Effect of transcutaneous neuromodulation on predictive parameters of extubation failure in severe acute pancreatitis: A case report

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> Complications of pancreatitis can lead to admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) with invasive mechanical ventilation. Reducing the duration of mechanical ventilation is challenging for critical care practitioners. Respiratory muscle weakness hinders the weaning process, thereby increasing the duration of mechanical ventilation and hindering pulmonary rehabilitation.<br /> <b>Methods: </b>We evaluated the effect of transcutaneous neuromodulation on predictors of extubation failure. The patient was a 51-year-old male with a history of type 2 diabetes, obesity (body mass index=35), and regular alcohol consumption of 40 g/day. The patient was admitted to ICU with a diagnosis of severe acute pancreatitis and multi-organ failure. Maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), airway occlusion pressure at 100 ms (P0.1), rapid shallow breathing index (RSBI), and diaphragmatic thickening fraction (DTf) were measured.<br /> <b>Results:</b> The results demonstrated an improvement in all the parameters. Show an increase in MIP from -18 cmH2O to -37 cmH2O and a reduction in P0.1 from -5.7 cmH2O to -3.1 cmH2O. RSBI decreased from 107 to 72, and DTf increased from 20% to 35%. The patient was extubated successfully and discharged to the ward after a 28-day ICU stay.<br /> <b>Conclusions:</b> The application of transcutaneous neuromodulation led to an improvement in the predictive parameters of extubation failure in patients with severe acute pancreatitis, which was ultimately confirmed by ventilatory support not being required after extubation. Transcutaneous neuromodulation application helps improve respiratory parameters and systemic improvement of the patient until he is released from ICU. Transcutaneous neuromodulation should be used in combination with other physiotherapy techniques and should be included in a comprehensive rehabilitation protocol rather than as an isolated therapy.