involves inflammatory mediators produced by local inflammation of the pancreas that trigger a systemic inflammatory response, intensive fluid management is required to maintain hemodynamics in the early stages of the onset of SAP. Goreisan is considered to have a diuretic effect in a state of excess water and an antidiuretic effect in a state of dehydration, regulating water balance in both directions. We investigated the clinical effects of Goreisan on water balance in SAP patients. Patients and methods: SAP patients admitted to our ICU within 72 hours of being diagnosed with SAP were divided into two groups: the Rikkunshito group (before October 2015) and the Goreisan group (after November 2015). Cumulative volume of fluid infusion, urine, fluid removal by CHF, nasogastric tube drainage, and water balance from day 1 to day 5 of ICU admission.

RESULTS

Thirty patients were included. The median age was 57 (40-69) years, and 21/30 (70%) were male. The prognostic factor score in Japanese criteria for acute pancreatitis was 5.5 (3.3-7). Of the thirty patients, 14 were in the Rikkunshito group, and 16 were in the Goreisan group. There were no differences in the cumulative volume of fluid infusion, urine, fluid removal by CHF, or nasogastric tube drainage from day 1 to day 5 of ICU admission between the two groups. However, the cumulative water balance from day 1 to day 5 of admission was 4,957 ± 6,091 mL in the Rikkunshito group, whereas it was lower in the Goreisan group at 498 ± 3,918 mL (P = 0.023).

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that Goreisan administration in patients with severe acute pancreatitis might improve water balance in the early phase of onset. Early administration of Goreisan at the onset of severe acute pancreatitis may regulate fluid movement between capillaries and interstitium and alleviate fluid overload due to water refill.

Association of admission serum triglyceride levels with intensive care unit hospitalization rates in acute pancreatitis patients: A retrospective study

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a complex and unpredictable condition, of which hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) is the third most prevalent cause. This study aimed to conduct a retrospective analysis of clinical data from hospitalized AP patients to uncover a potential correlation between triglyceride (TG) levels and the necessity for intensive care unit (ICU) admission. This retrospective cohort study utilized the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV 2.2 (MIMIC-IV) critical care dataset, incorporating data from 698 patients with hypertriglyceridemic acute pancreatitis (HTG-AP). The analysis employed the RCS model along with univariate and multivariate logistic regression methods to affirm the association between triglyceride levels and ICU admission. Subgroup analysis was performed to investigate specific populations. The study included 698 patients with AP, 42.41% of whom experienced HTG during hospitalization. RCS analysis revealed a linear association between TG levels and risk of ICU admission (p for nonlinear = .219, p for overall = .009). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated an increased risk of ICU admission in the TG range of 1.7-5.65 mmol/L (aOR = 1.83, 95% CI 1.12-2.99, P = .015) and TG >11.3 mmol/L (aOR = 5.69, 95% CI 2.36-13.74, P < .001) compared to the normal group. Similar results were observed across the various subgroups. As triglyceride levels increased, there was a corresponding increase in ICU admissions. Patients within the 1.7 to 5.65 mmol/L and > 11.3 mmol/L triglyceride groups exhibited higher rates of ICU admissions. Moreover, we observed a higher risk of ICU hospitalization even with mild TG elevation.

Predictive value of the Ranson and BISAP scoring systems for the severity and prognosis of acute pancreatitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

To systematically assess and compare the predictive value of the Ranson and Bedside Index of Severity in Acute Pancreatitis (BISAP) scoring systems for the severity and prognosis of acute pancreatitis (AP).

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were systematically searched until February 15, 2023. Outcomes in this analysis included severity and prognosis [mortality, organ failure, pancreatic necrosis, and intensive care unit (ICU) admission]. The revised Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) tool was used to evaluate the quality of diagnostic accuracy studies. The threshold effect was evaluated for each outcome. The sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and the area under the summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve (AUC) as well as 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. The DeLong test was used for AUC comparisons. For the outcome evaluated by over 9 studies, publication bias was assessed using the Deeks' funnel plot asymmetry test.

RESULTS

Totally 17 studies of 5476 AP patients were included. For severity, the pooled sensitivity of the Ranson and BISAP was 0.95 (95%CI: 0.87, 0.98) and 0.67 (95%CI: 0.27, 0.92); the pooled specificity of the Ranson and BISAP was 0.74 (0.52, 0.88) and 0.95 (95%CI: 0.85, 0.98); the pooled AUC of the Ranson and BISAP was 0.95 (95%CI: 0.93, 0.97) and 0.94 (95%CI: 0.92, 0.96) (P = 0.480). For mortality, the pooled sensitivity of the Ranson and BISAP was 0.89 (95%CI: 0.73, 0.96) and 0.77 (95%CI: 0.58, 0.89); the pooled specificity of the Ranson and BISAP was 0.79 (95%CI: 0.68, 0.87) and 0.90 (95%CI: 0.86, 0.93); the pooled AUC of the Ranson and BISAP was 0.91 (95%CI: 0.88, 0.93) and 0.92 (95%CI: 0.90, 0.94) (P = 0.480). For organ failure, the pooled sensitivity of the Ranson and BISAP was 0.84 (95%CI: 0.76, 0.90) and 0.78 (95%CI: 0.60, 0.90); the pooled specificity of the Ranson and BISAP was 0.84 (95%CI: 0.63, 0.94) and 0.90 (95%CI: 0.72, 0.97); the pooled AUC of the Ranson and BISAP was 0.86 (95%CI: 0.82, 0.88) and 0.90 (95%CI: 0.87, 0.93) (P = 0.110). For pancreatic necrosis, the pooled sensitivity of the Ranson and BISAP was 0.63 (95%CI: 0.35, 0.84) and 0.63 (95%CI: 0.23, 0.90); the pooled specificity of the Ranson and BISAP was 0.90 (95%CI: 0.77, 0.96) and 0.93 (95%CI: 0.89, 0.96); the pooled AUC of the Ranson and BISAP was 0.87 (95%CI: 0.84, 0.90) and 0.93 (95%CI: 0.91, 0.95) (P = 0.001). For ICU admission, the pooled sensitivity of the Ranson and BISAP was 0.86 (95%CI: 0.77, 0.92) and 0.63 (95%CI: 0.52, 0.73); the pooled specificity of the Ranson and BISAP was 0.58 (95%CI: 0.55, 0.61) and 0.84 (95%CI: 0.81, 0.86); the pooled AUC of the Ranson and BISAP was 0.92 (95%CI: 0.81, 1.00) and 0.86 (95%CI: 0.67, 1.00) (P = 0.592).

CONCLUSION

The Ranson score was an applicable tool for predicting severity and prognosis of AP patients with reliable diagnostic accuracy in resource and time-limited settings. Future large-scale studies are needed to verify the findings.

Tactics of infusion therapy in patients with acute destructive pancreatitis: a narrative review

INTRODUCTION: Infusion therapy is the main method of correcting pathological changes that occur during the phase of “aseptic” inflammation in acute pancreatitis. OBJECTIVE: Summarize current data on infusion therapy regimens in patients with acute destructive pancreatitis, the advisability of using various infusion solutions and options for monitoring the effectiveness of therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was carried out in accordance with international reporting requirements for reviews (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). The search was carried out in the following Internet search engines Pubmed and Cochrane Controlled Clinical Trials Register. To select articles, a literature reference search method was also used. The search strategy did not include restrictions on language, article type, or date. RESULTS: The analysis of literature data revealed two approaches to infusion therapy. The initial interest in “aggressive (4 liters per day or more)” infusion therapy regimens in the first 24 hours of the disease has now been replaced by a trend towards less “aggressive” regimens due to the publication of works on the high incidence of various complications (progression of organ dysfunction, local complications). When considering the qualitative composition of infusion therapy, preference should certainly be given to crystalloids. Basic monitoring of infusion therapy should include non-invasive methods: heart rate, blood pressure, diuresis rate. CONCLUSIONS: The analysis demonstrated different approaches to the tactics of infusion therapy in this category of patients. further research into the effectiveness and safety of infusion therapy, taking into account the varying severity of acute pancreatitis, the possibility of the influence of the qualitative composition of the infusion on the course of this disease and the formation of recommendations for initial and maintenance infusion therapy based on the principles of personalized medicine.

Association between serum creatinine to albumin ratio and short- and long-term all-cause mortality in patients with acute pancreatitis admitted to the intensive care unit: a retrospective analysis based on the MIMIC-IV database

Background

Serum creatinine (Cr) and albumin (Alb) are important predictors of mortality in individuals with various diseases, including acute pancreatitis (AP). However, most previous studies have only examined the relationship between single Cr or Alb levels and the prognosis of patients with AP. To our knowledge, the association between short- and long-term all-cause mortality in patients with AP and the blood creatinine to albumin ratio (CAR) has not been investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the short- and long-term relationships between CAR and all-cause mortality in patients with AP.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study utilizing data from the Medical Information Market for Intensive Care (MIMIC-IV) database. The study involved analyzing various mortality variables and obtaining CAR values at the time of admission. The X-tile software was used to determine the optimal threshold for the CAR. Kaplan-Meier (K-M) survival curves and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to assess the relationship between CAR and both short- and long-term all-cause mortality. The predictive power, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) of CAR for short- and long-term mortality in patients with AP after hospital admission were investigated using Receiver Operating Characteristic analysis. Additionally, subgroup analyses were conducted.

Results

A total of 520 participants were included in this study. The CAR ideal threshold, determined by X-tile software, was 0.446. The Cox proportional hazards model revealed an independent association between CAR≥0.446 and all-cause mortality at 7-day (d), 14-d, 21-d, 28-d, 90-d, and 1-year (y) before and after adjustment for confounders. K-M survival curves showed that patients with CAR≥0.446 had lower survival rates at 7-d, 14-d, 21-d, 28-d, 90-d, and 1-y. Additionally, CAR demonstrated superior performance, with higher AUC values than Cr, Alb, serum total calcium, Glasgow Coma Scale, Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome score, and Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment score at 7-d, 14-d, 21-d, 28-d, 90-d, and 1-y intervals. Subgroup analyses showed that CAR did not interact with a majority of subgroups.

Conclusion

The CAR can serve as an independent predictor for short- and long-term all-cause mortality in patients with AP. This study enhances our understanding of the association between serum-based biomarkers and the prognosis of patients with AP.

Evaluating the efficacy of different volume resuscitation strategies in acute pancreatitis patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Acute pancreatitis poses a significant health risk due to the potential for pancreatic necrosis and multi-organ failure. Fluid resuscitation has demonstrated positive effects; however, consensus on the ideal intravenous fluid type and infusion rate for optimal patient outcomes remains elusive.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Google Scholar for studies published between 2005 and January 2023. Reference lists of potential studies were manually searched to identify additional relevant articles. Randomized controlled trials and retrospective studies comparing high (≥ 20 ml/kg/h), moderate (≥ 10 to < 20 ml/kg/h), and low (5 to < 10 ml/kg/h) fluid therapy in acute pancreatitis were considered.

RESULTS

Twelve studies met our inclusion criteria. Results indicated improved clinical outcomes with low versus moderate fluid therapy (OR = 0.73; 95% CI [0.13, 4.03]; p = 0.71) but higher mortality rates with low compared to moderate (OR = 0.80; 95% CI [0.37, 1.70]; p = 0.55), moderate compared to high (OR = 0.58; 95% CI [0.41, 0.81], p = 0.001), and low compared to high fluids (OR = 0.42; 95% CI [0.16, 1.10]; P = 0.08). Systematic complications improved with moderate versus low fluid therapy (OR = 1.22; 95% CI [0.84, 1.78]; p = 0.29), but no difference was found between moderate and high fluid therapy (OR = 0.59; 95% CI [0.41, 0.86]; p = 0.006).

DISCUSSION

This meta-analysis revealed differences in the clinical outcomes of patients with AP receiving low, moderate, and high fluid resuscitation. Low fluid infusion demonstrated better clinical outcomes but higher mortality, systemic complications, and SIRS persistence than moderate or high fluid therapy. Early fluid administration yielded better results than rapid fluid resuscitation.

Recent Treatment Strategies for Acute Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a leading gastrointestinal disease that causes hospitalization. Initial management in the first 72 h after the diagnosis of AP is pivotal, which can influence the clinical outcomes of the disease. Initial management, including assessment of disease severity, fluid resuscitation, pain control, nutritional support, antibiotic use, and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in gallstone pancreatitis, plays a fundamental role in AP treatment. Recent updates for fluid resuscitation, including treatment goals, the type, rate, volume, and duration, have triggered a paradigm shift from aggressive hydration with normal saline to goal-directed and non-aggressive hydration with lactated Ringer's solution. Evidence of the clinical benefit of early enteral feeding is becoming definitive. The routine use of prophylactic antibiotics is generally limited, and the procalcitonin-based algorithm of antibiotic use has recently been investigated to distinguish between inflammation and infection in patients with AP. Although urgent ERCP (within 24 h) should be performed for patients with gallstone pancreatitis and cholangitis, urgent ERCP is not indicated in patients without cholangitis. The management approach for patients with local complications of AP, particularly those with infected necrotizing pancreatitis, is discussed in detail, including indications, timing, anatomical considerations, and selection of intervention methods. Furthermore, convalescent treatment, including cholecystectomy in gallstone pancreatitis, lipid-lowering medications in hypertriglyceridemia-induced AP, and alcohol intervention in alcoholic pancreatitis, is also important for improving the prognosis and preventing recurrence in patients with AP. This review focuses on recent updates on the initial and convalescent management strategies for AP.

Surgical decompression for the management of abdominal compartment syndrome with severe acute pancreatitis: A narrative review

Intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) and abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) play a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) and contribute to new-onset and persistent organ failure. The optimal management of ACS involves a multi-disciplinary approach, from its early recognition to measures aiming at an urgent reduction of intra-abdominal pressure (IAP). A targeted literature search from January 1, 2000, to November 30, 2022, revealed 20 studies and data was analyzed on the type and country of the study, patient demographics, IAP, type and timing of surgical procedure performed, post-operative wound management, and outcomes of patients with ACS. There was no randomized controlled trial published on the topic. Decompressive laparotomy is effective in rapidly reducing IAP (standardized mean difference = 2.68, 95% confidence interval: 1.19-1.47, P < 0.001; 4 studies). The morbidity and complications of an open abdomen after decompressive laparotomy should be weighed against the inadequately treated but, potentially lethal ACS. Disease-specific patient selection and the role of less-invasive decompressive measures, like subcutaneous linea alba fasciotomy or component separation techniques, is lacking in the 2013 consensus management guidelines by the Abdominal Compartment Society on IAH and ACS. This narrative review focuses on the current evidence regarding surgical decompression techniques for managing ACS in patients with SAP. However, there is a lack of high-quality evidence on patient selection, timing, and modality of surgical decompression. Large prospective trials are needed to identify triggers and effective and safe surgical decompression methods in SAP patients with ACS.

Fluid treatment in acute pancreatitis: a careful balancing act

Administration of intravenous fluids remains important in acute pancreatitis, but there is still equipose regarding the amount of fluids needed to reduce further organ failure and death. In this paper the damaging effects of fluid overload are discussed and we suggest an approach to fluid therapy incorporating recent evidence from randomized controlled trials.

Update on the strategy for intravenous fluid treatment in acute pancreatitis

Fluid therapy/resuscitation is mandatory in acute pancreatitis due to the pathophysiology of fluid loss as a consequence of the inflammatory process. For many years, without clear evidence, early and aggressive fluid resuscitation with crystalloid solutions (normal saline solution or Ringer lactate solution) was recommended. Recently, many randomized control trials and meta-analyses on fluid therapy have revealed that high fluid rate infusion is associated with increased mortality and severe adverse events compared to those resulting from moderate fluid rates, and this has triggered a paradigm shift in fluid management strategies. Meanwhile, there is evidence to show that Ringer lactate solution is superior to normal saline solutions in this context. The purpose of this review is to provide an update on the strategies for intravenous fluid treatment in acute pancreatitis, including the type, optimal amount, rate of infusion, and monitoring guides. Recommendations from recent guidelines are critically evaluated for this review in order to reach the authors' recommendations based on the available evidence.

Comparison of clinical outcomes between aggressive and non-aggressive intravenous hydration for acute pancreatitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Current practice guidelines for optimal infusion rates during early intravenous hydration in patients with acute pancreatitis (AP) remain inconsistent. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare treatment outcomes between aggressive and non-aggressive intravenous hydration in severe and non-severe AP.

METHODS

This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We systematically searched PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on November 23, 2022, and hand-searched the reference lists of included RCTs, relevant review articles and clinical guidelines. We included RCTs that compared clinical outcomes from aggressive and non-aggressive intravenous hydration in AP. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model for participants with severe AP and non-severe AP. Our primary outcome was all-cause mortality, and several secondary outcomes included fluid-related complications, clinical improvement and APACHE II scores within 48 h.

RESULTS

We included a total of 9 RCTs with 953 participants. The meta-analysis indicated that, compared to non-aggressive intravenous hydration, aggressive intravenous hydration significantly increased mortality risk in severe AP (pooled RR: 2.45, 95% CI: 1.37, 4.40), while the result in non-severe AP was inconclusive (pooled RR: 2.26, 95% CI: 0.54, 9.44). However, aggressive intravenous hydration significantly increased fluid-related complication risk in both severe (pooled RR: 2.22, 95% CI 1.36, 3.63) and non-severe AP (pooled RR: 3.25, 95% CI: 1.53, 6.93). The meta-analysis indicated worse APACHE II scores (pooled mean difference: 3.31, 95% CI: 1.79, 4.84) in severe AP, and no increased likelihood of clinical improvement (pooled RR:1.20, 95% CI: 0.63, 2.29) in non-severe AP. Sensitivity analyses including only RCTs with goal-directed fluid therapy after initial fluid resuscitation therapy yielded consistent results.

CONCLUSIONS

Aggressive intravenous hydration increased the mortality risk in severe AP, and fluid-related complication risk in both severe and non-severe AP. More conservative intravenous fluid resuscitation protocols for AP are suggested.

The Prevalence and Indications of Intravenous Rehydration Therapy in Hospital Settings: A Systematic Review

(1) Objective: We performed a systematic review to explore the prevalence of intravenous (IV) rehydration therapy in hospital settings, and we assessed it by patient groups and populations. (2) Methods: A systematic review of major databases and grey literature was undertaken from inception to 28 March 2022. Studies reporting prevalence of IV rehydration therapy in a hospital setting were identified. The data were synthesised in a narrative approach. (3) Results: Overall, 29 papers met the inclusion criteria. The prevalence of IV rehydration therapy in paediatric patients ranged from 4.5% (hospitalised with diarrhoea and dehydration) to 100% (admitted to the emergency department with mild to moderate dehydration caused by viral gastroenteritis), and in adults this ranged from 1.5% (had single substance ingestion of modafinil) to 100% (hospitalised with hypercalcemia). The most common indication for IV rehydration therapy in paediatric patients was dehydration due to fluid loss from the gastrointestinal tract. Other causes included malnutrition, neuromuscular disease, bronchiolitis, and influenza. In adults, indications for IV rehydration therapy were much more diverse: fever, diarrhoea, drug intoxication, hypercalcemia, cancer, and postural tachycardia syndrome; (4) Conclusions: This systematic review showed that IV rehydration therapy in paediatric patients is often used to treat dehydration and diarrhoea, while in adults it has a broader spectrum of use. While IV rehydration therapy is important in correcting fluid problems and electrolyte status, the maintenance fluid prescribing practices vary considerably, and guidelines are scarce.

Abdominal Compartment Syndrome in Acute Pancreatitis: A Narrative Review

Abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) represents a severe complication of acute pancreatitis (AP), resulting from an acute and sustained increase in abdominal pressure >20 mmHg, in association with new organ dysfunction. The harmful effect of high intra-abdominal pressure on regional and global perfusion results in significant multiple organ failure and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. There are several deleterious consequences of elevated intra-abdominal pressure on end-organ function, including respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurologic, and renal effects. It is estimated that about 15% of patients with severe AP develop intra-abdominal hypertension or ACS, with a mortality rate around 50%. The treatment of abdominal compartment syndrome in acute pancreatitis begins with medical intervention and percutaneous drainage, where possible. Abdominal compartment syndrome unresponsive to conservatory treatment requires immediate surgical decompression, along with vacuum-assisted closure therapy techniques, followed by early abdominal fascia closure.