Cirugía torácica videoasistida uniportal en dos centros universitarios: experiencia inicial / Initial experience in uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery at two university campuses

Resumen Introducción: Uno de los mayores avances de las últimas décadas en la cirugía de tórax ha sido el desarrollo de la cirugía mínimamente invasiva. Objetivos: Describir la experiencia en videotoracoscopía (VATS) Uniportal de miembros del equipo de Cirugía de Tórax de la Universidad de Chile en 2 campos clínicos, (Clínica Las Condes y Hospital Clínico de la Universidad de Chile). Materiales y Método: Se estudiaron 105 pacientes sometidos a VATS uniportal entre enero de 2016 y enero de 2019. Los datos se analizaron de manera retrospectiva considerando variables demográficas (edad, sexo) y clínicas (diagnóstico, cirugía, estadía hospitalaria, días de pleurostomía, conversión y complicaciones). Resultados: De las 105 cirugías realizadas, 28 (26,6%) correspondieron a cirugías mayores complejas lobectomías y segmentectomías anatómicas. En 4 pacientes se agregó un 2° puerto, uno se convirtió a minitoracotomía y uno a toracotomía (5,7% conversión global). La estadía hospitalaria fue en promedio 3,07 ± 3,1 días y el promedio de mantención de pleurostomía de 2,67 ± 1,61 días. Siete pacientes (6,6%) presentaron complicaciones postoperatorias. Un paciente falleció por progresión de su enfermedad, no hubo mortalidad relacionada a la cirugía. Discusión: Las contraindicaciones de la VATS uniportal son las mismas que en la VATS multipuerto. En manos experimentadas, las complicaciones en cirugía por puerto único son bajas. Impresiona tener menos dolor postoperatorio, menor estadía hospitalaria y reintegración precoz a las actividades diarias comparado con la VATS tradicional. Conclusiones: Se presenta la primera serie de VATS uniportal publicada en Chile. Los resultados obtenidos son comparables a los observados en la literatura. Su implementación y desarrollo requiere de una curva de aprendizaje similar a cualquier nueva técnica quirúrgica.

Objective: To describe the initial results with uniportal Video-Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) performed in two campuses by members of the Section of Thoracic Surgery of the University of Chile ("Clínica Las Condes" and University of Chile Clinical Hospital). Materials and Method: Between January 2016 and January 2019, a total of 105 patients underwent uniportal VATS. Clinical data was collected retrospectively from digital records including demographic (age, sex) and clinical variables (diagnosis, surgery, duration of the chest tube, length of stay, conversion rate and postoperative complications). Results: Uniportal VATS was performed on 105 patients during the study period. Twenty-eight cases (26.6%) corresponded to lobectomy or anatomic segmentectomy. In 4 cases a 2nd port was required, 1 patient had to be converted to mini-thoracotomy and 1 to thoracotomy (5.8% global conversion). Overall, the median length of stay was 3.07 ± 3.1 days and the median duration of chest tube drainage was 2.67 ± 1.61 days. Seven patients (6.6%) presented complications. One patient died due to progression of his disease, there were no deaths related to the procedures. Discussion: Uniportal VATS has similar indications than multiportal VATS. On experienced hands, uniportal VATS has a low morbidity rate. Uniportal VATS appears to produce less post-operative pain, with shorter hospital stay and a faster return to normal life compared to standard VATS. Conclusion: We present the first uniportal VATS series in Chile. Results were similar to published series. Implementation and development of uniportal VATS requires a learning curve similar to any new surgical procedure.

Robotic thoracic surgery for resection of thymoma and tumors of the thymus: technical development and initial experience / Cirurgia torácica robótica para ressecção de timoma e tumores tímicos: desenvolvimento técnico e experiência inicial

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the results of resection of tumors of the thymus by robotic thoracic surgery, analyzing the extent of resection, postoperative complications, time of surgery, and length of stay. Methods: Retrospective study from a database involving patients diagnosed with a tumor of the thymus and undergoing robotic thoracic surgery at one of seven hospitals in Brazil between October of 2015 and June of 2018. Results: During the study period, there were 18 cases of resection of tumors of the thymus: thymoma, in 12; carcinoma, in 2; and carcinoid tumor, in 1; high-grade sarcoma, in 1; teratoma, in 1; and thymolipoma, in 1. The mean lesion size was 60.1 ± 32.0 mm. Tumors of the thymus were resected with tumor-free margins in 17 cases. The median (interquartile range) for pleural drain time and hospital stay, in days, was 1 (1-3) and 2 (2-4), respectively. There was no need for surgical conversion, and there were no major complications. Conclusions: Robotic thoracic surgery for resection of tumors of the thymus has been shown to be feasible and safe, with a low risk of complications and with postoperative outcomes comparable to those of other techniques.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os resultados da ressecção de tumores tímicos por cirurgia torácica robótica, verificando a radicalidade da ressecção, complicações pós-operatórias, tempo de cirurgia e tempo de internação. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo a partir de um banco de dados envolvendo pacientes com diagnóstico de tumor tímico e submetidos à cirurgia torácica robótica em sete hospitais no Brasil entre outubro de 2015 e junho de 2018. Resultados: Durante o período estudado, houve 18 casos de ressecção de tumores tímicos (timomas, em 12; carcinoma tímico, em 2; e tumor carcinoide tímico, sarcoma tímico de alto grau, teratoma tímico e timolipoma, em 1 cada). A média do tamanho das lesões foi de 60,1 ± 32,0 mm. Tumores tímicos foram ressecados com margens livres em 17 casos. As medianas (intervalos interquartis) de tempo de dreno pleural e de internação, em dias, foram 1 (1-3) e 2 (2-4), respectivamente. Não houve necessidade de conversão cirúrgica nem complicações maiores. Conclusões: A cirurgia torácica robótica para a ressecção de tumores tímicos demonstrou ser factível e segura, com baixo risco de complicações e desfechos pós-operatórios comparáveis aos de outras técnicas.

Definiciones operativas y protocolo anestésico durante la pandemia producida por SARS-CoV-2 en un programa de cirugía cardíaca pediátrica / Operative definitions and anesthetic protocol during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in a pediatric cardiac surgery program

The clinical characteristics of the pediatric population infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus in general are not as severe as in the adult population, so they can be considered asymptomatic carriers. The pediatric patient with congenital heart disease are considered a high risk group of contagion in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, so healthcare personnel who interact with patients must have established guidelines to avoid transmission and spread of the disease. Each country is commanded by the central guidelines established by its health system considering operative definitions and protocols, but in certain places these guidelines do not fulfill international standards, as those proposed by the World Health Organization. In this communication we have done a current literature review and adaptation of the recommendations to face the infectious outbreak due to the SARS-CoV-2 virus in pediatric cardiovascular surgery programs, specifically in the ​​anesthesiology area. We also analyze the type of personal protective equipment that should be used in each area of ​​patient management, changes in the environment of work areas, shift times of health personnel, the protection of personnel performing transesophageal echocardiography, modification of the airway management algorithms, proper placement and withdrawal of personal protective equipment, patients transfer between wards or other services, and adequate disinfection of airway equipment used.

Las características clínicas de la población pediátrica contagiada del virus SARS-CoV-2 en general no son tan severas como en la población adulta, por lo que pueden ser considerados portadores asintomáticos. El paciente pediátrico con cardiopatía congénita pertenece a un grupo de alto riesgo de contagio dentro de la pandemia producida por el SARS-CoV-2, por lo que el personal sanitario que interactúe con los pacientes debe tener lineamientos establecidos para evitar la transmisión y propagación de la enfermedad. Cada país se rige por las guías centrales establecidas por su sistema de salud en cuanto a definiciones operativas y protocolos, pero en algunos lugares estas directrices no cumplen las metas internacionales, como las propuestas por la Organización Mundial de la Salud. En este comunicado hemos realizado una revisión de la literatura actual y adaptación de las recomendaciones para enfrentar el brote infeccioso por el virus SARS-CoV-2 en los programas de cirugía cardiovascular pediátrica, específicamente en el área de anestesiología. También analizamos el tipo de equipo de protección personal que debe ser utilizado en cada área del manejo de pacientes, cambios del ambiente de las áreas de trabajo, rotación de personal, la protección del personal que realiza ecocardiografía transesofágica, modificación de los algoritmos de manejo de la vía aérea, colocación y retiro correctos del equipo de protección personal, traslado de los pacientes entre servicios, y adecuada desinfección del equipo utilizado en el manejo de la vía aérea.

Efectividad de la gabapentina en el dolor tras la cirugía abdominal mayor / Effectiveness of gabapentin for pain management after surgery of the upper abdomen

Introducción: El dolor posoperatorio en la cirugía de tórax y hemiabdomen superior tiene un fuerte componente neuropático, por ello se le asocia con evolución hacia el dolor crónico. Sobre esta base se aplican los anticonvulsivantes como parte del tratamiento multimodal. Objetivos: Evaluar la efectividad analgésica y seguridad de la gabapentina en el tratamiento del dolor tras cirugía de tórax y abdomen superior. Método: Se realizó un estudio causiexperimental, comparativo y prospectivo con los pacientes anunciados para cirugía de abdomen superior y tórax, en el periodo de 2015 a 2017. Se incluyeron 30 pacientes divididos en 2 grupos. El grupo Grupo G: (n=14) recibió tratamiento con gabapentina 100 mg vía oral el día antes de la intervención y cada 12 h en el posoperatorio hasta las 24 h. El Grupo C: (n=16) recibió la analgesia convencional pautada para este tipo de intervención. Resultados: La muestra fue homogénea para la edad y el sexo. Los niveles de intensidad del dolor fueron menores en el grupo de gabapentina y esta diferencia se hace más significativa a las 24 h de la cirugía. Ello se corresponde con menor necesidad de analgesia de rescate (71 por ciento vs 100 por ciento). Las complicaciones asociadas resultaron más frecuentes en el grupo estudio a expensas de las náuseas, aunque sin diferencias significativas. Conclusiones: El empleo de gabapentina en el perioperatorio garantiza mejor control del dolor con escasas complicaciones(AU)

Introduction: Post-operative pain in upper thorax and hemiabdomen surgery has a solid neuropathic component; it is therefore associated with evolution towards chronic pain. On this basis, anticonvulsants are applied as part of the multimodal treatment. Objectives: To evaluate analgesic effectiveness and safety of gabapentin for management of pain after thorax and upper abdomen surgery. Method: A quasiexperimental, comparative and prospective study was conducted with the patients announced for surgery of the upper abdomen and thorax, in the period from 2015 to 2017. Thirty patients divided into 2 groups were included. The Group G (n=14) received treatment with gabapentin 100 mg orally the day before the intervention and every 12 h in the postoperative period until 24 h. The Group C (n=16) received the conventional analgesia prescribed for this type of intervention. Results: The sample was homogeneous regarding age and sex. Pain intensity levels were lower in the gabapentin group and this difference becomes more significant 24 hours after surgery. This corresponds to a lower need for rescue analgesia (71 percent vs. 100 percent). Associated complications were more frequent in the study group at the expense of nausea, although there were no significant differences. Conclusions: The use of gabapentin in the perioperative period guarantees better pain control with few complications(AU)

Percutaneous endoscopic debridement and irrigation for thoracic infections

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: To investigate the safety and efficacy of percutaneous endoscopic debridement and irrigation for thoracic infections and to make an appropriate choice according to the patient's condition. METHODS. Thirty patients with thoracic infections who received surgical treatment from August 2014 to December2016 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 16 males and 14 females, aged from 41 to 90 years, with an average of 64.4 years. A total of 9 cases were treated with percutaneous endoscopic debridement and irrigation (minimal group), and 21 cases were treated with open debridement in combination with pedicle screw fixation (conventional group). Patients underwent follow-up for 1 month. General condition, operative index, laboratory results, and imaging features were recorded. RESULTS. Compared with the conventional group, there were more comorbidities in patients in the minimal group (8 cases in the minimal group, 10 cases in the conventional group, P=0.049), shorter hospital stay (10.1 + 2.26 days in the minimal group, 16.1 + 6.81 days in the conventional group, P=0.016), less bleeding volume (383.3 + 229.86ml in the minimal group, 90 + 11.18ml in the conventional group, P=0.000), lower VAS score at discharge (2.9 + 0.93 in the minimal group, 3.9 + 0.91 in the conventional group, P=0.013). There was no spinal instability case in the minimal group, 10 cases in the conventional group, P=0.013. There were significant differences. The C reaction protein prior to operation in the minimal group was 28.4±7.50mg/L. Compared with 45.1 + 15.78mg/L in the conventional group, P=0.005, it was lower. CONCLUSIONS. Percutaneous endoscopic debridement and irrigation are an effective surgery for treatment of thoracic infections, especially suitable for patients with comorbidities and poor general condition. However, for severe infection and spinal instability, we tend to choose open surgery in combination with fixation.

RESUMO OBJETIVOS: Investigar a eficácia e segurança de desbridamento endoscópico percutâneo e irrigação torácica para infecções e fazer uma escolha adequada de acordo com a condição do paciente. MÉTODOS: Trinta pacientes com infecção torácica que receberam tratamento cirúrgico de agosto de 2014 a dezembro de 2016 foram analisadosretrospectivamente. Havia 16 homens e 14 mulheres, de 41 a 90 anos, com uma média de 64,4 anos. Nove casos foram tratados com desbridamento endoscópico percutâneo e irrigação (grupo mínimo) e 21 casos foram tratados com desbridamento aberto em combinação com fixação do parafuso pedicular(grupo convencional). Os pacientes foram submetidos a acompanhamento durante um mês. Estado geral, índice operacional, resultados de laboratório e imagem e funcionalidades foram gravados. RESULTADOS: Em comparação com o grupo convencional, há mais comorbidades em pacientes do grupo mínimo (8 casos no grupo mínimo, 10 casos no grupo convencional, P = 0,049), menos tempo no hospital (10,1 + 2,26 dias no grupo mínimo, 16,1 + 6,81 dias no grupo convencional, P = 0,016), menos volume de sangramento (383,3 + 229,86 ml no grupo mínimo, 90 + 11,18 ml no grupo convencional, P = 0,000), menor pontuação no VAS a quitação (2,9 + 0,93 no grupo mínimo, 3,9 + 0,91 no grupo convencional, P = 0,013). Não houve nenhum caso de instabilidade espinhal no grupo mínimo, e 10 casos no grupo convencional, P = 0,013. Houve diferenças significativas. O nível de proteína C-reativa antes da operação no grupo mínimo era de 28,4±7,50mg/L. Em comparação com 45,1 + 15,78 mg/L no grupo convencional, P = 0,005, era mais baixa. CONCLUSÃO: O método de desbridamento endoscópico percutâneo e irrigação é eficaz para o tratamento de infecções em cirurgia torácica, especialmente adequado para pacientes com comorbidades e mau estado geral. Mas, para a infecção grave e instabilidade vertebral, tendemos a escolher a cirurgia aberta em combinação com a fixação.

[RETRACTED ARTICLE] Comparison of Arndt-endobronchial blocker plus laryngeal mask airway with left-sided double-lumen endobronchial tube in one-lung ventilation in thoracic surgery in the morbidly obese

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and performance of Arndt-endobronchial blocker (Arndt) combined with laryngeal mask airway (LMA) compared with left-sided double-lumen endobronchial tube (L-DLT) in morbidly obese patients in one-lung ventilation (OLV). In a prospective, randomized double-blind controlled clinical trial, 80 morbidly obese patients (ASA I-III, aged 20-70) undergoing general anesthesia for elective thoracic surgeries were randomly allocated into groups Arndt (n=40) and L-DLT (n=40). In group Arndt, a LMA™ Proseal was placed followed by an Arndt-endobronchial blocker. In group L-DLT, patients were intubated with a left-sided double-lumen endotracheal tube. Primary endpoints were the airway establishment, ease of insertion, oxygenation, lung collapse and surgical field exposure. Results showed similar ease of airway establishment and tube/device insertion between the two groups. Oxygen arterial pressure (PaO2) of patients in the Arndt group was significantly higher than L-DLT (154±46 vs 105±52 mmHg; P<0.05). Quality of lung collapse and surgical field exposure in the Arndt group was significantly better than L-DLT (effective rate 100 vs 90%; P<0.05). Duration of surgery and anesthesia were significantly shorter in the Arndt group (2.4±1.7 vs 3.1±1.8 and 2.8±1.9 vs 3.8±1.8 h, respectively; P<0.05). Incidence of hoarseness of voice and incidence and severity of throat pain at the post-anesthesia care unit and 12, 24, 48, and 72 h after surgery were significantly lower in the Arndt group (P<0.05). Findings suggested that Arndt-endobronchial blocker combined with LMA can serve as a promising alternative for morbidly obese patients in OLV in thoracic surgery.

Quiste pericardio - celómico / Spring water cyst

Paciente femenino, de 24 años que concurre por dolor torácico y disnea. Al examen por TC se observa masa homogénea, en seno cardiofrenico derecho, que no realza tras la administración EV de contraste iodado, y teniendo como característica, contenido líquido. Provoca desviación mediastinica hacia la izquierda. Luego de su exeresis, se concluye en el diagnóstico de quiste pericardio-celómico.

Female patient, 24 years that concurs with chest pain and dyspnea. To review by TC is observed homogeneous mass, in the cardiofrenico angle, which does not enhance after contrast administration EV iodide, and taking as a feature, liquid contents. Causes mediastinal deviation to the left. After excision, it is concluded in the diagnosis of pericardial cyst-coelomic.

Thoracic damage control surgery / Cirurgia de controle de danos torácico

ABSTRACT The damage control surgery came up with the philosophy of applying essential maneuvers to control bleeding and abdominal contamination in trauma patients who are within the limits of their physiological reserves. This concept was extended to thoracic injuries, where relatively simple maneuvers can shorten operative time of in extremis patients. This article aims to revise the various damage control techniques in thoracic organs that must be known to the surgeon engaged in emergency care.

RESUMO A cirurgia de controle de danos surgiu com a filosofia de se aplicar manobras essenciais para controle de sangramento e contaminação abdominal, em doentes traumatizados, nos limites de suas reservas fisiológicas. Este conceito se estendeu para as lesões torácicas, onde manobras relativamente simples, podem abreviar o tempo operatório de doentes in extremis. Este artigo tem como objetivo, revisar as diversas técnicas de controle de dano em órgãos torácicos, que devem ser de conhecimento do cirurgião que atua na emergência.

Reconstrução torácica com retalhos do músculo reto abdominal e grande dorsal: relato de casos / Chest wall reconstruction using abdominal rectus and latissimus dorsi muscle flaps: case report

INTRODUÇÃO: A reconstrução da parede torácica ainda permanece como um dos grandes desafios da cirurgia plástica reparadora. O presente estudo tem como objetivo apresentar o relato de pacientes submetidos à reconstrução de parede torácica com a utilização de retalhos miocutâneos, após ressecções de parede por tumores/osteomielite. MÉTODOS: Foram incluídos quatro pacientes, três deles portadores de osteomielite e o último apresentando-se com sarcoma, todas as afecções acometendo a parede torácica. Foram submetidos à ressecção de parede e reconstrução com retalhos miocutâneos do grande dorsal (dois casos) e reto abdominal (dois casos). RESULTADOS: Os retalhos utilizados foram suficientes para cobertura cutâneo-muscular e mantiveram boa vitalidade. Em apenas um caso, houve sofrimento parcial do retalho. Não houve recidiva precoce da doença. A estabilidade da caixa torácica foi preservada. CONCLUSÕES: A utilização dos retalhos citados no reparo dos defeitos torácicos mostrou-se satisfatória na intenção de prover revestimento cutâneo e músculo bem vascularizado, este fundamental no combate aos quadros infecciosos locais.

INTRODUCTION: Chest wall reconstruction remains one of the great plastic surgery repair challenges. The present work aims to report on cases of chest wall reconstruction using myocutaneous flaps after wall resection due to tumor/osteomyelitis. METHODS: Four patients were included, among which three presented with osteomyelitis and the other presented with sarcoma; both of these conditions affected the chest wall. Each patient underwent wall resection and reconstruction using myocutaneous flaps from the latissimus dorsi (two cases) and abdominal rectus (two cases). RESULTS: The flaps used were sufficient for skin-muscle covering and maintained good vitality. Partial flap injury occurred in one case. Chest cavity stability was preserved. CONCLUSIONS: The use of the above flaps to repair chest defects was satisfactory with the aim of covering the skin and providing well-vascularized muscles, the latter of which was fundamental to preventing local infection.

Segurança e viabilidade de um novo formato de retalho toracoepigástrico na reconstrução da parede torácica em câncer de mama localmente avançado: um estudo transversal / Safety and viability of a new format of thoracoepigastric flap for reconstruction of the chest wall in locally advanced breast cancer: a cross-sectional study

INTRODUÇÃO: Pacientes submetidas à mastectomia radical, com extensa perda tecidual, necessitam de procedimento cirúrgico de fechamento rápido e simples da lesão, com boa cobertura cutânea e mínima morbidade, para que possam receber precocemente tratamentos complementares. Estudamos a eficácia e a segurança de um novo formato do retalho toracoepigástrico com o posicionamento semissentado (Fowler) da paciente durante a cirurgia. A hipótese é de que o procedimento, além de obter adequado fechamento de grandes lesões, permita garantir a sobrevivência do retalho. MÉTODOS: Foram analisadas todas as pacientes consecutivamente operadas com mastectomias radicais entre 2009 e 2014 submetidas a reconstruções torácicas. Os principais desfechos analisados foram a viabilidade do retalho e a eficácia no fechamento cirúrgico. RESULTADOS: No período do estudo, foram operadas 29 pacientes com tumor localmente avançado (90%) ou recidivado (10%), uma operada bilateralmente (30 retalhos); vinte e três (79%) com estadiamento III e seis (21%), estadiamento IV. A extensão das áreas ressecadas variou de 20 x 15 cm a 13 x 9 cm (média 15,5 x 11,6 cm). Retalho toracoepigástrico foi utilizado com dimensões variando de 25 x 12 cm a 18 x 8 cm (média de 21,3 x 10,4 cm). Houve apenas duas deiscências (7%), que cicatrizaram sem necessidade de intervenção cirúrgica, e um hematoma, drenado cirurgicamente. Uma paciente faleceu no 11º dia pós-operatório. CONCLUSÃO: O retalho toracoepigástrico foi eficaz e seguro, sem necessidade do uso de outros retalhos ou enxertos cutâneos, fechando a área doadora adequadamente em todos os casos. Todas as pacientes, excluindo o óbito, estavam aptas para o tratamento complementar após um mês.

INTRODUCTION: Patients who undergo radical mastectomy with extensive tissue loss require a surgical procedure for rapid and simple closure of the lesion, with good skin coverage and minimal morbidity, to make them eligible for early complementary treatments. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of a new format of thoracoepigastric flap with patients in the Semi-Fowler position during surgery. We hypothesized that this procedure would achieve proper closure of large lesions and ensure the survival of the flap. METHODS: All consecutive patients who underwent radical mastectomy between 2009 and 2014 and had chest wall reconstruction were evaluated. The main outcomes evaluated were the viability of the flap and effectiveness of the surgical closure. RESULTS: During the study period, we operated on 29 patients with locally advanced (90%) or recurrent tumor (10%), and one patient was operated on bilaterally (total of 30 flaps). Of the study sample, 23 patients (79%) were at stage III and 6 (21%), at stage IV. The dimensions of the resected areas varied from 20 x 15 cm to 13 x 9 cm (average 15.5 x 11.6 cm). The dimensions of the thoracoepigastric flaps varied from 25 x 12 to 18 x 8 cm (average 21.3 x 10.4 cm). There were only 2 cases of dehiscence (7%), which resolved without surgical intervention, and one case of hematoma, which was drained surgically. One patient died on the eleventh postoperative day. CONCLUSION: Thoracoepigastric flaps were effective and safe, did not require the use of other flaps or skin grafting, and adequately closed the donor areas in all cases. All patients, except the patient who died, were eligible for complementary treatment one month after surgery.

Evaluation of the influence of pulmonary hypertension in ultra-fast-track anesthesia technique in adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery / Avaliação da influência da hipertensão pulmonar na técnica anestésica ultra-fast-track em pacientes adultos submetidos à cirurgia cardíaca

AbstractObjective:To evaluate the influence of pulmonary hypertension in the ultra-fast-track anesthesia technique in adult cardiac surgery.Methods:A retrospective study. They were included 40 patients divided into two groups: GI (without pulmonary hypertension) and GII (with pulmonary hypertension). Based on data obtained by transthoracic echocardiography. We considered as the absence of pulmonary hypertension: a pulmonary artery systolic pressure (sPAP) <36 mmHg, with tricuspid regurgitation velocity <2.8 m/s and no additional echocardiographic signs of PH, and PH as presence: a sPAP >40 mmHg associated with additional echocardiographic signs of PH. It was established as influence of pulmonary hypertension: the impossibility of extubation in the operating room, the increase in the time interval for extubation and reintubation the first 24 hours postoperatively. Univariate and multivariate analyzes were performed when necessary. Considered significant a P value <0.05.Results:The GI was composed of 21 patients and GII for 19. All patients (100%) were extubated in the operating room in a medium time interval of 17.58±8.06 min with a median of 18 min in GII and 17 min in GI. PH did not increase the time interval for extubation (P=0.397). It required reintubation of 2 patients in GII (5% of the total), without statistically significant as compared to GI (P=0.488).Conclusion:In this study, pulmonary hypertension did not influence on ultra-fast-track anesthesia in adult cardiac surgery.

ResumoObjetivo:Avaliar a influência da hipertensão pulmonar na técnica anestésica ultra-fast-track em cirurgia cardíaca de adultos.Métodos:Estudo retrospectivo. Foram incluídos 40 pacientes divididos em dois grupos: GI (sem hipertensão pulmonar) e GII (com hipertensão pulmonar). Com base em dados obtidos por ecocardiograma transtorácico, considerou-se como ausência de hipertensão pulmonar: uma pressão sistólica da artéria pulmonar 36 mmHg, com velocidade de regurgitação tricúspide <2,8 m/s e ausência de sinais ecocardiográficos adicionais de hipertensão pulmonar; e como presença de hipertensão pulmonar: uma PSAP >40 mmHg associada a sinais ecocardiográficos adicionais de hipertensão pulmonar. Foi estabelecida como influência da HP: a impossibilidade de extubação na sala cirúrgica, o aumento no intervalo de tempo para extubação e a necessidade de reintubação nas primeiras 24h de pós-operatório. Foram realizadas análises univariada e multivariada quando necessário. Foi considerado como significativo um valor de P<0,05.Resultados:O GI foi composto por 21 pacientes e o GII por 19. Todos os pacientes (100%) foram extubados na sala cirúrgica em um intervalo de tempo médio de 17,58±8,06 min, com uma mediana de 18 min no GI e 17 min no GII. A hipertensão pulmonar não aumentou o intervalo de tempo para extubação (P=0,397). Foi necessária a reintubação de 2 pacientes do GII (5% do total), estatisticamente sem significância em relação ao GI (P=0,488). Não houve óbitos durante a internação dos pacientes.Conclusão:Neste estudo a hipertensão pulmonar não teve influência na técnica anestésica ultra-fast-track em cirurgia cardíaca de adultos.

A modified method using a two-port approach for accessing the hilar vasculature without transferring an endostapler from camera port to utility port during thoracoscopic right upper lobectomy.

For thoracoscopic upper lobectomies, most cutting endostaplers must be inserted through the camera port when using a two-port approach. Access to the hilar vasculature through only the utility port remains a challenge. In this study, we describe a procedure to access the hilar vasculature without transferring the endostapler site during a thoracoscopic right upper lobectomy. A 2.5-cm utility anterior incision was made in the fourth intercostal space. The posterior mediastinal visceral pleura were dissected to expose the posterior portion of the right upper bronchus and the anterior trunk of the right pulmonary artery. The pleura over the right hilar vasculature were then peeled with an electrocoagulation hook. The anterior trunk of the right pulmonary artery was then transected with a cutting endostapler through the utility port firstly. This crucial maneuver allowed the endostapler access to the right upper lobe pulmonary vein. The hilar structures were then easily handled in turn. This novel technique was performed successfully in 32 patients, with no perioperative deaths. The average operation time was 120.6 min (range 75–180 min). This novel technique permits effective control of the hilar vessels through the utility port, enabling simple, safe, quick and effective resection.

Anastomosis in minimally invasive Ivor lewis esophagectomy via two ports provides equivalent perioperative outcomes to open.

OBJECTIVE: Minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) is becoming a selective treatment of esophageal cancer; however, it’s a complex and technically demanding surgical operation. MIE can be performed in high volume centers in a variety of ways using different techniques. Transthoracic staplers have traditionally been used in open transthoracic Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy (ILE) with good success. An investigation of the safety and utility of transthoracic stapler via two ports on thorax for esophageal anastomosis in minimally invasive ILE is reviewed. METHODS: Patients of esophageal cancer were selected between November 2012 and July 2014. All the patients received minimally invasive (MIE) or open transthoracic ILE. Transthoracic stapler for MIE anastomosis was performed through the major port located at subaxillary region. Patients’ demographics, indications for esophagectomy, perioperative treatments, intraoperative data, postoperative complications, hospital length of stay, 7 and in-hospital mortality were evaluated. RESULTS: Totally, 63 consecutive patients underwent MIE or ILE. All the patients were Han with a mean age of 60 years (52–74). The indication of surgery is esophageal cancer, and squamous cell carcinoma was defined by pathologist before operation. None of the patients had neoadjuvant chemotherapy or radiation. All the MIE patients were no conversions to open thoracotomy or laparotomy. Mean operative time was 4.5 h. One patient (3.03%) suffered postoperative pneumonia, no leak from the gastric conduit staple line or esophageal anastomoses, no postoperative complication required surgical intervention was observed. The median hospital length of stay was 13 days (range 7–18). There were no in-hospital mortalities. CONCLUSIONS: In our study, transthoracic stapler through the major port at subaxillary seems technically feasible and safe for minimally invasive ILE with comparable morbidity and oncologic data to open.

Single lung transplantation in India an initial experience.

The science of lung transplantation has evolved from an experimental procedure, to be accepted as a legitimate mainstream therapy for patients with end-stage pulmonary disease. Now lung transplantation offers patients with end-stage lung disease acceptable quality of life and matches a 5-year survival rate of other solid organ transplants. In the present report, we present our initial experience in performing two single lung transplantations done in our centre.

Simvastatin attenuates neutrophil recruitment in one-lung ventilation model in rats

PURPOSE: To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of simvastatin in rats undergoing one-lung ventilation (OLV) followed by lung re-expansion. METHODS: Male Wistar rats (n=30) were submitted to 1-h OLV followed by 1-h lung re-expansion. Treated group received simvastatin (40 mg/kg for 21 days) previous to OLV protocol. Control group received no treatment or surgical/ventilation interventions. Measurements of pulmonary myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, pulmonary protein extravasation, and serum levels of cytokines and C-reactive protein (CRP) were performed. RESULTS: OLV significantly increased the MPO activity in the collapsed and continuously ventilated lungs (31% and 52% increase, respectively) compared with control (p<0.05). Treatment with simvastatin significantly reduced the MPO activity in the continuously ventilated lung but had no effect on lung edema after OLV. The serum IL-6 and CRP levels were markedly higher in OLV group, but simvastatin treatment failed to affect the production of these inflammatory markers. Serum levels of IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-10 remained below the detection limit in all groups. CONCLUSIONS: In an experimental one-lung ventilation model pre-operative treatment with simvastatin reduces remote neutrophil infiltration in the continuously ventilated lung. Our findings suggest that simvastatin may be of therapeutic value in OLV-induced pulmonary inflammation deserving clinical investigations.

Conjoined twins: twenty years' experience at a reference center in Brazil

OBJECTIVE: This study reports on the experience of one hospital regarding the surgical aspects, anatomic investigation and outcomes of the management of 21 conjoined twin pairs over the past 20 years. METHODS: All cases of conjoined twins who were treated during this period were reviewed. A careful imaging evaluation was performed to detail the abdominal anatomy (particularly the liver), inferior vena cava, spleen and pancreas, either to identify the number of organs or to evaluate the degree of organ sharing. RESULTS: There were eight sets of ischiopagus twins, seven sets of thoracopagus twins, three sets of omphalopagus twins, two sets of thoraco-omphalo-ischiopagus twins and one set of craniopagus twins. Nine pairs of conjoined twins could not be separated due to the complexity of the organs (mainly the liver and heart) that were shared by both twins; these pairs included one set of ischiopagus twins, six sets of thoracopagus twins and one set of thoraco-omphalo-ischiopagus twins. Twelve sets were separated, including seven sets of ischiopagus twins, three sets of omphalopagus twins, one set of thoracopagus twins and one set of craniopagus conjoined twins. The abdominal wall was closed in the majority of patients with the use of mesh instead of the earlier method of using tissue expanders. The surgical survival rate was 66.7%, and one pair of twins who did not undergo separation is currently alive. CONCLUSION: A detailed anatomic study of the twins and surgical planning must precede separation. A well-prepared pediatric surgery team is sufficient to surgically manage conjoined twins.

Tratamiento endovascular de la coartación aórtica nativa y recurrente en pacientes mayores de 4 años: resultados y complicaciones / Endovascular repair of native and recurrent aortic coarctation in patients older than 4 years of age

Objetivos: Reportar nuestra experiencia en el tratamiento endovascular de la Coartación Aórtica (CoAo). Métodos: Se revisaron los registros clínicos de los pacientes mayores de 4 años intervenidos por una CoAo nativa o recoartación en el Hospital Clínico de la Universidad Católica entre los años 2007 y 2012. Se realizaron estadísticas descriptivas y se utilizó el test de Wilcoxon signed rank, con una p <0,05. Resultados: En ese período se realizaron 27 intervenciones en pacientes con CoAo. El promedio de edad fue 20.6 años (5 - 64); 8 (30 por ciento) eran mujeres y 8 (30 por ciento) menores de 14 años. Quince pacientes (55 por ciento) tenían una cardiopatía congénita asociada, de los cuales 9 (33 por ciento) tenían válvula aórtica bicúspide, 3 (11 por ciento) una comunicación interventricular (CIV) y 3 coexistencia de ambas entidades (11 por ciento). Nueve (33 por ciento) pacientes eran hipertensos. En 20 (74 por ciento) pacientes la intervención fue sobre una coartación aórtica nativa y en 7 (26 por ciento) sobre una recoartación (2 con cirugía previa y 5 con angioplas-tia anterior). Se implantó un stent en 23 (85 por ciento) pacientes y se utilizó sólo balón en 4 (15 por ciento). En 26 pacientes (96 por ciento) se logró una reducción del gradiente a menos de 20 mmHg (gradiente pre 32 vs gradiente post 6 mmHg, p<0,01). Hubo complicaciones del sitio de punción en 3 pacientes (2 hematomas y 1 disección focal en el origen de la arteria ilíaca externa) y complicaciones mayores en 2 pacientes (disección aórtica tipo B) que requirieron tratamiento intervencional (uno percutáneo y uno quirúrgico). No hubo mortalidad en nuestra serie. Conclusiones: La intervención endovascular es una opción de tratamiento efectiva para la CoAo.

Aim: There is an increasing interest in the endovascular therapy of both native and recurrent aortic coarcta-tion (Aco). In this article we report the results of endo-vascular treatment of ACo in children and adults at our institution, from 2007 to 2012. Method and Results: The clinical, angiographic and hemodynamic data of all patients submitted to endovascular repair of ACo at the Endovascular Therapy Center of the Catholic University Hospital were reviewed. Children under 4 years of age were excluded. A total of 27 subjects were included. Mean age was 20.6 years (range 5-64); 30 per cent were females and 30 per cent were under 14 years of age. 15 patients had associated congenital defects: bicuspid aortic valve ( 9), VSD (3), or both VSD and bicuspid aortic valve (3). Hypertension was present in 33 per cent of patients. 74 per cent had endovas-cular repair of a native Aco and 26 per cent of a re-coarctation (2 of them post surgical treatment and 5 post endovas-cular repair). 85 per cent of cases had stent implantation. Repair resulted in a significant (p<0.01) decrease in aortic pressure gradient (mean 32 vs 6 mmHg). There was no mortality associated to the procedure. Two patients developed aortic dissection post procedure, successfully treated by surgery or endovascular repair. There were no instances of stent migration. Conclusion: Endovascular repair is an effective means of correcting Aco. Potential complications need careful technique and monitoring during the procedure.