Pulmonology and Critical Care

ARDS remains a major challenge in critical care, with high morbidity and mortality. This session focuses on the evolving understanding of ARDS pathophysiology and the impact of precision medicine in its management. Topics include the use of low tidal volume ventilation, prone positioning, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and fluid management strategies. Biomarkers for early diagnosis and monitoring, along with novel therapeutic targets, will be explored. Discussions will highlight risk stratification, prevention in high-risk populations, and the importance of multidisciplinary care. Clinical trials and updated guidelines will be reviewed to provide a comprehensive understanding of best practices in ARDS treatment.

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) encompasses a diverse group of disorders leading to elevated pulmonary artery pressure and right heart dysfunction. This session addresses the latest diagnostic tools including right heart catheterization, echocardiography advancements, and biomarker applications. Attendees will explore emerging therapeutic agents targeting novel pathways such as the prostacyclin, endothelin, and nitric oxide pathways. The integration of combination therapy and the role of risk assessment models in treatment selection are discussed. A focus on tailored management approaches based on PH subtypes such as PAH, PH due to left heart disease, and chronic thromboembolic PH ensures clinical relevance. The session also examines clinical trial updates and long-term outcome data to guide evidence-based care.

COPD remains a global health concern with substantial clinical and economic impact. This session presents the latest research on COPD pathogenesis, including the role of airway inflammation, oxidative stress, and environmental exposures. Advances in pharmacologic therapy, including dual and triple inhaled therapies, are reviewed alongside personalized treatment plans based on disease phenotyping. Non-pharmacological interventions such as pulmonary rehabilitation, nutritional support, and smoking cessation strategies are emphasized. The role of telemedicine and remote monitoring in managing exacerbations and promoting adherence is discussed. Attendees will gain updated knowledge on GOLD guidelines, early diagnosis, and strategies to prevent disease progression and hospital readmissions.

Sepsis and multi-organ failure pose significant challenges in intensive care, often leading to prolonged hospitalizations and increased mortality. This session reviews early recognition techniques, including the application of sepsis bundles, biomarkers, and scoring systems like SOFA and qSOFA. The evolving role of rapid antimicrobial therapy, fluid resuscitation, and vasopressor management is explored. Key insights into immune modulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and endothelial injury deepen understanding of pathophysiology. Strategies for organ support including renal replacement therapy, mechanical ventilation, and hemodynamic monitoring are presented. Multidisciplinary approaches and protocol-driven care models that improve outcomes are highlighted. The session underscores the importance of personalized and timely interventions in improving survival rates.

Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) has revolutionized the management of both acute respiratory failure and chronic respiratory disorders. This session provides a detailed overview of NIV modalities, including CPAP, BiPAP, and high-flow nasal cannula, focusing on their indications, benefits, and limitations. Clinical scenarios such as COPD exacerbations, cardiogenic pulmonary edema, and neuromuscular disorders are discussed to illustrate the practical application of NIV. Advances in mask interfaces, patient-ventilator synchrony, and home-based ventilation options are reviewed. The session also addresses challenges in monitoring, patient selection, and complications such as aspiration and skin breakdown. Emphasis is placed on the importance of training and protocol standardization to ensure effective use in both hospital and home settings.

The field of interventional pulmonology continues to expand with technological advancements that improve diagnostic precision and therapeutic outcomes. This session highlights the latest tools and techniques including endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS), navigational bronchoscopy, cryotherapy, and airway stenting. Minimally invasive approaches to diagnose and manage lung cancer, airway obstruction, and pleural diseases are explored. Attendees will gain insights into procedure selection, patient safety, and post-procedure care. The role of interventional pulmonology in critical care, particularly in managing hemoptysis, foreign body removal, and central airway obstructions, is emphasized. The session also covers innovations in robotic bronchoscopy and its emerging applications in early lung cancer detection.

Pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are complex disorders characterized by inflammation and scarring of lung tissue, often leading to progressive respiratory failure. This session delves into updated classification systems, diagnostic criteria, and the role of high-resolution CT imaging and lung biopsies. Advances in antifibrotic therapies, including nintedanib and pirfenidone, and ongoing clinical trials exploring combination treatments are discussed. Emphasis is placed on early detection, multidisciplinary care, and personalized treatment plans based on disease subtype. The impact of comorbidities, patient-reported outcomes, and quality of life measures are integrated into clinical decision-making. The session also explores lung transplantation as a therapeutic option in advanced cases.

Sleep-disordered breathing, particularly obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), has significant implications for cardiovascular health, metabolic dysfunction, and quality of life. This session reviews the pathophysiology, screening tools, and diagnostic criteria for OSA and related conditions. Emphasis is placed on the role of polysomnography, home sleep studies, and wearable technologies in enhancing diagnosis. The session covers evidence-based management strategies including lifestyle modifications, positional therapy, and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. Challenges in adherence, mask fitting, and long-term monitoring are addressed, along with innovations in auto-adjusting devices and telemonitoring. Special populations, such as pediatric and elderly patients, and those with comorbidities are discussed to ensure comprehensive care.

Imaging plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis, monitoring, and management of pulmonary diseases and critical care conditions. This session explores advancements in imaging modalities such as high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) in evaluating lung pathology. Emphasis is placed on the role of bedside imaging techniques including portable chest X-rays and lung ultrasound in intensive care units. The utility of imaging in guiding interventional procedures, such as thoracentesis and biopsy, is also discussed. Integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in interpreting imaging data offers enhanced diagnostic precision and workflow efficiency. Additionally, imaging biomarkers for early disease detection and progression tracking are examined. Through real-world case discussions and expert insights, attendees will understand how to effectively incorporate imaging into routine clinical practice, improving diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.

Lung infections remain a significant global health burden, ranging from community-acquired pneumonia to complex infections like multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. This session delves into the evolving epidemiology, pathogenesis, and clinical presentation of common and emerging pulmonary infections. Focus is given to diagnostic approaches, including molecular assays, culture techniques, and imaging findings that aid in accurate pathogen identification. Treatment strategies incorporating antimicrobial stewardship principles are reviewed, with an emphasis on preventing resistance. The session also explores the management of opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy. Preventive strategies including vaccination, infection control measures, and public health initiatives are highlighted. Discussions will integrate global perspectives and updated clinical guidelines to provide a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and management of infectious pulmonary diseases.

The COVID-19 pandemic has left a lasting impact on pulmonary health, with many patients experiencing persistent respiratory complications even after recovery. This session addresses the spectrum of post-COVID pulmonary manifestations, including interstitial lung disease, pulmonary fibrosis, and long COVID syndromes. Emphasis is placed on identifying risk factors, monitoring disease progression, and implementing evidence-based management strategies. The role of pulmonary rehabilitation, anti-inflammatory therapies, and mental health support in comprehensive care plans is explored. Attendees will gain insights into the use of imaging, pulmonary function testing, and biomarkers for ongoing assessment. The importance of multidisciplinary care involving pulmonologists, physiotherapists, psychologists, and primary care providers is underscored. This session aims to equip healthcare professionals with the tools to deliver effective long-term care, enhance patient quality of life, and support recovery in the post-pandemic era.

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has emerged as an essential diagnostic and monitoring tool in critical care settings. This session explores the diverse applications of POCUS in evaluating lung, cardiac, abdominal, and vascular conditions at the bedside. Emphasis is placed on its utility in rapidly diagnosing pleural effusion, pneumothorax, pulmonary edema, and guiding procedures such as central line placement and thoracentesis. The session also highlights protocols like BLUE, RUSH, and FALLS, which streamline assessments in emergency and ICU environments. Training, credentialing, and standardization of POCUS practices are discussed to ensure safe and effective implementation. Advances in handheld ultrasound devices and their integration with telemedicine platforms are reviewed. With a focus on improving diagnostic accuracy and response time, this session equips clinicians with practical insights into using POCUS to enhance patient outcomes and optimize resource use in intensive care.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition with variable presentation and severity, requiring individualized treatment strategies. This session reviews current international guidelines including GINA, and emphasizes evidence-based approaches to diagnosis, monitoring, and long-term management. Topics include inhaled corticosteroids, biologic therapies targeting eosinophilic inflammation, and the role of biomarkers such as FeNO and blood eosinophils in guiding therapy. Personalized care plans considering age, comorbidities, and environmental triggers are highlighted. Non-pharmacological interventions like patient education, adherence strategies, and digital health tools are discussed to support self-management. The session also examines the management of acute exacerbations and asthma in special populations, such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly. By integrating clinical expertise with patient preferences, this session aims to improve asthma control and enhance quality of life.

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a cornerstone of comprehensive respiratory care, designed to improve physical and psychological well-being in patients with chronic lung diseases. This session highlights the components and clinical benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, including supervised exercise training, education, nutritional counseling, and psychosocial support. The role of rehabilitation in managing COPD, interstitial lung diseases, and post-ICU syndrome is emphasized. Discussions include patient selection, program customization, and strategies for enhancing adherence and long-term engagement. Advances in home-based and tele-rehabilitation models are explored, offering accessible solutions for diverse populations. Multidisciplinary collaboration involving physiotherapists, pulmonologists, psychologists, and dietitians is showcased as a key to program success. Attendees will learn how to implement evidence-based rehabilitation strategies that foster recovery, reduce hospitalizations, and improve quality of life.

Managing respiratory conditions in children presents unique challenges due to anatomical, physiological, and developmental differences from adults. This session explores the diagnosis and treatment of common pediatric respiratory disorders, including asthma, bronchiolitis, cystic fibrosis, and congenital anomalies. Special attention is given to pediatric ventilatory support, oxygen therapy, and monitoring in intensive care settings. Strategies for managing acute respiratory failure, sepsis, and trauma in children are discussed alongside ethical considerations in pediatric critical care. Advances in non-invasive monitoring, sedation practices, and family-centered care models are highlighted. Attendees will gain insights into the integration of research, technology, and multidisciplinary collaboration to address complex pediatric respiratory needs and improve outcomes.

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with early detection playing a critical role in improving survival rates. This session discusses the implementation and outcomes of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening programs for high-risk populations. Emphasis is placed on advancements in imaging techniques, liquid biopsy, and biomarker-driven diagnostics. Treatment strategies, including minimally invasive surgical interventions, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies, are reviewed. The role of interventional pulmonology in diagnostic procedures such as EBUS and navigational bronchoscopy is explored. Discussions also cover patient selection, risk stratification, and shared decision-making in screening programs. This session provides a comprehensive overview of modern approaches to lung cancer detection and personalized intervention planning.

Effective airway management is fundamental in critical care, impacting patient safety and outcomes during emergencies and intensive care interventions. This session focuses on advanced airway management techniques, including rapid sequence intubation, video laryngoscopy, and fiberoptic bronchoscopy. Attendees will learn about protocols for difficult airway identification and management, as well as the use of supraglottic devices and surgical airways when necessary. Emphasis is placed on training, simulation-based learning, and team coordination to enhance readiness in high-risk scenarios. The role of capnography, pre-oxygenation strategies, and sedation practices are also examined. By integrating updated guidelines and real-world experiences, this session equips clinicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage airways confidently and effectively in critical care environments.

Immunotherapy and biologics have revolutionized the treatment landscape for various respiratory diseases, offering targeted approaches that modulate the immune response with high specificity. This session explores current and emerging biologic agents approved for conditions such as asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Attendees will examine mechanisms of action involving interleukins (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13), IgE, and other immune pathways. Clinical trial data, patient selection criteria, and real-world outcomes are discussed to guide personalized treatment decisions. The integration of biomarkers such as FeNO, blood eosinophils, and periostin in predicting therapeutic response is reviewed. Additionally, safety profiles, long-term monitoring, and cost-effectiveness considerations are analyzed. The session also highlights advances in immune checkpoint inhibitors in thoracic oncology, particularly non-small cell lung cancer. Emphasis is placed on interdisciplinary care, treatment adherence, and the role of immunotherapy in improving disease control and patient quality of life in both allergic and non-allergic respiratory conditions.

The intensive care unit presents complex ethical challenges that require careful navigation to balance clinical judgment, patient autonomy, and resource allocation. This session examines key ethical dilemmas commonly encountered in critical care, such as end-of-life decision-making, withdrawing or withholding life-sustaining treatments, and managing patients with uncertain prognosis. Topics include the role of advanced directives, surrogate decision-making, and culturally sensitive communication. Legal and ethical frameworks guiding do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders, palliative care integration, and consent in incapacitated patients are discussed. Emphasis is placed on multidisciplinary collaboration involving ethics committees, clinicians, families, and legal advisors to support transparent and compassionate decision-making. The session also explores the psychological burden on ICU staff and strategies to foster moral resilience and ethical leadership. Attendees will gain practical tools for navigating ethically charged situations with professionalism, empathy, and respect for human dignity, ultimately enhancing patient-centered care in critical environments.