The Association of Aortic Valve Pathology With Renal Resistive Index as a Kidney Injury Biomarker.

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common serious complication after cardiac surgery. Doppler-determined renal resistive index (RRI) is a promising early AKI biomarker in this population. However, the relationship between aortic valve pathology (insufficiency and/or stenosis) and RRI is unknown.

Emerging Concepts in Transesophageal Echocardiography.

Introduced in 1977, transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) offered imaging through a new acoustic window sitting directly behind the heart, allowing improved evaluation of many cardiac conditions. Shortly thereafter, TEE was applied to the intraoperative environment, as investigators quickly recognized that continuous cardiac evaluation and monitoring during surgery, particularly cardiac operations, were now possible. Among the many applications for perioperative TEE, this review will focus on four recent advances: three-dimensional TEE imaging, continuous TEE monitoring in the intensive care unit, strain imaging, and assessment of diastolic ventricular function.

What is the ideal crystalloid?

Purpose Of Review: We discuss the importance of the composition of intravenous crystalloid solutions. On the basis of current physiologic principles, evidence from basic science and clinical experiments, recent observational studies, and clinical trials, we conclude that the 'ideal crystalloid' depends on clinical context. We make recommendations on solutions that may be used during critical illness, major surgery, and certain clinical situations.

Pulmonary artery catheter.

Since its inception, the pulmonary artery catheter has enjoyed widespread use in both medical and surgical critically ill patients. It has also endured criticism and skepticism about its benefit in these patient populations. By providing information such as cardiac output, mixed venous oxygen saturation, and intracardiac pressures, the pulmonary artery catheter may improve care of the most complex critically ill patients in the intensive care unit and the operating room.