Estudo experimental de reconstrução da veia femoral com enxerto tubular do bipolímero de cana-de-açúcar / Experimental study of femoral vein reconstruction with sugarcane biopolymer tubular graft

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar, através de dopplerfluxometria, de venografia, de histologia e de evolução clínica, o uso de enxertos tubulares de biopolímero de cana-de-açúcar (BP) na reconstrução de veias femorais em cães. Métodos: oito cães adultos foram submetidos à reconstrução de veia femoral, à esquerda com enxerto tubular de BP e à direita com veia autóloga. No período pós-operatório, os animais foram submetidos à avaliação clínica e dopplerfluxometria das veias femorais. Após 360 dias, os cães foram reoperados e submetidos à flebografia das veias femorais com contraste iodado. Os segmentos das veias femorais contendo os enxertos foram retirados e enviados para avaliação histopatológica. Resultados: os cães não apresentaram hemorragia, hematoma, infecção da ferida operatória ou edema dos membros operados. Um animal apresentou dilatação venosa superficial na região inguinal esquerda. A flebografia realizada 360 dias após a primeira cirurgia demonstrou que três (37,5%) enxertos de BP e sete (87,5%) do grupo controle (C) estavam pérvios. Na avaliação histopatológica foi encontrada uma reação inflamatória com neutrófilos e linfócitos na superfície externa de ambos os grupos. Na camada íntima de revestimento dos enxertos e na camada externa nos dois grupos, foi encontrada fibrose. Conclusão: com base nos resultados obtidos com o modelo experimental utilizado, conclui-se que a BP apresenta potencial para ser utilizado como enxerto tubular para revascularização venosa, porém novas pesquisas precisam ser realizadas para confirmar a sua eficácia na revascularização de veias de médio e grande calibre, o que poderia permitir o seu uso na prática clínica.

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate, through Doppler flowmetry, venography, histology and clinical evolution, the use of sugarcane biopolymer (BP) tubular grafts in the reconstruction of femoral veins in dogs. Methods: we submitted eight adult dogs to femoral vein reconstruction, on the left with BP tubular graft and on the right with autologous vein. In the postoperative period, the animals underwent clinical evaluation and femoral vein Doppler flowmetry. After 360 days, we reoperated the dogs and submitted them to femoral vein phlebography with iodinated contrast. We removed the segments of the femoral veins containing the grafts and sent them for histopathological evaluation. Results: the dogs did not present hemorrhage, hematoma, surgical wound infection or operated limb edema. One animal had superficial venous dilatation in the left inguinal region. Phlebography performed 360 days after the first surgery showed that three (37.5%) BP grafts and seven (87.5%) grafts from the control group (C) were patent. In the histopathological evaluation, we found an inflammatory reaction, with neutrophils and lymphocytes on the external surface of both groups. In the intimal layer of the grafts and in the outer layer in the two groups, we observed fibrosis. Conclusion: based on the results obtained with the experimental model used, BP presents potential to be used as a tubular graft for venous revascularization. However, new research must be performed to confirm its efficacy in the revascularization of medium and large diameter veins, which could allow its use in clinical practice.

Repair of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms with bifurcated endografts: a single-center study

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe our early experience in the treatment of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms with bifurcated endografts. We report on our initial twelve-month experience using this approach. METHODS: Clinical data on patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms treated at a single tertiary center in Brazil were prospectively recorded. The eligibility for endovascular treatment was evaluated by computed tomography scanning and anatomical features were determined based on the method of treatment. RESULTS: From February 2012 to January 2013 (12 months), 28 consecutive patients (mean age 67.2 years, range 45-85 years) underwent treatment for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms at our hospital. Eighteen patients (64.3%) were suitable for and underwent endovascular treatment with bifurcated endografts (16 patients) or aortouniiliac endografts (two patients). Ten patients who were considered unsuitable for endograft repair underwent open repair. Seven patients were classified as hemodynamically unstable (Endovascular, 5; Open, 2), and 21 were classified as stable (Endovascular, 13; Open, 8). The overall 30-day mortality rate associated with endovascular treatment was 27.8% (stable, 18.7%; unstable, 40%) and the rate associated with open repair was 50% (stable, 37.5%; unstable, 100%). CONCLUSIONS: In this study, the suitability of patients for endovascular repair of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms was high and the overall results of endovascular treatment remain encouraging. Indeed, bifurcated endografts are a feasible option for treating anatomically eligible ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms. .

Use of a stent-graft and vascular occlude to treat primary and re-entry tears in a patient with a Stanford type B aortic dissection / O uso de endoprótese e oclusor vascular para tratar ruptura primária e de re-entrada em paciente com dissecção aórtica tipo B de Stanford

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair for aortic dissections is recognized as an effective treatment. We herein report the case of a 72-year-old male with a Stanford type B aortic dissection. A stent-graft and double-disk vascular occluder was used to repair the primary and re-entry tears, respectively. At 3 month postoperatively, computed tomographic angiography revealed no endoleaks, the stent-graft and vascular occluder to be in optimal positions, the false lumen was almost completely thrombosed, and the visceral arteries were patent. This case illustrates that it is feasible to treat re-entry tears with a vascular occluder after primary proximal stent-graft repairs.

Reparação endovascular de aorta torácica para dissecção aórtica é reconhecida como um tratamento eficaz. Relatamos o caso de um homem de 72 anos de idade, com dissecção aórtica tipo B de Stanford. A endoprótese e oclusor duplo disco vascular foi usado para reparar as rupturas primária e de re-entrada, respectivamente. Aos três meses de pós-operatório, angiotomografia computadorizada não revelou vazamentos, o oclusor e a endoprótese vascular estavam em posições melhores, a falsa luz foi quase completamente trombosada, e as artérias viscerais estavam patentes. Esse caso demonstra que o tratamento de rupturas na re-entrada com endoprótese vascular após reparos proximais primários é viável.

Introducer Curving Technique for the Prevention of Tilting of Transfemoral Gunther Tulip Inferior Vena Cava Filter

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the introducer curving technique is useful in decreasing the degree of tilting of transfemoral Tulip filters. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study sample group consisted of 108 patients with deep vein thrombosis who were enrolled and planned to undergo thrombolysis, and who accepted transfemoral Tulip filter insertion procedure. The patients were randomly divided into Group C and Group T. The introducer curving technique was Adopted in Group T. The post-implantation filter tilting angle (ACF) was measured in an anteroposterior projection. The retrieval hook adhering to the vascular wall was measured via tangential cavogram during retrieval. RESULTS: The overall average ACF was 5.8 +/- 4.14 degrees. In Group C, the average ACF was 7.1 +/- 4.52 degrees. In Group T, the average ACF was 4.4 +/- 3.20 degrees. The groups displayed a statistically significant difference (t = 3.573, p = 0.001) in ACF. Additionally, the difference of ACF between the left and right approaches turned out to be statistically significant (7.1 +/- 4.59 vs. 5.1 +/- 3.82, t = 2.301, p = 0.023). The proportion of severe tilt (ACF > or = 10degrees) in Group T was significantly lower than that in Group C (9.3% vs. 24.1%, chi2 = 4.267, p = 0.039). Between the groups, the difference in the rate of the retrieval hook adhering to the vascular wall was also statistically significant (2.9% vs. 24.2%, chi2 = 5.030, p = 0.025). CONCLUSION: The introducer curving technique appears to minimize the incidence and extent of transfemoral Tulip filter tilting.

Tratamiento endovascular de las lesiones traumáticas de la aorta descendente con endoprótesis Apollo®: Experiencia de diez años / Endovascular treatment of descending aortic traumatic lesions with the Apollo® endograft: Ten years experience

Introducción: Las heridas traumáticas de la aorta torácica tienen una alta mortalidad. Su tratamiento es factible si el diagnóstico es rápido y preciso. El abordaje endovascular es una alternativa menos invasiva, con una menor tasa de complicaciones según la literatura. Se presenta una serie de pacientes con traumatismos tratados por este método con la colocación de endoprótesis Apollo®, en el Centervasc - Río de Janeiro, acompañado de seguimiento a largo plazo. Materiales y métodos: Se recogieron de forma prospectiva y retrospectiva los datos de seis pacientesconsecutivos (edad media 37.6 años, entre 19 y 56 años) de los pacientes con lesiones traumáticas de la aorta torácica descendente (5 trauma contuso y uno penetrante) tratados por método endovascular, con carácter de urgencia, con la implantación de endoprótesis recta Apollo® (Nano endoluminal, SC, Brasil) entre 2000 y 2006. Se analizaron las características demográficas de los pacientes, el tipo de trauma, los aspectos técnicos del implante, resultados angiográficos inmediatos y complicaciones tempranas o tardías. Como complicaciones, se consideraron la aparición de flujo persistente periprotésico o intrasaco (endofuga), las fallas estructurales de los dispositivos, la incidencia de paraplegia y la muerte hasta julio de 2010, un período mínimo de 4 años y un máximo de 10 años. Resultados: En cuatro pacientes, el tratamiento se llevó a cabo en menos de 14 hs. tras el traumaen un caso después de 36 horas y en otro caso, sólo 14 días después del evento inicial. Los procedimientos fueron realizados bajo anestesia general sin el drenaje de líquido cefalorraquídeo, con abordaje quirúrgico femoral unilateral asociado a la punción contralateral de la femoral común.La heparinización sistémica se utilizó sólo si no había evidencia de una hemorragia interna o trauma en la cabeza. Ningún paciente experimentó una conversión a procedimiento quirúrgico abierto...

Introdução: As lacerações traumáticas da aorta torácica tem elevada mortalidade imediata. O seu tratamento é factível se o diagnóstico for rápido e preciso. A abordagem endovascularé a alternativa menos invasiva e com menor índice de complicações segundo a literatura. Apresentamos uma série de pacientes vítimas de trauma tratados por este método, com implante de endopróteses Apollo®, no Centervasc-Rio, acompanhados em longo prazo.Materiais e Métodos: Foram coletados de forma prospectiva e retrospectiva os dados de seis pacientes consecutivos (idade média de 37,6 anos, entre 19 e 56 anos) portadores de lesõestraumáticas da aorta torácica descendente (5 traumas contusos e 1 penetrante) tratados pelo método endovascular, em caráter de emergência, com implante de Endopróteses Retas Apollo® (Nano Endoluminal, SC, Brasil) entre 2000 e 2006. Foram analisadas as características demográficas dos pacientes, o tipo de trauma, os aspectos técnicos do implante, os resultadosangiográficos imediatos e as complicações precoces ou tardias. Como complicações considerou-seo surgimento de persistência de fluxo periprotético ou intra saco (endoleak), falhas estruturais dos dispositivos, a ocorrência de paraplegia e de óbito até julho de 2010, com seguimento mínimode 4 anos e máximo de 10 anos.Resultados: Em quatro pacientes o tratamento foi realizado em menos de 14h após o trauma, em um caso após 36h e em um caso, somente 14 dias após o evento inicial. Os procedimentosforam realizados sob anestesia geral, sem drenagem liquórica, com acesso cirúrgico femoral unilateral associado a punção femoral comum contralateral. Heparinização sistêmica somente foi empregada se não houvesse evidência de hemorragia interna ou de trauma cranioencefálico. Nenhum paciente foi submetido a conversão para o procedimento cirúrgico aberto...

Introduction: Traumatic injuries of the thoracic aorta have a high mortality. The treatment is feasible if the diagnosis is prompt and accurate. The endovascular approach is a less invasive alternative,with a lower rate of complications according to the literature. A series of patients with injuries and treated by the placement of the Apollo® endograft were treated at the Centervasc - Río deJaneiro, together with a long-term follow up. Materials and methods: Prospective and retrospective data were collected of six consecutive patients(mean age 37.6 years, range 19 and 56 years) with traumatic lesions of the descending aorta (5 blunt trauma and 1 penetrating trauma) treated in emergency by endovascular approach implanting an Apollo® endograft (Nano endoluminal, SC, Brazil) between 2000 and 2006. The demographiccharacteristics of the patients, the type of trauma, the technical aspects of the endograft, the immediate angiographic results, and early and late complications were analyzed. Among the complications up to July 2010 for a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 10 years we can mentionthe presence of periprothesic or in the sac (endoleak) flow, structural failures of the devices, the incidence of paraplegia and death. Results: In four patients the procedure was carried out within less than 14 hours after the initial trauma and in one case after 36 hours. In another case, 14 days after the index event. Procedures were carried out under general anesthesia without cerebrospinal fluid drainage, with unilateral femoral approach combined with the contralateral puncture of the common femoral. Systemic heparinization was used only under evidence of internal hemorrhage or head trauma. No patient had to be converted to an open surgical procedure...

Experiencia multicéntrica con la endoprótesis de relay™ bolton con escotadura distal: Un avance en la cirugía endovascular de la aorta torácica / Multicenter experience with distal scallop relay™ bolton endograft: A step forward in thoracic endografting

La corrección endovascular se ha propuesto como una alternativa efectiva a la reparación abierta para el tratamiento de varias patologías de aorta. La migración craneal es una de las cuestiones críticas relativas a durabilidad a largo plazo. Las endoprótesis hechas a medida fueron propuestas para mejorar la durabilidad y la fijación distal de cruzar el diafragma. El objetivo de ese trabajoes evaluar la viabilidad técnica y experiencia con los dispositivos hechos a medida usando la plataforma de la endoprótesis torácica Relay™ Bolton como una alternativa para el cuello distal de configuración subóptima, para mejorar la fijación distal y sellado en el cuello corto distal. Métodos: Desde enero de 2006 a junio 2009, 57 pacientes (40 hombres), han sido tratados en Europa con la endoprótesis de torácica Relay™ Bolton sob medidia. Cuarenta y cinco pacientespresentaron aneurisma de aorta torácica, nueve presentaron disección Tipo B, y tres tenían pseudoaneurisma. Resultados: Hubo despliegue con éxito en todos los casos, salvo una rotación parcial en una anatomía extremadamente tortuosa. Se logró suceso técnico en 96,4%. Buen sellado y ningún caso de mortalidad, paraplejía o embolización visceral fueron observados. En un seguimiento mediode 6 meses no se registraron complicaciones. Conclusiones: La endoprótesis de Relay™ Bolton con escotadura distal representa una alternativa viable para cuellos cortos distal. Este enfoque aumenta la aplicabilidad de endoprótesis y mejora la durabilidad de las endoprótesis torácicas en el cuello corto distal.

A correção endovascular foi proposta como uma alternativa efetiva para a cirurgia de reparação aberta para o tratamento de várias patologias da aorta. A migração cranial é uma das questões críticas relativas à durabilidade a longo prazo. As endopróteses sob medida foram propostas para melhorar a durabilidade e a fixação distal de cruzar o diafragma. O objetivo desse trabalho é avaliar a viabilidade técnica e experiència com os dispositivos sob medida, usando a plataforma da endoprótese torácica Relay™ Bolton como uma alternativa para o colo distal de configuração subóptima, para melhorar a fixação distal e fechamento completo do colo curto distal. Métodos: De janeiro de 2006 a junho de 2009, 57 pacientes (40 homens), foram tratados na Europa com a endoprótese torácica de Relay™ Bolton sob medida. Quarenta e cinco pacientes apresentaram aneurisma de aorta torácica, nove apresentaram dissecção Tipo B e três, pseudoaneurisma. Resultados: Constatou-se êxito em todos os casos, exceto uma rotação parcial em uma anatomia extremamente tortuosa. Obteve-se sucesso técnico em 96,4%. Bom fechamento completo e não apresentou nenhum caso de mortalidade, paraplegia ou embolização visceral. Em um acompanhamento médio de 6 meses não foram registradas complicações. Conclusões: A endoprótese de Relay™ Bolton com entalhe distal representa uma alternativa viável para colo curto distal. Este enfoque aumenta a aplicabilidade da endoprótese e melhora a durabilidade das endopróteses torácicas no colo curto distal.

Thoracic endografting has been proposed as an effective alternative to open repair to treat several aortic pathologies. Cranial migration is one of the critical issues concerning long term durability. The scalloped thoracic endograft was proposed to improve distal sealing and fixation crossing the diaphragm. The objective of this study was to evaluate technical feasibility and experience with a custom-made scalloped thoracic endograft using the Relay platform (Bolton Medical, Sunrise, FL) in selected cases. From January 2006 to June 2009, 57 patients (40 men) were treated in Europe with a customized distal scalloped thoracic endograft. Fortyfive patients presented with thoracic aortic aneurysm, nine presented with Type B dissection, and three had a pseudoaneurysm. Successful and accurate deployment was achieved in all cases except one partial rotation in an extremely tortuous anatomy. Technical success was achieved in 96.4%. Good sealing and no mortality, paraplegia, or visceral embolization were observed. At a mean follow-up of 6 months, no complications were registered. The Relay endograft with the distal scallop represents a feasible alternative for distal short necks. This approach may increase the applicability and durability of the endograft in short distal necks.

Reparación endovascular de aneurisma aórtico abdominal: estudio piloto de endoprótesis Ovation™: resultados comparativos / Endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm: comparative results of a pilot study using the Ovation™ prosthesis

Introducción: Las endoprótesis actuales para tratar aneurismas aórticos (AAA) requieren introductores de alto diámetro (18-25F) y se sustentan excluyendo el aneurisma, mediante la fuerza radial de stents metálicos. Objetivo: prótesis Ovation™ (TriVascular, EEUU) con aquellas disponibles en el mercado. Material y Método: Entre Noviembre 2009 y Agosto 2010 tratamos 47 AAA. En 10 pacientes usamos Ovation™ (Grupo 1). Grupo Control (2): diez pacientes tratados contemporáneamente con endoprótesis comerciales. Ovation™ es tri-modular, de PTFE y nitinol con un stent barbado para fijación supra-renal. Sella bajo las arterias renales mediante 2 anillos llenados con un polímero durante el implante. Usa introductor 13-15F. Usa-Philips-Allura (Best, Holanda). Comparamos: duración del procedimiento, hospitalización y complicaciones. Utilizamos test de Fisher exacto y t de student no pareado. Resultados: Éxito técnico 100 por ciento. Sin diferencia entre grupos (edad, sexo, tamaño AAA, riesgo ASA, laboratorio preoperatorio). Tiempo operatorio (hrs): 2,12 +/- 0,7 vs. 2,0 +/- 0,6 (NS). Estadía postoperatoria (hrs): 44,5 +/- 10,7 vs 49,5 +/- 32,0 (NS). El cuello del AAA y la permanencia en UTI fueron más cortos en grupo 1 (p= 0,035 y 0,0451). Seguimiento (4,5-12 meses) sin eventos adversos, endofugas tipo I ni III, ni re-intervenciones. Conclusiones: Los resultados con Ovation™ a corto plazo son comparables con los de otras endoprótesis, cumpliendo con estándares de eficacia y seguridad. Ovation ™ navega por vasos pequeños, permite un despliegue preciso y sellado efectivo en cuellos > 7 mm, ampliando el tratamiento endovascular del AAA.

Background. Current endografts used in treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), use large (18-25F) delivery systems. Graft fixation and aneurysm sealing is obtained by a proximal stent, requiring an aortic neck >15 mm. Objective. To compare the efficacy and safety of Ovation™ endograft (TriVascular, USA) with standard endografts. Methods. Between November 2009 and August 2010 we treated 47 AAA. In 10 patients we used Ovation™ (Group 1). Ten patients treated during the same period with commercially available endografts were used as controls (Group (2). The Ovation™ endo-prosthesis is tri-modular, made of PTFE andnitinol with low profile (13-15F) and has a barbed suprarenal stent for fixation. Sealing is obtained independently through 2 inflatable rings filled with a biocompatible polymer during the procedure. Implantation followed the standard procedure through femoral exposure, using the Philips Allura imaging equipment (Best, Netherlands). Procedure duration, length of stay (LOS) and complications were compared between groups. Fisher exact test and unpaired Student’s t test were used for comparisons. Results. Results. Technical success was 100 percent. We observed no difference between groups (age, sex, AAA size, ASA risk, preoperative lab work). Procedure time (hrs) was 2,12 +/- 0,7 vs. 2,0 +/- 0,6 (NS), LOS (hrs) was 44,5 +/- 10,7 vs. 49,5 +/- 32,0 (NS) in Groups 1 and 2, respectively. Aneurysm neck length and ICU stay were shorter in Group 1 (p= 0,035 and 0,0451 respectively). During a 12 month follow up no adverse events, type I or III endoleak, or secondary interventions have occurred. Conclusion. Results with Ovation™ are comparable to other endografts currently available, achieving the same standards of efficacy and safety. Its highly flexible delivery system allows navigation through small vessels, easy deployment and effective sealing of AAA with necks > 7 mm, broadening the span of patients suitable for endovascular treatment.

Suitability of Endovascular Repair with Current Stent Grafts for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in Korean Patients

Suitability rate of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) and the anatomic features causing unsuitability have not been well determined in Asian patients who have abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). In a single Korean center, a total of 191 patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm (maximal diameter > or = 4 cm) were identified. Aortoiliac morphologic characteristics in contrast-enhanced computed tomography images were retrospectively reviewed to determine suitability for EVAR with four FDA-approved stent-grafts. AAA was considered ideally suitable for EVAR in 46.6% of patients. The most frequent causes for unsuitability were common iliac artery (CIA) aneurysm (61.8%) and excessive neck angulation (52.9%). Problems such as small and/or short neck and small access were found in minor incidences. If CIA aneurysm is dealt by overstenting with sacrifice of internal iliac artery, suitability rate can increase to 65%. Larger aneurysms were more frequently unsuitable for EVAR and had more chance of having multiple unfavorable features. In conclusion, the overall feasibility rate for EVAR in Korean patients was not different from that in Western patients. However, considering the difference in the major causes of unsuitability, more attention has to be paid to neck angulation and CIA aneurysm to provide EVAR for more Korean patients especially who have large aneurysm.

Uso de endoprótesis bifurcada ilíaca para revascularización hipogástrica durante tratamiento de aneurisma aorto-ilíaco / Bifurcated iliac endograft in a patient with aortic-iliac aneurysm

A difficult anatomy is the major challenge to overcome with abdominal aortic aneurysm endografting. Bilateral iliac aneurysm preventing an appropriate distal landing zone for an endograft is a common condition and can be managed by: a) Increasing the diameter of the endograft, with limitations in available sizes; b) bilateral hypogastric embolization, accepting an increased morbidity; c) combining a surgical hypogastric revascularization by retroperitonel approach or d) retrograde revascularization from the ipsilateral external iliac artery using an endograft. Recently, branched endografts have been designed to revascularize the hypo gastric artery. Their deployment is complex but allows antegrade and stable flow. We report a 57 year-old male, at high risk for an open procedure, who presented with a small aortic aneurysm, bilateral iliac and left hypogastric aneurysms. A right bifurcated iliac endograft was deployed, associated with left hypogastric aneurysm embolization and aortic endografting. The patient recovered event free, patency of the endograft and absence of endoleak was demonstrated on a CT scan. He presented minor left buttock claudication, sexual function was preserved. This new technique allows safe endovascular treatment of patients with bilateral iliac aneurysm, allowing preservation of pelvic perfusion and avoiding the risk of an open procedure in a high risk patient.

Una anatomía desfavorable es un obstáculo a vencer con el tratamiento endovascular del aneurisma aorto-ilíaco. La presencia de aneurisma ilíaco bilateral es frecuente y amenaza la adecuada fijación distal de una endoprótesis. Esta condición puede ser manejada: a) aumentando el diámetro del dispositivo a nivel ilíaco, con limitaciones en las medidas disponibles; b) embolización hipogástrica bilateral, aceptando una morbimortalidad mayor; c) combinando un abordaje quirúrgico retroperitoneal para revascularizar una arteria hipogástrica, aumentando el impacto del procedimiento; d) mediante revascularización retrógrada unilateral desde la arteria ilíaca externa ipsilateral con otra endoprótesis. Recientemente se ha descrito el uso de endoprótesis ramificadas, que requieren un despliegue complejo, pero permiten revascularizar una o ambas arterias hipogástricas en forma anterógrada y estable. Reportamos el caso de un paciente de sexo masculino y 57 años, de alto riesgo para cirugía convencional, portador de un aneurisma pequeño de aorta abdominal y aneurismas ilíaco común bilateral e hipogástrico izquierdo. Fue tratado mediante despliegue de una endoprótesis bifurcada ilíaca, revascularizando la arteria hipogástrica derecha y embolizando la izquierda aneurismática, asociado a implante de una endoprótesis aórtica convencional, también bifurcada. El paciente evoluciona sin complicaciones, con claudicación glútea izquierda leve en disminución y preservación de su función sexual. Una tomografía axial computada demuestra exclusión efectiva de sus aneurismas. Esta nueva técnica permite tratar de manera segura a pacientes portadores de aneurisma ilíaco bilateral en forma endo-vascular, manteniendo perfusión de la circulación pelviana y disminuyendo el impacto de un procedimiento convencional en pacientes de alto riesgo.

Procedimiento de Bentall en la enfermedad aneurismática de la aorta ascendente: mortalidad hospitalaria / Bentall procedure in ascending aortic aneurysm: hospital mortality

Introducción: La enfermedad aneurismática de la aorta ascendente (EAAA) se caracteriza por su baja frecuencia, comportamiento heterogéneo, riesgo de rotura y disección, que conllevan elevada mortalidad, por lo que la cirugía electiva es fundamental. Se han desarrollado diversos procedimientos quirúrgicos, considerándose la técnica de Bentall el estándar de referencia. Se describe la mortalidad hospitalaria de la EAAA tratada quirúrgicamente mediante el procedimiento de Bentall. Material y métodos: Estudio descriptivo en el que se incluyeron 23 pacientes con EAAA operados entre el 1 de marzo de 2005 y el 30 de septiembre de 2008; la información fue obtenida de los expedientes clínicos. Resultados: Los 23 pacientes correspondieron a 1.2 % de las cirugías efectuadas. Edad media de 46 años (rango 16 a 74), sexo masculino 83 %. Etiología: degeneración inespecífica de la capa media con implicación valvular 43 %, aorta bivalva 22 %, síndrome de Marfán, de Turner y aneurismas posestenóticos, 9 % cada uno. Enfermedad de Takayasu y espondilitis anquilosante, 4 % cada uno. Enfermedad cardiaca asociada en seis (26 %): coartación aórtica (2), cardiopatía isquémica (1), comunicación interauricular (1), insuficiencia mitral severa (1) y rodete subaórtico (1). Procedimientos realizados: cirugía de Bentall 20 (87 %), aortoplastia con prótesis valvular tres (13 %). Complicaciones: sangrado anormal con reintervención 17 %, neumonía nosocomial 13 %, arritmias 13 %, choque séptico 9 %. Mortalidad tres (13 %): choque séptico y fibrilación ventricular. Conclusiones: La mortalidad hospitalaria para la cirugía de Bentall fue semejante a la registrada en otros centros especializados. Los eventos relacionados con la patología aórtica, técnica quirúrgica, prótesis valvular aórtica y la disfunción ventricular izquierda, obligan a realizar estudios de seguimiento a largo plazo.

BACKGROUND: Ascending aortic aneurysm disease (AAAD) shows a low frequency, heterogeneous behavior, high risk of rupture, dissection and mortality, making elective surgery necessary. Several procedures have been developed, and the Bentall technique is considered as the reference standard. The objective was to describe the hospital mortality of AAAD surgically treated using the Bentall procedure. METHODS: We carried out a descriptive study. Included were 23 patients with AAAD who were operated on between March 1, 2005 and September 30, 2008 at our hospital. Data were obtained from clinical files, and descriptive statistics were selected for analysis. RESULTS: The study population was comprised of 23 patients with an average age of 46 years; 83% were males. Etiology was nonspecific degeneration of the middle layer with valve implication in 43%, bivalve aorta in 22%, Marfan syndrome, Turner's syndrome and poststenotic aneurysms each represented 9%, and Takayasu disease and ankylosing spondylitis 4% each. Associated heart disease was reported in six (26%) patients as follows: aortic coarctation (2), ischemic cardiopathy (1), atrial septal defect (1), severe mitral insufficiency (1) and subaortic membrane (1). Procedures carried out were Bentall surgery in 20 (87%) patients and aortoplasty with valve prosthesis in three (13%) patients. Complications reported were abnormal bleeding with mediastinal exploration (17%), nosocomial pneumonia (13%), arrhythmia (13%), and septic shock (9%). Mortality was reported in three (13%) patients due to septic shock and ventricular fibrillation. CONCLUSIONS: Surgical mortality with the Bentall procedure is similar to published results by other specialized centers. Events related to the basic aortic pathology, surgical technique, aortic valve prosthesis and left ventricular dysfunction encourage longterm studies with follow-up.

Utilidad del uso de la ecocardiografía transesofágica durante la inserción de una endoprótesis de aorta torácica. Caso clínico / Usefulness of transesophageal echocardiography during insertion of a thoracic aorta endoprosthesis. A case report

El uso de la ecocardiografía transesofágica (ETE) durante la inserción de una endoprótesis aórtica torácica percutánea puede ser de gran utilidad. Esto es porque se trata de una técnica de monitorización escasamente invasiva con la que se obtienen imágenes de la aorta en tiempo real y de alta calidad, sin interferir en el campo quirúrgico. Se presenta el caso clínico de un paciente de alto riesgo portador de una disección de aorta torácica tipo B al que se le instaló con éxito una endoprótesis bajo visión angiográfica y ecocardiográfica. La ETE fue muy útil durante este procedimiento, pues permitió una excelente visión anatómica de la aorta. Además, con el uso de Doppler color fue posible evaluar la ausencia de endofugas paraprotésicas durante el procedimiento. En conclusión, la ETE puede ser una técnica de imágenes útil y complementaria de la angiografía durante la instalación de una endoprótesis de aorta torácica.

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) can be very useful during endovascular treatment of the thoracic aorta. TEE is a minimally invasive monitoring technique that provides high qua lit y images of the aorta without interfering the surgical field. A successful endovascular repair of a thoracic aortic dissection monitored by angiography and TEE is reported. The excellent images of the aorta provided by TEE and color Doppler were very useful for its anatomical evaluation and for demonstrating the absence of paraprosthetic endoleaks. In conclusion, during the implantation of a stent-graft in the aorta, TEE must be installed because it provides additional in formation to angiography.

O uso da ecocardiografia transesofágica (ETE) durante a colocação de uma endoprótese aórtica torácica percutanea pode ser de grande utilidade, por tratar-se de uma técnica de monitoramento minimamente invasiva que gera imagens da aorta de alta qualidade em tempo real e sem interferir no campo cirúrgico. É apresentado o caso clínico de um paciente de alto risco, portador de uma dissecção de aorta torácica tipo B, ao qual se colocou com exito uma endoprótese sob visão angiográfica e ecocardiográfica. A ETE foi de grande utilidade durante este procedimento, pois permitiu uma excelente visão anatómica da aorta. Além disso, o uso do Doppler em cores possibilitou avaliar a ausencia de endofugas paraprotéticas durante o procedimento. Em conclusão, a ETE pode ser uma técnica de imagens útil e complementar da angiografia durante a colocação de uma endoprótese de aorta torácica.

Tratamento híbrido com endoprótese não recoberta nas dissecções agudas da aorta tipo A / New surgical strategy for acute type A aortic dissection: hybrid procedure

O tratamento da dissecção aguda da aorta tipo A de Stanford, com a utilização de um novo dispositivo (stent de aorta não recoberto) em associação à interposição de tubo supracoronariano para a substituição da aorta ascendente e hemiarco permitem que o arco aórtico e porção da aorta descendente sejam tratados, sem acrescentar complexidade ao procedimento operatório, nem prolongar o tempo de isquemia cerebral ou sistêmica.

The new surgical strategy to treat patients with acute type A aortic dissection, the hybrid procedure with an uncovered aortic stent, allows surgeons to treat the aortic arch and the proximal descending aorta, besides the ascending segment, without extension of cerebral or systemic ischemia.

Resultados clínicos alejados del uso de prótesis Ultracor en posición aórtica / Late results of aortic valve replacement with the Ultracor prosthesis

Introducción: La prótesis Ultracor® es una válvula mecánica monodisco. Se utilizó para reemplazo valvular aórtico(RVA) en nuestro servicio entre 1995 y 2003. Objetivo: Evaluar los resultados del uso de prótesis Ultracor en posición aórtica. Método: Revisión retrospectiva de fichas clínicas de pacientes sometidos a RVA exclusivo con prótesis Ultracor entre 1995 y 2003 en el Hospital Regional de Concepción (N=117). Se tabularon los datos demográficos, patología valvular, capacidad funcional (CF) y fracción de eyección pre operatorios; y la morbi - mortalidad operatoria. En el seguimiento se evaluaron los episodios de hemorragia, tromboembolismo, endocarditis, necesidad de reoperación y defunciones tardías. Resultados: 77 pacientes (65.8 por ciento) de sexo masculino. Edad promedio 54.4 años. 62 pacientes (53 por ciento) estaban en CF I ó II. La indicación quirúrgica fue por estenosis en 59 (50.4 por ciento) e insuficiencia en 42 (53.9 por ciento). Se presentaron complicaciones en 34 pacientes (29 por ciento) y fallecieron 6 (5.1 por ciento). Seguimiento en 105 pacientes (94.6 por ciento) con un total de 402 años/paciente (promedio 3.9 años). Las tasas de complicaciones ( por ciento / año) fueron: 1.2 para tromboembolismo y 2.5 para hemorragia, 1 para endocarditis y 1 para reoperación. Fallecen 18 pacientes en el seguimiento (2.2 por ciento /año). Se realizó ecocardiograma a 75 pacientes. No hubo disfunción estructural y se presentaron 4 leak perivalvulares. Conclusiones: En esta serie observamos tasas de complicaciones similares a las publicadas para otras prótesis. La mayoría de ellas (tromboembolismo, hemorragia, endocarditis y reoperación por endocarditis) no son atribuibles directamente a la prótesis y consideramos que los resultados obtenidos con ella son satisfactorios.

Background: The Ultracor® monodisk prosthesis was used to correct aortic valve disease in our institution in the 1995-2003 period. Aim: To evaluate late results of aortic valve replacement using the Ultracor® prosthetic valve Methods: The clinical records of patients receiving an Ultracor® prosthesis as isolated valve replacement for aortic valve disease at the Hospital de Concepción from 1995 to 2003 were reviewed. A total of 117 patients were evaluated preoperatively to determine the type of aortic valve disease, functional class and LV ejection fraction. Operative mortality and morbidity were recorded. Late results were evaluated in terms of thrombo-embolic and hemorrhagic complications, infective endocarditis, need for reoperation and late death. Results: There were 77 males (66 percent) and the mean age was 54.4 years. Sixty two patients were functional class 1 or 2 (53 percent). Aortic stenosis in 50.4 percent and aortic insufficiency in 53.9 percent were the indications for surgery. Operative mortality was 5.1 percent and significant complications developed in 29 percent. Follow up was obtained in 105 patients (94.6 percent) for a total of 402 patient-years (mean 3.9). Complication rates ( percent per year) were: thrombo-embolism 1.2, bleeding 2.5, endocarditis 1 and reoperation 1. Eighteen patients died during follow up (2.2 percent per year). An echocardiogram performed in 75 patients showed a paravalvular leak in 4; there were no instances of structural damage of the prosthesis. Conclusion: Overall clinical results of aortic valve replacement with the Ultracor® prosthesis were quite satisfactory and complications occurred with rates similar to those reported for other aortic prosthesis. They were not related to the valve.

Cerebral Ischemia Detected with Diffusion-Weighted MR Imaging after Protected Carotid Artery Stenting: Comparison of Distal Balloon and Filter Device

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the incidence of ischemia during protected carotid artery stenting (CAS) as well as to compare the protective efficacy of the balloon and filter devices on diffusion-weighted MR imaging (DWI). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-one consecutive protected CAS procedures in 70 patients with a severe (> 70%) or symptomatic moderate (> 50%) carotid artery stenosis were examined. A balloon device (PercuSurge GuardWire) and a filter device (FilterWire EX/EZ, Emboshield) was used in 33 cases (CAS-B group) and 38 cases (CAS-F group) to prevent distal embolization, respectively. All the patients underwent DWI within seven days before and after the procedures. The number of new cerebral ischemic lesions on the post-procedural DWI were counted and divided into ipsilateral and contralateral lesions according to the relationship with the stenting side. RESULTS: New cerebral ischemic lesions were detected in 13 (39.4%) out of the 33 CAS-Bs and in 15 (39.5%) out of the 38 CAS-Fs. The mean number of total, ipsilateral and contralateral new cerebral ischemic lesion was 2.39, 1.67 and 0.73 in the CAS-B group and 2.11, 1.32 and 0.79 in the CAS-F group, respectively. No statistical differences were found between the two groups (p = 0.96, 0.74 and 0.65, respectively). The embolic complications encountered included two retinal infarctions and one hemiparesis in the CAS-B group (9.09%), and one retinal infarction, one hemiparesis and one ataxia in the CAS-F group (7.89%). There was a similar incidence of embolic complications in the two groups (p = 1.00). CONCLUSION: The type of distal protection device used such as a balloon and filter does not affect the incidence of cerebral embolization after protected CAS.

Carotid artery stenting with filter protection.

BACKGROUND: Neurologic events associated with distal embolization of debris during percutaneous carotid artery stenting complicate the procedure. Filter devices for cerebral protection potentially reduce the risk of embolization and other neurologic events. We studied the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of carotid artery stenting with a filter device. METHODS AND RESULTS: Between January 2002 and January 2003, a total of 22 consecutive patients (30 lesions) who had >70% diameter stenosis of the internal carotid artery underwent carotid artery stenting with filter protection at our institute. The mean age of the patients was 64+/-9 years; 14 were men and 8 women, and 15 had neurologic symptoms. A stent was successfully implanted in 29 lesions. It was possible to position a filter device in all the 29 lesions. Neurologic complications during the procedure, in the hospital, and at 30-day clinical follow-up occurred in 2 patients. One patient suffered a minor stroke that resolved within 24 hours. None of the patients had a major embolic stroke. There was one death from intracerebral hemorrhage related to hyperperfusion and the use of a glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor. CONCLUSIONS: Filter protection during carotid artery stenting seems technically feasible, safe, and effective. In the present study, the incidence of embolic neurologic events was low.

Stenting of a large thrombus-containing subclavian artery stenosis using a distal protection device.

Atheromatous obstructive lesions of the arch vessels that contain thrombi are at high risk for distal embolization during angioplasty. This can lead to catastrophic neurological complications. We report a case of acute-on-chronic ischemia of the left upper limb due to thrombus-containing subclavian artery stenosis. After placement of an intravascular filter device, angioplasty and stent implantation successfully relieved the stenosis without any complications.