Crit Care Resusc
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To review the indications and complications of the percutaneous tracheostomy compared with the standard surgical tracheostomy in the critically ill patient. ⋯ In the critically ill patient who requires a tracheostomy, the percutaneous rather than the standard surgical technique is the method of choice as it can be performed at the bedside, leaves a smaller scar after decannulation and may be associated with fewer complications compared with the standard surgical technique.
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To review the pathophysiology of gastroparesis and present a practical approach to the management of this disorder in the critically ill patient. ⋯ Gastric dysmotility is common in the critically ill patient. However, treatment of the underlying conditions leading to gastroparesis and the introduction of prokinetic agents will allow the majority of patients to be successfully fed enterally.