Chest
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Review Meta Analysis
Prevalence and Localization of Pulmonary Embolism in Unexplained Acute Exacerbations of COPD: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Patients with COPD experience episodes of increased inflammation, so-called acute exacerbations of COPD (AE-COPD). In 30% of AE-COPD cases, no clear cause is found. Since there is well-known cross talk between inflammation and thrombosis, the objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence, embolus localization, clinical relevance, and clinical markers of pulmonary embolism (PE) in unexplained AE-COPD. ⋯ PE is frequently seen in unexplained AE-COPD. Two-thirds of emboli are found at locations that have a clear indication for anticoagulant treatment. These findings merit clinical attention. PE should receive increased awareness in patients with unexplained AE-COPD, especially when pleuritic chest pain and signs of cardiac failure are present, and no clear infectious origin can be identified.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Postoperative Oxygen Therapy in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Surgical patients with OSA are at increased risk for perioperative complications. Postoperative supplemental oxygen is commonly used, but it may contribute to respiratory depression in patients with OSA receiving opioids. The objective of the study is to investigate the effect of postoperative supplemental oxygen on arterial oxygen saturation (Sao2), sleep respiratory events, and CO2 level in patients with untreated OSA. ⋯ Postoperative supplemental oxygen was found to improve oxygenation and decrease the AHI without increasing the duration of apnea-hypopnea event or PtcCO2 level. A small number of patients had significant CO2 retention while receiving supplemental oxygen.
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CPAP is the first-line treatment for moderate to severe OSA syndrome. Up to 25% of patients with OSA syndrome discontinue CPAP treatment due to side effects. Unintentional leakage and its associated annoying consequences are the most frequently reported adverse effects of CPAP. ⋯ Nasal obstruction, older age, higher BMI, central fat distribution, and male sex might be associated with an increased risk of unintentional leakage. Such leaks remain an important problem. Further studies are needed to improve the understanding of underlying clinical factors so that patients at risk of unintentional leaks may be identified and individualized solutions applied.
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COPD is a highly debilitating disease that represents a substantial and growing health burden in women. There is increasing evidence for sex-related differences in COPD risk, progression, and outcomes. ⋯ Thus, a multifaceted approach is required to address COPD in women, including greater awareness, minimization of risk, and further elucidation of the sex-specific factors (biological and cultural) that affect risk, disease progression, and treatment success. This article reviews the current literature on the topic and provides suggestions for achieving better outcomes for the millions of women with COPD worldwide.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Stylet Usage Does Not Improve Diagnostic Outcomes in Endobronchial Ultrasound Transbronchial Needle Aspiration: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
Endobronchial ultrasonographically guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) of thoracic structures is a commonly performed tissue sampling technique. The use of an inner-stylet in the EBUS needle has never been rigorously evaluated and may be unnecessary. ⋯ Omitting stylet use during EBUS-TBNA does not affect diagnostic outcomes and reduces procedural complexity.