Chest
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Neuromuscular blockings agents (NMBAs) have a controversial role in the ventilatory and medical management of critical illness. The clinical concern surrounding NMBA-induced complications stems from evidence presented in the 2002 clinical practice guidelines, but new evidence from subsequent randomized trials and studies provides a more optimistic outlook about the application of NMBAs in the ICU. Furthermore, changes in the delivery of critical care, such as protocolized care pathways, minimizing or interrupting sedation, increased monitoring techniques, and overall improvements in reducing immobility, have created a modern, 21st century ICU environment whereby NMBAs may be administered safely. ⋯ We then address the rationale for NMBA use for an expanding number of indications (endotracheal intubation, acute respiratory distress syndrome, status asthmaticus, increased intracranial and intra-abdominal pressure, and therapeutic hypothermia after cardiac arrest), with an emphasis on NMBA use in facilitating lung-protective ventilation for respiratory failure. We end with an appraisal over the importance of monitoring depth of paralysis and the concerns of complications, such as prolonged skeletal muscle weakness. In the context of adequate sedation and analgesia, monitored NMBA use (continuous or bolus administration) can be considered for the small number of clinical indications in critically ill patients for which evidence currently exists.
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Smoking and COPD are risk factors for cardiovascular disease, and the pathogenesis may involve endothelial dysfunction. We tested the hypothesis that endothelium-derived epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (EET)-mediated endothelial function is impaired in patients with COPD and that a novel soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitor, GSK2256294, attenuates EET-mediated endothelial dysfunction in human resistance vessels both in vitro and in vivo. ⋯ GSK2256294 attenuates smoking-related EET-mediated endothelial dysfunction, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits in patients with COPD.
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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.
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The detection of peripheral lung nodules is increasing because of the expanded use of CT imaging and implementation of lung cancer screening recommendations. Although surgical resection of malignant nodules remains the treatment modality of choice at present, many patients are not surgical candidates, thus prompting the need for other therapeutic options. Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) and percutaneous thermal ablation are emerging as viable alternatives to surgical resection. ⋯ We have concisely discussed the use of direct intratumoral chemotherapy or gene therapies, transbronchial brachytherapy, bronchoscopy-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA), placement of markers to guide real time-radiation and surgery, cryotherapy, and photodynamic therapy. We have also briefly reported on emerging technologies such as vapor ablation of lung parenchyma for lung cancers. Advances in bronchoscopic therapy will bring additional treatment options to patients with peripheral lung malignancies, with putative advantages over other minimally invasive modalities.