Efficacy of ultrasound-guided infiltration with levobupivacaine and triamcinolone for myofascial pain syndrome of the quadratus lumborum: a retrospective observational study

Abstract Introduction and objectives: Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) of the Quadratus Lumborum muscle (QL) is a frequent cause of chronic low back pain. With this study, we aimed to assess the efficacy of ultrasound-guided infiltration with 0.25% levobupivacaine and 40 mg triamcinolone for MPS of the QL. Methods: Observational and retrospective study of participants submitted to ultrasound-guided infiltration of the QL muscle from January 1, 2015 to June 31, 2019. Pain intensity was assessed using the five-point pain Numeric Rating Scale (NRS): pre-intervention, at 72 hours, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months post-intervention. Additional data collected were demographic characteristics, opioid consumption, and adverse effects. Results: We assessed 90 participants with mean age of 55.2 years. Sixty-eight percent of participants were female. Compared to the pre-intervention assessment, there was an improvement in pain at 72 hours (Mean Difference [MD = 3.085]; 95% CI: 2.200-3.970, p < 0.05), at the 1st month (MD = 2.644; 95% CI: 1.667-3.621, p < 0.05), at the 3rdmonth (MD = 2.017; 95% CI: 0.202-2.729, p < 0.05) and at the 6th month (MD = 1.339; 95% CI 0.378-2.300, p < 0.05), post-intervention. No statistically significant differences in opioid consumption were observed. No adverse effects associated with the technique were reported. Conclusions: Ultrasound-guided infiltration of the QL muscle is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of pain in the QL MPS within 6 months post-intervention.

Ultrasound-guided continuous costoclavicular block through retrograde stimulating catheter technique for postoperative analgesia in shoulder surgery: a case series

Abstract In five patient undergoing surgery for proximal humerus fracture we investigated into postoperative analgesia provided by continuous costoclavicular block using continuous stimulating catheter. The postoperative pain scores were less than 4 in all patients except in two patients who required intravenous tramadol 50 mg as a rescue analgesic. The radiocontrast dye study executed in two patients revealed contiguous contrast spread through the brachial plexus sheath with the catheter tip in the interscalene space. We propose that a continuous costoclavicular block with a retrograde stimulating catheter is a feasible alternative regional anesthesia technique for postoperative analgesia in shoulder surgery.

Debridement of axillary necrotizing fasciitis under anesthetic blocks of the serratus plane and supraclavicular brachial plexus: a case report

Abstract The regional techniques for axillary analgesia are well established. However, few studies have investigated surgical anesthesia. In this report, extensive debridement of axillary necrotizing fasciitis, including the posteromedial region of the right arm, performed under exclusive regional anesthesia in a patient with probable difficult airway is described. The procedure was accomplished under a Serratus Plane Block (SPB) and supraclavicular brachial plexus block, guided by ultrasound, and with venous sedation. We observed satisfactory anesthesia 15 minutes after the intervention, efficient intraoperative pain control and within the following 24 hours. Surgical axilla anesthesia is feasible with the described blocks.

Efficacy of intravascular ultrasound versus coronary angiographic guided drug-eluting stent implantation in the treatment of left main coronary artery disease: a meta-analysis / 中华心血管病杂志

Objective: To compare the efficacy of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and coronary angiography guided drug eluting stent (DES) implantation for the treatment of left main coronary artery (LMCA) lesions. Methods: Randomized controlled trials (RCT) and observational studies, which compared IVUS with coronary angiography guided DES implantation for the treatment of LMCA lesions published before August 2021 were searched in PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library databases. Baseline data, interventional procedures and endpoint events of each study were collected. The primary endpoint was major cardiovascular adverse events (MACE), and the secondary endpoints were all-cause death, cardiac death, myocardial infarction (MI), target lesion revascularization (TLR) and target vessel revascularization (TVR). The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) and the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias tool were used to evaluate the quality of the included studies. Results: Nine studies were included, including 3 RCT and 6 observational studies, with a total of 5 527 cases of LMCA. All the 6 observational studies had NOS scores≥6, and the 3 RCT had a low risk of overall bias. The results of meta-analysis showed that compared with coronary angiography guided group, MACE rate (OR=0.55, 95%CI 0.47-0.66, P<0.001), all-cause death (OR=0.56, 95%CI 0.43-0.74, P<0.001), cardiac death (OR=0.43, 95%CI 0.30-0.61, P<0.001), MI (OR=0.64, 95%CI 0.52-0.79, P<0.001), TLR (OR=0.49, 95%CI 0.28-0.86, P=0.013) and TVR (OR=0.77, 95%CI 0.60-0.98, P=0.037) were all significantly lower in the IVUS guided group. Conclusions: Compared with angiography guided, IVUS guided PCI with DES implantation in LMCA lesions could significantly reduce the risk of MACE, death, MI, TLR and TVR. IVUS is thus superior to coronary angiography for guiding PCI treatment among patients with LMCA.

An alternative approach for blocking the superior trunk of the brachial plexus evaluated by a single arm clinical trial

Abstract Background Interscalene brachial plexus block is associated with phrenic nerve paralysis. The objective of this study was to evaluate an alternative approach to interscalene brachial plexus blocks in terms of efficacy, grade of motor and sensory blockade, and phrenic nerve blockade. Methods The study was prospective and interventional. The ten living patients studied were 18 to 65 years old, ASA physical status I or II, and submitted to correction of rotator cuff injury. A superior trunk blockade was performed at the superior trunk below the omohyoid muscle, without blocking the phrenic nerve. The needle was advanced below the prevertebral layer until contacting the superior trunk. In order to guarantee the correct positioning of the needle tip, an intracluster pattern of the spread was visualized. The block was performed with 5 mL of 0.5% bupivacaine in ten patients. In the six cadavers, 5 mL of methylene blue was injected. Diaphragmatic excursion was assessed by ultrasonography of the ipsilateral hemidiaphragm. In three patients, pulmonary ventilation was evaluated with impedance tomography. Pain scores and analgesic consumption were assessed in the recovery room for 6 hours after the blockade. Results In the six cadavers, methylene blue didn't reach the phrenic nerve. Ten patients underwent arthroscopic surgery, and no clinically phrenic nerve paralysis was observed. No patient reported pain during the first 6 hours. Conclusions This study suggests that this new superior trunk approach to block the superior trunk may be an alternative technique to promote analgesia for shoulder surgery in patients with impaired respiratory function.

Efficacy of serratus anterior plane block versus thoracic paravertebral block for postoperative analgesia after breast cancer surgery - a randomized trial

Abstract Background Breast cancer surgery is associated with considerable acute post-surgical pain and restricted mobility. Various regional and neuraxial anesthesia techniques have been used to alleviate post-mastectomy pain. Ultrasound-guided serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) has been considered a simple and safe technique. This randomized control study was performed to compare the efficacy of SAPB with the thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) for postoperative analgesia after breast cancer surgery. Methods A total of 40 adult ASA physical status I - II female patients undergoing radical mastectomy were randomly allocated into two groups to receive either ultrasound-guided TPVB or SAPB with 0.4 mL.kg-1 0.5% ropivacaine, 30 min before surgery. All patients received standardized general anesthesia for surgery. Injection diclofenac and tramadol were used for postoperative rescue analgesia. The time to first rescue analgesia, total analgesic consumption in the first 24 hours, postoperative pain scores, and any adverse effects were recorded. Results The time to first rescue analgesia was significantly longer in the SAPB group (255.3 ± 47.8 min) as compared with the TPVB group (146.8 ± 30.4 min) (p< 0.001). Total diclofenac consumption in 24 hours was also less in the SAPB group (138.8 ± 44.0 mg vs 210.0 ± 39.2 mg in SAPB and TPVB group respectively, p< 0.001). Postoperative pain scores were significantly lower in the SAPB group as compared with TPVB group (p< 0.05). The incidence of PONV was also less in the SAPB group (p= 0.028). No block-related adverse effects were reported. Conclusion We found that the serratus anterior plane block was more effective than the thoracic paravertebral block for postoperative analgesia after breast cancer surgery.

O papel da ultrassonografia na doença trofoblástica gestacional / The role of ultrasonography in gestational trophoblastic disease

A doença trofoblástica gestacional (DTG) agrupa um conjunto de anomalias do desenvolvimento trofoblástico, que incluem formas clínicas benignas como a mola hidatiforme completa e parcial, o nódulo do sítio placentário atípico e o sítio trofoblástico exagerado, e malignas, caracterizando a neoplasia trofoblástica gestacional (NTG). De modo geral, seu diagnóstico precoce antecipa complicações clínicas que podem estar associadas a near miss obstétrico. Diante da suspeição clínica, é a ultrassonografia (US) precoce o exame de escolha pa ra o diagnóstico, associado à dosagem sérica de gonadotrofina coriônica humana, capaz de minimizar a ocorrência de complicações clínicas associadas à gravidez molar. Nos casos de NTG, é a US também de grande valia para estadiamento, avaliação de prognóstico e acompanhamento da mulher tratada para DTG. Este estudo faz uma revisão sobre o papel da US na DTG, sendo importante para familiarizar os tocoginecologistas com essa doença e salientar o papel da US consoante as melhores práticas clínicas.(AU)

Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) includes a set of trophoblastic developmental anomalies, which include benign forms such as complete and partial hydatidiform mole, atypical placental site nodule and exaggerated trophoblastic site, and malignant forms, characterizing gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN). In general, its early diagnosis anticipates clinical complications that could be associated with obstetric near miss. In view of clinical suspicion, early ultrasonography (US) and serum levels of human chorionic gonadotropin are the best diagnostic screening techniques, able to minimizing the occurrence of medical complications associated with molar pregnancy. In cases of GTN, US is also of great value for staging, assessment of prognosis and follow-up of women treated for GTN. This study reviews the role of US in GTD, being important to familiarize tocogynecologists with this disease and highlight the role of US according to best clinical practices to minimize the morbidity of these patients and maximize the remission rates of this disease.(AU)

Ultrasound-guided Radial Artery Cannulation / 中国医学科学院学报

Arterial cannulation can be used to monitor blood pressure in real time and facilitate frequent arterial blood gas analysis.It is one of the commonly used clinical techniques in anesthesia,emergency,and intensive care units.Studies have demonstrated that ultrasound guidance can increase the success rate of arterial cannulation and reduce the incidence of related complications.In recent years,ultrasound guidance technology has developed rapidly and is increasingly used in clinical practice.This article reviews the latest advances in the application of ultrasound guidance in radial artery cannulation.

Safe ultrasound-guided percutaneous tracheostomy in eight steps and necessary precautions in COVID-19 patients / Traqueostomia percutânea segura guiada por ultrassonografia em oito passos e cuidados necessários em pacientes com COVID-19

ABSTRACT Percutaneous tracheostomy has been considered the standard method today, the bronchoscopy-guided technique being the most frequently performed. A safe alternative is ultrasound-guided percutaneous tracheostomy, which can be carried out by the surgeon, avoiding the logistical difficulties of having a specialist in bronchoscopy. Studies prove that the efficacy and safety of the ultrasound-guided technique are similar when compared to the bronchoscopy-guided one. Thus, it is of paramount importance that surgeons have ultrasound-guided percutaneous tracheostomy as a viable and beneficial alternative to the open procedure. In this article, we describe eight main steps in performing ultrasound-guided percutaneous tracheostomy, highlighting essential technical points that can reduce the risk of complications from the procedure. Furthermore, we detail some precautions that one must observe to reduce the risk of aerosolization and contamination of the team when percutaneous tracheostomy is indicated in patients with COVID-19.

RESUMO A traqueostomia percutânea tem sido considerada o método padrão atualmente, sendo a técnica guiada por broncoscopia a mais realizada. Uma alternativa segura é a traqueostomia percutânea guiada por ultrassonografia, que pode ser feita pelo próprio cirurgião, evitando-se as dificuldades logísticas de disponibilidade de um especialista em broncoscopia. Estudos comprovam que a eficácia e a segurança da técnica guiada por ultrassonografia, comparada à guiada por broncoscopia, são semelhantes. Assim, é de suma importância que os cirurgiões tenham a traqueostomia percutânea guiada por ultrassonografia como alternativa viável e benéfica em relação ao procedimento aberto. Neste artigo, descrevemos oito passos principais da realização da traqueostomia percutânea ecoguiada, destacando pontos técnicos essenciais que podem reduzir o risco de complicações do procedimento. Ainda, detalhamos alguns cuidados que devem ser observados, com o intuito de reduzir o risco de aerolização e contaminação da equipe, quando a traqueostomia percutânea é indicada no paciente com COVID-19.

Perineural dexamethasone in ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block with levobupivacaine for shoulder arthroscopic surgery in the outpatient setting: randomized controlled trial / Dexametasona perineural em bloqueio de plexo braquial interescalênico com levobupivacaína guiado por ultrassonografia para artroscopia de ombro em regime ambulatorial: ensaio clínico controlado e randomizado

Abstract Background and objectives: In shoulder arthroscopy, on an outpatient basis, the patient needs a good control of the postoperative pain that can be achieved through regional blocks. Perineural dexamethasone may prolong the effect of these blocks. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of perineural dexamethasone on the prolongation of the sensory block in the postoperative period for arthroscopic shoulder surgery in outpatient setting. Methods: After approval by the Research Ethics Committee and informed consent, patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery under general anesthesia and ultrasound-guided interscalene brachial plexus block were randomized into Group D - blockade performed with 30 mL of 0.5% levobupivacaine with vasoconstrictor and 6 mg (1.5 mL) of dexamethasone and Group C - 30 mL of 0.5% levobupivacaine with vasoconstrictor and 1.5 mL of 0.9% saline. The duration of the sensory block was evaluated in 4 postoperative moments (0, 4, 12 and 24 hours) as well as the need for rescue analgesia, nausea and vomiting incidence, and Visual Analog Pain Scale (VAS). Results: Seventy-four patients were recruited and 71 completed the study (Group C, n = 37; Group D, n = 34). Our findings showed a prolongation of the mean time of the sensitive blockade in Group D (1440 ± 0 min vs. 1267 ± 164 min, p < 0.001). It was observed that Group C had a higher mean pain score according to VAS (2.08 ± 1.72 vs. 0.02 ± 0.17, p < 0.001) and a greater number of patients (68.4% vs. 0%, p < 0.001) required rescue analgesia in the first 24 hours. The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Perineural dexamethasone significantly prolonged the sensory blockade promoted by levobupivacaine in interscalene brachial plexus block, reduced pain intensity and rescue analgesia needs in the postoperative period.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos: Na artroscopia de ombro em regime ambulatorial, o paciente necessita de um bom controle da dor pós-operatória, que pode ser conseguido por meio de bloqueios regionais. A dexametasona perineural pode prolongar o efeito desses bloqueios. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da dexametasona perineural quanto ao prolongamento do bloqueio sensitivo no período pós-operatório para cirurgia artroscópica de ombro em regime ambulatorial. Métodos: Após aprovação do Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa e consentimento informado, foram incluídos no estudo pacientes submetidos a cirurgia artroscópica de ombro sob anestesia geral e bloqueio de plexo braquial interescalênico guiado por ultrassonografia. Eles foram randomizados nos Grupo D - bloqueio com 30 mL de levobupivacaína 0,5% com vasoconstritor e 6 mg (1,5 mL) de dexametasona, e Grupo C - bloqueio com 30 mL de levobupivacaína 0,5% com vasoconstritor e 1,5 mL solução salina. A duração do bloqueio sensitivo foi avaliada em quatro momentos pós-operatórios (0, 4, 12 e 24 horas), assim como a necessidade de analgesia de resgate, incidência de náuseas e vômitos e Escala Visual Analógica de Dor (EVA). Resultados: Setenta e quatro pacientes foram randomizados e 71 completaram o estudo (Grupo C, n = 37; Grupo D, n = 34). Observou-se um prolongamento do tempo médio de bloqueio sensitivo no Grupo D (1440 ± 0 min vs. 1267 ± 164 min; p< 0,001). Pacientes do Grupo C apresentaram maior média de escore de dor de acordo com a EVA (2,08 ± 1,72vs. 0,02 ± 0,17; p< 0,001) e um maior número de pacientes solicitou analgesia de resgate nas primeiras 24 horas (68,4%vs.0%; p< 0,001). A incidência de náuseas e vômitos não foi estatisticamente significante. Conclusão: A dexametasona perineural prolongou significativamente o bloqueio sensitivo da levobupivacaína no bloqueio de plexo braquial interescalênico, reduziu a intensidade de dor e a necessidade de analgesia de resgate pelo paciente no período pós-operatório.

Impacto de la cateterización venosa central percutánea bajo guía ecográfica en una terapia intensiva pediátrica polivalente / Impact of ultrasound-guided percutaneous central venous catheterization at a general pediatric intensive care unit

Introducción: La cateterización venosa central es un procedimiento usual en Unidades de Cuidados Intensivos (UCI). El ultrasonido (US) para guiar la cateterización, ofrece ventajas, permitiendo tener una imagen topográfica precisa del vaso, reduciendo las complicaciones, el tiempo y el número de punciones. Objetivo: determinar, si la US en la colocación de catéteres venosos centrales (CVC), podría disminuir el número de punciones y lograr la cateterización exitosa. Población y métodos: Estudio descriptivo, prospectivo de los CVC colocados mediante punción guiada por US, en una UCI polivalente del Hospital de Pediatría Juan P. Garrahan, entre el año 2018 al 2019. Población: pacientes de 1 mes a 18 años que requirieron colocación de un CVS por US. Se consideró significativo un valor de p< 0.05. Resultados: VYI en 66 pacientes (43,5%), VF fue en 86 pacientes (56,5%). 86 (56,5%) CVC, fueron insertados en el primer intento y 66 (43,5%), requirieron más de un intento. Las inserciones en VYI fueron exitosas en el primer intento en 46 pac. (53,5%) 20 pac. requirieron más de un intento (30,3%) p 0,004 OR 0,37 (IC 95% 0,18-0,78. En <6 meses los CVC colocados en VYI tuvieron menos riesgo de requerir más de un intento, con respecto a aquellos en los cuales se eligió la VF, p 0,0026 OR 0,31 (IC 95% 0,12 -0,75). 5,2% presentaron complicaciones, no hubo mortalidad relacionada al procedimiento. Conclusiones: La inserción de CVC guiados por US fue segura y significativamente exitosa en el primer intento cuando el vaso de elección fue la VYI, especialmente en < 6 meses (AU)

IIntroduction: Central venous catheterization is a common procedure in intensive care units (ICU). The use of ultrasound (US) to guide catheterization offers advantages, allowing for an accurate topographic image of the vessel, reducing complications as well as time and number of punctures. Objective: To determine whether the use of US for the placement of central venous catheters (CVCs) may decrease the number of punctures and achieve successful catheterization. Patients and methods: A descriptive, prospective study was conducted of CVCs placed by US-guided puncture at a general ICU of Hospital de Pediatría Juan P. Garrahan between 2018 and 2019. Patients from 1 month to 18 years of age who required US-guided placement of a CVC were included. A p< 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The internal jugular vein (IJV) was used in 66 (43.5%) and the femoral vein (FV) in 86 patients (56.5%). Overall, in 86 (56.5%) CVC were inserted on the first attempt and 66 (43.5%) required more than one attempt. Insertions into the VYI were successful on the first attempt in 46 (53.5%) patients and 20 (30.3%) patients required more than one attempt, p 0.004; OR 0.37 (95% CI 0.18-0.78). In patients <6 months CVCs placed in the IJV had a lower risk of requiring more than one attempt compared to those in which the FV was chosen, p 0.0026 OR 0.31 (95% CI 0.12 -0.75). Complications occurred in 5.2%; no procedure-related mortality was observed. Conclusions: US-guided insertion of CVC was safe and significantly successful on the first attempt when the vessel of choice was the IJV, especially in patients < 6 months (AU)

Eficacia y seguridad del drenaje ecoendoscópico de colecciones líquidas peripancreáticas en un hospital de referencia / Efficacy and safety of echoendoscopy drainage of liquid peripancreatic collections in a reference hospital

RESUMEN Introducción: El drenaje guiado por ecoendoscopía es considerado como la mejor opción para el drenaje de las colecciones liquidas peripancreáticas. No hay reportes en nuestro medio de la experiencia en esta terapia endoscópica. Objetivos: detallar las características, eficacia y seguridad de los drenajes ecoendoscópicos de las colecciones liquidas peripancreáticas en el Hospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati Martins. Material y métodos: se realizó un estudio transversal retrospectivo de todos los pacientes con colecciones liquidas peripancreáticas sintomáticas sometidos a drenaje ecoguiado. Se analizaron variables demográficas, características ecoendoscópicas asociadas al procedimiento terapéutico y dispositivos empleados. La eficacia se evaluó con la tasa de éxito técnico y de éxito clínico. La seguridad se evaluó en base a las principales complicaciones inmediatas y posteriores. Se empleó estadística descriptiva básica. Resultados: Se realizaron 17 drenajes ecoguiadas de colecciones peripancreáticas (10 pseudoquistes y 7 necrosis pancreáticas encapsuladas o WON) en 17 pacientes: 9 mujeres (52,9%) y 8 hombres (47,1%). El rango de edad de los pacientes fue de 26-72 años, con una mediana de 59 años. El tamaño promedio de las colecciones liquidas fue 14,8 cm con un rango de 8-24 cm. El acceso transgástrico se empleó en 16 casos (94,1%) y el acceso transduodenal en 1 caso (5,9%). Se empleó prótesis plástica (6 casos), prótesis metálica autoexpandibles (SEMS) biliar (4 casos) y prótesis de aposición luminal (LAMS) en 7 casos. El éxito técnico fue del 100% (17 pacientes), mientras que el éxito clínico fue de 70,6% (12 pacientes). Las complicaciones ocurrieron en 41,2%: infección de colección (2 casos), perforación, sangrado en zona de drenaje, obstrucción de prótesis plástica, migración de prótesis al interior de colección y al lumen gástrico (1 caso cada uno). El manejo quirúrgico de éstas complicaciones fue necesaria en 3 casos, mientras que en los otros 4 casos solo requirió manejo médico - endoscópico. Conclusiones: los drenajes guiados por ecoendoscopía de las colecciones liquidas peripancreáticas tienen alta tasa de éxito técnico y clínico con reducido porcentaje de complicaciones.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guided drainage is considered the best option for peripancreatic fluid collections drainage. There are no previous reports in our country of this type of endoscopic therapy. Objectives: To detail the characteristics, efficacy and safety of EUS-guided drainage of peripancreatic fluid collections at Edgardo Rebagliati Martins National Hospital. Materials and methods: We carried out a retrospective cross-sectional study of all patients who underwent EUS-guided drainage of symptomatic peripancreatic fluid collections. Demographics, procedure-related endosonographic features and devices used were analyzed. We assessed the effectiveness with technical and clinical success rate. Clinical safety was assessed based on major immediate and delayed adverse events. Basic descriptive statistics was used. Results: A total of 17 patients (9 women, 52.9% and 8 men, 47.1%) with peripancreatic fluid collections (10 pseudocysts and 7 walled-off necrosis) underwent EUS-guided drainage. The median age of the patients was 59 years (range 26 - 72 years). The mean diameter of the fluid collections was 14.8 cm (range 8-24 cm). Transgastric route was used in 16 cases (94.1%) and transduodenal route in 1 case (5.9%). Plastic stent (6 cases), biliary self expanding metal stent (4 cases) and lumen apposing stent (7 cases) were used. The technical success rate was 100% (17 patients), while clinical success rate was 70.6% (12 patients). Adverse events occurred in 41.2%: infection (2 cases), perforation, bleeding, plastic stent occlusion, stent migration into the collection cavity and out of the collection cavity (1 case each one). Surgical management of adverse events was necessary in 3 cases, while the 4 other cases only required medical - endoscopic management. Conclusions: EUS-guided drainage of peripancreatic fluid collections have a high technical and clinical success rate with a low percentage of adverse events.

The role of endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration in isolated intrathoracic lymphadenopathy in non-neoplastic patients: a common dilemma in clinical practice / O papel da aspiração transbrônquica com agulha guiada por ultrassonografia endobrônquica na linfonodomegalia intratorácica isolada em pacientes não neoplásicos: um dilema comum na prática clínica

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine the diagnostic yield of endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) in non-neoplastic patients with isolated intrathoracic lymphadenopathy (IL). Methods: This was a retrospective study of patients with isolated IL referred for EBUS-TBNA. We calculated the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of EBUS-TBNA in the diagnosis of granulomatous, reactive, and neoplastic lymphadenopathy. In cases of nonspecific granulomas, reactive lymphadenopathy, or inconclusive results, a definitive diagnosis was established by other diagnostic procedures or during a follow-up period of at least 18 months. Results: Among the 58 patients included in the study, EBUS-TBNA established a diagnosis of granulomatous disease in 22 (38%), reactive lymphadenopathy in 15 (26%), cancer in 8 (14%), and other diseases in 3 (5%). Results were inconclusive in 10 (17%), the diagnosis being established by other bronchoscopic procedures in 2 (20%) and by surgical procedures in 8 (80%). A final diagnosis of reactive lymphadenopathy was established in 12. Of those, 11 (92%) had their diagnosis confirmed during follow-up and 1 (8%) had their diagnosis confirmed by mediastinoscopy. In another 3, a final diagnosis of sarcoidosis or neoplasm was established. For the diagnosis of granulomatous disease, neoplasms, and reactive lymphadenopathy, EBUS-TBNA was found to have a sensitivity of 73%, 68%, and 92%, respectively; a specificity of 100%, 100%, and 93%, respectively; an accuracy of 86%, 93%, and 93%, respectively; a PPV of 100%, 100%, and 80%, respectively; and an NPV of 78%, 92%, and 98%, respectively. Conclusions: In non-neoplastic patients, granulomatous disease and reactive lymphadenopathy appear to be common causes of isolated IL. EBUS-TBNA shows promising results as a first-line minimally invasive diagnostic procedure. The results obtained by EBUS-TBNA can be optimized by examining clinical and radiological findings during follow-up or by comparison with the results obtained with other bronchoscopic methods.

RESUMO Objetivo: Determinar o rendimento diagnóstico da endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA, aspiração transbrônquica com agulha guiada por ultrassonografia endobrônquica) em pacientes não neoplásicos com linfonodomegalia intratorácica (LI) isolada. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo com pacientes com LI isolada encaminhados para EBUS-TBNA. Foram calculados a sensibilidade, especificidade, precisão, valor preditivo positivo (VPP) e valor preditivo negativo (VPN) da EBUS-TBNA no diagnóstico de linfadenopatia granulomatosa, reacional e neoplásica. Em casos de granulomas inespecíficos, linfadenopatia reacional ou resultados inconclusivos, o diagnóstico definitivo foi estabelecido por meio de outros procedimentos diagnósticos ou ao longo de pelo menos 18 meses de acompanhamento. Resultados: Nos 58 pacientes incluídos, a EBUS-TBNA permitiu que se estabelecesse o diagnóstico de doença granulomatosa em 22 (38%), linfadenopatia reacional em 15 (26%), câncer em 8 (14%) e outras doenças em 3 (5%). Os resultados foram inconclusivos em 10 (17%), nos quais o diagnóstico foi feito por meio de outros procedimentos broncoscópicos, em 2 (20%), ou de procedimentos cirúrgicos, em 8 (80%). O diagnóstico final de linfadenopatia reacional foi feito em 12. Destes, 11 (92%) receberam confirmação diagnóstica durante o acompanhamento e 1 (8%), por meio de mediastinoscopia. Em outros 3, o diagnóstico final foi sarcoidose ou neoplasia. Para o diagnóstico de doença granulomatosa, câncer e linfadenopatia reacional, a EBUS-TBNA apresentou sensibilidade de 73%, 68% e 92%, respectivamente; especificidade de 100%, 100% e 93%, respectivamente; precisão de 86%, 93% e 93%, respectivamente; VPP de 100%, 100% e 80%, respectivamente; VPN de 78%, 92% e 98%, respectivamente. Conclusões: Em pacientes não neoplásicos, doenças granulomatosas e linfadenopatia reacional parecem ser causas comuns de LI isolada. A EBUS-TBNA apresenta resultados promissores como procedimento diagnóstico minimamente invasivo de primeira linha. Os resultados obtidos pela EBUS-TBNA podem ser otimizados pelos achados clínicos e radiológicos durante o acompanhamento ou pela comparação com os resultados de outros métodos broncoscópicos.

Development and application of a swine model for training ultrasonography-guided central venous access / Desenvolvimento e aplicação de um modelo porcino para treinamento de acesso venoso central guiado por ultrassonografia

ABSTRACT Introduction: simulation based teaching is a powerful tool in medical education, allowing hands on practice under a controlled environment and with repeated maneuvers. Central venous access venipuncture is one of the most frequent procedures carried out in the hospital setting, due to its various clinical indications and, when performed with the help of ultrasonography, the risk of adverse events is minimized. Aim: to develop, to describe and to test a porcine model that simulates the central venous access puncture aided by ultrasonography. Method: a low cost porcine model was developed to train medical students and residents on central venous access guided by ultrasonography. Both students and medical residents underwent a theoretical training regarding the model, followed by a hands-on training session. Afterwards, the participants assessed the model by answering a questionnaire. Results: there were 51 participants. The average score regarding the similarity between the model and the human anatomy was 9.15. When the characteristics were separately assessed, the mean scores regarding the similarity of the vessels, anatomic disposition and ultrasonographic characteristics as well as the venipuncture were, respectively, 9.27; 9.31; 9.54 and 8.86. Conclusion: The model was approved and considered appropriate for the training of central venous venipuncture by all the participants. Furthermore, it is a low cost, simple and reproducible model, that presents high similarity with the human anatomy. Therefore, it may be used as an aid to train people on ultrasonography guided central venous access.

RESUMO Introdução: o ensino baseado em simulação é poderosa ferramenta para o aprendizado na educação médica, permitindo a prática de procedimentos em ambientes controlados e por repetidas vezes. A realização de acesso venoso central é um dos procedimentos médicos mais realizados em ambiente hospitalar, tendo várias indicações e, quando realizada com o auxilio da ultrassonografia, os riscos das complicações do procedimento são minimizados. Objetivo: desenvolver, descrever e aplicar um modelo porcino para simulação de acesso venoso central guiado por ultrassonografia. Métodos: modelo porcino de baixo custo foi desenvolvido para treinamento de acesso venoso central guiado por ultrassonografia. Estudantes de medicina e médicos residentes receberam treinamento teórico em relação ao procedimento, seguido de treinamento prático no modelo. Posteriormente, os participantes avaliaram o modelo desenvolvido por meio de um questionário. Resultados: o estudo contou com 51 participantes. O escore médio de semelhança geral do modelo com a realidade foi 9,15. Quando separadas por características, as médias dos escores de semelhança da imagem dos vasos, da disposição anatômica das estruturas, das características ultrassonográficas e da punção foram, respectivamente, 9,27; 9,31; 9,54 e 8,86. Conclusão: o modelo foi aprovado e considerado útil para treinamento do procedimento por todos os participantes, além de ter baixo custo, ser simples, reprodutível e apresentar alta semelhança com a realidade, podendo ser utilizado como adjunto no treinamento de acesso venoso central guiado por ultrassonografia.

3D Reconstruction and physical renal model to improve percutaneous punture during PNL

ABSTRACT Introduction and Objectives: We aim to present the use of 3D digital and physical renal model (1-5) to guide the percutaneous access during percutaneous nephrolithotripsy (PNL). Materials and Methods: We present the clinical case of a 30 years old man with left renal stone (25x15 mm). A virtual 3D reconstruction of the anatomical model including the stone, the renal parenchyma, the urinary collecting system (UCS) and the skeletal landmarks (lumbar spine and ribs) was elaborated. Finally, a physical 3D model was created with a 3D printer including the renal parenchyma, UCS and the stone. The surgeon evaluated the 3D virtual reconstruction and manipulated the printed model before surgery to improve the anatomical knowledge and to facilitate the percutaneous access. In prone position, combining ultrasound and fluoroscopy implemented by the preoperative anatomical planning based on the 3D virtual and printed model, an easy and safe access of the inferior calyx was achieved. Then, the patient underwent PNL using a 30 Fr Amplatz sheet with semi-rigid nephroscope and ultrasound energy to achieve a complete lithotripsy of the pelvic stone. Results: The procedure was safely completed with 1 single percutaneous puncture (time of puncture 2 minutes). Overall surgical time was 90 min. No intra and postoperative complications were reported. The CT scan performed before discharge confirmed a complete stone free state. Conclusion: The 3D-guided approach to PNL facilitates the preoperative planning of the puncture with better knowledge of the renal anatomy and may be helpful to reduce operative time and improve the learning curve.

Early stage of atherosclerosis in aortocoronary saphenous vein grafts: intravascular ultrasound study

Abstract Introduction: Angiographically visible plaques in patent vein grafts are usually detected years after surgery. Our aim was to examine early plaque formation in vein grafts. Methods: Bypass angiography and intravascular ultrasonography (IVUS) examination were performed on 77 aortocoronary saphenous vein grafts (SVGs) implanted in 36 patients during the first 2 years after CABG. In each graft, a good quality 25 mm ultrasound image was analyzed. We measured: plaque area, lumen area, external elastic membrane (EEM) area, graft area and wall area. For the comparative assessment of SVGs, the index plaque area/EEM area was calculated. Data were analyzed for the following 4 time periods: I - 0-4 months (22 grafts), II - 5-8 months (23 grafts), III - 9-12 months (19 grafts) and IV - 13-16 months (13 grafts) after CABG. Student's t and Fisher-Snedecor tests were used for the purpose of statistical analysis in this retrospective study. Results: In period I, plaque formation (neointimal) was observed in 10 grafts (45%), with a mean plaque area of 1.59 mm., in 6 grafts (26%) in period II, with a mean plaque area of 1.03 mm. and in 15 grafts (71%) in period III, with a mean plaque area of 1.41 mm., and in all (100%) grafts in period IV, with mean plaque area of 2,3 mm.. Average index plaque area/EEM area in periods I, II, III and IV were 0.12, 0.08, 0.13 and 0.22. We have showed a significant plaque increase between periods II and IV(P=0.038). Conclusion: IVUS showed plaque in about 40% of venous grafts during the first year after CABG. Between 13-16 months plaque was visible in all studied grafts.