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Mizrahi J, Marhaba J, Paradkar A, Klyachman L, Menashe E, Jamorabo DS. Inpatient Gastroenterology Consults Have Little Utility Before Transesophageal Echocardiograms in a Prospective Cohort Study. Am J Gastroenterol 2025; 120:650-656. [PMID: 39056537 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000002974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the well-documented safety of transesophageal echocardiograms (TEEs), inpatient gastroenterology (GI) services are called to clear patients for the procedure when they have GI symptoms or comorbidities ranging from mild to clinically significant. We aimed to assess the clinical utility of such consults in preventing TEE complications. METHODS We performed a prospective cohort study of all inpatients at our institution who had a TEE ordered from 7/1/2021 through 7/1/2022. Patients' demographic information, indications for TEE, complications from TEE, 30-day readmission rates, GI team recommendations, and results of any GI-related interventions were collected and analyzed. RESULTS There were 732 patients who had a TEE ordered during our study period, of whom 641 (87.51%) underwent the procedure. Of the 91 (12.49%) who did not have a TEE, none were canceled due to a GI-related concern. There were 23 of 641 patients (3.59%) with complications from the TEE, none of which were GI-related. The GI team was consulted on 36 patients (4.96% of TEEs ordered) and cleared 22 of 36 (61.11%) with no further testing while the remaining 14 of 36 patients (38.89%) underwent workups that were largely normal. Patients who had a GI consult before their TEE had a significantly longer time between their TEE being ordered and the TEE being performed compared with those who did not have a GI consult before their TEE (4.50 days vs 0.77 days, P < 0.01). DISCUSSION Inpatient GI team workups to clear patients for a TEE found no contraindications to TEEs, did not change patient care plans, and led to increased hospital costs and lengths of stay.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jade Marhaba
- Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Eyal Menashe
- Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, New York, USA
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Berg T, Aehling NF, Bruns T, Welker MW, Weismüller T, Trebicka J, Tacke F, Strnad P, Sterneck M, Settmacher U, Seehofer D, Schott E, Schnitzbauer AA, Schmidt HH, Schlitt HJ, Pratschke J, Pascher A, Neumann U, Manekeller S, Lammert F, Klein I, Kirchner G, Guba M, Glanemann M, Engelmann C, Canbay AE, Braun F, Berg CP, Bechstein WO, Becker T, Trautwein C. [Not Available]. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR GASTROENTEROLOGIE 2024; 62:1397-1573. [PMID: 39250961 DOI: 10.1055/a-2255-7246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Berg
- Bereich Hepatologie, Medizinischen Klinik II, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Leipzig, Deutschland
| | - Niklas F Aehling
- Bereich Hepatologie, Medizinischen Klinik II, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Leipzig, Deutschland
| | - Tony Bruns
- Medizinische Klinik III, Universitätsklinikum Aachen, Aachen, Deutschland
| | - Martin-Walter Welker
- Medizinische Klinik I Gastroent., Hepat., Pneum., Endokrin. Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Deutschland
| | - Tobias Weismüller
- Klinik für Innere Medizin - Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Vivantes Humboldt-Klinikum, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Jonel Trebicka
- Medizinische Klinik B für Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Universitätsklinikum Münster, Münster, Deutschland
| | - Frank Tacke
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Medizinische Klinik m. S. Hepatologie und Gastroenterologie, Campus Virchow-Klinikum (CVK) und Campus Charité Mitte (CCM), Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Pavel Strnad
- Medizinische Klinik III, Universitätsklinikum Aachen, Aachen, Deutschland
| | - Martina Sterneck
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg, Hamburg, Deutschland
| | - Utz Settmacher
- Klinik für Allgemein-, Viszeral- und Gefäßchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Deutschland
| | - Daniel Seehofer
- Klinik für Viszeral-, Transplantations-, Thorax- und Gefäßchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Leipzig, Deutschland
| | - Eckart Schott
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II - Gastroenterologie, Hepatologie und Diabetolgie, Helios Klinikum Emil von Behring, Berlin, Deutschland
| | | | - Hartmut H Schmidt
- Klinik für Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Essen, Deutschland
| | - Hans J Schlitt
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Chirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Regensburg, Regensburg, Deutschland
| | - Johann Pratschke
- Chirurgische Klinik, Charité Campus Virchow-Klinikum - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Andreas Pascher
- Klinik für Allgemein-, Viszeral- und Transplantationschirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Münster, Münster, Deutschland
| | - Ulf Neumann
- Klinik für Allgemein-, Viszeral- und Transplantationschirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Essen, Deutschland
| | - Steffen Manekeller
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Allgemein-, Viszeral-, Thorax- und Gefäßchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland
| | - Frank Lammert
- Medizinische Hochschule Hannover (MHH), Hannover, Deutschland
| | - Ingo Klein
- Chirurgische Klinik I, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Würzburg, Deutschland
| | - Gabriele Kirchner
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Chirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Regensburg und Innere Medizin I, Caritaskrankenhaus St. Josef Regensburg, Regensburg, Deutschland
| | - Markus Guba
- Klinik für Allgemeine, Viszeral-, Transplantations-, Gefäß- und Thoraxchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum München, München, Deutschland
| | - Matthias Glanemann
- Klinik für Allgemeine, Viszeral-, Gefäß- und Kinderchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes, Homburg, Deutschland
| | - Cornelius Engelmann
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Medizinische Klinik m. S. Hepatologie und Gastroenterologie, Campus Virchow-Klinikum (CVK) und Campus Charité Mitte (CCM), Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Ali E Canbay
- Medizinische Klinik, Universitätsklinikum Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Bochum, Deutschland
| | - Felix Braun
- Klinik für Allgemeine Chirurgie, Viszeral-, Thorax-, Transplantations- und Kinderchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Schlewswig-Holstein, Kiel, Deutschland
| | - Christoph P Berg
- Innere Medizin I Gastroenterologie, Hepatologie, Infektiologie, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Tübingen, Deutschland
| | - Wolf O Bechstein
- Klinik für Allgemein- und Viszeralchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Deutschland
| | - Thomas Becker
- Klinik für Allgemeine Chirurgie, Viszeral-, Thorax-, Transplantations- und Kinderchirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Schlewswig-Holstein, Kiel, Deutschland
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Mittal S, Bhardwaj M, Shekhrajka P, Goyal VK, Nimje GR, Kanoji S, Danduri SK, Vishnoi A. An overview of unresolved issues in the perioperative management of liver transplant patients. KOREAN JOURNAL OF TRANSPLANTATION 2023; 37:221-228. [PMID: 38115164 PMCID: PMC10772275 DOI: 10.4285/kjt.23.0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, the field of solid organ transplantation has undergone significant changes, with some of the most notable advancements occurring in liver transplantation. Recent years have seen substantial progress in preoperative patient optimization protocols, anesthesia monitoring, coagulation management, and fluid management, among other areas. These improvements have led to excellent perioperative outcomes for all surgical patients, including those undergoing liver transplantation. In the last few decades, there have been numerous publications in the field of liver transplantation, but controversies related to perioperative management of liver transplant recipients persist. In this review article, we address the unresolved issues surrounding the anesthetic management of patients scheduled for liver transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Mittal
- Department of Organ Transplant Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, India
| | - Medha Bhardwaj
- Department of Neuro-Anaesthesia, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, India
| | | | - Vipin Kumar Goyal
- Department of Organ Transplant Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, India
| | - Ganesh Ramaji Nimje
- Department of Organ Transplant Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, India
| | - Sakshi Kanoji
- Department of Organ Transplant Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, India
| | - Suma Katyaeni Danduri
- Department of Organ Transplant Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, India
| | - Anshul Vishnoi
- Department of Organ Transplant Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, India
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DALAL RAHULS. Inpatient Gastroenterology Workups Prior to Transesophageal Echocardiogram: Is It Time for a Change of Heart? GASTRO HEP ADVANCES 2023; 2:743-744. [PMID: 39129864 PMCID: PMC11307725 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastha.2023.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- RAHUL S. DALAL
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endoscopy, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Mizrahi J, Klaychman L, Paradkar A, Menashe E, Marhaba J, Jamorabo D. Inpatient Gastroenterology Workup Prior to Transesophageal Echocardiogram Is of Minimal Benefit to Patients. GASTRO HEP ADVANCES 2023; 2:639-641. [PMID: 39129872 PMCID: PMC11307618 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastha.2023.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- J. Mizrahi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, New York
| | - L. Klaychman
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, New York
| | - A. Paradkar
- Department of Medicine, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, New York
| | - E. Menashe
- Department of Medicine, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, New York
| | - J. Marhaba
- Department of Medicine, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, New York
| | - D. Jamorabo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, New York
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Chotalia M, Topiwala U, Iqbal A, Parekh D, Isaac JL, Perera MTPR, Arshad MA. Incidence of Gastrointestinal Bleeding After Transesophageal Echocardiography Use in Orthotopic Liver Transplantation. Transpl Int 2022; 35:10753. [PMID: 36338536 PMCID: PMC9632341 DOI: 10.3389/ti.2022.10753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
The risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) after transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in patients with high grade esophageal varices (EV) that are undergoing Orthotopic Liver transplantation (OLT) is poorly understood. This was a retrospective single-centre cohort study in all patients that underwent OLT at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham between September 2016 and September 2018. The primary outcome was to determine the incidence of UGIB in patients that have undergone OLT with EV that received TEE. 401 patients were included in the study, of which 320 (80%) received TEE. The incidence of post-operative UGIB in patients that received TEE was 1.6% (5/320) in the entire cohort: 2.7% (4/149) in patients with no evidence of EV and 0.6% (1/171) in patients with EV. UGIB occurred in 1 patient with grade 2 EV and did not occur in patients with grade 1 or 3 EV. The incidence of UGIB in patients that received TEE was not statistically different to patients that did not: 1.6% (5/320) vs. 3.7% (3/81) p = 0.218. In conclusion, in patients that underwent OLT, intra-operative TEE use was associated with low rates of UGIB, even in cohorts with high grade EV. This suggests that TEE is a relatively safe method of haemodynamic monitoring in patients undergoing OLT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minesh Chotalia
- Department of Anaesthetics and Critical Care, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Birmingham Acute Care Research Group, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Upasana Topiwala
- Department of Anaesthetics and Critical Care, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Asim Iqbal
- Department of Anaesthetics and Critical Care, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Care, Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Dhruv Parekh
- Department of Anaesthetics and Critical Care, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Birmingham Acute Care Research Group, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - John L. Isaac
- Department of Anaesthetics and Critical Care, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - M. Thamara P. R. Perera
- Department of Liver Surgery, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Department of Liver Surgery, Birmingham Children’s Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Mohammed A. Arshad
- Department of Anaesthetics and Critical Care, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Mohammed A. Arshad,
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Sandhu S, Alhankawi D, Roytman M, Jain R, Prajapati D. Role of endoscopic evaluation prior to diagnostic transesophageal echocardiography: Is it necessary? JGH Open 2022; 6:595-598. [PMID: 36091317 PMCID: PMC9446391 DOI: 10.1002/jgh3.12792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Background and Aim Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is often performed prior to transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) to evaluate for esophageal pathologies. Although TEE is a safe procedure, some contraindications exist, such as esophageal varices. The incidence of bleeding with TEE is <0.01%, which questions the need for this routine invasive procedure prior to TEE. We sought to characterize patients in whom pre‐TEE endoscopy was requested to determine its clinical utility and identify those that would most benefit. Methods We retrospectively studied patients who underwent EGD for TEE clearance between January 2014 and October 2019. We assessed how often EGD changed management and complications after TEE in those with EGD abnormalities. Results Eighty‐three patients were included. Twenty‐three percent had prior GI bleed, 63% had cirrhosis, 18% had known varices, and 7% had prior variceal bleed. The most common EGD findings were varices (33%). Eighty‐one percent proceeded with TEE. Reasons for TEE deferral included varices (12.5%), high‐risk bleeding lesion (12.5%), and mechanical abnormality (12.5%). In the majority (37.5%), TEE was deemed no longer indicated. No patient undergoing TEE had significant hemoglobin drop or overt bleeding. The most common reason for not performing TEE was unrelated to EGD findings: lack of ongoing indication for TEE. Conclusion Based on our study, EGD is likely not needed for TEE clearance in patients with varices or prior GI bleed. Given that data are limited in patients with abnormalities such as strictures, EGD may still be warranted for these patients. Further studies to identify which patients will benefit from pre‐TEE endoscopy are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunny Sandhu
- Department of Internal Medicine University of California, San Francisco – Fresno Fresno California USA
| | - Dhuha Alhankawi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology University of California, San Francisco – Fresno Fresno California USA
| | - Marina Roytman
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology University of California, San Francisco – Fresno Fresno California USA
| | - Ratnali Jain
- Clinical Research Center University of California, San Francisco – Fresno Fresno California USA
| | - Devang Prajapati
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology University of California, San Francisco – Fresno Fresno California USA
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology VA Central California Healthcare System Fresno California USA
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Villa E, Bianchini M, Blasi A, Denys A, Giannini EG, de Gottardi A, Lisman T, de Raucourt E, Ripoll C, Rautou PE. EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on prevention and management of bleeding and thrombosis in patients with cirrhosis. J Hepatol 2022; 76:1151-1184. [PMID: 35300861 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The prevention and management of bleeding and thrombosis in patients with cirrhosis poses several difficult clinical questions. These Clinical Practice Guidelines have been developed to provide practical guidance on debated topics, including current views on haemostasis in liver disease, controversy regarding the need to correct thrombocytopenia and abnormalities in the coagulation system in patients undergoing invasive procedures, and the need for thromboprophylaxis in hospitalised patients with haemostatic abnormalities. Multiple recommendations in this document are based on interventions that the panel feels are not useful, even though widely applied in clinical practice.
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Odewole M, Sen A, Okoruwa E, Lieber SR, Cotter TG, Nguyen AD, Mufti A, Singal AG, Rich NE. Systematic review with meta-analysis: incidence of variceal hemorrhage in patients with cirrhosis undergoing transesophageal echocardiography. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2022; 55:1088-1098. [PMID: 35343613 PMCID: PMC9197198 DOI: 10.1111/apt.16860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The presence of esophageal varices is considered a relative contraindication to transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) by cardiology professional societies, so gastroenterologists are often consulted to perform upper endoscopy prior to TEE in patients with cirrhosis. AIM To perform a systematic review to quantify the risk of bleeding complications in patients with cirrhosis following TEE. METHODS Two reviewers searched Ovid MEDLINE, MEDLINE In-Process and EMBASE databases from January 1992 to May 2021 for studies reporting bleeding complications from TEE in patients with cirrhosis. We calculated the pooled incidence rate of bleeding events using the metaprop command with a random effect model. RESULTS We identified 21 studies comprising 4050 unique patients with cirrhosis; 9 studies (n = 3015) assessed the risk of intraoperative TEE during liver transplant (LT) and 12 studies (n = 1035) assessed bleeding risk in patients undergoing TEE for other indications. The pooled incidence of bleeding post-TEE was 0.37% (95% CI 0.04-0.94%) across all studies. Bleeding complications were low among patients undergoing TEE during LT as well as those undergoing TEE for other diagnostic reasons (0.97% vs. 0.004%) and among studies with mean MELD >18 compared to those with mean MELD <18 (0.43% vs. 0.08%). Few studies had a comparator arm, and data on patient-level factors impacting bleeding complications (including degree of liver dysfunction and coagulopathy) were limited across studies. CONCLUSIONS The risk of bleeding complications following TEE is low in patients with cirrhosis, suggesting TEE is safe and risk stratification with upper endoscopy may not be necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mobolaji Odewole
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Ahana Sen
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ehiamen Okoruwa
- Department of Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Sarah R Lieber
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Thomas G Cotter
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | | | - Arjmand Mufti
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Amit G Singal
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Nicole E Rich
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
- Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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Incidence of Gastrointestinal Bleeding after Transesophageal Echocardiography in Patients with Gastroesophageal Varices: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2021; 35:387-394. [PMID: 34875315 DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2021.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is useful for cardiac assessment and intraoperative monitoring. However, the safety of TEE in patients with cirrhosis and gastroesophageal varices has remained uncertain. The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine the incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding after TEE in patients with varices. The secondary objectives were to compare bleeding risks between patients with and without varices and to determine the incidence of TEE-related esophageal perforation and mortality. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted on MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library using the terms "transesophageal echocardiography," "varices," "bleeding," and related terms. Articles describing the incidence of post-TEE bleeding in patients with varices were included. Non-English-language articles were excluded. Risk of bias and level of evidence were assessed using validated scales. The pooled weighted incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding and the risk difference in bleeding were calculated using a random-effects model. RESULTS Five hundred and sixty-nine articles were identified initially, and 10 articles (comprising of 908 patients) were included. The incidence of post-TEE bleeding in patients with varices was 0.84% (95% CI, 0.34% to 1.56%). When stratified by indication for TEE, the pooled incidence of bleeding was 0.68% (95% CI, 0.11% to 1.63%) for intraoperative TEE and 1.03% (95% CI, 0.23% to 2.29%) for diagnostic TEE. No cases of esophageal perforation or mortality were reported. Six studies included comparator groups of patients without varices, and the bleeding risk was comparable between patients with and those without varices (risk difference, 0.26%; 95% CI, -0.80% to 1.32%; I2 = 0%; P = .88). Eight studies had moderate or high risk for bias, and the overall level of evidence was low. CONCLUSIONS TEE appears to be associated with low gastrointestinal bleeding incidence in patients with gastroesophageal varices. Nonetheless, results should be treated with caution because of bias and low level of evidence. Large-scale high-quality studies will be required to confirm the safety of TEE in patients with gastroesophageal varices.
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11
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Maximo J, de Carvalho DS, Duarte A, Pinho P, Almeida J, Maciel J. Esophageal varices: A rare non-cardiac finding in echocardiography. Echocardiography 2021; 38:772-773. [PMID: 33651416 DOI: 10.1111/echo.14977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
A 43-years-old patient with hepatitis C and HIV co-infection was referred to debridement of a left sternoclavicular septic arthritis. Due to suspicion of endocarditis, the patient underwent transthoracic echocardiogram which revealed an mass posterior to left atrium and descending aorta. A thoracic computed tomography revealed esophageal varices. Transesophageal echocardiogram was not performed. The patient has progressed favorably.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Maximo
- Cardiothoracic Surgery Department, Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Ana Duarte
- Radiology Department, Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Paulo Pinho
- Cardiothoracic Surgery Department, Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Jorge Almeida
- Cardiothoracic Surgery Department, Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Maciel
- Cardiothoracic Surgery Department, Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal
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12
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Sack JS, Li M, Zucker SD. Bleeding Outcomes Following Transesophageal Echocardiography in Patients With Cirrhosis and Esophageal Varices. Hepatol Commun 2021; 5:283-292. [PMID: 33553975 PMCID: PMC7850301 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite scant evidence, current guidelines indicate that esophageal varices are a relative contraindication to transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). The aim of this study is to compare the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding following TEE among cirrhotic patients with and without endoscopically-documented esophageal varices. This is a retrospective analysis of patients with cirrhosis who underwent upper endoscopy within 4 years of TEE at five institutions between January 2000 and March 2020. Primary outcome was overt gastrointestinal bleeding. Secondary outcomes were hemoglobin decline by at least 2 g/dL or blood transfusion within 48 hours following TEE. Of the 191 patients, 79 (41.4%) had esophageal varices (30.4% large). No patient experienced a primary outcome. Secondary outcomes occurred in 52 (27.2%): 28 (35.4%) with esophageal varices and 24 (21.4%) without varices. After propensity-score covariate adjustment, the odds ratio for a secondary outcome in patients with esophageal varices was 1.49 (95% confidence interval 0.74-2.99). Restricting analysis to those who underwent endoscopy within 1 year of TEE did not significantly alter results. The risk of a secondary outcome was identical between patients who had upper endoscopy prior (27.5%) versus subsequent (26.7%; P = 1.00) to TEE. Conclusions: Among patients with cirrhosis, there was no overt gastrointestinal bleeding after TEE. The likelihood of a 2 g/dL decline in hemoglobin or blood transfusion within 48 hours following TEE was not significantly higher in patients with esophageal varices after controlling for confounders. Patients who underwent upper endoscopy before TEE did not manifest a lower risk of secondary outcomes versus those who had endoscopy after TEE, suggesting that routine preprocedural endoscopy is of marginal utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan S Sack
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and EndoscopyBrigham and Women's HospitalBostonMAUSA.,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Michael Li
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and EndoscopyBrigham and Women's HospitalBostonMAUSA.,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Stephen D Zucker
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and EndoscopyBrigham and Women's HospitalBostonMAUSA.,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
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13
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Yoon U, Topper J, Goldhammer J. Preoperative Evaluation and Anesthetic Management of Patients With Liver Cirrhosis Undergoing Cardiac Surgery. J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 2020; 36:1429-1448. [PMID: 32891522 DOI: 10.1053/j.jvca.2020.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Preoperative evaluation and anesthetic management of patients with liver cirrhosis undergoing cardiac surgery remain a clinical challenge because of its high risk for perioperative complications. This narrative review article summarizes the pathophysiology and anesthetic implication of liver cirrhosis on each organ system. It will help physicians to evaluate surgical candidates, to optimize intraoperative management, and to anticipate complications in liver cirrhosis patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Morbidity typically results from bleeding, sepsis, multisystem organ failure, or hepatic insufficiency. These complications occur as a result of the presence of coagulopathy, poor nutritional status, immune dysfunction, cirrhotic cardiomyopathy, and renal and pulmonary dysfunction that occur with liver cirrhosis. Therefore, liver cirrhosis should not be seen as a single disease, but one that manifests with multiorgan dysfunction. Cardiac surgery in patients with liver cirrhosis increases the risk of perioperative complications, and it presents a particular challenge to the anesthesiologist in that nearly every aspect of normally functioning physiology may be jeopardized in a unique way. Accurately classifying the extent of liver disease, preoperative optimization, and surgical risk communication with the patient are crucial. In addition, all teams involved in the surgery should communicate openly and coordinate in order to ensure optimal care. To reduce perioperative complications, consider using off-pump cardiopulmonary bypass techniques and optimal perfusion modalities to mimic current physiologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uzung Yoon
- Department of Anesthesiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA.
| | - James Topper
- Department of Anesthesiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jordan Goldhammer
- Department of Anesthesiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA
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14
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Hudhud D, Allaham H, Eniezat M, Enezate T. Safety of performing transoesophageal echocardiography in patients with oesophageal varices. HEART ASIA 2019; 11:e011223. [PMID: 31275433 PMCID: PMC6579576 DOI: 10.1136/heartasia-2019-011223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Oesophageal varices (EV) are one of the complications of liver cirrhosis that carries a risk of rupture and bleeding. The safety of performing transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in patients with pre-existing EV is not well described in literature. Therefore, this retrospective study has been conducted to evaluate the safety of preforming TEE in this group of patients. Methods The study population was extracted from the 2016 Nationwide Readmissions Data using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification/Procedure Coding System for EV, TEE and in-hospital outcomes. Study endpoints included in-hospital all-cause mortality, hospital length of stay, postprocedural gastrointestinal bleeding and oesophageal perforation. Results A total of 81 328 discharges with a diagnosis of EV were identified, among which 242 had a TEE performed during the index hospitalisation. Mean age was 58.3 years, 36.6% female. In comparison to the no-TEE group, the TEE group was associated with comparable in-hospital all-cause mortality (7.0% vs 6.7%, p=0.86) and bleeding (0.9% vs 1.1%, p=0.75); however, TEE group was associated with longer hospital stay (14.9 days vs 6.9 days, p<0.01). There were no reported oesophageal perforations. Conclusions TEE is not a common procedure performed in patients with pre-existing EV. TEE seems to be a safe diagnostic tool for evaluation of heart diseases in this group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dania Hudhud
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Haytham Allaham
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Mohammad Eniezat
- School of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Tariq Enezate
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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15
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Chandra A, Chen TC, Tang Z, Matulevicius SA, Das SR, Agrawal D. Bleeding Risk in Patients with Cirrhosis Undergoing Transesophageal Echocardiography: 6-Year Experience from Parkland Health and Hospital System. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2019; 32:678-680. [PMID: 31056094 DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2019.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alvin Chandra
- University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, Texas; Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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16
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Liu E, Guha A, Dunleavy M, Obarski T. Safety of Transesophageal Echocardiography in Patients with Esophageal Varices. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2019; 32:676-677. [PMID: 30846321 DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2019.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Liu
- Division of Internal Medicine, Columbus, OH
| | - Avirup Guha
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | | | - Timothy Obarski
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
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17
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Nigatu A, Yap JE, Lee Chuy K, Go B, Doukky R. Bleeding Risk of Transesophageal Echocardiography in Patients With Esophageal Varices. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2019; 32:674-676.e2. [PMID: 30665728 DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2018.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Abiy Nigatu
- Division of Cardiology, Cook County Health, Chicago, Illinois; Division of Cardiology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - John Erikson Yap
- Division of Gastroenterology, Cook County Health, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | - Benjamin Go
- Division of Gastroenterology, Cook County Health, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Rami Doukky
- Division of Cardiology, Cook County Health, Chicago, Illinois; Division of Cardiology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
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18
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Vetrugno L, Barnariol F, Bignami E, Centonze GD, De Flaviis A, Piccioni F, Auci E, Bove T. Transesophageal ultrasonography during orthotopic liver transplantation: Show me more. Echocardiography 2018; 35:1204-1215. [PMID: 29858886 DOI: 10.1111/echo.14037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The first perioperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) guidelines published 21 years ago were mainly addressed to cardiac anesthesiologists. TEE has since expanded its role outside this setting and currently represents an invaluable tool to assess chamber sizes, ventricular hypertrophy, and systolic, diastolic, and valvular function in patients undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). Right-sided microemboli, right ventricular dysfunction, and patent foramen ovale (PFO) are the most common intra-operative findings described during OLT. However, left ventricular outflow tract obstruction and left ventricular ballooning syndrome are more difficult to recognize and less frequent. Transesophageal ultrasonography (TEU) during OLT is also underused. Its applications are as follows: (1) assistance in the difficult placement of pulmonary arterial catheters; (2) help with catheterization of great vessels for external veno-venous bypass placement; (3) intra-operative evaluation of surgical liver anastomosis patency, if feasible, through the liver window; and (4) intra-operative investigation of "acute hypoxemia" due to pulmonary and cardiac issues using trans-esophageal lung ultrasound (TELU). The aims of this review are as follows: (1) to summarize the uses of TEE and TEU throughout all phases of OLT, and (2) to describe other new feasible applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Vetrugno
- Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Clinic, Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Federico Barnariol
- Anesthesiology and Intensive Care 1, Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, University-Hospital of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Elena Bignami
- Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine Division, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Grazia D Centonze
- Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Clinic, Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Adelisa De Flaviis
- Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Clinic, Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Federico Piccioni
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Support Therapy, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Auci
- Anesthesiology and Intensive Care 2, Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, University-Hospital of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bove
- Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Clinic, Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
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Dalia AA, Flores A, Chitilian H, Fitzsimons MG. A Comprehensive Review of Transesophageal Echocardiography During Orthotopic Liver Transplantation. J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 2018; 32:1815-1824. [PMID: 29573952 DOI: 10.1053/j.jvca.2018.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is characterized by significant hemodynamic disturbances and anesthetic challenges. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) can be used to guide management during these procedures. This review examines the role of echocardiography during OLT, presents common TEE findings during each phase of OLT, and discusses the benefits demonstrated with TEE use and the safety of TEE in this patient population. Finally, the authors propose an algorithm for the safe use of TEE during OLT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam A Dalia
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Medicine, and Critical Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
| | - Antolin Flores
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
| | - Hovig Chitilian
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Medicine, and Critical Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Michael G Fitzsimons
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
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20
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Gjeorgjievski M, Cappell MS. Portal hypertensive gastropathy: A systematic review of the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, natural history and therapy. World J Hepatol 2016; 8:231-262. [PMID: 26855694 PMCID: PMC4733466 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v8.i4.231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2015] [Revised: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To describe the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, natural history, and therapy of portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG) based on a systematic literature review. METHODS Computerized search of the literature was performed via PubMed using the following medical subject headings or keywords: "portal" and "gastropathy"; or "portal" and "hypertensive"; or "congestive" and "gastropathy"; or "congestive" and "gastroenteropathy". The following criteria were applied for study inclusion: Publication in peer-reviewed journals, and publication since 1980. Articles were independently evaluated by each author and selected for inclusion by consensus after discussion based on the following criteria: Well-designed, prospective trials; recent studies; large study populations; and study emphasis on PHG. RESULTS PHG is diagnosed by characteristic endoscopic findings of small polygonal areas of variable erythema surrounded by a pale, reticular border in a mosaic pattern in the gastric fundus/body in a patient with cirrhotic or non-cirrhotic portal hypertension. Histologic findings include capillary and venule dilatation, congestion, and tortuosity, without vascular fibrin thrombi or inflammatory cells in gastric submucosa. PHG is differentiated from gastric antral vascular ectasia by a different endoscopic appearance. The etiology of PHG is inadequately understood. Portal hypertension is necessary but insufficient to develop PHG because many patients have portal hypertension without PHG. PHG increases in frequency with more severe portal hypertension, advanced liver disease, longer liver disease duration, presence of esophageal varices, and endoscopic variceal obliteration. PHG pathogenesis is related to a hyperdynamic circulation, induced by portal hypertension, characterized by increased intrahepatic resistance to flow, increased splanchnic flow, increased total gastric flow, and most likely decreased gastric mucosal flow. Gastric mucosa in PHG shows increased susceptibility to gastrotoxic chemicals and poor wound healing. Nitrous oxide, free radicals, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and glucagon may contribute to PHG development. Acute and chronic gastrointestinal bleeding are the only clinical complications. Bleeding is typically mild-to-moderate. Endoscopic therapy is rarely useful because the bleeding is typically diffuse. Acute bleeding is primarily treated with octreotide, often with concomitant proton pump inhibitor therapy, or secondarily treated with vasopressin or terlipressin. Nonselective β-adrenergic receptor antagonists, particularly propranolol, are used to prevent bleeding after an acute episode or for chronic bleeding. Iron deficiency anemia from chronic bleeding may require iron replacement therapy. Transjugular-intrahepatic-portosystemic-shunt and liver transplantation are highly successful ultimate therapies because they reduce the underlying portal hypertension. CONCLUSION PHG is important to recognize in patients with cirrhotic or non-cirrhotic portal hypertension because it can cause acute or chronic GI bleeding that often requires pharmacologic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihajlo Gjeorgjievski
- Mihajlo Gjeorgjievski, Mitchell S Cappell, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI 48073, United States
| | - Mitchell S Cappell
- Mihajlo Gjeorgjievski, Mitchell S Cappell, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI 48073, United States
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Shah R, Gutsche JT, Patel PA, Fabbro M, Ochroch EA, Valentine EA, Augoustides JGT. CASE 6-2016Cardiopulmonary Bypass as a Bridge to Clinical Recovery From Cardiovascular Collapse During Graft Reperfusion in Liver Transplantation. J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 2015; 30:809-15. [PMID: 26738978 DOI: 10.1053/j.jvca.2015.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ronak Shah
- Cardiovascular and Thoracic Section Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jacob T Gutsche
- Cardiovascular and Thoracic Section Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Prakash A Patel
- Cardiovascular and Thoracic Section Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Michael Fabbro
- Cardiovascular and Thoracic Section Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Edward A Ochroch
- Liver Transplant Section, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Elizabeth A Valentine
- Liver Transplant Section, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - John G T Augoustides
- Cardiovascular and Thoracic Section Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.
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22
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Expanding role of perioperative transesophageal echocardiography in the general anesthesia practice and residency training in the USA. Curr Opin Anaesthesiol 2015; 28:95-100. [DOI: 10.1097/aco.0000000000000146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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