Quantitative Lung Ultrasound: Technical Aspects and Clinical Applications.

Lung ultrasound is increasingly used in emergency departments, medical wards, and critical care units-adult, pediatric, and neonatal. In vitro and in vivo studies show that the number and type of artifacts visualized change with lung density. This has led to the idea of a quantitative lung ultrasound approach, opening up new prospects for use not only as a diagnostic but also as a monitoring tool. Consequently, the multiple scoring systems proposed in the last few years have different technical approaches and specific clinical indications, adaptable for more or less time-dependent patients. However, multiple scoring systems may generate confusion among physicians aiming at introducing lung ultrasound in their clinical practice. This review describes the various lung ultrasound scoring systems and aims to clarify their use in different settings, focusing on technical aspects, validation with reference techniques, and clinical applications.

Position Paper on Young Vascular Surgeons Training of the Mediterranean Federation for the Advancing of Vascular Surgery (MeFAVS): State of the Art and Perspectives.

The Mediterranean Federation for the Advancing of Vascular Surgery (MeFAVS) was founded in 2018, with the aim to promote cooperation among vascular professionals within Mediterranean countries. Due to its prominent social and economic impact on national health systems, diabetic peripheral artery was selected as the very first topic to be investigated by the federation. In this second paper, different experiences from delegates of participating countries were shared to define common strategies to harmonize, standardize, and optimize education and training in the Vascular Surgery specialty.

Angiotensin Type 2 and Mas Receptor Activation Prevents Myocardial Fibrosis and Hypertrophy through the Reduction of Inflammatory Cell Infiltration and Local Sympathetic Activity in Angiotensin II-Dependent Hypertension.

Compound 21 (C21), an AT2 receptor agonist, and Angiotensin 1-7 (Ang 1-7), through Mas receptor, play an important role in the modulation of the protective arm of the renin-angiotensin system. The aim of this study was to investigate in an experimental model of angiotensin II-dependent hypertension whether the activation of the potentially protective arm of the renin-angiotensin system, through AT2 or Mas receptor stimulation, counteracts the onset of myocardial fibrosis and hypertrophy, and whether these effects are mediated by inflammatory mechanism and/or sympathetic activation. Sprague Dawley rats (n = 67) were treated for 1 (n = 25) and 4 (n = 42) weeks and divided in the following groups: (a) Angiotensin II (Ang II, 200 ng/kg/min, osmotic minipumps, sub cutis); (b) Ang II+Compound 21 (C21, 0.3 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneal); (c) Ang II+Ang 1-7 (576 µg/kg/day, intraperitoneal); (d) Ang II+Losartan (50 mg/kg/day, per os); (e) control group (physiological saline, sub cutis). Systolic blood pressure was measured by tail cuff method and, at the end of the experimental period, the rats were euthanized and the heart was excised to evaluate myocardial fibrosis, hypertrophy, inflammatory cell infiltration and tyrosine hydroxylase expression, used as marker of sympathetic activity. Ang II caused a significant increase of blood pressure, myocardial interstitial and perivascular fibrosis and myocardial hypertrophy, as compared to control groups. C21 or Ang 1-7 administration did not modify the increase in blood pressure in Ang II treated rats, but both prevented the development of myocardial fibrosis and hypertrophy. Treatment with losartan blocked the onset of hypertension and myocardial fibrosis and hypertrophy in Ang II treated rats. Activation of AT2 receptors or Mas receptors prevents the onset of myocardial fibrosis and hypertrophy in Ang II-dependent hypertension through the reduction of myocardial inflammatory cell infiltration and tyrosine hydroxylase expression. Unlike what happens in case of treatment with losartan, the antifibrotic and antihypertrophic effects that follow the activation of the AT2 or Mas receptors are independent on the modulation of blood pressure.

The risk of aneurysm rupture and target visceral vessel occlusion during the lead period of custom-made fenestrated/branched endograft.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate adverse events occurring during the lead period of custom-made fenestrated/branched endograft for juxtarenal/pararenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (j/p-AAA) and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA). METHODS: Between 2008 and 2017, patients enrolled for custom-made fenestrated/branched endograft repair were prospectively collected. Anatomic, procedural, and postoperative data were retrospectively analyzed. Lead period was defined as the time between the endograft order to the manufacturer and implantation. Aneurysm diameter, target visceral vessel (TVV) severe stenosis (>75% of ostial lumen), and number of planned TVVs were evaluated at preoperative computed tomography angiography. Patency of TVVs was evaluated intraoperatively. Aneurysm rupture and TVV occlusion during the lead period were assessed. RESULTS: There were 141 custom-made fenestrated/branched endograft repairs planned. Of these, 133 patients (male, 87%; age, 73 ± 6 years) with complete available data were considered for the study. There were 75 (56%) j/p-AAAs and 58 (44%) TAAAs. The mean aneurysm diameter was 58 ± 6 mm (j/p-AAA, 56 ± 6 mm; TAAA, 67 ± 8 mm); 15 cases (11%) had >70-mm diameter. Planned TVVs were 431 (mean, 3 ± 1 TVVs/patient). The mean lead period was 89 ± 25 days, with five (3.8%) aneurysm ruptures (j/p-AAA, one; TAAA, four) occurring, two (1.5%) during manufacture and three (2.3%) with endograft available in the hospital (all three procedures were postponed because of cardiac or pulmonary comorbidities). In one TAAA rupture, the endograft was successfully implanted and the patient survived. Four of five ruptures had >70-mm diameter. On univariate analysis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (P = .01; odds ratio [OR], 2.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.1-3.2) and aneurysm diameter >70 mm (P = .001; OR, 42; 95% CI, 4-411) were risk factors for aneurysm rupture during the lead period, with aneurysm diameter >70 mm being confirmed as an independent risk factor on multivariate analysis (P = .005; OR, 29.3; 95% CI, 2.8-308). Overall, eight endografts (6%) were not implanted (refusal, two; aneurysm rupture, four; death not related to aneurysm, two). In the remaining 125 patients (94%), 405 TVVs were planned. Of them, 46 (11%) had severe stenosis at preoperative computed tomography angiography. Twelve (3%) TVVs occluded in the lead period (renal arteries, five; celiac trunks, seven); six were recanalized and six were abandoned. Severe preoperative stenosis was a risk factor for TVV occlusion during the lead period (P = .000; OR, 1.3; 95% CI, 1.1-1.6). CONCLUSIONS: In our series, custom-made design required a mean lead period of 89 days, which was determined by both manufacturing time and clinical reasons. During this delay, there is a high risk of both rupture in aneurysms >70 mm and TVV occlusion in severely stenosed vessels. These factors should be considered in the indication for custom-made fenestrated/branched endograft repair.

Predictors of survival in malignant aortic tumors.

OBJECTIVE: Malignant aortic tumors (MATs) are exceedingly rare, and a comprehensive review of clinical and therapeutic aspects is lacking in the literature. The aim of this study was to analyze all known cases of MATs and to identify predictors of patients' survival. METHODS: All patients diagnosed with an aortic tumor treated in a single center along with all case reports and reviews available in the literature through a specific PubMed search using keywords such as "malignant" and "aorta" or "aortic," "tumor," or "sarcoma" or "angiosarcoma" were analyzed. The tumor's primary location, clinical presentation, histologic subtype, and treatment choice were examined. Survival at 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years and the possible preoperative and operative outcome predictors were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis with a log-rank test and by Cox regression for multivariate analysis. RESULTS: In addition to the 5 cases treated in our center, 218 other cases of MAT were reported in the literature from 1873 to 2017. The mean age of the patients was 60.1 ± 11.9 years, and the male to female ratio was 1.59:1. The median overall survival from diagnosis was 8 (7-9) months; 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates were 26%, 7.6%, and 3.5%, respectively. Chronic hypertension (P = .03), fever (P = .03), back pain (P = .01), asthenia (P = .04), and signs of peripheral embolization (P = .007) were significant predictors of a poor result. Histologic subtypes had a different impact on survival, with no statistical significance. Compared with other treatment strategies, combined surgical-medical therapy had the best impact on the median survival rate (surgical-medical, 12 [8-24] months; medical, 8 [5-10] months; surgical 7 [2-16] months; no treatment, 2 [0.5-15] months; P = .001). Analyzing exclusively medical approaches, chemotherapy and radiotherapy had the best impact on median survival rate compared with untreated patients (chemotherapy-radiotherapy, 18 [10-26] months; radiotherapy, 16 [8-20] months; chemotherapy, 10 [7-24] months; no medical treatment, 6 [2-16] months; P = .005); these data were not sustained by multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Aortic tumors are a malignant pathologic condition with a short survival rate after initial diagnosis. Survival is further diminished in the presence of clinical factors such as hypertension, fever, back pain, asthenia, and signs of peripheral embolization. Combined surgical and medical treatment, particularly with chemotherapy and radiotherapy, has shown the highest survival rate.

Renal Anti-Fibrotic Effect of Sodium Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibition in Angiotensin II-Dependent Hypertension.

BACKGROUND: Clinical trials have shown that empagliflozin (Empa), a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, promotes nephroprotective effects in diabetic patients. The mechanisms underlying nephroprotection are not completely known and it is not known whether the renal beneficial action is present even in non-diabetic kidney disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Empa administration on the development of renal fibrosis in an experimental model of angiotensin II (Ang II)-dependent hypertension. METHODS: Sprague Dawley rats (n = 31) were divided into 4 experimental groups. Ang II (200 ng/kg/min, osmotic minipumps, s.c., n = 9) or Ang II + Empa (10 mg/kg/day, per os, n = 10) were administered for 2 weeks. Control rats were treated with placebo (physiological saline, n = 6), and another group was treated with placebo plus Empa (n = 6) for the same period. Blood pressure (plethysmographic method) was measured at the beginning and at the end of the experimental protocol. After 2 weeks, the rats were euthanized and the kidneys were excised for histomorphometric evaluation of glomerular and tubulo-interstitial fibrosis and for the immunohistochemical evaluation of inflammatory infiltrates (monocytes/macrophages) and types I and IV collagen expression. RESULTS: The administration of Ang II resulted in an increase in blood pressure (p < 0.01), glomerular (p < 0.05) and tubulo-interstitial (p < 0.01) fibrosis, renal inflammatory infiltrates (p < 0.01) and type I (p < 0.01) and type IV collagen expression (p < 0.05) compared to the control group. Treatment with Empa did not significantly modify the increase in blood pressure due to Ang II, but prevented the development of renal glomerular and tubulo-interstitial fibrosis, and the increase in inflammatory infiltrates and types I and IV collagen expression in Ang II-treated rats (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: These data demonstrate that the treatment with Empa prevents the development of renal fibrosis in Ang II-dependent hypertension. In Ang II-dependent hypertension, the anti-fibrotic effect due to SGLT2 inhibition is caused by the reduction of inflammatory infiltrates and it is independent on the modulation of blood pressure increase.

A prognostic score for clinical success after revascularization of critical limb ischemia in hemodialysis patients.

OBJECTIVE: The revascularization of critical limb ischemia (CLI) in hemodialysis (HD) patients features poor results in terms of patient survival and limb salvage. Recent predictive models in CLI revascularization did not specifically address HD patients. The aim of this study was to define risk factors for clinical success (CS) after revascularization of CLI in HD patients and to transform findings in a prognostic score. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted of prospectively gathered data, including consecutive HD patients treated for CLI from January 2004 to December 2012. Patients' demographics, comorbidities, CLI stage (Rutherford classification), tissue loss (Texas University Wound classification [TUWC]), and type of revascularization were assessed. End points were CS after revascularization (amputation-free and reintervention-free survival) and a prognostic score for CS based on significant risk factors (multivariable analysis). RESULTS: In the study period, 131 patients (mean age, 70.2 ± 9.9 years; male, 76.3%) with a total of 180 limbs were treated. Endovascular (52.8%), surgical (28.9%), or hybrid (10.6%) revascularization was performed in 163 (90.6%) limbs in 117 patients. The mean (± standard deviation) follow-up was 20.8 ± 21.1 months. Considering revascularized patients, CS was 47.9%, 30.8%, and 17.8% at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively. On multivariable analysis, age (hazard ratio [HR], 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-1.05; P = .005), coronary artery disease (CAD; HR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.04-2.32; P = .032), and TUWC stage D (HR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.22-2.67; P = .003) were independent negative factors. Type of revascularization had no influence on CS. The score for predicting CS was 0.026 × age (years) + 0.441 × CAD + 0.59 × TUWC stage D. CAD and TUWC stage D were 1 in the presence of disease and 0 in the absence of disease. The score has a significant discrimination power of 75.5% (P = .036), with a best cutoff value of 2.07. Patients with a CS score <2.07 would have a low risk of clinical failure, whereas patients with a CS score >2.07 would have a high risk. There were 31 (26.5%) cases of low-risk score and 86 (73.5%) cases of high-risk score. Cases with low-risk score had a CS at 1 year of 51.6% compared with 23.3% in cases with high-risk score. CONCLUSIONS: CS after revascularization in HD patients remains poor independent of the type of revascularization. A prognostic model based on age, history of CAD, and severity of CLI (TUWC stage D lesion) can estimate an individual's chances of CS and may help in the decision-making process.

Predictors of perioperative and late survival in octogenarians undergoing elective endovascular abdominal aortic repair.

OBJECTIVE: The appropriateness of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) of uncomplicated abdominal aortic aneurysm depends on the risk-benefit ratio, particularly in elderly patients with short life expectancy. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of EVAR in >80-year-old patients by evaluating their postoperative survival and analyzing the possible predictors of late mortality. METHODS: All consecutive patients aged >80 years undergoing elective EVAR from 2006 to 2015 were prospectively evaluated. The 30-day mortality and long-term survival were assessed, and independent risk factors for mortality were determined by multivariate logistic and Cox analysis. RESULTS: Of a total of 1135 EVARs performed in a 10-year period, 201 (18%) occurred in patients older than 80 years. The median age was 84 years (interquartile range, 3 years), and 85% were male. Thirty-four patients (17%) had a score of 4 according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification. Overall 30-day mortality was 2% (n = 4); it was significantly higher in those with ASA score of 4 compared with ASA score <4 (9.4% vs 0.6%; P = .04) and was also confirmed by multivariate analysis (odds ratio, 12.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1-141.8; P = .04). The mean follow-up was 36 ± 18 months, and the overall survival at 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years was 85% ± 2%, 77% ± 3%, and 52% ± 4%, respectively. Using multivariate Cox regression, ASA score of 4 and peripheral artery obstructive disease (PAOD) were the only independent predictors for midterm mortality (hazard ratio of 2.0 [95% CI, 1.2-2.9; P = .04] and 3.07 [95% CI, 1.06-5.2; P = .04], respectively). The 2-year survival was significantly influenced by the presence of both (ASA score of 4 and PAOD; survival, 33% ± 2%) or one (ASA score of 4 or PAOD; survival, 67% ± 8%) of the two independent predictors. If neither ASA score of 4 nor PAOD was present, survival was significantly improved (92% ± 3%; P = .02). CONCLUSIONS: The performance of EVAR in >80-year-old patients is associated with an overall early mortality rate as low as 2%. In patients with no or only one risk factor, the survival rate warrants the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm; in contrast, patients with ASA score of 4 and PAOD have a significantly higher mortality rate and reduction of life expectancy.

Anatomical Predictors of Flared Limb Complications in Endovascular Aneurysm Repair.

Purpose: To evaluate possible predictors of complications with flared iliac stent-graft limbs for ectatic common iliac arteries (CIAs) associated with abdominal aortic aneurysms treated with endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). Materials and Methods: A retrospective comparative analysis was conducted of 533 EVAR patients (mean age 75 years; 442 men) treated between 2012 and 2017 who had complications associated with the stent-graft limbs (n=1066). Complications, including type Ib endoleak, type IIIa endoleak, and limb occlusion, were compared between patients with nondilated (<16 mm) CIAs treated with standard iliac limbs (SLs, n=808) vs patients with ectatic CIAs treated with flared limbs (FLs, n=258). Follow-up included a duplex scan at 3, 6, and 12 months and yearly thereafter; computed tomography angiography was performed in case of iliac complications. Risk factors for iliac complications in FLs were investigated using Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier analyses; results of the regression analysis are presented as the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Overall, no iliac complications occurred at 30 days, but over a mean follow-up of 38±8 months, there were 10 (1%) events (4 limb occlusions, 6 type Ib endoleaks): 7 (3%) in FLs and 3 (0.4%) in SLs (p=0.20). Kaplan-Meier analysis found no differences at 5 years in SLs vs FLs for freedom from limb occlusion (99%±1% vs 98%±1%, respectively; p=0.30) or type Ib endoleak (96%±3% vs 97%±1%, respectively; p=0.44). Similarly, the overall 5-year iliac complication rates were similar in SLs vs FLs (96%±3% vs 95%±2%, p=0.21). Regression analysis found CIA length ≤30 mm (HR 4.7, 95% CI 1.02 to 21.6, p=0.04) and a diameter ≥20 mm (HR 7.8, 95% CI 1.05 to 64.8, p=0.03) to be independent predictors of iliac complications in FLs. Kaplan-Meier estimates of iliac complication-free survival in FLs were significantly worse when the CIA length was ≤30 mm (79%±9% vs 98%±1%, p=0.003) or the diameter was ≥20 mm (85%±7% vs 99%±1%, p=0.02). The combination of both risk factors produced significantly poorer iliac complication-free survival compared with cases in which there was one or no risk factor (67%±19% vs 96%±2% vs 99%±1%, respectively; p<0.001). Conclusion: Iliac limb complications are infrequent in EVAR, regardless of the type of iliac limb chosen; however, CIAs ≤30 mm in length or ≥20 mm in diameter significantly increased the risk of late iliac complications in FLs. If both characteristics were present, this risk was further elevated.

Incidental Findings Identified on Head MRI for Investigation of Cognitive Impairment: A Retrospective Review.

INTRODUCTION: Incidental findings are common in presumed healthy volunteers but are infrequently studied in patients in a clinical context. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence, nature, and management implications of incidental findings on head MRI in patients presenting with cognitive symptoms, and to quantify and describe unexpected MRI abnormalities that are of uncertain relevance to the patient's cognitive symptoms. METHODS: A single-centre retrospective review of patients attending a regional early-onset cognitive disorders clinic between March 2012 and October 2018. Medical records of consecutive patients who underwent head MRI were reviewed. Unexpected MRI findings were classified according to their severity and likelihood of being incidental. Markers of small vessel disease and cerebral atrophy were excluded. RESULTS: Records of 694 patients were reviewed (median age 60 years, 49.9% female), of whom 514 (74.1%) underwent head MRI. 54% of the patients received a diagnosis of a neurodegenerative disorder. Overall 111 incidental findings were identified in 100 patients of whom 18 patients (3.5%, 95% CI 2.2-5.6%) had 18 incidental findings classified as requiring additional medical evaluation. 82 patients (16%, 95% CI 13.0-19.5%) had 93 incidental findings without clearly defined diagnostic consequences. 17 patients (3.3%) underwent further investigations, 14 patients (2.7%) were referred to another specialist clinic and 3 patients (0.6%) were treated surgically. Two patients had MRI findings of uncertain relevance to their cognitive symptoms, necessitating prolonged clinic follow-up. CONCLUSION: Incidental findings are common in patients with cognitive impairment from this large clinic-based series; however, few required additional medical evaluation. These data could help inform discussions between clinicians and people with cognitive symptoms regarding the likelihood and potential implications of incidental imaging findings.

Early and Late Outcome of Common Iliac Aneurysms Treated by Flared Limbs or Iliac Branch Devices during Endovascular Aortic Repair.

PURPOSE: To compare perioperative and long-term outcomes of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) with flared limbs (FLs) vs iliac branch devices (IBDs) for common iliac artery aneurysm to determine possible differences in outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From 2012 to 2017, all patients with standard EVAR with FLs and aortoiliac anatomy fit for implantation of IBDs were retrospectively selected and compared with patients with standard EVAR and IBDs. The study included 150 patients with 162 iliac treatments: 105 (65%) FLs and 57 (35%) IBDs. Iliac complications (ICs), including internal iliac artery (IIA) loss, limb thrombosis, and type 1b or type 3 endoleak, were considered at 30 days and in the follow-up period. RESULTS: Procedural time and volume of contrast medium were significantly higher in IBD vs FL procedures (90 min ± 33 vs 70 min ± 25, P = .01; 130 mL ± 40 vs 80 mL ± 20, P = .01). Perioperative rate of ICs was similar between IBDs and FLs (0% vs 3.8% [4 IIA loss], P = .25). During 35-month median follow-up, there were 10 ICs, all in FLs group (4 IIA perioperative loss, 4 type 1b endoleak, 2 limb occlusion). By Kaplan-Meier analysis, survival free of ICs was significantly higher in IBD group after 4 years of follow-up (1 y 100% vs 96%, P = .36; 2 y 100% vs 94%, P = .14; 3 y 100% vs 91%, P = .07; 4 y 100% vs 87%, P = .03; 5 y 100% vs 78%, P = .02). CONCLUSIONS: IBDs and FLs have similar perioperative results. IBDs require longer procedural time and greater contrast medium volume; however, they are associated with lower ICs after 4 years of follow-up.

Planning and Endograft Related Variables Predisposing to Late Distal Type I Endoleaks.

OBJECTIVE: Late distal type I endoleak (ELIB) hampers the outcome of endovascular repair (EVAR) for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA); however, only few dedicated experiences have been reported in the literature. The aim of the study was to evaluate the incidence, presentation and treatment of late ELIB and to identify possible anatomical and technical predictors. METHODS: All patients undergoing elective EVAR between 2008 and 2013 were collected prospectively. Follow up was by post-operative computed tomography angiography (CTA) performed within 30 days and CTA and/or duplex ultrasound (DUS) at six or 12 months and yearly thereafter. Patients with late ELIB, defined as distal type I endoleak detected more than six months after the primary intervention without endoleak on the intra-operative completion angiogram and on the post-operative CTA, were retrospectively selected (G1) and compared with a control group with no ELIB (G2) homogeneous for clinical conditions, endograft implanted, and timing of follow up. The minimum follow up required for inclusion in the study was 24 months. Pre-operative morphological aorto-iliac features and EVAR implant details were evaluated, and measurements performed after centre lumen line reconstructions using dedicated software. The differences between G1 and G2 were analysed using the chi-square test, the Student t test, and logistic regression. RESULTS: Six hundred and sixteen patients were submitted to EVAR. ELIB was detected in 14 cases (2.3%) (G1) at a median follow up of 32.8 (IQR 48) months. In three of the 14 cases ELIB was symptomatic (AAA rupture, 2; pain, 1); in the remaining 11 cases it was asymptomatic and found incidentally at routine follow up. Treatment was by open repair in one case and by endovascular iliac leg extension in 13 cases. Hypogastric exclusion was necessary in two of 14 cases. Thirty patients were included in G2, with a median follow up of 41.2 (25) months. Common iliac artery length <4 cm (OR 5.3, 95% CI 1.1-29.5, p = .05), diameter > 15 mm (OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.2-10.9, p = .03), and severe thrombotic apposition (>50% of circumference) (OR 5, 95% CI 1.2-19.2, p = .02), at the iliac sealing zone were significant predictors of ELIB, on univariable analysis; oversizing of the iliac leg diameter < 10% and distal sealing > 1 cm above the hypogastric origin were independently associated with ELIB (OR 5.4, 95% CI 1.3-21.5, p = .01 and OR 6.6, 95% CI 1.1-39.3, p = .03, respectively), on multivariable analysis. CONCLUSION: The present data underline that ELIB is a non-negligible occurrence during long term EVAR follow up and requires further interventions, most often by endovascular solutions. According to the ELIB risk factors identified in this study, an iliac leg diameter oversize >10% and extensive common iliac artery coverage (<1 cm above the hypogastric origin) would be suggested to prevent this complication.

Total Endovascular Repair of Contained Ruptured Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysms.

BACKGROUND: To report perioperative and 1-year results of total endovascular repair of contained ruptured thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs). METHODS: Between 2015 and 2017, preoperative, procedural, and postoperative data of patients with radiographic evidence of contained ruptured TAAAs treated by endovascular repair were prospectively collected. Only patients with stable hemodynamic parameters were enclosed. Primary endpoints were 30-day/in-hospital mortality, spinal cord ischemia (SCI), postoperative cardiopulmonary complications, and new onset of hemodialysis. Secondary endpoints were endoleaks, reinterventions, and overall follow-up survival. RESULTS: Twelve patients underwent endovascular repair for contained ruptured TAAAs. According with the Crawford/Safi's classification, 6 type II (50%), 3 type III (25%), 1 type IV (8%), and 2 type V (17%) TAAAs were treated. All patients were symptomatic. Overall, 34 target visceral vessels were planned to be revascularized. The mean time from admission to treatment was 48 hours (range 4-96), with 4 patients operated within 24 hours. Five patients (42%) were treated by T-branch, 3 (25%) by custom-made fenestrated/branched endografts, 3 (25%) by parallel graft technique, and 1 (8%) by standard thoracic endovascular aortic repair covering a stenotic celiac trunk. The 30-day and in-hospital mortality was 17% and 25%, respectively. Two patients (17%) developed SCI. Cardiac and pulmonary complications were reported in 1 (8%) and 3 (25%) cases, respectively. One patient (8%) needed permanent hemodialysis. Two endoleaks (17%) were detected at the postoperative computed tomography angiography (1 low-flow gutter endoleak and 1 type III endoleak). Four patients (33%) required re-interventions within 30 postoperative days. The mean follow-up was 12 months (range 1-22). No late target visceral vessels occlusion, endoleak, or reintervention occurred in this series. Overall, 7/12 (59%) patients were alive, and no cases of TAAA-related mortality occurred during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: According to our results, endovascular repair of contained ruptured TAAAs is feasible by a flexible approach in selected patients with anatomical suitability and stable hemodynamic conditions. Although early mortality and morbidity are significant, with frequent reintervention necessity, subsequent follow-up is free from reinterventions and TAAA-related mortality.

The Outcome of Technical Intraoperative Complications Occurring in Standard Aortic Endovascular Repair.

BACKGROUND: Technical intraoperative complications (TICs) may occur during standard endovascular repair (EVAR) with possible effects on the outcome. This study evaluates the early and midterm effects of TICs on EVARs. METHODS: All EVARs (from 2012 to 2016) were analyzed to identify all TICs: (1) endoluminal defects (stenosis, dissection, rupture, compression of native arteries, or endograft); (2) type I-III endoleaks; (3) unplanned artery coverage; and (4) surgical access complications. Follow-up was performed by Doppler ultrasound/ontrast enhanced ultrasound/computed tomography scan at yearly intervals. The outcome was compared with that of uneventful cases (UCs) through Fisher's exact test and Kaplan-Maier curve. RESULTS: TICs occurred in 68 (18%) of 377 patients undergoing EVAR. Thirty-two endoluminal defects were relined endovascularly; 24 type I-III endoleaks were treated with cuff deployment/forced ballooning (23) and surgical conversion (1); 3 of 8 unplanned artery coverages were revascularized (2 renal and 1 hypogastric); 5 hypogastric coverages had an unsuccessful correction; and 4 access artery injuries were repaired. Although fluoroscopy time and contrast usage were significantly higher in the TIC group than those in the UC group (309 cases), 30-day outcome was similar for death (1.4% TIC vs 0% UC, P = 0.18), reintervention (0% TIC vs 0.3% UC, P = 1), type I-III endoleak (0% TIC vs 0.9% UC, P = 1), steno-occlusions (0% TIC vs 0.3% UC, P = 1), buttock claudication, and renal failure (0% in both groups). At 24 months, TIC and UC groups had similar survival (91.7 ± 8% vs 96.2 ± 2.1%, P = 0.5), freedom from reintervention (81.4 ± 9.9% vs 96 ± 2.2%, P = 0.49), overall complication rate (13.4 ± 7.6% vs 11.4 ± 3.5%, P = 0.49), type I-III endoleak (11.2 ± 7.5% vs 7 ± 2.9%, P = 0.8), buttock claudication (0% vs 2 ± 2% P = 0.6), and hemodialysis (0% in both). Midterm iliac leg occlusion was significantly higher in the TIC group (26.9 ± 12.3% vs 3 ± 2.1%, P = 0.01). CONCLUSION: TICs may affect several aspects during EVAR, leading to the necessity of adjunctive maneuvers, which have no impact on early outcome but may cause an increased rate of midterm iliac leg occlusion.

The different scenarios of urgent carotid revascularization for crescendo and single transient ischemic attack.

OBJECTIVE: Carotid stenosis with crescendo-transient-ischemic-attack (cTIA) requires a prompt intervention to reduce the stroke risk. Few data are reported in literature about cTIA suggesting a different perioperative risk compared with patients with single TIA (sTIA). This study aimed to compare the outcome of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) in patients with TIA (single/crescendo) and evaluate the outcome risk-factors. METHODS: Data from two tertiary hospitals for vascular treatment were analyzed from 2007 to 2016. All patients with TIA subjected to CEA were considered, comparing the 30-day postoperative stroke and stroke/death in patients with cTIA and sTIA, particularly in the urgent (≤48 h) setting. RESULTS: On a total of 3866 CEA, 888 (23%) were performed in symptomatic patients and 515 for TIA: 365 (71%) patients with sTIA and 150 (29%) with cTIA. When compared with sTIA, cTIA patients were younger and less frequently affected by coronary disease, dyslipidemia, and chronic pulmonary disease; however, contralateral carotid occlusion was more common (20% vs. 10%, P = .004; 56% vs. 46, P = .03; 16% vs. 7%, P = .01; >80 years 26% vs. 16%, P = .01 and 2% vs. 10%, P = .001; respectively). Postoperative stroke and stroke/death were significantly higher in cTIA compared with sTIA (5.3% vs. 1.6%, P = .02 and 6.0% vs. 2.2%, P = .03; respectively). Urgent CEA was performed in 58% ( n: 87) cTIA and in 11% ( n: 56) sTIA( P<.01). The urgent setting did not influence the stroke and stroke/death rate of CEA for sTIA (3.6% vs. 1.3%, P = .21 and 3.6% vs. 1.9%, P = .44, respectively), but was associated with lower rate of events in cTIA (1.1%vs. 11.1%, P = .01 and 2.3% vs. 11.1%, P = .03, respectively). This beneficial effect in patients with cTIA treated within 48-h was confirmed also by multivariate analysis (OR: 0.09, 95% CI: 0.76-0.01, P=.02). CONCLUSIONS: cTIA subjected to CEA have a higher stroke and stroke/death risk compared with patients with sTIA. The urgent setting seems to reduce the stroke/death rate cTIA; for sTIA with a stable neurological condition, the timing of CEA did not influence the outcome.

Impact of previous open aortic repair on the outcome of thoracoabdominal fenestrated and branched endografts.

BACKGROUND: Thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) after previous aortic open surgical repair (OSR) are challenging clinical scenarios. Redo-OSR is technically demanding, and standard endovascular repair is unavailable due to visceral vessel involvement. Fenestrated and branched endografts (FB-EVAR) are effective options to treat TAAAs in high surgical risk patients but dedicated studies on the FB-EVAR outcomes in patients with TAAAs with previous OSR are not available. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of previous OSR on TAAAs FB-EVAR outcomes. METHODS: Between 2010 and 2016, all TAAAs undergoing FB-EVAR were prospectively evaluated, retrospectively categorized in two groups, and then compared: group A-primary TAAAs and group B-TAAAs after previous OSR (abdominal, thoracic, or thoracoabdominal aneurysm). Early end points were technical success (absence of type I-III endoleak, target visceral vessel loss, conversion to OSR, intraoperative mortality), spinal cord ischemia (SCI), and 30-day mortality. Follow-up end points were survival, target visceral vessel patency, and freedom from reinterventions. RESULTS: Sixty-two patients (male: 74%; age: 72 ± 7 years) with 1 (1%) extent I, 14 (23%) extent II, 24 (39%) extent III, and 23 (37%) extent IV TAAA underwent FB-EVAR. The mean TAAA diameter and total target visceral vessels were 65 ± 13 mm and 226, respectively. Ninety branches and 136 fenestrations were planned. Thirty cases (48%) were clustered in group A and 32 (52%) in group B. Patients in group A and group B had similar preoperative clinical and morphologic characteristics, except for female sex (group A: 40% vs group B: 13%; P = .02). Technical success was 92% (group A: 90% vs group B: 94%; P = .6), SCI 5% (group A: 10% vs group B: 0%; P = .1) and 30-day mortality 5% (group A: 10% vs group B: 0%; P = .1). The mean follow-up was 17 ± 11 months with a total survival of 86%, 80%, and 60% at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively and no differences in the two groups (group A: 83%, 83%, and 67% vs group B: 88%, 78%, and 55% respectively; P = .96). There was no late TAAA-related mortality. Target visceral vessel patency was 91%, 91%, and 91% at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively (group A: 87%, 87%, and 87% vs group B: 95%, 95%, and 95%; P = .25). Freedom from reinterventions was 90%, 87%, and 87%, at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively, and it was significantly lower in group A compared with group B (group A: 83%, 76%, and 76% vs group B: 96%, 96%, and 96% respectively; P = .002). CONCLUSIONS: Previous open surgery repair does not significantly affect the early outcomes of FB-EVAR in TAAA, with encouraging results in terms of technical success, SCI, mortality, and lower reinterventions rate at midterm follow-up.

Renal Artery Orientation Influences the Renal Outcome in Endovascular Thoraco-abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of renal artery (RA) anatomy on the renal outcome of fenestrated-branched endografts (FB-EVAR) for thoraco-abdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAA). METHODS: Between 2010 and 2016, all patients undergoing FB-EVAR for TAAA were prospectively collected. Anatomical, procedural, and post-operative data were retrospectively analysed. RA anatomy was assessed on volume rendering, multi planar and centre line reconstructions by dedicated software (3Mensio). RA diameter, length, ostial stenosis/calcification, orientation and aortic angles of the para-visceral aorta were evaluated. RA orientation was classified in four types: A (horizontal), B (upward), C (downward), D (downward + upward). RA revascularisation by fenestrations or branches was considered. Inability to cannulate and stent RA (RA loss), early RA occlusion (within three months), and composite RA events (one among RA loss, intra-operative RA lesion, RA related re-interventions, RA occlusion) were assessed. RESULTS: Seventy-three patients (male 77%; age 73 ± 6 years) with 39 (53%) type I, II, III and 34 (47%) type IV TAAA, underwent FB-EVAR, for a total of 128 RAs. The mean RA diameter and length were 6 ± 1 mm and 43 ± 12 mm, respectively. Type A, B, C, and D orientations were 51 (40%), 18 (14%), 48 (36%), and 11 (10%) RAs, respectively. Angulation of para-visceral aorta >45° was present in 14 cases (19%). Ostial stenosis and calcifications were detected in 20 (16%) and 16 (13%) RAs, respectively. Branches and fenestrations were used in 43 (34%) and 85 (66%) RAs, respectively. There were four (3%) intra-operative RA lesions (2 ruptures, 2 dissections). Ten (8%) RAs were lost intra-operatively because of the inability to cannulating and stenting. On univariable analysis, type B RA orientation (p = .001; OR 13.2; 95% CI 3.2-53.6), para-visceral aortic angle > 45° (p = .02; OR 4.9; 95% CI 1.3-18.5) and branches (p = .003; OR 9.0; 95% CI 1.9-46.9) were risk factors for intra-operative RA loss; type C RA orientation was a protective factor (p = .02; OR 0.1; 95% CI 0.01-0.9). On multivariable analysis, type B RA orientation (p = .03; OR 5.9; 95% CI 1.1-31.1) and branches (p = .03; OR 7.3; 95% CI 1.1-47.9) were independent risk factors for intra-operative RA loss. Fourteen patients suffered post-operative renal function worsening (> 30% of the baseline). The mean follow up was 19 ± 12 months. Four (3%) early RA occlusions occurred in three patients (2 single kidney patients required permanent haemodialysis). Type D RA orientation (p = .00; RR 17.8; 8.6-37.0) and branches (p = .004; RR 3.2; 2.4-4.1) were risk factors for early RA occlusion on univariable analysis. Five patients (7%) required early RA related re-interventions (recanalisation + relining 3; stent graft extension 1; parenchymal embolisation 1). No late RA occlusion or re-interventions were reported during follow up. Composite RA events occurred in 17 (13%) cases. Type B (p = .05; OR 3.9; 95% CI 1.1-15.7) or D (p = .006; OR 10.9; 95% CI 2.3-50.8) RA orientations and branches (p = .006; OR 5.7; 95% CI 1.6-20.3) were independent predictors of composite RA events on multivariable analysis. CONCLUSION: Renal artery orientation significantly affects the early RA outcome of FB-EVAR for TAAA. Intra-operative RA loss is predicted by type B RA orientation and branches, while early RA occlusion is predicted by type D orientation and branches. The present data suggest that in TAAA, fenestrations should be the first choice for renal revascularisation in type B and D RA orientations.

Symptomatic Type B Intramural Aortic Hematoma as a Complication of Retrograde Right Common Iliac Artery Dissection.

PURPOSE: To report the endovascular treatment of a spontaneous iliac artery dissection (IAD) involving iliac bifurcation, complicated by a type B intramural aortic hematoma (IMH). CASE REPORT: A 38-year-old female patient came to our institution referring an acute ascending back pain. The angio computed tomography scan showed the presence of a retrograde right IAD with entry tear at the iliac bifurcation and a concomitant aortic IMH. After hypogastric embolization with a vascular plug, self-expanding stent graft was placed to cover the iliac entry tear. At 12 months, the patient was asymptomatic and the angio computed tomography scan showed the patency of the iliac graft without IMH. CONCLUSIONS: Endovascular treatment of spontaneous IAD is a safe and effective option in symptomatic patient complicated with type B IMH.

The Value of Carotid Endarterectomy as a Learning Tool for Trainees.

BACKGROUND: Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) intervention needs a specific training and a sufficient learning curve to obtain optimal results in terms of outcome. A formative program was settled up in a single academic center to optimize training of standard CEA procedures. This study aims to evaluate the 11-year results of the teaching CEA program. METHODS: The trainees CEA teaching program is carried on during the 5-year vascular surgery residency period, and it is stratified as follows: learning theory and intervention assistance (minimum 50 procedures per year) in the first and second residency year; performing CEA as second operator in the third and fourth residency year (minimum 50 procedures per year); CEA execution as first operator with attending supervision in the last residency year. All CEA procedures from 2005 to 2015 were retrospectively collected and the 30-day results were compared according to the expertise of the first operator: experienced vascular surgeons (EVSs) versus trainees. All CEA procedures were performed in general anesthesia, with routine shunting and patching. RESULTS: In the study period, 1,379 (361 [26.2%] symptomatic; 1,018 [73.8%] asymptomatic) CEAs were performed. Trainees performed 199 (14.4%) CEAs as first operator. Patients submitted to CEA by trainees were similar in terms of preoperative clinical characteristics except for the patients' age (trainees 72.4 years versus EVS 70.8 years, P = 0.02) and smoking history (trainees 30.7% versus EVS 24.1%, P = 0.04). The 30-day complication rates were similar in CEA performed by trainees versus EVS: stroke 0.5% vs. 1.1%, P = 0.5; death 0.0% vs. 0.5%, P = 0.6; stroke/death 0.5% vs. 1.7%, P = 0.24; hematoma 3.0% vs. 2.2%, P = 0.48; and cranial nerve injury 9.0% vs. 7.8%, P = 0.47, respectively. The intervention time was significantly longer in CEAs performed by trainees compared with EVS: 104 ± 1.9 min versus 98 ± 1.0 min, P = 0.02. CONCLUSIONS: With a defined CEA teaching program, trainees can obtain results similar to those of more experienced surgeons in terms of clinical outcome at the price of an increased intervention time.

Standardization of a Carbon Dioxide Automated System for Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair.

BACKGROUND: Endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) is presently the preferred treatment for abdominal aortic aneurysm; however, it requires the injection of a contrast medium, which can hamper the renal function. Other nontoxic agents such as carbon dioxide (CO2) have been sporadically tested in this setting with uncertain results. The aim of the study is to investigate the efficacy of a new standardized CO2 injection method in standard EVAR procedures. METHODS: Between August and October 2016, 31 consecutive patients (median age 76.1 [interquartile range {IQR}: 7.4] years) were submitted to standard EVAR. Proximal and distal endograft landing zones were identified by the injection of 100 mL of CO2 at 300 mm Hg, through an 11 cm 10F femoral sheath by a specifically manufactured automated injection device (Angiodroid Srl, San Lazzaro, Bologna, Italy). Before EVAR deployment, a confirmative injection with a conventional contrast medium was accomplished. The possibility of precisely visualizing the proximal and distal landing zones by CO2 digital subtraction angiography (DSA) was evaluated considering the contrast medium injection obtained in the same procedure as a gold standard. Similarly, the possible presence of endoleak was assessed at the end of the procedure by the 2 techniques. RESULTS: CO2 DSA allowed to identify the juxtarenal landing zone of the endograft in 19/31 cases (61%) and the distal one in 31/31 (100%). In 12 (39%) cases, CO2 injection failed to visualize at least the lowest renal artery. This occurred in large aneurysms with scarce thrombotic apposition and a luminal volume greater than 95.9 (IQR: 25.2) mm3. Completion CO2 DSA detected type II endoleaks (ELIIs) in 10 cases compared with 2 of conventional contrast media. CONCLUSIONS: The injection of nontoxic CO2 through an automated device allowed to perform EVAR procedures effectively, in the majority of cases. In some cases, a single injection of a minimum amount of conventional contrast medium can be used to overcome the lack of renal artery visualization by CO2. ELIIs are more frequently visualized with CO2 compared with standard contrast medium. Although the CO2 injection technique needs further amelioration particularly in the renal arteries detection, this technique appears promising and possibly substitutive of the standard contrast medium, with significant benefit for the renal function.