Transatlantic multicenter study on the use of a modified preloaded delivery system for fenestrated endovascular aortic repair.

OBJECTIVE: Analyze the outcomes of endovascular complex abdominal and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair using the Cook fenestrated device with the modified preloaded delivery system (MPDS) with a biport handle and preloaded catheters. METHODS: A multicenter retrospective single arm cohort study was performed, including all consecutive patients with complex abdominal aortic aneurysm repair and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms treated with the MPDS fenestrated device (Cook Medical). Patient clinical characteristics, anatomy, and indications for device use were collected. Outcomes, classified according to the Society for Vascular Surgery reporting standards, were collected at discharge, 30 days, 6 months, and annually thereafter. RESULTS: Overall, 712 patients (median age, 73 years; interquartile range [IQR], 68-78 years; 83% male) from 16 centers in Europe and the United States treated electively were included: 35.4% (n = 252) presented with thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms and 64.6% (n = 460) with complex abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Overall, 2755 target vessels were included (mean ,3.9 per patient). Of these, 1628 were incorporated via ipsilateral preloads using the MPDS (1440 accessed from the biport handle and 188 from above). The mean size of the contralateral femoral sheath during target vessel catheterization was 15F ± 4, and in 41 patients (6.7%) the sheath size was ≤8F. Technical success was 96.1%. Median procedural time was 209 minutes (IQR, 161-270 minutes), contrast volume was 100 mL (IQR, 70-150mL), fluoroscopy time was 63.9 minutes (IQR, 49.7-80.4 minutes) and median cumulative air kerma radiation dose was 2630 mGy (IQR, 838-5251 mGy). Thirty-day mortality was 4.8% (n = 34). Access complications occurred in 6.8% (n = 48) and 30-day reintervention in 7% (n = 50; 18 branch related). Follow-up of >30 days was available for 628 patients (88%), with a median follow-up of 19 months (IQR, 8-39 months). Branch-related endoleaks (type Ic/IIIc) were observed in 15 patients (2.6%) and aneurysm growth of >5 mm was observed in 54 (9.5%). Freedom from reintervention at 12 and 24 months was 87.1% (standard error [SE],1.5%) and 79.2% (SE, 2.0%), respectively. Overall target vessel patency at 12 and 24 months was 98.6% (SE, 0.3%) and 96.8% (SE, 0.4%), respectively, and was 97.9% (SE, 0.4%) and 95.3% (SE, 0.8%) for arteries stented from below using the MPDS, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The MPDS is safe and effective. Overall benefits include a decrease in contralateral sheath size in the treatment of complex anatomies with favorable results.

Protocolo y algoritmo de diagnóstico, tratamiento y derivación ágil de las úlceras de la extremidad inferior / Protocol and algorithm for diagnosis, treatment and early referral of lower limb ulcers

Las úlceras venosas son una patología muy prevalente, especialmente en pacientes de edad avanzada. repercutennegativamente en la calidad de vida de los pacientes y conllevan un importante consumo de recursos. este artículopropone un práctico algoritmo para el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de las úlceras en la pierna con el objetivo deoptimizar su manejo. existe una amplia literatura sobre el tema, pero sigue existiendo una brecha entre la evidenciacientífi ca y la práctica clínica que seguimos tratando de minimizar. Laboratorios Urgo propuso al Capítulo español de Flebología y Linfología la creación de un comité de expertos deespaña y portugal para la elaboración de un algoritmo de diagnóstico, tratamiento y derivación ágil de las úlcerasen la extremidad inferior. Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica sistemática y se tuvieron en cuenta las guías depráctica clínica (GpC). Se diseñó un algoritmo sobre una regla nemotécnica alfabética que busca ayudar a memorizar los pasos clave deldiagnóstico y del tratamiento de estas úlceras. Se englobaron todos los aspectos prácticos, desde la valoración en atención primaria por médicos y enfermerashasta la atención especializada por el especialista en angiología y cirugía vascular. Con las letras del abecedario dela a hasta la F, resumimos los pasos necesarios para asegurar el diagnóstico de la úlcera, el mejor (best) tratamientolocal, terapia compresiva, tratamiento preventivo de recidiva después de la cicatrización de la úlcera y estrategiaquirúrgica y farmacológica.el diagnóstico preciso, la actuación correcta ajustada a las GpC y la derivación temprana para valorar estrategiasquirúrgicas o escleroterapia contribuyen a la resolución y a la reducción del tiempo de cicatrización de las úlcerasy la mejora de la calidad de vida de los pacientes. Seguir las GpC a través de un algoritmo reduce el consumo derecursos y de gasto, acelerando la cicatrización de la úlcera y previniendo su recidiva.(AU)

Venous ulcers are a prevalent disease, especially in elderly patients. they have a negative impact in patients’ qualityof life and carry a significant economic burden. this article suggests an algorithm for the diagnosis and treatment oflower extremity ulcers in order to optimize their management. there is huge evidence and multiple organizationshave published guidelines, consensus documents and treatment recommendations. nevertheless, there is still agap between evidence and clinical practice. Urgo Laboratories proposed the Spanish phlebology and Lymphology Chapter the creation of a Spanish andportuguese experts committee the elaboration of an algorithm for diagnosis and treatment and early referral oflower extremity ulcers. a systematic review was performed, considering the current clinical practice guidelines. the algorithm was designed on a simple alphabetic mnemonic rule aiming to easily memorize the key points andmost relevant issues of the diagnosis and treatment of these ulcers.all necessary steps from primary care nurses and physicians to Vascular Surgery were considered. With the alphabetletters from a to F in Spanish, all key points were summed up. to confirm ulcer diagnosis (asegurar el diagnóstico dela úlcera), best local treatment, compressive therapy, preventive treatment after healing (tratamiento preventivo derecidiva después de la cicatrización de la úlcera), surgical strategy (estrategia quirúrgica) and pharmacological strategy(estrategia farmacológica).an accurate diagnosis, a clinical practice according to the clinical practice guidelines and an early referral to thespecialist in order to determine if there is a surgical or interventional strategy are essential to effective resolutionand reduction of ulcer healing time, and finally to prevent its recurrence.(AU)

Trucos y consejos para optimizar el tiempo de cateterización de arterias visceralesen dispositivos fenestrados (FEVAR) / Tips and tricks to optimize catheterization time of target vessel in fenestrated devices (FEVAR)

Introducción: el tratamiento de aneurismas complejos mediante FEVAR incluye entre sus objetivos un tiempoquirúrgico reducido para poder alcanzar el éxito técnico y clínico. Sin embargo, la canulación y el implante de losstents puente en múltiples arterias viscerales pueden suponer un factor limitante. Para evitar un tiempo de escopia y una dosis de radiación prolongados existen algunas maniobras que pueden ayudar a optimizar el tiempo de cateterización. Material y métodos: se realiza una revisión de los últimos casos tratados mediante endoprótesis fenestradas custom made de Zenith Cook® durante el año 2021 en un servicio de angiología, cirugía vascular y endovascular. El objetivo es mostrar las técnicas que sirven para optimizar el tratamiento de aneurismas complejos y que el cirujano puede emplear con el material habitual. Para ello se muestran varios fragmentos de vídeos de estos procedimientos grabados con el sistema OneView. Resultados: el primer paso clave consiste en la liberación del dispositivo fenestrado. La endoprótesis de Cook® presenta una o varias ligaduras de reducción que la mantienen fruncida hasta garantizar una correcta orientación y un correcto posicionamiento. Asimismo, ofrece la opción de canular las arterias viscerales entre la pared arterial y el dispositivo. Con una planifi cación adecuada y un abordaje sistematizado, el uso de guías coaxiales, catéteres de punta simple o reversa e introductores es esencial. El techo de la endoprótesis permite el avance de guías y de introductores con el soporte sufi ciente para su canulación. Los sistemas precargados permiten la canulación desde el miembro superior o el inferior. En este último caso, se utiliza una guía buddy de 0,014" que ofrece soporte al introductor, ya que lo acerca más aún a la fenestración, de tal modo que potencia el momento de torsión (torque) y el empuje del catéter.

Introduction: the treatment of complex aneurysms using FEVAR includes among its objectives a reduced surgicaltime in order to achieve technical and clinical success. However, cannulation and implantation of bridging stentsin multiple visceral arteries can be a limiting factor. To avoid a protracted scope time and radiation dose, there aresome maneuvers that can help optimize catheterization time. Material and methods: a review of the last cases treated with custom made Zenith Cook® fenestrated endoprostheses during the year 2021 is performed in an angiology, vascular and endovascular surgery service. The objective is to show video clips recorded with the OneView system of these techniques that the surgeon can use with the usual material to optimize the treatment of complex aneurysms.Results: the first key step is the release of the fenestrated device. The Cook® endoprosthesis has one or morereduction ligatures that keep it puckered until it guarantees correct orientation and positioning, as well as theoption of cannulating the visceral arteries between the arterial wall and the device.With proper planning and a systematic approach, the use of coaxial guides with single or reverse tip cathetersand introducers are essential. The roof of the endoprosthesis allows the advancement of guides and introducerswith sufficient support for their cannulation. The preloaded systems allow cannulation from the upper or lowerlimb. In the latter case, a 0.014” buddy guide is used to provide support for the introducer, bringing it even closerto fenestration in such a way as to enhance the torque and thrust of the catheter.

One Year Outcomes of an International Multicentre Prospective Cohort Study on the Gore Excluder Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis for Aorto-Iliac Aneurysms.

OBJECTIVE: The Gore Excluder Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis (IBE) was developed to preserve perfusion in the hypogastric artery after endovascular repair of aorto-iliac aneurysms. This study reports the 12 month technical and clinical outcomes of treatment with this device. METHODS: This study was a physician initiated international multicentre, prospective cohort study. The primary endpoint was primary patency of the hypogastric branch at 12 months. Secondary endpoints included technical and clinical outcomes. Patients with an indication for elective treatment with the Gore Excluder IBE were enrolled between March 2015 and August 2018. Baseline and procedural characteristics, imaging data, physical examinations and questionnaire data (Walking Impairment Questionnaire [WIQ], EuroQol-5-Dimensions [EQ5D], International Index of Erectile Function 5 [IIEF-5]) were collected through 12 month follow up. RESULTS: One hundred patients were enrolled of which 97% were male, with a median age of 70.0 years (interquartile range [IQR] 64.5 - 75.5 years). An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) above threshold for treatment was found in 42.7% and in the remaining patients the iliac artery diameter was the indication for treatment. The maximum common iliac artery (CIA) diameter on the Gore Excluder IBE treated side was 35.5 mm (IQR 30.8 - 42.0) mm. Twenty-two patients received a bilateral and seven patients had an isolated IBE. Median procedural time was 151 minutes (IQR 117 - 193 minutes) with a median hospital stay of four days (IQR 3 - 5 days). Primary patency of the IBE at 12 month follow up was 91.3%. Primary patency for patients treated inside and outside the instructions for use were 91.8% and 85.7%, respectively (p = .059). Freedom from secondary interventions was 98% and 97% at 30 days and 12 months, respectively. CIA and AAA diameters decreased significantly through 12 months. IIEF-5 and EQ5D scores remained stable through follow up. Patency of the contralateral internal iliac artery led to better IIEF-5 outcomes. WIQ scores decreased at 30 days and returned to baseline values through 12 months. CONCLUSION: Use of the Gore Excluder IBE for the treatment of aorto-iliac aneurysms shows a satisfactory primary patency through 12 months, with significant decrease of diameters, a low re-intervention rate, and favourable clinical outcomes.

Could prior endovascular interventions affect the results of lower extremity below the knee autologous vein bypasses?

BACKGROUND: Performing a non-selective primary endovascular approach involves risk of performing ineffective procedures and could compromise future treatments. The objective of this research is to determine if previous failed endovascular intervention could affect bypass results. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study including 77 below the knee (BTK) bypasses with great saphenous vein (GSV) in patients with critical limb ischemia, carried out between 2008-2018. Primary bypasses (P-BP) were compared with bypasses with history of previous failed endovascular intervention (Secondary bypasses [S-BP]). Primary outcomes included: primary, primary-assisted, and secondary patency, and major amputation-free survival (AFS). The quality of GSV used was evaluated as a potential confounding factor. RESULTS: Forty-six procedures were P-BP (59.7%) and 31 S-BP (40.3%). The mean follow-up was 35.4 (SD: 31) and 28 (DS: 30) months respectively. Univariate results showed an increased risk of loss of primary patency (HR=2.7), primary-assisted patency (HR=3.1) and secondary patency (HR=3.26) in S-BP (P<0.05). This group also presented a trend towards an increased risk of major amputation (HR=1.6; P>0.05). Suboptimal GSV was used in 29% of S-BP and 15% of P-BP. This factor was identified as confounding partially, as it decreased the influence assumed by the history of prior endovascular intervention in the analyzed variables. CONCLUSIONS: Secondary bypasses show inferior results to primary bypasses in our series. Although the cause could be a prior failed endovascular intervention, the frequent use of suboptimal GSV in this type of patients may also contribute to this effect.

Tratamiento endovascular con dispositivos ramificados ilíacos: estudio multicéntrico / Endovascular treatment with iliac branch devices: multicenter study

INTRODUCCIÓN: se estima que entre 18 y un 39 % de los pacientes con aneurismas del sector aortoilíaco sometidos a tratamiento endovascular presentan zonas no aptas para el sellado distal en arterias ilíacas comunes. Tradicionalmente, una de las opciones disponibles para abordar dicha situación consiste en realizar un sellado distal a nivel de las arterias ilíacas externas, ocluyendo las arterias hipogástricas. Sin embargo, esto conlleva la aparición de manifestaciones clínicas derivadas de la isquémica pélvica en el 28-55 % de los casos. La utilización de dispositivos ramificados ilíacos (DRI) permite mantener el flujo anterógrado a las arterias hipogástricas, lo que evita este tipo de complicaciones. El objetivo de nuestro estudio es analizar los resultados a medio plazo de la exclusión endovascular de aneurismas del sector aortoilíaco utilizando DRI. MÉTODOS: estudio descriptivo retrospectivo multicéntrico que incluye los DRI utilizados para el tratamiento endovascular de aneurismas de aorta con afectación del sector aortoilíaco entre enero de 2008 y julio de 2019. Se recogieron datos demográficos, anatómicos, intra- y perioperatorios y de seguimiento en tres centros. Las variables de interés analizadas fueron: éxito técnico, mortalidad perioperatoria, incidencia de isquemia pélvica, permeabilidad primaria de rama hipogástrica y rama ilíaca externa, reintervención relacionada con DRI y mortalidad relacionada con el aneurisma. RESULTADOS: se incluyeron 80 DRI implantados en 61 pacientes: 28 (35 %) Gore(R) Excluder(R) Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis y 52 (65 %) Cook(R) Zenith(R) Branch Endovascular Graft. Se implantaron DRI bilaterales en 18 casos (29,5 %). La tasa de éxito técnico fue del 95 % sin que existieran casos de muertes en el periodo perioperatorio. El seguimiento medio fue de 30,1 meses (± 26,3). Se presentaron seis casos de isquemia pélvica durante el seguimiento. La permeabilidad de la rama hipogástrica fue del 97,5 %, del 94,5 % y del 90,6 % a los 6, 12 y 24 meses, respectivamente. La permeabilidad de la rama ilíaca externa fue del 100 %, del 97,3 % y del 95,5 % a los 6, 12 y 24 meses, respectivamente. La tasa libre de reintervención secundaria al DRI fue del 100 %, del 96,8 % y del 94,7 % a los 6, 12 y 24 meses, respectivamente. Se produjo un caso de muerte relacionada con el aneurisma durante el seguimiento. CONCLUSIONES: en nuestra experiencia, los DRI presentan buenos resultados a medio plazo en la exclusión endovascular de aneurismas con afectación del sector aortoilíaco. Estos dispositivos permiten mantener la permeabilidad de las arterias hipogástricas, minimizando la incidencia de isquemia pélvica. A pesar de las escasas complicaciones tardías y la baja tasa de reintervenciones, es necesario realizar un seguimiento a largo plazo para mantener el éxito técnico

INTRODUCTION: it is estimated that between 18-39 % of patients with aorto-iliac aneurysms undergoing endovascular treatment have a no suitable zone for distal sealing in common iliac arteries. Traditionally, one of the options is to perform a distal seal at the external iliac arteries occluding the hypogastric arteries. However, this can lead to complications derived from pelvic ischemia in 28-55 % of cases. The use of iliac branched devices (IBD) allow to maintain the antegrade flow to the hypogastric arteries, avoiding these complications. The objective of our study is to analyze the medium-term results of endovascular exclusion of aorto-iliac aneurysms using IBD. METHODS: a descriptive multicenter retrospective study including the IBD for the endovascular treatment of aneurysms with involvement of the aorto-iliac sector was conducted between January 2008 and July 2019. Demographic, anatomical, intra-perioperative and follow-up data was collected at 3 centers. The variables of interest analyzed were: technical success, perioperative mortality, incidence of pelvic ischemia, primary patency of the hypogastric branch and external iliac branch, DRI-related reoperation, and aneurysm-related mortality. RESULTS: eighty IBDs were included from 61 patients: 28 (35 %) Gore(R) Excluder(R) Iliac Branch Endoprosthesis, and 52 (65 %) Cook(R) Zenith(R) Branch Endovascular Graft. Bilateral IBDs were implanted in 18 cases (29.5 %). The technical success was achieved in 95 % of cases, with no perioperative deaths. The mean follow-up was 30.1 (± 26.3) months. 6 patients presented pelvic ischemia during follow-up. The patency of the hypogastric side branch was 97.5 %, 94.5 %, and 90.6 %, at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively. The patency of the external iliac side branch was 100 %, 97.3 %, and 95.5 %, at 6, 12, 24 months, respectively. Freedom from reintervention rate secondary to IBD was 100 %, 96.8 %, and 94.7 %, at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively. There was 1 case of aneurysm-related death during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: in our experience, IBDs show good medium-term results in endovascular treatment of aorto-iliac aneurysms. These devices allow to maintain the perfusion of the hypogastric arteries, minimizing the incidence of pelvic ischemia. Although the appearance of late complications and the need for reinterventions is low, a long-term follow-up should be carried out to maintain the success of the procedure

National Diagnostic Reference Levels for Endovascular Aneurysm Repair and Optimisation Strategies.

OBJECTIVE: The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) has highlighted the large number of medical specialties using fluoroscopy outside imaging departments without programmes of radiation protection (RP) for patients and staff. Vascular surgery is one of these specialties and endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is one of the most challenging procedures requiring RP guidance and optimisation actions. The recent European Directive on Basic Safety Standards requires the use and regular update of diagnostic reference levels (DRL) for interventional procedures. The objective of the study was to know the doses of patients undergoing EVAR with mobile Xray systems and with hybrid rooms (fixed Xray systems), to obtain national DRLs and suggest optimisation actions. METHODS: The Spanish Chapter of Endovascular Surgery launched a national survey that involved hospitals for 10 autonomous communities representing the 77% of the Spanish population (46.7 million inhabitants). Patient dose values from mobile Xray systems were available from nine hospitals (sample of 165 EVAR procedures) and data from hybrid rooms, from seven hospitals, with dosimetric data from 123 procedures. The initial national DRLs have been obtained, as the third quartile of the median values from the different centres involved in the survey. RESULTS: The proposed national DRLs are 278 Gy cm2 for hybrid rooms and 87 Gy cm2 for mobile Xray systems, and for cumulative air kerma (cumulative AK) at the patient entrance reference point, 1403 mGy for hybrid rooms, and 292 mGy for mobile systems. CONCLUSION: An audit of patient doses for EVAR procedures to identify optimised imaging protocol strategies is needed. It is also appropriate to evaluate the diagnostic information required for EVAR procedures. The increase by a factor of 3.2 (for kerma area product) and 4.8 (for cumulative AK) in the DRLs needs to be justified when the procedures are performed in the hybrid rooms rather than with mobile Xray systems.

Adventitial cystic disease of radial artery. Apropos of a case and review of literature.

Adventitial cystic disease is an uncommon condition that is characterized by the collection of mucinous material that accumulates in the adventitial layer of the artery. Predominantly, this entity affects the popliteal artery, whereas it is extremely rare in the radial artery. We report a 72-year-old female patient that underwent surgical treatment of an adventitial cyst of the right radial artery. The involved arterial segment was resected, and reconstruction by means of the interposition of a saphenous vein graft was performed. Although the etiology is still debated, the finding of a pedicle through the superficial palmar branch of the radial artery connecting to the adjacent wrist joint reinforces the hypothesis of synovial origin. After 12 months, the patient is asymptomatic, and duplex ultrasound shows no signs of recurrence and patency of the bypass. This rare entity should be suspected when a pulsatile mass is noted in the radial artery because an early diagnosis and appropriate management may prevent further complications.

Fenestrated and chimney endovascular aneurysm repair versus open surgery for complex abdominal aortic aneurysms.

BACKGROUND: Many patients with complex abdominal aortic aneurysms are unfit for open repair. New endovascular technologies and bailout techniques are being used for managing these complex anatomies. The purpose of this study is to compare the results obtained with advanced endovascular aneurysm repair (a-EVAR) techniques (fenestrated and chimney endografts) to those obtained with open repair for the treatment of complex abdominal aortic aneurysms not anatomically suitable for standard endovascular exclusion (infrarenal neck <10 mm, juxtarenal, suprarenal and Crawford's type IV thoracoabdominal aneurysms). METHODS: All patients that underwent open surgery (OS cohort; historical, January 1994-December 2015) or a-EVAR (a-EVAR cohort; prospective, January 2006-December 2015) at our institution for complex abdominal aortic aneurysms that meet the anatomical criteria described above on the preoperatory contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan were included. Vascular Physiological and Operative Severity Score for the enUmeration of Mortality and morbidity (V-POSSUM) was employed for risk-assessment. RESULTS: A total of 108 patients were included, all of them male: 56 in the OS cohort and 52 in the a-EVAR cohort (mean age: 67.5±6.7 vs. 72.65±6.4 years, respectively; P=0.000). V-POSSUM predicted 4 deaths for the OS cohort and 3 deaths for the a-EVAR cohorts within the postoperative period and morbidity rates of 57% and a 44.4%, respectively. All-cause 30-day mortality rates were 9 patients (16%) for the OS cohort and 2 patients (3.8%) for the a-EVAR cohort (P=0.038). Thirty-day morbidity rates were 59% for the OS cohort and 44% for the a-EVAR cohort (P=0.09). Mean cost of treatment was € 15,707 per patient for the OS cohort (median: € 11,516; inter-quartilic range [IQR]: € 7901; min-max: € 5069-11,0052) and € 33,457 per patient for the a-EVAR cohort (median: € 29,663; IQR: € 5979; min-max: € 13,865-19,3536), P=0.000. CONCLUSIONS: A-EVAR is a feasible alternative to open surgery for complex abdominal aortic aneurysms at our institution, with lower 30-day mortality rates, yet increasing double the amount the total cost of the therapy.

Development of an individualized scoring system to predict mid-term survival after carotid endarterectomy.

BACKGROUND: Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is a prophylactic surgery focused in preventing stroke in the mid-long term. The purpose of this study was to analyze mid-term mortality in patients undergoing CEA, identify predictors of 3-year mortality and design a score to estimate individual risk of mortality in this population. METHODS: A retrospective single-center study including consecutive patients undergoing CEA between 1997-2010. Demographic data and comorbidities, postoperative results and patient follow-up data were registered and evaluated. Kaplan Meier analysis was used to analyze survival. After multivariable COX regression analysis, a score based on the calculated Hazards Ratios (HR) was designed. The sum of all points performed the individual score for each patient for estimating 3-years mortality. Population was stratified into four groups according to percentiles of score obtained: Group A (-7 to 4 points), Group B (5-8 points), Group C (9-10 points), Group D (score greater than 11 points). RESULTS: A total of 453 patients with a mean follow-up of 53.4 months were included in the study. Overall 3-year survival was 88.4%. On the univariate analysis the variables associated with significant increasing in 3-year mortality were: female gender (OR 2.32), diabetes mellitus (OR 2.28), COPD (OR 2.98), ischemic heart disease (OR 2.29), critical carotid stenosis >90% (OR 2.16) and antiplatelet therapy as a protective factor (OR 0,23). Factors associated with mortality in multivariate analysis were age (HR 1.14 P=0.001), diabetes mellitus (HR 1.62, P=0.031), COPD (HR 1.88 P=0.022), ischemic heart disease (HR 1.59 P=0.05), critical stenosis >90% (HR 1.70 P=0.015) and antiplatelet therapy as a protective factor (HR 0.23 P=0.027). The scoring system includes the following items: female gender (+2 points), age (50-69 years +7 points, 70-79 years +12 points, >80 years +15 points), diabetes (+4 points), COPD (+5 points), ischemic heart disease (+4 points), carotid stenosis> 90% (+4 points). Antiplatelet (-7 points). The score range from -7 to 26 points. The 3-year mortality range was 5.6% (group A) versus 25.5% (group D). The incidence of stroke at 3-year folllow-up was not correlated with the score (99%, 100%, 97% and 94.5%, respectively groups A-D, P=0.11) CONCLUSIONS: The score developed based on the risk factors of mortality allows individualized risk prediction of 3-year mortality in patients with carotid stenosis. This represents a useful and practical tool for decision-making in the indication of the CEA, allowing surgeons to identify high-risk patients who would benefit from medical treatment due to their limited life expectancy, mainly in asymptomatic patients.

Arteriocutaneous Fistula Associated with Bilateral Femoral Pseudoaneurysms Caused by Bacillus Calmette-Guérin. Apropos of a Case and Review of Literature.

Vascular complications of intravesical instillation of bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) are rare. BCG is an attenuated strain of Mycobacterium bovis that was initially developed for vaccination against tuberculosis, but it has also been used as an adjuvant treatment for bladder transitional carcinoma. We report a patient with a history of instillation of BCG 2 years before, who underwent surgical treatment of 2 pseudoaneurysms. The first, located in the left superficial femoral artery (SFA), was resected, and the artery was ligated because he had a history of femoropopliteal occlusion. After 4 weeks, he presented another one associated with hemorrhage by cutaneous fistula, in the right common femoral artery. In this case, revascularization was performed by means a common-to-deep femoral artery bypass with polytetrafluorethylene graft and reimplantation of SFA. Initially, bacterial cultures were negative, but bacilli cultures identified M. bovis after 3 weeks. Antituberculosis therapy was administered. After 13 months, the patient was asymptomatic and duplex ultrasound showed no signs of recurrent infection. This exposure should be considered if presentation of the false aneurysm is spontaneous and there is a history of bladder carcinoma.

Combined non-surgical treatment for Paget-Schröetter syndrome: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Paget-Schröetter syndrome is an uncommon form of venous thrombosis, which is related to thoracic outlet syndrome. Axillary-subclavian vein thrombosis typically presents in healthy young adults. We present this case of particular interest because it indicates that a combined treatment involving thrombolysis, anticoagulation therapy, rehabilitation, and elastic compression sleeves can be a valid non-surgical alternative for some patients with Paget-Schröetter syndrome. CASE PRESENTATION: This report describes a case of a 38-year-old white woman, a swimmer, who presented with a sudden episode of swelling and pain in her right upper extremity. After duplex ultrasound diagnosis of venous thrombosis, computed tomography (CT) showed extrinsic compression of the vessel. Catheter-directed thrombolysis was performed in the first 24 hours, followed by anticoagulant therapy with bemiparin at a dose of 7500 IU/24 hours for the first week, and then reduced to 3500 IU/24 hours for the next 3 months. After treatment there was restoration of her venous flow and she returned to work 2 weeks later. Anticoagulant treatment was continued for 3 months; decompression surgery was not performed. At 6 months she was asymptomatic. CONCLUSION: Combined treatment involving thrombolysis, anticoagulant therapy, rehabilitation, and elastic compression sleeves may be a valid non-surgical alternative for a selected subset of patients with Paget-Schröetter syndrome.

Applicability of Zenith p-branch Standard Fenestrated Endograft in Our Series.

BACKGROUND: In the endovascular treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) with short or absent infrarenal neck, the delay in the availability of fenestrated device and its high cost, have led to the manufacture of standardized models. Another option is the endografts with stents in parallel; however, regulated criteria for their use and long-term studies are lacking. The aim of this study was to assessed whether the AAA treated with fenestrated device or stents in parallel in our department, complied with the characteristics for the placement of the new endograft p-branch(®). Furthermore, the differences between the p-branch and the implanted prosthesis were analyzed. METHODS: Single-center and descriptive study of 41 aneurysms treated consecutively from 2008 to 2015. The anatomic characteristics analyzed were: relative distances between the visceral arteries, time position, diameter in the sealing area and number of fenestrations, and its compatibility with the p-branch. RESULTS: The anatomic compatibility rate with the p-branch options was 73.2% (30 cases). Of the 11 incompatible cases, 6 were due to misalignment of the visceral branches, 2 due to the aortic neck diameter being greater, another because the femoral access was inappropriate, and 2 more due to the fenestration configuration. Of the 30 cases in which compatibility existed, in 12 (40%) the configuration used coincided with the p-branch. In 13 cases, the number of fenestrations was higher than those actually used, with 23 fenestrations carried out and 39 hypothetical fenestrations with the new endograft. In the 5 remaining cases, a fenestration for the celiac trunk was necessary to achieve an adequate seal. CONCLUSIONS: The p-branch could meet the needs of three-quarters of the aortic anatomies of our series, with favorable expectations on cost and waiting time. However, in most cases either a higher number of fenestrations are needed for visceral arteries or the proximal seal was shorter than would be ideal.

Mid-Term Outcomes of Endovascular Treatment for TASC-II D Femoropopliteal Occlusive Disease with Critical Limb Ischemia.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to assess the safety and midterm effectiveness of endovascular treatment in Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society Consensus II (TASC-II) D femoropopliteal occlusions in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI). METHODS: Patients with CLI who underwent endovascular treatment for TASC-D de novo femoropopliteal occlusive disease between September 2008 and December 2013 were selected. Data included anatomic features, pre- and postprocedure ankle-brachial index, duplex ultrasound, and periprocedural complications. Sustained clinical improvement, limb salvage rate, freedom from target lesion revascularization (TLR), and freedom from target extremity revascularization (TER) were assessed by Kaplan-Meier estimation and predictors of restenosis/occlusion with Cox analysis. RESULTS: Thirty-two patients underwent treatment of 35 TASC-D occlusions. Mean age was 76 ± 9. Mean lesion length was 23 ± 5 cm. Twenty-eight limbs (80 %) presented tissue loss. Seventeen limbs underwent treatment by stent, 13 by stent-graft, and 5 by angioplasty. Mean follow-up was 29 ± 20 months. Seven patients required major amputation and six patients died during follow-up. Eighteen endovascular and three surgical TLR procedures were performed due to restenosis or occlusion. Estimated freedom from TLR and TER rates at 2 years were 41 and 76%, whereas estimated primary and secondary patency rates were 41 and 79%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Endovascular treatment for TASC II D lesions is safe and offers satisfying outcomes. This patient subset would benefit from a minimally invasive approach. Follow-up is advisable due to a high rate of restenosis. Further follow-up is necessary to know the long-term efficacy of these procedures.

Rapidly expanding ulnar false aneurysm related to a tablet computer.

Aneurysms of the ulnar artery are rare, usually related to the hypothenar hammer syndrome and caused by repetitive blunt trauma over the hook of the hamate bone. However, rapidly expanding ulnar false aneurysms are extremely rare, and nearly all are caused by a penetrating injury. We report a singular case of rapidly expanding pseudoaneurysm caused by the repetitive use of the hypothenar eminence as the supporting point of a tablet computer. This tablet model has a notch on its posterior side that played an essential role in the pathogenesis. This report illustrate that even low-intensity trauma can be an exceptional cause of injury to the palmar portion of the ulnar artery, and subsequently, can lead to the development of these lesions. The false aneurysm was repaired by means of resection and reconstruction by an end-to-end anastomosis because a rapid diagnosis and surgical treatment can prevent further complications.

The Roadside Technique for Type II Endoleak Embolization 4 Years after Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair.

Endoleaks are the most common cause of reintervention after endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR). Type II endoleaks have been implicated as a risk factor for expansion and rupture. Several techniques have been described to manage type II endoleaks, being transarterial catheterization the most commonly used. In some cases this technique can be difficult or impossible to achieve. We report the use of a technique that offers a direct access to the aneurysm sac and the possibility of catheterization of the involved vessels or the embolization of the communication between them, even 4 years after EVAR.

Endograft-assisted coil embolization of a celiac trunk aneurysm.

BACKGROUND: Celiac trunk aneurysms are rare but potential life-threatening lesions. Endovascular techniques are more often used for their treatment because of low rates of morbidity and mortality. CASE REPORT: We describe a modification of stent-assisted coil embolization technique more commonly used in the treatment of intracranial aneurysm, to exclude a 50-mm diameter celiac trunk aneurysm. The patient was a 67-year-old man who had a previous exclusion of a symptomatic aortic aneurysm, with occlusion of the inferior mesenteric and both hypogastric arteries. Anatomic features of the celiac trunk aneurysm and its branches do not allow treatment with a straight endograft or maintain direct flow to the hepatic artery. We then performed an endograft-assisted coil embolization of the aneurysm, with a straight flow line to the splenic artery. CONCLUSION: Endograft-assisted coil embolization is a feasible and safe technique to allow selective embolization of the sac and the presence of direct flow to the splenic artery and indirect flow to the hepatic artery.

Predictors of cervical bleeding after carotid endarterectomy.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study is to determine the incidence of severe cervical bleeding requiring reintervention after carotid endarterectomy (CEA), to identify its predictive parameters, and to find out the influence of these on major complications. METHODS: This was a retrospective review of 502 CEAs carried out in 455 consecutive patients between 1995-2011 in our institution. The end points were: postoperative cervical bleeding that required reoperation and major postoperative complications (i.e., stroke, myocardial infarction, and death). Patients' demographics, antiplatelet and anticoagulant treatment, anaesthetic technique, surgical details, and perioperative management were registered. The end point predictors were univariate and multivariate analyzed. RESULTS: Neck bleeding after CEA occurred in 42 cases (8.4%), requiring reoperation in 28 cases (5.6%). In the univariate analysis, chronic anticoagulation and anticoagulation 24 hours before surgery were associated with reoperation for bleeding (16.6% vs. 4.8% [P = 0.02] and 17.8% vs. 4.7% [P = 0.014], respectively). The agent used for antiplatelet treatment before surgery was related to reoperation in the univariate analysis and was the only factor with statistical significance in the multivariate analysis: acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) 100 mg (2.4%), ASA 300 mg (1.5%), clopidogrel 75 mg (7.8%), ASA 100 mg associated with clopidogrel (3.3%), triflusal (5.5%), and ticlopidine (2.2%); there was a higher incidence of reoperation only in the group of patients who had taken clopidogrel 24 hours before CEA (4.7% vs. 1.05% [P = 0.06], respectively) but without statistical significance (odds ratio: 2; 95% confidence interval: 0.95-4.84). No reoperations were registered using vein patch compared to prosthetic patch (0% vs. 6.1% [P = 0.028]). Conversion to general anesthesia (22.2% vs. 4.9% [P = 0.014]) and noncontrollable postoperative hypertension (6.9% vs. 2.5% [P = 0.028]) were associated with a higher rate of reoperation. There were no statistically significant differences in the reoperation rates related to bleeding for anesthetic technique (local versus general), surgical procedure (classic endarterectomy versus eversion technique), type of prosthetic patch (Dacron/politetrafluoroethylene), use of shunt, intraoperative dose of heparin, protamine reversal, activated clotting time monitoring, or surgeon qualification level. The combined rate of stroke mortality was 2.6%. Reoperation for bleeding was not associated with an increased rate of thrombosis, stroke, death, or injury of cranial nerves. CONCLUSIONS: Postoperative severe bleeding after carotid surgery in our institution is not an uncommon complication. Its incidence is within the range reported in the literature, but it is not associated with major complications or mortality. Antiplatelet treatment with clopidogrel is the main risk factor associated with reintervention. Other factors, such as coagulation control, postoperative hypertension management, and the use of an autologous patch, could help reduce its incidence.

Historia natural de la estenosis carotídea de grado moderado en pacientes con enfermedad arterial periférica / Natural history of moderate-degree carotid stenosis in patients with peripheral artery disease

Fundamento y objetivo: Conocer la evolución de la estenosis carotídea moderada asintomática, losfactores que influyen en la progresión y la morbimortalidad relacionada. Pacientes y método: Estudio observacional retrospectivo de 133 pacientes con estenosis carotídea asintomática entre 50-69% en una o ambas carótidas entre 2002 y 2009. Se incluyen pacientes sometidos a cribado por enfermedad arterial periférica (EAP), patología aneurismática o soplo carotíeo. El seguimiento se realiza mediante ecodoppler anual. Se valora el grado de progresión, variables relacionadas con esta, la aparición de episodios neurológicos y mortalidad global y cardiovascular. Se ha realizado un estudio descriptivo, análisis univariante (ji al cuadrado y t de Student), análisis multivariante (regresión logística) y curvas de supervivencia (test de Log-Rank). Resultados: Con un tiempo medio (DE) de seguimiento de 30,8 (1,7) meses, se observó progresión de la estenosis en el 33% de los pacientes, con un tiempo medio de progresión de 31 3 (2,7) meses. Se registró una mayor tasa de progresión en el subgrupo de pacientes que asociaban EAP y cardiopatía isquémica (odds ratio [OR] 2,84, intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC 95%] 1,14-7,03). En el análisis multivariante tan solo la EAP se presenta como un factor de riesgo de progresión (p = 0,043). El grupo de pacientes con progresión presentó mayores tasas de episodios neurológicos (15 frente a 1,6%, p = 0,01), mayor mortalidad global (15 frente a 3%, p = 0,04) y mayor mortalidad cardiovascular (12,1 frente a 1,5%, p = 0,03). Conclusiones: La progresión de estenosis carotídea asintomática entre el 50-69% es frecuente en pacientes sometidos a cribado, especialmente en aquellos con antecedentes de cardiopatía isquémica y/o EAP. Esta progresión se asocia a una mayor tasa de complicaciones cardiovasculares. Por ello recomendamos el seguimiento clínico y ecográfico de estos pacientes (AU)

Background and objective: To understand the evolution of moderate asymptomatic carotid stenosis, the factors that influence its progression and the related morbimortality. Patients and methods: Retrospective observational study of 133 patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis between 50-69% in one or both carotids between 2002 and 2009. Included patients were subjected to screening for peripheral arterial disease (PAD), aneurysmal disease or carotid bruit. The monitoring was carried out using an annual duplex scan. The rate of progression, the variables related to this, the appearance of neurological events, and global and cardiovascular mortality were evaluated. Descriptive studies, univariate analysis (chi-squared test and Student’s t-test), multivariate analysis (logistic regression), and survival curves (Log-Rank test) were carried out. Results: With an average time of monitoring: 30.8 1.7 months, stenosis progression was observed in 33% of the patients, with an average progression time of 31.3 2.7 onths. Greater progression was observed in the subgroup of patients with PAD and ischemic heart disease (odds ratio [OR] 2.84, confidence interval [CI] 95% 1.14-7.03). In the multivariate analysis only the PAD was identified as a risk factor for progression (P = .043). The group of patients with progression showed greater rates of neurological events: 15 vs. 1.6% (P = .01), greater global mortality: 15 vs. 3% (P = .04), and greater cardiovascular mortality: 12.1 vs. 1.5% (P = .03). Conclusions: The progression of asymptomatic carotid stenosis between 50-69% is common in patients subjected to screening, especially in those with a history of ischaemic heart disease and/or PAD. This progression is associated with an increased rate of cardiovascular complications. For this reason, we recommend clinical and echographic follow-up of these patients (AU)

[Natural history of moderate-degree carotid stenosis in patients with peripheral artery disease]. / Historia natural de la estenosis carotídea de grado moderado en pacientes con enfermedad arterial periférica.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To understand the evolution of moderate asymptomatic carotid stenosis, the factors that influence its progression and the related morbimortality. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective observational study of 133 patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis between 50-69% in one or both carotids between 2002 and 2009. Included patients were subjected to screening for peripheral arterial disease (PAD), aneurysmal disease or carotid bruit. The monitoring was carried out using an annual duplex scan. The rate of progression, the variables related to this, the appearance of neurological events, and global and cardiovascular mortality were evaluated. Descriptive studies, univariate analysis (chi-squared test and Student's t-test), multivariate analysis (logistic regression), and survival curves (Log-Rank test) were carried out. RESULTS: With an average time of monitoring: 30.8 ± 1.7 months, stenosis progression was observed in 33% of the patients, with an average progression time of 31.3 ± 2.7 months. Greater progression was observed in the subgroup of patients with PAD and ischemic heart disease (odds ratio [OR] 2.84, confidence interval [CI] 95% 1.14-7.03). In the multivariate analysis only the PAD was identified as a risk factor for progression (P=.043). The group of patients with progression showed greater rates of neurological events: 15 vs. 1.6% (P=.01), greater global mortality: 15 vs. 3% (P=.04), and greater cardiovascular mortality: 12.1 vs. 1.5% (P=.03). CONCLUSIONS: The progression of asymptomatic carotid stenosis between 50-69% is common in patients subjected to screening, especially in those with a history of ischaemic heart disease and/or PAD. This progression is associated with an increased rate of cardiovascular complications. For this reason, we recommend clinical and echographic follow-up of these patients.