The Importance of Lumbar Lordosis during Laparoscopic Trocar Entry.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: Investigating the effect of lumbar lordosis on the relationship between abdominal trocar entry points and major vascular structures. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort. SETTING: Tertiary referral center. PATIENTS: Distances between the skin and the aorta and inferior vena cava at the trocar entry points, both at the umbilicus and 3 cm and 5 cm superior to the umbilicus, were measured at entry angles of 90 and 45 degrees in 101 abdominal computer tomography images. INTERVENTIONS: The relationship of these values with lumbar lordosis was investigated concerning menopausal status, body mass index (BMI), and parity differences. To assess the isolated effect of lumbar lordosis, a simulated 30-degree increase in the lordosis angle was applied to the patients' computed tomography images. The impact of this increased lumbar lordosis angle on the distances between the skin and major vessels was then evaluated at both the umbilical and supraumbilical trocar entry sites. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: In the tomographic images of all patients, the distances from the skin to vascular structures were measured at a 90-degree entry angle, resulting in measurements of 8.97 cm ± 2.81 at the umbilicus, 10.89 cm ± 3.02 at 3 cm above the umbilicus, and 11.36 cm ± 2.88 at 5 cm above the umbilicus. These distances exhibited significant differences between patients with BMI <30 and BMI ≥30, as well as between premenopausal and postmenopausal patients. However, at a 45-degree entry angle, vascular structures were observed in only a few patients during trocar projection, and no measurable values were determined. In the simulation, it was found that a 1-degree increase in lumbar lordosis angle resulted in a decrease of 0.272 mm ± 0.018 in the distance between the skin and vascular structures at the umbilicus, 0.425 mm ± 0.024 at 3 cm above the umbilicus, and 0.428 mm ± 0.024 at 5 cm above the umbilicus. CONCLUSION: An increase in the degree of lumbar lordosis reduces the distance between trocar entry points and major vascular structures. Along with other factors during Veress and trocar entry, lumbar lordosis should be carefully considered.

Filtro de vena cava inferior ante diagnóstico de trombosis venosa profunda en gestante en trabajo de parto. A propósito de un caso clínico / Inferior vena cava filter before diagnosis of deep venous thrombosis in a pregnant woman in labor: A case report

Introducción: El embarazo representa un estado procoagulante que aumenta el riesgo de fenómenos trombóticos en la mujer. Al igual que en la población no gestante, deberemos diagnosticar y tratar lo más precozmente posible dichos eventos para evitar la migración del trombo a otras localizaciones. La anticoagulación constituye la medida terapéutica de primera línea. Sin embargo, ciertas situaciones de aumento de sangrado como el trabajo de parto pueden suponer una contraindicación para iniciar dicha anticoagulación. En el siguiente artículo se desarrolla un caso clínico en el que el diagnóstico de trombosis venosa profunda tuvo lugar al inicio del trabajo de parto. Principales síntomas y/o hallazgos clínicos: Aumento de diámetro de miembro inferior izquierdo, con enrojecimiento del mismo y aumento de temperatura local. La paciente describía dolor a nivel de dicha extremidad desde hacía 15 días. No presentaba disnea y la saturación de oxígeno era del 100%. Diagnósticos principales: Trombosis venosa profunda, trabajo de parto. Intervenciones terapéuticas: La contraindicación de anticoagulación y la necesidad de un tratamiento inmediato plantearon el filtro de vena cava inferior como la opción más razonable. Resultados: Tras la colocación del filtro, el parto cursó sin incidencias; no migró el émbolo y el filtro se retiró a los 29 días del parto sin complicaciones. Conclusión: Pese a nuestra escasa experiencia clínica en el manejo de estos casos, podemos afirmar que el filtro de vena cava inferior representa una opción razonable y segura en los casos de trombosis de miembros inferiores en mujeres en trabajo de parto.(AU)

Introduction: Pregnancy represents a procoagulant state that increases women's risk of thrombotic phenomena. As in the non-pregnant population, we must diagnose and treat these events as early as possible to avoid the migration of the thrombus to other locations. Anticoagulation is the first-line therapeutic measure. However, certain situations of increased bleeding such as labor may be a contraindication to initiate such anticoagulation. The following article develops a clinical case in which the deep vein thrombosis diagnosis occurred at the onset of labor. Main symptoms and/or clinical findings: Increase in diameter of the left lower limb, with redness of the same and increase in local temperature. The patient described pain at the level of this limb for 15 days. He had no dyspnea and oxygen saturation was 100%. Main diagnoses: Deep vein thrombosis, labor. Therapeutic interventions: The contraindication of anticoagulation and the need for immediate treatment raised the inferior vena cava filter as the most reasonable option. Results: After the placement of the filter, the delivery proceeded without incident. The plunger did not migrate and the filter was removed 29 days after delivery without complications. Conclusion: Despite our limited clinical experience in the management of these cases, we can affirm that the inferior vena cava filter represents a reasonable and safe option in cases of thrombosis of the lower limbs in women in labor.(AU)

Case Report: Incidental finding of an atresia of the inferior vena cava-a challenge for cardiac surgery.

Inferior vena cava atresia is a rare and usually asymptomatic condition. However, when these patients undergo cardiac surgery, it can present an unexpected and challenging situation for the surgeon. Specifically, adequate venous drainage during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is a critical issue here and may require an extension of cannulation strategies. Adequate preoperative diagnostics, ideally with imaging modalities such as CT angiography or MRI, are required for optimal surgical planning. Here, we describe a rare case of thoracic ascending aortic aneurysm with concomitant inferior vena cava atresia that was successfully operated on. With adequate preoperative planning, we were able to perform an operation without unforeseen complications with standard initialization of CPB.

Growth kinetics of venous tumor thrombus in patients with renal cell carcinoma.

INTRODUCTION: Some patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) present with venous tumor thrombus (VTT). The extent of the VTT is related to survival, so prompt surgical care is recommended. However, studies evaluating the natural history of VTT in patients with RCC are rare. We sought to evaluate the growth kinetics of VTT in patients with RCC using preoperative cross-sectional images. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We identified patients who underwent radical nephrectomy and venous tumor thrombectomy at our institution from 01/2009 to 02/2022. We included those with a minimum of 2 adequate preoperative imaging studies (contrast-enhanced Computerized Tomography (CT), noncontrast Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or contrast-enhanced MRI), at least 14 days apart. We measured VTT in each study to calculate growth rate, and evaluated predictors of faster growth (demographics, histology, laterality, tumor diameter, and staging). To assess the relation between clinical variables and VTT growth, we used the Wilcoxon Rank-Sum, Kruskal-Wallis, and Spearman correlation tests. RESULTS: A total of 30 patients were included in the analysis. The median time interval between studies was 33 days. Patients were mostly Caucasian and Males (90% and 70%, respectively). Most patients underwent a CT scan as their initial imaging study (66%), followed with an MRI as second study (73%). The mean venous tumor thrombus growth rate was 0.3 mm/d (standard deviation of 0.5mm), and only rhabdoid/sarcomatoid differentiation showed an association with tumor thrombus growth rate (0.3 vs. 0.63 mm/d, P = 0.038). CONCLUSIONS: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study evaluating the natural growth rate of venous tumor thrombus in patients with renal cell carcinoma. We found that tumor thrombi grew an average of 0.3 mm/d (1.0 cm/month) and that those with sarcomatoid and/or rhabdoid differentiation grew faster (0.63 mm/d). Further studies are needed to validate these results and provide a better understanding of tumor thrombus kinetics.

Tuberculosis Presenting as Ruptured Liver Abscess and Inferior Vena Cava Thrombosis in a Pediatric Patient.

Background: Tuberculosis is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in many countries across the world, including Pakistan. While systemic tuberculosis can involve any organ of the body, tubercular liver abscess is a rare presentation. Case Report: We report the case of an 8-year-old female from a developing country where tuberculosis poses a significant burden on the health care system. The patient presented with fever and weight loss for 6 months and abdominal pain for 14 days. On examination, she had tenderness and guarding over the right hypochondrium. Investigations revealed neutrophilic predominance in the complete blood count and elevated C-reactive protein. Imaging of the abdomen revealed ruptured liver abscess, extensive abdominal lymphadenopathy, and thrombus in the inferior vena cava. Gastric secretions were positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Treatment included antitubercular and antithrombotic therapy. The patient was closely followed until she had completed the 1-year course of antitubercular therapy and was symptom-free. Conclusion: In tuberculosis-endemic countries, physicians should keep a high index of suspicion for tuberculosis in children who present with liver abscess and multisystem involvement.

Implante de filtros de protección embólica en vena cava inferior duplicada / Implant of embolic protection filters in duplicated vena cava

Resumen Se presenta el caso de un paciente con enferme dad tromboembólica venosa y contraindicación de anticoagulación en el cual se halló incidentalmente una duplicación de vena cava inferior, situación que determinó la necesidad del implante de dos filtros de protección embólica. Si bien esta anomalía vascular es de escasa presentación, es importante tener presente esta posibilidad para asegurarse de brindar una co rrecta protección a la hora del implante de filtros de vena cava inferior.

Abstract We present the case of a patient with venous throm boembolic disease and contraindication to anticoagu lation, where the incidental finding of a duplication of the inferior vena cava was made. This observation determined the need to implant two embolic protection filters. Although this vascular anomaly is rarely present, it is important to keep this possibility in mind to ensure that proper protection is provided when inferior vena cava filters are implanted.

Surgical resection of retrohepatic inferior vena cava leiomyosarcoma without vascular reconstruction: case report.

Inferior vena cava leiomyosarcoma (IVCL) is a rare malignant mesenchymal tumor. Surgical treatment is a challenge because it must combine free surgical margins with vascular reconstruction, using prosthetic or autologous grafts, primary suture, or simple ligation without vein reconstruction. The ligation option is possible thanks to the slow growth of the tumor, allowing collateral venous circulation to develop. We present a case of an IVCL treated with radical resection without vascular reconstruction. The patient was a 48-year-old female with abdominal pain in the right upper quadrant, asthenia, and postprandial dyspeptic symptoms. Abdominal tomography revealed a mass with an expansive formation located in the infrahepatic segment of the inferior vena cava and reduced vessel lumen. During surgery, vein clamping did not provoke hemodynamic repercussions, suggesting sufficient collateral circulation formation. It was decided to perform a radical resection of the entire portion of the retrohepatic vena cava and ligate the vena cava without vascular reconstruction. The patient recovered without complications.

Evaluation of Inferior and Superior Vena Cava and the Vena Cava Ratio in Growth Restricted Fetuses.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the changes in the diameters of superior vena cava (SVC) and inferior vena cava (IVC) and to measure the ratio between SVC and IVC in growth-restricted fetuses and compare these results with normally grown fetuses. METHODS: Twenty-three consecutive patients with fetal growth restriction (FGR) (Group I) and 23 pregnant gestational age-matched controls (Group II) between 24 and 37 weeks of gestation were enrolled in the study between January 2018 and October 2018. The diameter of the SVC and IVC from inner wall to inner wall was measured in all patients by sonographic examination. The ratio between the diameter of the SVC and IVC was also measured in each patient to eliminate the gestational age factor. We have named this ratio the "vena cava ratio" (VCR). All parameters were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: The diameter of the SVC was significantly greater in the fetuses with FGR (2.6-7.7 [5.4]) than in controls (3.2-5.6 [4.1]; P = .002; P < .01). The diameter of the IVC was significantly less in the fetuses with FGR (1.6-4.5 [3.2]) than in controls (2.7-5 [3.7]; P = .035; P < .05). The VCR was between 1.1 and 2.3 and the median value was 1.8 in Group I. The VCR was between 0.8 and 1.7 and the median value was 1.2. VCR was significantly higher in fetuses with FGR (P = .001 P < .01). CONCLUSION: This study shows that VCR is higher in fetuses with growth restriction. Further studies are needed to clarify the association between VCR and antenatal prognosis and postnatal results.

Papel del Doppler de la vena femoral en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca aguda: resultados de un estudio multicéntrico prospectivo / Role of the femoral vein doppler in acute heart failure patients: results from a prospective multicentric study

Antecedentes y objetivo El objetivo de nuestro estudio es definir el papel de la ecografía Doppler pulsada (PW-Doppler) de la vena femoral común en la evaluación de la dilatación de la vena cava inferior (VCI), la probabilidad de hipertensión pulmonar, la insuficiencia tricuspídea y la excursión sistólica del plano anular tricuspídeo (TAPSE). Métodos Se trata de un estudio prospectivo en dos hospitales en 74 pacientes ingresados con insuficiencia cardiaca aguda. Se realizó ecografía PW-Doppler de vena femoral común, ecocardiografía y evaluación de la VCI en el momento del ingreso, así como PW-Doppler y ecografía de VCI al alta hospitalaria. Resultados La detección de un flujo pulsátil (138 exploraciones) tuvo una curva ROC excelente para la detección de VCI mayor de 2cm (AUC 0,931, Sn95%, Sp 90%, VPP 93%, VPN 94%) con una odds ratio (OR) de 211,2 (intervalo de confianza del 95% 48,13-926,72). La pulsatilidad del flujo también tuvo el mayor rendimiento en la detección de la hipertensión pulmonar (AUC 0,8, Sn 95%, Sp 64%, VPP 84%, VPN 84%) y en la detección de la insuficiencia tricuspídea moderada-grave (AUC 0,79, Sn 95%, Sp 67%, VPP 88%, VPN 78%). Si el flujo es continuo, podemos descartar razonablemente una disminución del TAPSE (VPN 89%). Conclusión La detección del flujo PW-Doppler de vena femoral común puede ser una ventana alternativa para la detección de una dilatación de la VCI de 2cm, TR significativa y la probabilidad de hipertensión pulmonar elevada en la insuficiencia cardiaca aguda. También permite descartar razonablemente la disfunción del ventrículo derecho en casos de normalidad en estos pacientes (AU)

Background and objective The aim of our study is to define the role of Pulsed-Doppler (PW-Doppler) Ultrasound of the common femoral vein in the assessment of dilatation Inferior Vena Cava (IVC), probability of Pulmonary Hypertension (PH), Tricuspid Regurgitation (TR), and Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE). Methods This is a prospective two-hospital study in 74 patients admitted with acute heart failure (AHF). We performed PW-Doppler ultrasound of the common femoral vein, Point of Care cardiac ultrasonography and assessment of the IVC at the time of admission, as well as PW-Doppler and ultrasound of the IVC at hospital discharge. Results The detection of a pulsatile flow (138 scans) had an excellent ROC curve for the detection of IVC greater than 2cm (AUC 0.931, Sn 95%, Sp 90%, PPV 93%, NPV 94%) with an Odds Ratio (OR) of 211.2 (95% confidence interval 48.13-926.72). The pulsatility of the flow also had the highest performance in the detection of PH (AUC 0.8, Sn 95%, Sp 64%, PPV 84%, NPV 84%) and in the detection of moderate-severe TR (AUC 0.79, Sn 95%, Sp 67%, PPV 88%, NPV 78%). If the flow is continuous, we can reasonably rule out diminished TAPSE (NPV 89%). Conclussion Detection of PW-Doppler flow of the common femoral vein may be an alternative window for the detection of an IVC dilation of 2cm, significant TR, and the likelihood of high PH in acute heart failure. It also allows us to reasonably rule out dysfunction of the right ventricle in cases of normality in these patients (AU)

A Case of Complete Resolution of Cauda Equina Syndrome Caused by Extensive Iliocaval Thrombosis: The Role of Thrombolysis and Venous Stents.

PURPOSE: The cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a rare condition affecting less than 1 in 100,000 patients annually. Diagnosing CES is challenging because of its rare incidence, potentially subtle presentation, and various underlying etiologies. Vascular causes, such as inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombosis, are uncommon but should be considered, since timely recognition and treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) as a cause of CES can avoid irreversible neurological damage. CASE REPORT: A 30-year-old male presented with partial CES caused by nerve root compression due to venous congestion from an extensive iliocaval DVT. He completely recovered after thrombolysis and stenting of the IVC. His iliocaval tract remained patent until the last date of follow-up at 1 year without signs of post-thrombotic syndrome. Broad molecular, infectious, and hematological laboratory tests did not reveal any underlying disease for the thrombotic event, particularly no hereditary or acquired thrombophilia. CONCLUSION: Timely recognition of venous thrombosis as a cause of CES is essential. This is the first case report of CES caused by an extensive iliocaval DVT successfully treated with thrombolysis and venous stenting with good resolution of DVT and CES. CLINICAL IMPACT: This case-report describes a patient with cauda equina syndrome resulting from an extensive iliocaval deep vein thrombosis due to an underlying stenosis of the inferior vena cava. Thrombolysis and venous stenting succesfully restored venous patency and thereby relieved symptoms and signs of cauda equina syndrome, in addition to (long-term) therapeutic dose anticoagulation. It is important to timely recognize deep vein thrombosis as a cause of cauda equina syndrome and to consider endovenous treatment in a specialized center.

Difficult withdrawal of an inferior vena cava filter: Technical considerations and associated variables.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the efficacy of the procedure for withdrawing an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter and the clinical and radiological factors associated with difficult withdrawal. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective observational study included patients who underwent IVC filter withdrawal at a single centre between May 2015 and May 2021. We recorded demographic, clinical, procedural, and radiological variables: type of IVC filter, angle with the IVC > 15°, hook against the wall, and legs embedded in the IVC wall > 3 mm. The efficacy variables were fluoroscopy time, success of IVC filter withdrawal, and number of attempts to withdraw the filter. The safety variables were complications, surgical removal, and mortality. The main variable was difficult withdrawal, defined as more than 5 min fluoroscopy or more than 1 attempt at withdrawal. RESULTS: A total of 109 patients were included; withdrawal was considered difficult in 54 (49.5%). Three radiological variables were more common in the difficult withdrawal group: hook against the wall (33.3% vs. 9.1%; p = 0.027), embedded legs (20.4% vs. 3.6%; p = 0.008), and >45 days since IVC filter placement (51.9% vs. 25.5%; p = 0.006). These variables remained significant in the subgroup of patients with OptEase IVC filters; however, in the group of patients with Celect IVC filters, only the inclination of the IVC filter >15 ° was significantly associated with difficult withdrawal (25% vs 0%; p = 0.029). CONCLUSION: Difficult withdrawal was associated with time from IVC placement, embedded legs, and contact between the hook and the wall. The analysis of the subgroups of patients with different types of IVC filters found that these variables remained significant in those with OptEase filters; however, in those with cone-shaped devices (Celect), the inclination of the IVC filter >15° was significantly associated with difficult withdrawal.

Retirada difícil de filtro de vena cava inferior (FVCI). Consideraciones técnicas y variables asociadas / Difficult withdrawal of an inferior vena cava filter: technical considerations and associated variables

Objetivo: Analizar la eficacia del procedimiento de retirada de los filtros de la vena cava inferior (FVCI), así como los factores clínico-radiológicos asociados a una retirada difícil. Material y método: Estudio retrospectivo, observacional y unicéntrico de pacientes tratados mediante retirada de FVCI entre mayo del 2015 y mayo del 2021. Se recogieron variables clínico-demográficas, del procedimiento y radiológicas: tipo de FVCI, angulación respecto a la vena cava inferior (VCI) >15°, gancho contra la pared y patas del dispositivo incrustadas en la pared de VCI> 3mm. Las variables de eficacia fueron: tiempo de fluoroscopia, éxito en la retirada del FVCI y número de intentos hasta la retirada. Como variables de seguridad: presencia de complicaciones, retirada quirúrgica y mortalidad. La variable principal fue la retirada difícil, definida como más de 5min de fluoroscopia o más de un intento de retirada. Resultados: Se incluyó a 109 pacientes, 54 (49,5%) fueron considerados retirada difícil. Las variables radiológicas gancho contra la pared (33,3% vs. 9,1%; p=0,027), patas incrustadas (20,4% vs. 3,6%; p=0,008) y> 45 días desde la colocación (51,9% vs. 25,5%; p=0,006) fueron significativamente más frecuentes en el grupo de retirada difícil. Estas variables mantienen la asociación al analizar los FVCI Optease®. En los FVCI Celect® solo se asoció con retirada difícil la inclinación del FVCI> 15° (25% vs. 0%; p=0,029).Conclusión: Se ha encontrado asociación entre una retirada difícil y las siguientes variables: tiempo desde colocación del FVCI, patas incrustadas y contacto del gancho con la pared de VCI. Al analizar según el tipo de FVCI, estas variables se mantienen en el tipo Optease®, en cambio, la inclinación de más de 15° dificulta la retirada de los dispositivos de morfología cónica (Celect®).(AU)

Objective: To analyze the efficacy of the procedure for withdrawing an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter and the clinical and radiological factors associated with difficult withdrawal. Material and methods: This retrospective observational study included patients who underwent IVC filter withdrawal at a single center between May 2015 and May 2021. We recorded demographic, clinical, procedural, and radiological variables: type of IVC filter, angle with the IVC> 15°, hook against the wall, and legs embedded in the IVC wall> 3mm. The efficacy variables were fluoroscopy time, success of IVC filter withdrawal, and number of attempts to withdraw the filter. The safety variables were complications, surgical removal, and mortality. The main variable was difficult withdrawal, defined as more than 5minutes fluoroscopy or more than 1 attempt at withdrawal. Results: A total of 109 patients were included; withdrawal was considered difficult in 54 (49.5%). Three radiological variables were more common in the difficult withdrawal group: hook against the wall (33.3% vs. 9.1%; p=0.027), embedded legs (20.4% vs. 3.6%; p=0.008), and>45 days since IVC filter placement (51.9% vs. 25.5%; p=0.006). These variables remained significant in the subgroup of patients with OptEase IVC filters; however, in the group of patients with Celect IVC filters, only the inclination of the IVC filter>15° was significantly associated with difficult withdrawal (25% vs 0%; p=0.029). Conclusion: Difficult withdrawal was associated with time from IVC placement, embedded legs, and contact between the hook and the wall. The analysis of the subgroups of patients with different types of IVC filters found that these variables remained significant in those with OptEase filters; however, in those with cone-shaped devices (Celect), the inclination of the IVC filter>15° was significantly associated with difficult withdrawal.(AU)

Role of the femoral vein doppler in acute heart failure patients: results from a prospective multicentric study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The aim of our study is to define the role of Pulsed-Doppler (PW-Doppler) Ultrasound of the Common Femoral Vein (CFV) in the assessment of dilatation Inferior Vena Cava (IVC), probability of Pulmonary Hypertension (PH), Tricuspid Regurgitation (TR), and Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE). METHODS: This is a prospective two-hospital study in 74 patients admitted with acute heart failure (AHF). We performed PW-Doppler ultrasound of the common femoral vein, Point of Care (POC) cardiac ultrasonography and assessment of the IVC at the time of admission, as well as PW-Doppler and ultrasound of the IVC at hospital discharge. RESULTS: The detection of a pulsatile flow (138 scans) had an excellent ROC curve for the detection of IVC greater than 2cm (AUC 0.931, Sn 95%, Sp 90%, PPV 93%, NPV 94%) with an Odds Ratio (OR) of 211.2 (95% confidence interval 48.13-926.72). The pulsatility of the flow also had the highest performance in the detection of PH (AUC 0.8, Sn 95%, Sp 64%, PPV 84%, NPV 84%) and in the detection of moderate-severe TR (AUC 0.79, Sn 95%, Sp 67%, PPV 88%, NPV 78%). If the flow is continuous, we can reasonably rule out diminished TAPSE (NPV 89%). CONCLUSSION: Detection of PW-Doppler flow of the CFV may be an alternative window for the detection of an IVC dilation of 2cm, significant TR, and the likelihood of high PH in acute heart failure. It also allows us to reasonably rule out dysfunction of the right ventricle in cases of normality in these patients.

Tratamiento quirúrgico del leiomiosarcoma de vena cava inferior

Introducción: La baja incidencia del leiomiosarcoma de la vena cava inferior dificulta tanto la estandarización del diagnóstico como el tratamiento. Objetivo: Presentar el manejo realizado en nuestro centro de un paciente que desarrolló un leiomiosarcoma de vena cava inferior, una patología de baja incidencia y que las posibilidades de realizar un rescate quirúrgico son muy bajas. Resultados: Se presenta el caso de un paciente de 54 años con una tumoración sólida en porción infrarrenal y yuxtarrenal de vena cava inferior de 71 × 76 × 117 mm compatible con leiomiosarcoma de vena cava, con infiltración de uréter derecho que ocasiona uropatía obstructiva derecha grado I-II sin alteración de la función renal, que fue resecada y reconstruida mediante prótesis sin complicaciones. Discusión: Se discute la fisiopatología, el diagnóstico y manejo en relación con el caso presentado. Conclusión: la baja incidencia de estos tumores dificulta tanto la estandarización del diagnóstico como del tratamiento, aunque la cirugía sigue siendo el tratamiento de elección.

Introduction: The low incidence of leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava hinders both the standardization of diagnosis and treatment. Objective: To present the management carried out in our center of a patient who developed an inferior vena cava leiomyosarcoma, a low incidence pathology with uncertain surgical rescue. Results: 54-year-old patient with a solid tumor in the infrarenal and juxtarenal portions of the inferior vena cava of 71 × 76 × 117 mm compatible with leiomyosarcoma of the vena cava, with infiltration of the right ureter that causes right obstructive uropathy grade I-II without kidney function changes; tumour was resected and continuity reconstructed with a prosthesis without complications. Discussion: The pathophysiology, diagnosis and management are commented. Conclusion: the low incidence of these lesions makes it difficult to standardize both diagnosis and treatment, although surgery remains the treatment of choice.

Using a Catheter for Hemodialysis Placed in the Inferior Vena Cava for the First Time in N. Macedonia - Translumbar Approach.

Maintenance of vascular access for hemodialysis remains a challenge for every doctor. Exhausted conventional vascular access is the cause for the placement of the central venous catheter in unconventional sites such as enlarged collateral vessels, hepatic veins, hemiazygos, azygos, renal veins, and the inferior vena cava. The percutaneous translumbar catheter for hemodialysis in the inferior vena cava was described over 20 years ago. In this article, we report on the procedure and complications arising from the percutaneous translumbar approach of a hemodialysis catheter. This was done for the first time in N. Macedonia. This approach is a potential option in adults and children when conventional approaches are limited.

Manejo conservador de pseudoaneurisma de vena cava iatrogénico / Conservative management of iatrogenic vena cava pseudoaneurysm

Introducción: los pseudoaneurismas de vena cava infrarrenal (VCI) son una patología infrecuente, sin tratamiento estandarizado; la mayoría, secundarios a traumatismos abdominales. Presentan una mortalidad del 20-57 %. Su manejo debe ser individualizado, con opciones como conservador, quirúrgico o endovascular. Caso clínico: varón de 23 años con cardiopatía congénita compleja que ingresa por síncope extrahospitalario con posterior aleteo auricular e inestabilidad hemodinámica. Durante el procedimiento de ablación presenta shock hemorrágico. Precisa drogas vasoactivas y transfusión masiva. Tras su estabilización, se realiza angio TAC abdominal en el que se visualiza hematoma retroperitoneal dependiente de VCI sin hemorragia activa. Dada la comorbilidad del paciente y la estabilidad hemodinámica, se decide tratamiento conservador y control radiológico. En el angio TAC a los 15 días se visualiza pseudoaneurisma de VCI. Decide mantenerse actitud conservadora, retirar la anticoagulación y realizar revisiones periódicas. Se mantiene estable y se decide el alta, con vigilancia estrecha. En el control a los dos meses se objetiva completa resolución del pseudoaneurisma. Discusión: dada la complejidad de la patología, la estabilidad hemodinámica y las comorbilidades del paciente, se optó por manejo conservador, sin descartar otras opciones terapéuticas si presentaba empeoramiento clínico o radiológico. El tratamiento del pseudoaneurisma de VCI debe individualizarse, priorizando la clínica y la estabilidad del paciente y vigilando la evolución de la lesión con control radiológico estrecho.(AU)

Background: infrarenal cava vein (ICV) pseudoaneurysms are an infrequent pathology, without standardized treatment. Most secondary to abdominal trauma and may associate arterial injuries. Presenting a mortality of 20-57 %, which has not been reduced, despite advances in treatment. Iatrogenic IVC injuries can develop retroperitoneal hematomas and pseudoaneurysms. Its management must be individualized, with options such as conservative, surgical or endovascular. Case report: a 23-year-old male with complex congenital heart disease was admitted due to out-of-hospital syncope with subsequent atrial flutter and hemodynamic instability. During the ablation procedure, he presented hemorrhagic shock requiring doses of vasoactive drugs and massive transfusion. After stabilizing the patient, an abdominal angio-CT was performed, visualizing an IVC-dependent retroperitoneal hematoma with no signs of active bleeding. Given the patient's comorbidity and hemodynamic stability, conservative treatment and radiological control were implemented. CT angiography at 15 days shows IVC pseudoaneurysm. It was decided to maintain a conservative attitude, withdraw anticoagulation and periodic check-ups. Remaining stable, discharge is decided, with close monitoring. At the two months check-up, complete resolution of the pseudoaneurysm is observed. Discussion: given the complexity of the pathology, the patient's hemodynamic stability and comorbidities, conservative management was chosen, without ruling out other therapeutic options if presented with clinical or radiological worsening. The treatment of IVC pseudoaneurysm must be individualized, prioritizing the patient's symptoms and stability and monitoring the evolution of the lesion with close radiological control.(AU)

Fluid responsiveness assessment using inferior vena cava collapsibility among spontaneously breathing patients: Systematic review and meta-analysis / Evaluación de la capacidad de respuesta de fluidos mediante el colapso de la vena cava inferior en pacientes que respiran espontáneamente: revisión sistemática y metaanálisis

Objective To synthesize the evidence about diagnostic accuracy of inferior vena cava collapsibility (IVCc) in prediction of fluid responsiveness among spontaneously breathing patients. Design Systematic review of diagnostic accuracy studies. Setting Intensive care units or emergency departments. Patients and participants spontaneously breathing patients with indication for fluid bolus administration. Interventions A search was conducted in MEDLINE and EMBASE. We included studies assessing IVCc accuracy for fluid responsiveness assessment with a standard method for cardiac output measure as index test. Main variables of interest General information (year, setting, cutoffs, standard method), sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiving operator characteristics curve (AUROC). Risk of bias was assessed with QUADAS 2 tool. We obtained the pooled sensitivity, specificity and summary ROC curve, with estimated confidence intervals from a bivariate model. We also calculated positive and negative likelihood ratios and developed a Fagon nomogram. Result Eight studies were included with 497 patients. Overall, the studies presented a high risk of bias. IVCc sensitivity was 63% (95% CI – 46–78%) and specificity 83% (95% CI – 76–87%). Despite moderate accuracy of IVCc (SROC 0.83, 95% CI – 0.80–0.86), post-test probability of being fluid responsive based on a 50% pre-test probability led to considerable misclassification. Conclusions IVCc had moderate accuracy for fluid responsiveness assessment in spontaneously breathing patients and should not be used in isolation for this purpose (AU)

Objetivo Sintetizar la evidencia sobre la precisión diagnóstica de la colapsabilidad de la vena cava inferior (cVCI) en la predicción de la respuesta a los líquidos en pacientes que respiran espontáneamente. Diseño Revisión sistemática de estudios de precisión diagnóstica. Ámbito Unidades de cuidados intensivos o servicios de urgencias. Pacientes o participantes Pacientes con respiración espontánea con indicación de administración de bolos de líquidos. Intervenciones Se realizó una búsqueda en MEDLINE y EMBASE. Se incluyeron los estudios que evaluaban la precisión de la cVCI con un método estándar para medir el gasto cardíaco como prueba índice. Variables de interés principales Información general (año, entorno, puntos de corte, método estándar), sensibilidad, especificidad y área bajo curva. El riesgo de sesgo se evaluó con la herramienta QUADAS2. Obtuvimos la sensibilidad combinada, la especificidad y la curva ROC resumida, con intervalos de confianza (IC) estimados a partir de un modelo bivariado. Resultados Se incluyeron 8 estudios con 497 pacientes. La sensibilidad de la cVCI fue del 63% (IC95%: 46-78%) y la especificidad del 83% (IC95%: 76-87%). A pesar de la precisión moderada de cVCI (SROC: 0,83; IC95%: 0,80-0,86), la probabilidad posterior a la prueba de responder a los fluidos basada en una probabilidad anterior al 50% dio lugar a una clasificación errónea considerable. Conclusiones La cVCI tuvo una exactitud moderada para la evaluación de la respuesta a los líquidos en pacientes que respiran espontáneamente y no debe usarse de forma aislada para este propósito (AU)

Echoscopy in scanning abdominal diseases in a critical care setting.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Targeted ultrasound examinations with portable ultrasound device (handheld ultrasound system [HHUS]) have been defined as "echoscopy" by the European Federation of Societies of Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (EFSUMB). For abdominal diseases it has been shown that echoscopy is sensitive and specific. The aim of this study is to show that the use of HHUS for abdominal ultrasonography is possible under the conditions prevailing in emergency and intensive care medicine and that it is not inferior to high-end devices (high-end ultrasound systems [HEUS]). METHODS: Examinations were carried out with a first-generation Vscan™ (GE Medical Systems, Solingen, Germany) and HEUS device (Siemens Acuson X­300 or X­700, Siemens Healthcare, Erlangen, Germany). The HEUS device was seen as standard. The examinations were randomized and blinded and carried out by two examiners within 30 min in order to avoid falsifications due to time delay. They took place in the intensive care unit, the emergency room and the emergency medical service. The results had to be recorded in an examination sheet. RESULTS: In all, 86 patients (54 men and 32 women, aged 73 ± 14.58 [28-95] years) were included. In 45.35% (39/86) of the ultrasound examinations using HEUS and in 41.86% (36/89) of the cases using HHUS the examination conditions were optimal. Furthermore, 76.19% of the examinations were carried out by both examiners in the same scanning position. For the detection of liver tumours, HHUS shows a sensitivity of 70% and specificity of 100%. With regard to identifying signs of cholecystitis, i.e., evidence of surrounding inflammation (a) or hydrops (b), HHUS shows a sensitivity of 66.67% (a) and 60% (b) and a specificity of 97.06% (a) and 96.86% (b). The diagnosis of an ileus is successful with a sensitivity of 87.5% and a specificity of 60%. The respiratory variability of the inferior vena cava has a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 40% using HHUS. Ascites and pleural effusions can be diagnosed with a sensitivity of 89% and a specificity of 93.1%. When using the FAST (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma) protocol, HHUS has a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 90.9%. With the exception of kidney cysts and inferior vena cava, the measurement of the diameter has a positive correlation. CONCLUSION: Echoscopy of the abdomen in emergency and intensive care medicine is possible despite restrictive circumstances. The inferior vena cava can only be assessed to a limited extent with the first generation of Vscan™. In order to use sonography in emergency and intensive care medicine, a standardized procedure is to be aimed for and training in emergency sonography is necessary.

Fluid responsiveness assessment using inferior vena cava collapsibility among spontaneously breathing patients: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To synthesize the evidence about diagnostic accuracy of inferior vena cava collapsibility (IVCc) in prediction of fluid responsiveness among spontaneously breathing patients. DESIGN: Systematic review of diagnostic accuracy studies. SETTING: Intensive care units or emergency departments. PATIENTS AND PARTICIPANTS: spontaneously breathing patients with indication for fluid bolus administration. INTERVENTIONS: A search was conducted in MEDLINE and EMBASE. We included studies assessing IVCc accuracy for fluid responsiveness assessment with a standard method for cardiac output measure as index test. MAIN VARIABLES OF INTEREST: General information (year, setting, cutoffs, standard method), sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiving operator characteristics curve (AUROC). Risk of bias was assessed with QUADAS 2 tool. We obtained the pooled sensitivity, specificity and summary ROC curve, with estimated confidence intervals from a bivariate model. We also calculated positive and negative likelihood ratios and developed a Fagon nomogram. RESULTS: Eight studies were included with 497 patients. Overall, the studies presented a high risk of bias. IVCc sensitivity was 63% (95% CI - 46-78%) and specificity 83% (95% CI - 76-87%). Despite moderate accuracy of IVCc (SROC 0.83, 95% CI - 0.80-0.86), post-test probability of being fluid responsive based on a 50% pre-test probability led to considerable misclassification. CONCLUSIONS: IVCc had moderate accuracy for fluid responsiveness assessment in spontaneously breathing patients and should not be used in isolation for this purpose.

Discussion of issues related to Budd-Chiari syndrome / 国际外科学杂志

Budd-Chiari syndrome (B-CS) is a rare disease caused by hepatic vein outflow obstruction, and its etiology is complex and inconclusive. Current studies suggest that vascular dysplasia, gut microbiota and trace element imbalance may be related to the pathogenesis of B-CS, and the development of high-throughput sequencing technology may help to clarify the exact pathogenesis of B-CS. The symptoms of B-CS are not specific and rely mainly on imaging methods to establish the diagnosis, so there is an urgent need to find new noninvasive biological diagnostic markers. In addition, there are many pathological types and different criteria of B-CS, which mostly can′t fully reflect the pathophysiological changes of B-CS patients and guide clinical treatment. Therefore, we recommend pathophysiological classification according to the hemodynamic changes and collateral circulation compensation of B-CS, and then develop personalized treatment strategies for stratified management different from the traditional early diagnosis and treatment protocols. This article summarizes and discusses the above contents.