Endograft Thrombosis as indication for Open Conversion after EVAR in a multicenter experience over 25 years.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the outcomes of aortic endograft thrombosis (AET) as an indication for open conversion (OC) after endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) in a multicenter experience. METHODS: This study retrospectively analyzed cases of OC for AET following EVAR across 12 Italian Vascular Surgery centers from 1997 to September 2022. The endpoints were as follows: 30-days mortality and major postoperative complications. Follow-up data included: survival and aortic-related complications. RESULTS: Sixteen patients (mean age: 68.6±8.5 years) were included. Median elapsed time between EVAR to OC was 26.46 months (IQR 13.8-45.9). Proximal aortic cross-clamping site was supraceliac in 8 out of 16 (50%) patients, complete removal of the stentgraft was achieved in 75% of cases (12/16 patients). Reconstructions were: aorto-bi-iliac grafts in 8 cases (50%), 7 aorto-bi-femoral bypass grafts (43.8%), and 1 aorto-aortic tube graft (6.3%). All patients were symptomatic at presentation (68.7% unilateral acute limb ischemia, 25% bilateral acute limb ischemia, 1 patient had chronic severe claudication). Thirty-day mortality was 12.5% (2/16 patients). Overall morbidity rate was 43.8% (7 of 16 patients). No specific risk factors for early mortality were found. The overall estimated survival rate was 80.4% at 1 year, 62.5% at 2 years and 41.7% at 3 years. CONCLUSIONS: OC for AET is typically reserved for complex cases that are not amenable to endovascular solutions. The frequent need for suprarenal clamping and complete endograft removal seem to be associated with high short-term mortality.

Protein-based tissue adhesive reduces time to haemostasis in peripheral vascular surgery.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of protein-based tissue adhesive (Bioglue®) in reducing time to haemostasis in patients undergoing peripheral vascular surgery. METHODS: From January to December 2021, 100 consecutive patients from 4 centres have been treated with open peripheral vascular surgery including upper and lower limb interventions. Patients have been allocated in each centre into control with no use of Bioglue® (Group no-Bio, 50 patients) or use of Bioglue® (Group Bio, 50 patients) by a block randomization method 10:10 until the required sample size was reached. Perioperative parameters including time to haemostasis, number of adjunctive stitches, and in-hospital bleeding have been analysed and compared in the two groups by means of mean independent-samples tT -test and Gehan-Breslow-Wilcoxon test. RESULTS: Both groups were homogeneous in terms of demographic data, preoperative risk factors, and preoperative medical therapy except for a higher percentage of active smokers in Group Bio (52% vs. 24%, p = 0.004). Femoral endarterectomy was most common in Group Bio (44% vs. 24%, p = 0.03), whilst the percentage of lower limb vein bypasses was higher in Group no-Bio (50% vs. 36%, p = 0.03). Bovine pericardium was the preferred material in Group Bio (20 cases, 40%), whilst autologous vein is mostly used in Group no-Bio (26 cases, 52%) (p = 0.01). Time to haemostasis was faster in Group Bio (4.4 vs. 9.6 minutes, p < 0.001). The need for adjunctive stitches was higher in Group no-Bio (8 cases, 16%, Group Bio vs. 25 cases, 50%, Group no-Bio; p < 0.001). The overall rate of in-hospital bleeding, including those requiring reintervention, was not different between the two groups (9 cases, 18%, Group Bio vs. 7 cases, 14%, Group no-Bio; p = 0.39). CONCLUSIONS: The protein-based tissue adhesive Bioglue® reduced time to haemostasis and need for adjunctive stitches in peripheral vascular surgery. However, it did not affect the overall rate of perioperative bleedings. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to validate these outcomes.

Bypass vs endovascular treatment for occluded femoro-popliteal stents in patients with critical limb-threatening ischemia.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to compare the early and medium-term outcomes of bypass vs endovascular treatment of occluded femoro-popliteal stents in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (the OUT-STEPP multicentric registry). METHODS: Between January 2016 and December 2021, 317 patients in 14 centers underwent treatment for a symptomatic occlusion of femoro-popliteal stent/stents. One hundred sixty-one patients were included into the present study: 46 (28.6%) underwent open bypass surgery (Group OPEN), and 115 (71.4%) underwent endovascular revascularization (Group ENDO). Early (30 days) results were assessed and compared between the two groups. Estimated 5-year outcomes were evaluated and compared with the log rank test. RESULTS: At 30 days, no differences were found in terms of major adverse cardiovascular events, acute kidney injury, reinterventions, major amputation, and all-cause mortality between the two groups. The need for blood transfusions was higher for patients in Group OPEN (17; 36.9% vs 13; 11.3%; P < .001). The mean length of intensive care unit stay and the mean hospital stay were higher for patients in Group OPEN ([0.3 ± 0.9 vs 0 days; P < .001] and [9.7 ± 5.8 vs 3.3 ± 1.4 days; P < .001], respectively). The overall median duration of follow-up was 33.1 months (interquartile range, 14-49.5 months). At 5 years, there were no differences between the two groups in terms of survival (68.7% Group OPEN vs 68.8% Group ENDO; P = .27; log-rank, 1.21), primary patency (56.3% Group OPEN vs 67.8% Group ENDO; P = .39; log-rank, 0.75), secondary patency (59.1% Group OPEN vs 77.8% Group ENDO; P = .24; log-rank, 1.40), absence of target lesion restenosis (56.8% Group OPEN vs 62.7% Group ENDO; P = .42; log-rank, 0.65), and limb salvage (77.2% Group OPEN vs 90.4% Group ENDO; P = .17; log-rank, 1.87). CONCLUSIONS: Both bypass and endovascular treatment provided safe and effective restoration of patency for femoro-popliteal in-stent occlusion in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia. Open surgery was associated with longer stay in hospital and increased use of blood transfusions. At 5 years, no significant differences were found in the rates of overall patency or limb salvage between bypass and endovascular treatment.

A Pilot Study of Endovascular Repair for Ruptured Aortic Aneurysms With the Use of Carbon Dioxide Angiography Alone.

INTRODUCTION: Endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) of a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA) has become a common approach. Hemorrhagic shock associated with the use of iodinated contrast medium (ICM) increases the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI). Theoretically, eliminating ICM from EVAR can decrease that risk. The aim of this pilot study was to analyze the feasibility and safety of emergent EVAR performed with the exclusive use of carbon dioxide (CO2) for a rAAA. METHODS: Since 2021, all consecutive rAAAs with hemorrhagic shock and suitable anatomical criteria for a standard endograft have been treated by EVAR with the exclusive use of CO2 using an automated CO2 injector (Angiodroid SpA, San Lazzaro di Savena, Italy). RESULTS: Eight percutaneous EVARs were performed under local anesthesia. Median age was 78 (interquartile range [IQR]=6) years, 5 patients were male. The technical success was 100%, the 30-day mortality was 25% (n=2), the median amount of administered CO2 was 400 (IQR=60) ml. The median change in serum creatinine level between admission, post-operative and 30-day values was an increase of 0.14 mg/dL and a decrease of 0.11 mg/dL, respectively. Post-operative AKI occurred in the two patients who died. All 6 surviving patients showed sac shrinkage >5 mm, and no reinterventions at a median follow-up of 10 months. CONCLUSIONS: Endovascular repair of rAAA with the exclusive use of CO2 as contrast agent is technically feasible and safe. Further studies are needed to determine whether CO2 increases survival rate and limits the progression of renal dysfunction after endovascular repair of rAAA. CLINICAL IMPACT: The recorded rate of post-operative AKI after endovascular repair of rAAA performed with the use of CO2 found in this pilot study was significantly lower than the one reported in the literature with the use of ICM. Our hyphotesis is that the use of CO2 during rEVAR might increase survival rate and limits the progression of renal dysfunction.

Early and Midterm Outcomes of Endovascular Aneurysm Repair With Zenith Alpha Abdominal Stent-Graft: Results From a Multicenter Retrospective Tuscany Registry.

PURPOSE: Zenith Alpha Abdominal (Cook Medical, Bloomington, IN, USA) is one of the new-generation low-profile stent-grafts with demonstrated satisfactory early and midterm clinical outcomes for endovascular treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). The aim was to evaluate early and midterm results of this device in the framework of a multicenter regional retrospective registry, with the analysis of morphological factors affecting outcomes, including different limb configurations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 2016 and November 2021, 202 patients with AAA underwent elective endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) with implantation of a Zenith Alpha Abdominal in 7 centers. Early (30 day) outcomes in terms of technical and clinical success were assessed. Estimated 5 year outcomes were evaluated in terms of survival, freedom from type I/III endoleak, freedom from surgical conversion, freedom from limb graft occlusion, freedom from any device-related reintervention, and graft infection evaluation by life-table analysis (Kaplan-Meier test). A comparative analysis between different limb configurations (Zenith Spiral Z AAA iliac legs, codes ZISL vs ZSLE) was performed in terms of limb graft occlusion. RESULTS: The 30 day technical and clinical success rates were 97.5% and 99.5%, respectively. Median follow-up period was 25.5 months (interquartile range [IQR]: 12-43.25). The 5 year survival rate was 73.6%. The estimated 5 year outcomes in terms of freedom from type I/III endoleak, freedom from surgical conversion, freedom from limb graft occlusion, freedom from any device-related reintervention, and freedom from graft infection were 88.6% (95% CI [confidence interval]: 83.4%-93.1%), 95.8% (95% CI: 92.7%-97.1%), 93.6% (95% CI: 90.2%-96.8%), 87% (95% CI: 83.3%-91.6%), and 97.7% (95% CI: 95.1%-98.9%), respectively. About limb configuration, no differences were found in terms of 5 year freedom from limb graft occlusion (ZSLE 93.4% [95% CI: 89.8%-95.5%] vs ZISL 94.3% [95% CI: 90.1%-95.9%], p=0.342; log-rank 0.903). CONCLUSION: Zenith Alpha Abdominal in elective EVAR offered satisfactory early and 5 year outcomes with low complication rates. Limb graft occlusion continued to be an issue. Limb configuration did not affect outcomes. CLINICAL IMPACT: The authors describe satisfactory early and 5 year outcomes of Zenith Alpha Abdominal in elective endovascular aortic repair in the framework of a multicenter regional retrospective registry. At 5 years freedom from type I endoleak was 88.6%, and rate of endograft infections and conversions to open repair were very low. in the present study. Hot topic about about Zenith stent-graft still remains the limb graft occlusion with a 30-day overall rate of 2%, and estimated 5-year freedom from limb graft occlusion of 93.6%. Limb graft configuration did not affect limb graft occlusion rate. A standardized protocol including iliac stenting should be adopted to reduce kimb graft occlusion.

A comparative analysis of anatomical variations of popliteal artery and its branches in concomitant aneurysmal disease.

OBJECTIVES: Open or endovascular treatment of popliteal artery aneurysms (PAAs) is still debated. Data about the popliteal artery anatomy and its branches are essential to plan a surgical approach. The aim of this study was to report the anatomical variations of the popliteal artery and its branches in a population with aneurysmal disease and compare them with a standard population with non-aneurysmal disease. METHODS: A retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent surgical PAA repair in our center between January 2011 and December 2020 was performed. One-hundred-forty-six limbs in 128 patients underwent PAA treatment (Group 1). Computed tomography angiography images using a 128-section configuration were reviewed for anatomical variations of the popliteal artery and its branches. A control population of 178 limbs in 89 patients with non-aneurysmal disease was used to compare the outcomes (Group 2). All limbs were classified according to Kim's classification. The two groups were analyzed and compared by means of nonparametric Pearson chi-square test. RESULTS: Both groups were homogeneous in terms of demographics, risk factors, and clinical presentation. In Group 1, the limbs with PAA were classified as type IA, 133 (91.1%); type IB, 2 (1.4%); type IC, 0; type IIA1, 1 (0.7%); type IIA2, 1 (0.7%); type IIB, 4 (2.7%); type IIC, 0; type IIIA, 3 (2.1%); type IIIB, 0; and type IIIC, 2 (1.4%). In Group 2 the limbs with non-aneurysmal disease were classified as type IA, 163 (91.6%); type IB, 5 (2.8%); type IC, 1 (0.6%); type IIA1, 1 (0.6%); type IIA2, 3 (1.7%); type IIB, 2 (1.1%); type IIC, 0; type IIIA, 3 (1.7%); type IIIB, 0; and type IIIC, 0. No difference in terms of anatomy of the popliteal artery and its branches was found between the two groups (P = NS). CONCLUSIONS: Knowledge of anatomical variations of the popliteal artery and its branches is mandatory in case of the surgical approach. Anatomy in PAA patients is not different. Studies with larger population size are needed to validate these outcomes.

Comparison of long occlusive femoropopliteal de novo versus previous endovascularly treated lesions managed with in situ saphenous bypass.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to compare the 2-year outcomes of de novo versus postendovascular lesion treatment of femoropopliteal occlusions included in a national, multicenter, observational, prospective registry based on the treatment of critical Limb-threatening IschaeMia with infragenicular Bypass adopting in situ SAphenous VEin technique (LIMBSAVE) registry. METHODS: From January 2018 to December 2019, 541 patients from 43 centers have been enrolled in the LIMBSAVE registry. Of these patients, 460 were included in the present study: 341 (74.1%) with de novo lesions (DN group) and 119 (25.9%) with postendovascular treatment lesions (PE group). Initial outcome measures were assessed at 30 days after treatment. Furthermore, at the 2-year follow-up, the estimated outcomes of primary patency, primary-assisted patency, secondary patency, and limb salvage were analyzed with Kaplan-Meier curves and compared between groups with the log-rank test. RESULTS: Both groups were homogeneous in terms of demographic data, preoperative risk factors, and clinical presentation. However, compared with DN group, more patients in PE group had a great saphenous vein diameter of less than 3 mm (11.1% vs 21%; P = .007). Intraoperatively, both groups showed similar distal anastomosis sites: below-the-knee popliteal artery (63% DN group, 66.4% PE group) and tibial vessel (37% DN group, 33.6% PE group) (P = .3). The overall mean duration of follow-up was 11.6 months (range, 1-24 months). At the 2-year follow-up, there were no differences between the two groups in terms of primary patency (66.3% DN group vs 74.1% PE group; P = .9), primary-assisted patency (78.2% DN group vs 79.5% PE group; P = .2), secondary patency (85.1% DN group vs 91.4% PE group; P = .2), and limb salvage (95.2% DN group vs 95.1% PE group; P = .9). CONCLUSIONS: The LIMBSAVE registry did not show a worsening of overall patency and limb salvages rates at the 2-year follow-up in patients undergoing in situ saphenous bypass after a failed endovascular approach for long femoropopliteal occlusive disease. This finding is in contrast with what has been published in literature.

Long-term results of treatment of infrarenal aortic aneurysms with low-profile stent grafts in a multicenter registry.

OBJECTIVE: In recent years, manufacturers have developed new stent grafts with lower profiles to increase the endovascular aneurysm repair applicability. As reported by the current European Society for Vascular Surgery guidelines, long-term evaluation of such low-profile platforms is strongly recommended. This study aims to report outcomes beyond 5 years from a multicenter registry, including a real-world cohort of patients electively treated with low-profile stent grafts. METHODS: A retrospective data collection of patients who had undergone elective implantation of low-profile endograft ≤16 Fr. (Zenith LP, Ovation, Incraft) was performed in nine centers. The primary endpoint was a long-term primary clinical success. Secondary endpoints were survival rate, freedom from abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)-related death, freedom from type I to III endoleak, limb patency, and freedom from all reinterventions. The Kaplan-Meier curves were stratified for investigative devices. A multivariate analysis evaluated predictors of primary clinical success and reintervention rate. RESULTS: A total of 619 patients were enrolled (Ovation, n = 373; Incraft, n = 111; and Zenith LP, n = 135), with a mean follow-up of 56.8 ± 22.8 months. The overall primary and the secondary clinical success rate at 8 years was 72.1% and 93.8%, respectively. At 8 years, overall survival was 53.2%, freedom from AAA-related death was 94.4%, freedom from reintervention was 74%, freedom from type I/III endoleak was 86.9%, and limb patency was 90.4%. A significantly worse primary clinical success of the Zenith LP was recorded as dependent on more limb-related events. No differences between platforms were registered in the rate of AAA-related deaths, open conversion, sac enlargement, and type I/III endoleaks (P = .26). Multivariate analysis identified iliac tortuosity (hazard ratio, 2.053) and Zenith LP (hazard ratio, 3.818) as significant independent predictors of clinical failure and reintervention. CONCLUSIONS: Low-profile stent grafts have acceptable long-term outcomes. Overall survival and AAA-related death were in line with those reported for traditional devices. Long-term surveillance and reintervention, when necessary, remain crucial to guarantee durability.

Multicenter comparison between open conversions and semi-conversions for late endoleaks after endovascular aneurysm repair.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to compare early and follow-up outcomes of late open conversions (LOC, with complete or partial endograft explantation) and semi-conversions (SC, with endograft preservation) after endovascular aneurysm repair in a multicenter experience. METHODS: All LOC and SC performed from 1997 to 2020 in 11 vascular centers were compared. Endograft infections or thrombosis were excluded. Primary endpoints were early mortality and long-term survival estimates. Secondary endpoints were differences in postoperative complication rates and conversion-related complications during follow-up. RESULTS: In the considered period, 347 patients underwent surgery for endovascular aneurysm repair complications. Among these, 270 were operated on for endoleaks (222 LOC, 48 SC). The two groups were homogeneous in terms of American Society of Anesthesiologists score (LOC, 3.2 ± 0.7; SC, 3 ± 0.5; P = .128) and main endograft characteristics (suprarenal fixation, bifurcated/aorto-uni-iliac configuration). The mean age was 75 ± 8 years for LOC and 79 ± 7 years for SC (P = .009). Reasons for LOC were: 62.2% (138/222) type I endoleak, 21.6% (48/222) type II endoleak, 7.7% (17/222) type III endoleak, and 8.5% (19/222) endotension. Indications for SC were: 64.6% (31/48) type II endoleak, 33.3% (16/48) type I endoleak, and 2.1% (1/48) type III endoleak. Thirty-day mortality was 12.2% (27/222) in the LOC group, and 10.4% (5/48) in the SC group (P = .73). Postoperative complication rate was higher in the LOC group (45.5% vs 29.2%; P = .04). The estimated survival rate after LOC was 80% at 1 year and 64% at 5 years; after SC, it was 72% at 1 year and 37% at 5 years (log-rank P = .01). During the median follow-up of 21.5 months (interquartile range, 2.4-61 months), an endoleak after SC was found in the 38.3% of the cases; sac growth was recorded in the 27.7% of SC patients. CONCLUSIONS: SC has an early benefit over LOC in terms of reduced postoperative complications but has a significantly inferior mid-term survival. The high rates of persistent and/or recurrent endoleaks reduce SC durability.

Benefits and Role of Carbon Dioxide Angiography in Case of Misalignment Between Fenestration and Target Vessel During Fenestrated Endovascular Aneurysm Repair.

PURPOSE: To report the benefits and the role of carbon dioxide (CO2) angiography in case of misalignment between fenestration and target vessel during fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (F-EVAR). TECHNIQUE: During F-EVAR, misalignment between fenestration and target vessel is a potentially catastrophic complication. In 2 patients, we experienced that one of the target vessels were not visible during standard angiography in different projections after positioning a fenestrated graft and even after cannulation of the corresponding fenestration. In both cases, the graft was sealed to the aortic wall but not in the predictable position. Consequently, acute occlusion of the target vessel was hypothesized. However, CO2 angiography was useful to evaluate patency of the target vessel clarifying the relative position of the fenestration versus the target vessel. Rescue maneuvers were feasible under the guidance of CO2 angiography in order to obtain the cannulation of both renal arteries. In both cases, the procedure was successfully accomplished. CONCLUSION: In case of misalignment of a fenestration during F-EVAR and non-visualization of the target vessel with standard angiography, CO2 angiography could have the unique and complementary role of clarifying the patency and position of the target vessel. In addition, CO2 could guide the rescue maneuvers.

Factors Affecting Patency of In Situ Saphenous Vein Bypass: Two Year Results from LIMBSAVE (Treatment of critical Limb Ischaemia with infragenicular Bypass adopting in situ SAphenous VEin technique) Registry.

OBJECTIVE: The aim was to demonstrate contemporary outcomes of in situ saphenous vein bypass using a valvulotome. METHODS: Analysis of two year outcomes of a multicentre registry based on the treatment of critical Limb Ischaemia with infragenicular Bypass adopting in situ SAphenous VEin technique (LIMBSAVE). Between January 2018 and December 2019, 541 patients in 43 centres were enrolled. In all patients an innovative valvulotome was used. Early outcomes were assessed. Two year outcomes according to Kaplan-Meier curves in terms of patency and limb salvage were evaluated. Associations between patient and procedure variables were analysed with univariable and multivariable analyses. RESULTS: In all cases, a valvulotome was able to lyse the valves. Vein injury due to the in situ technique was 3.5%. Thirty day mortality and major amputation rates were 3% and 0.9%, respectively. Mean follow up was 12.1 months. Two year estimated primary patency, primary assisted patency, secondary patency, and limb salvage were 69.1%, 81.4%, 86.5%, and 94.5%, respectively. Multivariable analysis showed an association between pre-operative vein diameter < 3 mm and lower primary patency (hazard ration [HR] 14.3, p < .001), primary assisted patency (HR 9.4, p = .002), secondary patency (HR 7.2, p = .007), and limb salvage (HR 7.8, p = .005) rates. Distal anastomosis to a tibial or foot vessel was also associated with lower primary patency (HR 4.8, p = .033), and primary assisted patency (HR 6, p = .011) rates. Use of a suprafascial tributary collateral as a graft was associated with lower primary patency (HR 6.7, p = .013), and primary assisted patency (HR 4.2, p = .042) rates. CONCLUSION: Vein diameter < 3 mm, distal anastomosis on a tibial or foot vessel, and use of a suprafascial tributary collateral as a graft were significantly associated with loss of patency and limb loss during follow up.

Editor's Choice - Peri-Operative Outcomes of Carotid Endarterectomy are Not Improved on Dual Antiplatelet Therapy vs. Aspirin Monotherapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the peri-operative outcomes of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) on dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) vs. aspirin monotherapy was carried out, to determine optimal peri-operative management with these antiplatelet agents. DATA SOURCES: The Web of Science, Pubmed, and Embase databases were searched from inception to July 2021. The corresponding authors of excluded articles were contacted to obtain additional data for possible inclusion. REVIEW METHODS: The main outcomes included ischaemic complications (stroke, transient ischaemic attack [TIA], and transcranial Doppler [TCD] measured micro-emboli), haemorrhagic complications (haemorrhagic stroke, neck haematoma, and re-operation for bleeding), and composite outcomes. Pooled estimates using odds ratios (ORs) were combined using a random or fixed effects model based on the results of the chi square test and calculation of I2. RESULTS: In total, 47 411 patients were included in 11 studies, with 14 345 (30.2%) receiving DAPT and 33 066 (69.7%) receiving aspirin only. There was no significant difference in the rates of peri-operative stroke (OR 0.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.72 - 1.05) and TIA (OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.52 - 1.17) despite a significant reduction in TCD measured micro-emboli (OR 0.19, 95% CI 0.10 - 0.35) in the DAPT compared with the aspirin monotherapy group. Subgroup analysis did not reveal any significant difference in ischaemic stroke risk between patients with asymptomatic and symptomatic carotid artery stenosis. DAPT was associated with an increased risk of neck haematoma (OR 2.79, 95% CI 1.87 - 4.18) and re-operation for bleeding (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.77 - 2.23) vs. aspirin. Haemorrhagic stroke was an under reported outcome in the literature. CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis found that CEA while on DAPT increased the risk of haemorrhagic complications, with similar rates of ischaemic complications, vs. aspirin monotherapy. This suggests that the risks of performing CEA on DAPT outweigh the benefits, even in patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis. The overall quality of studies was low, and improved reporting of CEA outcomes in the literature is necessary.

Timing to Carotid Endarterectomy Affects Early and Long Term Outcomes of Symptomatic Carotid Stenosis.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study is to evaluate early and long-term outcomes according to the timing to carotid endarterectomy (CEA) of symptomatic carotid stenosis. METHODS: Consecutive CEAs with selective shunting for symptomatic carotid stenosis ≥50% performed between 2009 and 2020. Patients had acute neurological impairment on presentation, defined as <5 points on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). We grouped patients according to time between index event and CEA: the first group was operated between 0 and 2 days, the second group between 3 and 7 days, the third group between 8 and 14 days and the last group after 15 days. Thirty-day neurological status improvement was defined as a decrease (≥1) in the 30-day NIHSS score versus NIHSS score immediately before surgery. RESULTS: Five hundred CEAs were performed. The perioperative combined stroke and mortality rate was 3.6% (18/500), representing a perioperative mortality rate of 0.2 (n = 1) and stroke rate of 3.4% (n = 17). Overall freedom from stroke was 95% at 1 year, 89 % at 6 years, and 88% at 10 years. Annual stroke rate was 0.6% after the 30-day period. Thirty-day improvement in neurologic status occurred in 103 patients (20.6%), while in 380 (76%) neurologic status was unchanged, and 17 (3.4%) experienced worsening of their neurologic status. Patients treated within 7 days from the index event had significant benefit (OR = 2.6) in the 30-day neurological improvement versus those treated after 7 days from the index event. Timing to CEA <2 days increased significantly the risk of late stroke (OR = 9.7). CONCLUSIONS: The ideal timing for performing CEA is between 3 and 7 days from the index event if NIHSS <5 as it is associated with the best rates of improvement in neurological status and durability in the long term. Very early CEA (<48 hrs) was associated with increased late stroke occurrence.

Influence of pedal arch quality on 5-year survival and limb salvage in patients with diabetic foot ulcers undergoing peripheral angiography.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of pedal arch quality on 5-year survival and limb salvage in diabetic patients with foot wounds undergoing peripheral angiography. METHODS: Between January 2014 and December 2014, 153 diabetic patients with foot wounds underwent peripheral angiography. Final foot angiograms were used to allocate patients according to pedal arch: complete pedal arch (CPA), incomplete pedal arch (IPA), and absent pedal arch (APA). Five-year survival and limb salvage rates were analyzed with Kaplan-Meier curves and compared by means of Gehan-Breslow-Wilcoxon test. Associations of patient and procedure variables with overall survival and limb salvage outcomes were sought with univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS: A below-the-knee (BTK) artery was the target vessel in 80 cases (52.3%). Five-year Kaplan-Meier rates of survival were similar in all groups (p = 0.1): CPA 30%, IPA 27.5%, and APA 26.4%. Five-year limb salvage rates were significantly better in patients with CPA/IPA (p < 0.001): CPA 95.1%, IPA 94.3%, and APA 67.3%. In the whole population study, multivariate analysis showed significant association of smoking (p = 0.01), chronic renal failure (p = 0.02), and severity of foot wounds (p < 0.001) with survival. Coronary artery disease (p = 0.03), severity of foot wounds (p = 0.001), and pedal arch status (p = 0.05) showed strong association with limb salvage. CONCLUSIONS: Pedal arch quality significantly affected limb salvage but not survival at 5 years in patients with diabetic foot ulcers. Smoking, chronic renal failure, and severity of foot wounds affected overall survival, whilst coronary artery disease, and severity of foot wounds limb salvage.

2D perfusion angiography as quantitative method to evaluate iloprost effect on foot circulation.

Background: Two-dimensional (2D) perfusion angiography is useful for the evaluation of foot perfusion in patients with critical limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI). Iloprost is a synthetic prostacyclin analogue presenting vasodilating properties. Aim of this study was to demonstrate the utility of 2D perfusion angiography as quantitative method to evaluate iloprost effect on foot circulation. Patients and methods: Between January 2020 and June 2020 25 patients with CLTI underwent below-the-knee (BTK) endovascular revascularization, intra-arterial administration of iloprost, and assessment of foot perfusion by 2D perfusion angiography. Iloprost was administered as an intra-arterial bolus of 3 µg over 1-3 minutes immediately after BTK revascularization. The 2D perfusion angiography was performed in a standardized manner with a 5-F catheter placed into the popliteal artery. A wide region of interest (ROI) was identified to assess the foot perfusion. Time-density curves were calculated by the perfusion software. Changes of the overall time-density curves before and after the administration of iloprost were evaluated. Results: Endovascular revascularization was successful in all cases. The mean reduction of systolic pressure value after iloprost administration was 23.1 mmHg. Eight patients (32%) experienced a minor complication (6 cutaneous rush, 2 symptomatic hypotension >40 mmHg). In 20 patients the time-density curves under ROI increased after the intra-arterial administration of iloprost (+31.6%, range from +4.9% to +78.7%). Five patients had no modification or a slight decrease of foot perfusion after iloprost administration (non-responders patients). Conclusions: Patients undergoing intra-arterial administration of iloprost accounted for a not negligible rate of minor complications. 2D perfusion angiography was valuable as quantitative method to evaluate the iloprost effect on foot circulation. This technique could be useful to classify the patients in responders or non-responders to iloprost therapy.

Nineteen-year outcomes with the Anaconda stent graft system from two tertiary centers.

OBJECTIVE: The Anaconda stent graft device presents peculiar and unique features in its design and deployment sequence, available on the market for many years with minor modifications, among different generations. The aim of this study was to assess the long-term, real-life, outcomes obtained in two high-volume centers with this endograft for infrarenal aortic aneurysms treatment over a period of 19 years. METHODS: All patients treated with the investigated device between 2000 and 2019, with at least 1 year of follow-up, were entered into a prospective database and data were reviewed retrospectively. The long-term results were assessed according to the Kaplan-Meier method. Primary outcomes were overall survival, freedom from AAA rupture, and freedom from AAA-related death. Secondary outcomes were freedom from late reintervention, freedom from late conversion to open repair, freedom from late limb occlusion, and freedom from late EVAR failure. RESULTS: A total of 260 consecutive patients were treated during the study period. Technical success was achieved in 98.5% (256/260) of the cases. Two perioperative deaths (0.8%) and four major complications (1.5%) were recorded. At a mean follow-up of 54 ± 38 months (summary follow-up index = 0.86), the late survival estimate was 94.8% at 1 year, 75.2% at 5 years, 50.5% at 10 years, and 43.3% at 13 years, with no case of late AAA rupture or late AAA-related death. Late freedom from conversion was 99.2% at 1 year, 96.9% at 5 years, 94.0% at 10 years, and 94.0% at 13 years. Freedom from late limb thrombosis was 96.8% at 1 year and 91.0% at 5, 10, and 13 years. Estimates of freedom from late reintervention was 95.6% at 1 year, 87.0% at 5 years, 77.4% at 10 years, and 77.4% at 13 years. Estimates of limb thrombosis at 11 years were significantly different in patients receiving or not intraoperative iliac kissing balloon maneuver with noncompliant angioplasty catheters (98.0% vs 88.4%; P = .029). CONCLUSIONS: The Anaconda stent graft demonstrated effective and durable outcomes for AAA treatment over a 19-year period, with no case of late AAA rupture or AAA related death in the studied population. Late limb occlusion was the leading cause of reintervention; however, a positive prevention strategy was found in intraoperative kissing balloon, which was associated with significant reduced rate of iliac thrombosis over time.

Reallocation of Carotid Surgery Activity with the Support of Telemedicine in a COVID-Free Clinic during COVID-19 Pandemic.

The aim of this study is to report the reallocation of carotid surgery activity with the support of telemedicine in a COVID-free clinic during COVID-19 pandemic. Patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis or asymptomatic vulnerable plaques were reallocated to a COVID-free private clinic which began to cooperate with the National Health System during the emergency. Quick training of staff nurses was performed. Surgeons moved to the COVID-19 free clinic. Remote cerebral monitoring was performed with the support of telemedicine. Twenty-four patients underwent standard carotid endarterectomy with eversion technique. Five patients (20.8%) had recently symptomatic stenosis, and the remaining 19 patients (79.2%) had a risky asymptomatic carotid stenosis. No technical issue with remote cerebral monitoring was detected. In the early postoperative period, no neurological/systemic complication was observed. Three patients under dual antiplatelet therapy (12.5%) had neck hematoma. All patients were discharged the day after surgery. In our preliminary experience, reallocation in a COVID-free clinic allowed us to maintain a functioning carotid surgery activity during COVID-19 pandemic. A multidisciplinary approach and support of telemedicine were crucial. Training of unskilled nurse staff was necessary.

Preliminary six-month outcomes of LIMBSAVE (treatment of critical Limb IscheMia with infragenicular Bypass adopting in situ SAphenous VEin technique) registry.

OBJECTIVES: Guidelines recommend open bypass surgery for long occlusions of infrainguinal arteries. In situ saphenous vein bypass is a standardized technique. The aim of this study was to report preliminary six-month outcomes of a national, multicenter, observational, prospective registry based on the examination of treatment of critical Limb IscheMia with infragenicular Bypass adopting the in situ SAphenous VEin technique (LIMBSAVE). METHODS: From January 2018 until October 2019, 428 patients from 41 centers were enrolled in the LIMBSAVE registry. Data were prospectively collected in a dedicated database, including demographics, preoperative risk factors, clinical and diagnostic preoperative assessments, intraoperative measures (including safety and effectiveness of the valvulotome during the surgical procedures), and 30-day follow-up data. Furthermore, estimated six-month outcomes according to Kaplan-Meier curves in terms of primary patency, primary assisted patency, secondary patency, and limb salvage were evaluated. RESULTS: Patients were predominantly male (n = 332, 77.6%) with a mean age of 73.3 years (range 39-95). Technical success, defined as bypass pulse after use of the valvulotome, was obtained in all cases. The proximal anastomosis could be reached by the valvulotome in all cases. The mean number of valvulotome uses was 2.5 (range 1-5). No vein perforation was reported. In nine cases (2.1%), a vein lesion with intramural hemorrhage occurred. The mean length of hospital stay was 11.1 days (range 1-60). At 30-day follow-up, the overall bypass patency rate was 97.4%, and the rate of open or endo reinterventions for failing bypass was 5.4%. At six-month follow-up, the estimated primary patency, primary assisted patency, secondary patency, and limb salvage were 78.1%, 86.2%, 92.1%, and 94.7%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary intraprocedural outcomes of the LIMBSAVE registry show that the in situ technique with the valvulotome is safe and effective in disrupting valves and obtaining pulsatility in the saphenous vein. The complication rate related to the use of the valvulotome is low. The six-month preliminary outcomes in terms of overall patency and limb salvage are promising. Further examinations and continuous follow-up are needed to evaluate long-term outcomes.

Direct percutaneous embolization of aneurysm sac: a safe and effective procedure to treat post-EVAR type II endoleaks.

PURPOSE: To report safety and effectiveness of type II endoleak embolization, with percutaneous direct aneurysm sac puncture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty patients, 31 male (mean age 55 ± 5), with post-EVAR type-II endoleak underwent direct percutaneous sac puncture for embolization. Procedures were performed, under local anesthesia. Sac puncture was done using a 20G needle under rotational angiography guidance. A coaxial system (4 Fr catheter + 2.7 microcatheter) was used to navigate the sac. During the follow-up period, all patients underwent contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) at 6 and 12 months. RESULTS: Technical success, with complete exclusion of the aneurysm sac, was achieved in all cases. Time of procedure varied between 36 and 68 min (mean 51.36 min). Mean fluoroscopy time was 16.7 min. A posterior left access was used in 41 cases, posterior right access in 6 cases, and an anterior approach in 3. In 19 cases (38%), one or more feeding vessels were visualized and embolized. Sac embolization was done using Onyx plus micro-coils in 31 cases (62%) and Onyx alone in 19 cases (38%). Mean amount of Onyx was 6 ml. No complications, correlated with the direct percutaneous sac puncture, or to Onyx injection occurred. After 1-year follow-up, sac shrinkage occurred in 34 cases (68%), while in 16 patients (32%) sac size remained stable without evidence of sac perfusion. CONCLUSION: Percutaneous direct sac embolization using Onyx in combination or not with microcoils represents a safe and valid technique to solve post-EVAR type II endoleaks.

The Italian USL Toscana Centro model of a vascular hub responding to the COVID-19 emergency.

BACKGROUND: Spreading of the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy forced health facilities to drastically change their organization to face the overwhelming number of infected patients needing hospitalization. The aim of this paper is to share with all the vascular community the protocol developed by the USL (Unità Sanitaria Locale) Toscana Centro for the reorganization of the Vascular Surgery Unit during the COVID-19 emergency, hoping to help other institutions to face the emergency during the hard weeks coming. METHODS: The USL Toscana Centro is a public Italian health care institution including four districts (Empoli, Florence, Pistoia, Prato) with 13 different hospitals, serving more than 1,500,000 people in a 5000 km2 area. The USL adopted a protocol of reorganization of the Vascular Surgery Unit during the first difficult weeks of the epidemic, consisting in the creation of a Vascular Hub for urgent cases, with a profound reorganization of activities, wards, surgical operators, operating blocks, and intensive care unit (ICU) beds. RESULTS: All 13 hospitals are now COVID-19 as the first days of April passed. The San Giovanni di Dio Hospital (Florence) has more than 80 COVID-19 patients in different settings (ICU, medical and surgical ward), which at the time of writing is almost one-third of the total hospital capacity (80/260 beds). It has been identified as the Surgical Hub for urgent vascular COVID-19 cases. Therefore, the elective surgical and office activities were reduced by 30% and 80%, respectively, and reserved to priority cases. A corner of the whole operating block, well separate from the remaining operating rooms, was rapidly converted into one operating room and six ICU beds dedicated to COVID patients. The COVID-19 surgical path now includes an emergency room for suspected COVID-19 patients directly connected to an elevator for the transfer of COVID patients in the COVID operating block and dedicated COVID-19 ward and ICU beds. CONCLUSIONS: Rapid modification of hospital settings, a certain "flexibility" of the medical personnel, a stepwise shutdown of vascular surgical and office activity, and the necessity of a strong leadership are mandatory to cope with the tsunami of the COVID-19 outbreak.