Comparison of Splenic Artery Aneurysms in Patients with and without Portal Hypertension.

BACKGROUND: Splenic artery aneurysms (SAAs) are rare but seem to have higher incidence in patients with portal hypertension (PH). The present article aims to analyze the interference of PH in the natural history of these aneurysms. METHODS: This was a retrospective study of data recorded prospectively. Between January 2000 and December 2019, all SAAs patients in follow-up at a tertiary institution were selected for analysis. Primary end point was to analyze the presentation and evolution of SAAs in patients with PH, and secondary was to identify cumulative rates of freedom from rupture, interventions, and survival in this group, during a 10-year follow-up. RESULTS: In total, 96 patients were identified with SAAs, 79 (82.29%) did not have PH and 17 (17.7%) had this comorbidity. Among the demographic characteristics, the patients with SAAs and PH were significantly younger (52 years [standard deviation {SD} 13.3] versus 61.9 years [SD 12.2] [P = 0.05]) and had lower number of pregnancies (1.1 pregnancies [SD 1.2] versus 3.37 pregnancies [SD 2.3] [P = 0.03]). Patients with PH had a higher cumulative rate of surgical intervention throughout follow-up (up to 75.6% in 10 years) when compared to patients without PH, with 36.9% intervention rate in 10 years of follow-up. Patients with PH had larger diameter at diagnosis (35 mm, SD 27.3) compared to patients without PH (22.6 mm, SD 16.1), P = 0.008. However, there were no statistical differences in the relative growth rate, in aneurysmal rupture rate throughout follow-up, as well as in survival over the years, between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: The patients with SAAs and PH are significantly younger, have larger SAA diameters at diagnosis and have a higher cumulative rate of surgical intervention throughout follow-up in 10 years, despite the relative growth rate being similar to that of patients without PH.

Natural History of Splanchnic Artery Aneurysms.

INTRODUCTION: Splanchnic artery aneurysms (SAAs) represent a rare and potential life-threatening disease with a documented incidence of 0.1-2.0%. The risk of rupture and the diameter to recommend surgery are still controversial. The purpose of this study was to review surveillance computed tomography scans (CTs) at a high-volume institution in order to better define the natural history of the SAA. METHODS: Between January 2000 and February 2019, all SAAs patients in follow-up at a single center institution were selected for analysis. CTs from patients managed nonoperatively and CTs before surgery from patients submitted to surgery were studied. The first CTs were used to determine aneurysm size, morphology, and anatomic characteristics, and the last CTs performed during nonoperative follow-up were used to compare the diameter with the previous CTs. Primary endpoint included growth rate for all SAAs location, and secondary endpoint included the clinical or anatomical characteristic associated with a faster growth rate. RESULTS: In total, 116 consecutive patients were identified with SAAs and 74 patients with 87 SAAs who had at least 2 CTs during follow-up were analyzed. From those 74 patients, 12 were submitted to surgery and only their preoperative CTs were analyzed. The SAAs' locations were: splenic (55.4%), hepatic (12.2%), superior mesenteric artery (17.6%), celiac trunk (27.0%), gastric and gastroepiploic arteries (1.4%), pancreaticoduodenal and gastroduodenal arteries (4.1%). The median follow-up for all patients was 46.7 months (±35.3), and the median of growth for all aneurysms was 0.63 mm/year (±2.19). Only the splenic aneurysms presented growth with statistic significance of 1.08 mm per/year (±1.99) (P < 0.001). Only portal hypertension showed statistically significance to splenic aneurysm growth (P = 0.002). Multivariate analysis for variables associated with splenic aneurysm growth ≥1 mm/year showed that portal hypertension was the only variable with statistical significance (P < 0.01, IC 95% 2.0-186.9, ß = 19.5). CONCLUSIONS: Although longer-term follow-up and larger sample size are needed to better understand the natural history of SAAs, the majority of SAAs tends to remain stable in size through follow-up. Portal hypertension was the only risk factor found for true splenic aneurysm growth, and so those patients must have a closer follow-up.

Open aortic surgery volume experience at a regionalized referral center and impact on Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education trainees.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to review our institute's open aortic surgery volume experience and its impact on Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education trainees. METHODS: A review was conducted of the vascular surgery department's operative database for all cases that underwent aortic aneurysm repair, whether open aortic repair (OAR), endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), or fenestrated EVAR (FEVAR). We also reviewed our graduating trainees' case logs. In the setting of our regionalized referral center, all patients who underwent open or endovascular aortic intervention between 2010 and 2014 at our main campus were included. The total number of aortic procedures performed by our graduation trainees was determined. All aortic aneurysm interventions, both open and endovascular (both EVAR and FEVAR), were included. The main outcome measures were the total number of aortic interventions, any change in trends of intervention, and the total number of open aortic cases that our graduation trainees had. RESULTS: During the 5-year period analyzed, a total of 1389 abdominal aortic aneurysm repair procedures were performed by OAR, EVAR, and FEVAR. Of those, 462 were OARs, representing 33.2% of the total; 440 were EVARs, representing 31.6%; and 487 were FEVARs, representing 35.2%. For all OAR procedures, there was a significant increase in the proportion of these cases over time (P = .014). The total number of EVAR and FEVAR cases performed annually during this time did not change, whereas the number of OAR cases has increased. Of the OARs, 59.3% were performed for juxtarenal aneurysms, whereas 22.9% involved type IV thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms. On average, graduating vascular surgery trainees performed 23.1 OARs before graduation (range, 19-26). CONCLUSIONS: In contrast to the documented national trend of decreased OAR, our institute continues to see increased OAR relative to EVAR and FEVAR. Moreover, we theorized that the preservation of OAR volume in our program and other similar institutions might offer a practical solution to the challenge of addressing vascular surgery training in aortic surgery by OAR, EVAR, and FEVAR. Inclusive discussions at the national and international levels are needed to reach consensus regarding the future of vascular surgery training and key issues, such as additional, mandatory, subspecialized training in OAR and FEVAR for both residents and fellows who wish to receive certification in OAR; creation of centers of excellence for open aortic surgery that would centralize OAR and direct trainees to those centers for their needed training; and possibly development of new training strategies whereby single cases can be shared among trainees with alternating roles as exposure and closure vs repair.

Volumetry and biomechanical parameters detected by 3D and 2D ultrasound in patients with and without an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

The objective was to demonstrate the ability of ultrasound (US) with 3D properties to evaluate volumetry and biomechanical parameters of the aorta in patients with and without abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Thirty-one patients with normal aortas (group 1), 46 patients with AAA measuring 3.0-5.5 cm (group 2) and 31 patients with AAA ⩾ 5.5 cm (group 3) underwent a 2D/3D-US examination of the infra-renal aorta, and the images were post-processed prior to being analyzed. In the maximum diameter, the global circumferential strain and the global maximum rotation assessed by 2D speckle-tracking algorithms were compared among the three groups. The volumetry data obtained using 3D-US from 40 AAA patients were compared with the volumetry data obtained by a contemporary computed tomography (CT) scan. The median global circumferential strain was 2.0% (interquartile range (IR): 1.0-3.0), 1.0% (IR: 1.0-2.0) and 1.0% (IR: 1.0-1.75) in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively (p < 0.001). The median global maximum rotation decreased progressively from group 1 to group 3 (1.38º (IR: 0.77-2.13), 0.80º (IR: 0.57-1.0) and 0.50º (IR: 0.31-0.75), p < 0.001). AAA volume estimations by 3D-US correlated well with CT (R(2) = 0.76). In conclusion, US with 3D properties is non-invasive and has the potential to evaluate volumetry and biomechanical characteristics of AAA.

Open versus Endovascular Treatment of Visceral Artery Aneurysms and Pseudoaneurysms.

BACKGROUND: Visceral artery aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms (VAAP) represent a rare and potential life-threatening disease with a documented incidence of 0.1-2.0%. Treatment options for VAAP vary from open approach with aneurysm excision, exclusion and revascularization to endovascular techniques. Aneurysm anatomy and pathogenesis dictate treatment choice. The purpose of this study was to compare the perioperative, short- and mid-term outcomes of open and endovascular approaches. METHODS: Between January 2007 to April 2015, patients with VAAP who underwent surgical treatment, either by endovascular technique (endovascular surgery [EV] group) or by open surgery (OS group), were selected for analysis. Aneurysm's anatomy and pathogenesis dictated treatment choice. Demographic variables, surgical data, and postoperative follow-up were retrospectively analyzed. Preoperative computed tomography scans were evaluated for aneurysm characteristics. RESULTS: A total of 296 consecutive patients were identified with VAAP. Surveillance without intervention occurred in 183 patients, and 113 underwent surgical treatment: 57 by EV technique and 56 by OS. The VAAP sites were: splenic (50.9/5.4%), renal (7.0/50%), superior mesenteric (7.0/7.1%), celiac (12.3/17.9%), hepatic (14.0/5.4%), gastroduodenal (7.0/7.1%), and pancreaticoduodenal (1.8/7.1%). Eight urgent surgeries occurred in EV and 5 in OS group (P = 0.39). Operative time and estimated blood loss were 122 ± 54 vs. 312 ± 157 min (P < 0.001) and 5 (interquartile range [IR], 0-50) vs. 550 (IR, 200-980) mL (P < 0.001) in groups EV and OS, respectively. The intraoperative and postoperative major complications, including end-organ infarction, and reinterventions were comparable between the groups. Transfusion of blood products was necessary in 12.3% (EV) and 42.9% (OS; P < 0.001). Median hospital length of stay was 1 (IR, 1-3) and 6 (IR, 4-9) days in groups EV and OS, respectively (P < 0.001). Short-term technical success was achieved in 98.2% (EV) and 96.4% (OS). During the median follow-up period of 16 (IR, 7.1-43.9) months, the clinical success was 91.2% and 92.9% (P = 0.74), and the overall survival was 94.7% and 96.4% (P = 1.0) in groups EV and OS, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Open and endovascular approaches have similar rates of technical and clinical success, as well as mortality during follow-up. However, periprocedural morbidity was significantly higher in cases treated by OS. Although longer-term follow-up is needed to access the durability of the endovascular treatment, initial successful outcomes and low reintervention rates make it a safe and feasible approach.

Analysis of risk factors and diseases associated with atherosclerosis in the progression of carotid artery stenosis.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to analyze the roles of demographic, clinical, and laboratory factors on the progression of atherosclerotic stenosis in carotid bifurcation. It was based on prospective information from records entered on a specific application form for follow-up outpatients at a tertiary university service. METHODS: Consecutive symptomatic and asymptomatic patients (n = 210) who had undergone more than one carotid duplex scan but no surgical intervention were selected for the analysis. The patients were divided into two groups: patients whose duplex scans did not show bilateral progression of carotid stenosis and patients with carotid stenosis progression of <50%, 50%-69%, or >70%. Clinical and demographic parameters were compared between groups. RESULTS: Group II levels of plasma urea (51.6 ± 27.8 mg/dl) and fibrinogen (493.2 ± 113.3 mg/dl) were higher than the Group I levels (43.0 ± 14.9 mg/dl and 441.3 ± 106.7 mg/dl, respectively) with statistical significance (p urea = 0.013 and p fibrinogen = 0.018). Paradoxically, the mean body mass index was higher in Group I (26.4 ± 4.6 kg/m(2)) than in Group II (24.6 ± 3.9 kg/m(2); p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: Traditional risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis in a carotid bifurcation are important but not unique. Metabolic and inflammatory factors can contribute to disease progression.

Olfactory groove meningiomas: surgical technique and follow-up review.

BACKGROUND: Olfactory groove meningiomas comprise 4-10% of the intracranial meningiomas. Generally they give signs of brain compression due to great size they reach before diagnosis. In this study, the clinical outcome of patients with olfactory groove meningiomas surgically treated was analyzed. METHOD: 17 patients operated on from 1988-2006. Female: 16, Male: 1. Age: 19-76 years-old (mean=53.12 +/- 13.11). FOLLOW-UP: 1-209 months (mean=51.07 +/- 12.73. Bifrontal/bifrontal-bi-orbital approaches were used. Outcome was analyzed using survival/recurrence-free Kaplan-Mayer curves. RESULTS: 16 had WHO grade 1; one grade 2 meningiomas. Resection Simpson's grade 1 was in achieved in 64.7%, grade 2 in 29.4% and grade 3 in 5.9%. There was no recurrence during the follow-up. Global and operative mortality were 11.8%. Main postoperative complications were osteomyelitis (11.8%) and pneumonia (5.9%). CONCLUSION: Extensive approaches allowed total resection of most olfactory groove meningiomas with no recurrence during the follow-up, but operative mortality and local complications were high.

Nellix EndoVascular Aneurysm Sealing System: Device description, technique of implantation, and literature review.

Clinical outcome reports document that from 30% to 60% of endovascular aneurysm repair procedures are performed outside of US Food and Drug Administration-approved Instruction for Use, or "off label." Endovascular aneurysm repair performed outside of Instruction for Use has a significantly higher rate of device failure, potentially requiring device reintervention and even planned or emergent explant. The Nellix device has the potential to reduce the rate of aneurysm device failure through its novel design. The objective of this article was to introduce the Nellix EndoVascular Aneurysm Sealing System and indications for use and describe the technique of implantation. We describe various modes of endovascular aneurysm repair failure and how the Nellix system can reduce these unplanned adverse outcomes. Additional clinical applications and theoretical shortcomings of endovascular aneurysm sealing devices are detailed.

Spontaneous Splenic Rupture in Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.

Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (VEDS) is a rare autosomal dominant collagen vascular disorder. Different from other Ehler-Danlos Syndrome subtypes, VEDS has poor prognosis due to severe fragility of connective tissues and association with life-threatening vascular and gastrointestinal complications. Spontaneous splenic rupture is a rare but hazardous complication related to this syndrome. To date, only 2 cases have been reported in the literature. Here we present another case of this uncommon complication, occurring in a 54-year-old woman in clinical follow-up for VEDS who presented with sudden onset of abdominal pain and hypotension.

Mycotic Celiac Artery Aneurysm: A Case Report, Approach Options, and Review of Literature.

Mycotic celiac artery aneurysm (MCAA) is extremely rare. To date, only 8 cases have been reported in the literature. Endocarditis is the most commonly documented etiology. Here, we report a case of a subacute, symptomatic MCAA presenting with progressive enlargement in a patient who was previously treated for bacterial endocarditis. Management involved a 2-stage surgical intervention: First, aortohepatic bypass with autologous conduit via transperitoneal approach, followed several days later by ligation of the aneurysm base via retroperitoneal exposure. The treatment options for this rare pathology are also discussed along with a literature review.

Olfactory groove meningiomas: surgical technique and follow-up review

BACKGROUND: Olfactory groove meningiomas comprise 4-10 percent of the intracranial meningiomas. Generally they give signs of brain compression due to great size they reach before diagnosis. In this study, the clinical outcome of patients with olfactory groove meningiomas surgically treated was analyzed. METHOD: 17 patients operated on from 1988-2006. Female: 16, Male: 1. Age: 19-76 years-old (mean=53.12± 13.11). Follow-up: 1-209 months (mean=51.07±12.73. Bifrontal/bifrontal-bi-orbital approaches were used. Outcome was analyzed using survival/recurrence-free Kaplan-Mayer curves. RESULTS:16 had WHO grade 1; one grade 2 meningiomas. Resection Simpson's grade 1 was in achieved in 64.7 percent, grade 2 in 29.4 percent and grade 3 in 5.9 percent. There was no recurrence during the follow-up. Global and operative mortality were 11.8 percent. Main postoperative complications were osteomielitis (11.8 percent) and pneumonia (5.9 percent). CONCLUSION: Extensive approaches allowed total resection of most olfactory groove meningiomas with no recurrence during the follow-up, but operative mortality and local complications were high.

INTRODUÇÃO: Os meningiomas da goteira olfatória constituem 4-10 por cento dos meningiomas intracranianos. Geralmente eles causam sinais de compressão do tronco cerebral porque atingem grandes tamanhos antes do diagnóstico. Neste estudo foram analisadas os resultados do tratamento cirúrgico de pacientes com meningiomas da goteira olfatória. MÉTODO: 17 pacientes operados de 1988-2006. Mulheres: 16. Homens: 1. Idade: 19-76 anos (média=53,12±13,11). Seguimento: 1-209 meses (média=51,07±12,73. Foram utilizados acessos bifrontal/bifrontal bi-orbital. A evolução clinica foi analisada usando curvas de sobrevida e de sobrevida livre de doença de Kaplan-Mayer. RESULTADOS: 16 pacientes tinham meningioma WHO grau 1; um tinha meningioma grau 2. Ressecção Simpson grau 1 foi obtida em 64.7 por cento, grau 2 em 29.4 por cento e grau 3 em 5.9 por cento. Não houve recidiva durante o seguimento. A mortalidade global e a pós-operatória foram 11.8 por cento. As principais complicações pós-operatórias foram osteomielite (11.8 por cento) e pneumonia (5.9 por cento). CONCLUSÃO: Abordagens extensas possibilitaram ressecção total da maioria dos meningiomas da goteira olfatória sem recidiva durante o seguimento, mas a mortalidade operatória e as complicações locais foram altas.