J Trauma
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To examine the impact of an ongoing comprehensive performance improvement and patient safety (PIPS) program implemented in 2005 on mortality outcomes for trauma patients at an established American College of Surgeons (ACS)-verified Level I Trauma Center. ⋯ Implementation of a multifaceted trauma PIPS program aimed at improving trauma care significantly reduced in-hospital mortality in a mature ACS Level I trauma center. Optimal care of the injured patient requires uncompromising commitment to PIPS.
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Traumatic brain injury (TBI) accounts for the largest proportion of injury-related deaths and disability in the United States. The proportion of TBI-related deaths that occur after admission in a hospital remains high despite improvement in medical technology. We provide findings on the risk factors of in-hospital death and demonstrate the risk associated with sepsis occurring in the hospital environment. ⋯ Sepsis occurring in the hospital environment and associated with nosocomial etiologies is a strong risk factor for in-hospital death after TBI. Reducing the risk of infections and subsequent sepsis through adherence with infection control measures is a critical step to reduce in-hospital deaths among patients with TBI.
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Comparative Study
Erythropoietin improves skeletal muscle microcirculation through the activation of eNOS in a mouse sepsis model.
Sepsis and septic shock remain the major causes of morbidity and mortality in intensive care units. One mechanism that leads to organ failure is microcirculatory dysfunction. Erythropoietin (EPO) is a glycoprotein produced by the kidney that primarily regulates erythropoiesis, but it also can exert hemodynamic, anti-inflammatory, and tissue protective effects. We previously reported that administration of EPO to septic mice improves mouse skeletal muscle capillary perfusion and tissue bioenergetics. The objective of this study was to explore the potential mechanism(s) involved. ⋯ Our results suggest that eNOS plays an important role in mediating the beneficial effect of rHuEPO on microcirculation in this septic mouse model.
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Despite recent advances in understanding the mechanisms of sepsis and abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) and of improvements in their management, the mortality rates from these conditions remain high. Few studies have compared liver injuries in patients undergoing open and closed abdomen treatment. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of open versus conservative abdominal closure approaches upon liver function using a controlled and randomized model of intra-abdominal hypertension and sepsis in a rat model. ⋯ Open abdominal management may improve liver regeneration soon after surgery, as well as reducing inflammatory responses, by reducing TLR4 expression.