Fasting glucose: a cardiometabolic indicator for subclinical atherosclerosis on excess weight adolescents

Abstract Objective: To build a model based on cardiometabolic indicators that allow the identification of overweight adolescents at higher risk of subclinical atherosclerotic disease (SAD). Methods: Cross-sectional study involving 161 adolescents with a body mass index ≥ + 1 z-Score, aged 10 to 19 years. Carotid intima-media complex thickness (IMT) was evaluated using ultrasound to assess subclinical atherosclerotic disease. Cardiometabolic indicators evaluated included nutritional status, central adiposity, blood pressure, lipidic profile, glycemic profile, as well as age and sex. Data was presented using measures of central tendency and dispersion, as well as absolute and relative frequency. The relationship between IMT measurement (outcome variable) and other variables (independent variables) was assessed using Pearson or Spearman correlation, followed by multiple regression modeling with Gamma distribution to analyze predictors of IMT. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS and R software, considering a significance level of 5 %. Results: It was observed that 23.7 % had Carotid thickening, and the prevalence of abnormal fasting glucose was the lowest. Age and fasting glucose were identified as predictors of IMT increase, with IMT decreasing with age by approximately 1 % per year and increasing with glucose by around 0.24 % per mg/dL. Conclusion: The adolescent at higher risk is younger with higher fasting glycemia levels.

Internal carotid artery dissection associated with acute dengue virus infection: a case report / Dissecção da artéria carótida interna associada à infecção aguda pelo vírus da dengue: relato de caso

Cervical artery dissections (CAD) can occur spontaneously or as a direct result of significant trauma. Viral infections, such as SARS-CoV2, influenza, and Epstein Barr, are risk factors for spontaneous CAD. Dengue virus infections have dramatically increased in recent decades, and Brazil is one of the endemic areas. The dengue virus can cause headache and neurological complications such as encephalitis, myelitis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and myositis. No report has yet been found in the literature of dissection of the internal carotid artery secondary to dengue infection. Our objective is to report the case of a patient with dissection of the internal carotid artery associated with acute dengue virus infection.

As dissecções da artéria cervical (DAC) podem ocorrer espontaneamente ou como resultado direto de trauma significativo. Infecções virais, como SARS-CoV2, influenza e Epstein Barr, são fatores de risco para DAC espontânea. As infecções pelo vírus da dengue aumentaram dramaticamente nas últimas décadas, e o Brasil é uma das áreas endêmicas. O vírus da dengue pode causar dor de cabeça e complicações neurológicas como encefalite, mielite, síndrome de Guillain-Barré e miosite. Ainda não foi encontrado na literatura nenhum relato de dissecção da artéria carótida interna secundária à infecção por dengue. Nosso objetivo é relatar o caso de um paciente com dissecção da artéria carótida interna associada à infecção aguda pelo vírus da dengue.

Diretrizes da Sociedade Brasileira de Angiologia e Cirurgia Vascular para o tratamento da doença cerebrovascular extracraniana / Brazilian Angiology and Vascular Surgery Society Guidelines for the treatment of extracranial cerebrovascular disease

Resumo A doença cerebrovascular extracraniana tem sido intensamente investigada em todo o mundo, sendo tema de suma importância para os cirurgiões vasculares. A presente Diretriz foi elaborada pela Sociedade Brasileira de Angiologia e Cirurgia Vascular (SBACV) em sucessão à Diretriz de 2015. As doenças de etiologia não ateroscleróticas não foram incluídas nesse documento. O objetivo desta Diretriz é congregar as evidências mais robustas nessa área para auxiliar os especialistas no processo decisório do tratamento. Foi utilizada a metodologia AGREE II e o sistema da Sociedade Europeia de Cardiologia para as recomendações e níveis de evidências. As recomendações foram graduadas de I a III, e os níveis de evidência classificados em A, B e C. A presente Diretriz foi dividida em 11 capítulos, que tratam dos vários aspectos da doença cerebrovascular extracraniana: diagnóstico, tratamentos e complicações, de forma atualizada e com as recomendações propostas pela SBACV.

Abstract Extracranial cerebrovascular disease has been the subject of intense research throughout the world, and is of paramount importance for vascular surgeons. This guideline, written by the Brazilian Society of Angiology and Vascular Surgery (SBACV), supersedes the 2015 guideline. Non-atherosclerotic carotid artery diseases were not included in this document. The purpose of this guideline is to bring together the most robust evidence in this area in order to help specialists in the treatment decision-making process. The AGREE II methodology and the European Society of Cardiology system were used for recommendations and levels of evidence. The recommendations were graded from I to III, and levels of evidence were classified as A, B, or C. This guideline is divided into 11 chapters dealing with the various aspects of extracranial cerebrovascular disease: diagnosis, treatments and complications, based on up-to-date knowledge and the recommendations proposed by SBACV.

Desfechos de curto prazo da cirurgia de carótida: experiência no "mundo real" em um centro único de formação profissional / Short term outcomes of carotid surgery: the real-world experience of a single teaching center

Resumo Contexto A abordagem cirúrgica para estenose carotídea sintomática está consolidada na literatura para a prevenção de eventos neurológicos, devendo seguir padrões ótimos de qualidade. Entretanto, há uma crescente preocupação relacionada à possibilidade ou não de replicar os dados dos trabalhos controlados no mundo real. Objetivos Avaliar a população com estenose carotídea sintomática submetida a cirurgia e seus desfechos de curto prazo em um contexto de mundo real em um centro de formação profissional. Métodos Tratou-se de um estudo observacional realizado por meio de coleta de dados em prontuário de janeiro de 2012 a janeiro de 2023. Foram excluídos pacientes operados por outras etiologias e com cirurgia cardíaca concomitante. Resultados Foram incluídos 70 pacientes submetidos a angioplastia ou endarterectomia carotídea. Os subgrupos populacionais submetidos a angioplastia ou endarterectomia foram semelhantes. Houve diferença estatisticamente relevante quanto à modalidade anestésica e ao tempo cirúrgico maior para o subgrupo de endarterectomia carotídea. Houve quatro casos de acidente vascular encefálico isquêmico, e três deles estavam relacionados à lesão, sendo dois menores e um maior. Dessa forma, a taxa de acidente vascular encefálico maior relacionado à lesão foi de 1,43% e de qualquer acidente vascular encefálico relacionado à lesão, de 4,29%. A taxa total de eventos adversos cardiovasculares maiores foi de 5,71%. Houve um caso de infarto agudo do miocárdio no grupo angioplastia e nenhum óbito. Não houve diferença estatística entre os grupos de endarterectomia e angioplastia quanto aos desfechos principais. Conclusões Os desfechos acidente vascular encefálico isquêmico, infarto agudo do miocárdio, óbito e eventos adversos cardiovasculares maiores neste centro são semelhantes aos encontrados em estudos clínicos randomizados, demonstrando viabilidade da manutenção deste tratamento em centros com programas de ensino.

Abstract Background Surgical treatment of symptomatic extracranial carotid stenosis is well established for preventing neurological events and should adhere to optimal quality standards. However, there is growing concern as to whether results of controlled trials are replicable in real-world settings. Objectives To assess a symptomatic carotid stenosis population that underwent surgery and its short-term outcomes in a real-world context at a professional training center. Methods Observational study using data collected from medical records from January 2012 to January 2023. Patients undergoing operations for other carotid diseases and with concomitant heart surgery were excluded. Results A total of 70 patients undergoing angioplasty or carotid endarterectomy were included. Population subsets undergoing angioplasty or endarterectomy were similar. Differences in anesthetic modality and a longer operative time in the carotid endarterectomy subgroup were statistically significant. There were 4 cases of stroke, only 3 of which (2 minor and 1 major) were related to the index lesion. Thus, the rate of major operation-related stroke was 1.43% and the rate of any lesion-related stroke was 4.29%. There was 1 case of AMI in the angioplasty group and there were no deaths in the sample. The overall rate of major adverse cardiovascular events was 5.71%. There were no statistical differences between the endarterectomy and angioplasty groups regarding the main outcomes. Conclusions The rates of outcomes of ischemic stroke, acute myocardial infarction, death, and major adverse cardiovascular events at this center are in line with the rates reported by randomized controlled trials, demonstrating the feasibility of carotid surgery in centers with teaching programs.

Disección carotídea espontánea: Presentación de un caso clínico con revisión de la literatura / Carotid Artery Dissection. Case Report and Literature Review

Resumen Introducción: La disección carotídea consiste en el desgarro de la pared del vaso. Es una patología infrecuente, pero es la causa más común de enfermedad vascular cerebral (EVC) isquémica en personas menores de 45 años. Las manifestaciones clínicas son muy variables. Método: Utilizamos las recomendaciones CARE para el reporte de casos clínicos. Caso clínico: Hombre de 45 años previamente sano, con debilidad aguda de la extremidad torácica derecha sin causa aparente. La tomografía simple de cráneo no evidenció alteraciones. La resonancia magnética mostró una oclusión completa de la arteria carótida interna en todos sus segmentos y disminución del flujo de la arteria cerebral media izquierda. La evolución clínica fue desfavorable. Conclusión: La disección carotídea debe sospecharse en personas con EVC sin factores de riesgo cardiovascular.

Abstract Introduction: Carotid dissection consists of a tear in the vessel wall. It is a rare pathology, but it is the most common cause of ischemic cerebral vascular disease (CVD) in people under 45 years of age. The clinical manifestations are very variable. Method: We used CARE recommendations for reporting clinical cases. Clinical case: Previously, a healthy 45-year-old man with acute weakness of the right thoracic extremity without apparent cause. The simple skull tomography did not show any alterations. MRI showed complete occlusion of the internal carotid artery in all its segments and decreased flow of the left middle cerebral artery. The clinical evolution was unfavorable. Conclusion: Carotid dissection should be suspected in people with CVD without cardiovascular risk factors.

Estudo sobre a prevalência de doença carotídea detectada por ultrassonografia nos casos de AVC isquêmico de um hospital público de Santa Catarina / Study on the prevalence of carotid artery disease detected by ultrasonography in cases of ischemic stroke at a public hospital in Santa Catarina

Fundamento: Acidentes Vasculares Cerebrais Isquêmicos (AVCi) representam significativa parcela dentre as causas da morbimortalidade mundial. Estenose das artérias carótidas e vertebrais são consideradas fator de risco para tal desfecho. A Ultrassonografia com Doppler (USG Doppler) das artérias extracranianas pode ser útil na identificação de pacientes com estenose significativa por ser um método inócuo e acessível. Objetivos: avaliar a prevalência de estenose nas artérias extracranianas diagnosticadas através do estudo com USG Doppler e a prevalência de fatores associados em pacientes com quadro de AVCi. Métodos: Trata-se de estudo retrospectivo, transversal, a partir da análise de prontuários dos pacientes internados com quadro de AVCi no Hospital Regional de São José, Santa Catarina, Brasil. O estudo ocorreu entre janeiro de 2020 e dezembro de 2021. A análise ultrassonográfica foi realizada por médicos radiologistas habilitados, a partir do uso de aparelho validado (GE Logic P9 com transdutor linear multifrequencial 6-15MHz). Resultados: Dentre os 239 pacientes incluídos, destaca-se a significativa prevalência de comorbidades associadas ao AVCi, como hipertensão arterial sistêmica (78,2%) e tabagismo (40,6%). A distribuição entre os sexos foi homogênea (58,2 versus 41,8%) e 70,3% dos pacientes possuíam idade superior a 60 anos de idade. A taxa de pacientes com alterações hemodinamicamente significativas (estenose >50% da luz do vaso) das artérias carótidas e vertebrais foi de 29,2%. O tabagismo foi o único fator de risco que se correlacionou estatisticamente com a ocorrência de AVCi decorrente do acometimento das artérias carótidas ou vertebrais (RP 1,708; IC 1,057-2,761; p=0,028). Conclusão: O USG com Doppler das artérias extracranianas é ferramenta útil na investigação dos casos de AVCi, visto que a prevalência de doença significativa dos grandes vasos extracranianos (estenose>50%) se aproxima de 30%.

Background: Ischemic Strokes represent a sizable portion among the causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Stenosis of the carotid and vertebral arteries represent a risk factor to this outcome. Ultrasonography with Doppler of the extracranial arteries can be useful in identifying patients with significant stenosis because it is a harmless and accessible method. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of stenosis in the extracranial arteries diagnosed through Doppler ultrasound examination and the prevalence of associated factors in patients with ischemic stroke Methods: This is a retrospective, cross-sectional study based on the analysis of medical records of patients admitted with ischemic stroke at the Regional Hospital of São José, Santa Catarina, Brazil. The study was conducted between January 2020 and December 2021. Ultrasonographic analysis was performed by qualified radiologists, using a validated device (GE Logic P9 with a multi-frequency linear transducer 6-15MHz). Results: Among the 239 included patients, there is a significant prevalence of comorbidities associated with ischemic stroke, such as systemic arterial hypertension (78.2%) and smoking (40.6%). The distribution between genders was homogeneous (58.2% versus 41.8%), and 70.3% of the patients were over 60 years old. The rate of patients with hemodynamically significant alterations (stenosis >50% of the vessel lumen) in the carotid and vertebral arteries was 29.2%. Smoking was the only risk factor that statistically correlated with the occurrence of ischemic stroke resulting from the involvement of the carotid or vertebral arteries (PR 1.708; CI 1.057-2.761; p=0.028). Conclusion: Ultrasonography with Doppler of the extracranial arteries is a useful tool in the investigation of ischemic stroke cases, given that the prevalence of significant disease in the large extracranial vessels (stenosis >50%) approaches 30%.

Endoscopic Orientation of Juxta-pituitary Carotid in Transsphenoidal Approaches: Critical Considerations for Clinical Applications

Abstract Introduction In sphenoid sinuses with ill-defined carotid bony landmarks, accidental injury of the internal carotid artery (ICA) remains one of the most challenging complications, which is particularly reported in the endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approaches (EETAs). Objectives To describe an anatomical model for the endoscopic orientation of the juxta-pituitary segment of the ICA in relation to the lateral opticocarotid recess (OCR) as a nearby bony landmark. Methods Dissection was performed progressively, simulating the EETA, in twenty fresh adult cadavers. After reducing the posterior and lateral walls of the sphenoid sinuses, various measurements were taken from both lateral OCRs to "contact points" on the juxta-pituitary segment of the ICA and lateral margins of the pituitary gland. Results The current results have enabled us to divide the region between the lateral OCRs into 3 compartments: 2 lateral parasellar compartments contain juxta-pituitary segments of the ICA with a mean width of 8 mm and a narrow range from 7 mm to 10 mm; and a central intercarotid sellar compartment represents the safe region for bone drilling, showing widely variable widths ranging from 9 mm to 20 mm. In all specimens, the variation in the width of the intercarotid compartment correlated with the distance between both lateral OCRs. Conclusion The present study improves surgeon awareness of the variations in the course of the ICA through the EETA along sphenoid sinuses with ill-defined bony landmarks. An appreciation of the measurements taken in the present study can help in operative training, and can also provide a base for future studies to confirm ICA courses associated with a higher risk of injury.

Aspectos clínicos, radiográficos e estratégias terapêuticas da Síndrome de Eagle: revisão de literatura / Clinical, radiographic aspects and therapeutic strategies of Eagle Syndrome: literature review

Objetivo: Este trabalho tem como propósito fornecer uma análise abrangente das características anatômicas, clínicas e radiográficas da Síndrome de Eagle, além de abordar os métodos de diagnóstico e estratégias terapêuticas. Materiais e métodos: Foi realizada uma busca por artigos científicos publicados no período de 2016 a 2024, utilizando as bases de dados Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), US National Library of Medicine (PubMed) e Google Scholar. A coleta de artigos foi realizada nos idiomas inglês e português, utilizando as palavras-chave: "síndrome de eagle", "síndrome estiloide", "síndrome da artéria carótida", "estilalgia", "eagle syndrome", "styloid syndrome", "carotid artery syndrome" e "stylalgia". Conclusão: Os profissionais devem estar atentos à síndrome de Eagle em casos de dor unilateral ao realizar atividades como engolir, bocejar e chorar, sem causa aparente, especialmente em mulheres adultas que não encontram alívio com analgésicos. Devido à frequência de casos assintomáticos, a realização precoce de exames radiológicos desempenha um papel crucial na avaliação diagnóstica. É essencial que profissionais de Otorrinolaringologia, Neurologia e Odontologia estejam cientes dessa síndrome, pois está associada a uma significativa deterioração na qualidade de vida. (AU)

Objective: This work aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the anatomical, clinical and radiographic characteristics of Eagle Syndrome, in addition to addressing diagnostic methods and therapeutic strategies. Materials and methods: A search was carried out for scientific articles published between 2016 and 2024, using the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), US National Library of Medicine (PubMed) and Google Scholar databases. Articles were collected in English and Portuguese, using the keywords: "eagle syndrome", "styloid syndrome", "carotid artery syndrome", "stilalgia", "eagle syndrome", "styloid syndrome", "carotid artery syndrome" and "stylalgia". Conclusion: Professionals should be aware of Eagle syndrome in cases of unilateral pain when performing activities such as swallowing, yawning and crying, without an apparent cause, especially in adult women who do not find relief with analgesics. Due to the frequency of asymptomatic cases, early radiological examinations play a crucial role in diagnostic evaluation. It is essential that Otorhinolaryngology, Neurology and Dentistry professionals are aware of this syndrome, as it is associated with a significant deterioration in quality of life. (AU)

Riesgo de accidente cerebrovascular en pacientes con aterosclerosis carotídea asintomática: ¿se debe tratar médicamente o quirúrgicamente?

Los desórdenes cerebrovasculares siguen siendo la primera causa de morbilidad y mortalidad neurológica en el mundo, representando una de las entidades patológicas que genera mayor carga de enfermedad a nivel global. La aterosclerosis, o estenosis carotídea, es un potencial factor de riesgo para el ictus isquémico. La identificación y seguimiento estricto de esta condición son esenciales en la prevención secundaria de complicaciones a través de la atención primaria y el manejo especializado del riesgo cardiometabólico. No obstante, dependiendo de este riesgo y/o la presencia de sintomatología, es necesario realizar un manejo definitivo. Actualmente, existe controversia sobre si es mejor tratar la estenosis carotídea asintomática, ya sea médica o quirúrgicamente. Teniendo en cuenta la relevancia de esta entidad, el objetivo de esta revisión consiste en analizar la evidencia reciente sobre el riesgo de ictus isquémico en la aterosclerosis carotídea asintomática en adultos, y el potencial beneficio del manejo quirúrgico vs. farmacológico de esta condición. Para esto, se llevó a cabo una búsqueda bibliográfica en las bases de datos PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science y MEDLINE, hasta el año 2023. Se evidenció que el riesgo de ictus asociado a estenosis carotídea asintomática es significativo (>10 %, aproximadamente), incluso en aquellos con terapia antiplaquetaria e hipolipemiante activa. En aquellos con manejo médico, la supervivencia a cinco años es alrededor del 80 %. Sin embargo, la progresión de la estenosis sucede en promedio en más del 60 % de los casos, y es significativa. Por el contrario, el stent carotídeo y la endarterectomía son intervenciones resolutivas. Pero existe un riesgo mayor comparado con la terapia médica, el cual se atribuye al periodo periy posoperatorio, así como a 30 días de aparición o recurrencia del ictus, infarto agudo de miocardio o muerte por cualquier causa; aunque el uso de la endarterectomía ha demostrado beneficios superiores a largo plazo en cuanto a estos mismos desenlaces. Entonces, la evidencia es heterogénea en cuanto a la superioridad del tratamiento quirúrgico comparado con la terapia farmacológica en el manejo de la aterosclerosis o estenosis carotídea asintomática. Sin embargo, parece ser que el manejo quirúrgico, específicamente la endarterectomía, podría impactar significativamente sobre la aparición o recurrencia del ictus ipsilateral y muerte a largo plazo, pero con resultados controversiales periy postoperatorios.

Cerebrovascular disorders remain the leading cause of neurological morbidity and mortality in the world, representing one of the pathological entities responsible for the greatest burden of disease worldwide. Carotid atherosclerosis or stenosis is a potential risk factor for ischemic stroke. The identification and strict follow-up of this condition are essential in the secondary prevention of complications through primary care and the specialized treatment of cardiometabolic risk. However, depending on this risk and/or presence of symptoms, definitive treatment is necessary. Currently, there is controversy as to whether asymptomatic carotid stenosis is better to be treated medically or surgically. Considering the significance of such entity, this review aims to analyze recent evidence on the risk of ischemic stroke in the case of asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis among adults, as well as the potential benefit of the surgical vs. pharmacological treatment for this condition. For this purpose, a literature search for publications up to 2023 was carried out in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science and MEDLINE databases. It was shown that there is a significant risk of stroke associated with asymptomatic carotid stenosis (> 10 % approximately), even in patients with active antiplatelet and lipid-lowering therapy. Out of all those who receive medical treatment, around 80 % had a five-year survival rate. However, stenosis progression occurs on average in more than 60 % of the cases and is significant. On the other hand, carotid stenting and endarterectomy are curative interventions. Nevertheless, these procedures involve a higher risk compared to the medical therapy during the periand postoperative period, as well as 30 days afterwards, due to the occurrence or recurrence of stroke, acute myocardial infarction or death from any cause. Despite this, the use of endarterectomy has shown superior long-term benefits concerning these same outcomes. Thus, evidence regarding the superiority of surgical treatment compared to pharmacological treatment for asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis or stenosis is heterogeneous. However, it seems that surgical treatment, specifically endarterectomy, could have a significant impact on the occurrence or recurrence of ipsilateral stroke and death in the long term but with controversial periand postoperative outcomes.

Limitaciones de los puntajes de riesgo cardiovascular en prevención primaria. ¿Una oportunidad para los moduladores de riesgo? / Limitations of cardiovascular risk scores in primary prevention. An opportunity for risk modulators?

RESUMEN Introducción : Los puntajes de riesgo cardiovascular tienen limitaciones relacionadas con la calibración, la discriminación y la baja sensibilidad. Se han identificado diferentes "moduladores de riesgo" que permiten mejorar la estratificación del riesgo cardiovascular: placa aterosclerótica carotídea (PAC), puntaje de calcio arterial coronario (pCAC) y lipoproteína(a) [Lp(a)]. Objetivos : 1) determinar la prevalencia de los moduladores de riesgo citados en una población en prevención primaria; 2) determinar la concordancia entre los 2 métodos de detección de aterosclerosis subclínica; 3) establecer qué proporción de pacientes deberían recibir estatinas inicialmente, según su puntaje de riesgo, y posteriormente con el conocimiento de los moduladores de riesgo. Material y métodos : Se incluyeron individuos de 18 a 79 años, que asistieron para una evaluación de riesgo cardiovascular y que no estaban recibiendo tratamiento hipolipemiante. Se calculó el puntaje de riesgo (ASCVD Risk Estimator) en cada paciente. Se evaluó la presencia de PAC, el pCAC y el nivel plasmático de Lp(a). Resultados : Se incluyeron 348 pacientes (edad media 55,6 ± 12,2 años, 45,4% hombres). En la población total, 29,8%, 36,8% y 53,2% de los pacientes mostraron un valor de Lp(a) ≥ 50 mg/dL, PAC o un pCAC > 0, respectivamente. La prevalencia de PAC y pCAC fue progresivamente mayor según la categoría de riesgo cardiovascular; sin embargo, la proporción de sujetos de bajo riesgo que tenían moduladores de riesgo fue considerable (Lp(a) ≥ 50 mg/dl: 25,7%; PAC: 22%; pCAC > 0: 33%). En los 60 individuos menores de 45 años la prevalencia de pCAC > 0 y PAC fue de 18,3% y 10%, respectivamente. La concordancia entre los dos métodos para determinar la presencia de ateromatosis subclínica fue discreta (kappa 0,33). La indicación del tratamiento con estatinas aumentó un 31,6% luego de evaluar la presencia de moduladores. Conclusión : La presencia de moduladores de riesgo fue frecuente en esta población en prevención primaria, incluso en sujetos de bajo riesgo o menores de 45 años. La detección de moduladores de riesgo podría mejorar la estratificación inicial y llevar a reconsiderar el tratamiento con estatinas.

ABSTRACT Background : Cardiovascular risk scores have limitations related to calibration, discrimination, and low sensitivity. Different "risk modulators" have been identified to improve cardiovascular risk stratification: carotid atherosclerotic plaque (CAP), coronary artery calcium (CAC) score and lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]. Objectives : The aims of this study were: 1) to determine the prevalence of risk modulators mentioned in a primary prevention population; 2) determine the concordance between the 2 methods of detecting subclinical atherosclerosis; and 3) establish which proportion of patients should receive statins according to the initial risk stratification and after being recategorized by screening for risk modulators. Methods : Individuals aged 18 to 79 years who consulted for cardiovascular risk assessment and who were not receiving lipid-lowering treatment were included. The risk score was calculated in each patient using ASCVD Risk Estimator. The presence of CAP, CAC score and Lp(a) level were evaluated. Results : The cohort was made up of 348 patients; mean age was 55.6 ± 12.2 years and 45.4% were men. In the total population, 29.8%, 36.8%, and 53.2% of patients showed Lp(a) value ≥50 mg/dL, CAP, or a CAC score >0, respectively. The prevalence of CAP and CAC score was progressively higher according to the cardiovascular risk category; however, the proportion of low-risk subjects who had risk modulators was considerable (Lp(a) ≥50 mg/dl: 25.7%; CAP: 22%; CAC score >0: 33%). In the 60 subjects <45 years, the prevalence of CAC score >0 and CAP was 18.3% and 10%, respectively. The agreement between the two methods for quantifying subclinical atheromatosis was fair (kappa= 0.33). The indication for statin treatment increased by 31.6% after evaluating the presence of modulators. Conclusion : The presence of risk modulators was common in this population in primary prevention, even in low-risk subjects or < 45 years. Detection of risk modulators could improve initial stratification and lead to reconsideration of statin treatment.

Pós-processamento da mediana de escala de cinza (GSM), posterização e remapeamento de cores para ultrassonografia de carótidas / Grayscale median (GSM) post-processing, posterizing, and color mapping for carotid ultrasound

Resumo Fatores relativos à placa aterosclerótica podem indicar instabilidade como ulcerações, hemorragias intraplaca, núcleo lipídico, capa fibrosa delgada ou irregular e inflamação. A mediana de escala de cinza (GSM, de greyscale median) da placa é um dos métodos mais difundidos de estudo da placa aterosclerótica; nesse sentido, é importante criar uma padronização da pós-processamento de forma compreensível. O pós-processamento foi realizado no software Photoshop 23.1.1. A padronização da imagem foi alcançada com o ajuste de curvas do histograma de escalas de cinza definindo o ponto mais escuro do lúmen vascular (sangue) para zero e a adventícia distal para 190. A posterização e o remapeamento de cores foram realizados. Um método que apresenta o atual estado da arte da técnica de forma acessível e ilustrativa pode contribuir para disseminação da análise de GSM. Neste artigo, esse processo é demonstrado passo a passo.

Abstract Factors related to atherosclerotic plaques may indicate instability, such as ulcerations, intraplaque hemorrhages, lipid core, thin or irregular fibrous cap, and inflammation. The grayscale median (GSM) value is one of the most widespread methods of studying atherosclerotic plaques and it is therefore important to comprehensively standardize image post-processing. Post-processing was performed using Photoshop 23.1.1.202. Images were standardized by adjusting the grayscale histogram curves, setting the darkest point of the vascular lumen (blood) to zero and the distal adventitia to 190. Posterization and color mapping were performed. A methodology that presents the current state of the art in an accessible and illustrative way should contribute to the dissemination of GSM analysis. This article describes and illustrates the process step by step.

Treatment results of carotid artery stenting in a developing country

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the details of minor complications of carotid artery stenting in a developing country. METHODS: This was a retrospective, single-center study conducted on the target group consisting of 65 symptomatic patients who underwent carotid artery stenting. We assessed technical success rate, periprocedural complication within 30 days (hypotension, bradycardia, acute kidney injury, vasospasm, a transient ischemic attack, stroke, myocardial infarction, and death), and the differences between groups with and without complications. RESULTS: Minor periprocedural complications occurred in 15 patients. In all, 8 (12.3%) had transient hypotension, 6 (9.2%) had bradycardia, 7 (10.7%) had acute kidney injury, 2 (3.1%) had vasospasm, and 1 (1.5%) had transient ischemic attack. A greater rate of minor complications was observed in women (p=0.051). CONCLUSION: The results of the carotid artery stenting procedures performed in a developing country were acceptable.

Anterior cervical release and posterior fixation for the treatment of irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation with retropharyngeal internal carotid artery / 中华骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical effect of anterior cervical release and posterior fixation in the treatment of irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation with retropharyngeal internal carotid artery.Methods:Thirteen patients with irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation of retropharyngeal internal carotid artery from January 2015 to July 2019 were treated with anterior cervical release and posterior fixation. There were 8 males and 5 females, aged from 34 to 65 years with an average of 46.1±12.6 years. Positive, lateral and dynamic X-ray films, MR and CTA were performed before operation. There were 4 cases with bilateral retropharyngeal internal carotid artery and 9 cases with unilateral retropharyngeal internal pharyngeal artery. The time of operation, the amount of bleeding and intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded. The main observations were Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, atlantodental interval (ADI), Chamberlain line (CL), and changes in the morphology of the retropharyngeal internal carotid artery and implant fusion.Results:All the operations completed successfully. The operation time was 210-260 min, the average was 245±21 min; the blood loss was 350-600 ml, the average blood loss was 490±107 ml. There was no injury of internal carotid artery, vertebral artery, spinal cord or nerve root during the operation. All patients were followed up for 9 to 24 months, with an average of 15.1±6.2 months. Preoperative JOA score was 6.9±2.3 points, 1 month after operation was 13.5±2.5 points, and the last follow-up was 14.3±2.1 points. The difference was statistically significant ( F=30.91, P<0.001). The difference between 1 month after operation and before operation was statistically significant ( P<0.001), and the improvement rate of JOA score was 75.6%±15.2%. There was no significant difference between the last follow-up and 1 month after operation ( P>0.05). The preoperative ADI was 8.9±2.2 mm, 1 month after operation was 1.1±0.8 mm, and the last follow-up was 1.2±0.9 mm. The difference was statistically significant ( F=114.69, P<0.001). The difference between 1 month after operation and before operation was statistically significant ( P<0.001), and ADI had returned to normal level. There was no significant difference between the last follow-up and 1 month after operation ( P>0.05). The preoperative CL was 11.7±4.8 mm, 1 month after operation was 1.6±2.1 mm, and the last follow-up was 1.8±2.3 mm. The difference was statistically significant ( F=34.19, P<0.001). The difference between 1 month after operation and before operation was statistically significant ( P<0.001), and the position of odontoid process returned to normal level. There was no significant difference between the last follow-up and 1 month after operation ( P>0.05). Bone graft fusion was received at 6 to 12 months after operation, with an average of 10.2 months. Conclusion:CTA examination should be performed before anterior release of atlantoaxial dislocation to understand the position and shape of internal carotid artery. Anterior cervical release combined with posterior bone graft fusion is an effective method for the treatment of irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation with retropharyngeal internal carotid artery without increasing the risk of internal carotid artery injury.

Tortuosity of the internal carotid artery and the formation of internal carotid aneurysms: an exploratory study based on propensity score method / 中华放射学杂志

Objective:To investigate the correlation between the tortuosity of the internal carotid artery and the formation of internal carotid aneurysms.Methods:The clinical data of patients with suspected cerebrovascular disease admitted to the Jinling Hospital from July 2009 to March 2017 were retrospectively collected. All patients underwent head CT angiography and digital subtraction angiography. Patients with single internal carotid artery aneurysm were classified as the aneurysm group, and patients without obvious abnormal vascular disease were classified as the control group. The demographic information of the patients, including age, gender, history of hypertension and diabetes, were collected. The size of the aneurysm and the tortuosity parameters of the internal carotid artery were measured, including the classification of the tortuosity of internal carotid artery, anterior genu angle (A angle), posterior genu angle (P angle), sum of the angles of A angle and P angle (AP angle) and height difference of anterior genu and posterior genu (D value). SPSS software was used for propensity score matching (PSM). Independent sample t test, Mann-Whitney U test or χ 2 test, Fisher exact test were used to compare the differences of each parameter between the two groups. Spearman analysis was used to analyze the correlation between the tortuosity and aneurysm size. A multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the independent risk factors of aneurysm formation and to predict the formation of internal carotid aneurysm. The receiver operating characteristic curve and the area under the curve were used for model performance. Results:After PSM, 108 patients were included in each group. The proportion of tortuous internal carotid artery in the aneurysm group was lower than that in the control group [19.4% (21/108) vs. 32.4% (35/108), χ 2=4.72, P=0.030]. A, P and AP angles in the aneurysm group were significantly larger than those in the control group ( U=7 105.50, P=0.006; U=7 139.00, P=0.004; t=-3.14, P=0.002). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that AP angle (OR=1.010, 95%CI 1.003-1.016, P=0.002) was an independent risk factor for aneurysm formation. The area under the curves of logistic regression model based on AP angle was 0.624 (95%CI 0.549-0.699). There was a weak correlation between the size of internal carotid artery aneurysm and AP angle ( r=0.210, P=0.002). Conclusions:The tortuosity of the internal carotid artery is associated with the formation of internal carotid artery aneurysms, and the AP angle is an independent risk factor for the formation of internal carotid artery aneurysms, and a weak positive correlation with the size of the aneurysm is observed. It provides a new idea for understanding the formation of internal carotid artery aneurysms from the morphological characteristics of the parent artery.

Ultrasonic characteristics and histopathologic comparison of vascular remodeling after carotid balloon injury in rats / 中华超声影像学杂志

Objective:To detect the characteristics of vascular remodeling after carotid balloon injury model in rats using ultrasound biomicroscopy(UBM), and to discuss the application value of UBM technique by comparing ultrasonic characteristics with histopathological results.Methods:Carotid balloon injury was performed in 10-week-old SD rats(11 female and 11 male) by 2F Fogarty balloon catheter. The left common carotid artery(CCA) was injured and the right side in the same animal was used as an uninjured control. Arterial structures and hemodynamics were evaluated pre-procedure and post-procedure at 7, 14 days.The intima-media thickness(IMT) inner diameter, outer diameter, lumen area, vessel area, peak systolic velocity, end diastolic velocity of CCA were measured by UBM, and the vascular resistance index, shear stress and blood flow were calculated to evaluate the vascular hemodynamics. The histological data were obtained by H&E staining in cross-sections at 14 days after balloon injury. The characteristics of arterial structure and hemodynamic changes at various time points were compared, the structural changes of CCA between injured and control side after injury were compared. The Spearman correlation and linear regression were used to test the correlation between ultrasonic and histological measurements 14 days after balloon injury.Results:①Compared with pre-procedure, the IMT at 14 days after balloon injury was increased, the inner diameter was decreased, the shear stress in ultrasound was increased(all P<0.05). H&E staining histological test showed that IMT and neointima area in male rats were larger than those of female rats (all P<0.001). ②After carotid balloon injury, the lumen area decreased, but the CCA underwent compensatory positive remodeling and the vessel area increased. ③Significant correlations were demonstrated between UBM and histology in IMT, inner diameter, outer diameter and vessel area of CCA( rs=0.819, 0.965, 0.896, 0.955; all P<0.001). The vessel area value measured by UBM was larger than that of histology( P=0.006). Conclusions:The CCA of rats can be showed clearly by UBM in males and females. The arterial structure cab be measured by UBM accurately with good correlation with histology, as did arterial hemodynamic parameters, which may be benefit for the study in carotid balloon injury model of rats.

Evidence-based and therapeutic technical progress of carotid stenosis / 国际外科学杂志

Stroke is the leading cause of death among urban and rural residents in China. About 25% to 30% of ischemia stroke is related to atherosclerotic carotid stenosis. The main treatments for carotid stenosis include carotid endarterectomy, carotid artery stenting and best medical therapy. In recent years, clinical trial evidence on the treatment of carotid artery stenosis continues to emerge, in which a series of new arguments and consensus have emerged. In addition, with the innovation of surgical techniques and the reform of intracavitary instruments, new surgical techniques and surgical equipment have been extended. This article summarizes the latest evidence-based and technical progress in the treatment of carotid artery stenosis in recent years, in order to provide theoretical guidance for the clinical practice of carotid artery stenosis.

Risk factors of contrast-induced nephropathy after carotid artery stenting / 国际外科学杂志

Objective:To investigate the risk factors related to the contrast-induced nephropathy(CIN)occurring after carotid artery stenting(CAS)in patients with carotid artery stenosis.Methods:The clinical data of 137 patients with carotid artery stenosis, who were treated with CAS at Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University during the period from January to Decmber 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Record demographic characteristics (age, gender, height, weight), history of underlying diseases (hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease, etc.), history of medications, etc. Observe the clinical parameters such as creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, albumin, hemoglobin, hematocrit, degree of stenosis and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Measurement data conforming to the normal distribution were expressed as the mean±standard deviation( ± s), and the t-test was used for comparison between groups; the measurement data that does not conform to the normal distribution were expressed as the median (interquartile range) [ M( Q1, Q3)], and the Rank-sum test was used for comparison between groups; the Chi-square test or Fisher exact test was used for comparison of count data between groups. Relevant variables were subjected to univariate analysis, and statistically significant indicators were selected according to the results of univariate analysis to be included in the multivariate Logistic regression analysis. Results:After CAS, a total of 29 patients (21.2%) among the 137 patients developed CIN. Univariate analysis indicated that bilateral carotid artery stenosis, uncontrolled hypertension before surgery, history of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor drugs, diabetes mellitus, history of insulin drugs, eGFR<45 mL/(min·1.73 m 2), body weight were the influencing factors associated with the occurrence of CIN after CAS in patients with carotid artery stenting; multivariate regression analysis revealed that the presence of bilateral carotid artery stenosis( OR=4.724, 95% CI: 1.455-15.338, P=0.010), diabetes mellitus( OR=3.451, 95% CI: 1.345-8.858, P=0.010) and eGFR <45 mL/(min·1.73 m 2)( OR=4.582, 95% CI: 1.001-20.971, P=0.050) were the independent risk factors related to the CIN after CAS. Conclusion:Patients with the presence of bilateral carotid artery stenosis, diabetes mellitus or eGFR <45 mL/(min·1.73 m 2) are more likely to develop CIN after CAS.

Role of homocysteinylation in cerebral atherosclerosis / 国际脑血管病杂志

Homocysteine is closely associated with extracranial and intracranial atherosclerosis, and its main pathogenesis includes oxidative stress, lipid metabolism disorder and vascular endothelial dysfunction. As a protein modification related to homocysteine, homocysteinylation can promote the occurrence and development of cerebral atherosclerosis by promoting oxidation, changing lipid function and destroying vascular endothelial function. This article reviews the role of homocysteinylation in cerebral atherosclerosis, and discusses the possibility of preventing cerebral atherosclerosis by homocysteinylation.

Endovascular recanalization treatment of non-acute symptomatic internal carotid artery occlusion: a single center retrospective case series study / 国际脑血管病杂志

Objective:To investigate the influencing factors, periprocedural complications, and long-term outcomes of successful recanalization after endovascular treatment in patients with non-acute symptomatic internal carotid artery occlusion.Methods:Patients with non-acute internal carotid artery occlusion received endovascular treatment in the Nanjing Stroke Registration System between January 2010 and December 2021 were retrospectively enrolled. Clinical endpoint events were defined as successful vascular recanalization, periprocedural complications (symptomatic embolism and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage), neurological function improvement, and recurrence of ipsilateral ischemic events. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the independent influencing factors of successful vascular recanalization. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to investigate the correlation between endovascular treatment outcomes and neurological function improvement, as well as ipsilateral ischemic cerebrovascular events. Results:A total of 296 patients were included, of which 190 (64.2%) were successfully recanalized. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that symptoms manifest as ischemic stroke (odds ratio [ OR] 3.353, 95% confidence interval [ CI] 1.399-8.038; P=0.007), the time from the most recent symptom onset to endovascular therapy within 1 to 30 d ( OR 2.327, 95% CI 1.271-4.261; P=0.006), proximal conical residual cavity ( OR 2.853, 95% CI 1.242-6.552; P=0.013) and focal occlusion (C1-C2: OR 3.255, 95% CI 1.296-8.027, P=0.012; C6/C7: OR 5.079, 95% CI 1.334-19.334; P=0.017) were the independent influencing factors for successful vascular recanalization. Successful recanalization did not increase the risk of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage within 7 d after procedure (3.2% vs. 0.9%; P=0.428). The median follow-up time after procedure was 38 months. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis showed that after adjusting for confounding factors, successful recanalization was significantly associated with postprocedural neurological improvement (hazard ratio 1.608, 95% CI 1.091-2.371; P=0.017), and significantly reduced the risk of recurrence of long-term ischemic events (hazard ratio 0.351, 95% CI 0.162-0.773; P=0.010). Conclusion:In patients with non-acute internal carotid artery occlusion, successful endovascular recanalization can effectively reduce the risk of long-term ischemic events without increasing the risk of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage.