Feasibility and Efficiency Study of a Population-Based Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Program in Men and Women in Spain.

BACKGROUND: Based on current evidence, one-time screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) in men using ultrasound evaluation reduces mortality related to AAA rupture and is considered cost-effective, although all-cause mortality reduction still remains in question. In Spain, there is no population screening program for AAA, so the aim of our study was to perform a pilot population screening program in our area to assess feasibility and efficiency of an AAA screening program for men and women. METHODS: A population AAA screening pilot program was performed in a Barcelona area, including 400,000 inhabitants. According to inclusion criteria, 4,730 individuals aged 65 years at the moment of the trial were invited for screening (2,089 men and 2,641 women). Primary care doctors, trained in duplex ultrasound abdominal evaluations, performed an abdominal aortic measurement. Individuals with a previous diagnosis of AAA, limited life expectancy, or wrong contact data were excluded. Participation data, aortic diameters, AAA prevalence, and related cardiovascular risk factors were analyzed. The results were used in a cost-utility model to assess the efficiency of the screening program. RESULTS: Participation was 50.3% in men and 44% in women. Eleven patients were excluded because of previously diagnosed AAA. Five new asymptomatic AAA were detected in 65-year-old men (0.5% prevalence), all being active smokers. When considering patients excluded for previous AAA diagnosis, the prevalence in 65-year-old men reached 1.4%. Global AAA prevalence in smoking men reached 2.67%. No AAA was detected in women. Subaneurysmal aorta prevalence in men was 2.9% (n = 29), and in women, it was 0.08% (n = 2). A cost-utility analysis model on screening versus no screening retrieved 13,664€ per quality-adjusted life years at a 10-year horizon and 39,455€ per quality-adjusted life years at a 30-year horizon. CONCLUSIONS: AAA population-based screening by ultrasound evaluation in primary care is logistically feasible in our area. Despite that, AAA prevalence is lower than expected in men, and null in women. Cost-utility model results indicate that a local AAA screening program is only efficient in a 30 years' time horizon. Such inefficient results for a population screening make it necessary to consider other strategies such as opportunistic or subgroup screening in our area.

Venous Duplex Ultrasound Surveillance in the Neurosurgical Population: A Single-Center Quality Improvement Initiative.

BACKGROUND: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) represents a significant source of morbidity and mortality in the inpatient population and is considered a leading preventable cause of death among inpatients. Neurosurgical inpatients are of particular interest because of the greater rates of immobility, steroid use, and potential consequences of postoperative hemorrhage. A consensus protocol for VTE screening in this population has not yet been developed, and institutional protocols vary widely. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of lower extremity venous duplex ultrasonography (VDUS) usage at our institution and applied this information to the development of a neurosurgery department protocol, with consideration of high-risk patient risk factors and indications for VDUS ordering. We then implemented this protocol, which consisted of preoperative screening of patients at high risk of VTE and limited postoperative surveillance, for a 6-month period and compared VDUS usage and VTE occurrence. RESULTS: Preoperative VDUS screening before nonemergent neurosurgical procedures in high-risk patients with active cancer, an inability to ambulate, or a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) identified proximal DVTs that were then treated. Postoperative routine surveillance VDUS scans only diagnosed incidental isolated calf DVT for which no clinically relevant sequelae occurred. Overall, postoperative surveillance VDUS usage decreased significantly (66.9% vs. 13.5%; P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings lend support to preoperative screening of high-risk patients and suggest that routine postoperative VDUS surveillance of asymptomatic patients is unnecessary.

Addition of Efficiency Measures to Current Accuracy Measures in the Vascular Laboratory Can Be Used for Future Accreditation and Payment Models.

BACKGROUND: The Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) brings with it increased regulatory requirements not traditionally addressed by standard vascular laboratory accreditation, which is based on accuracy. The new quality improvement project of the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) may satisfy an improvement activity (IA) of the MACRA. We hypothesize that other IAs in the MACRA such as timeliness of test results or patient care quality performance requirements can be met by analyzing data already being collected by the vascular laboratory. After a process improvement strategy, we chose to review progress in our vascular laboratory related to time to interpretation (TI), patient check-in to study completion (study time), wait time for first available outpatient venous duplex scan (wait time), technologist productivity, and critical results reporting. METHODS: Data from our hospital-based vascular laboratory were collected from 2010 to 2016. TI was collected through our reporting software VascuPro (Consensus Medical), and study time and wait time were obtained from electronic medical records (EMR) (Epic). Technologist productivity was calculated by commercially available productivity tools, and compliance with critical results reporting was calculated quarterly as per our quality assurance program. Appropriateness of carotid duplex scan testing was performed by expert review of International Classification of Disease codes used to request the test. RESULTS: TI analysis comprised 91,352 studies with a mean of 3.3 hr between test completion and final interpretation. The TI improved from 5.0 to 2.1 hr on weekdays and was longer on weekends (4.9 hr; P < 0.001). The study time improved from 29.8 to 27.2 min and was 14.9 min shorter on the weekends (P < 0.001). The wait time ranged from a mean of 1-2.08 days. Technologist productivity improved from 90.7% to 93.6%. Critical results reporting quarterly audits showed a 100% compliance rate. On expert review, the International Classification of Disease code on carotid duplex scan requests in the EMR was deemed inaccurate in 17.4% of cases. CONCLUSIONS: TI and study time improved; wait time and critical results reporting remained steady. Most of the data are readily available in a vascular laboratory standard EMR. The plan-do-study-act (PDSA or Shewhart Cycle) principle is critical to process improvement and needed as we transition from traditional accreditation mostly based on test accuracy to one demanding efficiency, timeliness, patient satisfaction, productivity, accountability, and appropriateness of testing. Process improvement studies will improve patient care and satisfaction, increase efficiency and throughput, while satisfying changing IAC standards and preparing for upcoming regulatory requirements of the MACRA.

Effects of a standardized emergency department protocol on after-hours use of venous duplex ultrasound.

OBJECTIVE: Vascular laboratory (VL) venous duplex ultrasound is the "gold standard" for diagnosis of lower extremity deep venous thrombosis (DVT), which is linked to many morbid conditions. Decreasing night and weekend use of VL services in the emergency department (ED) represents a potentially viable means of reducing costs as skilled personnel must remain on call and receive a wage premium when activated. We investigated the effects of workflow changes that required ED providers to use a computerized decision-making tool, integrated into the electronic medical record, to calculate a Wells score for each patient considered for an after-hours venous duplex ultrasound study for suspected DVT. METHODS: The rate of VL use and study positivity before and after implementation of the decision-making tool were examined in addition to measures of ED throughput, rate of concomitant pulmonary embolism, disposition of examined patients from the ED, observed thrombus distribution in duplex ultrasound studies positive for DVT, and calculated personnel costs of after-hours VL use. RESULTS: A total of 391 after-hours, ED-initiated venous duplex ultrasound studies were obtained during the 4-year study period (n = 213 before intervention, n = 178 after intervention; P = .12). Whereas the period immediately after the start of the intervention saw a decrease in VL use, this was not sustained. Studies performed after the intervention were not more likely to be positive for acute DVT (12.2% vs 18%; P = .1179). The average Wells score was 2.8 (range, 0-6). VL personnel were called in 347 times during the 4-year period, with a total cost of $14,643.40. Nurse-ordered studies were significantly more likely to be positive, with 22% revealing acute DVT compared with 12% for physician-ordered studies (P = .042). The intervention resulted in significant improvements in ED throughput, with time between triage and study request falling from 226 minutes to 165 minutes (P < .001). Observed thrombus distribution revealed involvement of the most proximal external iliac system in a minority of cases (11%), whereas most thrombi (89%) were limited to the femoropopliteal, calf, and superficial venous systems. CONCLUSIONS: A requirement for ED providers to document a Wells score before obtaining an after-hours venous duplex ultrasound study resulted in only a transient decrease in VL use but improved ED throughput. Studies ordered by nurses were significantly more likely to be positive, possibly as a result of consistent protocol adherence compared with the physicians. Future studies may warrant investigation into this provider variance.

[Doppler ultrasonography of the renal artery: Guidelines and predictive factors for the presence of a tight stenosis. Retrospective analysis of 450 consecutive examinations]. / Échographie Doppler des artères rénales. Recommandations et facteurs prédictifs de la présence d'une sténose serrée. Analyse rétrospective de 450 examens consécutifs.

Duplex ultrasonography screening for renal artery stenosis has been the object of guidelines published by four societies designed to optimize the cost-effectiveness of the examination. OBJECTIVES: To determine how well guideline indications for ultrasonography matched with requests and results in our university hospital; to determine whether compliance with guidelines was predictive of renal artery stenosis; to identify guidelines predictive of presence of stenosis; and to determine whether other predictive factors can be recognized. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Requests and results of 450 Duplex ultrasonography examinations of the renal arteries performed from January 1st 2014 to December 31st 2015 were compared with published guidelines. RESULTS: At least one guideline indication was identified for 212 of the 450 examinations performed (47.1%). Among these examinations, renal artery stenosis≥70% was identified in 18 patients (8.0%). No case of stenosis was identified during examinations performed outside guideline indications. Factors predictive of stenosis were: compliance with guidelines (OR=21.86 [2.88; 165.8]). Predictive guidelines were: resistant hypertension in spite of appropriate treatment (OR=3.85, [1.44; 10.33], P=0.011), accelerated hypertension (OR=7.30, [1.40; 37.99], P=0.049), sudden unexplained pulmonary edema (OR=7.30, [1.40; 37.99], P=0.049), unexplained renal insufficiency (OR=3.58, [1.37; 9.37], P=0.011), unexplained renal hypotrophy (OR=16.69, [4.38; 63.69], P<0.001), renal asymmetry (OR=4.32, [1.45; 12.85], P<0.016). No other factor was predictive of renal stenosis. These examinations had therapeutic consequences in only 50% of patients. CONCLUSION: This study confirms the relevance of published guidelines. The diagnostic-effectiveness of Duplex ultrasonography examinations to search for renal artery stenosis depends upon compliance with these guidelines.

Appropriate Use of Venous Imaging and Analysis of the D-Dimer/Clinical Probability Testing Paradigm in the Diagnosis and Location of Deep Venous Thrombosis.

BACKGROUND: The D-dimer (DD) level combined with the pretest Wells criteria probability (WCP) score can safely exclude deep venous thrombosis (DVT). The objective of this study was to examine the correlation between DD results alongside WCP score with findings on venous duplex ultrasound (VDU). The hypothesis is that VDU remains overutilized in low-risk patients with negative DD and that higher DD levels may correlate with thrombus burden and location. METHODS: Patients who presented to a high-volume tertiary care center with lower limb swelling with or without associated pain were retrospectively examined through June and July for 4 consecutive years (2012 to 2015). After calculating WCP, patients were divided into low-, moderate-, and high-risk categories. Electronic DD results utilizing enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, WCP data, and VDU analysis data were merged and analyzed based on receiver operator characteristic curve to determine the DD cutoff point for each WCP. Abnormal DD with an average value ≥ 0.6 mg/L fibrinogen equivalent units (FEUs) was correlated to positive DVT to differentiate proximal DVT (above popliteal vein) from distal DVT (below popliteal vein). RESULTS: Data of 1,909 patients were analyzed, and 239 (12.5%) patients were excluded secondary to serial repeat visits or follow-ups, surveillance screens, and if they had a previous history of DVT. The average age was 62.1 ± 16.3 years with more women (55.7%) and the majority presented with limb pain and edema (87%). DD studies were ordered and completed in 202 patients and correlated with all positive and negative DVT patients (100% sensitivity and negative predictive value, with specificity and positive predictive value of 14.9% and 15.9%, respectively). Twenty-six of 202 patients had DD that were in the normal range 0.1-0.59 mg/L (FEU), all of which were negative for DVT (100% sensitive). Fifty one of 202 patients had DD values of 0.6-1.2 mg/L FEU, of which only 3 DVTs were recorded, and all of them were distal DVTs. In addition, 685 patients with WCP <1 and negative DD were sent for VDU. Thus, 762 patients had an unnecessary immediate VDU (Wells ≤1 and -DD) study during their initial presentation. Potential charge savings for VDU for all patients are 762 × $1,557 = $1,186,434 and DD for all patients are 762 × $182 = $138,684, with total potential savings of $1,047,750 (USD 2016). CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that DD is still underutilized, and DD in conjunction with WCP could significantly reduce the number of unnecessary immediate VDUs. Higher value of DD (>1.2 mg/L FEU) may raise concern for proximal DVT. Concern on cost-effectiveness exists and raises the demand for a proposed algorithm to be followed.

Cost analysis and implications of routine deep venous thrombosis duplex ultrasound scanning after endovenous ablation.

BACKGROUND: Duplex ultrasound (DUS) is performed by the majority of physicians after endovenous ablation (EVA) of the great saphenous vein to screen for endovenous heat-induced thrombosis (EHIT) at the saphenofemoral junction extending into the femoral vein. Several factors should be considered in assessing the value and cost of routine DUS after EVA: the natural history of EHIT is poorly defined, the incidence appears low, and the majority are both asymptomatic and Kabnick type 2 (projecting only slightly into the femoral vein). Moreover, routine postoperative DUS screening is not recommended for procedures with higher thromboembolic complication rates, such as joint replacement or bariatric surgery. METHODS: Data on the incidence of death, EHIT, and deep venous thrombosis (DVT) were derived from a systematic review after either radiofrequency or laser ablation of the saphenous vein from two sources: (1) EVA randomized controlled trials (N = 1482) and a (2) large (>150 patients) EVA case series (N = 12,363). The number of tests required to detect one case of EHIT/DVT was calculated from the incidence in the EVA and case series data bases; the cost to detect a case was estimated using the 2013 Medicare global fee schedule for the cost of a unilateral venous DUS study. RESULTS: This analysis included 13,845 EVA-treated limbs. There were no reported deaths. The incidence of DUS-detected venous thromboembolism after EVA is 0.7%. The cost of unilateral DUS according to the Medicare global reimbursement fee for office-based studies is $106.71. The total cost of performing DUS in this study population is estimated to be at least $1,477,399, and the amount of dollars expended per venous thromboembolism detected is $14,667. CONCLUSIONS: The current Society for Vascular Surgery/American Venous Forum recommendation is to perform screening DUS after EVA within 72 hours postoperatively with a weak level of recommendation (grade 2C). The current analysis demonstrates a low incidence of EHIT/DVT with a corresponding high cost to detect each case with routine DUS screening. These data combined with the unclear clinical significance of EHIT suggest that the policy of universal post-EVA screening should be revised in the near future.

Cardiovascular Testing in Asymptomatic Patients: Carotid Duplex, Cardiac Stress Testing, Screen for Peripheral Arterial Disease.

Approximately one-third of deaths in the United States are from cardiovascular disease. Managing modifiable risk factors is paramount to reducing risk of heart disease and stroke. It is logical to try to identify patients with silent disease that may predispose them to significant morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, it is unclear if routine screening for the presence of carotid stenosis, coronary artery disease, and peripheral arterial disease is beneficial. Many of these tests are expensive. This review explores the evidence behind screening tests, costs associated with the tests, and the implications of positive screening for each of the 3 listed conditions.

Value of delayed duplex ultrasound assessment after endothermal ablation of the great saphenous vein.

OBJECTIVE: Endothermal ablation (ETA) of the great saphenous vein (GSV) is associated with a small but definite risk of endothermal heat-induced thrombosis (EHIT) extending into the common femoral vein. Follow-up duplex ultrasound imaging to detect EHIT after ETA is considered standard of care, although the exact timing of duplex ultrasound imaging to detect EHIT after ETA remains unclear. We hypothesized that an additional duplex ultrasound assessment 1 week after ETA would not identify a significant number of patients with EHIT and would significantly increase health care costs. METHODS: This was a retrospective review of consecutive ETA GSV procedures from 2007 to 2014. All patients were evaluated with duplex ultrasound imaging on postprocedure day 1, and 79% of patients underwent a second ultrasound assessment 1 week postprocedure. EHIT was considered present when proximal GSV closure progressed to level ≥4, based on a six-tier classification system. RESULTS: From January 1, 2007, until December 31, 2014, 842 patients underwent GSV ETA. Patients with EHIT were more likely to have had a prior deep venous thrombosis (DVT; P = .002) and a larger GSV (P = .006). Forty-three procedures (5.1%) were classified as having EHIT requiring anticoagulation, based on a level ≥4 proximal closure level. Of the 43 patients with EHIT, 20 (47%) were found on the initial ultrasound assessment performed 24 hours postprocedure, but 19 patients (44%) with EHIT would not have been identified with a single postoperative ultrasound scan performed 24 hours after intervention. These 19 patients had a level ≤3 closure level at the duplex ultrasound scan performed 24 hours postprocedure and progressed to EHIT on the delayed duplex ultrasound scan. Lastly, thrombotic complications in four patients (9%), representing three late DVT and one DVT/pulmonary embolism presenting to another hospital, would not have been identified regardless of the postoperative surveillance strategy. Maximum GSV diameter was the only significant predictor of progression to EHIT on multivariate analysis (P = .007). Based on 2014 United States dollars, the two-ultrasound surveillance paradigm is associated with health care charges of $31,109 per identified delayed venous thromboembolism event. CONCLUSIONS: Delayed duplex ultrasound assessment after ETA of the GSV comes with associated health care costs but does yield a significant number of patients with progression to EHIT. Better understanding of the timing, risk factors, and significance of EHIT is needed to cost-effectively care for patients after ETA for varicose veins.

Reimbursement Policies for Carotid Duplex Ultrasound that are Based on International Classification of Diseases Codes May Discourage Testing in High-Yield Groups.

BACKGROUND: To curb increasing volumes of diagnostic imaging and costs, reimbursement for carotid duplex ultrasound (CDU) is dependent on "appropriate" indications as documented by International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes entered by ordering physicians. Historically, asymptomatic indications for CDU yield lower rates of abnormal results than symptomatic indications, and consensus documents agree that most asymptomatic indications for CDU are inappropriate. In our vascular laboratory, we perceived an increased rate of incorrect or inappropriate ICD codes. We therefore sought to determine if ICD codes were useful in predicting the frequency of abnormal CDU. We hypothesized that asymptomatic or nonspecific ICD codes would yield a lower rate of abnormal CDU than symptomatic codes, validating efforts to limit reimbursement in asymptomatic, low-yield groups. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We reviewed all outpatient CDU done in 2011 at our institution. ICD codes were recorded, and each medical record was then reviewed by a vascular surgeon to determine if the assigned ICD code appropriately reflected the clinical scenario. CDU findings categorized as abnormal (>50% stenosis) or normal (<50% stenosis) were recorded. Each individual ICD code and group 1 (asymptomatic), group 2 (nonhemispheric symptoms), group 3 (hemispheric symptoms), group 4 (preoperative cardiovascular examination), and group 5 (nonspecific) ICD codes were analyzed for correlation with CDU results. RESULTS: Nine hundred ninety-four patients had 74 primary ICD codes listed as indications for CDU. Of assigned ICD codes, 17.4% were deemed inaccurate. Overall, 14.8% of CDU were abnormal. Of the 13 highest frequency ICD codes, only 433.10, an asymptomatic code, was associated with abnormal CDU. Four symptomatic codes were associated with normal CDU; none of the other high frequency codes were associated with CDU result. Patients in group 1 (asymptomatic) were significantly more likely to have an abnormal CDU compared to each of the other groups (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.020, P = 0.002) and to all other groups combined (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Asymptomatic indications by ICD codes yielded higher rates of abnormal CDU than symptomatic indications. This finding is inconsistent with clinical experience and historical data, and we suggest that inaccurate coding may play a role. Limiting reimbursement for CDU in low-yield groups is reasonable. However, reimbursement policies based on ICD coding, for example, limiting payment for asymptomatic ICD codes, may impede use of CDU in high-yield patient groups.

ULTRASOUND GUIDED FOAM SCLEROTHERAPY - THE SIMPLEST, LEAST INVASIVE, AND CHEAPEST METHOD FOR VARICOSE VEIN TREATMENT.

The aim is to present our experience and observations regarding varicose vein treatment by means of ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy (UGFS). The study included 81 patients, 54 with insufficient main stem superficial veins in one limb and 27 with both limbs affected. Great saphenous vein insufficiency was diagnosed in 68, small saphenous insufficiency in 18, anterior accessory saphenous vein insufficiency in 11, and Giacomini vein insufficiency in 3 limbs. Seven limbs had combined insufficiency of great saphenous vein and small saphenous vein, and 1 limb had combined insufficiency of Giacomini vein and small saphenous vein. UGFS was employed to treat main stem vein reflux and their tributaries. Within a month after treatment, all main stem veins were occluded and only small corrections were performed occasionally to treat residual varices. Regarding side effects, skin darkening and hard lumps at the sites of varicose veins were most commonly observed. We also recorded several episodes of thrombophlebitis. Few patients experienced dry cough, visual disturbances and headache following the treatment. After six months, repeat UGFS of main stem veins had to be performed in few patients. Very few patients expressed dissatisfaction a year after treatment, mainly because of residual skin darkening. In conclusion, UGFS proved to be the simplest, quickest and cheapest method of varicose vein treatment. According to our experience, it yielded satisfactory functional and cosmetic results. Side effects do occur, but are acceptable, in particular at long term.

Different Imaging Strategies in Patients With Possible Basilar Artery Occlusion: Cost-Effectiveness Analysis.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness of different noninvasive imaging strategies in patients with possible basilar artery occlusion. METHODS: A Markov decision analytic model was used to evaluate long-term outcomes resulting from strategies using computed tomographic angiography (CTA), magnetic resonance imaging, nonenhanced CT, or duplex ultrasound with intravenous (IV) thrombolysis being administered after positive findings. The analysis was performed from the societal perspective based on US recommendations. Input parameters were derived from the literature. Costs were obtained from United States costing sources and published literature. Outcomes were lifetime costs, quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), incremental cost-effectiveness ratios, and net monetary benefits, with a willingness-to-pay threshold of $80,000 per QALY. The strategy with the highest net monetary benefit was considered the most cost-effective. Extensive deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to explore the effect of varying parameter values. RESULTS: In the reference case analysis, CTA dominated all other imaging strategies. CTA yielded 0.02 QALYs more than magnetic resonance imaging and 0.04 QALYs more than duplex ultrasound followed by CTA. At a willingness-to-pay threshold of $80,000 per QALY, CTA yielded the highest net monetary benefits. The probability that CTA is cost-effective was 96% at a willingness-to-pay threshold of $80,000/QALY. Sensitivity analyses showed that duplex ultrasound was cost-effective only for a prior probability of ≤0.02 and that these results were only minimally influenced by duplex ultrasound sensitivity and specificity. Nonenhanced CT and magnetic resonance imaging never became the most cost-effective strategy. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that CTA in patients with possible basilar artery occlusion is cost-effective.

The value and economic analysis of routine postoperative carotid duplex ultrasound surveillance after carotid endarterectomy.

BACKGROUND: Several studies have reported on the role of postoperative duplex ultrasound surveillance after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) with varying results. Most of these studies had a small sample size or did not analyze cost-effectiveness. METHODS: We analyzed 489 of 501 CEA patients with patch closure. All patients had immediate postoperative duplex ultrasound examination and were routinely followed up both clinically and with duplex ultrasound at regular intervals of 1 month, 6 months, 12 months, and every 12 months thereafter. A Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to estimate the rate of ≥50% and ≥80% post-CEA restenosis over time and the time frame of progression from normal to ≥50% or ≥80% restenosis. The cost of post-CEA duplex surveillance was also estimated. RESULTS: Overall, 489 patients with a mean age of 68.5 years were analyzed. Ten of these had residual postoperative ≥50% stenosis, and 37 did not undergo a second duplex ultrasound examination and therefore were not included in the final analysis. The mean follow-up was 20.4 months (range, 1-63 months), with a mean number of duplex ultrasound examinations of 3.6 (range, 1-7). Eleven of 397 patients (2.8%) with a normal finding on immediate postoperative duplex ultrasound vs 4 of 45 (8.9%) with mild stenosis on immediate postoperative duplex ultrasound progressed to ≥50% restenosis (P = .055). Overall, 15 patients (3.1%) had ≥50% restenosis, 9 with 50% to <80% and 4 with 80% to 99% (2 of these had carotid artery stenting reintervention), and 2 had late carotid occlusion. All of these were asymptomatic, except for one who had a transient ischemic attack. The mean time to ≥50% to <80% restenosis was 14.7 months vs 19.8 months for ≥80% restenosis after the CEA. Freedom from restenosis rates were 98%, 96%, 94%, 94%, and 94% for ≥50% restenosis and 99%, 98%, 97%, 97%, and 97% for ≥80% restenosis at 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, 4 years, and 5 years, respectively. Freedom from myocardial infarction, stroke, and deaths was not significantly different between patients with and without restenosis (100%, 93%, 83%, and 83% vs 94%, 91%, 86%, and 79% at 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, and 4 years, respectively; P = .951). The estimated charge of this surveillance was 3.6 × 489 (number of CEAs) × $800 (charge for carotid duplex ultrasound), which equals $1,408,320, to detect only four patients with ≥80% to 99% restenosis who may have been potential candidates for reintervention. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that the value of routine postoperative duplex ultrasound surveillance after CEA with patch closure may be limited, particularly if the finding on immediate postoperative duplex ultrasound is normal or shows minimal disease.

Elimination of medically unnecessary duplex venous scanning based on an established algorithm can result in significant cost savings under Medicare for the institution and the taxpayer.

OBJECTIVE: The utility of duplex venous scanning (DVS) for suspected deep venous thrombosis in the emergency department (ED) remains controversial. We aimed to measure potential cost savings and economic impact in our institution and nationally for unnecessary DVS in Medicare patients seen in the ED. METHODS: We have previously calculated that 15.3% of DVS studies can safely be avoided in patients with suspected deep venous thrombosis in our ED with adherence to our protocol. The Medicare database was queried for the number of DVS studies performed in the ED and charges/payments made in 2011. Cost savings at our institution and nationally by Medicare were computed with the 15.3% number. RESULTS: In the study period, 2087 DVS studies were performed in our ED across all payers; 572 Medicare patients had 249 (43%) bilateral and 323 (57%) unilateral studies. Annual savings at our institution, with use of our protocol, were estimated at $113,778. Eliminating unnecessary after-hours DVS for 306,307 Medicare beneficiaries would result in $5,285,090 savings annually. CONCLUSIONS: Increasing pressure for cost containment under a value-based payment model necessitates critical evaluation of resource utilization. Applying this schema for all noninvasive vascular tests is an opportunity for responsible management of finite resources, reducing wasteful care, and significant cost containment.

Appropriate use of D-dimer testing can minimize over-utilization of venous duplex ultrasound in a contemporary high-volume hospital.

BACKGROUND: The sensitivity of d-dimer (DD) in detecting deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is remarkably high; however, many institutions send patients immediately for a venous duplex ultrasound (VDU). This study was designed to examine the appropriate utilization of DD and VDU in a high-volume hospital. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted on consecutive patients who presented to a high-volume emergency department (ED) with lower extremity limb swelling/pain over a 30-day period, who were sent for VDU during an evaluation for DVT. VDU data were merged with electronic DD laboratory results. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method was used to provide DD values and thresholds. Values above 0.60 mg/fibrinogen equivalent unit (FEU) were considered abnormal. RESULTS: We reviewed the medical records of 517 ED patients in the month of June 2013. After applying the Wells criteria, 157 patients (30.4%) were excluded because of a history of DVT or pulmonary embolism, having been screened for shortness of breath, or sent for surveillance-leaving 360 for analysis. The average age was 59.3 ± 16.5 years with more women (210, 58.3%) and the majority reported limb pain or swelling (73.9%). DD was performed on 51 patients with an average value of 3.6 ± 5.4 mg/FEU, of which 43 (84.3%) were positive. DD identified all positive and negative DVT patients (100% sensitivity and negative predictive value), but also included 40 false positives (16.7% specificity). On the other hand, 309 patients were sent directly to VDU without DD; of those, 43 (13.9%) were positive for DVT. However, 266 (86.1%) patients were negative for DVT by VDU without DD and these were deemed improper by our current study protocol. Potential charge savings were calculated as VDU for all (360 × $1000 = $360,000), DD for all (360 × $145 = $52,200), and VDU for both true and false positives (estimated to be about 25% of the cases; 90 × $1000 = $90,000); this equals a charge savings of $217,800 and would avoid unnecessary VDUs. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the results of our study, we suggest that the DD test be utilized during the initial work-up for patients with limb swelling/pain in the emergency room. Appropriate utilization of DD, as well as other clinical criteria, may limit the over-utilization and added cost of VDU, without a negative impact on patient care. The results of DD tests should be utilized to limit the number of patients sent for VDU to only those patients with a positive DD or other significant underlying concerns.

Practice patterns of carotid endarterectomy as performed by different surgical specialties at a single institution and the effect on perioperative stroke and cost of preoperative imaging.

BACKGROUND: Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is currently performed by various surgical specialties with varying outcomes. This study analyzes different surgical practice patterns and their effect on perioperative stroke and cost. METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of 1000 consecutive CEAs performed at our institution by three different specialties: general surgeons (GS), cardiothoracic surgeons (CTS), and vascular surgeons (VS). RESULTS: VS did 474 CEAs, CTS did 404, and GS did 122. VS tended to operate more often on symptomatic patients than CTS and GS: 40% vs 23% and 31%, respectively (P < .0001). Preoperative workups were significantly different between specialties: duplex ultrasound (DUS) only in 66%, 30%, and 18%; DUS and computed tomography angiography in 27%, 35%, and 29%; and DUS and magnetic resonance angiography in 6%, 35%, and 52% for VS, CTS, and GS, respectively (P < .001). The mean preoperative carotid stenosis was not significantly different between the specialties. The mean heparin dosage was 5168, 7522, and 5331 units (P = .0001) and protamine was used in 0.2%, 19%, and 8% (P < .0001) for VS, CTS, and GS, respectively. VS more often used postoperative drains; however, no association was found between heparin dosage, protamine, and drain use and postoperative bleeding. Patching was used in 99%, 93%, and 76% (P < .0001) for VS, CTS, and GS, respectively. Bovine pericardial patches were used more often by CTS and ACUSEAL (Gore-Tex; W. L. Gore and Associates, Flagstaff, Ariz) patches were used more often by GS (P < .0001). The perioperative stroke/death rates were 1.3% for VS and 3.1% for CTS and GS combined (P = .055); and were 0.7% for VS and 3% for CTS and GS combined for asymptomatic patients (P < .034). Perioperative stroke rates for patients who had preoperative DUS only were 0.9% vs 3.3% for patients who had extra imaging (computed tomography angiography/magnetic resonance angiography; P = .009); and were 0.9% vs 3% for asymptomatic patients (P = .05). When applying hospital billing charges for preoperative imaging workups (cost of DUS only vs DUS and other imaging), the VS practice pattern would have saved $1180 per CEA over CTS and GS practice patterns; a total savings of $1,180,000 in this series. CONCLUSIONS: CEA practice patterns differ between specialties. Although the cost was higher for non-VS practices, the perioperative stroke/death rate was somewhat higher. Therefore, educating physicians who perform CEAs on cost-saving measures may be appropriate.

[Laparoscopic treatment of median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) -- case report]. / Truncus coeliacus compressiós szindróma laparoscopos mutéti megoldása -- Esetismertetés.

CASE REPORT: The authors report a case of a 34-year-old woman who had postprandial abdominal pain for years. During the course of her examination lactose intolerance and hiatus hernia was diagnosed. After ineffective conservative treatment CT angiography (CTA) and digital substraction angiography (DSA) was performed and showed significant celiac artery stenosis. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) was unsuccessful as extravasal mechanical compression was present, therefore, laparoscopic decompression and surgical division of MAL fibres were carried out. The postoperative period was characterized by a complete relief of previous symptoms and repeated CTA showed normal blood flow. DISCUSSION: The authors emphasize the importance of the measurement of peak velocity of celiac trunk with Colour Duplex abdominal ultrasonography, the examination has 100% sensitivity and 83% specificity. The Duplex ultrasonography is less expensive than the "gold standard" diagnostic methods like CT and DS angiography, and can lead us to early diagnosis. Laparoscopic surgery is safe and low expense method for celiac artery decompression, however, sometimes it is difficult to reveal the exact reason and thus setting up the proper operation plan.