Name: simultaneous laryngopharyngeal and conventional esophageal ph monitoring
Uploaded: 2020-12-14T12:30:00
Description: Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Simultaneous Laryngopharyngeal and Conventional Esophageal pH Monitoring at JoVE.com

The authors would like to thank Restech for providing an educational grant.

The following study protocol was reviewed and approved by the Ethics Committee of the Medical Faculty of the University of Cologne.
NOTE: Ensure that the patient arrives NPO for the following gastrointestinal function testing. Perform a high-resolution manometry to determine the exact location of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and to rule out esophageal dysmotility disorders such as achalasia. The patient should be off antisecretory medication for at least 7 days prior to ensure a valid ...

<ol>
	<li>Dent, J., El-Serag, H. B., Wallander, M. A., Johansson, S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Epidemiology+of+gastro-oesophageal+reflux+disease:+a+systematic+review.">Epidemiology of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease: a systematic review.</a> Gut. 54 (5), 710-717 (2005).</li><li>Koop, H., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=S2k+guideline:+gastroesophageal+reflux+disease+guided+by+the+German+Society+of+Gastroenterology:+AWMF+register+no.+021-013.">S2k guideline: gastroesophageal reflux disease guided by the German Society of Gastroenterology: AWMF register no. 021-013.</a> Zeitschrift f&#252;r Gastroenterologie. 52 (11), 1299-1346 (2014).</li><li>Becker, V., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=New+aspects+in+the+pathomechanism+and+diagnosis+of+the+laryngopharyngeal+reflux-clinical+impact+of+laryngeal+proton+pumps+and+pharyngeal+pH+metry+in+extraesophageal+gastroesophageal+reflux+disease.">New aspects in the pathomechanism and diagnosis of the laryngopharyngeal reflux-clinical impact of laryngeal proton pumps and pharyngeal pH metry in extraesophageal gastroesophageal reflux disease.</a> World Journal of Gastroenterology. 21 (3), 982-987 (2015).</li><li>Vakil, N., van Zanten, S. V., Kahrilas, P., Dent, J., Jones, R. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+Montreal+definition+and+classification+of+gastroesophageal+reflux+disease:+a+global+evidence-based+consensus.">The Montreal definition and classification of gastroesophageal reflux disease: a global evidence-based consensus.</a> American Journal of Gastroenterology. 101 (8), 1900-1920 (2006).</li><li>Issing, W. J., Karkos, P. D., Perreas, K., Folwaczny, C., Reichel, O. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Dual-probe+24-hour+ambulatory+pH+monitoring+for+diagnosis+of+laryngopharyngeal+reflux.">Dual-probe 24-hour ambulatory pH monitoring for diagnosis of laryngopharyngeal reflux.</a> Journal of Laryngology &amp; Otology. 118 (11), 845-848 (2004).</li><li>Smit, C. F., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Ambulatory+pH+measurements+at+the+upper+esophageal+sphincter.">Ambulatory pH measurements at the upper esophageal sphincter.</a> Laryngoscope. 108 (2), 299-302 (1998).</li><li>Worrell, S. G., DeMeester, S. R., Greene, C. L., Oh, D. S., Hagen, J. A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Pharyngeal+pH+monitoring+better+predicts+a+successful+outcome+for+extraesophageal+reflux+symptoms+after+antireflux+surgery.">Pharyngeal pH monitoring better predicts a successful outcome for extraesophageal reflux symptoms after antireflux surgery.</a> Surgical Endoscopy. 27 (11), 4113-4118 (2013).</li><li>Ayazi, S., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+new+technique+for+measurement+of+pharyngeal+pH:+normal+values+and+discriminating+pH+threshold.">A new technique for measurement of pharyngeal pH: normal values and discriminating pH threshold.</a> Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery. 13 (8), 1422-1429 (2009).</li><li>Becker, V., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=First+agreement+analysis+and+day-to-day+comparison+of+pharyngeal+pH+monitoring+with+pH/impedance+monitoring+in+patients+with+suspected+laryngopharyngeal+reflux.">First agreement analysis and day-to-day comparison of pharyngeal pH monitoring with pH/impedance monitoring in patients with suspected laryngopharyngeal reflux.</a> Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery. 16 (6), 1096-1101 (2012).</li><li>Wilhelm, D., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Pharyngeal+pH+monitoring+in+gastrectomy+patients+-+what+do+we+really+measure.">Pharyngeal pH monitoring in gastrectomy patients - what do we really measure.</a> United European Gastroenterology Journal. 4 (4), 541-545 (2016).</li><li>Mazzoleni, G., Vailati, C., Lisma, D. G., Testoni, P. A., Passaretti, S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Correlation+between+oropharyngeal+pH-monitoring+and+esophageal+pH-impedance+monitoring+in+patients+with+suspected+GERD-related+extra-esophageal+symptoms.">Correlation between oropharyngeal pH-monitoring and esophageal pH-impedance monitoring in patients with suspected GERD-related extra-esophageal symptoms.</a> Neurogastroenterology &amp; Motility. 26 (11), 1557-1564 (2014).</li><li>Fuchs, H. F., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Simultaneous+laryngopharyngeal+pH+monitoring+(Restech)+and+conventional+esophageal+pH+monitoring-correlation+using+a+large+patient+cohort+of+more+than+100+patients+with+suspected+gastroesophageal+reflux+disease.">Simultaneous laryngopharyngeal pH monitoring (Restech) and conventional esophageal pH monitoring-correlation using a large patient cohort of more than 100 patients with suspected gastroesophageal reflux disease.</a> Dis Esophagus. 31 (10), (2018).</li><li>Fuchs, H., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Refluxassoziierte+Ver&#228;nderungen+des+Rest&#246;sophagus+nach+&#214;sophagektomie+und+Magenhochzug+-+Funktionsdiagnostik+im+Langzeitverlauf+bei+Patienten+mit+&#214;sophaguskarzinom+mit+einem+neuen+Instrument.">Refluxassoziierte Ver&#228;nderungen des Rest&#246;sophagus nach &#214;sophagektomie und Magenhochzug - Funktionsdiagnostik im Langzeitverlauf bei Patienten mit &#214;sophaguskarzinom mit einem neuen Instrument.</a> Zeitschrift f&#252;r Gastroenterologie. 54 (08), 436 (2016).</li><li>Jamieson, J. R., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Ambulatory+24-h+esophageal+pH+monitoring:+normal+values,+optimal+thresholds,+specificity,+sensitivity,+and+reproducibility.">Ambulatory 24-h esophageal pH monitoring: normal values, optimal thresholds, specificity, sensitivity, and reproducibility.</a> American Journal of Gastroenterology. 87 (9), 1102-1111 (1992).</li><li>M&#252;ller, D. T., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Software+improvement+for+evaluation+of+laryngopharyngeal+pH+testing+(Restech)+-+a+comparison+between+DataView+3+and+4.">Software improvement for evaluation of laryngopharyngeal pH testing (Restech) - a comparison between DataView 3 and 4.</a> World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery. 12 (5), 236-246 (2020).</li><li>Weitzendorfer, M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Pepsin+and+oropharyngeal+pH+monitoring+to+diagnose+patients+with+laryngopharyngeal+reflux.">Pepsin and oropharyngeal pH monitoring to diagnose patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux.</a> Laryngoscope. 130 (7), 1780-1786 (2020).</li><li>Neto, R. M. L., Herbella, F. A. M., Schlottmann, F., Patti, M. G. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Does+DeMeester+score+still+define+GERD.">Does DeMeester score still define GERD.</a> Dis Esophagus. 32 (5), (2019).</li><li>Anandasabapathy, S., Jaffin, B. W. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Multichannel+intraluminal+impedance+in+the+evaluation+of+patients+with+persistent+globus+on+proton+pump+inhibitor+therapy.">Multichannel intraluminal impedance in the evaluation of patients with persistent globus on proton pump inhibitor therapy.</a> Annals of Otology, Rhinology &amp; Laryngology. 115 (8), 563-570 (2006).</li></ol>

Esophageal pH monitoring is commonly used to confirm the diagnosis of GERD in patients with typical reflux symptoms. However, many patients present, in addition to typical reflux symptoms, with atypical reflux symptoms such as cough or hoarseness most likely related to LPR. Current guidelines suggest an empiric trial with PPIs to proof a reflux related origin of those symptoms and a standardized objective measurement is lacking2. Laryngopharyngeal pH testing, due to its location above the upper es...

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common benign diseases affecting up to 20% of people in western countries1. In addition to typical symptoms such as heartburn or regurgitation, some patients may suffer from atypical symptoms such as cough, hoarseness, or asthma2,3. Despite the agreement that chronic cough, chronic laryngitis, and asthma can have a reflux related origin and are significantly associated with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), the exact pathomechanism still remains unclear. As these symptoms are usually part of a multifactorial process, they depict a great diagnostic and therapeutic challenge4.
Distal esophageal pH monitoring 5 cm above the lower esophageal sphincter is commonly used to determine abnormal esophageal acid exposure in patients with suspected GERD2. In an attempt to use the same technique, proximal conventional pH monitoring was introduced in the late 1990s as a diagnostic device to measure abnormal acid exposure at the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) as the probe is placed at or slightly above the UES. However, this method does not always provide valid and accurate results as the probe is not designed for an oropharyngeal environment leading to the measurement of invalid artifacts such as pseudoreflux events caused by drying out of the probe5,6.
Lately, laryngopharyngeal pH monitoring was introduced as a new diagnostic device specifically designed to measure acid exposure in the oropharynx, as the probe is placed above the UES slightly lateral to the uvula (Figure 1). Since previous research has shown it to have a positive predictive value of 80% for a successful outcome after antireflux surgery in patients with primarily atypical symptoms, this new tool has been a valuable addition to the diagnostic pathway in selected patients. Its tear drop sensor is equipped with an antimony technology that detects liquid and aerosolized acid and does not need direct mucosal contact to measure valid results. In addition, the sensor can, in contrast to proximal pH monitoring, resist drying out which may lead to more reliable results7,8.
Current literature on the correlation of concomitant conventional esophageal and laryngopharyngeal pH measurement is sparse. Previous studies either included only a small number of patients or did not perform both measurements simultaneously9,10,11. We recently published data on the correlation between both pH measurements in a large cohort of 101 patients with suspected GERD. We concluded that laryngopharyngeal and esophageal pH measurement do not necessarily need to correspond due to the existence of a variety of different reflux scenarios12. We furthermore developed a human reflux model with patients following esophagectomy and reconstruction with a gastric interposition showing 100% correlation between both pH monitoring methods in volume-refluxers13.
Here, we aim to provide instructions for simultaneous pH measurement using distal esophageal and laryngopharyngeal pH monitoring. In addition, guidance on analysis of composite acid exposure scores and correlation between results obtained by both methods is given. We furthermore present the newest data of a large patient cohort evaluated using simultaneous esophageal and laryngopharyngeal pH monitoring.

<table>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>AA Battery</td>
			<td>-</td>
			<td>-</td>
			<td>-</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Calibration Solutions pH 4 and 7</td>
			<td>Medtronic</td>
			<td></td>
			<td>part of the Digitrapper Reflux Testing system</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>CR 1632 Lithium coin cell battery</td>
			<td>-</td>
			<td>-</td>
			<td>-</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Digitrapper pH &#38; Impedance catheter</td>
			<td>Medtronic</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Digitrapper Recorder</td>
			<td>Medtronic</td>
			<td></td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Gelicain</td>
			<td>PUREN</td>
			<td></td>
			<td>topical gel</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Hydration vials with clear water</td>
			<td>Respiratory Technology Corporation</td>
			<td></td>
			<td>part of the Restech Dx pH system</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Leukoplast</td>
			<td>BSN medical GmbH</td>
			<td></td>
			<td>surgical tape</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Restech Dx pH probe</td>
			<td>Respiratory Technology Corporation</td>
			<td></td>
			<td>part of the Restech Dx pH system</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Restech Recorder</td>
			<td>Respiratory Technology Corporation</td>
			<td></td>
			<td>part of the Restech Dx pH system</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Restech Transmitter</td>
			<td>Respiratory Technology Corporation</td>
			<td></td>
			<td>part of the Restech Dx pH system</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Screwdriver</td>
			<td>Respiratory Technology Corporation</td>
			<td></td>
			<td>part of the Restech Dx pH system</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>SD Card plus Adapter</td>
			<td>Respiratory Technology Corporation</td>
			<td></td>
			<td>part of the Restech Dx pH system</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>tongue depressor</td>
			<td>NOBAMED</td>
			<td></td>
			<td>wooden</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

simultaneous laryngopharyngeal and conventional esophageal ph monitoring

In addition to typical reflux symptoms, many patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) present with extraesophageal symptoms such as cough, hoarseness or asthma, which can be caused by laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). Due to their multifactorial origin, those symptoms can be a great diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Esophageal pH-monitoring is commonly used to determine abnormal esophageal acid exposure and confirm the diagnosis of GERD. However, for better evaluation of acid exposure above the upper esophageal sphincter, a new laryngopharyngeal pH measurement system is now available and may lead to more reliable results in patients with predominantly extraesophageal symptoms. This article aims to present a standardized protocol for simultaneous pH measurement using esophageal and laryngopharyngeal pH probes in order to obtain acid exposure scores from both measurements.

A total of 181 patients were evaluated using the previously described standardized protocol. Results of the first 101 patients have been previously published12. The following data depicts an extension of the previously published cohort, however, evaluated using the new software for analyzation of results obtained by laryngopharyngeal pH testing15. Demographic data is depicted in Table 1. All patients presented with atypical symptoms including chronic cough,...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Simultaneous Laryngopharyngeal and Conventional Esophageal pH Monitoring at JoVE.com

Simultaneous Laryngopharyngeal and Conventional Esophageal pH Monitoring

Laryngopharyngeal pH monitoring has been specifically designed to measure acid exposure above the upper esophageal sphincter and complements diagnostic evaluation in patients that present with mainly extraesophageal reflux symptoms. Patients with suspected laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) were evaluated using distal esophageal and laryngopharyngeal pH testing simultaneously.

In addition to typical reflux symptoms, many patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) present with extraesophageal symptoms such as cough, ...

Our protocol facilitates a comprehensive evaluation of acid exposure in a very challenging patient cohort with atypical GERD symptoms. In addition, it provides guidance on complementary laryngopharyngeal and esophageal pH monitoring. Different thresholds and probe locations make comparing both methods challenging.Our protocol facilitates simultaneous performance of esophageal and laryngopharyngeal pH monitoring and provides guidance on results analysis. Before beginning the analysis, calibrate the esophageal catheter in a solution with pH of 4 and a solution with pH of 7, rinsing the probe in water between solutions. To calibrate the laryngopharyngeal probe, select study and Hydrate in the laryngopharyngeal pH monitoring software and briefly agitate the laryngopharyngeal probe tip in clear water, then press any round key to start the laryngopharyngeal probe hydration process.When the probes have been calibrated, with the patient in the upright position, and looking forward, provide the patient with a small glass of water with a straw to assist swallowing and insert the esophageal probe straight into the patient's nose. Use the measuring scale on the probe shaft to position the probe 5 centimeters above the lower esophageal sphincter as previously determined by high resolution manometry. When the probe is in place, loop over the ear and use surgical tape to secure the probe to the cheek as close to the nares as possible, using tape to affix the probe behind and below the ear lobe.To place the laryngopharyngeal catheter, insert the probe straight into the other nostril posteriorly. When the probe is in place, the red light will be clearly visible, lateral to, or slightly below the uvula. Use surgical tape to secure the probe as close as possible to the nare and use a clip to secure the transmitter to the patient's clothing.When both probes are in place, simultaneously start the esophageal and laryngopharyngeal pH studies, selecting a 24-hour study for the laryngopharyngeal pH measuring device, then give the patient a diary and ask them to detail their meal times, exact times of supine periods, and any symptoms that they experienced during the study. At the end of the analysis, simultaneously press the two buttons located in the middle of the esophageal device until upload later appears on the display. To end the laryngopharyngeal pH study, simultaneously press the cough, escape, and heartburn buttons until complete appears on the display, then remove the tape and gently remove both catheters.To analyze the esophageal pH study data, connect the esophageal catheter device to a computer and upload the data into the appropriate analysis software program. Manually enter the patient data and information from the patient diary and delete any button presses that might have accidentally been performed by the patient during the study period, then use important parameters and thresholds from the report such as the composite score the total upright and supine percent pHs below baseline and the number of events to determine an abnormal esophageal acid exposure. To analyze the laryngopharyngeal pH study data, insert the SD card from the laryngopharyngeal catheter device into the computer and open analysis software.Click Retrieve to upload the study. Left-click and drag on the graph to highlight the area of interest to select the respective event. Delete any button presses that might have accidentally been performed by the patient during the study period, then use important parameters and thresholds to determine an abnormal oropharyngeal acid exposure.In this representative analysis, a total of 181 patients were evaluated as demonstrated. All of the patients presented with atypical symptoms, including chronic cough, hoarseness, sore throat, or pharyngeal burning. In addition, most patients suffered from typical GERD symptoms, such as regurgitation, heartburn and dysphagia.A normal oropharyngeal acid exposure obtained by laryngopharyngeal pH testing was defined as a RYAN score of less than 9.4 upright and/or less than 6.8 supine. A normal esophageal pH test result was defined as a DeMeester score of less than 14.72. Abnormal oropharyngeal acid exposure was observed in 76 patients more frequently in the upright position, with 72 patients demonstrating an abnormal RYAN score upright compared to nine patients in supine position.A normal oropharyngeal test result was reported for 105 patients. Most important for this protocol is the correct probe placement, with the esophageal probe being placed 5 centimeters above the LES and the oropharyngeal probe being placed lateral to the uvula.

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This article describes a rat model of electrically-induced ventricular fibrillation and resuscitation by chest compression, ventilation, and delivery of electrical shocks that simulates an episode of sudden cardiac arrest and conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The model enables gathering insights on the pathophysiology of cardiac arrest and exploration of new resuscitation strategies.

A rat model of electrically-induced ventricular fibrillation followed by cardiac resuscitation using a closed chest technique that incorporates the basic ...

Surgical Models of Gastroesophageal Reflux with Mice

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This article demonstrates surgical procedures of gastroesophageal reflux with mice. These models are useful tools for research on mechanisms and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease and potentially Barrett&#8217;s esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Multiple surgical procedures have been reported to induce gastroesophageal reflux in animals. Herein, we report three surgical models with mice aiming to ...

Three Different Protocols of Corneal Collagen Crosslinking in Keratoconus: Conventional, Accelerated and Iontophoresis

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Corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) is the only conservative treatment currently available to halt keratoconus progression by improving the biomechanical rigidity of the corneal stroma. The aim of this manuscript is to highlight the methods of three different protocols of CXL: conventional CXL (C-CXL), accelerated CXL (A-CXL), and iontophoresis CXL (I-CXL).

Keratoconus is a bilateral and progressive corneal ectasia. In order to slow down its progression, corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) has recently been ...

ADSC-sheet Transplantation to Prevent Stricture after Extended Esophageal Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection

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This study reports a successful method of endoscopical adipose tissue-derived stromal cell (ADSC)-sheet transplantation for esophageal stricture prevention after an extended endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) in a swine model.

In past years, the cell-sheet construct has spurred wide interest in regenerative medicine, especially for reconstructive surgery procedures. The ...

Esophageal Heat Transfer for Patient Temperature Control and Targeted Temperature Management

Controlling patient temperature is important for a wide variety of clinical conditions. Cooling to normal or below normal body temperature is often performed for neuroprotection after ischemic insult (e.g. hemorrhagic stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, cardiac arrest, or other hypoxic injury). Cooling from febrile states treats fever and reduces the negative effects of hyperthermia on injured neurons. Patients are warmed in the operating room to prevent inadvertent perioperative hypothermia, which is known to cause increased blood loss, wound infections, and myocardial injury, while also prolonging recovery time. There are many reported approaches for temperature management, including improvised methods that repurpose standard supplies (e.g., ice, chilled saline, fans, blankets) but more sophisticated technologies designed for temperature management are typically more successful in delivering an optimized protocol. Over the last decade, advanced technologies have developed around two heat transfer methods: surface devices (water blankets, forced-air warmers) or intravascular devices (sterile catheters requiring vascular placement). Recently, a novel device became available that is placed in the esophagus, analogous to a standard orogastric tube, that provides efficient heat transfer through the patient&#39;s core. The device connects to existing heat exchange units to allow automatic patient temperature management via a servo mechanism, using patient temperature from standard temperature sensors (rectal, Foley, or other core temperature sensors) as the input variable. This approach eliminates vascular placement complications (deep venous thrombosis, central line associated bloodstream infection), reduces obstruction to patient access, and causes less shivering when compared to surface approaches. Published data have also shown a high degree of accuracy and maintenance of target temperature using the esophageal approach to temperature management. Therefore, the purpose of this method is to provide a low-risk alternative method for controlling patient temperature in critical care settings.

This study presents a novel method to provide efficient patient temperature control for cooling or warming patients. A single use, triple lumen device is placed into the esophagus, analogous to a standard orogastric tube, and connects to existing heat exchange units to perform automatic patient temperature management.

Controlling patient temperature is important for a wide variety of clinical conditions. Cooling to normal or below normal body temperature is often ...

Absorbent Microbiopsy Sampling and RNA Extraction for Minimally Invasive, Simultaneous Blood and Skin Analysis

Conventional skin biopsy limits the clinical research that involves cosmetically sensitive areas or pediatric applications due to its invasiveness. Here, we describe the protocol for using&#160;an absorbent microneedle-based device, absorbent microbiopsy, for minimally invasive sampling of skin and blood mixture. Our goal is to help facilitate rapid progress in clinical research, the establishment of biomarkers for skin disease and reducing the risk for clinical research participants. In contrast to conventional skin biopsy techniques, the absorbent microbiopsy can be performed within seconds and does not require intensive training due to its simple design. In this report, we describe the use of absorbent microbiopsy, including loading and application, on a&#160;volunteer. Then, we show how to isolate RNA from the absorbed sample. Finally, we demonstrate the use of quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) to quantify mRNA expression levels of both blood (CD3E and CD19) and skin (KRT14 and TYR). The methods that we describe utilize off the shelf kits and reagents. This protocol offers a minimally invasive approach for simultaneous sampling of skin and blood within the same absorbent microbiopsy matrix. We have found human ethics committees, clinicians and volunteers to be supportive of this approach to dermatological research.

In this article, we demonstrate how the absorbent microbiopsy technique is performed and how the sample can be used for RNA extraction for simple and simultaneous sampling of skin and blood in a minimally invasive manner.

Conventional skin biopsy limits the clinical research that involves cosmetically sensitive areas or pediatric applications due to its invasiveness. Here, ...

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance for the Evaluation of Suspected Cardiac Thrombus: Conventional and Emerging Techniques

We present the conventional cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) protocol for evaluating a suspected thrombus and highlight emerging techniques.&#160;The appearance of a mass on certain magnetic resonance (MR) sequences can help differentiate a thrombus from competing diagnoses such as a tumor. T1 and T2 signal characteristics of a thrombus are related to the evolution of hemoglobin properties. A thrombus typically does not enhance following contrast administration, which also helps differentiation from a tumor. We also highlight the emerging role of T1 mapping in the evaluation of a thrombus, which can add another level of support in diagnosis. Prior to any CMR exam, patient screening and interviews are critical to ensure safety and to optimize patient comfort. Effective communication during the exam between the technologist and the patient promotes proper breath holding technique and higher quality images. Volumetric post processing and structured reporting are helpful to ensure that the radiologist answers the ordering services&#39; question and communicates these results effectively. Optimal pre-MR safety evaluation, CMR exam execution, and post exam processing and reporting allow for delivery of high quality radiological service in the evaluation of a suspected cardiac thrombus.

The goal of this article is to describe how cardiac magnetic resonance can be used for the evaluation and diagnosis of a suspected cardiac thrombus. The method presented will describe data acquisition as well as the pre-procedure and post-procedure protocol.

We present the conventional cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) protocol for evaluating a suspected thrombus and highlight emerging techniques.&#160;The ...

Simultaneous Electrocardiography Recording and Invasive Blood Pressure Measurement in Rats

For studies related to cardiovascular physiology or pathophysiology, blood pressure (BP) and electrocardiography are basic observational parameters. Research focusing on cardiovascular disease models, potential cardiovascular therapeutic targets or pharmaceutical agents requires assessment of systemic arterial pressure and heart rhythm changes. In situations where radio telemetry systems are not available or affordable, the technique of femoral artery cannulation is an alternative way to obtain intra-arterial pressure waveform recordings and systemic BP measurements. This technique is economical and can be performed with standard equipment in animal facilities. However, invasive arterial pressure recording requires cannulation of small arteries, which can be a challenging surgical skill. Here, we present step-by-step protocols for femoral artery cannulation procedures. Key procedures include the calibration of the data acquisition system, tissue dissection and femoral artery cannulation, and setup of the arterial cannulation system for pressure recording. Surface electrocardiography recording procedures are also included. We also present examples of BP recordings from normotensive and hypertensive rats. This protocol allows reliable direct recordings of systemic BP with simultaneous electrocardiography.

Here, we describe a setup for simultaneous recording of electrocardiography and intra-arterial blood pressure (BP) in experimental rats, which can be done with standard equipment in animal facilities and can be applied to physiological or pharmacological studies to investigate pathogenic or therapeutic mechanisms in cardiovascular medicine.

For studies related to cardiovascular physiology or pathophysiology, blood pressure (BP) and electrocardiography are basic observational parameters. ...

Laparoscopic Repair of Para-Esophageal Hernia Using Absorbable Biosynthetic Mesh

Para-esophageal hernia repairs are challenging procedures and there is no consensus on the optimal approach to repair. Mesh reinforcement has been associated with lesser hernia recurrence when compared to the primary suture repair. The type of mesh that is most appropriate is still debatable. Synthetic and biosynthetic materials have been studied in the literature. It is well documented that a synthetic mesh is associated with esophageal erosion and migration into the stomach. Though there are limited long-term data on biosynthetic mesh, the short-term results are excellent and promising.
This paper illustrates how a biosynthetic prosthesis can be safely used with fibrin glue fixation and anterior Dor fundoplication to repair any para-esophageal defect. The absorbable biosynthetic mesh has been shown to produce good long-term patient satisfaction outcomes and low recurrence rates compared to conventional methods including repair with synthetic mesh. This technique also avoids the risk of esophageal erosion whilst strengthening the repair. Tacks that are still widely used to secure the mesh can be abandoned due to the associated risk of developing cardiac tamponade, or other disastrous consequences. This repair method, also, highlights how the prosthesis can be fashioned into a V-shape and easily placed in an onlay fashion behind the esophagus. The protocol demonstrates an alternative and safer method for mesh fixation using fibrin glue.

Presented here is a protocol of para-esophageal hernia repair. Use of absorbable biosynthetic mesh avoids the risk of erosion through the esophagus whilst reinforcing the repair. Glue fixation is preferred to avoid the risk of trauma such as bleeding or cardiac tamponade, which are associated with stitches or tacks.

Para-esophageal hernia repairs are challenging procedures and there is no consensus on the optimal approach to repair. Mesh reinforcement has been ...

Evaluation of Capnography Sampling Line Compatibility and Accuracy when Used with a Portable Capnography Monitor

Capnography is commonly used to monitor patient&#8217;s ventilatory status. While sidestream capnography has been shown to provide a reliable assessment of end-tidal CO2 (ETCO2), its accuracy is commonly validated using commercial kits composed of a capnography monitor and its matching disposable nasal cannula sampling lines. The purpose of this study was to assess the compatibility and accuracy of cross-paired capnography sampling lines with a single portable bedside capnography monitor. A series of 4 bench tests were performed to evaluate the tensile strength, rise time, ETCO2 accuracy as a function of respiratory rate, and ETCO2 accuracy in the presence of supplemental O2. Each bench test was performed using specialized, validated equipment to allow for a full evaluation of sampling line performance. The 4 bench tests successfully differentiated between sampling lines from different commercial sources and suggested that due to increased rise time and decreased ETCO2 accuracy, not all nasal cannula sampling lines provide reliable clinical data when cross-paired with a commercial capnography monitor. Care should be taken to ensure that any cross-pairing of capnography monitors and disposable sampling lines is fully validated for use across respiratory rates and supplemental O2 flow rates commonly encountered in clinical settings.

The goal of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of capnography sampling lines used in conjunction with a portable bedside capnography monitor. Sampling lines from 7 manufacturers were evaluated for tensile strength, rise time, and ETCO2 accuracy as a function of respiratory rate or supplemental oxygen flow rate.

Capnography is commonly used to monitor patient&#8217;s ventilatory status. While sidestream capnography has been shown to provide a reliable assessment ...