Risk factors associated with hepatic artery thrombosis: analysis of 1050 liver transplants / Fatores de risco associados à trombose de artéria hepática: análise de 1050 transplantes de fígado

ABSTRACT Background: Hepatic artery thrombosis is an important cause of graft loss and ischemic biliary complications. The risk factors have been related to technical aspects of arterial anastomosis and non-surgical ones. Aim: To evaluate the risk factors for the development of hepatic artery thrombosis. Methods: The sample consisted of 1050 cases of liver transplant. A retrospective and cross-sectional study was carried out, and the variables studied in both donor and recipient. Results: Univariate analysis indicated that the variables related to hepatic artery thrombosis are: MELD (p=0.04) and warm time ischemia (p=0.005). In the multivariate analysis MELD=14.5 and warm ischemia time =35 min were independent risk factors for hepatic artery thrombosis. In the prevalence ratio test for analysis of the anastomosis as a variable, it was observed that patients with continuous suture had an increase in thrombosis when compared to interrupted suture. Conclusions: Prolonged warm ischemia time, calculated MELD and recipient age were independent risk factors for hepatic artery thrombosis after liver transplantation in adults. Transplanted patients with continuous suture had an increase in thrombosis when compared to interrupted suture. Re-transplantation due to hepatic artery thrombosis was associated with higher recipient mortality.

RESUMO Racional: Trombose de artéria hepática é importante causa de falência de enxerto e complicações biliares. Fatores de risco para trombose estão relacionados aos aspectos técnicos da anastomose arterial e fatores não cirúrgicos. Objetivo: Avaliar os fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento de trombose de artéria hepática. Métodos: A amostra consta de 1050 casos de transplante hepático. Foi realizado estudo retrospectivo e transversal, e as variáveis foram avaliadas em doadores e receptores. Resultados: A análise univariada mostrou que as variáveis relacionadas a trombose de artéria hepática são: MELD e tempo de isquemia quente. Na análise multivariada, o MELD=14.5 e tempo de isquemia quente =35 min foram fatores de risco independentes para trombose de artéria hepática. No teste de prevalência para avaliação do tipo de anastomose como variável, foi observado que a sutura contínua tem maior risco de trombose quando comparada com aquela em pontos separados. Conclusão: Tempo de isquemia quente prolongado, MELD calculado e idade do recipiente foram fatores de risco independentes para trombose de artéria hepática após transplante de fígado em adultos. Pacientes submetidos à anastomose com sutura contínua apresentaram mais trombose quando comparados com a em pontos separados. Retransplante por trombose está associado com maior mortalidade.

The outcomes of internal iliac artery preservation during endovascular or open surgery treatment for aortoiliac aneurysms / Os resultados da preservação da artéria ilíaca interna durante o tratamento endovascular ou em cirurgia aberta para aneurismas aorto-ilíacos

Abstract Background Internal iliac artery (IIA) preservation continues to be a challenge during open surgery or endovascular repair of abdominal aortoiliac aneurysm (AAIA). Objectives To determine the results in terms of survival and clinical outcomes in patients with aortoiliac aneurysms (AAIA) treated with endovascular (EV) or open surgical (OS) repair. Methods This was a retrospective consecutive cohort study of patients with AAIA who underwent EV or OS repair. Results Post-procedure hospitalization time and intensive care unit stay were both longer in the OS group than in the EV group (7.08 ± 3.5 days vs. 3.32 ± 2.3 days; p = 0.03; 3.35 ± 2.2 days vs. 1.2 ± 0.8 days; p = 0.02, respectively). There were two cases of bowel ischemia (4.7%; OS 8.3% and EV 3.2%; p = 0.48), two cases of buttock claudication (4.7%; OS 8.3% and EV 3.2%; p = 0.48), and one case of sexual dysfunction (2.3% OS), all of them in patients with bilateral occlusion of the internal iliac artery (five patients, 11.6%; p = 0.035). Overall survival at 720 days was 80.6% in the EV group and 66.7% in the OS group (p = 0.58). Conclusions In the present study, OS and EV repair of aortoiliac aneurysms had similar overall survival and outcomes. Preservation of at least one internal iliac artery is associated with good results and no further complications.

Resumo Contexto A preservação de uma artéria ilíaca interna continua a ser um desafio terapêutico nos pacientes com aneurismas aorto-ilíacos submetidos tanto ao tratamento endovascular quanto a cirurgia aberta. Objetivos Determinar os resultados da sobrevida e desfechos clínicos em pacientes com aneurismas aorto-ilíacos (AAIA) que recebem reparo endovascular (EV) ou cirúrgico aberto (CA). Métodos Este foi um estudo de coorte consecutivo e retrospectivo de pacientes com AAIA submetidos a reparo EV ou CA. Resultados Houve maior tempo de internação pós-procedimento e permanência na unidade de terapia intensiva no grupo CA comparado com o grupo EV (7,08±3,5 dias vs. 3,32±2,3 dias; p = 0,03; 3,35±2,2 dias vs. 1,2±0,8 dias; p = 0,02, respectivamente). Houve dois casos de isquemia intestinal (4,7%; CA 8,3% e EV 3,2%; p = 0,48), dois casos de claudicação das nádegas (4,7%; CA 8,3% e EV 3,2%; p = 0,48) e um caso de disfunção sexual (2,3% CA), todos em pacientes com oclusão bilateral da artéria ilíaca interna (AII) (cinco pacientes, 11,6%; p = 0,035). A sobrevida global aos 720 dias foi de 80,6% no grupo EV e de 66,7% no grupo CA (p = 0,58). Conclusões No presente estudo, o EV e o CA para aneurismas aorto-ilíacos apresentaram sobrevida e desfechos clínicos semelhantes. A preservação de pelo menos uma AII está associada a bons resultados e sem complicações adicionais.

Lesão aguda da parede arterial provocada pelo método de interrupção temporária de fluxo em diferentes vias de cirurgia aórtica: estudo morfológico e biomecânico da aorta de porcos / Acute aortic wall injury caused by aortic cross-clamping: morphological and biomechanical study of the aorta in a swine model of three aortic surgery approaches

Resumo Contexto O clampeamento aórtico e a oclusão da aorta com balão poderiam levar a lesões na parede aórtica. Objetivo O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar as alterações da parede aórtica relacionadas ao método de interrupção de fluxo (cample ou balão) em diferentes técnicas disponíveis para cirurgia de aorta. Métodos Os experimentos foram realizados em 40 porcos fêmeas pesando de 25-30 kg, alocados para quatro grupos: S (n = 10), nenhuma intervenção (sham); C (n = 10), laparotomia mediana transperitoneal para acesso à aorta abdominal infrarrenal com tempo de clampeamento de 60 minutos; L (n = 10), cirurgia laparoscópica da aorta abdominal infrarrenal com tempo de clampeamento de 60 minutos; EV (n = 10), controle aórtico proximal com inserção de cateter-balão para oclusão aórtica por acesso femoral, inflado a fim de promover oclusão aórtica contínua por 60 minutos. Após a eutanásia, as aortas foram removidas e seccionadas para obtenção de espécimes histológicos destinados a análises morfométricas e por microscopia de luz. Os fragmentos longitudinais restantes foram estirados até a ruptura, e determinaram-se padrões mecânicos. Resultados Observou-se redução do limite de proporcionalidade da aorta abdominal, diminuição da rigidez e da carga de ruptura nos grupos submetidos a campleamento aórtico (C e L) em comparação ao grupo EV. Conclusões O campleamento aórtico durante cirurgia aberta ou laparoscópica pode afetar as propriedades mecânicas da aorta, ocasionando redução de resistência da parede aórtica sem desencadear alterações na estrutura histológica da parede aórtica.

Abstract Background Aortic cross-clamping and balloon occlusion of the aorta could lead to damage to the aorta wall. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate changes to the aorta wall related to the method used to interrupt flow (clamping or balloon) in the different techniques available for aortic surgery. Methods Experiments were performed on 40 female pigs, weighing 25-30kg, which were randomly allocated to 4 study groups: S (n=10), no intervention (sham group); C (n=10), midline transperitoneal laparotomy for infrarenal abdominal aortic access with 60 min of cross-clamping; L (n=10), laparoscopic infrarenal abdominal aortic surgery with 60 min of cross-clamping; EV (n=10), remote proximal aortic control with transfemoral arterial insertion of aortic occlusion balloon catheter, inflated to provide continued aortic occlusion for 60min. After euthanasia, the aortas were removed and cross-sectioned to obtain histological specimens for light microscopic and morphometric analyses. The remaining longitudinal segments were stretched to rupture and mechanical parameters were determined. Results We observed a reduction in the yield point of the abdominal aorta, decrease in stiffness and in failure load in the aortic cross-clamping groups (C and L) compared with the EV group. Conclusions Aortic cross-clamping during open or laparoscopic surgery can affect the mechanical properties of the aorta leading to decrease in resistance of the aorta wall, without structural changes in aorta wall histology.

Impact of arterial procedures on coagulation and fibrinolysis - a pilot study

Abstract Objective: The main goal of our study was to assess the impact of vascular procedures on the activity of hemostatic and fibrinolytic pathways. Methods: We enrolled 38 patients with ≥ 45 years old undergoing surgery for abdominal aortic aneurysm or peripheral artery disease under general or regional anesthesia and who were hospitalized at least one night after the procedure. Patients undergoing carotid artery surgery and those who had acute bypass graft thrombosis, cancer, renal failure defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate < 30 ml/min/1.73m2, venous thromboembolism three months prior to surgery, or acute infection were excluded from the study. We measured levels of markers of hemostasis (factor VIII, von Willebrand factor:ristocetin cofactor [vWF:CoR], antithrombin), fibrinolysis (D-dimer, tissue plasminogen activator [tPA], plasmin-antiplasmin complexes), and soluble cluster of differentiation 40 ligand (sCD40L) before and 6-12h after vascular procedure. Results: Significant differences between preoperative and postoperative levels of factor VIII (158.0 vs. 103.3, P<0.001), antithrombin (92.1 vs. 74.8, P<0.001), D-dimer (938.0 vs. 2406.0, P=0.005), tPA (10.1 vs. 12.8, P=0.002), and sCD40L (9092.9 vs. 1249.6, P<0.001) were observed. There were no significant differences between pre- and postoperative levels of vWF:CoR (140.6 vs. 162.8, P=0.17) and plasmin-antiplasmin complexes (749.6 vs. 863.7, P=0.21). Conclusion: Vascular surgery leads to significant alterations in hemostatic and fibrinolytic systems. However, the direction of these changes in both pathways remains unclear and seems to be different depending on the type of surgery. A study utilizing dynamic methods of coagulation and fibrinolysis assessment performed on a larger population is warranted.

Injuria miocárdica postcirugía no cardiaca (MINS) en pacientes sometidos a cirugía vascular: artículo de revisión / Myocardial injury after noncardiac surgery (MINS) in major vascular surgery, a review

Vascular surgery is considered high risk, due to the characteristics of patients and surgical procedures. Recently, the diagnosis of myocardial injury after non-cardiac surgery (MINS) was introduced to focus attention on the prognostic relevance of elevated ischemic troponin after non-cardiac surgery. In the study Vascular Events In Noncardiac Surgery Patients Cohort Evaluation (VISION), that included more than 15,000 patients who underwent non-cardiac surgery, MINS was independently associated with mortality 3 to 4 times greater than 30 days after surgery. Biccard et al published a study derived from the study VISION in which 502 patients underwent vascular surgery, resulting in significantly higher mortality (12.5% vs 1.5%, p < 0.001) in patients who developed MINS compared to those who did not develop MINS (OR 9.48, 95% CI, 3.46-25.96). The 2014 guidelines for preoperative cardiovascular evaluation of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) do not recommend the postoperative surveillance of troponin in patients without symptoms or signs of myocardial ischemia, nor in patients at high risk of coronary disease (as patients undergoing vascular surgery). On the other hand, the 2017 guidelines of the Canadian Cardiovascular Society on Perioperative Cardiac Risk, evaluation and treatment for non-cardiac surgery patients, recommend obtaining daily measurements of troponin for 48 to 72 hours after of non-cardiac surgery, in patients with a baseline risk of more than 5% of cardiovascular death or acute non-fatal myocardial infarction at 30 days after surgery. MINS is a potentially useful marker of adverse postoperative outcomes and its detection could provide opportunities to improve clinical outcomes in affected patients.

La cirugía vascular es considerada de alto riesgo, debido a características propias de los pacientes y de los procedimientos quirúrgicos. Recientemente, se introdujo el diagnóstico de injuria miocárdica postcirugía no cardiaca (MINS) para centrar la atención en la relevancia pronóstica de la elevación de la troponina isquémica después de una cirugía no cardíaca. Dos grandes estudios han demostrado que la mortalidad es significativamente mayor en pacientes que desarrollaron MINS. Las guías 2014 de evaluación cardiovascular preoperatoria de American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA), no recomiendan la vigilancia postoperatoria de troponina en pacientes sin síntomas ni signos de isquemia miocárdica ni tampoco en pacientes con alto riesgo de infarto al miocardio (como pacientes sometidos a cirugía vascular). Sin embargo, las guías de sociedad cardiovascular canadiense (publicadas en 2017) sobre riesgo cardíaco perioperatorio, evaluación y tratamiento para pacientes de cirugía no cardíaca] recomiendan obtener mediciones diarias de troponina durante 48 a 72 horas después de cirugía no cardíaca, en pacientes con un riesgo basal superior al 5% de muerte cardiovascular o infarto agudo al miocardio no fatal a 30 días después de una cirugía. MINS se debe considerar como un marcador potencialmente útil de resultados postoperatorios adversos y su detección podría brindar oportunidades para mejorar los resultados clínicos en los pacientes afectados.

Determinação de incidência, preditores e escores de risco de complicações cardiovasculares e óbito total, em 30 dias e após 1ano da cirurgia, em pacientes submetidos a cirurgias vasculares arteriais eletivas / Incidence, predictors, risk scores of cardiovascular complications, and total death rate within 30 days and 1 year after elective arterial surgery

Introdução: Estima-se que ocorram 2,5 milhões de mortes por ano relacionadas a cirurgias não cardíacas e cinco vezes este valor para morbidade, com limitações funcionais e redução na sobrevida em longo prazo. Pacientes que deverão ser submetidos à cirurgia vascular são considerados de risco aumentado para eventos adversos cardiovasculares no pós-operatório. Há, ainda, muitas dúvidas em como fazer uma avaliação pré-operatória mais acurada desses pacientes. Objetivo: Em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia vascular arterial eletiva, avaliar a incidência e preditores de complicações cardiovasculares e/ou óbito total, e calcular a performance dos modelos de estratificação de risco mais utilizados. Métodos: Em pacientes adultos, consecutivos, operados em hospital terciário, determinou-se a incidência de complicações cardiovasculares e óbitos, em 30 dias e em um ano. Comparações univariadas e regressão logística avaliaram os fatores de risco associados com os desfechos e a curva ROC (receiver operating characteristic) examinou a capacidade discriminatória do Índice de Risco Cardíaco Revisado (RCRI) e do Índice de Risco Cardíaco do Grupo de Cirurgia Vascular da New England (VSG-CRI). Resultados: Um total de 141 pacientes (idade média 66 anos, 65% homens) realizou cirurgia de: carótida 15 (10,6%), membros inferiores 65 (46,1%), aorta abdominal 56 (39,7%) e outras (3,5%). Complicações cardiovasculares e óbito ocorreram, respectivamente, em 28 (19,9%) e em 20 (14,2%), em até 30 dias, e em 20 (16,8%) e 10 (8,4%), de 30 dias a um ano. Complicações combinadas ocorreram em 39 (27,7%) pacientes em até 30 dias e em 21 (17,6%) de 30 dias a um ano da cirurgia. Para eventos em até 30 dias, os preditores de risco encontrados foram: idade, obesidade, acidente vascular cerebral, capacidade funcional ruim, cintilografia com hipocaptação transitória, cirurgia aberta, cirurgia de aorta e troponina alterada. Os escores Índice de Risco Cardíaco Revisado (RCRI) e Índice de Risco Cardíaco do...

Introduction: Approximately 2.5 million deaths are caused by non-cardiac surgeries per year, while morbidity, represented by functional impairment and a decline in long-term survival, accounts for five times this value. Patients who require a vascular surgery are considered at an increased risk for adverse cardiovascular events in the postoperative period. However, the method for obtaining a more accurate preoperative evaluation in these patients has not yet been determined. Objective: In patients undergoing elective arterial vascular surgery, the incidence and predictors of cardiovascular complications and/or total death were determined and the performance of risk stratification models was assessed. Methods: The incidence of cardiovascular complications and death within 30 days and 1 year after vascular surgery was determined in consecutive adult patients operated in a tertiary hospital. Univariate comparison and logistic regression analysis were used to evaluate risk factors associated with the outcome, and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve determined the discriminatory capacity of the Revised Cardiac Risk Index (RCRI) and the Cardiac Risk Index of the New England Vascular Surgery Group (VSG-CRI). Results: In all, 141 patients (mean age, 66 years; 65% men) underwent vascular surgery, namely for the carotid arteries (15 [10.6%]), inferior limbs (65 [46.1%]), abdominal aorta (56 [39.7%]), and others (5 [3.5%]). Cardiovascular complications and death occurred in 28 (19.9%) and 20 (14.2%) patients, respectively, within 30 days after surgery, and in 20 (16.8%) and 10 (8.4%) patients, respectively, between 30 days and 1 year after the surgical procedure. Combined complications occurred in 39 patients (27.7%) within 30 days and in 21 patients (17.6%) between 30 days and 1 year after surgery. The risk predictors for cardiovascular events that occurred within 30 days were age, obesity, stroke, poor functional capacity,...

Plasma N-Terminal Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Is Predictive of Perioperative Cardiac Events in Patients Undergoing Vascular Surgery

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Identification of patients at high risk for perioperative cardiac events (POCE) is clinically important. This study aimed to determine whether preoperative measurement of plasma N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) could predict POCE, and compared its predictive value with that of conventional cardiac risk factors and stress thallium scans in patients undergoing vascular surgery. METHODS: Patients scheduled for non-cardiac vascular surgery were prospectively enrolled. Clinical risk factors were identified, and NT-proBNP levels and stress thallium scans were obtained. POCE was the composite of acute myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure including acute pulmonary edema, and primary cardiac death within 5 days after surgery. A modified Revised Cardiac Risk Index (RCRI) was proposed and compared with NT-proBNP; a positive result for ischemia and a significant perfusion defect (> or = 3 walls, moderate to severely decreased, reversible perfusion defect) on the thallium scan were added to the RCRI. RESULTS: A total of 365 patients (91% males) with a mean age of 67 years had a median NT-proBNP level of 105.1 pg/mL (range of quartile, 50.9 to 301.9). POCE occurred in 49 (13.4%) patients. After adjustment for confounders, an NT-proBNP level of > 302 pg/mL (odds ratio [OR], 5.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.1 to 10.3; p < 0.001) and a high risk by the modified RCRI (OR, 3.9; 95% CI, 1.6 to 9.3; p = 0.002) were independent predictors for POCE. Comparison of the area under the curves for predicting POCE showed no statistical differences between NT-proBNP and RCRI. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative measurement of NT-proBNP provides information useful for prediction of POCE as a single parameter in high-risk patients undergoing noncardiac vascular surgery.

Tratamiento endovascular de las arterias distales del miembro inferior / Endovascular treatment of distal lower limb arteries / Tratamento endovascular das artérias distais do membro inferior

La angioplastía es un procedimiento que se ha introducido en el tratamiento de las lesiones oclusivas de los miembros inferiores con resultados prometedores. No obstante, son importantes los nuevos aportes de datos sobre los resultados obtenidos, teniendo en cuenta la falta de homogeneidad de los pacientes tratados afectados por diferentes procesos obstructivos arteriales, tratados en diferentes situaciones clínicas y con una muy variada extensión de las lesiones. Se realiza un análisis de 239 casos incluidos en un estudio prospectivo con el objetivo de analizar los resultados en relación a los diversos factores que afectan a los pacientes. Se analizan los resultados y se valoran los mismos.

A angioplastia é um procedimento que foi introduzido no tratamento das lesões oclusivas dos membros inferiores com resultados prometedores. Entretanto, são importantes as novas contribuições de dados sobre os resultados obtidos, levando em consideração a falta de homogeneidade dos pacientes tratados afetados por diferentes processos obstrutivos arteriais, tratados em diferentes situações clínicas e com uma muito variada extensão das lesões. Realiza-se uma análise de 239 casos incluídos em um estudo prospectivo com o objetivo de analisar os resultados com relação aos diversos fatores que afetam os pacientes. Analisam-se os resultados e se valorizam os mesmos.

Angioplasty is a procedure that has been introduced with promising results in the treatment of occlusive lesions of the lower limbs. However, it is necessary further input of data on the results obtained taking into account the lack of homogeneity of patients suffering from obstructive arterial different processes, treated in different clinical situations and with a very wide extent of the injury. An analysis of 239 cases in a prospective study to analyze the results in relation to the various factors that affect patients. The results are analyzed and valued the same.

Avaliação e manuseio perioperatório para cirurgia vascular periférica e de aorta / Perioperative assessment and management of peripheral and aortic vascular surgery

Cirurgias vasculares apresentam alto risco para complicações cardiovasculares, pelas variações abruptas nos níveis de pressão arterial e pela liberação de mediadores que promovem alterações na função endotelial, favorecendo vasoconstrição e trombose. Por outro lado, os portadores de vasculopatias cirúrgicas apresentam farores de risco comuns às coronariopatias, portanto são pacientes vulneráveis as complicações cardiovasculares. Para atenuar o risco perioperatório, o cardiologista deve identificar os pacientes de maior risco, propor suporte avançado no pós-operatório para esses pácientes, solicitar testes funcionais em casos selecionados e, principalmente, indicar intervenções que atenuem o risco de complicações cardiovasculares, como prescrição de betabloqueador, estatina e ácido acetilsalicilíco, e profilaxia para fenômenos tromboembólicos; ou seja, o avaliador deve exercer papel ativo na avaliação perioperatória...

Should complete stripping operation to the ankle be avoided in the treatment of primary varicose veins due to greater saphenous vein insufficiency? / Deve-se evitar a flebo-extração completa até o tornozelo no tratamento das varizes primárias por insuficiência da veia safena magna?

PURPOSE: The most preferred method for the treatment of primary varicose veins due to greater saphenous vein (GSV) insufficiency is saphenofemoral high ligation and thigh stripping of the GSV, and ambulatory phlebectomy. Stripping is usually ended at the knee level to prevent nerve injury in the calf. However, different surgical modalities may be used depending on the surgeon's choice and experience. METHODS: We present the results of complete stripping of the GSV to the ankle and ambulatory phlebectomies performed by a single surgeon. Ninety-six patients (102 limbs) who underwent standardized surgical procedure were participated in this study. Median follow-up time was 3.4 years. RESULTS: All complaints due to varicose veins were resolved in all extremities. Some temporary complications observed were resolved fully during follow-up. Permanent paresthesia which was the most important complication was found only in two patients (2 percent). No recurrence was observed. CONCLUSION: The risk of saphenous nerve injury in the calf should not to be considered a reason to avoid complete stripping of the GSV to the ankle. If it is applied carefully and with appropriate technique, complete stripping still seems to be a good treatment option.

OBJETIVO: O método de escolha para o tratamento das varizes primárias devido a insuficiência da veia safena magna (VSM) é a ligagura safenofemoral e a fleboextração em coxa e a flebectomia ambulatorial. A fleboextração é geralmente feita ao nível do joelho para prevenir a lesão neurológica no tornozelo. Diferentes modalidades operatórias, no entanto, podem ser utilizadas dependendo da escolha e da experiência do cirurgião. MÉTODOS: Apresentamos os resultados da fleboextração completa da VSM até o tornozelo e flebectomias ambulatoriais realizadas por um único cirurgião. Noventa e seis pacientes (102 membros) que foram submetidos a procedimento cirúrgico padrão participaram deste estudo. A mediana do tempo de seguimento foi 3,4 anos. RESULTADOS: Todas as queixas devido a varizes foram resolvidas em todos os pacientes. Algumas complicações temporárias observadas foram resolvidas totalmente durante o tempo de seguimento. Parestesia permanente que foi a complicação mais grave ocorreu apenas em dois pacientes (2 por cento). Não observamos recurrência. CONCLUSÃO: O risco da lesão do nervo safeno no tornozelo não deve ser considerada uma razão para evitar-se a fleboextração completa da VSM até o tornozelo. Se é aplicada cuidadosamente e com a técnica apropriada, fleboextração ainda parece ser uma boa opção de tratamento.

Manejo del aneurisma de la aorta abdominal: Estado actual, evidencias y perspectivas para el desarrollo de un programa nacional / Open and endovascular surgery for the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurism: Review of the available evidence

Open and endovascular surgery are therapeutic alternatives for the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurism. The development of guidelines for its treatment requires a thorough analysis of available evidence to recommend the best treatment for each country's reality. Prospective randomized trials have shown best initial results with endovascular surgery, with higher hospital costs than open surgery. The requirement of anatomical suitability for the placement of endovascular prostheses limits the universal use of endovascular surgery. Moreover, this type of surgery needs a strict imaging and clinical follow up due to the high rates of late complications, which range from 20 percent to 40 percent. Many of these complications require further surgical interventions, elevating costs of treatment. The initial benefit of endovascular surgery is lost during long follow up as survival curves become similar to those of open surgery. Even for patients with a high surgical risk, the benefits of endovascular surgery are doubtful.

Niveles séricos de Apo-AI y Apo-B como indicadores de estenosis de injerto sintético después de bypass arterial en enfermedad arterial periférica / Serum levels of Apo-AI and B as markers of synthetic graft stenosis after bypass for peripheral artery disease

BACKGROUND: Hyperlipidemias are the main risk factors for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Nevertheless, the protein fractions of these lipids such as apolipoprotein B (Apo-B) can lead to arterial obstruction. In this study we investigated levels of apolipoproteins AI and B in patients with chronic occlusive peripheral arterial disease (PAD) of the lower extremities and their association with either patency or stenosis of synthetic grafts. METHODS: This cohort study included 24 patients with chronic occlusive PAD who underwent infrainguinal revascularization with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) synthetic graft. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether or not they were exposed to Apo-B, thus integrating two cohorts: the unexposed group (group 1, normal levels of Apo-B) and the exposed group (group 2, high levels of Apo-B). Variables investigated at 3, 6 and 12 months included arm/ankle index (AAI) and its association with levels of Apo-AI and Apo-B, and levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and fibrinogen. RESULTS: The study was comprised of 67% men and 33% women. Average age was 65.2 +/- 8.4 years. There was a correlation between AAI and high levels of Apo-B (p <0.001). Apo-AI levels were not significantly different between groups. Fibrinogen remained elevated in both groups with no statistical difference. Triglycerides demonstrated a significant difference between groups in basal measurements (p <0.05). Cholesterol remained normal in both groups without statistical difference. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that patients exposed to high levels of Apo-B had synthetic graft failure (obstruction), as demonstrated by AAI <1.

Endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair in high risk patients: outcomes of management.

BACKGROUND: The concomitant cardiopulmonary disease precluded the elective repair for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) with acceptable risk. The endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) has become an alternative method for the treatment of AAA with high-risk comorbidities. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the results of EVAR in high-risk patients with large AAA. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A prospective study of high-risk patients with large AAA and suitable morphology who underwent EVAR between August 2003 and August 2005 was conducted. The long-term outcomes were observed up to December 2006. The comorbidities, size of aneurysm, types of procedures, operative time, amount of blood loss and transfusion, length of postoperative stay in intensive care unit and hospital, postoperative complications and mortality were analyzed. RESULTS: Eight patients (7 males and 1 female) with the mean age of 71.4 years (range 66-83 years) were included in the present study. The comorbidities were six of compromised cardiac status, one of severe pulmonary disease and one of morbid obesity. The average size of aneurysm was 6.2 +/- 0.64 centimetres. One patient also had large bilateral iliac artery aneurysms. Seven patients underwent EVAR with bifurcated aortic stent graft and one proceeded with aorto uni-iliac stent graft. Three patients underwent preoperative coil embolisation into internal iliac arteries when the distal landing zones at the external iliac arteries were considered. The mean estimated blood loss was 369cc and the mean blood transfusion was 0.88 units. There were no perioperative mortality, early graft occlusion, AAA rupture and open conversion in the present study. One patient had cardiac arrest due to upper airway obstruction but with successful treatment. Type II endoleak was observed in one patient and successfully treated by expectant management. One limb of bifurcated stent graft was occluded at the 5th month post EVAR and was successfully treated by artery bypass surgery at both groins. The 3-year primary graft limb patency was 87.5% (7/8). The survivals of patients at 1, 2 and 3 years were 100%, 100% and 87.5% respectively. The cause of death in one patient was not related to EVAR. CONCLUSION: EVAR may be a safe and effective alternative to open AAA repair especially in high-risk patients.

Pré-condicionamento isquêmico e monitorização da função medular na abordagem da aorta torácica descendente / Ischemic preconditioning and spinal cord function monitoring in the descending thoracic aorta approach

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a eficácia do pré-condicionamento isquêmico (PI) agudo, guiado por potenciais evocados somatossensoriais (PESS), como método de proteção medular em cães e analisar o valor dos PESS na monitorização da função medular. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados 28 cães submetidos à isquemia medular obtida pelo pinçamento da aorta torácica descendente. No grupo C45, o tempo de oclusão aórtica foi de 45 min (n = 7); no grupo PI45, os cães foram submetidos ao PI antes do pinçamento aórtico por 45 min (n = 7). No grupo C60, os cães foram submetidos a 60 min de oclusão aórtica (n = 7) e no grupo PI60, os cães foram submetidos ao PI, seguido pelo pinçamento aórtico por 60 min. Os ciclos de PI foram determinados pelas alterações dos PESS. RESULTADOS: Os índices de Tarlov dos grupos pré-condicionados foram significativamente melhores que os dos grupos de controle (p = 0,005). Observou-se paraplegia em três cães do C45 e em seis do C60, enquanto todos os cães do PI45 permaneceram neurologicamente normais, assim como quatro do grupo PI60. Houve correlação entre o tempo de recuperação dos PESS após a reperfusão aórtica e o estado neurológico pós-operatório (p = 0,011), com sensibilidade e especificidade de 0,75 e 0,83, respectivamente. CONCLUSÃO: O PI agudo repetitivo, baseado na monitorização do PESS, induziu proteção à isquemia medular causada pelo pinçamento aórtico prolongado. A monitorização do PESS parece ser um bom método de detecção precoce do comprometimento isquêmico medular.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effectiveness of acute ischemic preconditioning (IP), based on somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP) monitoring, as a method of spinal cord protection and to asses SSEP importance in spinal cord neuromonitoring. METHODS: Twenty-eight dogs were submitted to spinal cord ischemic injury attained by descending thoracic aorta cross-clamping. In the C45 group, the aortic cross-clamping time was 45 min (n=7); in the IP45 group, the dogs were submitted to IP before the aortic cross-clamping for 45 min (n=7). In the C60 group, the dogs were submitted to 60 min of aortic cross-clamping (n=7), as in the IP60 group that was previously submitted to IP. The IP cycles were determined based on SSEP changes. RESULTS: Tarlov scores of the IP groups were significantly better than those of the controls (p = 0.005). Paraplegia was observed in 3 dogs from C45 and in 6 from C60 group, although all dogs from IP45 group were neurologically normal, as 4 dogs from IP60. There was a significant correlation between SSEP recovery time until one hour of aortic reperfusion and the neurological status (p = 0.011), showing sensitivity of 75 percent and specificity of 83 percent. CONCLUSION: Repetitive acute IP based on SSEP is a protection factor during spinal cord ischemia, decreasing paraplegia incidence. SSEP monitoring seems to be a good neurological injury assessment method during surgical procedures that involve spinal cord ischemia.

Occlusion of Traumatic Carotid Cavernous Fistula by Incidentally Formed Thrombus During the Interventional Procedure: A Case Report

In this report, we present a rare case of traumatic carotid cavernous fistula that was occluded during the interventional procedure by incidentally formed blood clot. Sudden occlusion of the fistula and the resolution process of the precarious blood clot can be clearly seen on the serial angiogram.

Comparação entre os tratamentos aberto e endovascular dos aneurismas da aorta abdominal em pacientes de alto risco cirúrgico / Comparison between open and endovascular treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms in high surgical risk patients

OBJETIVO: Comparar os resultados dos tratamentos aberto e endovascular de aneurismas da aorta abdominal em pacientes de alto risco cirúrgico. MÉTODOS: O tratamento aberto foi realizado em 31 pacientes, e o endovascular, em 18. Sucesso no tratamento endovascular foi definido como perviedade da endoprótese sem endoleaks ou conversão para tratamento aberto. RESULTADOS: Não houve diferença na mortalidade perioperatória entre o tratamento aberto (dois óbitos [6,45 por cento] em 31) e o endovascular (um óbito [5,55 por cento] em 18) (P = 0,899); também não houve diferença entre a mortalidade tardia no tratamento aberto (dois óbitos [6,9 por cento] em 29) e no endovascular (dois óbitos [11,7 por cento] em 17) (P = 0,572). A taxa de sucesso imediato foi de 100 por cento (31/31) no tratamento aberto e de 66,7 por cento (12/18) no endovascular (P = 0,0006); a taxa de sucesso tardio foi de 100 por cento (27/27) no tratamento aberto e de 73,3 por cento (11/15) no endovascular (P = 0,0047). Os valores médios do tempo de internação na UTI, tempo de internação hospitalar e da perda de sangue para os grupos dos tratamentos aberto e endovascular foram: 65,6 versus 34,1 horas*, 9 versus 5,6 dias* e 932 versus 225 ml*, respectivamente (*P < 0,05). O tratamento endovascular foi 436 por cento mais caro que o tratamento aberto. CONCLUSÕES: Na presente série, o tratamento aberto foi o método mais confiável para o reparo dos aneurismas da aorta abdominal, apresentando a mesma mortalidade perioperatória e tardia que o endovascular.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the results of open repair and endoluminal repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms in high surgical risk patients. METHODS: Open repair was performed in 31 patients, and endoluminal repair was performed in 18. Success in the endoluminal repair group was defined as continuing graft function without endoleak or conversion to open repair. RESULTS: No significant difference was found between the perioperative mortality rate for open repair (two deaths [6.45 percent] in 31 patients) and endoluminal repair (one death [5.55 percent] in 18 patients) (P = 0.899); similarly, no significant difference was seen in late mortality between open repair (two deaths [6.9 percent] in 29 patients) and endoluminal repair (two deaths [11.7 percent] in 17 patients) (P = 0.572); The rate of immediate success was 100 percent (31/31) for open repair and 66.7 percent (12/18) for endoluminal repair (P = 0.0006); the rate of late success was 100 percent (27/27) for open repair and 73.3 percent (11/15) for endoluminal repair (P = 0.0047). The mean values for intensive care stay, hospital stay and blood loss for open repair and endoluminal repair groups were: 65.6 vs. 34.1 hours*, 9 vs. 5.6 days* and 932 vs. 225 ml*, respectively (P < 0.05). Endoluminal repair was 436 percent more expensive than open repair. CONCLUSIONS: In this series, conventional open repair was the most reliable method of successfully managing abdominal aortic aneurysms, sharing the same perioperative and late mortality rates as endoluminal repair.

Left retroperitoneal versus midline transperitoneal approach for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) repair.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this prospective randomized study was to compare the left retroperitoneal approach (RPA) with the midline transperitoneal approach (TPA) for infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) repair with operative details, postoperative complications, and total cost comparision. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Between January 2000 and December 2003, 36 patients undergoing elective surgery for infrarenal AAAs were included in the prospective comparison of transperitoneal approach (TPA) with retroperitoneal approach (RPA). Thirty-six patients were analyzed, with 18 in group 2 (TPA) and 18 in group I (PRA). There was no significant differences between the groups in patient demographics. (p value > 0.05) RESULTS: There was no significant differences in the aortic cross clamp time, operative time, estimated blood loss and intraoperative blood transfusion between the two groups (p value > 0.05); however, significantly more intraoperative fluid needs and bowel function onset had a statistically longer return in group 11 (TPA) than in group I (RPA). Statistically reduction in postoperative ileus (>4 days) and total length of hospital stay was observed in group I (RPA) (p value < 0.05). Postoperative cardiopulmonary complications were statistically significantly more increased in group II (TPA) than in group I (RPA). Wound complications were more in group I (RPA) (1 hematoma, 4 abdominal wall hernia, and 4 chronic wound pain) than in group II (TPA) (2 chronic wound pain). Total cost payment was not significantly different in both groups. CONCLUSION: The left retroperitoneal approach for infrarenal AAAs repair, with fewer cardiopulmonary complications and shorter hospital stay has more unsatisfactory postoperative wound complications than the midline transperitoneal approach.