Tumor de cuerpo carotídeo en adolescente. Reporte de un caso / Carotid body tumor in an adolescent. A case report

Introducción. Los paragangliomas del cuerpo carotídeo son neoplasias infrecuentes y representan el 0,6 % de los tumores de cabeza y cuello. La edad de presentación promedio es la quinta década de vida. El objetivo de este artículo fue describir un caso de paraganglioma del cuerpo carotídeo en una adolescente. Caso clínico. Se presenta el caso de una paciente adolescente con paraganglioma de cuerpo carotídeo derecho, de 5x3x3 cm, Shamblin III. Se analizaron la historia clínica, los exámenes diagnósticos, la técnica quirúrgica utilizada y su evolución correspondiente. La información fue obtenida a partir de la ficha clínica, previa autorización por consentimiento de los padres de la paciente. Resultados. Se hizo resección quirúrgica completa y reparo vascular con injerto de vena safena invertida, con evolución favorable y permeabilidad completa del puente vascular, sin secuelas. Conclusión. Este caso podía corresponder a un tumor de etiología familiar, dada su edad temprana de presentación. Se hizo necesario complementar su estudio con imágenes y objetivar el compromiso vascular asociado para la planificación quirúrgica. En estos pacientes, la complejidad de su localización y el compromiso vascular del tumor requiere de un equipo multidisciplinario, con cirujanos de cabeza y cuello y cirujanos vasculares para un resultado exitoso.

Introduction. Carotid body paragangliomas are rare, representing 0.6% of head and neck tumors, with average age of presentation in the fifth decade of life. The objective of this article is to describe a clinical case of carotid body paraganglioma in an adolescent. Clinical case. Review and analysis of the clinical case, reviewing its clinical history, study tests, surgical technique used and its corresponding evolution. Information obtained from the clinical record prior authorization by consent of the patient's parents. Results. Adolescent patient with paraganglioma of the right carotid body, 5x3x3 cm, Shamblin III. With complete surgical resection and inverted saphenous vein graft, favorable evolution, with complete permeability of the vascular bridge, without sequelae. Conclusion. This case could correspond to a tumor of familiar etiology, given its early age of presentation. It is necessary to complement the study with images and to objectively determine the associated vascular involvement for surgical planning. In these patients, the complexity of their location and vascular involvement of the tumor requires a multidisciplinary team with head and neck and vascular surgeons for a successful outcome.

Construction of a machine learning model for identifying clinical high-risk carotid plaques based on radiomics / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Objective     To construct a radiomics model for identifying clinical high-risk carotid plaques. Methods     A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with carotid artery stenosis in China-Japan Friendship Hospital from December 2016 to June 2022. The patients were classified as a clinical high-risk carotid plaque group and a clinical low-risk carotid plaque group according to the occurrence of stroke, transient ischemic attack and other cerebrovascular clinical symptoms within six months. Six machine learning models including eXtreme Gradient Boosting, support vector machine, Gaussian Naive Bayesian, logical regression, K-nearest neighbors and artificial neural network were established. We also constructed a joint predictive model combined with logistic regression analysis of clinical risk factors. Results    Finally 652 patients were collected, including 427 males and 225 females, with an average age of 68.2 years. The results showed that the prediction ability of eXtreme Gradient Boosting was the best among the six machine learning models, and the area under the curve (AUC) in validation dataset was 0.751. At the same time, the AUC of eXtreme Gradient Boosting joint prediction model established by clinical data and carotid artery imaging data validation dataset was 0.823. Conclusion     Radiomics features combined with clinical feature model can effectively identify clinical high-risk carotid plaques.

Internal carotid artery dissection associated with acute dengue virus infection: a case report / Dissecção da artéria carótida interna associada à infecção aguda pelo vírus da dengue: relato de caso

Cervical artery dissections (CAD) can occur spontaneously or as a direct result of significant trauma. Viral infections, such as SARS-CoV2, influenza, and Epstein Barr, are risk factors for spontaneous CAD. Dengue virus infections have dramatically increased in recent decades, and Brazil is one of the endemic areas. The dengue virus can cause headache and neurological complications such as encephalitis, myelitis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and myositis. No report has yet been found in the literature of dissection of the internal carotid artery secondary to dengue infection. Our objective is to report the case of a patient with dissection of the internal carotid artery associated with acute dengue virus infection.

As dissecções da artéria cervical (DAC) podem ocorrer espontaneamente ou como resultado direto de trauma significativo. Infecções virais, como SARS-CoV2, influenza e Epstein Barr, são fatores de risco para DAC espontânea. As infecções pelo vírus da dengue aumentaram dramaticamente nas últimas décadas, e o Brasil é uma das áreas endêmicas. O vírus da dengue pode causar dor de cabeça e complicações neurológicas como encefalite, mielite, síndrome de Guillain-Barré e miosite. Ainda não foi encontrado na literatura nenhum relato de dissecção da artéria carótida interna secundária à infecção por dengue. Nosso objetivo é relatar o caso de um paciente com dissecção da artéria carótida interna associada à infecção aguda pelo vírus da dengue.

Desfechos de curto prazo da cirurgia de carótida: experiência no "mundo real" em um centro único de formação profissional / Short term outcomes of carotid surgery: the real-world experience of a single teaching center

Resumo Contexto A abordagem cirúrgica para estenose carotídea sintomática está consolidada na literatura para a prevenção de eventos neurológicos, devendo seguir padrões ótimos de qualidade. Entretanto, há uma crescente preocupação relacionada à possibilidade ou não de replicar os dados dos trabalhos controlados no mundo real. Objetivos Avaliar a população com estenose carotídea sintomática submetida a cirurgia e seus desfechos de curto prazo em um contexto de mundo real em um centro de formação profissional. Métodos Tratou-se de um estudo observacional realizado por meio de coleta de dados em prontuário de janeiro de 2012 a janeiro de 2023. Foram excluídos pacientes operados por outras etiologias e com cirurgia cardíaca concomitante. Resultados Foram incluídos 70 pacientes submetidos a angioplastia ou endarterectomia carotídea. Os subgrupos populacionais submetidos a angioplastia ou endarterectomia foram semelhantes. Houve diferença estatisticamente relevante quanto à modalidade anestésica e ao tempo cirúrgico maior para o subgrupo de endarterectomia carotídea. Houve quatro casos de acidente vascular encefálico isquêmico, e três deles estavam relacionados à lesão, sendo dois menores e um maior. Dessa forma, a taxa de acidente vascular encefálico maior relacionado à lesão foi de 1,43% e de qualquer acidente vascular encefálico relacionado à lesão, de 4,29%. A taxa total de eventos adversos cardiovasculares maiores foi de 5,71%. Houve um caso de infarto agudo do miocárdio no grupo angioplastia e nenhum óbito. Não houve diferença estatística entre os grupos de endarterectomia e angioplastia quanto aos desfechos principais. Conclusões Os desfechos acidente vascular encefálico isquêmico, infarto agudo do miocárdio, óbito e eventos adversos cardiovasculares maiores neste centro são semelhantes aos encontrados em estudos clínicos randomizados, demonstrando viabilidade da manutenção deste tratamento em centros com programas de ensino.

Abstract Background Surgical treatment of symptomatic extracranial carotid stenosis is well established for preventing neurological events and should adhere to optimal quality standards. However, there is growing concern as to whether results of controlled trials are replicable in real-world settings. Objectives To assess a symptomatic carotid stenosis population that underwent surgery and its short-term outcomes in a real-world context at a professional training center. Methods Observational study using data collected from medical records from January 2012 to January 2023. Patients undergoing operations for other carotid diseases and with concomitant heart surgery were excluded. Results A total of 70 patients undergoing angioplasty or carotid endarterectomy were included. Population subsets undergoing angioplasty or endarterectomy were similar. Differences in anesthetic modality and a longer operative time in the carotid endarterectomy subgroup were statistically significant. There were 4 cases of stroke, only 3 of which (2 minor and 1 major) were related to the index lesion. Thus, the rate of major operation-related stroke was 1.43% and the rate of any lesion-related stroke was 4.29%. There was 1 case of AMI in the angioplasty group and there were no deaths in the sample. The overall rate of major adverse cardiovascular events was 5.71%. There were no statistical differences between the endarterectomy and angioplasty groups regarding the main outcomes. Conclusions The rates of outcomes of ischemic stroke, acute myocardial infarction, death, and major adverse cardiovascular events at this center are in line with the rates reported by randomized controlled trials, demonstrating the feasibility of carotid surgery in centers with teaching programs.

Disección carotídea espontánea: Presentación de un caso clínico con revisión de la literatura / Carotid Artery Dissection. Case Report and Literature Review

Resumen Introducción: La disección carotídea consiste en el desgarro de la pared del vaso. Es una patología infrecuente, pero es la causa más común de enfermedad vascular cerebral (EVC) isquémica en personas menores de 45 años. Las manifestaciones clínicas son muy variables. Método: Utilizamos las recomendaciones CARE para el reporte de casos clínicos. Caso clínico: Hombre de 45 años previamente sano, con debilidad aguda de la extremidad torácica derecha sin causa aparente. La tomografía simple de cráneo no evidenció alteraciones. La resonancia magnética mostró una oclusión completa de la arteria carótida interna en todos sus segmentos y disminución del flujo de la arteria cerebral media izquierda. La evolución clínica fue desfavorable. Conclusión: La disección carotídea debe sospecharse en personas con EVC sin factores de riesgo cardiovascular.

Abstract Introduction: Carotid dissection consists of a tear in the vessel wall. It is a rare pathology, but it is the most common cause of ischemic cerebral vascular disease (CVD) in people under 45 years of age. The clinical manifestations are very variable. Method: We used CARE recommendations for reporting clinical cases. Clinical case: Previously, a healthy 45-year-old man with acute weakness of the right thoracic extremity without apparent cause. The simple skull tomography did not show any alterations. MRI showed complete occlusion of the internal carotid artery in all its segments and decreased flow of the left middle cerebral artery. The clinical evolution was unfavorable. Conclusion: Carotid dissection should be suspected in people with CVD without cardiovascular risk factors.

Estudo sobre a prevalência de doença carotídea detectada por ultrassonografia nos casos de AVC isquêmico de um hospital público de Santa Catarina / Study on the prevalence of carotid artery disease detected by ultrasonography in cases of ischemic stroke at a public hospital in Santa Catarina

Fundamento: Acidentes Vasculares Cerebrais Isquêmicos (AVCi) representam significativa parcela dentre as causas da morbimortalidade mundial. Estenose das artérias carótidas e vertebrais são consideradas fator de risco para tal desfecho. A Ultrassonografia com Doppler (USG Doppler) das artérias extracranianas pode ser útil na identificação de pacientes com estenose significativa por ser um método inócuo e acessível. Objetivos: avaliar a prevalência de estenose nas artérias extracranianas diagnosticadas através do estudo com USG Doppler e a prevalência de fatores associados em pacientes com quadro de AVCi. Métodos: Trata-se de estudo retrospectivo, transversal, a partir da análise de prontuários dos pacientes internados com quadro de AVCi no Hospital Regional de São José, Santa Catarina, Brasil. O estudo ocorreu entre janeiro de 2020 e dezembro de 2021. A análise ultrassonográfica foi realizada por médicos radiologistas habilitados, a partir do uso de aparelho validado (GE Logic P9 com transdutor linear multifrequencial 6-15MHz). Resultados: Dentre os 239 pacientes incluídos, destaca-se a significativa prevalência de comorbidades associadas ao AVCi, como hipertensão arterial sistêmica (78,2%) e tabagismo (40,6%). A distribuição entre os sexos foi homogênea (58,2 versus 41,8%) e 70,3% dos pacientes possuíam idade superior a 60 anos de idade. A taxa de pacientes com alterações hemodinamicamente significativas (estenose >50% da luz do vaso) das artérias carótidas e vertebrais foi de 29,2%. O tabagismo foi o único fator de risco que se correlacionou estatisticamente com a ocorrência de AVCi decorrente do acometimento das artérias carótidas ou vertebrais (RP 1,708; IC 1,057-2,761; p=0,028). Conclusão: O USG com Doppler das artérias extracranianas é ferramenta útil na investigação dos casos de AVCi, visto que a prevalência de doença significativa dos grandes vasos extracranianos (estenose>50%) se aproxima de 30%.

Background: Ischemic Strokes represent a sizable portion among the causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Stenosis of the carotid and vertebral arteries represent a risk factor to this outcome. Ultrasonography with Doppler of the extracranial arteries can be useful in identifying patients with significant stenosis because it is a harmless and accessible method. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of stenosis in the extracranial arteries diagnosed through Doppler ultrasound examination and the prevalence of associated factors in patients with ischemic stroke Methods: This is a retrospective, cross-sectional study based on the analysis of medical records of patients admitted with ischemic stroke at the Regional Hospital of São José, Santa Catarina, Brazil. The study was conducted between January 2020 and December 2021. Ultrasonographic analysis was performed by qualified radiologists, using a validated device (GE Logic P9 with a multi-frequency linear transducer 6-15MHz). Results: Among the 239 included patients, there is a significant prevalence of comorbidities associated with ischemic stroke, such as systemic arterial hypertension (78.2%) and smoking (40.6%). The distribution between genders was homogeneous (58.2% versus 41.8%), and 70.3% of the patients were over 60 years old. The rate of patients with hemodynamically significant alterations (stenosis >50% of the vessel lumen) in the carotid and vertebral arteries was 29.2%. Smoking was the only risk factor that statistically correlated with the occurrence of ischemic stroke resulting from the involvement of the carotid or vertebral arteries (PR 1.708; CI 1.057-2.761; p=0.028). Conclusion: Ultrasonography with Doppler of the extracranial arteries is a useful tool in the investigation of ischemic stroke cases, given that the prevalence of significant disease in the large extracranial vessels (stenosis >50%) approaches 30%.

Endoscopic Orientation of Juxta-pituitary Carotid in Transsphenoidal Approaches: Critical Considerations for Clinical Applications

Abstract Introduction In sphenoid sinuses with ill-defined carotid bony landmarks, accidental injury of the internal carotid artery (ICA) remains one of the most challenging complications, which is particularly reported in the endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approaches (EETAs). Objectives To describe an anatomical model for the endoscopic orientation of the juxta-pituitary segment of the ICA in relation to the lateral opticocarotid recess (OCR) as a nearby bony landmark. Methods Dissection was performed progressively, simulating the EETA, in twenty fresh adult cadavers. After reducing the posterior and lateral walls of the sphenoid sinuses, various measurements were taken from both lateral OCRs to "contact points" on the juxta-pituitary segment of the ICA and lateral margins of the pituitary gland. Results The current results have enabled us to divide the region between the lateral OCRs into 3 compartments: 2 lateral parasellar compartments contain juxta-pituitary segments of the ICA with a mean width of 8 mm and a narrow range from 7 mm to 10 mm; and a central intercarotid sellar compartment represents the safe region for bone drilling, showing widely variable widths ranging from 9 mm to 20 mm. In all specimens, the variation in the width of the intercarotid compartment correlated with the distance between both lateral OCRs. Conclusion The present study improves surgeon awareness of the variations in the course of the ICA through the EETA along sphenoid sinuses with ill-defined bony landmarks. An appreciation of the measurements taken in the present study can help in operative training, and can also provide a base for future studies to confirm ICA courses associated with a higher risk of injury.

Aspectos clínicos, radiográficos e estratégias terapêuticas da Síndrome de Eagle: revisão de literatura / Clinical, radiographic aspects and therapeutic strategies of Eagle Syndrome: literature review

Objetivo: Este trabalho tem como propósito fornecer uma análise abrangente das características anatômicas, clínicas e radiográficas da Síndrome de Eagle, além de abordar os métodos de diagnóstico e estratégias terapêuticas. Materiais e métodos: Foi realizada uma busca por artigos científicos publicados no período de 2016 a 2024, utilizando as bases de dados Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), US National Library of Medicine (PubMed) e Google Scholar. A coleta de artigos foi realizada nos idiomas inglês e português, utilizando as palavras-chave: "síndrome de eagle", "síndrome estiloide", "síndrome da artéria carótida", "estilalgia", "eagle syndrome", "styloid syndrome", "carotid artery syndrome" e "stylalgia". Conclusão: Os profissionais devem estar atentos à síndrome de Eagle em casos de dor unilateral ao realizar atividades como engolir, bocejar e chorar, sem causa aparente, especialmente em mulheres adultas que não encontram alívio com analgésicos. Devido à frequência de casos assintomáticos, a realização precoce de exames radiológicos desempenha um papel crucial na avaliação diagnóstica. É essencial que profissionais de Otorrinolaringologia, Neurologia e Odontologia estejam cientes dessa síndrome, pois está associada a uma significativa deterioração na qualidade de vida. (AU)

Objective: This work aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the anatomical, clinical and radiographic characteristics of Eagle Syndrome, in addition to addressing diagnostic methods and therapeutic strategies. Materials and methods: A search was carried out for scientific articles published between 2016 and 2024, using the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), US National Library of Medicine (PubMed) and Google Scholar databases. Articles were collected in English and Portuguese, using the keywords: "eagle syndrome", "styloid syndrome", "carotid artery syndrome", "stilalgia", "eagle syndrome", "styloid syndrome", "carotid artery syndrome" and "stylalgia". Conclusion: Professionals should be aware of Eagle syndrome in cases of unilateral pain when performing activities such as swallowing, yawning and crying, without an apparent cause, especially in adult women who do not find relief with analgesics. Due to the frequency of asymptomatic cases, early radiological examinations play a crucial role in diagnostic evaluation. It is essential that Otorhinolaryngology, Neurology and Dentistry professionals are aware of this syndrome, as it is associated with a significant deterioration in quality of life. (AU)

Riesgo de accidente cerebrovascular en pacientes con aterosclerosis carotídea asintomática: ¿se debe tratar médicamente o quirúrgicamente?

Los desórdenes cerebrovasculares siguen siendo la primera causa de morbilidad y mortalidad neurológica en el mundo, representando una de las entidades patológicas que genera mayor carga de enfermedad a nivel global. La aterosclerosis, o estenosis carotídea, es un potencial factor de riesgo para el ictus isquémico. La identificación y seguimiento estricto de esta condición son esenciales en la prevención secundaria de complicaciones a través de la atención primaria y el manejo especializado del riesgo cardiometabólico. No obstante, dependiendo de este riesgo y/o la presencia de sintomatología, es necesario realizar un manejo definitivo. Actualmente, existe controversia sobre si es mejor tratar la estenosis carotídea asintomática, ya sea médica o quirúrgicamente. Teniendo en cuenta la relevancia de esta entidad, el objetivo de esta revisión consiste en analizar la evidencia reciente sobre el riesgo de ictus isquémico en la aterosclerosis carotídea asintomática en adultos, y el potencial beneficio del manejo quirúrgico vs. farmacológico de esta condición. Para esto, se llevó a cabo una búsqueda bibliográfica en las bases de datos PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science y MEDLINE, hasta el año 2023. Se evidenció que el riesgo de ictus asociado a estenosis carotídea asintomática es significativo (>10 %, aproximadamente), incluso en aquellos con terapia antiplaquetaria e hipolipemiante activa. En aquellos con manejo médico, la supervivencia a cinco años es alrededor del 80 %. Sin embargo, la progresión de la estenosis sucede en promedio en más del 60 % de los casos, y es significativa. Por el contrario, el stent carotídeo y la endarterectomía son intervenciones resolutivas. Pero existe un riesgo mayor comparado con la terapia médica, el cual se atribuye al periodo periy posoperatorio, así como a 30 días de aparición o recurrencia del ictus, infarto agudo de miocardio o muerte por cualquier causa; aunque el uso de la endarterectomía ha demostrado beneficios superiores a largo plazo en cuanto a estos mismos desenlaces. Entonces, la evidencia es heterogénea en cuanto a la superioridad del tratamiento quirúrgico comparado con la terapia farmacológica en el manejo de la aterosclerosis o estenosis carotídea asintomática. Sin embargo, parece ser que el manejo quirúrgico, específicamente la endarterectomía, podría impactar significativamente sobre la aparición o recurrencia del ictus ipsilateral y muerte a largo plazo, pero con resultados controversiales periy postoperatorios.

Cerebrovascular disorders remain the leading cause of neurological morbidity and mortality in the world, representing one of the pathological entities responsible for the greatest burden of disease worldwide. Carotid atherosclerosis or stenosis is a potential risk factor for ischemic stroke. The identification and strict follow-up of this condition are essential in the secondary prevention of complications through primary care and the specialized treatment of cardiometabolic risk. However, depending on this risk and/or presence of symptoms, definitive treatment is necessary. Currently, there is controversy as to whether asymptomatic carotid stenosis is better to be treated medically or surgically. Considering the significance of such entity, this review aims to analyze recent evidence on the risk of ischemic stroke in the case of asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis among adults, as well as the potential benefit of the surgical vs. pharmacological treatment for this condition. For this purpose, a literature search for publications up to 2023 was carried out in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science and MEDLINE databases. It was shown that there is a significant risk of stroke associated with asymptomatic carotid stenosis (> 10 % approximately), even in patients with active antiplatelet and lipid-lowering therapy. Out of all those who receive medical treatment, around 80 % had a five-year survival rate. However, stenosis progression occurs on average in more than 60 % of the cases and is significant. On the other hand, carotid stenting and endarterectomy are curative interventions. Nevertheless, these procedures involve a higher risk compared to the medical therapy during the periand postoperative period, as well as 30 days afterwards, due to the occurrence or recurrence of stroke, acute myocardial infarction or death from any cause. Despite this, the use of endarterectomy has shown superior long-term benefits concerning these same outcomes. Thus, evidence regarding the superiority of surgical treatment compared to pharmacological treatment for asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis or stenosis is heterogeneous. However, it seems that surgical treatment, specifically endarterectomy, could have a significant impact on the occurrence or recurrence of ipsilateral stroke and death in the long term but with controversial periand postoperative outcomes.

Endarterectomía carotídea en paciente con estenosis aórtica crítica. Importancia de la anestesia regional y del neuromonitoreo / Carotid endarterectomy in a patient with critical aortic stenosis. Importance of regional anesthesia and transoperative neurological monitoring

Resumen: La estenosis carotídea (EC) ocurre en 13% de los pacientes con estenosis valvular aórtica (EVA). El riesgo de evento vascular cerebral (EVC), en los pacientes con EC significativa sometidos a cirugía valvular cardíaca, puede aumentar hasta 11%. Someter a un paciente con EVA crítica y fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo (FEVI) disminuida a endarterectomía carotídea es todo un reto anestésico, cuyo principal objetivo es evitar la hipotensión y el bajo gasto cardíaco. La anestesia regional es una opción para estos pacientes. Presentamos el caso de un hombre de 70 años con diagnóstico de EC significativa y EVA crítica con disfunción ventricular izquierda, al que se realizó endarterectomía carotídea con bloqueo del plexo cervical superficial por alto riesgo de colapso circulatorio. Dicha estrategia anestésica permitió mantener al paciente despierto durante la cirugía, al valorar continuamente su estado neurológico. Asimismo, se documentaron los cambios transoperatorios en el NIRS (Near-infrared spectroscopy) cerebral y Doppler transcraneal (DTC), los cuales se correlacionaron con el estado clínico del paciente. En un segundo tiempo se hizo cambio valvular aórtico sin complicaciones. En este caso destaca la importancia de la anestesia regional y el monitoreo neurológico con Doppler transcraneal, en pacientes sometidos a endarterectomía carotídea con alto riesgo quirúrgico por EVA crítica.

Abstract: Carotid stenosis occurs in 13% of patients with aortic valve stenosis. The risk of stroke in patients with significant carotid stenosis undergoing heart valve surgery may increase to 11%. Proposing a patient with critical aortic valve stenosis and left ventricular dysfunction to carotid endarterectomy is an anesthetic challenge, where the objective is to avoid hypotension and low cardiac output. Regional anesthesia is an option for these patients. Due to the high incidence of intraoperative stroke during carotid endarterectomy, continuous neurological monitoring is of relevance. We present the case of a 70-year-old man diagnosed with significant carotid stenosis and critical aortic valve stenosis and left ventricular dysfunction who underwent carotid endarterectomy with superficial cervical plexus block due to a high risk of circulatory collapse. In addition, this anesthetic strategy made it possible to keep the patient awake during surgery, and to continuously assess their neurological status. Likewise, transoperative changes in brain NIRS and transcranial Doppler were documented, which correlated with the patient's clinical status. In a second time, aortic valve replacement was performed without complications. This case highlights the importance of regional anesthesia and neurological monitoring in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy with high surgical risk due to critical aortic valve stenosis.

Limitaciones de los puntajes de riesgo cardiovascular en prevención primaria. ¿Una oportunidad para los moduladores de riesgo? / Limitations of cardiovascular risk scores in primary prevention. An opportunity for risk modulators?

RESUMEN Introducción : Los puntajes de riesgo cardiovascular tienen limitaciones relacionadas con la calibración, la discriminación y la baja sensibilidad. Se han identificado diferentes "moduladores de riesgo" que permiten mejorar la estratificación del riesgo cardiovascular: placa aterosclerótica carotídea (PAC), puntaje de calcio arterial coronario (pCAC) y lipoproteína(a) [Lp(a)]. Objetivos : 1) determinar la prevalencia de los moduladores de riesgo citados en una población en prevención primaria; 2) determinar la concordancia entre los 2 métodos de detección de aterosclerosis subclínica; 3) establecer qué proporción de pacientes deberían recibir estatinas inicialmente, según su puntaje de riesgo, y posteriormente con el conocimiento de los moduladores de riesgo. Material y métodos : Se incluyeron individuos de 18 a 79 años, que asistieron para una evaluación de riesgo cardiovascular y que no estaban recibiendo tratamiento hipolipemiante. Se calculó el puntaje de riesgo (ASCVD Risk Estimator) en cada paciente. Se evaluó la presencia de PAC, el pCAC y el nivel plasmático de Lp(a). Resultados : Se incluyeron 348 pacientes (edad media 55,6 ± 12,2 años, 45,4% hombres). En la población total, 29,8%, 36,8% y 53,2% de los pacientes mostraron un valor de Lp(a) ≥ 50 mg/dL, PAC o un pCAC > 0, respectivamente. La prevalencia de PAC y pCAC fue progresivamente mayor según la categoría de riesgo cardiovascular; sin embargo, la proporción de sujetos de bajo riesgo que tenían moduladores de riesgo fue considerable (Lp(a) ≥ 50 mg/dl: 25,7%; PAC: 22%; pCAC > 0: 33%). En los 60 individuos menores de 45 años la prevalencia de pCAC > 0 y PAC fue de 18,3% y 10%, respectivamente. La concordancia entre los dos métodos para determinar la presencia de ateromatosis subclínica fue discreta (kappa 0,33). La indicación del tratamiento con estatinas aumentó un 31,6% luego de evaluar la presencia de moduladores. Conclusión : La presencia de moduladores de riesgo fue frecuente en esta población en prevención primaria, incluso en sujetos de bajo riesgo o menores de 45 años. La detección de moduladores de riesgo podría mejorar la estratificación inicial y llevar a reconsiderar el tratamiento con estatinas.

ABSTRACT Background : Cardiovascular risk scores have limitations related to calibration, discrimination, and low sensitivity. Different "risk modulators" have been identified to improve cardiovascular risk stratification: carotid atherosclerotic plaque (CAP), coronary artery calcium (CAC) score and lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]. Objectives : The aims of this study were: 1) to determine the prevalence of risk modulators mentioned in a primary prevention population; 2) determine the concordance between the 2 methods of detecting subclinical atherosclerosis; and 3) establish which proportion of patients should receive statins according to the initial risk stratification and after being recategorized by screening for risk modulators. Methods : Individuals aged 18 to 79 years who consulted for cardiovascular risk assessment and who were not receiving lipid-lowering treatment were included. The risk score was calculated in each patient using ASCVD Risk Estimator. The presence of CAP, CAC score and Lp(a) level were evaluated. Results : The cohort was made up of 348 patients; mean age was 55.6 ± 12.2 years and 45.4% were men. In the total population, 29.8%, 36.8%, and 53.2% of patients showed Lp(a) value ≥50 mg/dL, CAP, or a CAC score >0, respectively. The prevalence of CAP and CAC score was progressively higher according to the cardiovascular risk category; however, the proportion of low-risk subjects who had risk modulators was considerable (Lp(a) ≥50 mg/dl: 25.7%; CAP: 22%; CAC score >0: 33%). In the 60 subjects <45 years, the prevalence of CAC score >0 and CAP was 18.3% and 10%, respectively. The agreement between the two methods for quantifying subclinical atheromatosis was fair (kappa= 0.33). The indication for statin treatment increased by 31.6% after evaluating the presence of modulators. Conclusion : The presence of risk modulators was common in this population in primary prevention, even in low-risk subjects or < 45 years. Detection of risk modulators could improve initial stratification and lead to reconsideration of statin treatment.

Paraganglioma de cuerpo carotideo / Carotid Body Paraganglioma

Introducción: Los paragangliomas de cuerpo carotideo son tumores neuroendocrinos hipervascularizados raros. Aunque su presentación clínica es frecuentemente asintomática, con el transcurso de los años puede manifestarse como tumores cervicales con o sin déficit neurológico. Objetivo: Presentar el caso de una paciente con tumoración cervical pulsátil de 10 años de evolución que requirió tratamiento quirúrgico. Presentación de caso: Mujer de 42 años procedente del Cusco, Perú, sin antecedentes médicos ni personales de importancia. La paciente acude al Servicio de Cirugía de Cabeza y Cuello por presentar tumoración cervical pulsátil de crecimiento lento progresivo, cefalea y disfagia. Tras realizar ultrasonografía Doppler y angiotomografía se pesquisa tumor cervical derecho hipervascularizado a nivel de la bifurcación de arteria carótida común. Se propone tratamiento quirúrgico de tumoración cervical con resultado anatomopatológico de paraganglioma de cuerpo carotideo. Tuvo una evolución posquirúrgica favorable sin evidencia de recurrencias en el seguimiento. Conclusión: El paraganglioma del cuerpo carotideo es una tumoración rara, de presentación clínica frecuentemente asintomática. Una evaluación minuciosa clínica e imagenológica permiten un diagnóstico adecuado para una planificación quirúrgica óptima(AU)

Introduction: Carotid body paragangliomas are rare hypervascularized neuroendocrine tumors. Although their clinical presentation is frequently asymptomatic, they may manifest as cervical tumors with or without neurological deficit over the years. Objective: To present the case of a patient with a pulsatile cervical tumor of 10 years' evolution that required surgical treatment. Case presentation: A 42-year-old woman from Cusco, Peru, with no medical or personal history of importance. The patient came to the head and neck surgery service for presenting a pulsatile cervical tumor with slow progressive growth, as well as headache and dysphagia. After performing Doppler ultrasonography and angiotomography, a hypervascularized right cervical tumor was observed at the level of the common carotid artery bifurcation. Surgical treatment of the cervical tumor was proposed, whose anatomopathological result was carotid body paraganglioma. Postoperative evolution was favorable, with no evidence of relapses during follow-up. Conclusion: Carotid body paraganglioma is a rare tumor of frequently asymptomatic clinical presentation. A thorough clinical and imaging-based assessment allows an adequate diagnosis for optimal surgical planning(AU)

Is there a correlation between dizziness and intracranial artery calcification?

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the correlation between dizziness and intracranial artery calcification. METHODS: A total of 107 consecutive patients were recruited for this study. These patients were categorized into first (case) and second (control) groups. The first and second groups had complaints of dizziness and headache, respectively. All the patients had noncontrast cranial computed tomography images. Bilateral internal carotid arteries, bilateral vertebral arteries, and basilar arteries were evaluated for detecting burden of intracranial artery calcification. Finally, demographic characteristics, stroke risk factors, and burden of intracranial artery calcification of these two groups were compared. The Mann-Whitney U test, chi-square test, and Spearman's correlation were performed to analyze the study. RESULTS: It was found that the first and second groups included 39 and 68 patients, respectively. The mean age of the first group was significantly higher than that of the second group. The mean burden of intracranial artery calcification of the posterior circulation in the first and second groups were not statistically different from each other (p=0.555). The mean burden of intracranial artery calcification of the anterior circulation in the first group was found to be significantly higher than the second group (p=0.005). However, no significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of burden of intracranial artery calcification of anterior or posterior circulation, when the age variable was synchronized in both groups. CONCLUSION: Although this study found a limited correlation between dizziness and intracranial artery calcification, this situation was basically related to aging.

Paraganglioma gigante del espacio parafaríngeo en una fémina / Giant paraganglioma of the parapharingeal space in a woman: en

Se describe el caso clínico de una paciente de 57 años de edad, con antecedente de hipertensión arterial, quien fue asistida en el Servicio de Cirugía de Cabeza y Cuello del Instituto Nacional de Oncología y Radiobiología de La Habana, remitida de la consulta de Otorrinolaringología de su hospital de cabecera por presentar manifestaciones clínicas de disfagia y diagnóstico clínico de sospecha de un paraganglioma carotídeo. Luego de realizados el examen físico y los estudios complementarios pertinentes, el caso fue discutido por los integrantes de un equipo multidisciplinario y se confirmó la existencia de un paraganglioma del espacio parafaríngeo, por lo que se decidió realizar tratamiento quirúrgico. La evolución fue satisfactoria y a los 2 años del procedimiento quirúrgico no presentaba secuelas.

The case report of a 57 years patient with history of hypertension is described who was assisted in the Head and Neck Surgery Service of the National Institute of Oncology and Radiobiology in Havana, referred from the Otolaryngology Service of her head hospital due to clinical manifestations of dysphagia and suspected clinical diagnosis of a carotid paraganglioma. After the physical exam and the pertinent complementary studies, the case was discussed by the members of a multidisciplinary team and the existence of a paraganglioma in the parapharingeal space was confirmed, therefore it was decided to carry out surgical treatment. The clinical course was satisfactory, and 2 years after the surgical procedure there were no sequels.

Self-Measured Blood Pressure and Target Organ Damage in Newly Detected Hypertension in South Gujarat, India

Introduction: Blood pressure transient spikes have been considered to be noise and only a hindrance to a proper assessment of typical blood pressure, which is defined as the actual underlying average blood pres-sure over a long period of time. The current study aimed to see if the highest Self measured Systolic blood Pressure could be utilized to forecast the occurrence of Target organ damage and evaluate the independent association between the maximum Self measured Systolic blood Pressure and Target organ damage in indi-viduals with untreated hypertension. Method: We evaluated the urine albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) and carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) using ultrasonography in 462 hypertensive individuals who had never taken treatment for their hypertension. Residential blood pressure was recorded. Result: The maximal Self measured Systolic blood Pressure had considerably higher association coefficients with left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and carotid intima-media thickness than the mean Self measured Sys-tolic blood Pressure. Irrespective of the mean Self measured Blood pressure level, multivariate regression studies showed that the maximal Self measured Systolic blood Pressure was independently related with left ventricular mass index and carotid intima-media thickness. Conclusion: Transiently high blood pressure measurements recorded at Self measured shouldn't be dis-missed as noise but rather taken seriously as significant warning signs of hypertensive Target organ damage in the heart and arteries.

Proposed public policies to improve outcomes in vascular surgery: an experts' forum

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate outcomes of vascular surgeries and identify strategies to improve public vascular care. Methods This was a descriptive, qualitative, and cross-sectional survey involving 30 specialists of the Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein via Zoom. The outcomes of vascular procedures performed in the Public Health System extracted through Big Data analysis were discussed, and 53 potential strategies to improve public vascular care to improve public vascular care. Results There was a consensus on mandatory reporting of some key complications after complex arterial surgeries, such as stroke after carotid revascularization and amputations after lower limb revascularization. Participants agreed on the recommendation of screening for diabetic feet and infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms. The use of Telemedicine as a tool for patient follow-up, auditing of centers for major arterial surgeries, and the concentration of complex arterial surgeries in reference centers were also points of consensus, as well as the need to reduce the values of endovascular materials. Regarding venous surgery, it was suggested that there should be incentives for simultaneous treatment of both limbs in cases of varicose veins of the lower limbs, in addition to the promotion of ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy in the public system. Conclusion After discussing the data from the Brazilian Public System, proposals were defined for standardizing measures in population health care in the area of vascular surgery.

Indicações para ecodoppler de carótidas em pacientes assintomáticos - estamos solicitando corretamente? / Indications for carotid Doppler ultrasound in asymptomatic patients - are we ordering it correctly?

Resumo Contexto Artérias carótidas são locais de frequentes patologias, sendo a mais comum a aterosclerose, podendo resultar na formação de placas com estenose. Para avaliarmos as carótidas em pacientes assintomáticos, o método de ultrassonografia Doppler ou ecodoppler é, atualmente, o exame de eleição, indicado para a triagem e o diagnóstico de lesões vasculares. As diretrizes atuais recomendam o rastreamento em pacientes que apresentem fatores de risco para estenose carotídea e que estejam aptos e dispostos ao tratamento medicamentoso/intervenção carotídea. A triagem em pacientes assintomáticos na população adulta em geral e sem fatores de risco significativos não é recomendada. Objetivos Avaliar se os especialistas médicos se baseiam na literatura para solicitar o ecodoppler como screening. Métodos Realizou-se seleção retrospectiva dos pacientes a partir da solicitação de ecodoppler. Os dados coletados foram computados e analisados com o programa RStudio versão 1.3.959. Resultados Avaliou-se a solicitação como adequada, desde que os pacientes apresentassem pelo menos um fator de risco para placas carotídeas. Entre 152 pacientes, 55 preenchiam critérios para screening de carótidas, a principal indicação na população estudada foi o check-up vascular. Hipertensão arterial foi o fator de risco mais prevalente. Os especialistas em cirurgia vascular obtiveram êxito maior ao solicitar o exame de maneira adequada [razão de chances de indicações corretas de 3,52 (IC 1,14-10,87), com p = 0,02]. A assertividade nas indicações de ecodoppler foi de 36% (IC95% 29-42%). Conclusões Conclui-se que houve excesso de solicitação de ultrassonografia de carótidas como screening. Os cirurgiões vasculares solicitaram o exame de maneira mais assertiva.

Abstract Background Carotid arteries are frequently the site of pathologies, the most common being atherosclerosis, which may result in the formation of plaques, causing stenosis. Doppler ultrasound is currently the exam of choice for assessment of the carotid arteries in asymptomatic patients to screen for and diagnose vascular lesions. Current guidelines recommend screening patients who have risk factors for carotid stenosis and who are able and willing to undergo medical treatment and/or carotid intervention. Screening asymptomatic patients in the general adult population who have no significant risk factors is not recommended. Objectives To assess whether medical experts rely on the literature to request Doppler ultrasound for screening. Methods A retrospective selection of patients was performed based on requests for carotid ultrasound. The data collected were computed and analyzed using RStudio version 1.3.959. Results The request was evaluated as appropriate as long as the patients presented at least one risk factor for carotid plaques. Fifty-five out of 152 patients met criteria for carotid screening. The most frequent indication in the study population was vascular check-up. Arterial hypertension was the most prevalent risk factor. Vascular surgery specialists were more likely to order the exam correctly (odds ratio for correct indications: 3.52 [CI 1.14 - 10.87], with p=0.02). The rate of correct Doppler ultrasound requests was 36% (95%CI 29 to 42%). Conclusions An excess of requests for carotid ultrasound screening was found in this study. Vascular surgeons more often requested the test correctly.

A Relação entre a Relação Ácido Úrico/Albumina e a Espessura Média-Intimal da Carótida em Pacientes com Hipertensão / The Relationship between Uric Acid/Albumin Ratio and Carotid Intima-Media Thickness in Patients with Hypertension

Resumo Fundamento A hipertensão causa inflamação subendotelial e disfunção na aterosclerose resultante. A espessura média-intimal da carótida (EMIC) é um marcador útil de disfunção endotelial e aterosclerose. A razão ácido úrico/albumina (RUA) emergiu como um novo marcador para prever eventos cardiovasculares. Objetivo Nosso objetivo foi investigar a associação da RUA com a EIMC em pacientes hipertensos. Método Duzentos e dezesseis pacientes hipertensos consecutivos foram incluídos neste estudo prospectivo. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos a ultrassonografia de carótida para classificar baixos (EMIC < 0,9 mm) e altos (EMIC≥0,9 mm) grupos de EMIC. A capacidade preditiva da RUA para EMIC alta foi comparada com o índice de inflamação imune sistêmica (IIS), razão neutrófilo/linfócito (RNL), razão plaqueta/linfócito (RPL) e razão proteína C reativa/albumina (RCA). Um valor de p bilateral <0,05 foi aceito como estatisticamente significativo. Resultados Os pacientes com EMIC alta eram mais velhos e tinham maior RUA, IIS, RNL e RCA do que baixo EMIC. Idade, RUA, IIS, RNL e RCA, mas não RPL, foram associados a EMIC alta. Na análise multivariada, idade, PCR, IIS e RUA foram preditores independentes de EMIC alta. A capacidade de discriminação de RUA foi maior do que ácido úrico, albumina, IIS, RNL e RCA, e RUA teve um ajuste de modelo maior do que essas variáveis. RUA teve maior melhoria aditiva na detecção de EMIC alta do que outras variáveis, conforme avaliado com melhoria de reclassificação líquida, MDI e estatísticas C. RUA também foi significativamente correlacionada com EMIC. Conclusão RUA pode ser usado para prever EMIC alta e pode ser útil para estratificação de risco em pacientes hipertensos.

Abstract Background Hypertension causes subendothelial inflammation and dysfunction in resulting atherosclerosis. Carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) is a useful marker of endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. The uric acid to albumin ratio (UAR) has emerged as a novel marker for predicting cardiovascular events. Objective We aimed to investigate the association of UAR with CIMT in hypertensive patients. Methods Two hundred sixteen consecutive hypertensive patients were enrolled in this prospective study. All patients underwent carotid ultrasonography to classify low (CIMT < 0.9 mm) and high (CIMT ≥ 0.9 mm) CIMT groups. The predictive ability of UAR for high CIMT was compared with systemic immune inflammation index (SII), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and C-reactive protein/albumin ratio (CAR). A two-sided p-value <0.05 was accepted as statistically significant. Results Patients with high CIMT were older and had higher UAR, SII, NLR, and CAR than low CIMT. Age, UAR, SII, NLR, and CAR, but not PLR, were associated with high CIMT. In multivariable analysis, age, CRP, SII, and UAR were independent predictors of high CIMT. The discrimination ability of UAR was higher than uric acid, albumin, SII, NLR, and CAR, and UAR had a higher model fit than those variables. UAR had higher additive improvement in detecting high CIMT than other variables, as assessed with net-reclassification improvement, IDI, and C-statistics. UAR was also significantly correlated with CIMT. Conclusion UAR might be used to predict high CIMT and might be useful for risk stratification in hypertensive patients.

Treatment results of carotid artery stenting in a developing country

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the details of minor complications of carotid artery stenting in a developing country. METHODS: This was a retrospective, single-center study conducted on the target group consisting of 65 symptomatic patients who underwent carotid artery stenting. We assessed technical success rate, periprocedural complication within 30 days (hypotension, bradycardia, acute kidney injury, vasospasm, a transient ischemic attack, stroke, myocardial infarction, and death), and the differences between groups with and without complications. RESULTS: Minor periprocedural complications occurred in 15 patients. In all, 8 (12.3%) had transient hypotension, 6 (9.2%) had bradycardia, 7 (10.7%) had acute kidney injury, 2 (3.1%) had vasospasm, and 1 (1.5%) had transient ischemic attack. A greater rate of minor complications was observed in women (p=0.051). CONCLUSION: The results of the carotid artery stenting procedures performed in a developing country were acceptable.