[Management of infection in immunocompromised patients].

The number of immunosuppressed patients continues to increase worldwide. The main reasons are the demographic development and improved long-term survival, also for patients under immunosuppression. A major cause of hospitalization and mortality among these patients are infections.

Microbial colonization of pancreatic duct stents: a prospective analysis.

Objective: The aim of the study was to analyze the microbial colonization rate as well as the spectrum and number of microorganisms in relation to the indwelling time of pancreatic stents.

Methods: Forty pancreatic stents were prepared according to a standardized protocol and subsequently sonicated to optimize bacterial release from the biofilm on the stents.

Results: Two hundred forty-six microorganisms were identified.

Biliary endoprosthesis: a prospective analysis of bacterial colonization and risk factors for sludge formation.

Bacterial colonization of biliary stents is one of the driving forces behind sludge formation which may result in stent occlusion. Major focus of the study was to analyze the spectrum and number of microorganisms in relation to the indwelling time of stents and the risk factors for sludge formation. 343 stents were sonicated to optimize the bacterial release from the biofilm and identified by matrix-associated laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometer (MALDI-TOF).

Functional hemodynamic parameters do not reflect volume responsiveness in the immediate phase after acute myocardial ischemia and reperfusion.

Objective: Functional preload parameters such as stroke-volume variation (SVV) and pulse-pressure variation (PPV) are superior to filling pressures when assessing volume responsiveness in mechanically ventilated patients. This investigation studied their application in the setting of acute myocardial ischemia and reperfusion (I/R).

Design And Setting: Experimental animal study in a university laboratory.

Systolic pressure variation and pulse pressure variation during modifications of arterial pressure.

Objective: This study was performed to investigate the effect of vasopressor therapy on systolic pressure variation (SPV) and pulse pressure variation (PPV) compared to experimentally measured left ventricular stroke volume variation (SVV).

Design And Setting: Prospective study in a university laboratory.

Subjects: Twelve anesthetized and mechanically ventilated pigs.

The influence of positive end-expiratory pressure on stroke volume variation and central blood volume during open and closed chest conditions.

Objective: Intermittent positive pressure ventilation and positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) affect cardiac preload. Their effect is dependent on chest wall compliance. This study compares the effects of intermittent positive pressure ventilation and PEEP on stroke volume variation and central blood volume during open and closed chest conditions.