Applications of Augmented Reality in Neuro-Oncology: A Case Series.

Augmented reality (AR) is a technological tool that superimposes two-dimensional virtual images onto three-dimensional real-world scenarios through the integration of neuronavigation and a surgical microscope. The aim of this study was to demonstrate our initial experience with AR and to assess its application in oncological neurosurgery. This is a case series with 31 patients who underwent surgery at Santa Casa BH for the treatment of intracranial tumors in the period from March 4, 2022, to July 14, 2023. The application of AR was evaluated in each case through three parameters: whether the virtual images auxiliated in the incision and craniotomy and whether the virtual images aided in intraoperative microsurgery decisions. Of the 31 patients, 5 patients developed new neurological deficits postoperatively. One patient died, with a mortality rate of 3.0%. Complete tumor resection was achieved in 22 patients, and partial resection was achieved in 6 patients. In all patients, AR was used to guide the incision and craniotomy in each case, leading to improved and precise surgical approaches. As intraoperative microsurgery guidance, it proved to be useful in 29 cases. The application of AR seems to enhance surgical safety for both the patient and the surgeon. It allows a more refined immediate operative planning, from head positioning to skin incision and craniotomy. Additionally, it helps decision-making in the intraoperative microsurgery phase with a potentially positive impact on surgical outcomes.

Visual-Aided Obstacle Climbing by Modular Snake Robot.

Snake robots, also known as apodal robots, are among the most common and versatile modular robots. Primarily due to their ability to move in different patterns, they can evolve in scenarios with several constraints, some of them hardly accessible to other robot configurations. This paper deals with a specific environment constraint where the robot needs to climb a prismatic obstacle, similar to a step. The objective is to carry out simulations of this function, before implementing it in the physical model. To this end, we propose two different algorithms, parameterized by the obstacle dimensions determined by image processing, and both are evaluated in simulated experiments. The results show that both algorithms are viable for testing in real robots, although more complex scenarios still need to be further studied.

A prospective study on the usefulness of high-resolution intraoperative infrared thermography in intracranial tumors.

Introduction: Infrared thermography (IT) is a non-invasive real-time imaging technique with potential application in different areas of neurosurgery. Despite technological advances in the field, intraoperative IT (IIT) has been an underestimated tool with scarce reports on its usefulness during intracranial tumor resection. We aimed to evaluate the usefulness of high-resolution IIT with static and dynamic thermographic maps for transdural lesion localization, and diagnosis, to assess the extent of resection, and the occurrence of perioperative acute ischemia. Methods: In a prospective study, 15 patients affected by intracranial tumors (six gliomas, four meningiomas, and five brain metastases) were examined with a high-resolution thermographic camera after craniotomy, after dural opening, and at the end of tumor resection. Results: Tumors were transdurally located with 93.3% sensitivity and 100% specificity (p < 0.00001), as well as cortical arteries and veins. Gliomas were consistently hypothermic, while metastases and meningiomas exhibited highly variable thermographic maps on static (p = 0.055) and dynamic (p = 0.015) imaging. Residual tumors revealed non-specific static but characteristic dynamic thermographic maps. Ischemic injuries were significantly hypothermic (p < 0.001). Conclusions: High-resolution IIT is a non-invasive alternative intraoperative imaging method for lesion localization, diagnosis, assessing the extent of tumor resection, and identifying acute ischemia changes with static and dynamic thermographic maps.

CT-Guided Trans-osseous Biopsy: Experience in 24 Patients.

PURPOSE: The objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of computed tomography-guided trans-osseous biopsies in deep-seated lesions and report encountered complications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was performed which included twenty-four patients with pathologic medical history and lesions non-accessible by common approaches. Exclusion criteria include patients who could be biopsied without trans-osseous access, as for example procedures aided with hydro- or pneumo-dissection. The population studied included 13 females (54.2%) and the overall average age was 64.5 (IIQ 43-69). The procedures were carried out through the following bones: sternum (n = 6), vertebral (n = 5), iliac (n = 5), scapula (n = 3), rib (n = 2), sacral (n = 2), and pubis (n = 1). RESULTS: The efficiency for these procedures was 87.5%, while 8.33% of them were non-diagnostic and 4.17% were inconclusive due to vital risk during the procedure. CONCLUSION: Computed tomography-guided trans-osseous biopsy resulted in a safe and effective technique for those lesions blocked by vital structures or apparently directly inaccessible.

Protocolo de cirurgia guiada por tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico na Faculdade de Odontologia da UFMG / Guided surgery protocol by cone beam computerized tomography at the Faculty of Dentistry of UFMG

A cirurgia guiada representa um avanço significativo na Odontologia moderna, especialmente na implantodontia, onde a precisão e previsibilidade são fundamentais para o sucesso dos procedimentos. Os passos dentro da sequência de fluxo de trabalho digital para cirurgia guiada são: aquisição de dados volumétricos, procedimentos de escaneamento de superfície via escaneamento intraoral ou escaneamento de modelo extraoral, software de planejamento computacional, design e manufatura de guias cirúrgicos via impressão 3D. A cirurgia guiada está cada vez mais rotineira na Odontologia contemporânea, demonstrando como a integração de tecnologias digitais pode transformar significativamente a prática clínica, elevando os padrões de precisão, previsibilidade e qualidade dos resultados em implantodontia. Além disso, esta técnica permite uma abordagem personalizada para cada caso clínico, adaptando-se às particularidades anatômicas e às necessidades específicas do paciente. O objetivo do estudo foi estabelecer um protocolo um protocolo completo para o planejamento e execução de implantes guiados, com as tecnologias e recursos disponíveis na Faculdade de Odontologia da UFMG.

Guided surgery represents a significant advancement in modern dentistry, particularly in implantology, where precision and predictability are crucial for procedural success. The steps within the digital workflow sequence for guided surgery include: volumetric data acquisition, surface scanning procedures via intraoral scanning or extraoral model scanning, computational planning software, and design and manufacture of surgical guides via 3D printing. Guided surgery is increasingly becoming routine in contemporary dentistry, showcasing how the integration of digital technologies can substantially transform clinical practice by enhancing standards of precision, predictability, and quality of outcomes in implantology. Moreover, this technique allows for a personalized approach to each clinical case, adapting to anatomical particularities and specific patient needs. The aim of this study was to establish a comprehensive protocol for the planning and execution of guided implants, utilizing the technologies and resources available at the Faculty of Dentistry of UFMG.

[Ultrasound guided biopsy of lung tumors: evaluation of efficacy and complications]. / Biopsia de tumores pulmonares con guía ecográfica: evaluación de eficacia y complicaciones

Introduction: The diagnosis of lung cancer, as well as that of lung nodules, is increasing. Percutaneous biopsy has become a transcendental tool for its diagnosis. Traditionally, computed tomography is used for these procedures because of its ability to clearly demonstrate bone and aerated lung. However, in selected cases it can be performed with ultrasound. Methods: Retrospective study conducted between January 2020 and December 2021, during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. All patients had pleural-based lung lesions or pleural lesions, some with a known history of cancer. Results: Thirty-six procedures were performed, in 32 (88.9%) the sample obtained presented diagnostic yield and the most used additional test was Immunohistochemistry in 23 (63.9%). Complications were reported in 5 patients (13.9%): 2 with mild pneumothorax, 2 with hemothorax (1 mild and 1 moderate) and 1 patient reported pain. Conclusion: Ultrasound is a valid method to be used as a guide for biopsies of pleural and peripheral pulmonary lesions. The complications and diagnostic rate has been shown to be in line with the experience of other authors and international guidelines.

Introducción: El diagnóstico de cáncer pulmonar al igual que el de los nódulos pulmonares se encuentra en aumento. La biopsia percutánea se ha convertido en una herramienta trascendental para su diagnóstico. Tradicionalmente la tomografía computada es empleada para estos procedimientos por su capacidad para demostrar con claridad los huesos y el pulmón aireado. Sin embargo, en casos seleccionados puede efectuarse con ecografía. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo realizado entre enero de 2020 y diciembre de 2021, durante la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2. Todos los pacientes tenían lesiones pulmonares de base pleural o lesiones pleurales, algunos con antecedentes conocidos de cáncer. Resultados: Se realizaron 36 procedimientos, en 32 (88,9%) la muestra obtenida presentó rédito diagnóstico y la prueba adicional más utilizada fue la Inmunohistoquímica en 23 (63,9%). Se reportaron complicaciones en 5 pacientes (13,9%): 2 con neumotórax leve, 2 con hemotórax (1 leve y 1 moderado) y 1 paciente refirió dolor. Conclusión: La ecografía es un método válido para ser usado como guía de biopsias de lesiones pleurales y pulmonares periféricas. La tasa de complicaciones y reedito diagnóstico ha demostrado estar en línea con la experiencia de otros autores y guías internacionales.

Vacuum-assisted excision of breast lesions in surgical de-escalation: where are we?

Vacuum-assisted excision of breast lesions has come to be widely used in clinical practice. Increased acceptance and availability of the procedure, together with the use of larger needles, has allowed the removal of a greater amount of sample, substantially reducing the surgical upgrade rate and thus increasing the reliability of the results of the procedure. These characteristics result in the potential for surgical de-escalation in selected cases and gain strength in a scenario in which the aim is to reduce costs, as well as the rates of underestimation and overtreatment, without compromising the quality of patient care. The objective of this article is to review the technical parameters and current clinical indications for performing vacuum-assisted excision of breast lesions.

A excisão assistida a vácuo de lesões mamárias tem sido cada vez mais utilizada na prática clínica. A sua maior aceitação e disponibilidade, em associação ao uso de agulhas mais calibrosas, permitiu a retirada de quantidade maior de amostra, reduzindo substancialmente a taxa de subestimação diagnóstica e aumentando, assim, a confiabilidade final dos resultados do procedimento. Essas características resultam em potencial descalonamento cirúrgico, em casos selecionados, e ganham força em um cenário em que se visa a redução de custos, taxa de subestimação e tratamento excessivo, porém, sem comprometer a qualidade no cuidado com o paciente. O objetivo deste trabalho é revisar os parâmetros técnicos e as indicações clínicas atuais para realização de excisão assistida a vácuo em lesões mamárias.

Vacuum-assisted excision of breast lesions in surgical de-escalation: where are we? / Excisão assistida a vácuo de lesões mamárias no descalonamento cirúrgico: onde estamos?

Abstract Vacuum-assisted excision of breast lesions has come to be widely used in clinical practice. Increased acceptance and availability of the procedure, together with the use of larger needles, has allowed the removal of a greater amount of sample, substantially reducing the surgical upgrade rate and thus increasing the reliability of the results of the procedure. These characteristics result in the potential for surgical de-escalation in selected cases and gain strength in a scenario in which the aim is to reduce costs, as well as the rates of underestimation and overtreatment, without compromising the quality of patient care. The objective of this article is to review the technical parameters and current clinical indications for performing vacuum-assisted excision of breast lesions.

Resumo A excisão assistida a vácuo de lesões mamárias tem sido cada vez mais utilizada na prática clínica. A sua maior aceitação e disponibilidade, em associação ao uso de agulhas mais calibrosas, permitiu a retirada de quantidade maior de amostra, reduzindo substancialmente a taxa de subestimação diagnóstica e aumentando, assim, a confiabilidade final dos resultados do procedimento. Essas características resultam em potencial descalonamento cirúrgico, em casos selecionados, e ganham força em um cenário em que se visa a redução de custos, taxa de subestimação e tratamento excessivo, porém, sem comprometer a qualidade no cuidado com o paciente. O objetivo deste trabalho é revisar os parâmetros técnicos e as indicações clínicas atuais para realização de excisão assistida a vácuo em lesões mamárias.

Insights into Gold Nanoparticles Possibilities for Diagnosis and Treatment of the Head and Neck Upper Aerodigestive Tract Cancers.

BACKGROUND: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most common cancer affecting people and accounts for more than 300,000 deaths worldwide. Improvements in treatment modalities, including immunotherapy, have demonstrated promising prognoses for eligible patients. Nevertheless, the five-year overall survival rate has not increased significantly, and the tumor recurrence ratio remains at 50% or higher, except for patients with HPV-positive HNSCC. Over the last decades, nanotechnology has provided promising tools, especially for biomedical applications, due to some remarkable physicochemical properties of numerous nanomaterials, particularly gold nanoparticles. This review addresses the features and some applications of gold nanoparticles reported in the literature over the last five years regarding the diagnosis and treatment of head and neck cancer, highlighting the exciting possibilities of this nanomaterial in oncology. METHODS: The scientific papers selected for this review were obtained from the PubMed Advanced, Web of Science, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Google Scholar platforms. CONCLUSIONS: Results from papers applying gold nanoparticles have suggested that their application is a feasible approach to diagnostics, prognostics, and the treatment of HNC. Moreover, phase I clinical trials suggest that gold nanoparticles are safe and can potentially become theranostic agents for humans.

Long-term follow-up of Parkinsonian patients operated on with deep brain electromodulation without intraoperative microrecording.

Background: Deep brain electromodulation (DBEM), also known as deep brain stimulation in different intracerebral targets, is the most widely used surgical treatment due to its effects in reducing motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease. The intracerebral microelectrode recording has been considered for decades as a necessary tool for the success of Parkinson's surgery. However, some publications give more importance to intracerebral stimulation as a better predictive test. Since 2002, we initiated a technique of brain implant of electrodes without micro recording and based solely on image-guided stereotaxis followed by intraoperative macrostimulation. In this work, we analyze our long-term results, taking into account motor skills and quality of life (QL) before and after surgery, and we also establish the patient's time of clinical improvement. Methods: This is a descriptive clinical study in which the motor state of the patients was evaluated with the unified Parkinson's disease scale (UPDRS) and the QL using the Parkinson's disease QL questionnaire 39 questionnaires before surgery, in the "on" state of the medication; and after surgery, under active stimulation and in the "on" state. Results: Twenty-four patients with ages ranging from 37 to 78 years undergoing surgery DBEM on the subthalamic nucleus were studied. An improvement of 41.4% in motor skills and 41.7% in QL was obtained. Conclusion: When microrecording is not available, the results that can be obtained, based on preoperative imaging and clinical intraoperative findings, are optimal and beneficial for patients.

Intraoperative Ultrasonography in Neurosurgery: Experience of an Institution / Ultrassonografia intraoperatória em neurocirurgia: Experiência de uma instituição

Objective Intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) is an imaging method that can be used in various neurosurgical procedures. It assists in the removal of brain tumors, hematomas, in the insertion of ventricular catheters, and in spinal and peripheral nerve surgeries. The original studies using IOUS were performed with devices that produced lower-quality images, generating little interest in their use. The introduction of ultrasound devices that yielded higher-quality images associated with a relative low cost and ease of use rendered IOUS attractive. Thus, we started using it in multiple neurosurgical procedures, studying its practicality, efficacy and limitations. Materials and methods A retrospective case study on the use of IOUS in neurosurgery from August 2014 to December 2020 at a single institution, evaluating its practicality, efficacy and limitations. Results A total of 127 IOUS scans were performed in 112 patients aged 19 to 83 (mean: 53.8) years: 106 scans of the brain, 4 of the spinal cord, and 2 of the peripheral nerves. Brain tumors were the majority, with 86 cases (67.8%). The IOUS was unsatisfactory in 9 cases (7.1%), and there were no cases of infection related to the IOUS. Conclusion The IOUS is a dynamic, safe, and practical exam. It can be performed in a few minutes and repeated several times during the surgical procedure. It enables surgeons to observe the pulsation of tissues and vessels, the displacement of lumps in liquid collections, and to monitor the drainage of cysts and collections, in vivid, interactive and real-time images.

Objetivo A ultrassonografia intraoperatória (USIO) é um método de imagem que pode ser utilizado em vários procedimentos neurocirúrgicos. Auxilia na remoção de tumores cerebrais, hematomas, no implante de cateteres ventriculares, e em cirurgias espinhais e de nervos periféricos. Os estudos iniciais com a USIO eram realizados com aparelhos que disponibilizavam imagens de baixa qualidade, o que gerava pouco interesse no seu uso. Com o desenvolvimento de aparelhos de ultrassom que produziam imagens de melhor qualidade, eram de fácil manuseio e tinham relativo baixo custo, reacendeu-se o interesse na USIO. Por este motivo, iniciamos a utilização da USIO em múltiplos procedimentos neurocirúrgicos, e estudamos sua praticidade, eficácia e limitações. Materiais e métodos Estudo retrospectivo dos casos em que a USIO foi utilizada em neurocirurgia de agosto de 2014 a dezembro de 2020 em uma só instituição, com a avaliação de sua praticidade, eficácia e limitações. Resultados Foram realizadas 127 USIOs em 112 pacientes com idades entre 19 e 83 (média: 53,8) anos, 106 no encéfalo, 4 em medula espinhal, e 2 em nervo periférico. Os tumores cerebrais foram a maioria, com 86 casos (67,8%). A USIO foi insatisfatória em 9 casos (7,1%), e não houve casos de infecção relacionada à USIO. Conclusões A USIO é um exame dinâmico, seguro e prático. Pode ser feito em poucos minutos e repetido várias vezes durante o procedimento cirúrgico. É possível observar a pulsação dos tecidos e vasos, o deslocamento de grumos em coleções líquidas, e acompanhar a drenagem de cistos e coleções, em imagens vivas, interativas e em tempo real.

[Retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy trans-vertebral image-guided biopsy: a case report] / Biopsia de linfadenopatía retroperitoneal guiada por imágenes con abordaje trans-vertebral: reporte de un caso

Introduction: Transosseous biopsy allows sampling of lesions that are difficult to access with conventional techniques. Its use avoids surgeries. Objective: To present a clinical case in which retroperitoneal percutaneous biopsy with trans vertebral approach was used. A brief bibliographic revision of this technique will be made. Case: 60 year old woman with endometrial adenocarcinoma, with 7 months of clinical symptoms characterized by asthenia and non-specific lumbar pain. An intercaval aortic lymphadenopathy was found. Trans vertebral biopsy of the lesion was decided, its location precluded conventional approaches access. Conclusion: This technique must be considered when studying unreacheable lesions by other means and performed by trained professionals.

Introducción: La biopsia trans ósea permite el estudio de lesiones que presentan accesos convencionales bloqueados por otras estructuras, como órganos vitales. Su uso evita procedimientos de mayor complejidad. Objetivo: Reportar un caso clínico en el cual se utilizó la técnica de biopsia percutánea con abordaje trans vertebral para toma de muestra. En forma secundaria se hará una breve revisión de la bibliografía. Caso: Caso: Mujer de 60 años, con adenocarcinoma de endometrio con cuadro clínico de 7 meses caracterizado por astenia y dolor lumbar. Presentaba una linfadenopatía intercavo-aórtica. Se decidió biopsiar de forma trans vertebral debido a que su ubicación limitaba otros abordajes. Conclusión: Este abordaje debe ser considerado para acceder a lesiones inalcanzables por otras vías y ser empleado por profesionales entrenados.  Palabras claves: biopsia guiada por imágenes; metástasis linfática; neoplasias de endometrio.

A Neuronavigation System Using a Mobile Augmented Reality Solution.

BACKGROUND: Image-guided surgery has shown great utility in neurosurgery, especially in allowing for more accurate surgical planning and navigation. The current gold standard for image-guided neurosurgery is neuronavigation, which provides millimetric accuracy on such tasks. However, these approaches often require a complicated setup and have high cost, hindering their potential in low- and middle-income countries. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate the performance of a mobile-based augmented reality neuronavigation solution under different conditions in a preclinical environment. METHODS: The application was developed using the Swift programming language and was tested on a replica of a human scalp under variable lighting, with different numbers of registration points and target point position conditions. For each condition, reference points were input into the application, and the target points were computed for 10 iterations. The mean registration error and target error were used to assess the performance of the application. RESULTS: In the best-case scenario, the proposed solution had a mean target error of 2.6 ± 1.6 mm. CONCLUSIONS: Our approach provides a viable, low-cost, easy-to-use, portable method for locating points on the scalp surface with an accuracy of 2.6 ± 1.6 mm in the best-case scenario.

NO SIGNIFICANT EFFECT OF 3D MODELLING ON SURGICAL PLANNING IN SPINAL DEFORMITIES.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of 3d printed models on surgical pre-operative planning of complex spinal deformities. Methods: In our study, five orthopedic surgeons made surgical planning of 5 patients with severe spinal deformity in three conditions: X-ray with computer tomography (X-ray-CT), 3D-computed tomography (3dCT), and 3d printed spine models. Operation plans were examined according to the level and number of instrumentations, osteotomy level, and time required for decision-making. Results: X-ray-CT, 3dCT, and 3d modeling methods were compared, and no statistically significant difference was observed in the number of screws and osteotomy score to be used in operation. The time required for decision ranking is 3d Model, 3d CT, and Xray-CT. Conclusions: 3d printed models do not influence the operative plan significantly; however, it reduces surgical planning time at pre-op duration, and those models gave some opportunities to practice with implants on a patient's 3d spine model. Level of Evidence III; Diagnostic Studies - Investigating a Diagnostic Test .

Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito de modelos 3D impressos no planejamento pré-operatório cirúrgico de deformidades complexas da coluna vertebral. Métodos: Em nosso estudo, 5 cirurgiões ortopédicos fizeram o planejamento cirúrgico de 5 pacientes com deformidade espinhal grave em três condições: raio-X com tomografia computadorizada (raio X-CT), tomografia computadorizada com reconstrução 3D (3dCT) e modelo de coluna vertebral impressa (modelo 3d). Os planos de operação foram examinados de acordo com o nível e número de instrumentos, nível de osteotomia e tempo necessário para a tomada de decisão. Resultados: Foram comparados os métodos de modelagem de raio X-CT, 3dCT e modelo 3d e nenhuma diferença estatisticamente significativa foi observada no número de parafusos e escore de osteotomia a serem utilizados na operação. O ranking do tempo necessário para a tomada de decisão foi de modelo 3d, 3d CT e raio X-CT. Conclusões: Os modelos impressos em 3d não influenciam significativamente o plano operatório, porém reduzem o tempo de planejamento cirúrgico no pré-operatório e esses modelos deram algumas oportunidades de praticar com implantes no modelo de coluna 3d do paciente. Nível de evidência III; Estudos de Diagnóstico - Investigando um Teste de Diagnóstico .

Likelihood of hip infection with image-guided hip aspiration dry tap: a 10-year retrospective study.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the rate of infection in patients with suspected hip septic arthritis who underwent image-guided aspiration (IHA) resulting in dry-tap, diagnostic value of subsequent lavage and re-aspiration, and if pre-aspiration MRI can help prevent a dry tap. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective review between 2010 to 2020 identified native hip (NH) and total hip arthroplasty (THA) patients who had a dry-tap following aspiration for suspected infection or periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). Serology tests, lavage/re-aspiration volumes, and aspirate cell-count/culture were assessed. On pre-aspiration MRI, presence/grade of joint effusion (JE), pseudocapsule dehiscence (PD), extraarticular fluid and sinus-tract were recorded. RESULTS: Out of 215 included dry-taps, 185 (86.0%) were non-infected and 30 (13.9%) infected. In subgroup analysis, 64/71(90.1%) NH and 121/144(84.0%) THA dry-taps were non-infected. Pre-aspiration MRI of THA group with dry-tap showed significant findings; PD with extraarticular fluid (8/12, 66.7%) and sinus tract (7/12, 58.3%) were higher in the infected compared to non-infected group (5/42, 11.9% and 0/42, 0.0%) (both p < 0.001). Among THA group, polymorphonuclear-leukocytes > 80% was present in 8/9 (88.9%) of infected versus 4/28 (14.3%) non-infected group (p < 0.001). Multivariable regression showed PD (p = 0.005) and JE (p = 0.042) being significant independent predictors of PJI, similarly the elevated CRP (p = 0.044) and JE (p = 0.017). CONCLUSION: Majority of patients suspected of hip joint infection with dry-tap were non-infected. Synovial PMN% following lavage maintains high sensitivity for detection of PJI. In patients with THA, PD and subsequent extraarticular collection can be associated with dry-tap therefore, pre-aspiration MRI can help determine their presence and plan the aspiration.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided through-the-needle microforceps biopsy and needle-based confocal laser-endomicroscopy increase detection of potentially malignant pancreatic cystic lesions: A single-center study.

BACKGROUND: Currently, there is insufficient data about the accuracy in the diagnosing of pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs), especially with novel endoscopic techniques such as with direct intracystic micro-forceps biopsy (mFB) and needle-based confocal laser-endomicroscopy (nCLE). AIM: To compare the accuracy of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and associated techniques for the detection of potentially malignant PCLs: EUS-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA), contrast-enhanced EUS (CE-EUS), EUS-guided fiberoptic probe cystoscopy (cystoscopy), mFB, and nCLE. METHODS: This was a single-center, retrospective study. We identified patients who had undergone EUS, with or without additional diagnostic techniques, and had been diagnosed with PCLs. We determined agreement among malignancy after 24-mo follow-up findings with detection of potentially malignant PCLs via the EUS-guided techniques and/or EUS-guided biopsy when available (EUS malignancy detection). RESULTS: A total of 129 patients were included, with EUS performed alone in 47/129. In 82/129 patients, EUS procedures were performed with additional EUS-FNA (21/82), CE-EUS (20/82), cystoscopy (27/82), mFB (36/82), nCLE (44/82). Agreement between EUS malignancy detection and the 24-mo follow-up findings was higher when associated with additional diagnostic techniques than EUS alone [62/82 (75.6%) vs 8/47 (17%); OR 4.35, 95%CI: 2.70-7.37; P < 0.001]. The highest malignancy detection accuracy was reached when nCLE and direct intracystic mFB were both performed, with a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and observed agreement of 100%, 89.4%, 77.8%, 100% and 92.3%, respectively (P < 0.001 compared with EUS-alone). CONCLUSION: The combined use of EUS-guided mFB and nCLE improves detection of potentially malignant PCLs compared with EUS-alone, EUS-FNA, CE-EUS or cystoscopy.

Can we reduce dose to ureters as avoidance organs for MRI based brachytherapy for cervical cancer? A dosimetric feasibility study.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Ureteral stenosis (US) is an underreported complication of brachytherapy (BT) for cervical cancer (CC), with limited data on toxicity risk reduction. A previous study demonstrated ureter EQD2 D0.1cc > 77 Gy correlated with US development. We sought to assess feasibility of this constraint while maintaining similar HR-CTV coverage. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with locally advanced CC treated with EBRT plus HDR MRI-based brachytherapy boost without hydronephrosis at diagnosis and with ureter dose EQD2 D0.1cc > 77 Gy were included. Replan was attempted to achieve HR-CTV D90 ≥ 80-85 Gy and ureter dose reduction. Ureter distance from lateral margin of HR-CTV and tandem was recorded. t-test was performed to compare ureteral dose and HR-CTV D90. RESULTS: Of 25 patients were identified. Hundred percent received 45 Gy in 25 fractions to the pelvis ± paraaortic lymph nodes and 80% receiving median additional parametrial dose of 5.4 Gy. Replan meeting ureteral dose of ≤77 Gy was feasible in 18 of 25 patients, with a reduction in median ureter D0.1cc from 82.3 to 76.8 Gy (p < 0.001). Median HR-CTV D90 was similar (84.7 vs. 85.0 Gy). Replan achieved D0.1cc ≤77 Gy in 56% of patients who experienced US. All unilateral US cases occurred in the ureter closest to HR-CTV. CONCLUSIONS: Optimization to reduce ureter dose to ≤77 Gy is feasible when ureters are visible and contoured. Ureters may be considered as potential OAR during MRI-based brachytherapy treatment. Reduced ring to tandem total reference air kerma (TRAK) ratio may provide an additional metric by which to lower US risk.

Underestimation Rate in the Percutaneous Diagnosis of Radial Scar/Complex Sclerosing Lesion of the Breast: Systematic Review / Taxa de subestimação no diagnóstico percutâneo de cicatriz radiada/lesão esclerosante complexa da mama: Revisão sistemática

Abstract Objective To evaluate the underestimation rate in breast surgical biopsy after the diagnosis of radial scar/complex sclerosing lesion through percutaneous biopsy. Data Sources A systematic review was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations. The PubMed, SciELO, Cochrane, and Embase databases were consulted, with searches conducted through November 2020, using specific keywords (radial scar OR complex sclerosing lesion, breast cancer, anatomopathological percutaneous biopsy AND/OR surgical biopsy). Data collection Study selection was conducted by two researchers experienced in preparing systematic reviews. The eight selected articles were fully read, and a comparative analysis was performed. Study selection A total of 584 studies was extracted, 8 of which were selected. One of them included women who had undergone a percutaneous biopsy with a histological diagnosis of radial scar/complex sclerosing lesion and subsequently underwent surgical excision; the results were used to assess the underestimation rate of atypical and malignant lesions. Data synthesis The overall underestimation rate in the 8 studies ranged from 1.3 to 40% and the invasive lesion underestimation rate varied from 0 to 10.5%. Conclusion The histopathological diagnosis of a radial scar/complex sclerosing lesion on the breast is not definitive, and it may underestimate atypical andmalignant lesions, which require a different treatment, making surgical excision an important step in diagnostic evaluation.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar o grau de discordância entre biópsia percutânea e cirúrgica da mama em pacientes com diagnóstico de cicatriz radiada/lesão esclerosante complexa (CR/LEC) por meio de uma revisão sistemática. Fontes dos dados Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática segundo as recomendações do Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA, na sigla em inglês). As bases de dados primárias consultadas foram PubMed, SciELO, Cochrane e Embase, combuscas conduzidas até novembro de 2020, utilizando palavras chaves específicas (cicatriz radiada OU lesão esclerosante complexa, câncer de mama, anatomopatológico de biópsia percutânea E/OU biópsia cirúrgica). Seleção dos estudos A busca dos artigos resultou em um total de 584 estudos, sendo 8 selecionados, os quais incluíam mulheres submetidas a biópsia com diagnóstico histológico de CR/LEC e posteriormente submetidas a exérese cirúrgica para avaliar como desfecho o grau de subestimação de lesões atípicas e malignas. Coleta de dados A seleção dos estudos foi conduzida por dois pesquisadores, com experiência na elaboração de revisão sistemática. Os oito artigos selecionados foram lidos na íntegra e submetidos a uma análise comparativa. Síntese dos dados Cicatrizes radiadas/lesões esclerosante complexas foram associadas com lesões atípicas e malignas após a exérese cirúrgica. O grau de subestimação geral foi calculado pela porcentagem de lesões atípicas e malignas no anatomopatológico após a exérese cirúrgica dentre o total de CR/LEC diagnosticadas, enquanto o grau de subestimação de lesões invasoras foi calculado considerando-se apenas os carcinomas invasivos. O grau de subestimação geral dos estudos selecionados variou de 1,3 a 40%, e o de lesões invasoras de 0 a 10,5%. Conclusão O diagnóstico histopatológico de CR/LEC na mama não é definitivo, podendo subestimar lesões atípicas e malignas, cujo tratamento é distinto, tornando a exérese cirúrgica etapa fundamental na investigação diagnóstica.

Photodynamic therapy with the dual-mode association of IR780 to PEG-PLA nanocapsules and the effects on human breast cancer cells.

IR780 is a near-infrared fluorescent dye, which can be applied as a photosensitizer in photodynamic (PDT) and photothermal (PTT) therapies and as a biodistribution tracer in imaging techniques. We investigated the growth and migration inhibition and mechanism of death of breast tumor cells, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, exposed to polymeric nanocapsules (NC) comprising IR780 covalently linked to the biodegradable polymer PLA (IR-PLA) and IR780 physically encapsulated (IR780-NC) in vitro. Both types of NC had mean diameters around 120 nm and zeta potentials around -40 mV. IR-PLA-NC was less cytotoxic than IR780 NC to a non-tumorigenic mammary epithelial cell line, MCF-10A, which is an important aspect of selectivity. Free-IR780 was more cytotoxic than IR-PLA-NC for MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells after illumination with a 808 nm laser. IR-PLA NC was effective to inhibit colony formation (50%) and migration (30-40%) for both cancer cell lines. MDA-MB-231 cells were less sensitive to all IR780 formulations compared to MCF-7 cells. Cell uptake was higher with IR-PLA-NC than with IR780-NC and free-IR780 in both cancer cell lines (p < 0.05). NC uptake was higher in MCF-7 than in MDA-MB-231 cells. IR-PLA-NC induced a higher percentage of apoptosis upon illumination in MDA-MB-231 than in MCF-7 cells. The necrosis mechanism of death predominated in treatments with free-IR780 and with encapsulated IR780 NC, suggestive of damages at the plasma membrane. IR780 conjugated with PLA increased the apoptotic pathway and demonstrated potential as a multifunctional theranostic agent for breast cancer treatment with increased cellular uptake, photodynamic activity and more reliable tracking in cell-image studies.

Agreement between the Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography and the Image-Guided System for Biometry Assessment in Cataract Surgery.

PURPOSE: To assess the agreement on biometric data obtained using the Verion image-guided surgery system and the swept-source-OCT biometer IOL Master 700. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All patients underwent biometry using the SS-OCT and the Image-Guide System. The comparison between instruments was assessed using the Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Level of Agreement (LoA) employing the Bland-Altman analysis. RESULTS: The image-based system produced significantly higher keratometry values, evidencing a low LoA between the SS-OCT and the image-based system, ranging from -1.30 D to 0.65 D (1.95 D), -1.04 D to 0.72 D (1.76 D), and -1.31 D to 0.65 D (1.96 D), respectively. The LoA for the Cylinder ranged from -0.46 D to 0.74 D (1.2 D) and from 0.82 to 0.94 mm for WTW. CONCLUSIONS: In our study, the SS-OCT biometer and the Image-based System evidenced statistically significant differences in measuring the main biometric parameters except for the WTW.