Impactos da pandemia de COVID-19 nas especialidades cirúrgicas em um hospital universitário da Bahia: um estudo transversal retrospectivo / Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on surgical specialties at a university hospital in Bahia: a retrospective cross-sectional study

Introdução: Desde o início da pandemia de COVID-19, as especialidades médicas adaptaram sua rotina, postergando procedimentos não essenciais, o que resultou em redução no número de atendimentos cirúrgicos, impactando diretamente nos hospitais de ensino. O objetivo desse trabalho é avaliar o impacto da pandemia de COVID-19 nas atividades das especialidades cirúrgicas do Hospital Universitário Professor Edgard Santos (C-HUPES), localizado em Salvador-BA. Método: Estudo observacional, transversal, retrospectivo, que compara o ano de 2020 ao ano de 2019, em que são analisados os impactos da pandemia nas atividades cirúrgicas (especialmente na cirurgia plástica) do hospital, através do número total de procedimentos, internações e de consultas ambulatoriais das especialidades cirúrgicas. Resultados: Redução de 45,45% no número total de procedimentos cirúrgicos foi observada, havendo um total de 220 cirurgias em 2019 e 120 cirurgias em 2020. Redução de 37,29% no número total de internamentos, total de 236 em 2019 e 148 em 2020. Observou-se diminuição de 40,90% nas consultas ambulatoriais, realizadas 2941 consultas em 2019 e 1738 consultas em 2020. Percebe-se que os piores períodos de redução em 2020 foram de março a junho, além de nova queda em novembro e dezembro. Conclusão: A pandemia impactou as atividades das especialidades cirúrgicas do C-HUPES, devido à redução total da quantidade de cirurgias, consultas e internamentos em 2020, prejudicando a assistência aos pacientes da cirurgia plástica em números absolutos. Infere-se que a pandemia de COVID-19 prejudicou a formação dos residentes de cirurgia plástica.

Introduction: Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, medical specialties have adapted their routine, postponing non-essential procedures, which resulted in a reduction in the number of surgical visits, directly impacting teaching hospitals. This work aims to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the activities of the surgical specialties at the University Hospital Professor Edgard Santos (C-HUPES), located in Salvador-BA. Method: Observational, cross-sectional, retrospective study, which compares the year 2020 to the year 2019, in which the impacts of the pandemic on the surgical activities (especially plastic surgery) of the hospital are analyzed through the total number of procedures, hospitalizations, and outpatient consultations of surgical specialties. Results: A reduction of 45,45% of the total number of surgical procedures was observed, with 220 surgeries in 2019 and 120 surgeries in 2020. Reduction of 37.29% in hospitalizations, totaling 236 in 2019 and 148 in 2020. There was a decrease of 40.90% in outpatient consultations, with 2941 consultations performed in 2019 and 1738 consultations in 2020. It is noticed that the worst periods of reduction in 2020 were from March to June, in addition to a new drop in November and December. Conclusion: The pandemic impacted the activities of the surgical specialties at C-HUPES due to the total reduction in the number of surgeries, consultations, and hospitalizations in 2020, impairing the care of plastic surgery patients in absolute numbers. It is inferred that the COVID-19 pandemic hampered the training of plastic surgery residents.

Experimental Evaluation of Chitosan Membrane and Collagen Sponge (TachoSil®) as Sealants in Cardiovascular Surgery

ABSTRACT Introduction: The objectives of this study are to experimentally evaluate the haemostatic effects of two organic substances, a membrane of chitosan and a collagen sponge coated with thrombin and human fibrinogen (TachoSil®), in sealing 7-0 needle stitches holes on the femoral arteries of rats as well as to evaluate local histological reactions. Methods: Twenty-four rats were included, and four holes were made in each common femoral artery. In the control group, haemostasis was achieved only by compression with gauze sponge; and in the two other groups, haemostasis was achieved with application of one of these two substances. Results: Membrane of chitosan and TachoSil® showed a power to reduce the time to achieve haemostasis compared with the control group (P=0.001), and the haemostatic effects of these two substances were comparable. There was lower blood loss in the groups where these two substances were used when compared with the control group, but no difference was found comparing the two substances. Conclusion: The use of these sealants did not promote more adhesion or local histological reactions when compared to the control group. Since chitosan is easy to find in nature, has a positive effect to promote haemostasis, and did not bring considerable local reactions, it might be used as a sealant in cardiovascular surgery.

Accuracy of 68Ga-PSMA PET-CT and PET-MRI in lymph node staging for localized prostate cancer

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the predictive value of positron emission computed tomography or magnetic resonance (PET-CT and PET-MRI) using gallium-68-labeled prostate-specific membrane antigen (68Ga-PSMA) in lymph node involvement in prostate cancer. Methods A retrospective study comprising 91 patients diagnosed with prostate cancer between 2016 to 2020, who underwent 68Ga-PSMA PET-CT or PET-MRI for staging before prostatectomy. The patients were divided into Group 1, with 65 patients with satisfactory pathological lymph node analysis, and Group 2, with 91 patients representing the sum of patients with pathological lymph node analysis and those with postoperative prostate-specific antigen within 60 days after surgery. Receiver Operating Characteristic curves were used to assess accuracy of predictive capacity of imaging exams for lymph node involvement. Results Regarding local clinical staging, the groups showed similar results, and 50% were classified as staging T2a. The accuracy of 68Ga-PSMA PET-CT for prostate cancer lymph node staging was 86.5% (95%CI 0.74-0.94; p=0.06), with a sensitivity of 58.3% and specificity of 95%. The accuracy of 68Ga-PSMA PET-MRI was 84.6% (95%CI 0.69-0.94; p=0.09), with a sensitivity of 40% and specificity of 100%. Considering both 68Ga-PSMA PET-CT and PET-MRI, the accuracy was 85.7% (95%CI 0.76-0.92; p=0.015), with sensitivity of 50% and specificity of 97%. Conclusion The imaging tests 68Ga-PSMA PET-CT and PET-MRI were highly accurate to detect preoperative lymph node involvement, and could be useful tools to indicate the need for extended lymph node dissection during radical prostatectomy.

Cuidados de enfermagem na prevenção da pneumonia associada à ventilação mecânica em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva / Nursing care in the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia in an Intensive Care Unit / Cuidados de enfermería en la prevención de la neumonía asociada al ventilador en una Unidad de Cuidados Intensivo

Objetivo: descrever os principais aspectos da importância dos cuidados de enfermagem para prevenção e tratamento da pneumonia associada à ventilação mecânica no contexto da unidade de terapia intensiva, Método: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, do tipo exploratório, tendo como período estabelecido para busca de publicações acerca da temática em questão foi de 2010 a 2021. A busca dos estudos ocorreu de dezembro de 2021 a março de 2022 nas bases de dados eletrônicas Scielo e descritores na Literatura Latino-americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde via Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde e na Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online. Resultados: foi possível identificar a importância da assistência de enfermagem para prevenção e controle da pneumonia associada à ventilação, tendo em vista a variedade de ações desenvolvidas por este profissional, o impacto destas na prevenção. Conclusão: os cuidados de enfermagem são essenciais para efetividade das ações de controle e prevenção da pneumonia associada à ventilação, com resultados positivos, tendo em vista os riscos envolvidos, e a necessidade de prevenção e terapêutica efetiva.

Objective: to describe the main aspects of the importance of nursing care for the prevention and treatment of ventilator pneumonia associated with mechanical ventilation in the context of the intensive care unit, Method: This is an integrative review of the literature, of the exploratory type, having as an established period for the search for publications on the theme in question was from 2010 to 2021. The search for the studies took place from December 2021 to March 2022 in the Scielo electronic databases and descriptors in the Latin American and Caribbean Literature on Health Sciences via the Virtual Health Library and the Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online. Results: it was possible to identify the importance of nursing care for prevention and control of ventilator-associated pneumonia, in view of the variety of actions developed by this professional, the impact of these actions on prevention. Conclusion: nursing care is essential for the effectiveness of actions to control and prevent ventilatory-associated pneumonia, with positive results, in view of the risks involved, and the need for prevention and effective therapy.

Objetivo: describir los principales aspectos de la importancia de los cuidados de enfermería para la prevención y tratamiento de la neumonía ventilatoria asociada a la ventilación mecánica en el contexto de la unidad de cuidados intensivos, Método: Se trata de una revisión integradora de la literatura, de tipo exploratorio, teniendo como período establecido para la búsqueda de publicaciones sobre el tema en cuestión fue de 2010 a 2021. La búsqueda de los estudios se realizó desde diciembre de 2021 hasta marzo de 2022 en las bases de datos y descriptores electrónicos Scielo en la Literatura Latinoamericana y del Caribe en Ciencias de la Salud a través de la Biblioteca Virtual en Salud y el Sistema de Análisis y Recuperación de Literatura Médica en Línea. Resultados: fue posible identificar la importancia de los cuidados de enfermería para la prevención y control de la neumonía asociada a ventiladores, en vista de la variedad de acciones desarrolladas por este profesional, el impacto de estas acciones en la prevención. Conclusión: el cuidado de enfermería es esencial para la efectividad de las acciones de control y prevención de la neumonía asociada ventilatoria, con resultados positivos, en vista de los riesgos involucrados, y la necesidad de prevención y terapia efectiva.

Professional identity and experience of undergraduate students: an analysis of semantic networks

Abstract Work experiences during undergraduate studies can be remarkable in the journey of undergraduate students. The objective of this study was to assess, by analyzing semantic networks, the role of work experiences in the meanings those individuals attribute to professional identity. The sample consisted of 2291 students (60% women) divided into three groups: do not work, work in a field related to their course, work in a field not related to their course. The semantic networks of these groups were composed of words uttered from the professional identity prime. We chose to work with the critical network, obtained from the analysis of the incidence-fidelity indexes of the word pairs. The results evidence that work experiences are related to how undergraduate students attribute meaning to professional identity, in such a way that three different networks were formed for these groups. The network of those who work outside their field was the only one that integrated words with negative content, while the semantic networks of those who do not work and those who work in their field, despite containing words that do not always coincide, present a similar macrostructure. We conclude that work experiences play an important role in the meanings that undergraduate students attribute to professional identity. The study innovates by revealing elements of professional-identity construction, besides allowing for reflections on the effects of work experiences during the college period.

Effect of pre-anesthetic fasting on gastric emptying and plasma glucose in healthy dogs of different age groups / Efeito do jejum pré-anestésico sobre o esvaziamento gástrico e a glicemia plasmática em cães hígidos de diferentes faixas etárias

Gastric emptying and plasma glucose were evaluated in young and adult dogs, fed with dry and wet food, submitted to different periods of pre-anesthetic fasting (6, 8, and 12 hours). Forty healthy dogs were selected, which were segmented into four groups according to the age group and type of diet. It was evaluated the gastric emptying by ultrasound and serum glycemia. Only 17.5% presented complete gastric emptying, and no significant differences were found between the 6 and 8-hour fasting evaluations, or between the age groups and the diets, considering significance level p<0.05. Mean plasma glucose values from the groups indicated normal glycemia at all times of evaluation. A significant difference was found between the means of glycemia in young and adult dogs, with the 8-hour fasting with wet diet (p=0.03) and with 12 hours with dry diet (p=0.04). Healthy young and adult dogs, in physiological equilibrium, maintain average values of plasma glucose despite prolonged periods of pre-anesthetic fasting, which may be necessary, since 8-hour fasting for solid food is not enough to provide complete gastric emptying.(AU)

Avaliou-se o esvaziamento gástrico e a glicemia plasmática em cães jovens e adultos, alimentados com ração seca e úmida, submetidos a diferentes períodos de jejum pré-anestésico (6, 8 e 12 horas). Foram selecionados 40 cães hígidos, os quais foram segmentados em 4 grupos de acordo com a faixa etária e o tipo de dieta administrada. Foi avaliado o esvaziamento gástrico por ultrassonografia e a glicemia sérica. Apenas 17,5% apresentaram completo esvaziamento gástrico, não sendo encontradas diferenças significativas entre as avaliações com 6 e 8 horas de jejum, ou entre as faixas etárias e dietas, considerando nível de significância p<0,05. Os valores médios da glicose plasmática dos grupos indicaram normoglicemia em todos os momentos de avaliação. Foi encontrada diferença significativa entre as médias da glicemia dos cães jovens e adultos, no período de 8 horas de jejum com dieta úmida (p=0,03) e com 12 horas nos animais com dieta seca (p=0,04). Conclui-se que cães hígidos jovens e adultos, em equilíbrio fisiológico, mantêm valores normais de glicemia plasmática apesar de períodos prolongados de jejum pré-anestésico, os quais podem ser necessários, tendo em vista que 8 horas de jejum alimentar de sólidos não é suficiente para proporcionar completo esvaziamento gástrico.(AU)

Anatomical study of the brachial plexus in human fetuses and its relation with neonatal upper limb paralysis / Estudo anatômico do plexo braquial de fetos humanos e sua relação com paralisias neonatais do membro superior

ABSTRACT Objective To study the anatomy of the brachial plexus in fetuses and to evaluate differences in morphology during evolution, or to find anatomical situations that can be identified as the cause of obstetric paralysis. Methods Nine fetuses (12 to 30 weeks of gestation) stored in formalin were used. The supraclavicular and infraclavicular parts of the brachial plexus were dissected. Results In its early course, the brachial plexus had a cord-like shape when it passed through the scalene hiatus. Origin of the phrenic nerve in the brachial plexus was observed in only one fetus. In the deep infraclavicular and retropectoralis minor spaces, the nerve fibers of the brachial plexus were distributed in the axilla and medial bicipital groove, where they formed the nerve endings. Conclusion The brachial plexus of human fetuses presents variations and relations with anatomical structures that must be considered during clinical and surgical procedures for neonatal paralysis of the upper limbs.

RESUMO Objetivo Estudar a anatomia do plexo braquial em fetos e avaliar diferenças de morfologia durante a evolução, ou encontrar situações anatômicas que possam ser apontadas como causa de paralisias obstétricas. Métodos Foram utilizados nove fetos formolizados entre 12 a 30 semanas de gestação e submetidos à dissecação supra e infraclavicular do plexo braquial. Resultados O plexo braquial inicialmente tem formato de cordão durante sua passagem pelo hiato dos escalenos e em apenas um feto foi observada a origem do nervo frênico por meio do plexo braquial. Na região infraclavicular profunda e retropeitoral menor, os fascículos do plexo braquial se distribuíam na axila e sulco bicipital medial para a formação dos nervos terminais. Conclusão O plexo braquial de fetos humanos apresenta variações e relações com estruturas anatômicas que devem ser consideradas durante os procedimentos clínicos e cirúrgicos das paralisias neonatais do membro superior.

Metastasis from glioblastoma multiforme: a meta-analysis

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Extracranial metastases of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) are rare due to the short survival experienced by the patients. Therefore, the natural history of GBM metastases remains elusive. The identification of clinical factors promoting GBM metastases may help elucidate the mechanisms of tumor cell invasion in the brain. The aims of this study were to perform a meta-analysis evaluating the survival, characteristics, prognostic factors, and predictors of treatment outcome in patients with metastatic GBM and describe a case of metastatic extracranial GBM. METHODS: We report the case of a patient diagnosed with GBM metastatic to the lungs and the results of a meta-analysis of 114 other cases of metastatic GBM identified through a MEDLINE and BIREME search. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 38.2±16.1 years and 70.4% were male. The time elapsed between the identification of the metastasis and death was significantly increased in patients undergoing surgery (p=0.019), whereas the time from the diagnosis of the primary tumor to death was significantly increased in patients receiving radiation therapy (p=0.050). The time elapsed from metastasis to death and diagnosis to death was significantly longer in patients receiving chemotherapy (p<0.001 and p=0.027, respectively). The liver was the metastatic site associated with the shortest time elapsed from diagnosis to death (p=0.024). CONCLUSIONS: In GBM, surgical resection is important in reducing the risk of metastasis, and chemotherapy and radiation therapy help to prolong survival in metastatic GBM. Metastases to the liver are associated with shorter survival compared with metastases to other sites.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Metástases extracranianas do glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) são raras devido à baixa sobrevida dos pacientes. Portanto, a história natural das metástases do GBM permanece incerta. A identificação de fatores clínicos que promovem metástases no GBM pode ajudar a elucidar os mecanismos de invasão das células tumorais no cérebro. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma meta-análise avaliando a sobrevida, características, fatores prognósticos e preditores de desfechos do tratamento em pacientes com GBM metastático e descrever um caso de GBM extracraniano metastático. MÉTODOS: Relatamos o caso de uma paciente diagnosticada com GBM metastático para os pulmões e os resultados de uma meta-análise de 114 outros casos de GBM metastático identificados por meio de uma pesquisa no Medline e Bireme. RESULTADOS: A média de idade dos pacientes foi de 38,2±16,1 anos e 70,4% eram do sexo masculino. O tempo decorrido entre a identificação da metástase e o óbito foi significativamente maior em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia (p = 0,019), enquanto que o tempo do diagnóstico do tumor primário até o óbito aumentou significativamente em pacientes submetidos à radioterapia (p = 0,050). O tempo decorrido da metástase até o óbito e do diagnóstico até o óbito foi significativamente maior nos pacientes que receberam quimioterapia (p < 0,001 e p = 0,027, respectivamente). O fígado foi o local metastático associado ao menor tempo decorrido do diagnóstico até a morte (p = 0,024). CONCLUSÕES: No GBM, a ressecção cirúrgica é importante para redução do risco de metástase, e a quimioterapia e a radioterapia ajudam a prolongar a sobrevida no GBM metastático. Metástases para o fígado estão associadas a uma sobrevida mais curta quando comparadas a metástases para outros locais.

Strictly Intraventricular Craniopharyngioma: Case Report and Literature Review

Strictly intraventricular craniopharyngiomas are a rare topographical variety of craniopharyngiomas. The correct diagnosis is important in order to define the surgical planning, as the surgical access is different for suprasellar tumors with secondary invasion of the third ventricle. An image diagnosis may be difficult, though suggestive patterns exist. The aim of the present case report and literature review is to add to the scarce literature on strictly intraventricular craniopharyngiomas, as well as to remind the neurosurgeon of this rare diagnosis so that the proper treatment is provided.

Craniofaringiomas puramente intraventriculares constituem uma rara variedade topográfica dos craniofaringiomas. O diagnóstico correto é fundamental para a definição do plano cirúrgico, posto que o acesso a este tipo de tumor difere dos tumores suprasselares com invasão secundária do terceiro ventrículo. A confirmação por neuroimagem pode ser difícil, embora existam características sugestivas. A presente descrição de caso, bem como a revisão de literatura, visa contribuir com a escassa literatura a respeito de craniofaringiomas puramente intraventriculares, além de remeter o neurocirurgião a este diagnóstico raro para a adoção da conduta correta de tratamento.

Profile of Patients with Intracranial Tumors Undergoing Surgical Resection at a Neuro-oncology Referral Hospital

Objectives To analyze the epidemiological aspects of primary and metastatic tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) among patients operated on by a single surgeon dedicated to neuro-oncology at Hospital Regional do Oeste, in Chapecó (Santa Catarina, Brazil), between 2013 and 2016. Methods Cross-sectional, retrospective, and observational analysis of 347 patients undergoing surgery due to intracranial tumors. The patients' data were obtained from the hospital registry, medical records, and pathology reports. Results Primary CNS tumors comprised 72.1% of the sample. There was a predominance of females (52.7%), and the mean age was 49.3 years, with a peak of incidence between the ages of 25 and 64 years. Gliomas were the most common primary brain tumors (23.7%), followed by meningiomas (17.0%). Lung cancer (15.3%), breast cancer (4.9%), and melanoma (3.5%) were, in descending order, the most frequent primary sites of metastases, which were recorded in 97 cases (27.9%). Conclusion The lack of standardization in the process of notification of tumor diseases imposes challenges in the establishment of estimates close to the real ones, preventing improvement of public health care policies to protect patients with neuro-oncological conditions. Based on the current model, regionalization of the data seems to be the best option in the management of this subgroup of patients.

Objetivos Analisar aspectos epidemiológicos dos tumores cerebrais primários e metastáticos entre os pacientes operados por um único cirurgião dedicado à neurooncologia no Hospital Regional do Oeste, em Chapecó, SC, Brasil, durante os anos de 2013 a 2016. Métodos Estudo transversal, retrospectivo, do tipo observacional, com análise de 347 casos de neoplasias intracranianas de acordo com os dados obtidos no setor de registro hospitalar, nos prontuários da instituição e registros anatomopatológicos dos pacientes tratados cirurgicamente. Resultados Tumores cerebrais primários corresponderam a 72.1% da amostra. Houve predomínio do sexo feminino (52,7%) e a média de idade foi de 49,3 anos, com pico de incidência na faixa etária de 25 a 64 anos. Gliomas foram os tumores cerebrais primários mais encontrados (23.7%), seguidos por meningiomas (17,0%). Cânceres de pulmão (15,3%), mama (4,9%) e melanoma (3,5%) foram, em ordem decrescente, as localizações primárias mais frequentes das metástases registradas em 97 casos (27.9%). Conclusão A dificuldade em se estabelecer uma estimativa mais próxima da realidade devido à falta de padronização na notificação de agravos tumorais impede uma melhor condução de políticas públicas de amparo ao paciente neuro-oncológico. Assim, nos moldes atuais, a regionalização dos dados parece a melhor opção na administração desse subgrupo de pacientes.

Análise histomorfométrica da artéria aorta de ratas submetidas à administração repetida da associação de etinilestradiol e gestodeno / Histomorphometric analysis of the aorta of rats submitted to repeated administration of association of ethinylestradiol and gestodene

Introdução: Os anticoncepcionais orais vêm sofrendo alterações em suas concentrações de estrogênio e progestogênio, baseando-se no fato de que doses mais baixas estão associadas a menor incidência de alterações metabólicas e de efeitos adversos, como o comprometimento da morfologia e função da artéria aorta. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar a influência dos anticoncepcionais nas propriedades morfofuncionais da artéria aorta, através do método histoquímico, demonstrando sua utilidade nas análises histopatológicas. Métodos: Para tanto, foram utilizadas 15 ratas divididas em 3 grupos; Grupo controle (GC), cujos animais não receberam tratamento hormonal; Grupo 2 (G2), onde os animais receberam tratamento diário de 15 µg de etinilestradiol + 60 µg de gestodeno; e Grupo 3 (G3), que recebeu 30 µg de etinilestradiol + 75 µg de gestodeno. Após o tratamento, os animais foram eutanasiados e as artérias retiradas para análise histológica. Resultados: Os valores encontrados com a técnica de coloração histológica de hematoxilina e eosina (HE), bem como na coloração específica em histoquímica com Alcian Blue, demonstram que no G3, tratados com uma dosagem superior de hormônio, 8% das ratas tem aumento relevante da espessura de suas artérias, ou seja, superior ao G2, que recebeu dosagem menor de hormônio, e GC, o qual não recebeu nenhum tipo de tratamento. Conclusão: Este estudo demonstra que existem relações entre o espessamento das artérias, de ratas submetidas a dosagens de etinilestradiol e gestodeno, com a grande quantidade de mucopolissacarídeos depositados entre as túnicas das artérias. (AU)

Introduction: Pharmacological development of hormonal contraceptives has been undergoing changes in estrogen and progesterone doses, based on the fact that lower doses are associated with a lower incidence of metabolic changes and adverse effects, such as impairment of morphology and function of the aortic artery. The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of contraceptives on the morphofunctional properties of the aortic artery, using the histochemical method, demonstrating its usefulness in histopathological analyzes. Methods: For this purpose, 15 rats were divided into 3 groups; Control group (GC), whose animals did not receive hormonal treatment; Group 2 (G2), where the animals received a daily treatment of 15 µg of ethinylestradiol + 60 µg of gestodene; and Group 3 (G3), whose animals received 30 µg of ethinylestradiol + 75 µg of gestodene. After treatment, the animals were sacrificed and the arteries removed for histologic analysis. Results: The values found, with HE measurements and Alcian Blue histochemical staining, showed that in G3, treated with a higher hormone dosage, there are 8% of the rats with a relevant increase in the thickness of their arteries, that is, higher than that of G2, which received lower dosage of hormone and that of GC, which received no treatment. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that there are relations between the thickening of the arteries of rats submitted to dosages of ethinylestradiol and gestodene with the great amount of mucopolysaccharides deposited between the tunics of the arteries. (AU)

Trochlear Nerve Schwannoma: Case Report and Literature Review

Schwannomas arise from the Schwann cells of the peripheral and cranial nerves. They represent 8% of the primary cerebral neoplasms. Although schwannomas usually develop in sensory nerves, most often on the vestibular and trigeminal nerves, in very rare cases they can develop in motor nerves. We reported an unusual case of a 29-year-old woman with headache, nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision ongoing for 3 years. Magnetic resonance of the brain showed a solid-cystic expanded injury, heterogeneous, with limits partially defined and epicenter on the pineal gland. The lesion presented hyposignal in T1 and isosignal in T2. An intense enhancement of the solid part was observed after contrast injection. Foci of calcification and absence of diffusion restriction were also observed. The patient underwent microneurosurgery with supracerebellar infratentorial approach in a seated position. Subtotal resection was performed with maintenance of calcified tumor tissue adhered to the right Rosenthal basal vein. In the postoperative phase, the patient remained with diplopia when looking down; however, she reported improvement of headache and nausea.

Os schwannomas surgem das células de Schwann, dos nervos periféricos e cranianos e representam 8% das neoplasias cerebrais primárias. Apesar de os schwannomas se desenvolverem comumente em nervos sensoriais, mais frequentemente no nervo vestibular e trigêmeo, em casos muito raros ele pode se desenvolver em nervos motores. Relatamos um caso raro, de uma paciente do sexo feminino, 29 anos, com quadro de cefaleia, náuseas, vômitos e turvação visual há três anos. Ressonância magnética de encéfalo demonstrou lesão expansiva sólido-cística, heterogênea, com limites parcialmente definidos e epicentro na glândula pineal. Apresentou hipossinal em T1 e isossinal em T2. Houve intenso realce da parte sólida após injeção de contraste. Foram observados focos de calcificação e ausência de restrição à difusão. A paciente foi submetida a tratamento microneurocirúrgico com acesso infratentorial supracerebelar em posição sentada. Houve ressecção subtotal com manutenção de tecido tumoral calcificado aderido a veia basal de Rosenthal direita. No pós-operatório, a paciente permaneceu com diplopia na mirada ocular para baixo, entretanto apresentou melhora de cefaleia e náuseas.

PET/MRI: a novel hybrid imaging technique. Major clinical indications and preliminary experience in Brazil / PET/RM: um novo método de imagem híbrida. Principais indicações clínicas e experiência preliminar no Brasil

ABSTRACT In recent years, medical imaging with hybrid techniques has widely accepted and employed in clinical routine. PET/MRI offers significant advantages, including excellent contrast and resolution and reduced ionizing radiation, as compared to well-established PET/CT. Therefore, PET/MRI is a promising modality for oncologic imaging of some regions, such as brain, head and neck, liver and pelvis. This article set out to analyze clinical conditions that could benefit from PET/MRI imaging based on our caseload. The potential of PET/MRI to become the imaging modality of choice for assessment of neurologic and oncologic conditions associated with soft tissues is highlighted. Clinical aspects of PET/MRI and its application to clinical cases are illustrated with examples extracted from the authors’ preliminary experience.

RESUMO Nos últimos anos, imagens médicas com tecnologias híbridas tornaram-se amplamente aceitas e utilizadas na prática clínica. O PET/RM possui vantagens importantes, incluindo excelentes contrastes e resolução, e menor radiação ionizante, em comparação ao PET/TC. Por isto, é uma modalidade promissora para exames de imagem de pacientes oncológicos, para avaliar o cérebro, cabeça e pescoço, o fígado e a pelve. O objetivo deste artigo foi analisar as situações clínicas que se beneficiariam de exames de PET/RM a partir de uma casuística. Destacamos o potencial desta técnica se tornar o método de imagem de escolha para doenças neurológicas e oncológicas que envolvam partes moles. Os aspectos clínicos de PET/RM e sua aplicação aos casos clínicos são ilustrados com exemplos da experiência inicial dos autores.

Infraclavicular topography of the brachial plexus fascicles in different upper limb positions / Topografía infraclavicular de los fascículos del plexo braquial en diferentes posiciones del miembro superior

Brachial plexus neuropathies are common complaints among patients seen at orthopedic clinics. The causes range from traumatic to occupational factors and symptoms include paresthesia, paresis, and functional disability of the upper limb. Treatment can be surgical or conservative, but detailed knowledge of the brachial plexus is required in both cases to avoid iatrogenic injuries and to facilitate anesthetic block, preventing possible vascular punctures. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the topography of the infraclavicular brachial plexus fascicles in different upper limb positions adopted during some clinical procedures. A formalin-preserved, adult, male cadaver was used. The infraclavicular and axillary regions were dissected and the distance of the brachial plexus fascicles from adjacent bone structures was measured. No anatomical variation in the formation of the brachial plexus was observed. The metric relationships between the brachial plexus and adjacent bone prominences differed depending on the degree of shoulder abduction. Detailed knowledge of the infraclavicular topography of neurovascular structures helps with the diagnosis and especially with the choice of conservative or surgical treatment of brachial plexus neuropathies.

Las neuropatías del plexo braquial son quejas comunes entre los pacientes atendidos en las clínicas ortopédicas. Las causas van desde traumas a factores ocupacionales y los síntomas incluyen parestesias, paresia e incapacidad funcional del miembro superior. El tratamiento puede ser quirúrgico o conservador, pero se requiere un conocimiento detallado del plexo braquial en ambos casos para evitar lesiones iatrogénicas y para facilitar el bloqueo anestésico, evitando posibles lesiones vasculares. Por lo tanto, el objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la topografía de los fascículos del plexo braquial infraclavicular en diferentes posiciones de los miembros superiores adoptadas durante algunos procedimientos clínicos. Se llevó a cabo la disección de las regiones infraclavicular y axilar de un cadáver adulto, de sexo masculino, conservado en formaldehído. Se midió la distancia de los fascículos del plexo braquial en relación a las estructuras óseas adyacentes. No se observó variación anatómica en la formación del plexo braquial. Las relaciones métricas entre el plexo braquial y las prominencias óseas adyacentes difieren en función del grado de abducción del hombro. El conocimiento detallado de la topografía infraclavicular de las estructuras neurovasculares ayuda con el diagnóstico y sobre todo con la elección del tratamiento conservador o quirúrgico de las neuropatías del plexo braquial.

Subcutaneous Immunotherapy Improves the Symptomatology of Allergic Rhinitis

Introduction The relevance of allergic rhinitis is unquestionable. This condition affects people s quality of life and its incidence has increased over the last years. Objective Thus, this study aims to analyze the effectiveness of subcutaneous injectable immunotherapy in cases of nasal itching, sneeze, rhinorrhea and nasal congestion in allergic rhinitis patients. Methods In the present study, the same researcher analyzed the records of 281 patients. Furthermore, the researchers identified allergens through puncture cutaneous tests using standardized extracts containing acari, fungi, pet hair, flower pollen, and feathers. Then, the patients underwent treatment with subcutaneous specific immunotherapy, using four vaccine vials for desensitization, associated with environmental hygiene. The authors analyzed conditions of nasal itching, sneeze, rhinorrhea, and nasal congestion throughout the treatment, and assigned them with a score ranging from zero (0), meaning absence of these symptoms to three (3), for severe cases. The symptoms were statistically compared in the beginning, during, and after treatment. Results In this study, authors analyzed the cases distribution according to age and the evolution of symptomatology according to the scores, comparing all phases of treatment. The average score for the entire population studied was 2.08 before treatment and 0.44 at the end. These results represent an overall improvement of ±79% in symptomatology of allergic rhinitis in the studied population. Conclusion The subcutaneous immunotherapy as treatment of allergic rhinitis led to a reduction in all symptoms studied, improving the quality of life of patients, proving itself as an important therapeutic tool for these pathological conditions.

A Different Origin of the Right Gastro-omental Artery / Un Origen Diferente de la Arteria Gastro-omental Derecha

The gastro-omental artery is one of the branches of the common hepatic artery. Alterations in the embryonic development of the ventral splanchnic arteries can cause marked variations. A rare variant of the right gastro-omental artery was observed during dissection of a 50-year-old male cadaver. The occurrence of this variant has not been reported in the specialized literature. This case of a different origin of the gastro-omental artery is described in detail in order to provide information that may contribute to upper abdominal surgeries.

La arteria gastro-omental es una de las ramas de la arteria hepática común. Las alteraciones en el desarrollo embrionario de las arterias ventrales pueden causar variaciones marcadas. Se observó una variante rara de la arteria gastro-omental derecha durante la disección de un cadáver de un hombre de 50 años de edad. La presencia de esta variante no se ha informado en la literatura especializada. Este caso de origen diferente de la arteria gastro-omental se describe detalladamente con el fin de proporcionar información que pueda contribuir a la cirugía abdominal superior.

Estesioneuroblastoma: relatos de casos e revisão de literatura / Esthesioneuroblastoma: Case Reports and Literature Review

O estesioneuroblastoma (ENB) é uma neoplasia rara que atinge o neuroepitélio olfativo, comumente invadindo os seios paranasais, a base do crânio e a região orbitária. Apresenta metástase em 10 a 30 % dos casos. Distribui-se de forma bimodal para a idade, principalmente dos 11 aos 20 anos e dos 51 aos 60 anos, sem influência do sexo e raça do indivíduo. A ínfima quantidade de casos relatados resulta em dúvidas quanto ao melhor tratamento a ser dispensado ao paciente. Relatamos três casos, todos Kadish C, tornando o tratamento e o prognóstico um desafio à prática neurocirúrgica.

The esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) is a rare neoplasm that affects the olfactory neuroepithelium, commonly invading the paranasal sinuses, skull base and the orbital region. Shows metastasis in 10% to 30% of cases. Distributed in a bimodal shape for the age, from 11 to 20 years and 51 to 60 years especially, with no influence of gender and race of the individual. The tiny amount of reported cases result in doubt about the best treatment to be dispensed to the patient. We report three cases, all Kadish C, making treatment and prognosis a challenge to neurosurgery.

Osseointegration of hydroxyapatite implants in rat tibial defects with sciatic nerve injury / Oseointegración de implantes de hidroxiapatita en defectos tibiales de ratas con lesión del nervio ciático

Bone metabolism is influenced by different factors and muscle activity acts as a stimulator of bone plasticity. Conditions such as nerve injuries can compromise bone physiology due to muscle inactivity. Preview studies have shown that nerve damage reduces P substance and calcitonin gene-related peptides, also known as neuropeptides that may have a key role on bone healing. Therefore, this study evaluated the osseointegration of hydroxyapatite implants in tibial defects of rats submitted to unilateral sciatic nerve section. Twelve Wistar rats were divided into two groups (G1 and G2). In G1, the sciatic nerve was left intact and in G2 the left sciatic nerve was completely sectioned. An experimental tibial bone defect was then created in both groups and filled with hydroxyapatite granules. The animals were sacrificed 2 months after implantation and samples were submitted to macroscopic inspection and histological analysis. Good radiopacity of the hydroxyapatite granules and radiographic definition of the bone defect were noted. Histologic analysis revealed formation of new bone adjacent to the hydroxyapatite granules in G1 and, to a lesser extent, in G2 in which the proliferation of connective tissue predominated at the implant site. The formation of new bone stimulated by hydroxyapatite in bone defects can be expected even in animals with limb paralysis due to nerve injury; however, bone formation occurs at a slower speed in these animals and the volume of newly formed bone is lower.

El metabolismo óseo está influenciado por diferentes factores y la actividad muscular como un estimulador de la plasticidad ósea. Condiciones tales como lesiones nerviosas pueden comprometer la fisiología ósea debido a la inactividad muscular. Estudios previos han demostrado que el daño nervioso reduce la sustancia P y el péptido relacionado con el gen de la calcitonina, también conocidos como neuropéptidos que pueden tener un papel clave en la cicatrización ósea. Este estudio evaluó la oseointegración de los implantes de hidroxiapatita en defectos tibiales de ratas sometidas a la sección del nervio ciático unilateralmente. Doce ratas Wistar se dividieron en dos grupos (G1 y G2). En G1, el nervio ciático se dejó intacto y en el G2 el nervio ciático izquierdo fue completamente seccionado. Un defecto óseo tibial fue creado experimentalmente en ambos grupos y se rellenó con gránulos de hidroxiapatita. Los animales se sacrificaron 2 meses después de la implantación y las muestras fueron sometidas a inspección macroscópica y el análisis histológico. Se observó buena radiopacidad de los gránulos de hidroxiapatita y definición radiográfica del defecto óseo. El análisis histológico reveló neoformación ósea adyacente a los gránulos de hidroxiapatita en G1 y, en menor medida en G2, donde la proliferación de tejido conectivo predominó en el sitio de implante. La neoformación ósea estimulada por hidroxiapatita en defectos óseos se puede esperar incluso en animales con parálisis de los miembros producto de una lesión nerviosa; sin embargo, la formación de hueso se produce a menor velocidad en estos animales y su volumen es menor.