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.

Association between platelet lymphocyte ratio and neutrophil lymphocyte ratio and clinical outcomes following carotid endarterectomy.

Background: Approximately 30% of stroke cases result from carotid disease. Although several risk factors for complications after carotid endarterectomy have been identified, the existence of a biomarker that can estimate postoperative risk in these patients has not yet been proven. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate correlations between the platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and postoperative clinical outcomes in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted, including 374 patients who underwent carotid endarterectomy between 2002 and 2019 due to moderate to high extracranial internal carotid artery stenosis. Their platelet-lymphocyte ratio and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratios were obtained from the same blood samples. Results: There was a statistically significant correlation between the PLR and the occurrence of restenosis (p < 0.01) and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) after endarterectomy (p = 0.03). Additionally, there was a statistically significant correlation between the PLR and the combined outcomes stroke and/or AMI and/or death (p = 0.03) and stroke and/or AMI and/or death and/or restenosis (p < 0.01). However, there were no significant correlations between NLR and these outcomes (p = 0.05, p = 0.16). Conclusions: The platelet-lymphocyte ratio proved to be a useful test for predicting occurrence of strokes, acute myocardial infarctions, and deaths during the postoperative period after carotid endarterectomy. It was also associated with the risk of postoperative restenosis.

Contexto: Aproximadamente 30% dos casos de acidente vascular cerebral (AVC) resultam de doença carotídea. Embora vários fatores de risco para complicações pós-endarterectomia carotídea tenham sido identificados, ainda não foi comprovada a existência de um biomarcador que possa estimar o risco pós-operatório nesses pacientes. Objetivos: Correlacionar o índice plaqueta-linfócito (IPL) e o índice neutrófilo-linfócito (INL) com os desfechos clínicos pós-operatórios em pacientes submetidos a endarterectomia carotídea. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo que incluiu 374 pacientes submetidos a endarterectomia carotídea, entre 2009 e 2019, por estenose extracraniana da artéria carótida interna. O IPL e o INL foram calculados, tendo sido obtidos das mesmas amostras de sangue. Resultados: Houve correlação estatisticamente significativa entre IPL e presença de reestenose (p<0,01) e infarto agudo do miocárdio (IAM) após endarterectomia (p=0,03). Os desfechos combinados AVC e/ou IAM e/ou óbito e AVC e/ou IAM e/ou óbito e/ou reestenose apresentaram, respectivamente, correlação estatisticamente significativa com o IPL (p=0,03; p<0,01) e não significativa com o INL (p=0,05; p=0,16). Conclusões: O IPL mostrou-se um teste útil, capaz de predizer os desfechos de AVC e/ou IAM e/ou óbito em pacientes no pós-operatório de endarterectomia carotídea, relacionando-se também com risco de reestenose pós-operatória.

Endovascular treatment of central vein occlusion in patients with functioning arteriovenous fistulas.

Background: The increased survival of dialysis patients and the inability to obtain sufficient organs to meet demand for transplantation, compounded by poor access to health services, have caused the transplant waiting lists to grow, extending the time spent using central venous accesses for hemodialysis. The most common etiology of central vein stenosis is prolonged central venous access, due to intimal injuries caused by the presence of the catheter. Objectives: To assess the results of angioplasty to treat central vein occlusion in patients with functioning peripheral arteriovenous fistulas. Methods: Retrospective cohort study with review of medical records from 47 patients with stenotic or occlusive lesions. Patients were assessed at 30 days, 6 months, and 1 year after recanalization or correction of stenosis with transluminal percutaneous angioplasty (TPA) or TPA/stenting. Results: Stenotic lesions were detected in 25 patients (53%) and occlusions were found in 22 (47%) patients. TPA with stenting was used in 64% of patients and balloon angioplasty in isolation was used in 36%. Analysis of clinical results showed a high rate of early clinical improvement (30 days), seen in 82% of patients (confidence interval [CI] 71-93%). After 1 year of follow-up, the primary patency rate was 57% and the assisted primary patency rate was 72% (CI 57-84%). Conclusions: Endovascular treatment of central vein stenosis or occlusions suggests clinical improvement of symptoms and adequate rates of patency at 1 year, notwithstanding the limited sample size.

Abdominal aortic aneurysms ruptured to the vena cava: a case series and literature review.

Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (RAAA) evolving aortocaval fistula (AF) can have catastrophic hemodynamic effects. Surgical repair is imperative, but the optimal technical approach is still under debate. Our objective is to present 3 cases treated with endovascular repair (EVAR) at a University Hospital. Case #1, a 71-year-old man presenting a 7.1cm RAAA with AF, repaired with a monoiliac stent graft and femoral-femoral bypass; Case #2, a 76-year-old man presenting a 9.9cm RAAA with AF, repaired with a bifurcated stent graft; Case #3, a 67-year-old man with previous history of EVAR, presenting a type 3 endoleak with late rupture related to AF, repaired with a tubular stent graft. All cases unfolded with delayed recovery and significant complication rates, although AF symptoms had resolved by hospital discharge. EVAR techniques for AF may require secondary interventions but are feasible, despite the lack of consensus, considering the rarity of this RAAA presentation.

Aneurismas de aorta abdominal rotos (AAAR) com evolução para fístula aorto-cava (FAC) podem apresentar consequências hemodinâmicas catastróficas. A correção cirúrgica é mandatória, embora não haja consenso sobre a técnica operatória. Apresentamos uma série de três casos operados em hospital universitário pela técnica endovascular. No primeiro caso, um homem de 71 anos apresentou AAAR de 7,1 cm com FAC, submetido a correção por endoprótese monoilíaca e enxerto femoral cruzado. No segundo, um homem de 76 anos apresentou AAAR de 9,9 cm com FAC submetido a colocação de endoprótese bifurcada. O terceiro caso era de um homem de 67 anos com histórico de EVAR e endoleak tipo 3, com ruptura tardia para veia cava, tratado com extensão aórtica. Todos apresentaram evolução pós-operatória prolongada com significativas complicações, entretanto com boa resolução dos sintomas à alta hospitalar. A EVAR é uma técnica promissora para o tratamento de FAC, embora com taxa de reintervenção significativa.

Effect of infusion of M&G solution for protection of renal tissue in Wistar rats subjected to programmed ischemia-reperfusion.

BACKGROUND: Renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) is directly associated with acute renal failure and can occur in conditions such as infarction caused by embolization or thrombosis, septicemia, and kidney transplantation. The process is complex, involving innate and adaptive immune responses, presence of cellular infiltrate, and production and release of cytokines and chemokines. It also triggers cell responses and release of reactive oxygen species, in addition to causing apoptosis and, in some cases, cell necrosis. Against this background, evaluation of renal tissue protection mechanisms is essential. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to test the M&G solution, developed in prior research, evaluating its capacity to protect the kidneys using morphometric analysis and by assaying the presence and expression of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, VEGF, HIF, and IL-8). METHODS: Eighteen Wistar rats were divided into three groups: Sham (S), Control (C), and Experimental (E). The S group underwent the surgical operation, but without arterial clamping. In group C, the aorta was clamped above and below the left renal artery, without infusion of the preservation solution. In group E, in addition to clamping, the aorta was punctured and M&G solution was infused continuously for 20 minutes at 15o C. Morphological analysis and immunohistochemical assessment of markers were then conducted. RESULTS: Morphological differences were identified in group S compared with groups C and E. Analysis of markers revealed reduced intensity of expression of TNF and of VEGF in group E. There were no differences in HIF or IL-8 between groups. CONCLUSIONS: The M&G solution was associated with a reduction in presence and expression of TNF-alpha and a trend to reduced VEGF.

Evaluation of the brain hemodynamic response by means of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) monitoring in patients with atherosclerotic carotid disease undergoing endarterectomy.

BACKGROUNDS: Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is non-invasive technique that detects hemodynamic alterations in tissues. It enables continuous monitoring of intracerebral vascular physiologic information. Due to its portable nature, NIRS may be used bedside or in the operating room. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate use of NIRS for intraoperative monitoring of the brain hemodynamic response, during carotid endarterectomy. METHODS: 10 patients with atherosclerotic carotid disease scheduled for endarterectomy were evaluated. After patients had been selected, they answered a questionnaire on epidemiological data and information about comorbidities and then carotid disease was confirmed with diagnostic methods. NRIS monitoring was used during the surgical procedure. The variables analyzed before, during and after carotid clamping were oxygen saturation (SatO2), total hemoglobin (THb), reduced hemoglobin (RHb), and oxyhemoglobin (OHb). A p value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The results obtained from NIRS show that RHb and SatO2 vary during the different stages of surgery. RHb levels are higher during clamping, when compared with the other two surgical stages. On the other hand, SatO2 is lower during clamping. CONCLUSIONS: During carotid endarterectomy, NIRS is a feasible, real-time, and non-invasive intracranial monitoring method that accurately and reliably measures the changes in intracerebral capillary hemodynamic conditions.

Primary stenting for femoropopliteal peripheral arterial disease: analysis up to 24 months.

BACKGROUND: Primary stenting is a well-established treatment option for femoropopliteal arterial obstructive disease. There is a shortage of Brazilian studies of the subject. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate short and mid-term clinical and radiological outcomes in patients classified as Rutherford 3-6 and treated with stenting of femoropopliteal lesions. METHODS: Analysis based on a prospectively populated database of patients treated from July 2012 to July 2015. The primary endpoint was primary patency. Secondary endpoints were clinical and ankle/brachial index changes. Target Vessel Revascularization, limb salvage rate and death, within a 24-month follow-up period. RESULTS: 64 patients were enrolled, including 61 TASC II A / B lesions (95%). The primary patency rates at 6, 12, and 24 months were 95.2%, 79.1% and 57.9%, respectively. Cox regression analysis revealed lower patency rates in patients with occlusive disease (hazard ratio [HR], 6.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.52-28,99, p = 0.02), as well as patency loss about 6 times higher in TASC B than in TASC A patients ([HR], 5.95, 95% CI, 1.67-21.3, p = 0.0061). At 12 months, 90.38% of the patients remained asymptomatic. The limb salvage rate at 24 months was 94.3% (95% CI, 87.9-100%). Freedom from TVR at 24 months was 90.5% (95% CI 82.8-98.9%). CONCLUSIONS: Results of primary patency were compatible with international studies, despite the more advanced stage of the vascular disease observed in our group. Occlusive disease and complex lesions were both associated with worse outcomes.

Thoracic aortic aneurysm in a patient with tuberous sclerosis.

Tuberous sclerosis is a genetic disease with autosomal dominant transmission. Its classic presentation comprises epilepsy, mental deficiencies, and sebaceous adenomas. Aneurysms of the aorta can be detected in people with tuberous sclerosis ranging from children a few months old to young adults. We report the case of a young patient diagnosed with a saccular thoracic aortic aneurysm and tuberous sclerosis who was successfully treated using an endovascular approach.

Guidelines for superficial venous thrombosis.

Superficial venous thrombosis (SVT) or superficial thrombophlebitis is characterized by thrombi within superficial veins, with partial involvement or occlusion of the lumen and inflammatory reaction along the course of the vein. Clinical diagnosis tends to be straightforward, but supplementary tests and examinations are needed to confirm thrombosis extension and possible thromboembolic complications. SVT can be associated with deep venous thrombosis in 6 to 40% of cases, with asymptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE) in 20 to 33%, and with symptomatic PE in 2 to 13%. Despite the morbidity and complications, there are currently no Brazilian guidelines for SVT. These guidelines cover the most important issues related to SVT definition, terminology, and etiology, and set out recommendations for diagnosis and treatment.

Carotid stenting versus endarterectomy cognitive outcomes.

BACKGROUND: The objectives are to analyze the impact of carotid revascularization on cognitive performance after a 3-month period in patients, who have undergone carotid artery stenting (CAS) or carotid endarterectomy (CEA), and to compare the cognitive outcomes between these 2 groups of patients. This a nonrandomized and prospective single-center experience. METHODS: This study was performed in the University of Campinas Hospital from January 2010 to January 2012 and included 30 patients with carotid stenosis who received carotid interventions. Nineteen patients received CEA and 11 patients received CAS. Neuropsychologic evaluation included general cognitive, language, visuospatial, attentional, executive function, and memory tests. RESULTS: After the follow-up period, there was improvement in episodic memory, encoding subitem (P = 0.02), and delayed recall (P = 0.02) for the CEA group. The CAS group improved in episodic memory, encoding subitem (P = 0.009), working memory (P = 0.04), and executive functions (P = 0.02). Comparing the techniques, the CAS group showed higher scores only in executive functions (P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: Both groups had a similar performance in cognitive tests, comparing preoperative and postoperative results. However, patients who underwent CAS tended to achieve higher scores in executive function and operational memory/attention tests.

Carotid Plaque Composition and the Importance of Non-Invasive in Imaging Stroke Prevention.

Luminal stenosis has been the standard feature for the current management strategies in patients with atherosclerotic carotid disease. Histological and imaging studies show considerable differences between plaques with identical degrees of stenosis. They indicate that specific plaque characteristics like Intraplaque hemorrhage, Lipid Rich Necrotic Core, Plaque Inflammation, Thickness and Ulceration are responsible for the increased risk of ischemic events. Intraplaque hemorrhage is defined by the accumulation of blood components within the plaque, Lipid Rich Necrotic Core is composed of macrophages loaded with lipid, Plaque Inflammation is defined as the process of atherosclerosis itself and Plaque thickness and Ulceration are defined as morphological features. Advances in imaging methods like Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Ultrasound, Computed Tomography and Positron Emission Tomography have enabled a more detailed characterization of the plaque, and its vulnerability is linked to these characteristics, changing the management of these patients based only on the degree of plaque stenosis. Studies like Rotterdam, ARIC, PARISK, CAPIAS and BIOVASC were essential to evaluate and prove the relevance of these characteristics with cerebrovascular symptoms. A better approach for the prevention of stroke is needed. This review summarizes the more frequent carotid plaque features and the available validation from recent studies with the latest evidence.

Quantification of the Tissue Oxygenation Delay Induced by Breath-Holding in Patients with Carotid Atherosclerosis.

Carotid artery stenosis (CAS) is a common vascular disease with long-term consequences for the brain. Although CAS is strongly associated with impaired cerebral hemodynamics and neurodegeneration, the mechanisms underlying hemodynamic impairment in the microvasculature remain unknown. In this work, we employed functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to introduce a methodological approach for quantifying the temporal delay of the evoked hemodynamic response. The method was validated during a vasodilatory task (breath-holding) in 50 CAS patients and 20 controls. Our results suggest that the hemodynamic response to breath-holding can be delayed by up to 6 s in the most severe patients, a significant increase from the median 4 s measured for the control group (p = 0.01). In addition, the fraction of brain regions that responded to the task decreased as the CAS severity increased, from a median of 90% in controls to 73% in the most severe CAS group (p = 0.04). The presence of collateral circulation increases the response to breath-holding and decreases the average time delays across the brain, although the number of communicating arteries alone cannot predict these fNIRS-based hemodynamic variables (p > 0.09). Overall, this work proposes a method to quantitatively assess impaired cerebral hemodynamics in CAS patients.

A topical cell therapy approach for diabetic chronic ulcers: Effects of mesenchymal stromal cells associated with platelet-rich plasma.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic cutaneous ulcers are subjected to several physiological and biochemical defects, which contribute to wound chronicity and therapeutic failure. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been used for stimulating tissue regeneration, and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have demonstrated therapeutic properties in all phases of skin regeneration in cell therapy studies. AIMS: The objective of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic effects related to the use of a biomembrane composed of autologous MSCs and PRP on chronic wounds of diabetic patients (pre-post pilot study). PATIENTS/METHODS: Six diabetic patients with chronic wounds for more than 6 months were subjected to adipose tissue collection for isolation of MSCs, blood collection for PRP preparation, and topical administration of a biomembrane of MSCs and PRP on each chronic wound. The statistical difference regarding the evolution of ulcers was calculated by means of paired t test. RESULTS: There was granulation tissue formation starting from 7 days after topical application. Total re-epithelialization occurred in 5 of the 9 lesions treated, and the mean wound healing rate (WHR) was 74.55% (±32.55%) after 90 days. No cicatricial hypertrophy or retraction was observed. CONCLUSION: Mesenchymal stromal cells topical therapy associated with PRP is well-tolerated and able to provide a reduction in ulcer area of diabetic chronic wounds.

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.

Association between platelet lymphocyte ratio and neutrophil lymphocyte ratio and clinical outcomes following carotid endarterectomy / Associação do índice plaqueta-linfócito e do índice neutrófilo-linfócito com desfechos clínicos após endarterectomia de carótida

Abstract Background Approximately 30% of stroke cases result from carotid disease. Although several risk factors for complications after carotid endarterectomy have been identified, the existence of a biomarker that can estimate postoperative risk in these patients has not yet been proven. Objectives This study aimed to investigate correlations between the platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and postoperative clinical outcomes in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy. Methods A retrospective study was conducted, including 374 patients who underwent carotid endarterectomy between 2002 and 2019 due to moderate to high extracranial internal carotid artery stenosis. Their platelet-lymphocyte ratio and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratios were obtained from the same blood samples. Results There was a statistically significant correlation between the PLR and the occurrence of restenosis (p < 0.01) and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) after endarterectomy (p = 0.03). Additionally, there was a statistically significant correlation between the PLR and the combined outcomes stroke and/or AMI and/or death (p = 0.03) and stroke and/or AMI and/or death and/or restenosis (p < 0.01). However, there were no significant correlations between NLR and these outcomes (p = 0.05, p = 0.16). Conclusions The platelet-lymphocyte ratio proved to be a useful test for predicting occurrence of strokes, acute myocardial infarctions, and deaths during the postoperative period after carotid endarterectomy. It was also associated with the risk of postoperative restenosis.

Resumo Contexto Aproximadamente 30% dos casos de acidente vascular cerebral (AVC) resultam de doença carotídea. Embora vários fatores de risco para complicações pós-endarterectomia carotídea tenham sido identificados, ainda não foi comprovada a existência de um biomarcador que possa estimar o risco pós-operatório nesses pacientes. Objetivos Correlacionar o índice plaqueta-linfócito (IPL) e o índice neutrófilo-linfócito (INL) com os desfechos clínicos pós-operatórios em pacientes submetidos a endarterectomia carotídea. Métodos Estudo retrospectivo que incluiu 374 pacientes submetidos a endarterectomia carotídea, entre 2009 e 2019, por estenose extracraniana da artéria carótida interna. O IPL e o INL foram calculados, tendo sido obtidos das mesmas amostras de sangue. Resultados Houve correlação estatisticamente significativa entre IPL e presença de reestenose (p<0,01) e infarto agudo do miocárdio (IAM) após endarterectomia (p=0,03). Os desfechos combinados AVC e/ou IAM e/ou óbito e AVC e/ou IAM e/ou óbito e/ou reestenose apresentaram, respectivamente, correlação estatisticamente significativa com o IPL (p=0,03; p<0,01) e não significativa com o INL (p=0,05; p=0,16). Conclusões O IPL mostrou-se um teste útil, capaz de predizer os desfechos de AVC e/ou IAM e/ou óbito em pacientes no pós-operatório de endarterectomia carotídea, relacionando-se também com risco de reestenose pós-operatória.

Tratamento endovascular de doença oclusiva venosa central com fístula arteriovenosa funcionante / Endovascular treatment of central vein occlusion in patients with functioning arteriovenous fistulas

Resumo Contexto A maior sobrevida dos doentes dialíticos somada à incapacidade de obtenção de órgãos suficientes para atender a demanda, bem como à dificuldade de acesso aos serviços de saúde, levou ao aumento da fila para transplante e ao prolongamento do tempo de utilização do acesso venoso central para hemodiálise. A etiologia mais comum de estenose de veia central é o acesso venoso central prolongado, pelas lesões intimais decorrentes da presença do cateter. Objetivos Avaliar resultados de angioplastia para tratamento de doença oclusiva venosa central com fístula arteriovenosa periférica funcionante. Métodos Estudo tipo coorte retrospectivo com revisão de prontuários de 47 doentes com lesões estenóticas ou oclusivas. A avaliação dos doentes foi realizada em 30 dias, 6 meses e 1 ano após a recanalização ou correção da estenose com ATP ou ATP/aplicação de stent. Resultados Lesões estenóticas foram encontradas em 25 doentes (53%), e oclusões, em 22 (47%) doentes. A angioplastia percutânea transluminal (ATP) com stent foi utilizada em 64% dos doentes, e angioplastia isolada com balão, em 36% deles. A análise de resultados clínicos mostrou elevada taxa de melhora clínica precoce (30 dias) em 82% dos doentes (intervalo de confiança [IC] 71-93%). Após 1 ano de seguimento, a taxa de perviedade primária foi de 57%, e a taxa de perviedade primária assistida foi de 72% (IC 57-84%). Conclusão O tratamento endovascular das estenoses ou oclusões de veia central sugere melhora clínica dos sintomas e taxas adequadas de perviedade no período de 1 ano, apesar da limitação no tamanho amostral.

Abstract Background The increased survival of dialysis patients and the inability to obtain sufficient organs to meet demand for transplantation, compounded by poor access to health services, have caused the transplant waiting lists to grow, extending the time spent using central venous accesses for hemodialysis. The most common etiology of central vein stenosis is prolonged central venous access, due to intimal injuries caused by the presence of the catheter. Objectives To assess the results of angioplasty to treat central vein occlusion in patients with functioning peripheral arteriovenous fistulas. Methods Retrospective cohort study with review of medical records from 47 patients with stenotic or occlusive lesions. Patients were assessed at 30 days, 6 months, and 1 year after recanalization or correction of stenosis with transluminal percutaneous angioplasty (TPA) or TPA/stenting. Results Stenotic lesions were detected in 25 patients (53%) and occlusions were found in 22 (47%) patients. TPA with stenting was used in 64% of patients and balloon angioplasty in isolation was used in 36%. Analysis of clinical results showed a high rate of early clinical improvement (30 days), seen in 82% of patients (confidence interval [CI] 71-93%). After 1 year of follow-up, the primary patency rate was 57% and the assisted primary patency rate was 72% (CI 57-84%). Conclusions Endovascular treatment of central vein stenosis or occlusions suggests clinical improvement of symptoms and adequate rates of patency at 1 year, notwithstanding the limited sample size.

Abdominal aortic aneurysms ruptured to the vena cava: a case series and literature review / Aneurismas de aorta abdominal rotos para a veia cava: uma série de casos e revisão de literatura

Abstract Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (RAAA) evolving aortocaval fistula (AF) can have catastrophic hemodynamic effects. Surgical repair is imperative, but the optimal technical approach is still under debate. Our objective is to present 3 cases treated with endovascular repair (EVAR) at a University Hospital. Case #1, a 71-year-old man presenting a 7.1cm RAAA with AF, repaired with a monoiliac stent graft and femoral-femoral bypass; Case #2, a 76-year-old man presenting a 9.9cm RAAA with AF, repaired with a bifurcated stent graft; Case #3, a 67-year-old man with previous history of EVAR, presenting a type 3 endoleak with late rupture related to AF, repaired with a tubular stent graft. All cases unfolded with delayed recovery and significant complication rates, although AF symptoms had resolved by hospital discharge. EVAR techniques for AF may require secondary interventions but are feasible, despite the lack of consensus, considering the rarity of this RAAA presentation.

Resumo Aneurismas de aorta abdominal rotos (AAAR) com evolução para fístula aorto-cava (FAC) podem apresentar consequências hemodinâmicas catastróficas. A correção cirúrgica é mandatória, embora não haja consenso sobre a técnica operatória. Apresentamos uma série de três casos operados em hospital universitário pela técnica endovascular. No primeiro caso, um homem de 71 anos apresentou AAAR de 7,1 cm com FAC, submetido a correção por endoprótese monoilíaca e enxerto femoral cruzado. No segundo, um homem de 76 anos apresentou AAAR de 9,9 cm com FAC submetido a colocação de endoprótese bifurcada. O terceiro caso era de um homem de 67 anos com histórico de EVAR e endoleak tipo 3, com ruptura tardia para veia cava, tratado com extensão aórtica. Todos apresentaram evolução pós-operatória prolongada com significativas complicações, entretanto com boa resolução dos sintomas à alta hospitalar. A EVAR é uma técnica promissora para o tratamento de FAC, embora com taxa de reintervenção significativa.

Duplex ultrasound and computed tomography angiography in the follow-up of endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair: a comparative study.

OBJECTIVE: To compare duplex ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) angiography in terms of their performance in detecting endoleaks, as well as in determining the diameter of the aneurysm sac, in the postoperative follow-up of endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a prospective study involving 30 patients who had undergone endovascular repair of infrarenal aortoiliac aneurysms. Duplex ultrasound and CT angiography were performed simultaneously by independent radiologists. Measurements of the aneurysm sac diameter were assessed, and the presence or absence of endoleaks was determined. RESULTS: The average diameter of the aneurysm sac, as determined by duplex ultrasound and CT angiography was 6.09 ± 1.95 and 6.27 ± 2.16 cm, respectively. Pearson's correlation coefficient showing a statistically significant correlation (R = 0.88; p < 0.01). Comparing the duplex ultrasound and CT angiography results regarding the detection of endoleaks, we found that the former had a negative predictive value of 92.59% and a specificity of 96.15%. CONCLUSION: Our results show that there is little variation between the two methods evaluated, and that the choice between the two would have no significant effect on clinical management. Duplex ultrasound could replace CT angiography in the postoperative follow-up of endovascular aneurysm repair of the infrarenal aorta, because it is a low-cost procedure without the potential clinical complications related to the use of iodinated contrast and exposure to radiation.

OBJETIVO: Comparar a ultrassonografia duplex e a angiotomografia computadorizada no diagnóstico dos endoleaks e na medida do diâmetro do saco aneurismático no acompanhamento pós-operatório da correção endovascular do aneurisma de aorta abdominal. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Foram estudados, prospectivamente, 30 doentes submetidos a correção endovascular de aneurismas de aorta infrarrenal e ilíacas. No seguimento pós-operatório foram realizadas ultrassonografia duplex e angiotomografia no mesmo intervalo de tempo, por radiologistas independentes. Foram avaliadas as medidas do saco aneurismático e a presença ou ausência de endoleaks. RESULTADOS: O diâmetro médio do saco aneurismático encontrado foi 6,09 ± 1,95 cm para a ultrassonografia duplex e 6,27 ± 2,16 cm para a angiotomografia, existindo correlação estatisticamente significante, com R = 0,88 e p < 0,01 (Pearson). Considerando a detecção de endoleaks, o valor preditivo negativo da ultrassonografia duplex (comparada à angiotomografia) foi 92,59% e a especificidade foi 96,15%. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados demonstram pequena variação entre os métodos empregados, não comprometendo o manejo clínico. A ultrassonografia duplex poderia substituir a angiotomografia no acompanhamento pós-operatório da correção endovascular do aneurisma de aorta infrarrenal, com baixo custo, evitando potenciais complicações clínicas relacionadas ao uso de contraste iodado e exposição à radiação ionizante.

An Observational Registry of Carotid Endarterectomy and Carotid Artery Stenting in Brazil: Study Protocol.

BACKGROUND: Carotid artery stenting (CAS) and carotid endarterectomy (CEA) are alternative strategies for stroke prevention in patients with atherosclerotic carotid disease. CEA has been considered the first-line treatment for carotid stenosis worldwide, and the safety and efficacy of CAS compared to CEA remains in question. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to compare the practice and outcomes of CAS and CEA in a real-world setting within public university hospitals in Brazil. METHODS: This study will be a prospective 5-year analysis of treatment for atherosclerotic carotid stenosis with CEA and CAS performed at 5 centers affiliated with the Vascular Study Group at public university hospitals in Brazil. The indications for the procedures will be determined by each surgeon's individual discretion, in accordance with preoperative risk evaluation. The primary outcome measures will be (1) any in-hospital stroke or death, and (2) any per-procedural stroke, death, or myocardial infarction (MI). Patients undergoing CEA in conjunction with cardiac surgery will be excluded from the study. Multivariate logistic regression will be performed to identify predictors of stroke or death in patients undergoing CEA and CAS. All tests of significance will be performed at the .05 level. This study was approved by the Committee of Ethics in Research at the University Hospital of Ribeirao Preto Medical School, and in all other participating institutions linked to National Research System and National Board of Health in Brazil (Process 15695/2011). RESULTS: This study is currently in the recruitment phase, and the final patient is expected to be enrolled by the end of 2018. We hope to recruit approximately 800 patients to the study. Analyses will focus on primary end points for patients that are allocated to each treatment group. During the per-procedural period, the occurrence of the primary end point components (stroke, MI, or death) for CAS and CEA will be analyzed for symptomatic or asymptomatic subjects. CONCLUSIONS: The analyses of the primary endpoints (and all others variables of the study) are expected to be published in 2019 in a peer reviewed journal, and results will be presented at scientific meetings, with summary results published online. This study will obtain new data related to the quality of treatment for carotid disease in Brazil at the primary training centers of future vascular surgeons, but the initial data that will be obtained and published (with the outcomes and complications) are restricted to the first 30 days postprocedure. This time restriction limits the comparison of the results that relate to the main goal of treatment, which is to decrease the risk of stroke over 5 years. The purpose of the study group is to continue the monitoring of patient records, and evaluate the follow-up data in the 5 years following the initial evaluation. This study protocol will contribute very significantly to improving the care of patients with carotid disease, in addition to qualifying the level of assistance provided in public university hospitals in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02538276; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02538276 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6m7APnFLD).

A comparative analysis of transcranial Doppler parameters acquired during carotid stenting and semi-eversion carotid endarterectomy.

BACKGROUND: Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and carotid artery stenting (CAS) have both been proposed for treatment of critical atherosclerotic stenosis located at the carotid bifurcation. Monitoring of hyperintense microembolic signals (MES) by transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD) is considered a method of quality control, both in CEA and in CAS. OBJECTIVE: To analyze temporal distribution of MES throughout both semi-eversion CEA and CAS procedures and to evaluate changes in mean velocity of blood flow through the ipsilateral middle cerebral artery (MCA). METHOD: Thirty-three procedures (17 CEA and 16 CAS) were prospectively monitored using TCD and the data were related to three different stages of surgery (pre-cerebral protection, during cerebral protection and post-cerebral protection). Chi-square, Mann-Whitney, ANOVA and contrast tests were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The MES were uniformly distributed in the CEA group, but not in the CAS group (p = 0.208). The number of MES was higher in the CAS group in all stages. The average flow in the MCA was similarly lower in both groups during the protection stage. CONCLUSION: CEA provoked a lower incidence of MES per procedure than CAS in all stages. The behavior of the averages of the mean of blood flow through the MCA was similar in both groups.

CONTEXTO: A endarterectomia carotídea (EC) e a angioplastia carotídea (AC) são propostas para o tratamento de estenoses críticas localizadas na bifurcação carotídea. O monitoramento dos sinais de microembolias (SMs) pela ultrassonografia Doppler transcraniana (UDT) é considerado um método de controle de qualidade para ambas as técnicas. OBJETIVOS: Analisar a distribuição temporal dos SMs ao longo de diferentes estágios da EC por semieversão e da AC, e avaliar o significado das mudanças nas médias das velocidades médias do fluxo na artéria cerebral média ipsilateral (ACM). MÉTODO: Trinta e três procedimentos (17 ECs e 16 ACs) foram monitorados com UDT, e os dados foram coletados prospectivamente para diferenciar os diferentes estágios cirúrgicos (pré, durante e pós-proteção cerebral). Para análise estatística foram usados os testes qui-quadrado, Mann-Whitney, análise de variância (ANOVA) e contraste. RESULTADOS: Em ambos os grupos, os SMs foram distribuídos uniformemente (p = 0,208). Em todos os tempos, o número de SMs foi superior no grupo AC. A média das velocidades médias do fluxo na ACM foi menor durante o tempo de proteção em ambos os grupos. CONCLUSÃO: A EC teve uma menor incidência de SMs que a AC em todos os estágios. A média das velocidades médias na ACM teve comportamento similar em ambos os grupos.