Outcomes of Transcarotid Artery Revascularization Stratified by Institutional Designation: Academic Versus Community Hospitals.

BACKGROUND: The extent of practice setting's influence on transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) outcomes is not yet established. This study seeks to assess and compare TCAR outcomes in academic and community-based healthcare settings. METHODS: Retrospective review of prospectively maintained, systemwide TCAR databases from 2 institutions was performed between 2015 and 2022. Patients were stratified based on the setting of surgical intervention (i.e., academic or community-based hospitals). Relevant demographics, medical conditions, anatomic characteristics, intraoperative and postoperative courses, and adverse events were captured for multivariate analysis. RESULTS: We identified 973 patients who underwent TCAR, 570 (58.6%) were performed at academic and 403 (41.4%) at community-based hospitals. An academic facility was defined as a designated teaching hospital with 24/7 service-line coverage by a trainee-led surgical team. Baseline comorbidity between cohorts were similar but cases performed at academic institutions were associated with increased complexity, defined by high cervical stenosis (P < 0.001), prior dissection (P < 0.01), and prior neck radiation (P < 0.001). Intraoperatively, academic hospitals were associated with longer operative time (67 min vs. 58 min, P < 0.001), higher blood loss (55 mLs vs. 37 mLs, P < 0.001), and longer flow reversal time (9.5 min vs. 8.4 min, P < 0.05). Technical success rate was not statistically different. In the 30-day perioperative period, we observed no significant difference with respect to reintervention (1.5% vs. 1.5%, P ≥ 0.9) or ipsilateral stroke (2.7% vs. 2.0%, P = 0.51). Additionally, no difference in postoperative myocardial infarction (academic 0.7% vs. community 0.2%, P < 0.32), death (academic 1.9% vs. community 1.4%, P < 0.57), or length of stay (1 day vs. 1 day, P < 0.62) was seen between the cohorts. CONCLUSIONS: Cases performed at academic centers were characterized by more challenging anatomy, more frequent cardiovascular risk factors, and less efficient intraoperative variables, potentially attributable to case complexity and trainee involvement. However, there were no differences in perioperative outcomes and adverse events between the cohorts, suggesting TCAR can be safely performed regardless of practice setting.

Effect of Perioperative Stroke on Survival After Carotid Intervention.

OBJECTIVES: Perioperative stroke is the most dreaded complication of carotid artery interventions and can severely affect patients' quality of life. This study evaluated the impact of this event on mortality for patients undergoing interventional treatment of carotid artery stenosis with three different modalities. METHODS: Patients undergoing carotid revascularization at participating Memorial Hermann Health System facilities were captured from 2003-2022. These patients were treated with either carotid endarterectomy (CEA), transfemoral carotid stenting (TF-CAS), or transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR). Perioperative outcomes, including stroke and mortality, as well as follow-up survival data at 6-month intervals, were analyzed and stratified per treatment modality. RESULTS: Of the 1681 carotid revascularization patients identified, 992 underwent CEA (59.0%), 524 underwent TCAR (31.2%), and 165 underwent TF-CAS (9.8%). The incidence of stroke was 2.1% (CEA 2.1%, TCAR 1.7%, and TF-CAS 3.6%; P = .326). The perioperative (30-day) death rate was 2.1% (n = 36). The perioperative death rate was higher in patients who suffered from an intraoperative stroke than in those who did not (8.3% vs 1.9%, P = .007). Perioperative death was also different between CEA, TCAR, and TF-CAS for patients who had an intraoperative stroke (.0% vs 33.3% vs .0%, P = .05). TCAR patients were likely to be older (P < .001), have a higher body mass index (P < .001), and have diabetes mellitus (P < .001). Patients who suffered from an intraoperative stroke were more likely to have a symptomatic carotid lesion (58.3% vs 28.8%, P < .001). The TCAR group had a significantly lower survival at 6 months and 12 months when compared to the other two groups (64.9% vs 100% P = .007). CONCLUSION: Perioperative stroke during carotid interventions significantly impacts early patient survival with otherwise no apparent change in mid-term outcomes at 5 years. This difference appears to be even more significant in patients undergoing TCAR, possibly due to their baseline higher-risk profile and lower functional reserve.

Gore cTAG sleeve-associated maldeployment for traumatic aortic injury with aberrant right subclavian artery.

A 30-year-old woman presented following a motor vehicle collision with a grade III blunt thoracic aortic injury and an aberrant right subclavian artery. Using intraoperative ultrasound and diagnostic subtraction angiography, we deployed an aortic endograft (cTAG; W.L. Gore & Associates), excluding the injury and aberrant right subclavian artery. The patient immediately lost arterial waveforms in her left arm, confirming incidental coverage of the left subclavian artery, likely due to the polytetrafluoroethylene sheath of the endograft. Her pulses returned after placement of a left subclavian chimney via retrograde brachial artery access.

Propensity-score-matched analysis of dual antiplatelet treatment and alternative antiplatelet regimens after transcarotid revascularizations.

OBJECTIVE: Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) continues to be the preferred medication regimen after the placement of a carotid stent using the transcarotid revascularization (TCAR) technique despite a dearth of quality data. Therefore, this investigation was performed to define the risks associated with antiplatelet choice. METHODS: We queried all patients who underwent TCAR captured by the Vascular Quality Initiative from September 2016 to June 2022, to determine the association between antiplatelet choice and outcomes. Patients maintained on DAPT were compared with those receiving alternative regimens consisting of single antiplatelet, anticoagulation, or a combination of the two. A 1:1 propensity-score match was performed with respect to baseline comorbidities, functional status, anatomic/physiologic risk, medications, and intraoperative characteristics. In-hospital and 1-year outcomes were compared between the groups. RESULTS: During the study period, 29,802 procedures were included in our study population, with 24,651 (82.7%) receiving DAPT and 5151 (17.3%) receiving an alternative antiplatelet regimen. A propensity-score match with respect to 29 variables generated 4876 unique pairs. Compared with patients on DAPT, in-hospital ipsilateral stroke was significantly higher in patients receiving alternative antiplatelet regimens (1.7% vs 1.1%, odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 1.54 [1.10-2.16], P = .01), whereas no statistically significant difference was noted with respect to mortality (0.6% vs 0.5%, 1.35 [0.72-2.54], P = .35). A composite of stroke/death was also more likely in patients receiving an alternative regimen (2.4% vs 1.7%, 1.47 [1.12-1.93], P = .01). Immediate stent thrombosis (2.75 [1.16-6.51]) and a nonsignificant trend toward increased return to the operating room were more common in the alternative patients. Conversely, the incidence of perioperative myocardial infarction was lower in the alternative regimen group (0.4% vs 0.7%, 0.53 [0.31-0.90], P = .02). At 1 year after the procedure, we observed an increased risk of mortality (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]: 1.34 [1.11-1.63], P < .01) but not stroke (0.52 [0.27-0.99], P = .06) in patients treated with an alternative medication regimen. CONCLUSIONS: This propensity-score-matched analysis demonstrates an increased risk of in-hospital stroke and 1-year mortality after TCAR in patients treated with an alternative medication regimen instead of DAPT. Further studies are needed to elucidate the drivers of DAPT failure in patients undergoing TCAR to improve outcomes for carotid stenting patients.

Prediction of postprocedural filter debris after transcarotid revascularization.

OBJECTIVE: Transcarotid revascularization (TCAR) is a technique in which cerebral flow reversal is utilized as embolic protection during carotid stenting. The presence, or absence, of filter debris created during TCAR could potentially be a surrogate to characterize carotid lesions at high risk for embolization and, therefore, explored in this investigation. METHODS: A retrospective review of TCARs performed within the Indiana University and Memorial Hermann (McGovern Medical School at UTHealth) Health Systems to capture demographics and preoperative variables. A mixed effect multivariate logistic regression model was created to discern the best predictors of intraoperative filter debris. RESULTS: During the study period, from December 2015 to December 2021, we captured filter debris status in 693 of 750 patients containing 323 cases of filter embolization at case completion. With respect to demographics and indications, we found a higher incidence of neck radiation (2.7 vs. 7.1%, p = 0.01) and a more pronounced Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI; 5.3 ± 0.3 vs 5.7 ± 0.3, p < 0.01) in the filter debris cohort while contralateral carotid occlusion (6.6 vs. 2.9%, p = 0.05) and clopidogrel usage (87.3 vs. 80.1%, p = 0.03) were less common. Longer intraoperative flow reversal (8.0 ± 1.2 vs 10.5 ± 1.2, p < 0.01) and fluoroscopy time (4.0 ± 0.6 vs 5.1 ± 0.6, p < 0.01) were also seen in those with filter debris. These findings remained when a mixed effect univariate logistic regression model was used to account for differences in filter debris reporting between locations. After multivariable modeling, we found that reverse flow time and CCI remained predictive of filter debris while the presence of a contralateral carotid occlusion was still protective. CONCLUSION: In our combined experience, the creation of visible filter debris after TCAR seems to be independently associated with extended reverse flow time and elevated CCI while a contralateral carotid occlusion was protective.

Transcarotid revascularization in obese patients.

OBJECTIVE: Transcarotid revascularization (TCAR) is a minimally invasive hybrid surgical carotid stenting technique which utilizes cerebral flow reversal as embolic protection during carotid lesion manipulation. This investigation was performed to define the perioperative risks associated with this operation in the obese patient. METHODS: A retrospective review of tandem carotid revascularization databases maintained at two high-volume health systems was performed to capture all TCARs performed between 2015 and 2022. A threshold of body mass index of 35 kg/m2 defined the "obese" patient. Demographics, intraoperative, perioperative, and follow-up characteristics were compared using univariate analysis. RESULTS: We performed 793 TCAR procedures that qualified for study inclusion within the prespecified time. After applying our obesity definition, 129 patients qualified as obese and were compared to the remainder. There were no significant differences in baseline demographics as comparable Charlson Comorbidity Indices were noted between groups; however, obese patients had a significantly higher prevalence of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. Intraoperative, case complexity in the obese patients did not seem to be increased, as measured by operative time (68.4 ± 23.0 vs 64.2 ± 25.8 min, p = 0.09), fluoroscopic time (4.9 ± 3.2 vs 4.6 ± 3.6 min, p = 0.38), and estimated blood loss (40.6 ± 49.0 vs 46.6 ± 49.4 min, p = 0.22). Similarly, no disparities were observed with respect to ipsilateral stroke (3.1 vs. 1.7%, p = 0.29), contralateral stroke (0 vs. 0.2%, p > 0.99), death (0 vs. 1.1%, p = 0.61), and stroke/death (3.1 vs. 3.0%, p > 0.99) in the 30-day perioperative period. Both cohorts were followed for approximately 1 year (12.0 ± 13.4 vs 11.6 ± 13.4 months, p = 0.76). During this period, rates of ipsilateral stroke (3.1% vs. 2.7%, p > 0.99), contralateral stroke (1.1 vs. 0.8%, p > 0.99), and death (4.7 vs. 6.2%, p = 0.68) were similar. CONCLUSIONS: TCAR performed in the obese population was not more challenging by intraoperative characteristics and did not result in a statistically higher incidence of adverse events in the perioperative phase.

Endovascular Repair of an Intrathoracic Subclavian Artery Aneurysm in a Patient With Dextrocardia.

This manuscript describes an endovascular repair of a symptomatic, large proximal left subclavian artery aneurysm in a patient with dextrocardia and right-sided aortic arch and absent bilateral internal carotid arteries. The patient had surgical reconstruction as an infant for congenital heart disease with Ventricular Septal Defect, bifid sternum . Given her previous surgical history, we declined an open operation and performed an endovascular repair with stent grafts to successfully repair the subclavian artery aneurysm. The patient had an uneventful postoperative course and follow-up ultrasonography demonstrated successful repair with preservation of flow through the left subclavian and vertebral arteries with resolution of her symptoms.

Predictors of 30-Day Stroke and Death After Transcarotid Revascularization.

INTRODUCTION: Much of the previous robust analyses of the results associated with transcarotid revascularization (TCAR) derives from industry-sponsored trials or the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI). This investigation was performed to identify preoperative predictors of 30-day stroke and death using institutional databases. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed of carotid revascularization databases created at two high-volume TCAR centers and maintained independently of the VQI carotid module between December 2015 and December 2021. The primary outcome of interest was a composite of perioperative (30-day) stroke and death. Univariate regression analyses, followed by multivariate regression analyses, were performed to identify potential predictors of adverse events. RESULTS: During the study period, 750 TCAR procedures were performed at our combined health systems, resulting in 24 (3.2%) individuals who experienced either stroke and/or death in the perioperative period. Of these, we observed nine (1.2%) mortality events and 18 (2.4%) strokes. On univariate analysis, candidate protectors of stroke/death were found to be coronary artery disease (odds ratio [OR], 0.43; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.18-1.01; P = 0.05) and protamine reversal (0.51; 0.21-1.21; P = 0.15). Candidate predictors of the primary outcome were anticoagulant usage (3.03; 1.26-7.24; P = 0.01), postprocedural debris in the filter (2.30; 0.97-5.43; P = 0.06), symptomatic carotid lesion (2.03; 0.90-4.50), and cardiac arrhythmia (1.98; 0.80-4.03; P = 0.14). On multivariate analysis, two predictors remained, cardiac arrhythmia (4.21; 1.10-16.16; P = 0.04) and symptomatic carotid lesion (14.49; 1.80-116.94; P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: A symptomatic carotid lesion, and to a lesser extent cardiac arrhythmia, are strong predictors of 30-day stroke/death after TCAR. Surgeons should be cognizant of the increased risk of adverse events in the perioperative period in these patients.

Fate of Hemodialysis Patients Undergoing Transcarotid Revascularization.

INTRODUCTION: Carotid revascularization in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) continues to be a controversial topic, as life expectancy is poor, thus, preventing the recouperation of cumulative stroke-risk reduction in the postoperative period. We performed this primarily descriptive analysis of the results of transcarotid revascularization (TCAR) in renal failure patients. METHODS: A retrospective review of two independent carotid revascularization databases maintained at two large health systems were performed to capture all consecutive TCAR procedures. Patients were classified as either (1) ESRD or (2) preserved renal function (PRF) and compared with standard univariate techniques, where appropriate. RESULTS: From December 2015 to April 2022, 851 consecutive TCARs were attempted at our participating facilities. Of these, 27 were performed in ESRD patients (all hemodialysis). These patients were younger and presented with a higher Charlson Comorbidity Index. The incidence of a high anatomic risk criterion as defined for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) were similar between groups, as was the incidence of a symptomatic carotid lesion. There were no differences between the groups in terms of intraoperative characteristics and the postoperative medication management were grossly similar by renal function. In the 30-day perioperative period, there were no stroke, death, or myocardial infarction in the 27 ESRD patients treated with TCAR. The mean duration of follow-up in the ESRD cohort was 15.0 months. During this time, there was no ipsilateral stroke events, one contralateral stroke, and one MI. All 27 carotid stents remained patent during this period. Six patients perished after TCAR at a mean interval of 12.2 months after TCAR. CONCLUSION: Survival is poor after carotid revascularization via the TCAR technique on intermediate follow-up. Careful patient selection is required to identify those who will survive to collect on the cumulative stroke-risk reduction afforded by carotid intervention.

Dual Institutional Experience with Transcarotid Artery Revascularization.

INTRODUCTION: Transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) is a hybrid open and endovascular technique to treat carotid stenosis. The purpose of this study is to present a large cohort of patients who underwent TCAR at 2 high-volume TCAR health systems. METHODS: This study was a retrospective chart review of all instances of TCAR within the Memorial Hermann Health System and Indiana University Health, from December 2015-January 2022, using the ENROUTE Neuroprotection Device (Silk Road Medical, Sunnyvale, CA). We report patient demographics, intraoperative metrics, 30-day results and long-term results. RESULTS: In all, 750 patients underwent TCAR in the designated time period. Average patient age was 73 years, with 68% being male. Overall, 53.9% of patients had coronary artery disease, 45.4% had diabetes, and 36.9% were symptomatic. Technical success was achieved in 98.8% of patients with conversion to open endarterectomy in 1.1%. Average reverse flow time was 9.1 minutes with length of stay greater than 1 day 38%. Ipsilateral stroke rate within 30 days was 2.3% and long-term cumulative stroke rate was 3.0%. Death within 30 days occurred in 1.2% of patients and in 5.9% over long-term follow up. In all, 1% of patients required reintervention. CONCLUSIONS: TCAR is a safe and effective treatment modality for carotid artery stenotic disease. Its outcomes are similar to historical results associated with carotid endarterectomy, long considered the gold standard.

An Analysis of Sex-Based Outcomes Following Transcarotid Artery Revascularization.

OBJECTIVE: Several studies suggest that females have higher perioperative adverse events and decreased benefit from carotid artery revascularization with transfemoral carotid artery stenting and carotid endarterectomy (CEA) compared to males. However, there are limited data of sex-based outcomes for transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR). METHODS: A retrospective review of prospectively maintained system-wide TCAR databases was performed between December 2015-January 2022. Patients who underwent TCAR were stratified based on sex. Relevant demographics, medical conditions, anatomical characteristics, intra- and postoperative courses, and adverse events were captured. RESULTS: 729 patients underwent TCAR, 486 (66.6%) male and 243 (33.3%) female. Males were more likely to be diagnosed with coronary artery disease (56.9% vs 47.7%, P<.01) and were active smokers (30.4% vs 21.4%, P < .01). Age, symptomatic status, BMI, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, arrhythmia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, history of myocardial infarction, heart failure with reduced ejection fraction <30%, end-stage renal disease and Charlson Comorbidity Index were similar. In the perioperative period, there was no significant difference in reintervention rates (1.6% vs 1.2%, P = .75), cranial nerve palsy (.6% vs .4%, P > .99), ipsilateral stroke (1.9% vs 3.3%, P = .29), stent thrombosis (.4% vs .8%, P > .99), myocardial infarction (0% vs 0%, P > .99) and death (1.2% vs 1.2%, P > .99). In follow-up, no significant difference was found in reintervention, ipsilateral stroke, contralateral stroke, myocardial infarction, in-stent restenosis >50%, stent thrombosis, and death. CONCLUSIONS: Males and females did not have a statistically significant difference in outcomes when comparing ipsilateral stroke, in-stent thrombosis, conversion to CEA, and death after TCAR. However, our cohort comprised predominantly male patients and may conceal statistical significance as the females in our cohort did have a higher tendency toward developing complications. Future studies with a larger female cohort should be conducted to determine whether there is a true disparity of outcomes between the males and females undergoing TCAR.

Transcarotid Revascularization Results in Patients Over 70 Years of Age.

OBJECTIVE: Carotid endarterectomy is associated with fewer procedure-related strokes than transfemoral carotid artery stenting in older populations, based on the results from previous quality randomized controlled studies. Transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) is a hybrid procedure completed in the setting of cerebral flow reversal to deploy a stent, making it an appealing choice for older patients. This study was completed to elicit any age-related differences in outcomes after undergoing TCAR in patients 70 years of age and older. METHODS: A retrospective review was completed of a dual institutional database between December 2015 and April 2022 to capture demographics, comorbidities, and perioperative results. The geriatric cohort was defined at a cutoff of 70 years. Univariate statistical testing between groups were completed with Student's T-test or Fisher's exact test at an α of .05 for continuous and categorical variables, respectively. RESULTS: 851 procedures were captured for statistical analysis. With age cutoff of 70 years, we generated 567 geriatric (78.4 ± 5.7 years) and 284 young (63.2 ± 5.7 years) patients. The older patients tended to have more baseline illness, as measured by a higher rate Charlson Comorbidity Index (4.4 ± 2.2 vs 6.0 ± 2.1, P < .01). Younger patients tended to be actively smoking (42.3% vs 17.6%, P < .01). Intraoperative variables were grossly similar by age, including blood loss (43.0 ± 45.0 vs 45.7 ± 50.3 mLs, P = .45), reverse flow time (9.0 ± 7.4 vs 9.0 ± 6.7 mins, P = .98), and technical success (98.9% vs 98.6%, P = .76). While we observed an increased rate of stroke in the older patients, this did not reach statistical significance (1.4% vs 2.6%, P = .33). There were no differences between age groups with respect to myocardial infarction (0% vs .5%, P = .55) and death (1.1% vs 1.1%, P > .99) in the 30-day perioperative period. CONCLUSION: We found that TCAR was not associated with age-related increases in adverse outcomes and can be considered a viable option when treating carotid artery stenosis in patients older than 70 years of age.

Spontaneous celiac artery dissection treated by balloon angioplasty.

Spontaneous isolated celiac artery dissection (SICAD) is a rare condition, defined as dissection of the celiac artery without aortic involvement. Because of its low prevalence, most studies have been limited to case reports and case series. We have described the case of a 44-year-old woman who had presented with symptomatic SICAD that had resulted in compromised flow to the hepatic arteries and was successfully treated with balloon angioplasty. Angioplasty alone might be effective for cases of extensive false lumen thrombosis in SICAD for immediate flow restoration to the true lumen, expediting positive remodeling.

Adverse events are not increased with trainee participation in transcarotid revascularization.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether a vascular surgery trainee's participation in transcarotid revascularization (TCAR), a new technology, affects patient safety and outcomes. DESIGN: Retrospective, institutional review of our carotid database was performed. Patients who underwent TCAR were stratified based on whether a vascular trainee was present during the procedure. Relevant demographics, comorbidities, anatomical indication, perioperative courses, and adverse events in the postoperative period were captured for statistical analysis. SETTING: Data were obtained from affiliated Memorial Hermann Hospitals in Houston, Texas. PARTICIPANTS: All patients who underwent TCAR from September 2017 to January 2022 were included. RESULTS: Of 486 patients who underwent TCAR, 173 (35.6%) were performed in the presence of a trainee, and 313 (64.4%) were performed without a trainee. Subjects in the trainee cohort had more challenging anatomy, defined as a higher rate of carotid bifurcation above C2, restenotic disease, previous ipsilateral neck dissection, and neck radiation. The trainee cohort had higher rates of estimated blood loss (61.1 ± 66 vs. 35.5 ± 39 mL, p < 0.01), longer operative time (64.8 ± 30.3 vs. 57.9 ± 20.4 min, p < .01), longer cerebral blood flow reversal time (8.9 ± 6.1 vs. 7.9 ± 6.6 min, p = .01), and higher contrast administration (25.7 ± 12.0 vs. 21.1 ± 9.4 mL, p < .01). The ability to achieve technical success was similar between the two cohorts. There was no difference in the rates of cranial nerve palsy, ipsilateral stroke, hematoma, and stent thrombosis. Hospital length of stay, death (0% vs. 1.6%, p = .10), and stroke (1.1% vs. 2.8%, p = .22) were also similar between the two cohorts. CONCLUSION: Vascular surgery trainee's involvement during TCAR did not increase adverse outcomes, such as stroke and death, in the perioperative period. The results presented herein should encourage other teaching institutions to provide surgical trainees with supervised, hands-on experience during TCAR.

Fixed compared to mobile imaging arms for transcarotid artery revascularization.

OBJECTIVE: Transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) is a new surgical option for carotid artery stenosis. While this procedure is optimally performed in hybrid operating rooms (OR), it is currently unclear whether it could be safely performed using portable, C-arm fluoroscopy with equivalent results. The aim of this study is to determine whether there are differences in intraoperative and perioperative outcomes stratified by imaging modality. METHODS: A retrospective review of all TCAR procedures attempted within our health system was performed, capturing all cases between September 2017 and May 2022. Procedures were divided into 2 cohorts, based on whether they were performed in a hybrid OR or with portable, C-arm in a standard OR. Patient demographics, intraoperative results, and postoperative outcomes were compared using univariate strategies. RESULTS: A total of 503 patients were included for review, of which 422 were performed in a hybrid OR (84%) and 81 were performed using a portable C-arm (16%). Intraoperatively, an increased estimated blood loss (47.7 ± 54.7 vs 26.1 ± 26.9 mLs, p < 0.01) and operative time was found in the cases performed in a hybrid OR. However, the fluoroscopy time was lower (4.0 ± 2.6 vs 5.2 ± 5.8 min, p = 0.01) in the setting of advanced intraoperative imaging. Postoperatively, we found no differences with respect to myocardial infarction (0.2% vs. 0%, p > 0.99), stroke (2.4% vs. 2.5%, p = 0.96), or death (0.7% vs. 2.5%, p = 0.15) between groups. CONCLUSIONS: While there are some intraoperative variabilities between TCAR performed in hybrid versus standard ORs, postoperative outcomes are comparable. Therefore, the lack of a hybrid room should not be a deterrent to the adoption of TCAR.

Safety of Transcarotid Revascularization in Patients with a Contraindication to Dual Antiplatelets.

OBJECTIVE: Current carotid artery stenting practice guidelines recommend dual antiplatelets to reduce major adverse cardiovascular events during and after transcarotid revascularization (TCAR). However, some patients are poor candidates for this regimen, due to preexisting need for anticoagulation, allergies, and/or risk of major bleeding. Therefore, this investigation was performed to review outcomes associated with patients undergoing TCAR while on alternative medication regimens to determine safety and efficacy. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed of a combined database created by the combination of institutional carotid revascularization archives maintained at 2 high-volume TCAR health systems. Patients taking dual antiplatelets were compared to those on nontraditional medications with respect to demographics and perioperative and long-term outcomes. RESULTS: Between our 2 member institutions, 729 TCAR procedures, consisting of 549 patients on dual antiplatelets and 180 on alternative treatments, qualified for study inclusion and analyzed. The cohort not taking dual antiplatelets presented with a heavier comorbidity burden by Charlson Comorbidity Index (5.3 ± 2.2 vs 6.1 ± 2.2, P < .01). Additionally, these patients underwent higher risk revascularization procedures, as they had a higher proportion of symptomatic lesions (34.6% vs 43.0%, P = .03). Despite these deviations in baseline characteristics, similar outcomes between groups were observed in the 30-day perioperative period with respect to stroke (2.2% vs 2.8%, P = .58), death (1.3% vs 1.1%, P > .99), and myocardial infarction (.4% vs 0%, P > .99). Similarly, rates of reintervention (1.6% vs 1.1%, P > .99), hematoma formation (2.4% vs 2.2%, P > .99), and stent thrombosis (.5% vs .6%, P > .99) were consistent, regardless of antiplatelet status. At follow-up of 25.4 and 29.1 months, respectively, for the dual antiplatelet and alternative treatment cohorts, no deviations with respect to reintervention, stroke, myocardial infarction, or stent thrombosis were noted. However, there was an increased risk of death (5.4% vs 13.5%, P = .02) in the alternative regimen group. CONCLUSION: In this small series of TCARs, patients not maintained on dual antiplatelets did not experience more perioperative adverse events after TCAR. However, more studies, in larger series, are required to verify and validate these findings.

Gastrocnemius venous aneurysm-a diagnostic dilemma.

A 63-year-old man with multiple previous orthopedic procedures in both lower extremities had presented to us for a third opinion regarding the point-specific pain in his right lateral calf. The initial diagnosis had been venous reflux at two other institutions. However, repeat imaging studies demonstrated an aneurysmal gastrocnemius vein without any other abnormalities, such as venous reflux or thrombosis. The patient had received compression stocking therapy for 6 months but had continued to experience increasing pain at night, especially when lying in bed. The patient was reexamined in the supine position, which showed a prominent bulge in the lateral calf. The bulge disappeared while he was in the upright position. The findings from a bedside ultrasound study confirmed that the gastrocnemius vein bulged out when the muscles were relaxed in the supine position and that the muscles compressed the vein in the standing position, squeezing the aneurysm. Thus, the decision was made to proceed with surgical excision. At 7 months after surgery, the patient remained symptom free.

Transcarotid Revascularization Associated Extended Reverse Flow Duration is Not a Harbinger of Poor Perioperative Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Transcarotid revascularization (TCAR) is a carotid stenting technique in which an external shunt between the common carotid artery and femoral vein is created to induce cerebral flow reversal as protection against procedure-related plaque embolism. We completed this analysis to determine if prolonged cerebral flow reversal was associated with adverse perioperative outcomes. METHODS: A retrospective review of a combined carotid revascularization database separately maintained at 2 high-volume TCAR health systems was completed. Procedures with captured intraoperative reverse flow duration was included, stratified into two cohorts at a cut-off of 8 mi, and examined with univariate analysis. RESULTS: Within the predesignated study period, 800 patients received a carotid stent via the TCAR technique at Indiana University Health (n = 350) and Memorial Hermann Health Systems (n = 450). In 132 of these procedures, the duration of reverse flow time was not captured and, therefore, excluded from further analysis. Using our prespecified cutoff for extended reverse flow duration (ERFD), we generated 256 cases, leaving an additional 412 procedures completed with a short reverse flow duration. Baseline comorbidities were comparable with respect to individual diagnoses but the overall disease burden in ERFD patients was slightly higher by Charlson Comorbidity Index (5.3 ± 0.1 vs. 5.7 ± 0.1, P = 0.02). With respect to indications and high anatomic risk criteria, both groups were similar, with exception of the presence of a surgically inaccessible carotid bifurcation, which was more frequent in the ERFD procedures (5.3% vs. 10.2%, P = 0.02). Intraoperatively, more blood loss (40.9 ± 2.2 vs. 48.9 ± 2.9 mLs, P = 0.03), operative time (55.2 ± 0.8 vs. 76.3 ± 1.6 min, P < 0.01), radiation (126.3 ± 17.5 vs. 281.9 ± 28.5 mGys, P < 0.01), contrast volume (19.9 ± 0.4 vs. 26.9 ± 0.9 mLs, P < 0.01), and fluoroscopy time (3.3 ± 0.8 vs. 6.3 ± 0.3 min, P < 0.01) were noted in the patients with extended flow reversal. However, this did not increase the risk of stroke (2.7% vs. 2.0%, P = 0.61), myocardial infarction (0.5% vs. 0%, P = 0.53), or death (1.2% vs. 0.4%, P = 0.41) in the 30-day perioperative period. CONCLUSIONS: Extended cerebral flow reversal, defined here as greater than 8 min, was not associated with increased risk of stroke, myocardial infarction, or death in this institutionally derived series.

Transcarotid artery revascularization is safe in necks with anatomy hostile for carotid endarterectomy.

OBJECTIVE: The outcomes associated with transcarotid revascularization (TCAR) have proved to be noninferior to the historical results established for carotid endarterectomy (CEA). Therefore, TCAR has been increasingly offered to patients with neck anatomy hostile for traditional CEA. The present investigation was completed to evaluate whether a difference exists for patients undergoing TCAR in de novo anatomy with unviolated surgical planes compared with those undergoing TCAR in necks with hostile anatomy. METHODS: The demographic data and outcomes were captured at two high-volume TCAR institutions from December 2015 to December 2021 via a query of two parallel, prospectively maintained, carotid intervention databases at these two health institutions. A hostile neck anatomy was defined as a history of previous ipsilateral neck radiation, oncologic dissection, or CEA. Univariate analysis was performed to compare the two cohorts at an α of 0.05. RESULTS: During the inclusion period, the data from 750 TCARs were captured, including 108 procedures in hostile neck anatomy and 642 in de novo necks. No significant differences were found in the baseline comorbidity burden using the Charlson comorbidity index or the indication for revascularization. Intraoperatively, no significant increase in case complexity was observed with respect to those with a hostile neck, except for the operative time, which was 10% longer (69.5 vs 63.4 minutes; P = .01). The flow reversal and fluoroscopic times, blood loss, radiation exposure, and contrast use were identical. Postoperatively, no differences were observed between the hostile and de novo necks with respect to stroke (0.9% vs 2.5%; P = .49), myocardial infarction (0.9% vs 0.2%; P = .27), and death (0% vs 1.5%; P = .37). Additionally, hematoma formation and the need for reintervention did not seem to vary between the two groups. Similarly, no differences in the two cohorts were noted during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: According to the findings from our large, dual-institutional series, the performance of TCAR in surgical fields traditionally hostile for CEA was not associated with increased intraoperative complexity or postoperative morbidity.

Results associated with the health system-wide adoption of transcarotid revascularization.

BACKGROUND: In the present report, we have detailed the results derived from the adoption of transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) at a large health system based in the United States. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed of a prospectively maintained database capturing all carotid stents deployed using the ENROUTE neuroprotection device (Silk Road Medical, Sunnyvale, CA) and cerebral flow reversal. The demographics, intraoperative findings, and postoperative results were tabulated and reported. RESULTS: From September 2017 to December 2021, 429 TCAR procedures were attempted within the Memorial Hermann Health System. Preoperatively, all the patients were either asymptomatic with >70% stenosis (66.9%) or symptomatic with >50% stenosis (33.1%). The degree of stenosis was determined using computed tomography angiography and/or duplex ultrasound. We achieved a technical success rate of 99.1%, with the failures attributed to an inability to cross the lesion, an inability to track the stent, visualization of a flow-limiting dissection, and stent maldeployment for one patient each. During the 30-day perioperative period, nine strokes (2.3%) had occurred, three of which had occurred after discharge from the index operation and before the end of the 30-day period. No patient had experienced myocardial infarction. Five patients had died in the perioperative period. Three of the deaths were related to stroke, and two were attributed to cardiopulmonary events secondary to aspiration and likely pulmonary embolus. The mean follow-up after TCAR was 14.5 ± 12.0 months. During the follow-up period, two patients had required reintervention for in-stent stenosis. Ipsilateral to the implanted carotid stent, the overall (including perioperative) stroke incidence was 2.5%. Contralateral to the stent, the stroke incidence was 0.8%. The myocardial infarction rate was 0.8% during follow-up. Mortality in our study population was 5.1% during the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: After adoption of TCAR across the Memorial Hermann Health System, we found this procedure to be safe and efficacious with minimal perioperative risks comparable to the historically reported results associated with alternative carotid interventions.