A prospective study on the safety and efficacy of excimer laser coronary angioplasty for the treatment of degenerated great saphenous vein graft / 中华心血管病杂志

Objective: To explore the safety and efficacy of excimer laser coronary angioplasty (ELCA) for the treatment of degenerated great saphenous vein graft (SVG). Methods: This is a single-center, prospective, single-arm study. Patients, who were admitted to the Geriatric Cardiovascular Center of Beijing Anzhen Hospital from January 2022 to June 2022, were consecutively enrolled. Inclusion criteria were recurrent chest pain after coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG), and coronary angiography confirmed that the SVG stenosis was more than 70% but not completely occluded, and interventional treatment for SVG lesions was planned. Before balloon dilation and stent placement, ELCA was used to pretreat the lesions. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) examination was performed and postoperative index of microcirculation resistance (IMR) were assessed after stent implantation. The technique success rate and operation success rate were calculated. The technique success was defined as the successful passage of the ELCA system through the lesion. Operation success was defined as the successful placement of a stent at the lesion. The primary evaluation index of the study was IMR immediately after PCI. Secondary evaluation indexes included thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow grade, corrected TIMI frame count (cTFC), minimal stent area and stent expansion measured by OCT after PCI, and procedural complications (Ⅳa myocardial infarction, no reflow, perforation). Results: A total of 19 patients aged (66.0±5.6) years were enrolled, including 18 males (94.7%). The age of SVG was 8 (6, 11) years. The length of the lesions was greater than 20 mm, and they were all SVG body lesions. The median stenosis degree was 95% (80%, 99%), and the length of the implanted stent was (41.7±16.3)mm. The operation time was 119 (101, 166) minutes, and the cumulative dose was 2 089 (1 378, 3 011)mGy. The diameter of the laser catheter was 1.4 mm, the maximum energy was 60 mJ, and the maximum frequency was 40 Hz. The technique success and the operation success rate were both 100% (19/19). The IMR after stent implantation was 29.22±5.95. The TIMI flow grade of patients after ELCA and stent implantation was significantly improved (all P>0.05), and the TIMI flow grade of all patients after stent implantation was Grade Ⅲ. The cTFC decreased significantly after ELCA (33.2±7.8) and after stent placement (22.8±7.1) than preoperative level (49.7±13.0) (both P<0.001). The minimum stent area was (5.53±1.36)mm2, and the stent expansion rate was (90.0±4.3)%. Perforation, no reflow, type Ⅳa myocardial infarction and other complications were not observed. However, postoperative high-sensitivity troponin level was significantly increased ((67.937±33.839)ng/L vs. (5.316±3.105)ng/L, P<0.001). Conclusion: ELCA is safe and effective in the treatment of SVG lesions and could improve microcirculation and ensure full expansion of stent.

Aterosclerosis en puente venoso aorto-coronario: hallazgos del OFDI: caso clínico / Findings of optical coherence tomography in saphenous grafts failure: report of one case

Atherosclerosis is the main cause of late saphenous vein graft (SVG) failure. Intracoronary images using optical coherence tomography (OCT) in addition to angiography allow a detailed analysis of the lesion beyond the degree of stenosis. We report a 67 years old diabetic male who underwent coronary surgery in 2009, consulting for an acute coronary syndrome. Angiography showed two different lesions on one aortocoronary venous grafts. OCT demonstrates atherosclerosis in different stages identifying the culprit lesion. Stent placement were successfully carried out.

Pseudoaneurisma humeral secundario a punción arterial inadvertida / Brachial artery pseudoaneurysm secondary to inadvertent arterial puncture

RESUMEN Los pseudoaneurismas de la arteria humeral son infrecuentes, pero pueden asociarse a complicaciones de alta morbilidad como la isquemia de miembro superior. Comunicamos un caso de pseudoaneurisma humeral en el pliegue del codo, que se presentó como tumor pulsátil con leve disminución de la temperatura y parestesias en la mano homolateral de un año de evolución, debido a una punción arterial inadvertida durante la venopunción para extracción de sangre. Se trató con éxito mediante resección quirúrgica más reconstrucción vascular con bypass húmero-cubital y bypass húmero-radial ambos con vena safena. Se discuten las diversas opciones terapéuticas disponibles para los pseudoaneurismas humerales considerando las características anatómicas y la sintomatología del paciente.

ABSTRACT Brachial artery pseudoaneurysms are rare but can be associated with severe complications as ischemia of the upper extremity. We report a case of a brachial artery pseudoaneurysm in the crease of the elbow presenting as a pulsating mass with progressive growth over the past year. The ipsilateral hand was sightly cold and presented paresthesia. The lesion was due to inadvertent arterial puncture during venipuncture. The pseudoaneurysm was successfully treated with surgical resection and vascular reconstruction with a brachial to ulnar artery bypass and brachial to radial artery bypass with saphenous vein graft. The different therapeutic options available for brachial artery pseudoaneurysms are discussed, considering the anatomic characteristics and patients' symptoms.

Association between SYNTAX II Score and late saphenous vein graft failure in patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery is a well-established treatment modality for patients with multivessel coronary artery disease (CAD). Syntax II Score has been established as novel scoring system with better prediction of postprocedural outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of SYNTAX II Score for predicting late saphenous vein graft (SVG) failure in patients undergoing isolated CABG. METHODS: The records of 1,875 consecutive patients who underwent isolated CABG with at least one SVG were investigated. Those who underwent coronary angiography and SVGs angiography at least 1 year after the CABG were included. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of SVG failure. For each group, predictors of late SVG failure and subsequent clinical outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: According to this study, the presence of hypertension, higher rates of repeat revascularization, and higher SYNTAX II Scores were found to be independent predictors of late SVG failure. In addition, the prognostic value of SYNTAX II Score was found to be significantly higher than anatomical SYNTAX Score in terms of predicting late SVG failure and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular event. CONCLUSIONS: There was a strong association between SYNTAX II Score and late SVG failure in patients undergoing isolated CABG.

A brief comment on vasa vasorum of human saphenous vein: relevance for coronary artery bypass surgery

Abstract The importance of the vasa vasorum and blood supply to the wall of human saphenous vein (hSV) used for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is briefly discussed. This is in the context of the possible physical link of the vasa vasorum connecting with the lumen of hSV and the anti-ischaemic impact of this microvessel network in the hSV used for CABG.

Resultados do tratamento do refluxo de veias safenas com endolaser 1. 470 nm e correlação com o grau de insuficiência venosa / Results of venous reflux treatment with 1, 470 nm endolaser and correlation with degree of venous insufficiency

Resumo Contexto Pacientes com doença venosa crônica avançada são mais propensos a exigir outros procedimentos para recidiva de veias varicosas. Ainda não está estabelecido se a gravidade da insuficiência venosa é um fator que influencia a taxa de oclusão de veias safenas tratadas por endolaser. Objetivos Analisar a taxa de oclusão dos segmentos venosos tratados com endolaser e correlacionar com o Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) e a classificação Clínica-Etiológica-Anatômica-Patológica (CEAP) dos pacientes. Métodos Análise retrospectiva de coorte de pacientes operados com endolaser 1.470 nm entre novembro/2012 a março/2020. Foram realizadas estatística descritiva e curva de sobrevida de Kaplan-Meier com regressão de Cox para grupos de VCSS e CEAP. Resultados Foram analisados 170 pacientes e 180 segmentos venosos; a idade média foi de 44,3 ± 9,2, sendo a maioria do sexo feminino (71%). A densidade de energia média utilizada na veia safena magna foi 49,2 ± 8,3 J/cm. As principais complicações foram dor no trajeto da safena (12,2%) e parestesias após 6 meses (17,2%). Não houve diferença na taxa de oclusão venosa entre grupos com VCSS ≤ 7 e VCSS > 7 (p = 0,067). O grupo de pacientes com CEAP agrupada C4-C5-C6 teve taxa de oclusão menor em relação ao grupo C2-C3 [hazard ratio (HR) = 3,22; intervalo de confiança (IC) 1,85, 5,61; p = 0,001]. Conclusões As taxas de oclusão de segmentos venosos tratados com endolaser foram menores na presença de classificações CEAP avançadas. Nesses pacientes, provavelmente deve-se despender mais energia para o tratamento eficaz das safenas.

Abstract Background Patients with advanced chronic venous disease are more likely to need additional procedures for relapsed varicose veins. It has not yet been established whether severity of venous insufficiency is a factor that influences the occlusion rate of saphenous veins treated with endolasers. Objectives To analyze occlusion rate of venous segments treated with endolaser and correlate it with patients' Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) and Clinical-Etiological-Anatomical-Pathological (CEAP) classification. Methods Retrospective analysis of a cohort of patients operated using a 1,470 nm endolaser from November 2012 to March 2020. Descriptive statistics were calculated and Kaplan-Meier survival curves were plotted with Cox regression for groups stratified by VCSS and CEAP. Results A total of 180 venous segments were analyzed in 170 patients. Mean age was 44.3 ± 9.2 and the majority of patients were female (71%). Mean energy density used in the great saphenous vein was 49.2 ± 8.3 J/cm. The most common complications were pain along the course of the saphenous vein (12.2%) and paresthesias at 6 months (17.2%). There was no difference in venous occlusion rate between groups with VCSS ≤ 7 and VCSS > 7 (p = 0.067). A group of patients classified as CEAP classes C4, C5, or C6 had a lower occlusion rate than a group at classes C2 or C3 (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.22; confidence interval [CI] 1.85, 5.61; p = 0.001]. Conclusions The occlusion rates of venous segments treated with endolaser were lower in patients with higher CEAP classes. It is probably necessary to use more energy in these patients to achieve effective treatment of saphenous veins.

Oclusión de la vena safena con cianocrilato, una alternativa para el tratamiento de insuficiencia venosa crónica. Experiencia inicial en el Instituto Guatemalteco de Seguridad Social ­ IGSS / Occlusion of the saphenous vein with cyanoacrylate, an alternative for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency. Initial experience at the Guatemalan Social Security Institute - IGSS

Las técnicas de termo ablación han revolucionado el tratamiento de la insuficiencia venosa crónica, siendo actualmente el estándar de tratamiento. Con el avance tecnológico han surgido nuevas técnicas quirúrgicas, no térmicas, no tumescentes; como el uso de cianocrilato para la oclusión venosa, el cual ha demostrado ser seguro y eficaz en el tratamiento, y tener menos complicaciones posoperatorias. Objetivo: Describir la experiencia en nuestro hospital con el uso de cianocrilato para la oclusión de vena safena mayor para el tratamiento de insuficiencia venosa crónica. Describir la eficacia a corto y mediano plazo del cierre, las complicaciones y la mejoría de la sintomatología utilizando el cuestionario CIVIQ-20 y EVA. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo observacional. Entre enero y diciembre de 2019 que incluye a pacientes con insuficiencia de unión safeno femoral, sintomáticos. Con diagnóstico mediante clasificación CEAP y ultrasonido Doppler. Seguimiento clínico y ecográfico valorando oclusión de los segmentos tratados y presencia de venas varicosas a los 3 y 6 meses. Se trataron 5 pacientes con oclusión venosa con cianocrilato (100% mujeres). Valoramos la calidad de vida mediante cuestionario CIVIQ-20 y EVA (Escala Analógica Visual) previo y un mes después del procedimiento. También se describe la tasa de éxito y complicaciones inmediatas y tardías. Resultados: La totalidad de los procedimientos se realizaron con anestesia local, siendo bien tolerados. Con un éxito inmediato del 100 % sin necesidad de conversión. Solo se presentó como complicación urticaria en un paciente en el trayecto de la vena tratada con cianocrilato, la cual se trató con esteroides y resolvió. El CIVIQ-20 mostró mejoría global pasando de 35 a 29 puntos en promedio; siendo el parámetro de actividad física el que mostró una mejoría mayor. EVA demostró que la pesadez (principal síntoma) se redujo un 67%. Durante el seguimiento, ningún caso presento repermeabilización o recanalizaciones segmentarias. Conclusiones: El tratamiento endovenoso de la insuficiencia venosa crónica con las nuevas técnicas no térmicas, no tumescentes es seguro y efectivo. A corto-mediano plazo ofrecen resultados similares a las técnicas termoablativas obviando el inconveniente de la tumescencia y el uso de medias compresivas en el posoperatorio, evitando lesiones térmicas y observándose mejoría en la sintomatología. (AU)

Thermo ablation techniques have revolutionized the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency, being currently the standard of treatment. With technological advancement, new non-thermal, non-tumescent surgical techniques have emerged; such as the use of cyanoacrylate for venous occlusion, which has been shown to be safe and effective in treatment, and have fewer postoperative complications. Objective: To describe the experience in our hospital with the use of cyanoacrylate for occlusion of the greater saphenous vein for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency. Describe the shortand medium-term efficacy of closure, complications, and symptom improvement using the CIVIQ-20 questionnaire and VAS. Material and methods: Retrospective observational study. Between January and December 2019 that includes patients with symptomatic saphenous femoral junction insufficiency. With diagnosis by CEAP classification and Doppler ultrasound. Clinical and ultrasound follow-up evaluating occlusion of the treated segments and the presence of varicose veins at 3 and 6 months. 5 patients with venous occlusion were treated with cyanoacrylate (100% women). We assessed the quality of life using the CIVIQ-20 questionnaire and VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) before and one month after the procedure. The immediate and late success rate and complications are also described. Results: All the procedures were performed under local anesthesia, being well tolerated. With immediate 100% success without the need for conversion. Urticaria only presented as a complication in a patient in the path of the vein treated with cyanoacrylate, which was treated with steroids and resolved. The CIVIQ-20 showed global improvement, going from 35 to 29 points on average; being the physical activity parameter the one that showed the greatest improvement. VAS showed that heaviness (main symptom) was reduced by 67%. During follow-up, no case presented segmental recanalization or recanalization. Conclusions: Endovenous treatment of chronic venous insufficiency with new non-thermal, non-tumescent techniques is safe and effective. In the short-medium term, they offer results similar to thermoablative techniques, avoiding the inconvenience of tumescence and the use of compression stockings in the postoperative period, avoiding thermal injuries and observing improvement in symptoms. (AU)

Avaliação da termoablação com endolaser da veia safena parva com anestesia local / Evaluation of endolaser thermoablation of the small saphenous vein under local anesthesia

Resumo Contexto Na insuficiência venosa crônica (IVC), a veia safena parva (VSP) é afetada em 15% dos casos. A cirurgia convencional é a técnica padrão para o tratamento da insuficiência da VSP, sendo a lesão no nervo sural uma complicação bastante temida. O tratamento de termoablação com endolaser tende a ser um método cirúrgico que diminui complicações da terapia cirúrgica da IVC. Objetivos Avaliar os pacientes com IVC submetidos à terapia por endolaser da VSP ao menos 30 dias após o procedimento. Métodos Foram analisados 54 membros inferiores de 46 pacientes submetidos à terapia por endolaser 1470 nm, sob anestesia local, para o tratamento da IVC em um hospital terciário. Os pacientes foram avaliados no período pré-operatório, intraoperatório e pós-operatório de 30 dias, através da clínica, exame físico e achados ecográficos. Resultados Nos 54 membros inferiores submetidos ao tratamento, comparando-se o período pré-operatório e o 30º dia pós-operatório, houve diferença significativa (p < 0,003) na redução do diâmetro da VSP tratada (6,37 mm pré-operatório e 5,15 mm no 30º dia pós-operatório) (IC95% 4,58-5,72) e na melhora do escore de gravidade clínica venosa (VCSS) (média de 8,02 pré-operatório e 6,11 no 30º dia pós-operatório) (IC95% 5,01-7,21) (p < 0,02). Complicações pós-operatórias, como parestesia e flebite, estiveram presentes e foram diagnosticadas em cinco e três pacientes, respectivamente, sem significar alteração na qualidade de vida e nas atividades de rotina. Conclusões A técnica de termoablação com laser da VSP mostrou-se segura e eficaz na redução dos sintomas clínicos e na melhora da qualidade de vida.

Abstract Background The small saphenous vein (SSV) is affected in 15% of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) cases. Conventional surgery is the standard technique for treatment of SSV insufficiency, but sural nerve injury is a complication of great concern. Endovenous laser ablation is a surgical technique for treatment of CVI that is considered likely to reduce morbidity and mortality. Objectives To evaluate patients with CVI undergoing endovenous laser ablation of the SSV at least 30 days after the procedure. Methods We analyzed 54 lower extremities in 46 patients scheduled for 1470-nm endovenous laser ablation under local anesthesia to treat CVI in a tertiary hospital. Patients were evaluated preoperatively, intraoperatively, and postoperatively over 30 days with clinical examination, physical examination, and ultrasound. Results In the 54 lower extremities treated, there was a significant difference (p < 0.003) in terms of reduction in the diameter of treated veins (6.37 mm preoperatively and 5.15 mm on the 30th postoperative day) and improvement in the venous clinical severity score (VCSS) (means of 8.02 preoperative and 6.11 on the 30th postoperative day) (95%CI, 5.01—7.21) (p < 0.02). Postoperative complications such as paresthesia and phlebitis were present and diagnosed in 5 and 3 patients, respectively, but did not affect their quality of life or routine activities. Conclusions Intravenous laser ablation of the SSV proved to be safe and effective for reducing clinical symptoms and improving quality of life.

Ablación por radiofrecuencia versus crosectomía safenofemoral más oclusión endovascular distal en pacientes con insuficiencia de la vena safena mayor / Radiofrequency ablation versus sapheno-femoral crosectomy plus distal

Introducción: Actualmente se prefieren procedimientos mínimamente invasivos como las técnicas endovasculares para el tratamiento de la insuficiencia de vena safena mayor que pueden ser por ablación térmica, química o mecánica. Éstos tienen la ventaja de ser ambulatorios, presentar menos complicaciones postoperatorias, una rápida incorporación laboral y mejores resultados estéticos. El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar los resultados del tratamiento con radiofrecuencia versus crosectomía safenofemoral más oclusión endovascular distal. Material y Métodos: Estudio descriptivo prospectivo que incluyó a todos los pacientes con diagnóstico de insuficiencia de la vena safena mayor de enero 2017 a octubre 2019. La elección de la técnica a utilizar se hizo al azar. Resultados: El 77% correspondió al género femenino, con edad media 49 años, el estadío C:2 de la clasificación clíica CEAP fue la más frecuente (57%) y el shunt tipo 3 (63%). La ablación por radiofrecuencia se realizó con mayor frecuencia (83%). El dolor y parestesias (fueron las complicaciones más frecuentes en ambos grupos sin diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p = 0.1470). No hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativo entre las dos técnicas quirúrgicas realizadas en resultado estético (p = 0.4456), el retorno de actividades cotidianas (p = 0.992) ni las laborales (p = 0.901). Conclusiones: Tanto la ablación por radiofrecuencia de la vena safena mayor como la crosectomía safenofemoral más oclusión endovascular distal se consideran dos métodos seguros y efectivos para tratar insuficiencia de vena safena mayor; ya que los resultados finales fueron similares para ambas técnicas quirúrgicas.

Introduction: Minimally invasive endovascular procedures like thermal, chemical or mechanical ablation are currently preferred for the treatment of the great saphenous vein insufficiency, because have the advantage of being outpatient, with minimal postoperative complications, a faster incorporation to work and better aesthetic results. This study persuit to evaluate the results of radiofrequency treatment versus sapheno-femoral crosectomy plus distal endovascular occlusion. Methods: The study included all the patients with a diagnosis of great saphenous vein insufficiency from January 2017 to October 2019. The technic was chosen randomly. Results: 77% of patients was female , with a mean age of 49 , the C2 stage of the CEAP classification is present in 57% and the type 3 shunt in 63%. Radiofrequency ablation was performed in 83% of the cases. Pain and paresthesia were the most frequent complications, without statistically signification between both technics (p = 0.1470). The aesthetic result, the return to daily activities (p = 0.992) and to work (p = 0.901) had not statistically significant differences between the two surgical techniques. Conclusions: Both, radiofrequency ablation of the greater saphenous vein and sapheno-femoral crosectomy plus distal endovascular occlusion are considered safe and effective methods to treat great saphenous vein insufficiency because the final results were similar for both surgical techniques.

Escleroterapia com espuma de polidocanol em veias safenas magnas e suas tributárias bilateralmente em tempo único / Bilateral foam polidocanol sclerotherapy of great saphenous veins and their tributaries in synchronous procedure

Resumo Contexto A insuficiência venosa crônica é uma entidade com alta prevalência. Os casos avançados apresentam morbidade elevada. Objetivos Avaliar os riscos e benefícios da escleroterapia com espuma de polidocanol em pacientes que foram submetidos ao tratamento das veias safenas magnas bilateralmente em tempo único. Métodos Foram revistos retrospectivamente 55 pacientes (110 membros) portadores de incompetência bilateral das veias safenas magnas submetidas a tratamento escleroterápico com espuma bilateralmente, em tempo único, usando uma dose máxima de 20 mL de espuma de polidocanol por paciente. Resultados Das 110 safenas analisadas, obteve-se a oclusão de 81 (73,6%) com uma sessão, de 106 (96,3%) com duas sessões e de 110 (100%) com três sessões. Houve oclusão bilateral das safenas magnas em 27 pacientes (50%) em uma sessão, em 34 (62%) em duas sessões e em 55 (100%) em três sessões. De 11 pacientes portadores de úlceras, houve cicatrização total de sete (63%) e parcial de três (27%) 42 dias após a escleroterapia. Houve lipotimia autolimitada e escotomas visuais em um paciente (1,8%) e manchas em três (5,45%); 19 pacientes (34,5%) foram submetidos a punção para drenagem de coágulo retido. Conclusões A escleroterapia com espuma de polidocanol em veias safenas magnas em tempo único mostrou-se uma técnica segura e eficaz em pacientes selecionados.

Abstract Background Chronic venous insufficiency is a highly prevalent disease. Advanced cases have high morbidity. Objectives To evaluate the risks and benefits of foam sclerotherapy in patients who underwent bilateral treatment of the great saphenous veins in a single procedure, in selected cases of advanced venous insufficiency. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 55 patients (110 limbs) with bilateral incompetence of the great saphenous veins who had undergone foam sclerotherapy treatment bilaterally, using a maximum dose of 20 ml of foam per patient and inelastic compression. Results In 81 (73.6%) of the 110 saphenous veins analyzed, occlusion was obtained in the first session. After a second session this figure rose to 106 (96.3%) and all 110 (100%) veins were occluded after three sessions. Bilateral occlusion of the great saphenous veins was achieved in 27 patients (50%) in one session, in 34 (62%) patients in two sessions, and in 55 (100%) patients in three sessions. At 42 days after sclerotherapy, there was complete ulcer healing in seven (63%) of the 11 patients with ulcers and partial healing in 3 (27%) of these patients. One patient (1.8%) had self-limited lipothymia and visual scotomas, 3 patients (5.45%) had skin spots, and 19 patients (34.5%) developed retained intravascular coagulum. Conclusions Bilateral foam sclerotherapy in a synchronous procedure is an option to be considered for treatment of varicose veins of the lower limbs.

Estudo experimental comparativo da resistência tensional da safena magna no tornozelo e na região inguinal / Experimental comparative assay of tensile resistance of greater saphenous vein from ankle and groin

Resumo Contexto A veia safena magna é usada como material de remendo em vários tipos de reconstrução arterial, incluindo no trauma e endarterectomias de carótida e femoral. Houve relatos de ruptura do remendo de safena, particularmente de veias colhidas na região do tornozelo. Há uma necessidade de medição objetiva da resistência tecidual da safena magna. Objetivos Mensurar a força tensional suportada pela veia safena magna e analisar a correlação entre resistência e diâmetro da veia. Métodos As veias foram coletadas durante operações de safenectomia por varizes dos membros inferiores. Foram analisados apenas segmentos sem refluxo. Foram analisados 10 membros de oito pacientes, com um total de 20 espécimes. Os espécimes foram submetidos a ensaio de tração em equipamento eletrônico, obtendo-se os valores de tensão máxima do material em quilogramas-força por centímetro quadrado (kgf/cm2; força máxima dividida pela área de secção transversa do segmento submetido à tração). Resultados A tensão máxima suportada pela veia safena do tornozelo variou de 74,02 a 190,10 kgf/cm2, e a tensão máxima da veia safena da crossa variou de 13,53 a 69,45 kgf/cm2 (p < 0,0001). O coeficiente de correlação de Pearson entre o diâmetro da veia distendida e a tensão máxima suportada foram iguais a -0,852 (correlação inversa moderada a forte). Conclusões A resistência tecidual da veia safena magna do tornozelo é maior do que a da crossa em mulheres submetidas a operação de varizes; há correlação negativa entre o diâmetro da veia e sua resistência tecidual nessa mesma população.

Abstract Background The great saphenous vein is used as patch material in several types of arterial reconstruction, including trauma and carotid and femoral endarterectomy. There have been reports of saphenous patch blowout, particularly of patches constructed with veins harvested from the ankle. There is a need for objective measurement of the resistance of saphenous vein tissues. Objectives To measure the tensile strength of the great saphenous vein harvested at the ankle and groin and analyze the correlation between diameter and tissue strength. Methods Venous samples were harvested during elective saphenous stripping in patients with symptomatic varicose veins. Only segments without reflux were included. Ten limbs from eight patients were studied, providing 20 samples in total. Venous segments were opened along their longitudinal axis and fitted to electronic traction assay equipment to obtain values for material maximum tension in kilograms-force per square centimeter (kgf/cm2; the maximum force resisted by the segment, divided by its cross-sectional area). Results The average maximum tension in the ankle saphenous vein group ranged from 74.02 to 190.10 kgf/cm2 and from 13.53 to 69.45 kgf/cm2 in the groin saphenous vein group (p < 0.0001). The Pearson coefficient for the correlation between vein diameter and maximum tension was -0.852 (moderate to strong inverse correlation). Conclusions Ankle saphenous vein tissue from female patients operated for varicose veins has significantly higher resistance than saphenous vein tissue from the groin and there is an inverse relation between vein diameter and resistance of tissue from the same population.

Avaliação do coto residual após 12 meses de safenectomia sem ligadura alta da junção safeno-femoral / Assessment of residual stumps 12 months after saphenectomy without high ligation of the saphenofemoral junction

Resumo Contexto Atualmente, recomenda-se como primeira opção cirúrgica de varizes a termoablação da veia safena; porém, esse procedimento não é realizado pelo Sistema Único de Saúde do Brasil. Como forma de incluir melhores resultados, técnicas cirúrgicas esforçam-se para mimetizar as novas tecnologias sem seus custos, sendo a principal delas a realização da safenectomia convencional sem ligadura das suas tributárias. Objetivos Avaliar a evolução do coto residual após safenectomia sem ligadura alta da junção safeno-femoral associada à invaginação do mesmo, assim como avaliar o comportamento das veias acessórias anterior/posterior. Métodos Estudo prospectivo e intervencionista. Foram operados 52 membros pela técnica de safenectomia sem ligadura alta da junção safeno-femoral seguida da invaginação do coto residual. Os pacientes foram avaliados no pré e pós-operatório (7 dias, 3, 6 e 12 meses) através de ultrassonografia vascular com Doppler para análise de diâmetro e extensão do coto residual, diâmetro e refluxo na veia acessória anterior/posterior e presença de neovascularização. A análise estatística foi realizada por média, desvio padrão, mediana, valor mínimo e máximo, frequências e percentuais, teste de Fisher e bimodal. Resultados Evidenciou-se um efeito significativo do tempo sobre a medida de diâmetro (p < 0,001) e da extensão (p = 0,002) do coto residual, porém o mesmo não foi observado quanto ao diâmetro (p = 0,355) ou refluxo na veia acessória anterior. Foi identificada neovascularização em 7 (14,3%) membros. Conclusões Após a utilização da técnica descrita, o coto residual apresentou retração e diminuição do seu diâmetro no período de 1 ano e não transmitiu refluxo para veia acessória. As taxas de neovascularização foram condizentes com a literatura.

Abstract Background Currently, the first-choice option recommended for varicose vein surgery is thermal ablation of the saphenous vein, but this procedure is not available on the Brazilian National Health Service (SUS - Sistema Único de Saúde). In an effort to improve results, surgical techniques have been developed to mimic the new technologies, without their high costs. The most prominent such method involves conventional saphenectomy, without ligation of tributaries. Objectives To assess progression of the residual stump after saphenectomy without high ligation of the saphenofemoral junction but with stump invagination and to assess the behavior of anterior/posterior accessory veins. Methods Prospective intervention study. A total of 52 limbs were treated with saphenectomy without high ligation of the saphenofemoral junction followed by invagination of the residual stump. Patients were assessed preoperatively and at 7 days, and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively using vascular ultrasonography with Doppler to analyze the length of the residual stump, the diameters of the residual stump and the anterior/posterior accessory vein, reflux in the accessory vein, and presence of neovascularization. Statistical analysis involved calculation of means, standard deviations, medians, minimum and maximum values, frequencies, and percentages, and Fisher's test and the binomial test. Results There was evidence of a significant time effect on residual stump diameter (p < 0.001) and length (p = 0.002), but the same was not observed with relation to diameter (p = 0.355) or reflux of the anterior accessory vein. Neovascularization was found in 7 (14.3%) limbs. Conclusions After use of the technique described, the residual stump retracted, its diameter reduced over the 1 year postoperative period, and it did not transfer reflux to the accessory vein. Neovascularization rates were in line with the literature.

Ex-vivo repair for multiple and intraparenchymal renal artery aneurysms / Reparo Ex Vivo de Aneurismas Intraparenquimatosos Múltiplos da Artéria Renal

Abstract A 45-year-old woman with known hypothyroidism and no other comorbidities was incidentally found to have multiple right renal artery aneurysms. The largest aneurysm measured 5 x 4.5 cm and arose from an inferior segmental branch while two smaller aneurysms arose from an upper segmental branch of the right renal artery. We performed an ex-vivo repair with reverse saphenous vein graft under cold preservation followed by orthotopic kidney auto-transplantation. Her postoperative course was unremarkable and at 1-year follow-up her right kidney is preserved. In this article, we report successful treatment of complex multiple right renal artery aneurysms and describe the surgical technique used for successful repair.

Resumo Uma mulher de 45 anos com hipotireoidismo conhecido e sem outras comorbidades teve achado incidental de múltiplos aneurismas da artéria renal direita. O maior aneurisma media 5 x 4,5 cm e tinha origem no ramo segmentar inferior, juntamente com dois pequenos aneurismas originários do ramo segmentar superior da artéria renal direita. Realizamos o reparo ex vivo com enxerto reverso de veia safena, sob preservação a frio, seguido de autotransplante renal ortotópico. O pós-operatório ocorreu sem intercorrências, e a paciente teve o rim direito preservado no seguimento de 1 ano. Neste artigo, relatamos o tratamento bem-sucedido de múltiplos aneurismas complexos da artéria renal direita e descrevemos a técnica cirúrgica utilizada para o reparo bem-sucedido.

Elimination of saphenous reflux after tributary sclerotherapy: report of two cases / Abolição do refluxo de safena após escleroterapia de colaterais: relato de dois casos

Abstract Most patients with chronic venous disease (CVD) and reflux in the saphenous vein are treated with saphenous stripping or ablation. The venous hemodynamics approach offers the possibility of treating saphenous reflux without eliminating the saphenous vein. We present 2 cases in which venous reflux was eliminated while preserving the great saphenous vein, after treatment with hemodynamic sclerotherapy using a protocol of synergic use of Dextrose and long pulse Nd YAG 1064 laser. These cases show that treating the tributaries responsible for saphenous reflux can correct hemodynamic imbalances and restore normal flow in the great saphenous vein with improvements in symptoms and esthetics. Long-term results are still uncertain.

Resumo A maioria dos pacientes com insuficiência venosa crônica e refluxo na veia safena é tratada com retirada ou ablação da safena. A hemodinâmica venosa traz a possibilidade de tratar esses pacientes sem eliminar a veia safena. Nós apresentamos dois casos de refluxo parcial de veia safena magna resolvidos com escleroterapia hemodinâmica. Usamos um protocolo de uso sinergístico de glicose 75% e Nd-YAG laser 1064. Os casos nos mostram que o tratamento das tributárias pode corrigir o refluxo da veia safena e obter melhora clínica e cosmética. Os resultados de longo prazo ainda são incertos.

Saphenous vein vasa vasorum as a potential target for perivascular fat-derived factors

Abstract Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) is a source of factors affecting vasomotor tone with the potential to play a role in the performance of saphenous vein (SV) bypass grafts. As these factors have been described as having constrictor or relaxant effects, they may be considered either beneficial or detrimental. The close proximity of PVAT to the adventitia provides an environment whereby adipose tissue-derived factors may affect the vasa vasorum, a microvascular network providing the vessel wall with oxygen and nutrients. Since medial ischaemia promotes aspects of graft occlusion the involvement of the PVAT/vasa vasorum axis in vein graft patency should be considered.

Impacto dos Índices Aterogênicos em Estenose do Enxerto de Veia Safena / Impact of Atherogenic Indexes in Saphenous Vein Graft Stenosis

Resumo Fundamento Os enxertos de veias safenas (EVS) são frequentemente usados em pacientes submetidos a cirurgia de revascularização do miocárdio (CRM). Objetivos Avaliar as relações entre índices aterogênicos e estenose de EVS. Métodos: No total, 534 pacientes (27,7% mulheres, com idade média de 65±8,4 anos) submetidos a CRM e angiografia coronariana eletiva foram incluídos no estudo. Pacientes com pelo menos uma estenose EVS ≥50% foram alocados ao grupo estenose EVS (+) (n=259) e pacientes sem estenose foram classificados como EVS (-) (n=275). O índice aterogênico plasmático (IAP) e o coeficiente aterogênico (CA) foram calculados a partir dos parâmetros lipídicos de rotina dos pacientes. A significância foi estabelecida no nível p<0,05. Resultados O número de pacientes com histórico de hipertensão (HT), diabetes mellitus (DM), acidente vascular cerebral e insuficiência cardíaca (IC) se mostrou significativamente maior no grupo EVS (+) do que no grupo EVS (-). O colesterol total, triglicerídeos e colesterol LDL mostraram-se significativamente mais altos e o colesterol HDL mostrou-se menor no grupo EVS (+) do que no grupo EVS (-). IAP (p<0,001) e CA (p<0,001) apresentaram-se significativamente mais altos no grupo EVS (+) do que no grupo EVS (-). A análise ROC mostra que tanto o IAP quanto o CA mostraram-se melhores que o colesterol HDL, colesterol LDL e colesterol não HDL na predição de estenose de EVS. Na análise multivariada, histórico de DM, HT, acidente vascular cerebral, IC, número de enxertos de safena, colesterol HDL, colesterol LDL, colesterol não HDL, IAP e CA foram fatores de risco independentes para estenose de EVS. Conclusão O IAP e o CA foram preditores independentes de estenose de EVS. Além disso, tanto o IAP quanto o CA têm melhor desempenho na predição de estenose de EVS do que o colesterol LDL, colesterol HDL e colesterol não HDL. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(3):538-544)

Abstract Background Saphenous vein grafts (SVG) are frequently used in patients that have undergone coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Objectives: To evaluate the relationship between atherogenic indexes and SVG stenosis. Methods Altogether, 534 patients (27.7% women, mean age 65±8.4 years) that underwent CABG and elective coronary angiography were included in the study. Patients with at least one SVG stenosis ≥50% were allocated to the stenosis group SVG (+) (n=259) and patients without stenosis were categorized as SVG (-) (n=275). Atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) and atherogenic coefficient (AC) were calculated from the patients' routine lipid parameters. The level of significance was p<0.05. Results The number of patients with a history of hypertension (HT), diabetes mellitus (DM), stroke, and heart failure was significantly higher in the SVG (+) group than in the SVG (-) group. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-C were significantly higher and HDL-C was lower in the SVG (+) group than in the SVG (-) group. AIP (p<0.001) and AC (p<0.001) were significantly higher in the SVG (+) group than in the SVG (-) group. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis show that both AIP and AC were better than HDL-C, LDL-C and non-HDL-C at predicting SVG stenosis. In the multivariate analysis, history of DM, HT, stroke, heart failure (HF), number of saphenous grafts, HDL-C, LDL-C, non-HDL-C, AIP and AC were found to be independent risk factors for SVG stenosis. Conclusion AIP and AC were independent predictors of SVG stenosis. Moreover, both AIP and AC have better performance in predicting SVG stenosis than LDL-C, HDL-C and non-HDL-C. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(3):538-544)

Covid-19 - endothelial axis and coronary artery bypass graft patency: a target for therapeutic intervention?

Abstract It has been reported that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection induces endothelial inflammation, therefore facilitating the progression of endothelial and vascular dysfunction in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) involves mainly the use of the saphenous vein (SV) and internal mammary artery as graft material in the stenosed coronary arteries. Unfortunately, graft patency of the SV is low due to endothelial dysfunction and inflammation. We propose that SARS-CoV-2 might cause vascular inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and thrombosis in coronary artery bypass graft vessels by binding angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor. Therefore, in this Special Article, we consider the potential influence of COVID-19 on the patency rates of coronary artery bypass graft vessels, mainly with reference to the SV. Moreover, we discuss the technique of SV graft harvesting and the therapeutic potential of focusing on endothelial dysfunction, vascular inflammation, and thrombosis for protecting coronary artery bypass grafts in COVID-19 infected CABG patients.

Role of urotensin-ii in saphenous vein graft disease

Abstract Objective: To elucidate the effect of diabetes mellitus (DM) on the atherosclerotic process in saphenous vein grafts by determining urotensin-II (U-II) levels in harvested saphenous veins of patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods: Coronary artery disease (CAD) patients who underwent CABG were divided into two groups: Group I (eight non-diabetic patients; CAD group) and Group II (13 patients; DM+CAD group). All patients underwent coronary angiography prior to surgery and Gensini score was used to determine the severity of coronary atherosclerosis. Saphenous vein samples were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and U-II, then damage score, H-Score, and vein layer thicknesses were calculated and statistically evaluated. Results: In light microscopic evaluation, significant difference was observed between the groups in terms of endothelial cells damage, internal elastic lamina degradation, and tunica media vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) damage (P<0.001). U-II immunoreactivity was increased in tunica adventitia in the DM+CAD group (P=0.002). The increase in foam cells was directly proportional to the thickening of the subendothelial layer, and this increased U-II immunoreactivity. Gensini score was higher in the DM+CAD group than in the CAD group (P=0.002). Conclusion: Our results show that saphenous vein grafts are already atherosclerotic before they are grafted in CAD patients. This disease is more severe in diabetic CAD patients and these changes can be detected using U-II immunoreactivity.