Resp Care
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Tuberculosis (TB) remains an important public health problem worldwide, as its residual lesions result in functional and quality of life impairments. Few studies have investigated multiple-drug-resistant pulmonary TB (MDR-TB), and the literature regarding the functional parameters of this group of patients is scarce. Functional characterization may point to the need for post-treatment intervention measures that optimize the quality of life in patients with MDR-TB. Thus, this study sought to analyze the respiratory function, functional capacity, and quality of life of patients who were treated for MDR pulmonary TB. ⋯ In conclusion MDR-TB cured subjects exhibit impaired respiratory function and a mildly reduced functional capacity and quality of life, suggesting that a portion of these patients may require a pulmonary rehabilitation approach.
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Fiberoptic bronchoscopy and lung biopsy are important diagnostic tools in patients with diffuse pulmonary infiltrates. However, these patients often have hypoxemic respiratory failure that makes this procedure hazardous. Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) has been shown to improve oxygenation in hypoxemic patients. ⋯ NIV-assisted bronchoscopic lung biopsy is a novel method for obtaining diagnosis in hypoxemic patients with diffuse lung infiltrates. However, this approach should be reserved for centers with extensive experience in NIV. More studies are required to define the utility of this approach.
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There are limited data on the safety and efficacy of recruitment maneuvers (RMs) in acute lung injury (ALI) patients. ⋯ Complications in adult ALI patients receiving RMs were common, but serious complications (eg, new air leak through an existing chest tube) were infrequent. There is a significant association between the number of RMs received and complications, even after controlling for illness severity and duration. Given their uncertain benefit in ALI patients, and the potential for complications with repeated application, the routine use of sustained inflation RMs is not justified.
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Optimal titration of inspired oxygen is important to prevent hyperoxia in mechanically ventilated patients in ICUs. There is mounting evidence of the deleterious effects of hyperoxia; however, there is a paucity of data about F(IO(2)) practice and oxygen exposure among patients in ICUs. We therefore sought to assess excessive F(IO(2)) exposure in mechanically ventilated patients with acute lung injury and to evaluate the effect on pulmonary outcomes. ⋯ Excessive oxygen supplementation is common in mechanically ventilated patients with ALI and may be associated with worsening lung function.