Pleural effusions occur when excessive fluid such as blood or pus accumulates between the visceral pleura and parietal, known as the pleural cavity. Evaluating patients for pleural effusions involves certain challenges. However, prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to reduce…
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The number of bacterial meningitis cases is over 1.2 million each year while 1 in 10 people who have it may die from the infection despite receiving treatment. Bacterial meningitis is an extremely serious and life-threatening condition requiring prompt diagnosis.…
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Chest drainage is an ancient medical procedure that’s been used to treat infections, effusions, pneumothorax, and thoracic trauma. In the modern medical world, chest tubes are a ubiquitous tool for managing pneumothorax, pleural air leaks, traumatic hemothorax, infected pleural effusions,…
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In the first part of this article, we covered that ascites occur when excessive fluid accumulates in the peritoneal cavity. Such occurrences must be treated with diuretics, paracentesis, and possibly TIPPS procedure. We also mentioned how refractory ascites occurs when…
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Central line placement is a common medical procedure that many healthcare professionals perform. Around 8% of hospitalized patients need central line access while over five million central venous catheters are inserted by medical professionals in the United States each year.…
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Pleural effusion is a common yet complex medical condition that requires tailored and multidisciplinary treatment. Despite being a common disease, its cause remains unknown in at least 20% of patients even after diagnostic workups. Fortunately, pleural fluid tests have improved…
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If a patient’s airway is compromised during a life-threatening situation, prompt and effective intervention is crucial. This includes front-of-neck access (FONA) emergency airway, or cricothyroidotomy. Also known as cricothyrotomy, it is a specialized procedure that creates emergency access to the…
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Pericardiocentesis Pericardiocentesis or a pericardial tap is a life-saving invasive medical procedure that physicians perform to eliminate a pericardial effusion, built-up fluid in the pericardium or the pericardial sac. This double-walled fibrous sac protects the heart and big vessels while…
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Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a revolutionary diagnostic method that helps enhance physical examination at the point of care, that is, the patient’s bedside. Clinicians can use this tool to quickly diagnose medical conditions and guide treatment or bedside procedures, including…
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