Decompressive Craniectomy in Patients with Malignant Stroke with Additional Vascular Territory.

BACKGROUND: Decompressive craniectomy substantially reduces mortality and disability rates following a malignant stroke. This procedure remains a life-saving option, especially in contexts with little access to mechanical thrombectomy despite downward trends in the performance of decompressive craniectomy due to discussions on the acceptance of living with severe disabilities. However, the outcomes of the surgery in cases involving concomitant occlusion of anterior or posterior cerebral arteries have not been extensively studied. METHODS: In this retrospective cohort study, spanning January 2010 to December 2022 and including patients who underwent decompressive craniectomy, we compared outcomes between patients with and without additional vascular territory involvement. Independent variables included age, sex, comorbidities, admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale and Glasgow Coma Scale scores, time elapsed between stroke and surgery, laterality of the stroke, midline shift, and postoperative infarction volume. Outcomes included mortality and modified Rankin Score at the 3-month follow-up. RESULTS: Of the 86 patients analyzed, 61 (70.9%) and 25 (29.1%) demonstrated no territory and additional territory involvement, respectively. Patients with involvement of additional territories exhibited lower admission Glasgow Coma Scale scores, higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores, and larger postoperative infarction volumes. However, these variables were not associated with poor outcomes. Univariate analyses revealed no differences in mortality or severe disability. Even after adjustment, the differences remained insignificant for mortality and severe disability. Age emerged as the sole variable linked to increased mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that, for patients with malignant stroke undergoing decompressive craniectomy, the outcomes for patients with and without involvement of additional vascular territory are similar.

Effects of antenatal corticosteroids on fetal hemodynamics: a longitudinal study.

Objective: To study the effect of antenatal corticosteroid administration on fetal hemodynamics using longitudinal analysis of Doppler waveforms in the umbilical artery (UA) and middle cerebral artery (MCA). Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study that included 30 fetuses at risk for preterm birth. Twenty-eight pregnant women were treated with betamethasone for fetal lung maturation. Doppler examinations of the UA and MCA were performed once before and three or eight times after corticosteroid administration. We used a Bayesian hierarchical linear model. Reference ranges were constructed, and associations between variables (gestational age and pre-eclampsia) were tested. Results: The mean maternal age, gestational age at betamethasone administration, and gestational age at delivery were 32.6 ± 5.89 years, 30.2 ± 2.59 weeks, and 32.9 ± 3.42 weeks, respectively. On UA Doppler, there was a significant decrease in the pulsatility index (PI) after corticosteroid administration, with a mean of 0.1147 (credibility interval: 0.03687-0.191) in three observations and a median of 0.1437 (credibility interval: 0.02509-0.2627) in eight observations. However, there was no significant change in the Doppler MCA PI, regardless of gestational age and the presence or absence of pre-eclampsia. Conclusion: Although antenatal corticosteroid administration induced a significant decrease in the Doppler UA PI, we observed no change in the cerebral vasculature.

Objetivo: Estudar o efeito da administração antenatal de corticosteroides na hemodinâmica fetal mediante análise longitudinal do Doppler na artéria umbilical (AU) e artéria cerebral média (ACM). Materiais e Métodos: Este foi um estudo retrospectivo que incluiu 30 fetos com risco de nascimento pré-termo. Vinte e oito gestantes foram tratadas com betametasona para maturação pulmonar fetal. Os exames de Doppler da AU e da ACM foram realizados uma vez antes e depois da administração de corticosteroides, num total de três ou oito observações. Utilizamos o modelo linear hierárquico com abordagem Bayesiana. Foram construídos os intervalos de referência e testadas associações entre variáveis (idade gestacional e pré-eclâmpsia). Resultados: A média ± desvio-padrão da idade materna, idade gestacional na administração de betametasona e idade gestacional no parto foram 32,6 ± 5,89 anos, 30,2 ± 2,59 semanas e 32,9 ± 3,42 semanas, respectivamente. No Doppler da AU, verificou-se diminuição significativa do índice de pulsatilidade (IP) com a terapêutica com corticosteroides (média: 0,1147 [0,03687-0,191]; em três observações) (mediana: 0,1437 [0,02509-0,2627]; em oito observações). No entanto, não foi observada alteração significativa no IP do Doppler da ACM, independentemente da idade gestacional e do diagnóstico de pré-eclâmpsia. Conclusão: Os corticosteroides pré-natais induziram diminuição significativa no IP do Doppler da AU, mas não houve alteração na vasculatura cerebral.

Resection of Mycotic Iliac Artery Aneurysm with Extra-Anatomic Bypass: An Alternative to Aneurysmorrhaphy in Difficult Situations.

Mycotic aneurysms of the iliac and other large arteries are rare and are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Treatment of mycotic aneurysms usually requires modification of the surgical technique done for cases of degenerative or atherosclerotic aneurysms. Degenerative and atherosclerotic fusiform aneurysms are usually managed with aneurysmorrhaphy using a prosthetic graft, which however is not ideal for mycotic aneurysms. Avoidance of prosthetic material at the site of mycotic aneurysm is a better option with higher chances of resolution of infection and favorable patient outcome.

Vascular contraction of umbilical arteries of pregnant women with preeclampsia.

Objective: Potassium channels have an important role in the vascular adaptation during pregnancy and a reduction in the expression of adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium channels (Katp) has been linked to preeclampsia. Activation of Katp induces vasodilation; however, no previous study has been conducted to evaluate the effects of the inhibition of these channels in the contractility of preeclamptic arteries. Glibenclamide is an oral antihyperglycemic agent that inhibits Katp and has been widely used in vascular studies. Methods: To investigate the effects of the inhibition of Katp, umbilical arteries of preeclamptic women and women with healthy pregnancies were assessed by vascular contractility experiments, in the presence or absence of glibenclamide. The umbilical arteries were challenged with cumulative concentrations of potassium chloride (KCl) and serotonin. Results: There were no differences between the groups concerning the maternal age and gestational age of the patients. The percentage of smokers, caucasians and primiparae per group was also similar. On the other hand, blood pressure parameters were elevated in the preeclamptic group. In addition, the preeclamptic group presented a significantly higher body mass index. The newborns of both groups presented similar APGAR scores and weights. Conclusion: In the presence of glibenclamide, there was an increase in the KCl-induced contractions only in vessels from the PE group, showing a possible involvement of these channels in the disorder.

[Diagnosis and treatment in a series of patients with cardiac corrected transposition of the great arteries (double discordance)]. / Diagnóstico y tratamiento en una serie de pacientes con transposición corregida de las grandes arterias (doble discordancia cardiaca).

Objective: The atrio-ventricular and ventricle-arterial double discordance (DD) or corrected transposition of the great arteries is a rare heart disease, it occurs in 0.02-0.07 of every 1,000 live newborns. The objective of the study is to describe the diagnosis, treatment and evolution of a series of patients with DD. Method: A retrospective and descriptive study was carried out, reviewing the records of patients diagnosed with DD in the last 22 years. Descriptive statistics were performed. Numerical variables were obtained using means and standard deviation and categorical variables using frequencies and percentages. Results: Thirty patients were studied in 22 years with a ratio of 1.5:1 for men, with a mean age of 20 months. The situs was solitus in 24/29 patients (82.7%). Ventricular septal defect was the most frequent lesion in 25/29 (86.2%) Tricuspid insufficiency in 70%. Four patients diagnosed with pulmonary atrial hypertension. With atrio-ventricular block 20%. One with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome. Surgical treatment was carried out in 70% of patients. Eight with Glenn procedure (26.6%) and 4 with Fontan surgery (13.3%). Follow-up ranged from 1 month to 17 years. Five died (16.6%). Of the 25 patients in follow-up, 18 patients (72%) had normal ventricular function, 5 with Grade II Ross classification (20%) and 2 in Grade III (8%). Conclusions: The quality of life of these patients is improving and there is still controversy in the literature about the ideal time to perform the most appropriate surgical procedure.

Objetivo: La doble discordancia auriculo-ventricular y ventrículo-arterial (DD) o transposición corregida de las grandes arterias, se presenta en 0.02-0.07 de cada 1,000 recién nacidos vivos. El objetivo del estudio es describir el diagnóstico, tratamiento y evolución de pacientes con DD. Método: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo y descriptivo, revisando los registros de pacientes con DD en los últimos 22 años. Se realizó estadística descriptiva. Las variables numéricas se obtuvieron mediante medias y desviación estándar y las categóricas mediante frecuencias y porcentajes. Resultados: Se estudiaron 30 pacientes con una relación de 1.5:1 para el varón, con una edad media de 20 meses. El situs fue solitus en 24/29 pacientes (82.7%). La comunicación interventricular fue la lesión más frecuente en 25/29 pacientes (86.2%), insuficiencia tricuspídea en el 70%. Cuatro pacientes con diagnóstico de hipertensión arterial pulmonar. Con bloqueo atrio-ventricular un 20%. Uno con síndrome de Wolff-Parkinson-White. El tratamiento quirúrgico se realizó en el 70% de los pacientes. Con procedimiento de Glenn 8 (26.6%) y 4 cirugías de Fontan (13.3%). El seguimiento fue de 1 mes a 17 años. Cinco fallecieron (16.6%). De los 25 restantes, 18 pacientes (72%) con función ventricular normal, 5 con clasificación de Ross grado II (20%) y 2 en G III (8%). Conclusiones: La calidad de vida de estos pacientes está mejorando, aún existe controversia sobre el momento ideal para realizar el procedimiento más adecuado quirúrgico.

Fetal transposition of the great arteries: 3D virtual and physical models from ultrasound datasets.

Transposition of the great arteries (TGA) is a cyanotic congenital heart disease characterized by ventriculoarterial discordance and atrioventricular concordance with the great arteries in a parallel relationship. Prenatal diagnosis of TGA has implications for postnatal outcomes, allowing for planned delivery and perinatal management. Three-dimensional virtual or physical models of fetal TGA allow better understanding of fetal cardiac anomalies by parents and interactive discussion among the multidisciplinary team (obstetricians, pediatricians, maternal-fetal specialists, pediatric cardiologists, and cardiovascular surgeons), as well as continuing medical education.

[MINOCA and Coronary Ectasia: a rare combination of causes of infarction] / MINOCA y Ectasia Coronaria: una combinación inusual de causas de infarto

Objective: to describe a patient with myocardial ischemia with multiple causes. Clinical Case: This clinical case describes a 58-year-old man with a history of hypertension, dyslipidemia, COPD and previous myocardial infarction (AMI). He went to the emergency room with chest pain and dyspnea. Findings included bibasal crackles, electrocardiogram with old anterior fibrosis, elevated NT-ProBNP, and echocardiogram with septoapical akinesia. During hospitalization, he experienced tachyarrhythmia and hemodynamic deterioration, undergoing electrical cardioversion (CVE). Non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTEACS) complicated with ventricular arrhythmia and acute pulmonary edema was diagnosed. Coronary angiography revealed coronary ectasias without obstructive lesions, but with mild stenosis in three vessels. The patient was successfully treated with non-invasive ventilation, diuretics, vasodilators and anticoagulation. The discharge was granted with the plan to further studies to optimize and guide treatment and finally the diagnosis of Myocardial Infarction with Non-Obstructive Arteries (MINOCA) and the presence of coronary ectasias was addressed. Conclusion: it is important to highlight the non-ischemic causes in MINOCA and the association between coronary ectasia and cardiovascular events, which is why we emphasize the need for more studies to better understand the relationship between these phenomena.

Objetivo: describir un paciente con isquemia miocárdica con múltiples causas. Caso Clínico: En este caso clínico se describe a un hombre de 58 años con antecedentes de hipertensión, dislipidemia, EPOC e infarto de miocardio (IAM) previo. Acudió a urgencias con dolor torácico y disnea. Los hallazgos incluyeron crepitantes bibasales, electrocardiograma con fibrosis anterior antigua, NT-ProBNP elevado y ecocardiograma con acinesia septoapical. Durante la hospitalización, experimentó taquiarritmia y deterioro hemodinámico, siendo sometido a cardioversión eléctrica (CVE). Se diagnosticó síndrome coronario agudo sin elevación del segmento ST (SCASEST) complicado con arritmia ventricular y edema pulmonar agudo. La angiografía coronaria reveló ectasias coronarias sin lesiones obstructivas, pero con estenosis leve en tres vasos. El paciente fue tratado con éxito mediante ventilación no invasiva, diuréticos, vasodilatadores y anticoagulación. Se otorgó el alta con el plan de profundizar estudios para optimizar y guiar tratamiento y finalmente se abordó al diagnóstico de Infarto de Miocardio con Arterias No Obstructivas (MINOCA) y la presencia de ectasias coronarias. Conclusión: es importante destacar las causas no isquémicas en MINOCA y la asociación entre ectasia coronaria y eventos cardiovasculares, por lo que subrayamos la necesidad de más estudios para comprender mejor la relación entre estos fenómenos.

Open revascularization for chronic mesenteric ischemia in the endovascular era: a quaternary-center experience and management algorithm.

Background: Chronic mesenteric ischemia (CMI) is a debilitating disease with a heavy burden on quality of life. Stenting of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) is the first option for treatment, but there is a lack of consensus defining precise indications for open revascularization (OR). Objectives: To describe a series of 4 patients with CMI treated with OR and to present an algorithm for the management of this condition. Methods: Three patients presented with typical intestinal angina and weight loss. One patient was subjected to prophylactic revascularization during open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Surgical techniques included: 1) Bypass from the infrarenal aorta to the SMA; 2) Bypass from an aorto-bifemoral polyester graft to the SMA; 3) Bypass from the right iliac artery to the SMA; 4) Bypass from the right graft limb of an aorto-biiliac polyester graft to the median colic artery at Riolan's arcade. PTFE was used in all surgeries. All grafts were placed in a retrograde configuration, tunneled under the left renal vein, making a smooth C-loop. A treatment algorithm was constructed based on the institution's experience and a review of recent literature. Results: All patients demonstrated resolution of symptoms and recovery of body weight. All grafts are patent after mean follow-up of two years. Conclusions: Open revascularization using the C-loop configuration is a valuable technique for CMI and may be considered in selected cases. The algorithm constructed may help decision planning in other quaternary centers.

Contexto: A isquemia mesentérica crônica (IMC) é uma doença debilitante, com grave impacto na qualidade de vida. A literatura recomenda a angioplastia com stent da artéria mesentérica superior (AMS) como primeira opção de tratamento, mas há falta de consenso que defina indicações precisas para a revascularização aberta. Objetivos: Descrever uma série de quatro pacientes com IMC, tratados com revascularização aberta, e apresentar um algoritmo para o manejo dessa condição. Métodos: Três pacientes apresentaram angina intestinal típica e perda ponderal. Uma paciente foi submetida a reparo aberto de aneurisma da aorta abdominal e apresentava obstrução da AMS, que foi revascularizada profilaticamente. As técnicas cirúrgicas incluíram: 1) enxerto entre a aorta infrarrenal e a AMS; 2) enxerto entre o dácron utilizado em um enxerto aortobifemoral e a AMS; 3) enxerto entre a artéria ilíaca comum direita e a AMS; e 4) enxerto entre o ramo direito do dácron utilizado em um enxerto aorto-biilíaco e a artéria cólica média (ao nível da arcada de Riolan). Todos os enxertos foram feitos utilizando politetrafluoretileno em uma configuração retrógrada, tunelizados abaixo da veia renal esquerda, fazendo uma alça em C. Resultados: Todos os pacientes demonstraram resolução dos sintomas e ganho ponderal. Todos os enxertos se mantiveram pérvios durante um seguimento médio de 2 anos. Conclusões: A revascularização aberta para IMC utilizando-se a alça em C é uma técnica valiosa e pode ser considerada em pacientes selecionados. O algoritmo proposto pode auxiliar na decisão terapêutica em centros quaternários.

Safety of preoperative branch embolization in patients undergoing evar.

The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the safety of pre-endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) embolization of aortic side branches - the inferior mesenteric artery and lumbar arteries. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines were followed. A search of MEDLINE and DIMENSION databases identified 9 studies published from 2011 to 2021 that satisfied the inclusion and exclusion criteria. These studies were analyzed to detect the incidence of embolization-related complications. A total of 482 patients underwent preoperative aortic side branch embolization, 30 (6.2%) of whom suffered some kind of minor complication. The only major complication observed was ischemic colitis in 4 (0.82%) patients, two (0.41%) of whom died after bowel resection surgery. Regarding these findings, aortic side branch embolization seems to be a safe procedure, with very low percentages of both minor and major complications.

O objetivo desta revisão sistemática foi avaliar a segurança da embolização de artéria mesentérica inferior (AMI) e artérias lombares (ALs) pré-correção endovascular de aneurisma da aorta abdominal. Foram realizadas pesquisas nas bases de dados MEDLINE e Dimensions. Foram encontrados 9 estudos publicados de 2011 a 2021 que atendiam aos critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Os estudos foram analisados ​​para definir a incidência de complicações relacionadas à embolização. No total, 482 pacientes foram submetidos a embolização de AMI e/ou ALs, dos quais 30 (6,2%) sofreram algum tipo de complicação menor. A única complicação importante observada foi colite isquêmica em 4 (0,82%) pacientes. Dois (0,41%) desses pacientes morreram após cirurgia de ressecção intestinal. Em relação a esses achados, a embolização de AMI e ALs parece ser um procedimento seguro, com um percentual muito baixo de complicações menores e importantes.

Testosterone modulates vasodilation in mesenteric arteries of hypertensive rats.

AIMS: To evaluate the effects of testosterone on endothelium-dependent vasodilation and oxidative stress in mesenteric resistance arteries. MAIN METHODS: Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), aged 8 to 10 weeks, were divided into four groups: intact (SHAM), intact treated with testosterone (TTO; 3 mg/kg/day) via subcutaneous route (s.c.), intact treated with testosterone and anastrozole [aromatase enzyme inhibitor (TTO + ANA; 0.1 mg/kg/day, s.c.)] and intact treated with testosterone and finasteride [5 α-reductase enzyme inhibitor (TTO + FIN; 5 mg/kg/day, s.c.)] for four weeks. Concentration-response curves to acetylcholine (ACh, 0.1 nmol/L - 10 µmol/L) were obtained in mesenteric resistance arteries previously contracted with phenylephrine (PE, 3 µmol/L), before and after the use of selective inhibitors. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were assessed in the vessels and the endothelium analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. KEY FINDINGS: TTO group showed a lower participation of nitric oxide (NO), increased oxidative stress, and participation of prostanoids and endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization (EDH), possibly to maintain the vasodilator response. Lower participation of NO and prostanoids, combined to an increased participation of EDH, were observed in the TTO + ANA group, in addition to higher levels of ROS and altered endothelial morphology. The vasodilation to ACh was impaired in TTO + FIN, along increased participation of NO, reduction of prostanoids, and greater EDH-dependent vasodilation. SIGNIFICANCE: Testosterone contributes to endothelial vasodilation by enhancing EDH through an increased participation of epoxyeicosatrienoic acids. While the decrease in NO appears to involve the participation of dihydrotestosterone, 17 ß-estradiol seems to stimulate the action of the NO pathway and prostanoids.

Prevalence of myocardial bridges in the Mexican population: A morphometric and histological analysis.

BACKGROUND: Myocardial bridge (MB) is described as an abnormal band of myocardium covering a variable portion of any coronary artery. METHODS: The current study explores the presence of MB throughout the coronary arterial system and provides a morphometric description through instrumented dissection of a sample of 100 human hearts. The study shows a higher prevalence of MB in the Mexican population than in previous reports. RESULTS: In the total sample (n=100), MB was identified in 96% of it. A total of 421 MBs were observed, with a mean of 4.38mm (±0.28) per dissected heart. The most frequently affected vessel is the anterior interventricular artery where a total of 52 MBs were found, of the total sample studied. DISCUSSION: The high prevalence of MB among Mexican patients could be the result of a genetic association for this population or the neoformation of MB after birth due to lifestyle-associated factors. Further studies are required to better understand the high prevalence of MB among Mexican subjects.

Effects of antenatal corticosteroids on fetal hemodynamics: a longitudinal study / Efeitos do corticoide antenatal na hemodinâmica fetal: um estudo longitudinal

Abstract Objective: To study the effect of antenatal corticosteroid administration on fetal hemodynamics using longitudinal analysis of Doppler waveforms in the umbilical artery (UA) and middle cerebral artery (MCA). Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study that included 30 fetuses at risk for preterm birth. Twenty-eight pregnant women were treated with betamethasone for fetal lung maturation. Doppler examinations of the UA and MCA were performed once before and three or eight times after corticosteroid administration. We used a Bayesian hierarchical linear model. Reference ranges were constructed, and associations between variables (gestational age and pre-eclampsia) were tested. Results: The mean maternal age, gestational age at betamethasone administration, and gestational age at delivery were 32.6 ± 5.89 years, 30.2 ± 2.59 weeks, and 32.9 ± 3.42 weeks, respectively. On UA Doppler, there was a significant decrease in the pulsatility index (PI) after corticosteroid administration, with a mean of 0.1147 (credibility interval: 0.03687-0.191) in three observations and a median of 0.1437 (credibility interval: 0.02509-0.2627) in eight observations. However, there was no significant change in the Doppler MCA PI, regardless of gestational age and the presence or absence of pre-eclampsia. Conclusion: Although antenatal corticosteroid administration induced a significant decrease in the Doppler UA PI, we observed no change in the cerebral vasculature.

Resumo Objetivo: Estudar o efeito da administração antenatal de corticosteroides na hemodinâmica fetal mediante análise longitudinal do Doppler na artéria umbilical e artéria cerebral média (ACM). Materiais e Métodos: Este foi um estudo retrospectivo que incluiu 30 fetos com risco de nascimento pré-termo. Vinte e oito gestantes foram tratadas com betametasona para maturação pulmonar fetal. Os exames de Doppler da AU e da ACM foram realizados uma vez antes e depois da administração de corticosteroides, num total de três ou oito observações. Utilizamos o modelo linear hierárquico com abordagem Bayesiana. Foram construídos os intervalos de referência e testadas associações entre variáveis (idade gestacional e pré-eclâmpsia). Resultados: A média ± desvio-padrão da idade materna, idade gestacional na administração de betametasona e idade gestacional no parto foram 32,6 ± 5,89 anos, 30,2 ± 2,59 semanas e 32,9 ± 3,42 semanas, respectivamente. No Doppler da AU, verificou-se diminuição significativa do índice de pulsatilidade (IP) com a terapêutica com corticosteroides (média: 0,1147 [0,03687-0,191]; em três observações) (mediana: 0,1437 [0,02509-0,2627]; em oito observações). No entanto, não foi observada alteração significativa no IP do Doppler da ACM, independentemente da idade gestacional e do diagnóstico de pré-eclâmpsia. Conclusão: Os corticosteroides pré-natais induziram diminuição significativa no IP do Doppler da AU, mas não houve alteração na vasculatura cerebral.

Vascular contraction of umbilical arteries of pregnant women with preeclampsia

Abstract Objective: Potassium channels have an important role in the vascular adaptation during pregnancy and a reduction in the expression of adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium channels (Katp) has been linked to preeclampsia. Activation of Katp induces vasodilation; however, no previous study has been conducted to evaluate the effects of the inhibition of these channels in the contractility of preeclamptic arteries. Glibenclamide is an oral antihyperglycemic agent that inhibits Katp and has been widely used in vascular studies. Methods: To investigate the effects of the inhibition of Katp, umbilical arteries of preeclamptic women and women with healthy pregnancies were assessed by vascular contractility experiments, in the presence or absence of glibenclamide. The umbilical arteries were challenged with cumulative concentrations of potassium chloride (KCl) and serotonin. Results: There were no differences between the groups concerning the maternal age and gestational age of the patients. The percentage of smokers, caucasians and primiparae per group was also similar. On the other hand, blood pressure parameters were elevated in the preeclamptic group. In addition, the preeclamptic group presented a significantly higher body mass index. The newborns of both groups presented similar APGAR scores and weights. Conclusion: In the presence of glibenclamide, there was an increase in the KCl-induced contractions only in vessels from the PE group, showing a possible involvement of these channels in the disorder.

Resection of Mycotic Iliac Artery Aneurysm with Extra-Anatomic Bypass: An Alternative to Aneurysmorrhaphy in Difficult Situations

ABSTRACT Mycotic aneurysms of the iliac and other large arteries are rare and are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Treatment of mycotic aneurysms usually requires modification of the surgical technique done for cases of degenerative or atherosclerotic aneurysms. Degenerative and atherosclerotic fusiform aneurysms are usually managed with aneurysmorrhaphy using a prosthetic graft, which however is not ideal for mycotic aneurysms. Avoidance of prosthetic material at the site of mycotic aneurysm is a better option with higher chances of resolution of infection and favorable patient outcome.

Open revascularization for chronic mesenteric ischemia in the endovascular era: a quaternary-center experience and management algorithm / Revascularização aberta na isquemia mesentérica crônica durante a era endovascular: experiência de um centro quaternário e um algoritmo de tratamento

Abstract Background Chronic mesenteric ischemia (CMI) is a debilitating disease with a heavy burden on quality of life. Stenting of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) is the first option for treatment, but there is a lack of consensus defining precise indications for open revascularization (OR). Objectives To describe a series of 4 patients with CMI treated with OR and to present an algorithm for the management of this condition. Methods Three patients presented with typical intestinal angina and weight loss. One patient was subjected to prophylactic revascularization during open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Surgical techniques included: 1) Bypass from the infrarenal aorta to the SMA; 2) Bypass from an aorto-bifemoral polyester graft to the SMA; 3) Bypass from the right iliac artery to the SMA; 4) Bypass from the right graft limb of an aorto-biiliac polyester graft to the median colic artery at Riolan's arcade. PTFE was used in all surgeries. All grafts were placed in a retrograde configuration, tunneled under the left renal vein, making a smooth C-loop. A treatment algorithm was constructed based on the institution's experience and a review of recent literature. Results All patients demonstrated resolution of symptoms and recovery of body weight. All grafts are patent after mean follow-up of two years. Conclusions Open revascularization using the C-loop configuration is a valuable technique for CMI and may be considered in selected cases. The algorithm constructed may help decision planning in other quaternary centers.

Resumo Contexto A isquemia mesentérica crônica (IMC) é uma doença debilitante, com grave impacto na qualidade de vida. A literatura recomenda a angioplastia com stent da artéria mesentérica superior (AMS) como primeira opção de tratamento, mas há falta de consenso que defina indicações precisas para a revascularização aberta. Objetivos Descrever uma série de quatro pacientes com IMC, tratados com revascularização aberta, e apresentar um algoritmo para o manejo dessa condição. Métodos Três pacientes apresentaram angina intestinal típica e perda ponderal. Uma paciente foi submetida a reparo aberto de aneurisma da aorta abdominal e apresentava obstrução da AMS, que foi revascularizada profilaticamente. As técnicas cirúrgicas incluíram: 1) enxerto entre a aorta infrarrenal e a AMS; 2) enxerto entre o dácron utilizado em um enxerto aortobifemoral e a AMS; 3) enxerto entre a artéria ilíaca comum direita e a AMS; e 4) enxerto entre o ramo direito do dácron utilizado em um enxerto aorto-biilíaco e a artéria cólica média (ao nível da arcada de Riolan). Todos os enxertos foram feitos utilizando politetrafluoretileno em uma configuração retrógrada, tunelizados abaixo da veia renal esquerda, fazendo uma alça em C. Resultados Todos os pacientes demonstraram resolução dos sintomas e ganho ponderal. Todos os enxertos se mantiveram pérvios durante um seguimento médio de 2 anos. Conclusões A revascularização aberta para IMC utilizando-se a alça em C é uma técnica valiosa e pode ser considerada em pacientes selecionados. O algoritmo proposto pode auxiliar na decisão terapêutica em centros quaternários.

Safety of preoperative branch embolization in patients undergoing evar / Segurança da embolização pré-operatória do ramo em pacientes submetidos a evar

Abstract The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the safety of pre-endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) embolization of aortic side branches - the inferior mesenteric artery and lumbar arteries. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines were followed. A search of MEDLINE and DIMENSION databases identified 9 studies published from 2011 to 2021 that satisfied the inclusion and exclusion criteria. These studies were analyzed to detect the incidence of embolization-related complications. A total of 482 patients underwent preoperative aortic side branch embolization, 30 (6.2%) of whom suffered some kind of minor complication. The only major complication observed was ischemic colitis in 4 (0.82%) patients, two (0.41%) of whom died after bowel resection surgery. Regarding these findings, aortic side branch embolization seems to be a safe procedure, with very low percentages of both minor and major complications.

Resumo O objetivo desta revisão sistemática foi avaliar a segurança da embolização de artéria mesentérica inferior (AMI) e artérias lombares (ALs) pré-correção endovascular de aneurisma da aorta abdominal. Foram realizadas pesquisas nas bases de dados MEDLINE e Dimensions. Foram encontrados 9 estudos publicados de 2011 a 2021 que atendiam aos critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Os estudos foram analisados ​​para definir a incidência de complicações relacionadas à embolização. No total, 482 pacientes foram submetidos a embolização de AMI e/ou ALs, dos quais 30 (6,2%) sofreram algum tipo de complicação menor. A única complicação importante observada foi colite isquêmica em 4 (0,82%) pacientes. Dois (0,41%) desses pacientes morreram após cirurgia de ressecção intestinal. Em relação a esses achados, a embolização de AMI e ALs parece ser um procedimento seguro, com um percentual muito baixo de complicações menores e importantes.

Review of surgical treatment of iatrogenic iliofemoral artery injury in the pediatric population after catheterization.

Trauma is the leading cause of death in the pediatric population. Although vascular trauma has an incidence of 6% in civilian population, iatrogenic injuries are the leading cause, and the most frequent injured vessel is the iliofemoral sector. However, little information is available and there are no guidelines about its treatment. Therefore, this review aimed to describe the information available concerning pediatric iatrogenic arterial trauma, focusing on the iliofemoral segment and present 3 cases. We described 11 articles with 171 patients, of whom 61% underwent surgery to treat iatrogenic trauma. Mean age was 3.28 years (standard deviation of 3.5 years), and 54% were female. Most iliofemoral injuries occurred after arterial catheterization for hemodynamic monitorization and therapeutic or diagnostic cardiac catheterization (due to congenital heart diseases, including septal defects, tetralogy of Fallot, aortic coarctation, and patent ductus arteriosus). For acute complications, arterial thrombosis was the leading injury, followed by pseudoaneurysm, hematoma, dissection, transection, avulsion, eversion, and combined lesions.

Association between Hospital Carotid Endarterectomy Procedure Volumes and In-Hospital Mortality in São Paulo State.

Background: Previous studies indicate an inverse relationship between hospital volume and mortality after carotid endarterectomy. However, data at the level of Brazil are lacking. Objectives: To assess the relationship between hospital carotid endarterectomy procedure volumes and mortality in the state of São Paulo. Methods: Data from the São Paulo State Hospital Information System on all carotid endarterectomies performed between 2015 and 2019 were analyzed. Hospitals were categorized into clusters by annual volume of surgeries (1-10, 11-25, and ≥26). Multiple logistic regression models were used to determine whether the volume of carotid endarterectomy procedures was an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality among patients undergoing this procedure. Results: Crude in-hospital mortality was nearly 60 percent lower in patients who underwent carotid endarterectomy at the highest volume hospitals than among those who underwent endarterectomy at the lowest volume hospitals (unadjusted OR of survival to hospital discharge, 2.41; 95% CI, 1.11-5.23; p = 0.027). Although this lower rate represents 1.5 fewer deaths per 100 patients treated, high-volume centers are more likely than low-volume centers to perform elective procedures, thus the analysis did not retain statistical significance when adjusted for admission character (OR, 1.69; 95% CI, 0.74-3.87; p = 0.215). Conclusions: In a contemporary Brazilian registry, higher volume carotid endarterectomy centers were associated with lower in-hospital mortality than lower volume centers. Further studies are needed to verify this relationship considering the presence of symptoms in patients.

Contexto: Estudos indicam uma relação inversa entre volume hospitalar e mortalidade após endarterectomia carotídea. Entretanto, não há dados a nível brasileiro. Objetivos: Avaliar a relação entre volume hospitalar de endarterectomia carotídea e mortalidade no estado de São Paulo. Métodos: Foram analisados dados do Sistema de Informação Hospitalar do Estado de São Paulo de todas as endarterectomias carotídeas realizadas entre 2015 e 2019. Os hospitais foram categorizados em grupos de acordo com o volume anual de cirurgias (1-10, 11-25 e ≥26). Modelos de regressão logística múltipla foram usados para determinar se o volume de endarterectomias carotídeas era um preditor independente de mortalidade intra-hospitalar entre os pacientes submetidos a esse procedimento. Resultados: A mortalidade intra-hospitalar foi quase 60% menor nos pacientes submetidos a endarterectomia carotídea nos hospitais de maior volume em comparação aos pacientes submetidos a endarterectomia nos hospitais de menor volume (OR não ajustado de sobrevida após alta hospitalar, 2,41; IC 95%, 1,11-5,23; p = 0,027). Embora essa taxa mais baixa represente 1,5 menos mortes por 100 pacientes tratados, os centros de alto volume são mais propensos do que os centros de baixo volume a realizarem procedimentos eletivos; portanto, a análise não reteve significância quando ajustada para o caráter de admissão (OR, 1,69; IC 95%, 0,74-3,87; p = 0,215). Conclusões: Em um registro brasileiro contemporâneo, centros com maior volume de endarterectomia carotídea foram associados a menor mortalidade intra-hospitalar em comparação aos centros de menor volume. Mais estudos são necessários para verificar essa relação considerando a presença de sintomas em pacientes.

The effects of a firefighting simulation on the vascular and autonomic functions and cognitive performance: a randomized crossover study.

Introduction: During firefighting, physical and cognitive demands increase. However, the stress inherent to these events can decrease cognitive performance and increase the risk of cardiovascular events in firefighters. Thus, this crossover study aimed to evaluate the effects of a firefighting Simulation on cognitive performance and vascular and autonomic functions in military firefighters. Methods: Sixteen firefighters (37.8 ± 5.6 years) underwent anthropometry, mental health status, and sleep quality assessments. They randomly performed two interventions, Simulation (Firefighting tasks; 10.0 ± 1.1 min) and Control (rest for 10 min), on different days. After both interventions, cognitive performance was assessed using the Stroop Test, Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test, and Trail Making Test. Then, the vascular function was assessed using ultrasonography through the carotid artery reactivity to the cold pressor test. The arterial pressure, heart rate, and cardiac intervals were recorded before interventions. The cardiac intervals were also measured during the cold pressor test. Student's t-test and Wilcoxon were used for comparisons between Control and Simulation and the analysis of variance for repeated measures was used for comparison over time during the cold pressor test. A significance level of p < 0.05 was adopted. Results: Although the mean and maximum heart rate were higher before the Simulation (p < 0.0001), all the heart rate variability parameters (p > 0.05) and mean arterial pressure (p > 0.3795) were similar before the interventions. After Simulation, the cognitive performance was similar to Control (p > 0.05), except for the improvement in Stroop Test part B (p < 0.0001). After Simulation, carotid artery reactivity was attenuated (p < 0.0010). During the cold pressor test, the high-frequency band of the heart rate variability was lower after the Simulation (p < 0.0104). Discussion: Although firefighting Simulation did not substantially change cognitive performance, the lower carotid artery reactivity and parasympathetic modulation to the heart during the cold pressor test may contribute to greater vulnerability to cardiovascular events in firefighters on duty.

Maternal, obstetric, and fetal Doppler characteristics in a high-risk population: prediction of adverse perinatal outcomes and of cesarean section due to intrapartum fetal compromise.

Objective: To evaluate the capacity of fetal Doppler, maternal, and obstetric characteristics for the prediction of cesarean section due to intrapartum fetal compromise (IFC), a 5-min Apgar score < 7, and an adverse perinatal outcome (APO), in a high-risk population. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective cohort study involving 613 singleton pregnant women, admitted for labor induction or at the beginning of spontaneous labor, who underwent Doppler ultrasound within the last 72 h before delivery. The outcome measures were cesarean section due to IFC, a 5-min Apgar score < 7, and any APO. Results: We found that maternal characteristics were neither associated with nor predictors of an APO. Abnormal umbilical artery (UA) resistance index (RI) and the need for intrauterine resuscitation were found to be significant risk factors for cesarean section due to IFC (p = 0.03 and p < 0.0001, respectively). A UA RI > the 95th percentile and a cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) < 0.98 were also found to be predictors of cesarean section due to IFC. Gestational age and a UA RI > 0.84 were found to be predictors of a 5-min Apgar score < 7 for newborns at < 29 and ≥ 29 weeks, respectively. The UA RI and CPR presented moderate accuracy in predicting an APO, with areas under the ROC curve of 0.76 and 0.72, respectively. Conclusion: A high UA RI appears to be a significant predictor of an APO. The CPR seems to be predictive of cesarean section due to IFC and of an APO in late preterm and term newborns.

Objetivo: Avaliar a capacidade do Doppler fetal e características materno-obstétricas na predição de cesariana por comprometimento fetal intraparto (CFI), índice de Apgar de 5º min < 7 e desfecho perinatal adverso (DPA) em uma população de alto risco. Materiais e Métodos: Estudo de coorte prospectivo envolvendo 613 parturientes admitidas para indução ou em início de trabalho de parto espontâneo que realizaram ultrassonografia Doppler nas 72 horas anteriores ao parto. Os desfechos foram cesariana por CFI, índice de Apgar de 5º min < 7 e DPA. Resultados: As características maternas não foram associadas nem preditoras de DPA. Índice de resistência (IR) da artéria umbilical (AU) anormal (p = 0,03) e necessidade de medidas de ressuscitação intrauterina (p < 0,0001) permaneceram como fatores de risco significativos para cesariana por CFI. IR AU > 95º e razão cerebroplacentária (RCP) < 0,98 foram preditores de cesariana. Idade gestacional e IR AU > 0,84 foram os preditores de índice de Apgar de 5º min < 7 para recém-nascidos < 29 e ≥ 29 semanas, respectivamente. IR AU e RCP apresentaram acurácia moderada na predição de DPA (área sob a curva ROC de 0,76 e 0,72, respectivamente). Conclusão: IR UA mostrou-se preditor significativo de DPA. RCP revelou-se possível preditora de cesariana por CFI e DPA em recémnascidos prematuros tardios e a termo.