Sample records for obstruction sustent study

  1. Hypertension, Snoring, and Obstructive Sleep Apnea During Pregnancy: A Cohort Study

    PubMed Central

    O’Brien, Louise M.; Bullough, Alexandra S.; Chames, Mark C.; Shelgikar, Anita V.; Armitage, Roseanne; Guilleminualt, Christian; Sullivan, Colin E.; Johnson, Timothy R. B.; Chervin, Ronald D.

    2014-01-01

    Objective To assess the frequency of obstructive sleep apnea among women with and without hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Design Cohort study. Setting Obstetric clinics at an academic medical center. Population Pregnant women with hypertensive disorders (chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension, or pre-eclampsia) and normotensive women. Methods Women completed a questionnaire about habitual snoring and underwent overnight ambulatory polysomnography. Main Outcome Measures The presence and severity of obstructive sleep apnea. Results Obstructive sleep apnoea was found among 21 of 51 women with hypertensive disorders (41%), but in only three of 16 women who were normotensive (19%, chi-square test, P = 0.005). Non-snoring hypertensive women typically had mild obstructive sleep apnea but >25% of snoring hypertensive women had moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea. Among the hypertensive women, the mean apnea/hypopnea index was substantially higher in snorers than non-snorers (19.9±34.1 vs. 3.4±3.1, p=0.013) and the oxyhemoglobin saturation nadir was significantly lower (86.4±6.6 vs. 90.2±3.5, p=0.021). Among hypertensive women, after stratification by obesity the pooled relative risk for obstructive sleep apnea in snoring women with hypertension compared to non-snoring hypertension was 2.0 [95%CI 1.4–2.8]. Conclusions Pregnant women with hypertension are at high risk for unrecognised obstructive sleep apnea. While longitudinal and intervention studies are urgently needed, it would seem pertinent given the known relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and hypertension in the general population, that hypertensive pregnant women who snore should be tested for obstructive sleep apnea, a condition believed to cause or promote hypertension. PMID:24888772

  2. Hypertension, snoring, and obstructive sleep apnoea during pregnancy: a cohort study.

    PubMed

    O'Brien, L M; Bullough, A S; Chames, M C; Shelgikar, A V; Armitage, R; Guilleminualt, C; Sullivan, C E; Johnson, T R B; Chervin, R D

    2014-12-01

    To assess the frequency of obstructive sleep apnoea among women with and without hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Cohort study. Obstetric clinics at an academic medical centre. Pregnant women with hypertensive disorders (chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension, or pre-eclampsia) and women who were normotensive. Women completed a questionnaire about habitual snoring and underwent overnight ambulatory polysomnography. The presence and severity of obstructive sleep apnoea. Obstructive sleep apnoea was found among 21 of 51 women with hypertensive disorders (41%), but in only three of 16 women who were normotensive (19%, chi-square test, P=0.005). [Author correction added on 16 June 2014, after first online publication: Results mentioned in the abstract were amended.] Non-snoring women with hypertensive disorders typically had mild obstructive sleep apnoea, but >25% of snoring women with hypertensive disorders had moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnoea. Among women with hypertensive disorders, the mean apnoea/hypopnoea index was substantially higher in snorers than in non-snorers (19.9±34.1 versus 3.4±3.1, P=0.013), and the oxyhaemoglobin saturation nadir was significantly lower (86.4±6.6 versus 90.2±3.5, P=0.021). Among women with hypertensive disorders, after stratification by obesity, the pooled relative risk for obstructive sleep apnoea in snoring women with hypertension compared with non-snoring women with hypertension was 2.0 (95% CI 1.4-2.8). Pregnant women with hypertension are at high risk for unrecognised obstructive sleep apnoea. Although longitudinal and intervention studies are urgently needed, given the known relationship between obstructive sleep apnoea and hypertension in the general population, it would seem pertinent that hypertensive pregnant women who snore should be tested for obstructive sleep apnoea, a condition believed to cause or promote hypertension. © 2014 Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

  3. Radiopaque markers equal gastrografin in the study of small bowel obstructions (SBO): a preliminary study.

    PubMed

    Basile, Marco; Galica, Vikiela

    2013-01-01

    To compare the diagnostic accuracy of a consolidated method (i.e.gastrografin) and a new one (i.e.radiopaque markers) in detecting complete intestinal obstruction. Twenty-one patients with suspected small bowel obstruction were enrolled and received at admission orally 100 ml of Gastrografin and 10 radiopaque markers at the same time. A series of plain abdominal radiograms was taked and evaluated to decide whether the obstruction was complete or not. The results of radiological evaluations were not disclosed to the surgeons responsible for the patient's treatment, therefore clinical decisions were assumed on clinical grounds only. In 16 out of the 21 enrolled patients both methods demonstrated only a partial obstruction; clinically none of them required surgery. Five patients showed complete bowel obstruction by the radiopaque markers method; out of those the gastrografin study showed a complete obstruction in four of them. All of them were operated on. In the fifth case it was not clear if the gastrografin had passed through the ileum-cecal valve or not. The unclear clinical picture induced to perform a TC that revealed that a small quantity of gastrografin had passed the ileo-cecal valve but there was a complete small bowel occlusion due to an internal hernia requiring a surgical treatment (thus implying a false negative picture). This preliminary study showed that both methods are effective in the early diagnosis of complete SBO. The use of radiopaque markers could avoid some false negatives of the gastrografin method and is significantly less expensive.

  4. Airflow obstruction, atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk factors in the AGES Reykjavik study.

    PubMed

    Gudmundsson, Gunnar; Margretardottir, Olof Birna; Sigurdsson, Martin Ingi; Harris, Tamara B; Launer, Lenore J; Sigurdsson, Sigurdur; Olafsson, Orn; Aspelund, Thor; Gudnason, Vilmundur

    2016-09-01

    Airflow limitation, i.e. reduced forced expiratory volume in 1-s (FEV1), is associated with increased prevalence of atherosclerosis, however, causal mechanisms remain elusive. The objective of the study was to determine if the association between airflow obstruction and markers of atherosclerosis is mediated by systemic inflammation. 1154 subjects from the longitudinal AGES Reykjavik study were included. Population characteristics, systemic inflammation markers from blood (white blood cell counts (WBC) and level of C-reactive protein (CRP)) were compared between patients with and without airflow limitation defined by reduced FEV1 on spirometry. Atherosclerosis burden was quantified by measurements of coronary artery calcium, aortic arch and distal aortic calcification in addition to carotid intimal media thickness (CIMT). Subjects were split into four groups according to smoking status and whether airflow limitation was present. There was a higher overall burden of atherosclerosis in ever-smokers compared to never-smokers, and in individuals with airflow obstruction compared to individuals without airflow obstruction. After adjusting for population characteristics, Framingham cardiovascular risk factors and markers of systemic inflammation (WBC and CRP), there was a significantly increased aortic arch and distal aorta calcification and higher CIMT measurement in individuals with airflow obstruction compared to individuals without airflow obstruction. After adjusting for population characteristics, Framingham cardiovascular risk factors and markers of systemic inflammation (WBC and CRP), there was a significantly increased aortic arch and distal aorta calcification and higher CIMT measurement in individuals with airflow obstruction compared to individuals without airflow obstruction. Systemic inflammation (WBC and CRP) does not appear to mediate the association between airflow limitation and atherosclerosis. Only airflow limitation and not systemic inflammation (WBC

  5. VAMONOS (Veterans Affairs' Metabolism, Obstructed and Non-Obstructed Sleep) Study: Effects of CPAP Therapy on Glucose Metabolism in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea

    PubMed Central

    Ioachimescu, Octavian C.; Anthony, Jeremy; Constantin, Tina; Ciavatta, Mary-Margaret; McCarver, Kandace; Sweeney, Mary Ellen

    2017-01-01

    Study Objectives: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are prevalent disorders that pose increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death. The objective of this study was to clarify if continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy for OSA affects T2DM control and emergence. Methods: Point-of-care, comparative effectiveness study; cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses. Results: Our cohort included 928 consecutive patients; 13% were women; 36% were Caucasians and 61% African-Americans. OSA was diagnosed in approximately 738 patients and CPAP was initiated in 718 patients; median duration of therapy was 5 mo (25% to 75% interquartile range [IQR] 3–14). Patients with OSA used CPAP therapy for a median duration of 4.8 h, 34.5% of the nights. Adherence to CPAP was prespecified as follows: good (≥ 70% nights and ≥ 4 h/night), excellent (≥ 80% nights and ≥ 6 h/night) or outstanding (≥ 90% of nights and 8 h/night). Based on objective data, good, excellent, and outstanding compliance were found in only 30%, 20%, and 6%, respectively. Three percent of subjects without CPAP follow-up and less than 4% of those nonadherent to CPAP therapy (based on the established criteria) developed incident T2DM. Incident T2DM developed in only 0.8% of those with good compliance and in none (0%) of those in the excellent and outstanding groups. During follow-up, median weight change was +0.3 kg (IQR −1.8 to 2.7). Conclusions: We found that an outstanding compliance to CPAP reduced fasting blood glucose in patients with OSA. Longitudinally, higher levels of therapeutic adherence may affect the rate of incident impaired fasting glucose, prediabetes, and T2DM, despite the observed weight gains. Commentary: A commentary on this article appears in this issue on page 365. Citation: Ioachimescu OC, Anthony Jr J, Constantin T, Ciavatta MM, McCarver K, Sweeney ME. VAMONOS (Veterans Affairs' Metabolism, Obstructed and Non-Obstructed Sleep) study

  6. Ventilation inhomogeneity in obstructive lung diseases measured by electrical impedance tomography: a simulation study.

    PubMed

    Schullcke, B; Krueger-Ziolek, S; Gong, B; Jörres, R A; Mueller-Lisse, U; Moeller, K

    2017-10-10

    Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) has mostly been used in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to monitor ventilation distribution but is also promising for the diagnosis in spontaneously breathing patients with obstructive lung diseases. Beside tomographic images, several numerical measures have been proposed to quantitatively assess the lung state. In this study two common measures, the 'Global Inhomogeneity Index' and the 'Coefficient of Variation' were compared regarding their capability to reflect the severity of lung obstruction. A three-dimensional simulation model was used to simulate obstructed lungs, whereby images were reconstructed on a two-dimensional domain. Simulations revealed that minor obstructions are not adequately recognized in the reconstructed images and that obstruction above and below the electrode plane may result in misleading values of inhomogeneity measures. EIT measurements on several electrode planes are necessary to apply these measures in patients with obstructive lung diseases in a promising manner.

  7. Multi-level obstruction in obstructive sleep apnoea: prevalence, severity and predictive factors.

    PubMed

    Phua, C Q; Yeo, W X; Su, C; Mok, P K H

    2017-11-01

    To characterise multi-level obstruction in terms of prevalence, obstructive sleep apnoea severity and predictive factors, and to collect epidemiological data on upper airway morphology in obstructive sleep apnoea patients. Retrospective review of 250 obstructive sleep apnoea patients. On clinical examination, 171 patients (68.4 per cent) had multi-level obstruction, 49 (19.6 per cent) had single-level obstruction and 30 (12 per cent) showed no obstruction. Within each category of obstructive sleep apnoea severity, multi-level obstruction was more prevalent. Multi-level obstruction was associated with severe obstructive sleep apnoea (more than 30 events per hour) (p = 0.001). Obstructive sleep apnoea severity increased with the number of obstruction sites (correlation coefficient = 0.303, p < 0.001). Multi-level obstruction was more likely in younger (p = 0.042), male (p = 0.045) patients, with high body mass index (more than 30 kg/m2) (p < 0.001). Palatal (p = 0.004), tongue (p = 0.026) and lateral pharyngeal wall obstructions (p = 0.006) were associated with severe obstructive sleep apnoea. Multi-level obstruction is more prevalent in obstructive sleep apnoea and is associated with increased severity. Obstruction at certain anatomical levels contributes more towards obstructive sleep apnoea severity.

  8. A computational study of the respiratory airflow characteristics in normal and obstructed human airways.

    PubMed

    Sul, Bora; Wallqvist, Anders; Morris, Michael J; Reifman, Jaques; Rakesh, Vineet

    2014-09-01

    Obstructive lung diseases in the lower airways are a leading health concern worldwide. To improve our understanding of the pathophysiology of lower airways, we studied airflow characteristics in the lung between the 8th and the 14th generations using a three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics model, where we compared normal and obstructed airways for a range of breathing conditions. We employed a novel technique based on computing the Pearson׳s correlation coefficient to quantitatively characterize the differences in airflow patterns between the normal and obstructed airways. We found that the airflow patterns demonstrated clear differences between normal and diseased conditions for high expiratory flow rates (>2300ml/s), but not for inspiratory flow rates. Moreover, airflow patterns subjected to filtering demonstrated higher sensitivity than airway resistance for differentiating normal and diseased conditions. Further, we showed that wall shear stresses were not only dependent on breathing rates, but also on the distribution of the obstructed sites in the lung: for the same degree of obstruction and breathing rate, we observed as much as two-fold differences in shear stresses. In contrast to previous studies that suggest increased wall shear stress due to obstructions as a possible damage mechanism for small airways, our model demonstrated that for flow rates corresponding to heavy activities, the wall shear stress in both normal and obstructed airways was <0.3Pa, which is within the physiological limit needed to promote respiratory defense mechanisms. In summary, our model enables the study of airflow characteristics that may be impractical to assess experimentally. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  9. Reduced upper obstructions in N3 and increased lower obstructions in REM sleep stage detected with manometry.

    PubMed

    Wirth, Markus; Schramm, Juliane; Bautz, Maximilian; Hofauer, Benedikt; Edenharter, Günther; Ott, Armin; Heiser, Clemens

    2018-01-01

    In obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), airway obstruction occurs at different anatomic levels. The frequency and location of obstructions play a crucial role in the planning of surgical treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the pharyngeal obstruction levels in different sleep stages with manometry in OSA patients. In addition, the manometry results were compared with drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE). Forty-one patients with OSA received manometry measurements during one night of sleep. All patients were simultaneously evaluated with polysomnography. The frequency of obstructions in different sleep stages was assessed. Twenty patients were additionally studied with DISE. Obstruction levels detected with manometry were compared with DISE. The frequency of upper and to a lesser extent lower obstructions decreased in sleep stage N3. In rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, lower obstructions increased. The overall proportion of upper and lower obstructions detected with manometry corresponded with DISE in 13 of 20 cases. A significant change in the obstruction levels was detected with manometry in N3 and REM sleep. The reduction of both upper and to a lesser extent lower obstructions in N3 suggests more stable airways in slow-wave sleep. Relevant lower obstructions were not detected in DISE compared to manometry in 5 out of 20 examinations. This could be a potential reason for treatment failure of site-specific surgical OSA treatment when only performing DISE preoperatively. Therefore, manometry could be a useful complementary tool in the preoperative evaluation for OSA.

  10. Evaluation of two techniques of partial urethral obstruction in the male rat model of bladder outlet obstruction.

    PubMed

    Melman, Arnold; Tar, Moses; Boczko, Judd; Christ, George; Leung, Albert C; Zhao, Weixin; Russell, Robert G

    2005-11-01

    To perform a comparison to determine which of two methods of partial urethral ligation produces the most consistent outcome and fewest side effects. Such a study has not been previously reported. Partial urethral ligation is a means of causing reproducible bladder outlet obstruction. In the male rat model, partial urethral obstruction can be performed either by perineal incision and bulbous urethral ligation or retropubic incision and midprostatic obstruction. Fifteen male Sprague-Dawley rats were studied. Five were selected for bulbous urethral obstruction through a perineal incision, five for midprostatic obstruction using a retropubic approach, and five for a sham operation through a perineal incision. The operative time was shorter and morbidity lower with the perineal approach compared with the retropubic approach. Inflammation or infection, or both, were seen in the prostate, bladder, proximal urethra, ureters, and kidneys in the rats in which a midprostatic obstruction was performed. The proximal urethra and prostate were mildly inflamed in those rats that underwent bulbous obstruction. Sham-operated rats exhibited mild prostatitis only. The perineal approach to the bulbous urethra is the method of choice for creating a partial urethral obstruction model of bladder outlet obstruction in the male rat.

  11. Mechanical Intestinal Obstruction in a Porcine Model: Effects of Intra-Abdominal Hypertension. A Preliminary Study

    PubMed Central

    Sánchez-Margallo, F. M.; Latorre, R.; López-Albors, O.; Wise, R.; Malbrain, M. L. N. G.; Castellanos, G.

    2016-01-01

    Introduction Mechanical intestinal obstruction is a disorder associated with intra-abdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome. As the large intestine intraluminal and intra-abdominal pressures are increased, so the patient’s risk for intestinal ischaemia. Previous studies have focused on hypoperfusion and bacterial translocation without considering the concomitant effect of intra-abdominal hypertension. The objective of this study was to design and evaluate a mechanical intestinal obstruction model in pigs similar to the human pathophysiology. Materials and Methods Fifteen pigs were divided into three groups: a control group (n = 5) and two groups of 5 pigs with intra-abdominal hypertension induced by mechanical intestinal obstruction. The intra-abdominal pressures of 20 mmHg were maintained for 2 and 5 hours respectively. Hemodynamic, respiratory and gastric intramucosal pH values, as well as blood tests were recorded every 30 min. Results Significant differences between the control and mechanical intestinal obstruction groups were noted. The mean arterial pressure, cardiac index, dynamic pulmonary compliance and abdominal perfusion pressure decreased. The systemic vascular resistance index, central venous pressure, pulse pressure variation, airway resistance and lactate increased within 2 hours from starting intra-abdominal hypertension (p<0.05). In addition, we observed increased values for the peak and plateau airway pressures, and low values of gastric intramucosal pH in the mechanical intestinal obstruction groups that were significant after 3 hours. Conclusion The mechanical intestinal obstruction model appears to adequately simulate the pathophysiology of intestinal obstruction that occurs in humans. Monitoring abdominal perfusion pressure, dynamic pulmonary compliance, gastric intramucosal pH and lactate values may provide insight in predicting the effects on endorgan function in patients with mechanical intestinal obstruction. PMID

  12. Identifying patients at high risk for obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome in Nigeria: A multicentre observational study.

    PubMed

    Desalu, Olufemi O; Onyedum, Cajetan C; Adeoti, Adekunle O; Fadare, Joseph O; Sanya, Emmanuel O; Fawale, Michael B; Bello, Hamzat A

    2017-06-01

    Obstructive sleep apnoea is associated with significant health consequences. A significant proportion of hospitalized patients at risk for obstructive sleep apnoea were never identified and referred for polysomnography for diagnosis. The objective of this study was to determine the factors associated with high risk for obstructive sleep apnoea and use it to identify patients at risk for the condition in tertiary hospitals in Nigeria. This was a multicentre observational study of adult patients hospitalized in three selected hospitals from 15th January to 17th March 2015. Berlin questionnaire and Epworth sleepiness scale were used to assess for obstructive sleep apnoea risk and excessive daytime sleepiness respectively. Additional questions on traditional risk factors for obstructive sleep apnoea were also obtained. Nine hundred and twenty-six patients were recruited into the study. Respondents' mean age was 44.3 years ± 15.2years, 486 (52.5%) were females and 556 (60.0%) had one or more medical co-morbidity and none of the patients had a previous diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnoea. Factors that were independently associated with high risk for obstructive sleep apnoea include systemic hypertension(aOR-10.33;95%: CI 6.42-16.61), obesity(aOR-7.87;95% CI: 4.33-14.29); excessive daytime sleepiness (aOR-3.77;95% CI :2.28-6.22), tobacco smoking (aOR-2.99;95% CI: 1.76-5.07), snoring in a first-degree relative (aOR-1.83;95% CI: 1.19-2.81); and the use of sedative (aOR-1.82;95% CI: 1.06-3.15). This study shows that patients with systemic hypertension, obesity, excessive daytime sleepiness, history of smoking, snoring in a first-degree relative and use of sedatives are at high risk of obstructive sleep apnoea. None of the patients at high risk had a previous diagnosis of sleep apnoea by a physician, highlighting the diagnostic challenges of this condition. The results of this study will assist health care professionals in early identification of individuals at risk of

  13. Clinical strategies for the management of intestinal obstruction and pseudo-obstruction. A Delphi Consensus study of SICUT (Società Italiana di Chirurgia d'Urgenza e del Trauma).

    PubMed

    Costa, Gianluca; Ruscelli, Paolo; Balducci, Genoveffa; Buccoliero, Francesco; Lorenzon, Laura; Frezza, Barbara; Chirletti, Piero; Stagnitti, Franco; Miniello, Stefano; Stella, Francesco

    2016-01-01

    Intestinal obstructions/pseudo-obstruction of the small/large bowel are frequent conditions but their management could be challenging. Moreover, a general agreement in this field is currently lacking, thus SICUT Society designed a consensus study aimed to define their optimal workout. The Delphi methodology was used to reach consensus among 47 Italian surgical experts in two study rounds. Consensus was defined as an agreement of 75.0% or greater. Four main topic areas included nosology, diagnosis, management and treatment. A bowel obstruction was defined as an obstacle to the progression of intestinal contents and fluids generally beginning with a sudden onset. The panel identified four major criteria of diagnosis including absence of flatus, presence of >3.5 cm ileal levels or >6 cm colon dilatation and abdominal distension. Panel also recommended a surgical admission, a multidisciplinary approach, and a gastrografin swallow for patients presenting occlusions. Criteria for immediate surgery included: presence of strangulated hernia, a >10 cm cecal dilatation, signs of vascular pedicles obstructions and persistence of metabolic acidosis. Moreover, rules for non-operative management (to be conducted for maximum 72 hours) included a naso-gastric drainage placement and clinical and laboratory controls each 12 hours. Non-operative treatment should be suspended if any suspects of intra-abdominal complications, high level of lactates, leukocytosis (>18.000/mm3 or Neutrophils >85%) or a doubling of creatinine level comparing admission. Conversely, consensus was not reached regarding the exact timing of CT scan and the appropriateness of colonic stenting. This consensus is in line with current international strategies and guidelines, and it could be a useful tool in the safe basic daily management of these common and peculiar diseases. Delphi study, Intestinal obstruction, Large bowel obstruction, Pseudo-obstruction, Small bowel.

  14. A Computational Study of the Respiratory Airflow Characteristics in Normal and Obstructed Human Airways

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-01-01

    normal and three different obstructed airway geometries, consisting of symmetric, asym- metric, and random obstructions. Fig. 2 shows the geometric ...normal and obstructed airways Airway resistance is a measure of the opposition to the airflow caused by geometric properties, such as airway obstruction...pressure drops. Resistance values were dependent on the degree and geometric distribution of the obstruction sites. In the symmetric obstruction model

  15. Within-breath respiratory impedance and airway obstruction in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

    PubMed

    Silva, Karla Kristine Dames da; Faria, Alvaro Camilo Dias; Lopes, Agnaldo José; Melo, Pedro Lopes de

    2015-07-01

    Recent work has suggested that within-breath respiratory impedance measurements performed using the forced oscillation technique may help to noninvasively evaluate respiratory mechanics. We investigated the influence of airway obstruction on the within-breath forced oscillation technique in smokers and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients and evaluated the contribution of this analysis to the diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Twenty healthy individuals and 20 smokers were assessed. The study also included 74 patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. We evaluated the mean respiratory impedance (Zm) as well as values for the inspiration (Zi) and expiration cycles (Ze) at the beginning of inspiration (Zbi) and expiration (Zbe), respectively. The peak-to-peak impedance (Zpp=Zbe-Zbi) and the respiratory cycle dependence (ΔZrs=Ze-Zi) were also analyzed. The diagnostic utility was evaluated by investigating the sensitivity, the specificity and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01888705. Airway obstruction increased the within-breath respiratory impedance parameters that were significantly correlated with the spirometric indices of airway obstruction (R=-0.65, p<0.0001). In contrast to the control subjects and the smokers, the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients presented significant expiratory-inspiratory differences (p<0.002). The adverse effects of moderate airway obstruction were detected based on the Zpp with an accuracy of 83%. Additionally, abnormal effects in severe and very severe patients were detected based on the Zm, Zi, Ze, Zbe, Zpp and ΔZrs with a high degree of accuracy (>90%). We conclude the following: (1) chronic obstructive pulmonary disease introduces higher respiratory cycle dependence, (2) this increase is proportional to airway obstruction, and (3) the within-breath forced oscillation technique may provide novel parameters that facilitate the

  16. Treating Small Bowel Obstruction with a Manual Physical Therapy: A Prospective Efficacy Study

    PubMed Central

    Rice, Amanda D.; Patterson, Kimberley; Reed, Evette D.; Wurn, Belinda F.; Klingenberg, Bernhard; King, C. Richard; Wurn, Lawrence J.

    2016-01-01

    Small bowel obstructions (SBOs) caused by adhesions are a common, often life-threatening postsurgical complication with few treatment options available for patients. This study examines the efficacy of a manual physical therapy treatment regimen on the pain and quality of life of subjects with a history of bowel obstructions due to adhesions in a prospective, controlled survey based study. Changes in six domains of quality of life were measured via ratings reported before and after treatment using the validated Small Bowel Obstruction Questionnaire (SBO-Q). Improvements in the domains for pain (p = 0.0087), overall quality of life (p = 0.0016), and pain severity (p = 0.0006) were significant when average scores before treatment were compared with scores after treatment. The gastrointestinal symptoms (p = 0.0258) domain was marginally significant. There was no statistically significant improvement identified in the diet or medication domains in the SBO-Q for this population. Significant improvements in range of motion in the trunk (p ≤ 0.001), often limited by adhesions, were also observed for all measures. This study demonstrates in a small number of subjects that this manual physical therapy protocol is an effective treatment option for patients with adhesive small bowel obstructions as measured by subject reported symptoms and quality of life. PMID:26989690

  17. Obstructive sleep apnea in obese community-dwelling children: the NANOS study.

    PubMed

    Alonso-Álvarez, María Luz; Cordero-Guevara, José Aurelio; Terán-Santos, Joaquin; Gonzalez-Martinez, Mónica; Jurado-Luque, María José; Corral-Peñafiel, Jaime; Duran-Cantolla, Joaquin; Kheirandish-Gozal, Leila; Gozal, David

    2014-05-01

    Obesity in children is assumed to serve as a major risk factor in pediatric obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). However, the prevalence of OSAS in otherwise healthy obese children from the community is unknown. To determine the prevalence of OSAS in obese children identified and recruited from primary care centers. A cross-sectional, prospective, multicenter study. Spanish children ages 3-14 y with a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to the 95th percentile for age and sex were randomly selected, and underwent medical history, snoring, and Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) assessments, as well as physical examination, nasopharyngoscopy, and nocturnal polysomnography (NPSG) recordings. Two hundred forty-eight children (54.4% males) with mean age of 10.8 ± 2.6 y were studied with a BMI of 28.0 ± 4.7 kg/m(2) corresponding to 96.8 ± 0.6 percentile when adjusted for age and sex. The mean respiratory disturbance index (RDI), obstructive RDI (ORDI), and obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (OAHI) were 5.58 ± 9.90, 5.06 ± 9.57, and 3.39 ± 8.78/h total sleep time (TST), respectively. Using ≥ 3/h TST as the cutoff for the presence of OSAS, the prevalence of OSAS ranged from 21.5% to 39.5% depending on whether OAHI, ORDI, or RDI were used. The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) in obese children from the general population is high. Obese children should be screened for the presence of OSAS. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01322763.

  18. Severity of Airflow Obstruction in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Proposal for a New Classification.

    PubMed

    Coton, Sonia; Vollmer, William M; Bateman, Eric; Marks, Guy B; Tan, Wan; Mejza, Filip; Juvekar, Sanjay; Janson, Christer; Mortimer, Kevin; P A, Mahesh; Buist, A Sonia; Burney, Peter G J

    2017-10-01

    Current classifications of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) severity are complex and do not grade levels of obstruction. Obstruction is a simpler construct and independent of ethnicity. We constructed an index of obstruction severity based on the FEV 1 /FVC ratio, with cut-points dividing the Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) study population into four similarly sized strata to those created by the GOLD criteria that uses FEV 1 . We measured the agreement between classifications and the validity of the FEV 1 -based classification in identifying the level of obstruction as defined by the new groupings. We compared the strengths of association of each classification with quality of life (QoL), MRC dyspnoea score and the self-reported exacerbation rate. Agreement between classifications was only fair. FEV 1 -based criteria for moderate COPD identified only 79% of those with moderate obstruction and misclassified half of the participants with mild obstruction as having more severe COPD. Both scales were equally strongly associated with QoL, exertional dyspnoea and respiratory exacerbations. Severity assessed using the FEV 1 /FVC ratio is only in moderate agreement with the severity assessed using FEV 1 but is equally strongly associated with other outcomes. Severity assessed using the FEV 1 /FVC ratio is likely to be independent of ethnicity.

  19. Snoring Sounds Predict Obstruction Sites and Surgical Response in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea Syndrome

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Li-Ang; Lo, Yu-Lun; Yu, Jen-Fang; Lee, Gui-She; Ni, Yung-Lun; Chen, Ning-Hung; Fang, Tuan-Jen; Huang, Chung-Guei; Cheng, Wen-Nuan; Li, Hsueh-Yu

    2016-01-01

    Snoring sounds generated by different vibrators of the upper airway may be useful indicators of obstruction sites in patients with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). This study aimed to investigate associations between snoring sounds, obstruction sites, and surgical responses (≥50% reduction in the apnea-hypopnea index [AHI] and <10 events/hour) in patients with OSAHS. This prospective cohort study recruited 36 OSAHS patients for 6-hour snoring sound recordings during in-lab full-night polysomnography, drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE), and relocation pharyngoplasty. All patients received follow-up polysomnography after 6 months. Fifteen (42%) patients with at least two complete obstruction sites defined by DISE were significantly, positively associated with maximal snoring sound intensity (40–300 Hz; odds ratio [OR], 1.25, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05–1.49) and body mass index (OR, 1.48, 95% CI 1.02–2.15) after logistic regression analysis. Tonsil obstruction was significantly, inversely correlated with mean snoring sound intensity (301–850 Hz; OR, 0.84, 95% CI 0.74–0.96). Moreover, baseline tonsil obstruction detected by either DISE or mean snoring sound intensity (301–850 Hz), and AHI could significantly predict the surgical response. Our findings suggest that snoring sound detection may be helpful in determining obstruction sites and predict surgical responses. PMID:27471038

  20. Obstructed labour.

    PubMed

    Neilson, J P; Lavender, T; Quenby, S; Wray, S

    2003-01-01

    Obstructed labour is an important cause of maternal deaths in communities in which undernutrition in childhood is common resulting in small pelves in women, and in which there is no easy access to functioning health facilities with the capability of carrying out operative deliveries. Obstructed labour also causes significant maternal morbidity in the short term (notably infection) and long term (notably obstetric fistulas). Fetal death from asphyxia is also common. There are differences in the behaviour of the uterus during obstructed labour, depending on whether the woman has delivered previously. The pattern in primigravid women (typically diminishing contractility with risk of infection and fistula) may result from tissue acidosis, whereas in parous women, contractility may be maintained with the risk of uterine rupture. Ultimately, tackling the problem of obstructed labour will require universal adequate nutritional intake from childhood and the ability to access adequately equipped and staffed clinical facilities when problems arise in labour. These seem still rather distant aspirations. In the meantime, strategies should be implemented to encourage early recognition of prolonged labour and appropriate clinical responses. The sequelae of obstructed labour can be an enormous source of human misery and the prevention of obstetric fistulas, and skilled treatment if they do occur, are important priorities in regions where obstructed labour is still common.

  1. Venous obstruction in permanent pacemaker patients: an isotopic study

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Pauletti, M.; Di Ricco, G.; Solfanelli, S.

    1981-01-01

    Isotope venography was used to study the venous circulation proximal to the superior vena cava in two groups of pacemaker patients, one with a single endocavitary electrode and the other with multiple pacing catheters. A control group of patients without pacemakers was also studied. Numerous abnormalities were found, especially in the group with multiple electrodes. These findings suggest that venous obstruction is a common complication of endocardial pacing.

  2. Analysis of obstruction site in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome patients by drug induced sleep endoscopy.

    PubMed

    Koo, Soo Kweon; Choi, Jang Won; Myung, Nam Suk; Lee, Hyoung Ju; Kim, Yang Jae; Kim, Young Joong

    2013-01-01

    We analyzed site, pattern and degree of obstruction in Korean male obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) patients by drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE). We also investigated possible links between BMI, AHI and DISE findings. Sixty-nine male patients underwent DISE. DISE findings were reported using our classification system in which modified 'VOTE classification' - obstruction type, site of obstruction, degree of obstruction and anatomical site contributing obstruction - was reported. Associations were analyzed among the results of the polysomnography, patients' characteristics and DISE finding. Multilevel airway obstruction was found in 84.06% of patients and 15.94% had a unilevel obstruction. Among those with unilevel obstruction, 90.90% had retropalatal level obstruction and 9.10% had retrolingual level obstruction. Palate with lateral pharyngeal wall obstruction (49.28%) is the most common obstruction type of the retropalatal level and tongue with lateral pharyngeal wall (37.68%) is the most common obstruction type of the retrolingual level. Examining the relation between obstruction site according to body mass index (BMI) and severity of OSAS (apnea hypopnea index, AHI), the lateral pharyngeal wall had an increasing tendency associated with higher BMI and higher AHI. But the lateral pharyngeal wall of both levels was statistically significant associated with higher AHI. The majority of the Korean male OSAS patients have multilevel obstruction and according to BMI and AHI, the DISE findings indicate that the lateral pharyngeal wall is the most important anatomical site contributing to obstruction regardless of the level at which the obstruction lies. © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Central Airway Obstruction: Benign Strictures, Tracheobronchomalacia, and Malignancy-related Obstruction.

    PubMed

    Murgu, Septimiu Dan; Egressy, Katarine; Laxmanan, Balaji; Doblare, Guillermo; Ortiz-Comino, Rosamaria; Hogarth, D Kyle

    2016-08-01

    The purpose of this article is to provide an update on methods for palliating symptoms in patients with histologically benign and malignant central airway obstruction. We review the published literature within the past decade on postintubation, posttracheostomy, and TB- and transplant-related airway strictures; tracheobronchomalacia; and malignant airway obstruction. We review terminology, classification systems, and parameters that impact treatment decisions. The focus is on how airway stent insertion fits into the best algorithm of care. Several case series and cohort studies demonstrate that airway stents improve dyspnea, lung function, and quality of life in patients with airway obstruction. Airway stenting, however, is associated with high rates of adverse events and should be used only when curative open surgical interventions are not feasible or are contraindicated. Copyright © 2016 American College of Chest Physicians. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Tuberculosis associated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

    PubMed

    Sarkar, Malay; Srinivasa; Madabhavi, Irappa; Kumar, Kushal

    2017-05-01

    Reviewed the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, mechanisms, and treatment of tuberculosis associated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the CINAHL from inception to June 2016. We used the following search terms: Tuberculosis, COPD, Tuberculosis associated COPD, and so forth. All types of study were chosen. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and tuberculosis are significant public health problems, particularly in developing countries. Although, smoking is the conventional risk factor for COPD, nonsmoking related risk factors such as biomass fuel exposure, childhood lower-respiratory tract infections, chronic asthma, outdoor air pollution, and prior history of pulmonary tuberculosis have become important risk factors of COPD, particularly in developing countries. Past history of tuberculosis as a risk factor of chronic airflow obstruction has been reported in several studies. It may develop during the course of tuberculosis or after completion of tuberculosis treatment. Developing countries with large burden of tuberculosis can contribute significantly to the burden of chronic airflow obstruction. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis should be emphasized to lessen the future burden of chronic airflow obstruction. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  5. Correlation of soft palate length with velum obstruction and severity of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

    PubMed

    Lim, Ju-Shin; Lee, Jae Woo; Han, Chun; Kwon, Jang-Woo

    2018-06-01

    Our aim in this study was to analyze whether soft palate length and velum obstruction during sleep are correlated and to determine the effects of related parameters on obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) severity. We used computed tomography to measure soft palate length and drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) to evaluate velum obstruction severity. Patients also underwent polysomnography (PSG) for evaluation of OSAS severity. A retrospective cohort of 67 patients with OSAS treated between May 1st, 2013 and July 31st, 2016 was analyzed. Each patient underwent DISE, PSG, and computed tomography. Using DISE, velum obstruction was categorized by the VOTE classification method. Using computed tomography, soft palate length was measured as the length of the posterior nasal spine to the uvula. Correlations of velum obstruction in DISE and PSG parameters (obstructive apnea, hypopnea, apnea hypopnea index (AHI), respiratory effort related arousal (RERA), respiratory disturbance index (RDI), baseline SaO 2 , and minimum SaO 2 ) with soft palate length were also analyzed. Among the 67 patients, the average PNS-U length was 39.90±4.19mm. Length was significantly different by age but not by other demographic characteristics such as sex, past history, or BMI. DISE revealed a statistically significant difference of velum obstruction degree; the cutoff value for PNS-U was 39.47mm. The PSG results, obstructive apnea, AHI, RDI, baseline SaO 2 , and minimum SaO 2 were correlated with PNS-U length, while other results such as hypopnea and RERA showed no correlation. Analysis of soft palate length showed that increased PNS-U length was associated with higher rates of obstructive apnea, AHI, and RDI as assessed by PSG. In contrast, lower baseline SaO 2 and minimum SaO 2 values were seen by PSG; more severe velum obstruction was seen by DISE. We propose that when a soft palate is suspected in OSAS, computed tomography measurement of soft palate length is a valid method for

  6. Microscopic hematuria and calculus-related ureteral obstruction.

    PubMed

    Stewart, D P; Kowalski, R; Wong, P; Krome, R

    1990-01-01

    The evaluation of patients with ureteral calculi in the emergency department has historically included urinalysis (UA) and intravenous pyelograms (IVP). This retrospective study was done to determine if a statistically significant relationship existed between the degree of calculus-related ureteral obstruction, proven by IVP, and the presence or absence of microscopic hematuria. Urine red blood cells were recorded as less than 3 rbc/hpf (negative) or greater than or equal to 3 rbc/hpf (positive). IVPs were recorded as nonsevere or severe. IVP criteria were based on the presence or absence of extravasation, greater than 2-hour ureteral filling times, and a numerical scoring system of 1 to 4 for ureteral or calyceal dilatation and nephrogenic effect. Eighty-nine men (72%) had non-severe obstructions and 34 (28%) had severe obstructions. Twenty-five women (68%) had nonsevere obstructions and 12 (32%) had severe obstructions. Of the 28 patients with normal UAs, 11 had severe ureteral obstructions and 17 had nonsevere ureteral obstructions. There were no statistically significant differences between the presence or absence of significant microscopic hematuria and the presence or absence of severe ureteral obstruction. Microscopic hematuria is neither sensitive nor specific in determining the degree of calculus-related ureteral obstruction.

  7. Palliation double stenting for malignant biliary and duodenal obstruction

    PubMed Central

    ZHAO, LIANG; XU, HAITAO; ZHANG, YUBAO

    2016-01-01

    The surgical management of patients with malignant biliary and duodenal obstruction is complex. Tumor excision is no longer possible in the majority of patients with malignant obstructive jaundice and duodenal obstruction. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of intraluminal dual stent placement in malignant biliary and duodenal obstruction. In total, 20 patients with malignant obstructive jaundice and duodenal obstruction, including 6 with pancreatic carcinoma, 11 with cholangiocarcinoma, 1 with duodenal carcinoma and 2 with abdominal lymph node metastasis, were treated with intraluminal stent placement. Bile duct obstruction with late occurrence of duodenal obstruction was observed in 16 cases, and duodenal obstruction followed by a late occurrence of bile duct obstruction was observed in 3 cases, while, in 1 case, bile duct obstruction and duodenal obstruction occurred simultaneously. After X-ray fluoroscopy revealed obstruction in the bile duct and duodenum, stents were placed into the respective lumens. Percutaneous transhepatic placement was employed for the biliary stent, while the duodenal stent was placed perioraly. The clinical outcomes, including complications associated with the procedures and patency of the stents, were evaluated. The biliary and duodenal stents were successfully implanted in 18 patients and the technical success rate was 90% (18/20). A total of 39 stents were implanted in 20 patients. In 2 cases, duodenal stent placement failed following biliary stent placement. Duodenal obstruction remitted in 15 patients, and 1 patient succumbed to aspiration pneumonia 5 days after the procedure. No severe complications were observed in any other patient. The survival time of the 18 patients was 5–21 months (median, 9.6 months), and 6 of those patients survived for >12 months. The present study suggests that X-ray fluoroscopy-guided intraluminal stent implantation is an effective procedure for the treatment of malignant

  8. A prospective study of the impact of diabetes mellitus on restrictive and obstructive lung function impairment: The Saku study.

    PubMed

    Sonoda, Nao; Morimoto, Akiko; Tatsumi, Yukako; Asayama, Kei; Ohkubo, Takayoshi; Izawa, Satoshi; Ohno, Yuko

    2018-05-01

    To assess the impact of diabetes on restrictive and obstructive lung function impairment. This 5-year prospective study included 7524 participants aged 40-69years without lung function impairment at baseline who underwent a comprehensive medical check-up between April 2008 and March 2009 at Saku Central Hospital. Diabetes was defined by fasting plasma glucose ≥7.0mmol/l (126mg/dl), HbA1c≥6.5% (48mmol/mol), or a history of diabetes, as determined by interviews conducted by the physicians. Restrictive and obstructive lung function impairment were defined as forced vital capacity (FVC) <80% predicted and forced expiratory volume in 1s (FEV 1 ) to FVC ratio (FEV 1 /FVC) <0.70, respectively. Participants were screened until they developed restrictive or obstructive lung function impairment or until March 2014. During the follow-up period, 171 and 639 individuals developed restrictive and obstructive lung function impairment, respectively. Individuals with diabetes had a 1.6-fold higher risk of restrictive lung function impairment than those without diabetes after adjusting for sex, age, height, abdominal obesity, smoking status, exercise habits, systolic blood pressure, HDL-cholesterol, log-transformed high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and baseline lung function [multivariable-adjusted HR and 95% CI; 1.57 (1.04-2.36)]. In contrast, individuals with diabetes did not have a significantly higher risk of obstructive lung function impairment [multivariable-adjusted HR and 95% CI; 0.93 (0.72-1.21)]. Diabetes was associated with restrictive lung function impairment but not obstructive lung function impairment. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  9. Bladder outlet obstruction in women: definition and characteristics.

    PubMed

    Groutz, A; Blaivas, J G; Chaikin, D C

    2000-01-01

    The prevalence of bladder outlet obstruction in women is unknown and most probably has been underestimated. Moreover, there are no standard definitions for the diagnosis of bladder outlet obstruction in women. Our study was conducted to define as well as to examine the clinical and urodynamic characteristics of bladder outlet obstruction among women referred for evaluation of voiding symptoms. Bladder outlet obstruction was defined as a persistent, low, maximum "free" flow rate of <12 mL/s in repeated non-invasive uroflow studies, combined with high detrusor pressure at a maximum flow (p(det.Q)(max) >20 cm H(2)O) during detrusor pressure-uroflow studies. A urodynamic database of 587 consecutive women identified 38 (6.5%) women with bladder outlet obstruction. The mean age of the patients was 63.9 +/- 17.5 years. The mean maximum "free" flow, voided volume, and residual urinary volume were 9.4 +/-3.9 mL/s, 144. 9 +/- 72.7 mL, and 86.1 +/- 98.8 mL, respectively. The mean p(det. Q)(max) was 37.2 +/- 19.2 cm H(2)O. Previous anti-incontinence surgery and severe genital prolapse were the most common etiologies, accounting for half of the cases. Other, less common, etiologies included urethral stricture (13%), primary bladder neck obstruction (8%), learned voiding dysfunction (5%), and detrusor external sphincter dyssynergia (5%). Symptomatology was defined as mixed obstructive and irritative in 63% of the patients, isolated irritative in 29%, and isolated obstructive in other 8%. In conclusion, bladder outlet obstruction in women appears to be more common than was previously recognized, occurring in 6.5% of our patients. Micturition symptoms relevant to bladder outlet obstruction are non-specific, and a full urodynamic evaluation is essential in making the correct diagnosis and formulating a treatment plan.

  10. Correlation of obstructive sleep apnoea and laryngopharyngeal reflux: phmetry study.

    PubMed

    Elhennawi, D M; Ahmed, M R; Abou-Halawa, A S

    2016-12-01

    To study the correlation of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). A descriptive study. Suez Canal University Hospital, Ismailia, Egypt. 62 patients with polysomnography confirmed OSA. Patients were evaluated with ambulatory 24-h double channel pH monitoring. Mean reflux symptom index in the study group was 9 ± 5.5, and it was > 13 in all patients with severe OSA. Signs of LPR reflux were present in 34 (55%) patients. Abnormal reflux was detected in the distal oesophagus in 41 patients (66%) and in the proximal oesophagus in 21 patients (34%). Patients with severe OSA had significantly higher nocturnal LPR reflux episodes compared to patients with mild disease (P < .05). Number of reflux episodes and total duration of reflux during sleep are significantly correlated to degree of OSA (P < .05). No difference was found in relation to age or sex. Daytime reflux was not related to the degree of obstructive sleep apnoea (P > .05). LPR is common in patients with OSA. Patients with severe OSA have significantly higher nocturnal LPR. This should be considered when treating this group of patients. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  11. Localization of glossopharyngeal obstruction using nasopharyngeal tube versus Friedman tongue position classification in obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome.

    PubMed

    Li, Shuhua; Hei, Renyi; Wu, Dahai; Shi, Hongjin

    2014-08-01

    Assessing the severity of glossopharyngeal obstruction is important for the diagnosis and therapy of obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). The polysomnography (PSG) with nasopharyngeal tube insertion (NPT-PSG) has shown good results in assessing glossopharyngeal obstruction. The objective of this study was to compare NPT-PSG with Friedman tongue position (FTP) classification which was also used to evaluate the glossopharyngeal obstruction. One hundred and five patients with OSAHS diagnosed by PSG were included in the study. All the patients were successfully examined by NPT-PSG. Based on the grade of FTP classification, 105 patients were divided into four groups. The differences of the general clinical data, PSG and NPT-PSG results were analyzed among the four groups. And the coincidence of diagnosing glossopharyngeal obstruction of two methods was calculated. There was no significant difference among the four groups in general clinical data and PSG results. However, NPT-PSG results were significantly different among the four groups. Following with the increasing FTP, apnea hypopnea index increased and lowest saturation of blood oxygen decreased. There were 38 patients with and other 38 patients without glossopharyngeal obstruction diagnosed by both methods. The coincidence of two methods was 72.4 %. NPT-PSG is an easy and effective method in assessing the severity of glossopharyngeal obstruction. The coincidence between the NPT-PSG and FTP classification is good. But in some special OSAHS patients such as glossoptosis, unsuccessful uvulopalatopharyngoplasty or suspicious pachyglossia, NPT-PSG is better than FTP classification.

  12. Prevalence and risk factors of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in insomnia sufferers: a study on 1311 subjects.

    PubMed

    Hein, Matthieu; Lanquart, Jean-Pol; Loas, Gwénolé; Hubain, Philippe; Linkowski, Paul

    2017-07-06

    Several studies have investigated the prevalence and risk factors of insomnia in subjects with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. However, few studies have investigated the prevalence and risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in insomnia sufferers. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and risk factors of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in a large sample of insomnia sufferers. Data from 1311 insomnia sufferers who were recruited from the research database of the sleep laboratory of the Erasme Hospital were analysed. An apnea-hypopnea index of ≥15 events per hour was used as the cut-off score for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine clinical and demographic risk factors of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in insomnia sufferers. The prevalence of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in our sample of insomnia sufferers was 13.88%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that male gender, snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, lower maintenance insomnia complaint, presence of metabolic syndrome, age ≥ 50 & <65 years, age ≥ 65 years, BMI ≥ 25 & <30 kg/m 2 , BMI >30 kg/m 2 , and CRP >7 mg/L were significant risk factors of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in insomnia sufferers. Moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is a common pathology in insomnia sufferers. The identification of these different risk factors advances a new perspective for more effective screening of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in insomnia sufferers.

  13. Clinical Outcomes of Self-Expandable Metal Stents for Malignant Rectal Obstruction.

    PubMed

    Lee, Hyun Jung; Hong, Sung Pil; Cheon, Jae Hee; Kim, Tae Il; Kim, Won Ho; Park, Soo Jung

    2018-01-01

    Self-expandable metal stents are widely used to treat malignant colorectal obstruction. However, data on clinical outcomes of stent placement for rectal obstruction specifically are lacking. We aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes of self-expandable metal stents in malignant rectal obstruction in comparison with those in left colonic obstruction and to identify factors associated with clinical failure and complication. This was a retrospective study. The study was conducted at a tertiary care center. Between January 2005 and December 2013, medical charts of patients who underwent stent placement for malignant rectal or left colonic obstruction were reviewed retrospectively. Study intervention included self-expandable metal stent placement. Technical success, clinical success, and complications were measured. Technical success rates for the 2 study groups (rectum vs left colon, 93.5% vs 93.1%; p = 0.86) did not differ significantly; however, the clinical success rate was lower in patients with rectal obstruction (85.4% vs 92.1%; p = 0.02). In addition, the complication rate was higher in patients with rectal obstruction (37.4% vs 25.1%; p = 0.01). Patients with rectal obstruction showed higher rates of obstruction because of extracolonic malignancy (33.8% vs 15.8%; p < 0.001) and stent use for palliation (78.6% vs 56.3%; p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis indicated obstruction attributed to extracolonic malignancy and covered stent usage to be independent risk factors for clinical failure. Factors predictive of complications in the palliative group were total obstruction, obstruction because of extracolonic malignancy, and covered stent usage. This was a retrospective, single-center study. The efficacy and safety of stent placement for malignant rectal obstruction were comparable with those for left colonic obstruction. However, obstruction attributed to extracolonic malignancy, use of covered stents, and total obstruction negatively impacted clinical outcomes

  14. Acute GI obstruction.

    PubMed

    Hucl, Tomas

    2013-10-01

    Acute gastrointestinal obstruction occurs when the normal flow of intestinal contents is interrupted. The blockage can occur at any level throughout the gastrointestinal tract. The clinical symptoms depend on the level and extent of obstruction. Various benign and malignant processes can produce acute gastrointestinal obstruction, which often represents a medical emergency because of the potential for bowel ischemia leading to perforation and peritonitis. Early recognition and appropriate treatment are thus essential. The typical clinical symptoms associated with obstruction include nausea, vomiting, dysphagia, abdominal pain and failure to pass bowel movements. Abdominal distention, tympany due to an air-filled stomach and high-pitched bowel sounds suggest the diagnosis. The diagnostic process involves imaging including radiography, ultrasonography, contrast fluoroscopy and computer tomography in less certain cases. In patients with uncomplicated obstruction, management is conservative, including fluid resuscitation, electrolyte replacement, intestinal decompression and bowel rest. In many cases, endoscopy may aid in both the diagnostic process and in therapy. Endoscopy can be used for bowel decompression, dilation of strictures or placement of self-expandable metal stents to restore the luminal flow either as a final treatment or to allow for a delay until elective surgical therapy. When gastrointestinal obstruction results in ischemia, perforation or peritonitis, emergency surgery is required. Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  15. Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction

    MedlinePlus

    ... condition as adults. Intestinal pseudo-obstruction may be acute, occurring suddenly and lasting a short time, or it may be chronic, or long lasting. Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction, also called Ogilvie syndrome or ...

  16. Antireflux Metal Stent as a First-Line Metal Stent for Distal Malignant Biliary Obstruction: A Pilot Study.

    PubMed

    Hamada, Tsuyoshi; Isayama, Hiroyuki; Nakai, Yousuke; Togawa, Osamu; Takahara, Naminatsu; Uchino, Rie; Mizuno, Suguru; Mohri, Dai; Yagioka, Hiroshi; Kogure, Hirofumi; Matsubara, Saburo; Yamamoto, Natsuyo; Ito, Yukiko; Tada, Minoru; Koike, Kazuhiko

    2017-01-15

    In distal malignant biliary obstruction, an antireflux metal stent (ARMS) with a funnel-shaped valve is effective as a reintervention for metal stent occlusion caused by reflux. This study sought to evaluate the feasibility of this ARMS as a first-line metal stent. Patients with nonresectable distal malignant biliary obstruction were identified between April and December 2014 at three Japanese tertiary centers. We retrospectively evaluated recurrent biliary obstruction and adverse events after ARMS placement. In total, 20 consecutive patients were included. The most common cause of biliary obstruction was pancreatic cancer (75%). Overall, recurrent biliary obstruction was observed in seven patients (35%), with a median time to recurrent biliary obstruction of 246 days (range, 11 to 246 days). Stent occlusion occurred in five patients (25%), the causes of which were sludge and food impaction in three and two patients, respectively. Stent migration occurred in two patients (10%). The rate of adverse events associated with ARMS was 25%: pancreatitis occurred in three patients, cholecystitis in one and liver abscess in one. No patients experienced nonocclusion cholangitis. The ARMS as a first-line biliary drainage procedure was feasible. Because the ARMS did not fully prevent stent dysfunction due to reflux, further investigation is warranted.

  17. Decreasing recurrent bowel obstructions, improving quality of life with physiotherapy: Controlled study.

    PubMed

    Rice, Amanda D; Patterson, Kimberley; Reed, Evette D; Wurn, Belinda F; Robles, Kristen; Klingenberg, Bernhard; Weinstock, Leonard B; Pratt, Janey Sa; King, C Richard; Wurn, Lawrence J

    2018-05-21

    To compare (1) quality of life and (2) rate of recurrent small bowel obstructions (SBO) for patients treated with novel manual physiotherapy vs no treatment. One hundred and three subjects (age 19-89) with a history of recurrent adhesive SBO were treated with a manual physiotherapy called the Clear Passage Approach (CPA) which focused on decreasing adhesive crosslinking in abdominopelvic viscera. Pre- and post-therapy data measured recurring obstructions and quality of life, using a validated test sent 90 d after therapy. Results were compared to 136 untreated control subjects who underwent the same measurements for subjects who did not receive any therapy, which is the normal course for patients with recurring SBO. Comparison of the groups allowed us to assess changes when the physiotherapy was added as an adjunct treatment for patients with recurring SBO. Despite histories of more prior hospitalizations, obstructions, surgeries, and years impacted by bowel issues, the 103 CPA-treated subjects reported a significantly lower rate of repeat SBO than 136 untreated controls (total obstructions P = 0.0003; partial obstructions P = 0.0076). Subjects treated with the therapy demonstrated significant improvements in five of six total domains in the validated Small Bowel Obstruction Questionnaire (SBO-Q). Domains of diet, pain, gastrointestinal symptoms, quality of life (QOL) and pain severity when compared to post CPA treatment were significantly improved ( P < 0.0001). The medication domain was not changed in the CPA treated group ( P = 0.176). CPA physical therapy was effective for patients with adhesive SBO with significantly lower recurrence rate, improvement in reported symptoms and overall quality of life of subjects.

  18. Influence of obstructive jaundice on pharmacodynamics of rocuronium.

    PubMed

    Wang, Zhen-Meng; Zhang, Peng; Lin, Mi-Jia; Tan, Bo; Qiu, Hai-Bo; Yu, Wei-Feng

    2013-01-01

    Anesthetics are variable in patients with obstructive jaundice. The minimum alveolar concentration awake of desflurane is reduced in patients with obstructive jaundice, while it has no effect on pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of propofol. In this study, we investigated the influence of obstructive jaundice on the pharmacodynamics and blood concentration of rocuronium. Included in this study were 26 control patients and 27 patients with obstructive jaundice. Neuromuscular block of rocuronium was monitored by acceleromyography. Onset time, spontaneous recovery of the height of twitch first (T1) to 25% of the final T1 value (Duration 25%, Dur 25%), recovery index (RI), and spontaneous recovery of train-of-four (TOF) ratios to 70% were measured. The plasma rocuronium concentrations were determined by high performance liquid chromatography using berberine as an internal standard. There was no significant difference in onset time between the two groups. The Dur 25%, the recovery index and the time of recovery of the TOF ratios to 70% were all prolonged in the obstructive jaundice group compared with the control group. The plasma concentration of rocuronium at 60, 90 and 120 min after bolus administration was significantly higher in the obstructive jaundice group. The neuromuscular blockade by rocuronium is prolonged in obstructive jaundice patients, and therefore precautions should be taken in case of postoperative residual neuromuscular block. The possible reason is impedance of rocuronium excretion due to biliary obstruction and increased plasma unbound rocuronium because of free bilirubin competing with it for albumin binding.

  19. Obstructive sleep apnea in epilepsy: a preliminary Egyptian study.

    PubMed

    Shaheen, Hala A; Abd El-Kader, Ann A; El Gohary, Amira M; El-Fayoumy, Neveen M; Afifi, Lamia M

    2012-09-01

    The extent and clinical relevance of the association between epilepsy and sleep apnea are not previously studied in Egypt. What we wanted to know was the frequency of sleep apnea in Egyptian children with epilepsy and its influence on seizure frequency, other seizure characteristics, sleep complaint, and architecture. All patients with epilepsy, aged up to 18 years, who underwent polysomnography were studied. Patients with any neurological disease apart from epilepsy, with psychiatric illness, had hypnotics, or sedatives or those with liver or kidney failure were excluded from the study. The patients were divided into two subgroups according to apnea/hypopnea index: group (1) patients without obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and group (2) patients with OSA. For control group, we choose 12 healthy individuals, with age and sex matched to that of our patients. We studied the clinical characteristics of epilepsy, sleep history, and polysomnographic recording of the patients with epilepsy and the control. EEG digital and video monitoring was done for all patients. Eleven patients (42.3%) were found to have obstructive sleep apnea. Seizure frequency was significantly higher in the patients with OSA. Apart from apnea and hypopnea indices, all other sleep parameters did not differ between patients' subgroups. Hypopnea index in REM positively correlates with number of awaking. Apnea index in REM positively correlates with latency to deep sleep and to periodic leg movement. Sleep apnea is frequent in patients with epilepsy. OSA may contribute to increase seizure frequency. We recommend investigating sleep apnea in all patients with epilepsy.

  20. Trichophytobezoar duodenal obstruction in New World camelids.

    PubMed

    Sullivan, Eileen K; Callan, Robert J; Holt, Timothy N; Van Metre, David C

    2005-01-01

    To describe clinical findings, surgical treatment, and outcome associated with trichophytobezoar duodenal obstruction in New World camelids. Retrospective study. Alpacas (7) and 1 llama. Historical and clinical data were obtained from the medical records of New World camelids with a diagnosis of trichophytobezoar duodenal obstruction confirmed by surgical exploration or necropsy. Seven camelids were <1 year old. Abnormal clinical findings included anorexia, reduced fecal output, recumbency, colic, abdominal distension, regurgitation, decreased serum chloride concentration, increased serum bicarbonate concentration, and/or elevated first gastric compartment chloride concentration. Survey abdominal radiographs obtained (4 animals) revealed gastric distension (4) and/or visualization of the obstruction (2). Diagnosis was confirmed at necropsy (1) or surgery (7). Right paracostal celiotomy was performed on all animals and duodenotomy (3) or retropulsion of the trichophytobezoar combined with third compartment gastrotomy (4) was used to remove the obstruction. Six animals survived to discharge and 5 were healthy at follow-up, 8-20 months later. The remaining discharged alpaca was healthy at 12 months but subsequently died of unrelated causes. Diagnosis of trichophytobezoar duodenal obstruction should be considered in juvenile New World camelids with abdominal distension and hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis. Right paracostal celiotomy can be used for access to the descending duodenum and third gastric compartment for surgical relief of obstruction. Duodenal obstruction from bezoars should be considered in New World camelids <1year of age with abdominal distension and hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis. Surgical relief of the obstruction by right paracostal celiotomy has a good prognosis.

  1. Drug-induced sleep endoscopy in the identification of obstruction sites in patients with obstructive sleep apnea: a systematic review.

    PubMed

    Viana, Alonço da Cunha; Thuler, Luiz Claudio Santos; Araújo-Melo, Maria Helena de

    2015-01-01

    Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome has multifactorial causes. Although indications for surgery are evaluated by well-known diagnostic tests in the awake state, these do not always correlate with satisfactory surgical results. To undertake a systematic review on endoscopy during sleep, as one element of the diagnosis routine, aiming to identify upper airway obstruction sites in adult patients with OSAS. By means of electronic databases, a systematic review was performed of studies using drug-induced sleep endoscopy to identify obstruction sites in patients with OSAS. Ten articles were selected that demonstrated the importance of identifying multilevel obstruction, especially in relation to retrolingual and laryngeal collapse in OSAS. DISE is an additional method to reveal obstruction sites that have not been detected in awake patients. Copyright © 2015 Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  2. Influence of Obstructive Jaundice on Pharmacodynamics of Rocuronium

    PubMed Central

    Lin, Mi-Jia; Tan, Bo; Qiu, Hai-Bo; Yu, Wei-Feng

    2013-01-01

    Background Anesthetics are variable in patients with obstructive jaundice. The minimum alveolar concentration awake of desflurane is reduced in patients with obstructive jaundice, while it has no effect on pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of propofol. In this study, we investigated the influence of obstructive jaundice on the pharmacodynamics and blood concentration of rocuronium. Methods Included in this study were 26 control patients and 27 patients with obstructive jaundice. Neuromuscular block of rocuronium was monitored by acceleromyography. Onset time, spontaneous recovery of the height of twitch first (T1) to 25% of the final T1 value (Duration 25%, Dur 25%), recovery index (RI), and spontaneous recovery of train-of-four (TOF) ratios to 70% were measured. The plasma rocuronium concentrations were determined by high performance liquid chromatography using berberine as an internal standard. Results There was no significant difference in onset time between the two groups. The Dur 25%, the recovery index and the time of recovery of the TOF ratios to 70% were all prolonged in the obstructive jaundice group compared with the control group. The plasma concentration of rocuronium at 60, 90 and 120 min after bolus administration was significantly higher in the obstructive jaundice group. Conclusions The neuromuscular blockade by rocuronium is prolonged in obstructive jaundice patients, and therefore precautions should be taken in case of postoperative residual neuromuscular block. The possible reason is impedance of rocuronium excretion due to biliary obstruction and increased plasma unbound rocuronium because of free bilirubin competing with it for albumin binding. PMID:24147111

  3. The association between chronic airflow obstruction and poverty in 12 sites of the multinational BOLD study.

    PubMed

    Townend, John; Minelli, Cosetta; Mortimer, Kevin; Obaseki, Daniel O; Al Ghobain, Mohammed; Cherkaski, Hamid; Denguezli, Myriam; Gunesekera, Kirthi; Hafizi, Hasan; Koul, Parvaiz A; Loh, Li C; Nejjari, Chakib; Patel, Jaymini; Sooronbayev, Talant; Buist, Sonia A; Burney, Peter G J

    2017-06-01

    Poverty is strongly associated with mortality from COPD, but little is known of its relation to airflow obstruction.In a cross-sectional study of adults aged ≥40 years from 12 sites (N=9255), participating in the Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) study, poverty was evaluated using a wealth score (0-10) based on household assets. Obstruction, measured as forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV 1 )/forced vital capacity (FVC) (%) after administration of 200 μg salbutamol, and prevalence of FEV 1 /FVCobstruction, from 16% in Kashmir to 3% in Riyadh and Penang (Malaysia). Following adjustments for age and sex, FEV 1 /FVC increased by 0.36% (absolute change) (95%CI: 0.22, 0.49; p<0.001) per unit increase in wealth score. Adjustments for other confounders reduced this effect to 0.23% (0.11, 0.34), but even this value remained highly significant (p<0.001). Results were consistent across sites (I 2 =1%; p het =0.44). Mean wealth scores explained 38% of the variation in mean FEV 1 /FVC between sites (r 2 =0.385, p=0.031).Airflow obstruction is consistently associated with poverty at individual and community levels across several countries. Copyright ©ERS 2017.

  4. Effect of bilastine upon nasal obstruction.

    PubMed

    Dávila, I; Sastre, J; Mullol, J; Montoro, J; Jáuregui, I; Ferrer, M; del Cuvillo, A; Bartra, J; Valero, A

    2011-01-01

    H1 antihistamines constitute one of the main references for the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Classically, these drugs have been considered effective in controlling sneezing, rhinorrhea and itching, though they have not been regarded as particularly effective in application to nasal obstruction. The most recent studies, involving second-generation H1 antihistamines (desloratadine, fexofenadine, levocetirizine, rupatadine), have shown these drugs to offer effects upon nasal obstruction significantly superior to those of placebo. The present review examines the effect of bilastine, a new, potent and highly specific H1 antihistamine without sedative effects or cardiac toxicity, upon nasal obstruction. The analysis of the data from the different clinical trials indicates that in patients with allergic rhinitis, the effect of bilastine upon nasal obstruction is superior to that of placebo and similar to that of other second-generation H1 antihistamines, manifesting within 24 hours after the start of treatment.

  5. Obstructive Thebesian valve: anatomical study and implications for invasive cardiologic procedures.

    PubMed

    Ghosh, Sanjib Kumar; Raheja, Shashi; Tuli, Anita

    2014-03-01

    Thebesian valve is the embryological remnant of the right sinoatrial valve, guarding the coronary sinus (CS) ostium. Advanced invasive and interventional cardiac diagnostic and management tools involve cannulation of the CS ostium. The presence of obstructive Thebesian valves has been reported to lead to unsuccessful cannulation of the CS. We studied the morphology of the Thebesian valve and CS ostium to assess the possible impact of these structures on invasive cardiological procedures. One hundred fifty randomly selected human cadaveric heart specimens fixed in 10% formalin were dissected in the customary routine manner. The Thebesian valves were classified according to their shape as semilunar/fenestrated/biconcave band like and according to their composition as membranous/fibromuscular/fibrous/muscular, and the extent to which the valve covered the CS ostium was also noted. An obstructive Thebesian valve that could interfere with the cannulation of the CS was defined as non-fenestrated (semilunar/biconcave band like) and non-membranous (fibromuscular/fibrous/muscular) valves covering >75% of the CS ostium. Thebesian valves were present in 118 (79%) heart specimens, of which 27 (18%) met the criteria of being obstructive. Semilunar was the most common type of Thebesian valve in terms of shape and was observed in 65 (65/118; 55%) hearts. This type was associated with the least mean craniocaudal (7.9±0.6 mm) and mean transverse (6.25±0.6 mm) diameters of the CS ostium. The mean craniocaudal diameter of the CS ostium (9.4±2.1 mm) was significantly larger (p=0.004) than the mean transverse diameter (7.15±1.5 mm) in specimens with Thebesian valves, and the cranial margin of the CS ostium was free from any attachment of the Thebesian valve in all the types observed (in terms of shape). Hence, attempts to direct the tip of the catheter toward the cranial margin of the CS ostium under direct vision may lead to successful cannulation of the same when conventional

  6. Genome-Wide Association Studies Identify CHRNA5/3 and HTR4 in the Development of Airflow Obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Shrine, Nick R. G.; Loehr, Laura R.; Zhao, Jing Hua; Manichaikul, Ani; Lopez, Lorna M.; Smith, Albert Vernon; Heckbert, Susan R.; Smolonska, Joanna; Tang, Wenbo; Loth, Daan W.; Curjuric, Ivan; Hui, Jennie; Latourelle, Jeanne C.; Henry, Amanda P.; Aldrich, Melinda; Bakke, Per; Beaty, Terri H.; Bentley, Amy R.; Borecki, Ingrid B.; Brusselle, Guy G.; Burkart, Kristin M.; Chen, Ting-hsu; Couper, David; Crapo, James D.; Davies, Gail; Dupuis, Josée; Franceschini, Nora; Gulsvik, Amund; Hancock, Dana B.; Harris, Tamara B.; Hofman, Albert; Imboden, Medea; James, Alan L.; Khaw, Kay-Tee; Lahousse, Lies; Launer, Lenore J.; Litonjua, Augusto; Liu, Yongmei; Lohman, Kurt K.; Lomas, David A.; Lumley, Thomas; Marciante, Kristin D.; McArdle, Wendy L.; Meibohm, Bernd; Morrison, Alanna C.; Musk, Arthur W.; Myers, Richard H.; North, Kari E.; Postma, Dirkje S.; Psaty, Bruce M.; Rich, Stephen S.; Rivadeneira, Fernando; Rochat, Thierry; Rotter, Jerome I.; Artigas, María Soler; Starr, John M.; Uitterlinden, André G.; Wareham, Nicholas J.; Wijmenga, Cisca; Zanen, Pieter; Province, Michael A.; Silverman, Edwin K.; Deary, Ian J.; Palmer, Lyle J.; Cassano, Patricia A.; Gudnason, Vilmundur; Barr, R. Graham; Loos, Ruth J. F.; Strachan, David P.; London, Stephanie J.; Boezen, H. Marike; Probst-Hensch, Nicole; Gharib, Sina A.; Hall, Ian P.; O’Connor, George T.; Tobin, Martin D.; Stricker, Bruno H.

    2012-01-01

    Rationale: Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified loci influencing lung function, but fewer genes influencing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are known. Objectives: Perform meta-analyses of GWAS for airflow obstruction, a key pathophysiologic characteristic of COPD assessed by spirometry, in population-based cohorts examining all participants, ever smokers, never smokers, asthma-free participants, and more severe cases. Methods: Fifteen cohorts were studied for discovery (3,368 affected; 29,507 unaffected), and a population-based family study and a meta-analysis of case-control studies were used for replication and regional follow-up (3,837 cases; 4,479 control subjects). Airflow obstruction was defined as FEV1 and its ratio to FVC (FEV1/FVC) both less than their respective lower limits of normal as determined by published reference equations. Measurements and Main Results: The discovery meta-analyses identified one region on chromosome 15q25.1 meeting genome-wide significance in ever smokers that includes AGPHD1, IREB2, and CHRNA5/CHRNA3 genes. The region was also modestly associated among never smokers. Gene expression studies confirmed the presence of CHRNA5/3 in lung, airway smooth muscle, and bronchial epithelial cells. A single-nucleotide polymorphism in HTR4, a gene previously related to FEV1/FVC, achieved genome-wide statistical significance in combined meta-analysis. Top single-nucleotide polymorphisms in ADAM19, RARB, PPAP2B, and ADAMTS19 were nominally replicated in the COPD meta-analysis. Conclusions: These results suggest an important role for the CHRNA5/3 region as a genetic risk factor for airflow obstruction that may be independent of smoking and implicate the HTR4 gene in the etiology of airflow obstruction. PMID:22837378

  7. KIM-1 Is a Potential Urinary Biomarker of Obstruction: Results from a Prospective Cohort Study.

    PubMed

    Olvera-Posada, Daniel; Dayarathna, Thamara; Dion, Marie; Alenezi, Husain; Sener, Alp; Denstedt, John D; Pautler, Stephen E; Razvi, Hassan

    2017-02-01

    Partial or complete obstruction of the urinary tract is a common and challenging urological condition that may occur in patients of any age. Serum creatinine is the most commonly used method to evaluate global renal function, although it has low sensitivity for early changes in the glomerular filtration rate or unilateral renal pathology. Hence, finding another measurable parameter that reflects the adaptation of the renal physiology to these circumstances is important. Several recent studies have assessed the use of new biomarkers of acute kidney injury (AKI), but the information among patients with stone disease and those with obstructive uropathy is limited. A prospective cohort study was conducted to determine the urinary levels of kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), Total and Monomeric neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) in patients with hydronephrosis secondary to renal stone disease, congenital ureteropelvic junction obstruction or ureteral stricture. Comparison between patients with hydronephrosis and no hydronephrosis was carried out along with correlation analysis to detect factors associated with biomarker expression. Urinary levels of KIM-1 significantly decreased after hydronephrosis treatment in patients with unilateral obstruction (1.19 ng/mL vs 0.76 ng/mL creatinine, p = 0.002), additionally KIM-1 was significantly higher in patients with hydronephrosis compared to stone disease patients without radiological evidence of obstruction (1.19 vs 0.64, p = 0.006). Total and Monomeric NGAL showed a moderate correlation with the presence of leukocyturia. We found that a KIM-1 value of 0.735 ng/mg creatinine had a sensitivity of 75% and specificity of 67% to predict the presence of hydronephrosis in preoperative studies (95% CI 0.58-0.87, p = 0.006). Our results show that KIM-1 is a promising biomarker of subclinical AKI associated with hydronephrosis in urological patients. NGAL values were influenced by the presence of

  8. Nasal obstruction and human communication.

    PubMed

    Malinoff, R; Moreno, C

    1989-04-01

    Nasal obstruction may cause a variety of communication disorders, particularly in children. The effects of nasal obstruction on hearing, speech, language, and voice are examined. Methods for assessing the effects of nasal obstruction are delineated, and recommendations for therapeutic interventions are described.

  9. Preoperative Obstructive Sleep Apnea Screening in Gynecologic Oncology Patients.

    PubMed

    Harrison, Ross F; Medlin, Erin E; Petersen, Chase B; Rose, Stephen L; Hartenbach, Ellen M; Kushner, David M; Spencer, Ryan J; Rice, Laurel W; Al-Niaimi, Ahmed N

    2018-05-21

    Women with a gynecologic cancer tend to be older, obese, and postmenopausal, characteristics that are associated with an increased risk for obstructive sleep apnea. However, there is limited investigation regarding the condition's prevalence in this population or its impact on postoperative outcomes. In other surgical populations, patients with obstructive sleep apnea have been observed to be at increased risk for adverse postoperative events. To estimate the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea among gynecologic oncology patients undergoing elective surgery and to investigate for a relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and postoperative outcomes. Patients referred to an academic gynecologic oncology practice were approached for enrollment in this prospective, observational study. Patients were considered eligible for study enrollment if they were scheduled for a non-emergent inpatient surgery and could provide informed consent. Enrolled patients were evaluated for a preexisting diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea. Those without a prior diagnosis were screened using the validated, 4-item STOP [i.e. Snore loudly, daytime Tiredness, Observed apnea, elevated blood Pressure] questionnaire. All patients who screened positive for obstructive sleep apnea were referred for polysomnography. The primary outcome was the prevalence of women with obstructive sleep apnea or those who screened at high risk for the condition. Secondary outcomes examined the correlation between body mass index (kg/m 2 ) with obstructive sleep apnea and assessed for a relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and postoperative outcomes. Over a 22-month accrual period, 383 eligible patients were consecutively approached to participate in the study. A cohort of 260 patients were enrolled. A total of 33/260 patients (13%) were identified as having a previous diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea. An additional 66/260 (25%) screened at risk for the condition using the STOP questionnaire. Of

  10. Primary obstructive megaureter.

    PubMed

    Sripathi, V; King, P A; Thomson, M R; Bogle, M S

    1991-07-01

    Twenty-three children with primary obstructive megaureters presented between 1978 and 1988 to the Princess Margaret Hospital for Children in Perth. Twenty-eight ureters were treated. Urinary infections were the presenting feature in 14 children. The obstructive segment was transvesically excised. Histopathologic examination of the distal, intramural ureter showed fibromuscular disarray with a relative increase in fibrous tissue and reduction of musculature in all specimens. Twenty-two ureters were tapered by excision and all 28 were reimplanted using an antireflux technique. Seventeen children were followed for an average of 3 years. Seven children showed renal growth, reduction in ureteric size by greater than 2 cm, improvement in glomerular filtration rate by more than 10%, no obstruction on reflux, and no infections in postoperative period. Four children showed all the above but suffered one or more infections after the operation. Of the remaining 6 children, 3 had postoperative obstruction and 3 had vesicoureteric reflux.

  11. Nasal Obstruction in Children With Cleft Lip and Palate: Results of a Cross-Sectional Study Utilizing the NOSE Scale.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Rosaline S; Lin, Lawrence O; Hoppe, Ian C; Jackson, Oksana A; Low, David W; Bartlett, Scott P; Swanson, Jordan W; Taylor, Jesse A

    2018-01-01

    To characterize the epidemiology and risk factors for nasal obstruction among subjects with cleft lip and/or cleft palate (CL/P) utilizing the well-validated Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) survey. Retrospective cross-sectional study. Cleft Lip and Palate Program, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Patients, Subjects: One thousand twenty-eight surveys obtained from 456 subjects (mean age: 10.10 (4.48) years) with CL/P evaluated between January 2015 and August 2017 with at least 1 completed NOSE survey. Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation surveys completed at each annual visit. Composite NOSE and individual symptom scores. Sixty-seven percent of subjects had nasal obstruction at some point during the study period, with 49% reporting nasal obstruction at latest follow-up. subjects aged 14 years and older reported the most severe symptoms ( P = .002). Subjects with cleft lip and alveolus (CL+A) and unilateral cleft lip and palate (CLP) reported more severe nasal blockage than other phenotypes ( P = .021). subjects with a history of either posterior pharyngeal flap (PPF) or sphincter pharyngoplasty (SP) had significantly higher NOSE scores than subjects with no history of speech surgery ( P = .006). There was no significant difference ( P > .050) in NOSE scores with regard to history of primary tip rhinoplasty, nasal stent use, or nasoalveolar molding. There are more severe nasal obstructive symptoms among subjects older than 14 years of age, with CL+A or unilateral CLP, and with a history of PPF or SP. Future studies utilizing the NOSE are needed to evaluate and address this prevalent morbidity in the CLP population.

  12. Antireflux Versus Conventional Plastic Stent in Malignant Biliary Obstruction: A Prospective Randomized Study.

    PubMed

    Vihervaara, Hanna; Grönroos, Juha M; Hurme, Saija; Gullichsen, Risto; Salminen, Paulina

    2017-01-01

    Endoscopic stents are used to relieve obstructive jaundice. The purpose of this prospective randomized study was to compare the patency of antireflux and conventional plastic biliary stent in relieving distal malignant biliary obstruction. All jaundiced patients admitted to hospital with suspected unresectable malignant distal biliary stricture between October 2009 and September 2010 were evaluated for the study. Eligible patients were randomized either to antireflux or conventional plastic stent arms. The primary endpoint was stent patency and the follow-up was continued either until the stent was occluded or until 6 months after the stent placement. At an interim analysis, antireflux stents (ARSs; n = 6) had a significantly shorter median patency of 34 (8-49) days compared with the conventional stent (n = 7) patency of 167 (38-214) days (P = .0003). Based on these results, the study was terminated due to ethical concerns. According to these results, the use of this ARS is not recommended.

  13. Drug-eluting stent in malignant biliary obstruction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Dong-Ki; Jang, Sung Ill

    2012-10-01

    Endoscopic stent insertion is the treatment of choice for patients with malignant biliary obstruction. However, conventional stents enable only mechanical palliation of the obstruction, without any anti-tumor effects. Drugeluting stent (DES), which was first introduced in coronary artery disease, are currently under investigation for sustaining stent patency and prolonging patient survival by inhibiting tumor ingrowth in malignant biliary obstruction. Many factors affecting efficient drug delivery have been studied to determine how drugs with antitumor effects suppress tumor ingrowth, including the specific drugs incorporated, means of incorporating the drugs, mode of drug release, and stent structure. Advances have resulted in the construction of more effective non-vascular DES and ongoing clinical research. Non-vascular DES is expected to play a vital role in prolonging the survival of patients with malignant biliary obstruction.

  14. Identifying individuals with physician-diagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in primary care electronic medical records: a retrospective chart abstraction study.

    PubMed

    Lee, Theresa M; Tu, Karen; Wing, Laura L; Gershon, Andrea S

    2017-05-15

    Little is known about using electronic medical records to identify patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to improve quality of care. Our objective was to develop electronic medical record algorithms that can accurately identify patients with obstructive pulmonary disease. A retrospective chart abstraction study was conducted on data from the Electronic Medical Record Administrative data Linked Database (EMRALD ® ) housed at the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences. Abstracted charts provided the reference standard based on available physician-diagnoses, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-specific medications, smoking history and pulmonary function testing. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease electronic medical record algorithms using combinations of terminology in the cumulative patient profile (CPP; problem list/past medical history), physician billing codes (chronic bronchitis/emphysema/other chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and prescriptions, were tested against the reference standard. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive/negative predictive values (PPV/NPV) were calculated. There were 364 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease identified in a 5889 randomly sampled cohort aged ≥ 35 years (prevalence = 6.2%). The electronic medical record algorithm consisting of ≥ 3 physician billing codes for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease per year; documentation in the CPP; tiotropium prescription; or ipratropium (or its formulations) prescription and a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease billing code had sensitivity of 76.9% (95% CI:72.2-81.2), specificity of 99.7% (99.5-99.8), PPV of 93.6% (90.3-96.1), and NPV of 98.5% (98.1-98.8). Electronic medical record algorithms can accurately identify patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in primary care records. They can be used to enable further studies in practice patterns and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease management in primary care. NOVEL

  15. Determining the optimal approach to identifying individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: The DOC study.

    PubMed

    Ronaldson, Sarah J; Dyson, Lisa; Clark, Laura; Hewitt, Catherine E; Torgerson, David J; Cooper, Brendan G; Kearney, Matt; Laughey, William; Raghunath, Raghu; Steele, Lisa; Rhodes, Rebecca; Adamson, Joy

    2018-06-01

    Early identification of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) results in patients receiving appropriate management for their condition at an earlier stage in their disease. The determining the optimal approach to identifying individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (DOC) study was a case-finding study to enhance early identification of COPD in primary care, which evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of a series of simple lung function tests and symptom-based case-finding questionnaires. Current smokers aged 35 or more were invited to undertake a series of case-finding tools, which comprised lung function tests (specifically, spirometry, microspirometry, peak flow meter, and WheezoMeter) and several case-finding questionnaires. The effectiveness of these tests, individually or in combination, to identify small airways obstruction was evaluated against the gold standard of spirometry, with the quality of spirometry tests assessed by independent overreaders. The study was conducted with general practices in the Yorkshire and Humberside area, in the UK. Six hundred eighty-one individuals met the inclusion criteria, with 444 participants completing their study appointments. A total of 216 (49%) with good-quality spirometry readings were included in the analysis. The most effective case-finding tools were found to be the peak flow meter alone, the peak flow meter plus WheezoMeter, and microspirometry alone. In addition to the main analysis, where the severity of airflow obstruction was based on fixed ratios and percent of predicted values, sensitivity analyses were conducted by using lower limit of normal values. This research informs the choice of test for COPD identification; case-finding by use of the peak flow meter or microspirometer could be used routinely in primary care for suspected COPD patients. Only those testing positive to these tests would move on to full spirometry, thereby reducing unnecessary spirometric testing. © 2018 John Wiley

  16. Factors associated with undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnoea among hypertensive patients: A multisite cross-sectional survey study in Taiwan.

    PubMed

    Hsu, Hsiu-Chin; Chen, Ning-Hung; Ho, Wan Jing; Lin, Mei-Hsiang

    2018-05-01

    To investigate the distribution and risk factors associated with undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnoea among hypertensive patients. Obstructive sleep Apnoea has been deemed a cardinal risk factor affecting cardiovascular event, and the condition is still frequently overlooked clinically. The lack of advanced diagnosis often causes hypertensive patients with obstructive sleep apnoea to miss opportunities for preventing chronic diseases. A cross-sectional design. A total of 215 hypertensive participants were recruited from the cardiovascular outpatients of medical centre in northern and middle Taiwan. The Chinese version of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Chinese version of the Epworth Sleep Scale and a portable sleep monitoring device were used for data collection. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify the factors affecting hypertensive patients with obstructive sleep apnoea, and a multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to examine the major influence factors for each obstructive sleep apnoea severity level. 81.9% of the hypertensive participants were found having obstructive sleep apnoea. Concerning to the obstructive sleep apnoea severity, 50.0% of participants had mild obstructive sleep apnoea. After controlling the confounding variables, the supine position (odds ratio, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.01-1.07), SO 2 (odds ratio, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.38-0.89) and oxygen desaturation index (odds ratio, 2.70; 95% CI, 1.18-6.18) were significantly associated with obstructive sleep apnoea. Furthermore, severe obstructive sleep apnoea was significantly correlated with gender (odds ratio, 0.04; 95% CI, 0.00-0.66), excessive daytime sleepiness (odds ratio, 20.27; 95% CI, 1.58-26.97) and oxygen desaturation index (odds ratio, 4.05; 95% CI, 1.86-8.81). Nearly 82% of the hypertensive participants were found having undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnoea, and 80% of them were mild or moderate severity. Oxygen desaturation index, SO 2 and the supine position were found

  17. Tuberculosis associates with both airflow obstruction and low lung function: BOLD results.

    PubMed

    Amaral, André F S; Coton, Sonia; Kato, Bernet; Tan, Wan C; Studnicka, Michael; Janson, Christer; Gislason, Thorarinn; Mannino, David; Bateman, Eric D; Buist, Sonia; Burney, Peter G J

    2015-10-01

    In small studies and cases series, a history of tuberculosis has been associated with both airflow obstruction, which is characteristic of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and restrictive patterns on spirometry. The objective of the present study was to assess the association between a history of tuberculosis and airflow obstruction and spirometric abnormalities in adults.The study was performed in adults, aged 40 years and above, who took part in the multicentre, cross-sectional, general population-based Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease study, and had provided acceptable post-bronchodilator spirometry measurements and information on a history of tuberculosis. The associations between a history of tuberculosis and airflow obstruction and spirometric restriction were assessed within each participating centre, and estimates combined using meta-analysis. These estimates were stratified by high- and low/middle-income countries, according to gross national income.A self-reported history of tuberculosis was associated with airflow obstruction (adjusted odds ratio 2.51, 95% CI 1.83-3.42) and spirometric restriction (adjusted odds ratio 2.13, 95% CI 1.42-3.19).A history of tuberculosis was associated with both airflow obstruction and spirometric restriction, and should be considered as a potentially important cause of obstructive disease and low lung function, particularly where tuberculosis is common. Copyright ©ERS 2015.

  18. Chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction.

    PubMed

    Gabbard, Scott L; Lacy, Brian E

    2013-06-01

    Chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIP) is a rare and serious disorder of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract characterized as a motility disorder with the primary defect of impaired peristalsis; symptoms are consistent with a bowel obstruction, although mechanical obstruction cannot be identified. CIP is classified as a neuropathy, myopathy, or mesenchymopathy; it is a neuropathic process in the majority of patients. The natural history of CIP is generally that of a progressive disorder, although occasional patients with secondary CIP note significant symptomatic improvement when the underlying disorder is identified and treated. Symptoms vary from patient to patient depending on the location of the luminal GI tract involved and the degree of involvement; however, the small intestine is nearly always involved. Common symptoms include dysphagia, gastroesophageal reflux, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal distension, constipation or diarrhea, and involuntary weight loss. Unfortunately, these symptoms are nonspecific, which can contribute to misdiagnosis or a delay in diagnosis and treatment. Since many of the symptoms and signs suggest a mechanical bowel obstruction, diagnostic tests typically focus on uncovering a mechanical obstruction, although routine tests do not identify an obstructive process. Nutrition supplementation is required for many patients with CIP due to symptoms of dysphagia, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. This review discusses the epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with CIP, with an emphasis on nutrition assessment and treatment options for patients with nutrition compromise.

  19. Gallbladder Polyp Mimicking an Obstructive Calculus

    PubMed Central

    Bass, James; Fegelman, Ronald H.

    1978-01-01

    The second documented case of obstructing polyp of the gallbladder—an extremely rare lesion—is presented. Symptoms were indistinguishable from those of acute obstructive cholecystitis. The mechanism of obstruction is hypothesized. ImagesFigure 1 PMID:702555

  20. FEV1/FVC and FEV1 for the assessment of chronic airflow obstruction in prevalence studies: do prediction equations need revision?

    PubMed

    Roche, Nicolas; Dalmay, François; Perez, Thierry; Kuntz, Claude; Vergnenègre, Alain; Neukirch, Françoise; Giordanella, Jean-Pierre; Huchon, Gérard

    2008-11-01

    Little is known on the long-term validity of reference equations used in the calculation of FEV(1) and FEV(1)/FVC predicted values. This survey assessed the prevalence of chronic airflow obstruction in a population-based sample and how it is influenced by: (i) the definition of airflow obstruction; and (ii) equations used to calculate predicted values. Subjects aged 45 or more were recruited in health prevention centers, performed spirometry and fulfilled a standardized ECRHS-derived questionnaire. Previously diagnosed cases and risk factors were identified. Prevalence of airflow obstruction was calculated using: (i) ATS-GOLD definition (FEV(1)/FVC<0.70); and (ii) ERS definition (FEV(1)/FVCstudied population. A total of 5008 subjects (4764 adequate datasets) were studied. Prevalence of airflow obstruction was 8.71% with ATS-GOLD definition and 6.40% with ERS definition and ECCS predicted values. The ERS definition with predicted values derived from the studied population provided a 7.96% prevalence. Severity distribution of airflow obstruction was also influenced by the equation used to calculate predicted values of FEV(1). Prevalence and severity of chronic airflow obstruction are influenced not only by the definition used but also by equations used to calculate predicted FEV(1)/FVC and FEV(1) values. These equations likely need to be periodically revised.

  1. Probing of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction with dacryoendoscope

    PubMed Central

    Kato, Kumiko; Matsunaga, Koichi; Takashima, Yuko; Kondo, Mineo

    2014-01-01

    Background A congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO) is a relatively common disease in infants. We evaluated the results of probing three patients with CNLDO, under direct view, with a dacryoendoscope. Methods Three cases of CNLDO were examined and treated by probing with a dacryoendoscope, under intravenous anesthesia. The diameter of the dacryoendoscope probe was 0.7 mm, and we were able to observe the inner walls of the lacrimal duct and able to guide the probe through the duct. Results In all cases, the site of obstruction was detected, and the probe was used to remove the obstruction. At 2 weeks after the removal of the obstruction, there was no epiphora or mucopurulent discharge in any of the cases. No complications were detected intra- and postoperatively. Conclusion Although only three cases were studied, we believe that probing with a dacryoendoscope is a safe and effective method of treating a CNLDO. More cases need to be studied. PMID:24876765

  2. [Iatrogenic bronchial obstruction: study of 4 atopic children with bronchial obstruction induced by acetyl salicylic acid].

    PubMed

    De Luca, L; Vuillemier, P L; Principe, A M; Petrillo, T

    1986-01-01

    The authors have studied the modification of the spirometric parameters in four atopic children, during nonallergic diet, after administration of ASA (400 mg). The examination of the respiratory functionality has showed a fall of parameters starting four hours after the challenge and with an increase of respiratory resistance. This bronchospastic reaction persisted for about eighteen hours to diminish 24 h. after administration of 400 mg of ASA. The study of spirometric values has showed a remarkable fall of MMEF, sign of small airways obstruction, but also of FEV1-CV for the involvement of the higher airways. The authors attribute the reaction to the metabolites of arachidonic acid (Leukotrienes) and to their different receptor site on the bronchial mucous membrane target cells. The authors conclude showing the gravity of injury that will induce imprudent administration of ASA in hypersensitive subject.

  3. Multicenter study of the efficacy and safety of disopyramide in obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

    PubMed

    Sherrid, Mark V; Barac, Ivan; McKenna, William J; Elliott, Perry M; Dickie, Shaughan; Chojnowska, Lidia; Casey, Susan; Maron, Barry J

    2005-04-19

    In this study we assessed the long-term efficacy and safety of disopyramide for patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). It has been reported that disopyramide may reduce left ventricular outflow gradient and improve symptoms in patients with HCM. However, long-term efficacy and safety of disopyramide has not been shown in a large cohort. Clinical and echocardiographic data were evaluated in 118 obstructive HCM patients treated with disopyramide at 4 HCM treatment centers. Mortality in the disopyramide-treated patients was compared with 373 obstructive HCM patients not treated with disopyramide. Patients were followed with disopyramide for 3.1 +/- 2.6 years; dose 432 +/- 181 mg/day (97% also received beta-blockers). Seventy-eight patients (66%) were maintained with disopyramide without the necessity for major non-pharmacologic intervention with surgical myectomy, alcohol ablation, or pacing; outflow gradient at rest decreased from 75 +/- 33 to 40 +/- 32 mm Hg (p < 0.0001) and mean New York Heart Association functional class from 2.3 +/- 0.7 to 1.7 +/- 0.6 (p < 0.0001). Forty other patients (34%) could not be satisfactorily managed with disopyramide and required major invasive interventions because of inadequate symptom and gradient control or vagolytic side effects. All-cause annual cardiac death rate between disopyramide and non-disopyramide-treated patients did not differ significantly, 1.4% versus 2.6%/year (p = 0.07). There was also no difference in sudden death rate, 1.0%/year versus 1.8%/year (p = 0.08). Two-thirds of obstructed HCM patients treated with disopyramide could be managed medically with amelioration of symptoms and about 50% reduction in subaortic gradient over >/=3 years. Disopyramide therapy does not appear to be proarrhythmic in HCM and should be considered before proceeding to surgical myectomy or alternate strategies.

  4. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and growth failure.

    PubMed

    Esteller, E; Villatoro, J C; Agüero, A; Lopez, R; Matiñó, E; Argemi, J; Girabent-Farrés, M

    2018-05-01

    Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is a common problem among children and is recognized as a cause of significant medical morbidity. Since the 1980s, it has been suggested that obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is a risk factor for growth failure in children. In many cases, it has been shown that growth failure is reversible once the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is resolved. The objectives of this study were to analyze and compare growth failure prevalence in a Mediterranean population of children with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and healthy children matched in age and sex, and to assess the effectiveness of tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy in resolving growth retardation. We compared 172 children with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (apnea-hypopnea index ≥ 3) who had undergone tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy with 172 healthy controls in terms of key anthropometric parameters. Most of the criteria used for growth failure were higher to a statistically significant degree in the study group vs the control group: height-for-age ≤ 3rd percentile (7.56% vs 2.91%; p = 0.044), weight-for-age ≤ 5th percentile (9.30% vs 2.33%; p = 0.005), weight-for-age ≤ 3rd percentile (8.14% vs 2.33%; p = 0.013) and height and/or weight for-age ≤ 5th percentile (13.95% vs 5.81%; p = 0.009). The height-for-age ≤ 5th percentile was almost at the limit of statistical significance (8.72% for the study group vs 4.65% for the control group; p = 0.097). At one-year post-surgery follow-up, 10 of 15 children with height-for-age ≤ 5th percentile had achieved catch-up growth (66.6%), and 14 of 24 children with height- and/or weight-for-age ≤ 5th percentile had normalized growth (58.33%). For children with failure to thrive or who have growth failure, physicians should consider the possibility of obstructive sleep apnea. A significant number of children with obstructive sleep apnea concurrent with growth failure could benefit from

  5. Spectral analysis of bowel sounds in intestinal obstruction using an electronic stethoscope.

    PubMed

    Ching, Siok Siong; Tan, Yih Kai

    2012-09-07

    To determine the value of bowel sounds analysis using an electronic stethoscope to support a clinical diagnosis of intestinal obstruction. Subjects were patients who presented with a diagnosis of possible intestinal obstruction based on symptoms, signs, and radiological findings. A 3M™ Littmann(®) Model 4100 electronic stethoscope was used in this study. With the patients lying supine, six 8-second recordings of bowel sounds were taken from each patient from the lower abdomen. The recordings were analysed for sound duration, sound-to-sound interval, dominant frequency, and peak frequency. Clinical and radiological data were reviewed and the patients were classified as having either acute, subacute, or no bowel obstruction. Comparison of bowel sound characteristics was made between these subgroups of patients. In the presence of an obstruction, the site of obstruction was identified and bowel calibre was also measured to correlate with bowel sounds. A total of 71 patients were studied during the period July 2009 to January 2011. Forty patients had acute bowel obstruction (27 small bowel obstruction and 13 large bowel obstruction), 11 had subacute bowel obstruction (eight in the small bowel and three in large bowel) and 20 had no bowel obstruction (diagnoses of other conditions were made). Twenty-five patients received surgical intervention (35.2%) during the same admission for acute abdominal conditions. A total of 426 recordings were made and 420 recordings were used for analysis. There was no significant difference in sound-to-sound interval, dominant frequency, and peak frequency among patients with acute bowel obstruction, subacute bowel obstruction, and no bowel obstruction. In acute large bowel obstruction, the sound duration was significantly longer (median 0.81 s vs 0.55 s, P = 0.021) and the dominant frequency was significantly higher (median 440 Hz vs 288 Hz, P = 0.003) when compared to acute small bowel obstruction. No significant difference was seen

  6. Spectral analysis of bowel sounds in intestinal obstruction using an electronic stethoscope

    PubMed Central

    Ching, Siok Siong; Tan, Yih Kai

    2012-01-01

    AIM: To determine the value of bowel sounds analysis using an electronic stethoscope to support a clinical diagnosis of intestinal obstruction. METHODS: Subjects were patients who presented with a diagnosis of possible intestinal obstruction based on symptoms, signs, and radiological findings. A 3M™ Littmann® Model 4100 electronic stethoscope was used in this study. With the patients lying supine, six 8-second recordings of bowel sounds were taken from each patient from the lower abdomen. The recordings were analysed for sound duration, sound-to-sound interval, dominant frequency, and peak frequency. Clinical and radiological data were reviewed and the patients were classified as having either acute, subacute, or no bowel obstruction. Comparison of bowel sound characteristics was made between these subgroups of patients. In the presence of an obstruction, the site of obstruction was identified and bowel calibre was also measured to correlate with bowel sounds. RESULTS: A total of 71 patients were studied during the period July 2009 to January 2011. Forty patients had acute bowel obstruction (27 small bowel obstruction and 13 large bowel obstruction), 11 had subacute bowel obstruction (eight in the small bowel and three in large bowel) and 20 had no bowel obstruction (diagnoses of other conditions were made). Twenty-five patients received surgical intervention (35.2%) during the same admission for acute abdominal conditions. A total of 426 recordings were made and 420 recordings were used for analysis. There was no significant difference in sound-to-sound interval, dominant frequency, and peak frequency among patients with acute bowel obstruction, subacute bowel obstruction, and no bowel obstruction. In acute large bowel obstruction, the sound duration was significantly longer (median 0.81 s vs 0.55 s, P = 0.021) and the dominant frequency was significantly higher (median 440 Hz vs 288 Hz, P = 0.003) when compared to acute small bowel obstruction. No significant

  7. A case-control study of airways obstruction among construction workers: Airways Obstruction Among Construction Workers

    DOE PAGES

    Dement, John; Welch, Laura; Ringen, Knut; ...

    2015-06-29

    Background: While smoking is the major cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), occupational exposures to vapors, gases, dusts, and fumes (VGDF) increase COPD risk. This case-control study estimated the risk of COPD attributable to occupational exposures among construction workers. Methods: The study population included 834 cases and 1243 controls participating in a national medical screening program for older construction workers between 1997 and 2013. Qualitative exposure indices were developed based on lifetime work and exposure histories. Results: Approximately 18% (95%CI=2–24%) of COPD risk can be attributed to construction-related exposures, which are additive to the risk contributed by smoking. Amore » measure of all VGDF exposures combined was a strong predictor of COPD risk. Conclusions: Construction workers are at increased risk of COPD as a result of broad and complex effects of many exposures acting independently or interactively. Control methods should be implemented to prevent worker exposures, and smoking cessation should be promoted« less

  8. A case-control study of airways obstruction among construction workers: Airways Obstruction Among Construction Workers

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Dement, John; Welch, Laura; Ringen, Knut

    Background: While smoking is the major cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), occupational exposures to vapors, gases, dusts, and fumes (VGDF) increase COPD risk. This case-control study estimated the risk of COPD attributable to occupational exposures among construction workers. Methods: The study population included 834 cases and 1243 controls participating in a national medical screening program for older construction workers between 1997 and 2013. Qualitative exposure indices were developed based on lifetime work and exposure histories. Results: Approximately 18% (95%CI=2–24%) of COPD risk can be attributed to construction-related exposures, which are additive to the risk contributed by smoking. Amore » measure of all VGDF exposures combined was a strong predictor of COPD risk. Conclusions: Construction workers are at increased risk of COPD as a result of broad and complex effects of many exposures acting independently or interactively. Control methods should be implemented to prevent worker exposures, and smoking cessation should be promoted« less

  9. Nocturnal Cerebral Hemodynamics in Snorers and in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Study

    PubMed Central

    Pizza, Fabio; Biallas, Martin; Wolf, Martin; Werth, Esther; Bassetti, Claudio L.

    2010-01-01

    Study Objectives: Sleep disordered breathing (SDB) of the obstructive type causes hemodynamic consequences, leading to an increased cerebrovascular risk. The severity of SDB at which detrimental circulatory consequences appear is matter of controversy. Aim of the present study is the investigation of cerebral hemodynamics in patients with SDB of variable severity using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Design: N/A. Setting: Sleep laboratory. Patients or Participants: Nineteen patients with SDB. Interventions: N/A. Measurements and Results: Patients underwent nocturnal videopolysomnography (VPSG) coupled with cerebral NIRS. NIRS data were averaged for each patient, and a new method (integral) was applied to quantify cerebral hemodynamic alterations. Nocturnal VPSG disclosed various severities of SDB: snoring (7 patients, apnea-hypopnea index [AHI] = 2 ± 2/h, range: 0.5–4.5); mild SDB (7 patients, AHI = 14 ± 8/h, range: 6.3–28.6); and severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (5 patients, AHI = 79 ± 20/h, range: 39.6–92.9). Relative changes of NIRS parameters were significantly larger during obstructive apneas (compared with hypopneas; mean deoxygenated hemoglobin [HHb] change of 0.72 ± 0.23 and 0.13 ± 0.08 μmol/L per sec, p value = 0.048) and in patients with severe SDB (as compared with patients with mild SDB and simple snorers; mean HHb change of 0.84 ± 0.24, 0.02 ± 0.09, and 0.2 ± 0.08 μmol/L per sec, respectively, p value = 0.020). In this group, NIRS and concomitant changes in peripheral oxygen saturation correlated. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that acute cerebral hemodynamic consequences of SDB lead to a failure of autoregulatory mechanisms with brain hypoxia only in the presence of frequent apneas (AHI > 30) and obstructive events. Citation: Pizza F; Biallas M; Wolf M; Werth E; Bassetti CL. Nocturnal cerebral hemodynamics in snorers and in patients with obstructive sleep apnea: a near-infrared spectroscopy study. SLEEP 2010

  10. Diagnostic Instability and Reversals of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Diagnosis in Individuals with Mild to Moderate Airflow Obstruction.

    PubMed

    Aaron, Shawn D; Tan, Wan C; Bourbeau, Jean; Sin, Don D; Loves, Robyn H; MacNeil, Jenna; Whitmore, George A

    2017-08-01

    Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic, progressive disease, and reversal of COPD diagnosis is thought to be uncommon. To determine whether a spirometric diagnosis of mild or moderate COPD is subject to variability and potential error. We examined two prospective cohort studies that enrolled subjects with mild to moderate post-bronchodilator airflow obstruction. The Lung Health Study (n = 5,861 subjects; study duration, 5 yr) and the Canadian Cohort of Obstructive Lung Disease (CanCOLD) study (n = 1,551 subjects; study duration, 4 yr) were examined to determine frequencies of (1) diagnostic instability, represented by how often patients initially met criteria for a spirometric diagnosis of COPD but then crossed the diagnostic threshold to normal and then crossed back to COPD over a series of annual visits, or vice versa; and (2) diagnostic reversals, defined as how often an individual's COPD diagnosis at the study outset reversed to normal by the end of the study. Diagnostic instability was common and occurred in 19.5% of the Lung Health Study subjects and 6.4% of the CanCOLD subjects. Diagnostic reversals of COPD from the beginning to the end of the study period occurred in 12.6% and 27.2% of subjects in the Lung Health Study and CanCOLD study, respectively. The risk of diagnostic instability was greatest for subjects whose baseline FEV 1 /FVC value was closest to the diagnostic threshold, and the risk of diagnostic reversal was greatest for subjects who quit smoking during the study. A single post-bronchodilator spirometric assessment may not be reliable for diagnosing COPD in patients with mild to moderate airflow obstruction at baseline.

  11. Post-obstructive pulmonary edema from aspirated nuts.

    PubMed

    Bashir, Ahsan; Ahmad, Sabina Qureshi; Silverman, Joshua; Concepcion, Emily; Lee, Haesoon

    2017-01-01

    Post-obstructive pulmonary edema is thought to occur from hemodynamic changes secondary to forced inspiration against the closed airway due to acute or chronic airway obstruction. We report a case of a 13 month-old boy who developed pulmonary edema from aspirated foreign body, nuts. He underwent emergency bronchoscopy to confirm the clinical diagnosis of aspirated nuts in the trachea and nuts were removed endoscopically. His trachea was then intubated and he was mechanically ventilated with oxygen. He developed florid pulmonary edema early in the course with tracheal obstruction and during endoscopic removal of nuts. After removal of obstruction he was ventilated mechanically and pulmonary edema cleared rapidly. Aspirated nuts obstructing trachea can induce obstructive pulmonary edema. Early recognition of foreign body obstruction based on clinical history and its removal resolved pulmonary edema.

  12. Biomechanical remodeling of obstructed guinea pig jejunum

    PubMed Central

    Zhao, Jingbo; Liao, Donghua; Yang, Jian; Gregersen, Hans

    2010-01-01

    Data on morphological and biomechanical remodeling are needed to understand the mechanisms behind intestinal obstruction. The effect of partial obstruction on mechanical properties with reference to the zero-stress state and on the histomorphological properties of the guinea pig small intestine was determined in this study. Partial obstruction and sham operation were surgically created in mid-jejunum of guinea pigs. The animals survived 2, 4, 7, and 14 days respectively. The age-matched guinea pigs that were not operated served as normal controls. The segment proximal to the obstruction site was used for histological analysis, no-load state and zero-stress state data, and distension test. The segment for distension was immersed in an organ bath and inflated to 10 cmH20. The outer diameter change during the inflation was monitored using a microscope with CCD camera. Circumferential stresses and strains were computed from the diameter, pressure and the zero-stress state data. The opening angle and absolute value of residual strain decreased (P<0.01 and P<0.001) whereas the wall thickness, wall cross-sectional area, and the wall stiffness increased after 7 days obstruction (P<0.05, P<0.01). Histologically, the muscle and submucosa layers, especially the circumferential muscle layer increased in thickness after obstruction. The opening angle and residual strain mainly depended on the thickness of the muscle layer whereas the wall stiffness mainly depended on the thickness of the submucosa layer. In conclusion, the histomorphological and biomechanical properties of small intestine (referenced for the first time to the zero-stress state) remodel proximal to the obstruction site in a time-dependent manner. PMID:20189575

  13. The Fate of Nephrons in Congenital Obstructive Nephropathy: Adult Recovery is Limited by Nephron Number Despite Early Release of Obstruction.

    PubMed

    Sergio, Maria; Galarreta, Carolina I; Thornhill, Barbara A; Forbes, Michael S; Chevalier, Robert L

    2015-11-01

    Urinary tract obstruction and reduced nephron number often occur together as a result of maldevelopment of the kidneys and the urinary tract. We determined the role of nephron number on adaptation of the remaining nephrons of mice subjected to neonatal partial unilateral ureteral obstruction followed through adulthood. Wild-type and Os/+ mice (the latter with 50% fewer nephrons) underwent sham operation or partial unilateral ureteral obstruction in the first 2 days of life. Additional mice underwent release of unilateral ureteral obstruction at 7 days. All kidneys were harvested at 3 weeks (weaning) or 6 weeks (adulthood). Glomerular number and area, glomerulotubular junction integrity, proximal tubular volume fraction and interstitial fibrosis were measured by histomorphometry. In the obstructed kidney unilateral ureteral obstruction caused additional nephron loss in Os/+ but not in wild-type mice. Glomerular growth from 3 to 6 weeks was impaired by ipsilateral obstruction and not preserved by release in wild-type or Os/+ mice. Proximal tubular growth was impaired and interstitial collagen was increased by ipsilateral obstruction in all mice. These conditions were attenuated by release of unilateral ureteral obstruction in wild-type mice but were not restored in Os/+ mice. Unilateral ureteral obstruction increased interstitial collagen in the contralateral kidney while release of obstruction enhanced tubular growth and reduced interstitial collagen. Unilateral ureteral obstruction in early postnatal development impairs adaptation to reduced nephron number and induces additional nephron loss despite release of obstruction. Premature and low birth weight infants with congenital obstructive nephropathy are likely at increased risk for progression of chronic kidney disease. Copyright © 2015 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Tuberculosis associates with both airflow obstruction and low lung function: BOLD results

    PubMed Central

    Amaral, André F. S.; Coton, Sonia; Kato, Bernet; Tan, Wan C.; Studnicka, Michael; Janson, Christer; Gislason, Thorarinn; Mannino, David; Bateman, Eric D.; Buist, Sonia; Burney, Peter G. J.

    2015-01-01

    Background In small studies and cases series, a history of tuberculosis has been associated with both airflow obstruction, which is characteristic of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and restrictive patterns on spirometry. Objective To assess the association between a history of tuberculosis and airflow obstruction and spirometric abnormalities in adults. Methods The study was performed in adults, aged 40 and above, who took part in the multicentre cross-sectional, general population-based, Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease study, had provided acceptable post-bronchodilator spirometry measurements and information on a history of tuberculosis. The associations between a history of tuberculosis and airflow obstruction and spirometric restriction were assessed within each participating centre, and estimates combined using meta-analysis. These estimates were stratified by high and low/middle income countries, according to gross national income. Results A self-reported history of tuberculosis was associated with airflow obstruction (adjusted odds ratio = 2.51, 95% confidence interval 1.83-3.42) and spirometric restriction (adjusted odds ratio = 2.13, 95% confidence interval 1.42-3.19). Conclusion A history of tuberculosis was associated with both airflow obstruction and spirometric restriction, and should be considered as a potentially important cause of obstructive disease and low lung function, particularly where tuberculosis is common. PMID:26113680

  15. Postradiation ureteral obstruction: a reappraisal

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Muram, D.; Oxorn, H.; Curry, R.H.

    1981-02-01

    Thirty-four patients who received radiation therapy for carcinoma of the cervix developed hydronephrosis. Twelve of 34 (35%) had no evidence of pelvic malignancy, and the obstruction was caused by periureteral fibrosis. The incidence of obstructive uropathy due to periureteral fibrosis not associated with recurrent tumor increased when the obstructing lesion was unilateral, the clinical staging of the cervical carcinoma prior to therapy was Stage IB or Stage II rather than Stage III or Stage IV, and the obstructing lesion appeared 2 or more years after the completion of radiation therapy. The appearance of hydronephrosis in association with ipsilateral leg edema,more » and sciatic pain in these patients strongly suggest a recurrent tumor. The diagnosis of periureteral fibrosis should be considered in all patients who develop obstruction of the urinary tract after radiation therapy for carcinoma of the cervix. Laparotomy is indicated if all other methods of investigation fail to confirm the presence of a malignant lesion.« less

  16. Surgical management of nasal obstruction.

    PubMed

    Moche, Jason A; Palmer, Orville

    2012-05-01

    The proper evaluation of the patient with nasal obstruction relies on a comprehensive history and physical examination. Once the site of obstruction is accurately identified, the patient may benefit from a trial of medical management. At times however, the definitive treatment of nasal obstruction relies on surgical management. Recognizing the nasal septum, nasal valve, and turbinates as possible sites of obstruction and addressing them accordingly can dramatically improve a patient's nasal breathing. Conservative resection of septal cartilage, submucous reduction of the inferior turbinate, and structural grafting of the nasal valve when appropriate will provide the optimal improvement in nasal airflow and allow for the most stable results. Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  17. Prevalence, Awareness and Reporting of Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea among Hospitalized Adult Patients in Nigeria: A Multicenter Study.

    PubMed

    Desalu, Olufemi; Onyedum, Cajetan; Sanya, Emmanuel; Fadare, Joseph; Adeoti, Adekunle; Salawu, Fatai; Oluyombo, Rotimi; Olamoyegun, Micheal; Fawale, Micheal; Gbadegesin, Babajide; Bello, Hamzat

    2016-07-01

    Obstructive sleep apnoea is the most common form of sleep-disordered breathing in adults and children. It is associated with many adverse health consequences. The objectives this study were to determine the prevalence, awareness and reporting of symptoms of obstructive sleep apnoea among hospitalized adult patients in Nigeria. This was a multicenter cross-sectional study involving 1420 adult patients admitted to general medical and surgical wards of selected hospitals from March to April 2013. A questionnaire embedded with Berlin questionnaire, Epworth sleepiness scale and questions on level of awareness and reporting of symptoms of sleep apnoea was used for data collection. One-third of the patients (33.4%) reported snoring, 16.3% had excessive daytime sleepiness, 10.0% experienced daytime fatigue, and 8.0% experienced drowsy driving. Approximately 5% reported witnessed apnoea and 18.0% had high risks for obstructive sleep apnoea. The frequency of high risk for sleep apnoea increased with age and declined after 65 years and also increased with the body mass index. Snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness and high risk for obstructive sleep apnoea were more common in patients with chronic medical conditions and who were admitted to the urban hospitals. The majority were not aware that snoring (77.3%) and excessive daytime sleepiness (65.8%) constitute a medical problem, and only 4.5% reported these symptoms to their doctors. The level of awareness and under-reporting of sleep apnoea symptoms are poor. The high prevalence of obstructive sleep apnoea symptoms from this study should form the basis for screening hospitalized patients with chronic medical condition across the country.

  18. Sharp metric obstructions for quasi-Einstein metrics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Case, Jeffrey S.

    2013-02-01

    Using the tractor calculus to study smooth metric measure spaces, we adapt results of Gover and Nurowski to give sharp metric obstructions to the existence of quasi-Einstein metrics on suitably generic manifolds. We do this by introducing an analogue of the Weyl tractor W to the setting of smooth metric measure spaces. The obstructions we obtain can be realized as tensorial invariants which are polynomial in the Riemann curvature tensor and its divergence. By taking suitable limits of their tensorial forms, we then find obstructions to the existence of static potentials, generalizing to higher dimensions a result of Bartnik and Tod, and to the existence of potentials for gradient Ricci solitons.

  19. Endoscopic management of unresectable malignant gastroduodenal obstruction with a nitinol uncovered metal stent: A prospective Japanese multicenter study

    PubMed Central

    Sasaki, Reina; Sakai, Yuji; Tsuyuguchi, Toshio; Nishikawa, Takao; Fujimoto, Tatsuya; Mikami, Shigeru; Sugiyama, Harutoshi; Yokosuka, Osamu

    2016-01-01

    AIM: To determine the safety and efficacy of endoscopic duodenal stent placement in patients with malignant gastric outlet obstruction. METHODS: This prospective, observational, multicenter study included 39 consecutive patients with malignant gastric outlet obstruction. All patients underwent endoscopic placement of a nitinol, uncovered, self-expandable metal stent. The primary outcome was clinical success at 2 wk after stent placement that was defined as improvement in the Gastric Outlet Obstruction Scoring System score relative to the baseline. RESULTS: Technical success was achieved in all duodenal stent procedures. Procedure-related complications occurred in 4 patients (10.3%) in the form of mild pneumonitis. No other morbidities or mortalities were observed. The clinical success rate was 92.3%. The mean survival period after stent placement was 103 d. The mean period of stent patency was 149 d and the patency remained acceptable for the survival period. Stent dysfunction occurred in 3 patients (7.7%) on account of tumor growth. CONCLUSION: Endoscopic management using duodenal stents for patients with incurable malignant gastric outlet obstruction is safe and improved patients’ quality of life. PMID:27076769

  20. Self-expandable metal stents for malignant colonic obstruction: data from a retrospective regional SIED-AIGO study.

    PubMed

    Di Mitri, Roberto; Mocciaro, Filippo; Traina, Mario; Montalbano, Luigi Maria; Familiari, Luigi; D'Amore, Fabio; Raimondo, Dario; Virgilio, Clara; Tarantino, Ilaria; Barresi, Luca; Giunta, Marco; Borina, Eleonora; Borruto, Antonino; Marino, Antonino

    2014-03-01

    Self-expandable metal stents are a non-surgical option for the treatment of symptomatic malignant colorectal obstruction as palliative treatment or as a bridge to surgery. To report data from a regional study on self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placement for malignant colorectal obstruction. Two hundred and four patients (male 54.9%, mean age of 69.5 ± 14.2) were retrospectively evaluated and data on technical and clinical success, and complications, were analyzed. Technical and clinical success rates were 99% and 94.6% respectively, with 36.7% treated on an emergency basis and 63.3% electively. Palliative treatment was administered to 70.1%, and as a bridge to surgery for 29.9%. Complications were 17 neoplastic ingrowths, 10 stent migrations, and 4 perforations. Palliative treatment was associated with a higher risk of stent ingrowth (p=0.003), and chemotherapy with a lower risk of stent ingrowth (p=0.009). This regional study, although it has certain limitations, confirms the positive role of self-expandable metal stents in the treatment of symptomatic malignant colorectal obstruction, and that chemotherapy decreases the risk of ingrowth. Copyright © 2013 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Automatic Diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea/Hypopnea Events Using Respiratory Signals.

    PubMed

    Aydoğan, Osman; Öter, Ali; Güney, Kerim; Kıymık, M Kemal; Tuncel, Deniz

    2016-12-01

    Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder which may lead to various results. While some studies used real-time systems, there are also numerous studies which focus on diagnosing Obstructive Sleep Apnea via signals obtained by polysomnography from apnea patients who spend the night in sleep laboratory. The mean, frequency and power of signals obtained from patients are frequently used. Obstructive Sleep Apnea of 74 patients were scored in this study. A visual-scoring based algorithm and a morphological filter via Artificial Neural Networks were used in order to diagnose Obstructive Sleep Apnea. After total accuracy of scoring was calculated via both methods, it was compared with visual scoring performed by the doctor. The algorithm used in the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea reached an average accuracy of 88.33 %, while Artificial Neural Networks and morphological filter method reached a success of 87.28 %. Scoring success was analyzed after it was grouped based on apnea/hypopnea. It is considered that both methods enable doctors to reduce time and costs in the diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea as well as ease of use.

  2. Systematic review: the influence of nasal obstruction on sleep apnea.

    PubMed

    Migueis, Debora Petrungaro; Thuler, Luiz Claudio Santos; Lemes, Lucas Neves de Andrade; Moreira, Chirlene Santos Souza; Joffily, Lucia; Araujo-Melo, Maria Helena de

    2016-01-01

    Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a common disorder that can lead to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, as well as to metabolic, neurological, and behavioral consequences. It is currently believed that nasal obstruction compromises the quality of sleep when it results in breathing disorders and fragmentation of sleep. However, recent studies have failed to objectively associate sleep quality and nasal obstruction. The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the influence of nasal obstruction on OSAS and polysomnographic indices associated with respiratory events. Eleven original articles published from 2003 to 2013 were selected, which addressed surgical and non-surgical treatment for nasal obstruction, performing polysomnography type 1 before and after the intervention. In most trials, nasal obstruction was not related to the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), indicating no improvement in OSAS with reduction in nasal resistance. However, few researchers evaluated other polysomnography indices, such as the arousal index and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep percentage. These could change with nasal obstruction, since it is possible that the nasal obstruction does not completely block the upper airways, but can increase negative intrathoracic pressure, leading to sleep fragmentation. Copyright © 2015 Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  3. Deep Learning for Prediction of Obstructive Disease From Fast Myocardial Perfusion SPECT: A Multicenter Study.

    PubMed

    Betancur, Julian; Commandeur, Frederic; Motlagh, Mahsaw; Sharir, Tali; Einstein, Andrew J; Bokhari, Sabahat; Fish, Mathews B; Ruddy, Terrence D; Kaufmann, Philipp; Sinusas, Albert J; Miller, Edward J; Bateman, Timothy M; Dorbala, Sharmila; Di Carli, Marcelo; Germano, Guido; Otaki, Yuka; Tamarappoo, Balaji K; Dey, Damini; Berman, Daniel S; Slomka, Piotr J

    2018-03-12

    The study evaluated the automatic prediction of obstructive disease from myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) by deep learning as compared with total perfusion deficit (TPD). Deep convolutional neural networks trained with a large multicenter population may provide improved prediction of per-patient and per-vessel coronary artery disease from single-photon emission computed tomography MPI. A total of 1,638 patients (67% men) without known coronary artery disease, undergoing stress 99m Tc-sestamibi or tetrofosmin MPI with new generation solid-state scanners in 9 different sites, with invasive coronary angiography performed within 6 months of MPI, were studied. Obstructive disease was defined as ≥70% narrowing of coronary arteries (≥50% for left main artery). Left ventricular myocardium was segmented using clinical nuclear cardiology software and verified by an expert reader. Stress TPD was computed using sex- and camera-specific normal limits. Deep learning was trained using raw and quantitative polar maps and evaluated for prediction of obstructive stenosis in a stratified 10-fold cross-validation procedure. A total of 1,018 (62%) patients and 1,797 of 4,914 (37%) arteries had obstructive disease. Area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve for disease prediction by deep learning was higher than for TPD (per patient: 0.80 vs. 0.78; per vessel: 0.76 vs. 0.73: p < 0.01). With deep learning threshold set to the same specificity as TPD, per-patient sensitivity improved from 79.8% (TPD) to 82.3% (deep learning) (p < 0.05), and per-vessel sensitivity improved from 64.4% (TPD) to 69.8% (deep learning) (p < 0.01). Deep learning has the potential to improve automatic interpretation of MPI as compared with current clinical methods. Copyright © 2018 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Prospective evaluation of oral gastrografin in postoperative small bowel obstruction.

    PubMed

    Kapoor, Sorabh; Jain, Gaurav; Sewkani, Ajit; Sharma, Sandesh; Patel, Kailash; Varshney, Subodh

    2006-04-01

    Orally administered gastrografin has been used for early resolution of postoperative small bowel obstruction (POSBO) and to reduce the need for surgery in various studies. However the studies have reported conflicting results as patients with complete obstruction and equivocal diagnosis of bowel strangulation were also included. We carried out a prospective study to evaluate the efficacy of gastrografin in patients with partial adhesive small bowel obstruction. Patients with suspected strangulation, complete obstruction, obstructed hernia, bowel malignancy, and radiation enteritis were excluded. Sixty-two patients with partial adhesive small bowel obstruction were given an initial trial of conservative management of 48 h. Thirty-eight patients improved within 48 h and the other 24 were given 100 ml of undiluted gastrografin through the nasogastric tube. In 22 patients the contrast reached the colon within 24 h. In the remaining two patients the contrast failed to reach the colon and these underwent surgery. The use of gastrografin avoided surgical intervention in 91.3% (22 of 24) patients who failed conservative management of POSBO. Gastrografin also decreased the overall requirement for surgical management of POSBO from the reported rate of 25 to 30% to 3.2% (2 of 62). Use of gastrografin in patients with partial POSBO helps in resolution of symptoms and avoids the need for surgical management in the majority of patients.

  5. Obstructive sleep apnoea in obese adolescents and cardiometabolic risk markers.

    PubMed

    Watson, S E; Li, Z; Tu, W; Jalou, H; Brubaker, J L; Gupta, S; Huber, J N; Carroll, A; Hannon, T S

    2014-12-01

    In paediatric patients, obstructive sleep apnoea is associated with adiposity, especially visceral adiposity. In adults, obstructive sleep apnoea is also associated with a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. There are limited and conflicting paediatric studies examining the association between obstructive sleep apnoea and biomarkers of risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes in youth. Obstructive sleep apnoea is linked with greater cardiometabolic risk markers in obese adolescents. Fasting insulin and homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance may be especially linked with obstructive sleep apnoea among obese male Hispanic adolescents. The relationship between obstructive sleep apnoea and cardiometabolic abnormalities in obese adolescents should be considered when evaluating patients found to have obstructive sleep apnoea. Paediatric studies examining the association between obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and insulin sensitivity/cardiometabolic risk are limited and conflicting. This study aims to determine if cardiometabolic risk markers are increased among obese youth with obstructive sleep apnoea as compared with their equally obese peers without OSA. We performed a retrospective analysis of 96 patients (age 14.2 ± 1.4 years) who underwent polysomnography for suspected OSA. Fasting lipids, glucose, insulin and haemoglobin A1 c (HbA1 c) were performed as part of routine clinical evaluation. Patients were categorized into two groups by degree of OSA as measured by the apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI): none or mild OSA (AHI < 5) and moderate or severe OSA (AHI ≥ 5). Despite the similar degrees of obesity, patients with moderate or severe OSA had higher fasting insulin (P = 0.037) and homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR [P = 0.0497]) as compared with those with mild or no OSA. After controlling for body mass index, there was a positive association between the AHI and log

  6. Murine model of long term obstructive jaundice

    PubMed Central

    Aoki, Hiroaki; Aoki, Masayo; Yang, Jing; Katsuta, Eriko; Mukhopadhyay, Partha; Ramanathan, Rajesh; Woelfel, Ingrid A.; Wang, Xuan; Spiegel, Sarah; Zhou, Huiping; Takabe, Kazuaki

    2016-01-01

    Background With the recent emergence of conjugated bile acids as signaling molecules in cancer, a murine model of obstructive jaundice by cholestasis with long-term survival is in need. Here, we investigated the characteristics of 3 murine models of obstructive jaundice. Methods C57BL/6J mice were used for total ligation of the common bile duct (tCL), partial common bile duct ligation (pCL), and ligation of left and median hepatic bile duct with gallbladder removal (LMHL) models. Survival was assessed by Kaplan-Meier method. Fibrotic change was determined by Masson-Trichrome staining and Collagen expression. Results 70% (7/10) of tCL mice died by Day 7, whereas majority 67% (10/15) of pCL mice survived with loss of jaundice. 19% (3/16) of LMHL mice died; however, jaundice continued beyond Day 14, with survival of more than a month. Compensatory enlargement of the right lobe was observed in both pCL and LMHL models. The pCL model demonstrated acute inflammation due to obstructive jaundice 3 days after ligation but jaundice rapidly decreased by Day 7. The LHML group developed portal hypertension as well as severe fibrosis by Day 14 in addition to prolonged jaundice. Conclusion The standard tCL model is too unstable with high mortality for long-term studies. pCL may be an appropriate model for acute inflammation with obstructive jaundice but long term survivors are no longer jaundiced. The LHML model was identified to be the most feasible model to study the effect of long-term obstructive jaundice. PMID:27916350

  7. The effect of ursodeoxycholic acid in liver functional restoration of patients with obstructive jaundice after endoscopic treatment: a prospective, randomized, and controlled study.

    PubMed

    Fekaj, Enver; Gjata, Arben; Maxhuni, Mehmet

    2013-09-22

    In patients with obstructive jaundice, multi-organ dysfunction may develop. This trial is a prospective, open-label, randomized, and controlled study with the objective to evaluate the effect of ursodeoxycholic acid in liver functional restoration in patients with obstructive jaundice after endoscopic treatment. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of ursodeoxycholic acid in liver functional restoration of patients with obstructive jaundice after endoscopic treatment. The hypothesis of this trial is that patients with obstructive jaundice, in which will be administered UDCA, in the early phase after endoscopic intervention will have better and faster functional restoration of the liver than patients in the control group.Patients with obstructive jaundice, randomly, will be divided into two groups: (A) test group in which will be administered ursodeoxycholic acid twenty-four hours after endoscopic procedure and will last fourteen days, and (B) control group.Serum-testing will include determination of bilirubin, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, gama-glutamil transpeptidase, alkaline phosphatase, albumin, and cholesterol levels. These parameters will be determined one day prior endoscopic procedure, and on the third, fifth, seventh, tenth, twelfth and fourteenth days after endoscopic intervention. This trial is a prospective, open-label, randomized, and controlled study to asses the effect of ursodeoxycholic acid in liver functional restoration of patients with obstructive jaundice in the early phase after endoscopic treatment.

  8. Correlation of Lateral Cephalogram and Flexible Laryngoscopy with Sleep Study in Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

    PubMed

    Narayanan, Anila; Faizal, Bini

    2015-01-01

    Objective. To study the correlation between lateral cephalogram, flexible laryngoscopy, and sleep study in patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Background. Screening tools should be devised for predicting OSA which could be performed on an outpatient basis. With this aim we studied the skeletal and soft tissue characteristics of proven OSA patients. Methods. A prospective study was performed in patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea by sleep study. They were evaluated clinically and subjected to lateral cephalometry and nasopharyngolaryngoscopy. The findings were matched to see if they corresponded to AHI of sleep study in severity. An attempt was made to see whether the data predicted the patients who would benefit from oral appliance or surgery as the definitive treatment in indicated cases. Results. A retropalatal collapse seen on endoscopy could be equated to the distance from mandibular plane to hyoid (MP-H) of lateral cephalometry and both corresponded to severity of AHI. At the retroglossal region, there was a significant correlation with MP-H, length of the soft palate, and AHI. Conclusion. There is significant correlation of lateral cephalogram and awake flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscopy with AHI in OSA. In unison they form an excellent screening tool for snorers.

  9. Radionuclide demonstration of urinary extravasation with ureteral obstruction

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Yeh, V.A.; Chiang, L.C.; Meade, R.C.

    Two cases of urinary extravasation with ureteral obstruction demonstrated by the radionuclide studies are reported. The value of radionuclide studies in patients with renal transplantation has been reported previously, but studies in patients without transplantation have rarely been described in the literature. Ureteral obstruction may cause urinary extravasation, which may be demonstrated by radionuclide studies even when radiologic studies are inconclusive. In one case, urinary extravasation was detected in the sitting position but not in the supine position. Renal imaging should probably be performed not only with multiple projections but also in different positions.

  10. Preliminary study for a newly designed silicone stent and delivery system for canine obstructive tracheal disease.

    PubMed

    Kim, Dae-Hyun; Choi, Chi-Bong; Chung, Wook-Hun; Lee, Sung-Ho; Lee, A-Jin; Jeong, Jae-Seung; Kim, Ho-Joong; Kim, Hwi-Yool

    2012-10-01

    The goal of this study was to prove the possibility of using silicone stents broadly used for human medicine in canine obstructive tracheal disease. A silicone stent anatomically designed for canine trachea was tested on 5 beagle dogs for 8 weeks. The stent was carefully inserted using a newly developed delivery device under fluoroscopic guidance. There were no technical difficulties in placing the stent during the procedure. Previously reported complications of airway stenting such as stent migration or granulation tissue formation did not occur in any of the cases. In addition, removal of the stent was as simple as inserting it, and complications were absent. The stent introduced in this study could possibly be applied to various canine obstructive tracheal diseases.

  11. [A case of gastric outlet obstruction and rectal obstruction due to metastases from breast cancer treated by gastroduodenal and colon stenting].

    PubMed

    Morimoto, Yoshihiro; Egawa, Chiyomi; Ishida, Tomo; Sato, Yasufumi; Kusama, Hiroki; Hashimoto, Tadayoshi; Matsushita, Katsunori; Kimura, Kei; Katsura, Yoshiteru; Nitta, Kanae; Kagawa, Yoshinori; Okishiro, Masatsugu; Takeno, Atsushi; Nakahira, Shin; Sakisaka, Hideki; Taniguchi, Hirokazu; Takeda, Yutaka; Kato, Takeshi; Tamura, Shigeyuki; Takatsuka, Yuichi

    2014-11-01

    Malignant bowel obstruction often causes oral intake difficulties and decreases quality of life. In Japan, gastroduodenal stenting for malignant gastric outlet obstruction has been covered by health insurance since 2010, while colon stenting has been covered since 2012. Both approaches are useful treatments for malignant bowel obstruction. Here we report the case of a woman with gastric outlet obstruction and rectal obstruction due to breast cancer metastases who was able to eat solid food after duodenal and colon stenting. When choosing whether to perform endoscopic stenting or surgical intervention such as gastrojejunostomy, ileostomy, and colostomy for treating malignant bowel obstruction, it is important to assess the patient's general condition and prognosis as well as the obstruction position.

  12. Comparison of partially covered nitinol stents with partially covered stainless stents as a historical control in a multicenter study of distal malignant biliary obstruction: the WATCH study.

    PubMed

    Isayama, Hiroyuki; Mukai, Tsuyoshi; Itoi, Takao; Maetani, Iruru; Nakai, Yousuke; Kawakami, Hiroshi; Yasuda, Ichiro; Maguchi, Hiroyuki; Ryozawa, Shomei; Hanada, Keiji; Hasebe, Osamu; Ito, Kei; Kawamoto, Hirofumi; Mochizuki, Hitoshi; Igarashi, Yoshinori; Irisawa, Atsushi; Sasaki, Tamito; Togawa, Osamu; Hara, Taro; Kamada, Hideki; Toda, Nobuo; Kogure, Hirofumi

    2012-07-01

    Covered self-expandable metal stents (CSEMSs) were developed to prevent tumor ingrowth, but stent migration is one of the problems with CSEMSs. To evaluate a new, commercially available CSEMS with flared ends and low axial force compared with a commercially available CSEMS without the anti-migration system and high axial force. Multicenter, prospective study with a historical cohort. Twenty Japanese referral centers. This study involved patients with unresectable distal malignant biliary obstruction. Placement of a new, commercially available, partially covered SEMS. Recurrent biliary obstruction rate, time to recurrent biliary obstruction, stent-related complications, survival. Between April 2009 and March 2010, 141 patients underwent partially covered nitinol stent placement, and between May 2001 and January 2007, 138 patients underwent placement of partially covered stainless stents as a historical control. The silicone cover of the partially covered nitinol stents prevented tumor ingrowth. There were no significant differences in survival (229 vs 219 days; P = .250) or the rate of recurrent biliary obstruction (33% vs 38%; P = .385) between partially covered nitinol stents and partially covered stainless stents. Stent migration was less frequent (8% vs 17%; P = .019), and time to recurrent biliary obstruction was significantly longer (373 vs 285 days; P = .007) with partially covered nitinol stents. Stent removal was successful in 26 of 27 patients (96%). Nonrandomized, controlled trial. Partially covered nitinol stents with an anti-migration system and less axial force demonstrated longer time to recurrent biliary obstruction with no tumor ingrowth and less stent migration. Copyright © 2012 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma.

    PubMed

    Balbay, Ege G; Balbay, Oner; Annakkaya, Ali N; Suner, Kezban O; Yuksel, Harun; Tunç, Murat; Arbak, Peri

    2014-10-01

    To investigate the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma. Case series. School of Medicine, Düzce University, Turkey. Twenty-one consecutive primary open-angle glaucoma patients (12 females and 9 males) who attended the out-patient clinic of the Department of Ophthalmology between July 2007 and February 2008 were included in this study. All patients underwent polysomnographic examination. The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome was 33.3% in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma; the severity of the condition was mild in 14.3% and moderate in 19.0% of the subjects. The age (P=0.047) and neck circumference (P=0.024) in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome were significantly greater than those without the syndrome. Triceps skinfold thickness in glaucomatous obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome patients reached near significance versus those without the syndrome (P=0.078). Snoring was observed in all glaucoma cases with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome. The intra-ocular pressure of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome was significantly lower than those without obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (P=0.006 and P=0.035 for the right and left eyes, respectively). There was no significant difference in the cup/disc ratio and visual acuity, except visual field defect, between primary open-angle glaucoma patients with and without obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome. Although it does not provide evidence for a cause-effect relationship, high prevalence of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma in this study suggests the need to explore the long-term results of coincidence, relationship, and cross-interaction of these two common disorders.

  14. Association among nocturnal enuresis, body weight and obstructive sleep apnea in children of south Italy: an observational study.

    PubMed

    Ferrara, Pietro; Fabrizio, Giovanna C; Franco, Daniele; Spina, Giulia; Ianniello, Francesca; Sbordone, Annamaria; Vitelli, Ottavio; Quintarelli, Fabio; Verrotti, Alberto; Saggese, Giuseppe

    2016-04-14

    To evaluate the rate of nocturnal enuresis (NE), body weight and obstructive sleep apnea in children 5 to 10 years of age in South Italy and the possible association among these disorders. We have administered 1.100 validated questionnaires, in Italian language, to parents and we have analyzed data with a logistic regression. Forty-two percent of children had a BMI ≥ 85th (group 1) vs 58.0% normal weight children at the same age (group 2). There is a higher number of overweight males compared to females without statistically differences. In group 1 there were a higher number of children with NE and obstructive sleep disorders and exists in some children the association among these three disorders. There are no statistically differences between two study groups for the association body weight-NE, body weight-NE-obstructive sleep disorders.

  15. Murine model of long-term obstructive jaundice.

    PubMed

    Aoki, Hiroaki; Aoki, Masayo; Yang, Jing; Katsuta, Eriko; Mukhopadhyay, Partha; Ramanathan, Rajesh; Woelfel, Ingrid A; Wang, Xuan; Spiegel, Sarah; Zhou, Huiping; Takabe, Kazuaki

    2016-11-01

    With the recent emergence of conjugated bile acids as signaling molecules in cancer, a murine model of obstructive jaundice by cholestasis with long-term survival is in need. Here, we investigated the characteristics of three murine models of obstructive jaundice. C57BL/6J mice were used for total ligation of the common bile duct (tCL), partial common bile duct ligation (pCL), and ligation of left and median hepatic bile duct with gallbladder removal (LMHL) models. Survival was assessed by Kaplan-Meier method. Fibrotic change was determined by Masson-Trichrome staining and Collagen expression. Overall, 70% (7 of 10) of tCL mice died by day 7, whereas majority 67% (10 of 15) of pCL mice survived with loss of jaundice. A total of 19% (3 of 16) of LMHL mice died; however, jaundice continued beyond day 14, with survival of more than a month. Compensatory enlargement of the right lobe was observed in both pCL and LMHL models. The pCL model demonstrated acute inflammation due to obstructive jaundice 3 d after ligation but jaundice rapidly decreased by day 7. The LHML group developed portal hypertension and severe fibrosis by day 14 in addition to prolonged jaundice. The standard tCL model is too unstable with high mortality for long-term studies. pCL may be an appropriate model for acute inflammation with obstructive jaundice, but long-term survivors are no longer jaundiced. The LHML model was identified to be the most feasible model to study the effect of long-term obstructive jaundice. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. Double obstruction of ureter: A diagnostic challenge.

    PubMed

    Halder, Pankaj; Shukla, Ram Mohan; Mandal, Kartik Chandra; Mukhopadhyay, Biswanath; Barman, Shibsankar

    2014-07-01

    Isolated obstruction of the ureteropelvic junction and the vesico-ureteric junction are the two most common causes of hydronephrosis in a pediatric population.[1] They do not pose diagnostic difficulties when are present alone but when together can be difficult to diagnose. Here, we discuss the problems we faced when we encountered these two anomalies in the same ureter and the way in which we managed them. To assess the difficulties in diagnosis of pediatric patients who present with both ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) and vesico-ureteric junction obstruction (VUJO) in the ipsilateral ureter and their management protocol. This is a retrospective study. The study period is from 1 January 2004 to 31 December 2011. Out of 254 children who were diagnosed to have hydronephrosis due to UPJO in our institute, 5 patients (in the age range of 5 to 10 years) had both UPJO and VUJO in the ipsilateral ureter. The problems we faced in diagnosing the two conditions are mentioned with a literature review. Operative intervention was used in four out of five patients; none of the patients had an accurate diagnosis before surgery. All patients were suspected of having double obstruction during pyeloplasty when appropriate size double J stent could not be negotiated through the vesicoureteric junction into the bladder. Postoperative nephrostogram confirmed the diagnosis in all patients. Children with double obstruction of the ipsilateral ureter present as a diagnostic dilemma. Because of the rarity of this condition it can escape the eye of even an astute clinician. Early diagnosis can be made if this condition is kept in mind while treating any hydronephrosis due to UPJO or UVJO.

  17. Placement of a Newly Designed Y-Configured Bilateral Self-Expanding Metallic Stent for Hilar Biliary Obstruction: A Pilot Study.

    PubMed

    Jiao, Dechao; Huang, Kai; Zhu, Ming; Wu, Gang; Ren, Jianzhuang; Wang, Yanli; Han, Xinwei

    2017-01-01

    Whether unilateral or bilateral drainage should be performed for malignant hilar biliary obstruction remains a matter of debate. Although a Y-stent with a central wide-open mesh facilitates bilateral stent placement, it has its own limitations. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a newly designed Y-configured bilateral self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) for the treatment of hilar biliary obstruction. In this retrospective study, 14 consecutive patients with unresectable malignant hilar biliary obstruction (Bismuth type II or higher), who underwent placement of a newly designed Y-configured bilateral SEMS for hilar biliary obstruction from April 2013 to March 2015, were included into this study. Data on technical success, clinical success, stent patency, complications and patient survival were collected. Technical and clinical success was 100 and 92.9 %, respectively. Mean serum bilirubin level was significantly decreased 1 month after stent placement (P < 0.01). Furthermore, two patients (14.3 %) had early complications (one patient had severe hemobilia and one patient had cholangitis), and two patients (14.3 %) had late complications (one patient had cholangitis and one patient had cholecystitis). During the mean follow-up period of 298 days (range 89-465 days), six patients (42.9 %) developed stent occlusion caused by tumor ingrowth or overgrowth (n = 5) and sludge (n = 1). Median stent patency and overall survival times were 281 days (95 % CI 175.9-386.1 days) and 381 days (95 % CI 291.4-470.6 days), respectively. The use of the newly designed Y-configured bilateral SEMS is feasible and effective for hilar biliary obstruction using port docking deployment.

  18. [Correlation between obstructive apnea syndrome and difficult airway in ENT surgery].

    PubMed

    Pera, Marcia Hiray; Tardelli, Maria Angela; Novo, Neil Ferreira; Juliano, Yara; Silva, Helga Cristina Almeida da

    2017-12-21

    ENT patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome have a tendency of collapsing the upper airways in addition to anatomical obstacles. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is related to the increased risk of difficult airway and also increased perioperative complications. In order to identify these patients in the preoperative period, the STOP Bang questionnaire has been highlighted because it is summarized and easy to apply. Evaluate through the STOP Bang questionnaire whether patients undergoing ENT surgery with a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome have a higher risk of complications, particularly the occurrence of difficult airway. Measurements of anatomical parameters for difficult airway and questionnaire application for clinical prediction of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome were performed in 48 patients with a previous polysomnographic study. The sample detected difficult airway in about 18.7% of patients, all of them with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. This group had older age, cervical circumference > 40cm, ASA II and Cormack III/IV. Patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome had higher body mass index, cervical circumference, and frequent apnea. In subgroup analysis, the group with severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome showed a significantly higher SB score compared to patients without this syndrome or with a mild/moderate obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. The STOP Bang questionnaire was not able to predict difficult airway and mild obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, but it identified marked obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. All patients with difficult airway had moderate and marked obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, although this syndrome did not involve difficult airway. The variables Cormack III/IV and BMI greater than 35 Kg.m -2 were able to predict difficult airway and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, respectively. Copyright © 2017 Sociedade Brasileira de Anestesiologia. Publicado por Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  19. Greater effect of stroke thrombolysis in the presence of arterial obstruction.

    PubMed

    De Silva, Deidre A; Churilov, Leonid; Olivot, Jean-Marc; Christensen, Soren; Lansberg, Maarten G; Mlynash, Michael; Campbell, Bruce C V; Desmond, Patricia; Straka, Matus; Bammer, Roland; Albers, Gregory W; Davis, Stephen M; Donnan, Geoffrey A

    2011-10-01

    Recanalization of arterial obstruction is associated with improved clinical outcomes. There are no controlled data demonstrating whether arterial obstruction status predicts the treatment effect of intravenous (IV) tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). We aimed to determine if the presence of arterial obstruction improves the treatment effect of IV tPA over placebo in attenuating infarct growth. We analyzed 175 ischemic stroke patients treated in the 3-6 hour time window from the Echoplanar Imaging Thrombolytic Evaluation Trial (EPITHET) trial (randomized to IV tPA or placebo) and Diffusion and perfusion imaging Evaluation For Understanding Stroke Evolution (DEFUSE) study (all treated with IV tPA). Infarct growth was calculated as the difference between baseline diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and final T2 lesion volumes. Baseline arterial obstruction of large intracranial arteries was graded on magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). Among the 116 patients with adequate baseline MRA and final lesion assessment, 72 had arterial obstruction (48 tPA, 24 placebo) and 44 no arterial obstruction (33 tPA, 11 placebo). Infarct growth was lower in the tPA than placebo group (median difference 26ml, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1-50) in patients with arterial obstruction, but was similar in patients with no arterial obstruction (median difference 5ml, 95%CI, -3 to 9). Infarct growth attenuation with tPA over placebo treatment was greater among patients with arterial obstruction than those without arterial obstruction by a median of 32ml (95%CI, 21-43, p < 0.001). The treatment effect of IV tPA over placebo was greater with baseline arterial obstruction, supporting arterial obstruction status as a consideration in selecting patients more likely to benefit from IV thrombolysis. Copyright © 2011 American Neurological Association.

  20. Analysis of electrocardiogram in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients.

    PubMed

    Lazović, Biljana; Svenda, Mirjana Zlatković; Mazić, Sanja; Stajić, Zoran; Delić, Marina

    2013-01-01

    Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is the fourth leading cause of mortality worldwide. It is defined as a persistent airflow limitation usually progressive and not fully reversible to treatment. The diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and severity of disease is confirmed by spirometry. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease produces electrical changes in the heart which shows characteristic electrocardiogram pattern. The aim of this study was to observe and evaluate diagnostic values of electrocardiogram changes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients with no other comorbidity. We analyzed 110 electrocardiogram findings in clinically stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients and evaluated the forced expiratory volume in the first second, ratio of forces expiratory volume in the first second to the fixed vital capacity, chest radiographs and electrocardiogram changes such as p wave height, QRS axis and voltage, right bundle branch block, left bundle branch block, right ventricular hypertrophy, T wave inversion in leads V1-V3, S1S2S3 syndrome, transition zone in praecordial lead and QT interval. We found electrocardiogram changes in 64% patients, while 36% had normal electrocardiogram. The most frequent electrocardiogram changes observed were transition zone (76.36%) low QRS (50%) and p pulmonale (14.54%). Left axis deviation was observed in 27.27% patients. Diagnostic values of electrocardiogram in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease suggest that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients should be screened electrocardiographically in addition to other clinical investigations.

  1. Oral water soluble contrast for the management of adhesive small bowel obstruction.

    PubMed

    Abbas, S; Bissett, I P; Parry, B R

    2007-07-18

    Adhesions are the leading cause of small bowel obstruction. Gastrografin transit time may allow for the selection of appropriate patients for non-operative management. Some studies have shown when the contrast does not reach the colon after a designated time it indicates complete intestinal obstruction that is unlikely to resolve with conservative treatment. When the contrast does reach the large bowel, it indicates partial obstruction and patients are likely to respond to conservative treatment. Other studies have suggested that the administration of water-soluble contrast is therapeutic in resolving the obstruction. To determine the reliability of water-soluble contrast media and serial abdominal radiographs in predicting the success of conservative treatment in patients admitted with adhesive small bowel obstruction.Furthermore, to determine the efficacy and safety of water-soluble contrast media in reducing the need for surgical intervention and reducing hospital stay in adhesive small bowel obstruction. The search was conducted using MESH terms: ''Intestinal obstruction'', ''water-soluble contrast'', "Adhesions" and "Gastrografin". The later combined with the Cochrane Collaboration highly sensitive search strategy for identifying randomised controlled trials and controlled clinical trials. 1. Prospective studies were included to evaluate the diagnostic potential of water-soluble contrast in adhesive small bowel obstruction.2. Randomised clinical trials were selected to evaluate the therapeutic role. 1. Studies that addressed the diagnostic role of water-soluble contrast were critically appraised and data presented as sensitivities, specificities and positive and negative likelihood ratios. Results were pooled and summary ROC curve was constructed.2. A meta-analysis of the data from therapeutic studies was performed using the Mantel -Henszel test using both the fixed effect and random effect models. The appearance of water-soluble contrast in the colon on an

  2. Oral water soluble contrast for the management of adhesive small bowel obstruction.

    PubMed

    Abbas, S; Bissett, I P; Parry, B R

    2005-01-25

    Adhesions are the leading cause of small bowel obstruction. Most adhesive small bowel obstructions resolve following conservative treatment but there is no consensus as to when conservative treatment should be considered unsuccessful and the patient should undergo surgery. Studies have shown that failure of an oral water-soluble contrast to reach the colon after a designated time indicates complete intestinal obstruction that is unlikely to resolve with conservative treatment. Other studies have suggested that the administration of water-soluble contrast is therapeutic in resolving the obstruction. The aims of this review are:1. To determine the reliability of water-soluble contrast media and serial abdominal radiographs in predicting the success of conservative treatment in patients admitted with adhesive small bowel obstruction.2. To determine the efficacy and safety of water-soluble contrast media in reducing the need for surgical intervention and reducing hospital stay in adhesive small bowel obstruction. The search was conducted using MeSH terms: ''Intestinal obstruction'', ''water-soluble contrast'', "Adhesions" and "Gastrografin", and combined with the Cochrane Collaboration highly sensitive search strategy for identifying randomised controlled trials and controlled clinical trials. 1. Prospective studies (to evaluate the diagnostic potential of water-soluble contrast in adhesive small bowel obstruction);2. Randomised clinical trials (to evaluate the therapeutic role). 1. Studies addressing the diagnostic role of water-soluble contrast were critically appraised and data presented as sensitivities, specificities and positive and negative likelihood ratios. Results were pooled and summary receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was constructed. 2. A meta-analysis of the data from therapeutic studies was performed using the Mantel -Haenszel test using both the fixed effect and random effects model. The appearance of water-soluble contrast in the caecum on

  3. Unlocking the limitations: Living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and receiving care through telemedicine-A phenomenological study.

    PubMed

    Barken, Tina Lien; Thygesen, Elin; Söderhamn, Ulrika

    2018-01-01

    To describe the lived experiences of quality of life among a group of patients living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who were included in a telemedical intervention after hospitalisation for disease exacerbation. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease have high symptom burden, poor control of symptoms and a need for greater requirements in care. Telemedicine can provide benefits for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by improving self-management. Descriptive phenomenological approach. Ten in-depth interviews were conducted with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients participating in a telemedical intervention. The collected data were analysed using a descriptive phenomenological research method. Living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was experienced as creating physical and mental limitations of the diseased body and an increasing identity as a patient, which led to impaired quality of life. Being included in the telemedicine intervention increased accessibility to healthcare services and support from telemedicine nurses. Self-measurement of health data increased participants' clinical insight and created a mutual clinical language in dialogue with telemedicine nurses, which led to increased quality of life. However, receiving care through telemedicine was also experienced as a dual chore. Telemedicine can reduce the perceived limitations imposed by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease through four key elements: (i) improving accessibility to healthcare services, (ii) increasing support from health professionals, (iii) strengthening clinical insight and (iv) developing a mutual clinical language, thus increasing quality of life. The transparency facilitated through telemedicine in this healthcare context encourages open decision-making, where the participants can increase their knowledge and improve acknowledgement of and collaboration with telemedicine nurses. Telemedicine can be beneficial when

  4. Therapeutic Value of Gastrografin in Adhesive Small Bowel Obstruction After Unsuccessful Conservative Treatment

    PubMed Central

    Choi, Hok-Kwok; Chu, Kin-Wah; Law, Wai-Lun

    2002-01-01

    Objective To assess the therapeutic value of Gastrografin in the management of adhesive small bowel obstruction after unsuccessful conservative treatment. Summary Background Data Gastrografin is a hyperosmolar water-soluble contrast medium. Besides its predictive value for the need for surgery, there is probably a therapeutic role of this contrast medium in adhesive small bowel obstruction. Methods Patients with clinical evidence of adhesive small bowel obstruction were given trial conservative treatment unless there was suspicion of strangulation. Those who responded in the initial 48 hours had conservative treatment continued. Patients showing no clinical and radiologic improvement in the initial 48 hours were randomized to undergo either Gastrografin meal and follow-through study or surgery. Contrast that appeared in the large bowel within 24 hours was regarded as a partial obstruction, and conservative treatment was continued. Patients in whom contrast failed to reach the large bowel within 24 hours were considered to have complete obstruction, and laparotomy was performed. For patients who had conservative treatment for more than 48 hours with or without Gastrografin, surgery was performed when there was no continuing improvement. Results One hundred twenty-four patients with a total of 139 episodes of adhesive obstruction were included. Three patients underwent surgery soon after admission for suspected bowel strangulation. Strangulating obstruction was confirmed in two patients. One hundred one obstructive episodes showed improvement in the initial 48 hours and conservative treatment was continued. Only one patient required surgical treatment subsequently after conservative treatment for 6 days. Thirty-five patients showed no improvement within 48 hours. Nineteen patients were randomized to undergo Gastrografin meal and follow-through study and 16 patients to surgery. Gastrografin study revealed partial obstruction in 14 patients. Obstruction resolved

  5. Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and Health in Immigrants

    PubMed Central

    Arnetz, Bengt B.; Templin, Thomas; Saudi, Waleed; Jamil, Hikmet

    2013-01-01

    Objective To determine whether obstructive sleep apnea mediates the relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and psychosomatic and somatic disorders and its implications for self-rated health (SRH) among Iraqi immigrants in the United States. Methods A random sample of immigrants who had left Iraq before the 1991 Gulf War (n = 145) or after (n = 205) and are residing in metropolitan Detroit responded to a structured interview covering questions on sociodemographics, premigration trauma, SRH, physician-diagnosed and -treated obstructive sleep apnea, somatic disorders, and psychosomatic disorders. Structural equation modeling was used to evaluate the relationship between premigration trauma scores and health, as well as to explore mediating pathways between PTSD, obstructive sleep apnea, and health. Results The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea among post-Gulf War immigrants (30.2%) was significantly higher than among pre-Gulf War immigrants (0.7%; p < .001). Premigration trauma scores were positively associated with depression and PTSD. Structural equation modeling supported a model in which obstructive sleep apnea mediated the relationship between PTSD and psychosomatic and somatic disorders. Premigration trauma also related directly to SRH. Conclusions Part of the PTSD-associated adverse health effects observed in Iraqi immigrants is mediated by obstructive sleep apnea. Because sleep apnea in the current study is based on medical history and current treatment, there is a need for future confirmatory polysomnographic studies. PMID:23023679

  6. Does night-shift work induce apnea events in obstructive sleep apnea patients?

    PubMed

    Laudencka, A; Klawe, J J; Tafil-Klawe, M; Złomańczuk, P

    2007-11-01

    The aim of the present study was to determine the direct effect of night-work on the occurrence of obstructive apneas during sleep after a night shift in fast-rotating shift workers with sleep-related breathing disorders. Eight obstructive sleep apnea patients were examined with the use of a polysomnograph during sleep under two conditions: after day-shift work and after night-shift work. Both sleep studies were conducted within 2 to 3 weeks of each other. In four of the 8 subjects, during sleep after a night-shift, an increase in apnea/hypopnea index was found. Night work significantly increased several breathing variables: total duration of obstructive apneas during REM sleep, mean duration of obstructive apneas during arousal, and apnea index during arousal. We conclude that in a subpopulation of sleep apnea patients, acute sleep deprivation may worsen obstructive sleep apnea index.

  7. Is ursodeoxycholic acid detrimental in obstructive cholestasis? A propos of a case of malignant biliary obstruction.

    PubMed

    Bessone, Fernando; Roma, Marcelo Gabriel

    2016-01-01

    Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is the first choice medication for most cholestatic hepatopathies, due to its capability to counteract inflammation and bile-acid-induced liver damage, two common features in cholestasis. However, UDCA is usually contraindicated in obstructive cholestasis, due to the alleged risk of biliary integrity disruption due to its choleretic effect. We report on an 83-year-old man with an unsuspected malignant biliary obstruction who received moderate doses of UDCA (8-12 mg/kg/day) for 5 weeks, because the preliminary evidence suggested he had chemotherapy-induced cholestasis. Liver integrity was extensively protected by UDCA, as indicated by a marked decrease in serum liver enzymes, despite a steady increase in the levels of bilirubin and serum bile acids due to the obstructive process. In conclusion, this report shows, for the first time in humans, that moderate UDCA doses can reduce liver injury associated with complete biliary obstruction. This may contribute to a better understanding of the risk-benefit ratio of the use of UDCA in obstructive cholangiopathies.

  8. Obstructive uropathy

    MedlinePlus

    ... the kidney and causes it to become swollen ( hydronephrosis ). Obstructive uropathy can affect one or both kidneys. ... occurs during pregnancy. This condition is called idiopathic hydronephrosis of pregnancy.

  9. Megabladder mouse model of congenital obstructive nephropathy: genetic etiology and renal adaptation.

    PubMed

    McHugh, Kirk M

    2014-04-01

    Congenital obstructive nephropathy remains one of the leading causes of chronic renal failure in children. The direct link between obstructed urine flow and abnormal renal development and subsequent dysfunction represents a central paradigm of urogenital pathogenesis that has far-reaching clinical implications. Even so, a number of diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic quandaries still exist in the management of congenital obstructive nephropathy. Studies in our laboratory have characterized a unique mutant mouse line that develops in utero megabladder, variable hydronephrosis, and progressive renal failure. Megabladder mice represent a valuable functional model for the study of congenital obstructive nephropathy. Recent studies have begun to shed light on the genetic etiology of mgb (-/-) mice as well as the molecular pathways controlling disease progression in these animals.

  10. Correlation of Lateral Cephalogram and Flexible Laryngoscopy with Sleep Study in Obstructive Sleep Apnea

    PubMed Central

    Narayanan, Anila; Faizal, Bini

    2015-01-01

    Objective. To study the correlation between lateral cephalogram, flexible laryngoscopy, and sleep study in patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Background. Screening tools should be devised for predicting OSA which could be performed on an outpatient basis. With this aim we studied the skeletal and soft tissue characteristics of proven OSA patients. Methods. A prospective study was performed in patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea by sleep study. They were evaluated clinically and subjected to lateral cephalometry and nasopharyngolaryngoscopy. The findings were matched to see if they corresponded to AHI of sleep study in severity. An attempt was made to see whether the data predicted the patients who would benefit from oral appliance or surgery as the definitive treatment in indicated cases. Results. A retropalatal collapse seen on endoscopy could be equated to the distance from mandibular plane to hyoid (MP-H) of lateral cephalometry and both corresponded to severity of AHI. At the retroglossal region, there was a significant correlation with MP-H, length of the soft palate, and AHI. Conclusion. There is significant correlation of lateral cephalogram and awake flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscopy with AHI in OSA. In unison they form an excellent screening tool for snorers. PMID:26689652

  11. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Exacerbations in the COPDGene Study: Associated Radiologic Phenotypes

    PubMed Central

    Kazerooni, Ella A.; Lynch, David A.; Liu, Lyrica X.; Murray, Susan; Curtis, Jeffrey L.; Criner, Gerard J.; Kim, Victor; Bowler, Russell P.; Hanania, Nicola A.; Anzueto, Antonio R.; Make, Barry J.; Hokanson, John E.; Crapo, James D.; Silverman, Edwin K.; Martinez, Fernando J.; Washko, George R.

    2011-01-01

    Purpose: To test the hypothesis—given the increasing emphasis on quantitative computed tomographic (CT) phenotypes of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)—that a relationship exists between COPD exacerbation frequency and quantitative CT measures of emphysema and airway disease. Materials and Methods: This research protocol was approved by the institutional review board of each participating institution, and all participants provided written informed consent. One thousand two subjects who were enrolled in the COPDGene Study and met the GOLD (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease) criteria for COPD with quantitative CT analysis were included. Total lung emphysema percentage was measured by using the attenuation mask technique with a −950-HU threshold. An automated program measured the mean wall thickness and mean wall area percentage in six segmental bronchi. The frequency of COPD exacerbation in the prior year was determined by using a questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed to examine the relationship of exacerbation frequency with lung function and quantitative CT measurements. Results: In a multivariate analysis adjusted for lung function, bronchial wall thickness and total lung emphysema percentage were associated with COPD exacerbation frequency. Each 1-mm increase in bronchial wall thickness was associated with a 1.84-fold increase in annual exacerbation rate (P = .004). For patients with 35% or greater total emphysema, each 5% increase in emphysema was associated with a 1.18-fold increase in this rate (P = .047). Conclusion: Greater lung emphysema and airway wall thickness were associated with COPD exacerbations, independent of the severity of airflow obstruction. Quantitative CT can help identify subgroups of patients with COPD who experience exacerbations for targeted research and therapy development for individual phenotypes. © RSNA, 2011 Supplemental material: http://radiology.rsna.org/lookup/suppl/doi:10

  12. Epigenetics modifications and Subclinical Atherosclerosis in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: The EPIOSA study.

    PubMed

    Marin, Jose M; Artal, Jorge; Martin, Teresa; Carrizo, Santiago J; Andres, Marta; Martin-Burriel, Inmaculada; Bolea, Rosa; Sanz, Arianne; Varona, Luis; Godino, Javier; Gallego, Begoña; Garcia-Erce, Jose A; Villar, Isabel; Gil, Victoria; Forner, Marta; Cubero, Jose P; Ros, Luis

    2014-07-12

    Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with increased risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Epidemiological and animal models studies generate hypotheses for innovative strategies in OSA management by interfering intermediates mechanisms associated with cardiovascular complications. We have thus initiated the Epigenetics modification in Obstructive Sleep Apnea (EPIOSA) study (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02131610). EPIOSA is a prospective cohort study aiming to recruit 350 participants of caucasian ethnicity and free of other chronic or inflammatory diseases: 300 patients with prevalent OSA and 50 non-OSA subjects. All of them will be follow-up for at least 5 years. Recruitment and study visits are performed in single University-based sleep clinic using standard operating procedures. At baseline and at each one year follow-up examination, patients are subjected to a core phenotyping protocol. This includes a standardized questionnaire and physical examination to determine incident comorbidities and health resources utilization, with a primary focus on cardiovascular events. Confirmatory outcomes information is requested from patient records and the regional Department of Health Services. Every year, OSA status will be assessed by full sleep study and blood samples will be obtained for immediate standard biochemistry, hematology, inflammatory cytokines and cytometry analysis. For biobanking, aliquots of serum, plasma, urine, mRNA and DNA are also obtained. Bilateral carotid echography will be performed to assess subclinical atherosclerosis and atherosclerosis progression. OSA patients are treated according with national guidelines. EPIOSA will enable the prospective evaluation of inflammatory and epigenetics mechanism involved in cardiovascular complication of treated and non-treated patients with OSA compared with non OSA subjects.

  13. Exposure to PM10 as a risk factor for the development of nasal obstruction and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

    PubMed Central

    Sichletidis, Lazaros; Spyratos, Dionisios; Tsiotsios, Anastasios; Haidich, Anna-Bettina; Chloros, Diamantis; Ganidis, Ioannis; Michailidis, Dimitrios; Triantafyllou, Georgios; Kottakis, George; Melas, Dimitrios

    2014-01-01

    Objectives: To investigate whether air pollution is a potential risk factor for airways obstruction. Methods: A prospective cohort study (11.3±2.9 years) that took place in two areas (Eordea where concentration of PM10 was high and Grevena, Greece). We used the MRC questionnaire, spirometry, and anterior rhinomanometry at both visits. Results: Initially we examined 3046 subjects. After excluding chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients, we re-examined 872 subjects and 168 of them had developed COPD (Grevena: 24.3%, Eordea: 18.5%). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that the area of residence and thus exposure to air pollution was not a risk factor for the development of COPD (OR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.18–1.46, P = 0.21). On the other hand, residence in Eordea was strongly related to the development of severe nasal obstruction (OR: 11.47, 95% CI: 6.15–21.40, P<0.001). Similar results were found after excluding patients with COPD stage I as well as in the subgroup of never smokers. Conclusion: Air pollution was associated with severe nasal obstruction but not with COPD development. PMID:24804336

  14. Profiles of chronic obstructive lung disease: characteristics of stable chronic obstructive lung disease in different parts of Asia.

    PubMed

    Bhome, Arvind B; Brashier, Bill

    2014-03-01

    This review discusses the recent Asian chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) studies that characterize stable COPD, to understand its peculiarities. Asian research has improved our understanding of COPD. Household air pollution (HAP) is as important as smoking. Smoking in Asia is varied, and noncigarette smoking exposure remains under-investigated. Prevalence studies are often questionnaire based. Spirometry-based prevalence needs study. Burden of obstructive lung disease studies are getting published. Female COPD in Asia is predominantly HAP induced. The patients are underweight, milder 'Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease- class' and have compromised health-related quality of life often with depression and anxiety, but other comorbidities do occur and are getting defined.Nonsmokers' COPD is often associated with small airway thickening, less emphysema, but considerable morbidity. Asian COPD may have an eosinophilic component, but its significance is unknown. There is genetic predisposition among some Asians to COPD, and among some patients to lung cancer. The emerging pandemic of lifestyle diseases demands that metabolic and cardiovascular comorbidities in COPD need investigation. COPD in Asia is increasing and burdensome. It is affecting both sexes; is caused by HAP as much as smoking; causes poor quality of life and intense psychological burden; and is associated with unique patho-physiology, which will require research and action.

  15. DNA damage in children with obstructive adenotonsillar hypertrophy.

    PubMed

    Yoruk, Ozgur; Alp, Hakan; Yuksel, Sancak; Bakan, Ebubekir

    2014-11-01

    The objective of this prospective, controlled study was to evaluate oxidative DNA damage in children with obstructive adenotonsillar hypertrophy. This study included 30 patients with obstructive adenotonsillar hypertrophy (male/female ratio, 3:2; age range, 3-9 y) scheduled to undergo tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy and 25 control subjects of similar age and sex with no adenotonsillar disease or airway obstruction. Urine and blood samples were obtained from each child for 8-hydroxy 2-deoxyguanosine (8-OhdG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations. There were significant differences in leukocyte (3.28 [0.69/10] vs 0.70 [0.15/10] dG) and urine 8-OhdG (8.22 [2.27/10] vs 5.26 [1.3/10] dG) levels in patients with obstructive adenotonsillar hypertrophy and healthy subjects (P < 0.001 for both). Plasma (2.98 [1.31] vs 1.14 [0.64] μM) and urine (1.77 [0.84] vs 0.56 [0.32] μM) MDA levels were also different (P < 0.001 for both). There were positive correlations between 8-OhdG in leukocyte DNA and plasma MDA (r = 0.648, P < 0.001) and between levels of urine 8-OhdG excretion and urine MDA (r = 0.588, P < 0.001). The DNA damage in children with adenotonsillar hypertrophy should be kept in mind, but further studies must be done with larger patient groups.

  16. 49 CFR 236.382 - Switch obstruction test.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Switch obstruction test. 236.382 Section 236.382... and Tests § 236.382 Switch obstruction test. Switch obstruction test of lock rod of each power-operated switch and lock rod of each hand-operated switch equipped with switch-and-lock-movement shall be...

  17. 49 CFR 236.382 - Switch obstruction test.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 49 Transportation 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Switch obstruction test. 236.382 Section 236.382... and Tests § 236.382 Switch obstruction test. Switch obstruction test of lock rod of each power-operated switch and lock rod of each hand-operated switch equipped with switch-and-lock-movement shall be...

  18. 49 CFR 236.382 - Switch obstruction test.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... 49 Transportation 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Switch obstruction test. 236.382 Section 236.382... and Tests § 236.382 Switch obstruction test. Switch obstruction test of lock rod of each power-operated switch and lock rod of each hand-operated switch equipped with switch-and-lock-movement shall be...

  19. 49 CFR 236.382 - Switch obstruction test.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 49 Transportation 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Switch obstruction test. 236.382 Section 236.382... and Tests § 236.382 Switch obstruction test. Switch obstruction test of lock rod of each power-operated switch and lock rod of each hand-operated switch equipped with switch-and-lock-movement shall be...

  20. 49 CFR 236.382 - Switch obstruction test.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 49 Transportation 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Switch obstruction test. 236.382 Section 236.382... and Tests § 236.382 Switch obstruction test. Switch obstruction test of lock rod of each power-operated switch and lock rod of each hand-operated switch equipped with switch-and-lock-movement shall be...

  1. The pathway of obstructed labour as perceived by communities in south-western Uganda: a grounded theory study

    PubMed Central

    Kabakyenga, Jerome K.; Östergren, Per-Olof; Emmelin, Maria; Kyomuhendo, Phionah; Odberg Pettersson, Karen

    2011-01-01

    Background Obstructed labour is still a major cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in Uganda, where many women give birth at home alone or assisted by non-skilled birth attendants. Little is known of how the community view obstructed labour, and what actions they take in cases where this complication occurs. Objective The objective of the study was to explore community members’ understanding of and actions taken in cases of obstructed labour in south-western Uganda. Design Grounded theory (GT) was used to analyse data from 20 focus group discussions (FGDs), 10 with women and 10 with men, which were conducted in eight rural and two urban communities. Results A conceptual model based on the community members’ understanding of obstructed labour and actions taken in response is presented as a pathway initiated by women's desire to ‘protecting own integrity’ (core category). The pathway consisted of six other categories closely linked to the core category, namely: (1) ‘taking control of own birth process’; (2) ‘reaching the limit – failing to give birth’ (individual level); (3) ‘exhausting traditional options’; (4) ‘partner taking charge’; (5) ‘facing challenging referral conditions’ (community level); and finally (6) ‘enduring a non-responsive healthcare system’ (healthcare system level). Conclusions There is a need to understand and acknowledge women's reluctance to involve others during childbirth. However, the healthcare system should provide acceptable care and a functional referral system closer to the community, thus supporting the community's ability to seek timely care as a response to obstructed labour. Easy access to mobile phones may improve referral systems. Upgrading of infrastructure in the region requires a multi-sectoral approach. Testing of the conceptual model through a quantitative questionnaire is recommended. PMID:22216018

  2. Arterial stiffness in people with Type 2 diabetes and obstructive sleep apnoea.

    PubMed

    Hvelplund Kristiansen, M; Banghøj, A M; Laugesen, E; Tarnow, L

    2018-05-15

    To examine whether people with Type 2 diabetes with concurrent obstructive sleep apnoea have increased arterial stiffness as compared with people with Type 2 diabetes without obstructive sleep apnoea. In a study with a case-control design, 40 people with Type 2 diabetes and treatment-naïve moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnoea (Apnoea-Hypopnoea Index ≥15) and a control group of 31 people with Type 2 diabetes without obstructive sleep apnoea (Apnoea-Hypopnoea Index <5) were examined. Obstructive sleep apnoea status was evaluated using the ApneaLink ® + home-monitoring device (Resmed Inc., San Diego, CA, USA), providing the Apnoea-Hypopnoea Index scores. Arterial stiffness was assessed according to carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity using the Sphygmocor device and the oscillometric Mobil-O-Graph ® (I.E.M. GmbH, Stolberg, Germany). Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity was not significantly different between participants with Type 2 diabetes with obstructive sleep apnoea and those without obstructive sleep apnoea (10.7±2.2 m/s vs 10.3±2.1 m/s; P=0.513), whereas oscillometric pulse wave velocity was significantly higher in participants with Type 2 diabetes with obstructive sleep apnoea than in those without obstructive sleep apnoea (9.5±1.0 m/s vs 8.6±1.4 m/s; P=0.002). In multiple regression analysis, age (P=0.002), gender (men; P=0.018) and HbA 1c (P=0.027) were associated with carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity, and systolic blood pressure (P=0.004) and age (P<0.001) were associated with oscillometric pulse wave velocity. After adjustment, presence of obstructive sleep apnoea was not independently associated with pulse wave velocity whether assessed by tonometry or oscillometry. In conclusion, the present study did not find an age- and blood pressure-independent association between moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnoea and arterial stiffness in non-sleepy people with Type 2 diabetes. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT02482584). © 2018

  3. The Contribution of Small Airway Obstruction to the Pathogenesis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

    PubMed

    Hogg, James C; Paré, Peter D; Hackett, Tillie-Louise

    2017-04-01

    The hypothesis that the small conducting airways were the major site of obstruction to airflow in normal lungs was introduced by Rohrer in 1915 and prevailed until Weibel introduced a quantitative method of studying lung anatomy in 1963. Green repeated Rohrer's calculations using Weibels new data in 1965 and found that the smaller conducting airways offered very little resistance to airflow. This conflict was resolved by seminal experiments conducted by Macklem and Mead in 1967, which confirmed that a small proportion of the total lower airways resistance is attributable to small airways <2 mm in diameter. Shortly thereafter, Hogg, Macklem, and Thurlbeck used this technique to show that small airways become the major site of obstruction in lungs affected by emphysema. These and other observations led Mead to write a seminal editorial in 1970 that postulated the small airways are a silent zone within normal lungs where disease can accumulate over many years without being noticed. This review provides a progress report since the 1970s on methods for detecting chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the structural nature of small airways' disease, and the cellular and molecular mechanisms that are thought to underlie its pathogenesis. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

  4. Nocturnal cerebral hemodynamics in snorers and in patients with obstructive sleep apnea: a near-infrared spectroscopy study.

    PubMed

    Pizza, Fabio; Biallas, Martin; Wolf, Martin; Werth, Esther; Bassetti, Claudio L

    2010-02-01

    Sleep disordered breathing (SDB) of the obstructive type causes hemodynamic consequences, leading to an increased cerebrovascular risk. The severity of SDB at which detrimental circulatory consequences appear is matter of controversy. Aim of the present study is the investigation of cerebral hemodynamics in patients with SDB of variable severity using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). N/A. Sleep laboratory. Nineteen patients with SDB. N/A. Patients underwent nocturnal videopolysomnography (VPSG) coupled with cerebral NIRS. NIRS data were averaged for each patient, and a new method (integral) was applied to quantify cerebral hemodynamic alterations. Nocturnal VPSG disclosed various severities of SDB: snoring (7 patients, apnea-hypopnea index [AHI] = 2 +/- 2/h, range: 0.5-4.5); mild SDB (7 patients, AHI = 14 +/- 8/h, range: 6.3-28.6); and severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (5 patients, AHI = 79 +/- 20/h, range: 39.6-92.9). Relative changes of NIRS parameters were significantly larger during obstructive apneas (compared with hypopneas; mean deoxygenated hemoglobin [HHb] change of 0.72 +/- 0.23 and 0.13 +/- 0.08 micromol/L per sec, p value = 0.048) and in patients with severe SDB (as compared with patients with mild SDB and simple snorers; mean HHb change of 0.84 +/- 0.24, 0.02 +/- 0.09, and 0.2 +/- 0.08 micromol/L per sec, respectively, p value = 0.020). In this group, NIRS and concomitant changes in peripheral oxygen saturation correlated. The results of this study suggest that acute cerebral hemodynamic consequences of SDB lead to a failure of autoregulatory mechanisms with brain hypoxia only in the presence of frequent apneas (AHI > 30) and obstructive events.

  5. Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy: the Mayo Clinic experience.

    PubMed

    Kotkar, Kunal D; Said, Sameh M; Dearani, Joseph A; Schaff, Hartzell V

    2017-07-01

    Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a primary myocardial disease characterized by left ventricular hypertrophy in the absence of other etiologies. Clinical presentation may vary from asymptomatic to sudden cardiac death. Medical treatment is the first-line therapy for symptomatic patients. Extended left ventricular septal myectomy is the procedure of choice if medical treatment is unsuccessful or intolerable. More than 3,000 patients have had septal myectomy for HCM at the Mayo Clinic (MN, USA) from 1993 to 2016. Risk of hospital death after isolated septal myectomy for obstructive HCM is <1% and is similar to the risk of operation for elective mitral valve repair. Complications, such as complete heart block requiring permanent pacemaker, are uncommon (2%), although partial or complete left bundle branch block is a frequent finding on the postoperative ECG. Relief of left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction with septal myectomy dramatically improves symptoms and exercise capacity in symptomatic patients with obstructive HCM. More than 90% of severely symptomatic patients have improvement by at least two functional classes, and reduction of outflow gradients by myectomy decreases or eliminates symptoms of dyspnea, angina and/or syncope. Basal obstruction with systolic anterior motion (SAM) is treated by transaortic myectomy. The transapical approach was applied in 115 patients with obstructive midventricular and apical variants of HCM between 1993 and 2012. All patients with midventricular obstruction had gradient relief and none developed an apical aneurysm or ventricular septal defect. Recurrent obstruction after satisfactory myectomy was rare. Septal myectomy effectively and definitively relieves LVOT obstruction and cardiac symptoms in patients with obstructive HCM. In experienced centers, early mortality for isolated septal myectomy is less than 1%, and overall results are excellent and continue to improve in the current era.

  6. 33 CFR 67.20-5 - Obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Obstruction lights. 67.20-5... Obstruction lights. The obstruction lights shall be white lights as prescribed in Subpart 67.05 of this part. The lights shall be of sufficient candlepower as to be visible at a distance of at least five nautical...

  7. 33 CFR 67.20-5 - Obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Obstruction lights. 67.20-5... Obstruction lights. The obstruction lights shall be white lights as prescribed in Subpart 67.05 of this part. The lights shall be of sufficient candlepower as to be visible at a distance of at least five nautical...

  8. 33 CFR 67.20-5 - Obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Obstruction lights. 67.20-5... Obstruction lights. The obstruction lights shall be white lights as prescribed in Subpart 67.05 of this part. The lights shall be of sufficient candlepower as to be visible at a distance of at least five nautical...

  9. 33 CFR 67.20-5 - Obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Obstruction lights. 67.20-5... Obstruction lights. The obstruction lights shall be white lights as prescribed in Subpart 67.05 of this part. The lights shall be of sufficient candlepower as to be visible at a distance of at least five nautical...

  10. 33 CFR 67.20-5 - Obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Obstruction lights. 67.20-5... Obstruction lights. The obstruction lights shall be white lights as prescribed in Subpart 67.05 of this part. The lights shall be of sufficient candlepower as to be visible at a distance of at least five nautical...

  11. Inflammatory markers and obstructive sleep apnea in obese children: the NANOS study.

    PubMed

    Gileles-Hillel, Alex; Alonso-Álvarez, María Luz; Kheirandish-Gozal, Leila; Peris, Eduard; Cordero-Guevara, José Aurelio; Terán-Santos, Joaquin; Martinez, Mónica Gonzalez; Jurado-Luque, María José; Corral-Peñafiel, Jaime; Duran-Cantolla, Joaquin; Gozal, David

    2014-01-01

    Obesity and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA) are common coexisting conditions associated with a chronic low-grade inflammatory state underlying some of the cognitive, metabolic, and cardiovascular morbidities. To examine the levels of inflammatory markers in obese community-dwelling children with OSA, as compared to no-OSA, and their association with clinical and polysomnographic (PSG) variables. Methods. In this cross-sectional, prospective multicenter study, healthy obese Spanish children (ages 4-15 years) were randomly selected and underwent nocturnal PSG followed by a morning fasting blood draw. Plasma samples were assayed for multiple inflammatory markers. 204 children were enrolled in the study; 75 had OSA, defined by an obstructive respiratory disturbance index (RDI) of 3 events/hour total sleep time (TST). BMI, gender, and age were similar in OSA and no-OSA children. Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) levels were significantly higher in OSA children, with interleukin-6 concentrations being higher in moderate-severe OSA (i.e., AHI > 5/hrTST; P < 0.01), while MCP-1 levels were associated with more prolonged nocturnal hypercapnia (P < 0.001). IL-6, MCP-1, and PAI-1 are altered in the context of OSA among community-based obese children further reinforcing the proinflammatory effects of sleep disorders such as OSA. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01322763.

  12. Stenting in Malignant Biliary Obstruction.

    PubMed

    Almadi, Majid A; Barkun, Jeffrey S; Barkun, Alan N

    2015-10-01

    Decompression of the biliary system in patients with malignant biliary obstruction has been widely accepted and implemented as part of the care. Despite a wealth of literature, there remains a significant amount of uncertainty as to which approach would be most appropriate in different clinical settings. This review covers stenting of the biliary system in cases of resectable or palliative malignant biliary obstruction, potential candidates for biliary drainage, technical aspects of the procedure, as well as management of biliary stent dysfunction. Furthermore, periprocedural considerations including proper mapping of the location of obstruction and the use of antibiotics are addressed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Forced oscillometry track sites of airway obstruction in bronchial asthma.

    PubMed

    Hafez, Manal Refaat; Abu-Bakr, Samiha Mohamed; Mohamed, Alyaa Abdelnaser

    2015-07-01

    Spirometry is the most commonly used method for assessment of airway function in bronchial asthma but has several limitations. Forced oscillometry was developed as a patient-friendly test that requires passive cooperation of the patient breathing normally through the mouth. To compare spirometry with forced oscillometry to assess the role of forced oscillometry in the detection of the site of airway obstruction. This case-and-control study included 50 patients with known stable asthma and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects. All participants underwent spirometry (ratio of force expiration volume in 1 second to forced vital capacity, percentage predicted for forced expiration volume in 1 second, percentage predicted for forced vital capacity, percentage predicted for vital capacity, and forced expiratory flow at 25-75%) and forced oscillometry (resistance at 5, 20, and 5-20 Hz). By spirometry, all patients with asthma had airway obstruction, 8% had isolated small airway obstruction, 10% had isolated large airway obstruction, and 82% had large and small airway obstruction. By forced oscillometry, 12% had normal airway resistance, 50% had isolated small airway obstruction with frequency-dependent resistance, and 38% had large and small airway obstruction with frequency-independent resistance. There was significant difference between techniques for the detection of the site of airway obstruction (P = .012). Forced oscillometry indices were negatively correlated with spirometric indices (P < .01). Forced oscillometry as an effortless test, conducted during quiet tidal breathing, and does not alter airway caliber; thus, it can detect normal airway function better than spirometry in patients with asthma. Forced oscillometry detects isolated small airway obstruction better than spirometry in bronchial asthma. Copyright © 2015 American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials and prospective studies comparing covered and bare self-expandable metal stents for the treatment of malignant obstruction in the digestive tract.

    PubMed

    Yang, Zhiping; Wu, Qiong; Wang, Fang; Ye, Xiaofei; Qi, Xingshun; Fan, Daiming

    2013-01-01

    Self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) are widely used for the palliative treatment of malignant gastrointestinal obstruction. Our aim was to evaluate the evidence comparing covered and bare SEMS in the digestive tract using meta-analytical techniques. A literature search was performed using PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases for comparative studies assessing the two types of stents. The primary outcomes of interest were stent patency and patient survival; second outcomes included technical success, clinical success, tumor ingrowth, tumor overgrowth, and stent migration. A random-effects model was conducted. Pooled analysis was done separately based on the different segments of the digestive tract. Eleven studies (8 randomized controlled trials and 3 prospective cohort studies) including a total of 1376 patients were identified. Covered SEMS were equivalent to bare SEMS in terms of technical success, clinical success, stent patency (gastroduodenal obstruction: HR =0.87, 95% CI 0.53-1.42; colorectal obstruction: HR =0.89, 95% CI 0.18-4.45; biliary obstruction: HR =0.73, 95% CI 0.41-1.32) and survival rates (esophageal obstruction: HR =1.80, 95% CI 0.73-4.44; gastroduodenal obstruction: HR =0.83, 95% CI 0.55-1.26; biliary obstruction: HR =0.99, 95% CI 0.77-1.28), although bare stents were more prone to tumor ingrowth (esophageal obstruction: RR =0.10, 95% CI 0.01-0.77; gastroduodenal obstruction: RR =0.12, 95% CI 0.03-0.55; colorectal obstruction: RR =0.21, 95% CI 0.06-0.70; biliary obstruction: RR =0.21, 95% CI 0.06-0.69), whereas covered stents had the higher risk of stent migration (gastroduodenal obstruction: RR =5.01, 95% CI 1.53-16.43; colorectal obstruction: RR =11.70, 95% CI 2.84-48.27; biliary obstruction: RR =8.11, 95% CI 1.47-44.76) and tumor overgrowth (biliary obstruction: RR =2.03, 95% CI 1.08-3.78). Both covered and bare SEMS are comparable in efficacy for the palliative treatment of malignant obstruction in the digestive tract. Each type of

  15. 33 CFR 67.30-5 - Obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Obstruction lights. 67.30-5... Obstruction lights. (a) The obstruction lights shall be white or red lights as prescribed in Subpart 67.05 of... nautical mile 90 percent of the nights of the year. The lights shall be displayed at such height, above...

  16. 33 CFR 67.25-5 - Obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Obstruction lights. 67.25-5... Obstruction lights. (a) The obstruction lights shall be white lights as prescribed in Subpart 67.05 of this... miles 90 percent of the nights of the year. The lights shall be displayed not less than 20 feet above...

  17. 33 CFR 67.30-5 - Obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Obstruction lights. 67.30-5... Obstruction lights. (a) The obstruction lights shall be white or red lights as prescribed in Subpart 67.05 of... nautical mile 90 percent of the nights of the year. The lights shall be displayed at such height, above...

  18. 33 CFR 67.30-5 - Obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Obstruction lights. 67.30-5... Obstruction lights. (a) The obstruction lights shall be white or red lights as prescribed in Subpart 67.05 of... nautical mile 90 percent of the nights of the year. The lights shall be displayed at such height, above...

  19. 33 CFR 67.25-5 - Obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Obstruction lights. 67.25-5... Obstruction lights. (a) The obstruction lights shall be white lights as prescribed in Subpart 67.05 of this... miles 90 percent of the nights of the year. The lights shall be displayed not less than 20 feet above...

  20. 33 CFR 67.30-5 - Obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Obstruction lights. 67.30-5... Obstruction lights. (a) The obstruction lights shall be white or red lights as prescribed in Subpart 67.05 of... nautical mile 90 percent of the nights of the year. The lights shall be displayed at such height, above...

  1. 33 CFR 67.30-5 - Obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Obstruction lights. 67.30-5... Obstruction lights. (a) The obstruction lights shall be white or red lights as prescribed in Subpart 67.05 of... nautical mile 90 percent of the nights of the year. The lights shall be displayed at such height, above...

  2. 33 CFR 67.25-5 - Obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Obstruction lights. 67.25-5... Obstruction lights. (a) The obstruction lights shall be white lights as prescribed in Subpart 67.05 of this... miles 90 percent of the nights of the year. The lights shall be displayed not less than 20 feet above...

  3. Obstructive sleep apnea and neurodegenerative diseases: A bidirectional relation

    PubMed Central

    Bahia, Christianne Martins Corrêa da Silva; Pereira, João Santos

    2015-01-01

    Sleep disorders are common during the clinical course of the main neurodegenerative diseases. Among these disorders, obstructive sleep apnea has been extensively studied in the last decade and recent knowledge regarding its relationship with the neurodegenerative process points a bidirectional relationship. Neurodegenerative diseases can lead to functional changes in the respiratory system that facilitate the emergence of apnea. On the other hand, obstructive sleep apnea itself can lead to acceleration of neuronal death due to intermittent hypoxia. Considering that obstructive sleep apnea is a potentially treatable condition, its early identification and intervention could have a positive impact on the management of patients with neurodegenerative diseases. PMID:29213936

  4. Bowel obstruction complicated by ischemia: analysis of CT findings.

    PubMed

    Cox, Veronica L; Tahvildari, Ali M; Johnson, Benjamin; Wei, Wei; Jeffrey, R Brooke

    2018-06-01

    To analyze CT signs of bowel ischemia in patients with surgical bowel obstruction, and thereby improve CT diagnosis in this common clinical scenario. Surgical and histopathological findings were used as the reference standard. We retrospectively analyzed CT findings in patients brought to surgery for bowel obstruction over 13 years. Etiology of obstruction (adhesion, hernia, etc.) was recorded. Specific CT features of acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) were analyzed, including bowel wall thickening, mucosal hypoenhancement, and others. 173 cases were eligible for analysis. 21% of cases were positive for bowel ischemia. Volvulus, internal hernia, and closed-loop obstructions showed ischemia rates of 60%, 43%, and 43%; ischemia rate in obstruction from simple adhesion was 21%. Patients with bowel obstruction related to malignancy were never ischemic. Sensitivities and specificities for CT features predicting ischemia were calculated, with wall thickening, hypoenhancement, and pneumatosis showing high specificity for ischemia (86%-100%). Wall thickening, hypoenhancement, and pneumatosis are highly specific CT signs of ischemia in the setting of obstruction. None of the evaluated CT signs were found to be highly sensitive. Overall frequency of ischemia in surgical bowel obstruction is 21%, and 2-3 times that for complex obstructions (volvulus, closed loop, etc.). Obstructions related to malignancy virtually never become ischemic.

  5. Regional Reductions in Sleep Electroencephalography Power in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A High-Density EEG Study

    PubMed Central

    Jones, Stephanie G.; Riedner, Brady A.; Smith, Richard F.; Ferrarelli, Fabio; Tononi, Giulio; Davidson, Richard J.; Benca, Ruth M.

    2014-01-01

    Study Objectives: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with significant alterations in neuronal integrity resulting from either hypoxemia and/or sleep loss. A large body of imaging research supports reductions in gray matter volume, alterations in white matter integrity and resting state activity, and functional abnormalities in response to cognitive challenge in various brain regions in patients with OSA. In this study, we used high-density electroencephalography (hdEEG), a functional imaging tool that could potentially be used during routine clinical care, to examine the regional distribution of neural activity in a non-clinical sample of untreated men and women with moderate/severe OSA. Design: Sleep was recorded with 256-channel EEG in relatively healthy subjects with apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) > 10, as well as age-, sex-, and body mass index-matched controls selected from a research population initially recruited for a study on sleep and meditation. Setting: Sleep laboratory. Patients or Participants: Nine subjects with AHI > 10 and nine matched controls. Interventions: N/A. Measurements and Results: Topographic analysis of hdEEG data revealed a broadband reduction in EEG power in a circumscribed region overlying the parietal cortex in OSA subjects. This parietal reduction in neural activity was present, to some extent, across all frequency bands in all stages and episodes of nonrapid eye movement sleep. Conclusion: This investigation suggests that regional deficits in electroencephalography (EEG) power generation may be a useful clinical marker for neural disruption in obstructive sleep apnea, and that high-density EEG may have the sensitivity to detect pathological cortical changes early in the disease process. Citation: Jones SG; Riedner BA; Smith RF; Ferrarelli F; Tononi G; Davidson RJ; Benca RM. Regional reductions in sleep electroencephalography power in obstructive sleep apnea: a high-density EEG study. SLEEP 2014;37(2):399-407. PMID:24497668

  6. Severe post-renal acute kidney injury, post-obstructive diuresis and renal recovery.

    PubMed

    Hamdi, Aïcha; Hajage, David; Van Glabeke, Emmanuel; Belenfant, Xavier; Vincent, François; Gonzalez, Frédéric; Ciroldi, Magali; Obadia, Edouard; Chelha, Riad; Pallot, Jean-Louis; Das, Vincent

    2012-12-01

    Study Type--Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4. What's known on the subject? and What does the study add? The pathophysiology of post-renal acute kidney injury (PR-AKI), i.e. caused by urinary tract obstruction, has been extensively studied in animal models but clinical studies on this subject are outdated, and/or have focused on the mechanisms of 'post-obstructive diuresis' (POD), a potentially life-threatening polyuria that can develop after the release of obstruction. In severe PR-AKI, the risk of occurrence of POD is high. POD occurrence predicts renal recovery without the persistence of severe chronic kidney failure. In the present study, the occurrence of POD and the persistence of chronic renal sequelae could be predicted early from clinical variables at admission before the release of obstruction. • To identify predictors of post-obstructive diuresis (POD) occurrence or severe chronic renal failure (CRF) persistence after the release of urinary tract obstruction in the setting of post-renal acute kidney injury (PR-AKI). • Bi-centre retrospective observational study of all patients with PR-AKI treated in two intensive care units (ICUs) from 1998 to 2010. • Clinical, biological and imaging characteristics on admission and after the release of obstruction were analysed with univariate and, if possible, multivariate analysis to search for predictors of (i) occurrence of POD (diuresis >4 L/day) after the release of obstruction; (ii) persistence of severe CRF (estimated glomerular filtration rate <30 mL/min/1.73 m(2), including end-stage CRF) at 3 months. • On admission, median (range) serum creatinine was 866 (247-3119) µmol/L. • POD occurred in 34 (63%) of the 54 analysable patients. On admission, higher serum creatinine (Odds ratio [OR] 1.002 per 1 µmol/L, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.000-1.004, P = 0.004), higher serum bicarbonate (OR 1.36 per 1 mmol/L, 95% CI 1.13-1.65, P < 0.001), and urinary retention (OR 6.96, 95% CI 1.34-36.23, P

  7. Intestinal obstruction

    MedlinePlus

    ... of the bowel may be due to: A mechanical cause, which means something is in the way ... lung disease Use of certain medicines, especially narcotics Mechanical causes of intestinal obstruction may include: Adhesions or ...

  8. Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Cluster Analysis at Time of Diagnosis

    PubMed Central

    Grillet, Yves; Richard, Philippe; Stach, Bruno; Vivodtzev, Isabelle; Timsit, Jean-Francois; Lévy, Patrick; Tamisier, Renaud; Pépin, Jean-Louis

    2016-01-01

    Background The classification of obstructive sleep apnea is on the basis of sleep study criteria that may not adequately capture disease heterogeneity. Improved phenotyping may improve prognosis prediction and help select therapeutic strategies. Objectives: This study used cluster analysis to investigate the clinical clusters of obstructive sleep apnea. Methods An ascending hierarchical cluster analysis was performed on baseline symptoms, physical examination, risk factor exposure and co-morbidities from 18,263 participants in the OSFP (French national registry of sleep apnea). The probability for criteria to be associated with a given cluster was assessed using odds ratios, determined by univariate logistic regression. Results: Six clusters were identified, in which patients varied considerably in age, sex, symptoms, obesity, co-morbidities and environmental risk factors. The main significant differences between clusters were minimally symptomatic versus sleepy obstructive sleep apnea patients, lean versus obese, and among obese patients different combinations of co-morbidities and environmental risk factors. Conclusions Our cluster analysis identified six distinct clusters of obstructive sleep apnea. Our findings underscore the high degree of heterogeneity that exists within obstructive sleep apnea patients regarding clinical presentation, risk factors and consequences. This may help in both research and clinical practice for validating new prevention programs, in diagnosis and in decisions regarding therapeutic strategies. PMID:27314230

  9. Value of gastrografin in adhesive small bowel obstruction after unsuccessful conservative treatment: a prospective evaluation.

    PubMed

    Choi, Hok-Kwok; Law, Wai-Lun; Ho, Judy-Wai-Chu; Chu, Kin-Wah

    2005-06-28

    Gastrografin is a hyperosmolar water-soluble contrast medium. Besides its predictive value for the need for operative treatment, a potential therapeutic role of this agent in adhesive small bowel obstruction has been suggested. This study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of gastrografin in adhesive small bowel obstruction when conservative treatment failed. Patients with adhesive small bowel obstruction were given trial conservative treatment unless there was fear of bowel strangulation. Those responded in the initial 48 h had conservative treatment continued. Patients who showed no improvement in the initial 48 h were given 100 mL of gastrografin through nasogastric tube followed by serial abdominal radiographs. Patients with the contrast appeared in large bowel within 24 h were regarded as having partial obstruction and conservative treatment was continued. Patients in which the contrast failed to reach large bowel within 24 h were considered to have complete obstruction and laparotomy was performed. Two hundred and twelve patients with 245 episodes of adhesive obstruction were included. Fifteen patients were operated on soon after admission due to fear of strangulation. One hundred and eighty-six episodes of obstruction showed improvement in the initial 48 h and conservative treatment was continued. Two patients had subsequent operations because of persistent obstruction. Forty-four episodes of obstruction showed no improvement within 48 h and gastrografin was administered. Seven patients underwent complete obstruction surgery. Partial obstruction was demonstrated in 37 other cases, obstruction resolved subsequently in all of them except one patient who required laparotomy because of persistent obstruction. The overall operative rate in this study was 10%. There was no complication that could be attributed to the use of gastrografin. The use of gastrografin in adhesive small bowel obstruction after unsuccessful conservative treatment is safe and reduces the

  10. Value of gastrografin in adhesive small bowel obstruction after unsuccessful conservative treatment: A prospective evaluation

    PubMed Central

    Choi, Hok-Kwok; Law, Wai-Lun; Ho, Judy Wai-Chu; Chu, Kin-Wah

    2005-01-01

    AIM: Gastrografin is a hyperosmolar water-soluble contrast medium. Besides its predictive value for the need for operative treatment, a potential therapeutic role of this agent in adhesive small bowel obstruction has been suggested. This study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of gastrografin in adhesive small bowel obstruction when conservative treatment failed. METHODS: Patients with adhesive small bowel obstruction were given trial conservative treatment unless there was fear of bowel strangulation. Those responded in the initial 48 h had conservative treatment continued. Patients who showed no improvement in the initial 48 h were given 100 mL of gastrografin through nasogastric tube followed by serial abdominal radiographs. Patients with the contrast appeared in large bowel within 24 h were regarded as having partial obstruction and conservative treatment was continued. Patients in which the contrast failed to reach large bowel within 24 h were considered to have complete obstruction and laparotomy was performed. RESULTS: Two hundred and twelve patients with 245 episodes of adhesive obstruction were included. Fifteen patients were operated on soon after admission due to fear of strangulation. One hundred and eighty-six episodes of obstruction showed improvement in the initial 48 h and conservative treatment was continued. Two patients had subsequent operations because of persistent obstruction. Forty-four episodes of obstruction showed no improvement within 48 h and gastrografin was administered. Seven patients underwent complete obstruction surgery. Partial obstruction was demonstrated in 37 other cases, obstruction resolved subsequently in all of them except one patient who required laparotomy because of persistent obstruction. The overall operative rate in this study was 10%. There was no complication that could be attributed to the use of gastrografin. CONCLUSION: The use of gastrografin in adhesive small bowel obstruction after unsuccessful

  11. Arginase activity and nitric oxide levels in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome

    PubMed Central

    Yüksel, Meral; Okur, Hacer Kuzu; Pelin, Zerrin; Öğünç, Ayliz Velioğlu; Öztürk, Levent

    2014-01-01

    OBJECTIVE: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is characterized by repetitive obstruction of the upper airways, and it is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. There have been several studies demonstrating low levels of nitric oxide in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome compared with healthy controls. In this study, we hypothesized that reduced nitric oxide levels would result in high arginase activity. Arginase reacts with L-arginine and produces urea and L-ornithine, whereas L-arginine is a substrate for nitric oxide synthase, which produces nitric oxide. METHODS: The study group consisted of 51 obstructive sleep apnea syndrome patients (M/F: 43/8; mean age 49±10 years of age) and 15 healthy control subjects (M/F: 13/3; mean age 46±14 years of age). Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome patients were divided into two subgroups based on the presence or absence of cardiovascular disease. Nitric oxide levels and arginase activity were measured via an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of serum samples. RESULTS: Serum nitric oxide levels in the control subjects were higher than in the obstructive sleep apnea patients with and without cardiovascular diseases (p<0.05). Arginase activity was significantly higher (p<0.01) in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome patients without cardiovascular diseases compared with the control group. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome patients with cardiovascular diseases had higher arginase activity than the controls (p<0.001) and the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome patients without cardiovascular diseases (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Low nitric oxide levels are associated with high arginase activity. The mechanism of nitric oxide depletion in sleep apnea patients suggests that increased arginase activity might reduce the substrate availability of nitric oxide synthase and thus could reduce nitric oxide levels. PMID:24714832

  12. Artificial intelligence in diagnosis of obstructive lung disease: current status and future potential.

    PubMed

    Das, Nilakash; Topalovic, Marko; Janssens, Wim

    2018-03-01

    The application of artificial intelligence in the diagnosis of obstructive lung diseases is an exciting phenomenon. Artificial intelligence algorithms work by finding patterns in data obtained from diagnostic tests, which can be used to predict clinical outcomes or to detect obstructive phenotypes. The purpose of this review is to describe the latest trends and to discuss the future potential of artificial intelligence in the diagnosis of obstructive lung diseases. Machine learning has been successfully used in automated interpretation of pulmonary function tests for differential diagnosis of obstructive lung diseases. Deep learning models such as convolutional neural network are state-of-the art for obstructive pattern recognition in computed tomography. Machine learning has also been applied in other diagnostic approaches such as forced oscillation test, breath analysis, lung sound analysis and telemedicine with promising results in small-scale studies. Overall, the application of artificial intelligence has produced encouraging results in the diagnosis of obstructive lung diseases. However, large-scale studies are still required to validate current findings and to boost its adoption by the medical community.

  13. Congenital Urinary Tract Obstruction: The Long View

    PubMed Central

    Chevalier, Robert L.

    2015-01-01

    Maldevelopment of the collecting system resulting in urinary tract obstruction (UTO) is the leading identifiable cause of CKD in children. Specific etiologies are unknown; most cases are suspected by discovering hydronephrosis on prenatal ultrasonography. Congenital UTO can reduce nephron number and cause bladder dysfunction, which contribute to ongoing injury. Severe UTO can impair kidney growth in utero, and animal models of unilateral ureteral obstruction show that ischemia and oxidative stress cause proximal tubular cell death, with later development of interstitial fibrosis. Congenital obstructive nephropathy therefore results from combined developmental and obstructive renal injury. Due to inadequacy of available biomarkers, criteria for surgical correction of upper tract obstruction are poorly established. Lower tract obstruction requires fetal or immediate postnatal intervention, and the rate of progression of CKD is highly variable. New biomarkers based on proteomics and determination of glomerular number by MRI should improve future care. Angiotensin inhibitors have not been effective in slowing progression, although avoidance of nephrotoxins and timely treatment of hypertension are important. Because congenital UTO begins in fetal life, smooth transfer of care from perinatologist to pediatric and adult urology and nephrology teams should optimize quality of life and ultimate outcomes for these patients. PMID:26088076

  14. MR pyelography and conventional MR imaging in urinary tract obstruction.

    PubMed

    Catalano, C; Pavone, P; Laghi, A; Scipioni, A; Panebianco, V; Brillo, R; Fraioli, F; Passariello, R

    1999-03-01

    To evaluate the possible role of MR imaging in the assessment of patients with urinary tract obstruction by combining conventional MR imaging and MR pyelography (MRP). Forty-three patients with dilated upper urinary tract were studied with a high gradient strength 0.5 T magnet. Respiratory compensated T1-weighted, SE and T2-weighted TSE sequences were acquired in all patients. MRP images were obtained by using a respiratory compensated 3D T2-weighted TSE sequence. MRP images were reconstructed with a MIP algorithm. In all cases, urography and/or ascending pyelography were also performed. Images were independently evaluated by two radiologists. The dilated tract ureter and the level of the obstruction could be correctly demonstrated in all cases. The cause of the obstruction was correctly demonstrated by examiner 1 in 90% and by examiner 2 in 88%. The interobserver agreement was high with a kappa-value of 0.96. In cases of obstructive hydroureteronephrosis MR imaging, combining MRP and conventional sequences, can be proposed as an accurate technique in the assessment of level and cause of obstruction.

  15. Relationship between Dysphagia and Exacerbations in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Literature Review

    PubMed Central

    Steidl, Eduardo; Ribeiro, Carla Simone; Gonçalves, Bruna Franciele; Fernandes, Natália; Antunes, Vívian; Mancopes, Renata

    2014-01-01

    Introduction The literature presents studies correlating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to dysphagia and suggesting that the aspiration laryngeal phenomenon related to changes in the pharyngeal phase contributes significantly to the exacerbation of symptoms of lung disease. Objectives This study aimed to conduct a literature review to identify the relation between dysphagia and exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Data Synthesis We found 21 studies and included 19 in this review. The few studies that related to the subject agreed that the presence of dysphagia, due to lack of coordination between swallowing and breathing, may be one of the triggering factors of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbation. Conclusions The review noted that there is a relationship between dysphagia and exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, identified by studies demonstrating that the difficulties associated with swallowing may lead to exacerbation of the disease. There was difficulty in comparing studies by their methodological differences. More research is needed to clarify the relationship between dysphagia and exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, making it possible to develop multiprofessional treatment strategies for these patients, catered to specific needs due to the systemic manifestations of the disease. PMID:25992155

  16. Eucapnic voluntary hyperventilation in diagnosing exercise-induced laryngeal obstructions.

    PubMed

    Christensen, Pernille M; Rasmussen, Niels

    2013-11-01

    Exercise-induced laryngeal obstructions (EILOs) cause exercise-related respiratory symptoms (ERRS) and are important differential diagnoses to exercise-induced asthma. The diagnostic method for EILOs includes provocation to induce the obstruction followed by a verification of the obstruction and the degree thereof. The objective of the present study was to examine if a eucapnic voluntary hyperventilation (EVH) test could induce laryngeal obstructions laryngoscopically identical in subtypes and development as seen during an exercise test. EVH and exercise testing with continuous laryngoscopy were performed during a screening of two national athletic teams (n = 67). The laryngoscopic recordings were examined for usability, abnormalities and maximal supraglottic and glottic obstruction using two currently available methods (Eilomea and CLE-score). The participants were asked questions on ERRS, and whether the symptoms experienced during each provocation matched those experienced during regular training. A total of 39 completed both tests. There were no significant differences in subtypes and development thereof, the experience of symptoms, and specificity and sensitivity between the methods. Significantly more recordings obtained during the exercise test were usable for evaluation primarily due to resilient mucus on the tip of the fiber-laryngoscope in the EVH test. Only recordings of six athletes from both provocation methods were usable for evaluation using the Eilomea method (high-quality demand). Amongst these, a linear correlation was found for the glottic obstruction. EVH tests can induce EILOs. However, the present test protocol needs adjustments to secure better visualisation of the larynx during provocation.

  17. Avoiding Obstructions in Aiming a High-Gain Antenna

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Edmonds, Karina

    2006-01-01

    The High Gain Antenna Pointing and Obstruction Avoidance software performs computations for pointing a Mars Rover high-gain antenna for communication with Earth while (1) avoiding line-of-sight obstructions (the Martian terrain and other parts of the Rover) that would block communication and (2) taking account of limits in ranges of motion of antenna gimbals and of kinematic singularities in gimbal mechanisms. The software uses simplified geometric models of obstructions and of the trajectory of the Earth in the Martian sky(see figure). It treats all obstructions according to a generalized approach, computing and continually updating the time remaining before interception of each obstruction. In cases in which the gimbal-mechanism design allows two aiming solutions, the algorithm chooses the solution that provides the longest obstruction-free Earth-tracking time. If the communication session continues until an obstruction is encountered in the current pointing solution and the other solution is now unobstructed, then the algorithm automatically switches to the other position. This software also notifies communication- managing software to cease transmission during the switch to the unobstructed position, resuming it when the switch is complete.

  18. Bile Cast Nephropathy Caused by Obstructive Cholestasis.

    PubMed

    Aniort, Julien; Poyet, Anaïs; Kemeny, Jean-Louis; Philipponnet, Carole; Heng, Anne-Elisabeth

    2017-01-01

    Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a major complication in patients with liver disease. Although hepatorenal syndrome is frequently involved, bile cast nephropathy, characterized by tubular bile cast formation, has been scarcely described in the setting of severe liver failure. Few renal histology studies are available in these patients. We describe a case of bile cast nephropathy in a patient with obstructive cholestasis caused by stones in the common bile duct. The kidney biopsy confirmed this diagnosis, with several green casts in tubular lumens, tubular injury, and bilirubin composition of the tubular casts with Hall stain. The patient had no confounding cause of kidney failure, and complete kidney recovery followed removal of the bile duct obstruction. This case shows that severe cholestasis is sufficient to cause AKI, and that AKI can be reversible after treatment of the biliary obstruction. Copyright © 2016 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. 36 CFR 4.13 - Obstructing traffic.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... interfere with the normal flow of traffic. ... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Obstructing traffic. 4.13... VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC SAFETY § 4.13 Obstructing traffic. The following are prohibited: (a) Stopping or...

  20. 36 CFR 4.13 - Obstructing traffic.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... interfere with the normal flow of traffic. ... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Obstructing traffic. 4.13... VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC SAFETY § 4.13 Obstructing traffic. The following are prohibited: (a) Stopping or...

  1. 36 CFR 4.13 - Obstructing traffic.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... interfere with the normal flow of traffic. ... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Obstructing traffic. 4.13... VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC SAFETY § 4.13 Obstructing traffic. The following are prohibited: (a) Stopping or...

  2. Endoscopic stenting versus operative gastrojejunostomy for malignant gastric outlet obstruction.

    PubMed

    Chandrasegaram, Manju D; Eslick, Guy D; Mansfield, Clare O; Liem, Han; Richardson, Mark; Ahmed, Sulman; Cox, Michael R

    2012-02-01

    Malignant gastric outlet obstruction represents a terminal stage in pancreatic cancer. Between 5% and 25% of patients with pancreatic cancer ultimately experience malignant gastric outlet obstruction. The aim in palliating patients with malignant gastric outlet obstruction is to reestablish an oral intake by restoring gastrointestinal continuity. This ultimately improves their quality of life in the advanced stages of cancer. The main drawback to operative bypass is the high incidence of delayed gastric emptying, particularly in this group of patients with symptomatic obstruction. This study aimed to compare surgical gastrojejunostomy and endoscopic stenting in palliation of malignant gastric outlet obstruction, acknowledging the diversity and heterogeneity of patients with this presentation. This retrospective study investigated patients treated for malignant gastric outlet obstruction from December 1998 to November 2008 at Nepean Hospital, Sydney, Australia. Endoscopic duodenal stenting was performed under fluoroscopic guidance for placement of the stent. The operative patients underwent open surgical gastrojejunostomy. The outcomes assessed included time to diet, hospital length of stay (LOS), biliary drainage procedures, morbidity, and mortality. Of the 45 participants in this study, 26 underwent duodenal stenting and 19 had operative bypass. Comparing the stenting and operative patients, the median time to fluid intake was respectively 0 vs. 7 days (P < 0.001), and the time to intake of solids was 2 vs. 9 days (P = 0.004). The median total LOS was shorter in the stenting group (11 vs. 25 days; P < 0.001), as was the median postprocedure LOS (5 vs. 10 days; P = 0.07). Endoscopic stenting is preferable to operative gastrojejunostomy in terms of shorter LOS, faster return to fluids and solids, and reduced morbidity and in-hospital mortality for patients with a limited life span.

  3. Protocol for monitoring standing crop in grasslands using visual obstruction

    Treesearch

    Lakhdar Benkobi; Daniel W. Uresk; Greg Schenbeck; Rudy M. King

    2000-01-01

    Assessment of standing crop on grasslands using a visual obstruction technique provides valuable information to help plan livestock grazing management and indicate the status of wildlife habitat. The objectives of this study were to: (1) develop a simple regression model using easily measured visual obstruction to estimate standing crop on sandy lowland range sites in...

  4. Prevalence, causes and management outcome of intestinal obstruction in Adama Hospital, Ethiopia.

    PubMed

    Soressa, Urgessa; Mamo, Abebe; Hiko, Desta; Fentahun, Netsanet

    2016-06-04

    In Africa, acute intestinal obstruction accounts for a great proportion of morbidity and mortality. Ethiopia is one of the countries where intestinal obstruction is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. This study aims to determine prevalence, causes and management outcome of intestinal obstruction in Adama Hospital in Oromia region, Ethiopia. A hospital based cross-sectional study design was used. Data covering the past three years were collected from hospital medical records of sampled patients. The collected data were checked for any inconsistency, coded and entered into SPSS version 16.0 for data processing and analysis. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were used. Statistical significance was based on confidence interval (CI) of 95 % at a p-value of < 0.05. 262 patients were admitted with intestinal obstruction. The prevalence of intestinal obstruction was 21.8 % and 4.8 % among patients admitted for acute abdomen surgery and total surgical admissions, respectively. The mortality rate was 2.5 % (6 of 262). The most common cause of small bowel obstruction was intussusceptions in 48 patients (30.9 %), followed by small bowel volvulus in 47 patients (30.3 %). Large bowel obstruction was caused by sigmoid volvulus in 60 patients (69.0 %) followed by colonic tumor in 12 patients (13.8 %). After controlling for possible confounding factors, the major predictors of management outcome of intestinal obstruction were: duration of illness before surgical intervention (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.49, 95 % CI: 0.25-0.97); intra-operative findings [Viable small bowel volvulus (SBV) (AOR = 0.08, 95 % CI: 0.01-0.95) and viable (AOR = 0.17, 95 % CI: 0.03-0.88)]; completion of intra-operative procedures (bowel resection & anastomosis (AOR = 3.05, 95 % CI: 1.04-8.94); and length of hospital stay (AOR = 0.05, 95 % CI: 0.01-0.16). Small bowel obstruction was more prevalent than large bowel obstruction. Intussusceptions and

  5. Obstructive apnea during sleep is associated with peripheral vasoconstriction

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Imadojemu, Virginia A.; Gleeson, Kevin; Gray, Kristen S.; Sinoway, Lawrence I.; Leuenberger, Urs A.

    2002-01-01

    Obstructive apnea during sleep is associated with a substantial transient blood pressure elevation. The mechanism of this pressor response is unclear. In this study we measured muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA), mean arterial pressure (Psa), and mean limb blood velocity as an index of blood flow (MBV, Doppler) and calculated changes in limb vascular resistance during and after apneas during both wakefulness and sleep in patients with the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Immediately postapnea during sleep Psa increased significantly compared with the earlier stages of apnea and this was preceded by a rise of MSNA (n = 5). In contrast to blood pressure, MBV remained unchanged. Because resistance = blood pressure/blood flow, limb vascular resistance increased by 29 +/- 8% from late apnea to postapnea (n = 7, p < 0.002). Voluntary breathhold maneuvers during room air exposure evoked similar responses (n = 10). Supplemental oxygen administered via nonrebreather face mask attenuated the MSNA and vasoconstrictor responses to obstructive (n = 2) and voluntary apneas (n = 10). Our data suggest that obstructive apneas in patients with the obstructive apnea syndrome are accompanied by transient limb vasoconstriction. This vasoconstrictor response appears to be, at least in part, mediated by the sympathetic nervous system and may be linked to hypoxia.

  6. Managing central venous obstruction in cystic fibrosis recipients--lung transplant considerations.

    PubMed

    Otani, Shinji; Westall, Glen P; Levvey, Bronwyn J; Marasco, Silvana; Lyon, Stuart; Snell, Gregory I

    2015-03-01

    The superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients is rare, but presents unique challenges in the peri-transplant period. We reviewed our experience of SVC syndrome in CF recipients undergoing lung transplantation. This is a retrospective case series from a single center chart-review. SVC obstruction is defined by clinically significant stenosis or obstruction of the SVC as detected by contrast studies. We identified SVC obstruction in seven post-transplant cases and one pre-transplant case. All eight patients had previous or current history of indwelling central venous catheters. Three recipients experienced operative complications. Five of the seven recipients suffered at least one episode of post-operative SVC obstruction or bleeding despite prophylactic anticoagulation. At a median follow-up of 29 months, six of the seven patients transplanted are well. Strategies are available to minimize the risks of intra/peri-operative acute life-threatening SVC obstruction in CF patients. Copyright © 2014 European Cystic Fibrosis Society. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Management of large bowel obstruction with self-expanding metal stents. A multicentre retrospective study of factors determining outcome.

    PubMed

    Geraghty, J; Sarkar, S; Cox, T; Lal, S; Willert, R; Ramesh, J; Bodger, K; Carlson, G L

    2014-06-01

    UK cancer guidelines recommend patients with colonic obstruction due to suspected malignancy be considered for stenting with a self-expanding metal stent (SEMS). Considerable variation in practice exists due to a lack of expertise, technical difficulties and other, as yet ill-defined features. This retrospective multi-centre study aims to determine the outcome following colonic stenting for large bowel obstruction and identify factors associated with successful intervention. A regional programme of colonic stenting for large bowel obstruction, in five UK centres from 2005 to 2010 was evaluated for outcome including technical and clinical success, survival, complications and reoperation. A SEMS was inserted in 334 patients, including 264 (79.0%) for palliation and 52 (15.6%) as a bridge to surgery. Technical success was achieved in 292 (87.4%) patients, with 46 (13.8%) experiencing a complication or technical failure. Reoperation was required in 39 (14.8%) patients stented for palliation of colorectal cancer of whom 16 (6.1%) subsequently required a colostomy. A one-stage primary anastomosis was achieved in 35 (67.3%) of the 52 patients undergoing stenting as a bridge to resection. Technical success did not vary by indication or site of obstruction (P = 0.60) but was higher for operators who had performed more than 10 procedures (OR 3.34, P = 0.001). ASA grade ≥3 predicted a worse clinical outcome (OR 0.43, P = 0.04). The through-the-scope (TTS) endoscopy technique was more successful than radiological placement alone (90.3% vs 74.8%, P < 0.001). Experienced operators using a TTS technique achieved a better outcome for the emergency management of large bowel obstruction. Older, sicker patients and those with extracolonic and benign strictures fared less well. Colorectal Disease © 2014 The Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland.

  8. Fibroepithelial ureteral polyps presenting as ureteropelvic obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Cusano, Antonio; Abarzua-Cabezas, Fernando; Kesler, Stuart

    2014-01-01

    A 57-year-old woman presented with bilateral abdominal pain and flank discomfort. Imaging studies, consisting of CT scan, diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid renal scan with Lasix and a retrograde pyelogram, indicated an obstruction at the uteropelvic junction (UPJ), possibly due to fibroepithelial polyps within the ureter. A robotic pyeloplasty revealed a ureteral diverticulum and a thin, still-attached fibroepithelial polyp of approximately 2 cm in length. The patient tolerated the procedure well and was discharged one day postpyeloplasty with no reported complications. This rare clinical scenario should be considered when formulating a diagnosis for a UPJ obstruction. PMID:24759168

  9. A brief review of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

    PubMed

    Hogg, James C

    2012-01-01

    A recent study, based on a combination of multidetector computed tomography scanning of an intact specimen with microcomputed tomography and histological analysis of lung tissue samples, reported that the number of terminal bronchioles were reduced from approximately 44,500/lung pair in control (donor) lungs to approximately 4800/lung pair in lungs donated by individuals with very severe (Global initiative for chronic Obstructive Lung Disease stage 4) chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) treated by lung transplantation. The present short review discusses the hypothesis that a rapid rate of terminal bronchiolar destruction causes the rapid decline in lung function leading to advanced COPD. With respect to why the terminal bronchioles are targeted for destruction, the postulated mechanisms of this destruction and the possibility that new treatments are able to either prevent or reverse the underlying cause of airway obstruction in COPD are addressed.

  10. 33 CFR 67.05-5 - Multiple obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Multiple obstruction lights. 67... for Lights § 67.05-5 Multiple obstruction lights. When more than one obstruction light is required by this part to mark a structure, all such lights shall be operated to flash in unison. ...

  11. 33 CFR 67.05-5 - Multiple obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Multiple obstruction lights. 67... for Lights § 67.05-5 Multiple obstruction lights. When more than one obstruction light is required by this part to mark a structure, all such lights shall be operated to flash in unison. ...

  12. 33 CFR 67.05-5 - Multiple obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Multiple obstruction lights. 67... for Lights § 67.05-5 Multiple obstruction lights. When more than one obstruction light is required by this part to mark a structure, all such lights shall be operated to flash in unison. ...

  13. 33 CFR 67.05-5 - Multiple obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Multiple obstruction lights. 67... for Lights § 67.05-5 Multiple obstruction lights. When more than one obstruction light is required by this part to mark a structure, all such lights shall be operated to flash in unison. ...

  14. 33 CFR 67.05-5 - Multiple obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Multiple obstruction lights. 67... for Lights § 67.05-5 Multiple obstruction lights. When more than one obstruction light is required by this part to mark a structure, all such lights shall be operated to flash in unison. ...

  15. Overview of proteomics studies in obstructive sleep apnea

    PubMed Central

    Feliciano, Amélia; Torres, Vukosava Milic; Vaz, Fátima; Carvalho, Ana Sofia; Matthiesen, Rune; Pinto, Paula; Malhotra, Atul; Bárbara, Cristina; Penque, Deborah

    2015-01-01

    Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is an underdiagnosed common public health concern causing deleterious effects on metabolic and cardiovascular health. Although much has been learned regarding the pathophysiology and consequences of OSA in the past decades, the molecular mechanisms associated with such processes remain poorly defined. The advanced high-throughput proteomics-based technologies have become a fundamental approach for identifying novel disease mediators as potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets for many diseases, including OSA. Here, we briefly review OSA pathophysiology and the technological advances in proteomics and the first results of its application to address critical issues in the OSA field. PMID:25770042

  16. Dynamic upper airway changes during sleep in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

    PubMed

    Chuang, Li-Pang; Chen, Ning-Hung; Li, Hsueh-Yu; Lin, Shih-Wei; Chou, Yu-Ting; Wang, Chao-Jan; Liao, Yu-Fang; Tsai, Ying-Huang

    2009-12-01

    The narrowing pattern of the upper airway in obstructive sleep apnea patients may be different in sleep as compared with awake. Three different types of obstruction were observed in these subjects during drug-induced sleep. The different obstruction pattern during drug-induced sleep suggests that different strategies should be selected in upper airway management. To identify the sites of narrowing and evaluate dynamic upper airway movement in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) while awake and asleep. This study included 10 patients treated for OSAS between August 2003 and June 2004. Overnight polysomnography was performed on all patients. Parameters including gender, age, neck circumference, and body mass index were recorded. Ultra-fast MRI during awake and drug-induced sleep was arranged to evaluate the dynamic motion of the upper airway. The narrowing pattern of the upper airway during awake differed from the narrowing pattern during drug-induced sleep in 3 of 10 subjects. Three different types, palatal obstruction, combined upper and lower pharyngeal obstruction, and circumferential obstruction of the upper airway, were observed in these patients during drug-induced sleep.

  17. Accuracy of abdominal auscultation for bowel obstruction.

    PubMed

    Breum, Birger Michael; Rud, Bo; Kirkegaard, Thomas; Nordentoft, Tyge

    2015-09-14

    To investigate the accuracy and inter-observer variation of bowel sound assessment in patients with clinically suspected bowel obstruction. Bowel sounds were recorded in patients with suspected bowel obstruction using a Littmann(®) Electronic Stethoscope. The recordings were processed to yield 25-s sound sequences in random order on PCs. Observers, recruited from doctors within the department, classified the sound sequences as either normal or pathological. The reference tests for bowel obstruction were intraoperative and endoscopic findings and clinical follow up. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated for each observer and compared between junior and senior doctors. Interobserver variation was measured using the Kappa statistic. Bowel sound sequences from 98 patients were assessed by 53 (33 junior and 20 senior) doctors. Laparotomy was performed in 47 patients, 35 of whom had bowel obstruction. Two patients underwent colorectal stenting due to large bowel obstruction. The median sensitivity and specificity was 0.42 (range: 0.19-0.64) and 0.78 (range: 0.35-0.98), respectively. There was no significant difference in accuracy between junior and senior doctors. The median frequency with which doctors classified bowel sounds as abnormal did not differ significantly between patients with and without bowel obstruction (26% vs 23%, P = 0.08). The 53 doctors made up 1378 unique pairs and the median Kappa value was 0.29 (range: -0.15-0.66). Accuracy and inter-observer agreement was generally low. Clinical decisions in patients with possible bowel obstruction should not be based on auscultatory assessment of bowel sounds.

  18. Accuracy of abdominal auscultation for bowel obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Breum, Birger Michael; Rud, Bo; Kirkegaard, Thomas; Nordentoft, Tyge

    2015-01-01

    AIM: To investigate the accuracy and inter-observer variation of bowel sound assessment in patients with clinically suspected bowel obstruction. METHODS: Bowel sounds were recorded in patients with suspected bowel obstruction using a Littmann® Electronic Stethoscope. The recordings were processed to yield 25-s sound sequences in random order on PCs. Observers, recruited from doctors within the department, classified the sound sequences as either normal or pathological. The reference tests for bowel obstruction were intraoperative and endoscopic findings and clinical follow up. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated for each observer and compared between junior and senior doctors. Interobserver variation was measured using the Kappa statistic. RESULTS: Bowel sound sequences from 98 patients were assessed by 53 (33 junior and 20 senior) doctors. Laparotomy was performed in 47 patients, 35 of whom had bowel obstruction. Two patients underwent colorectal stenting due to large bowel obstruction. The median sensitivity and specificity was 0.42 (range: 0.19-0.64) and 0.78 (range: 0.35-0.98), respectively. There was no significant difference in accuracy between junior and senior doctors. The median frequency with which doctors classified bowel sounds as abnormal did not differ significantly between patients with and without bowel obstruction (26% vs 23%, P = 0.08). The 53 doctors made up 1378 unique pairs and the median Kappa value was 0.29 (range: -0.15-0.66). CONCLUSION: Accuracy and inter-observer agreement was generally low. Clinical decisions in patients with possible bowel obstruction should not be based on auscultatory assessment of bowel sounds. PMID:26379407

  19. Asymptomatic peripheral artery disease can limit maximal exercise capacity in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients regardless of airflow obstruction and lung hyperinflation.

    PubMed

    Crisafulli, Ernesto; Scelfo, Chiara; Tzani, Panagiota; Aiello, Marina; Bertorelli, Giuseppina; Chetta, Alfredo

    2017-06-01

    Background Silent/asymptomatic peripheral artery disease may occur in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, but it is poorly investigated. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients the impact of asymptomatic/silent peripheral artery disease on maximal exercise capacity; the secondary aim was to search for predictors of peripheral artery disease. Methods We prospectively enrolled chronic obstructive pulmonary disease outpatients. Data on anthropometric characteristics, lung function, cardiopulmonary exercise test and ankle-brachial index were recorded. The cut-off of ankle-brachial index used to define patients with peripheral artery disease was ≤0.90. Results We studied 47 patients and found 24 patients (51%) who showed peripheral artery disease. As compared to patients without peripheral artery disease, patients with peripheral artery disease had lower values of peak oxygen uptake, peak workload, energy expenditure (metabolic equivalents) and heart rate recovery, but showed the same degree of airflow obstruction and static and dynamic hyperinflation. In a multivariate linear regression model performed to identify variables predicting metabolic equivalents, ankle-brachial index (β 2.59; 95% confidence interval 0.51-4.67; p = 0.016) was an independent variable. In the search for predictors of peripheral artery disease, heart rate recovery (odds ratio 8.80; 95% confidence interval 1.30-59.35; p = 0.026) increased the risk of peripheral artery disease, whereas metabolic equivalents (odds ratio 0.50; 95% confidence interval 0.26-0.94, p = 0.033) and inhaled corticosteroids+long-acting β 2 agonists (odds ratio 0.13; 95% confidence interval 0.02-0.83; p = 0.030) reduced this risk. Conclusions In chronic obstructive pulmonary disease outpatients, asymptomatic/silent peripheral artery disease affects the maximal exercise capacity regardless of airflow obstruction and lung

  20. Clinical presentation and outcome of cats with circumcaval ureters associated with a ureteral obstruction.

    PubMed

    Steinhaus, J; Berent, A C; Weisse, C; Eatroff, A; Donovan, T; Haddad, J; Bagley, D

    2015-01-01

    Circumcaval ureters (CU) are a rare embryological malformation resulting in ventral displacement of the caudal vena cava, which crosses the ureter, potentially causing a ureteral stricture. To evaluate cats with obstructed CU(s) and report the presenting signs, diagnostics, treatment(s), and outcomes. Cats with obstructed CU(s) were compared to ureterally obstructed cats without CU(s). 193 cats; 22 circumcaval obstructed (Group 1); 106 non-circumcaval obstructed (Group 2); 65 non-obstructed necropsy cases (Group 3). Retrospective study, review of medical records for cats treated for benign ureteral obstructions from AMC and University of Pennsylvania between 2009 and 2013. surgical treatment of benign ureteral obstruction, complete medical record including radiographic, ultrasonographic, biochemistry, and surgical findings. Seventeen percent (22/128) of obstructed cats had a CU (80% right-sided) compared to 14% (9/65) non-obstructed necropsy cats (89% right-sided). Clinical presentation, radiographic findings, and creatinine were not statistically different between Groups 1 and 2. Strictures were a statistically more common (40%) cause of ureteral obstruction in Group 1 compared to Group 2 (17%) (P = .01). The MST for Groups 1 and 2 after ureteral decompression was 923 and 762 days, respectively (P = .62), with the MST for death secondary to kidney disease in both groups being >1,442 days. Re-obstruction was the most common complication in Group 1 (24%) occurring more commonly in ureters of cats treated with a ureteral stent(s) (44%) compared to the subcutaneous ureteral bypass (SUB) device (8%) (P = .01). Ureteral obstructions in cats with a CU(s) have a similar outcome to those cats with a ureteral obstruction and normal ureteral anatomy. Long-term prognosis is good for benign ureteral obstructions treated with a double pigtail stent or a SUB device. The SUB device re-obstructed less commonly than the ureteral stent, especially when a ureteral stricture was

  1. Obstructive sleep apnea in postmenopausal women: a comparative study using drug induced sleep endoscopy.

    PubMed

    Koo, Soo Kweon; Ahn, Gun Young; Choi, Jang Won; Kim, Young Jun; Jung, Sung Hoon; Moon, Ji Seung; Lee, Young Il

    The key to successful treatment of OSAS is to individually tailor such treatment. Thus, it is very important to determine the severity of OSAS, its pattern, and the extent of collapse, by gender, age, and BMI. The objective of the study was to understand the characteristics of obstructive sleep apnea in postmenopausal women by comparing postmenopausal and premenopausal subjects, and men, using DISE. We hope that our work will help the medical community to consult on, diagnose, and treat OSAS more effectively. A total of 273 patients (195 males and 78 females) diagnosed with OSAS were enrolled. Female patients were divided into pre-menopausal (n=41) and post-menopausal patients (n=37). The group of post-menopausal female patients was matched with a group of male patients with similar age and body mass index (BMI). DISE findings were compared between pre-menopausal female patients and post-menopausal female patients, and also between post-menopausal female patients and male patients matched for age and BMI. Upon PSG examination, post-menopausal patients (who had a significantly higher BMI than did pre-menopausal patients; 25.6kg/m 2 vs. 23.5kg/m 2 ; p=0.019) tended to have a higher AHI and a lower lowest SaO 2 , but the differences did not attain statistical significance. With DISE analysis, post-menopausal female patients showed higher values in all obstruction sites, with significantly higher value in lateral diameter of retropalatal (1.49 vs. 0.90; p=0.001) and retrolingual levels (1.14 vs. 0.61; p=0.003) compared to pre-menopausal females patients. Post-menopausal female patients showed significantly more retrolingual collapse (antero-posterior, AP, p≤0.0001, and lateral diameter, p=0.042) in the lower BMI group (BMI<25) and more concentric retropalatal collapse (lateral diameter, p=0.017 and tonsillar obstruction, p=0.003) in higher BMI group (BMI≥25) than BMI and age matched male patients. Post-menopausal female patients showed a different pattern of airway

  2. Unemployment in chronic airflow obstruction around the world: results from the BOLD study.

    PubMed

    Grønseth, Rune; Erdal, Marta; Tan, Wan C; Obaseki, Daniel O; Amaral, Andre F S; Gislason, Thorarinn; Juvekar, Sanjay K; Koul, Parvaiz A; Studnicka, Michael; Salvi, Sundeep; Burney, Peter; Buist, A Sonia; Vollmer, William M; Johannessen, Ane

    2017-09-01

    We aimed to examine associations between chronic airflow obstruction (CAO) and unemployment across the world.Cross-sectional data from 26 sites in the Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) study were used to analyse effects of CAO on unemployment. Odds ratios for unemployment in subjects aged 40-65 years were estimated using a multilevel mixed-effects generalised linear model with study site as random effect. Site-by-site heterogeneity was assessed using individual participant data meta-analyses.Out of 18 710 participants, 11.3% had CAO. The ratio of unemployed subjects with CAO divided by subjects without CAO showed large site discrepancies, although these were no longer significant after adjusting for age, sex, smoking and education. The site-adjusted odds ratio (95% CI) for unemployment was 1.79 (1.41-2.27) for CAO cases, decreasing to 1.43 (1.14-1.79) after adjusting for sociodemographic factors, comorbidities and forced vital capacity. Of other covariates that were associated with unemployment, age and education were important risk factors in high-income sites (4.02 (3.53-4.57) and 3.86 (2.80-5.30), respectively), while female sex was important in low- to middle-income sites (3.23 (2.66-3.91)).In the global BOLD study, CAO was associated with increased levels of unemployment, even after adjusting for sociodemographic factors, comorbidities and lung function. Copyright ©ERS 2017.

  3. Nutritional status, gender and marital status in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

    PubMed

    Odencrants, Sigrid; Bjuström, Tomas; Wiklund, Nils; Blomberg, Karin

    2013-10-01

    To describe and compare nutritional status, pulmonary function, gender and marital status in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a chronic illness that can lead to poor nutritional status due to an increased energy requirements related to laboured breathing. Inadequate nutritional intake has often been described in this patient group. Nutritional support for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who suffer from nutritional problems is essential, both for their sense of well-being and for their survival with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The study design was descriptive and comparative. Quantitative data collection was carried out among 81 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (47 women and 34 men) with an average age of 65 years (SD 3·5). The Mini Nutritional Assessment was used to assess nutritional status. Participants who lived alone had worse nutritional status than those who did not live alone, and female participants had worse nutritional status than their male counterparts. No significant correlation was found between pulmonary function and nutritional status. This study contributes knowledge of a potential correlation between nutritional status, gender and marital status in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Women with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may be at an increased risk of malnutrition. Despite the previous results showing malnutrition and underweight to be common, the present study found that many of the participants were overweight, which may reflect a global health trend regardless of disease. Early identification of patients at risk of malnutrition is important. Registered nurses should be aware that patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who are female or who live alone may be at an increased risk of nutritional problems. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease must be offered information and support

  4. Small-airway obstruction and emphysema in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

    PubMed

    McDonough, John E; Yuan, Ren; Suzuki, Masaru; Seyednejad, Nazgol; Elliott, W Mark; Sanchez, Pablo G; Wright, Alexander C; Gefter, Warren B; Litzky, Leslie; Coxson, Harvey O; Paré, Peter D; Sin, Don D; Pierce, Richard A; Woods, Jason C; McWilliams, Annette M; Mayo, John R; Lam, Stephen C; Cooper, Joel D; Hogg, James C

    2011-10-27

    The major sites of obstruction in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are small airways (<2 mm in diameter). We wanted to determine whether there was a relationship between small-airway obstruction and emphysematous destruction in COPD. We used multidetector computed tomography (CT) to compare the number of airways measuring 2.0 to 2.5 mm in 78 patients who had various stages of COPD, as judged by scoring on the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) scale, in isolated lungs removed from patients with COPD who underwent lung transplantation, and in donor (control) lungs. MicroCT was used to measure the extent of emphysema (mean linear intercept), the number of terminal bronchioles per milliliter of lung volume, and the minimum diameters and cross-sectional areas of terminal bronchioles. On multidetector CT, in samples from patients with COPD, as compared with control samples, the number of airways measuring 2.0 to 2.5 mm in diameter was reduced in patients with GOLD stage 1 disease (P=0.001), GOLD stage 2 disease (P=0.02), and GOLD stage 3 or 4 disease (P<0.001). MicroCT of isolated samples of lungs removed from patients with GOLD stage 4 disease showed a reduction of 81 to 99.7% in the total cross-sectional area of terminal bronchioles and a reduction of 72 to 89% in the number of terminal bronchioles (P<0.001). A comparison of the number of terminal bronchioles and dimensions at different levels of emphysematous destruction (i.e., an increasing value for the mean linear intercept) showed that the narrowing and loss of terminal bronchioles preceded emphysematous destruction in COPD (P<0.001). These results show that narrowing and disappearance of small conducting airways before the onset of emphysematous destruction can explain the increased peripheral airway resistance reported in COPD. (Funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and others.).

  5. A Novel Approach to Brachycephalic Syndrome. 1. Evaluation of Anatomical Intranasal Airway Obstruction.

    PubMed

    Oechtering, Gerhard U; Pohl, Sabine; Schlueter, Claudia; Lippert, Johanna P; Alef, Michaele; Kiefer, Ingmar; Ludewig, Eberhard; Schuenemann, Riccarda

    2016-02-01

    To evaluate airway obstruction due to abnormal intranasal anatomy in 3 brachycephalic dog breeds using computed tomography and rhinoscopy. Prospective clinical study. A total of 132 brachycephalic dogs (66 Pugs, 55 French Bulldogs, and 11 English Bulldogs) with severe respiratory distress due to brachycephalic syndrome. Computed tomography and anterior and posterior rhinoscopy were performed to evaluate endonasal obstruction. All dogs had abnormal conchal growth that obstructed the intranasal airways. Rostral aberrant turbinates (RAT) were common in Pugs (90.9%) but less frequent in French (56.4%) and English (36.4%) Bulldogs. Caudal aberrant turbinates (CAT) obstructing the nasopharyngeal meatus were commonly found in all breeds (66.7%). Deviation of the nasal septum was an almost consistent finding in Pugs (98.5%) but was less common in bulldogs. Obstructing turbinates had multiple points of mucosal contact responsible for obstruction of the intranasal airway. Interconchal and intraconchal mucosal contacts were evident in 91.7% of dogs. Selective breeding for short head conformation reduces the size of the nasal cavities to such an extent that intranasal structures grow aberrantly and malformed, leading to obstructed air conducting spaces. Intranasal airway obstruction of brachycephalic dogs may contribute to their exercise and heat intolerance because of impaired pulmonary ventilation and compromised thermoregulatory functions of the canine nose. Failure to address intranasal obstruction might be an explanation for lack of therapeutic success after conventional surgery for brachycephalic syndrome. Future consideration should be given to the diagnosis, management, and treatment of this newly described aspect of airway obstruction. © Copyright 2016 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.

  6. Craniofacial skeletal pattern: is it really correlated with the degree of adenoid obstruction?

    PubMed Central

    Feres, Murilo Fernando Neuppmann; Muniz, Tomas Salomão; de Andrade, Saulo Henrique; Lemos, Maurilo de Mello; Pignatari, Shirley Shizue Nagata

    2015-01-01

    OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the cephalometric pattern of children with and without adenoid obstruction. METHODS: The sample comprised 100 children aged between four and 14 years old, both males and females, subjected to cephalometric examination for sagittal and vertical skeletal analysis. The sample also underwent nasofiberendoscopic examination intended to objectively assess the degree of adenoid obstruction. RESULTS: The individuals presented tendencies towards vertical craniofacial growth, convex profile and mandibular retrusion. However, there were no differences between obstructive and non-obstructive patients concerning all cephalometric variables. Correlations between skeletal parameters and the percentage of adenoid obstruction were either low or not significant. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that specific craniofacial patterns, such as Class II and hyperdivergency, might not be associated with adenoid hypertrophy. PMID:26352848

  7. A 2-week, polysomnographic, safety study of sodium oxybate in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

    PubMed

    George, Charles F P; Feldman, Neil; Zheng, Yanping; Steininger, Teresa L; Grzeschik, Susanna M; Lai, Chinglin; Inhaber, Neil

    2011-01-01

    Sodium oxybate (SXB) is approved for cataplexy and excessive daytime sleepiness in narcolepsy. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) affects ∼9-50% of narcoleptics. Effects of 2-week SXB administration on apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), oxygen saturation (SaO(2)), and sleep architecture were investigated in OSAS patients. OSAS patients (n = 48) received 2-week SXB or placebo (PBO) treatment with polysomnography at baseline and day 14. The primary outcome measure was change from baseline in mean AHI. Secondary outcomes included changes from baseline in SaO(2), and sleep architecture. Compared with PBO, SXB significantly increased reduction in mean AHI and obstructive apnea index with SXB (-0.8 ± 13.3 vs. -8.2 ± 10.0; p = 0.0327 and 3.54 ± 11.1 vs. -4.72 ± 7.7; p = 0.0054, respectively) and significantly increased change in slow wave sleep duration (5.2 ± 25.0 min vs. 29.4 ± 37.0 min; p = 0.0038). There were no differences between treatments in SaO2, central apneic events, or other measures. Adverse events, most commonly headache, were noted in nine of 27 (33%) and six of 23 (26%) patients receiving SXB and PBO, respectively. Short-term use of 4.5 g/night SXB did not generate respiratory depressant effects in OSAS patients as measured by AHI, obstructive apnea events, central apneas, and SaO2. Extended use of SXB in higher therapeutic doses in OSAS has not been studied, and merits caution.

  8. Influence of premedication with alprazolam on the occurence of obstructive apneas. A prospective randomized double-blind study.

    PubMed

    Deflandre, E; Bonhomme, V; Courtois, A-C; Degey, S; Poirrier, R; Brichant, J-F

    2016-08-01

    Postoperative development or worsening of obstructive sleep apnea is a potential complication of anesthesia. The objective of this study was to study the effects of a premedication with alprazolam on the occurrence of apneas during the immediate postoperative period. Fifty ASA 1 - 2 patients undergoing a colonoscopy were recruited. Patients with a history of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) were excluded. Recruited patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups: in Group A, they received 0.5 mg of alprazolam orally one hour before the procedure; and in Group C, they received placebo. Anesthesia technique was identical in both groups. Patients were monitored during the first two postoperative hours to establish their AHI (apnea hypopnea index, the number of apneas and hypopneas per hour). Nine patients were excluded (4 in group A and 5 in group C) due to technical problems or refusal. Interestingly, premedication by alprazolam did not change intra-operative propofol requirements. During the first two postoperative hours, the AHI was significantly higher in group A than in group C (Group A: 20.33 ± 10.97 h -1 , C: 9.63 ± 4.67 h -1 ). These apneas did not induce significant arterial oxygen desaturation, or mandibular instability. Our study demonstrates that a premedication with 0.5 mg of alprazolam doesn't modify intra-operative anesthetic requirements during colonoscopy, but is associated with a higher rate of obstructive apneas during at least three and a half hours after ingestion. No severe side effects were observed in our non-obese population. Our results must be confirmed on a larger scale.

  9. 33 CFR 329.10 - Existence of obstructions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... DEFENSE DEFINITION OF NAVIGABLE WATERS OF THE UNITED STATES § 329.10 Existence of obstructions. A stream... obstruction by means of artificial chutes. However, the question is ultimately a matter of degree, and it must...

  10. [Treatment of a patient with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome superimposed on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease].

    PubMed

    Mańkowski, M; Tulibacki, M; Koziej, M; Adach, W; Zieliński, J

    1995-01-01

    History of a middle aged obese male, presenting with severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is described. Provisionally patient was started on CPAP and long-term domiciliary oxygen therapy (LTOT). OSA was successfully treated by surgical repair of nasal patency and partial uvulectomy. There was also remarkable improvement in ventilatory indices after steroid therapy. There was no further need for CPAP and LTOT.

  11. Unicentric study of cell therapy in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease/pulmonary emphysema

    PubMed Central

    Ribeiro-Paes, João Tadeu; Bilaqui, Aldemir; Greco, Oswaldo T; Ruiz, Milton Artur; Marcelino, Monica Y; Stessuk, Talita; de Faria, Carolina A; Lago, Mario R

    2011-01-01

    Within the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) spectrum, lung emphysema presents, as a primarily histopathologic feature, the destruction of pulmonary parenchyma and, accordingly, an increase in the airflow obstruction distal to the terminal bronchiole. Notwithstanding the significant advances in prevention and treatment of symptoms, no effective or curative therapy has been accomplished. In this context, cellular therapy with stem cells (SCs) arises as a new therapeutic approach, with a wide application potential. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety of SCs infusion procedure in patients with advanced COPD (stage IV dyspnea). After selection, patients underwent clinical examination and received granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, immediately prior to the bone marrow harvest. The bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMC) were isolated and infused into a peripheral vein. The 12-month follow-up showed a significant improvement in the quality of life, as well as a clinical stable condition, which suggest a change in the natural process of the disease. Therefore, the proposed methodology in this study for BMMC cell therapy in sufferers of advanced COPD was demonstrated to be free of significant adverse effects. Although a larger sample and a greater follow-up period are needed, it is possible to infer that BMMC cell therapy introduces an unprecedented change in the course or in the natural history of emphysema, inhibiting or slowing the progression of disease. This clinical trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01110252) and was approved by the Brazilian National Committee of Ethics in Research (registration no. 14764, CONEP report 233/2009). PMID:21311694

  12. A novel, ring-connected stent versus conventional GI stents: comparative study of physical properties and migration rates in a canine colon obstruction model.

    PubMed

    Park, Hong Suk; Choo, In Wook; Seo, Soowon; Hyun, Dongho; Lim, Sooyoun; Kim, Jae J; Hong, Saet-Byul; Min, Byung-Hoon; Do, Young Soo; Choo, Sung Wook; Shin, Sung Wook; Park, Kwang Bo; Cho, Sung Ki

    2015-01-01

    Migration of stents is one of the most common adverse events in covered stent placement in GI tract obstruction. To compare physical property and migration rates in a canine colon obstruction model among a novel stent and conventional stents. Comparative physical test and animal study. Medical device testing laboratory and animal laboratory. Mongrel dogs (N=26). Surgical colon obstruction followed by placement of a novel (n=13) or conventional (n=13) stent. Physical properties, migration, and adverse events. The novel stent showed better flexibility, as in a physical test of longitudinal compressibility and axial force, than did conventional stents, and it withstood the fatigue test for 10 days. In terms of radial force and tensile strength, the novel stent showed the same or better results than conventional stents. In a canine colon obstruction model, the migration rate of a novel stent was significantly lower than that of a conventional stent (2/13, 15.4% vs 8/13, 61.5%; P=.008). Animal study of limited size. The novel, ring-connected stent is more flexible and more resistant to migration than the conventional stents. Copyright © 2015 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Blowhole colostomy for the urgent management of distal large bowel obstruction.

    PubMed

    Kasten, Kevin R; Midura, Emily F; Davis, Bradley R; Rafferty, Janice F; Paquette, Ian M

    2014-05-01

    Complete obstruction of the distal colon or rectum often presents as a surgical emergency. This study evaluated the efficacy of blowhole colostomy versus transverse loop colostomy for the emergent management of distal large intestinal obstruction. Retrospective chart review of all colostomy procedures (CPT 44320) performed for complete distal large bowel obstruction during the past 6 y in a university hospital practice was undertaken. Blowhole was compared with loop colostomy with a primary endpoint of successful colonic decompression. One hundred forty-one patients underwent colostomy creation during the study period. Of these, 61 were completed for acute obstruction of the distal colon or rectum (19 blowhole versus 42 loop colostomy). No differences between study groups were seen in age, gender, body mass index, malnutrition, American Society of Anesthesiology class, time to liquid or regular diet, 30-d or inhospital mortality, or rates of complications. Patients undergoing blowhole colostomy had significantly higher cecal diameters at diagnosis (9.14 versus 7.31 cm, P = 0.0035). Operative time was shorter in blowhole procedures (43 versus 51 min, P = 0.017). Postoperative length of stay was significantly shorter for blowhole colostomy (6 versus 8 d, P = 0.014). The primary endpoint of successful colonic decompression was met in all colostomy patients. Diverting blowhole colostomy is a safe, quick, and effective procedure for the urgent management of distal colonic obstruction associated with obstipation and massive distention. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Over diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in an underserved patient population.

    PubMed

    Ghattas, Christian; Dai, Allen; Gemmel, David J; Awad, Magdi H

    2013-01-01

    While cross-national studies have documented rates of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) misdiagnosis among patients in primary care, US studies are scarce. Studies investigating diagnosis among uninsured patients are lacking. The purpose of this study is to identify patients who are over diagnosed and thus, mistreated, for COPD in a federally qualified health center. A descriptive study was conducted for a retrospective cohort from February 2011 to June 2012. Spirometry was performed by trained personnel following American Thoracic Society recommendations. Patients were referred for spirometry to confirm previous COPD diagnosis or to assess uncontrolled COPD symptoms. Airway obstruction was defined as a forced expiratory volume in the first second of expiration (FEV1) to forced vital capacity ratio less than 0.7. Reversibility was defined as a postbronchodilator increase in FEV1 greater than 200 mL and greater than 12%. Eighty patients treated for a previous diagnosis of COPD (n = 72) or on anticholinergic inhalers (n = 8) with no COPD diagnosis were evaluated. The average age was 52.9 years; 71% were uninsured. Only 17.5% (14/80) of patients reported previous spirometry. Spirometry revealed that 42.5% had no obstruction, 22.5% had reversible obstruction, and 35% had non-reversible obstruction. Symptoms and smoking history are insufficient to diagnose COPD. Prevalence of COPD over diagnosis among uninsured patient populations may be higher than previously reported. Confirming previous COPD diagnosis with spirometry is essential to avoid unnecessary and potentially harmful treatment.

  15. Clinical consequences and economic costs of untreated obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

    PubMed

    Knauert, Melissa; Naik, Sreelatha; Gillespie, M Boyd; Kryger, Meir

    2015-09-01

    To provide an overview of the healthcare and societal consequences and costs of untreated obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. PubMed database for English-language studies with no start date restrictions and with an end date of September 2014. A comprehensive literature review was performed to identify all studies that discussed the physiologic, clinical and societal consequences of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome as well as the costs associated with these consequences. There were 106 studies that formed the basis of this analysis. Undiagnosed and untreated obstructive sleep apnea syndrome can lead to abnormal physiology that can have serious implications including increased cardiovascular disease, stroke, metabolic disease, excessive daytime sleepiness, work-place errors, traffic accidents and death. These consequences result in significant economic burden. Both, the health and societal consequences and their costs can be decreased with identification and treatment of sleep apnea. Treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, despite its consequences, is limited by lack of diagnosis, poor patient acceptance, lack of access to effective therapies, and lack of a variety of effective therapies. Newer modes of therapy that are effective, cost efficient and more accepted by patients need to be developed.

  16. An observational study of the effectiveness of alternative care providers in the management of obstructive sleep apnea.

    PubMed

    Pendharkar, Sachin R; Dechant, Anthony; Bischak, Diane P; Tsai, Willis H; Stevenson, Ann-Marie; Hanly, Patrick J

    2016-04-01

    Alternative care providers have been proposed as a substitute for physician-based management of obstructive sleep apnea. The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical course of patients with a new diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea who were treated with continuous positive airway pressure and followed by alternative care providers at a tertiary care sleep clinic. It was hypothesized that care by alternative care providers would result in improvement of daytime sleepiness and satisfactory treatment adherence, and that a specific number of follow-up visits could be identified after which clinical outcomes no longer improved. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale score was measured for each patient at baseline and at each alternative care provider visit. Patients were discharged when they demonstrated a significant improvement in sleepiness and were adherent to therapy. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale score decreased by 3.9 points from baseline to discharge. Patients with three or more visits required more follow-up time to achieve the same clinical improvement as those with only two visits. Continuous positive airway pressure adherence was comparable to previous studies of physician-led care and improved with ongoing alternative care provider follow-up. The current results suggest that clinical care by alternative care providers leads to continued improvements in sleepiness in patients with obstructive sleep apnea who are treated with continuous positive airway pressure, and that a minority of patients require longer follow-up to achieve a satisfactory clinical response to therapy. © 2015 European Sleep Research Society.

  17. Cognitive Function Among Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients in North East Malaysia.

    PubMed

    Yusop, Che Yusfarina Che; Mohamad, Irfan; Mohammad, Wan Mohd Zahiruddin Wan; Abdullah, Baharudin

    2017-01-01

    Obstructive sleep apnea patients may develop deficits in the cognitive domains of attention, concentration, executive function, verbal and visuospatial memory, constructional abilities, and psychomotor functioning. As cognitive performance will improve with the treatment, early screening for cognitive dysfunction should be done to prevent further deterioration. We aim to evaluate the cognitive function of obstructive sleep apnea patients by using the 'Mini Mental State Examination'. This was a cross sectional study to evaluate the cognitive function of moderate and severe obstructive sleep apnea patients with age ranged from 18 to 60 old who attended our sleep clinic. These patients were confirmed to have moderate and severe obstructive sleep apnea by Type 1 polysomnography (attended full overnight study). The age, gender and ethnicity were noted and other relevant data such as weight, height, body mass index and apnea and hypopnoea index were recorded accordingly. The cognitive function was evaluated using validated Malay version of Mini Mental State Examination which measured 5 areas of cognitive functions comprising orientation, registration, attention and calculation, word recall and language abilities, and visuospatial. A total of 38 patients participated in this study. All 19 patients of moderate group and 14 patients of severe group had normal cognitive function while only 5 patients in severe group had mild cognitive function impairment. There was a statistically significant difference between the moderate group and severe group on cognitive performance (p value = 0.042). Severe obstructive sleep apnea patients may have impaired cognitive function. Mini Mental State Examination is useful in the screening of cognitive function of obstructive sleep apnea patients but in normal score, more sophisticated test batteries are required as it is unable to identify in 'very minimal' or 'extremely severe' cognitive dysfunction. Copyright © 2017 National Medical

  18. Biliary obstruction - slideshow

    MedlinePlus

    ... ency/presentations/100199.htm Biliary obstruction - series—Normal anatomy To use the sharing ... Overview Bile is a digestive fluid secreted by the liver and stored in the gallbladder which normally is ...

  19. Objectification of facial color inspection to differentiate obstructive/nonobstructive jaundice in neonates by spectrophotometer.

    PubMed

    Shen, Zhen; Zheng, Shan; Dong, Rui; Chen, Gong

    2017-12-01

    The purpose of this study was to study whether color difference in facial color truly exists between neonates with obstructive and nonobstructive jaundice, and whether the color difference could be objectified by spectrophotometer. Twelve biliary atresia patients were enrolled in an obstructive jaundice group and 15 neonates admitted for non-conjugated hyperbilirubinemia in a nonobstructive group. Nine patients with syphilis (n=6) and sacrococcygeal teratoma (n=3) were studied as control. Transcutaneous total bilirubin (TB) and hemoglobin were recorded. Face color was measured by spectrophotometer. Spectral reflection curve and L*a*b* model parameters were studied. Facial color of jaundiced neonates were characteristic in waveform that reflectivity at wavelength of 550nm was significantly decreased compared with control by 16.4±3.4%, while not significantly different between obstructive and nonobstructive jaundice (p=0.124). At 650nm, reflection in nonobstructive jaundice was decreased by 8.4±2.3% (p<0.01), and reflection in obstructive jaundice was (9.6±3.2) % lower compared with nonobstructive jaundice (p<0.01). In L*a*b* model, mean color difference between obstructive and nonobstructive jaundice was 9.60. L* was significantly different: control (71.84±3.75%)>obstructive jaundice (58.09±1.25%)>nonobstructive jaundice (54.25±7.27%). Value b* was higher in jaundiced patients compared to normal control (11.88±2.16, p<0.001), but not significantly different in obstructive and nonobstructive jaundice (20.12±2.17vs18.25±4.58). Value a* was not significantly different between normal control (5.57±2.38) and obstructive jaundice (5.25±1.19), but was lower than nonobstructive jaundice (14.03±3.29, p<0.001). TB was significantly correlated with b* (R=0.526, p=0.014), while hemoglobin was correlated with a* (R=0.791, p<.001) and L* (R=-0.707, p<.001). Obstructive and nonobstructive jaundice could be objectively differentiated through facial color inspection by

  20. Occurrence of respiratory symptoms in persons with restrictive ventilatory impairment compared with persons with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: The PLATINO study.

    PubMed

    Nonato, Nívia L; Nascimento, Oliver A; Padilla, Rogelio P; de Oca, Maria M; Tálamo, Carlos; Valdivia, Gonzalo; Lisboa, Carmen; López, Maria V; Celli, Bartolomé; Menezes, Ana Maria B; Jardim, José R

    2015-08-01

    Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) usually complain of symptoms such as cough, sputum, wheezing, and dyspnea. Little is known about clinical symptoms in individuals with restrictive ventilatory impairment. The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence and type of respiratory symptoms in patients with COPD to those reported by individuals with restrictive ventilatory impairment in the Proyecto Latinoamericano de Investigacion en Obstruccion Pulmonar study. Between 2002 and 2004, individuals ≥40 years of age from five cities in Latin America performed pre and post-bronchodilator spirometry and had their respiratory symptoms recorded in a standardized questionnaire. Among the 5315 individuals evaluated, 260 (5.1%) had a restrictive spirometric diagnosis (forced vital capacity (FVC) < lower limit of normal (LLN) with forced expiratory volume in the first second to forced vital capacity ratio (FEV1/FVC) ≥ LLN; American Thoracic Society (ATS)/European Respiratory Society (ERS) 2005) and 610 (11.9%) were diagnosed with an obstructive pattern (FEV1/FVC < LLN; ATS/ERS 2005). Patients with mild restriction wheezed more ((30.8%) vs. (17.8%); p < 0.028). No difference was seen in dyspnea, cough, and sputum between the two groups after adjusting for severity stage. The health status scores for the short form 12 questionnaire were similar in restricted and obstructed patients for both physical (48.4 ± 9.4 vs. 48.3 ± 9.8) and mental (50.8 ± 10.6 vs. 50.0 ± 11.5) domains. Overall, respiratory symptoms are not frequently reported by patients with restricted and obstructed patterns as defined by spirometry. Wheezing was more frequent in patients with restricted pattern compared with those with obstructive ventilatory defect. However, the prevalence of cough, sputum production, and dyspnea are not different between the two groups when adjusted by the same severity stage. © The Author(s) 2015.

  1. Evaluation of peripheral auditory pathways and brainstem in obstructive sleep apnea.

    PubMed

    Matsumura, Erika; Matas, Carla Gentile; Magliaro, Fernanda Cristina Leite; Pedreño, Raquel Meirelles; Lorenzi-Filho, Geraldo; Sanches, Seisse Gabriela Gandolfi; Carvallo, Renata Mota Mamede

    2016-11-25

    Obstructive sleep apnea causes changes in normal sleep architecture, fragmenting it chronically with intermittent hypoxia, leading to serious health consequences in the long term. It is believed that the occurrence of respiratory events during sleep, such as apnea and hypopnea, can impair the transmission of nerve impulses along the auditory pathway that are highly dependent on the supply of oxygen. However, this association is not well established in the literature. To compare the evaluation of peripheral auditory pathway and brainstem among individuals with and without obstructive sleep apnea. The sample consisted of 38 adult males, mean age of 35.8 (±7.2), divided into four groups matched for age and Body Mass Index. The groups were classified based on polysomnography in: control (n=10), mild obstructive sleep apnea (n=11) moderate obstructive sleep apnea (n=8) and severe obstructive sleep apnea (n=9). All study subjects denied a history of risk for hearing loss and underwent audiometry, tympanometry, acoustic reflex and Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response. Statistical analyses were performed using three-factor ANOVA, 2-factor ANOVA, chi-square test, and Fisher's exact test. The significance level for all tests was 5%. There was no difference between the groups for hearing thresholds, tympanometry and evaluated Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response parameters. An association was observed between the presence of obstructive sleep apnea and changes in absolute latency of wave V (p=0.03). There was an association between moderate obstructive sleep apnea and change of the latency of wave V (p=0.01). The presence of obstructive sleep apnea is associated with changes in nerve conduction of acoustic stimuli in the auditory pathway in the brainstem. The increase in obstructive sleep apnea severity does not promote worsening of responses assessed by audiometry, tympanometry and Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response. Copyright © 2016 Associação Brasileira de

  2. Low prevalence of obstructive lung disease in a suburban population of Malaysia: A BOLD collaborative study.

    PubMed

    Loh, Li Cher; Rashid, Abdul; Sholehah, Siti; Gnatiuc, Louisa; Patel, Jaymini H; Burney, Peter

    2016-08-01

    As a Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) collaboration, we studied the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and its associated risk factors in a suburban population in Malaysia. Nonhospitalized men or women of age ≥ 40 years from a Penang district were recruited by stratified simple random sampling. Participants completed detailed questionnaires on respiratory symptoms and exposure to COPD risk factors. Prebronchodilator and post-bronchodilator spirometry conducted was standardized across all international BOLD sites in device and data quality control. Of the 1218 individuals recruited for the study, 663 (340 men and 323 women) had complete questionnaire data and acceptable post-bronchodilator spirometry. The estimated population prevalence of Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) ≥ stage I was 6.5% or 3.4% based on either fixed forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity ratio of <0.7 or National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey-derived lower limit of normal ratio while the prevalence of GOLD ≥ stage II was either 4.6% or 3.1%, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed independent association between all stages of COPD with cigarette smoking pack years (adjusted odds ratio per 10-year increase: 1.73; 95% confidence interval: 1.09-2.75), use of biomass fuel for cooking (1.61; 1.10-2.36) and exposure to dusty job (1.50; 1.09-2.06). This study represented the first robust population-based epidemiology data on COPD for Malaysia. Compared with other sites globally, our estimated population prevalence was relatively low. In addition to cigarette smoking, use of biomass fuel and exposure to dusty job represented significant risk to the development of COPD. © 2016 Asian Pacific Society of Respirology.

  3. Obstructions in Vascular Networks: Relation Between Network Morphology and Blood Supply

    PubMed Central

    Torres Rojas, Aimee M.; Meza Romero, Alejandro; Pagonabarraga, Ignacio; Travasso, Rui D. M.; Corvera Poiré, Eugenia

    2015-01-01

    We relate vascular network structure to hemodynamics after vessel obstructions. We consider tree-like networks with a viscoelastic fluid with the rheological characteristics of blood. We analyze the network hemodynamic response, which is a function of the frequencies involved in the driving, and a measurement of the resistance to flow. This response function allows the study of the hemodynamics of the system, without the knowledge of a particular pressure gradient. We find analytical expressions for the network response, which explicitly show the roles played by the network structure, the degree of obstruction, and the geometrical place in which obstructions occur. Notably, we find that the sequence of resistances of the network without occlusions strongly determines the tendencies that the response function has with the anatomical place where obstructions are located. We identify anatomical sites in a network that are critical for its overall capacity to supply blood to a tissue after obstructions. We demonstrate that relatively small obstructions in such critical sites are able to cause a much larger decrease on flow than larger obstructions placed in non-critical sites. Our results indicate that, to a large extent, the response of the network is determined locally. That is, it depends on the structure that the vasculature has around the place where occlusions are found. This result is manifest in a network that follows Murray’s law, which is in reasonable agreement with several mammalian vasculatures. For this one, occlusions in early generation vessels have a radically different effect than occlusions in late generation vessels occluding the same percentage of area available to flow. This locality implies that whenever there is a tissue irrigated by a tree-like in vivo vasculature, our model is able to interpret how important obstructions are for the irrigation of such tissue. PMID:26086774

  4. Endoscopic examination of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome patients during drug-induced sleep.

    PubMed

    Iwanaga, Koichi; Hasegawa, Kiyokazu; Shibata, Nobuhiro; Kawakatsu, Kenji; Akita, Yasutaka; Suzuki, Kenji; Yagisawa, Mikio; Nishimura, Tadao

    2003-01-01

    Sixty patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) underwent uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP). The effects of surgery were studied based on endoscopic findings during drug-induced sleep and determination of the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) before and after the operation. Changes in the form of the airway during sleep in the recumbent position were observed, and the role of upper airway endoscopy in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of OSAS was determined. The site of airway obstruction during sleep induced by i.v. injection of 10 mg of diazepam was classified into five types, and changes in AHI and the site of airway obstruction were compared before and after surgery. Changes in airway morphology during sleep in the supine and recumbent positions were also compared before surgery. The postoperative improvement rate was 74.4% for the soft palatal type of obstruction, 76.2% for the tonsillar type, 53.3% for the circumferential palatal type and 34.0% for the mixed type. Treatment produced excellent or good effects for the soft palatal and tonsillar types of obstruction. However, many patients with the circumferential palatal and mixed types of obstruction showed only some improvement or no change. Good airway morphology was maintained in the recumbent position by patients with the soft palatal type of obstruction. With the circumferential palatal and mixed types of obstruction, improvement can be expected from operations which include surgical treatment of the posterior pharyngeal wall or lateral funiculus, or with midline laser glossectomy. A good operative outcome can be predicted in patients showing improvement of apnea in the recumbent position preoperatively.

  5. Congenital ureteropelvic junction obstruction: human disease and animal models

    PubMed Central

    Klein, Julie; Gonzalez, Julien; Miravete, Mathieu; Caubet, Cécile; Chaaya, Rana; Decramer, Stéphane; Bandin, Flavio; Bascands, Jean-Loup; Buffin-Meyer, Bénédicte; Schanstra, Joost P

    2011-01-01

    Ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction is the most frequently observed cause of obstructive nephropathy in children. Neonatal and foetal animal models have been developed that mimic closely what is observed in human disease. The purpose of this review is to discuss how obstructive nephropathy alters kidney histology and function and describe the molecular mechanisms involved in the progression of the lesions, including inflammation, proliferation/apoptosis, renin–angiotensin system activation and fibrosis, based on both human and animal data. Also we propose that during obstructive nephropathy, hydrodynamic modifications are early inducers of the tubular lesions, which are potentially at the origin of the pathology. Finally, an important observation in animal models is that relief of obstruction during kidney development has important effects on renal function later in adult life. A major short-coming is the absence of data on the impact of UPJ obstruction on long-term adult renal function to elucidate whether these animal data are also valid in humans. PMID:20681980

  6. Small Bowel Obstruction Caused by Aloe vera Bezoars: A Case Report.

    PubMed

    Hong, In Taik; Cha, Jae Myung; Ki, Hye Jin; Kwak, Min Seob; Yoon, Jin Young; Shin, Hyun Phil; Jeoun, Jung Won; Choi, Sung Il

    2017-05-25

    Small bowel obstruction is a clinical condition commonly caused by postoperative adhesion, volvulus, intussusceptions, and hernia. Small bowel obstruction due to bezoars is clinically uncommon, accounting for approximately 2-4% of all obstructions. Computed tomography (CT) is a useful method in diagnosing the cause of small bowel obstruction. However, small bowel obstruction caused by bezoars may not be detected by an abdominal CT examination. Herein, we report a rare case of small bowel obstruction by Aloe vera bezoars, which were undetected by an abdominal CT. Phytobezoars should be included in the differential diagnosis of small bowel obstruction in patients with predisposing factors, such as excessive consumption of high-fiber food and diabetes.

  7. Obstructive Sleep Apnea Due To Extrathoracic Tracheomalacia

    PubMed Central

    Muzumdar, Hiren; Nandalike, K.; Bent, J.; Arens, Raanan

    2013-01-01

    We report obstructive sleep apnea in a 3-year-old boy with tracheomalacia secondary to tracheotomy that resolved after placement of a metallic stent in the region of tracheomalacia. The tracheal location of obstruction during sleep in this case contrasts with the usual location in the pharynx or, less often, the larynx. This case also demonstrates the utility of polysomnography in managing decannulation of tracheostomies. Citation: Muzumdar H; Nandalike K; Bent J; Arens R. Obstructive sleep apnea due to extrathoracic tracheomalacia. J Clin Sleep Med 2013;9(2):163–164. PMID:23372471

  8. [Helium-Oxigen (Heliox) mixture in airway obstruction

    PubMed

    Ulhôa, C A; Larner, L

    2000-01-01

    OBJECTIVE: Demonstrate the effectiveness and the good outcome of the patients treated with helium-oxygen (Heliox) mixture. This mixture (Heliox) has been used in patients with airway obstruction, from different ethiologies, who did not respond to a conventional treatment with oxygen. METHODS: Case report of five patients that received Heliox as treatment for airway obstruction. All of them had good results without side effects during the treatment. CONCLUSION: Heliox is a promising treatment for severe airway obstruction with good results in a short period of time, until the final treatment is established.

  9. Correlation between hepatobiliary scintigraphy and surgery or postmortem examination findings in dogs and cats with extrahepatic biliary obstruction, partial obstruction, or patency of the biliary system: 18 cases (1995-2004).

    PubMed

    Head, Laurie L; Daniel, Gregory B

    2005-11-15

    To evaluate the usefulness of serum biochemical variables and scintigraphic study results for differentiating between dogs and cats with complete extrahepatic biliary obstruction (EHO) and those with partial EHO or patent bile ducts. Retrospective case series. 17 dogs and 1 cat. Animals that underwent hepatobiliary scintigraphy and had either surgical or postmortem confirmation of the degree of bile duct patency were included. Scintigraphic images were evaluated and biliary tracts were classified as patent, partially obstructed but patent, or obstructed. Surgery or postmortem examination was considered the gold standard for diagnosis, and compared with those findings, sensitivity and specificity of scintigraphy were calculated. With absence of radioactivity in the intestinal tract as the diagnostic criterion for EHO, the sensitivity and specificity of scintigraphic diagnosis were both 83% when final images were acquired at 19 to 24 hours, compared with 100% and 33%, respectively, when 180 minutes was used as the cutoff time. Animals with partial biliary obstruction had less intestinal radioactivity that arrived later than that observed in animals with patent biliary tracts. Animals in which intestinal radioactivity has not been observed after the standard 3 to 4 hours should undergo additional scintigraphic imaging. Findings in animals with partial biliary obstruction include delayed arrival of radioactivity and less radioactivity in the intestine. Distinguishing between complete and partial biliary tract obstruction is important because animals with partial obstruction may respond favorably to medical management and should not be given an erroneous diagnosis of complete obstruction.

  10. Obstructive sleep apnea and sedation in the endoscopy suite.

    PubMed

    Moos, Daniel D

    2006-01-01

    Patients with obstructive sleep apnea are at risk of mortality and morbidity related to the administration of sedatives, anesthetics, and opioids. Commonly employed sedatives and analgesics promote pharyngeal collapse and alter normal respiratory responses to obstruction and apnea. Literature concerning patients with obstructive sleep apnea undergoing moderate and deep sedation in the endoscopy suite is lacking. The purpose of this article is to provide the reader with a review of normal airway patency, the effects of obstructive sleep apnea on airway patency, and the impact that analgesics and sedatives may impart on the airway of patients with obstructive sleep apnea. The goal of this article is to increase awareness, stimulate discussions within the gastroenterological community, and encourage research regarding sedation in this at-risk population.

  11. Oral water soluble contrast for malignant bowel obstruction.

    PubMed

    Syrmis, William; Richard, Russell; Jenkins-Marsh, Sue; Chia, Siew C; Good, Phillip

    2018-03-07

    Malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) is a common problem in patients with intra-abdominal cancer. Oral water soluble contrast (OWSC) has been shown to be useful in the management of adhesive small bowel obstruction in identifying patients who will recover with conservative management alone and also in reducing the length of hospital stay. It is not clear whether the benefits of OWSC in adhesive small bowel obstruction are also seen in patients with MBO. To determine the reliability of OWSC media and follow-up abdominal radiographs in predicting the success of conservative treatment in resolving inoperable MBO with conservative management.To determine the efficacy and safety of OWSC media in reducing the duration of obstruction and reducing hospital stay in people with MBO. We identified studies from searching Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE and MEDLINE in Process, Embase, CINAHL, Science Citation Index (Web of Science) and Conference Proceedings Citation Index - Science (Web of Science). We also searched registries of clinical trials and the CareSearch Grey Literature database. The date of the search was the 6 June 2017. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs), or prospective controlled studies, that evaluated the diagnostic potential of OWSC in predicting which malignant bowel obstructions will resolve with conservative treatment.RCTs, or prospective controlled studies, that assessed the therapeutic potential of OWSC in managing MBO at any level compared with placebo, no intervention or usual treatment or supportive care. We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. We assessed risk of bias and assessed the evidence using GRADE and created a 'Summary of findings' table. We found only one RCT meeting the selection criteria for the second objective (therapeutic potential) of this review. This study recruited nine participants. It compared the use of gastrografin versus placebo in adult patients with MBO with no

  12. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: knowing what we mean, meaning what we say.

    PubMed

    Joshi, J M

    2008-01-01

    Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is defined in several different ways using different criteria based on symptoms, physiological impairment and pathological abnormalities. While some use COPD to mean smoking related chronic airway disease, others include all disorders causing chronic airway obstruction. When COPD is used as a broad descriptive term, specific disorders that cause chronic airway obstruction remain under-diagnosed and the prevalence estimates vary considerably. The lack of agreement over the precise terminology and classification of COPD has resulted in widespread confusion. Terminology includes definition, diagnostic criteria, and a system for staging severity. Recently, COPD is defined more clearly and diagnosed using precise criteria that include tobacco smoking greater than 10 pack years, symptoms and airway obstruction on spirometry. A multi-dimensional severity grading system, the BODE (body mass index, obstruction, dyspnoea, and exercise tolerance) index has been designed to assess the respiratory and systemic expressions of COPD. This review proposes that the broad group of chronic disorders of the airways (with or without airway obstruction) be called chronic airway disease (CAD). The term COPD should be used exclusively for tobacco smoking related chronic airway disease. Chronic airway obstruction or obstructive lung disease may be used to define those conditions with airways obstruction caused by factors other than tobacco smoking. The aetiology may be appended to the label, for example, chronic airway obstruction/obstructive lung disease associated with bronchiectasis, chronic airway obstruction/obstructive lung disease associated with obliterative bronchiolitis or chronic airway obstruction/obstructive lung disease due to biomass fuel/occupational exposure.

  13. Obstructive Sleep Apnea

    MedlinePlus Videos and Cool Tools

    ... Apnea (OSA) Download Download the ebook for further information Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious and ... that can create the necessary air passageway. The information provided here is not intended as a substitute ...

  14. Obstructive Sleep Apnea

    MedlinePlus

    ... more each hour, all night long. These disruptions impair your ability to reach the desired deep, restful ... with obstructive sleep apnea may also complain of memory problems, morning headaches, mood swings or feelings of ...

  15. Management of Gastric Obstruction Caused by Adjustable Gastric Band.

    PubMed

    Czeiger, David; Abu-Swis, Shadi; Shaked, Gad; Ovnat, Amnon; Sebbag, Gilbert

    2016-12-01

    Optimal adjustment of the filling volume of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is challenging and commonly performed empirically. Patients with band over-inflation and gastric obstruction arrive at the emergency department complaining of recurrent vomiting. In cases of gastric obstruction, intra-band pressure measurement may assist in determining the amount of fluid that should be removed from the band; however, our investigations have determined that intra-band pressure assessment need not play a role in the treatment of gastric band obstruction. In patients coming to the emergency department with gastric band obstruction, we measured intra-band pressure at arrival and following stepped removal of fluid, comparing the initial pressure with post-deflation pressure and measuring the volume of fluid removed. Forty-eight patients participated in the study. Forty-five patients had a low-pressure/high-volume band. Their mean baseline pressure was 54.6 ± 22.3 mmHg. The mean volume of fluid removed from the band was 1.3 ± 0.8 ml. The mean post-deflation pressure was 22.5 ± 16.3 mmHg. Nearly 30 % of patients required as little as 0.5 ml of fluid removal, and 60 % of them were free of symptoms with removal of 1 ml. Our results indicate that intra-band pressure measurement is of little value for determining the amount of fluid that should be removed for treatment of band obstruction. We suggest the removal of fluid in volumes of 0.5 ml until symptoms are relieved. Only in complicated cases, such as in patients having recurrent obstructions, should additional modalities be employed for further management guidance.

  16. Mitral stenosis and hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy: An unusual combination.

    PubMed

    Hong, Joonhwa; Schaff, Hartzell V; Ommen, Steve R; Abel, Martin D; Dearani, Joseph A; Nishimura, Rick A

    2016-04-01

    Systolic anterior motion of mitral valve (MV) leaflets is a main pathophysiologic feature of left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction in hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. Thus, restricted leaflet motion that occurs with MV stenosis might be expected to minimize outflow tract obstruction related to systolic anterior motion. From January 1993 through February 2015, we performed MV replacement and septal myectomy in 12 patients with mitral stenosis and hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy at Mayo Clinic Hospital in Rochester, Minn. Preoperative data, echocardiographic images, operative records, and postoperative outcomes were reviewed. Mean (standard deviation) age was 70 (7.6) years. Preoperative mean (standard deviation) maximal LVOT pressure gradient was 75.0 (35.0) mm Hg; MV gradient was 13.7 (2.8) mm Hg. From echocardiographic images, 4 mechanisms of outflow tract obstruction were identified: systolic anterior motion without severe limitation in MV leaflet excursion, severe limitation in MV leaflet mobility with systolic anterior motion at the tip of the MV anterior leaflet, septal encroachment toward the LVOT, and MV displacement toward the LVOT by calcification. Mitral valve replacement and extended septal myectomy relieved outflow gradients in all patients, with no death or serious morbidity. Patients with mitral stenosis and hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy have multiple LVOT obstruction mechanisms, and MV replacement may not be adequate treatment. We favor septal myectomy and MV replacement in this complex subset of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. Copyright © 2016 The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. [Anthelmintics as a risk factor in intestinal obstruction by Ascaris lumbricoides in children].

    PubMed

    Vásquez Tsuji, O; Gutiérrez Castrellón, P; Yamazaki Nakashimada, M A; Arredondo Suárez, J C; Campos Riveral, T; Martínez Barbosa, I

    2000-01-01

    In a retrospective study the authors analyzed the clinical records of 199 children ages one month to 16 years hospitalized, with the diagnosis of intestinal ascariasis, in the Instituto Nacional de Pediatria of Mexico from 1984 to 1999. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the use of anthelmintics drugs as a risk factor of intestinal obstruction by A. lumbricoides. Two groups were made for the study: Group A (n = 66) of children who presented intestinal obstruction, Group B (n = 133) children with no complications. A comparative analysis of clinical data of both groups was made by means of chi square with Yates correction and a stratified analysis by means of chi square. Possible confusing elements were overcrowding, age and the use of antiparasitic drugs. The calculus of risk factors for intestinal obstruction by A. lumbricoides was done by means of contingency tables of 2 x 2 and odds ratio with an IC of 95%. The significant risk factors were included in a model of logistics regression with an impact variable consting in the presence or absence of intestinal obstruction in order to establish a multivariate model of predictive risk at level of significance of p < 0.05. Twenty-seven patients (40.90%) in group A (n = 66) were given anthelmintics medications prior to the intestinal obstruction: mebendazol, 14 (51-85%); two, albedazol (7.4%); eight, a non-specified anthelmintic (29.6%). In addition, an anthelmintic medication without a specified time of ingestion: two with mebendazol and one with piperazine (11.3%). In the case of mebendazol, the drug most frequently associated with intestinal obstruction, seven patients received it on the same day of the obstruction; five patients received it between one and seven days prior to the obstruction; two received it seven days prior to the complication. In the control group, only 7% had taken the anthelmintic one to seven days before the diagnosis of uncomplicated intestinal ascariasis diagnosis was made. With the step

  18. Study of the burden on patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

    PubMed Central

    Izquierdo, J L; Barcina, C; Jiménez, J; Muñoz, M; Leal, M

    2009-01-01

    Background: Health-related quality of life measures are widely used in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, they are extremely limited when used to evaluate patients outside the clinical trials. The aim of this study was to analyse the burden of the disease using a simple, validated, self-administered questionnaire specifically developed for patients in daily clinical practice. Methods: A total of 3935 patients (74.5% men; mean age, 67 years) participated in a cross-sectional study. The burden of COPD on patients was measured using the Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ). COPD was rated at four levels by the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) according to The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) scale. Results: The disease mainly affects old men (more than 50% were over 65 years of age) and non-employed men (23% were employed). Of the patients studied, 22.7% continued smoking, especially men (24.4% of men vs. 18.1% of women). Most patients (54%) were diagnosed with moderate stage II COPD. Severity of COPD was lower in women: 29.6% of men had severe COPD compared with 13.7% of women. During the last year, 65.1% had at least one acute exacerbation and 36.6% were admitted to hospital because of COPD exacerbation. No association was found between the body mass index and COPD stage. The variable that most influenced the disease burden was dyspnoea, as progression from grade 0 to grade 4 increased the disease burden by 1.78 points for symptoms, 2.43 for functional state and 1.53 for mental state. The functional classification of COPD also had a significant influence on the disease burden. Conclusions: The present findings show that dyspnoea and the degree of airflow limitation are the clinical variables that most affect the burden of COPD from the patient’s point of view. PMID:19125996

  19. Infectious mononucleosis presenting as upper airway obstruction.

    PubMed

    Jain, Vivek; Singhi, Sunit; Desai, Ravi V

    2003-01-01

    Upper airway obstruction though a common complication of infectious mononucleosis is rarely considered in differential diagnosis of stridor. We report a three-year-old child who had upper airway obstruction due to infectious mononucleosis, managed conservatively with oxygen, intravenous fluids and steroids.

  20. Effect of dai-kenchu-to on obstructive bowel disease in children.

    PubMed

    Ohya, Toshiki; Usui, Yoshiko; Arii, Shigeki; Iwai, Takehisa; Susumu, Tsunoda

    2003-01-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, dai-kenchu-to (DKT), on obstructive bowel diseases in children. We have treated 46 pediatric patients with various obstructive bowel diseases with DKT: six patients with postoperative ileus, 12 with large abdominal surgery (including three neonates), one with ano-rectal anomaly, three with Hirschsprung's disease, two with functional bowel obstructions, one with SMA syndrome, and 21 patients with chronic constipation. DKT (0.1-0.15 g/kg) was mixed with 5-10 ml of warm water, and was given orally two to three times a day. DKT was effective for 39 patients (85%) and their clinical symptoms improved. DKT was ineffective in seven patients: two with postoperative ileus, two with Hirschsprung's disease, and three with chronic constipation. DKT had mild but significant effects for various obstructive bowel diseases in children, while no side effects were encountered. Our current strategy for pediatric patients with obstructive bowel disease is to use DKT first and then test its efficacy. If DKT is effective, the regimen is continued. However, in cases where DKT is not effective, we will consider laparotomy or will further investigate the illness.

  1. Comparison of radiography and ultrasonography for diagnosing small-intestinal mechanical obstruction in vomiting dogs.

    PubMed

    Sharma, Ajay; Thompson, Margret S; Scrivani, Peter V; Dykes, Nathan L; Yeager, Amy E; Freer, Sean R; Erb, Hollis N

    2011-01-01

    A cross-sectional study was performed on acutely vomiting dogs to compare the accuracy of radiography and ultrasonography for the diagnosis of small-intestinal mechanical obstruction and to describe several radiographic and ultrasonographic signs to identify their contribution to the final diagnosis. The sample population consisted of 82 adult dogs and small-intestinal obstruction by foreign body was confirmed in 27/82 (33%) dogs by surgery or necropsy. Radiography produced a definitive result (obstructed or not obstructed) in 58/82 (70%) of dogs; ultrasonography produced a definitive result in 80/82 (97%) of dogs. On radiographs, a diagnosis of obstruction was based on detection of segmental small-intestinal dilatation, plication, or detection of a foreign body. Approximately 30% (8/27) of obstructed dogs did not have radiographic signs of segmental small-intestinal dilatation, of which 50% (4/8) were due to linear foreign bodies. The ultrasonographic diagnosis of small-intestinal obstruction was based on detection of an obstructive lesion, sonographic signs of plication or segmental, small-intestinal dilatation. The ultrasonographic presence or absence of moderate-to-severe intestinal diameter enlargement (due to lumen dilatation) of the jejunum (>1.5 cm) was a useful discriminatory finding and, when present, should prompt a thorough search for a cause of small-intestinal obstruction. In conclusion, both abdominal radiography and abdominal ultrasonography are accurate for diagnosing small-intestinal obstruction in vomiting dogs and either may be used depending on availability and examiner choice. Abdominal ultrasonography had greater accuracy, fewer equivocal results and provided greater diagnostic confidence compared with radiography. © 2010 Veterinary Radiology & Ultrasound.

  2. Obstructive renal injury: from fluid mechanics to molecular cell biology.

    PubMed

    Ucero, Alvaro C; Gonçalves, Sara; Benito-Martin, Alberto; Santamaría, Beatriz; Ramos, Adrian M; Berzal, Sergio; Ruiz-Ortega, Marta; Egido, Jesus; Ortiz, Alberto

    2010-04-22

    Urinary tract obstruction is a frequent cause of renal impairment. The physiopathology of obstructive nephropathy has long been viewed as a mere mechanical problem. However, recent advances in cell and systems biology have disclosed a complex physiopathology involving a high number of molecular mediators of injury that lead to cellular processes of apoptotic cell death, cell injury leading to inflammation and resultant fibrosis. Functional studies in animal models of ureteral obstruction using a variety of techniques that include genetically modified animals have disclosed an important role for the renin-angiotensin system, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and other mediators of inflammation in this process. In addition, high throughput techniques such as proteomics and transcriptomics have identified potential biomarkers that may guide clinical decision-making.

  3. Unilateral Nasal Obstruction during Later Growth Periods Affects Craniofacial Muscles in Rats

    PubMed Central

    Uchima Koecklin, Karin H.; Hiranuma, Maya; Kato, Chiho; Funaki, Yukiha; Kataguchi, Taku; Yabushita, Tadachika; Kokai, Satoshi; Ono, Takashi

    2017-01-01

    Nasal obstruction can occur at different life stages. In early stages of life the respiratory system is still under development, maturing during the growth period. Previous studies have shown that nasal obstruction in neonatal rats alters craniofacial function. However, little is known about the effects of nasal obstruction that develops during later growth periods. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of nasal obstruction during later periods of growth on the functional characteristics of the jaw-opening reflex (JOR) and tongue-protruding muscles. In total, 102 6-day-old male Wistar rats were randomized into either a control or experimental group (both n = 51). In order to determine the appropriate timing of nasal obstruction, the saturation of arterial oxygen (SpO2) was monitored at 8 days, and at 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11 weeks in the control group. Rats in the experimental group underwent unilateral nasal obstruction at the age of 5 weeks. The SpO2 was monitored at 7, 9, and 11 weeks in the experimental group. The electromyographic responses of JOR and the contractile properties of the tongue-protruding muscles were recorded at 7, 9, and 11 weeks. In the control group, SpO2 decreased until 5 weeks of age, and remained relatively stable until 11 weeks of age. The SpO2 was significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control. In the experimental group, JOR changes included a longer latency and smaller peak-to-peak amplitude, while changes in the contractile properties of the tongue-protruding muscles included larger twitch and tetanic forces, and a longer half-decay time. These results suggest that nasal obstruction during later growth periods may affect craniofacial function. PMID:28119621

  4. Detection and follow-up of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and risk factors in the Southern Cone of Latin America: the pulmonary risk in South America (PRISA) study.

    PubMed

    Rubinstein, Adolfo L; Irazola, Vilma E; Bazzano, Lydia A; Sobrino, Edgardo; Calandrelli, Matías; Lanas, Fernando; Lee, Alison G; Manfredi, Jose A; Olivera, Héctor; Ponzo, Jacqueline; Seron, Pamela; He, Jiang

    2011-06-01

    The World Health Organization has estimated that by 2030, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease will be the third leading cause of death worldwide. Most knowledge of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is based on studies performed in Europe or North America and little is known about the prevalence, patient characteristics and change in lung function over time in patients in developing countries, such as those of Latin America. This lack of knowledge is in sharp contrast to the high levels of tobacco consumption and exposure to biomass fuels exhibited in Latin America, both major risk factors for the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Studies have also demonstrated that most Latin American physicians frequently do not follow international chronic obstructive pulmonary disease diagnostic and treatment guidelines. The PRISA Study will expand the current knowledge regarding chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and risk factors in Argentina, Chile and Uruguay to inform policy makers and health professionals on the best policies and practices to address this condition. PRISA is an observational, prospective cohort study with at least four years of follow-up. In the first year, PRISA has employed a randomized three-staged stratified cluster sampling strategy to identify 6,000 subjects from Marcos Paz and Bariloche, Argentina, Temuco, Chile, and Canelones, Uruguay. Information, such as comorbidities, socioeconomic status and tobacco and biomass exposure, will be collected and spirometry, anthropometric measurements, blood sampling and electrocardiogram will be performed. In year four, subjects will have repeat measurements taken. There is no longitudinal data on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease incidence and risk factors in the southern cone of Latin America, therefore this population-based prospective cohort study will fill knowledge gaps in the prevalence and incidence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, patient characteristics and

  5. Urinary tract infection associated with conditions causing urinary tract obstruction and stasis, excluding urolithiasis and neuropathic bladder.

    PubMed

    Heyns, C F

    2012-02-01

    The aim of this study was to examine urinary tract infection (UTI) associated with conditions causing urinary tract obstruction and stasis, excluding urolithiasis and neuropathic bladder dysfunction. An electronic literature search was performed using the key words urinary tract infection (UTI), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), hydronephrosis, obstruction, reflux, diverticulum, urethra, and stricture. In total, 520 abstracts were reviewed, 210 articles were studied in detail, and 36 were included as references. It is one of the axioms of Urological practice that urinary tract obstruction and stasis predispose to UTI. Experimental studies indicate that, whereas transurethral inoculates of bacteria are rapidly eliminated from the normal bladder, urethral obstruction leads to cystitis, pyelonephritis, and bacteremia. BPH is, next to urolithiasis, the most common cause of urinary tract obstruction predisposing to UTI. Urethral stricture remains a common cause of UTI in many parts of the world. Urinary stasis in diverticula of the urethra or bladder predisposes to UTI. Experimental studies have shown that, whereas the normal kidney is relatively resistant to infection by organisms injected intravenously, ureteric obstruction predisposes to pyelonephritis. It also causes renal dysfunction which impairs the excretion of antibiotics in the urine, making eradication of bacteria difficult. In patients with UTI and urinary tract obstruction, targeted antibiotic treatment according to urine culture should be complemented with urgent drainage (bladder catheterization, percutaneous nephrostomy or ureteric stenting) followed by definitive surgery to remove the cause of obstruction or stasis once infection is under control.

  6. Obstructive sleep apnea, seizures, and childhood apraxia of speech.

    PubMed

    Caspari, Susan S; Strand, Edythe A; Kotagal, Suresh; Bergqvist, Christina

    2008-06-01

    Associations between obstructive sleep apnea and motor speech disorders in adults have been suggested, though little has been written about possible effects of sleep apnea on speech acquisition in children with motor speech disorders. This report details the medical and speech history of a nonverbal child with seizures and severe apraxia of speech. For 6 years, he made no functional gains in speech production, despite intensive speech therapy. After tonsillectomy for obstructive sleep apnea at age 6 years, he experienced a reduction in seizures and rapid growth in speech production. The findings support a relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and childhood apraxia of speech. The rather late diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, especially in light of what was such a life-altering outcome (gaining functional speech), has significant implications. Most speech sounds develop during ages 2-5 years, which is also the peak time of occurrence of adenotonsillar hypertrophy and childhood obstructive sleep apnea. Hence it is important to establish definitive diagnoses, and to consider early and more aggressive treatments for obstructive sleep apnea, in children with motor speech disorders.

  7. Nasal Involvement in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome

    PubMed Central

    Michels, Daniel de Sousa; Rodrigues, Amanda da Mota Silveira; Nakanishi, Márcio; Sampaio, André Luiz Lopes; Venosa, Alessandra Ramos

    2014-01-01

    Numerous studies have reported an association between nasal obstruction and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), but the precise nature of this relationship remains to be clarified. This paper aimed to summarize data and theories on the role of the nose in the pathophysiology of sleep apnea as well as to discuss the benefits of surgical and medical nasal treatments. A number of pathophysiological mechanisms can potentially explain the role of nasal pathology in OSAS. These include the Starling resistor model, the unstable oral airway, the nasal ventilatory reflex, and the role of nitric oxide (NO). Pharmacological treatment presents some beneficial effects on the frequency of respiratory events and sleep architecture. Nonetheless, objective data assessing snoring and daytime sleepiness are still necessary. Nasal surgery can improve the quality of life and snoring in a select group of patients with mild OSAS and septal deviation but is not an effective treatment for OSA as such. Despite the conflicting results in the literature, it is important that patients who are not perfectly adapted to CPAP are evaluated in detail, in order to identify whether there are obstructive factors that could be surgically corrected. PMID:25548569

  8. Laparoscopic jejunostomy for obstructing upper gastrointestinal malignancies

    PubMed Central

    TSUJIMOTO, HIRONORI; HIRAKI, SHUICHI; TAKAHATA, RISA; NOMURA, SHINSUKE; ITO, NOZOMI; KANEMATSU, KYOHEI; HORIGUCHI, HIROYUKI; AOSASA, SUEFUMI; YAMAMOTO, JUNJI; HASE, KAZUO

    2015-01-01

    The aim of this study was to describe a minimally invasive laparoscopic jejunostomy (Lap-J) technique for obstruction due to upper gastrointestinal malignancies and evaluate the nutritional benefit of Lap-J during neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in cases with obstructing esophageal cancer. Under general anesthesia, the jejunum 20–30 cm distant from the Treitz ligament was pulled out through an extended umbilical laparoscopic incision and a jejunal tube was inserted to 30 cm. The loop of bowel was gently returned to the abdomen and the feeding tube was drawn through the abdominal wall via the left lower incision. The jejunum was then laparoscopically sutured to the anterior abdominal wall. Lap-J was performed in 26 cases. The median operative time was 82 min. The postoperative course was uneventful. Lap-J prior to NAC was not associated with a decrease in body weight or serum total protein during NAC, compared with patients who received NAC without Lap-J. This minimally invasive jejunostomy technique may be particularly useful in patients in whom endoscopic therapy is not feasible due to obstruction from upper gastrointestinal malignancies. PMID:26807238

  9. Prevalence of airflow obstruction and reduced forced vital capacity in an Aboriginal Australian population: The cross-sectional BOLD study.

    PubMed

    Cooksley, Nathania A J B; Atkinson, David; Marks, Guy B; Toelle, Brett G; Reeve, David; Johns, David P; Abramson, Michael J; Burton, Deborah L; James, Alan L; Wood-Baker, Richard; Walters, E Haydn; Buist, A Sonia; Maguire, Graeme P

    2015-07-01

    Mortality and hospital separation data suggest a higher burden of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in indigenous than non-indigenous subpopulations of high-income countries. This study sought to accurately measure the true prevalence of post-bronchodilator airflow obstruction and forced vital capacity reduction in representative samples of Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. This study applies cross-sectional population-based survey of Aboriginal and non-Indigenous residents of the Kimberley region of Western Australia aged 40 years or older, following the international Burden Of Lung Disease (BOLD) protocol. Quality-controlled spirometry was conducted before and after bronchodilator. COPD was defined as Global initiative for chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) Stage 2 and above (post-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity (FEV1 /FVC) ratio <0.7 and FEV1  < 80% predicted). Complete data were available for 704 participants. The prevalence of COPD, adjusted for age, gender and body weight in Aboriginal participants (7.2%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.9 to 10.4) was similar to that seen in non-Indigenous Kimberley participants (8.2%, 95% CI 5.7 to 10.7) and non-Indigenous residents of the remainder of Australia (7.1%, 95% CI 6.1 to 8.0). The prevalence of low FVC (<80% predicted) was substantially higher in Aboriginal compared with non-Indigenous participants (74.0%, 95% CI 69.1 to 78.8, vs 9.7%, 95% CI 7.1 to 12.4). Low FVC, rather than airflow obstruction, characterizes the impact of chronic lung disease previously attributed to COPD in this population subject to significant social and economic disadvantage. Environmental risk factors other than smoking as well as developmental factors must be considered. These findings require further investigation and have implications for future prevention of chronic lung disease in similar populations. © 2015 Asian Pacific Society of Respirology.

  10. Sleep Architecture Linked to Airway Obstruction and Intracranial Hypertension in Children with Syndromic Craniosynostosis.

    PubMed

    Spruijt, Bart; Mathijssen, Irene M J; Bredero-Boelhouwer, Hansje H; Cherian, Perumpillichira J; Corel, Linda J A; van Veelen, Marie-Lise; Hayward, Richard D; Tasker, Robert C; Joosten, Koen F M

    2016-12-01

    Children with syndromic craniosynostosis often have obstructive sleep apnea and intracranial hypertension. The authors aimed to evaluate (1) sleep architecture, and determine whether this is influenced by the presence of obstructive sleep apnea and/or intracranial hypertension; and (2) the effect of treatment on sleep architecture. This study included patients with syndromic craniosynostosis treated at a national referral center, undergoing screening for obstructive sleep apnea and intracranial hypertension. Obstructive sleep apnea was identified by polysomnography, and categorized into no, mild, moderate, or severe. Intracranial hypertension was identified by the presence of papilledema on funduscopy, supplemented by optical coherence tomography and/or intracranial pressure monitoring. Regarding sleep architecture, sleep was divided into rapid eye movement or non-rapid eye movement sleep; respiratory effort-related arousals and sleep efficiency were scored. The authors included 39 patients (median age, 5.9 years): 19 with neither obstructive sleep apnea nor intracranial hypertension, 11 with obstructive sleep apnea (four moderate/severe), six with intracranial hypertension, and three with obstructive sleep apnea and intracranial hypertension. Patients with syndromic craniosynostosis, independent of the presence of mild obstructive sleep apnea and/or intracranial hypertension, have normal sleep architecture compared with age-matched controls. Patients with moderate/severe obstructive sleep apnea have a higher respiratory effort-related arousal index (p < 0.01), lower sleep efficiency (p = 0.01), and less rapid eye movement sleep (p = 0.04). An improvement in sleep architecture was observed following monobloc surgery (n = 5; rapid eye movement sleep, 5.3 percent; p = 0.04). Children with syndromic craniosynostosis have in principle normal sleep architecture. However, moderate/severe obstructive sleep apnea does lead to disturbed sleep architecture, which fits within

  11. Removal of obstructing T-tube and stabilization of the airway.

    PubMed

    Athavale, Sanjay M; Dang, Jennifer; Rangarajan, Sanjeet; Garrett, Gaelyn

    2011-05-01

    Although they are extremely effective in maintaining tracheal and subglottic patency, T-tubes themselves can result in airway obstruction from plugging. Many practitioners educate patients on placing a small (5.0) endotracheal tube (ETT) through the tracheal limb of the T-tube if they develop airway obstruction. Unfortunately, this can be a difficult task to complete during acute airway obstruction. In this article, we describe a simple set of steps for rapid relief of airway obstruction and stabilization of the airway in the event of T-tube obstruction. This method requires removal of the T-tube with a Kelly clamp and stabilization of the airway with a tracheostomy tube. Although it is simple, we hope that this technique will prevent morbidity and mortality from acute airway obstructions related to T-tubes. Copyright © 2011 The American Laryngological, Rhinological, and Otological Society, Inc.

  12. Therapeutic value of gastrografin in adhesive small bowel obstruction after unsuccessful conservative treatment: a prospective randomized trial.

    PubMed

    Choi, Hok-Kwok; Chu, Kin-Wah; Law, Wai-Lun

    2002-07-01

    To assess the therapeutic value of Gastrografin in the management of adhesive small bowel obstruction after unsuccessful conservative treatment. Gastrografin is a hyperosmolar water-soluble contrast medium. Besides its predictive value for the need for surgery, there is probably a therapeutic role of this contrast medium in adhesive small bowel obstruction. Patients with clinical evidence of adhesive small bowel obstruction were given trial conservative treatment unless there was suspicion of strangulation. Those who responded in the initial 48 hours had conservative treatment continued. Patients showing no clinical and radiologic improvement in the initial 48 hours were randomized to undergo either Gastrografin meal and follow-through study or surgery. Contrast that appeared in the large bowel within 24 hours was regarded as a partial obstruction, and conservative treatment was continued. Patients in whom contrast failed to reach the large bowel within 24 hours were considered to have complete obstruction, and laparotomy was performed. For patients who had conservative treatment for more than 48 hours with or without Gastrografin, surgery was performed when there was no continuing improvement. One hundred twenty-four patients with a total of 139 episodes of adhesive obstruction were included. Three patients underwent surgery soon after admission for suspected bowel strangulation. Strangulating obstruction was confirmed in two patients. One hundred one obstructive episodes showed improvement in the initial 48 hours and conservative treatment was continued. Only one patient required surgical treatment subsequently after conservative treatment for 6 days. Thirty-five patients showed no improvement within 48 hours. Nineteen patients were randomized to undergo Gastrografin meal and follow-through study and 16 patients to surgery. Gastrografin study revealed partial obstruction in 14 patients. Obstruction resolved subsequently in all of them after a mean of 41 hours

  13. 14 CFR 151.91 - Removal of obstructions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Removal of obstructions. 151.91 Section 151.91 Aeronautics and Space FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED) AIRPORTS FEDERAL AID TO AIRPORTS Project Programming Standards § 151.91 Removal of obstructions. (a) The...

  14. 14 CFR 151.91 - Removal of obstructions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Removal of obstructions. 151.91 Section 151.91 Aeronautics and Space FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED) AIRPORTS FEDERAL AID TO AIRPORTS Project Programming Standards § 151.91 Removal of obstructions. (a) The...

  15. 14 CFR 151.91 - Removal of obstructions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Removal of obstructions. 151.91 Section 151.91 Aeronautics and Space FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED) AIRPORTS FEDERAL AID TO AIRPORTS Project Programming Standards § 151.91 Removal of obstructions. (a) The...

  16. 14 CFR 151.91 - Removal of obstructions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Removal of obstructions. 151.91 Section 151.91 Aeronautics and Space FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED) AIRPORTS FEDERAL AID TO AIRPORTS Project Programming Standards § 151.91 Removal of obstructions. (a) The...

  17. Sialendoscopy-assisted treatment for chronic obstructive parotitis related to Sjogren syndrome.

    PubMed

    Guo, Yong-Feng; Sun, Ning-Ning; Wu, Chuan-Bin; Xue, Lei; Zhou, Qing

    2017-03-01

    Chronic obstructive parotitis related to Sjogren syndrome is not uncommon, but it is rarely reported in the literature. The aim of this study was to describe our experience in the treatment of chronic obstructive parotitis related to Sjogren syndrome. Seventeen cases of chronic obstructive parotitis related to Sjogren syndrome treated with sialendoscopy from June 2014 to June 2015 at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, were retrospectively reviewed. The cohort underwent ultrasonography, salivary gland scintigraphy, and sialography before sialendoscopy. All patients were asked to complete a visual analogue scale (VAS) evaluation before and 6 months after surgery. A paired t test was conducted, and P < .05 was considered statistically significant. The 17 study patients (27 parotid glands) successfully underwent interventional sialendoscopy under local anesthesia. The mean preoperative VAS score was 6, and the mean VAS score 6 months after sialendoscopy was significantly lower at 4.5 (P < .05). Interventional sialendoscopy plays a significant role in the treatment of chronic obstructive parotitis related to Sjogren syndrome. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Pulmonary distribution of an inhaled radioaerosol in obstructive pulmonary disease

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Lin, M.S.; Goodwin, D.A.

    1976-03-01

    Pulmonary distribution of an inhaled radioaerosol was analyzed in 20 cases of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and 8 of other OPD. Nonciliary/ciliary partition of the distribution correlated with the severity of airway obstruction and approximated 3 : 1 in mild and 1 : 3 in very severe obstruction. In nuclear images, the distribution featured contrast abnormalities of hyperdeposition and hypodeposition. Intense hyperdeposition most commonly occurred in hilar and perihilar large airways. In isolated instances, hyperdeposition almost certainly occurred focally at sites of partial bronchial obstruction and diffusely by expiratory trapping; hypodeposition occurred distally to bronchial obstruction and in areasmore » of parenchymal loss. (auth)« less

  19. Obstructive ureteropathy following radiation therapy for carcinoma of the cervix

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Parliament, M.; Genest, P.; Girard, A.

    1989-05-01

    Between January 1959 and December 1986, 10 of 328 patients (3%) treated with curative intent using primary radiation therapy for carcinoma of the cervix developed obstructive ureteropathy due to fibrosis. The mean age of the patients with obstructive ureteropathy was 45 years and the median time to obstruction was 26 months. The obstruction was unilateral in 8 cases and involved the parametrial portion of the ureter in at least 5 cases. No predisposing risk factor was found to be associated with the development of obstructive ureteropathy. After corrective surgery, renal function remained normal in 8 patients, and resolution of themore » hydronephrosis occurred in 4 patients.« less

  20. Effects of octreotide and a-tocopherol on bacterial translocation in experimental intestinal obstruction: a microbiological, light and electronmicroscopical study.

    PubMed

    Reis, E; Kama, N A; Coskun, T; Korkusuz, P; Ors, U; Aksoy, M; Kulaçoglu, S

    1997-01-01

    Bacterial translocation induced by intestinal obstruction is suggested to be due to increased intestinal luminal volume, leading to intestinal overgrowth with certain enteric microorganisms and intestinal mucosal damage. If this suggestion is true, maintenance of intestinal mucosal integrity by a cytoprotective agent, a-tocopherol, and inhibition of gastrointestinal secretions by octreotide should decrease the incidence of bacterial translocation and extent of mucosal injury due to intestinal obstruction. Complete intestinal obstruction was created in the distal ileum of male Wistar Albino rats by a single 3-0 silk suture. The animals received subcutaneous injections of 1 ml of physiologic saline (group 1) (PS 24) and 1 ml of saline containing octreotide acetate (100 micrograms/kg) (group 2) (OC 24), at 0, 12 and 24 hours of obstruction. In group 3 (PS 48) and group 4 (OC 48), the rats were treated with subcutaneous physiologic saline (1 ml) and octreotide acetate (100 micrograms/kg), respectively, beginning at the time of obstruction and every 12 hours for 48 hours. The rats in group 5 (Toc 24), were pretreated with intramuscular a-tocopherol 500 mg/kg on day 1 and 8, and underwent laparotomy on day 9. A third dose of a-tocopherol was injected at the time of obstruction on day 9 and no treatment was given thereafter. We tested the incidence of bacterial translocation in systemic organs and circulation and evaluated the histopathological changes in all groups. Treatment with octreotide acetate was found to be ineffective in reducing the incidence of translocation, with no histopathological improvement. Mucosal damage scores, on the other hand, in the a-tocopherol group were statistically less than those in the octreotide and control groups (p < 0.05). Additionally, a-tocopherol treatment decreased the incidence of organ invasion with translocating bacteria, although this difference did not reach statistical significance. Octreotide acetate treatment in complete

  1. Contemporary outcomes of seminal tract re-anastomoses for obstructive azoospermia: a nationwide Japanese survey.

    PubMed

    Taniguchi, Hisanori; Iwamoto, Teruaki; Ichikawa, Tomohiko; Nagai, Atsushi; Okada, Hiroshi; Fujisawa, Masato; Tsujimura, Akira; Shiraishi, Koji; Hibi, Hatsuki; Nagao, Koichi; Iwasaki, Akira; Kamba, Tomomi; Tomomasa, Hiroshi; Takada, Shingo; Matsuda, Tadashi

    2015-02-01

    To evaluate current outcomes of seminal tract re-anastomoses in Japan, and to compare them with historical data. A total of 213 patients with obstructive azoospermia who underwent seminal tract re-anastomosis from April 2008 to March 2012 at 25 institutions were enrolled in the present study. The outcomes of the procedure were compared with those reported in a previous multi-institutional study carried out in 2000. The percentage of partners aged over 35 years was 37%. A microsurgical double-layer anastomosis was carried out 83.0% of the time. Sperm were observed in ejaculate postoperatively in 68.9% and 41.5% of patients who underwent a vasovasostomy or a vasoepididymostomy, respectively. Natural conception occurred in 27.5% of patients after a vasectomy and 32.3% of patients with an epididymal obstruction. Except for the ratio of natural conception in patients with vasal obstruction after herniorrhaphies, there were no significant differences in final ratios of sperm appearance and natural conception between the previously reported study and the present study. Compared with historical data, contemporary seminal tract re-anastomosis in Japan seems to provide equivalent or better outcomes, depending on the cause of obstruction. Seminal tract re-anastomosis is a valid treatment option for patients with obstructive azoospermia. © 2014 The Japanese Urological Association.

  2. Acquired urethral obstruction in New World camelids: 34 cases (1995-2008).

    PubMed

    Duesterdieck-Zellmer, K F; Van Metre, D C; Cardenas, A; Cebra, C K

    2014-08-01

    Document the clinical features, short- and long-term outcomes and prognostic factors in New World camelids with acquired urethral obstruction. Retrospective case study. Case data from medical records of 34 New World camelids presenting with acquired urethral obstruction were collected and follow-up information on discharged patients was obtained. Associations with short- and long-term survival were evaluated using Wilcoxon rank-sum tests, exact-logistic regressions and Kaplan-Meier survival curves. Of the 34 New World camelids 23 were intact males and 11 were castrated; 4 animals were euthanased upon presentation, 7 were treated medically and 23 surgically, including urethrotomy, bladder marsupialisation, tube cystostomy alone or combined with urethrotomy, urethrostomy or penile reefing. Necrosis of the distal penis was found in 4 animals and all were short-term non-survivors. Short-term survival for surgical cases was 65%, and 57% for medical cases. Incomplete urethral obstruction at admission and surgical treatment were associated with increased odds of short-term survival. Of 14 records available for long-term follow-up, 6 animals were alive and 8 were dead (median follow-up 4.5 years, median survival time 2.5 years). Recurrence of urethral obstruction was associated with long-term non-survival. Surgically treated New World camelids with incomplete urethral obstruction have the best odds of short-term survival and those with recurrence of urethral obstruction have a poor prognosis for long-term survival. © 2014 Australian Veterinary Association.

  3. Obstructive lung disease as a complication in post pulmonary TB

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tarigan, A. P.; Pandia, P.; Eyanoer, P.; Tina, D.; Pratama, R.; Fresia, A.; Tamara; Silvanna

    2018-03-01

    The case of post TB is a problem that arises in the community. Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) can affect lung function. Therefore, we evaluated impaired pulmonary function in subjects with diagnosed prior pulmonary TB. A Case Series study, pulmonary function test was performed in subjects with a history of pulmonary tuberculosis; aged ≥18 years were included. Exclusion criteria was a subject who had asthma, obesity, abnormal thorax and smoking history. We measured FEV1 and FVC to evaluate pulmonary function. Airflow obstruction was FEV1/FVC%<75 and restriction was FVC<80% according to Indonesia’s pneumomobile project. This study was obtained from 23 patients with post pulmonary TB, 5 subjects (23%) had airflow obstruction with FEV1/FVC% value <75%, 15 subjects (71.4%) had abnormalities restriction with FVC value <80% and 3 subjects (5.6%) had normal lung function. Obstructive lung disease is one of the complications of impaired lung function in post pulmonary TB.

  4. Health Promotion in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome

    PubMed Central

    Corrêa, Camila de Castro; Blasca, Wanderléia Quinhoneiro; Berretin-Felix, Giédre

    2015-01-01

    Introduction Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), which is commonly underdiagnosed, has a high occurrence in the world population. Health education concerning sleep disorders and OSAS should be implemented. Objectives The objective was to identify studies related to preventive actions on sleep disorders, with emphasis on OSAS. Data Synthesis A literature review was conducted using Lilacs, Medline, PubMed, and Scopus by combining the following keywords: “Health Promotion,” “Sleep Disorders,” “Primary Prevention,” “Health Education,” and “Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndromes.” Initially, 1,055 papers, from 1968 to 2013, were located, with the majority from the Scopus database. The inclusion criteria were applied, and four articles published between 2006 and 2012 were included in the present study. Conclusions The studies on preventive actions in sleep disorders, with emphasis on OSAS, involved the general population and professionals and students in the health field and led to increased knowledge on sleep disorders and more appropriate practices. PMID:25992174

  5. Pain management at the end of life: A comparative study of cancer, dementia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients.

    PubMed

    Romem, Anat; Tom, Sarah E; Beauchene, Michelle; Babington, Lynn; Scharf, Steven M; Romem, Ayal

    2015-05-01

    Limited data exist concerning the unique pain characteristics of patients with non-cancer terminal diseases referred for inpatient hospice care. To define the unique pain characteristics of patients admitted to an acute inpatient hospice setting with end-stage dementia or chronic obstructive lung disease (or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and to compare them to patients with end-stage cancer. Retrospective patient chart review. Demographic, physiological, pain parameters, and medication utilization data were extracted. Associations between pain characteristics, medication utilization, and admission diagnoses were assessed. Analyses included descriptive statistics. In total, 146 patients admitted to an acute inpatient hospice between 1 April 2011 and 31 March 2012 with an underlying primary diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (n = 51), dementia (n = 48), or cancer (n = 47). Pain was highly prevalent in all diagnostic groups, with cancer patients experiencing more severe pain on admission. Cancer patients received a significantly higher cumulative opioid dose compared with dementia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. Pain control within 24 h of pain onset was achieved in less than half of all patient groups with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients the least likely to achieve pain control. Despite the fact that pain is the most common complaint at the end of life, pain management may be suboptimal for some primary diagnoses. Admission diagnosis is the strongest predictor of pain control. Patient with cancer achieve the best pain control, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients are the least likely to have their pain adequately treated. © The Author(s) 2015.

  6. Detection of high-grade small bowel obstruction on conventional radiography with convolutional neural networks.

    PubMed

    Cheng, Phillip M; Tejura, Tapas K; Tran, Khoa N; Whang, Gilbert

    2018-05-01

    The purpose of this pilot study is to determine whether a deep convolutional neural network can be trained with limited image data to detect high-grade small bowel obstruction patterns on supine abdominal radiographs. Grayscale images from 3663 clinical supine abdominal radiographs were categorized into obstructive and non-obstructive categories independently by three abdominal radiologists, and the majority classification was used as ground truth; 74 images were found to be consistent with small bowel obstruction. Images were rescaled and randomized, with 2210 images constituting the training set (39 with small bowel obstruction) and 1453 images constituting the test set (35 with small bowel obstruction). Weight parameters for the final classification layer of the Inception v3 convolutional neural network, previously trained on the 2014 Large Scale Visual Recognition Challenge dataset, were retrained on the training set. After training, the neural network achieved an AUC of 0.84 on the test set (95% CI 0.78-0.89). At the maximum Youden index (sensitivity + specificity-1), the sensitivity of the system for small bowel obstruction is 83.8%, with a specificity of 68.1%. The results demonstrate that transfer learning with convolutional neural networks, even with limited training data, may be used to train a detector for high-grade small bowel obstruction gas patterns on supine radiographs.

  7. Timing Matters: Circadian Rhythm in Sepsis, Obstructive Lung Disease, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and Cancer

    PubMed Central

    Truong, Kimberly K.; Lam, Michael T.; Grandner, Michael A.; Sassoon, Catherine S.

    2016-01-01

    Physiological and cellular functions operate in a 24-hour cyclical pattern orchestrated by an endogenous process known as the circadian rhythm. Circadian rhythms represent intrinsic oscillations of biological functions that allow for adaptation to cyclic environmental changes. Key clock genes that affect the persistence and periodicity of circadian rhythms include BMAL1/CLOCK, Period 1, Period 2, and Cryptochrome. Remarkable progress has been made in our understanding of circadian rhythms and their role in common medical conditions. A critical review of the literature supports the association between circadian misalignment and adverse health consequences in sepsis, obstructive lung disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and malignancy. Circadian misalignment plays an important role in these disease processes and can affect disease severity, treatment response, and survivorship. Normal inflammatory response to acute infections, airway resistance, upper airway collapsibility, and mitosis regulation follows a robust circadian pattern. Disruption of normal circadian rhythm at the molecular level affects severity of inflammation in sepsis, contributes to inflammatory responses in obstructive lung diseases, affects apnea length in obstructive sleep apnea, and increases risk for cancer. Chronotherapy is an underused practice of delivering therapy at optimal times to maximize efficacy and minimize toxicity. This approach has been shown to be advantageous in asthma and cancer management. In asthma, appropriate timing of medication administration improves treatment effectiveness. Properly timed chemotherapy may reduce treatment toxicities and maximize efficacy. Future research should focus on circadian rhythm disorders, role of circadian rhythm in other diseases, and modalities to restore and prevent circadian disruption. PMID:27104378

  8. Timing Matters: Circadian Rhythm in Sepsis, Obstructive Lung Disease, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, and Cancer.

    PubMed

    Truong, Kimberly K; Lam, Michael T; Grandner, Michael A; Sassoon, Catherine S; Malhotra, Atul

    2016-07-01

    Physiological and cellular functions operate in a 24-hour cyclical pattern orchestrated by an endogenous process known as the circadian rhythm. Circadian rhythms represent intrinsic oscillations of biological functions that allow for adaptation to cyclic environmental changes. Key clock genes that affect the persistence and periodicity of circadian rhythms include BMAL1/CLOCK, Period 1, Period 2, and Cryptochrome. Remarkable progress has been made in our understanding of circadian rhythms and their role in common medical conditions. A critical review of the literature supports the association between circadian misalignment and adverse health consequences in sepsis, obstructive lung disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and malignancy. Circadian misalignment plays an important role in these disease processes and can affect disease severity, treatment response, and survivorship. Normal inflammatory response to acute infections, airway resistance, upper airway collapsibility, and mitosis regulation follows a robust circadian pattern. Disruption of normal circadian rhythm at the molecular level affects severity of inflammation in sepsis, contributes to inflammatory responses in obstructive lung diseases, affects apnea length in obstructive sleep apnea, and increases risk for cancer. Chronotherapy is an underused practice of delivering therapy at optimal times to maximize efficacy and minimize toxicity. This approach has been shown to be advantageous in asthma and cancer management. In asthma, appropriate timing of medication administration improves treatment effectiveness. Properly timed chemotherapy may reduce treatment toxicities and maximize efficacy. Future research should focus on circadian rhythm disorders, role of circadian rhythm in other diseases, and modalities to restore and prevent circadian disruption.

  9. Crisis management during anaesthesia: obstruction of the natural airway.

    PubMed

    Visvanathan, T; Kluger, M T; Webb, R K; Westhorpe, R N

    2005-06-01

    Obstruction of the natural airway, while usually easily recognised and managed, may present simply as desaturation, have an unexpected cause, be very difficult to manage, and have serious consequences for the patient. To examine the role of a previously described core algorithm "COVER ABCD-A SWIFT CHECK", supplemented by a specific sub-algorithm for obstruction of the natural airway, in the management of acute airway obstruction occurring in association with anaesthesia. The potential performance for this structured approach for each of the relevant incidents among the first 4000 reported to the Australian Incident Monitoring Study (AIMS) was compared with the actual management as reported by the anaesthetists involved. There were 62 relevant incidents among the first 4000 reports to the AIMS. It was considered that the correct use of the structured approach would have led to earlier recognition of the problem and/or better management in 11% of cases. Airway management is a fundamental anaesthetic responsibility and skill. Airway obstruction demands a rapid and organised approach to its diagnosis and management and undue delay usually results in desaturation and a potential threat to life. An uncomplicated pre-learned sequence of airway rescue instructions is an essential part of every anaesthetist's clinical practice requirements.

  10. Swallowing and pharyngo-esophageal manometry in obstructive sleep apnea.

    PubMed

    Oliveira, Luciana Almeida Moreira da Paz; Fontes, Luiz Henrique de Souza; Cahali, Michel Burihan

    2015-01-01

    Upper airway nerve and muscle damage associated with obstructive sleep apnea may impair the strength and dynamics of pharyngeal and esophageal contractions during swallowing. To evaluate the presence of alterations in pharyngoesophageal manometry in patients with obstructive sleep apnea with and without oropharyngeal dysphagia. This study prospectively evaluated 22 patients with obstructive sleep apnea without spontaneous complaints of dysphagia, using a questionnaire, fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing, and pharyngoesophageal manometry, including measurement of the upper and lower esophageal sphincter pressures and mean pharyngeal pressures at three levels during swallowing. The dysphagia group consisted of 17 patients (77.3%) in whom swallowing abnormalities were detected on fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (n=15; 68.2%) and/or in the questionnaire (n=7; 31.8%). The five remaining cases comprised a control group without oropharyngeal dysphagia. In all cases of abnormalities on fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing, there was premature bolus leakage into the pharynx. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups regarding any of the pharyngoesophageal manometry measurements, age, or severity of obstructive sleep apnea. Pharyngoesophageal manometry detected no statistically significant difference between the groups with and without oropharyngeal dysphagia. Copyright © 2015 Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  11. Relationships between the obstructive character of the tonsils and the type of ventilation and lip posture.

    PubMed

    Diouf, Joseph Samba; Diallo, Bay Karim; Diop-Ba, Khady; Badiane, Alpha; Ngom, Papa Ibrahima; Sonko, Ousmane; Diagne, Falou

    2018-06-01

    The role of obstructive tonsils in ventilatory disorders and abnormal lip posture is widely discussed in the literature but remains controversial. The data reported on the probable relationship between obstructive tonsils and an existing breathing disorder or lip incompetence were subjective. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the obstructive character of the tonsils and the type of ventilation and lip posture. This is a cross-sectional study performed in children aged from 6 to 12 years old. The subjects were divided into two groups (A and B) according to the obstructive or non-obstructive character of the palatal tonsils. Type of ventilation and lip posture at rest were recorded for each child. The collected data were analysed using the SPSS 20.0 software (for Windows). A Student's t-test and a Chi 2 test were respectively used to compare quantitative and qualitative variables according to the obstructive character of the tonsils for each group. The level of significance is fixed at P=0.05. The subjects in group B with obstructive palatal tonsils were significantly more likely to oral breathing and lip incompetence than the subjects with non-obstructive tonsils (group A). The clinical examination of children with ventilatory and postural disorders with lip incompetence must be directed towards the search for associated obstructive palatal tonsils in order to plan an early etiological treatment. This would allow to avoid subsequent problems in the dentofacial structures. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

  12. Usefulness of Ultrasonography and Cortical Transit Time to Differentiate Nonobstructive From Obstructive Dilatation in the Management of Prenatally Detected Pelvic Ureteric Junction Like Obstruction.

    PubMed

    Sharma, Gyanendra; Sharma, Anshu

    2017-12-01

    To differentiate a nonobstructive dilatation from an obstructive dilatation in prenatally detected presumed pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction so that intervention can be planned before irreversible damage can occur to the renal unit. From January 2012 to December 2016, all patients with prenatally detected or asymptomatic incidentally detected presumed pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction were evaluated by ultrasonography and renogram. The anteroposterior diameter of the renal pelvis was measured in supine and prone position. Presence of calyceal dilatation in prone position was noted. They were categorized into obstructed, nonobstructed, and equivocal groups based on sonography findings. The differential renal function and the cortical transit time (CTT) was calculated and compared with the sonography groups. Of the 98 patients, 72 were in the obstructed, 18 were in the nonobstructed, and 8 were in the equivocal category. All except 1 in the nonobstructed category had a function of >40% with CTT of <3 minutes. Seventy patients in the obstructed category had a CTT of >3 minutes, whereas 61 had function <40% on initial evaluation. Eleven patients in the obstructed category with an initial function of >40% had CTT of >3 minutes. All of them showed increasing hydronephrosis and deterioration of function during follow-up, necessitating pyeloplasty. All patients in the equivocal group had function >40% and CTT <3 minutes. Ultrasonography along with CTT can help to differentiate nonobstructive from obstructive dilatation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Effect of Fluticasone Furoate and Vilanterol on Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Patients with Moderate Airflow Obstruction.

    PubMed

    Martinez, Fernando J; Vestbo, Jørgen; Anderson, Julie A; Brook, Robert D; Celli, Bartolome R; Cowans, Nicholas J; Crim, Courtney; Dransfield, Mark; Kilbride, Sally; Yates, Julie; Newby, David E; Niewoehner, Dennis; Calverley, Peter M A

    2017-04-01

    Inhaled corticosteroids have been shown to decrease exacerbations in patients with moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Their effects in patients with milder airflow obstruction remain unclear. This was an analysis of exacerbations in the SUMMIT (Study to Understand Mortality and Morbidity) study. In a double-blind, randomized controlled trial, once-daily inhaled placebo, fluticasone furoate (FF; 100 μg), vilanterol (VI; 25 μg), or the combination of FF/VI was administered. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality. Exacerbations of COPD were an additional predefined endpoint. A total of 1,368 centers in 43 countries and 16,485 patients with moderate COPD and heightened cardiovascular risk were included in the study. Compared with placebo, FF/VI reduced the rate of moderate and/or severe exacerbations by 29% (95% confidence interval [CI], 22-35; P < 0.001) and the rate of hospitalized exacerbations by 27% (95% CI, 13-39; P < 0.001). These relative effects were similar regardless of whether subjects had a history of exacerbation in the year before the study or an FEV 1 <60% or ≥60% of predicted. The number needed to treat was not influenced by baseline FEV 1 but was influenced by the history of exacerbations. FF/VI also reduced the rate of exacerbations treated with corticosteroids alone or with corticosteroids and antibiotics but not the rates of those treated with antibiotics alone. Patients with moderate chronic airflow obstruction experienced a reduction in exacerbations with FF/VI compared with placebo, irrespective of a history of exacerbations or baseline FEV 1 . Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT 01313676; GSK Study number 113782).

  14. Subtotal obstruction of the male reproductive tract.

    PubMed

    Dohle, G R; van Roijen, J H; Pierik, F H; Vreeburg, J T M; Weber, R F A

    2003-03-01

    Bilateral obstruction of the male reproductive tract is suspected in men with azoospermia, normal testicular volume and normal FSH. A testicular biopsy is required to differentiate between an obstruction and a testicular insufficiency. Unilateral or subtotal bilateral obstructions and epididymal dysfunction may cause severe oligozoospermia in men with a normal spermatogenesis. However, information on spermatogenesis in oligozoospermic men is lacking, since testicular biopsy is not routinely performed. Men with a sperm concentration of <1 x 10(6) spermatozoa/ml were investigated for possible partial obstruction by performing a testicular biopsy under local anaesthesia. Spermatogenesis was determined by the Johnsen scoring method. A testicular biopsy was performed in 78 men with severe oligozoospermia. The medical history showed male accessory gland infection in 12.8%, previous hernia repair in 14.1% and a history of cryptorchidism in 12.8%. A normal or slightly disturbed spermatogenesis (Johnsen score >8) was present in 39/78 (50%) of the men. Hernia repair occurred more often in men with normal spermatogenesis. A varicocele was predominantly seen in men with a disturbed spermatogenesis. FSH was significantly lower ( P<0.0001) in men with normal spermatogenesis. Subtotal obstruction of the male reproductive tract is a frequent cause of severe oligozoospermia in men with a normal testicular volume and a normal FSH. In other cases, an epididymal dysfunction might explain the oligozoospermia in men with a normal testicular biopsy score.

  15. Association of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and hemorrhoids: A nationwide cohort study.

    PubMed

    Lin, Lih-Hwa; Siu, Justin Ji-Yuen; Liao, Po-Chi; Chiang, Jen-Huai; Chou, Pei-Chi; Chen, Huey-Yi; Ho, Tsung-Jung; Tsai, Ming-Yen; Chen, Yung-Hsiang; Chen, Wen-Chi

    2017-03-01

    According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, a specific physiological and pathological relationship exists between the lungs and the large intestine. The aim of this study is to delineate the association of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and hemorrhoids in order to verify the "interior-exterior" relationship between the lungs and the large intestine. A retrospective cohort study is conceived from the National Health Insurance Research Database, Taiwan. The 2 samples (COPD cohort and non-COPD cohort) were selected from the 2000 to 2003 beneficiaries of the NHI, representing patients age 20 and older in Taiwan, with the follow-up ending on December 31, 2011. The COPD cohort (n = 51,506) includes every patient newly diagnosed as having Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD, ICD-9-CM: 490-492, 494, 496), who have made at least 2 confirmed visits to the hospital/clinic. The non-COPD cohort (n = 103,012) includes patients without COPD and is selected via a 1:2 (COPD: non-COPD) matching by age group (per 5 years), gender, and index date (diagnosis date of COPD for the COPD cohort). Compared with non-COPD cohorts, patients with COPD have a higher likelihood of having hemorrhoids and the age-, gender- and comorbidies-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for hemorrhoids is 1.56 (95% confidence intervals [CI]:1.50-1.62). The adjusted HR of hemorrhoids for females is 0.79 (95% CI: 0.77-0.83), which is significantly less than that for males. The elderly groups, 40 to 59 years and aged 60 or above, have higher adjusted HRs than younger age groups (20-39 years), 1.19 (95% CI: 1.14-1.26), and 1.18 (95% CI: 1.12-1.24), respectively. Patients with COPD may have a higher likelihood to have hemorrhoids in this retrospective cohort study. This study verifies the fundamental theorem of TCM that there is a definite pathogenic association between the lungs and large intestine.

  16. Outcomes of Upper Airway Stimulation for Obstructive Sleep Apnea in a Multicenter German Postmarket Study.

    PubMed

    Heiser, Clemens; Maurer, Joachim T; Hofauer, Benedikt; Sommer, J Ulrich; Seitz, Annemarie; Steffen, Armin

    2017-02-01

    Objective Selective stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve is a new surgical therapy for obstructive sleep apnea, with proven efficacy in well-designed clinical trials. The aim of the study is to obtain additional safety and efficacy data on the use of selective upper airway stimulation during daily clinical routine. Study Design Prospective single-arm study. Setting Three tertiary hospitals in Germany (Munich, Mannheim, Lübeck). Subjects and Methods A multicenter prospective single-arm study under a common implant and follow-up protocol took place in 3 German centers (Mannheim, Munich, Lübeck). Every patient who received an implant of selective upper airway stimulation was included in this trial (apnea-hypopnea index ≥15/h and ≤65/h and body mass index <35 kg/m 2 ). Before and 6 months after surgery, a 2-night home sleep test was performed. Data regarding the safety and efficacy were collected. Results From July 2014 through October 2015, 60 patients were included. Every subject reported improvement in sleep and daytime symptoms. The average usage time of the system was 42.9 ± 11.9 h/wk. The median apnea-hypopnea index was significantly reduced at 6 months from 28.6/h to 8.3/h. No patient required surgical revision of the implanted system. Conclusion Selective upper airway stimulation is a safe and effective therapy for patients with obstructive sleep apnea and represents a powerful option for its surgical treatment.

  17. Proportion and clinical characteristics of non-asthmatic non-smokers among adults with airflow obstruction.

    PubMed

    Takiguchi, Hiroto; Takeuchi, Tomoe; Niimi, Kyoko; Tomomatsu, Hiromi; Tomomatsu, Katsuyoshi; Hayama, Naoki; Oguma, Tsuyoshi; Aoki, Takuya; Urano, Tetsuya; Asai, Satomi; Miyachi, Hayato; Asano, Koichiro

    2018-01-01

    Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) mainly develops after long-term exposure to cigarette or biomass fuel smoke, but also occurs in non-smokers with or without a history of asthma. We investigated the proportion and clinical characteristics of non-smokers among middle-aged to elderly subjects with airflow obstruction. We retrospectively analyzed 1,892 subjects aged 40-89 years who underwent routine preoperative spirometry at a tertiary university hospital in Japan. Airflow obstruction was defined as a forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1)/forced vital capacity < 0.7 or as the lower limit of the normal. Among 323 patients presenting with FEV1/forced vital capacity < 0.7, 43 had asthma and 280 did not. Among the non-asthmatic patients with airflow obstruction, 94 (34%) were non-smokers. A larger number of women than men with airflow obstruction had asthma (26% vs. 7.6%, p < 0.001), or were non-smokers among non-asthmatics (72% vs. 20%, p < 0.001). Non-asthmatic non-smokers, rather than non-asthmatic smokers, asthmatic non-smokers, and asthmatic smokers, exhibited better pulmonary function (median FEV1: 79% of predicted FEV1 vs. 73%, 69%, and 66%, respectively, p = 0.005) and less dyspnea on exertion (1% vs. 12%, 12%, and 28%, respectively, p = 0.001). Pulmonary emphysema on thoracic computed tomography was less common in non-smokers (p < 0.001). Using the lower limit of the normal to define airflow obstruction yielded similar results. There are a substantial number of non-smokers with airflow obstruction compatible with COPD in Japan. In this study, airflow obstruction in non-smokers was more common in women and likelier to result in mild functional and pathological abnormalities than in smokers. Further studies are warranted to investigate the long-term prognosis and appropriate management of this population in developed countries, especially in women.

  18. Chronic Airflow Obstruction in a Black African Population: Results of BOLD Study, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.

    PubMed

    Obaseki, Daniel O; Erhabor, Gregory E; Gnatiuc, Louisa; Adewole, Olufemi O; Buist, Sonia A; Burney, Peter G

    2016-01-01

    Global estimates suggest that Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is emerging as a leading cause of death in developing countries but there are few spirometry-based general population data on its prevalence and risk factors in sub-Saharan Africa. We used the Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) protocol to select a representative sample of adults aged 40 years and above in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. All the participants underwent spirometry and provided information on smoking history, biomass and occupational exposures as well as diagnosed respiratory diseases and symptoms. Chronic Airflow Obstruction (CAO) was defined as the ratio of post-bronchodilator (BD) one second Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV1) to Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) below the lower limit of normal (LLN) of the population distribution for FEV1/FVC. The overall prevalence of obstruction (post-BD FEV1/FVC < LLN) was 7.7% (2.7% above LLN) using Global Lung Function Initiative (GLI) equations. It was associated with few respiratory symptoms; 0.3% reported a previous doctor-diagnosed chronic bronchitis, emphysema or COPD. Independent predictors included a lack of education (OR 2.5, 95% CI: 1.0, 6.4) and a diagnosis of either TB (OR 23.4, 95% CI: 2.0, 278.6) or asthma (OR 35.4, 95%CI: 4.9, 255.8). There was no association with the use of firewood or coal for cooking or heating. The vast majority of this population (89%) are never smokers. We conclude that the prevalence of CAO is low in Ile-Ife, Nigeria and unrelated to biomass exposure. The key independent predictors are poor education, and previous diagnosis of tuberculosis or asthma.

  19. Magnetic resonance defecography versus videodefecography in the study of obstructed defecation syndrome: Is videodefecography still the test of choice after 50 years?

    PubMed

    Martín-Martín, G P; García-Armengol, J; Roig-Vila, J V; Espí-Macías, A; Martínez-Sanjuán, V; Mínguez-Pérez, M; Lorenzo-Liñán, M Á; Mulas-Fernández, C; González-Argenté, F X

    2017-10-01

    The aim of the present study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance (MR) defecography and compare it with videodefecography in the evaluation of obstructed defecation syndrome. This was a prospective cohort test accuracy study conducted at one major tertiary referral center on patients with a diagnosis of obstructed defecation syndrome who were referred to the colorectal surgery clinic in a consecutive series from 2009 to 2012. All patients underwent a clinical examination, videodefecography, and MR defecography in the supine position. We analyzed diagnostic accuracy for MR defecography and performed an agreement analysis using Cohen's kappa index (κ) for each diagnostic imaging examination performed with videodefecography and MR defecography. We included 40 patients with Rome III diagnostic criteria of obstructed defecation syndrome. The degree of agreement between the two tests was as follows: almost perfect for anismus (κ = 0.88) and rectal prolapse (κ = 0.83), substantial for enterocele (κ = 0.80) and rectocele grade III (κ = 0.65), moderate for intussusception (κ = 0.50) and rectocele grade II (κ = 0.49), and slight for rectocele grade I (κ = 0.30) and excessive perineal descent (κ = 0.22). Eighteen cystoceles and 11 colpoceles were diagnosed only by MR defecography. Most patients (54%) stated that videodefecography was the more uncomfortable test. MR defecography could become the imaging test of choice for evaluating obstructed defecation syndrome.

  20. Effect of Nasal Obstruction on Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Treatment: Computational Fluid Dynamics Analyses

    PubMed Central

    Wakayama, Tadashi; Suzuki, Masaaki; Tanuma, Tadashi

    2016-01-01

    Objective Nasal obstruction is a common problem in continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy for obstructive sleep apnea and limits treatment compliance. The purpose of this study is to model the effects of nasal obstruction on airflow parameters under CPAP using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and to clarify quantitatively the relation between airflow velocity and pressure loss coefficient in subjects with and without nasal obstruction. Methods We conducted an observational cross-sectional study of 16 Japanese adult subjects, of whom 9 had nasal obstruction and 7 did not (control group). Three-dimensional reconstructed models of the nasal cavity and nasopharynx with a CPAP mask fitted to the nostrils were created from each subject’s CT scans. The digital models were meshed with tetrahedral cells and stereolithography formats were created. CPAP airflow simulations were conducted using CFD software. Airflow streamlines and velocity contours in the nasal cavities and nasopharynx were compared between groups. Simulation models were confirmed to agree with actual measurements of nasal flow rate and with pressure and flow rate in the CPAP machine. Results Under 10 cmH2O CPAP, average maximum airflow velocity during inspiration was 17.6 ± 5.6 m/s in the nasal obstruction group but only 11.8 ± 1.4 m/s in the control group. The average pressure drop in the nasopharynx relative to inlet static pressure was 2.44 ± 1.41 cmH2O in the nasal obstruction group but only 1.17 ± 0.29 cmH2O in the control group. The nasal obstruction and control groups were clearly separated by a velocity threshold of 13.5 m/s, and pressure loss coefficient threshold of approximately 10.0. In contrast, there was no significant difference in expiratory pressure in the nasopharynx between the groups. Conclusion This is the first CFD analysis of the effect of nasal obstruction on CPAP treatment. A strong correlation between the inspiratory pressure loss coefficient and maximum airflow

  1. Treating obstructive sleep apnea in adults with epilepsy

    PubMed Central

    Malow, B A.; Foldvary-Schaefer, N; Vaughn, B V.; Selwa, L M.; Chervin, R D.; Weatherwax, K J.; Wang, L; Song, Y

    2008-01-01

    Objective: Small uncontrolled series suggest that treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patients with epilepsy may improve seizure control. Prior to conducting a definitive randomized controlled trial, we addressed critical design issues in a pilot study. Methods: We identified a cohort of adult patients with medically refractory epilepsy and coexisting OSA, documented by polysomnography (PSG). After an 8-week baseline period, subjects with OSA were randomized to therapeutic or sham continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for 10 weeks. Subjects maintained seizure calendars and antiepileptic drug dosages were held constant. Results: Sixty-eight subjects with suspected OSA were enrolled and 35 subjects randomized to therapeutic CPAP (22 subjects) or sham (13 subjects) CPAP. Male gender and an elevated sleep apnea questionnaire score were predictive of OSA on PSG. Nineteen subjects in the therapeutic group and all 13 subjects in the sham group completed the trial. Baseline apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and CPAP adherence were comparable between groups. A significant reduction in AHI was observed in the therapeutic CPAP group as compared to the sham group. Subjects, study coordinators, and principal investigators were unable to predict treatment allocation. Conclusions: This pilot study provided critical information related to study design and feasibility for planning a comprehensive trial to test the hypothesis that treating obstructive sleep apnea in patients with epilepsy improves seizure control. GLOSSARY AEDs = antiepileptic drugs; AHI = apnea-hypopnea index; BMI = body mass index; CPAP = continuous positive airway pressure; OSA = obstructive sleep apnea; PSG = polysomnography. PMID:18711110

  2. Patient Factors Influencing Respiratory-Related Clinician Actions in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Screening.

    PubMed

    Wadland, William C; Zubek, Valentina Bayer; Clerisme-Beaty, Emmanuelle M; Ríos-Bedoya, Carlos F; Yawn, Barbara P

    2017-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to identify patient-related factors that may explain the increased likelihood of receiving a respiratory-related clinician action in patients identified to be at risk for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a U.S.-based pragmatic study of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease screening. This post hoc analysis (conducted in 2014-2015) of the Screening, Evaluating and Assessing Rate Changes of Diagnosing Respiratory Conditions in Primary Care 1 (SEARCH1) study (conducted in 2010-2011), used the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease Population Screener questionnaire in 112 primary care practices. Anyone with a previous chronic obstructive pulmonary disease diagnosis was excluded. Multivariate logistic regression modeling was used to assess patient factors associated with the likelihood of receiving an respiratory-related clinician action following positive screening. Overall, 994 of 6,497 (15%) screened positive and were considered at risk for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, only 187 of the 994 patients (19%) who screened positive received a respiratory-related clinician action. The chances of receiving a respiratory-related clinician action were significantly increased in patients who visited their physician with a respiratory issue (p<0.05) or had already been prescribed a respiratory medication (p<0.05). Most (81%) patients who screened positive or had a respiratory-related clinician action had one or more comorbidity, including cardiovascular disease (68%), diabetes (30%), depression/anxiety (26%), asthma (11%), and cancer (9%). Routine chronic obstructive pulmonary disease screening appears to promote respiratory-related clinician actions in patients with a high likelihood for disease who have respiratory complaints or already use prescribed respiratory medication. Copyright © 2016 American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. A chaotic micromixer using obstruction-pairs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Park, Jang Min; Duck Seo, Kyoung; Kwon, Tai Hun

    2010-01-01

    A micromixer is one of the most important components for a chemical and/or diagnostic analysis in microfluidic devices such as a micro-total-analysis-system and a lab-on-a-chip. In this paper, a novel chaotic micromixer is developed in a simple design by introducing obstruction-pairs on the bottom of a microchannel. An obstruction-pair, which is composed of two hexahedron blocks arranged in an asymmetric manner, can induce a rotational flow along the down-channel direction due to the anisotropy of flow resistance. By utilizing this characteristic of the obstruction-pair, four mixing units are designed in such a way that three obstruction-pairs induce three rotational flows which result in a down-welling and a hyperbolic point in the channel cross-section. There can be a variety of micromixer geometries by arranging the mixing units in various sequences along the microchannel, and their mixing performances will differ from each other due to different flow characteristics. In this regard, numerical investigations are carried out to predict and characterize the mixing performances of various micromixers. Also experimental verifications are carried out by a flow visualization technique using phenolphthalein and sodium hydroxide solutions in a polydimethylsiloxane-based micromixer.

  4. Determinants of airflow obstruction in severe alpha‐1‐antitrypsin deficiency

    PubMed Central

    DeMeo, Dawn L; Sandhaus, Robert A; Barker, Alan F; Brantly, Mark L; Eden, Edward; McElvaney, N Gerard; Rennard, Stephen; Burchard, Esteban; Stocks, James M; Stoller, James K; Strange, Charlie; Turino, Gerard M; Campbell, Edward J; Silverman, Edwin K

    2007-01-01

    Background Severe α1‐antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency is an autosomal recessive genetic condition associated with an increased but variable risk for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A study was undertaken to assess the impact of chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma and sex on the development of COPD in individuals with severe AAT deficiency. Methods The AAT Genetic Modifier Study is a multicentre family‐based cohort study designed to study the genetic and epidemiological determinants of COPD in AAT deficiency. 378 individuals (age range 33–80 years), confirmed to be homozygous for the SERPINA1 Z mutation, were included in the analyses. The primary outcomes of interest were a quantitative outcome, forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) percentage predicted, and a qualitative outcome, severe airflow obstruction (FEV1 <50% predicted). Results In multivariate analysis of the overall cohort, cigarette smoking, sex, asthma, chronic bronchitis and pneumonia were risk factors for reduced FEV1 percentage predicted and severe airflow obstruction (p<0.01). Index cases had lower FEV1 values, higher smoking histories and more reports of adult asthma, pneumonia and asthma before age 16 than non‐index cases (p<0.01). Men had lower pre‐ and post‐bronchodilator FEV1 percentage predicted than women (p<0.0001); the lowest FEV1 values were observed in men reporting a history of childhood asthma (26.9%). This trend for more severe obstruction in men remained when index and non‐index groups were examined separately, with men representing the majority of non‐index individuals with airflow obstruction (71%). Chronic bronchitis (OR 3.8, CI 1.8 to 12.0) and a physician's report of asthma (OR 4.2, CI 1.4 to 13.1) were predictors of severe airflow obstruction in multivariate analysis of non‐index men but not women. Conclusion In individuals with severe AAT deficiency, sex, asthma, chronic bronchitis and pneumonia are risk factors for severe COPD, in addition

  5. Urinary obstruction is an important complicating factor in patients with septic shock due to urinary infection.

    PubMed

    Reyner, Karina; Heffner, Alan C; Karvetski, Colleen H

    2016-04-01

    Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common cause of severe sepsis, and anatomic urologic obstruction is a recognized factor for complicated disease. We aimed to identify the incidence of urinary obstruction complicating acute septic shock and determine the characteristics and outcomes of this group. Patients prospectively enrolled in a sepsis treatment pathway registry between October 2013 and July 2014 were reviewed for the diagnosis of UTI. Standardized medical record review was performed to confirm sepsis due to UTI and determine clinical variables including the presence of anatomic urinary obstruction. Patients with septic shock due to UTI with obstruction were compared with those without obstruction. The primary outcomes were incidence of urinary obstruction and hospital mortality. Among 1084 registry enrollees, 209 (19.2%) met inclusion criteria for the study. Acute anatomic obstruction was identified in 22 (10.5%) patients. Hospital mortality in patients with obstruction was 27.3% compared with 11.2% in patients without obstruction (absolute difference of 16.1%; P = .03; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2%-30.9%). Hospital length of stay among survivors was 12.8 days compared with 8.3 days (absolute difference of 4.5 days; P = .04; 95% CI, 0.2-8.8 days). History of urinary stone disease was independently associated with obstruction (odds ratio, 5.6; 95% CI, 2.2-14.3). Approximately 1 in 10 patients presenting with septic shock due to a urinary source is complicated by anatomic urinary obstruction. These patients have significantly higher mortality compared with patients without obstruction. Early imaging of patients with septic shock due to suspected urinary source should be considered to identify obstruction requiring emergency intervention. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. Circulation Time Measurement from Sleep Studies in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea

    PubMed Central

    Kwon, Younghoon; Khan, Talha; Pritzker, Marc; Iber, Conrad

    2014-01-01

    Introduction: Lung to finger circulation time (LFCT) can be estimated from polysomnography (PSG) in the presence of an apneic event by using oxygen as an indicator and a finger as the site of detection. The purpose of this study was to refine the methodology of LFCT measurement and to compare LFCT in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with and without heart failure (HF). Methods: In a retrospective manner, 10 LFCT measurements per patient were made from the PSG in 171 consecutive patients with a diagnosis of OSA who were divided into two groups: (a) those with a clinical history of underlying HF (N = 42) and (b) those without HF (N = 129). Mean values were compared between the two groups. We also examined associations of LFCT with various factors in each group and the combined group separately using multiple regression analysis. Results: Gender and age were significantly associated with LFCT in patients with OSA alone. Use of β-blockers was associated with LFCT in the group with OSA with HF. Among the entire cohort, HF, β-blocker, gender, and age were found to be significantly associated with LFCT. The presence of HF was the strongest predictor of a prolonged LFCT (adjusted mean LFCT: OSA only = 18.5 [95% CI: 17.2-19.7 sec] vs. OSA with HF = 26.1 [95% CI: 24.3-28.0 sec], p < 0.0001). Conclusion: LFCT can be reliably measured and is prolonged in patients with OSA and underlying HF. LFCT based on PSG may be a useful marker for detection of coexisting HF in patients with OSA. Citation: Kwon Y, Khan T, Pritzker M, Iber C. Circulation time measurement from sleep studies in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. J Clin Sleep Med 2014;10(7):759-765. PMID:25024653

  7. Multicenter study of endoscopic preoperative biliary drainage for malignant distal biliary obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Sasahira, Naoki; Hamada, Tsuyoshi; Togawa, Osamu; Yamamoto, Ryuichi; Iwai, Tomohisa; Tamada, Kiichi; Kawaguchi, Yoshiaki; Shimura, Kenji; Koike, Takero; Yoshida, Yu; Sugimori, Kazuya; Ryozawa, Shomei; Kakimoto, Toshiharu; Nishikawa, Ko; Kitamura, Katsuya; Imamura, Tsunao; Mizuide, Masafumi; Toda, Nobuo; Maetani, Iruru; Sakai, Yuji; Itoi, Takao; Nagahama, Masatsugu; Nakai, Yousuke; Isayama, Hiroyuki

    2016-01-01

    AIM: To determine the optimal method of endoscopic preoperative biliary drainage for malignant distal biliary obstruction. METHODS: Multicenter retrospective study was conducted in patients who underwent plastic stent (PS) or nasobiliary catheter (NBC) placement for resectable malignant distal biliary obstruction followed by surgery between January 2010 and March 2012. Procedure-related adverse events, stent/catheter dysfunction (occlusion or migration of PS/NBC, development of cholangitis, or other conditions that required repeat endoscopic biliary intervention), and jaundice resolution (bilirubin level < 3.0 mg/dL) were evaluated. Cumulative incidence of jaundice resolution and dysfunction of PS/NBC were estimated using competing risk analysis. Patient characteristics and preoperative biliary drainage were also evaluated for association with the time to jaundice resolution and PS/NBC dysfunction using competing risk regression analysis. RESULTS: In total, 419 patients were included in the study (PS, 253 and NBC, 166). Primary cancers included pancreatic cancer in 194 patients (46%), bile duct cancer in 172 (41%), gallbladder cancer in three (1%), and ampullary cancer in 50 (12%). The median serum total bilirubin was 7.8 mg/dL and 324 patients (77%) had ≥ 3.0 mg/dL. During the median time to surgery of 29 d [interquartile range (IQR), 30-39 d]. PS/NBC dysfunction rate was 35% for PS and 18% for NBC [Subdistribution hazard ratio (SHR) = 4.76; 95%CI: 2.44-10.0, P < 0.001]; the pig-tailed tip was a risk factor for PS dysfunction. Jaundice resolution was achieved in 85% of patients and did not depend on the drainage method (PS or NBC). CONCLUSION: PS has insufficient patency for preoperative biliary drainage. Given the drawbacks of external drainage via NBC, an alternative method of internal drainage should be explored. PMID:27076764

  8. A case-control study of airways obstruction among construction workers.

    PubMed

    Dement, John; Welch, Laura; Ringen, Knut; Quinn, Patricia; Chen, Anna; Haas, Scott

    2015-10-01

    While smoking is the major cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), occupational exposures to vapors, gases, dusts, and fumes (VGDF) increase COPD risk. This case-control study estimated the risk of COPD attributable to occupational exposures among construction workers. The study population included 834 cases and 1243 controls participating in a national medical screening program for older construction workers between 1997 and 2013. Qualitative exposure indices were developed based on lifetime work and exposure histories. Approximately 18% (95% CI = 2-24%) of COPD risk can be attributed to construction-related exposures, which are additive to the risk contributed by smoking. A measure of all VGDF exposures combined was a strong predictor of COPD risk. Construction workers are at increased risk of COPD as a result of broad and complex effects of many exposures acting independently or interactively. Control methods should be implemented to prevent worker exposures, and smoking cessation should be promoted. © 2015 The Authors. American Journal of Industrial Medicine Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  9. Video Altimeter and Obstruction Detector for an Aircraft

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Delgado, Frank J.; Abernathy, Michael F.; White, Janis; Dolson, William R.

    2013-01-01

    Video-based altimetric and obstruction detection systems for aircraft have been partially developed. The hardware of a system of this type includes a downward-looking video camera, a video digitizer, a Global Positioning System receiver or other means of measuring the aircraft velocity relative to the ground, a gyroscope based or other attitude-determination subsystem, and a computer running altimetric and/or obstruction-detection software. From the digitized video data, the altimetric software computes the pixel velocity in an appropriate part of the video image and the corresponding angular relative motion of the ground within the field of view of the camera. Then by use of trigonometric relationships among the aircraft velocity, the attitude of the camera, the angular relative motion, and the altitude, the software computes the altitude. The obstruction-detection software performs somewhat similar calculations as part of a larger task in which it uses the pixel velocity data from the entire video image to compute a depth map, which can be correlated with a terrain map, showing locations of potential obstructions. The depth map can be used as real-time hazard display and/or to update an obstruction database.

  10. Migrating gallstone: from Bouveret's syndrome to distal small bowel obstruction.

    PubMed

    Yau, Kwok-Kay; Siu, Wing-Tai; Tsui, Ka-Kin

    2006-06-01

    Gallstone ileus is an uncommon cause of small bowel obstruction. When the gallstone lodges inside the duodenum and causes gastric outlet obstruction, it is termed Bouveret's syndrome. However, it is rather unusual to seen the evolution of a migrating gallstone (from duodenum to distal small bowel) in a patient during the same hospital admission. We report a case of gallstone ileus from the initial presentation of gastric outlet obstruction to the development of distal small bowel obstruction within the same hospital admission, and its total laparoscopic treatment.

  11. Changes in the palatal dimensions of mouth breathing children caused by nasal obstruction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Indiarti, I. S.; Setyanto, D. B.; Kusumaningrum, A.; Budiardjo, S. B.

    2017-08-01

    During children’s growth and development, the breathing process plays an important role in craniofacial growth, especially of the palate. Nose breathing can stimulate the lateral growth of the maxilla, thus making the palate flat. Disturbances in nose breathing caused by nasal obstruction such as allergic rhinitis, adenoid hypertrophy, rhinosinusitis, nasal polyps, and obstructive sleep apnea can lead to a mouth breathing habit in children. This habit can cause palatal dimension changes such as a narrow V-shaped maxillary arch and a high palatal vault. This study analyzed the relationship between the mouth breathing habit in children who have nasal obstruction and palatal dimension changes. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with a consecutive sampling method on children 7-18 years old with a history of allergic rhinitis, adenoid hypertrophy, rhinosinusitis, nasal polyps, and obstructive sleep apnea in the Pediatric Respirology and Pediatric Immunology Allergy Outpatient Clinic Kiara Maternal and Child Health Center at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital in Jakarta. The palatal dimensions were measured by the height and transversal width of the hard palate of castings of each child’s upper dental arch using vernier calipers. Palatal dimension changes were found in children with a mouth breathing habit due to nasal obstruction.

  12. Advantage of impulse oscillometry over spirometry to diagnose chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and monitor pulmonary responses to bronchodilators: An observational study.

    PubMed

    Saadeh, Constantine; Saadeh, Charles; Cross, Blake; Gaylor, Michael; Griffith, Melissa

    2015-01-01

    This retrospective study was a comparative analysis of sensitivity of impulse oscillometry and spirometry techniques for use in a mixed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease group for assessing disease severity and inhalation therapy. A total of 30 patients with mild-to-moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were monitored by impulse oscillometry, followed by spirometry. Lung function was measured at baseline after bronchodilation and at follow-up (3-18 months). The impulse oscillometry parameters were resistance in the small and large airways at 5 Hz (R5), resistance in the large airways at 15 Hz (R15), and lung reactance (area under the curve X; AX). After the bronchodilator therapy, forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) readings evaluated by spirometry were unaffected at baseline and at follow-up, while impulse oscillometry detected an immediate improvement in lung function, in terms of AX (p = 0.043). All impulse oscillometry parameters significantly improved at follow-up, with a decrease in AX by 37% (p = 0.0008), R5 by 20% (p = 0.0011), and R15 by 12% (p = 0.0097). Impulse oscillometry parameters demonstrated greater sensitivity compared with spirometry for monitoring reversibility of airway obstruction and the effect of maintenance therapy. Impulse oscillometry may facilitate early treatment dose optimization and personalized medicine for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients.

  13. The Effect of Slipstream Obstructions on Air Propellers

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lesley, E P; Woods, B M

    1924-01-01

    The screw propeller on airplanes is usually placed near other objects, and hence its performance may be modified by them. Results of tests on propellers free from slip stream obstructions, both fore and aft, are therefore subject to correction, for the effect of such obstructions and the purpose of the investigation was to determine the effect upon the thrust and torque coefficients and efficiency, for previously tested air propellers, of obstructions placed in the slip stream, it being realized that such previous tests had been conducted under somewhat ideal conditions that are impracticable of realization in flight. Simple geometrical forms were used for the initial investigation. Such forms offered the advantage of easy, exact reproduction at another time or in other laboratories, and it was believed that the effects of obstructions usually encountered might be deduced or surmise from those chosen.

  14. 33 CFR 67.25-5 - Obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... NAVIGATION AIDS TO NAVIGATION ON ARTIFICIAL ISLANDS AND FIXED STRUCTURES Class âBâ Requirements § 67.25-5 Obstruction lights. (a) The obstruction lights shall be white lights as prescribed in Subpart 67.05 of this part and shall be of sufficient candlepower as to be visible at a distance of at least three nautical...

  15. 33 CFR 67.25-5 - Obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... NAVIGATION AIDS TO NAVIGATION ON ARTIFICIAL ISLANDS AND FIXED STRUCTURES Class âBâ Requirements § 67.25-5 Obstruction lights. (a) The obstruction lights shall be white lights as prescribed in Subpart 67.05 of this part and shall be of sufficient candlepower as to be visible at a distance of at least three nautical...

  16. Reversible obstructive sleep apnea caused by occupational exposure to guar gum dust.

    PubMed

    Leznoff, A; Haight, J S; Hoffstein, V

    1986-05-01

    This report describes a case of reversible obstructive sleep apnea caused by occupational exposure to an inhaled allergen, guar gum powder. The patient, a pet food plant employee, also experienced severe cough, rhinitis, and conjunctivitis. Skin tests confirmed the specific guar allergy. Pharyngeal cross-sectional area was smaller than normal. Pulmonary function studies, histamine challenge tests, nasal air-flow resistance measurements, and nocturnal polysomnography were performed on 3 separate occasions: while the patient was working at his usual occupation, at the end of a 3-wk holiday, and after a guar dust challenge in an inhalation chamber. Pulmonary function and histamine challenge tests were consistently normal. At the time of the initial tests, nasal resistance was elevated, and nocturnal polysomnography revealed obstructive sleep apnea. After absence from work, obstructive sleep apnea resolved, and the nasal resistance returned to normal. After challenge with guar gum dust, the patient developed increased resistance to nasal air flow, and obstructive sleep apnea reappeared. This case demonstrates that allergy can cause reversible obstructive sleep apnea and that occupational exposure should be considered in the assessment of patients with this disease.

  17. Obstructive sleep apnea - adults

    MedlinePlus

    ... SM. Obstructive sleep apnea: clinical features, evaluation, and principles of management. In: Kryger M, Roth T, Dement WC, eds. Principles and Practice of Sleep Medicine . 6th ed. Philadelphia, ...

  18. Management of extremely low birth weight neonates with bowel obstruction within 2 weeks after birth.

    PubMed

    Hatanaka, Akira; Nakahara, Saori; Takeyama, Eriko; Iwanaka, Tadashi; Ishida, Kazuo

    2014-12-01

    The majority of bowel obstructions in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) neonates are meconium-related ileus (MRI). ELBW neonates with bowel obstruction may recover by conservative treatment, but some do not. Considering the high surgical morbidity rates, unnecessary surgery should be avoided. We sought to identify a reasonable treatment strategy under these conditions. ELBW neonates who started to have bowel obstruction with an unclear cause within 14 days of age were enrolled. The study period was from January 2009 to August 2011. The enrolled patients had daily Gastrografin(®) enemas until 14 days of age or until the obstruction resolved. If the obstruction lasted beyond around 14 days of age, the patient underwent surgical intervention. The clinical data of the patients were collected and analyzed. Fourteen patients were enrolled. Twelve patients had MRI, which resolved within 14 days without surgery. Two patients with persistent obstruction underwent surgery, and they were found to have Hirschsprung's disease and ileal volvulus, respectively. For ELBW neonates with bowel obstruction of unclear etiology, the early and frequent administration of a Gastrografin(®) enema is reasonable. Surgery should be considered if the obstruction lasts beyond approximately 14 days after birth.

  19. Difference in airflow obstruction between Hispanic and non-Hispanic White female smokers.

    PubMed

    Sood, Akshay; Stidley, Christine A; Picchi, Maria A; Celedón, Juan C; Gilliland, Frank; Crowell, Richard E; Belinsky, Steven A; Tesfaigzi, Yohannes

    2008-10-01

    Smoking-related respiratory diseases are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. However, the relationship between smoking and respiratory disease has not been well-studied among ethnic minorities in general and among women in particular. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the risk of airflow obstruction and to assess lung function among Hispanic and non-Hispanic White (NHW) female smokers in a New Mexico cohort. Participants completed a questionnaire detailing smoking history and underwent spirometry testing. Outcomes studied included airflow obstruction, selected lung function parameters, and chronic mucus hyper-secretion. Chi square, logistic, and linear regression techniques were utilized. Of the 1,433 eligible women participants, 248 (17.3%) were Hispanic; and 319 had airflow obstruction (22.3%). Hispanic smokers were more likely to be current smokers, and report lower pack-years of smoking, compared to NHW smokers (p < 0.05 for all analyses). Further, Hispanic smokers were at a reduced risk of airflow obstruction compared to NHW smokers, with an O.R. of 0.51, 95% C.I. 0.34, 0.78 (p = 0.002) after adjustment for age, BMI, pack-years and duration of smoking, and current smoking status. Following adjustment for covariates, Hispanic smokers also had a higher mean absolute and percent predicted post-bronchodilator FEV(1)/FVC ratio, as well as higher mean percent predicted FEV(1) (p < 0.05 for all analyses). Hispanic female smokers in this New Mexico-based cohort had lower risk of airflow obstruction and better lung function than NHW female smokers. Further, smoking history did not completely explain these associations.

  20. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Assessment Test Can Predict Depression: A Prospective Multi-Center Study

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Young Seok; Park, Sunghoon; Oh, Yeon-Mok; Lee, Sang-Do; Park, Sung-Woo; Kim, Young Sam; In, Kwang Ho; Jung, Bock Hyun; Lee, Kwan Ho; Ra, Seung Won; Hwang, Yong Il; Park, Yong-Bum

    2013-01-01

    This study was conducted to investigate the association between the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) assessment test (CAT) and depression in COPD patients. The Korean versions of the CAT and patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) were used to assess COPD symptoms and depressive disorder, respectively. In total, 803 patients with COPD were enrolled from 32 hospitals and the prevalence of depression was 23.8%. The CAT score correlated well with the PHQ-9 score (r=0.631; P<0.001) and was significantly associated with the presence of depression (β±standard error, 0.452±0.020; P<0.001). There was a tendency toward increasing severity of depression in patients with higher CAT scores. By assessment groups based on the 2011 Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease guidelines, the prevalence of depression was affected more by current symptoms than by airway limitation. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the CAT was 0.849 for predicting depression, and CAT scores ≥21 had the highest accuracy rate (80.6%). Among the eight CAT items, energy score showed the best correlation and highest power of discrimination. CAT scores are significantly associated with the presence of depression and have good performance for predicting depression in COPD patients. PMID:23853488

  1. Emergency surgery for bowel obstruction in extremely aged patients.

    PubMed

    Oldani, Alberto; Gentile, Valentina; Magaton, Chiara; Calabrò, Marcello; Maroso, Fabio; Ravizzini, Lidia; Deiro, Giacomo; Amato, Maurizio; Gentilli, Sergio

    2018-04-13

    As a result of the increasing of life expectancy, the incidence of pathologies that can lead to operation for bowel obstruction is also increasing. Comorbidities and reduced physiological reserve can decrease elderly patients' ability to tolerate operations especially in an emergency context. We retrospectively evaluated the treatment and outcomes of a cohort of patients aged more than 85 years who underwent emergency surgery for intestinal occlusion. 278 patients who were admitted to our Institution and operated for acute bowel obstruction have been included in our study. We divided the study population in 2 groups (group A: patients aged > 85 years old; group B patients aged ≤ 85 years). We evaluated the differences between the two groups in terms of intestinal occlusion aetiology, surgical procedures, morbidity and mortality rates. Group A consisted of 57 patients, group B of 221; elderly patients trend in ASA score classification was significantly towards high risk for elderly group; statistical analysis did not show differences in terms of bowel obstruction aetiology (except colon volvulus, more frequent in advanced age), type of procedure, duration of hospital stay, procedure - related complication rate. Perioperative mortality was significantly higher in elderly group, due to the mayor incidence of cardiovascular and respiratory fatal events directly related to pre - existing comorbidities. Despite the high surgical risk, early diagnosis and treatment of the obstructive disease can lead to achieve encouraging outcomes also in extremely advanced age; an aggressive evaluation of comorbidies and the cardio - respiratory risks reduction, when possible, could be useful in improve postoperative outcomes in terms of mortality.

  2. General practice variation in spirometry testing among patients receiving first-time prescriptions for medication targeting obstructive lung disease in Denmark: a population-based observational study

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background Spirometry testing is essential to confirm an obstructive lung disease, but studies have reported that a large proportion of patients diagnosed with COPD or asthma have no history of spirometry testing. Also, it has been shown that many patients are prescribed medication for obstructive lung disease without a relevant diagnosis or spirometry test registered. General practice characteristics have been reported to influence diagnosis and management of several chronic diseases. However, these findings are inconsistent, and it is uncertain whether practice characteristics influence spirometry testing among patients receiving medication for obstructive lung disease. The aim of this study was therefore to examine if practice characteristics are associated with spirometry testing among patients receiving first-time prescriptions for medication targeting obstructive lung disease. Methods A national register-based cohort study was performed. All patients over 18 years receiving first-time prescriptions for medication targeting obstructive lung disease in 2008 were identified and detailed patient-specific data on sociodemographic status and spirometry tests were extracted. Information on practice characteristics like number of doctors, number of patients per doctor, training practice status, as well as age and gender of the general practitioners was linked to each medication user. Results Partnership practices had a higher odds ratio (OR) of performing spirometry compared with single-handed practices (OR 1.24, CI 1.09-1.40). We found a significant association between increasing general practitioner age and decreasing spirometry testing. This tendency was most pronounced among partnership practices, where doctors over 65 years had the lowest odds of spirometry testing (OR 0.25, CI 0.10-0.61). Training practice status was significantly associated with spirometry testing among single-handed practices (OR 1.40, CI 1.10-1.79). Conclusion Some of the variation in

  3. Health status perception and airflow obstruction in five Latin American cities: the PLATINO study.

    PubMed

    Montes de Oca, Maria; Tálamo, Carlos; Halbert, Ronald J; Perez-Padilla, Rogelio; Lopez, Maria Victorina; Muiño, Adriana; Jardim, José Roberto B; Valdivia, Gonzalo; Pertuzé, Julio; Moreno, Dolores; Menezes, Ana Maria B

    2009-09-01

    COPD is a highly prevalent disease but underdiagnosed, undertreated and possibly under-recognized by patients. Limited information exists regarding patients' perception of COPD severity. We compared patients' general health status perception, degree of breathlessness and physical activity limitation with the severity of their respiratory condition measured by airway obstruction, in a population-based sample. We used postbronchodilator FEV(1)/FVC<0.70 to define COPD. Patients' perception of their general health status was derived from the question "in general you would say that your health is: excellent, very good, good, fair or poor?" Spirometry was performed in 5314 subjects: an FEV(1)/FVC ratio below 0.70 was found in 759 subjects. In persons with COPD, general health status decreased with increasing GOLD stages. Over one-half of subjects with stage 2 and one third of those with stages 3 and 4 reported their health status as good to excellent. There was also a disparity between airway obstruction severity and breathlessness intensity. Although the more severe COPD stages were frequently associated with significant compromise of work and everyday activities, patients often tended to provide an optimistic self evaluation of their health status. The discrepancy observed between general health status, dyspnea severity, physical activity limitation and airway obstruction most likely reflect patients' underperception of disease severity, emphasizing the need for improving case-finding measures and multi-component evaluation of COPD subjects.

  4. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Management of Nasal Airway Obstruction: Advances in Diagnosis and Treatment.

    PubMed

    Mohan, Suresh; Fuller, Jennifer C; Ford, Stephanie Friree; Lindsay, Robin W

    2018-05-10

    Nasal airway obstruction (NAO) is a common complaint in the otolaryngologist's office and can have a negative influence on quality of life (QOL). Existing diagnostic methods have improved, but little consensus exists on optimal tools. Furthermore, although surgical techniques for nasal obstruction continue to be developed, effective outcome measurement is lacking. An update of recent advances in diagnostic and therapeutic management of NAO is warranted. To review advances in diagnosis and treatment of NAO from the last 5 years. PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, LILACS, Web of Science, and Guideline.gov were searched with the terms nasal obstruction and nasal blockage and their permutations from July 26, 2012, through October 23, 2017. Studies were included if they evaluated NAO using a subjective and an objective technique, and in the case of intervention-based studies, the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale and an objective technique. Exclusion criteria consisted of animal studies; patients younger than 14 years; nasal foreign bodies; nasal masses including polyps; choanal atresia; sinus disease; obstructive sleep apnea or sleep-disordered breathing; allergic rhinitis; and studies not specific to nasal obstruction. The initial search resulted in 942 articles. After independent screening by 2 investigators, 46 unique articles remained, including 2 randomized clinical trials, 3 systematic reviews, 3 meta-analyses, and 39 nonrandomized cohort studies (including a combined systematic review and meta-analysis). An aggregate of approximately 32 000 patients were reviewed (including meta-analyses). Of the subjective measures available for NAO, the NOSE scale is outstanding with regard to disease-specific validation and correlation with symptoms. No currently available objective measure can be considered a criterion standard. Structural measures of flow, pressure, and volume appear to be necessary but insufficient to assess NAO. Therefore

  5. Toll-Like Receptors in Secondary Obstructive Cholangiopathy

    PubMed Central

    Miranda-Díaz, A. G.; Alonso-Martínez, H.; Hernández-Ojeda, J.; Arias-Carvajal, O.; Rodríguez-Carrizalez, A. D.; Román-Pintos, L. M.

    2011-01-01

    Secondary obstructive cholangiopathy is characterized by intra- or extrahepatic bile tract obstruction. Liver inflammation and structural alterations develop due to progressive bile stagnation. Most frequent etiologies are biliary atresia in children, and hepatolithiasis, postcholecystectomy bile duct injury, and biliary primary cirrhosis in adults, which causes chronic biliary cholangitis. Bile ectasia predisposes to multiple pathogens: viral infections in biliary atresia; Gram-positive and/or Gram-negative bacteria cholangitis found in hepatolithiasis and postcholecystectomy bile duct injury. Transmembrane toll-like receptors (TLRs) are activated by virus, bacteria, fungi, and parasite stimuli. Even though TLR-2 and TLR-4 are the most studied receptors related to liver infectious diseases, other TLRs play an important role in response to microorganism damage. Acquired immune response is not vertically transmitted and reflects the infectious diseases history of individuals; in contrast, innate immunity is based on antigen recognition by specific receptors designated as pattern recognition receptors and is transmitted vertically through the germ cells. Understanding the mechanisms for bile duct inflammation is essential for the future development of therapeutic alternatives in order to avoid immune-mediated destruction on secondary obstructive cholangiopathy. The role of TLRs in biliary atresia, hepatolithiasis, bile duct injury, and primary biliary cirrhosis is described in this paper. PMID:22114589

  6. Double uterus with obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal agenesis: pelvic anatomic variants in 87 cases.

    PubMed

    Fedele, L; Motta, F; Frontino, G; Restelli, E; Bianchi, S

    2013-06-01

    What are the anatomic variants (and their frequencies) of double uterus, obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal agenesis? Most cases examined (72.4%) were of the classic anatomic variant of the Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome (with didelphys uterus, obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal agenesis) but the 27.6% of cases are of a rare variant of the syndrome (with uterus septum or cervical agenesis), showing relevant clinical and surgical implications. The extreme variability of anatomic structures involved in this syndrome (both uterus, cervico-vaginal and renal anomalies) is well known, even if a complete and uniform analysis of all its heterogeneous presentations in a large series is lacking. This is a retrospective study with 87 patients referred to our third level referral center between 1981 and 2011. We analyzed the laparoscopic and chart records of 87 women, who referred to our institute with double uterus, unilateral cervico-vaginal obstruction and ipsilateral renal anomalies. Sixty-three of 87 patients had the more classic variant of didelphys uterus with obstructed hemivagina; 10/87 patients had septate bicollis uterus with obstructed hemivagina; 9/87 patients had bicornuate bicollis uterus with obstructed hemivagina; 4/87 patients had didelphys uterus with unilateral cervical atresia; 1/87 patients had bicornuate uterus with one septate cervix and unilateral obstructed hemivagina. This is a retrospective study with a long enrolling period (30 years). New insights in the anatomic variants of this rare syndrome with their relevant surgical implications.

  7. Hepatectomy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Bile Duct Tumor Thrombus, Including Cases with Obstructive Jaundice.

    PubMed

    Orimo, Tatsuya; Kamiyama, Toshiya; Yokoo, Hideki; Wakayama, Kenji; Shimada, Shingo; Tsuruga, Yosuke; Kamachi, Hirofumi; Taketomi, Akinobu

    2016-08-01

    This study aimed to evaluate the short- and long-term outcomes of hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with bile duct tumor thrombus (BDTT), including cases with obstructive jaundice. The study reviewed 42 HCC patients with BDTT, including six patients who needed preoperative biliary drainage due to obstructive jaundice, and 732 HCC patients without BDTT. The authors analyzed the impact of BDTT on the surgical outcomes and assessed the outcomes of hepatectomy for patients presenting with obstructive jaundice. The HCC patients with BDTT, almost all with stage 3 or 4 disease, had increased alpha-fetoprotein expression, larger tumors, and more portal vein invasion status. The survival of the HCC patients with BDTT was significantly inferior to that of the patients without BDTT (p = 0.0003). Survival did not differ significantly between the HCC patients with BDTT and those without BDTT when the two groups were matched by stage (p = 0.3366). The HCC patients with BDTT who presented with obstructive jaundice demonstrated outcomes similar to those for the HCC patients with BDTT who did not present with obstructive jaundice in terms of the overall survival rate (p = 0.5469). The perioperative outcomes for the HCC patients with BDTT did not depend on the presence or absence of preoperative jaundice. No patients in either BDTT group demonstrated 90-day mortality in this study. Hepatectomy should be considered for HCC patients with BDTT, even for patients with obstructive jaundice, because the surgical outcomes equivalent to those for HCC without BDTT can be achieved.

  8. Evaluation and management of pediatric nasal obstruction: A survey of practice patterns.

    PubMed

    Kohlberg, Gavriel D; Stewart, Michael G; Ward, Robert F; April, Max M

    2016-07-01

    Inferior turbinate (IT) hypertrophy and adenoid hypertrophy are both causes of pediatric nasal obstruction. The purpose of this survey was to study nasal obstruction evaluation and management among pediatric otolaryngologists with respect to IT and adenoid hypertrophy. A questionnaire with embedded clinical videos was sent electronically to American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology members. A total of 435 questionnaires were sent, and 75 were completed. Respondents were presented with scenarios that involved a 7-year-old child with nasal obstruction unresponsive to medical therapy, and the respondents were asked to choose a surgical plan, either IT reduction, adenoidectomy, or combined IT reduction and adenoidectomy. Three questions described the extent of IT and adenoid obstruction in text form, although three questions included a video of the child's nasal endoscopy. In questions with perceived or stated IT hypertrophy, the respondents chose to perform IT reduction significantly more frequently when the perceived or stated adenoid hypertrophy was less severe (p < 0.0001 for video and p = 0.039 for written questions). The decision to perform IT reduction in children is inversely related to the extent of adenoid hypertrophy. Future studies on pediatric IT surgery should include objective descriptions of the IT and adenoid in study subjects.

  9. Comparison of different morphological parameters with duration of obstruction created experimentally in unilateral upper ureters: an animal model.

    PubMed

    Panda, Shasanka Shekhar; Bajpai, Minu; Mallick, Saumyaranjan; Sharma, Mehar C

    2014-01-01

    The objective of the following study is to determine and to compare the different morphological parameters with duration of obstruction created experimentally in unilateral upper ureters of rats. Unilateral upper ureteric obstruction was created in 60 adult Wistar rats that were reversed after predetermined intervals. Rats were sacrificed and ipsilateral kidneys were subjected for analysis of morphological parameters such as renal height, cranio-caudal diameter, antero-posterior diameter, lateral diameter, volume of the pelvis and average cortical thickness: Renal height. Renal height and cranio-caudal diameter of renal pelvis after ipsilateral upper ureteric obstruction started rising as early as 7 days of creating obstruction and were affected earlier than antero-posterior and lateral diameter and also were reversed earlier than other parameters after reversal of obstruction. Renal cortical thickness and volume of the pelvis were affected after prolonged obstruction (> 3 weeks) and were the late parameters to be reversed after reversal of obstruction. Cranio-caudal diameter and renal height were the early morphological parameters to be affected and reversed after reversal of obstruction in experimentally created ipsilateral upper ureteric obstruction.

  10. Barriers to palliative care in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in home care: A qualitative study of the perspective of professional caregivers.

    PubMed

    Mousing, Camilla A; Timm, Helle; Lomborg, Kirsten; Kirkevold, Marit

    2018-02-01

    To examine the experiences with palliative care in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among professional caregivers in a Danish home care setting. Many patients with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease depend on professional caregivers in the primary sector to provide assistance and care. However, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients receive no or only very little palliative care compared to patients with cancer although they may have many burdensome symptoms. Qualitative explorative study. In 2013-2014, ten professional caregivers from three districts in a Danish municipality were followed during home visits to patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and individual interviews about palliative care were subsequently conducted. In 2014, 66 professional caregivers, representing eleven home care districts, participated in ten group discussions about palliative care needs in this group of patients. Data were analysed using qualitative descriptive analysis. The study revealed a nonawareness of palliative care for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among the professional caregivers who expressed vague understanding of palliative care and lack of knowledge about the disease. Organisational barriers, such as lack of time and continuity in patient care, lack of opportunity to discuss palliative care and lack of peer learning were experienced as challenging in the provision of palliative care. Nonawareness and organisational barriers led to difficulties in identifying palliative care needs and reluctance to initiate conversations about palliative care. The findings indicate a need for education, training and reflection among professional caregivers in home care. Also, organisational changes may be needed to reduce the barriers to palliative care. The findings uncovered barriers to palliative care that must be addressed. Targeted educational programmes and organisational changes may increase the ability to

  11. Positive predictive value of cholescintigraphy in common bile duct obstruction

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Lecklitner, M.L.; Austin, A.R.; Benedetto, A.R.

    1986-09-01

    Technetium-99m DISIDA imaging was employed in 400 patients to differentiate obstruction of the common bile duct from medical and other surgical causes of hyperbilirubinemia. Sequential anterior images demonstrated variable degrees of liver uptake, yet there was no evidence of intrabiliary or extrabiliary radioactivity for at least 4 hr after injection in 25 patients. Twenty-three patients were surgically documented to have complete obstruction of the common bile duct. One patient had hepatitis, and another had sickle cell crisis without bile duct obstruction. The remaining patients had either partial or no obstruction of the common bile duct. We conclude that the presencemore » of liver uptake without evident biliary excretion by 4 hr on cholescintigraphy is highly sensitive and predictive of total obstruction of the common bile duct.« less

  12. Radiological interventions in malignant biliary obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Madhusudhan, Kumble Seetharama; Gamanagatti, Shivanand; Srivastava, Deep Narayan; Gupta, Arun Kumar

    2016-01-01

    Malignant biliary obstruction is commonly caused by gall bladder carcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma and metastatic nodes. Percutaneous interventions play an important role in managing these patients. Biliary drainage, which forms the major bulk of radiological interventions, can be palliative in inoperable patients or pre-operative to improve liver function prior to surgery. Other interventions include cholecystostomy and radiofrequency ablation. We present here the indications, contraindications, technique and complications of the radiological interventions performed in patients with malignant biliary obstruction. PMID:27247718

  13. Use of water-soluble contrast medium (gastrografin) does not decrease the need for operative intervention nor the duration of hospital stay in uncomplicated acute adhesive small bowel obstruction? A multicenter, randomized, clinical trial (Adhesive Small Bowel Obstruction Study) and systematic review.

    PubMed

    Scotté, Michel; Mauvais, Francois; Bubenheim, Michael; Cossé, Cyril; Suaud, Leslie; Savoye-Collet, Celine; Plenier, Isabelle; Péquignot, Aurelien; Yzet, Thierry; Regimbeau, Jean Marc

    2017-05-01

    This study evaluated the association between oral gastrografin administration and the need for operative intervention in patients with presumed adhesive small bowel obstruction. Between October 2006 and August 2009, 242 patients with uncomplicated acute adhesive small bowel obstruction were included in a randomized, controlled trial (the Adhesive Small Bowel Obstruction Study, NCT00389116) and allocated to a gastrografin arm or a saline solution arm. The primary end point was the need for operative intervention within 48 hours of randomization. The secondary end points were the resection rate, the time interval between the initial computed tomography and operative intervention, the time interval between oral refeeding and discharge, risk factors for the failure of nonoperative management, in-hospital mortality, duration of stay, and recurrence or death after discharge. We performed a systematic review of the literature in order to evaluate the relationship between use of gastrografin as a diagnostic/therapeutic measure, the need for operative intervention, and the duration of stay. In the gastrografin and saline solution arms, the rate of operative intervention was 24% and 20%, respectively, the bowel resection rate was 8% and 4%, the time interval between the initial computed tomography and operative intervention, and the time interval between oral refeeding and discharge were similar in the 2 arms. Only age was identified as a potential risk factor for the failure of nonoperative management. The in-hospital mortality was 2.5%, the duration of stay was 3.8 days for patients in the gastrografin arm and 3.5 days for those in the saline solution arm (P = .19), and the recurrence rate of adhesive small bowel obstruction was 7%. These results and those of 10 published studies suggest that gastrografin did not decrease either the rate of operative intervention (21% in the saline solution arm vs 26% in the gastrografin arm) or the number of days from the initial

  14. Obstructive sleep apnoea and dementia: is there a link?

    PubMed

    Shastri, Abhishek; Bangar, Santosh; Holmes, John

    2016-04-01

    Obstructive sleep apnoea is a common sleep disturbance in people of all ages, while dementia is an increasing entity among the ageing population of the world. Recent studies have established a link between sleep apnoea and cognitive decline. This literature review explores this relationship and examines the mechanisms, neurobiology and treatment modalities. The study was conducted with the use of narrative literature overview. While there are numerous studies that establish a clear relationship between obstructive sleep apnoea, cognitive decline and dementia, more work is needed in understanding the mechanism and processes involved. A detailed understanding of pathophysiology of sleep and the relationship with cognitive decline will be vital in addressing the possibility of averting a likely reversible cause of dementia or cognitive decline. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  15. Bowel obstruction: Differential diagnosis and clinical management

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Welch, J.P.

    1987-01-01

    This book presents a practical guide to the diagnosis and management of obstruction, both mechanical and organic, of the large and small bowel. Obstruction is a common problem for surgeons, and this text emphasizes differential diagnosis and the use of all radiologic modalities. It presents the surgical and medical considerations involved with gallstones, bezoars, parasites, tumors, inflammation, trauma, intussusception, more.

  16. Giant colonic volvulus due to colonic pseudo-obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Karaman, Kerem; Tanoglu, Alpaslan; Beyazit, Yavuz; Han, Ismet

    2015-01-01

    Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction (ACPO), also known as Ogilvie’s syndrome, is a clinical syndrome characterised by gross dilation of the caecum and right hemicolon, which sometimes extends to the sigmoid colon and rectum in the absence of an anatomic lesion in the intestinal lumen. It is characterised by impaired propulsion of contents of the gastrointestinal tract, which results in a clinical picture of intestinal obstruction. A careful examination of the markedly distended colon can exclude several colonic pathologies, including mechanical obstruction and other causes of toxic megacolon. ACPO can sometimes predispose or mimic colonic volvulus, especially in geriatric patients. PMID:25716038

  17. A Double-Layered Covered Biliary Metal Stent for the Management of Unresectable Malignant Biliary Obstruction: A Multicenter Feasibility Study.

    PubMed

    Park, Jin-Seok; Jeong, Seok; Lee, Don Haeng; Moon, Jong Ho; Lee, Kyu Taek; Dong, Seok Ho

    2016-11-15

    The covered self-expandable metal stent (CMS) was developed to prevent tumor ingrowth-induced stent occlusion during the treatment of malignant biliary obstruction. However, complications such as cholecystitis, pancreatitis, and stent migration can occur after the endoscopic insertion of CMSs. The aim of the present study was to assess the efficacy and safety of a double-layered CMS (DCMS) for the management of malignant bile duct obstruction. DCMSs were endoscopically introduced into 59 patients with unresectable malignant extrahepatic biliary obstruction at four tertiary referral centers, and the patient medical records were retrospectively reviewed. Both the technical and functional success rates were 100%. Procedure-related complications including pancreatitis, cholangitis, stent migration, and liver abscess occurred in five patients (8.5%). The median follow-up period was 265 days (range, 31 to 752 days). Cumulative stent patency rates were 68.2% and 40.8% at 6 and 12 months, respectively. At the final follow-up, the rate of stent occlusion was 33.9% (20/59), and the median stent patency period was 276 days (range, 2 to 706 days). The clinical outcomes of DCMSs were comparable to the outcomes previously reported for CMSs with respect to stent patency period and complication rates.

  18. Malignant Ureteral Obstruction: Functional Duration of Metallic versus Polymeric Ureteral Stents

    PubMed Central

    Chow, Po-Ming; Chiang, I-Ni; Chen, Chia-Yen; Huang, Kuo-How; Hsu, Jui-Shan; Wang, Shuo-Meng; Lee, Yuan-Ju; Yu, Hong-Jeng; Pu, Yeong-Shiau; Huang, Chao-Yuan

    2015-01-01

    Background Ureteral obstruction caused by extrinsic compression is often associated with intra-abdominal cancers. Internal drainage with ureteral stents is typically the first-line therapy to relieve such obstructions. Novel designs of ureteral stents made of different materials have been invented to achieve better drainage. In this study, we described the functional outcomes of a Resonance metallic ureteral stent (Cook Medical, Bloomington, Indiana, USA) in patients with malignant ureteral obstruction and compare the functional duration of Resonance stents with regular polymeric stents in the same cohort. Methods Cancer patients who received polymeric stents and subsequent Resonance stents for ureteral obstruction between July 2009 and November 2012 were included in a chart review. Stent failure was detected by clinical symptoms, imaging studies, and renal function tests. The functional durations of each stent were calculated, and possible factors affecting stent patency were investigated. Results A total of 50 stents were successfully inserted into 50 ureteral units in 42 patients with malignant ureteral obstruction. There were 7 antegrade stents and 43 retrograde stents. There were no major complications. Stent-related symptoms were similar in both kinds of stents. After polymeric stents were replaced with Resonance metallic stents, hydronephrosis subsided or remained stable in 90% (45/50) of the ureteral units. Serum creatinine decreased or remained stable in 90% (38/42) of these patients. The Resonance stent exhibited a mean increase in functional duration of 4 months compared with the polymeric stents (p<0.0001), and 50% (25/50) of the Resonance stents exhibited a significant increase in functional duration (more than 3 months). Pre-operative serum creatinine < 2 was associated with a substantial increase in stent duration. Conclusions Resonance stents are effective and safe in relieving malignant ureteral obstructions after polymeric stents failure

  19. Suicidal ideation in Chinese patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a controlled study.

    PubMed

    Wong, Tak-Shun; Xiang, Yu-Tao; Tsoh, Joshua; Ungvari, Gabor S; Ko, Fanny W S; Hui, David S C; Chiu, Helen F K

    2016-05-01

    No study has been published on the prevalence of suicidal behaviour in older Chinese patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study examined the 1-year prevalence of suicidal ideation in older Chinese COPD patients and explored its demographic and clinical correlates. A consecutive sample of 143 COPD patients and 211 matched control subjects were recruited and interviewed using structured, standardized instruments. The 1-year prevalence of suicidal ideation in COPD patients and controls were 15.4% and 10.9%, respectively. In multivariate analyses, suicidal ideation was significantly associated with the severity of depressive symptoms in COPD patients. Suicidal ideation was not higher in COPD patients than in controls. © 2015 The Authors. Psychogeriatrics © 2015 Japanese Psychogeriatric Society.

  20. A Case of Polyarteritis Nodosa with Bilateral Ureteral Obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Yoo, Bin; Kim, Hong Kyu; Choi, Seung Won; Moon, Hee Bom

    1996-01-01

    We report a case of bilateral ureteral obstruction most likely caused by polyarteritis nodosa. The diagnosis was based upon muscle biopsy which showed typical necrotizing vasculitis in medium size artery in conjunction with microaneurysms in renal angiography. Ureteral obstruction is a rare manifestation of polyarteritis nodosa. This condition is thought to result from vasculitis of periureteral vessels. The patient was managed with prednisolone alone, which resulted in complete resolution of ureteral obstruction on both sides. PMID:8854655

  1. Understanding fear and anxiety in patients at the time of an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a qualitative study.

    PubMed

    Halpin, David; Hyland, Michael; Blake, Susan; Seamark, Clare; Pinnuck, Margaret; Ward, David; Whalley, Ben; Greaves, Colin; Hawkins, Adam; Seamark, David

    2015-12-01

    To determine the importance of fear and anxiety at the time of an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. To assess the influence of carers and health professionals on this fear and anxiety. A qualitative study to elicit the views of patients and their carers during a hospital admission for exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Interviews were conducted in a District General Hospital. Twenty patients were interviewed shortly after admission to hospital with an exacerbation. Key themes were identified using cross-sectional thematic analysis of transcripts where commonalities and differences were identified. Four themes emerged: panic and fear; anxiety management techniques used during an exacerbation; intervention from family members and carers; response to medical services. Panic and fear are important emotions prior to admission. Many patients recognised the link between panic-fear and a worsening of symptoms, and some were able to use self-management techniques to reduce their panic-fear. Some relatives were seen as helping and others exacerbating the symptoms of panic-fear. The emergency services were seen as positive: providing reassurance and a sense of safety. How best to help patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease manage panic and fear remains a challenge.

  2. Biological and analytical stability of a peripheral blood gene expression score for obstructive coronary artery disease in the PREDICT and COMPASS studies.

    PubMed

    Daniels, Susan E; Beineke, Philip; Rhees, Brian; McPherson, John A; Kraus, William E; Thomas, Gregory S; Rosenberg, Steven

    2014-10-01

    A gene expression score (GES) for obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) has been validated in two multicenter studies. Receiver-operating characteristics (ROC) analysis of the GES on an expanded Personalized Risk Evaluation and Diagnosis in the Coronary Tree (PREDICT) cohort (NCT no. 00500617) with CAD defined by quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) or clinical reads yielded similar performance (area under the curve (AUC)=0.70, N=1,502) to the original validation cohort (AUC=0.70, N=526). Analysis of 138 non-Caucasian and 1,364 Caucasian patients showed very similar performance (AUCs=0.72 vs. 0.70). To assess analytic stability, stored samples of the original validation cohort (N=526) was re-tested after 5 years, and the mean score changed from 20.3 to 19.8 after 5 years (N=501, 95 %). To assess patient scores over time, GES was determined on samples from 173 Coronary Obstruction Detection by Molecular Personalized Gene Expression (COMPASS) study (NCT no. 01117506) patients at approximately 1 year post-enrollment. Mean scores increased slightly from 15.9 to 17.3, corresponding to a 2.5 % increase in obstructive CAD likelihood. Changes in cardiovascular medications did not show a significant change in GES.

  3. Airway Obstruction Among Latino Poultry Processing Workers in North Carolina

    PubMed Central

    MIRABELLI, MARIA C.; CHATTERJEE, ARJUN B.; MORA, DANA C.; ARCURY, THOMAS A.; BLOCKER, JILL N.; CHEN, HAIYING; GRZYWACZ, JOSEPH G.; MARÍN, ANTONIO J.; SCHULZ, MARK R.; QUANDT, SARA A.

    2015-01-01

    This analysis was conducted to evaluate the prevalence of airway obstruction among Latino poultry processing workers. Data were collected from 279 poultry processing workers and 222 other manual laborers via spirometry and interviewer-administered questionnaires. Participants employed in poultry processing reported the activities they perform at work. Participants with forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) or FEV1/forced expiratory volume (FVC) below the lower limits of normal were categorized as having airway obstruction. Airway obstruction was identified in 13% of poultry processing workers and 12% of the comparison population. Among poultry processing workers, the highest prevalence of airway obstruction (21%) occurred among workers deboning chickens (prevalence ratio: 1.75; 95% confidence interval: 0.97, 3.15). These findings identify variations in the prevalence of airway obstruction across categories of work activities. PMID:24965321

  4. Drug-induced sedation endoscopy in pediatric obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

    PubMed

    Boudewyns, A; Verhulst, S; Maris, M; Saldien, V; Van de Heyning, P

    2014-12-01

    To describe the pattern of upper airway (UA) obstruction during drug-induced sedation endoscopy (DISE) and to evaluate the outcome of DISE-directed treatment. Prospective study of DISE in surgically naive obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) children without syndromic comorbidity or craniofacial abnormalities. Treatment was individually tailored according to UA findings during DISE and polysomnographic data. Reported values are median (lower-upper quartile). Thirty-seven children aged 4.1 years (2.1-6.0), with body mass index z-score 0.3 (-0.9 to 0.9), and obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (oAHI) 9.0/h (6.1-19.3) were included. Adenotonsillar obstruction was found in 33 cases (89%) as an isolated entity or as part of a multi-level obstruction. These children were treated with adenotonsillectomy (n = 28), adenoidectomy (n = 3), or tonsillectomy (n = 2). The remaining four patients received non-surgical treatment. Pre-postoperative polysomnographic data in 22 patients showed a significant improvement in oAHI from 8.6/h (6.7-20.7) to 1.0/h (0.6-2.0) (P = 0.001). Only two of these 22 children had residual OSAS (oAHI ≥ 5/h), indicating a success rate of 91%. Based on UA findings during DISE, a non-surgical treatment was proposed for 11% of children. A 91% success rate was obtained in those treated with (adeno)tonsillectomy. These data suggest that DISE may be helpful to identify patients most likely to benefit from UA surgery. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Diagnosis and treatment for obstructive sleep apnea: Fundamental and clinical knowledge in obstructive sleep apnea.

    PubMed

    Shigemoto, Shuji; Shigeta, Yuko; Nejima, Jun; Ogawa, Takumi; Matsuka, Yoshizo; Clark, Glenn T

    2015-07-01

    This review article covers the diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) from a dental perspective. It addresses the issue of when and how to screen for and then, if indicated, refer the patient for a more comprehensive. Our focus in this article was on identifying current unanswered questions that relevant to OSA problems that dental scientists have to pursue and on providing valuable information on that problems, consequently the previous studies which investigated or reviewed the diagnosis and treatment of OSA were included. In addition, we included studies on jaw movements during sleep and on the use of a lateral cephalometric film related to the diagnosis and treatment of OSA. The role of portable sleep monitoring devices versus full laboratory polysomnography is discussed. This review also describes what is known about the efficacy of mandibular advancement devices and when and how they fit in to a treatment program for a patient with obstructive sleep apnea. Finally some basic research is presented on jaw movements during sleep and how a lateral cephalometric film can be used to assess the changes of the airway with body posture and head posture. This article provides the valuable suggestions for the clinical questions in the diagnosis and treatment of OSA. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  6. The European Respiratory Society study on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (EUROSCOP): recruitment methods and strategies.

    PubMed

    Löfdahl, C G; Postma, D S; Laitinen, L A; Ohlsson, S V; Pauwels, R A; Pride, N B

    1998-03-01

    The European Respiratory Society's study on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (EUROSCOP) is a multicentre study performed initially in 12 countries to assess the effect of 3 years' treatment with inhaled corticosteroids on lung function decline in smokers with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It aimed at recruiting 50 subjects in 50 European centres. This study discusses the most successful, countrywise, recruitment strategies, an important issue since many multicentre European studies may follow in the future. The total number of recruited subjects was 2147 in 39 participating centres. In total, at least 25,000 screening spirometries were performed, and about 80,000 hospital records were checked. The most effective way of recruiting subjects was to screen subjects by spirometry after mass media campaigns (eight out of nine countries). Others used workplace screenings and different types of population survey, and only a few centres successfully recruited participants by hospital records. Inclusion criteria were slightly changed upon low initial accrual rate. Initial surveys in one country, where 2405 subjects were screened by spirometry, gave an important indication for the change of the inclusion criteria. Extension of the upper age limit from 60 to 65 yr considerably improved recruitment, as did a change of the upper limit of FEV1 from below 80% predicted normal to below 100% predicted normal, while maintaining the FEV1/VC ratio below 70%. A tremendous effort is needed to recruit individuals with preclinical COPD, but this is certainly feasible with adequate strategies adjusted to each country.

  7. Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of telehealthcare for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: study protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Udsen, Flemming Witt; Lilholt, Pernille Heyckendorff; Hejlesen, Ole; Ehlers, Lars Holger

    2014-05-21

    Several feasibility studies show promising results of telehealthcare on health outcomes and health-related quality of life for patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and some of these studies show that telehealthcare may even lower healthcare costs. However, the only large-scale trial we have so far - the Whole System Demonstrator Project in England - has raised doubts about these results since it conclude that telehealthcare as a supplement to usual care is not likely to be cost-effective compared with usual care alone. The present study is known as 'TeleCare North' in Denmark. It seeks to address these doubts by implementing a large-scale, pragmatic, cluster-randomized trial with nested economic evaluation. The purpose of the study is to assess the effectiveness and the cost-effectiveness of a telehealth solution for patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease compared to usual practice. General practitioners will be responsible for recruiting eligible participants (1,200 participants are expected) for the trial in the geographical area of the North Denmark Region. Twenty-six municipality districts in the region define the randomization clusters. The primary outcomes are changes in health-related quality of life, and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio measured from baseline to follow-up at 12 months. Secondary outcomes are changes in mortality and physiological indicators (diastolic and systolic blood pressure, pulse, oxygen saturation, and weight). There has been a call for large-scale clinical trials with rigorous cost-effectiveness assessments in telehealthcare research. This study is meant to improve the international evidence base for the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of telehealthcare to patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by implementing a large-scale pragmatic cluster-randomized clinical trial. Clinicaltrials.gov, http://NCT01984840, November 14, 2013.

  8. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Diagnosis and Management.

    PubMed

    Gentry, Shari; Gentry, Barry

    2017-04-01

    The diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should be suspected in patients with risk factors (primarily a history of smoking) who report dyspnea at rest or with exertion, chronic cough with or without sputum production, or a history of wheezing. COPD may be suspected based on findings from the history and physical examination, but must be confirmed by spirometry to detect airflow obstruction. Findings that are most helpful to rule in COPD include a smoking history of more than 40 pack-years, a self-reported history of COPD, maximal laryngeal height, and age older than 45 years. The combination of three clinical variables-peak flow rate less than 350 L per minute, diminished breath sounds, and a smoking history of 30 pack-years or more-is another good clinical predictor, whereas the absence of all three of these signs essentially rules out airflow obstruction. Pharmacotherapy and smoking cessation are the mainstays of treatment, and pulmonary rehabilitation, long-term oxygen therapy, and surgery may be considered in select patients. Current guidelines recommend starting monotherapy with an inhaled bronchodilator, stepping up to combination therapy as needed, and/or adding inhaled corticosteroids as symptom severity and airflow obstruction progress.

  9. Diagnostic Accuracy of Obstructive Airway Adult Test for Diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

    PubMed

    Gasparini, Giulio; Vicini, Claudio; De Benedetto, Michele; Salamanca, Fabrizio; Sorrenti, Giovanni; Romandini, Mario; Bosi, Marcello; Saponaro, Gianmarco; Foresta, Enrico; Laforì, Andreina; Meccariello, Giuseppe; Bianchi, Alessandro; Toraldo, Domenico Maurizio; Campanini, Aldo; Montevecchi, Filippo; Rizzotto, Grazia; Cervelli, Daniele; Moro, Alessandro; Arigliani, Michele; Gobbi, Riccardo; Pelo, Sandro

    2015-01-01

    The gold standard for the diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is polysomnography, whose access is however reduced by costs and limited availability, so that additional diagnostic tests are needed. To analyze the diagnostic accuracy of the Obstructive Airway Adult Test (OAAT) compared to polysomnography for the diagnosis of OSA in adult patients. Ninety patients affected by OSA verified with polysomnography (AHI ≥ 5) and ten healthy patients, randomly selected, were included and all were interviewed by one blind examiner with OAAT questions. The Spearman rho, evaluated to measure the correlation between OAAT and polysomnography, was 0.72 (p < 0.01). The area under the ROC curve (95% CI) was the parameter to evaluate the accuracy of the OAAT: it was 0.91 (0.81-1.00) for the diagnosis of OSA (AHI ≥ 5), 0.90 (0.82-0.98) for moderate OSA (AHI ≥ 15), and 0.84 (0.76-0.92) for severe OSA (AHI ≥ 30). The OAAT has shown a high correlation with polysomnography and also a high diagnostic accuracy for the diagnosis of OSA. It has also been shown to be able to discriminate among the different degrees of severity of OSA. Additional large studies aiming to validate this questionnaire as a screening or diagnostic test are needed.

  10. Are disease severity, sleep-related problems, and anxiety associated with work functioning in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea?

    PubMed

    Timkova, Vladimira; Nagyova, Iveta; Reijneveld, Sijmen A; Tkacova, Ruzena; van Dijk, Jitse P; Bültmann, Ute

    2018-04-17

    To examine whether Obstructive Sleep Apnoea severity, sleep-related problems, and anxiety are associated with work functioning in Obstructive Sleep Apnoea patients, when controlled for age, gender and type of occupation. To investigate whether anxiety moderates the associations between sleep-related problems and work functioning. We included 105 Obstructive Sleep Apnoea patients (70% male; mean age 46.62 ± 9.79 years). All patients completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, and the Work Role Functioning Questionnaire-2.0. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea-severity, poor nighttime sleep quality, and anxiety were univariately associated with impaired work functioning. Multivariate analyzes revealed that poor perceived sleep quality was more strongly associated with work functioning than sleep efficiency and daily disturbances. Anxiety was strongly associated with impaired work functioning. After adding anxiety, the explained variance in work functioning increased from 20% to 25%. Anxiety moderated the association between low and medium levels of nighttime sleep quality problems and work functioning. Poor perceived sleep quality and anxiety were strongly associated with impaired work functioning in Obstructive Sleep Apnoea patients. These findings may help to optimize management, standard treatment, and work functioning in people with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea when confirmed in longitudinal studies. Implications for Rehabilitation Studies show an impairment of functional status, including work functioning, in obstructive sleep apnea patients. Aside from physical disorders, obstructive sleep apnea patients often experience mental problems, such as anxiety. As many people with obstructive sleep apnea are undiagnosed, our results demonstrate to employers and healthcare professionals the need to encourage patients for obstructive sleep apnea screening, especially in the situation of impaired work functioning

  11. Tumour necrosis factor-α/interleukin-10 ratio in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea hypopnoea syndrome.

    PubMed

    Jiang, H; Cao, H; Wang, P; Liu, W; Cao, F; Chen, J

    2015-01-01

    To explore the significance of the tumour necrosis factor-α/interleukin-10 ratio and the effect of continuous positive airway pressure in patients with different degrees of obstructive sleep apnoea hypopnoea syndrome severity. This study comprised 135 patients with obstructive sleep apnoea hypopnoea syndrome and 94 control subjects. Tumour necrosis factor-α and tumour necrosis factor-α/interleukin-10 ratio values were significantly higher in the obstructive sleep apnoea hypopnoea syndrome group than in the control group, but interleukin-10 was significantly lower. Tumour necrosis factor-α/interleukin-10 ratio values increased in line with the severity of obstructive sleep apnoea hypopnoea syndrome. In multivariate analysis, the tumour necrosis factor-α/interleukin-10 ratio correlated positively with the apnoea-hypopnoea index and all indices of obstructive sleep apnoea hypopnoea syndrome, except for age, body mass index and neck circumference. After one month of continuous positive airway pressure therapy, levels of tumour necrosis factor-α decreased; interleukin-10 showed no change. The results suggest that inflammation is activated and anti-inflammatory cytokines are decreased in obstructive sleep apnoea hypopnoea syndrome patients. Tumour necrosis factor-α/interleukin-10 ratio may prove useful for severity monitoring and management of obstructive sleep apnoea hypopnoea syndrome patients, and may reduce the need for polysomnography.

  12. The efficacy of treatment of patients with severe constipation or recurrent pseudo-obstruction with pyridostigmine.

    PubMed

    O'Dea, C J; Brookes, J H; Wattchow, D A

    2010-06-01

    Disorders of colonic motility, such as severe constipation and pseudo-obstruction, remain difficult to treat. The pathophysiology of these conditions is not completely understood, but previous studies suggest a deficiency of cholinergic innervation and an imbalance in autonomic regulation of colonic motor function as contributing factors. Therefore, increasing the availability of acetylcholine in the bowel wall with a cholinesterase inhibitor, such as pyridostigmine, may improve symptoms. We studied thirteen patients with severe constipation (slow transit type) or recurrent pseudo-obstruction. The six patients with slow transit constipation had mechanical obstruction and pelvic floor dysfunction excluded, and normal calibre colon and slow transit confirmed. These patients were offered pyridostigmine in an attempt to avoid surgery. The seven patients with pseudo-obstruction had dilated bowel on imaging, and mechanical obstruction was excluded. These patients received pyridostigmine when symptoms recurred, despite previous treatments. Pyridostigmine was initiated at 10 mg b.i.d. and increased if required. One of the six patients with slow transit constipation reported improvement of symptoms and had concurrently weaned anti-psychotic medications. Pyridostigmine was ceased in the remaining five patients due to lack of efficacy and/or side effects. Four patients proceeded to surgery for refractory symptoms. All seven patients with pseudo-obstruction had some improvement of symptoms with few side effects. Of these, two later had surgery for recurrent symptoms. In patients with slow transit constipation, treatment with pyridostigmine does not improve symptoms. However, it does improve symptoms in patients with recurrent pseudo-obstruction with few side effects, offering an extra treatment option for these patients.

  13. Caecal volvulus in a patient with chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction

    PubMed Central

    El-Khatib, C

    2011-01-01

    Chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIPO) is a rare disorder characterised by recurrent symptoms and signs of intestinal obstruction without an underlying mechanical cause. Caecal volvulus remains a rare cause of intestinal obstruction that often requires operative intervention. We describe the previously unreported case of caecal volvulus occurring in an adult patient with CIPO, together with his subsequent management. PMID:22004621

  14. Protective effects of intravenous anesthetics on kidney tissue in obstructive jaundice

    PubMed Central

    Hatipoglu, Sinan; Yildiz, Huseyin; Bulbuloglu, Ertan; Coskuner, Ismail; Kurutas, Ergul Belge; Hatipoglu, Filiz; Ciralik, Harun; Berhuni, Mehmet Sait

    2014-01-01

    AIM: To evaluate the protective effects on kidney tissue of frequently used intravenous anesthetics (ketamine, propofol, thiopental, and fentanyl) in rats with obstructive jaundice. METHODS: There is an increased incidence of postoperative acute renal failure in patients with obstructive jaundice. Thirty-two Wistar-albino rats were randomly divided into four equal groups. Laparatomy was performed on each animal in the four groups and common bile ducts were ligated and severed on day 0. After 7 d, laparotomy was again performed using ketamine, propofol, thiopental, or fentanyl anesthesia whose antioxidative properties are well known in oxidative stress in a rat liver model of obstructive jaundice. After 2 h, the rats were sacrificed. Renal tissue specimens were analyzed for catalase, superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde enzymes activities. All values are expressed as the mean ± SD. P values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: All animals survived without complications until the end of the study. Enlargement in the bile duct and obstructive jaundice were observed in all rats. Catalase was found to be significantly lower in the fentanyl group than in the ketamine (P = 0.039), propofol (P = 0.012), and thiopental (P = 0.001) groups. Superoxide dismutase activities were similar in all groups (P > 0.05). Malondialdehyde was found to be significantly lower in the ketamine group than in the propofol (P = 0.028), thiopental (P = 0.002) and fentanyl (P = 0.005) groups. Malondialdehyde was also lower in the fentanyl group than in the thiopental group (P = 0.001). The results showed that obstructive jaundice sensitizes renal tissue to damage under the different anesthetics. CONCLUSION: Among the agents tested, ketamine and propofol generated the least amount of oxidative stres on renal tissues in this rat model of obstructive jaundice created by common bile duct ligation. The importance of free radical injury in renal tissue in obstructive

  15. Proportion and clinical characteristics of non-asthmatic non-smokers among adults with airflow obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Takiguchi, Hiroto; Takeuchi, Tomoe; Niimi, Kyoko; Tomomatsu, Hiromi; Tomomatsu, Katsuyoshi; Hayama, Naoki; Oguma, Tsuyoshi; Urano, Tetsuya; Asai, Satomi; Miyachi, Hayato; Asano, Koichiro

    2018-01-01

    Background and objectives Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) mainly develops after long-term exposure to cigarette or biomass fuel smoke, but also occurs in non-smokers with or without a history of asthma. We investigated the proportion and clinical characteristics of non-smokers among middle-aged to elderly subjects with airflow obstruction. Methods We retrospectively analyzed 1,892 subjects aged 40–89 years who underwent routine preoperative spirometry at a tertiary university hospital in Japan. Airflow obstruction was defined as a forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1)/forced vital capacity < 0.7 or as the lower limit of the normal. Results Among 323 patients presenting with FEV1/forced vital capacity < 0.7, 43 had asthma and 280 did not. Among the non-asthmatic patients with airflow obstruction, 94 (34%) were non-smokers. A larger number of women than men with airflow obstruction had asthma (26% vs. 7.6%, p < 0.001), or were non-smokers among non-asthmatics (72% vs. 20%, p < 0.001). Non-asthmatic non-smokers, rather than non-asthmatic smokers, asthmatic non-smokers, and asthmatic smokers, exhibited better pulmonary function (median FEV1: 79% of predicted FEV1 vs. 73%, 69%, and 66%, respectively, p = 0.005) and less dyspnea on exertion (1% vs. 12%, 12%, and 28%, respectively, p = 0.001). Pulmonary emphysema on thoracic computed tomography was less common in non-smokers (p < 0.001). Using the lower limit of the normal to define airflow obstruction yielded similar results. Conclusions There are a substantial number of non-smokers with airflow obstruction compatible with COPD in Japan. In this study, airflow obstruction in non-smokers was more common in women and likelier to result in mild functional and pathological abnormalities than in smokers. Further studies are warranted to investigate the long-term prognosis and appropriate management of this population in developed countries, especially in women. PMID:29742176

  16. The role of drug-induced sleep endoscopy in surgical planning for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

    PubMed

    Aktas, Ozturk; Erdur, Omer; Cirik, Ahmet Adnan; Kayhan, Fatma Tulin

    2015-08-01

    This study investigated the role of drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) in the surgical treatment planning of patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). This study was conducted using patients diagnosed with OSAS between January 2007 and March 2009, who were scheduled for surgical treatment. DISE was performed using propofol in patients considered to have upper respiratory tract obstruction as indicated by Muller's maneuver. After completing the sleep endoscopy, the patient was intubated and surgery was performed (tonsillectomy and uvulopalatopharyngoplasty). A successful operation was defined as a decrease in the respiratory disturbance index to below 5 or a decrease of ≥50 % following the operation. The study included 20 patients (4 female and 16 male) aged 19-57 years. No statistically significant correlation between modified Mallampati class and operation success or between the polysomnographic stage of disease and operation success was identified. A significantly high operation success rate was found in the group with obstruction of the upper airway according to DISE (p < 0.05), whereas a significantly low operation success rate was found in the group with obstruction of the lower airway according to DISE (p < 0.01). DISE may be used to identify the localization of obstruction for diagnostic purposes, and it can be helpful in selecting the treatment method.

  17. Obstructive sleep apnea due to extrathoracic tracheomalacia.

    PubMed

    Muzumdar, Hiren; Nandalike, K; Bent, J; Arens, Raanan

    2013-02-01

    We report obstructive sleep apnea in a 3-year-old boy with tracheomalacia secondary to tracheotomy that resolved after placement of a metallic stent in the region of tracheomalacia. The tracheal location of obstruction during sleep in this case contrasts with the usual location in the pharynx or, less often, the larynx. This case also demonstrates the utility of polysomnography in managing decannulation of tracheostomies.

  18. Congenital ureteropelvic junction obstruction: physiopathology, decoupling of tout court pelvic dilatation-obstruction semantic connection, biomarkers to predict renal damage evolution.

    PubMed

    Alberti, C

    2012-02-01

    The widespread use of fetal ultrasonography results in a frequent antenatally observation of hydronephrosis, ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) accounting for the greatest fraction of congenital obstructive nephropathy. UPJO may be considered, in most cases, as a functional obstructive condition, depending on defective fetal smooth muscle/nerve development at this level, with lack of peristaltic wave propagation--aperistaltic segment--and, therefore, poor urine ejection from the renal pelvis into the ureter. The UPJO-related physiopathologic events are, at first, the compliant dilatation of renal pelvis that, acting as hydraulic buffer, protects the renal parenchyma from the rising intrapelvic pressure-related potential damages, and, subsequently, beyond such phase of dynamic balance, the tubular cell stretch-stress induced by increased intratubular pressure and following parenchymal inflammatory lesions: inflammatory infiltrates, fibroblast proliferation, activation of myofibroblasts, tubulo-interstitial fibrosis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), several chemo- and cytokines, growth factors, prostaglandins and eicosanoids, angiotensin-II are the main pathogenetic mediators of the obstructive nephropathy. Apoptosis of tubular cells is the major cause of the tubular atrophy, together with epithelial-mesenchymal transdifferentiation. Some criticisms on tout court semantic renal pelvis dilatation-obstruction connection have been raised considering that the renal pelvis expansion isn't, in any case, linked to an ostructive condition, as it may be verified by diuretic (furosemide) renogram together with scintiscan-based evaluation of differential renal function. In this regard, rather than repetitive invasive nuclear procedures that expose the children to ionizing radiations, an intriguing noninvasive strategy, based on the evaluation of urinary biomarkers and urinary proteome, can define the UPJO-related possible progress of parenchymal lesions

  19. Indicators for surgery in adhesive bowel obstruction.

    PubMed

    Rajanikmanth, P V; Kate, V; Ananthakrishnan, N

    2001-01-01

    There is lack of data on risk factors, which, if present, would indicate the need for surgery in patients with adhesive bowel obstruction. A Cohort of 100 consecutive patients with adhesive obstruction was studied prospectively to compare clinical and investigative parameters between the operative and conservative group. It was found that female gender, previous obstetric or gynaecological procedures, pulse and BP on admission, nature of nasogastric aspirate, single distended loop on abdominal x-ray as also predominant ileal distension were independent factors indicating a high probability of surgical intervention. Patients with 2 or more risk factors had 12 times higher probability of surgery and in those with 3 or more the relative risk was 30 times. Patients with such risk factors should be monitored closely after admission and should be taken for surgery after an initial short trial of conservative measures.

  20. The role of the actinomyces in obstructive tonsillar hypertrophy and recurrent tonsillitis in pediatric population.

    PubMed

    Kutluhan, Ahmet; Salvız, Mehti; Yalçıner, Gökhan; Kandemir, Olcay; Yeşil, Cemile

    2011-03-01

    To determine the prevalence of tonsillar Actinomyces in subjects with recurrent tonsillitis and those with obstructive tonsillar hypertrophy, and to determine the association between the presence of Actinomyces and tonsillar volume, and crypt abscess. A prospective designed cross-sectional study consisted of 90 children subjects who underwent tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy for recurrent tonsillitis and obstructive tonsillar hypertrophy. The subjects of recurrent tonsillitis (Group A) and obstructive tonsillar hypertrophy (Group B) were compared to the presence of Actinomyces. The relationship between the presence of Actinomyces and the presence of crypt abscess, and tonsillar volume were also compared. Actinomyces was found to be significantly more prominent in obstructive tonsillar hypertrophy group (61.5%) compared to recurrent tonsillitis group (26.6%) (p<0.001). Additionally, the mean tonsillar volume was significantly higher in tonsils with Actinomyces than those without (p<0.001). The histopathological study revealed that there was no significant inflammatory response to the existence of Actinomyces. According to the presented study, Actinomyces was seen more prominent in subjects with obstructive tonsillar hypertrophy compared those with recurrent tonsillitis. Furthermore Actinomyces had a pathological influence on tonsil size. This study showed there was a significant relation between Actinomyces and enlargement of tonsillar tissue. However, how causes tonsillar hypertrophy is not understood yet in tonsillar disease. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Using the Pathophysiology of Obstructive Sleep Apnea to Teach Cardiopulmonary Integration

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Levitzky, Michael G.

    2008-01-01

    Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder of upper airway obstruction during sleep. The effects of intermittent upper airway obstruction include alveolar hypoventilation, altered arterial blood gases and acid-base status, and stimulation of the arterial chemoreceptors, which leads to frequent arousals. These arousals disturb sleep…

  2. Airway obstruction in children with infectious mononucleosis.

    PubMed

    Wohl, D L; Isaacson, J E

    1995-09-01

    Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infection generally has a benign clinical course. Upper airway obstruction is a known complication requiring the otolaryngologist's attention. EBV is usually associated with adolescence but has been increasingly documented in younger children. We review 36 pediatric admissions for infectious mononucleosis over a 12-year period at our institution, 11 of which required consultation for airway obstruction. Airway management was based on clinical severity and ranged from monitored observation, with or without nasopharyngeal stenting, to prolonged intubation or emergent tonsilloadenoidectomy. A rare case of a four-year-old with near total upper airway obstruction secondary to panpharyngeal and transglottic inflammatory edema prompted this review and is reported. The otolaryngologist must recognize the potential severity of EBV-related airway compromise and be prepared to manage it.

  3. Stress and strain analysis of contractions during ramp distension in partially obstructed guinea pig jejunal segments

    PubMed Central

    Zhao, Jingbo; Liao, Donghua; Yang, Jian; Gregersen, Hans

    2011-01-01

    Previous studies have demonstrated morphological and biomechanical remodeling in the intestine proximal to an obstruction. The present study aimed to obtain stress and strain thresholds to initiate contraction and the maximal contraction stress and strain in partially obstructed guinea pig jejunal segments. Partial obstruction and sham operations were surgically created in mid-jejunum of male guinea pigs. The animals survived 2, 4, 7, and 14 days, respectively. Animals not being operated on served as normal controls. The segments were used for no-load state, zero-stress state and distension analyses. The segment was inflated to 10 cmH2O pressure in an organ bath containing 37°C Krebs solution and the outer diameter change was monitored. The stress and strain at the contraction threshold and at maximum contraction were computed from the diameter, pressure and the zero-stress state data. Young’s modulus was determined at the contraction threshold. The muscle layer thickness in obstructed intestinal segments increased up to 300%. Compared with sham-obstructed and normal groups, the contraction stress threshold, the maximum contraction stress and the Young’s modulus at the contraction threshold increased whereas the strain threshold and maximum contraction strain decreased after 7 days obstruction (P<0.05 and 0.01). In conclusion, in the partially obstructed intestinal segments, a larger distension force was needed to evoke contraction likely due to tissue remodeling. Higher contraction stresses were produced and the contraction deformation (strain) became smaller. PMID:21632056

  4. Prevalence and underdiagnosis of airway obstruction among middle-aged adults in northern France: The ELISABET study 2011-2013.

    PubMed

    Quach, Alexandre; Giovannelli, Jonathan; Chérot-Kornobis, Natalie; Ciuchete, Alina; Clément, Guillaume; Matran, Régis; Amouyel, Philippe; Edmé, Jean-Louis; Dauchet, Luc

    2015-12-01

    Airway obstruction (AO), mainly due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults, is a major cause of mortality and poor quality of life. However, few data are available for France. This study was designed to calculate the prevalence AO among middle-aged adults in northern France, explore the associated risk factors and evaluate the underdiagnosis. The Enquête Littoral Souffle Air Biologie Environnement (ELISABET) was a cross-sectional study of a representative sample of 3276 adults aged from 40 to 64 in two urban areas in northern France (Lille and Dunkirk). Participants filled out a questionnaire and performed spirometry testing, without a reversibility test. The age-standardized estimated prevalence [95% confidence interval] of AO was 16.0% [13.9; 17.9] in Lille and 13.7% [11.7; 15.7] in Dunkirk with the Global initiative for chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) definition and 10.8% [9.2; 12.5] and 9.5% [7.9; 11.2] respectively with the lower limit of normal calculated with the Global Lung Initiative (GLI) 2012 equations. AO was associated with age, male gender, tobacco consumption and low body mass index. The underdiagnosis rate was greater than 70%. Previously undiagnosed participants with AO displayed more respiratory symptoms compared with participants without AO and less than participants with previously diagnosed AO. The prevalence of AO in northern France ranged from 9.5 to 16.0%, depending on the centre and definition used. The high underdiagnosis rate observed here suggests that greater efforts should be made to identify individuals presenting with the symptoms and/or risk factors associated with AO. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. [Thrombosis and obstruction associated with central venous lines. Incidence and risk factors].

    PubMed

    Vivanco Allende, A; Rey Galán, C; Rodríguez de la Rúa, M V; Alvarez García, F; Medina Villanueva, A; Concha Torre, A; Mayordomo Colunga, J; Martínez Camblor, P

    2013-09-01

    To analyse the incidence of thrombosis and obstruction associated with central venous lines (CVL) inserted in critically ill children, and to determine their risk factors. Prospective observational study in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit in a University Hospital. An analysis was made of 825 CVL placed in 546 patients. Age, gender, weight, type of catheter (lines, size, and brand), final location of the catheter, mechanical ventilation, type of sedation and analgesia used, initial failure by the doctor to perform CVL catheterization, number of attempts, CVL indication, admission diagnosis, emergency or scheduled procedure, and delayed mechanical complications (DMC). Risk factors for these complications were determined by a multiple regression analysis. A total of 52 cases of DMC, 42 cases of obstruction, and 10 of thrombosis were registered. Obstruction and thrombosis rates were 4.96 and 1.18 per 100 CVL, respectively. The only risk factor independently linked to obstruction was the duration of the CVL (OR 1.05; 95% CI; 1.00-1.10). The number of lines with thrombosis (OR 4.88; 95% CI; 1.26-18.0), as well as parenteral nutrition (OR 4.17; 95% CI; 1.06-16.31) was statistically significant according to bivariate analysis. However, no risk factors for thrombosis were found in the multivariate analysis. Obstruction and thrombosis of CVL inserted in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit are relatively common complications. CVL duration is an independent risk factor for any line obstruction. Copyright © 2012 Asociación Española de Pediatría. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

  6. A case‐control study of airways obstruction among construction workers

    PubMed Central

    Welch, Laura; Ringen, Knut; Quinn, Patricia; Chen, Anna; Haas, Scott

    2015-01-01

    Background While smoking is the major cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), occupational exposures to vapors, gases, dusts, and fumes (VGDF) increase COPD risk. This case‐control study estimated the risk of COPD attributable to occupational exposures among construction workers. Methods The study population included 834 cases and 1243 controls participating in a national medical screening program for older construction workers between 1997 and 2013. Qualitative exposure indices were developed based on lifetime work and exposure histories. Results Approximately 18% (95%CI = 2–24%) of COPD risk can be attributed to construction‐related exposures, which are additive to the risk contributed by smoking. A measure of all VGDF exposures combined was a strong predictor of COPD risk. Conclusions Construction workers are at increased risk of COPD as a result of broad and complex effects of many exposures acting independently or interactively. Control methods should be implemented to prevent worker exposures, and smoking cessation should be promoted. Am. J. Ind. Med. 58:1083–1097, 2015. © 2015 The Authors. American Journal of Industrial Medicine Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. PMID:26123003

  7. New tapered metallic stent for unresectable malignant hilar bile duct obstruction.

    PubMed

    Sakai, Yuji; Tsuyuguchi, Toshio; Nishikawa, Takao; Sugiyama, Harutoshi; Sasaki, Reina; Sakamoto, Dai; Watanabe, Yuto; Nakamura, Masato; Yasui, Shin; Mikata, Rintaro; Yokosuka, Osamu

    2015-10-16

    To examine the usefulness of a new tapered metallic stent (MS) in patients with unresectable malignant hilar bile duct obstruction. This new tapered MS was placed in 11 patients with Bismuth II or severer unresectable malignant hilar bile duct obstruction, as a prospective study. The subjects were six patients with bile duct carcinoma, three with gallbladder cancer, and two with metastatic bile duct obstruction. Stenosis morphology was Bismuth II: 7, IIIa: 3, and IV: 1. UMIN Clinical Trial Registry (UMIN000004758). MS placement was 100% (11/11) successful. There were no procedural accidents. The mean patency period was 208.401 d, the median survival period was 142.000 d, and the mean survival period was 193.273 d. Occlusion rate was 36.4% (4/11); the causes of occlusion were ingrowth and overgrowth in 2 patients each, 18.2%, respectively. Patients with occlusion underwent endoscopic treatment one more time and all were treatable. The tapered MS proved useful in patients with unresectable malignant hilar bile duct obstruction because it provided a long patency period, enabled re-treatment by re-intervention, and no procedural accidents occurred.

  8. Lung function and airway obstruction: associations with circulating markers of cardiac function and incident heart failure in older men—the British Regional Heart Study

    PubMed Central

    Wannamethee, S Goya; Shaper, A Gerald; Papacosta, Olia; Lennon, Lucy; Welsh, Paul; Whincup, Peter H

    2016-01-01

    Aims The association between lung function and cardiac markers and heart failure (HF) has been little studied in the general older population. We have examined the association between lung function and airway obstruction with cardiac markers N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and cardiac troponin T (cTnT) and risk of incident HF in older men. Methods and results Prospective study of 3242 men aged 60–79 years without prevalent HF or myocardial infarction followed up for an average period of 13 years, in whom 211 incident HF cases occurred. Incident HF was examined in relation to % predicted FEV1 and FVC. The Global Initiative on Obstructive Lung Diseases spirometry criteria were used to define airway obstruction. Reduced FEV1, but not FVC in the normal range, was significantly associated with increased risk of HF after adjustment for established HF risk factors including inflammation. The adjusted HRs comparing men in the 6–24th percentile with the highest quartile were 1.91 (1.24 to 2.94) and 1.30 (0.86 to 1.96) for FEV1 and FVC, respectively. FEV1 and FVC were inversely associated with NT-proBNP and cTnT, although the association between FEV1 and incident HF remained after adjustment for NT-proBNP and cTnT. Compared with normal subjects (FEV1/FVC ≥0.70 and FVC≥80%), moderate or severe (FEV1/FVC <0.70 and FEV1 <80%) airflow obstruction was independently associated with HF ((adjusted relative risk 1.59 (1.08 to 2.33)). Airflow restriction (FEV1/FVC ≥0.70 and FVC <80%) was not independently associated with HF. Conclusions Reduced FEV1 reflecting airflow obstruction is associated with cardiac dysfunction and increased risk of incident HF in older men. PMID:26811343

  9. Cephalometric and anthropometric data of obstructive apnea in different age groups.

    PubMed

    Borges, Paulo de Tarso Moura; Silva, Benedito Borges da; Moita Neto, José Machado; Borges, Núbia Evangelista de Sá; Li, Li M

    2015-01-01

    Patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome usually present with changes in upper airway morphology and/or body fat distribution, which may occur throughout life and increase the severity of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome with age. To correlate cephalometric and anthropometric measures with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome severity in different age groups. A retrospective study of cephalometric and anthropometric measures of 102 patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome was analyzed. Patients were divided into three age groups (≥20 and <40 years, ≥40 and <60 years, and ≥60 years). Pearson's correlation was performed for these measures with the apnea-hypopnea index in the full sample, and subsequently by age group. The cephalometric measures MP-H (distance between the mandibular plane and the hyoid bone) and PNS-P (distance between the posterior nasal spine and the tip of the soft palate) and the neck and waist circumferences showed a statistically significant correlation with apnea-hypopnea index in both the full sample and in the ≥40 and <60 years age group. These variables did not show any significant correlation with the other two age groups (<40 and ≥60 years). Cephalometric measurements MP-H and PNS-P and cervical and waist circumferences correlated with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome severity in patients in the ≥40 and <60 age group. Copyright © 2014 Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  10. Safety and efficacy of self-expandable metal stents for obstructive proximal and distal large bowel cancer.

    PubMed

    Mitra, V; Hu, M; Majumdar, D; Krishnan, V; Chaudhury, B; Hancock, J; Dwarakanath, D

    2017-03-01

    Self-expandable metal stents are often used to treat obstructive large bowel cancers. This study assessed the safety and efficacy of colonic stent insertion carried out in a district general hospital. Methods A retrospective review was carried out between 1 January 2007 and 28 February 2014 to identify patients who underwent stent insertion for malignant colorectal obstruction. Results Seventy-five patients (median age 75.2 years, 70.6% male) with primary colorectal cancer underwent stent insertion - 53 underwent semi-elective self-expanded metal stent insertion (for subacute bowel obstruction) and 22 had emergency stent inserted (for acute bowel obstruction). The majority (88%) had self-expanded metal stents inserted for palliation. Technical and clinical success rates were 98.7% and 91.2%, respectively. One patient had stent-related perforation; there was no procedure-related mortality. Conclusion This study shows that self-expanded metal stent insertion in malignant colorectal obstruction is safe and effective and can be successfully delivered in a district general hospital with high technical and clinical success rates.

  11. Metamemory beliefs and episodic memory in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

    PubMed

    Daurat, Agnès; Huet, Nathalie; Tiberge, Michel

    2010-08-01

    This study assessed metamemory and its role in actual episodic memory performance in 26 patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and 27 healthy controls. Metamemory knowledge and memory beliefs were assessed using the Metamemory Inventory in Adulthood. Episodic memory performance was investigated with the Remember/Know paradigm. Subjective sleepiness was evaluated. Patients underwent a polysomnographic assessment. In contrast to the control group's more stable memory beliefs, patients self-assessed their memory as declining across time, and felt more anxious about their memory. There was only a modest difference between patients' self-perceptions of their memory capacities and those of the control group, but patients' actual memory performance was strongly disturbed. While the latter was significantly correlated with severity of obstructive sleep apnea, scores on the Metamemory Inventory in Adulthood scales were not correlated with physiological measures, subjective sleepiness, or episodic memory performance. Obstructive sleep apnea may affect prefrontal cortex functioning and hence the ability to assess one's own memory impairment.

  12. Ileocolic intussusception mimicking the imaging appearance of midgut volvulus as a result of extrinsic duodenal obstruction.

    PubMed

    Gasparini, Flavia F; Navarro, Oscar M; Dasgupta, Roshni; Gerstle, J Ted; Thorner, Paul S; Manson, David E

    2005-12-01

    Duodenal obstruction caused by ileocolic intussusception in the absence of intestinal malrotation is extremely rare. We present and discuss the imaging findings in an infant with an intussusception secondary to a duplication cyst in whom sonography also showed inversion of the orientation of the mesenteric vessels and a distended stomach. A contrast medium study revealed a proximal duodenal obstruction with a beak appearance suggestive of midgut volvulus. At surgery, an ileocolic intussusception causing duodenal obstruction without concomitant malrotation or volvulus was found. The combination of duodenal obstruction and abnormal relationship of the mesenteric vessels as a result of ileocolic intussusception has not previously been reported in the literature.

  13. Design of multi-modal obstruction to control tonal fan noise using modulation principles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gérard, Anthony; Moreau, Stéphane; Berry, Alain; Masson, Patrice

    2015-11-01

    The approach presented in this paper uses a combination of obstructions in the upstream flow of subsonic axial fans with B blades to destructively interfere with the primary tonal noise at the blade passage frequency. The first step of the proposed experimental method consists in identifying the independent radiation of B - 1 and B lobed obstructions at the control microphones. During this identification step, rotating obstructions allow for the frequencies of primary and secondary tonal noise to be slightly shifted in the spectrum due to modulation principles. The magnitude of the secondary tonal noise generated by each obstruction can be adjusted by varying the size of the lobes of the obstruction, and the phase of the secondary tonal noise is related to the angular position of the obstruction. The control obstructions are then optimized by combining the B - 1 and B lobed obstructions to significantly reduce the acoustic power at blade passage frequency.

  14. Utility of CT in the diagnosis and management of small-bowel obstruction in children.

    PubMed

    Wang, Qiuyan; Chavhan, Govind B; Babyn, Paul S; Tomlinson, George; Langer, Jacob C

    2012-12-01

    CT is often used in the diagnosis and management of small-bowel obstruction in children. To determine sensitivity of CT in delineating presence, site and cause of small-bowel obstruction in children. We retrospectively reviewed the CT scans of 47 children with surgically proven small-bowel obstruction. We noted any findings of obstruction and the site and cause of obstruction. Presence, absence or equivocal findings of bowel obstruction on abdominal radiographs performed prior to CT were also noted. We reviewed patient charts for clinical details and surgical findings, including bowel resection. Statistical analysis was performed using Fisher exact test to determine which CT findings might predict bowel resection. CT correctly diagnosed small-bowel obstruction in 43/47 (91.5%) cases. CT correctly indicated site of obstruction in 37/47 (78.7%) cases and cause of obstruction in 32/47 (68.1%) cases. Small-bowel feces sign was significantly associated with bowel resection at surgery (P = 0.0091). No other CT finding was predictive of bowel resection. Out of 41 children who had abdominal radiographs before CT, 29 (70.7%) showed unequivocal obstruction, six (14.6%) showed equivocal findings and six (14.6%) were unremarkable. CT is highly sensitive in diagnosing small-bowel obstruction in children and is helpful in determining the presence of small-bowel obstruction in many clinically suspected cases with equivocal or normal plain radiographs. CT also helps to determine the site and cause of the obstruction with good sensitivity.

  15. The Efficacy of Endoscopic Palliation of Obstructive Jaundice in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

    PubMed Central

    Park, Semi; Park, Jeong Youp; Chung, Moon Jae; Chung, Jae Bock; Park, Seung Woo; Han, Kwang-Hyub; Song, Si Young

    2014-01-01

    Purpose Obstructive jaundice in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is uncommon (0.5-13%). Unlike other causes of obstructive jaundice, the role of endoscopic intervention in obstructive jaundice complicated by HCC has not been clearly defined. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical characteristics of obstructive jaundice caused by HCC and predictive factors for successful endoscopic intervention. Materials and Methods From 1999 to 2009, 54 patients with HCC who underwent endoscopic intervention to relieve obstructive jaundice were included. We defined endoscopic intervention as a clinical success when the obstructive jaundice was relieved within 4 weeks. Results Clinical success was achieved in 23 patients (42.6%). Patients in the clinical success group showed better Child-Pugh liver function (C-P grade A or B/C; 17/6 vs. 8/20), lower total bilirubin levels (8.1±5.3 mg/dL vs. 23.1±10.4 mg/dL) prior to the treatment, and no history of alcohol consumption. The only factor predictive of clinical success by multivariate analysis was low total bilirubin level at the time of endoscopic intervention, regardless of history of alcohol consumption [odds ratio 1.223 (95% confidence interval, 1.071-1.396), p=0.003]. The cut-off value of pre-endoscopic treatment total bilirubin level was 12.8 mg/dL for predicting the clinical prognosis. Median survival after endoscopic intervention in the clinical success group was notably longer than that in the clinical failure group (5.6 months vs. 1.5 months, p≤0.001). Conclusion Before endoscopic intervention, liver function, especially total bilirubin level, should be checked to achieve the best clinical outcome. Endoscopic intervention can be helpful to relieve jaundice in well selected patients with HCC. PMID:25048484

  16. Rapamycin attenuates bladder hypertrophy during long-term outlet obstruction in vivo: tissue, matrix and mechanistic insights.

    PubMed

    Schröder, Annette; Kirwan, Tyler P; Jiang, Jia-Xin; Aitken, Karen J; Bägli, Darius J

    2013-06-01

    Previous molecular studies showed that the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin prevents bladder smooth muscle hypertrophy in vitro. We investigated the effect of rapamycin treatment in vivo on bladder smooth muscle hypertrophy in a rat model of partial bladder outlet obstruction. A total of 48 female Sprague-Dawley® rats underwent partial bladder outlet obstruction and received daily subcutaneous injections of rapamycin (1 mg/kg) or vehicle commencing 2 weeks postoperatively. A total of 36 rats underwent sham surgery and received rapamycin or vehicle. Rats were sacrificed 3, 6 and 12 weeks after surgery. Before sacrifice, voiding was observed in a metabolic cage for 24 hours. Bladder-to-body weight in gm bladder weight per kg body weight and post-void residual urine were assessed. We evaluated Col1a1, Col3a1, Eln and Mmp7 mRNA expression and histology. Two-factor ANOVA and the post hoc t test were applied. Bladder outlet obstruction caused a significant increase in bladder weight in all obstructed groups. Three weeks postoperatively (1 week of treatment) there was no difference in the bladder-to-body weight ratio in the obstructed group. However, at 6 and 12 weeks (4 and 10 weeks of treatment, respectively) the bladder-to-body weight ratio of rats with obstruction plus rapamycin was significantly lower than that of rats with obstruction plus vehicle. Post-void residual urine volume after 6 and 12 weeks of obstruction was lower in obstructed rats with rapamycin compared to that in obstructed rats with vehicle. Rapamycin decreased the obstruction induced expression of Col1a1, Col3a1, Eln and Mmp7. Rapamycin prevents mechanically induced hypertrophy in cardiovascular smooth muscle. In vivo mTOR inhibition may attenuate obstruction induced detrusor hypertrophy and help preserve bladder function. Copyright © 2013 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Multilevel Obstructive Sleep Apnea Surgery.

    PubMed

    Lin, Hsin-Ching; Weaver, Edward M; Lin, Ho-Sheng; Friedman, Michael

    2017-01-01

    Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the primary treatment of obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSA). Most sleep physicians are in agreement that a certain number of OSA patients cannot or will not use CPAP. Although other conservative therapies, such as oral appliance, sleep hygiene, and sleep positioning, may help some of these patients, there are many who fail all conservative treatments. As sleep surgeons, we have the responsibility to screen patients for both symptoms and signs of OSA. As experts of upper airway diseases, we often view an airway clearly and help the patient understand the importance of assessment and treatment for OSA. Surgery for OSA is not a substitute for CPAP but is a salvage treatment for those who failed CPAP and other conservative therapies and therefore have no other options. Most early studies and reviews focused on the efficacy of uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, a single-level procedure for the treatment of OSA. Since OSA is usually caused by multilevel obstructions, the true focus on efficacy should be on multilevel surgical intervention. The purpose here is to provide an updated overview of multilevel surgery for OSA patients. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  18. [Severe upper airway obstruction in infectious mononucleosis: a life emergency].

    PubMed

    Salazard, B; Paut, O; Nicollas, R; Zandotti, C; Chrestian, M A; Thuret, I; Camboulives, J

    2001-09-01

    Upper airway obstruction can represent a severe, life-threatening complication of infectious mononucleosis. We report a rare case of airway obstruction in a child with infectious mononucleosis associated with herpes virus infection, and we discuss management strategy that can be proposed in such cases. A 9-year-old girl was hospitalised in intensive care unit for obstructive dyspnea during infectious mononucleosis. Despite five days of corticosteroids and tracheal intubation, persistent pharyngo-tonsillar tumefaction led us to perform a surgical adenotonsillectomy. This latter treatment allowed immediate tracheal extubation and a rapid recovery. Histology showed a herpes virus infection associated with infectious mononucleosis. Maintaining airway opening in infectious mononucleosis needs sometimes to use instrumental interventions: nasal trumpet, endotracheal intubation, even tracheostomy. Early tonsilloadenoidectomy may relieve airway obstruction and allow a rapid recovery in the most severe cases. Airway obstruction in infectious mononucleosis may be aggravated by concomitant herpes virus infection that should be searched for in this situation, in order to adapt the treatment.

  19. Paediatric obstructive sleep apnoea: is our operative management evidence-based?

    PubMed

    Pabla, L; Duffin, J; Flood, L; Blackmore, K

    2018-04-01

    Despite the plethora of publications on the subject of paediatric obstructive sleep apnoea, there seems to be wide variability in the literature and in practice, regarding recourse to surgery, the operation chosen, the benefits gained and post-operative management. This may reflect a lack of high-level evidence. A systematic review of four significant controversies in paediatric ENT was conducted from the available literature: tonsillectomy versus tonsillotomy, focusing on the evidence base for each; anaesthetic considerations in paediatric obstructive sleep apnoea surgery; the objective evidence for the benefits of surgical treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea; and the medical treatment options for residual obstructive sleep apnoea after surgical treatment. There are many gaps in the evidence base for the surgical correction of obstructive sleep apnoea. There is emerging evidence favouring subtotal tonsillectomy. There is continuing uncertainty around the prediction of the level of post-operative care that any individual child might require. The long-term benefit of surgical correction is a particularly fertile ground for further research.

  20. Endoscopic Stent Placement in the Palliation of Malignant Biliary Obstruction

    PubMed Central

    2011-01-01

    Biliary drainage with biliary stent placement is the treatment of choice for palliation in patients with malignant biliary obstruction caused by unresectable neoplasms. In such patients, the endoscopic approach can be initially used with percutaneous radiological intervention. In patients with unresectable malignant distal bile duct obstructions, endoscopic biliary drainage with biliary stent placement has now become the main and least invasive palliative modality, which has been proven to be more effective in >80% of cases with lower morbidity than surgery, and perhaps may provide a survival benefit. In patients with unresectable malignant hilar obstruction, the endoscopic approach for biliary drainage with biliary stent placement has also been considered as the treatment of choice. There is still a lack of clear consensus on the use of covered versus uncovered metal stents in malignant distal bile duct obstructions and plastic versus metal stents and unilateral versus bilateral drainage in malignant hilar obstructions. PMID:22741117

  1. ''Sandwich'' treatment for diospyrobezoar intestinal obstruction: A case report

    PubMed Central

    Zheng, Yi-Xiong; Prasoon, Pankaj; Chen, Yan; Hu, Liang; Chen, Li

    2014-01-01

    Intestinal obstruction is a common clinical entity encountered in surgical practice. The objective of this report is to corroborate an atypical scenario of intestinal obstruction in a Chinese patient and to focus on the diagnosis and treatment. A 27-year-old male presented with a history of gastric pain combined with nausea and abdominal distension that had been present for 5 d. The presence of a foreign body was detected by computed tomography and observed as an abnormal density within the stomach. A diospyrobezoar was revealed during gastroscopy, the extraction of which was prevented due to its size and firmness. An endoscopic holmium laser joined with a snare was used to fragment the obstruction, which was followed by management with a conservative “sandwich” treatment strategy involving intestinal decompression with an ileus tube and Coca-Cola lavage between endoscopic lithotripsy fragmentation procedures. This strategy resulted in the successful removal of the diospyrobezoar along with multiple small bowel obstructions. The patient was discharged after abatement of symptoms. The case presented here demonstrates the implementation of a conservative, yet successful, treatment as an alternative to conventional surgical removal of intestinal obstructions. PMID:25561823

  2. Sleep Apnea and Obstructive Airway Disease in Older Men: Outcomes of Sleep Disorders in Older Men Study

    PubMed Central

    Zhao, Ying Y.; Blackwell, Terri; Ensrud, Kristine E.; Stone, Katie L.; Omachi, Theodore A.; Redline, Susan

    2016-01-01

    Study Objectives: To evaluate the association between obstructive airway disease (OAD) and sleep apnea in older men. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study of 853 community-dwelling older men (mean age 80.7 ± 4.1 years [range 73 to 90]) across 6 centers in the United States from the Outcomes of Sleep Disorders in Older Men Study. Sleep was objectively measured using full in-home polysomnography and lung function was objectively measured using spirometry. The association of OAD (pre-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC ratio < 0.7 and FEV1 < 80% predicted) and sleep apnea (apnea-hypopnea index [AHI] ≥ 15 events/hour) was assessed using logistic regression. Results: OAD and sleep apnea were identified in 111 (13.0%) and 247 (29.0%) men, respectively. In univariate analysis, participants with OAD had a lower AHI (mean ± SD; 8.7 ± 11.7 vs. 12.7 ± 13.8, P = 0.0009) and a lower prevalence of sleep apnea (14.4 vs. 31.1%, P = 0.0003) compared to participants without OAD. OAD remained independently associated with a lower odds of sleep apnea (odds ratio 0.30, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.55, P = 0.0001) after adjustment for demographics, body composition, smoking, and potential mediators (arousal index, time spent in rapid eye movement sleep). Individuals with OAD and sleep apnea (n = 16) had an increased arousal index and lower oxygen saturation level as compared to individuals with OAD alone (P values < 0.05). Conclusions: Obstructive airway disease was associated with a lower prevalence of sleep apnea in a cohort of community-dwelling elderly men, and unexplained by differences in adiposity or sleep architecture. Although uncommon in this cohort, coexisting sleep apnea and OAD was associated with increased sleep fragmentation and nocturnal oxygen desaturation compared to OAD alone. Citation: Zhao YY, Blackwell T, Ensrud KE, Stone KL, Omachi TA, Redline S, Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) Study Group. Sleep apnea and obstructive airway disease in older men: outcomes of sleep

  3. Castleman disease presenting as obstructive jaundice.

    PubMed

    Al-Salamah, Saleh M; Khan, Iftikhar A; Khalid, Kamran; Al-Shakweer, Wafaa A

    2005-01-01

    A 48-year-old Saudi male was admitted with features of obstructive jaundice. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography showed stricture in distal common bile duct CBD. Computed tomography scan revealed lymphadenopathy along CBD and in porta hepatis. Cholangiocarcinoma, lymphoma or metastatic deposits were suspected but no definite preoperative diagnosis could be established. Laparotomy disclosed lymph node enlargement in porta hepatis and along the CBD and lesser curvature of the stomach. Triple bypass procedure was performed to relieve the obstruction. Pathological examination of the lymph nodes showed Castleman disease of hyaline vascular type.

  4. Association of emphysema-like lung on cardiac computed tomography and mortality in persons without airflow obstruction: the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) Lung Study

    PubMed Central

    Oelsner, Elizabeth C.; Hoffman, Eric A.; Folsom, Aaron R.; Carr, J. Jeffrey; Enright, Paul L.; Kawut, Steven M.; Kronmal, Richard; Lederer, David; Lima, Joao A. C.; Lovasi, Gina S.; Shea, Steven; Barr, R. Graham

    2015-01-01

    Background Whereas low lung function is known to predict mortality in the general population, the prognostic significance of emphysema on computed tomography (CT) in persons without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remains uncertain. Objective To determine whether greater emphysema-like lung on CT is associated with all-cause mortality among persons without airflow obstruction or COPD in the general population. Design Prospective cohort study. Setting Population-based, multiethnic sample from 6 US communities. Participants 2965 participants ages 45-84 years without airflow obstruction on spirometry. Measurements Emphysema-like lung was defined on cardiac CT as the number of lung voxels less than -950 Hounsfield Units, and was adjusted for the number of total imaged lung voxels. Results Among 2965 participants, 50.9% of whom never smoked, there were 186 deaths over a median of 6.2 years. Greater emphysema-like lung was independently associated with increased mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]1.14 per one-half of the interquartile range, 95% CI 1.04-1.24, P=0.004), adjusting for potential confounders including cardiovascular risk factors and the forced expiratory volume in one second. Generalized additive models supported a linear association between emphysema-like lung and mortality without evidence for a threshold. The association was of greatest magnitude among smokers, although multiplicative interaction terms did not support effect modification by smoking status. Limitations Cardiac CT scans did not include lung apices. The number of deaths was limited among subgroup analyses. Conclusions Emphysema-like lung on CT was associated with all-cause mortality among persons without airflow obstruction or COPD in a general population sample, particularly among smokers. Recognition of the independent prognostic significance of emphysema on CT among patients without COPD on spirometry is warranted. Primary Funding Source NIH/NHLBI. PMID:25506855

  5. The Patient Burden of Bladder Outlet Obstruction after Prostate Cancer Treatment.

    PubMed

    Liberman, Daniel; Jarosek, Stephanie; Virnig, Beth A; Chu, Haitao; Elliott, Sean P

    2016-05-01

    Bladder outlet obstruction after prostate cancer therapy imposes a significant burden on health and quality of life in men. Our objective was to describe the burden of bladder outlet obstruction after prostate cancer therapy by detailing the type of procedures performed and how often those procedures were repeated in men with recurrent bladder outlet obstruction. Using SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results)-Medicare linked data from 1992 to 2007 with followup through 2009 we identified 12,676 men who underwent at least 1 bladder outlet obstruction procedure after prostate cancer therapy, including external beam radiotherapy in 3,994, brachytherapy in 1,485, brachytherapy plus external beam radiotherapy in 1,847, radical prostatectomy in 4,736, radical prostatectomy plus external beam radiotherapy in 369 and cryotherapy in 245. Histogram, incidence rates and Cox proportional hazards models with repeat events analysis were done to describe the burden of repeat bladder outlet obstruction treatments stratified by prostate cancer therapy type. We describe the type of bladder outlet obstruction surgery grouped by level of invasiveness. At a median followup of 8.8 years 44.6% of men underwent 2 or more bladder outlet obstruction procedures. Compared to men who underwent radical prostatectomy those treated with brachytherapy and brachytherapy plus external beam radiotherapy were at increased adjusted risk for repeat bladder outlet obstruction treatment (HR 1.2 and 1.32, respectively, each p <0.05). After stricture incision the men treated with radical prostatectomy or radical prostatectomy plus external beam radiotherapy were most likely to undergo dilation at a rate of 34.7% to 35.0%. Stricture resection/ablation was more common after brachytherapy, external beam radiotherapy or brachytherapy plus external beam radiotherapy at a rate of 28.9% to 41.2%. Almost half of the men with bladder outlet obstruction after prostate cancer therapy undergo more than 1

  6. Predictors of septic shock in obstructive acute pyelonephritis.

    PubMed

    Tambo, Mitsuhiro; Okegawa, Takatsugu; Shishido, Toshihide; Higashihara, Eiji; Nutahara, Kikuo

    2014-06-01

    Acute pyelonephritis (APN) with obstructive uropathy is not uncommon and often causes serious conditions including sepsis and septic shock. We assessed the risk factors for septic shock in patients with obstructive APN associated with upper urinary tract calculi. We retrospectively studied 69 patients with obstructive APN associated with upper urinary tract calculi who were admitted to our hospital. Emergency drainage for decompression of the renal collecting system was performed for empirical treatment in cases of failure of initial treatment and for severe cases. We assessed the risk factors for septic shock by multivariate logistic regression analysis. Overall, 45 patients (65.2 %) underwent emergency drainage and 23 (33.3 %) patients showed septic shock. Poor performance status and the presence of diabetes mellitus (DM) in the septic shock group were more common than in the non-septic shock group (p = 0.012 and p = 0.011, respectively). The platelet count and serum albumin level in the septic shock group were significantly lower than in the non-septic shock group (p = 0.002 and p = 0.003, respectively). Positive rates of midstream urine culture and blood culture in the septic shock group were significantly higher than in the non-septic shock group (p = 0.022 and p = 0.001, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that decreases in the platelet count (OR 5.43, p = 0.014) and serum albumin level (OR 5.88, p = 0.023) were independent risk factors for septic shock. Patients with obstructive APN associated with upper urinary tract calculi who have decreases in platelet count and serum albumin level should be treated with caution against the development of septic shock.

  7. Danazol in the management of ureteral obstruction secondary to endometriosis

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Rivlin, M.E.; Krueger, R.P.; Wiser, W.L.

    1985-08-01

    A case is reported in which a woman was diagnosed with ureteral obstruction secondary to endometriosis after cystourethrogram, retrograde pyelogram and a renal scan. After unsuccessful treatment with danazol, a retroperitoneal ureteroneocystotomy was performed. The ureter was found to be obstructed by dense fibrous tissue that contained endometrial glands. It was concluded that danazol is unlikely to relieve endometriotic ureteric obstruction once dense fibrosis has occurred. 8 references, 2 figures.

  8. Arterially Delivered Mesenchymal Stem Cells Prevent Obstruction-Induced Renal Fibrosis

    PubMed Central

    Asanuma, Hiroshi; Vanderbrink, Brian A.; Campbell, Matthew T.; Hile, Karen L.; Zhang, Hongji; Meldrum, Daniel R.; Meldrum, Kirstan K.

    2010-01-01

    Purpose Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) hold promise for the treatment of renal disease. While MSCs have been shown to accelerate recovery and prevent acute renal failure in multiple disease models, the effect of MSC therapy on chronic obstruction-induced renal fibrosis has not previously been evaluated. Materials and Methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent renal artery injection of vehicle or fluorescent-labeled human bone marrow-derived MSCs immediately prior to sham operation or induction of left ureteral obstruction (UUO). One or 4 weeks later, the kidneys were harvested and the renal cortex analyzed for evidence of stem cell infiltration, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) as evidenced by E-cadherin/α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression and fibroblast specific protein (FSP+) staining, renal fibrosis (collagen content, Masson’s trichrome staining), and cytokine and growth factor activity (ELISA and real time RT-PCR). Results Fluorescent-labeled MSCs were detected in the interstitium of the kidney up to 4 weeks post-obstruction. Arterially delivered MSCs significantly reduced obstruction-induced α-SMA expression, FSP+ cell accumulation, total collagen content, and tubulointerstitial fibrosis, while simultaneously preserving E-cadherin expression, suggesting that MSCs prevent obstruction-induced EMT and renal fibrosis. Exogenous MSCs reduced obstruction-induced tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels, but did not alter transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interleukin-10 (IL-10), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), or hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) expression. Conclusions Human bone marrow-derived MSCs remain viable several weeks after delivery into the kidney and provide protection against obstruction-induced EMT and chronic renal fibrosis. While the mechanism of MSCs-induced renal protection during obstruction remains unclear, our results demonstrate that alterations in TNF-α production may be involved

  9. Influence of socioeconomic and demographic status on spirometry testing in patients initiating medication targeting obstructive lung disease: a population-based cohort study.

    PubMed

    Koefoed, Mette M; Søndergaard, Jens; Christensen, René dePont; Jarbøl, Dorte E

    2013-06-14

    Socioeconomic status is known to influence the prevalence, severity and mortality of obstructive lung diseases, but it is uncertain whether it affects the use of diagnostic spirometry in patients initiating treatment for these conditions. The objective of this paper was to examine a possible association between education, income, labour market affiliation, cohabitation status and having spirometry performed when initiating medication targeting obstructive pulmonary disease. We conducted a population-based cohort study. Danish national registers were linked, retrieving data on prescriptions, spirometry testing, socioeconomic and demographic variables in all first time users of medication targeting obstructive lung disease in 2008. A total of 37,734 persons were included and approximately half of the cohort had spirometry performed. Among medication users under 65 years of age, being unemployed was significantly associated with reduced odds of having spirometry performed, the strongest association was seen in men (OR = 0.82, CI = 0.73-0.91). Medium income was associated with increased odds of having spirometry performed in men (OR =1.18, CI = 1.06-1.30) and high educational level (>12 years) was associated with reduced odds of having spirometry performed in women (OR = 0.86, CI = 0.78-0.94). Cohabitation status was not associated with having spirometry performed. Among medication users over 65 years of age, living alone was associated with reduced odds of having spirometry performed among men (OR = 0.78, CI = 0.69-0.88). Social inequity in spirometry testing among patients initiating medication targeting obstructive lung disease was confirmed in this study. Increased focus on spirometry testing among elderly men living alone, among the unemployed and among women with higher education is required when initiating medication.

  10. Bile Culture and Susceptibility Testing of Malignant Biliary Obstruction via PTBD

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Yu Haipeng; Guo Zhi, E-mail: jieruke@yahoo.com.cn; Xing Wenge

    Purpose: To assess the information obtained by bile culture and susceptibility testing for malignant biliary obstruction by a retrospective one-center study. Methods: A total of 694 patients with malignant biliary obstruction received percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage during the period July 2003 to September 2010, and subsequently, bile specimens were collected during the procedure. Among the 694 patients, 485 were men and 209 were women, ranging in age from 38 to 78 years (mean age 62 years). Results: A total of 42.9% patients had a positive bile culture (298 of 694). Further, 57 species of microorganisms and 342 strains were identified;more » gram-positive bacteria accounted for 50.9% (174 of 342) and gram-negative bacteria accounted for 41.5% (142 of 342) of these strains. No anaerobes were obtained by culture during this study. The most common microorganisms were Enterococcus faecalis (41 of 342, 11.9%), Escherichia coli (34 of 342, 9.9%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (28 of 342, 8.2%), Staphylococcus epidermidis (19 of 342, 5.5%), Enterococcus (18 of 342, 5.3%), and Enterobacter cloacae (16 of 342, 4.7%). The percentage of {beta}-lactamase-producing gram-positive bacteria was 27.6% (48 of 174), and the percentage of gram-negative bacteria was 19.7% (28 of 142). The percentage of enzyme-producing Escherichia coli was 61.7% (21 of 34). Conclusion: The bile cultures in malignant biliary obstruction are different from those in the Tokyo Guidelines and other benign biliary obstruction researches, which indicates that a different antibacterial therapy should be applied. Thus, knowledge of the antimicrobial susceptibility data could aid in the better use of antibiotics for the empirical therapy of biliary infection combined with malignant biliary obstruction.« less

  11. Proximal tubule proteins are significantly elevated in bladder urine of patients with ureteropelvic junction obstruction and may represent novel biomarkers: A pilot study.

    PubMed

    Gerber, Claire; Harel, Miriam; Lynch, Miranda L; Herbst, Katherine W; Ferrer, Fernando A; Shapiro, Linda H

    2016-04-01

    Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is the major cause of hydronephrosis in children and may lead to renal injury and early renal dysfunction. However, diagnosis of the degree of obstruction and severity of renal injury relies on invasive and often inconclusive renal scans. Biomarkers from voided urine that detect early renal injury are highly desirable because of their noninvasive collection and their potential to assist in earlier and more reliable diagnosis of the severity of obstruction. Early in response to UPJO, increased intrarenal pressure directly impacts the proximal tubule brush border. We hypothesize that single-pass, apically expressed proximal tubule brush border proteins will be shed into the urine early and rapidly and will be reliable noninvasive urinary biomarkers, providing the tools for a more reliable stratification of UPJO patients. We performed a prospective cohort study at Connecticut Children's Medical Center. Bladder urine samples from 12 UPJO patients were obtained prior to surgical intervention. Control urine samples were collected from healthy pediatric patients presenting with primary nocturnal enuresis. We determined levels of NGAL, KIM-1 (previously identified biomarkers), CD10, CD13, and CD26 (potentially novel biomarkers) by ELISA in control and experimental urine samples. Urinary creatinine levels were used to normalize the urinary protein levels measured by ELISA. Each of the proximal tubule proteins outperformed the previously published biomarkers. No differences in urinary NGAL and KIM-1 levels were observed between control and obstructed patients (p = 0.932 and p = 0.799, respectively). However, levels of CD10, CD13, and CD26 were significantly higher in the voided urine of obstructed individuals when compared with controls (p = 0.002, p = 0.024, and p = 0.007, respectively) (Figure). Targeted identification of reliable, noninvasive biomarkers of renal injury is critical to aid in diagnosing patients at risk, guiding

  12. Agreement between Results of Home Sleep Testing for Obstructive Sleep Apnea with and without a Sleep Specialist

    PubMed Central

    Aurora, R. Nisha; Putcha, Nirupama; Swartz, Rachel; Punjabi, Naresh M.

    2016-01-01

    Background Obstructive sleep apnea is a prevalent yet underdiagnosed condition associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Home sleep testing offers an efficient means for diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea but has primarily been deployed in clinical samples with a high pretest probability. The current study sought to assess if obstructive sleep apnea can be diagnosed with home sleep testing in a non-referred sample without involvement of a sleep medicine specialist. Methods A study of community-based adults with untreated obstructive sleep apnea was undertaken. Misclassification of disease severity based on home sleep testing with and without involvement of a sleep medicine specialist was assessed, and agreement was characterized using scatter plots, Pearson's correlation coefficient, Bland-Altman analysis, and the kappa statistic. Analyses were also conducted to assess whether any observed differences varied as a function of pretest probability of obstructive sleep apnea or subjective sleepiness. Results The sample consisted of 191 subjects with over half (56.5%) having obstructive sleep apnea. Without involvement of a sleep medicine specialist, obstructive sleep apnea was not identified in only 5.8% of the sample. Analyses comparing the categorical assessment of disease severity with and without a sleep medicine specialist showed that in total, 32 subjects (16.8%) were misclassified. Agreement in the disease severity with and without a sleep medicine specialist was not influenced by the pretest probability or daytime sleep tendency. Conclusion Obstructive sleep apnea can be reliably identified with home sleep testing in a non-referred sample irrespective of the pretest probability of the disease. PMID:26968467

  13. Agreement Between Results of Home Sleep Testing for Obstructive Sleep Apnea with and Without a Sleep Specialist.

    PubMed

    Aurora, R Nisha; Putcha, Nirupama; Swartz, Rachel; Punjabi, Naresh M

    2016-07-01

    Obstructive sleep apnea is a prevalent yet underdiagnosed condition associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Home sleep testing offers an efficient means for diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea but has been deployed primarily in clinical samples with a high pretest probability. The present study sought to assess whether obstructive sleep apnea can be diagnosed with home sleep testing in a nonreferred sample without involvement of a sleep medicine specialist. A study of community-based adults with untreated obstructive sleep apnea was undertaken. Misclassification of disease severity according to home sleep testing with and without involvement of a sleep medicine specialist was assessed, and agreement was characterized using scatter plots, Pearson's correlation coefficient, Bland-Altman analysis, and the κ statistic. Analyses were also conducted to assess whether any observed differences varied as a function of pretest probability of obstructive sleep apnea or subjective sleepiness. The sample consisted of 191 subjects, with more than half (56.5%) having obstructive sleep apnea. Without involvement of a sleep medicine specialist, obstructive sleep apnea was not identified in only 5.8% of the sample. Analyses comparing the categorical assessment of disease severity with and without a sleep medicine specialist showed that in total, 32 subjects (16.8%) were misclassified. Agreement in the disease severity with and without a sleep medicine specialist was not influenced by the pretest probability or daytime sleep tendency. Obstructive sleep apnea can be reliably identified with home sleep testing in a nonreferred sample, irrespective of the pretest probability of the disease. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Unexplained Obstruction of an Integrated Cardiotomy Filter During Cardiopulmonary Bypass.

    PubMed

    Alwardt, Cory M; Wilson, Donald S; Pajaro, Octavio E

    2017-03-01

    Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is considered relatively safe in most cases, yet is not complication free. We present a case of an integrated cardiotomy filter obstruction during CPB, requiring circuit reconfiguration. Approximately an hour after uneventful initiation of CPB the integrated cardiotomy filter became obstructed over several minutes, requiring circuit reconfiguration using an external cardiotomy filter to maintain functionality. Following reconfiguration, CPB was maintained with a fully functional circuit allowing safe patient support throughout the remainder of CPB. Postoperatively, there was no sign of thrombus or mechanical obstruction of the filter, which was sent to the manufacturer for analysis. The cause of the obstruction was unclear even after chemical analysis, visual inspection, and a review of all techniques and products to which the patient was exposed. The patient had a generally routine hospital stay, with no signs or symptoms related to the incident. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing an obstructed integrated cardiotomy filter. An appropriate readiness plan for such an incident includes proper venting of the filter chamber, a method for detecting an obstruction, and a plan for circuit reconfiguration. This case illustrates the need for a formal reporting structure for incidents or "near miss" incidents during CPB.

  15. Systematic review of self-expanding stents in the management of benign colorectal obstruction.

    PubMed

    Currie, A; Christmas, C; Aldean, H; Mobasheri, M; Bloom, I T M

    2014-04-01

    Colorectal obstruction due to benign disease is likely to become more prevalent. Self-expanding stents have been shown to be effective in reducing morbidity and allowing one-stage resection or improved palliation in colorectal cancer. This review assessed the use of self-expanding stents in benign colorectal obstruction. A systematic review was performed using PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library. Keywords included: 'benign disease' 'colorectal obstruction', 'stent', 'endoprosthesis' and 'prosthesis' Original articles from all relevant listings were sourced. These were hand searched for further articles of relevance. The main outcome measures assessed were technical and clinical success, perforation, reobstruction and stoma avoidance in the bridge to surgery population. The search strategy identified 130 articles; the 21 included studies yielded a pooled analysis of 122 patients. Diverticulitis was the predominant aetiology (66/122, 54%). Technical success was achieved in 115/122 (94%) and clinical success in 108/120 (87%) patients. Overall, the perforation rate was 12% (15/122) and the reobstruction rate was 14% (17/122). A stoma was avoided in 48% (23/48) of bridge to surgery patients. Perforation and stoma avoidance in the bridge to surgery group were worse with an aetiology of diverticulitis. Complication rates in stenting for benign colorectal obstruction are higher than for malignant obstruction. On the basis of limited published evidence, stenting cannot be recommended for benign colorectal obstruction. Colorectal Disease © 2013 The Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland.

  16. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in China: a nationwide prevalence study.

    PubMed

    Fang, Liwen; Gao, Pei; Bao, Heling; Tang, Xun; Wang, Baohua; Feng, Yajing; Cong, Shu; Juan, Juan; Fan, Jing; Lu, Ke; Wang, Ning; Hu, Yonghua; Wang, Linhong

    2018-06-01

    Because of the rapid change in economic development and lifestyle in China, and the ageing population, concerns have grown that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) could become epidemic. An up-to-date nationwide estimation of COPD prevalence in China is needed. We did a cross-sectional survey of a nationally representative sample of individuals from mainland China aged 40 years or older. The primary outcome was COPD, defined according to the 2017 Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) lung function criteria. Between Dec 29, 2014, and Dec 31, 2015, 66 752 adults were recruited to the study population. The estimated standardised prevalence of COPD was 13·6% (95% CI 12·0-15·2). The prevalence of COPD differed significantly between men and women (19·0%, 95% CI 16·9-21·2 vs 8·1%, 6·8-9·3; p<0·0001), mainly because of a significant difference in smoking status between men and women (current smokers 58·2% vs 4·0%). The prevalence of COPD differed by geographic region, with the highest prevalence in southwest China (20·2%, 95% CI 14·7-25·8) and the lowest in central China (10·2%, 8·2-12·2). Among adults with COPD, 56·4% (95% CI 53·7-59·2) had mild disease (GOLD stage I), 36·3% (34·3-38·3) had moderate disease (GOLD stage II), 6·5% (5·5-7·4) had severe disease (GOLD stage III), and 0·9% (0·6-1·1) had very severe disease (GOLD stage IV). In a large, nationally representative sample of adults aged 40 years or older, the estimated overall prevalence of COPD in China in 2014-15 was 13·6%, indicating that this disease has become a major public-health problem. Strategies aimed at prevention and treatment of COPD are needed urgently. Chinese Central Government, the Ministry of Science and Technology of The People's Republic of China, and the National Natural Science Foundation of China. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Diffusion-weighted MR imaging findings of kidneys in patients with early phase of obstruction.

    PubMed

    Bozgeyik, Zulkif; Kocakoc, Ercan; Sonmezgoz, Fitnet

    2009-04-01

    Diffusion-weighted (DW) magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is an MR technique used to show molecular diffusion. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), as a quantitative parameter calculated from the DW MR images. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the ability of DW MR imaging in early phase of obstruction due to urolithiasis. Twenty-six patients with acute dilatation of the pelvicalyceal system detected by intravenous urography were included in this study. MR imaging was performed using a 1.5 T whole-body superconducting MR scanner. DW imaging can be performed using single-shot spin-echo, echo-planar imaging (EPI) sequences with the following diffusion gradient b values: 100, 600, 1000 s/mm(2). Circular region of interest (ROI) was placed in the renal parenchyma for the measurement of ADC values in the normal and obstructed kidney. For statistical analyses, Paired t test were used. In spite of obstructed kidneys had the lower ADC values compared to normal kidneys, these alterations were statistically insignificant. We did not observe significantly different ADC values of early phase of obstructed kidneys compared to normal kidneys.

  18. Laparoscopic gastropexy relieves symptoms of obstructed gastric volvulus in highoperative risk patients.

    PubMed

    Yates, Robert B; Hinojosa, Marcelo W; Wright, Andrew S; Pellegrini, Carlos A; Oelschlager, Brant K

    2015-05-01

    Operative repair of obstructive gastric volvulus is challenging. In high-operative risk patients with obstructive gastric volvulus, we perform laparoscopic reduction of gastric volvulus and anterior abdominal wall sutured gastropexy. This case series reports our experience with this operation. We reviewed the charts of all patients who presented with obstructive gastric volvulus and underwent laparoscopic gastropexy between 2007 and 2013. Eleven patients underwent laparoscopic gastropexy. Median age was 83 years (50 to 92). Six patients presented with chronic obstruction; 5 presented with acute obstruction. Median postoperative hospitalization was 2 days (1 to 39). Two patients required reoperation for displaced gastrostomy tubes. At median follow-up of 3 months (2 weeks to 57 months), all patients remained free of gastric obstructive symptoms and recurrent episodes of volvulus. Only 1 patient received nutrition via gastrostomy tube. Laparoscopic gastropexy can treat obstructed gastric volvulus in highoperative risk patients. Because of associated morbidity, gastrostomy tubes should be placed selectively. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Assessment of ureterovesical jet dynamics in obstructed ureter by urinary stone with color Doppler and duplex Doppler examinations.

    PubMed

    Jandaghi, Ali Babaei; Falahatkar, Siavash; Alizadeh, Ahmad; Kanafi, Alireza Rajabzadeh; Pourghorban, Ramin; Shekarchi, Babak; Zirak, Amin Keshavarz; Esmaeili, Samaneh

    2013-04-01

    This study was designed to evaluate ureterovesical jet dynamics in obstructed ureter and to compare it with those of contralateral unobstructed side. Forty-six patients with diagnosis of ureteral stone, based on imaging findings in computed tomography were enrolled in this study. The gray-scale ultrasound exam from both kidneys and urinary bladder was performed. Then, ureterovesical jet characteristics including ureteral jet frequency, duration and peak velocity were assessed by color Doppler and duplex Doppler studies in both obstructed and unobstructed ureters by a radiologist, 15-30 min after oral hydration with 750-1,000 mL of water. When compared with contralateral normal side, the ureterovesical jet in obstructed ureter showed less frequency (0.59 vs. 3.04 jets/min; P < 0.05), shorter duration (1.24 vs. 5.26 s; P < 0.05) and lower peak velocity (5.41 vs. 32.09 cm/s; P < 0.05). The cut-off points of 1.5 jets/min, 2.5 s and 19.5 cm/s for difference of ureteral jet frequency, duration and peak velocity between obstructed and contralateral normal ureters yielded sensitivities of 97.8, 95.6 and 100 % and specificities of 87, 87.9 and 97.8 %, respectively for diagnosis of ureteral obstruction. Given the safety of Doppler study and significant differences in flow dynamics of obstructed versus unobstructed ureters, our findings demonstrated the utility of Doppler ultrasound examination as a useful adjunct to gray-scale ultrasound by improving the accuracy of ultrasound exam in diagnosis of ureteral obstruction.

  20. Understanding fear and anxiety in patients at the time of an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a qualitative study

    PubMed Central

    Halpin, David; Hyland, Michael; Blake, Susan; Seamark, Clare; Pinnuck, Margaret; Ward, David; Whalley, Ben; Greaves, Colin; Hawkins, Adam

    2015-01-01

    Objectives To determine the importance of fear and anxiety at the time of an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. To assess the influence of carers and health professionals on this fear and anxiety. Design A qualitative study to elicit the views of patients and their carers during a hospital admission for exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Setting Interviews were conducted in a District General Hospital. Participants Twenty patients were interviewed shortly after admission to hospital with an exacerbation. Main outcome measures Key themes were identified using cross-sectional thematic analysis of transcripts where commonalities and differences were identified. Results Four themes emerged: panic and fear; anxiety management techniques used during an exacerbation; intervention from family members and carers; response to medical services. Conclusion Panic and fear are important emotions prior to admission. Many patients recognised the link between panic-fear and a worsening of symptoms, and some were able to use self-management techniques to reduce their panic-fear. Some relatives were seen as helping and others exacerbating the symptoms of panic-fear. The emergency services were seen as positive: providing reassurance and a sense of safety. How best to help patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease manage panic and fear remains a challenge. PMID:26664734

  1. Fetal tracheolaryngeal airway obstruction: prenatal evaluation by sonography and MRI

    PubMed Central

    Courtier, Jesse; Poder, Liina; Wang, Zhen J.; Westphalen, Antonio C.; Yeh, Benjamin M.

    2010-01-01

    We reviewed the sonographic and MRI findings of tracheolaryngeal obstruction in the fetus. Conditions that can cause tracheolaryngeal obstruction include extrinsic causes such as lymphatic malformation, cervical teratoma and vascular rings and intrinsic causes such as congenital high airway obstruction syndrome (CHAOS). Accurate distinction of these conditions by sonography or MRI can help facilitate parental counseling and management, including the decision to utilize the ex utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) procedure. PMID:20737145

  2. Intestinal obstruction caused by Taenia taeniaeformis infection in a cat.

    PubMed

    Wilcox, Rebbecca S; Bowman, Dwight D; Barr, Stephen C; Euclid, James M

    2009-01-01

    An adult domestic shorthair (DSH) cat was presented with acute vomiting, anorexia, lethargy, and dyspnea. The cat's clinical status worsened over 24 hours with conservative medical management. An exploratory celiotomy was performed. Acute intestinal obstruction resulting from infection with Taenia (T.) taeniaeformis was diagnosed. Surgical removal of the cestodes via multiple enterotomies resolved the obstruction. This paper reports, for the first time, small intestinal obstruction caused by T. taeniaeformis infection in a cat.

  3. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease mortality and prevalence: the associations with smoking and poverty--a BOLD analysis.

    PubMed

    Burney, Peter; Jithoo, Anamika; Kato, Bernet; Janson, Christer; Mannino, David; Nizankowska-Mogilnicka, Ewa; Studnicka, Michael; Tan, Wan; Bateman, Eric; Koçabas, Ali; Vollmer, William M; Gislason, Thorarrin; Marks, Guy; Koul, Parvaiz A; Harrabi, Imed; Gnatiuc, Louisa; Buist, Sonia

    2014-05-01

    Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a commonly reported cause of death and associated with smoking. However, COPD mortality is high in poor countries with low smoking rates. Spirometric restriction predicts mortality better than airflow obstruction, suggesting that the prevalence of restriction could explain mortality rates attributed to COPD. We have studied associations between mortality from COPD and low lung function, and between both lung function and death rates and cigarette consumption and gross national income per capita (GNI). National COPD mortality rates were regressed against the prevalence of airflow obstruction and spirometric restriction in 22 Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) study sites and against GNI, and national smoking prevalence. The prevalence of airflow obstruction and spirometric restriction in the BOLD sites were regressed against GNI and mean pack years smoked. National COPD mortality rates were more strongly associated with spirometric restriction in the BOLD sites (<60 years: men rs=0.73, p=0.0001; women rs=0.90, p<0.0001; 60+ years: men rs=0.63, p=0.0022; women rs=0.37, p=0.1) than obstruction (<60 years: men rs=0.28, p=0.20; women rs=0.17, p<0.46; 60+ years: men rs=0.28, p=0.23; women rs=0.22, p=0.33). Obstruction increased with mean pack years smoked, but COPD mortality fell with increased cigarette consumption and rose rapidly as GNI fell below US$15 000. Prevalence of restriction was not associated with smoking but also increased rapidly as GNI fell below US$15 000. Smoking remains the single most important cause of obstruction but a high prevalence of restriction associated with poverty could explain the high 'COPD' mortality in poor countries.

  4. Self-expanding metallic stents drainage for acute proximal colon obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Yao, Li-Qin; Zhong, Yun-Shi; Xu, Mei-Dong; Xu, Jian-Min; Zhou, Ping-Hong; Cai, Xian-Li

    2011-01-01

    AIM: To clarify the usefulness of the self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) in the management of acute proximal colon obstruction due to colon carcinoma before curative surgery. METHODS: Eighty-one colon (proximal to spleen flex) carcinoma patients (47 males and 34 females, aged 18-94 years, mean = 66.2 years) treated between September 2004 and June 2010 for acute colon obstruction were enrolled to this study, and their clinical and radiological features were reviewed. After a cleaning enema was administered, urgent colonoscopy was performed. Subsequently, endoscopic decompression using SEMS placement was attempted. RESULTS: Endoscopic decompression using SEMS placement was technically successful in 78 (96.3%) of 81 patients. Three patients’ symptoms could not be relieved after SEMS placement and emergent operation was performed 1 d later. The site of obstruction was transverse colon in 18 patients, the hepatic flex in 42, and the ascending colon in 21. Following adequate cleansing of the colon, patients’ abdominal girth was decreased from 88 ± 3 cm before drainage to 72 ± 6 cm 7 d later, and one-stage surgery after 8 ± 1 d (range, 7-10 d) was performed. No anastomotic leakage or postoperative stenosis occurred after operation. CONCLUSION: SEMS placement is effective and safe in the management of acute proximal colon obstruction due to colon carcinoma, and is considered as a bridged method before curative surgery. PMID:21876623

  5. Childhood measles contributes to post-bronchodilator airflow obstruction in middle-aged adults: A cohort study.

    PubMed

    Perret, Jennifer L; Matheson, Melanie C; Gurrin, Lyle C; Johns, David P; Burgess, John A; Thompson, Bruce R; Lowe, Adrian J; Markos, James; Morrison, Stephen S; McDonald, Christine F; Wood-Baker, Richard; Svanes, Cecilie; Thomas, Paul S; Hopper, John L; Giles, Graham G; Abramson, Michael J; Walters, E Haydn; Dharmage, Shyamali C

    2018-03-20

    Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has potential origins in childhood but an association between childhood measles and post-bronchodilator (BD) airflow obstruction (AO) has not yet been shown. We investigated whether childhood measles contributed to post-BD AO through interactions with asthma and/or smoking in a non-immunized middle-aged population. The population-based Tasmanian Longitudinal Health Study (TAHS) cohort born in 1961 (n = 8583) underwent spirometry in 1968 before immunization was introduced. A history of childhood measles infection was obtained from school medical records. During the fifth decade follow-up (n = 5729 responses), a subgroup underwent further lung function measurements (n = 1389). Relevant main associations and interactions by asthma and/or smoking on post-BD forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity (FEV 1 /FVC; continuous variable) and AO (FEV 1 /FVC < lower limit of normal) were estimated by multiple regression. Sixty-nine percent (n = 950) had a history of childhood measles. Childhood measles augmented the combined adverse effect of current clinical asthma and smoking at least 10 pack-years on post-BD FEV 1 /FVC ratio in middle age (z-score: -0.70 (95% CI: -1.1 to -0.3) vs -1.36 (-1.6 to -1.1), three-way interaction: P = 0.009), especially for those with childhood-onset asthma. For never- and ever-smokers of <10 pack-years who had current asthma symptoms, compared with those without childhood measles, paradoxically, the odds for post-BD AO was not significant in the presence of childhood measles (OR: 12.0 (95% CI: 3.4-42) vs 2.17 (0.9-5.3)). Childhood measles infection appears to compound the associations between smoking, current asthma and post-BD AO. Differences between asthma subgroups provide further insight into the complex aetiology of obstructive lung diseases for middle-aged adults. © 2018 Asian Pacific Society of Respirology.

  6. Physical inactivity and obesity: relation to asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

    PubMed

    ten Hacken, Nick H T

    2009-12-01

    Physical inactivity and obesity are modifiable risk factors for many chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and depression. Both physical inactivity and obesity are associated with low-grade systemic inflammation that may contribute to the inflammatory processes present in many chronic diseases. In asthma, almost no studies are available in which physical inactivity has been studied using performance-based instruments. In contrast, the association between obesity and a higher prevalence of asthma has often been suggested in a large number of studies. In chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) physical inactivity has been demonstrated in a few studies that used performance-based instruments; this was associated with the higher COPD Global Initiative on Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) stages and a higher degree of systemic inflammation, independent of body mass index. In contrast to physical inactivity, obesity in COPD is associated with the lower GOLD stages. Additionally, obesity is associated with the chronic obstructive phenotype and features of the metabolic syndrome. To elucidate the independent relation of physical inactivity and obesity with systemic inflammation, performance-based studies of physical inactivity in asthma and COPD are highly needed.

  7. 47 CFR 17.23 - Aviation Red Obstruction Lighting [Reserved

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Aviation Red Obstruction Lighting [Reserved] 17.23 Section 17.23 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL CONSTRUCTION, MARKING... Commission. Aviation Red Obstruction Lighting [Reserved] Effective Date Note: At 79 FR 56986, Sept. 24, 2014...

  8. Detection of the airway obstruction stage in asthma using impulse oscillometry system.

    PubMed

    Qi, Guang-Sheng; Zhou, Zhi-Cai; Gu, Wen-Chao; Xi, Feng; Wu, Hao; Yang, Wen-Lan; Liu, Jin-Ming

    2013-02-01

    Although spirometry is the most common method for evaluating the airway obstruction stage in asthma patients, it is difficult to perform in some patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether impulse oscillometry, an easy-to-perform technique, can detect asthmatic airway obstruction stage. A total of 80 subjects, including healthy volunteers and patients with asthma, were enrolled in this study. The asthma patients were classified into three groups according to American Thoracic Society (ATS)/European Respiratory Society (ERS)-2005: the mild group (forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV(1)) ≥ 70% predicted (Pred), n = 20), the moderate group (50% Pred ≤ FEV(1) <70% Pred, n = 20), and the severe group (FEV(1) < 50% Pred, n = 20). Spirometry and impulse oscillometry (IOS) parameters were obtained from every subject. Correlation analysis was used to compare spirometry measurements and IOS parameters. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to compare IOS parameters among different groups. The potential of using all individual IOS parameters to detect the different stages of asthmatic airway obstruction was evaluated by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. The correlation analysis showed that IOS parameters, such as respiratory resistance at 5 Hz (R(5)), respiratory resistance at 10 Hz (R(10)), respiratory resistance at 20 Hz (R(20)), difference in resistance between 5 Hz and 20 Hz (R(5-20)), impedance at 5 Hz (Z(5)), resonant frequency (Fres), and area of reactance (AX) were negatively correlated with FEV(1) and peak expiratory flow (PEF), while reactance at 5 Hz (X(5)) was positively correlated with FEV(1) and PEF. The increase in R(5), R(10), R(20), Z(5), R(5-20), Fres, (-X(5)), and AX parameters corresponded significantly with an increase in the airway obstruction stage, as determined by one-way ANOVA . ROC curve analysis revealed that all the IOS parameters studied, except for Fres, were capable of classifying

  9. Impact of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea on Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction.

    PubMed

    Arikawa, Takuo; Toyoda, Shigeru; Haruyama, Akiko; Amano, Hirohisa; Inami, Shu; Otani, Naoyuki; Sakuma, Masashi; Taguchi, Isao; Abe, Shichiro; Node, Koichi; Inoue, Teruo

    2016-05-01

    The impact of obstructive sleep apnoea on heart failure with preserved ejection fraction is unknown. Fifty-eight patients who had heart failure with a left ventricular ejection fraction; ≥50% underwent a sleep study. Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels were determined at enrolment and at one, six, 12 and 36 months after enrolment. Obstructive sleep apnoea was found in 39 patients (67%), and they were all subsequently treated with continuous positive airway pressure. Echocardiography at admission showed that E/E' tended to be higher in the 39 patients with, than in the 19 patients without, obstructive sleep apnoea (15.0±3.6 vs 12.1±1.9, respectively, P=0.05). The median BNP levels at enrolment were similar in patients with and without obstructive sleep apnoea [median (interquartile range): 444 (233-752) vs 316 (218-703) pg/ml]. Although BNP levels decreased over time in both groups, the reduction was less pronounced in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (P<0.05). Consequently, BNP levels were higher in patients with sleep apnoea at six months, [221 (137-324) vs 76 (38-96) pg/ml, P<0.05], 12 months [123 (98-197) vs 52 (38-76) pg/ml, P<0.05] and 36 months [115 (64-174) vs 56 (25-74) pg/ml, P<0.05]. Obstructive sleep apnoea, even when treated appropriately, may worsen long-term cardiac function and outcomes in patients who have heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Copyright © 2015 Australian and New Zealand Society of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgeons (ANZSCTS) and the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ). Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Anesthetic considerations in the patients of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease undergoing laparoscopic surgeries

    PubMed Central

    Khetarpal, Ranjana; Bali, Kusum; Chatrath, Veena; Bansal, Divya

    2016-01-01

    The aim of this study was to review the various anesthetic options which can be considered for laparoscopic surgeries in the patients with the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The literature search was performed in the Google, PubMed, and Medscape using key words “analgesia, anesthesia, general, laparoscopy, lung diseases, obstructive.” More than thirty-five free full articles and books published from the year 1994 to 2014 were retrieved and studied. Retrospective data observed from various studies and case reports showed regional anesthesia (RA) to be valid and safer option in the patients who are not good candidates of general anesthesia like patients having obstructive pulmonary diseases. It showed better postoperative patient outcome with respect to safety, efficacy, postoperative pulmonary complications, and analgesia. So depending upon disease severity RA in various forms such as spinal anesthesia, paravertebral block, continuous epidural anesthesia, combined spinal epidural anesthesia (CSEA), and CSEA with bi-level positive airway pressure should be considered. PMID:26957682

  11. EDUCATIONAL SERIES IN CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE: Congenital left-sided heart obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Carr, Michelle; Curtis, Stephanie; Marek, Jan

    2018-01-01

    Congenital obstruction of the left ventricular outflow tract remains a significant problem and multilevel obstruction can often coexist. Obstruction can take several morphological forms and may involve the subvalvar, valvar or supravalvar portion of the aortic valve complex. Congenital valvar stenosis presenting in the neonatal period represents a spectrum of disorders ranging from the hypoplastic left heart syndrome to almost normal hearts. Treatment options vary dependent on the severity of the left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO) and the variable degree of left ventricular hypoplasia as well as the associated lesions such as arch hypoplasia and coarctation. PMID:29681546

  12. The Fate of Nephrons in Congenital Obstructive Nephropathy: Adult Recovery is Limited by Nephron Number Despite Early Release of Obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Sergio, Maria; Galarreta, Carolina I.; Thornhill, Barbara A.; Forbes, Michael S.; Chevalier, Robert L.

    2015-01-01

    Purpose Urinary tract obstruction and reduced nephron number often occur together as a result of maldevelopment of kidneys and urinary tract. We wished to determine the role of nephron number on the adaptation of remaining nephrons of mice subjected to neonatal partial unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) and followed through adulthood. Materials and Methods Wild-type (WT) and Os/+ mice (with 50% fewer nephrons) were subjected to sham operation or partial UUO in the first 2 days of life. Additional mice underwent release of UUO at 7 days. All kidneys were harvested at 3 weeks (weaning) or 6 weeks (adulthood). Glomerular number and area, glomerulotubular junction integrity, proximal tubular volume fraction, and interstitial fibrosis were measured by histomorphometry. Results In the obstructed kidney, UUO caused additional nephron loss in Os/+ but not WT mice. Glomerular growth from 3 to 6 weeks was impaired by ipsilateral UUO and was not preserved by release in WT or Os/+. Proximal tubular growth was impaired and interstitial collagen was increased by ipsilateral UUO in all mice. These were attenuated by release of UUO in WT mice, but were not restored in Os/+ mice. UUO increased interstitial collagen in the contralateral kidney; release of UUO enhanced tubular growth and reduced interstitial collagen. Conclusions We conclude that UUO in early postnatal development impairs adaptation to reduced nephron number and induces additional nephron loss despite release of obstruction. Premature and low birth weight infants with congenital obstructive nephropathy are likely at increased risk for progression of chronic kidney disease. PMID:25912494

  13. Assessing Urinary Tract Junction Obstruction Defects by Methylene Blue Dye Injection.

    PubMed

    Yun, Kangsun

    2017-10-12

    Urinary tract junction obstruction defects are congenital anomalies inducing hydronephrosis and hydroureter. Murine urinary tract junction obstruction defects can be assessed by tracking methylene blue dye flow within the urinary system. Methylene blue dye is injected into the renal pelvis of perinatal embryonic kidneys and dye flow is monitored from the renal pelvis of the kidney through the ureter and into the bladder lumen after applying hydrostatic pressure. Dye accumulation will be evident in the bladder lumen of the normal perinatal urinary tract, but will be constrained between the renal pelvis and the end point of an abnormal ureter, if urinary tract obstructions occur. This method facilitates the confirmation of urinary tract junction obstructions and visualization of hydronephrosis and hydroureter. This manuscript describes a protocol for methylene blue dye injection into the renal pelvis to confirm urinary tract junction obstructions.

  14. Routine Papillary Muscle Realignment and Septal Myectomy for Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy.

    PubMed

    Song, Howard K; Turner, Jason; Macfie, Rebekah; Kumar, Suwen; Mannello, Meghan J; Smith, Danielle; Bhamidipati, Castigliano; Raman, Jaishankar; Tibayan, Frederick; Heitner, Stephen B

    2018-05-10

    Septal myectomy has been the mainstay of the surgical treatment of obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), however recently there is growing appreciation for associated mitral valve abnormalities that contribute to left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction. In this study, we describe our experience with combined papillary muscle realignment (PMR) and septal myectomy for the treatment of obstructive HCM. We identified 44 patients undergoing surgery for obstructive HCM whose anatomy was amenable to combined PMR and septal myectomy at our institution over a 20-month period. All patients underwent resting and stress echocardiography pre- and postoperatively. Demographic, clinical, and imaging data were prospectively collected in a cardiac surgery database. Patient age ranged broadly, with mean age of 54 years (range 18-76). Preoperatively, 70% of patients were NYHA Class III or IV, the mean stress LVOT gradient was 144 mmHg, and severe mitral regurgitation (MR) with stress was seen in 81% . Additional procedures included division of myocardial bands (50%) and chordae (43%) and resection of accessory papillary muscles (25%). Following the procedure, mean resting and stress gradients were reduced to normal (12 and 27 mmHg, respectively, p < 0.0001). No patient had severe MR and only 3 (6.8%) had moderate MR (p < 0.0001).Mean length of stay was 6 days and there were no mortalities. Septal myectomy combined with PMR is a safe, highly effective, and reproducible procedure that reliably relieves LVOT obstruction and corrects MR without the need for mitral valve repair or replacement. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  15. Adult obstructive sleep apnoea

    PubMed Central

    Jordan, Amy S.; McSharry, David G.; Malhotra, Atul

    2013-01-01

    Obstructive sleep apnoea is an increasingly common disorder of repeated upper airway collapse during sleep, which leads to oxygen desaturation and disrupted sleep. Symptoms include snoring, witnessed apnoeas, and sleepiness. Pathogenesis varies; predisposing factors include small upper airway lumen, unstable respiratory control, low arousal threshold, small lung volume, and dysfunctional upper airway dilator muscles. Risk factors include obesity, male sex, age, menopause, fluid retention, adenotonsillar hypertrophy, and smoking. Obstructive sleep apnoea causes sleepiness, road traffic accidents, and probably systemic hypertension. It has also been linked to myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, stroke, and diabetes mellitus though not definitively. Continuous positive airway pressure is the treatment of choice, with adherence of 60–70%. Bi-level positive airway pressure or adaptive servo-ventilation can be used for patients who are intolerant to continuous positive airway pressure. Other treatments include dental devices, surgery, and weight loss. PMID:23910433

  16. Adult obstructive sleep apnoea.

    PubMed

    Jordan, Amy S; McSharry, David G; Malhotra, Atul

    2014-02-22

    Obstructive sleep apnoea is an increasingly common disorder of repeated upper airway collapse during sleep, leading to oxygen desaturation and disrupted sleep. Features include snoring, witnessed apnoeas, and sleepiness. Pathogenesis varies; predisposing factors include small upper airway lumen, unstable respiratory control, low arousal threshold, small lung volume, and dysfunctional upper airway dilator muscles. Risk factors include obesity, male sex, age, menopause, fluid retention, adenotonsillar hypertrophy, and smoking. Obstructive sleep apnoea causes sleepiness, road traffic accidents, and probably systemic hypertension. It has also been linked to myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, stroke, and diabetes mellitus though not definitively. Continuous positive airway pressure is the treatment of choice, with adherence of 60-70%. Bi-level positive airway pressure or adaptive servo-ventilation can be used for patients who are intolerant to continuous positive airway pressure. Other treatments include dental devices, surgery, and weight loss. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. 47 CFR 17.23 - Aviation Red Obstruction Lighting [Reserved

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Aviation Red Obstruction Lighting [Reserved] 17.23 Section 17.23 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL CONSTRUCTION, MARKING..., May 20, 1999, as amended at 69 FR 18803, Apr. 9, 2004] Aviation Red Obstruction Lighting [Reserved] ...

  18. 47 CFR 17.23 - Aviation Red Obstruction Lighting [Reserved

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Aviation Red Obstruction Lighting [Reserved] 17.23 Section 17.23 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL CONSTRUCTION, MARKING..., May 20, 1999, as amended at 69 FR 18803, Apr. 9, 2004] Aviation Red Obstruction Lighting [Reserved] ...

  19. 47 CFR 17.23 - Aviation Red Obstruction Lighting [Reserved

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Aviation Red Obstruction Lighting [Reserved] 17.23 Section 17.23 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL CONSTRUCTION, MARKING..., May 20, 1999, as amended at 69 FR 18803, Apr. 9, 2004] Aviation Red Obstruction Lighting [Reserved] ...

  20. 47 CFR 17.23 - Aviation Red Obstruction Lighting [Reserved

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 47 Telecommunication 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Aviation Red Obstruction Lighting [Reserved] 17.23 Section 17.23 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION GENERAL CONSTRUCTION, MARKING..., May 20, 1999, as amended at 69 FR 18803, Apr. 9, 2004] Aviation Red Obstruction Lighting [Reserved] ...

  1. [Use of Gastrografin(®) in the management of adhesion intestinal obstruction].

    PubMed

    Mora López, Laura; Serra-Aracil, Xavier; Llaquet Bayo, Heura; Navarro Soto, Salvador

    2013-01-01

    Adhesions are the most important cause of intestinal obstruction. Approximately 25% of surgical admissions for acute abdominal conditions are due to intestinal obstruction. Better diagnostic and treatment methods of intestinal obstruction could potentially reduce mortality rate to 5-10%. Gastrografin(®) could contribute to this achieve this. To present a protocol to treat adhesion intestinal obstruction with Gastrografin(®) that is safe, and allows shorter hospital stays and shorter time between admission and surgery. All patients with adhesion intestinal obstruction without symptoms of strangulation were treated with Gastrografin(®), intravenous fluids and nasogastric tube. Those in whom contrast reach the colon in 8, 12 or 24hours were considered to have partial obstruction, and were fed orally. If Gastrografin(®) failed in the following 24hours, a laparotomy was performed. Out of a total of 211 episodes (164 patients), 170 episodes received contrast and in 142 cases Gastrografin(®) reached the colon (104 episodes at 8h, 11 at 12h, and 27 at 24h). A laparotomy was required in 28 patients because of failed treatment, and in another 5 for other causes. A management protocol for adhesion intestinal obstruction with Gastrografin(®) is safe, reduces morbidity and mortality, and leads to a shorter hospital stay. Copyright © 2012 AEC. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

  2. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and glucose metabolism: a bitter sweet symphony

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, metabolic syndrome and diabetes mellitus are common and underdiagnosed medical conditions. It was predicted that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease will be the third leading cause of death worldwide by 2020. The healthcare burden of this disease is even greater if we consider the significant impact of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease on the cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may be considered as a novel risk factor for new onset type 2 diabetes mellitus via multiple pathophysiological alterations such as: inflammation and oxidative stress, insulin resistance, weight gain and alterations in metabolism of adipokines. On the other hand, diabetes may act as an independent factor, negatively affecting pulmonary structure and function. Diabetes is associated with an increased risk of pulmonary infections, disease exacerbations and worsened COPD outcomes. On the top of that, coexistent OSA may increase the risk for type 2 DM in some individuals. The current scientific data necessitate a greater outlook on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may be viewed as a risk factor for the new onset type 2 diabetes mellitus. Conversely, both types of diabetes mellitus should be viewed as strong contributing factors for the development of obstructive lung disease. Such approach can potentially improve the outcomes and medical control for both conditions, and, thus, decrease the healthcare burden of these major medical problems. PMID:23101436

  3. Movement Distribution: A New Measure of Sleep Fragmentation in Children with Upper Airway Obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Coussens, Scott; Baumert, Mathias; Kohler, Mark; Martin, James; Kennedy, Declan; Lushington, Kurt; Saint, David; Pamula, Yvonne

    2014-01-01

    Study Objectives: To develop a measure of sleep fragmentation in children with upper airway obstruction based on survival curve analysis of sleep continuity. Design: Prospective repeated measures. Setting: Hospital sleep laboratory. Participants: 92 children aged 3.0 to 12.9 years undergoing 2 overnight polysomnographic (PSG) sleep studies, 6 months apart. Subjects were divided into 3 groups based on their obstructive apnea and hypopnea index (OAHI) and other upper airway obstruction (UAO) symptoms: primary snorers (PS; n = 24, OAHI < 1), those with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS; n = 20, OAHI ≥ 1) and non-snoring controls (C; n = 48, OAHI < 1). Interventions: Subjects in the PS and OSAS groups underwent tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy between PSG assessments. Measurements and Results: Post hoc measures of movement and contiguous sleep epochs were exported and analyzed using Kaplan-Meier estimates of survival to generate survival curves for the 3 groups. Statistically significant differences were found between these group curves for sleep continuity (P < 0.05) when using movement events as the sleep fragmenting event, but not if stage 1 NREM sleep or awakenings were used. Conclusion: Using conventional indices of sleep fragmentation in survival curve analysis of sleep continuity does not provide a useful measure of sleep fragmentation in children with upper airway obstruction. However, when sleep continuity is defined as the time between gross body movements, a potentially useful clinical measure is produced. Citation: Coussens S, Baumert M, Kohler M, Martin J, Kennedy D, Lushington K, Saint D, Pamula Y. Movement distribution: a new measure of sleep fragmentation in children with upper airway obstruction. SLEEP 2014;37(12):2025-2034. PMID:25325486

  4. Use of percutaneous nephrostomy and ureteral stenting in management of ureteral obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Hsu, Linda; Li, Hanhan; Pucheril, Daniel; Hansen, Moritz; Littleton, Raymond; Peabody, James; Sammon, Jesse

    2016-01-01

    The management options for ureteral obstruction are diverse, including retrograde ureteral stent insertion or antegrade nephrostomy placement, with or without eventual antegrade stent insertion. There is currently no consensus on the ideal treatment or treatment pathway for ureteral obstruction owing, in part, to the varied etiologies of obstruction and diversity of institutional practices. Additionally, different clinicians such as internists, urologists, oncologists and radiologists are often involved in the care of patients with ureteral obstruction and may have differing opinions concerning the best management strategy. The purpose of this manuscript was to review available literature that compares percutaneous nephrostomy placement vs ureteral stenting in the management of ureteral obstruction from both benign and malignant etiologies. PMID:26981442

  5. Obstructive sleep apnea and oral language disorders.

    PubMed

    Corrêa, Camila de Castro; Cavalheiro, Maria Gabriela; Maximino, Luciana Paula; Weber, Silke Anna Theresa

    Children and adolescents with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may have consequences, such as daytime sleepiness and learning, memory, and attention disorders, that may interfere in oral language. To verify, based on the literature, whether OSA in children was correlated to oral language disorders. A literature review was carried out in the Lilacs, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases using the descriptors "Child Language" AND "Obstructive Sleep Apnea". Articles that did not discuss the topic and included children with other comorbidities rather than OSA were excluded. In total, no articles were found at Lilacs, 37 at PubMed, 47 at Scopus, and 38 at Web of Science databases. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, six studies were selected, all published from 2004 to 2014. Four articles demonstrated an association between primary snoring/OSA and receptive language and four articles showed an association with expressive language. It is noteworthy that the articles used different tools and considered different levels of language. The late diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea is associated with a delay in verbal skill acquisition. The professionals who work with children should be alert, as most of the phonetic sounds are acquired during ages 3-7 years, which is also the peak age for hypertrophy of the tonsils and childhood OSA. Copyright © 2016 Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  6. Iliocaval Confluence Stenting for Chronic Venous Obstructions

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Graaf, Rick de, E-mail: r.de.graaf@mumc.nl; Wolf, Mark de, E-mail: markthewolf@gmail.com; Sailer, Anna M., E-mail: anni.sailer@mumc.nl

    PurposeDifferent techniques have been described for stenting of venous obstructions. We report our experience with two different confluence stenting techniques to treat chronic bi-iliocaval obstructions.Materials and MethodsBetween 11/2009 and 08/2014 we treated 40 patients for chronic total bi-iliocaval obstructions. Pre-operative magnetic resonance venography showed bilateral extensive post-thrombotic scarring in common and external iliac veins as well as obstruction of the inferior vena cava (IVC). Stenting of the IVC was performed with large self-expandable stents down to the level of the iliocaval confluence. To bridge the confluence, either self-expandable stents were placed inside the IVC stent (24 patients, SECS group) ormore » high radial force balloon-expandable stents were placed at the same level (16 patients, BECS group). In both cases, bilateral iliac extensions were performed using nitinol stents.ResultsRecanalization was achieved for all patients. In 15 (38 %) patients, a hybrid procedure with endophlebectomy and arteriovenous fistula creation needed to be performed because of significant involvement of inflow vessels below the inguinal ligament. Mean follow-up was 443 ± 438 days (range 7–1683 days). For all patients, primary, assisted-primary, and secondary patency rate at 36 months were 70, 73, and 78 %, respectively. Twelve-month patency rates in the SECS group were 85, 85, and 95 % for primary, assisted-primary, and secondary patency. In the BECS group, primary patency was 100 % during a mean follow-up period of 134 ± 118 (range 29–337) days.ConclusionStenting of chronic bi-iliocaval obstruction shows relatively high patency rates at medium follow-up. Short-term patency seems to favor confluence stenting with balloon-expandable stents.« less

  7. Effect of obstructive sleep apnoea on severity and short-term prognosis of acute coronary syndrome.

    PubMed

    Barbé, Ferran; Sánchez-de-la-Torre, Alicia; Abad, Jorge; Durán-Cantolla, Joaquin; Mediano, Olga; Amilibia, Jose; Masdeu, Maria José; Florés, Marina; Barceló, Antonia; de la Peña, Mónica; Aldomá, Albina; Worner, Fernando; Valls, Joan; Castellà, Gerard; Sánchez-de-la-Torre, Manuel

    2015-02-01

    The goal of this study was to evaluate the influence of obstructive sleep apnoea on the severity and short-term prognosis of patients admitted for acute coronary syndrome. Obstructive sleep apnoea was defined as an apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI) >15 h(-1). We evaluated the acute coronary syndrome severity (ejection fraction, Killip class, number of diseased vessels, and plasma peak troponin) and short-term prognosis (length of hospitalisation, complications and mortality). We included 213 patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (mean±sd AHI 30±14 h(-1), 61±10 years, 80% males) and 218 controls (AHI 6±4 h(-1), 57±12 years, 82% males). Patients with obstructive sleep apnoea exhibited a higher prevalence of systemic hypertension (55% versus 37%, p<0.001), higher body mass index (29±4 kg·m(-2) versus 26±4 kg·m(-2), p<0.001), and lower percentage of smokers (61% versus 71%, p=0.04). After adjusting for smoking, age, body mass index and hypertension, the plasma peak troponin levels were significantly elevated in the obstructive sleep apnoea group (831±908 ng·L(-1) versus 987±884 ng·L(-1), p=0.03) and higher AHI severity was associated with an increased number of diseased vessels (p=0.04). The mean length of stay in the coronary care unit was higher in the obstructive sleep apnoea group (p=0.03). This study indicates that obstructive sleep apnoea is related to an increase in the peak plasma troponin levels, number of diseased vessels, and length of stay in the coronary care unit. Copyright ©ERS 2015.

  8. Influence of reproductive tract obstruction on expression of epididymal proteins and their restoration after patency.

    PubMed

    Li, Bing-Kun; Wang, Xiang; Liu, Chun-Xiao; Zheng, Shao-Bo; Li, Hu-Lin; Li, Li-Ping; Xu, A-Bai

    2013-01-01

    Vasectomy is a simple and reliable method of male contraception. A growing number of men after vasectomy request vasectomy reversal due to various reasons. The pregnancy rate is lower than the patency rate after vasovasostomy and the pregnancy rate is time dependent. In this study, we evaluated the influence of reproductive tract obstruction on expression of epididymal proteins and their restoration after patency. Adult male Wistar rats were studied 30, 60 and 120 days after vasectomy, 30 days after vasovasostomy or after sham operations. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, mass-spectrometric technique, multidatabase search, Western blotting and real-time PCR were used to analyze the expression regulation of epididymal proteins. Total integrated intensity and total spot area of autoradiograms showed a consistent downward trend with time after obstruction, and this trend remained after patency. The intensity of the autoradiographic spots in three patency groups showed three trends: a downward trend, similar intensity and an upward trend compared with the correspondent obstruction group, respectively. Further verified experiments on human epididymis 2 (HE2), fertilization antigen-1 (FA-1), clusterin and PH20 demonstrated that compared with the correspondent obstruction group, the translation levels of HE2 and the mRNA transcription levels of HE2 showed an upward trend in patency groups, especially in the groups of obstruction for 60 days where the expression levels of HE2 were significantly upregulated after patency (P<0.05). Reproductive tract obstruction provokes a disregulation of gene expression in the epididymis and this disregulation remained after patency. Successful reversal may recover some proteins and the recovery is time dependent. Obstruction differentially alters mRNA transcription of different proteins and the content of proteins seemed to be easier to be influenced than the gene transcription.

  9. Use of the Crawford tube for symptomatic epiphora without nasolacrimal obstruction.

    PubMed

    Tong, Nyu-Xia; Zhao, Ying-Ying; Jin, Xiu-Ming

    2016-01-01

    To evaluate the effectiveness of the Crawford tube in treating symptomatic epiphora without nasolacrimal obstruction. A protocol was adopted for the management of symptomatic epiphora without nasolacrimal obstruction. Patients who suffered symptomatic epiphora without nasolacrimal obstruction in both eyes were included in the study. One eye was treated with Crawford tube intubation and the other eye was treated with medication therapy. Degree of watering, patient satisfaction, and symptomatic improvement were carefully evaluated by one of the authors at the end of the follow-up period, after Crawford tube removal, to ascertain functional results. Thirty-seven adult patients (37 eyes) underwent Crawford tube intubation for functional epiphora. The mean follow-up time after removal of the tube was 14.8±4.8mo. The procedure was an overall success in 28 eyes (75.7%), with symptoms improving significantly. Two eyes (5.4%) were relieved of indoor epiphora, two (5.4%) had minimal epiphora outdoors, but only with wind or cold, and five (13.5%) continued to experience tearing both indoors and outdoors. Thirty of the patients (81%) expressed satisfaction with the procedure. Crawford tube insertion is an effective, safe, simple, and relatively noninvasive treatment strategy for functional lacrimal system obstruction.

  10. Airway obstruction related to diacetyl exposure at microwave popcorn production facilities.

    PubMed

    Lockey, J E; Hilbert, T J; Levin, L P; Ryan, P H; White, K L; Borton, E K; Rice, C H; McKay, R T; LeMasters, G K

    2009-07-01

    Obstructive lung diseases including bronchiolitis obliterans have been reported among microwave popcorn production employees. Butter flavourings including diacetyl have been associated with these findings. The present study was initiated at four microwave popcorn production plants to determine if exposure to diacetyl was associated with decrements in pulmonary function. Comprehensive diacetyl exposure assessment was undertaken for all job tasks. Spirometry was conducted for 765 full-time employees between 2005 and 2006. Outcomes included decrement in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV(1)) % predicted, airway obstruction and persistent decline in FEV(1). Inclusion in the high-exposure group (mixers) prior to respirator use was associated with a significantly decreased FEV(1) % pred in non-Asian and Asian males at -6.1 and -11.8% pred, respectively, and an eight-fold increased risk for airway obstruction. Cumulative diacetyl exposure >or=0.8 ppm-yr caused similar results. No significant impact was seen in nonmixers or between current diacetyl exposure and persistent decline in FEV(1). Unprotected exposure as a mixer to butter flavouring including diacetyl resulted in decrements in FEV(1) (% pred) and increased airway obstruction. Control of employee exposure to butter flavouring additives is warranted in regard to both short-term peak and 8-h workday exposure.

  11. Acoustic analysis of snoring sounds recorded with a smartphone according to obstruction site in OSAS patients.

    PubMed

    Koo, Soo Kweon; Kwon, Soon Bok; Kim, Yang Jae; Moon, J I Seung; Kim, Young Jun; Jung, Sung Hoon

    2017-03-01

    Snoring is a sign of increased upper airway resistance and is the most common symptom suggestive of obstructive sleep apnea. Acoustic analysis of snoring sounds is a non-invasive diagnostic technique and may provide a screening test that can determine the location of obstruction sites. We recorded snoring sounds according to obstruction level, measured by DISE, using a smartphone and focused on the analysis of formant frequencies. The study group comprised 32 male patients (mean age 42.9 years). The spectrogram pattern, intensity (dB), fundamental frequencies (F 0 ), and formant frequencies (F 1 , F 2 , and F 3 ) of the snoring sounds were analyzed for each subject. On spectrographic analysis, retropalatal level obstruction tended to produce sharp and regular peaks, while retrolingual level obstruction tended to show peaks with a gradual onset and decay. On formant frequency analysis, F 1 (retropalatal level vs. retrolingual level: 488.1 ± 125.8 vs. 634.7 ± 196.6 Hz) and F 2 (retropalatal level vs. retrolingual level: 1267.3 ± 306.6 vs. 1723.7 ± 550.0 Hz) of retrolingual level obstructions showed significantly higher values than retropalatal level obstruction (p < 0.05). This suggests that the upper airway is more severely obstructed with retrolingual level obstruction and that there is a greater change in tongue position. Acoustic analysis of snoring is a non-invasive diagnostic technique that can be easily applied at a relatively low cost. The analysis of formant frequencies will be a useful screening test for the prediction of occlusion sites. Moreover, smartphone can be effective for recording snoring sounds.

  12. Defining the Need for Surgery in Small-Bowel Obstruction.

    PubMed

    Kuehn, Florian; Weinrich, Malte; Ehmann, Sarah; Kloker, Katja; Pergolini, Ilaria; Klar, Ernst

    2017-07-01

    Small-bowel obstruction is a frequent disorder in emergency medicine and represents a major burden for patients and health care systems worldwide. Within the past years, progress has been made regarding the management of small-bowel obstructions, including the use of contrast agent swallow as a tool in the decision-making process. This is a prospective controlled study investigating the central role of contrast agent swallow in the diagnostic and treatment algorithm for small-bowel obstruction at a university department of surgery. Endpoints were the correct identification of patients who needed operative treatment and the accuracy of a conservative treatment decision including the analysis of dropout from this routine algorithm. We performed a single-center analysis of 181 consecutive patients diagnosed with a small-bowel obstruction based on clinical, radiologic, and sonographic findings. Patients with clinical signs of strangulation or peritonitis underwent immediate surgery (group 1). Patients without signs of peritonitis and incomplete stop in the initial abdominal plain film were considered eligible for Gastrografin® challenge (group 2). Seventy-six of the 181 patients (42.0%) underwent immediate surgery. A Gastrografin® challenge was initialized in 105 of the 181 patients (58.0%). Twenty of these 105 patients (19.1%) with persisting or progressive symptoms and absence of contrast agent in the colon after 12 and 24 h subsequently underwent surgery. Here, a segmental bowel resection was necessary in 6 of these 20 patients (30.0%). In 16 out of 20 patients (80.0%) who failed the Gastrografin® challenge, a corresponding correlate in terms of a strangulation was detected intraoperatively. The Gastrografin® challenge had a specificity of 96% and a sensitivity of 100%; accuracy to predict the need for exploration was 96%. A straightforward algorithm based mainly on contrast agent swallow for patients with small-bowel obstructions enabled a timely and very

  13. Volumetric evaluation of pharyngeal segments in obstructive sleep apnea patients.

    PubMed

    Rodrigues, Marcos Marques; Pereira Filho, Valfrido Antonio; Gabrielli, Mário Francisco Real; Oliveira, Talles Fernando Medeiros de; Batatinha, Júlio Américo Pereira; Passeri, Luis Augusto

    2017-01-30

    Obstructive sleep apnea occurs by recurrent collapse of the upper airway during sleep, resulting in total (apnea) or partial (hypopnea) reduction of the airflow and has intimate relation with changes in the upper airway. Cone Beam CT allows the analysis of the upper airway and its volume by three-dimensional reconstruction. To evaluate a possible correlation between the volume of the upper airway and the severity of the obstructive sleep apnea. A retrospective study was performed reviewing polysomnographic data and Cone Beam CT records of 29 patients (13 males and 16 females). The correlation between the volume of the nasopharynx, the oropharynx and the total superior pharynx with the AHI was assessed by Pearson's rank correlation coefficient. The obstructive sleep apnea severity division was: ten patients had severe, 7 had moderate, 6 had mild and 6 of them were healthy. The correlation between the nasopharynx, the oropharynx and the total superior pharynx volumes and the Apnea-Hypopnea-Index was respectively: -0.415 (p=0.025), 0.186 (p=0.334) and -0329 (p=0.089). The Spearman's rank controlled by the Body Mass Index, the age and the gender was: -0.206 (p=0.304), -0.155 (p=0.439) and 0.242 (p=0.284). There is no correlation between the volume of the airway and the obstructive sleep apnea, assessed by Apnea-Hypopnea-Index and controlled by the Body Mass Index, the age and the gender. The volume of the upper airways as an isolated parameter did not correlate to the severity of the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, and should be evaluated together with other factors. Copyright © 2017 Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  14. Interior surface materials in the home and the development of bronchial obstruction in young children in Oslo, Norway.

    PubMed

    Jaakkola, J J; Oie, L; Nafstad, P; Botten, G; Samuelsen, S O; Magnus, P

    1999-02-01

    This study assessed the role of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics and textile materials in the home in the development of bronchial obstruction during the first 2 years of life. The study was a matched pair case-control study based on a cohort of 3754 newborns in Oslo in 1992 and 1993 who were followed up for 2 years. The case group consisted of 251 children with bronchial obstruction; the control group was matched one-to-one for date of birth. In conditional logistic regression analysis, the risk of bronchial obstruction was related to the presence of PVC flooring (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.89; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.14, 3.14) and textile wall materials (adjusted OR = 1.58; 95% CI = 0.98, 2.54). The reference category was wood or parquet flooring and painted walls and ceiling. Further analysis revealed an exposure-response relationship between the assessed amount of PVC and other plasticizer-containing surface materials and the risk of bronchial obstruction. This study provides new evidence of the role of PVC and textile wall materials in the development of bronchial obstruction in young children.

  15. Interior surface materials in the home and the development of bronchial obstruction in young children in Oslo, Norway.

    PubMed Central

    Jaakkola, J J; Oie, L; Nafstad, P; Botten, G; Samuelsen, S O; Magnus, P

    1999-01-01

    OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the role of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics and textile materials in the home in the development of bronchial obstruction during the first 2 years of life. METHODS: The study was a matched pair case-control study based on a cohort of 3754 newborns in Oslo in 1992 and 1993 who were followed up for 2 years. The case group consisted of 251 children with bronchial obstruction; the control group was matched one-to-one for date of birth. RESULTS: In conditional logistic regression analysis, the risk of bronchial obstruction was related to the presence of PVC flooring (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.89; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.14, 3.14) and textile wall materials (adjusted OR = 1.58; 95% CI = 0.98, 2.54). The reference category was wood or parquet flooring and painted walls and ceiling. Further analysis revealed an exposure-response relationship between the assessed amount of PVC and other plasticizer-containing surface materials and the risk of bronchial obstruction. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides new evidence of the role of PVC and textile wall materials in the development of bronchial obstruction in young children. PMID:9949747

  16. Small bowel obstruction from distant metastasis of primary breast cancer: a case report.

    PubMed

    Oh, Seung Jae; Park, Seon Young; Kim, Ji Young; Yim, Hyunee; Jung, Yongsik; Han, Sae Hwan

    2018-02-01

    Gastrointestinal (GI) tract metastasis of primary breast cancer is very rare. We present a patient with small bowel obstruction from distant metastasis of primary breast cancer. Each characteristic features of concern of GI tract distant metastasis from many pervious studies has been reported differently. We should remember that GI tract metastasis may coexist when patients with breast cancer have intermittent or recurrent abdominal pain with or without obstructive symptoms.

  17. Numerical analysis for the efficacy of nasal surgery in obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yu, Shen; Liu, Ying-Xi; Sun, Xiu-Zhen; Su, Ying-Feng; Wang, Ying; Gai, Yin-Zhe

    2014-04-01

    In the present study, we reconstructed upper airway and soft palate models of 3 obstructive sleep apnea—hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) patients with nasal obstruction. The airflow distribution and movement of the soft palate before and after surgery were described by a numerical simulation method. The curative effect of nasal surgery was evaluated for the three patients with OSAHS. The degree of nasal obstruction in the 3 patients was improved after surgery. For 2 patients with mild OSAHS, the upper airway resistance and soft palate displacement were reduced after surgery. These changes contributed to the mitigation of respiratory airflow limitation. For the patient with severe OSAHS, the upper airway resistance and soft palate displacement increased after surgery, which aggravated the airway obstruction. The efficacy of nasal surgery for patients with OSAHS is determined by the degree of improvement in nasal obstruction and whether the effects on the pharynx are beneficial. Numerical simulation results are consistent with the polysomnogram (PSG) test results, chief complaints, and clinical findings, and can indirectly reflect the degree of nasal patency and improvement of snoring symptoms, and further, provide a theoretical basis to solve relevant clinical problems. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

  18. Accuracy of peripheral arterial tonometry in the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea.

    PubMed

    Pinto, José Antonio; Godoy, Luciana Balester Mello de; Ribeiro, Renata Coutinho; Mizoguchi, Elcio Izumi; Hirsch, Lina Ana Medeiros; Gomes, Leonardo Marques

    2015-01-01

    The use of handheld devices that assess peripheral arterial tonometry has emerged as an auxiliary method for assessment and diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. To evaluate the accuracy of peripheral arterial tonometry in the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea. Contemporary cohort cross-sectional study. Thirty patients with suspected obstructive sleep apnea underwent peripheral arterial tonometry and assisted nocturnal polysomnography concomitantly. The mean apnea/hypopnea index by peripheral arterial tonometry was significantly higher than that by polysomnography (p<0.001), but the values of both sleep studies were significantly correlated (r=0.762). There was a high correlation between variables: minimum oxygen saturation (r=0.842, p<0.001), oxygen saturation<90% (r=0.799, p<0.001), and mean heart rate (r=0.951, p<0.001). Sensitivity and specificity were 60% and 96.2% (AUC: 0.727; p=0.113), respectively, when at a threshold value of 5 events/h. In severe cases (≥30 events/h), the result was a sensitivity of 77.8% and a specificity of 86.4% (AUC: 0.846, p=0.003). Peripheral arterial tonometry is a useful portable device for the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea; its accuracy is higher in moderate and severe cases. Copyright © 2015 Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  19. Severe obstructive sleep apnea in a child with osteopetrosis.

    PubMed

    Carter, M; Stokes, D; Wang, W

    1988-02-01

    The clinical features of a 5-year-old patient with osteopetrosis and severe obstructive sleep apnea are presented. The patient responded to tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, uvulectomy, and tracheostomy. The tracheostomy was later removed. Osteopetrosis, while rare, may be added to the list of causes of obstructive sleep apnea.

  20. The molecular genetic basis of mitochondrial malfunction in bladder tissue following outlet obstruction.

    PubMed

    Levin, Robert M; Hudson, Alan P

    2004-08-01

    Bladder dysfunction following partial outlet obstruction is a frequent consequence of benign prostatic hyperplasia and an increasingly common problem given the aging of the general population. Recent studies from this and other groups have begun to elucidate the molecular bases for the well described physiological malfunctions that characterize this clinical entity. We summarized and synthesized that information. Using modern methods of molecular genetics, including real-time polymerase chain reaction, real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and others, as well as traditional experimental techniques such as electron microscopy we and others examined the transcriptional profile, morphology, etc of bladder smooth muscle mitochondria in experimental models of outlet obstruction. Data from many studies have demonstrated that aberrant gene expression in the mitochondrial and mitochondria related nuclear genetic systems underlies the loss of compliance and other attributes of bladder dysfunction following outlet obstruction. Such aberrant transcriptional characteristics engender loss of function in the electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation systems. Morphological studies of mitochondria in the animal model systems support this conclusion. In large part the loss of function in bladder smooth muscle following outlet obstruction results from the attenuation of mitochondrial energy production. In this article we reviewed and synthesized all available experimental observations relevant to this problem and we suggest future lines of inquiry that should prove fruitful in developing new strategies to treat the condition.

  1. Emergency management of acute colonic cancer obstruction.

    PubMed

    Gainant, A

    2012-02-01

    Emergency management of obstructing colonic cancer depends on both tumor location and stage, general condition of the patient and surgeon's experience. Right sided or transverse colon obstructing cancers are usually treated by right hemicolectomy-extended if necessary to the transverse colon-with primary anastomosis. For left-sided obstructing cancer, in patients with low surgical risk, primary resection and anastomosis associated with on-table irrigation or manual decompression can be performed. It prevents the confection of a loop colostomy but presents the risk of anastomotic leakage. Subtotal or total colectomy allows the surgeon to encompass distended and fecal-loaded colon, and to perform one-stage resection and anastomosis. Its disadvantage is an increased daily frequency of stools. It must be performed only in cases of diastatic colon perforation or synchronous right colonic cancer. In patients with high surgical risk, Hartmann procedure must be preferred. It allows the treatment of both obstruction and cancer, and prevents anastomotic leakage but needs a second operation to reverse the colostomy. Colonic stenting is clinically successful in up to 90% in specialized groups. It is used as palliation in patients with disseminated disease or bridge to surgery in the others. If stent insertion is not possible, loop colostomy is still indicated in patients at high surgical risk. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  2. Fatal Airway Obstruction in a Man With a Cystic Hygroma.

    PubMed

    Wygant, Cassandra Maria; Cohle, Stephen D

    2018-05-03

    We describe a 24-year-old man with a cystic hygroma of the left side of the lower neck that led to sudden death. Cystic hygroma (cystic lymphangioma) is a congenital malformation of the lymphatic system. The patient, who had a tracheostomy because of airway obstruction from the cystic hygroma, was found dead with his tracheostomy tube on the floor next to him. Complications of cystic hygroma include infiltration of the neck causing airway obstruction, dysphagia, pain, and obstructive sleep apnea.

  3. Infectious mononucleosis and bilateral peritonsillar abscesses resulting in airway obstruction.

    PubMed

    Burstin, P P; Marshall, C L

    1998-12-01

    Upper airway obstruction is an uncommon but recognized complication of infectious mononucleosis. The management depends upon the degree of airway compromise. In the case described, severe airway obstruction was treated by securing the airway with awake fibre-optic endoscopic intubation and then proceeding to tonsillectomy. Bilateral inferiorly loculated quinsies were encountered unexpectedly and drained. This is the first report of 'bilateral' quinsies, associated with infectious mononucleosis and severe airway obstruction. The association, pathogenesis and significance of this finding are also discussed.

  4. Occupation, smoking, and chronic obstructive respiratory disorders: a cross sectional study in an industrial area of Catalonia, Spain

    PubMed Central

    Jaén, Ángeles; Zock, Jan Paul; Kogevinas, Manolis; Ferrer, Antonio; Marín, Albert

    2006-01-01

    Background Few studies have investigated the independent effects of occupational exposures and smoking on chronic bronchitis and airflow obstruction. We assessed the association between lifetime occupational exposures and airflow obstruction in a cross-sectional survey in an urban-industrial area of Catalonia, Spain. Methods We interviewed 576 subjects of both sexes aged 20–70 years (response rate 80%) randomly selected from census rolls, using the ATS questionnaire. Forced spirometry was performed by 497 subjects according to ATS normative. Results Lifetime occupational exposure to dust, gases or fumes was reported by 52% of the subjects (63% in men, 41% in women). Textile industry was the most frequently reported job in relation to these exposures (39%). Chronic cough, expectoration and wheeze were more prevalent in exposed subjects with odds ratios ranging from 1.7 to 2.0 being highest among never-smokers (2.1 to 4.3). Lung function differences between exposed and unexposed subjects were dependent on duration of exposure, but not on smoking habits. Subjects exposed more than 15 years to dusts, gases or fumes had lower lung function values (FEV1 -80 ml, 95% confidence interval (CI) -186 to 26; MMEF -163 ml, CI -397 to 71; FEV1/FVC ratio -1.7%, CI -3.3 to -0.2) than non-exposed. Conclusion Chronic bronchitis symptoms and airflow obstruction are associated with occupational exposures in a population with a high employment in the textile industry. Lung function impairment was related to the duration of occupational exposure, being independent of the effect of smoking. PMID:16476167

  5. Clinically remitted childhood asthma is associated with airflow obstruction in middle-aged adults.

    PubMed

    Omori, Keitaro; Iwamoto, Hiroshi; Yamane, Takashi; Nakashima, Taku; Haruta, Yoshinori; Hattori, Noboru; Yokoyama, Akihito; Kohno, Nobuoki

    2017-01-01

    While adult asthma has been shown to be a risk factor for COPD, the effect of remitted childhood asthma on adult lung function has not been clarified. The aim of this study was to examine whether remitted childhood asthma is a risk factor for airflow obstruction in a middle-aged general population. A total of 9896 participants (range: 35-60 years) from five healthcare centres were included in the study. The participants were classified into four categories based on the presence or absence of physician-diagnosed childhood/adulthood asthma and asthma symptoms as follows: healthy controls (n = 9154), remitted childhood asthma (n = 287), adulthood-onset asthma (n = 354) and childhood-adulthood asthma (n = 101). The prevalence of respiratory symptoms was similar in both the participants with remitted childhood asthma and healthy controls. The prevalence of airflow obstruction (forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV 1 )/forced vital capacity (FVC) < 0.7) was significantly higher in the participants with remitted childhood asthma, those with adult-onset asthma and those with childhood-adulthood asthma (5.2%, 14.4% and 16.8%, respectively) compared with healthy controls (2.2%). Multivariate logistic regression showed that remitted childhood asthma was independently associated with airflow obstruction. Among the participants with remitted childhood asthma, ever-smokers had significantly lower FEV 1 /FVC than never-smokers. Clinically remitted childhood asthma is associated with airflow obstruction in middle-aged adults. Smoking and remitted childhood asthma may be additive factors for the development of airflow obstruction. © 2016 Asian Pacific Society of Respirology.

  6. Treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Chronic Intermittent Hypoxia Improves the Severity of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Children.

    PubMed

    Sundaram, Shikha S; Halbower, Ann C; Klawitter, Jelena; Pan, Zhaoxing; Robbins, Kristen; Capocelli, Kelley E; Sokol, Ronald J

    2018-07-01

    To determine the effects of treating obstructive sleep apnea/nocturnal hypoxia on pediatric nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) severity and oxidative stress. Biopsy proven participants (n = 9) with NAFLD and obstructive sleep apnea/hypoxia were studied before and after treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for sleep disordered breathing, including laboratory testing and markers of oxidative stress, urine F(2)-isoprostanes. Adolescents (age 11.5 ± 1.2 years; body mass index, 29.5 ± 3.8 kg/m 2 ) with significant NAFLD (mean histologic necroinflammation grade, 2.3 ± 0.9; fibrosis stage, 1.4 ± 1.3; NAFLD Activity Score summary, 4.8 ± 1.6) had obstructive sleep apnea/hypoxia by polysomnography. At baseline, they had severe obstructive sleep apnea/hypoxia, elevated aminotransferases, the metabolic syndrome, and significant oxidative stress (high F(2)-isoprostanes). Obstructive sleep apnea/hypoxia was treated with home CPAP for a mean 89 ± 62 days. Although body mass index increased, obstructive sleep apnea/hypoxia severity improved on CPAP and was accompanied by reduced alanine aminotransferase, metabolic syndrome markers, and F(2)-isoprostanes. This study provides strong evidence that treatment of obstructive sleep apnea/nocturnal hypoxia with CPAP in children with NAFLD may reverse parameters of liver injury and reduce oxidative stress. These data also suggest CPAP as a new therapy to prevent progression of NAFLD in those children with obesity found to have obstructive sleep apnea/nocturnal hypoxia. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. A fluid-structure interaction (FSI)-based numerical investigation of peristalsis in an obstructed human ureter.

    PubMed

    Takaddus, Ahmed Tasnub; Gautam, Prashanta; Chandy, Abhilash J

    2018-05-08

    Urine moves from the kidney to the bladder through the ureter. A series of compression waves facilitates this transport. Due to the highly concentrated mineral deposits in urine, stones are formed in the kidney and travel down through the urinary tract. While passing, a larger stone can get stuck and cause severe damage to ureter wall. Also, stones in the ureter obstructing the urine flow can cause pain and backflow of urine which in turn might require surgical intervention. The current study develops a 2D axisymmetric numerical model to gain an understanding of the ureter obstruction and its effects on the flow, which are critical in assessing the different treatment options. Transient computational analysis involving a two-way fully coupled fluid-structure interaction with the arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian method between the ureteral wall and urine flow is conducted with an obstruction in the ureter. The ureter wall is modeled as an anisotropic hyperelastic material, data of which, is based on biaxial tests on human ureter from previous literature, while the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations are solved to calculate urine flow. A finite element-based monolithic solver is used for the simulations here. The obstruction is placed in the fluid domain as a circular stone at the proximal part of the ureter. One of the objectives of this study is to quantify the effect of the ureteral obstruction. A sharp jump in pressure gradient and wall shear stress, as well as retrograde urine flow, is observed as a result of the obstruction. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  8. Failure of conservative treatment with Gastrografin® for adhesive small bowel obstruction after colorectal surgery.

    PubMed

    Miquel, Jordi; Biondo, Sebastiano; Kreisler, Esther; Uribe, Catalina; Trenti, Loris

    2017-07-01

    The aim of this study was to identify risk factors related with failure of conservative management of adhesive small bowel obstruction (ASBO) in patients with previous colorectal surgery. Patients admitted with the diagnosis of ASBO after previous colorectal resection, were included. All patients underwent administration of Gastrografin®. Abdominal radiography was done after 24 h, to confirm the presence of contrast in colon (incomplete obstruction) or not (complete obstruction). Several factors were investigated to study their relationship with the failure of conservative management. Failure of conservative management was considered when emergency operation was needed to solve ASBO. Incomplete obstruction was observed in 174 episodes (93.0%) while in 13 (7.0%) was complete. One hundred seventy-one ASBO episodes (91.4%) responded successfully to nonoperative treatment and 16 (8.6%) required emergency surgery. Five patients needed bowel resection. Results on the diagnostic test with Gastrografin® showed a sensitivity of 75%, specificity of 99%, positive predictive value 92%, and negative predictive value 98%. Age over 75 years was the only predictive factor for failure of conservative management. The median waiting time from the radiologic confirmation of complete obstruction to surgery was higher in patients requiring bowel resection when compared to those who did not need resection. The use of Gastrografin® in ASBO after colorectal resection is a safe and useful tool for the indication of conservative management. Age over 75 years is a predictive factor for need of surgery. Surgery should be performed no later than the following 24 h of confirmed complete obstruction.

  9. Acute intestinal obstruction due to metastatic lung cancer—case report

    PubMed Central

    2017-01-01

    Abstract We present a case of male patient, who was referred to our department because of acute intestinal obstruction, which was the initial clinical symptom of primary lung cancer. The abdominal computed tomography (CT) prior to the emergency operation showed small intestinal obstruction and metastases to both adrenal glands. The patient underwent an emergency abdominal exploratory laparotomy, that confirmed small bowel obstruction and diffuse metastatic lesions along the entire small bowel length. During the operation we took a sample of one metastasis for pathological examination and we created an intestinal bypass to relieve small bowel obstruction. The pathologist suspected to primary lung cancer according to the immunohistochemical staining. The chest CT after the emergency operation showed a large primary tumor in the left upper pulmonary lobe. PMID:28458837

  10. Intraoperative colonic lavage and primary anastomosis in peritonitis and obstruction.

    PubMed

    Biondo, S; Jaurrieta, E; Jorba, R; Moreno, P; Farran, L; Borobia, F; Bettonica, C; Poves, I; Ramos, E; Alcobendas, F

    1997-02-01

    The surgical management of left colonic emergencies has evolved in the past few decades. Recently, there has been increasing interest in resection with primary anastomosis in selected cases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences in outcome in patients with peritonitis or obstruction treated by resection, on-table lavage and primary anastomosis of the left colon. Between January 1992 and August 1995, 212 patients underwent emergency operation for a distal colonic lesion: 97 presented with peritonitis, 113 with obstruction and two with other indications. Intraoperative colonic lavage was performed in 37 patients with obstruction and in 24 with an acute intra-abdominal inflammatory process. The postoperative mortality rate was 5 per cent. The incidence of clinical anastomotic leakage was 5 per cent. Wound infection was observed in ten patients (16 per cent), more often in those with peritonitis (P = 0.03). The overall mean(s.d.) hospital stay was 15(9) days. Resection, on-table lavage and primary anastomosis constitute the operation of choice for selected patients with left colonic emergency.

  11. Urodynamic findings in women with pelvic organ prolapse and obstructive voiding symptoms.

    PubMed

    Dain, Lena; Auslander, Ron; Rosen, Talma; Segev, Yakir; Goldschmidt, Eyal; Abramov, Yoram

    2010-11-01

    To determine whether obstructive voiding symptoms in women with advanced pelvic organ prolapse (POP) were associated with objective bladder outflow tract obstruction. We reviewed preoperative data from patients with advanced POP who underwent surgical correction at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel, between December 1, 2005, and November 30, 2007. Obstructive voiding symptoms were recorded from Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-20 questionnaires. Of the 81 women aged 44-80 years who were included in the study, 40 (49.4%) reported incomplete bladder emptying preoperatively. There was no significant difference between these women and asymptomatic women in terms of demographic and clinical parameters such as age, parity, and stage of prolapse. Furthermore, there was no significant difference with regard to postvoid residual bladder volume (52.8 ± 65.8 vs 41.6 ± 41.2 mL), maximal (23.8 ± 11 vs 21.9 ± 9.6 mL/second) and average (10.3 ± 6.2 vs 9.3 ± 4 mL/second) urinary flow velocities, prevalence of increased postvoid residual volume (10.0% vs 4.8%), or obstructive urinary flow (17.5% vs 7.3%). Almost half of all women with advanced POP experienced incomplete bladder emptying; however, this symptom did not correlate with objective urodynamic bladder outflow tract obstruction. Copyright © 2010 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Evaluation of neuromuscular activity in patients with obstructive sleep apnea using chin surface electromyography of polysomnography.

    PubMed

    Yin, Guo-ping; Ye, Jing-ying; Han, De-min; Wang, Xiao-yi; Zhang, Yu-huan; Li, Yan-ru

    2013-01-01

    It is believed that defects in upper airway neuromuscular control play a role in sleep apnea pathogenesis. Currently, there is no simple and non-invasive method for evaluating neuromuscular activity for the purpose of screening in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. This study was designed to assess the validity of chin surface electromyography of routine polysomnography in evaluating the neuromuscular activity of obstructive sleep apnea subjects and probe the neuromuscular contribution in the pathogenesis of the condition. The chin surface electromyography of routine polysomnography during normal breathing and obstructive apnea were quantified in 36 male patients with obstructive sleep apnea. The change of chin surface electromyography from normal breathing to obstructive apnea was expressed as the percent compensated electromyography value, where the percent compensated electromyography value = (normal breath surface electromyography - apnea surface electromyography)/normal breath surface electromyography, and the percent compensated electromyography values among subjects were compared. The relationship between sleep apnea related parameters and the percent compensated electromyography value was examined. The percent compensated electromyography value of the subjects varied from 1% to 90% and had a significant positive correlation with apnea hypopnea index (R(2) = 0.382, P < 0.001). Recording and analyzing chin surface electromyography by routine polysomnography is a valid way of screening the neuromuscular activity in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. The neuromuscular contribution is different among subjects with obstructive sleep apnea.

  13. Monophasic Synovial Sarcoma Presenting as Mitral Valve Obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Chokesuwattanaskul, Warangkana; Terrell, Jason; Jenkins, Leigh Ann

    2010-01-01

    We report the case of a 26-year-old man who experienced progressive left-sided chest pain and 2 episodes of near-syncope. Studies revealed a 15-cm mass in the upper left lung, a 10-cm mass in the medial base of the left lung, and a 5-cm left atrial mass that involved the left lung, infiltrated the left pulmonary vein, and prolapsed into the mitral valve, causing intermittent obstruction. The patient underwent surgical excision of the left atrial tumor. Pathologic evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of monophasic synovial sarcoma. To our knowledge, this is only the 3rd report of left atrial invasion and resultant mitral valve obstruction from a synovial sarcoma that infiltrated the pulmonary vein. We believe that this is the 1st documented case of a metastatic left atrial synovial sarcoma in monophasic form. PMID:20844626

  14. Palliative surgery versus medical management for bowel obstruction in ovarian cancer

    PubMed Central

    Kucukmetin, Ali; Naik, Raj; Galaal, Khadra; Bryant, Andrew; Dickinson, Heather O

    2014-01-01

    Background Ovarian cancer is the sixth most common cancer among women and is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage. Bowel obstruction is a common feature of advanced or recurrent ovarian cancer. Patients with bowel obstruction are generally in poor physical condition with a limited life expectancy. Therefore, maintaining their QoL with effective symptom control is the main purpose of the management of bowel obstruction. Objectives To compare the effectiveness and safety of palliative surgery (surgery performed to control the cancer, reduce symptoms and improve quality of life for those whose cancer is not able to be entirely removed) and medical management for bowel obstruction in women with ovarian cancer. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Gynaecological Cancer Group Trials Register, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled trials (CENTRAL), Issue 1 2009, MEDLINE and EMBASE up to February 2009. We also searched registers of clinical trials, abstracts of scientific meetings, reference lists of included studies and contacted experts in the field. Selection criteria Studies that compared palliative surgery and medical interventions, in adult women diagnosed with ovarian cancer who had either full or partial obstruction of the bowel. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs that used multivariable statistical adjustment for baseline case mix were eligible. Data collection and analysis Two review authors independently assessed whether potentially relevant studies met the inclusion criteria, abstracted data and assessed risk of bias. One non-randomised study was identified so no meta-analyses were performed. Main results The search strategy identified 183 unique references of which 22 were identified as being potentially eligible on the basis of title and abstract. Only one study met our inclusion criteria and was included in the review. It analysed retrospective data for 47 women who received either palliative surgery (n = 27) or medical management

  15. Large bowel obstruction due to gallstones: an endoscopic problem?

    PubMed Central

    Waterland, Peter; Khan, Faisal Shehzaad; Durkin, Damien

    2014-01-01

    A 73-year-old man was admitted with symptoms of large bowel obstruction. An emergency CT scan revealed pneumobilia and large bowel obstruction at the level of the rectosigmoid due to a 4×4 cm impacted gallstone. Flexible sigmoidoscopy confirmed the diagnosis but initial attempts to drag the stone into the rectum failed. An endoscopic mechanical lithotripter was employed to repeatedly fracture the gallstone into smaller fragments, which were passed spontaneously the next day. The patient made a complete recovery avoiding the potential dangers of surgery. This case report discusses cholecystoenteric fistula and a novel minimally invasive treatment for large bowel obstruction due to gallstones. PMID:24390966

  16. Large bowel obstruction due to gallstones: an endoscopic problem?

    PubMed

    Waterland, Peter; Khan, Faisal Shehzaad; Durkin, Damien

    2014-01-03

    A 73-year-old man was admitted with symptoms of large bowel obstruction. An emergency CT scan revealed pneumobilia and large bowel obstruction at the level of the rectosigmoid due to a 4×4 cm impacted gallstone. Flexible sigmoidoscopy confirmed the diagnosis but initial attempts to drag the stone into the rectum failed. An endoscopic mechanical lithotripter was employed to repeatedly fracture the gallstone into smaller fragments, which were passed spontaneously the next day. The patient made a complete recovery avoiding the potential dangers of surgery. This case report discusses cholecystoenteric fistula and a novel minimally invasive treatment for large bowel obstruction due to gallstones.

  17. Does Undersizing of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Bioprostheses during Valve-in-Valve Implantation Avoid Coronary Obstruction? An In Vitro Study.

    PubMed

    Stock, Sina; Scharfschwerdt, Michael; Meyer-Saraei, Roza; Richardt, Doreen; Charitos, Efstratios I; Sievers, Hans-Hinrich; Hanke, Thorsten

    2017-04-01

    Background  The transcatheter aortic valve-in-valve implantation (TAViVI) is an evolving treatment strategy for degenerated surgical aortic valve bioprostheses (SAVBs) in patients with high operative risk. Although hemodynamics is excellent, there is some concern regarding coronary obstruction, especially in SAVB with externally mounted leaflet tissue, such as the Trifecta (St. Jude Medical Inc., St. Paul, Minnesota, United States). We investigated coronary flow and hydrodynamics before and after TAViVI in a SAVB with externally mounted leaflet tissue (St. Jude Medical, Trifecta) with an undersized transcatheter aortic valve bioprosthesis (Edwards Sapien XT; Edwards Lifesciences LLC, Irvine, California, United States) in an in vitro study. Materials and Methods  An aortic root model was constructed incorporating geometric dimensions known as risk factors for coronary obstruction. Investigating the validity of this model, we primarily performed recommended TAViVI with the Sapien XT (size 26 mm) in a Trifecta (size 25 mm) in a mock circulation. Thereafter, hydrodynamic performance and coronary flow (left/right coronary diastolic flow [lCF/rCF]) after TAViVI with an undersized Sapien XT (size 23 mm) in a Trifecta (size 25 mm) were investigated at two different coronary ostia heights (COHs, 8 and 10 mm). Results  Validation of the model led to significant coronary obstruction ( p  < 0.001). Undersized TAViVI showed no significant reduction with respect to coronary flow (lCF: COH 8 mm, 0.90-0.87 mL/stroke; COH 10 mm, 0.89-0.82 mL/stroke and rCF: COH 8 mm, 0.64-0.60 mL/stroke; COH 10 mm, 0.62-0.58 mL/stroke). Mean transvalvular gradients (4-5 mm Hg, p  < 0.001) increased significantly after TAViVI. Conclusions  In our in vitro model, undersized TAViVI with the balloon-expandable Sapien XT into a modern generation SAVB (Trifecta) successfully avoided coronary flow obstruction. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  18. Regional reductions in sleep electroencephalography power in obstructive sleep apnea: a high-density EEG study.

    PubMed

    Jones, Stephanie G; Riedner, Brady A; Smith, Richard F; Ferrarelli, Fabio; Tononi, Giulio; Davidson, Richard J; Benca, Ruth M

    2014-02-01

    Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with significant alterations in neuronal integrity resulting from either hypoxemia and/or sleep loss. A large body of imaging research supports reductions in gray matter volume, alterations in white matter integrity and resting state activity, and functional abnormalities in response to cognitive challenge in various brain regions in patients with OSA. In this study, we used high-density electroencephalography (hdEEG), a functional imaging tool that could potentially be used during routine clinical care, to examine the regional distribution of neural activity in a non-clinical sample of untreated men and women with moderate/severe OSA. Sleep was recorded with 256-channel EEG in relatively healthy subjects with apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) > 10, as well as age-, sex-, and body mass index-matched controls selected from a research population initially recruited for a study on sleep and meditation. Sleep laboratory. Nine subjects with AHI > 10 and nine matched controls. N/A. Topographic analysis of hdEEG data revealed a broadband reduction in EEG power in a circumscribed region overlying the parietal cortex in OSA subjects. This parietal reduction in neural activity was present, to some extent, across all frequency bands in all stages and episodes of nonrapid eye movement sleep. This investigation suggests that regional deficits in electroencephalography (EEG) power generation may be a useful clinical marker for neural disruption in obstructive sleep apnea, and that high-density EEG may have the sensitivity to detect pathological cortical changes early in the disease process.

  19. Effects of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease on Asthma Control in Obesity

    PubMed Central

    Dixon, Anne E.; Clerisme-Beaty, Emmanuelle M.; Sugar, Elizabeth A.; Cohen, Rubin I.; Lang, Jason E.; Brown, Ellen D.; Richter, Joel E.; Irvin, Charles G.; Mastronarde, John G.

    2011-01-01

    Background Obesity is a risk factor for asthma. Obese asthmatics often have poor asthma control and respond poorly to therapy. It has been suggested that co-morbidities associated with obesity, such as reflux and obstructive sleep apnea, could be important factors contributing to poor asthma control in obese patients. Objectives The purpose of this study was to determine if (i) reflux and/or (ii) symptoms of sleep apnea contribute to poor asthma control in obesity. Methods We studied asthmatic subjects participating in a trial of reflux treatment. Participants underwent baseline evaluation of asthma symptoms and lung function. 304 participants underwent esophageal pH probe testing. 246 participants were evaluated for obstructive sleep apnea symptoms. Results Of 402 participants in this trial, 51% were obese. Role of reflux in asthma control Those with higher body mass index reported a higher prevalence of reflux symptoms, but the prevalence of pH probe acid reflux was similar in all groups. Reflux was not associated with measures of asthma control in obese patients. Role of obstructive sleep apnea in asthma control Symptoms and self-report of obstructive sleep apnea were more common with increasing body mass index and associated with worse asthma control as measured by the Juniper Asthma Control Questionnaire and Asthma Symptom Utility Index. Conclusions Our data suggest that obstructive sleep apnea, but not gastroesophageal reflux disease may contribute significantly to poor asthma control in obese patients. PMID:21819338

  20. 33 CFR 67.05-10 - Characteristics of obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... lights. 67.05-10 Section 67.05-10 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND... Requirements for Lights § 67.05-10 Characteristics of obstruction lights. All obstruction lights required by... marking Class “C” structures. In determining whether white or red lights shall be authorized, the District...

  1. 33 CFR 67.05-10 - Characteristics of obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... lights. 67.05-10 Section 67.05-10 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND... Requirements for Lights § 67.05-10 Characteristics of obstruction lights. All obstruction lights required by... marking Class “C” structures. In determining whether white or red lights shall be authorized, the District...

  2. 33 CFR 67.05-10 - Characteristics of obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... lights. 67.05-10 Section 67.05-10 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND... Requirements for Lights § 67.05-10 Characteristics of obstruction lights. All obstruction lights required by... marking Class “C” structures. In determining whether white or red lights shall be authorized, the District...

  3. 33 CFR 67.05-10 - Characteristics of obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... lights. 67.05-10 Section 67.05-10 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND... Requirements for Lights § 67.05-10 Characteristics of obstruction lights. All obstruction lights required by... marking Class “C” structures. In determining whether white or red lights shall be authorized, the District...

  4. 33 CFR 67.05-10 - Characteristics of obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... lights. 67.05-10 Section 67.05-10 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND... Requirements for Lights § 67.05-10 Characteristics of obstruction lights. All obstruction lights required by... marking Class “C” structures. In determining whether white or red lights shall be authorized, the District...

  5. Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome in Siblings: An 8-Year Swedish Follow-Up Study

    PubMed Central

    Sundquist, Jan; Li, Xinjun; Friberg, Danielle; Hemminki, Kari; Sundquist, Kristina

    2008-01-01

    Background: Understanding the genetic transmission of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) will help clinicians identify patients at risk and offer opportunities for intervention and treatment at specialist clinics. Objective: To estimate familial risk of hospitalization for OSAS in the adult population of Sweden, and to determine if there are any differences by age and sex. Design, Setting, and Participants: Using the MigMed database at the Karolinska Institute, we divided the population of Sweden into sibling groups based on a shared mother and father and ascertained the presence or absence of a primary hospital diagnosis of OSAS in each individual during the follow-up period, 1997 to 2004. Individuals were categorized as having or not having a sibling with OSAS, based on the presence or absence of the disorder in at least 1 of their siblings. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated for men and women with a sibling with OSAS, compared with men and women in the reference group (SIR = 1). Results: After accounting for socioeconomic status, age, geographic region, and period of diagnosis, men with at least 1 sibling who had OSAS had a SIR of 3.42 (95% CI, 2.18–5.36); the corresponding SIR in women was 3.25 (95% CI, 1.84–5.65). Conclusions: Our results indicate that physicians should consider family history of OSAS when deciding whether to refer a patient for further sleep examinations. Citation: Sundquist J; Li X; Friberg D; Hemminki K; Sundquist K. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in siblings: an 8-year Swedish follow-up study. SLEEP 2008;31(6):817-823. PMID:18548826

  6. Randomized clinical study of Gastrografin administration in patients with adhesive small bowel obstruction.

    PubMed

    Biondo, S; Parés, D; Mora, L; Martí Ragué, J; Kreisler, E; Jaurrieta, E

    2003-05-01

    Oral Gastrografin has been used to differentiate partial from complete small bowel obstruction (SBO). It may have a therapeutic effect and predict the need for early surgery in adhesive SBO. The aim of this study was to determine whether contrast examination in the management of SBO allows an early oral intake and reduces hospital stay. Eighty-three patients admitted between February 2000 and November 2001 with 90 episodes of symptoms and signs suggestive of postoperative adhesive SBO were randomized into two groups, a control group and Gastrografin group. Patients in the control group were treated conservatively. If symptoms of strangulation developed or the obstruction did not resolve spontaneously after 4-5 days, a laparotomy was performed. Patients in the Gastrografin group received 100 ml Gastrografin. Those in whom the contrast medium reached the colon in 24 h were considered to have partial SBO, and were fed orally. If Gastrografin failed to reach the colon and the patient did not improve in the following 24 h a laparotomy was performed. Conservative treatment was successful in 77 episodes (85.6 per cent) and 13 (14.4 per cent) required operation. Among patients treated conservatively, hospital stay was shorter in the Gastrografin group (P < 0.001). All patients in whom contrast medium reached the colon tolerated an early oral diet. Gastrografin did not reduce the need for operation (P = 1.000). No patient died in either group. Oral Gastrografin helps in the management of patients with adhesive SBO and allows a shorter hospital stay. Copyright 2003 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  7. Expiratory timing in obstructive sleep apnoeas.

    PubMed

    Cibella, F; Marrone, O; Sanci, S; Bellia, V; Bonsignore, G

    1990-03-01

    Diaphragmatic electromyogram was recorded during NREM sleep in 4 patients affected by obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) syndrome in order to evaluate the behaviour of expiratory time (TE) in the course of the obstructive apnoea-ventilation cycle. The two components of TE, i.e. time of post-inspiratory inspiratory activity (TPIIA) and time of expiratory phase 2 (TE2) were separately analysed. TPIIA showed a short duration, with only minor variations, within the apnoea, while its duration was more variable and longer in the interapnoeic periods: the longest TPIIA values were associated with the highest inspiratory volumes in the same breaths. This behaviour seemed regulated according to the need of a more or less effective expiratory flow braking, probably as a result of pulmonary stretch receptors discharge. Conversely TE2 showed a continuous gradual modulation, progressively increasing in the pre-apnoeic period, decreasing during the apnoea and increasing in the post-apnoeic period: these TE2 variations seemed related to oscillations in chemical drive. These data show that TE in the obstructive apnoea-ventilation cycle results from a different modulation in its two components and suggest that both mechanical and chemical influences play a role in its overall duration.

  8. [Electrocautery and bronchoscopy as a first step for the management of central airway obstruction and associated hemoptysis].

    PubMed

    Jalilie, Alfredo; Carvajal, Juan Carlos; Aparicio, Rodrigo; Meneses, Manuel

    2016-11-01

    Central airway obstruction caused by malignant or benign lesions, associated in some cases with hemoptysis, is a condition with high morbidity and mortality. The use of electrocautery by flexible bronchoscopy is an initial treatment option with immediate improvement of obstruction symptoms. It is as effective as Nd: YAG laser. To describe the usefulness of electrocautery in the management of central obstruction of the airway and hemoptysis. A retrospective, descriptive study of patients referred for management of central airway obstruction or associated hemoptysis. Diagnoses, symptoms (dyspnea, cough, and hemoptysis) and radiology before and after the procedures were analyzed. Eighteen patients aged 59 ± 12 years (66% males) were evaluated, registering 25 endoscopic procedures. Three conditions were found: partial or complete airway obstruction, hemoptysis and post lung transplant bronchial stenosis. Seventy two percent presented with dyspnea, 61% with cough and 33% with hemoptysis. Sixty six percent of patients had airway obstruction caused by malignant metastatic lesions. After electrocautery, 17 patients (94.4%) improved their symptoms and achieved complete airway clearing. Three patients had significant bronchial stenosis after lung transplant achieving subsequent clearing after electrocautery. Electrocautery during flexible bronchoscopy is an effective and safe procedure for the management of central airway obstruction and associated hemoptysis.

  9. Reduction of shunt obstructions by using a peel-away sheath technique? A multicenter prospective randomized trial.

    PubMed

    Kehler, Uwe; Langer, Niels; Gliemroth, Jan; Meier, Ullrich; Lemcke, Johannes; Sprung, Christian; Schlosser, Hans-Georg; Kiefer, Michael; Eymann, Regina; Heese, Oliver

    2012-05-01

    Shunt obstructions may partly be caused by brain debris, which intrude into the ventricular catheter during ventricle puncture. Avoiding contact between the catheter and brain tissue, by using a peel-away sheath, should reduce the number of shunt failures caused by obstruction. To test this hypothesis, we conducted a randomized, prospective multicenter study. 201 patients from 6 different neurosurgical centers in Germany receiving a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt were included in this study. Of these, 177 patients completed a 1-year follow-up period. Surgery was randomized in a 1 to 1 fashion, such that out of 177 procedures, 91 were performed using a peel-away sheath and 86 were performed without. The rate of surgical re-interventions and shunt obstructions within a 12-month period was recorded. Within 1 year post-surgery, 17 shunt obstructions (9.6%) leading to shunt revisions were recorded. However, no difference was found between surgeries performed using a peel-away sheath (9.9%) or not (9.3%). The overall shunt infection rate was 2.8% and the shunt revision rate for overdrainage was 3.9%. The theoretical advantages attributed to the use of a peel-away sheath to introduce a ventricular catheter could not be confirmed in this randomized study, suggesting that the proposed role of brain debris in shunt obstructions may be overestimated. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Mir-29 repression in bladder outlet obstruction contributes to matrix remodeling and altered stiffness.

    PubMed

    Ekman, Mari; Bhattachariya, Anirban; Dahan, Diana; Uvelius, Bengt; Albinsson, Sebastian; Swärd, Karl

    2013-01-01

    Recent work has uncovered a role of the microRNA (miRNA) miR-29 in remodeling of the extracellular matrix. Partial bladder outlet obstruction is a prevalent condition in older men with prostate enlargement that leads to matrix synthesis in the lower urinary tract and increases bladder stiffness. Here we tested the hypothesis that miR-29 is repressed in the bladder in outlet obstruction and that this has an impact on protein synthesis and matrix remodeling leading to increased bladder stiffness. c-Myc, NF-κB and SMAD3, all of which repress miR-29, were activated in the rat detrusor following partial bladder outlet obstruction but at different times. c-Myc and NF-κB activation occurred early after obstruction, and SMAD3 phosphorylation increased later, with a significant elevation at 6 weeks. c-Myc, NF-κB and SMAD3 activation, respectively, correlated with repression of miR-29b and miR-29c at 10 days of obstruction and with repression of miR-29c at 6 weeks. An mRNA microarray analysis showed that the reduction of miR-29 following outlet obstruction was associated with increased levels of miR-29 target mRNAs, including mRNAs for tropoelastin, the matricellular protein Sparc and collagen IV. Outlet obstruction increased protein levels of eight out of eight examined miR-29 targets, including tropoelastin and Sparc. Transfection of human bladder smooth muscle cells with antimiR-29c and miR-29c mimic caused reciprocal changes in target protein levels in vitro. Tamoxifen inducible and smooth muscle-specific deletion of Dicer in mice reduced miR-29 expression and increased tropoelastin and the thickness of the basal lamina surrounding smooth muscle cells in the bladder. It also increased detrusor stiffness independent of outlet obstruction. Taken together, our study supports a model where the combined repressive influences of c-Myc, NF-κB and SMAD3 reduce miR-29 in bladder outlet obstruction, and where the resulting drop in miR-29 contributes to matrix remodeling and

  11. Value of water-soluble contrast (meglumine amidotrizoate) in the diagnosis and management of small bowel obstruction.

    PubMed

    Al Salamah, Saleh Moh'd Al; Fahim, Fraz; Mirza, Shaukat Mahmood

    2006-07-01

    The object of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of a water-soluble contrast follow-through study for differentiating complete from incomplete small bowel obstruction (SBO) and for predicting the need for surgery. This prospective study was conducted at Riyadh Medical Complex, Saudi Arabia and spanned 2 years. All adult patients admitted with SBO were included, except those with obstructed hernias, peritonitis, or postabdominal irradiation. The initial resuscitation meglumine amidotrizoate (Gastrografin) follow-though was performed and was considered positive for complete obstruction if the contrast failed to reach the colon as shown on the 24-hour film. Patients were operated on only if they developed signs of strangulation or failed to improve within 48 hours. Our study group consisted of 73 patients, 48 (65.7%) of whom were male. The mean age was 35.70+/-12.65 years. In 60 (82.2%) patients, contrast reached the ascending colon within 24 hours, giving a definitive diagnosis of incomplete obstruction; among these 60 cases, 49 (81.7%) resolved on conservative management. The other 13 (17.8%) patients were diagnosed as having a complete obstruction; 4 (30.8%) of them were treated conservatively, and 9 (69.2%) underwent surgery. Therefore the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for meglumine amidotrizoate follow-through as an indicator for operative treatment of SBO were 45.0, 92.5, 81.7, and 69.2, respectively. The P value using Fisher's exact test was 0.0006. We can confidently diagnose complete and incomplete SBO and differentiate one from the other. This accurate diagnosis indicates a high chance of success with conservative management for incomplete obstruction but does not always correlate with the need for surgical intervention.

  12. Causes of 30-day bariatric surgery mortality: with emphasis on bypass obstruction.

    PubMed

    Mason, Edward E; Renquist, Kathleen E; Huang, Yu-Hui; Jamal, Mohammad; Samuel, Isaac

    2007-01-01

    This is a study of the causes of 30-day postoperative death following surgical treatment for obesity and a search for ways to decrease an already low mortality rate. Data were contributed from 1986-2004 to the International Bariatric Surgery Registry by 85 sites, representing 137 surgeons. A spread-sheet was prepared with rows for causes and columns for patients. The 251 causes contributing to 93 deaths were then marked in cells wherever a patient was noted to have one of the causes. Rows and columns were then moved into positions that provided patterns of best fit. 11 patterns were found. 10 had well known initiating causes of death. Overall operative 30-day mortality was 0.24% (93 / 38,501). The most common cause of death was pulmonary embolism (32%, 30/93). 14 deaths were caused by leaks (15%, 14/93), and were equally prevalent after simple (15%, 2/14) or complex (15%, 12/79) operations. Small bowel obstruction caused 8 deaths, exclusively after complex operations. 5 of these involved the bypassed biliopancreatic limb and were defined as "bypass obstruction". A spread-sheet study of cause of 30-day postoperative death revealed a rapidly lethal initiating complication of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass obstruction that requires the earliest possible recognition and treatment. Bypass obstruction needs a name and code to facilitate recognition, study, prevention and early treatment. Spread-sheet pattern analysis of all available data helped identify the initiating cause of death for individual patients when multiple data elements were present.

  13. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease history assessment in Spain: a multidimensional chronic obstructive pulmonary disease evaluation. Study methods and organization.

    PubMed

    López-Campos, José Luis; Peces-Barba, Germán; Soler-Cataluña, Juan José; Soriano, Joan B; de Lucas Ramos, Pilar; de-Torres, Juan P; Marín, José M; Casanova, Ciro

    2012-12-01

    This present paper describes the method and the organization of the study known as the COPD History Assessment In SpaiN (CHAIN), whose main objective is to evaluate the long-term natural history of a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patient cohort from a multidimensional standpoint and to identify clinical phenotypes, in comparison with another non-COPD control cohort. CHAIN is a multicenter, observational study of prospective cohorts carried out at 36 Spanish hospitals. Both cohorts will be followed-up during a 5-year study period with complete office visits every 12 months and telephone interviews every 6 months in order to evaluate exacerbations and the vital state of the subjects. The recruitment period for cases was between 15 January 2010 and 31 March 2012. At each annual visit, information will be collected on: (i) clinical aspects (socio-economic situation, anthropometric data, comorbidities, smoking, respiratory symptoms, exacerbations, quality of life, anxiety-depression scale, daily life activities, treatments); (ii) respiratory function (spirometry, blood gases, hyperinflation, diffusion, respiratory pressures); (iii) BODE index (main study variable); (iv) peripheral muscle function, and (v) blood work-up (including IgE and cardiovascular risk factors). In addition, a serum bank will be created for the future determination of biomarkers. The data of the patients are anonymized in a database with a hierarchical access control in order to guarantee secure information access. The CHAIN study will provide information about the progression of COPD and it will establish a network of researchers for future projects related with COPD. Copyright © 2012 SEPAR. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

  14. 33 CFR 67.05-1 - Arrangement of obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Arrangement of obstruction lights... for Lights § 67.05-1 Arrangement of obstruction lights. (a) Structures having a maximum horizontal... light visible for 360°. (b) Structures having a maximum horizontal dimension of over 30 feet, but not in...

  15. 33 CFR 67.05-1 - Arrangement of obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Arrangement of obstruction lights... for Lights § 67.05-1 Arrangement of obstruction lights. (a) Structures having a maximum horizontal... light visible for 360°. (b) Structures having a maximum horizontal dimension of over 30 feet, but not in...

  16. 33 CFR 67.05-1 - Arrangement of obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Arrangement of obstruction lights... for Lights § 67.05-1 Arrangement of obstruction lights. (a) Structures having a maximum horizontal... light visible for 360°. (b) Structures having a maximum horizontal dimension of over 30 feet, but not in...

  17. 33 CFR 67.05-1 - Arrangement of obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Arrangement of obstruction lights... for Lights § 67.05-1 Arrangement of obstruction lights. (a) Structures having a maximum horizontal... light visible for 360°. (b) Structures having a maximum horizontal dimension of over 30 feet, but not in...

  18. 33 CFR 67.05-1 - Arrangement of obstruction lights.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Arrangement of obstruction lights... for Lights § 67.05-1 Arrangement of obstruction lights. (a) Structures having a maximum horizontal... light visible for 360°. (b) Structures having a maximum horizontal dimension of over 30 feet, but not in...

  19. A prospective, multicenter study of a double stent system for palliative treatment of malignant extrahepatic biliary obstructions.

    PubMed

    Kim, Jong Woo; Gwon, Dong Il; Han, Young-Min; Won, Je Hwan; Hong, Hyun Pyo; Ko, Gi-Young; Yoon, Hyun-Ki; Sung, Kyu-Bo

    2015-10-01

    A double stent system (covered stent in uncovered stent) was designed to provide long-term patency without tumor ingrowth or stent-related complications, such as stent migration, cholecystitis, or pancreatitis. To investigate the safety and efficacy of double stents in patients with malignant extrahepatic biliary obstructions. This prospective, nonrandomized, multicenter study enrolled 160 consecutive patients (102 men; mean age, 64 years; range, 33-91 years) with malignant extrahepatic biliary obstructions treated with a double stent system from January 2010 to March 2012. The technical success rate of the double stent placement was 100%. No stent migration was observed. Procedure-related minor (self-limiting hemobilia [n = 6] and cholangitis [n = 2]) and major (pancreatitis [n = 16], cholecystitis [n = 3], and hepatic abscess [n = 2]) complications occurred in a total of 29 patients. The mean serum bilirubin level, which was 8.9 ± 5.6 mg/dL before drainage, decreased to 2.2 ± 4.6 mg/dL 1 month after stent placement (P < 0.001). Successful internal drainage was achieved in 148 patients (92.5%). During the mean follow-up period of 205 days, acute cholecystitis (n = 3) and hepatic abscess (n = 2) occurred in five patients. The median patient survival and stent patency time were 135 days (95% confidence interval [CI], 96-160 days) and 114 days (95% CI, 83-131 days), respectively. Of 153 patients, 22 (14.4%) presented with stent dysfunction due to sludge incrustation (n = 17), tumor overgrowth (n = 4), or blood clot (n = 1), and required repeat intervention. Tumor ingrowth was not observed in any of these patients. Percutaneous treatment of malignant extrahepatic biliary obstruction using a double stent safely and effectively achieves internal biliary drainage. © The Foundation Acta Radiologica 2014.

  20. Ureteral obstruction promotes proliferation and differentiation of the renal urothelium into a bladder-like phenotype.

    PubMed

    Girshovich, Alexey; Vinsonneau, Christophe; Perez, Joelle; Vandermeersch, Sophie; Verpont, Marie-Christine; Placier, Sandrine; Jouanneau, Chantal; Letavernier, Emmanuel; Baud, Laurent; Haymann, Jean-Philippe

    2012-08-01

    The renal urothelium, the monolayered epithelium that covers the papilla, is the direct target of increased pressure during obstruction, yet most studies have mainly focused on tubules, fibroblasts, and inflammatory cells. We studied this epithelium in a unilateral ureteral obstruction mouse mode land found that it was disrupted and had broken tight junctions, enlarged intercellular space, with loss of apicaluroplakins, and marginal lumen desquamation. Shortly after obstruction these urothelial cells proliferated, peaking at day 2. By day 14, the renal urothelium was transformed into a multilayered barrier with newly synthesized uroplakins including the de novo induction of uroplakin II. This proliferation was found to be fibroblast growth factor (FGF)dependent. Renal urothelial cells constitutively express the FGF receptor 2, and obstruction activated the receptor by phosphorylation. Treatment with FGF receptor 2-antisense or vitamin A (an inhibitor of the MAP kinase in the FGFR2 pathway) decreased renal urothelial cell proliferation. Among known FGF receptor 2 ligands, only FGF7 was upregulated.Infusion of FGF7 into control mice caused the formation of a multilayered structure at 7 days, resembling the urothelium 14 days following obstruction. Thus, the pressure/stretching of renal monolayered urothelial cells is a very efficient trigger for proliferation, causing the formation of a bladder-like multistratified barrier with enhanced apical uroplakin plaques. Presumably, this ensures efficient barrier protection and repair.

  1. Prognostic effects of preoperative obstructive pneumonitis or atelectasis and comparison with tumor size in non-small cell lung cancer

    PubMed Central

    Pang, Zhaofei; Ding, Nan; Dong, Wei; Ni, Yang; Zhang, Tiehong; Qu, Xiao

    2017-01-01

    Background In the eighth TNM staging system proposal, lung cancer with part or complete obstructive pneumonitis/atelectasis was classified to T2 category, and dividing lines of T category were changed. We conducted this study to search prognostic effect of preoperative obstructive pneumonitis/atelectasis and its comparison with tumor size. Methods We collected clinical characteristics, preoperative hematological indicators, follow-up information of 1,313 lung cancer patients. Chi-square test was used to search relationship between obstruction pneumonitis/atelectasis and other factors. Kaplan-Meier (K-M) curves and cox regression methods were used for survival analysis. Results Preoperative obstructive pneumonitis/atelectasis indicated shorter OS (HR: 1.308; 95% CI: 1.058–1.619) and RFS (HR: 1.276; 95% CI: 1.032–1.579) as an independent factor. In comparison with tumor size, we found patients with obstructive pneumonitis/atelectasis and T1 size tumor had similar prognosis to those with T2 size but without obstructive pneumonitis/atelectasis, and OS, RFS of patients with obstructive pneumonitis/atelectasis and T2 size were significantly shorter than those with T2 tumor size but without obstructive pneumonitis/atelectasis, while similar to patients with T3 tumor size but without obstructive pneumonitis/atelectasis according to division by the eighth edition. We also found obstructive pneumonitis/atelectasis was significantly related to higher neutrophil (P<0.001), platelet (P<0.001), monocyte (P<0.001), NLR (P<0.001), PLR (P=0.002), ESR (P<0.001) and lower LMR (P<0.001). Conclusions Preoperative obstructive pneumonitis/atelectasis predicted poor survival independently in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). And we suggested which T staging group the patients with obstructive pneumonitis/atelectasis would be divided to should depend on tumor size in the eighth TNM staging system. PMID:28449485

  2. Noninvasive diagnosis of right-sided extracardiac conduit obstruction by combined magnetic resonance imaging and continuous-wave Doppler echocardiography.

    PubMed

    Canter, C E; Gutierrez, F R; Molina, P; Hartmann, A F; Spray, T L

    1991-04-01

    Right-sided extracardiac conduits are frequently complicated by obstruction over time. We compared the utility of two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of postoperative right-sided obstruction with cardiac catheterization and angiography in 10 patients with xenograft or homograft conduits. Correlation (r = 0.95) between continuous-wave Doppler estimates and catheter pullback pressure gradients across the conduits was excellent. Echocardiography could only visualize five of 10 conduits in their entirety. Magnetic resonance imaging visualized all conduits and showed statistically significant (kappa = 0.58) agreement with angiography in the localization and estimation of severity of a variety of right-sided obstructions in these patients. However, flow voids created by the metallic ring around xenograft valves led to a false negative diagnosis of valvular stenosis in four patients when magnetic resonance imaging was used alone. Doppler studies correctly indicated obstruction in these patients. The combination of magnetic resonance imaging studies and continuous-wave Doppler echocardiography can be useful to noninvasively evaluate right-sided obstruction in postoperative patients with right-sided extracardiac conduits.

  3. Subclinical carotid atherosclerosis in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a meta-analysis of literature studies.

    PubMed

    Ambrosino, Pasquale; Lupoli, Roberta; Cafaro, Giovanni; Iervolino, Salvatore; Carone, Mauro; Pappone, Nicola; Di Minno, Matteo Nicola Dario

    2017-09-01

    Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients have an increased cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality. Common carotid intima-media thickness (CCA-IMT) and carotid plaques are surrogate markers of subclinical atherosclerosis and predictors of CV events. We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the association between COPD and subclinical atherosclerosis. Studies evaluating the impact of COPD on CCA-IMT and on the prevalence of carotid plaques were systematically searched. Twenty studies (2082 COPD patients and 4844 controls) were included, 12 studies with data on CCA-IMT (13 data-sets on 1180 COPD patients and 2312 controls) and 12 studies reporting on the prevalence of carotid plaques (1231 COPD patients and 4222 controls). Compared to controls, COPD patients showed a significantly higher CCA-IMT (mean difference [MD]: 0.201 mm; 95%CI: 0.142, 0.260; p < .001), and an increased prevalence of carotid plaques (Odds Ratio [OR]: 2.503; 95%CI: 1.333, 2.175; p < .0001). Meta-regression models showed a direct association between disease severity [as expressed by Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) class] and the difference in the risk of carotid plaques presence between COPD patients and controls. COPD is significantly associated with subclinical atherosclerosis. These findings may be useful to plan adequate CV prevention strategies. Key messages COPD patients show a higher CCA-IMT and an increased prevalence of carotid plaques compared with controls. A more severe pulmonary disease is associated with a higher prevalence of carotid plaques in COPD patients. Screening for subclinical atherosclerosis may be worthy in COPD patients to plan specific prevention strategies.

  4. Differences in Symptom Severity and Quality of Life in Patients With Obstructive Defecation and Colonic Inertia.

    PubMed

    Chou, Adriana B; Cohan, Jessica N; Varma, Madhulika G

    2015-10-01

    Little is known about how obstructive defecation and colonic inertia symptoms contribute to constipation-related quality of life. We sought to characterize the differences in quality of life in patients with severe obstructive defecation and colonic inertia symptoms. This study was a cross-sectional analysis of a prospective database. Patients were enrolled at a single tertiary referral center. We included consecutive adults with severe symptoms of obstructive defecation (n = 115) or colonic inertia (n = 90) as measured by the Constipation Severity Instrument. The primary outcomes measured were the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory, Constipation-Related Quality of Life instrument, Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire, and 12-item Short Form Health Survey. Although physical examination and anorectal physiology testing were similar between groups, patients with severe obstructive defecation symptoms reported worse pain, distress, and constipation-specific quality of life than patients with severe colonic inertia symptoms (all p < 0.001). Specifically, patients with severe obstructive defecation symptoms showed greater quality-of-life impairment related to eating, bathroom habits, and social functioning (all p ≤ 0.01). Furthermore, patients with severe obstructive defecation symptoms had inferior global quality of life on the 12-item Short Form Health Survey physical component score (p = 0.03) and mental component score (p = 0.06). The use of patient self-report instruments resulted in a proportion of patients with incomplete data. Quality of life was impaired in both groups of patients; however, patients with severe obstructive defecation symptoms were affected to a significantly greater extent. The fact that there were no differences in objective findings on physical examination or anorectal physiology studies highlights the importance of assessing quality of life during the evaluation and treatment of constipated patients.

  5. Pancreatic Calculus Causing Biliary Obstruction: Endoscopic Therapy for a Rare Initial Presentation of Chronic Pancreatitis.

    PubMed

    Shetty, Anurag J; Pai, C Ganesh; Shetty, Shiran; Balaraju, Girisha

    2015-09-01

    Biliary obstruction in chronic calcific pancreatitis (CCP) is often caused by inflammatory or fibrotic strictures of the bile duct, carcinoma of head of pancreas or less commonly by compression from pseudocysts. Pancreatic calculi causing ampullary obstruction and leading to obstructive jaundice is extremely rare. The medical records of all patients with CCP or biliary obstruction who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) over 4 years between 2010-2014 at Kasturba Medical College, Manipal were analyzed. Five patients of CCP with impacted pancreatic calculi at the ampulla demonstrated during ERCP were identified. All 5 presented with biliary obstruction and were incidentally detected to have CCP when evaluated for the same; 3 patients had features of cholangitis. All the patients were managed successfully by endoscopic papillotomy and extraction of pancreatic calculi from the ampulla with resolution of biliary obstruction. Pancreatic calculus causing ampullary obstruction, though very rare, should be considered as a possibility in patients with CCP complicated by biliary obstruction. Endoscopic therapy is affective in the resolution of biliary obstruction in such patients.

  6. Pharmacological treatment of obstructive sleep apnea with a combination of pseudoephedrine and domperidone.

    PubMed

    Larrain, Augusto; Kapur, Vishesh K; Gooley, Ted A; Pope, Charles E

    2010-04-15

    To determine the effect of the drug combination domperidone and pseudoephedrine on nocturnal oximetry measurements and daytime sleepiness in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. We recruited patients with severe snoring and apneic episodes willing to undergo repeated nocturnal oximetry testing. Following baseline clinical history, Epworth Sleepiness Scale administration, and home overnight nocturnal oximetry, patients were started on weight-adjusted doses of domperidone and pseudoephedrine. Follow-up oximetry studies were performed at the patient's convenience. On the final visit, a repeat clinical history, Epworth score, and oximetry were obtained. Seventeen of 23 patients noted disappearance of snoring and apneic episodes. Another 2 patients reported improvement in snoring and no apneic episodes. All but one patient had a decrease in Epworth scores (mean decrease 9.4 (95% CI, 6.8-12.1, p < 0.0001). Mean oxygen saturation (2.5; 95% Cl, 0.66-4.41, p = 0.008), percent time with oxygen saturation < 90% (14.8; 95% CI, 24.4 to 5.2, p = 0.003), and the 4% oxygen desaturation index (18.2; 95% CI, 27.3 to 9.1, p < 0.0001) improved significantly. No adverse effects of treatment were noted. The combination of domperidone and pseudoephedrine improved self reported snoring and sleepiness, and may have improved apneic episodes and sleep-related nocturnal oxygen desaturation in patients with obstructive sleep apnea provided the proportion of time spent asleep did not diminish. This drug combination warrants further study as a treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea; oximetry; sleepiness; domperidone; pseudoephedrine; pharmacotherapy; desaturation; treatment Larrain A; Kapur VK; Gooley TA; Pope CE. Pharmacological treatment of obstructive sleep apnea with a combination of pseudoephedrine and domperidone.

  7. Experimental validation of tonal noise control from subsonic axial fans using flow control obstructions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gérard, Anthony; Berry, Alain; Masson, Patrice; Gervais, Yves

    2009-03-01

    This paper presents the acoustic performance of a novel approach for the passive adaptive control of tonal noise radiated from subsonic fans. Tonal noise originates from non-uniform flow that causes circumferentially varying blade forces and gives rise to a considerably larger radiated dipolar sound at the blade passage frequency (BPF) and its harmonics compared to the tonal noise generated by a uniform flow. The approach presented in this paper uses obstructions in the flow to destructively interfere with the primary tonal noise arising from various flow conditions. The acoustic radiation of the obstructions is first demonstrated experimentally. Indirect on-axis acoustic measurements are used to validate the analytical prediction of the circumferential spectrum of the blade unsteady lift and related indicators generated by the trapezoidal and sinusoidal obstructions presented in Ref. [A. Gérard, A. Berry, P. Masson, Y. Gervais, Modelling of tonal noise control from subsonic axial fans using flow control obstructions, Journal of Sound and Vibration (2008), this issue, doi: 10.1016/j.jsv.2008.09.027.] and also by cylindrical obstructions used in the literature. The directivity and sound power attenuation are then given in free field for the control of the BPF tone generated by rotor/outlet guide vane (OGV) interaction and the control of an amplified BPF tone generated by the rotor/OGV interaction with an added triangular obstruction between two outlet guide vanes to enhance the primary non-uniform flow. Global control was demonstrated in free field, attenuation up to 8.4 dB of the acoustic power at BPF has been measured. Finally, the aerodynamic performances of the automotive fan used in this study are almost not affected by the presence of the control obstruction.

  8. A prospective multicenter study on self-expandable metallic stents as a bridge to surgery for malignant colorectal obstruction in Japan: efficacy and safety in 312 patients.

    PubMed

    Saito, Shuji; Yoshida, Shuntaro; Isayama, Hiroyuki; Matsuzawa, Takeaki; Kuwai, Toshio; Maetani, Iruru; Shimada, Mamoru; Yamada, Tomonori; Tomita, Masafumi; Koizumi, Koichi; Hirata, Nobuto; Kanazawa, Hideki; Enomoto, Toshiyuki; Sekido, Hitoshi; Saida, Yoshihisa

    2016-09-01

    Endoscopic stenting with a self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) is a widely accepted procedure for malignant colonic obstruction. The Colonic Stent Safe Procedure Research Group conducted the present prospective feasibility study. Our objectives were to estimate the safety and feasibility of SEMS placement as a bridge to surgery (BTS) for malignant colorectal obstruction. We conducted a prospective, observational, single-arm, multicenter clinical trial from March 2012 to October 2013. Each patient was treated with an uncovered WallFlex enteral colonic stent. Patients were followed up until discharge after surgery. A total of 518 consecutive patients were enrolled in this study. The cohort intended for BTS consisted of 312 patients (61 %), and the stent could be released in 305 patients. Technical and clinical success rates were 98 and 92 %, respectively. Elective surgery was performed in 297 patients, and emergency surgery was performed in eight patients for the treatment of complications. The overall preoperative complication rate was 7.2 %. Major complications, including perforation, occurred in 1.6 %, persistent colonic obstruction occurred in 1.0 %, and stent migration occurred in 1.3 % patients. The median time from SEMS to surgery was 16 days. Silent perforations were observed in 1.3 %. Open and laparoscopic surgery was performed in 121 and 184 patients, respectively. The tumor could be resected in 297 patients. The primary anastomosis rate was 92 %. The rate of anastomotic leakage was 4 %, and the overall stoma creation rate was 10 %. The median duration of hospitalization following surgery was 12 days. Overall postoperative morbidity and mortality rates were 16 and 0.7 %, respectively. This largest, multicenter, prospective study demonstrates the feasibility of SEMS placement as a BTS for malignant colorectal obstruction. SEMS serves as a safe and effective BTS with acceptable stoma creation and complication rates in patients with acute

  9. Application of small intestine decompression combined with oral feeding in middle and late period of malignant small bowel obstruction.

    PubMed

    Li, Dechun; Du, Hongtao; Shao, Guoqing; Guo, Yongtuan; Lu, Wan; Li, Ruihong

    2017-07-01

    The application value of small intestine decompression combined with oral feeding in the middle and late period of malignant small bowel obstruction was examined. A total of 22 patients with advanced malignant small bowel obstruction were included in the present study. An ileus tube was inserted via the nose under fluoroscopy into the obstructed small intestine of each patient. At the same time, the insertion depth the of the catheter was adjusted. When the catheter was blocked, small bowel selective angiography was performed to determine the location and cause of the obstruction and the extent of the obstruction, and to determine the length of the small intestine in the site of obstruction, and to select the variety and tolerance of enteral nutrition. We observed the decompression tube flow and ease of intestinal obstruction. In total, 20 patients were treated with oral enteral nutrition after abdominal distension, and 22 cases were treated by the nose to observe the drainage and the relief of intestinal obstruction. The distal end of the catheter was placed in a predetermined position. The symptoms of intestinal obstruction were relieved 1-4 days after decompression. The 22 patients with selective angiography of the small intestine showed positive X-ray signs: 18 patients with oral enteral nutrition therapy had improved the nutritional situation 2 weeks later. In 12 cases, where there was anal defecation exhaust, 2 had transient removal of intestinal obstruction catheter. In conclusion, this comprehensive treatment based on small intestine decompression combined with enteral nutrition is expected to become a new therapeutic approach and method for the treatment of patients with advanced tumor small bowel obstruction.

  10. Mortality-related Factors in Patients with Malignant Obstructive Jaundice.

    PubMed

    Kurniawan, Juferdy; Hasan, Irsan; Gani, Rino Alvani; Simadibrata, Marcellus

    2016-10-01

    to obtain survival rate and mortality-related factors of malignant obstructive jaundice patients. all medical records of obstructive jaundice inpatient at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta from January 2010 to December 2013 were reviewed retrospectively. The following factors were analyzed in terms of mortality: age, gender, sepsis, hypoalbumin, serum bilirubin level, serum CA 19-9 level, billiary drainage, non-ampulla Vateri carcinoma, and comorbid factors. total 181 out of 402 patients were enrolled in this study with male proportion was 58.6%, and patients aged 50 years or above was 57.5%. Multivariate analysis showed that only sepsis, unsuccessful or no prior biliary drainage and Charlson comorbid score ≥4 were independent predictors of mortality. Patients with significant prognostic factors had median survival 14 days compared with overall median survival 26 days. Score ≥2 identified as the highest prognostic score threshold with sensitivity 68%, specificity 75%, and AUC on ROC curve 0.769. sepsis, unsuccessful or no prior bilirary drainage, and Charlson comorbid score ≥4 are factors significantly associated with shortened survival in malignant obstructive jaundice patients. Prognostic score  ≥2 was determined to classify patients into high risk mortality group. Mortality of patients with those significant prognostic factors can be predicted in 76.9%.

  11. [Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in young infants].

    PubMed

    Rosenberg, Eran; Elkrinawi, Soliman; Goldbart, Aviv; Leiberman, Alberto; Tarasiuk, Ariel; Tal, Asher

    2009-05-01

    Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) has been reported among children aged 3-6 years. Adenotonsillar hypertrophy is the most common cause of OSAS. The upper airway obstruction results in repeated obstructive apneas and hypopneas, associated with oxygen desaturations and sleep fragmentation. OSAS in children is associated with higher respiratory morbidity as well as significant clinical consequences, mainly neurocognitive and behavioral problems, impaired growth and cardiac dysfunction. The objectives of the present study were to determine the clinical and sleep characteristics of OSAS in children younger than 2 years, and to evaluate morbidity and health care utilization of infants with OSAS. This retrospective study included 35 children younger than 2 years of age, referred for polysomnography because of suspected OSAS. The controL group included healthy children, matched by age, gender and pediatrician. A total of 33 infants were diagnosed with OSAS. Mean apnea/hypopnea index [AHI) was 18.7 +/- 18.1 events/ hour [range 1.3-90.2]. In 10 infants a pattern of intermittent hypoxemia was observed. Infants with OSAS demonstrated a higher number of primary care clinic visits (20.8 +/- 14 vs. 12.1 +/- 6.6, P < 0.02). A higher percentage of children with OSAS visited the emergency room (60.6% vs. 32.2%, P < 0.03), and was hospitalized (36.3% vs. 12.9%, P < 0.03). Duration of hospitalization was also higher in the OSAS group [23.2 +/- 14.1% vs. 3 +/- 2.1%, P < 0.05). The number of drug prescriptions was higher among the study group [25.9 +/- 21.8% vs. 13.6 +/- 10.1, P < 0.03). Thirteen patients underwent adenoidectomy with or without tonsillectomy, resulting in improvement of AHI, decreasing from 26.4 +/- 24 before to 3.6 +/- 4.5 events per hour after surgery (p < 0.01). OSAS can be found in infants younger than 2 years of age. OSAS at this young age is characterized by a higher morbidity in comparison to healthy children. Early diagnosis and treatment may prevent

  12. Distal intestinal obstruction syndrome and colonic pathologies in cystic fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Canny, J D; Brookes, A; Bowley, D B

    2017-01-02

    The management of abdominal pain in cystic fibrosis can be complicated. Distal intestinal obstruction syndrome is a common cause of pain and obstruction in these patients. Knowledge of the diagnosis and management and of similar presenting symptoms is essential for the hospital doctor.

  13. Tear-Duct Obstruction and Surgery

    MedlinePlus

    ... Staying Safe Videos for Educators Search English Español Tear-Duct Obstruction and Surgery KidsHealth / For Parents / Tear- ... year old with little or no treatment. About Tear Ducts Our eyes are continually exposed to dust, ...

  14. Emergency surgery for obstructing colonic cancer: a comparison between right-sided and left-sided lesions.

    PubMed

    Faucheron, J-L; Paquette, B; Trilling, B; Heyd, B; Koch, S; Mantion, G

    2018-02-01

    Few studies compare management and outcomes of obstructive colonic cancer, depending on the tumor site. We aim to evaluate the differences in patient characteristics, tumor characteristics, and outcomes of emergency surgery for obstructive right-sided versus left-sided colonic cancers. Between 2000 and 2009, 71 consecutive patients had an emergency colectomy following strict and clear definition of obstruction in a single institution. We retrospectively analyzed pre, per, and postoperative data that were prospectively collected. There were 31 and 40 patients in the right and left group, respectively. Patients aged over 80 were more frequent in the right group (p = 0.03). At operation, ileocecal valve was less often competent in the right group (p = 0.03). The one-stage strategy was more frequent in the right group (p = 0.008). Patients in the right group had a higher rate of nodes invasion (p = 0.04). One- and two-year mortality rate in the right group had a tendency to be higher. Patients presenting with a right obstructive colonic cancer are older, have a more advanced locoregional disease, and are more often treated in a one-stage strategy than patients with a left obstructive tumor.

  15. Risk of Small Bowel Obstruction After Robot-Assisted vs Open Radical Prostatectomy.

    PubMed

    Loeb, Stacy; Meyer, Christian P; Krasnova, Anna; Curnyn, Caitlin; Reznor, Gally; Kibel, Adam S; Lepor, Herbert; Trinh, Quoc-Dien

    2016-12-01

    Whereas open radical prostatectomy is performed extraperitoneally, minimally invasive radical prostatectomy is typically performed within the peritoneal cavity. Our objective was to determine whether minimally invasive radical prostatectomy is associated with an increased risk of small bowel obstruction compared with open radical prostatectomy. In the U.S. Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER)-Medicare database, we identified 14,147 men found to have prostate cancer from 2000 to 2008 treated by open (n = 10,954) or minimally invasive (n = 3193) radical prostatectomy. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to examine the impact of surgical approach on the diagnosis of small bowel obstruction, as well as the need for lysis of adhesions and exploratory laparotomy. During a median follow-up of 45 and 76 months, respectively, the cumulative incidence of small bowel obstruction was 3.7% for minimally invasive and 5.3% for open radical prostatectomy (p = 0.0005). Lysis of adhesions occurred in 1.1% of minimally invasive and 2.0% of open prostatectomy patients (p = 0.0003). On multivariable analysis, there was no significant difference between minimally invasive and open prostatectomy with respect to small bowel obstruction (HR 1.17, 95% CI 0.90, 1.52, p = 0.25) or lysis of adhesions (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.50, 1.40, p = 0.57). Limitations of the study include the retrospective design and use of administrative claims data. Relative to open radical prostatectomy, minimally invasive radical prostatectomy is not associated with an increased risk of postoperative small bowel obstruction and lysis of adhesions.

  16. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and aortic arch obstructive malformations.

    PubMed

    Maliheh, Kadivar; Abdorrazagh, Kiani; Armen, Kocharian; Reza, Shabanian

    2006-10-01

    We describe two newborn infants with aortic arch obstructive malformations who became anuric after initiation of captopril. Since angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors can alter renal blood flow by reduction in angiotensin II and blocking autoregulation phenomenon, it is important to use them with great caution in neonates with aortic arch obstructive malformations, while monitoring their renal function closely.

  17. Expandable metal stents for endoscopic bilateral stent-within-stent placement for malignant hilar biliary obstruction.

    PubMed

    Chahal, Prabhleen; Baron, Todd H

    2010-01-01

    Placement of biliary stents is effective for palliation of unresectable hilar malignant biliary obstruction. However, when bilateral self-expandable metal stents (SEMSs) are used, placement can be technically challenging. In many studies, side-by-side placement is performed, although it is unclear whether this is the most anatomical and functional approach. We sought to assess the technical feasibility and effectiveness of deploying bilateral SEMSs with a stent-within-stent approach using commercially available stents with a large cell width. Retrospective study. Tertiary care medical center. Patients with malignant biliary hilar obstruction referred for endoscopic palliation of obstructive jaundice. Technical success, ie, successful bilateral SEMS placement across the stricture; functional success, ie, decrease in pretreatment bilirubin level; early and late complications; and stent patency. Bilateral biliary drainage was attempted and successfully established in 21 patients with malignant hilar obstruction (15 men, 6 women; mean age 63.7 [standard deviation 13.9] years), resulting in clinical improvement of obstructive symptoms. Median follow-up was 6.14 months (interquartile range 3.5-9.5 months). There were 1 (5%) early and 7 (33%) late stent occlusions that required endoscopic reintervention. The 30-day mortality rate was 10% (2 deaths). Retrospective study of a series of cases treated at a tertiary care center by expert endoscopists. This simple technique was performed by using an open-cell expandable metal stent is technically feasible and easy and allows bilateral placement of SEMSs in patients with unresectable hilar malignancy. 2010 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Validation of polyvinylidene fluoride nasal sensor to assess nasal obstruction in comparison with subjective technique.

    PubMed

    Roopa Manjunatha, G; Mahapatra, D Roy; Prakash, Surya; Rajanna, K

    2015-01-01

    The aim of this study is to validate the applicability of the PolyVinyliDene Fluoride (PVDF) nasal sensor to assess the nasal airflow, in healthy subjects and patients with nasal obstruction and to correlate the results with the score of Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). PVDF nasal sensor and VAS measurements were carried out in 50 subjects (25-healthy subjects and 25 patients). The VAS score of nasal obstruction and peak-to-peak amplitude (Vp-p) of nasal cycle measured by PVDF nasal sensors were analyzed for right nostril (RN) and left nostril (LN) in both the groups. Spearman's rho correlation was calculated. The relationship between PVDF nasal sensor measurements and severity of nasal obstruction (VAS score) were assessed by ANOVA. In healthy group, the measurement of nasal airflow by PVDF nasal sensor for RN and LN were found to be 51.14±5.87% and 48.85±5.87%, respectively. In patient group, PVDF nasal sensor indicated lesser nasal airflow in the blocked nostrils (RN: 23.33±10.54% and LN: 32.24±11.54%). Moderate correlation was observed in healthy group (r=-0.710, p<0.001 for RN and r=-0.651, p<0.001 for LN), and moderate to strong correlation in patient group (r=-0.751, p<0.01 for RN and r=-0.885, p<0.0001 for LN). PVDF nasal sensor method is a newly developed technique for measuring the nasal airflow. Moderate to strong correlation was observed between PVDF nasal sensor data and VAS scores for nasal obstruction. In our present study, PVDF nasal sensor technique successfully differentiated between healthy subjects and patients with nasal obstruction. Additionally, it can also assess severity of nasal obstruction in comparison with VAS. Thus, we propose that the PVDF nasal sensor technique could be used as a new diagnostic method to evaluate nasal obstruction in routine clinical practice. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Obstructive Sleep Apnea and 15-Year Cognitive Decline: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study

    PubMed Central

    Lutsey, Pamela L.; Bengtson, Lindsay G.S.; Punjabi, Naresh M.; Shahar, Eyal; Mosley, Thomas H.; Gottesman, Rebecca F.; Wruck, Lisa M.; MacLehose, Richard F.; Alonso, Alvaro

    2016-01-01

    Study Objectives: Prospective data evaluating abnormal sleep quality and quantity with cognitive decline are limited because most studies used subjective data and/or had short follow-up. We hypothesized that, over 15 y of follow-up, participants with objectively measured obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and other indices of poor sleep quantity and quality would experience greater decline in cognitive functioning than participants with normal sleep patterns. Methods: ARIC participants (n = 966; mean age 61 y, 55% women) with in-home polysomnography (1996–1998) and repeated cognitive testing were followed for 15 y. Three cognitive tests (Delayed Word Recall, Word Fluency, and Digit Symbol Substitution) were administered at two time points (1996–1998 and 2011–2013). Ten additional cognitive tests were administered at the 2011–2013 neurocognitive examination. OSA was modeled using established clinical OSA severity categories. Multivariable linear regression was used to explore associations of OSA and other sleep indices with change in cognitive tests between the two assessments. Results: A median of 14.9 y (max: 17.3) passed between the two cognitive assessments. OSA category and additional indices of sleep (other measures of hypoxemia and disordered breathing, sleep fragmentation, sleep duration) were not associated with change in any cognitive test. Analyses of OSA severity categories and 10 cognitive tests administered only in 2011–2013 also showed little evidence of an association. Conclusions: Overall, abnormal sleep quality and quantity at midlife was not related to cognitive decline and later-life cognition. The effect of adverse sleep quality and quantity on cognitive decline among the elderly remains to be determined. Citation: Lutsey PL, Bengtson LG, Punjabi NM, Shahar E, Mosley TH, Gottesman RF, Wruck LM, MacLehose RF, Alonso A. Obstructive sleep apnea and 15-year cognitive decline: the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study. SLEEP 2016

  20. Prevalence of major obstructive sleep apnea syndrome symptoms in coal miners and healthy adults.

    PubMed

    Kart, Levent; Dutkun, Yalçın; Altın, Remzi; Ornek, Tacettin; Kıran, Sibel

    2010-01-01

    Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is associated with symptoms including habitual snoring, witness apnea and excessive daytime sleepiness. Also obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is related to some occupations which are needed attention for work accident. We aimed to determine the prevalence of snoring, witnessed apnea and excessive daytime sleepiness in coal workers and healthy adults in Zonguldak city center, and also evaluate the differences between these groups. This study consisted of 423 underground coal workers and 355 individuals living in centre of Zonguldak. Study and comparison group were chosen by nonstratified randomized sampling method. Data were collected by a questionnaire that included information regarding snoring, witnessed apnea and excessive daytime sleepiness. Mean age was 43.3 ± 6.05 years in miners and 44.3 ± 11.8 years in comparison group. In miners, snoring frequency was determined as 42.6%, witnessed apneas were 4.0%, and daytime sleepiness were 4.7%. In comparison group, these symptoms were 38.6%, 4.8% and 2.8% respectively. There were no statistical differences between coal workers and comparison group in these symptoms. Also snoring prevalence was higher in smoker miners. We found that major symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in coal workers are similar to general population in Zonguldak. Further studies that constucted higher populations and with polysomnography are needed to evaluate these findings.

  1. Laparoscopy for bowel obstruction--a contradiction? Results of a multi-institutional survey in Germany.

    PubMed

    Zimmermann, M; Hoffmann, M; Laubert, T; Bruch, H P; Keck, T; Benecke, C; Schlöricke, E

    2016-05-01

    The purpose of the present study was to investigate on the acceptance and frequency of laparoscopic surgery for the management of acute and chronic bowel obstruction in a general patient population in German hospitals. To receive an authoritative opinion on laparoscopic treatment of bowel obstruction in Germany, a cross-sectional online study was conducted. We designed an online-based survey, supported by the German College of Surgeons (Berufsverband der Deutschen Chirurgen, BDC) to get multi-institutional-based data from various level providers of patient care. Between January and February 2014, we received completed questionnaires from 235 individuals (16.7 %). The participating surgeons were a representative sample of German hospitals with regard to hospital size, level of center size, and localization. A total of 74.9 % (n = 176) of all responders stated to use laparoscopy as the initial step of exploration in expected bowel obstruction. This procedure was highly statistically associated with the frequency of overall laparoscopic interventions and laparoscopic experience. The overall conversion rate was reported to be 29.4 %. This survey, investigating on the use of laparoscopic exploration or interventions in bowel obstruction, was able to show that by now, a majority of the responding surgeons accept laparoscopy as an initial step for exploration of the abdomen in the case of bowel obstruction. Laparoscopy was considered to be at least comparable to open surgery in an emergency setting. Furthermore, data analysis demonstrated generally accepted advantages and disadvantages of the laparoscopic approach. Indications for or against laparoscopy are made after careful consideration in each individual case.

  2. Wing-shaped plastic stents vs. self-expandable metal stents for palliative drainage of malignant distal biliary obstruction: a randomized multicenter study.

    PubMed

    Schmidt, Arthur; Riecken, Bettina; Rische, Susanne; Klinger, Christoph; Jakobs, Ralf; Bechtler, Matthias; Kähler, Georg; Dormann, Arno; Caca, Karel

    2015-05-01

    Previous studies have shown superior patency rates for self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) compared with plastic stents in patients with malignant biliary obstruction. The aim of this study was to compare stent patency, patient survival, and complication rates between a newly designed, wing-shaped, plastic stent and SEMSs in patients with unresectable, malignant, distal, biliary obstruction. A randomized, multicenter trial was conducted at four tertiary care centers in Germany. A total of 37 patients underwent randomization between March 2010 and January 2013. Patients underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiography with insertion of either a wing-shaped, plastic stent without lumen or an SEMS.  Stent failure occurred in 10/16 patients (62.5 %) in the winged-stent group vs. 4/18 patients (22.2 %) in the SEMS group (P = 0.034). The median time to stent failure was 51 days (range 2 - 92 days) for the winged stent and 80 days (range 28 - 266 days) for the SEMS (P = 0.002). Early stent failure (< 8 weeks after placement) occurred in 8 patients (50 %) vs. 2 patients (11.1 %), respectively (P = 0.022). After obtaining the results from this interim analysis, the study was discontinued because of safety concerns. The frequency of stent failure was significantly higher in the winged-stent group compared with the SEMS group. A high incidence of early stent failure within 8 weeks was observed in the winged-stent group. Thus, the winged, plastic stent without central lumen may not be appropriate for mid or long term drainage of malignant biliary obstruction. Study registration ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01063634). © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  3. [Potential of antiinflammatory therapy in patients with chronic obstructive lung disease].

    PubMed

    Fedorova, T A; Ekkert, N V; Chernekhovskaia, N E; Roĭtman, A P; Makarova, O V; Zhidkova, N V

    2005-01-01

    The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of erespal (fenspirid) on the clinical manifestations and parameters of inflammation in patients with chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD). The two stages of the study included 3-weak treatment during exacerbation periods and a 3-month outpatient follow-up during clinical remission periods. Erespal was administered twice a day in a total dose of 160 mg/day. The study included evaluation of clinical symptoms, respiratory function, bronchoscopic data, laboratory indices of inflammation, antioxydative status, life quality (LQ), as well as cytological and cytochemical analysis of induced sputum (IS). During exacerbation periods of COLD the researchers observed early and noticeable antitussive and mucolytic action of erespal, which were associated with lessening of bronchial obstruction and inflammation, significant fall of C-reactive protein level, cytosis in IS, proportion of neutrophiles (p < 0.01), elevation of lysosomal cation proteins in neutrophiles (p < 0.01), increase of total oxidant serum level (in 46.2% of the patients vs. 26.3% of the patients in the conventional therapy group). Long term (3 months) treatment with erespal led to further positive dynamics of clinical and laboratory indices of inflammation, and improved the results of cytological and cytochemical study of IS. The results of the study demonstrate that inclusion of erespal in complex therapy of COLD increases efficacy of treatment, due to its anti-inflammatory action during the periods of exacerbation and relative remission, prevents augmenting of bronchial obstruction, and improves patients' LQ.

  4. Predicting the failure of retrograde ureteral stent insertion for managing malignant ureteral obstruction in outpatients

    PubMed Central

    WANG, JIN-YOU; ZHANG, HAI-LIANG; ZHU, YAO; QIN, XIAO-JIAN; DAI, BO; YE, DING-WEI

    2016-01-01

    Malignant ureteral obstruction (MUO) is an unpropitious sign that is commonly observed in patients with advanced incurable cancer. The present study aimed to evaluate predictive factors for the failure of retrograde ureteral stent insertion in the management of MUO in outpatients. A total of 164 patients with MUO were retrospectively assessed in this study. Clinical factors, including age, gender, type of malignancy, level of obstruction, cause of obstruction, pre-operative creatinine level, degree of hydronephrosis, condition of the contralateral ureter, prior radiotherapy, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS), bladder wall invasion and technical failure, were recorded for each case. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to investigate the risk factors for predicting the failure of retrograde ureteral stent insertion. In total, 38 out of 164 patients experienced bilateral obstruction, therefore, a total of 202 ureteral units were available for data analysis. The rate of insertion failure in MUO was 34.65%. Multivariate analyses identified ECOG PS, degree of hydronephrosis and bladder wall invasion as independent predictors for insertion failure. Overall, the present study found that rate of retrograde ureteral stent insertion failure is high in outpatients with MUO, and that ECOG PS, degree of hydronephrosis and bladder invasion are potential independent predictors of insertion failure. PMID:26870299

  5. Severe anemia in cats with urethral obstruction: 17 cases (2002-2011).

    PubMed

    Beer, Kari Santoro; Drobatz, Kenneth J

    2016-05-01

    To characterize clinical parameters of cats with severe anemia due to suspected urinary bladder hemorrhage associated with urethral obstruction. Retrospective case-control study. University teaching hospital. Seventeen cats with urethral obstruction and severe anemia (group "UO-A") that required transfusion were identified via medical record database search. Thirty cats with urethral obstruction and mild or no anemia (group "UO") were included as controls. None. The median PCV of all cases at presentation was 28% (range, 9%-47%). Seven cats had PCV ≤20% at presentation, and all transfused cats had PCV ≤20% at the time of transfusion. Three cats did not receive a transfusion despite PCV ≤18%. Cats in the UO-A group had a significantly longer duration of clinical signs (P = 0.001), and were more likely to have a history of previous urethral obstruction (P = 0.011), have a heart murmur (P = 0.002), have a gallop rhythm (P = 0.005), and have lower blood pressure (P = 0.007) compared to those in the UO group. Additionally, UO-A cats had significantly lower pH, more negative base excess, higher BUN, and higher creatinine compared to UO cats. Duration of urinary catheterization was significantly (P = 0.016) longer in UO-A cats. All UO cats survived to discharge, whereas 4/17 (23.5%) UO-A cats were euthanized (P = 0.013). A history of previous urethral obstruction and longer duration of clinical signs may be important risk factors for severe anemia in UO cats. Additionally, UO-A cats appeared to be more severely affected, as evidenced by lower blood pressure, more severe metabolic acidosis, higher BUN and creatinine, and worse outcome. © Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society 2016.

  6. L-Endoglin Overexpression Increases Renal Fibrosis after Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Arévalo, Miguel; Núñez-Gómez, Elena; Pérez-Roque, Lucía; Pericacho, Miguel; González-Núñez, María; Langa, Carmen; Martínez-Salgado, Carlos; Perez-Barriocanal, Fernando; Bernabeu, Carmelo; Lopez-Novoa, José M.

    2014-01-01

    Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) plays a pivotal role in renal fibrosis. Endoglin, a 180 KDa membrane glycoprotein, is a TGF-β co-receptor overexpressed in several models of chronic kidney disease, but its function in renal fibrosis remains uncertain. Two membrane isoforms generated by alternative splicing have been described, L-Endoglin (long) and S-Endoglin (short) that differ from each other in their cytoplasmic tails, being L-Endoglin the most abundant isoform. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of L-Endoglin overexpression in renal tubulo-interstitial fibrosis. For this purpose, a transgenic mouse which ubiquitously overexpresses human L-Endoglin (L-ENG+) was generated and unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) was performed in L-ENG+ mice and their wild type (WT) littermates. Obstructed kidneys from L-ENG+ mice showed higher amounts of type I collagen and fibronectin but similar levels of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) than obstructed kidneys from WT mice. Smad1 and Smad3 phosphorylation were significantly higher in obstructed kidneys from L-ENG+ than in WT mice. Our results suggest that the higher increase of renal fibrosis observed in L-ENG+ mice is not due to a major abundance of myofibroblasts, as similar levels of α-SMA were observed in both L-ENG+ and WT mice, but to the higher collagen and fibronectin synthesis by these fibroblasts. Furthermore, in vivo L-Endoglin overexpression potentiates Smad1 and Smad3 pathways and this effect is associated with higher renal fibrosis development. PMID:25313562

  7. Self-management programmes for people living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a call for a reconceptualisation.

    PubMed

    Jonsdottir, Helga

    2013-03-01

    To synthesise findings from previously published studies on the effectiveness of self-management programmes for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Self-management is a widely valued concept to address contemporary issues of chronic health problems. Yet, findings of self-management programmes for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are indecisive. Literature review of (1) previously published systematic reviews and (2) an integrative literature review. Synthesis of findings from previously published systematic reviews (n = 4) of the effectiveness of self-management programmes for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and an integrated review that was performed on papers published between January 2007-June 2012 (n = 9). Findings demonstrate that there are few studies on the effectiveness of self-management programmes on people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease despite more than a decade of research activities. Outcomes of the studies reveal some increase in health-related quality of life and reduction in use of healthcare resources. The methodological approaches vary, and the sample size is primarily small. Families are not acknowledged. Features of patient-centredness exist in self-management programmes, particularly in the more recent articles. The effectiveness of self-management programmes for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease remains indecisive. A reconceptualisation of self-management programmes is called for with attention to a family-centred, holistic and relational care focusing on living with and minimising the handicapping consequences of the health problems in their entirety. © 2013 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

  8. The role of airway stenting in pediatric tracheobronchial obstruction.

    PubMed

    Antón-Pacheco, Juan L; Cabezalí, Daniel; Tejedor, Raquel; López, María; Luna, Carmen; Comas, Juan V; de Miguel, Eduardo

    2008-06-01

    Tracheobronchial obstruction is infrequent in the pediatric age group but it is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study is to review the results of a single institution experience with endoscopic stent placement in children with benign tracheobronchial obstruction, and with special concern on safety and clinical effectiveness. Twenty-one patients with severe airway stenosing disease in which stent placement was performed between 1993 and 2006. Inclusion criteria according to the clinical status were: failure to wean from ventilation, episode of apnea, frequent respiratory infections (>3 pneumonia/year), and severe respiratory distress. Additional criteria for stent placement were: failure of surgical treatment, bronchomalacia, and tracheomalacia refractory to previous tracheostomy. Selection of the type of stent depended on the site of the lesion, the patient's age, and the stent availability when time of presentation. The following variables were retrospectively evaluated: age, type of obstruction, associated malformations, stent properties, technical and clinical success, complications and related reinterventions, outcome and follow-up period. Thirty-three stents were placed in the trachea (n=18) and/or bronchi (n=15) of 21 patients with a median age of 6 months (range, 9 days-19 years). Etiology of the airway obstruction included severe tracheomalacia and/or bronchomalacia in 19 cases (90%), and postoperative tracheal stenosis in two. Twelve children had a total of 20 balloon-expandable metallic stents placed, and 10 had 13 silicone-type stents (one patient had both). In nine patients (42%) more than one device was placed. Stent positioning was technically successful in all but one patient. Clinical improvement was observed in 18 patients (85%) but complications occurred in five of them (27%). Eight patients died during follow-up but only in one case it was related to airway stenting. Thirteen patients (62%) are alive and

  9. Hydrocephalus secondary to obstruction of the lateral apertures in two dogs.

    PubMed

    Kent, M; Glass, E N; Haley, A C; Shaikh, L S; Sequel, M; Blas-Machado, U; Bishop, T M; Holmes, S P; Platt, S R

    2016-11-01

    Traditionally, hydrocephalus is divided into communicating or non-communicating (obstructive) based on the identification of a blockage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow through the ventricular system. Hydrocephalus ex vacuo refers to ventricular enlargement as a consequence of neuroparenchymal loss. Hydrocephalus related to obstruction of the lateral apertures of the fourth ventricles has rarely been described. The clinicopathologic findings in two dogs with hydrocephalus secondary to obstruction of the lateral apertures of the fourth ventricle are reported. Signs were associated with a caudal cervical spinal cord lesion in one dog and a caudal brain stem lesion in the other dog. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) disclosed dilation of the ventricular system, including the lateral recesses of the fourth ventricle. In one dog, postmortem ventriculography confirmed obstruction of the lateral apertures. Microscopic changes were identified in the choroid plexus in both dogs, yet a definitive cause of the obstructions was not identified. The MRI findings in both dogs are similar to membranous occlusion of the lateral and median apertures in human patients. MRI detection of dilation of the entire ventricular system in the absence of an identifiable cause should prompt consideration of an obstruction of the lateral apertures. In future cases, therapeutic interventions aimed at re-establishing CSF flow or ventriculoperitoneal catheterisation should be considered. © 2016 Australian Veterinary Association.

  10. [Anaesthesia for patients with obstructive airway diseases].

    PubMed

    Groeben, H; Keller, V; Silvanus, M T

    2014-01-01

    Obstructive lung diseases like asthma or chronic obstructive lung diseases have a high prevalence and are one of the four most frequent causes of death. Obstructive lung diseases can be significantly influenced by the choice of anesthetic techniques and anesthetic agents. Basically, the severity of the COPD and the degree of bronchial hyperreactivity will determine the perioperative anesthetic risk. This risk has to be assessed by a thorough preoperative evaluation and will give the rationale on which to decide for the adequate anaesthetic technique. In particular, airway instrumentation can cause severe reflex bronchoconstriction. The use of regional anaesthesia alone or in combination with general anaesthesia can help to avoid airway irritation and leads to reduced postoperative complications. Prophylactic antiobstructive treatment, volatile anesthetics, propofol, opioids, and an adequate choice of muscle relaxants minimize the anesthetic risk, when general anesthesia is required In case, despite all precautions intra-operative bronchospasm occurs, deepening of anaesthesia, repeated administration of beta2-adrenergic agents and parasympatholytics, and a single systemic dose of corticosteroids represent the main treatment options.

  11. VAMONOS (Veterans Affairs' Metabolism, Obstructed and Non-Obstructed Sleep) Study: Effects of CPAP Therapy on Glucose Metabolism in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

    PubMed

    Ioachimescu, Octavian C; Anthony, Jeremy; Constantin, Tina; Ciavatta, Mary-Margaret; McCarver, Kandace; Sweeney, Mary Ellen

    2017-03-15

    Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are prevalent disorders that pose increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death. The objective of this study was to clarify if continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy for OSA affects T2DM control and emergence. Point-of-care, comparative effectiveness study; cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses. Our cohort included 928 consecutive patients; 13% were women; 36% were Caucasians and 61% African-Americans. OSA was diagnosed in approximately 738 patients and CPAP was initiated in 718 patients; median duration of therapy was 5 mo (25% to 75% interquartile range [IQR] 3-14). Patients with OSA used CPAP therapy for a median duration of 4.8 h, 34.5% of the nights. Adherence to CPAP was prespecified as follows: good (≥ 70% nights and ≥ 4 h/night), excellent (≥ 80% nights and ≥ 6 h/night) or outstanding (≥ 90% of nights and 8 h/night). Based on objective data, good, excellent, and outstanding compliance were found in only 30%, 20%, and 6%, respectively. Three percent of subjects without CPAP follow-up and less than 4% of those nonadherent to CPAP therapy (based on the established criteria) developed incident T2DM. Incident T2DM developed in only 0.8% of those with good compliance and in none (0%) of those in the excellent and outstanding groups. During follow-up, median weight change was +0.3 kg (IQR -1.8 to 2.7). We found that an outstanding compliance to CPAP reduced fasting blood glucose in patients with OSA. Longitudinally, higher levels of therapeutic adherence may affect the rate of incident impaired fasting glucose, prediabetes, and T2DM, despite the observed weight gains. A commentary on this article appears in this issue on page 365. © 2017 American Academy of Sleep Medicine

  12. Pyloric obstruction secondary to epicardial pacemaker implantation: a case report.

    PubMed

    Bedoya Nader, G; Kellihan, H B; Bjorling, D E; McAnulty, J

    2017-02-01

    A 10-year old Lhasa Apso dog was presented for an acute history of exercise intolerance and hind limb weakness. High grade second degree atrioventricular block with an atrial rate of 200 beats per minute, ventricular rate of 40 beats per minute and an intermittent ventricular escape rhythm, was diagnosed on electrocardiograph. A transdiaphragmatic, unipolar, epicardial pacemaker was implanted without immediate surgical complications. Severe vomiting was noted 12 h post-operatively. Abdominal ultrasound and a barium study supported a diagnosis of pyloric outflow obstruction and exploratory abdominal surgery was performed. The pyloric outflow tract appeared normal and no other causes of an outflow obstruction were identified. The epicardial generator was repositioned from the right to the left abdominal wall. Pyloric cell pacing was presumed to be the cause for the pyloric obstruction and severe vomiting, and this was thought to be due to close proximity of the pacemaker generator to the pylorus situated in the right abdominal wall. Repositioning of the pulse generator to the left abdominal wall resulted in resolution of vomiting. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Comorbidity in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Related to disease severity?

    PubMed

    Echave-Sustaeta, Jose M; Comeche Casanova, Lorena; Cosio, Borja G; Soler-Cataluña, Juan Jose; Garcia-Lujan, Ricardo; Ribera, Xavier

    2014-01-01

    Several diseases commonly co-exist with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), especially in elderly patients. This study aimed to investigate whether there is an association between COPD severity and the frequency of comorbidities in stable COPD patients. In this multicenter, cross-sectional study, patients with spirometric diagnosis of COPD attended to by internal medicine departments throughout Spain were consecutively recruited by 225 internal medicine specialists. The severity of airflow obstruction was graded using the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) and data on demographics, smoking history, comorbidities, and dyspnea were collected. The Charlson comorbidity score was calculated. Eight hundred and sixty-six patients were analyzed: male 93%, mean age 69.8 (standard deviation [SD] 9.7) years and forced vital capacity in 1 second 42.1 (SD 17.7)%. Even, the mean (SD) Charlson score was 2.2 (2.2) for stage I, 2.3 (1.5) for stage II, 2.5 (1.6) for stage III, and 2.7 (1.8) for stage IV (P=0.013 between stage I and IV groups), independent predictors of Charlson score in the multivariate analysis were age, smoking history (pack-years), the hemoglobin level, and dyspnea, but not GOLD stage. COPD patients attended to in internal medicine departments show high scores of comorbidity. However, GOLD stage was not an independent predictor of comorbidity.

  14. Internal stenting in malignant biliary obstruction.

    PubMed

    Cowling, M G; Adam, A N

    2001-03-01

    Internal stenting in inoperable malignant biliary obstruction plays an important role in patient management. Surgical bypass may still be undertaken where there is also duodenal obstruction, though the need for gastroenterostomy may be reduced with the increasing use of metallic stents for the relief of malignant gastric outlet obstruction. Stents may be placed endoscopically or percutaneously, though in most centers the endoscopic route is usually tried first, with the percutaneous route being reserved for endoscopic failures. Plastic and self-expanding metallic biliary stents are available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In general, longer periods of patency are observed with metallic stents, though they are more expensive. Plastic stents can be changed endoscopically relatively easily when they have blocked, and in practice it is common for plastic stents to be inserted via this route for initial biliary drainage. If there is prolonged survival thereafter, many workers insert a metallic stent in an attempt to reduce the number of interventions required. If the percutaneous route is being employed, the histologic diagnosis has been confirmed, and the malignancy is inoperable, our practice is to use a self-expanding metallic stent, as the delivery system is relatively small and subsequent occlusion less likely.

  15. [Adverse respiratory events after general anesthesia in patients at high risk of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome].

    PubMed

    Xará, Daniela; Mendonça, Júlia; Pereira, Helder; Santos, Alice; Abelha, Fernando José

    2015-01-01

    Patients with STOP-BANG score >3 have a high risk of Obstructive sleep apnea. The aim of this study was to evaluate early postoperative respiratory complications in adults with STOP-BANG score >3 after general anesthesia. This is a prospective double cohort study matching 59 pairs of adult patients with STOP-BANG score >3 (high risk of obstructive sleep apnea) and patients with STOP-BANG score <3 (low risk of obstructive sleep apnea), similar with respect to gender, age and type of surgery, admitted after elective surgery in the Post-Anaesthesia Care Unit in May 2011. Primary outcome was the development of adverse respiratory events. Demographics data, perioperative variables, and postoperative length of stay in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit and in hospital were recorded. The Mann-Whitney test, the chi-square test and the Fisher exact test were used for comparisons. Subjects in both pairs of study subjects had a median age of 56 years, including 25% males, and 59% were submitted to intra-abdominal surgery. High risk of obstructive sleep apnea patients had a higher median body mass index (31 versus 24kg/m(2), p<0.001) and had more frequently co-morbidities, including hypertension (58% versus 24%, p<0.001), dyslipidemia (46% versus 17%, p<0.001) and insulin-treated diabetes mellitus (17% versus 2%, p=0.004). These patients were submitted more frequently to bariatric surgery (20% versus 2%, p=0.002). Patients with high risk of obstructive sleep apnea had more frequently adverse respiratory events (39% versus 10%, p<0.001), mild to moderate desaturation (15% versus 0%, p=0.001) and inability to breathe deeply (34% versus 9%, p=0.001). After general anesthesia high risk of obstructive sleep apnea patients had an increased incidence of postoperative respiratory complications. Copyright © 2014 Sociedade Brasileira de Anestesiologia. Publicado por Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  16. Adverse respiratory events after general anesthesia in patients at high risk of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

    PubMed

    Xará, Daniela; Mendonça, Júlia; Pereira, Helder; Santos, Alice; Abelha, Fernando José

    2015-01-01

    Patients with STOP-BANG score >3 have a high risk of Obstructive sleep apnea. The aim of this study was to evaluate early postoperative respiratory complications in adults with STOP-BANG score >3 after general anesthesia. This is a prospective double cohort study matching 59 pairs of adult patients with STOP-BANG score >3 (high risk of obstructive sleep apnea) and patients with STOP-BANG score <3 (low risk of obstructive sleep apnea), similar with respect to gender, age and type of surgery, admitted after elective surgery in the Post-Anaesthesia Care Unit in May 2011. Primary outcome was the development of adverse respiratory events. Demographics data, perioperative variables, and postoperative length of stay in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit and in hospital were recorded. The Mann-Whitney test, the chi-square test and the Fisher exact test were used for comparisons. Subjects in both pairs of study subjects had a median age of 56 years, including 25% males, and 59% were submitted to intra-abdominal surgery. High risk of obstructive sleep apnea patients had a higher median body mass index (31 versus 24kg/m(2), p<0.001) and had more frequently co-morbidities, including hypertension (58% versus 24%, p<0.001), dyslipidemia (46% versus 17%, p<0.001) and insulin-treated diabetes mellitus (17% versus 2%, p=0.004). These patients were submitted more frequently to bariatric surgery (20% versus 2%, p=0.002). Patients with high risk of obstructive sleep apnea had more frequently adverse respiratory events (39% versus 10%, p<0.001), mild to moderate desaturation (15% versus 0%, p=0.001) and inability to breathe deeply (34% versus 9%, p=0.001). After general anesthesia high risk of obstructive sleep apnea patients had an increased incidence of postoperative respiratory complications. Copyright © 2014 Sociedade Brasileira de Anestesiologia. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  17. The Turning Point for Morphomechanical Remodeling During Complete Intestinal Obstruction in Rats Occurs After 12-24 h.

    PubMed

    Sun, Daming; Zhao, Jingbo; Liao, Donghua; Huang, Zhiyong; Gregersen, Hans

    2018-05-01

    Intestinal obstruction prompts luminal dilation and wall remodeling proximal to the site of obstruction. Studies on temporal and spatial morphomechanical remodeling are needed for comprehending the pathophysiology of acute intestinal obstruction. The aim was to estimate the no-load and zero-stress morphomechanical properties in circumferential and longitudinal direction at 0, 6, 12, 24, 36, and 48 h after complete intestinal obstruction. Obstruction of the distal ileum was created surgically by placement of a polyethylene ring for up to 48 h in 30 rats. Sham and normal groups were also studied (n = 12). Five 6 cm-long intestinal segments proximal to the obstruction site were used for histological, morphometric and mechanical analysis at the designated times. Morphomechanical changes were huge but only subtle changes were observed between the 5 segments during the obstruction period. Due to dilation, the serosal length and mucosal length increased continuously from 6 to 48 h (p < 0.001). The wall area increased at 24 h and beyond (p < 0.001), demonstrating tissue growth. The opening and bending angle decreased to minimum values at 24 h where after the opening angle increased and the bending angle returned to pre-obstruction levels. For the residual stretch ratios and the position of the neutral axis the turning point was found after 24 h. Histologically, the thickness and area of most wall layers were quite stable for the first 12 h but with an increase at the 24 h time point that continued to the 48 h time point. The most pronounced change was found for the circumferential muscle layer (p < 0.05). Analysis of picrosirius red stained slides showed that submucosal type 3 collagen fraction increased significantly (p < 0.001), whereas the fraction of type 1 collagen decreased (p < 0.001). In conclusion, pronounced time-dependent morphomechanical remodeling was found. The obstructed intestine went from dilation remodeling to growth remodeling

  18. Premenarchal, recurrent vaginal discharge associated with an incomplete obstructing longitudinal vaginal septum.

    PubMed

    Hansen, Keith A; DeWitt, Jason

    2005-12-01

    To describe an unusual, premenarchal presentation of an obstructive vaginal anomaly. Case Report. University Medical Center. Premenarchal subject Vaginogram, vaginal septum resection. Vaginal septum resection with resolution of vaginal discharge. This case demonstrates some of the typical features of uterus didelphys bicollis with incomplete obstructing hemivagina, but had a unique presentation with premenarchal, recurrent vaginal discharge. Typically, patients with an obstructing mullerian anomaly present after menarche with pelvic pain and a mass. The vaginogram assists in the preoperative definition of abnormal anatomy which allows the surgeon to develop the most appropriate surgical approach. Resection of this incompletely obstructing vaginal septum resulted in resolution of the recurrent vaginal discharge.

  19. Computed Tomographic Airway Morphology in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Remodeling or Innate Anatomy?

    PubMed

    Diaz, Alejandro A; Estépar, Raul San José; Washko, George R

    2016-01-01

    Computed tomographic measures of central airway morphology have been used in clinical, epidemiologic, and genetic investigation as an inference of the presence and severity of small-airway disease in smokers. Although several association studies have brought us to believe that these computed tomographic measures reflect airway remodeling, a careful review of such data and more recent evidence may reveal underappreciated complexity to these measures and limitations that prompt us to question that belief. This Perspective offers a review of seminal papers and alternative explanations of their data in the light of more recent evidence. The relationships between airway morphology and lung function are observed in subjects who never smoked, implying that native airway structure indeed contributes to lung function; computed tomographic measures of central airways such as wall area, lumen area, and total bronchial area are smaller in smokers with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease versus those without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; and the airways are smaller as disease severity increases. The observations suggest that (1) native airway morphology likely contributes to the relationships between computed tomographic measures of airways and lung function; and (2) the presence of smaller airways in those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease versus those without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease as well as their decrease with disease severity suggests that smokers with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may simply have smaller airways to begin with, which put them at greater risk for the development of smoking-related disease.

  20. Elongated uvula and diagnostic utility of spirometry in upper airway obstruction

    PubMed Central

    Paliwal, Rajiv; Patel, Satish; Patel, Purvesh; Soni, Hiren

    2010-01-01

    Elongated uvula is relatively an uncommon condition. Upper airway obstruction is often a missed complication of such a rare condition. Clinical presentations of upper airway obstruction often mimic asthma. Hence it is very easily mis-diagnosed as asthma. Spirometry offers a very simple test to diagnose upper airway obstruction very early and easily. Once diagnosed, the management of elongated uvula, almost exclusively, is surgical excision leading to total cure. Here is a case report of such a rare condition. PMID:20539769

  1. Independent associations between fatty acids and sleep quality among obese patients with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome.

    PubMed

    Papandreou, Christopher

    2013-10-01

    The aim of this study was to examine the relationships between gluteal adipose tissue fatty acids and sleep quality in obese patients with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome after controlling for possible confounders. Sixty-three patients with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome based on overnight attended polysomnography were included. Gluteal adipose tissue fatty acids were analysed by gas chromatography. Anthropometric measurements were carried out. Depressive symptoms were assessed by the Zung Self-rating Depression Scale. Saturated fatty acids were positively related to total sleep time, sleep efficiency and rapid eye movement sleep. Significant positive associations were found between polyunsaturated fatty acids and sleep efficiency and rapid eye movement sleep. Moreover, n-3 fatty acids were positively associated with sleep efficiency, slow wave sleep and rapid eye movement sleep. This study revealed independent associations between certain gluteal adipose tissue fatty acids and sleep quality after controlling for age, gender, obesity, obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome indices and Zung Self-rating Depression Scale scores in patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome. © 2013 European Sleep Research Society.

  2. Meaning of living with severe chronic obstructive lung disease: a qualitative study.

    PubMed

    Marx, Gabriella; Nasse, Maximilian; Stanze, Henrikje; Boakye, Sonja Owusu; Nauck, Friedemann; Schneider, Nils

    2016-12-08

    To explore what it means for patients to live with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as an incurable and constantly progressing disease. Qualitative longitudinal study using narrative and semistructured interviews. This paper presents findings of the initial interviews. Analysis using grounded theory. Lung care clinics and community care in Lower Saxony, Germany. 17 patients with advanced-stage COPD (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) III/IV). Analysis shows that these patients have difficulties accepting their life situation and feel at the mercy of the disease, which could be identified as a core-experienced phenomenon. Over a long period of time, patients have only a vague feeling of being ill, caused by uncertain knowledge, slow progress and doubtful attribution of clinical symptoms of the disease (causal conditions). As an action strategy, patients try to maintain daily routines for as long as possible after diagnosis. Both effective standard and rescue medication, which helps to reduce breathlessness and other symptoms, and the feeling of being faced with one's own responsibility (intervening conditions) support this strategy, whereby patients' own responsibility is too painful to acknowledge. As a consequence, patients try to deny the threat to life for a long period of time. Frequently, they need to experience facing their own limits, often in the form of an acute crisis, to realise their health situation. The experience of the illness is contextualised by a continuous increase in limited mobility and social isolation. In order to help patients to improve disease awareness, to accept their life situation and to improve their reduced quality of life, patients may benefit from the early integration of palliative care (PC), considering its multiprofessional patient-centred and team-centred approach. Psychological support and volunteer work, which are relevant aspects of PC, should be appropriate to address psychosocial

  3. Meaning of living with severe chronic obstructive lung disease: a qualitative study

    PubMed Central

    Marx, Gabriella; Nasse, Maximilian; Stanze, Henrikje; Boakye, Sonja Owusu; Nauck, Friedemann; Schneider, Nils

    2016-01-01

    Objectives To explore what it means for patients to live with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as an incurable and constantly progressing disease. Design Qualitative longitudinal study using narrative and semistructured interviews. This paper presents findings of the initial interviews. Analysis using grounded theory. Setting Lung care clinics and community care in Lower Saxony, Germany. Participants 17 patients with advanced-stage COPD (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) III/IV). Findings Analysis shows that these patients have difficulties accepting their life situation and feel at the mercy of the disease, which could be identified as a core-experienced phenomenon. Over a long period of time, patients have only a vague feeling of being ill, caused by uncertain knowledge, slow progress and doubtful attribution of clinical symptoms of the disease (causal conditions). As an action strategy, patients try to maintain daily routines for as long as possible after diagnosis. Both effective standard and rescue medication, which helps to reduce breathlessness and other symptoms, and the feeling of being faced with one's own responsibility (intervening conditions) support this strategy, whereby patients' own responsibility is too painful to acknowledge. As a consequence, patients try to deny the threat to life for a long period of time. Frequently, they need to experience facing their own limits, often in the form of an acute crisis, to realise their health situation. The experience of the illness is contextualised by a continuous increase in limited mobility and social isolation. Conclusion In order to help patients to improve disease awareness, to accept their life situation and to improve their reduced quality of life, patients may benefit from the early integration of palliative care (PC), considering its multiprofessional patient-centred and team-centred approach. Psychological support and volunteer work, which are relevant

  4. Gestational Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Biomarker Screening Models and Lack of Postpartum Resolution.

    PubMed

    Street, Linda M; Aschenbrenner, Carol A; Houle, Timothy T; Pinyan, Clark W; Eisenach, James C

    2018-04-15

    To measure prevalence and severity of third trimester obstructive sleep apnea and evaluate postpartum resolution. To assess a novel biomarker for screening for obstructive sleep apnea in pregnancy. This prospective observational study was performed at Wake Forest School of Medicine obstetrics clinics between April 2014 and December 2015. Fractional exhaled nitric oxide measurements and sleep studies were obtained and compared at 32 0/7 to 35 6/7 weeks gestation and postpartum. Exhaled nitric oxide and risk factors for the development of gestational sleep apnea were evaluated for predictive ability independently and in screening models. Of 76 women enrolled, 73 performed valid sleep studies in pregnancy and 65 had an additional valid study 6 to 15 weeks postpartum. Twenty-four women (37%) had gestational sleep apnea compared with 23 (35%) with postpartum sleep apnea ( P > .99). Eight of 11 women (73%) retested 6 to 8 months postpartum had persistent sleep apnea. Exhaled nitric oxide had moderate discrimination screening for sleep apnea in pregnancy (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.64). A model utilizing exhaled nitric oxide, pregnancy-specific screening, and Mallampati score improved ability to identify women at risk for gestational sleep apnea (sensitivity = 46%, specificity = 91% and likelihood ratio = 5.11, area under receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.75). Obstructive sleep apnea is common in the early postpartum period and often persisted at least 6 months. Exhaled nitric oxide as a sole biomarker to screen for sleep apnea in pregnancy has only modest discrimination. Combined with additional parameters sensitivity and specificity improved. Registry: ClinicalTrials.gov, Identifier: NCT02100943, Title: Exhaled Nitric Oxide as a Biomarker of Gestational Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Persistence Postpartum, URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02100943. © 2018 American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

  5. Study of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease in patients with mild-to-moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in India.

    PubMed

    Kamble, Nitish L; Khan, Naushad A; Kumar, Naresh; Nayak, Hemanta K; Daga, Mradul K

    2013-04-01

    To study the incidence and pattern of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) in patients with mild-to-moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) using dual-probe 24-h oesophageal pH recording. This was a prospective study of 50 patients with mild-to-moderate stage COPD based on the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines. A detailed history of illness along with spirometry was done in all patients. In the study group, reflux symptoms were measured using a validated scoring system. All the patients underwent oesophageal manometry and dual-probe 24-h oesophageal pH recording. Symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux were present in 38 patients. Twenty-four-hour oesophageal pH monitoring revealed pathological reflux in 31 out of 38 symptomatic and 8 out of 12 asymptomatic patients. The overall rate of GORD was 78% in our study. Only distal GORD was observed in 11 (28.9%), and both distal and proximal GORD was observed in 20 (52.6%) out of the 38 symptomatic subjects. In the remaining 12 asymptomatic patients, eight had GORD. Distal GORD was present in six (50%) patients, and two (16.6%) had both distal and proximal GORD in this group. Isolated proximal GORD was not observed in any patient. There is an increased occurrence of GORD in patients with even mild-to-moderate COPD. © 2013 The Authors. Respirology © 2013 Asian Pacific Society of Respirology.

  6. Unimodality and Multimodality Cryodebridement for Airway Obstruction. A Single-Center Experience with Safety and Efficacy.

    PubMed

    Inaty, Hanine; Folch, Erik; Berger, Robert; Fernandez-Bussy, Sebastian; Chatterji, Sumit; Alape, Daniel; Majid, Adnan

    2016-06-01

    Cryodebridement (CD) refers to the removal of obstructive material from the lumen of the tracheobronchial tree by freezing with a cryoprobe, which is usually inserted through a flexible bronchoscope. This method of achieving instant recanalization of airways has been established for over 20 years, but published experience comprises limited case series. This study describes a single large-volume referral center experience, including clinical outcomes and safety profile. Electronic medical records of 156 patients who underwent bronchoscopic CD between December 2007 and March 2012 as the primary method to relieve airway obstruction were reviewed retrospectively. The most frequent cause of airway obstruction was malignancy (n = 88), with non-small-cell lung cancer and metastatic renal cell carcinoma being the most common etiologies. The site of obstruction was localized to the central airways in 63 patients (40%) and the distal airways in 44 patients (28%), and it was diffuse in 49 patients (32%). Bronchoscopic airway patency was achieved in 95% of patients, with the highest success rates found in those with obstruction localized in the central airways. Improvement in symptoms occurred in 118 (82%) of 144 symptomatic patients. Serious complications were reported in 17 patients (11%) and included respiratory distress, severe bleeding, airway injury, and hemodynamic instability. All patients responded to treatment, and no intra- or postoperative deaths were reported. CD, when used alone or in combination with other endoscopic treatment modalities, appears to be safe and effective in treating endoluminal airway obstruction.

  7. Differentiating Obstructive from Central and Complex Sleep Apnea Using an Automated Electrocardiogram-Based Method

    PubMed Central

    Thomas, Robert Joseph; Mietus, Joseph E.; Peng, Chung-Kang; Gilmartin, Geoffrey; Daly, Robert W.; Goldberger, Ary L.; Gottlieb, Daniel J.

    2007-01-01

    Study Objectives: Complex sleep apnea is defined as sleep disordered breathing secondary to simultaneous upper airway obstruction and respiratory control dysfunction. The objective of this study was to assess the utility of an electrocardiogram (ECG)-based cardiopulmonary coupling technique to distinguish obstructive from central or complex sleep apnea. Design: Analysis of archived polysomnographic datasets. Setting: A laboratory for computational signal analysis. Interventions: None. Measurements and Results: The PhysioNet Sleep Apnea Database, consisting of 70 polysomnograms including single-lead ECG signals of approximately 8 hours duration, was used to train an ECG-based measure of autonomic and respiratory interactions (cardiopulmonary coupling) to detect periods of apnea and hypopnea, based on the presence of elevated low-frequency coupling (e-LFC). In the PhysioNet BIDMC Congestive Heart Failure Database (ECGs of 15 subjects), a pattern of “narrow spectral band” e-LFC was especially common. The algorithm was then applied to the Sleep Heart Health Study–I dataset, to select the 15 records with the highest amounts of broad and narrow spectral band e-LFC. The latter spectral characteristic seemed to detect not only periods of central apnea, but also obstructive hypopneas with a periodic breathing pattern. Applying the algorithm to 77 sleep laboratory split-night studies showed that the presence of narrow band e-LFC predicted an increased sensitivity to induction of central apneas by positive airway pressure. Conclusions: ECG-based spectral analysis allows automated, operator-independent characterization of probable interactions between respiratory dyscontrol and upper airway anatomical obstruction. The clinical utility of spectrographic phenotyping, especially in predicting failure of positive airway pressure therapy, remains to be more thoroughly tested. Citation: Thomas RJ; Mietus JE; Peng CK; Gilmartin G; Daly RW; Goldberger AL; Gottlieb DJ

  8. Nutritional status and patient characteristics for hospitalised older patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

    PubMed

    Odencrants, Sigrid; Ehnfors, Margareta; Ehrenberg, Anna

    2008-07-01

    The aim of the study was to describe and compare nutritional status and social and medical characteristics among older patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease admitted to an acute care hospital ward for respiratory medicine. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a condition associated with risk of developing malnutrition. A body mass index <20 is predictive of hospitalisation for acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Knowledge about patient characteristics is crucial for the identification of malnourished patients and the development of nursing care for these patients. Quantitative descriptive study. Thirty-three hospitalised women and 17 men with a mean age of 75.7 years (SD 6.9) were consecutively included. A very severe case of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was indicated in 28 out of 39 patients who underwent a lung function test. Data were collected with measurement of nutritional status using Mini Nutritional Assessment, anthropometry and lung function. Nearly half of the patients (48%) were identified as malnourished, an equal part as at risk for malnutrition and two patients as well nourished. The mean Mini Nutritional Assessment score of 17.2 (SD 3.99) for all patients was near the Mini Nutritional Assessment cut-off score (i.e. 17) for malnutrition. Patients identified as malnourished had a mean body mass index of 18.9 and those at risk for malnutrition had a mean of 23.4. It was more common for those identified as malnourished to live singly, to not live in own property and to be dependent on daily community service. Seven patients identified as malnourished died during the data collection period. This study provides important knowledge about further risks of impaired nutritional status among older patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This knowledge can provide registered nurses with the necessary knowledge to make them aware of certain patients needing particular kinds of attention.

  9. Eicosanoids modulate hyperpnea-induced late phase airway obstruction and hyperreactivity in dogs.

    PubMed

    Davis, Michael S; McCulloch, Sharron; Myers, Teresa; Freed, Arthur N

    2002-01-01

    A canine model of exercise-induced asthma was used to test the hypothesis that the development of a late phase response to hyperventilation depends on the acute production of pro-inflammatory mediators. Peripheral airway resistance, reactivity to hypocapnia and aerosol histamine, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) cell and eicosanoid content were measured in dogs approximately 5 h after dry air challenge (DAC). DAC resulted in late phase obstruction, hyperreactivity to histamine, and neutrophilic inflammation. Both cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase inhibitors administered in separate experiments attenuated the late phase airway obstruction and hyperreactivity to histamine. Neither drug affected the late phase inflammation nor the concentrations of eicosanoids in the BALF obtained 5 h after DAC. This study confirms that hyperventilation of peripheral airways with unconditioned air causes late phase neutrophilia, airway obstruction, and hyperreactivity. The late phase changes in airway mechanics are related to the hyperventilation-induced release of both prostaglandins and leukotrienes, and appear to be independent of the late phase infiltration of inflammatory cells.

  10. Supplemental Oxygen During High-Intensity Exercise Training in Nonhypoxemic Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

    PubMed

    Neunhäuserer, Daniel; Steidle-Kloc, Eva; Weiss, Gertraud; Kaiser, Bernhard; Niederseer, David; Hartl, Sylvia; Tschentscher, Marcus; Egger, Andreas; Schönfelder, Martin; Lamprecht, Bernd; Studnicka, Michael; Niebauer, Josef

    2016-11-01

    Physical exercise training is an evidence-based treatment in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and patients' peak work rate is associated with reduced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease mortality. We assessed whether supplemental oxygen during exercise training in nonhypoxemic patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease might lead to superior training outcomes, including improved peak work rate. This was a randomized, double-blind, controlled, crossover trial. Twenty-nine patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (aged 63.5 ± 5.9 years; forced expiratory volume in 1 second percent predicted, 46.4 ± 8.6) completed 2 consecutive 6-week periods of endurance and strength training with progressive intensity, which was performed 3 times per week with supplemental oxygen or compressed medical air (flow via nasal cannula: 10 L/min). Each session of electrocardiography-controlled interval cycling lasted 31 minutes and consisted of a warm-up, 7 cycles of 1-minute intervals at 70% to 80% of peak work rate alternating with 2 minutes of active recovery, and final cooldown. Thereafter, patients completed 8 strength-training exercises of 1 set each with 8 to 15 repetitions to failure. Change in peak work rate was the primary study end point. The increase in peak work rate was more than twice as high when patients exercised with supplemental oxygen compared with medical air (0.16 ± 0.02 W/kg vs 0.07 ± 0.02 W/kg; P < .001), which was consistent with all other secondary study end points related to exercise capacity. The impact of oxygen on peak work rate was 39.1% of the overall training effect, whereas it had no influence on strength gain (P > .1 for all exercises). We report that supplemental oxygen in nonhypoxemic chronic obstructive pulmonary disease doubled the effect of endurance training but had no effect on strength gain. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Endourologic management of malignant ureteral obstruction: indications, results, and quality-of-life issues.

    PubMed

    Sountoulides, Petros; Pardalidis, Nikolaos; Sofikitis, Nikolaos

    2010-01-01

    Obstruction of the upper urinary tract is a problem commonly faced by practicing urologists. The constant evolution in endourology has effectively facilitated minimally invasive management of upper-tract obstruction. In a case in which malignancy is the cause of obstruction, however, the situation significantly changes. Questions arise regarding the need for relieving the obstruction, the means to accomplish this, and the benefits and drawbacks of each technique regarding both their efficacy and their impact on the patients well-being and the crucial issue of quality of life in the face of malignancy.

  12. Repeated Small Bowel Obstruction Caused by Chestnut Ingestion without the Formation of Phytobezoars.

    PubMed

    Satake, Ryu; Chinda, Daisuke; Shimoyama, Tadashi; Satake, Miwa; Oota, Rie; Sato, Satoshi; Yamai, Kiyonori; Hachimori, Hisashi; Okamoto, Yutaka; Yamada, Kyogo; Matsuura, Osamu; Hashizume, Tadashi; Soma, Yasushi; Fukuda, Shinsaku

    2016-01-01

    A small number of cases of small bowel obstruction caused by foods without the formation of phytobezoars have been reported. Repeated small bowel obstruction due to the ingestion of the same food is extremely rare. We present the case of 63-year-old woman who developed small bowel obstruction twice due to the ingestion of chestnuts without the formation of phytobezoars. This is the first reported case of repeated small bowel obstruction caused by chestnut ingestion. Careful interviews are necessary to determine the meal history of elderly patients and psychiatric patients.

  13. Acute surgical abdomen due to phytobezoar-induced ileal obstruction.

    PubMed

    Salemis, Nikolaos S; Panagiotopoulos, Nikolaos; Sdoukos, Nikolaos; Niakas, Evangelos

    2013-01-01

    Phytobezoar-induced small bowel obstruction is an uncommon clinical entity accounting for 2-4.8% of all mechanical intestinal obstructions. In addition, presentation with features of acute surgical abdomen is extremely rare, accounting for only 1% of the patients. The aim of this report is to present a very rare case of a phytobezoar-induced small bowel obstruction in a male patient who presented with acute surgical abdomen. A correct preoperative diagnosis was made based on the patient's history and characteristic imaging features on the emergency computed tomography (CT) scan. A 55-year-old man with previous gastrectomy presented with typical manifestations of acute abdomen. CT scan demonstrated dilatated small bowel loops and an intraluminal ileal mass with a mottled appearance. At exploratory laparotomy, a phytobezoar was found impacted in the terminal ileum and was removed through an enterotomy. Phytobezoar should be considered in patients with previous gastric outlet surgery who present with bowel obstruction and features of acute surgical abdomen. The presence of a well-defined intraluminal mass with a mottled gas pattern on emergency CT scan is suggestive of an intestinal phytobezoar. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Bowel obstruction caused by broad ligament hernia sucessfully repaired by laparoscopy.

    PubMed

    Toolabi, K; Zamanian, A; Parsaei, R

    2018-04-01

    Internal hernais are rare bowel obstructions. We present a case of small bowel obstruction in a 37-year-old woman caused by internal herniation through a defect in broad ligament, which was managed by laparoscopic surgery.

  15. Preventive Effect of Hydrogen Water on the Development of Detrusor Overactivity in a Rat Model of Bladder Outlet Obstruction.

    PubMed

    Miyazaki, Nozomu; Yamaguchi, Osamu; Nomiya, Masanori; Aikawa, Ken; Kimura, Junko

    2016-03-01

    Bladder ischemia and oxidative stress contribute to the pathogenesis of bladder dysfunction caused by bladder outlet obstruction. H2 reportedly acts as an effective antioxidant. We investigated whether oral ingestion of H2 water would have a beneficial effect on bladder function in a rat model of bladder outlet obstruction. H2 water was made by dissolving H2 gas in ordinary drinking water using a hydrogen water producing apparatus. The bladder outlet obstruction model was surgically induced in male rats. Rats with obstruction were fed H2 water or ordinary drinking water. On week 4 postoperatively cystometry was performed. Oxidative stress markers and the bladder nerve growth factor level were determined. Bladder tissues were processed for pharmacological studies and histological analysis. The micturition interval and micturition volume significantly decreased in obstructed rats given ordinary drinking water. These decreases were significantly suppressed by oral ingestion of H2 water. Increased post-void residual volume in obstructed rats was significantly reduced by H2 water. Obstruction led to a significant increase in bladder weight, oxidative stress markers and nerve growth factor. H2 water significantly suppressed these increases without affecting bladder weight. There was no significant difference in histological findings between rats with bladder obstruction given H2 water and ordinary drinking water. Decreased responses of detrusor muscle strips from obstructed bladders to KCl, carbachol and electrical field stimulation were reversed by H2 water ingestion. Results suggest that H2 water could ameliorate bladder dysfunction secondary to bladder outlet obstruction by attenuating oxidative stress. Copyright © 2016 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. Impulse oscillometry: a measure for airway obstruction.

    PubMed

    Vink, Geraldine R; Arets, Hubertus G M; van der Laag, Johan; van der Ent, Cornelis K

    2003-03-01

    The impulse oscillometry system (IOS) was introduced as a new technique to assess airflow obstruction in patients who are not able to perform forced breathing maneuvers, e.g., subjects with cerebral palsy or severe mental retardation, and young children. This study evaluates the sensitivity and specificity of IOS parameters to quantify changes in airflow obstruction in comparison with forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV(1)) and peak expiratory flow (PEF) measurements. Measurements of FEV(1), PEF, and resistance (R) and reactance (X) at frequencies of 5-35 Hz were performed in 19 children with asthma before, during, and after methacholine challenge and subsequent bronchodilatation. All parameters changed significantly during tests. Values of R5 and R10 correlated with FEV(1) (r = -0.71 and -0.73, respectively, P < 0.001), as did values of X5 and X10 (r = 0.52 and 0.57, respectively, P < 0.01). Changes in R preceded changes in PEF and FEV(1) during methacholine challenge. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to predict a 15% fall in FEV(1) showed better sensitivity and specificity for R5 (area under the curve, 0.85) compared to PEF (0.79) or R10 (0.73). We conclude that IOS parameters can be easily used as an indirect measure of airflow obstruction. This might be helpful in patients who are not able to perform forced breathing maneuvers. In individual subjects, R values measured at 5 Hz showed to be superior to PEF measurements in the detection of a 15% fall in FEV(1). Copyright 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  17. An unusual cause of small bowel obstruction in children: lentil soup bezoar

    PubMed Central

    Plataras, Christos; Sardianos, Nektarios; Vlatakis, Stephanos; Nikas, Konstantinos

    2014-01-01

    Bezoars are an unusual cause of acute intestinal obstruction in children. Most cases are trichobezoars in adolescent girls who swallow their hair. Lactobezoars are another unusual but occasionally reported cause of intestinal obstruction in neonates. Phytobezoars and food bolus bezoars are the least common types of intestinal obstruction that have been reported in children. Of the few paediatric cases that have been described, the majority involve persimmons. Moreover, all of these cases involve the ingestion of raw fibres or fruit that have not been cooked. We report a case of a girl who presented with acute ileal obstruction because of lentil soup bezoar. Given the wide use of this otherwise nutritional foodstuff, we highlight the danger from its inappropriate preparation to the health of children. This is the first reported case of intestinal obstruction caused by lentils in children and we hope to raise concern among paediatricians regarding this matter. PMID:24692381

  18. Systems biology combining human- and animal-data miRNA and mRNA data identifies new targets in ureteropelvic junction obstruction.

    PubMed

    Papadopoulos, Theofilos; Casemayou, Audrey; Neau, Eric; Breuil, Benjamin; Caubet, Cécile; Calise, Denis; Thornhill, Barbara A; Bachvarova, Magdalena; Belliere, Julie; Chevalier, Robert L; Moulos, Panagiotis; Bachvarov, Dimcho; Buffin-Meyer, Benedicte; Decramer, Stéphane; Auriol, Françoise Conte; Bascands, Jean-Loup; Schanstra, Joost P; Klein, Julie

    2017-03-01

    Although renal fibrosis and inflammation have shown to be involved in the pathophysiology of obstructive nephropathies, molecular mechanisms underlying evolution of these processes remain undetermined. In an attempt towards improved understanding of obstructive nephropathy and improved translatability of the results to clinical practice we have developed a systems biology approach combining omics data of both human and mouse obstructive nephropathy. We have studied in parallel the urinary miRNome of infants with ureteropelvic junction obstruction and the kidney tissue miRNome and transcriptome of the corresponding neonatal partial unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) mouse model. Several hundreds of miRNAs and mRNAs displayed changed abundance during disease. Combination of miRNAs in both species and associated mRNAs let to the prioritization of five miRNAs and 35 mRNAs associated to disease. In vitro and in vivo validation identified consistent dysregulation of let-7a-5p and miR-29-3p and new potential targets, E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase (DTX4) and neuron navigator 1 (NAV1), potentially involved in fibrotic processes, in obstructive nephropathy in both human and mice that would not be identified otherwise. Our study is the first to correlate a mouse model of neonatal partial UUO with human UPJ obstruction in a comprehensive systems biology analysis. Our data revealed let-7a and miR-29b as molecules potentially involved in the development of fibrosis in UPJ obstruction via the control of DTX4 in both man and mice that would not be identified otherwise.

  19. Surgery for the resolution of symptoms in malignant bowel obstruction in advanced gynaecological and gastrointestinal cancer.

    PubMed

    Cousins, Sarah E; Tempest, Emma; Feuer, David J

    2016-01-04

    This is an update of the original Cochrane review published in Issue 4, 2000. Intestinal obstruction commonly occurs in progressive advanced gynaecological and gastrointestinal cancers. Management of these patients is difficult due to the patients' deteriorating mobility and function (performance status), the lack of further chemotherapeutic options, and the high mortality and morbidity associated with palliative surgery. There are marked variations in clinical practice concerning surgery in these patients between different countries, gynaecological oncology units and general hospitals, as well as referral patterns from oncologists under whom these patients are often admitted. To assess the efficacy of surgery for intestinal obstruction due to advanced gynaecological and gastrointestinal cancer. We searched the following databases for the original review in 2000 and again for this update in June 2015: CENTRAL (2015, Issue 6); MEDLINE (OVID June week 1 2015); and EMBASE (OVID week 24, 2015).We also searched relevant journals, bibliographic databases, conference proceedings, reference lists, grey literature and the world wide web for the original review in 2000; we also used personal contact. This searching of other resources yielded very few additional studies. The Cochrane Pain, Palliative and Supportive Care Review Group no longer routinely handsearch journals. For these reasons, we did not repeat the searching of other resources for the June 2015 update. As the review concentrates on the 'best evidence' available for the role of surgery in malignant bowel obstruction in known advanced gynaecological and gastrointestinal cancer we kept the inclusion criteria broad (including both prospective and retrospective studies) so as to include all studies relevant to the question. We sought published trials reporting on the effects of surgery for resolving symptoms in malignant bowel obstruction for adult patients with known advanced gynaecological and gastrointestinal

  20. Contribution of flow-volume curves to the detection of central airway obstruction*

    PubMed Central

    Raposo, Liliana Bárbara Perestrelo de Andrade e; Bugalho, António; Gomes, Maria João Marques

    2013-01-01

    OBJECTIVE: To assess the sensitivity and specificity of flow-volume curves in detecting central airway obstruction (CAO), and to determine whether their quantitative and qualitative criteria are associated with the location, type and degree of obstruction. METHODS: Over a four-month period, we consecutively evaluated patients with bronchoscopy indicated. Over a one-week period, all patients underwent clinical evaluation, flow-volume curve, bronchoscopy, and completed a dyspnea scale. Four reviewers, blinded to quantitative and clinical data, and bronchoscopy results, classified the morphology of the curves. A fifth reviewer determined the morphological criteria, as well as the quantitative criteria. RESULTS: We studied 82 patients, 36 (44%) of whom had CAO. The sensitivity and specificity of the flow-volume curves in detecting CAO were, respectively, 88.9% and 91.3% (quantitative criteria) and 30.6% and 93.5% (qualitative criteria). The most prevalent quantitative criteria in our sample were FEF50%/FIF50% ≥ 1, in 83% of patients, and FEV1/PEF ≥ 8 mL . L–1 . min–1, in 36%, both being associated with the type, location, and degree of obstruction (p < 0.05). There was concordance among the reviewers as to the presence of CAO. There is a relationship between the degree of obstruction and dyspnea. CONCLUSIONS: The quantitative criteria should always be calculated for flow-volume curves in order to detect CAO, because of the low sensitivity of the qualitative criteria. Both FEF50%/FIF50% ≥ 1 and FEV1/PEF ≥ 8 mL . L–1 . min–1 were associated with the location, type and degree of obstruction. PMID:24068266