Percutaneous ethanol injection in thyroid nodular pathology and metastatic cervical adenopathies: A systematic review, meta-analysis and economic evaluation.

BACKGROUND: Percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI) has been shown to be a valuable treatment for thyroid nodular pathology and metastatic cervical adenopathies. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and cost-effectiveness of PEI in thyroid nodular pathology and metastatic cervical adenopathies. METHODS: A systematic review (SR) using meta-analysis was conducted on the effectiveness and safety of PEI. A SR on cost-effectiveness was also performed. The SRs were conducted according to the methodology developed by the Cochrane Collaboration with reporting in accordance with the PRISMA statement. A cost-minimization analysis was carried out using a decision tree model. Assuming equal effectiveness between two minimally invasive techniques (PEI and radiofrequency ablation (RFA)), the model compared the costs of the alternatives with a horizon of six months and from the perspective of the Spanish National Health System. RESULTS: The search identified three RCTs (n=157) that evaluated PEI versus RFA in patients diagnosed with benign thyroid nodules: ninety-six patients with predominantly cystic nodules and sixty-one patients with solid nodules. No evidence was found on other techniques or thyroid nodular pathology. No statistically significant differences were observed between PEI and RFA in volume reduction (%), symptom score, cosmetic score, therapeutic success and major complications. No economic evaluations were identified. The cost-minimization analysis estimated the cost per patient of the PEI procedure at €326 compared to €4781 for RFA, which means an incremental difference of -€4455. CONCLUSIONS: There are no differences between PEI and RFA regarding their safety and effectiveness, but the economic evaluation determined that the former option is cheaper.

Ambulatory surgery for chronic venous insufficiency using radiofrequency thermoablation: quality and satisfaction.

BACKGROUND: Chronic venous disease is a frequent and prevalent pathology. Its surgical treatment has been shown to be cost-effective. Thermal endoablation performed as major outpatient surgery (MAS) is the technique of choice. OBJECTIVE: To know the satisfaction of patients after MAS and the quality of care provided. METHOD: Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study, carried out between January 2019 and March 2020. A survey was carried out on patients who underwent endovascular radiofrequency thermoablation in two hospitals in Spain, consisting of two questionnaires: one ad hoc and one another of satisfaction (SERCAL). Quality indices for MAS were measured. RESULTS: We analyzed 156 episodes. 145 interventions were carried out. We found 4 (2.8%) unscheduled admissions. 3 patients (2.1%) attended the emergency department. There was a 99.3% success rate. 100% of the patients had pre-surgical recommendations and informed consent. We obtained 48 surveys (response rate: 33.1%). All the patients gave a rating greater ≥ 8 in quality of care (x = 9.83) and would recommend this procedure to their relatives (x = 9.71). CONCLUSIONS: Endovascular radiofrequency thermoablation performed in MAS has a high success rate and a very low rate of admission and visit to the emergency room. Patient satisfaction is high.

ANTECEDENTES: La enfermedad venosa crónica es una patología frecuente y prevalente. Su tratamiento quirúrgico ha mostrado ser coste-efectivo. La endoablación térmica realizada como cirugía mayor ambulatoria (CMA) es la técnica de elección. OBJETIVO: Conocer la satisfacción de los pacientes tras CMA y la calidad de la atención brindada. MÉTODO: Estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal, realizado entre enero de 2019 y marzo de 2020. Se realizó una encuesta a los pacientes intervenidos mediante termoablación endovascular por radiofrecuencia en dos hospitales de España, con dos cuestionarios: uno ad hoc y otro de satisfacción (SERCAL). Se midieron índices de calidad para CMA. RESULTADOS: Analizamos 156 episodios. Se realizaron 145 intervenciones. Encontramos 4 (2.8%) ingresos no programados. Tres pacientes (2.1%) acudieron a urgencias. Hubo una tasa de éxito del 99.3%. El 100% de los pacientes contaban con recomendaciones prequirúrgicas y consentimiento informado. Obtuvimos 48 encuestas (índice de respuesta: 33.1%). Todos los pacientes otorgaron una calificación ≥ 8 en calidad de atención (x = 9.83) y recomendarían este procedimiento a sus familiares (x = 9.71). CONCLUSIONES: La termoablación endovascular por radiofrecuencia realizada en CMA tiene una alta tasa de éxito y unas tasas de ingreso y visita a urgencias muy bajas. La satisfacción de los pacientes es elevada.

Cirugía por radiofrecuencia una alternativa terapéutica en la Insuficiencia Venosa Crónica / Radiofrequency surgery a therapeutic alternative in Chronic Venous Insufficiency / Cirurgia de Radiofrequência uma alternativa terapêutica na Insuficiência Venosa Crônica

La insuficiencia venosa crónica es una patología caracterizada por dificultar el retorno venoso hacia el corazón, se estima que el 90% de la población, padecerá de esta patología en algún momento de la vida, no obstante, su impacto toca la esfera socioeconómica, laboral e inclusive estética del paciente. Clínicamente se manifiesta con telangiectasias, venas varicosas e inclusive úlceras venosas por estasis, el cuadro se acompaña de dolor, cansancio, sensación de pesadez a nivel de miembros inferiores. Objetivo. Establecer los beneficios de la ablación por radiofrecuencia en el tratamiento de la insuficiencia venosa crónica estadificada de acuerdo con la CEAP (Clasificación clínica, etiológica, anatómica, fisiopatológica) en el Hospital Instituto Ecuatoriano de Seguridad Social en la ciudad de Riobamba, en el período 2018-2020. Materiales y Métodos. Se presenta un estudio retrospectivo de corte transversal, realizado en 75 pacientes intervenidos con radiofrecuencia en el Instituto Ecuatoriano de Seguridad Social (IESS) Riobamba, en el período 2018-2020 quienes voluntariamente decidieron participar en el estudio. Resultados. Se obtuvo que esta patología se presenta en un 68% en el sexo femenino y en un 32% en el sexo masculino, de la población total el 60% presentó sobrepeso y el 40% presentó obesidad, mediante la clasificación CEAP se categorizó en C3 al 58.7 % seguido de C2 al 32%, los pacientes de esta última categoría mostraron mejoría dentro de los 6 meses posteriores a la intervención. Conclusiones. La ablación por radiofrecuencia es una técnica quirúrgica efectiva en el tratamiento de los troncos safenos insuficientes, con excelentes resultados postquirúrgicos y en la calidad de vida del paciente.

Chronic venous insufficiency is a pathology characterized by hindering venous return to the heart, it is estimated that 90% of the population will suffer from this pathology at some point in life, however, its impact touches the socioeconomic, labor and even aesthetic sphere of the patient. Clinically it manifests with telangiectasias, varicose veins and even venous stasis ulcers, the picture is accompanied by pain, fatigue, feeling of heaviness in the lower limbs. Objective. To establish the benefits of radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency staged according to the CEAP (Clinical, etiological, anatomical, pathophysiological classification) in the Hospital Instituto Ecuatoriano de Seguridad Social in the city of Riobamba, in the period 2018-2020. Materials and Methods. A retrospective cross-sectional study is presented, performed in 75 patients intervened with radiofrequency at the Instituto Ecuatoriano de Seguridad Social (IESS) Riobamba, in the period 2018-2020 who voluntarily decided to participate in the study. Results. It was obtained that this pathology is presented in 68% in the female sex and 32% in the male sex, of the total population 60% presented overweight and 40% presented obesity, by CEAP classification was categorized in C3 to 58.7% followed by C2 to 32%, the patients of this last category showed improvement within 6 months after the intervention. Conclusions. Radiofrequency ablation is an effective surgical technique in the treatment of insufficient saphenous trunks, with excellent post-surgical results and in the patient's quality of life.

A insuficiência venosa crônica é uma patologia caracterizada pela dificuldade de retorno venoso ao coração. Estima-se que 90% da população sofrerá desta patologia em algum momento de suas vidas; entretanto, seu impacto afeta a esfera sócio-econômica, ocupacional e até estética do paciente. Clinicamente, manifesta-se com telangiectasias, varizes e até mesmo úlceras de estase venosa, acompanhadas de dor, cansaço e uma sensação de peso nos membros inferiores. Objetivo. Estabelecer os benefícios da ablação por radiofreqüência no tratamento da insuficiência venosa crônica encenada de acordo com a CEAP (classificação clínica, etiológica, anatômica, fisiopatológica) no Hospital Instituto Ecuatoriano de Seguridad Social na cidade de Riobamba, no período de 2018-2020. Materiais e métodos. É apresentado um estudo transversal retrospectivo, realizado em 75 pacientes que intervieram com radiofreqüência no Instituto Equatoriano de Seguridade Social (IESS) Riobamba, no período de 2018-2020, que voluntariamente decidiram participar do estudo. Resultados. Obteve-se que esta patologia ocorre em 68% no sexo feminino e 32% no sexo masculino, da população total 60% apresentava sobrepeso e 40% apresentava obesidade, pela classificação CEAP foi categorizada em C3 a 58,7% seguido por C2 a 32%, os pacientes desta última categoria apresentaram melhora em 6 meses após a intervenção. Conclusões. A ablação por radiofrequência é uma técnica cirúrgica eficaz no tratamento de troncos de safena insuficientes, com excelentes resultados pós-cirúrgicos e na qualidade de vida do paciente.

Ablación de taquicardia ventricular asistida con ECMO. Primera experiencia en nuestra institución / Ablation of ventricular tachycardia assisted with ECMO. First experience in our institution

Resumen La ablación con catéter de taquicardia ventricular ha demostrado mejorar la supervivencia y algunas veces es el único tratamiento efectivo, sobre todo en tormenta arrítmica; sin embargo la presencia de inestabilidad hemodinámica dificulta el procedimiento. El soporte con oxigenación por membrana extracorpórea (ECMO) es una alternativa para lograr el mapeo y ablación de taquicardia ventricular durante largos periodos de tiempo. Se presenta el caso de un paciente con cardiopatía isquémica y taquicardia ventricular con inestabilidad hemodinámica, en quien se realiza la ablación exitosa del sustrato mediante soporte con ECMO veno-arterial, sin episodios de taquicardia ventricular durante dos años de seguimiento.

Abstract Catheter ablation is useful for reducing drug refractory ventricular tachycardia (VT) episodes and can be life-saving when VT is incessant or arrhythmic storm. Left ventricular hemodynamic support may be required in patients with VT and hemodynamic instability. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support is an alternative to achieve ventricular tachycardia mapping and ablation over long periods of time. We present a case of successful catheter ablation of substrate in a patient with ischemic heart disease and ventricular tachycardia with hemodynamic instability performed using venous- arterial ECMO support. There were not episodes of ventricular tachycardia after 2 years of follow-up.

Efficacy in size and symptom reduction of radiofrequency ablation of benign non-functioning thyroid nodules.

INTRODUCTION: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) plays an increasing role in the management of thyroid nodules. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of RFA of benign thyroid nodules in terms of volume reduction and symptom relief. METHODS: We reviewed the medical records of patients with a solitary thyroid nodule who received RFA at our centre from April 2016 to January 2020. Ultrasound-guided RFA was performed by the moving-shot technique. Patients were followed up with ultrasound examinations and thyroid function tests. We evaluated changes in volume and in compressive (0-10 scale) and cosmetic (4-point scale) symptoms to analyse efficacy and complications, and in thyroid function to evaluate safety. RESULTS: A total of 72 patients were included in the study. The mean follow-up was 11.1±0.7 months. There was a statistically significant reduction in size of the nodules at Month 1, 3, 6 and 12 after RFA (expressed as volume reduction rate: 34%±2.1, 50.8%±2.2, 60.3%±2.6, 58.87%±3.5, p<0.0001). We found statistically significant improvement in compressive symptoms (from 7.1±0.26 to 1.76±0.33, p<0.0001) and in cosmetic alteration (from 3.66±0.09 to 2.14±0.14, p<0.0001). No major complications were observed. DISCUSSION: RFA achieved significant volume reduction and improved compressive symptoms as well as cosmetic complaints, with minimum side effects. Our results are in line with recent available evidence and further support the use of RFA as a safe and effective therapeutic option in the management of benign thyroid nodules.

Catheter ablation of left ventricle summit PVC using anterior interventricular vein approach.

A young female patient with normal ejection fraction. History of premature ventricular complex (PVC) radiofrequency ablation located in left ventricular outflow tract. Two years later frequent PVC is observed in a different location (> 47000 in 24 h Holter). Anti-arrhythmic drugs were used unsuccessfully. PVCs were located in left ventricular summit. Radiofrequency ablation through coronary sinus and anterior interventricular vein was performed. During follow up no recurrence was observed.A young female patient with normal ejection fraction. History of premature ventricular complex (PVC) radiofrequency ablation located in left ventricular outflow tract. Two years later frequent PVC is observed in a different location (> 47000 in 24 h Holter). Anti-arrhythmic drugs were used unsuccessfully. PVCs were located in left ventricular summit. Radiofrequency ablation through coronary sinus and anterior interventricular vein was performed. During follow up no recurrence was observed.

Perforación intestinal tras ablación por radiofrecuencia de mioma uterino. Reporte de caso y revisión bibliográfica / Intestinal perforation after transvaginal radiofrequency ablation of uterine leiomyoma. Case report and literature review

El mioma uterino es la tumoración pélvica más frecuentemente diagnosticada en mujeres en edad reproductiva. En los últimos años se ha producido una búsqueda de tratamientos mínimamente invasivos que permitan conservar el útero. La ablación por radiofrecuencia vía transvaginal permite el tratamiento de los miomas uterinos de forma segura y efectiva.Presentamos un inusual caso clínico de perforación intestinal tras la ablación por radiofrecuencia de dos miomas y presentamos una revisión de la literatura existente en relación a esta complicación de la técnica.

Uterine leiomyoma are the most common pelvic tumours diagnosed in women of reproductive age. In recent years, the search for minimally invasive treatment that allows women to preserve their uterus has resulted in transvaginal radiofrequency ablation. This procedure is safe and effective.We present a case report of intestinal perforation after transvaginal radiofrequency ablation of two uterine leiomyomas. Finally, we present a review of the literature in relation to this complication of the technique.

Ablación por radiofrecuencia y escleroterapia con espuma guiada por ecografía en el tratamiento de las úlceras por insuficiencia venosa en miembros inferiores. Estudio descriptivo / Radiofrequency ablation and ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy in the treatment of venous insufficiency ulcers in the lower limbs. Descriptive study

Objetivo: una de las principales causas de las úlceras de los miembros inferiores es la enfermedad venosa. La compresión y la cirugía de safena han demostrado ser terapias efectivas para su tratamiento, con tasas similares de curación. La ablación endovenosa temprana ha confirmado que disminuye los tiempos de cicatrización y de recurrencia, pero el efecto de terapias simultáneas para el tratamiento del reflujo venoso sobre la cicatrización no está del todo demostrado. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo de pacientes sometidos a radiofrecuencia y escleroterapia con espuma, guiadas por ecografía realizadas de manera simultánea como parte del tratamiento de úlcera venosa, y se describieron sus características sociodemográficas, clínicas y de evolución de la herida después de la intervención. Resultados: de las extremidades evaluadas, el 90,2 % (37) correspondía a mujeres, con una edad promedio de 65,8 años (± 12,5), el 56,1 % (23) procedentes de áreas rurales, con un tiempo de evolución de la herida de 18 meses (± 5-204) y un área de 20 cm2 (± 8-80). La tasa de curación fue del 61 % (25/41) a los 6 meses, con diferencias significativas en el área de la lesión antes de la intervención en el grupo que cicatrizó frente al que no lo logró (12 frente a 80 cm2, p < 0,001). Hubo mayor número de infecciones de piel y de tejidos blandos en el grupo que no cicatrizó (0 frente a 37,5 %, p < 0,001), una tasa de recurrencia del 4 % (1/25) y ninguna hospitalización relacionada con la enfermedad venosa. Conclusión: en la población evaluada, la ablación con radiofrecuencia y escleroterapia con espuma guiadas por ecografía, realizadas simultáneamente, hubo mayor cierre en las heridas de menor área con respecto a las de mayor área, así como un mayor número de infecciones de piel y de tejidos blandos en las extremidades que no cicatrizaron. No encontramos hospitalizaciones relacionadas con la evolución de la úlcera y hubo baja tasa de recurrencia.(AU)

Objective: lower limb ulcers are mainly caused by venous disease. Saphenous compression and surgery have been shown to be effective therapies for its treatment, with similar cure rates. Early endovenous ablation has been confirmed to increase healing and decrease recurrence times, but the effect of simultaneous therapies for the treatment of venous reflux on healing is not fully determined. Methods: a descriptive, retrospective study of patients undergoing radiofrequency and ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy performed simultaneously as part of venous ulcer treatment was carried out, and their sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and post-intervention wound evolution were described. Results: of the extremities evaluated, 90.2 % (37) corresponded to women, with an average age of 65.8 years (± 12.5), 56.1 % (23) from rural areas, with a wound evolution time of 18 months (± 5- 204) and an area of 20 cm2 (± 8-80). The cure rate was 61 % (25/41) at 6 months, with significant differences in the area of the lesion before the intervention in the group that closed vs. the one that did not close (12 vs. 80 cm2, p < 0.001). A higher number of skin and soft tissue infections was found in the group that did not heal (0 vs. 37.5 %, p < 0.001), a recurrence rate of 4 % (1/25), and no hospitalization related to venous disease. Conclusion: in the population evaluated, radiofrequency ablation and ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy was performed simultaneously, there was greater closure in wounds with a smaller area compared to those with a larger area, a greater number of skin and soft tissue infections in the extremities that did not heal, without hospitalizations related to the evolution of the ulcer and a low rate of recurrence.(AU)

Ablación por radiofrecuencia versus crosectomía safenofemoral más oclusión endovascular distal en pacientes con insuficiencia de la vena safena mayor / Radiofrequency ablation versus sapheno-femoral crosectomy plus distal

Introducción: Actualmente se prefieren procedimientos mínimamente invasivos como las técnicas endovasculares para el tratamiento de la insuficiencia de vena safena mayor que pueden ser por ablación térmica, química o mecánica. Éstos tienen la ventaja de ser ambulatorios, presentar menos complicaciones postoperatorias, una rápida incorporación laboral y mejores resultados estéticos. El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar los resultados del tratamiento con radiofrecuencia versus crosectomía safenofemoral más oclusión endovascular distal. Material y Métodos: Estudio descriptivo prospectivo que incluyó a todos los pacientes con diagnóstico de insuficiencia de la vena safena mayor de enero 2017 a octubre 2019. La elección de la técnica a utilizar se hizo al azar. Resultados: El 77% correspondió al género femenino, con edad media 49 años, el estadío C:2 de la clasificación clíica CEAP fue la más frecuente (57%) y el shunt tipo 3 (63%). La ablación por radiofrecuencia se realizó con mayor frecuencia (83%). El dolor y parestesias (fueron las complicaciones más frecuentes en ambos grupos sin diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p = 0.1470). No hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativo entre las dos técnicas quirúrgicas realizadas en resultado estético (p = 0.4456), el retorno de actividades cotidianas (p = 0.992) ni las laborales (p = 0.901). Conclusiones: Tanto la ablación por radiofrecuencia de la vena safena mayor como la crosectomía safenofemoral más oclusión endovascular distal se consideran dos métodos seguros y efectivos para tratar insuficiencia de vena safena mayor; ya que los resultados finales fueron similares para ambas técnicas quirúrgicas.

Introduction: Minimally invasive endovascular procedures like thermal, chemical or mechanical ablation are currently preferred for the treatment of the great saphenous vein insufficiency, because have the advantage of being outpatient, with minimal postoperative complications, a faster incorporation to work and better aesthetic results. This study persuit to evaluate the results of radiofrequency treatment versus sapheno-femoral crosectomy plus distal endovascular occlusion. Methods: The study included all the patients with a diagnosis of great saphenous vein insufficiency from January 2017 to October 2019. The technic was chosen randomly. Results: 77% of patients was female , with a mean age of 49 , the C2 stage of the CEAP classification is present in 57% and the type 3 shunt in 63%. Radiofrequency ablation was performed in 83% of the cases. Pain and paresthesia were the most frequent complications, without statistically signification between both technics (p = 0.1470). The aesthetic result, the return to daily activities (p = 0.992) and to work (p = 0.901) had not statistically significant differences between the two surgical techniques. Conclusions: Both, radiofrequency ablation of the greater saphenous vein and sapheno-femoral crosectomy plus distal endovascular occlusion are considered safe and effective methods to treat great saphenous vein insufficiency because the final results were similar for both surgical techniques.

Radiofrequency Ablation of the Surgical Bed After Lumpectomy in Breast-conserving Surgery. / Ablación por radiofrecuencia del lecho quirúrgico tras tumorectomía en cirugía conservadora del cáncer de mama.

INTRODUCTION: Obtaining tumor-free margins during breast conservative surgery (BCS) is essential to avoid local recurrence and frequently requires reoperation. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of surgical margins after lumpectomy seems to be a helpful tool to avoid reoperations, but evidence is insufficient. This study analyzes the efficacy and safety of RFA after BCS to obtain free surgical margins. METHODS: Non-randomized experimental study performed in an intervention group of 40 patients assigned to receive RFA after lumpectomy and successive resection of surgical margins, and a historical control group of 40 patients treated with BCS alone. In the intervention group, the RFA effect on tumor cell viability in the surgical margins was analyzed. Also, reoperation rate, complications and cosmetic results were compared in both groups. RESULTS: A total of 240 excised margins were analyzed after RFA, obtaining a high number of tumor-free margins. Compared to the control group, the reoperation rate decreased significantly (0% vs 12%; P=.02), without differences in terms of postoperative complications (10% vs 5%; P=.67) or cosmetic results (excellent or good 92.5% vs 95%; P=.3). CONCLUSIONS: RFA after lumpectomy is a reliable, safe and successful procedure to obtain tumor-free surgical margins and to decrease the reoperation rate without affecting complications or compromising cosmetic results.

Single-session treatment of benign thyroid nodules with radiofrequency ablation: Results at 6 months in 24 patients. / Resultados de una sesión única de ablación por radiofrecuencia en nódulos tiroideos benignos: Resultados a 6 meses en 24 pacientes.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of one single-session of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) performed in thyroid benign and predominantly solid nodules. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Unicentric retrospective study in usual clinical setting that included patients with solid and benign thyroid nodules treated with one single session of RFA and with folllow-up of at at least 6 months after the procedure. RFA was performed as an alternative to surgery in cases of pressure symptoms or nodular growth evidence. Patients were evaluated basally and at one, 3 and 6 months after RFA and also at 12 months if the follow-up was available. In each evaluation efficacy variables were recorded (percentual change from basal volume, percentage of nodules reaching a volume reduction above 50% from baseline, patients with disappearance of pressure symptoms and the possibility of antithyroid drug withdrawal) and safety variables were also registered including minor complications (pain needing analgesic drugs, hematoma) and major complications (voice changes, braquial plexus injury, nodule rupture and thyroid dysfunction). RESULTS: Twenty-four patients with a follow-up of at least 6 months after RFA were included, 16 of them with more than 12 months of follow-up. Mean nodule volume changed from 25.4±15.5ml basally to 10.7±9.9ml at month 6 (P<.05) and to 9.9±10,4ml at month 12 in 16 nodules. Six months after RFA mean volumetric reduction was 57.5±24% and 65% of the nodules reached a volume reduction above 50% from baseline. Median percentage of reduction at month 6 was 50.4±25.8% for nodules with a basal volume above 20ml (n=13) and 65.3±20.1% for nodules with a lower basal volume (n=11). Pressure symptoms reported in 12 patients disappeared in all cases. Antithyroid drugs could be stopped in 3 of 4 cases treated before RFA. A mild and transient pain responsive to conventional analgesic drugs was recorded in 9 patients during the 24h after the procedure and in 7 a small perithyroid and transient hematoma was observed in the 48 following hours. One major complication was described as a nodule rupture that recovered spontaneously. There were no changes in hormonal values in euthyroid cases. CONCLUSION: A single session of RFA seems to be an effective and safe procedure in patients with solid thyroid nodules with pressure symptoms or relevant growth evidence. As an outpatient and scarless procedure with no need of general anaesthesia it could become an useful alternative to lobectomy when surgery is refused or in patients at high surgical risk.

Terapia ablativa en un caso de síndrome de Brugada con tormenta eléctrica / Ablative therapy in a case of Brugada syndrome with an electrical storm / Terapia ablativa em um caso de síndrome de Brugada com tempestade elétrica

Resumen: Los pacientes con síndrome de Brugada pueden presentar arritmias ventriculares malignas y muerte súbita, por lo que frecuentemente tienen indicación de implante de cardiodesfibrilador. Ocasionalmente, estos pacientes pueden tener choques recurrentes difíciles de manejar en la práctica clínica. Estudios recientes han mostrado que la ablación por radiofrecuencia en los pacientes con síndrome de Brugada es posible y efectiva.A una mujer de 55 años con síndrome de Brugada afectada por una tormenta eléctrica, se le efectuó mapeo cardíaco electroanatómico tridimensional y ablación por radiofrecuencia. Durante el estudio electrofisiológico no se observaron arritmias espontáneas o inducidas. Un mapeo de voltaje cardíaco en ritmo sinusal, precedió al uso de ablación por radiofrecuencia para modificación del sustrato arritmogénico en endocardio y epicardio del tracto de salida del ventrículo derecho. El patrón de Brugada desapareció de su electrocardiograma en el período posablativo inmediato. En cuatro meses de seguimiento la paciente no ha tenido arritmias ventriculares ni evidencia electrocardiográfica de patrón de Brugada.La modificación del sustrato arritmogénico por medio de ablación por radiofrecuencia en pacientes con síndrome de Brugada y tormenta eléctrica, puede ser de utilidad en el manejo crítico.

Summary: Patients with Brugada syndrome may have malignant ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. Thus, these patients frequently have indication of implantable cardioverter defibrillator. Occasionally, these patients may experience recurrent appropriate cardioverter defibrillator shocks refractory to medical treatment. Recent reports indicate that radiofrequency ablation in Brugada syndrome is feasible, and effective.A 55-year-old woman with Brugada syndrome and an electrical storm, underwent three-dimensional electroanatomic mapping and radiofrequency ablation. During electrophysiological study there were no spontaneous or inducible arrhythmias. Voltage mapping of the right ventricle was created in sinus rhythm and both, endocardial and epicardial substrate modification of right ventricular outflow tract was performed. Brugada ECG pattern resolved post procedure. Follow up at 4 months revealed no recurrence of ventricular arrhythmias or Brugada electrocardiographic pattern.Radiofrequency mediated therapy for substrate modification in patients with Brugada syndrome and an electrical storm, may be useful in their critical care management.

Resumo: Os pacientes com síndrome de Brugada podem apresentar arritmias ventriculares malignas e morte súbita, de modo que frequentemente têm indicação de implante de cardiodefibrilador. Ocasionalmente, esses pacientes podem ter choques recorrentes difíceis de lidar na prática clínica. Estudos recentes mostraram que a ablação por radiofrequência em pacientes com síndrome de Brugada é possível e eficaz.Uma mulher de 55 anos com síndrome de Brugada afetada por uma tempestade elétrica apresentava mapeamento cardíaco eletroanatômico tridimensional e ablação por radiofrequência. Durante o estudo eletrofisiológico não foram observadas arritmias espontâneas ou induzidas. O mapeamento da tensão cardíaca em ritmo sinusal antecedeu o uso da ablação por radiofrequência para modificação do substrato arritmogênico no endocárdio e no epicárdio da via de saída do ventrículo direito. O padrão de Brugada desapareceu de seu eletrocardiograma no período pós-ablativo imediato. Em 4 meses de acompanhamento, o paciente não apresentou arritmias ventriculares ou evidências eletrocardiográficas do padrão de Brugada.A modificação do substrato arritmogênico por meio da ablação por radiofrequência em pacientes com síndrome de Brugada e tempestade elétrica pode ser muito útil no manejo crítico.

Mapeo y ablación exitosa, desde el interior de la vena cardíaca magna, de extrasístoles ventriculares originados en el techo (summit) del ventrículo izquierdo / Mapping and successful ablation, from within the great cardiac vein, of premature ventricular contractions originating from the summit of the left ventricle

RESUMEN Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 43 años, con antecedentes de salud aparente, hasta varias semanas previas a su ingreso, cuando comenzó a presentar síncopes precedidos de palpitaciones. Se realizó estudio electrofisiológico y se demostró precocidad en la porción distal del electrodo de registro de seno coronario, que corresponde a la vena cardíaca magna (interventricular anterior) y techo (summit) del ventrículo izquierdo. A pesar del excelente registro precoz se estudiaron estructuras vecinas como el tracto de salida del ventrículo izquierdo en la cúspide coronaria izquierda, aquí el mapeo eléctrico (pace mapping) no fue concordante total. En el sitio de la precocidad obtenida dentro del sistema venoso cardíaco se realizó mapeo concordante 100%, con una precocidad del catéter de ablación de -30 milisegundos. Se decidió ablación con incrementos progresivos de temperatura y potencia con corte de impedancia (termomapping) y se logró el éxito de la ablación sin reproducibilidad de la arritmia y excelente evolución posterior.

ABSTRACT The case of a 43-year-old female patient is presented, with an apparent history of good health, up to several weeks prior to admission, when she began to present syncopes preceded by palpitations. An electrophysiological study was performed and prematurity in the distal portion of the coronary sinus recording electrode was demonstrated, which corresponds to the great cardiac vein (anterior interventricular vein) and summit of the left ventricle. Despite the excellent early registration, neighboring structures were studied, such as the left ventricular outflow tract in the left coronary cusp, here the pace mapping was not totally concordant. At the site of the precocity obtained within the cardiac venous system, a 100% concordant mapping was achieved, with an ablation catheter's precocity of -30 milliseconds. The ablation was decided with progressive increases in temperature and power with thermomapping and the success of the ablation was achieved without reproducibility of the arrhythmia and excellent subsequent evolution.

Therapeutic options for early cancer of the esophagogastric junction. / Opciones terapéuticas en el tratamiento del cáncer precoz de la unión esofagogástrica.

Early-stage (T1) esophagogastric junction cancer continues to represent 2-3% of all cases. Adenocarcinoma is the most frequent and important type, the main risk factors for which are gastroesophageal reflux and Barrett's esophagus with dysplasia. Patients with mucosal (T1a) or submucosal (T1b) involvement initially require a thorough digestive endoscopy, and narrow-band imaging can improve visualization. Endoscopic treatment of these lesions includes endoscopic mucosal resection, radiofrequency ablation and endoscopic submucosal dissection. Accurate staging is necessary in order to provide optimal treatment. The most precise staging technique in these cases is endoscopic ultrasound. The suspicion of deep invasion of the submucosa, presence of unfavorable anatomopathological characteristics or impossibility to perform endoscopic resection make it necessary to consider surgical resection.

A novel surgical technique for aggressive vertebral hemangiomas.

Vertebral hemangiomas are relatively common, but those causing spinal cord compression are rare. A 19-year-old male presented with thoracic back pain. The neurologic examination was normal and radiological examinations demonstrated an aggressive vertebral hemangioma centered within the T11 vertebral body. Damaged vertebral bone and soft tissue components of the mass were observed in the epidural space. Surgery was performed using a new technique involving radiofrequency ablation, injection of a hemostatic agent (FLOSEAL, Baxter, USA), and bone autograft placement in the affected vertebral body. There were no complications intra- or postoperatively, and the patient's back pain resolved completely during the postsurgical period. Bleeding is a serious issue in cases of aggressive vertebral hemangioma. This new technique provides improved bleeding control and strengthens the affected vertebra through autograft placement.

Radioablación por laparoscopia de masas renales pequeñas en pacientes octogenarios: técnica paso a paso / Laparoscopic Radioablation of Small Renal Masses in Octogenarian Patients: Step by Step Technique

El hallazgo incidental de tumores renales T1a se ha incrementado en la última década.1 La cirugía preservadora de nefronas sigue siendo el gold standard de manejo en pacientes con tumores renales pequeños, con resultados oncológicamente equiparables a la nefrectomía radical y reduciendo el impacto negativo en la función renal.2,3 La ablación por radiofrecuencia (RFA), es una alterativa mínimamente invasiva cuya técnica causa la destrucción del tumor mediante el calentamiento.4,5 Puede ser realizada mediante cirugía abierta o laparoscópica y por vía percutánea guiada por tomografía axial o ecografía. La evidencia sustancial indica que la RFA de tumores renales pequeños es efectiva en la erradicación tumoral completa.6­8

The incidental finding of T1a kidney tumors has increased in the last decade.1 Surgery nephron-preserving remains the gold standard of management in patients with small renal tumors, with results oncologically comparable to radical nephrectomy and reducing the negative impact on renal function.2,3 Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive alterative technique whose technique causes tumor destruction by heating.4,5 It can be performed by open or laparoscopic surgery and percutaneously guided by axial tomography or ultrasound. Substantial evidence indicates that RFA of small renal tumors is effective in complete tumor eradication.6-8

Inducción de taquicardia reentrante nodal aurículo-ventricular por aplicación de radiofrecuencia / Induction of atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia by radiofrequency application

La taquicardia reentrante nodal aurículo ventricular es la forma más común de taquicardia sostenida, regular con QRS angostos. Fisiopatológicamente está determinada por una anatomía y fisiología nodal aurículo ventricular dual, con una vía rápida y otra lenta que forman el sustrato de la reentrada. El estudio electrofisiológico determina el diagnóstico de certeza si es inducida, aunque en algunos casos no es posible. Presentamos nuestra casuística donde la aplicación de radiofrecuencia indujo taquicardia reentrante nodal aurículo ventricular cuando el estudio electrofisiológico no pudo hacerlo, y explicamos su mecanismo electrofisiológico.

Atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia is the most common form of sustained regular narrow QRS complex tachycardia. It is caused by the presence of a dual atrioventricular nodal anatomy and physiology, with a fast and a slow pathway forming a substrate for re-entry. Electrophysiology study confirms the diagnosis when the tachycardia is induced, although in some cases this is not possible. Casuistry is here presented where the application of radiofrequency induced atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia, when the electrophysiological study could not do it; we explain here its electrophysiological mechanism.

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for treating small renal masses. / Radiofrecuencia percutánea guiada por ecografía en el tratamiento de masas renales pequeñas.

INTRODUCTION: The objective of this study was to analyse and assess the experience with radiofrequency ablation of small renal masses using a contrast-enhanced, ultrasound-guided percutaneous approach for patients who are not suitable for surgical resection and/or who refused surveillance or observation. MATERIAL AND METHOD: From January 2007 to August 2015, 164 treatments were performed on a total of 148 patients. We present the patients' clinical-radiological characteristics, oncological and functional results in the short and medium term. RESULTS: The overall technical success rate was 97.5%, with a successful outcome in 1 session in 100% of the lesions≤3cm and 92% in lesions measuring 3-5cm. The mean tumour diameter in the patients for whom the treatment was ultimately successful was 2.7cm, while the mean diameter of these in the unsuccessful operations was 3.9cm (P<.05). There were no statistically significant differences in the serum creatinine levels and estimated glomerular filtration rates. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the low rate of positive renal biopsies in the series, ultrasound-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for treating small renal lesions appears to be an effective and safe procedure with a minimum impact on renal function, an acceptable oncologic control in the short and medium term and a low rate of complications.

Dos décadas de seguimiento exitoso de la primera ablación de arritmias por catéter de radiofrecuencia realizado en la historia de la medicina del Paraguay / Two decades of succesful follow-up of the first radiofrequency catheter arrhythmia ablation done in the history of medicine in Paraguay

La técnica de mapeo endocárdico durante el estudio electrofisiológico ha sido extensamente empleada en el análisis de las taquicardias paroxísticas supraventriculares (TPS). Mediante este mapeo endocárdico y el análisis meticuloso de los electrogramas endocárdicos y los respectivos intervalos de conducción, es posible localizar el sitio de origen de las arritmias y así facilitar su tratamiento ablativo por medio de catéteres de radiofrecuencia. Se describe el caso de un hombre de 29 años con síndrome de Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) que manifiestó que presentaba varios episodios documentados de TPS con serio compromiso hemodinámico que motivaba su frecuente internación en terapia intensiva. El mapeo electrofisiológico endocárdico meticuloso demostró la presencia de un haz anómalo de Kent auriculoventricular izquierdo en posición posteroseptal. El período refractario absoluto del haz anómalo de Kent fue de 240 ms. La primera emisión de radiofrecuencia a través de un catéter adecuadamente posicionado previo terminó la taquicardia. La taquicardia permaneció no inducible a partir de entonces. En estas dos décadas de seguimiento clínico, el paciente no ha presentado ni un solo episodio de taquicardia. La curación definitiva generada por la ablación del haz anómalo de Kent ha proporcionado un cambio drástico, total y beneficioso en la calidad de vida al paciente. Los beneficios clínicos y socioeconómicos son mayores cuanto más temprano en la evolución se realice el procedimiento de ablación de arritmias.

Endocardial mapping has been widely used for the analysis of supraventriculartachycardias during electrophysiological study. This mapping and the detailed analysis ofendocardial electrograms and conduction intervals allow for the localization of the site oforigin of the arrhythmias thus facilitating curative treatment with radiofrequency catheterablation. The case describes our 29 years old patient with manifested Wolff-ParkinsonWhitesyndrome that presented frequent, documented episodes of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia with serious hemodynamic alteration that needed frequentadmissions to intensive care units despite the use of 2-3 antiarrhythmic agents per day. Adetailed endocardial mapping showed a left posteroseptal accessory pathway. Theaccessory pathway effective refractory period is 240 ms. The first radiofrequency emissionthrough an adequately positioned radiofrequency catheter terminated the tachycardia. Thetachycardia was rendered non-inducible thereafter. In two decades of follow-up, the patienthas not presented a single episode of tachycardia. The definite cure provided by theradiofrequency ablation produced a total, dramatic, and beneficial change in the quality oflife of the patient. The clinical and socio-economical benefits are greater the earlier thearrhythmia ablation procedure is performed.

Pulmonary radiofrequency ablation (Part 1): current state.

The risks involved in surgical treatment and conventional radiotherapy in patients with early lung cancer or lung metastases often make these treatments difficult to justify. However, on the other hand, it is also unacceptable to allow these lesions to evolve freely because, left untreated, these neoplasms will usually lead to the death of the patient. In recent years, alternative local therapies have been developed, such as pulmonary radiofrequency ablation, which has proven to increase survival with a minimal risk of complications. There are common recommendations for these treatments, and although the specific indications for using one technique or another have yet to be established, there are clearly defined situations that will determine the outcome of the treatment. It is important to know these situations, because appropriate patient selection is essential for therapeutic success. This article aims to describe the characteristics and constraints of pulmonary radiofrequency ablation and to outline its role in thoracic oncology in light of the current evidence.