Comparison between vascular Doppler ultrasound and contrast exams in chronic peripheral arterial disease.

Background: Vascular Doppler ultrasound (DUS) has evolved over recent years because of improvements in the technology involved in the acquisition and processing of sound and image data. The method is an excellent option for use in diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease considering its availability, low cost, and absence of harmful effects. The breakdown of logistics supply chains caused by the COVID-19 pandemic caused worldwide shortages of iodinated contrast, highlighting the need to validate alternative diagnostic methods. Objective: To use DUS for decision-making when choosing between by-pass and endovascular surgery for femoropopliteal arterial disease and compare the results to those of iodinated contrast exams. Methods: We compared DUS with examinations using contrast for identification of stenoses/occlusions and indication of surgical treatment (by-pass vs. endovascular). In the first phase of the study the results were merely compared, DUS vs. angiotomography. Then, in the second phase, the vascular ultrasound results were used for screening between by-pass and endovascular treatment, comparing DUS with angiotomography in cases scheduled for by-pass and with arteriography in endovascular patients. Results: In phase 1, the sensitivity of DUS compared to CT angiography was 100% for the SFA territory. When considering solely the choice of bypass vs. endovascular treatment, the results showed 100% agreement for phase 1 and 94% for phase 2. Conclusion: Notwithstanding the sample size, the study fulfilled its objective of demonstrating the reliability of DUS for indicating the treatment choice between by-pass and endovascular surgery.

Role of Computed Tomography Angiography in the Short-Term Follow-up of Aortic Coarctation Repair.

INTRODUCTION: Coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is a narrowing of the thoracic aorta that often manifests as discrete stenosis but may be tortuous or in long segment. The study aimed to evaluate pre and post-surgical aspects of pediatric patients submitted to CoA surgical correction and to identify possible predisposing factors for aortic recoarctation. METHODS: Twenty-five patients were divided into groups according to presence (N=8) or absence (N=17) of recoarctation after surgical correction of CoA and evaluated according to clinical-demographic profile, vascular characteristics via computed angiotomography (CAT), and other pathological conditions. RESULTS: Majority of males (64%), ≥ 15 days old (76%), ≥ 2.5 kg (80%). There was similarity between groups with and without recoarctation regarding sex (male: 87% vs. 53%; P=0.277), age (≥ 15 days: 62.5 vs. 82%; P=0.505), and weight (≥ 2.5 kg: 87.5 vs. 76.5; P=0,492). Altered values of aortic root/Valsalva diameter, proximal transverse arch, and distal isthmus, and normal values for aorta prevailed in preoperative CAT. Normal values for the aortic root/Valsalva sinus diameter were observed with and without recoarctation, the same for both groups regarding ascending and descending aorta in postoperative CAT. No significant difference for altered values of proximal transverse arch and alteration in distal isthmus was observed. CONCLUSION: No predictive risk for recoarctation was observed. CTA proved to be important in CoA diagnosis and management, since CoA is mainly related with altered diameter of aortic root/sinus of Valsalva and proximal and distal aortic arch/isthmus, however, it failed to show predictive risk for recoarctation.

Role of Computed Tomography Angiography in the Short-Term Follow-up of Aortic Coarctation Repair

ABSTRACT Introduction: Coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is a narrowing of the thoracic aorta that often manifests as discrete stenosis but may be tortuous or in long segment. The study aimed to evaluate pre and post-surgical aspects of pediatric patients submitted to CoA surgical correction and to identify possible predisposing factors for aortic recoarctation. Methods: Twenty-five patients were divided into groups according to presence (N=8) or absence (N=17) of recoarctation after surgical correction of CoA and evaluated according to clinical-demographic profile, vascular characteristics via computed angiotomography (CAT), and other pathological conditions. Results: Majority of males (64%), ≥ 15 days old (76%), ≥ 2.5 kg (80%). There was similarity between groups with and without recoarctation regarding sex (male: 87% vs. 53%; P=0.277), age (≥ 15 days: 62.5 vs. 82%; P=0.505), and weight (≥ 2.5 kg: 87.5 vs. 76.5; P=0,492). Altered values of aortic root/Valsalva diameter, proximal transverse arch, and distal isthmus, and normal values for aorta prevailed in preoperative CAT. Normal values for the aortic root/Valsalva sinus diameter were observed with and without recoarctation, the same for both groups regarding ascending and descending aorta in postoperative CAT. No significant difference for altered values of proximal transverse arch and alteration in distal isthmus was observed. Conclusion: No predictive risk for recoarctation was observed. CTA proved to be important in CoA diagnosis and management, since CoA is mainly related with altered diameter of aortic root/sinus of Valsalva and proximal and distal aortic arch/isthmus, however, it failed to show predictive risk for recoarctation.

Comparação entre ecografia vascular com Doppler e exames contrastados na doença arterial crônica periférica / Comparison between vascular Doppler ultrasound and contrast exams in chronic peripheral arterial disease

Resumo Contexto A ecografia vascular com Doppler (EVD) evoluiu nos últimos anos devido ao aprimoramento da tecnologia de aquisição e processamento da imagem. A disponibilidade do exame, o baixo custo e a ausência de efeitos deletérios de radiação e contraste tornam este método uma excelente opção no diagnóstico da doença arterial periférica. As quebras nas cadeias de suprimentos devido à pandemia de covid-19 levaram a uma escassez global de contraste iodado, reforçando a importância de validar abordagens alternativas. Objetivos Utilizar a EVD na decisão entre cirurgia aberta ou endovascular para doença arterial femoropoplítea e comparar os resultados com exames de contraste iodado. Métodos Comparamos EVD com exames contrastados (angiotomografia e arteriografia) em relação à localização de estenoses/oclusões e indicação do tratamento cirúrgico (by-pass vs. endovascular). Em uma primeira fase, os resultados foram apenas comparados entre EVD e angiotomografia. Numa segunda fase, os resultados da EVD foram usados na triagem entre by-pass vs. endovascular), sendo comparados com angiotomografia nos casos de cirurgia aberta e comparados com a arteriografia nos casos de tratamento endovascular. Resultados A sensibilidade da EVD em comparação com a angiotomografia na fase 1 foi de 100% para o território da artéria femoral superficial. Ao considerar apenas a indicação de by-pass versus endovascular, os resultados mostraram 100% de concordância para a Fase 1 e 94% para a Fase 2. Conclusões Com a ressalva do tamanho amostral, o estudo cumpriu seu objetivo de demonstrar a confiabilidade da EVD na indicação do tratamento cirúrgico entre aberto ou endovascular.

Abstract Background Vascular Doppler ultrasound (DUS) has evolved over recent years because of improvements in the technology involved in the acquisition and processing of sound and image data. The method is an excellent option for use in diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease considering its availability, low cost, and absence of harmful effects. The breakdown of logistics supply chains caused by the COVID-19 pandemic caused worldwide shortages of iodinated contrast, highlighting the need to validate alternative diagnostic methods. Objective To use DUS for decision-making when choosing between by-pass and endovascular surgery for femoropopliteal arterial disease and compare the results to those of iodinated contrast exams. Methods We compared DUS with examinations using contrast for identification of stenoses/occlusions and indication of surgical treatment (by-pass vs. endovascular). In the first phase of the study the results were merely compared, DUS vs. angiotomography. Then, in the second phase, the vascular ultrasound results were used for screening between by-pass and endovascular treatment, comparing DUS with angiotomography in cases scheduled for by-pass and with arteriography in endovascular patients. Results In phase 1, the sensitivity of DUS compared to CT angiography was 100% for the SFA territory. When considering solely the choice of bypass vs. endovascular treatment, the results showed 100% agreement for phase 1 and 94% for phase 2. Conclusion Notwithstanding the sample size, the study fulfilled its objective of demonstrating the reliability of DUS for indicating the treatment choice between by-pass and endovascular surgery.

Persistent Sciatic Artery with Peripheral Arterial Disease: A Case Report.

BACKGROUND: Persistent sciatic artery (PSA) is a congenital malformation due to incomplete involution during the embryonic period. Its etiology is unknown, with an estimated incidence of 0.02 - 0.04% in the whole population and a mean age of 60-65 years. Its presentation can be bilateral. It is asymptomatic in most cases and is usually detected accidentally; however, some symptoms may appear, such as claudication, sciatic neuralgia, and pain in the affected limb. It can also manifest as an aneurysmal dilatation or thrombosis that can generate distal embolism with ischemia. CASE REPORT: In this case study, a patient in her 90s with a suspected peripheral arterial disease, which required an angiotomography of the lower limb, showing a superficial femoral artery running to the middle and distal third of the thigh and a vascular structure running in the sciatic neurovascular bundle corresponding to a persistent sciatic artery presenting atherosclerotic changes and extensive occlusion, was presented. The patient's treatment was clinical with dual antiplatelet therapy and prophylactic anticoagulation. This was due to comorbidities and age. Moreover, the PSA occlusion was not critical and did not significantly impact the patient's quality of life. CONCLUSION: Most patients with this anatomical variant are asymptomatic all their lives, but some of them may present symptoms with serious consequences. It is important to suspect it by clinical presentation and perform diagnostic confirmation by angiotomography. Treatment has yielded excellent results with endovascular techniques. Certain patients only require conservative treatment with anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents.

Thoracic Computed Tomography to Assess ARDS and COVID-19 Lungs.

This review was designed to discuss the role of thoracic-computed tomography (CT) in the evaluation and treatment of patients with ARDS and COVID-19 lung disease. Non-aerated lungs characterize the ARDS lungs, compared to normal lungs in the lowermost lung regions, compressive atelectasis. Heterogenous ARDS lungs have a tomographic vertical gradient characterized by progressively more aerated lung tissues from the gravity-dependent to gravity-independent lungs levels. The application of positive pressure ventilation to these heterogeneous ARDS lungs provides some areas of high shear stress, others of tidal hyperdistension or tidal recruitment that increases the chances of appearance and perpetuation of ventilator-induced lung injury. Other than helping to the correct diagnosis of ARDS, thoracic-computed tomography can help to the adjustments of PEEP, ideal tidal volume, and a better choice of patient position during invasive mechanical ventilation. Thoracic tomography can also help detect possible intra-thoracic complications and in the follow-up of the ARDS patients' evolution during their hospital stay. In COVID-19 patients, thoracic-computed tomography was the most sensitive imaging technique for diagnosing pulmonary involvement. The most common finding is diffuse pulmonary infiltrates, ranging from ground-glass opacities to parenchymal consolidations, especially in the lower portions of the lungs' periphery. Tomographic lung volume loss was associated with an increased risk for oxygenation support and patient intubation and the use of invasive mechanical ventilation. Pulmonary dual-energy angio-tomography in COVID-19 patients showed a significant number of pulmonary ischemic areas even in the absence of visible pulmonary arterial thrombosis, which may reflect micro-thrombosis associated with COVID-19 pneumonia. A greater thoracic tomography severity score in ARDS was independently related to poor outcomes.

Desempenho Diagnóstico da Angiotomografia Computadorizada e da Avaliação Seriada de Troponina Cardíaca Sensível em Pacientes com Dor Torácica e Risco Intermediário para Eventos Cardiovasculares / Diagnostic Performance of Coronary Tomography Angiography and Serial Measurements of Sensitive Cardiac Troponin in Patients With Chest Pain and Intermediate Risk for Cardiovascular Events

Resumo Fundamento A angiotomografia coronária (ATC) tem sido usada para avaliação de dor torácica principalmente em pacientes de baixo risco, e poucos dados existem com pacientes em risco intermediário. Objetivo Avaliar o desempenho de medidas seriadas de troponinas sensíveis e de ATC em pacientes de risco intermediário. Métodos Um total de 100 pacientes com dor torácica, TIMI score 3 ou 4 e troponina negativa foram prospectivamente incluídos. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos à ATC, e aqueles com obstruções ≥ 50% foram encaminhados à cineangiocoronariografia. Pacientes com lesões < 50% recebiam alta hospitalar, receberam alta e foram contatados 30 dias depois por telefonema para avaliação dos desfechos clínicos. Os desfechos foram hospitalização, morte, e infarto agudo do miocárdio em 30 dias. A comparação entre os métodos foi realizada pelo teste de concordância kappa. O desempenho das medidas de troponina e da ATC na detecção de lesões coronárias significativas e desfechos clínicos foi calculado. Os resultados foram considerados estatisticamente significativos quando p <0,05. Resultados Estenose coronária ≥ 50% na ATC foi encontrada em 38% dos pacientes e lesões coronárias significativas na angiografia coronária foram encontradas em 31 pacientes. Dois eventos clínicos foram observados. A análise de concordância Kappa mostrou baixa concordância entre as medidas de troponina e ATC na detecção de lesões coronárias significativas (kappa = 0,022, p = 0,78). O desempenho da ATC para detectar lesões coronárias significativas na angiografia coronária ou para prever eventos clínicos em 30 dias foi melhor que as medidas de troponina sensível (acurácia de 91% versus 60%). Conclusão ATC teve melhor desempenho que as medidas seriadas de troponina na detecção de doença coronariana significativa em pacientes com dor torácica e risco intermediário para eventos cardiovasculares.

Abstract Background Coronary tomography angiography (CTA) has been mainly used for chest pain evaluation in low-risk patients, and few data exist regarding patients at intermediate risk. Objective To evaluate the performance of serial measures of sensitive troponin and CTA in intermediate-risk patients. Methods A total of 100 patients with chest pain, TIMI risk scores of 3 or 4, and negative troponin were prospectively included. All patients underwent CTA and those with coronary stenosis ≥ 50% were referred to invasive coronary angiography. Patients with coronary lesions <50% were discharged and contacted 30 days later by a telephone call to assess clinical outcomes. Outcomes were hospitalization, death, and myocardial infarction at 30 days. The comparison between methods was performed by Kappa agreement test. The performance of troponin measures and CTA for detecting significant coronary lesions and clinical outcomes was calculated. Results were considered statistically significant when p < 0.05. Results Coronary stenosis ≥ 50% on CTA was found in 38% of patients and significant coronary lesions on coronary angiography were found in 31 patients. Two clinical events were observed. Kappa agreement analysis showed low agreement between troponin measures and CTA in the detection of significant coronary lesions (kappa = 0.022, p = 0.78). The performance of CTA for detecting significant coronary lesions on coronary angiography or for predicting clinical events at 30 days was better than sensitive troponin measures (accuracy of 91% versus 60%). Conclusion CTA performed better than sensitive troponin measures in the detection of significant coronary disease in patients with chest pain and intermediate risk for cardiovascular events.

Enfermedad de Kawasaki: ¿una entidad exclusiva de niños? / Kawasaki disease, is it exclusive of children?

Resumen La enfermedad de Kawasaki es un síndrome febril agudo y autolimitado, de presunta etiología autoinmune, que característicamente afecta a niños menores de 5 años. Esta enfermedad consiste en una vasculitis aguda de pequeños y medianos vasos que favorece la formación de aneurismas en las arterias coronarias. El diagnóstico en la fase aguda es esencialmente clínico, mientras que en la fase crónica suele hacerse al documentar las secuelas vasculares. La importancia de la identificación apropiada de esta enfermedad radica en que muchos de los infartos fatales y no fatales en personas menores de 40 años tienen hallazgos compatibles con este diagnóstico. Se presenta el caso de un adulto joven con dolor torácico y angiotomografía coronaria con hallazgos compatibles con secuelas de enfermedad de Kawasaki del adulto.

Abstract Kawasaki disease is an acute and self-limited febrile syndrome with a presumed autoimmune etiology that characteristically affects children under 5 years of age. Kawasaki disease is an acute vasculitis of small and medium vessels that facilitates the formation of coronary aneurysms. The diagnosis of the disease during the acute phase is essentially clinical, while the diagnosis of Kawasaki disease during the chronic phase is performed when the vascular complications are detected. The importance of proper identification of Kawasaki disease lies in the fact that many of the fatal and non-fatal infarcts in young adults (<40 years) have findings compatible with this diagnosis. This article describes the case of a young patient with chest pain and coronary angiotomography showing sequelae of Kawasaki disease in the adult.

Angiotomografía de la arteria cística en preoperatorio y comorbilidad en colecistectomía laparoscópica por colelitiasis / Angiotomography of the cystic artery in preoperative and comorbidity in laparoscopic cholecystectomy for cholelithiasis

La colecistectomía laparoscópica es el tratamiento de elección de la colelitiasis; sin embargo, se acompaña de comorbilidades y no está exenta de complicaciones mayores que pueden ser letales; la identificación del trígono cistohepático con disección y ligadura de la arteria cística son pasos obligatorios de la cirugía; la identificación de las variaciones de la arteria cística y los conductos biliares pueden minimizar las eventuales complicaciones. Al protocolo preoperatorio se implementó una angiotomografía con Tomógrafo Siemens Somatón Sensation ® de 64 cortes para identificar la arteria cística en pacientes con colelitiasis de la Unidad de Cirugía General del Hospital de Especialidades Teodoro Maldonado Carbo IESS de Guayaquil. Se escogieron 60 pacientes femeninos en forma aleatoria (edades 19-70 años, promedio 44,25 años) y la muestra se dividió en dos grupos de 30; al grupo estudio se aplicó angiotomografía hasta un mes antes de la cirugía y al grupo control se le aplicó el protocolo convencional. Se evaluó morbilidades relacionadas con: hemorragia operatoria por lesión de la arteria cística y en el posoperatorio: infección de herida operatoria, íleo y drenaje. La angiotomografía permitió identificar la arteria cística en el preoperatorio y contribuyó a disminuir comorbilidades que acompañan a la colecistectomía laparoscópica.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the treatment of cholelithiasis of choice; however, it is accompanied by comorbidities and is not exempt from major complications that can be lethal; the identification of the cystohepatic trigone with dissection and ligation of the cystic artery are mandatory steps of surgery; the identification of the variations of the cystic artery and the bile ducts can minimize the possible complications. The preoperative protocol was implemented with an angiotomography with Siemens Somatón Sensation ® 64-slice Tomograph to identify the cystic artery in patients with cholelithiasis of the General Surgery Unit of the Teodoro Maldonado Carbo IESS Specialty Hospital of Guayaquil. 60 female patients were chosen at random (ages 19 -70 years, average 44.25 years) and the sample was divided into two groups of 30; Angiotomography was applied to the study group up to one month before surgery and the conventional protocol was applied to the control group. Morbidities related to: operative haemorrhage due to cystic artery and postoperative injury: operative wound infection, ileus and drainage were evaluated. Angiotomography allowed to identify the cystic artery in the preoperative period and contributed to decrease comorbidities that accompany laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Secuestro pulmonar intralobar: hallazgo clínico-radiológico. Presentación de un caso / Intralobar pulmonary sequestration. Presentation of the case

RESUMEN Se presentó una mujer de 40 años con antecedentes de asma bronquial atendida en el Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Hermanos Ameijeiras de La Habana. Refirió historia de un mes de evolución de tos seca, dolor torácico en hemitórax izquierdo, falta de aire y en dos ocasiones fiebre de 38 °C. Cumplió tratamiento para el proceso infeccioso respiratorio sin resolución. En la radiografía de tórax se evidenció una lesión radiopaca en el lóbulo inferior izquierdo y se confirmó el secuestro pulmonar intralobar con la angiotomografía pulmonar. En el secuestro pulmonar se requiere del uso adecuado de método clínico para su diagnóstico y la toma de decisiones terapéuticas definitivas.

ABSTRACT Forty years old woman with a history of severe asthma assisted to the Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Hermanos Ameijeiras in Havana, presenting the following symptoms: dry cough, chest pain in left hemithorax, shortness of breath and fever with a temperature of 38°C twice in the month. The patient was under treatment to control a respiratory infection, with no resolution reported. Radiography of the thorax revealed a radiopaque lesion in the left lower lobe, and lung sequestration was confirmed by pulmonary angiography. An appropiate use of clinical methods is required to diagnose and undertake the right therapy decisions about the intralobar lung sequestration.

Secuestro pulmonar intralobar: hallazgo clínico-radiológico. presentación de un caso / Intralobar pulmonary sequestration. presentation of the case

Se presentó una mujer de 40 años con antecedentes de asma bronquial atendida en el Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico "Hermanos Ameijeiras" de La Habana. Refirió historia de un mes de evolución de tos seca, dolor torácico en hemitórax izquierdo, falta de aire y en dos ocasiones fiebre de 38 °C. Cumplió tratamiento para el proceso infeccioso respiratorio sin resolución. En la radiografía de tórax se evidenció una lesión radiopaca en el lóbulo inferior izquierdo y se confirmó el secuestro pulmonar intralobar con la angiotomografía pulmonar. En el secuestro pulmonar se requiere del uso adecuado de método clínico para su diagnóstico y la toma de decisiones terapéuticas definitivas(AU)

Forty years old woman with a history of severe asthma assisted to the Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico "Hermanos Ameijeiras" in Havana, presenting the following symptoms: dry cough, chest pain in left hemithorax, shortness of breath and fever with a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) twice in the month. The patient was under treatment to control a respiratory infection, with no resolution reported. Radiography of the thorax revealed a radiopaque lesion in the left lower lobe, and lung sequestration was confirmed by pulmonary angiography. An appropiate use of clinical methods is required to diagnose and undertake the right therapy decisions about the intralobar lung sequestration(AU)

Angiotomografía de las variantes anatómicas de la arteria cística: estudio en el preoperatorio de colelitiasis / Angiotomography of the anatomical variants of the cystic artery: pre-operative study of cholelithiasis

La colecistectomía laparoscópica es el tratamiento indicado en la colelitiasis, sin embargo el procedimiento no está exento de complicaciones o morbilidad concomitante. Es posible que, debido a lesiones ductales colaterales, ocurra sangrado con posibilidad de conversión de la cirugía e indeseables resultados. Para un correcto abordaje de la región se hace fundamental la identificación del trígono cistohepático (TCH) y sus componentes, a su vez de la ligadura y sección de la arteria cística (AC). Conociendo la elevada variabilidad de la AC, el objetivo de este trabajo consistió en identificar el número, origen, trayecto y relación de la AC con el TCH y sus variaciones, utilizando angiotomografía por medio de un tomógrafo detector de 64 cortes, en el preoperatorio de 30 pacientes de sexo femenino, entre 24 y 54 años de edad, con colelitiasis diagnosticadas clínicamente y por ecosonografía. La AC en el 76,67 % era única y se encontraba dentro del TCH, en el 16,67 % era única y se observó fuera del TCH. En el 6,67 % se observaron dos AC, una dentro y otra fuera del TCH. En el 66,67 % de los casos la AC se originaba de manera normal de la arteria hepática derecha. La trazabilidad de la AC fue en el 53,3 % medianamente visible y en el 46,7 % de trazabilidad excelente. En conclusión, la identificación de la AC y sus variaciones anatómicas se puede determinar en el preoperatorio y puede ser útil para mejorar el plan quirúrgico en pacientes con colelitiasis, brindando información al procedimiento, optimizarlo y disminuir los riesgos de eventuales complicaciones relacionados con sangrado.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the treatment indicated for cholelithiasis, however the procedure is not free of complications or concomitant morbidity. It is possible that, due to collateral ductal lesions, bleeding occurs with the possibility of surgery conversion and undesirable results. For a correct approach to the region it is essential to identify the cystohepatic trigone (CHT) and its components, as well as the ligation and section of the cystic artery (AC). Knowing the high variability of CA, the aim of this work was to identify the number, origin, path and relationship of CA with the CHT and its variations using angiotomography by means of a 64-slice detector tomograph in the preoperative period of 30 female patients, between 24 and 54 years old, with clinically diagnosed cholelithiasis and by echo sonography. The AC in 76.67 % was unique and was within the CHT, in 16.67 % it was unique and was observed outside the CHT. In 6.67 %, two ACs were observed, one inside and one outside the TCH. In 66.67 % of cases, CA originated normally from the right hepatic artery. The traceability of AC was 53.3 % moderately visible and 46.7 % excellent traceability. In conclusion, the identification of AC and its anatomical variations can be determined in the preoperative period and can be useful to improve the surgical plan in patients with cholelithiasis, providing information on the procedure, optimizing it and reducing the risks of possible bleeding related complications.

Atherosclerotic Plaque in Patients with Zero Calcium Score at Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography / Placa Aterosclerótica à Angiotomografia de Coronárias em Pacientes com Escore de Cálcio Zero

Abstract Background: In view of the high mortality for cardiovascular diseases, it has become necessary to stratify the main risk factors and to choose the correct diagnostic modality. Studies have demonstrated that a zero calcium score (CS) is characteristic of a low risk for cardiovascular events. However, the prevalence of individuals with coronary atherosclerotic plaques and zero CS is conflicting in the specialized literature. Objective: To evaluate the frequency of patients with coronary atherosclerotic plaques, their degree of obstruction and associated factors in patients with zero CS and indication for coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). Methods: This is a cross-sectional, prospective study with 367 volunteers with zero CS at CCTA in four diagnostic imaging centers in the period from 2011 to 2016. A significance level of 5% and 95% confidence interval were adopted. Results: The frequency of atherosclerotic plaque in the coronary arteries in 367 patients with zero CS was 9.3% (34 individuals). In this subgroup, mean age was 52 ± 10 years, 18 (52.9%) were women and 16 (47%) had significant coronary obstructions (> 50%), with involvement of two or more segments in 4 (25%) patients. The frequency of non-obese individuals (90.6% vs 73.9%, p = 0.037) and alcohol drinkers (55.9% vs 34.8%, p = 0.015) was significantly higher in patients with atherosclerotic plaques, with an odds ratio of 3.4 for each of this variable. Conclusions: The frequency of atherosclerotic plaque with zero CS was relatively high, indicating that the absence of calcification does not exclude the presence of plaques, many of which obstructive, especially in non-obese subjects and alcohol drinkers.

Resumo Fundamento: Diante da alta mortalidade por doenças cardiovasculares, faz-se necessária a estratificação dos principais fatores de riscos e escolha correta da modalidade diagnóstica. Estudos demonstraram que escore de cálcio (EC) zero caracteriza baixo risco de eventos cardiovasculares. No entanto, a frequência de portadores de placa aterosclerótica coronária com EC zero é conflitante na literatura especializada. Objetivo: Avaliar a frequência de pacientes com placa aterosclerótica coronária, seu grau de obstrução e fatores associados em pacientes com EC zero e indicação para angiotomografia computadorizada de coronárias (ATCC). Métodos: Trata-se de estudo transversal, prospectivo, com 367 voluntários portadores de EC zero, mediante a ATCC, no período de 2011-16, em quatro centros de diagnóstico por imagem. Foi assumido nível de significância 5% e intervalo de confiança de 95%. Resultados: A frequência de placa aterosclerótica nas artérias coronárias dos 367 pacientes com EC zero foi de 9,3% (34 indivíduos); neste subgrupo, a média de idade foi 52 ± 10 anos, 18 (52,9%) eram mulheres e 16 (47%) exibiam obstruções coronarianas significativas (> 50%), dos quais 4 (25%) apresentaram placas em pelo menos dois segmentos. A frequência de não obesos (90,6% vs. 73,9%; p = 0,037) e de etilistas (55,9% vs. 34,8%; p = 0,015) foi significativamente maior nos portadores de placa, apresentando, cada variável, odds ratio de 3,4 para o desenvolvimento das referidas placas. Conclusões: A frequência de placa aterosclerótica com EC zero foi considerável, evidenciando, portanto, que a ausência de calcificação não exclui placa, muitas das quais obstrutivas, principalmente nos não obesos e etilistas.

Longa sobrevivência em paciente com síndrome de ALCAPA não corrigida: Relato de caso e revisão da literatura

A origem anômala da artéria coronária esquerda da artéria pulmonar (síndrome de Bland-White-Garland ou ALCAPA: anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery) é uma cardiopatia congênita rara. Apresenta predominantemente na infância e suas principais formas de apresentação são como isquemia miocárdica ou insuficiência cardíaca. A sobrevivência à idade adulta é bastante incomum. Se não tratada, a mortalidade por ALCAPA se aproxima ao 90% na infância, portanto o reconhecimento precoce e a correção cirúrgica são essenciais. Apresentamos um caso de uma mulher de 56 anos, que acompanha em nosso ambulatório com o diagnóstico de síndrome de ALCAPA, e com piora recente da classe funcional de dispnéia.

The anomalous origin of the coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA or White-Bland-Garland syndrome) is a rare congenital cardiopathy. It presents predominantly in childhood and its main presentation forms are myocardial ischemia and heart failure. The survival to adulthood is unusual. If not treated, mortality by ALCAPA syndrome is close to 90% in childhood, therefore, the early recognition and surgical repair are essential. We present the case of a 56 years old woman, followed by our ambulatory with the ALCAPA Syndrome diagnosis, and recent functional class and dyspnea worsening

Incremental value of functional assessment over coronary anatomy in an acute myocardial infarction associated with mitral valve replacement.

We present the case of a patient with an aneurysm secondary to a complicated myocardial infarction associated to an occlusion of the obtuse marginal branches during or after valve replacement surgery.

Mixoma atrial: más que una neoplasia benigna / Atrial myxoma: more than a beningn neoplasm

RESUMEN Los tumores cardíacos son parte del diagnóstico diferencial en el estudio de las masas intracardíacas, junto con vegetaciones, trombos, calcificaciones valvulares, entre otros. Su localización, tamaño y movilidad pueden dar lugar a importantes implicaciones funcionales y anatómicas que determinan la presentación clínica. Describimos el caso de una mujer de 51 años de edad, quien se presentó con cuadro sugestivo de un síndrome coronario agudo, pero gracias a los hallazgos ecocardiográficos se le diagnosticó un tromboembolismo pulmonar originado por un mixoma en la aurícula derecha con posterior verificación histopatológica..

Cardiac tumors are part of the differential diagnosis in the study of intra-cardiac masses along with vegetations, thrombi, valvular calcifications among others. Their localization, size and mobility can lead to major anatomical and functional implications determining the clinical presentation. We describe the case of a 51 year-old female, who presented with complains suggestive of an acute coronary syndrome, in which an echocardiographic showed it a pulmonary embolism caused by a right atrial myxoma with histopathological verification was made.

Assessment of myocardial fibrosis and microvascular damage in systemic sclerosis by magnetic resonance imaging and coronary angiotomography.

OBJECTIVE: Cardiac involvement in SSc is characterized by myocardial fibrosis, arrhythmias and pericarditis. Prevalence studies have shown variable results. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of cardiac involvement in SSc patients using the non-invasive, highly sensitive diagnostic methods of cardiac MRI and coronary angiotomography. METHODS: We included 62 SSc patients and excluded those with heart disease prior to the onset of SSc, renal failure, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidaemia, arterial hypertension, untreated thyroid disease, cor pulmonale, pregnancy or contraindications to performing cardiac MRI. All underwent clinical and laboratory evaluation, ECG, coronary angiotomography and cardiac MRI. RESULTS: The prevalence of myocardial fibrosis was 45% and was higher in dcSSc (59%) than in lcSSc patients (33%; P = 0.04). The mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was lower in patients with myocardial fibrosis (56%) than in those without fibrosis (63%; P = 0.0009); myocardial fibrosis on MRI was more frequent in the basal-septal segments of the LV. Seventy-nine per cent of patients had subendocardial perfusion defects and these were associated with higher ultrasensitive serum CRP values. There was no association of myocardial fibrosis or microvascular damage with atherosclerosis. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of myocardial fibrosis on MRI attributable to SSc is 45%, is more frequent and severe in dcSSc patients, is associated with lower LVEF and affects mainly basal LV walls. Microvascular damage in SSc is common and is associated with elevated ultrasensitive CRP levels. Cardiac damage due to SSc is not associated with coronary artery disease.

Correlación de los hallazgos de la angiotomografia tridimensional con el diagnóstico post operatorio en pacientes con aneurisma cerebral / Correlation of the findings of the three-dimensional angiotomography with postoperative diagnosis in patients with cerebral aneurysm

Objetivo: determinar la correlación de los hallazgos de la Angiotomografía Tridimensional con el diagnostico post operatorio en pacientes con aneurisma cerebral que acuden a urgencias del Hospital Obrero #2 en el periodo comprendido entre enero del 2010 a diciembre del 2013. Métodos: se realiza un estudio de tipo retrospectivo, transversal, descriptivo con un enfoque cuantitativo, de un universo de 100, se seleccionó a 30 pacientes que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Resultados: el grado más representativo del estudio fue el Grado II con un porcentaje de 40 % (n=12). La escala de Fisher por tomografías encontrada en mayor proporción fue el Grado II con un 40 % (n=12). Las características angiotomografías de los aneurismas encontrados con más frecuencia son el tamaño del saco aneurismático entre 10 -25 mm( n=23), tamaño de cuello del aneurisma que es mayor a 4 mm en 77 % (n=23), relación cuello y saco entre 1/3 a 1 (n=22); morfología del tipo sacular es de 97 % (n=29); la localización del aneurisma es en el segmento carotideo supraclinoideo 33% (n=10); se encontró una correlación en 29 pacientes del total de 30, entre el diagnostico tomográfico y los hallazgos posoperatorios (en cuanto a tamaño, forma y localización), sin embargo solo se encontró una variante en cuanto a la localización, esto fue descrito en la tomografía que estaba localizado en el segmento clinoideo C5 y el postoperatorio en el segmento comunicante C7. Resultado: en el presente estudio se encontró una buena correlación entre el diagnóstico de la angiotomografia y el postoperatorio ya que hizo el diagnóstico correcto a 88% de nuestros pacientes, con solo una variación respecto a la localización. Creemos que permitió realizar el tratamiento quirúrgico oportuno en pacientes con HSA que ingresaron a nuestro hospital.

Objective. To determine the correlation of the findings of the three-dimensional angiography with post operative diagnosis in patients with cerebral aneurysm attending emergency of the Hospital Obrero #2 in the period from January 2 010 to December 2 013. Metodos: do a study retrospective, tranverse, descriptive type with a quantitative approach, counting with a universe of 100 patients of whom 30 patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were chosen with a intentional non-probability sampling. Results: in those 30 cases the age group that showed higher frequency of aneurysmal rupture was 50-59 years old representing 33%, with 58years old as high peak. The most affected was the female gender with 73% (n = 22). According to clinical evaluation with scale Hund and Hess the most representative of the study was the Grade II level with a percentage of 40% (n = 12) .The Scale of Fisher found in greater proportion was Grade II with 40 % (n = 12) .The Angiotomograffas characteristics of aneurysms most frequently found are: aneurysm sac size 10 -25 mm (n = 23) of the aneurysm neck size: more than 4 mm: 77% (n = 23 ) Relationship neck / sac 1/3 -1 (n = 22); Saccular sac morphology: 97% (n = 29); Aneurysm location: supraclinoid carotid segment 33% (n = 10); A good correlation of 30 patients between the tomographic diagnosis in size, shape and post operative findings was found, however only one variant was found in terms of location: it was described on CT which was located in Segment clinoid C5 and postoperative communicating segment C in July. Conclusions: In this study, a good correlation between the diagnosis and postoperative angiotomography. was found to be diagnosed 100% of our patients, with only one variation, regarding the location. We believe that allowed carrying out timely surgical treatment in patients with SAH admitted to our hospital.

Inteligencia emocional y lesión aterosclerótica coronaria: estudio exploratorio en base a la aplicación del test Trait Meta-Mood Scale / Emotional intelligence and coronary atherosclerosis: exploratory study using the Trait Meta-Mood Scale

Introducción No existen estudios previos que evalúen la inteligencia emocional en adultos asintomáticos con lesiones ateroscleróticas coronarias. ObjetivoEn este trabajo nos proponemos estudiar la inteligencia emocional como rasgo en adultos asintomáticos con y sin lesiones ateroscleróticas coronarias, junto con comparar los datos estadísticos de los mismos. Diseño y método Estudio de corte transversal. Participaron 100 adultos asintomáticos, entre 30 y 80 años, que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión y exclusión, y que se realizaron una angiotomografía coronaria derivados por su médico tratante. La presencia o ausencia de lesión se determinó utilizando un tomógrafo computarizado multicorte de 64 canales. La inteligencia emocional se evaluó mediante la aplicación del test Trait Meta-Mood Scale. Resultados: La muestra fue constituida por 73 por ciento hombres y 27 por ciento mujeres. 51 por ciento tenía lesión aterosclerótica coronaria, 78 por ciento presentó puntajes inferiores a los valores de referencia tanto para el factor claridad como para el factor reparación emocional. 79 por ciento presentó puntajes superiores a los valores de referencia para el factor atención emocional. Se hallaron asociaciones estadísticamente significativas entre la presencia de lesión aterosclerótica coronaria y cada uno de los tres factores evaluados: atención emocional, Chi-cuadrado: 0,302, p=0,043; claridad emocional, Chi-cuadrado: -0,312, p=0,040; y regulación emocional, Chi-cuadrado: -0,313, p=0,040. Conclusiones: Las personas con lesiones ateroscleróticas coronarias presentaron una tendencia excesiva a centrarse en la experiencia emocional, observando y pensando sobre las propias emociones, así como una baja habilidad para identificar, distinguir y describir las emociones que experimentan. También evidenciaron habilidad disminuida para reducir o eliminar las emociones negativas e incrementar o mantener la intensidad de las emociones positivas.

Introduction There are no prior studies that assess emotional intelligence in asymptomatic adults with coronary atherosclerosis. Aim The purpose of this study is to explore associations between emotional intelligence in asymptomatic adults with and without coronary atherosclerotic lesions. Design and methodCross-sectional design. The sample consisted of 100 asymptomatic 30 to 80 year-old adults that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and who underwent coronary multislice computed tomography. Coronary atherosclerosis was shown by 64-channel multislice computed tomography. Emotional intelligence was assessed by applying the Trait Meta-Mood Scale. Results The sample was composed of 73 percent men and 27 percent women. Fifty-one percent had coronary atherosclerotic lesions, 78 percent had scores below the reference values for both Clarity and Repair. Seventy-nine percent had scores above the reference values for Attention. Statistically significant associations were found between the presence of coronary atherosclerotic lesion and: a) emotional attention, chi-square: 0.302, p=0.043, b) emotional clarity, chi-square: -0.312, p=0.040, b) emotional regulation, chi-square: -0.313, p=0.040. Conclusions: People with coronary atherosclerotic lesions showed an excessive tendency to focus on their own feelings and higher levels of rumination, together with lower ability to identify, distinguish and describe their emotions. Likewise, they have lower ability to reduce or eliminate negative emotions and to increase or maintain the intensity of positive emotions.