X-ray indices of chest drain malposition after insertion for drainage of pneumothorax in mechanically ventilated critically ill patients.

Background: Chest drain (CD) migration in the pleural cavity may result in inadequate drainage of pneumothorax. The aim of this study was to assess several parameters that might help in diagnosing CD migration on chest X-ray (CXR).

Methods: Patients with a CD inserted from the safe triangle with a subsequent supine CXR and CT scan performed less than 24 hours apart were assessed for CD foreshortening, angle of inclination of the CD, and CD tortuosity.

Concomitant use of beta-1 adrenoreceptor blocker and norepinephrine in patients with septic shock.

Background: Betablockade has been shown to have cardioprotective effects in patients under perioperative stress. Besides animal model of septic shock and a small cohort of septic patients, these benefits have not been studied in septic shock patients who require norepinephrine administration.

Methods: After correction of preload, an esmolol bolus (0.