Alternative vein bypass in octogenarians with chronic limb-threatening ischaemia.

BACKGROUND: Octogenarians are regarded as one of the frailest patient groups among the chronic limb-threatening ischaemia population with high perioperative morbidity and mortality rates. As a result, alternative vein bypass surgery in the absence of sufficient great saphenous vein is often not considered as a potential treatment option. The aim of this study was to compare the results of octogenarians undergoing alternative vein bypass surgery due to chronic limb-threatening ischaemia to younger patients. METHODS: A single-centre retrospective analysis of patients undergoing bypass surgery for chronic limb-threatening ischaemia with alternative autologous vein grafts between 1997 and 2018 was performed. Patients aged over 80 years were compared with those under 80 years. Graft patency rates were assessed and a risk factor analysis for limb loss was performed. RESULTS: In total, 592 patients underwent bypass surgery during the study interval. Twenty-one per cent (n = 126) of patients were 80 years or older. At 4 years, primary, primary-assisted and secondary patency as well as limb salvage rates were not significantly different between the two groups (46% versus 50%, 60% versus 66%, 69% versus 72%, 72% versus 77%, for octogenarians versus non-octogenarians respectively). Major amputations were performed in 27 (21%) octogenarians and 91 (20%) non-octogenarians (P = 0.190). No higher 30-day and long-term mortality rates nor morbidity rates were detected in the octogenarian group with a median follow-up time of 27 (interquartile range 12-56) months. Minor amputation, the reason for alternative vein grafts, as well as the profunda femoris artery as proximal origin of the bypass were risk factors for limb loss in the postoperative course. CONCLUSION: Alternative vein bypass surgery in octogenarians with chronic limb-threatening ischaemia is safe and effective in terms of patency rates, limb salvage and survival compared with younger patients in the absence of sufficient great saphenous vein. Age alone should not be a deterrent from performing bypass surgery.

Mid-term surgical success after transscleral ab interno glaucoma gel stent implantation.

PURPOSE: To investigate the surgical success and efficacy of XEN45 implantation (XEN45 µm, AbbVie Inc., USA) with and without combined cataract surgery up to the first 5 years. METHODS: In a prospective observational monocentric trial, 192 eyes of 157 patients with open-angle glaucoma received either XEN45 implants only (solo surgery group) or combined surgery/cataract surgeries (combined surgery group). Surgical success (qualified and full success; IOP-limit: ≤12, 15, 18, 21 mmHg), time to secondary IOP-lowering procedure, IOP and number of IOP-lowering medications were analysed for 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 years. RESULTS: Compared to baseline, IOP (24.1 ± 8.1 to 12.6 ± 2.8 mmHg, -48%, p < 0.001) and the number of IOP-lowering medications (3.0 ± 1.0 to 1.5 ± 1.2, -50%, p < 0.001) decreased significantly at 5 years. Although no differences between IOP and the number of IOP-lowering medication courses between the groups were detected at 5 years (p > 0.11), the combined procedure (63%, 37%) showed better success rates compared to the solo procedure (36%, 13%) in the definition IOP ≤18 and ≤12 mmHg (p = 0.035, 0.028). Solo XEN45 procedures had a higher rate of secondary IOP-lowering procedures compared to combined XEN45 cataract procedures (hazard ratio: 2.02, 95%CI: 1.03-3.97, p = 0.04). Twenty per cent of the eyes, including both procedures, required a secondary IOP-lowering procedure within 5 years. CONCLUSIONS: The XEN45 implant is effective in lowering IOP and the number of IOP-lowering medications in patients with open-angle glaucoma in the mid-term. Comparing XEN45 implant results with the results of trabeculectomy available in current literature, we speculate that there might be a higher surgical success rate without medications in favour of trabeculectomy.

Using Isolated Femoral Bifurcation Endarterectomy or Combined with Bypass Surgery for Patients with Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia.

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients suffering from chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) and tissue loss treated with primary isolated femoral bifurcation endarterectomy (FBE) or with FBE combined with bypass surgery. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was performed in a tertiary university-based care centre. Between January 2008 and December 2019, a prospectively collected database of patients suffering from CLTI and tissue loss and undergoing either primary FBE (group A) or FBE in combination with bypass surgery (group B) was analysed. Study endpoints were ulcer healing, primary and secondary patency rate, limb salvage, and survival. Results: In total, FBE was performed in 73 patients and FBE with bypass in 60 patients. Between both groups, there were no significant differences regarding demographic data or the Global Limb Anatomic Staging System (GLASS) grade III and IV of femoropopliteal lesions. After 3 years, ulcer healing could be achieved in 72% of FBE and in 75% of FBE with bypass patients. The primary patency rate was 95% and 91% for FBE and 83% and 80% for FBE with bypass after one and three years, respectively. The 3-year limb-salvage rate was 78% for FBE and 84% for FBE with bypass. The secondary patency rate after one and three years was 99% and 97% for FBE and 93% and 88% for FBE with bypass. Conclusions: FBE and FBE with bypass are equally effective for ulcer healing in cases of combined CFA and superficial femoral artery lesions. There was no significant difference between both groups regarding primary and secondary patency rates, limb salvage rates and ulcer healing. Isolated FBE could be an alternative strategy in patients with higher operative risk.

Patient-Reported Outcomes Following Breast Reconstruction With the Transverse Myocutaneous Gracilis Flap Using the BREAST-Q and Lower Extremity Function Scale.

BACKGROUND: The transverse myocutaneous gracilis (TMG) flap is a viable and safe option for breast reconstruction in patients with limited abdominal tissue or other contraindications for abdominal-based flaps. Although it is one of the most common flaps employed for breast reconstruction, data on patient-reported outcomes is limited. OBJECTIVES: The authors seek to evaluate patient satisfaction and aesthetic outcome after breast reconstruction with the TMG flap. METHODS: All patients who underwent breast reconstruction with a TMG flap between March 2010 and October 2020 were identified. Invitation to a digital version of the BREAST-Q reconstructive module and the Lower Extremity Function Scale (LEFS) was sent to 105 patients. Patient demographics, complications, and surgical details were collected and retrospectively analyzed. BREAST-Q and LEFS scores were calculated and compared to the literature. RESULTS: Eighty-two patients participated in the study. Median follow-up was 5.9 years, with a mean patient age of 45.7 years. Most patients (90.2%) received treatment due to previous cancer of the breast, and 17.1% underwent immediate reconstruction. The mean score for "Satisfaction with Breast" was 66/100. Postoperative lower extremity function was high, with a median LEFS score of 78/80. A LEFS score below the median value was found to be significantly associated with active smoking (P = .049). Patients also reported high satisfaction with donor sites (8/11). CONCLUSIONS: Patient satisfaction and aesthetic outcome after breast reconstruction with TMG flaps is high and comparable to other common techniques. Lower extremity function is not impaired after flap harvest.

HER2 copy number determination in breast cancer using the highly sensitive droplet digital PCR method.

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER)-positive breast cancer (BC) is characterized by an aggressive clinical course. In the case of HER2 overexpression/amplification, patients benefit from HER2-targeting therapies. Standardized diagnostic HER2 assessment includes immunohistochemistry (IHC) and/or in situ hybridization (ISH). The aim of this study was to compare this "gold standard" with the Droplet Digital™ polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR), a method that allows sensitive and precise detection of copy number variations (CNV) in FFPE (formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded) DNA samples. Partitioning of the PCR reaction into 20,000 droplets enables a precise quantitative "CN" discrimination also in heterogeneous samples. FFPE breast cancer samples (n = 170) with routinely assessed HER2 status by IHC/ISH were retrospectively analyzed using the ddPCR CNV ERBB2 assay. Comparison of HER2 status assessment by the two methods revealed concordant results in 92.9% (158/170) of the cases. Discrepant cases were verified and interpreted. For ddPCR, a cut off value of 3 HER2 copies was set to distinguish between HER2-negative and HER2-positive BC. Results obtained with the ddPCR CNV ERBB2 assay were consistent and reproducible, and serial dilutions demonstrated a high stability and sensitivity of the method. The ddPCR CNV ERBB2 assay may be a specific and convenient tool to quantify HER2 copy numbers in BC samples. In our study, this method showed high reproducibility in accuracy of HER2 assessment compared to IHC/ISH analysis.

Short-term outcomes and costs analysis of robotic-assisted versus laparoscopic cholecystectomy-a retrospective single-center analysis.

PURPOSE: Robotic-assisted surgery is an alternative technique for patients undergoing minimal invasive cholecystectomy (CHE). The aim of this study is to compare the outcomes and costs of laparoscopic versus robotic CHE, previously described as the major disadvantage of the robotic system, in a single Austrian tertiary center. METHODS: A retrospective single-center analysis was carried out of all patients who underwent an elective minimally invasive cholecystectomy between January 2010 and August 2020 at our tertiary referral institution. Patients were divided into two groups: robotic-assisted CHE (RC) and laparoscopic CHE (LC) and compared according to demographic data, short-term postoperative outcomes and costs. RESULTS: In the study period, 2088 elective minimal invasive cholecystectomies were performed. Of these, 220 patients met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. One hundred ten (50%) patients underwent LC, and 110 patients RC. There was no significant difference in the mean operation time between both groups (RC: 60.2 min vs LC: 62.0 min; p = 0.58). Postoperative length of stay was the same in both groups (RC: 2.65 days vs LC: 2.65 days, p = 1). Overall hospital costs were slightly higher in the robotic group with a total of €2088 for RC versus €1726 for LC. CONCLUSIONS: Robotic-assisted cholecystectomy is a safe and feasible alternative to laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Since there are no significant clinical and cost differences between the two procedures, RC is a justified operation for training the whole operation team in handling the system as a first step procedure. Prospective randomized trials are necessary to confirm these conclusions.

Clinical and surgical results related to anterior-only multilevel cervical decompression and instrumented fusion for degenerative disease.

Introduction: Anterior-only multilevel cervical decompression and fusion surgery (AMCS) on 3-5-levels is challenging due to potential complications. Also, outcome predictors after AMCS are poorly understood. Research Question: We hypothesize that in patients with at most mild/moderate cervical kyphosis (CK) of the cervical spine, restoration of cervical lordosis (CL) positively influences clinical outcomes. Methods: Analysis of consecutive patients presenting with symptomatic degenerative cervical disease or non-union undergoing AMCS. We measured CL from C2 to C7, Cobb angle of fused levels (fusion angle, FA), C7-Slope, and sagittal vertical axis C2-7 (cSVA, stratified into ≤4cm∖>4cm). Patients with excellent outcome were grouped in BEST-outcomes and with moderate/poor outcomes in WORST-outcomes. Results: We included 244 patients. Fifty-four percent had 3-, 39% 4-level and 7% had 5-level fusion. At mean follow-up of 26 months, 41% of patients achieved BEST-outcome and 23% WORST-outcome. Complications and reoperation rates did not significantly differ. Non-union significantly influenced outcomes. The number of patients with non-union was significantly higher in patients with a preoperative cSVA>4cm (OR 13.1 (95%CI:1.8-96.8). Our model, based on the multivariable analysis with WORST-outcome as outcome variable showed a high accuracy (NPV=73%, PPV=77%, specificity=79%, sensitivity=71%). Discussion and Conclusion: In 3-5-level AMCS, improvement of FA and cSVA were independent predictors of clinical outcome. Improvement of CL positively influenced clinical outcomes and rates of non-union.

Predictive value and accuracy of [18F]FDG PET/CT modified response criteria for checkpoint immunotherapy in patients with advanced melanoma.

PURPOSE: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are widely used in metastatic melanoma and dramatically alter the treatment of these patients. Given the high cost and potential toxicity, a reliable method for evaluating treatment response is needed. In this study, we assessed tumor response in patients with metastatic melanoma treated with ICIs using three modified response criteria: PET Response Evaluation Criteria for Immunotherapy (PERCIMT), PET Response Criteria in Solid Tumors for up to Five Lesions (PERCIST5), and immunotherapy-modified PET Response Criteria in Solid Tumors for up to Five Lesions (imPERCIST5). METHODS: Ninety-one patients with non-resectable stage IV metastatic melanoma who received ICIs were retrospectively enrolled in this study. Each patient had two [18F]FDG PET/CT scans performed before and after ICI therapy. Responses at the follow-up scan were evaluated according to PERCIMT, PERCIST5, and imPERCIST5 criteria. Patients were classified into four groups: complete metabolic response (CMR), partial metabolic response (PMR), progressive metabolic disease (PMD), and stable metabolic disease (SMD). To assess the "disease control rate," two groups have been defined based on each criterion: patients with CMR, PMR, and SMD as "disease-controlled group (i.e., responders)" and PMD as the "uncontrolled-disease group (i.e., non-responders)". The correspondence between metabolic tumor response defined by these criteria and clinical outcome was assessed and compared. RESULTS: The response and the disease control rates were 40.7% and 71.4%, 41.8% and 50.5%, and 54.9% and 74.7% based on the PERCIMT, PERCIST5, and imPERCIST5 criteria, respectively. PERCIMT and imPERCIST5 showed significantly different disease control rates from that of PERCIST5 (P < 0.001), whereas it was not significant between PERCIMT and imPERCIST5. Overall survival was significantly longer in the metabolic responder groups than in the non-responder groups based on PERCIMT and PERCIST5 criteria (PERCIMT: 2.48 versus 1.47 years, P = 0.003; PERCIST5: 2.57 versus 1.81 years. P = 0.017). However, according to imPERCIST5 criterion, this difference was not observed (P = 0.12). CONCLUSION: Although the appearance of new lesions can be secondary to an inflammatory response to ICIs and indicative of pseudoprogression, given the higher rate of true progression, the appearance of new lesions should be interpreted deliberately. Of the three assessed modified criteria, PERCIMT appear to provide more reliable metabolic response assessment that correlates strongly with overall patient survival.

Different ureteral access sheaths sizes for retrograde intrarenal surgery.

PURPOSE: There is a trend toward miniaturization in endourological stone therapy. Good visibility, intrarenal pressures and temperature control should be ensured by ureteral sheaths. In the context of the present study, 10/12 Charr. sheaths and 12/14 Charr. sheaths for flexible ureterorenoscopy were investigated regarding stone-free rate, complication rate and efficacy for laser lithotripsy. METHODS: From January 2020 to January 2022, 100 patients each with kidney stone up to 1.5 cm in diameter were included in the study. Use of a 12/14 Charr. vs. 10/12 Charr. ureteral sheath for flexible ureterorenoscopy was compared. Perioperative data, stone size, volume and density, laser energy, laser duration, stone-free rates and complications based on Clavien-Dindo classification were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS: For both groups of ureteral access sheaths, there were no differences in median surgery duration (10/12 Charr: 29 min (7-105 min) vs. 12/14 Charr: 34 min (9-95 min); p = 0.33), overall complication rate (p = 0.61) and hospitalization (p = 0.155). There were no differences in stone-free rates (97.9% vs. 92.7%, p = 0.37). Laser lithotripsy duration usingholmium laser was 1.9 min (0.1-10.8 min) vs. 3.8 min (0.2-20.7 min) (p < 0.01) and applied laser energy was 3.1 J (0.15 J-10.29 J) vs. 6.8 J (1.07 J-26.77 J) (p < 0.01) for 12/14 Charr. sheaths and 10/12 Charr. sheaths, respectively. CONCLUSION: In terms of stone-free rates, there are no differences between the 10/12 and 12/14 Charr. ureteral access sheaths. The laser duration and energy was increased with 10/12 Charr. sheaths without showing increased risk for clinical complications like trauma or inflammation.

Personalized Prediction of Patient Radiation Exposure for Therapy of Urolithiasis: An Application and Comparison of Six Machine Learning Algorithms.

The prediction of radiation exposure is an important tool for the choice of therapy modality and becomes, as a component of patient-informed consent, increasingly important for both surgeon and patient. The final goal is the implementation of a trained and tested machine learning model in a real-time computer system allowing the surgeon and patient to better assess patient's personal radiation risk. In summary, 995 patients with ureterorenoscopy over a period from May 2016 to December 2019 were included. According to the suggestions based on actual literature evidence, dose area product (DAP) was categorized into 'low doses' ≤ 2.8 Gy·cm2 and 'high doses' > 2.8 Gy·cm2 for ureterorenoscopy (URS). To forecast the level of radiation exposure during treatment, six different machine learning models were trained, and 10-fold crossvalidated and their model performances evaluated in training and independent test samples. The negative predictive value for low DAP during ureterorenoscopy was 94% (95% CI: 92-96%). Factors influencing the radiation exposure were: age (p = 0.0002), gender (p = 0.011), weight (p < 0.0001), stone size (p < 0.000001), surgeon experience (p = 0.039), number of stones (p = 0.0007), stone density (p = 0.023), use of flexible endoscope (p < 0.0001) and preoperative stone position (p < 0.00001). The machine learning algorithm identified a subgroup of patients of 81% of the total sample, for which highly accurate predictions (94%) were possible allowing the surgeon to assess patient's personal radiation risk. Patients without prediction (19%), the medical expert can make decisions as usual. Next step will be the implementation of the trained model in real-time computer systems for clinical decision processes in daily practice.

Prognostic value of [18F]FDG PET/CT on treatment response and progression-free survival of gastroesophageal cancer patients undergoing perioperative FLOT chemotherapy.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the prognostic role of [18F]FDG PET/CT metabolic parameters in gastric cancer (GC) and gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (GEJAC) patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy. METHOD: In this retrospective study, 31 patients with biopsy-proven GC or GEJAC were included between August 2016 and March 2020. [18F]FDG PET/CT was performed before the neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Primary tumours' semi-quantitative metabolic parameters were extracted. All patients received a perioperative FLOT regimen thereafter. Post-chemotherapy [18F]FDG PET/CT was performed in most patients (17/31). All patients underwent surgical resection. Histopathology response to treatment and progression-free survival (PFS) were evaluated. Two-sided p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Thirty-one patients (mean age = 62 ± 8), including 21 GC and 10 GEJAC patients, were evaluated. 20/31(65%) patients were histopathology responders to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, including twelve complete and eight partial responders. During the median follow-up of 42.0 months, nine patients experienced recurrence. The median PFS was 60(95% CI:32.9-87.1) months. Pre-neoadjuvant chemotherapy SULpeak was significantly correlated with pathological response to treatment (p-value = 0.03;odds ratio = 16.75). In survival analysis, SUVmax (p-value = 0.01;hazard ratio[HR] = 1.55), SUVmean (p-value = 0.04;HR = 2.73), SULpeak (p-value < 0.001;HR = 1.91) and SULmean (p-value = 0.04;HR = 4.22) in the post-neoadjuvant chemotherapy pre-operative [18F]FDG PET/CT showed significant correlation with PFS. Additionally, aspects of staging were significantly correlated with PFS (p-value = 0.01;HR = 2.21). CONCLUSIONS: Pre-neoadjuvant chemotherapy [18F]FDG PET/CT parameters, especially SULpeak, could predict the pathological response to treatment in GC and GEJAC patients. Additionally, in survival analysis, post-chemotherapy metabolic parameters significantly correlated with PFS. Thus, performing [18F]FDG PET/CT before chemotherapy may help to identify patients at risk for inadequate response to perioperative FLOT and, after chemotherapy, may predict clinical outcomes.

Retrospective analysis of apical prolapse correction by unilateral pectineal suspension: perioperative and short-term results.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: We have previously published the novel method of unilateral pectineal suspension (UPS) for apical prolapse correction. UPS provides mesh-free midline uterus suspension using a single non-absorbable suture to attach the anterior cervix to the lateral part of the iliopectineal ligament. The purpose of this retrospective cohort study was to analyze the short-term efficacy, perioperative complication rate, and overall patient acceptance of the new UPS surgical concept. METHODS: Forty-seven patients with POP-Q stage 2-4 who underwent robotic UPS between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2021 were included in the study. Patient data were taken retrospectively from the patient files. Treatment success was the primary endpoint, measured both objectively using a defined composite endpoint and subjectively according to patients' acceptance 3-6 months after surgery during a follow-up examination. Secondary outcome measures included complications and conversions, and effect of additional procedures on operative time. RESULTS: Treatment success as measured by the defined composite endpoint was 93.6% for the entire cohort. No complications or conversions occurred. Mean operation time for isolated UPS was 46.5 min (n = 33 patients). UPS can be easily combined with additional surgical procedures for repair of remaining pelvic floor defects, incontinence surgery or other indications. Additional procedures performed had a significant influence on operation time (p < 0.0005, n = 14). CONCLUSIONS: UPS shows highly favorable results when looking at an unselected cohort of patients in need of primary POP surgery with respect to established quality parameters of POP repair.

Facet joint violation after open and percutaneous posterior instrumentation: a comparative study.

PURPOSE: Posterior instrumentation is the state-of-the-art surgical treatment for fractures of the thoracic and lumbar spine. Options for pedicle screw placement comprise open or minimally invasive techniques. Open instrumentation causes large approach related muscle detachment, which minimally invasive techniques aim to reduce. However, concerns of accurate pedicle screw placement are still a matter of debate. Beside neurological complications due to pedicle screw malplacement, also affection of the facet joints and thus motion dependent pain is known as a complication. The aim of this study was to assess accuracy of pedicle screw placement concerning facet joint violation (FJV) after open- and minimally invasive posterior instrumentation. METHODS: A retrospective data analysis of postoperative computer tomographic scans of 219 patients (1124 pedicle screws) was conducted. A total of 116 patients underwent open screw insertion (634 screws) and 103 patients underwent minimally invasive, percutaneous screw insertion (490 screws). RESULTS: In the lumbar spine (segments L3, L4, L5), there were significantly more and higher grade (open = 0.55 vs. percutaneous = 1.2; p = 0.001) FJV's after percutaneously compared to openly inserted screws. In the thoracic spine, no significant difference concerning rate and grade of FJV was found (p > 0.56). CONCLUSION: FJV is more likely to occur in percutaneously placed pedicle screws. Additionally, higher grade FJV's occur after percutaneous instrumentation. However, in the thoracic spine we didn't find a significant difference between open and percutaneous technique. Our results suggest a precise consideration concerning surgical technique according to the fractured vertebrae in the light of the individual anatomic structures in the preop CT.

Diagnostic and prognostic value of the Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotising Fasciitis (LRINEC) based on an 18 years' experience.

BACKGROUND: Necrotising fasciitis (NF) represents a rare but often life-threatening condition. Early diagnosis and surgical treatment are of vital importance. The LRINEC score was developed to distinguish necrotising fasciitis from other soft tissue infections (STI) at initial evaluation using six laboratory values. In this retrospective study, we attempted to determine the diagnostic and prognostic value of the LRINEC score. METHODS: A total of 125 patients, hospitalised in our clinic between 2003 and 2021 with a histologically confirmed diagnosis of necrotising fasciitis (NF group) and 319 patients with surgically treated soft tissue infections (STI group) were included in this study. Individual LRINEC scores were calculated and analysed retrospectively. RESULTS: The sensitivity of the LRINEC score at the cut-off point of ≥ 6 was 59%, whereas the specificity was 82%. The positive and negative predictive values were 57% and 84%, respectively. The mean LRINEC score was significantly higher in the NF group than in the STI group (6.0 compared to 2.4, respectively). All clinical outcome parameters such as amputation and mortality rates (15% vs 1%) were found to be significantly higher in the NF group (p<0.001). Within the NF group, there was no statistically significant association between the LRINEC score and clinical outcomes except for the necessary number of operations. CONCLUSION: In isolation, we found the LRINEC score not to be a reliable enough diagnostic tool for the differentiation between NF and other soft tissue infections, because of its low sensitivity. Although we cannot recommend it as a prognostic tool either, we do believe it can be a useful adjunct to the clinical suspicion of NF.

Long-Term Results of Autologous Bifurcated Carotid Artery Reconstructions.

BACKGROUND: Carotid bifurcation revascularization using interposition grafts is rare. While internal carotid artery (ICA) revascularization is regarded as mandatory, the external carotid artery (ECA) is severed in most instances. Long-term results of an autologous bifurcated carotid artery reconstruction are discussed. METHODS: Single-center, retrospective analysis of a consecutive series of patients treated at an academic vascular surgery center. RESULTS: From December 2006 to November 2019, fifty-one patients underwent reconstruction of the carotid artery using an autologous bifurcated interposition graft (38 males, 75%; median age: 68.7 years; interquartile range [IQR]: 60.2-76.5). Thirty-eight patients were asymptomatic (74.5%). Indication for reconstruction was recurrent carotid stenosis unfavorable for endovascular treatment/redo patch plasty (n = 32, symptomatic: n = 7), carotid aneurysm (n = 11, symptomatic: n = 5), neck tumor with vascular involvement (n = 7), trauma (n = 1). Nonreversed valve depleted saphenous vein y-graft from the groin was used in 49 (94.2%) and reversed cubital vein bifurcation in 3 (5.8%) procedures. The median ICA cross-clamp time was 15 min (IQR: 13-20 min). In four procedures (7.7%), a shunt was inserted because of a significant decrease of cerebral perfusion. In one patient, additional intraoperative stent placement of a proximal common carotid artery (CCA) stenosis was performed. Six patients suffered from ischemic neurological deficits (11.5%), all but 1 recovered with no or moderate symptoms. After a median follow-up of 5.2 years (IQR: 1.1-8.7 years), 7 significant asymptomatic stenoses (13.5%) and 2 occlusions (3.8%, one symptomatic) of the ICA, two significant asymptomatic CCA stenoses (3.8%), five significant stenoses (9.6%) and 7 asymptomatic occlusions (13.5%) of the ECA were observed. This prompted 7 re-redo-interventions in 5 patients. Twenty-eight patients (54.9%) died after a median follow-up of 3.3 years (IQR: 0.5-5.6 years). Two of these patients died due to conditions related to the performed carotid artery reconstruction. CONCLUSIONS: Autologous bifurcated carotid artery interposition graft provides results comparable to other complex ICA revascularizations. Overall survival in this heterogeneous patient cohort is poor. Due to the high risk of stroke and poor long-term outcome, this procedure should be reserved for symptomatic patients with no other option for revascularization.

Ten years' experience with the sutureless aortic valve replacement: incidence and predictors for survival and valve durability at follow-up.

OBJECTIVES: Aortic valve replacement with a sutureless prosthesis [sutureless aortic valve replacement (Su-AVR)] is an option for patients with severe aortic valve stenosis. However, data regarding long-term outcomes and prosthesis durability are still lacking. METHODS: All consecutive patients who successfully underwent Su-AVR with the Perceval valve in our centre between 2010 and 2020 were included in the analysis and followed prospectively with echocardiography. Risk factor analysis was performed to assess variables associated with worse survival and bioprosthetic valve failure. RESULTS: Study population consisted of 547 patients: the mean age was 76.4 (5.2) years, 51% were female and the mean logistic EuroSCORE was 13% (11). The median survival was 7.76 years [95% confidence interval (CI) = 6.9-8.6]. Risk factor analysis identified age [hazard ratio (HR) 1.06, 95% CI 1.03-1.11; P < 0.001), EuroSCORE II (HR 1.08, 1.02-1.13; P < 0.001), baseline dialysis (HR 2.14, 95% CI 1.4-4.4; P = 0.038) and postoperative acute kidney injury ≥2 (HR 8.97, 95% CI 4.58-17.6; P < 0.001) as factors significantly correlated with worse survival. The reported HRs for age are per 1 year and for EuroSCORE II is 1 percentage point. Structural valve deterioration (SVD) was observed in 23 patients, of whom 19 underwent reintervention (median freedom from SVD 10.3 years). In multivariable Cox analysis, age (HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.82-0.95; P < 0.001) was found to be a significant predictor of SVD. Overall, 1.8% was referred for prosthetic valve endocarditis (confirmed or suspected) during follow-up. One patient showed moderate non-SVD and none developed prosthetic valve thrombosis. CONCLUSIONS: The sutureless valve represents a reliable bioprosthesis for aortic valve replacement in patients with a 10-year life expectancy. Younger age at the time of implant is the only factor associated with the risk of long-term SVD.

Five-year follow-up of corneal endothelial cell density after transscleral ab interno glaucoma gel stent implantation.

PURPOSE: This study investigates the course of the endothelial cell density over a period of 5 years after XEN45 implantation (XEN45µm, Allergan Plc., USA) with or without combined cataract surgery. METHODS: This is a prospective, cross-sectional, monocentric, non-randomized clinical trial with the intention to treat a population of the University Eye Clinic Glaucoma Service Salzburg. One hundred and fifty-five eyes with preoperative central corneal endothelial cell counts were subjected to XEN45 implantation with (combined surgery group) or without (solo surgery group) combined cataract surgery. Endothelial cell density was measured at 3 corneal positions. XEN45 location parameters were determined with anterior segment OCT and gonioscopy. RESULTS: In the combined surgery group, a significant reduction of central endothelial cell count was found at years 2 and 4 when compared to baseline (p = 0.001 and p = 0.02, n = 86), whereas at years 1, 3, and 5, no change was detected (all p > 0.09). The median reduction of endothelial cell count was - 79 (95% CI: - 183 to - 9) and - 93 (95% CI: - 220 to 23) cells at years 2 and 4, respectively. In the solo surgery group (n = 69), no significant change in endothelial cell counts was detected at any time during the 5-year evaluation period (all p > 0.07). Explorative data analyses revealed that XEN45 location parameters did not significantly influence the course of endothelial cell count over time. CONCLUSIONS: Endothelial cell loss after XEN45 implantation seems to be low. The present data suggest no impact on the position of the implant with regard to central endothelial cell counts in this study.

Vein Bypass Versus Nitinol Stent in Long Femoropopliteal Lesions: 4-Year Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare technical success, patency rates and clinical outcomes of vein bypass (VBP) with angioplasty and nitinol stents (NS) in femoropopliteal Trans-Atlantic Intersociety Consensus (TASC) II C and D lesions. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: Guidelines widely recommend an endovas-cular-first strategy for long femoropopliteal lesions without sufficient data comparing it with vein bypass surgery. METHODS: A single-center prospective, randomized controlled trial (RCT) was performed, after approval of the local ethics committee, with technical success, primary and secondary patency as primary endpoints. Secondary endpoints were limb salvage, survival, complications, and clinical improvement. RESULTS: Between 2016 and 2020, 218 limbs (109 per group) in 209 patients were included. Baseline and lesion characteristics were similar in both groups with a mean lesion length of 268 mm. The indication for treatment was chronic limb threatening ischemia in 53% of limbs in both groups. Technical success was feasible in 88% in the stent group. During a 4-year follow-up, primary patency, freedom from target lesion revascularizations, limb salvage, survival and complications showed no significant differences between the groups. At 48 months secondary patency for the bypass group was 73% versus 50% in the stent group ( P = 0.021). Clinical improvement was significantly superior in the bypass group with 52% versus 19% reaching a Rutherford 0 category ( P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This is the largest RCT comparing angioplasty with NS and vein bypass in femoropopliteal TASC II C and D lesions and the first to report 4-year results. The data underline the feasibility of endovascular treatment in long lesions but also emphasize the advantages of VBP.

The projected numbers of degenerative spine disease in Austria from 2017 to 2080: a perspective-based scenario analysis.

BACKGROUND: Spinal surgery has to address the challenge of a dramatic increase of the growing number of older persons. The purpose of the present study was to project the numbers of surgically treated degenerative spine disease (DSD) in Austria from 2017 until 2080 to provide potential future scenarios that the Austrian Health system might have to face. METHODS: Current numbers on demographic information from Austria as well as population projections for 2017-2080 were obtained from Statistics Austria (STAT). A lower/main/upper scenario reflecting low/main/high growth and ageing scenarios deducted from fertility, life expectancy and immigration calculations was used. Information on prevalence of surgically treated DSD was obtained from the Austrian Spine Register. RESULTS: The population in Austria (evaluated in 2017) was 8.78 millions and is estimated to evolve to 7.86/10.0/13.1 millions by 2080. The total number of surgically treated DSD recorded in the Spine Register was 9300 and was estimated to be 9300/11200/13700 in 2080. The number of subjects with surgically treated DSD were expected to increase in the age-strata (main scenario), 100% corresponds to the number in each age and gender stratum: 0-40 years by (male/female) 2%/2%, 40-50 years -7%/-7%, 50-59 years -11%/-9%, 60-69 years 21%/16%, 70-79 years 51%/31%, 80-89 years 211%/129% and 90+years 698%/411%. CONCLUSIONS: Total numbers of subjects with DSD in Austria will increase from 2017 to 2080. The increase will be substantial in those aged 80+ and those aged 90+. The assumptions of this analysis were taken conservatively. Hence, the future socio-economic burden to society might be greater as projected by the study.