Prognostic value of Pleth Variability Index in patients followed up in the Intensive Care Unit

The Pleth Variability Index (PVI) can guide the approach to hypovolemia, which is sometimes the cause and sometimes the result of major diseases; further studies are needed on this index. Therefore, in the present study, we aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of PVI and its relationship with 28-day mortality.

A total of 158 patients were included. Patients were divided into two groups according to 28-day mortality. Patients who died within 28 days were assigned to Group M (Mortal), while those who survived were included in Group S (Survive). Patients' demographics, definitive diagnosis, arterial blood pressure, fingertip oxygen saturation, PVI, fingertip blood glucose, fever, pulse, shock index, and serum lactate level were recorded.

Regarding demographics, no statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of age, gender, and Body Mass Index (BMI) (p=0.356, p=0.966, and p=0.977, respectively). The rate of intubation, the use of vasopressors, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score, shock index, and PVI values were statistically significantly higher in Group M compared to Group S (for all, p<0.001). Glasgow Coma Score (GCS), Perfusion Index (PI), and length of stay were statistically significantly lower in Group M than in Group S (p<0.001, p<0.001, and p=0.025, respectively). PVI predicted 28-day mortality with 83.8% sensitivity and 97.9% specificity.

PVI, serum lactate level, PI, APACHE II, GCS, and need for vasopressors were independent risk factors for 28-day mortality in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). PVI and serum lactate have a prognostic value in predicting mortality.