Risk factors for peri-intubation cardiac arrest: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background

Peri-intubation cardiac arrest (PICA) is an uncommon yet serious complication of intubation. Although some associated risk factors have been identified, the results have been inconsistent. The aim of this study was to systematically review the relevant research and examine the associated risk factors of PICA through meta-analysis.

Methods

Studies examining the risk factors for PICA before 1 Nov. 2022 were identified through searches in MEDLINE (OvidSP) and EMBASE. The reported adjusted or unadjusted odds ratios (ORs) and risk ratios (RRs) were recorded. We calculated pooled ORs and created forest plots using a random-effects model to identify the statistically significant risk factors. We assessed the certainty of evidence for each risk factor.

Results

Eight studies were included in the meta-analysis. Pre-intubation hypotension, with a pooled OR of 4.96 (95% confidence interval [C.I.]: 3.75–6.57), pre-intubation hypoxemia, with a pooled OR of 4.43 (95% C.I.: 1.24–15.81), and two or more intubation attempts, with a pooled OR of 1.88 (95% C.I.: 1.09–3.23) were associated with a significantly higher risk of PICA. The pooled incidence of PICA was 2.1% (95% C.I.: 1.5%–3.0%).

Conclusions

Pre-intubation hypotension, hypoxemia, and more intubation attempts are significant risk factors for PICA. The findings could help physicians identify patients at risk under the acute setting.