Rehabilitation of Post Stroke Sensory Dysfunction—A Scoping Review

Sensory dysfunction is one of the common impairments that occurs post stroke. With sensory changes in all modalities, it also affects the quality of life and incites suicidal thoughts. The article attempts to review and describe the current evidence of various approaches of assessment and rehabilitation for post-stroke sensory dysfunction. After extensive electronic database search across Medline, Embase, EBSCO, and Cochrane library, it generated 2433 results. After screening according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, we included 11 studies. We categorized data based on type of sensory deficits and prevalence, role of sensory system on motor behavior, type of intervention, sensory modality targeted, and dosage of intervention and outcome measures used for rehabilitation. Results found the strong evidence of involvement of primary and secondary motor areas involved in processing and responding to somatosensation, respectively. We divided rehabilitation approaches into sensory stimulation approach and sensory retraining approach focused on using external stimuli and relearning, respectively. However, with varied aims and targeted sensory involvement, the study applicability is affected. Thus, this emerges the need of extensive research in future for evidence-based practice of assessments and rehabilitation on post-stroke sensory rehabilitation.

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Appraisal of systematic reviews on interventions for postpartum depression: systematic review

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth ◽

10.1186/s12884-020-03496-5 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 21 (1) ◽

Author(s):

Ryan Chow ◽

Eileen Huang ◽

Allen Li ◽

Sophie Li ◽

Sarah Y. Fu ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Systematic Review ◽

Postpartum Depression ◽

Systematic Reviews ◽

Methodological Quality ◽

A Priori ◽

Behavioural Therapy ◽

Therapeutic Interventions ◽

Current Evidence ◽

Cochrane Library ◽

Measurement Tool

Abstract Background Postpartum depression (PPD) is a highly prevalent mental health problem that affects parental health with implications for child health in infancy, childhood, adolescence and beyond. The primary aim of this study was to critically appraise available systematic reviews describing interventions for PPD. The secondary aim was to evaluate the methodological quality of the included systematic reviews and their conclusions. Methods An electronic database search of MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library from 2000 to 2020 was conducted to identify systematic reviews that examined an intervention for PPD. A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews was utilized to independently score each included systematic review which was then critically appraised to better define the most effective therapeutic options for PPD. Results Of the 842 studies identified, 83 met the a priori criteria for inclusion. Based on the systematic reviews with the highest methodological quality, we found that use of antidepressants and telemedicine were the most effective treatments for PPD. Symptoms of PPD were also improved by traditional herbal medicine and aromatherapy. Current evidence for physical exercise and cognitive behavioural therapy in treating PPD remains equivocal. A significant, but weak relationship between AMSTAR score and journal impact factor was observed (p = 0.03, r = 0.24; 95% CI, 0.02 to 0.43) whilst no relationship was found between the number of total citations (p = 0.27, r = 0.12; 95% CI, − 0.09 to 0.34), or source of funding (p = 0.19). Conclusion Overall the systematic reviews on interventions for PPD are of low-moderate quality and are not improving over time. Antidepressants and telemedicine were the most effective therapeutic interventions for PPD treatment.

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Effect of robotic-assisted gait training on objective biomechanical measures of gait in persons post-stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation ◽

10.1186/s12984-021-00857-9 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 18 (1) ◽

Author(s):

Heidi Nedergård ◽

Ashokan Arumugam ◽

Marlene Sandlund ◽

Anna Bråndal ◽

Charlotte K. Häger

Keyword(s):

Kinetic Parameters ◽

Step Length ◽

Gait Training ◽

Risk Of Bias ◽

Current Evidence ◽

Temporal Asymmetry ◽

Robotic Assisted ◽

Post Stroke ◽

Gait Biomechanics ◽

Affected Side

Abstract Background Robotic-Assisted Gait Training (RAGT) may enable high-intensive and task-specific gait training post-stroke. The effect of RAGT on gait movement patterns has however not been comprehensively reviewed. The purpose of this review was to summarize the evidence for potentially superior effects of RAGT on biomechanical measures of gait post-stroke when compared with non-robotic gait training alone. Methods Nine databases were searched using database-specific search terms from their inception until January 2021. We included randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of RAGT (e.g., using exoskeletons or end-effectors) on spatiotemporal, kinematic and kinetic parameters among adults suffering from any stage of stroke. Screening, data extraction and judgement of risk of bias (using the Cochrane Risk of bias 2 tool) were performed by 2–3 independent reviewers. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria were used to evaluate the certainty of evidence for the biomechanical gait measures of interest. Results Thirteen studies including a total of 412 individuals (mean age: 52–69 years; 264 males) met eligibility criteria and were included. RAGT was employed either as monotherapy or in combination with other therapies in a subacute or chronic phase post-stroke. The included studies showed a high risk of bias (n = 6), some concerns (n = 6) or a low risk of bias (n = 1). Meta-analyses using a random-effects model for gait speed, cadence, step length (non-affected side) and spatial asymmetry revealed no significant differences between the RAGT and comparator groups, while stride length (mean difference [MD] 2.86 cm), step length (affected side; MD 2.67 cm) and temporal asymmetry calculated in ratio-values (MD 0.09) improved slightly more in the RAGT groups. There were serious weaknesses with almost all GRADE domains (risk of bias, consistency, directness, or precision of the findings) for the included outcome measures (spatiotemporal and kinematic gait parameters). Kinetic parameters were not reported at all. Conclusion There were few relevant studies and the review synthesis revealed a very low certainty in current evidence for employing RAGT to improve gait biomechanics post-stroke. Further high-quality, robust clinical trials on RAGT that complement clinical data with biomechanical data are thus warranted to disentangle the potential effects of such interventions on gait biomechanics post-stroke.

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Comparison of the effectiveness of sacrospinous ligament fixation and sacrocolpopexy: a meta-analysis

International Urogynecology Journal ◽

10.1007/s00192-021-04823-w ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Wenju Zhang ◽

Willy Cecilia Cheon ◽

Li Zhang ◽

Xiaozhong Wang ◽

Yuzhen Wei ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Operative Time ◽

Meta Analysis ◽

Current Evidence ◽

Cochrane Library ◽

Surgical Approaches ◽

Sacrospinous Ligament ◽

Gastrointestinal Complications ◽

Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation ◽

Apical Support ◽

Abdominal Sacrocolpopexy

Abstract Introduction and hypothesis Sacrocolpopexy and sacrospinous ligament fixation (SSLF) have been used for the restoration of apical support. Studies comparing sacrocolpopexy and SSLF have reported conflicting results. We aim to assess the current evidence regarding efficiency and the complications of sacrocolpopexy compared with SSLF. Methods We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library and performed a systematic review meta-analysis to assess the two surgical approaches. Results 5Five randomized controlled trials, 8 retrospective studies, and 2 prospective studies including 4,120 cases were identified. Compared with abdominal sacrocolpopexy (ASC), SSLF was associated with a lower success rate (88.32% and 91.45%; OR 0.52; 95% CI 0.29–0.95; p = 0.03), higher recurrence (11.58% and 8.32%; OR 1.97; 95% CI 1.04–3.46; p = 0.04), and dyspareunia rate (14.36% and 4.67%; OR 3.10; 95% CI 1.28–7.50; p = 0.01). Patients in this group may benefit from shorter operative time (weighted mean difference −25.08 min; 95% CI −42.29 to −7.88; p = 0.004), lower hemorrhage rate (0.85% and 2.58%; OR 0.45; 95% CI 0.25–0.85; p = 0.009), wound infection rate (3.30% and 5.76%; OR 0.55; 95% CI 0.39–0.77; p = 0.0005), and fewer gastrointestinal complications (1.33% and 6.19%; OR 0.33; 95% CI 0.15–0.76; p = 0.009). Conclusion Both sacrocolpopexy and SSLF offer an efficient alternative to the restoration of apical support. When anatomical durability and sexual function is a priority, ASC may be the preferred option. When considering factors of mesh erosion, operative time, gastrointestinal complications, hemorrhage, and wound infections, SSLF may be the better option.

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Effect of Aging, Gender and Sensory Stimulation of TRPV1 Receptors with Capsaicin on Spontaneous Swallowing Frequency in Patients with Oropharyngeal Dysphagia: A Proof-of-Concept Study

Diagnostics ◽

10.3390/diagnostics11030461 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 11 (3) ◽

pp. 461

Author(s):

Weslania Nascimento ◽

Noemí Tomsen ◽

Saray Acedo ◽

Cristina Campos-Alcantara ◽

Christopher Cabib ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Oropharyngeal Dysphagia ◽

Sensory Stimulation ◽

Age And Gender ◽

Post Stroke ◽

Brainstem Reflex ◽

Trpv1 Receptors ◽

Volume Viscosity ◽

And Gender ◽

Effect Of Age ◽

Stimulation Of

Spontaneous swallowing contributes to airway protection and depends on the activation of brainstem reflex circuits in the central pattern generator (CPG). We studied the effect of age and gender on spontaneous swallowing frequency (SSF) in healthy volunteers and assessed basal SSF and TRPV1 stimulation effect on SSF in patients with post-stroke oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD). The effect of age and gender on SSF was examined on 141 healthy adult volunteers (HV) divided into three groups: GI—18–39 yr, GII—40–59 yr, and GIII—>60 yr. OD was assessed by the Volume–Viscosity Swallowing Test (VVST). The effect of sensory stimulation with capsaicin 10−5 M (TRPV1 agonist) was evaluated in 17 patients with post-stroke OD, using the SSF. SSF was recorded in all participants during 10 min using surface electromyography (sEMG) of the suprahyoid muscles and an omnidirectional accelerometer placed over the cricothyroid cartilage. SSF was significantly reduced in GII (0.73 ± 0.50 swallows/min; p = 0.0385) and GIII (0.50 ± 0.31 swallows/min; p < 0.0001) compared to GI (1.03 ± 0.62 swallows/min), and there was a moderate significant correlation between age and SFF (r = −0.3810; p < 0.0001). No effect of gender on SSF was observed. Capsaicin caused a strong and significant increase in SSF after the TRPV1 stimulation when comparing to basal condition (pre-capsaicin: 0.41 ± 0.32 swallows/min vs post-capsaicin: 0.81 ± 0.51 swallow/min; p = 0.0003). OD in patients with post-stroke OD and acute stimulation with TRPV1 agonists caused a significant increase in SSF, further suggesting the potential role of pharmacological stimulation of sensory pathways as a therapeutic strategy for CPG activation in patients with OD.

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Cranberry Extract for Symptoms of Acute, Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infection: A Systematic Review

Antibiotics ◽

10.3390/antibiotics10010012 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 10 (1) ◽

pp. 12

Author(s):

Oghenekome A. Gbinigie ◽

Elizabeth A. Spencer ◽

Carl J. Heneghan ◽

Joseph J. Lee ◽

Christopher C. Butler

Keyword(s):

Clinical Trials ◽

Urinary Tract Infection ◽

Urinary Tract ◽

Tract Infection ◽

Antibiotic Use ◽

Risk Of Bias ◽

Current Evidence ◽

Cochrane Library ◽

Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infection ◽

Cranberry Juice

Background: Effective alternatives to antibiotics for alleviating symptoms of acute infections may be appealing to patients and enhance antimicrobial stewardship. Cranberry-based products are already in wide use for symptoms of acute urinary tract infection (UTI). The aim of this review was to identify and critically appraise the supporting evidence. Methods: The protocol was registered on PROSPERO. Searches were conducted of Medline, Embase, Amed, Cinahl, The Cochrane library, Clinicaltrials.gov and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. We included randomised clinical trials (RCTs) and non-randomised studies evaluating the effect of cranberry extract in the management of acute, uncomplicated UTI on symptoms, antibiotic use, microbiological assessment, biochemical assessment and adverse events. Study risk of bias assessments were made using Cochrane criteria. Results: We included three RCTs (n = 688) judged to be at moderate risk of bias. One RCT (n = 309) found that advice to consume cranberry juice had no statistically significant effect on UTI frequency symptoms (mean difference (MD) −0.01 (95% CI: −0.37 to 0.34), p = 0.94)), on UTI symptoms of feeling unwell (MD 0.02 (95% CI: −0.36 to 0.39), p = 0.93)) or on antibiotic use (odds ratio 1.27 (95% CI: 0.47 to 3.43), p = 0.64), when compared with promoting drinking water. One RCT (n = 319) found no symptomatic benefit from combining cranberry juice with immediate antibiotics for an acute UTI, compared with placebo juice combined with immediate antibiotics. In one RCT (n = 60), consumption of cranberry extract capsules was associated with a within-group improvement in urinary symptoms and Escherichia coli load at day 10 compared with baseline (p < 0.01), which was not found in untreated controls (p = 0.72). Two RCTs were under-powered to detect differences between groups for outcomes of interest. There were no serious adverse effects associated with cranberry consumption. Conclusion: The current evidence base for or against the use of cranberry extract in the management of acute, uncomplicated UTIs is inadequate; rigorous trials are needed.

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Accuracy and Reliability of Soft Tissue Landmarks Using Three-Dimensional Imaging in Comparison With Two-Dimensional Cephalometrics: A Systematic Review

The Journal of Indian Orthodontic Society ◽

10.1177/0301574220963412 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 54 (4) ◽

pp. 289-296

Author(s):

Adeeba Ali ◽

Anil K. Chandna ◽

Anshul Munjal

Keyword(s):

Systematic Review ◽

Soft Tissue ◽

3D Imaging ◽

Soft Tissues ◽

Three Dimensional ◽

Database Search ◽

Cochrane Library ◽

Two Dimensional ◽

Imaging Tool ◽

Electronic Database Search

Background: Concerns about the accuracy and reliability of soft tissue landmarks using two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) imaging. Objective: The aim of the systematic review is to estimate accuracy and reliability of soft tissue landmarks with 2D imaging and 3D imaging for orthodontic diagnosis planning and treatment planning purposes. Data Sources: Electronic database search was performed in MEDLINE via PubMed, Embase via embase.com, and the Cochrane library website. Selection Criteria: The data were extracted according to two protocols based on Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine (CEBM) critical appraisal tools. Next, levels of evidence were categorized into three groups: low, medium, and high. Data Synthesis: Fifty-five publications were found through database search strategies. A total of nine publications were included in this review. Conclusion According to the available literature, 3D imaging modalities were more accurate and reliable as compared to 2D modalities. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was considered the most reliable imaging tool for soft tissues.

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The Effectiveness of Acupuncture in Management of Functional Constipation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine ◽

10.1155/2020/6137450 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 2020 ◽

pp. 1-17

Author(s):

Lu Wang ◽

Mingmin Xu ◽

Qianhua Zheng ◽

Wei Zhang ◽

Ying Li

Keyword(s):

Quality Of Life ◽

Meta Analysis ◽

Safety Evaluation ◽

Functional Constipation ◽

Responder Rate ◽

Current Evidence ◽

Cochrane Library ◽

China National Knowledge Infrastructure ◽

Increased Risk

Objective. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture for functional constipation (FC). Methods. A rigorous literature search was performed in English (PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and EMBASE) and Chinese (China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biological Medical (CBM), Wanfang database, and China Science and Technology Journal (VIP)) electronic databases from their inception to October 2019. Included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) compared acupuncture therapy with sham acupuncture or pharmacological therapies. The outcome measures were evaluated, including the primary outcome of complete spontaneous bowel movement (CSBM) and secondary outcomes of Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS), constipation symptoms scores (CSS), responder rate, the Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life (PAC-QOL) questionnaire, and safety evaluation. Meta-analysis was performed by using RevMan5.3. Results. The merged data of 28 RCTs with 3525 participants indicated that acupuncture may be efficient for FC by increasing CSBMs (p<0.00001; MD = 0.84 [95% CI, 0.65 to 1.03]; I2 = 0%) and improving constipation symptoms (p=0.03; SMD = −0.4 [95% CI, −0.78 to −0.03]; I2 = 74%), stool formation (p<0.00001; MD = 0.24 [95% CI, 0.15 to 0.34]; I2 = 0%), quality of life (p<0.00001; N = 1, MD = −0.33 [95% CI, −0.45 to −0.21]), and responder rates (p=0.02; RR = 2.16; [95% CI, 1.1 to 4.24]; I2 = 69%) compared with the effects of sham treatment. No increased risk of adverse events was observed (p=0.44; RR = 1.18; [95% CI, 0.77 to 1.81]; I2 = 0%). With regard to medication comparisons, the pooled data indicated that acupuncture was more effective in increasing CSBMs (p=0.004; MD = 0.53 [95% CI, 0.17 to 0.88]; I2 = 88%) and improving patients’ quality of life (p<0.00001; SMD = −0.73 [95% CI, −1.02 to −0.44]; I2 = 64%), with high heterogeneity. However, there were no significant differences in responder rate (p=0.12; RR = 1.31; [95% CI, 0.94 to 1.82]; I2 = 53%), BSFS (p=0.5; MD = 0.17 [95% CI, −0.33 to 0.68]; I2 = 93%), or CSS (p=0.05; SMD = −0.62 [95% CI, −1.23 to −0.01]; I2 = 89%). Regarding safety evaluation, acupuncture was safer than medications (p<0.0001; RR = 0.3; [95% CI, 0.18 to 0.52]; I2 = 30%). Conclusions. Current evidence suggests that acupuncture is an efficient and safe treatment for FC. Acupuncture increased stool frequency, improved stool formation, alleviated constipation symptoms, and improved quality of life. However, the evidence quality was relatively low and the relationship between acupuncture and drugs is not clear. More high-quality trials are recommended in the future. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42019143347.

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COVID-19 and myocarditis: a systematic review and overview of current challenges

Heart Failure Reviews ◽

10.1007/s10741-021-10087-9 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Teresa Castiello ◽

Georgios Georgiopoulos ◽

Gherardo Finocchiaro ◽

Monaco Claudia ◽

Andrea Gianatti ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Systematic Review ◽

Systolic Function ◽

Imaging Modality ◽

Current Evidence ◽

Cochrane Library ◽

Myocardial Inflammation ◽

Prognostic Impact ◽

Direct Role ◽

Potential Implication ◽

Histological Data

AbstractMyocardial inflammation in COVID-19 has been documented. Its pathogenesis is not fully elucidated, but the two main theories foresee a direct role of ACE2 receptor and a hyperimmune response, which may also lead to isolated presentation of COVID-19-mediated myocarditis. The frequency and prognostic impact of COVID-19-mediated myocarditis is unknown. This review aims to summarise current evidence on this topic. We performed a systematic review of MEDLINE and Cochrane Library (1/12/19–30/09/20). We also searched clinicaltrials.gov for unpublished studies testing therapies with potential implication for COVID-19-mediated cardiovascular complication. Eligible studies had laboratory confirmed COVID-19 and a clinical and/or histological diagnosis of myocarditis by ESC or WHO/ISFC criteria. Reports of 38 cases were included (26 male patients, 24 aged < 50 years). The first histologically proven case was a virus-negative lymphocytic myocarditis; however, biopsy evidence of myocarditis secondary to SARS-CoV-2 cardiotropism has been recently demonstrated. Histological data was found in 12 cases (8 EMB and 4 autopsies) and CMR was the main imaging modality to confirm a diagnosis of myocarditis (25 patients). There was a substantial variability in biventricular systolic function during the acute episode and in therapeutic regimen used. Five patients died in hospital. Cause-effect relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and myocarditis is difficult to demonstrate. However, current evidence demonstrates myocardial inflammation with or without direct cardiomyocyte damage, suggesting different pathophysiology mechanisms responsible of COVID-mediated myocarditis. Established clinical approaches should be pursued until future evidence support different actions. Large multicentre registries are advisable to elucidate further.

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The Role of Traditional Acupuncture in Patients with Fecal Incontinence—Mini-Review

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health ◽

10.3390/ijerph18042112 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 18 (4) ◽

pp. 2112

Author(s):

Agne Sipaviciute ◽

Tomas Aukstikalnis ◽

Narimantas E. Samalavicius ◽

Audrius Dulskas

Keyword(s):

Fecal Incontinence ◽

Randomized Controlled Trials ◽

The Elderly ◽

Bowel Dysfunction ◽

Cochrane Library ◽

Controlled Trials ◽

Treatment Technique ◽

Randomized Controlled ◽

Electronic Database Search ◽

Irritable Bowel

Objective: Fecal incontinence affects up to 15% of the general population, with higher rates of incidence among women and the elderly. Acupuncture is an old practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine that might be used to treat fecal incontinence. The aim of this mini review was to assess the effect of acupuncture for fecal incontinence. Materials and Methods: Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, PubMed, and CENTRAL electronic databases were searched until August 2020. The following keywords were used: acupuncture, electroacupuncture, moxibustion, fecal incontinence, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, and bowel dysfunction. In addition, references were searched. Five studies (two randomized controlled trials), out of 52,249 predefined publications after an electronic database search, were included into the review. Results: Overall, 143 patients were included. All studies report significant improvements in continence, although they all apply different acupuncture regimens. Randomized controlled trials show significant differences in experimental groups treated with acupuncture in improving continence. Significant improvement in quality of life scores was reported. In addition, improvement in fecal continence remained significantly improved after 18 months of follow-up. Conclusion: Acupuncture is a promising treatment alternative for fecal incontinence. Based on small, low-quality studies, it might be a safe, inexpensive, and efficient method. However, more high-quality studies are needed in order to apply this treatment technique routinely.

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Department of Internal Medicine. University Hospital of Patras. Patras.

Acta Médica Portuguesa ◽

10.20344/amp.16686 ◽

2022 ◽

Vol 35 (13) ◽

Author(s):

Themistoklis Paraskevas ◽

Eleousa Oikonomou ◽

Maria Lagadinou ◽

Vasileios Karamouzos ◽

Nikolaos Zareifopoulos ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Oxygen Therapy ◽

Case Series ◽

High Flow ◽

University Hospital ◽

Current Evidence ◽

Cochrane Library ◽

Invasive Ventilation ◽

Non Invasive ◽

Non Invasive Ventilation ◽

High Flow Oxygen

Introduction: Oxygen therapy remains the cornerstone for managing patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection and several modalities of non-invasive ventilation are used worldwide. High-flow oxygen via nasal canula is one therapeutic option which may in certain cases prevent the need of mechanical ventilation. The aim of this review is to summarize the current evidence on the use of high-flow nasal oxygen in patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection.Material and Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search of the databases PubMed and Cochrane Library until April 2021 using the following search terms: “high flow oxygen and COVID-19” and “high flow nasal and COVID-19’’.Results: Twenty-three articles were included in this review, in four of which prone positioning was used as an adjunctive measure. Most of the articles were cohort studies or case series. High-flow nasal oxygen therapy was associated with a reduced need for invasive ventilation compared to conventional oxygen therapy and led to an improvement in secondary clinical outcomes such as length of stay. The efficacy of high-flow nasal oxygen therapy was comparable to that of other non-invasive ventilation options, but its tolerability is likely higher. Failure of this modality was associated with increased mortality.Conclusion: High flow nasal oxygen is an established option for respiratory support in COVID-19 patients. Further investigation is required to quantify its efficacy and utility in preventing the requirement of invasive ventilation.

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