Manipulating hemodynamics and oxygen transport in critically ill patients
Article Abstract:
Raising the output of the heart or the amount of oxygen delivered by the blood to above-normal levels should not be goals in the treatment of all intensive care patients. Many critically ill patients who survive have abnormally high levels of oxygen delivery and oxygen consumption. However, a 1994 study showed that trying to elevate these metabolic functions artificially in a diverse group of critically ill patients did not improve survival. A similar 1995 study analyzed the survival of intensive care patients who received therapy specifically aimed at achieving abnormally high cardiac output or oxygen delivery. These therapies did not improve survival, although this may have been because the circulation goals were often not attained. Intensive care patients should selectively receive circulation therapy involving the replacement of lost blood volume and the moderate administration of drugs to normalize blood pressure and cardiac output.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1995
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Cardiac replacement with a total artificial heart as a bridge to transplantation
Article Abstract:
Implantation of the total artificial heart improved outcomes in dying patients by providing immediate hemodynamic restoration and clinical stabilization, leading to end-organ recovery and thus eventually allowing cardiac transplantation. The study was conducted on eighty-one patients who received the artificial-heart device. This device prevents death in critically ill patients who have irreversible biventricular failure and are candidates for cardiac transplantation.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2004
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Hemodynamic and metabolic therapy in critically ill patients
Article Abstract:
Patients with septic shock should be given treatments that will increase the supply of oxygen to the body. This can prevent the development of multiple organ failure and death. More research is need to determine whether the use of insulin to normalize blood sugar is beneficial in critically ill patients.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2001
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