Current opinion in critical care
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The liver comprises a multitude of parenchymal and nonparenchymal cells with diverse metabolic, hemodynamic and immune functions. Available monitoring options consist of 'static' laboratory parameters, quantitative tests of liver function based on clearance, elimination or metabolite formation and scores, most notably the 'model for end-stage liver disease'. This review aims at balancing conventional markers against 'dynamic' tests in the critically ill. ⋯ Progress has been made in the last year to weigh static and dynamic tests to monitor parenchymal liver functions, whereas biomarkers to assess nonparenchymal functions remain largely obscure.
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To summarize a consensus of European authorities about the applications of clinical neurophysiology in the ICU and, particularly, for a clinically useful management of individual patients. ⋯ The domain of clinical neurophysiology is similar to that of clinical examination and complementary to that of imaging techniques. It substantially improves the individual management of ICU patients.
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Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and long-term cognitive and behavioral dysfunction in children and young adults, yet effective treatments are lacking, in part because critical aspects of TBI neurobiology and natural history are not understood. We review recent advances in neuroimaging and discuss how they are helping to address these fundamental gaps. ⋯ Refinements in neuroimaging offer a window into the complex neuroanatomical and neurophysiological disturbances induced by TBI. Research is needed to understand how these alterations evolve with time and in response to therapeutic interventions.
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Curr Opin Crit Care · Apr 2010
ReviewVasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: recent advances in endovascular management.
In a rapidly advancing specialty, it is essential to review the recent studies of alternative new treatments and present their efficacy, safety and outcome. We discuss the recent advances in the endovascular treatment of cerebral vasospasm following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage in the past few years with special focus on the literature regarding this subject in the last 18-24 months. ⋯ Endovascular treatment, including intraarterial vasodilators and transluminal balloon angioplasty, has a very important place in the management of symptomatic vasospasm related to aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. The efficacy of intraarterial vasodilators has been proven. Numerous studies and analysis of different treatments of cerebrovascular vasospasm took place in the past period. This allowed more understanding and evaluation of their outcome, safety and efficacy helping physicians to choose better treatments to adopt. It emphasizes also the aspects that need more study and research.