Robotic-Assisted Endovascular Treatment for Transplant Renal Artery Stenosis: A Feasibility Study.

PURPOSE: To describe a single-center experience with robotic-assisted endovascular treatment for transplant renal artery stenosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a single-center, retrospective, feasibility study of 4 consecutive cases of robotic-assisted endovascular surgery for transplant renal artery stenosis from October 2021 to August 2022. RESULTS: All lesions were identified, and stenting was performed with no complications. Conversion to manual control was not necessary. The mean fluoroscopy time was 25.25 min (range 12-60.9). A control Doppler ultrasound was routinely performed, demonstrating no residual lesions in all cases. There was no reintervention during the follow-up period. The operator learning curve was felt to be acceptable. CONCLUSION: Robotic-assisted endovascular treatment is a feasible technique for transplant renal artery stenosis.

An Approach to Establishing Diagnostic Reference Levels in Interventional Pediatric Cardiology from Different Regions of Brazil.

Diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) are a pivotal strategy to be implemented since pediatric interventional cardiology procedures are increasing. This work aimed to propose an initial set of Brazilian DRLs for pediatric interventional diagnostic and therapeutic (D&T) procedures. A retrospective study was carried out in four Brazilian states, distributed across the three regions of the country. Data were collected from pediatric patients undergoing cardiac interventional procedures (CIPs), including their age and anthropometric characteristics, and at least four parameters (number of images, exposure time, air kerma-area product-PKA, and cumulative air kerma). Data from 279 patients undergoing CIPs were gathered (147 diagnostic and 132 therapeutic procedures). There were no significant differences in exposure time and the number of images between the D&T procedures. A wide range of PKA was observed when the therapeutic procedures were compared to diagnostics for all age groups. There were significant differences between the D&T procedures, whether grouping data by patient weight or age. In terms of cumulative air kerma, it was noted that no value exceeded the level to trigger a monitoring process for patients. This study shows that it is possible to adopt them as the first proposal to establish national DRLs considering pediatric patient groups.

Cystic artery pseudoaneurysm.

Cystic artery pseudoaneurysm (CAP) is a rare entity, with just a few cases reported in the literature. The most common presentation of CAP is described by Quincke's triad of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, jaundice and right upper quadrant abdominal pain. We report the case of an 83-year-old male who presented to the adult emergency with a history of an acute cholecystitis 5 weeks prior for which responded to conservative management. Despite this patient not presenting with Quincke's triad, early suspicion of CAP was considered in light of his history of acute cholecystitis and a computed tomographic CT abdomen ordered promptly which showed a 6 mm cystic artery pseudoaneurysm and a thick-walled gallbladder with surrounding inflammatory changes. Management with an endovascular approach followed by an elective cholecystectomy was done.

Recanalization of portal vein thrombosis after pediatric liver transplantation: Efficacy and safety of the transsplenic access.

BACKGROUND: Endovascular management of portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is challenging. Transsplenic access (TSA) is growing as an access option to the portal system but with higher rates of bleeding complications. The aim of this article is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of transsplenic portal vein recanalization (PVR) using a metallic stent after pediatric liver transplantation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective review of 15 patients with chronic PVT who underwent PVR via TSA between February 2016 and December 2020. Two children who had undergone catheterization of a mesenteric vein tributary by minilaparotomy were excluded from the patency analysis but included in the splenic access analysis. The technical and clinical success of PVR and complications related to the procedure via TSA were evaluated. RESULTS: Thirteen children with PVT were treated primarily using the TSA. The mean age was 4.1 years (range, 1.5-13.7 years), and the most common clinical presentation was hypersplenism (60%). Technically successful PVR was performed in 11/13 (84.6%) children, and clinical success was achieved in 9/11 (81.8%) children. No major complications were observed, and one child presented moderate pain in the TSA (from a total of 17 TSA). The median follow-up was 48.2 months. The median primary patency was 9.9 months. Primary patency in the first 4 years was 75%, and primary assisted patency was 100% in the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: Transsplenic PVR is a safe and effective method for the treatment of PVT after pediatric liver transplantation.

Primeros pasos en el intervencionismo. Lecciones de la práctica diaria / First steps in interventionism. Lessons from daily practice

Resumen Las características del paciente y la localización de la lesión diana pueden hacer más complejo un procedimiento intervencionista. Una adecuada formación basada en el conocimiento de los instrumentos, manejo de técnicas alternativas y complementos hacen que estos procedimientos sean efectivos y seguros. Destacaremos la planificación anticipada, los enfoques seguros, el papel de la integración y la discusión interdisciplinaria. Los elementos descritos aquí y la bibliografía adjunta pueden tomarse como una guía para comenzar una carrera en radiología intervencionista.

Abstract The characteristics of the patient and the location of the target lesion can make an interventional procedure more complex. An adequate training based on the knowledge of instruments, handling of alternative techniques and supplementary tools make these procedures effective and safe. We will emphasize advanced planning, safe approaches, the role of integration, and interdisciplinary discussion. The items described here and the accompanying bibliography can be taken as a guide to starting a career in interventional radiology.

Disección carotídea espontánea: Presentación de un caso clínico con revisión de la literatura / Carotid Artery Dissection. Case Report and Literature Review

Resumen Introducción: La disección carotídea consiste en el desgarro de la pared del vaso. Es una patología infrecuente, pero es la causa más común de enfermedad vascular cerebral (EVC) isquémica en personas menores de 45 años. Las manifestaciones clínicas son muy variables. Método: Utilizamos las recomendaciones CARE para el reporte de casos clínicos. Caso clínico: Hombre de 45 años previamente sano, con debilidad aguda de la extremidad torácica derecha sin causa aparente. La tomografía simple de cráneo no evidenció alteraciones. La resonancia magnética mostró una oclusión completa de la arteria carótida interna en todos sus segmentos y disminución del flujo de la arteria cerebral media izquierda. La evolución clínica fue desfavorable. Conclusión: La disección carotídea debe sospecharse en personas con EVC sin factores de riesgo cardiovascular.

Abstract Introduction: Carotid dissection consists of a tear in the vessel wall. It is a rare pathology, but it is the most common cause of ischemic cerebral vascular disease (CVD) in people under 45 years of age. The clinical manifestations are very variable. Method: We used CARE recommendations for reporting clinical cases. Clinical case: Previously, a healthy 45-year-old man with acute weakness of the right thoracic extremity without apparent cause. The simple skull tomography did not show any alterations. MRI showed complete occlusion of the internal carotid artery in all its segments and decreased flow of the left middle cerebral artery. The clinical evolution was unfavorable. Conclusion: Carotid dissection should be suspected in people with CVD without cardiovascular risk factors.

The essential role of thoracic duct embolization in management of traumatic iatrogenic chylothorax.

This study aims to describe a case series of patients who underwent thoracic duct embolization (TDE) to treat traumatic iatrogenic chylothorax (TIC). Three patients were included: Case #1, a 49-year-old woman with follicular lymphoma developed a TIC following video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery to resect a solid right paravertebral mass and was treated with TDE using microcoils and N-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) glue. Case #2, a 68-year-old man with cardiac amyloidosis developed a TIC following heart transplantation and was treated with TDE using microcoils and ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer. Case#3: A 6-year-old patient with congenital heart disease developed a TIC following a Fontan procedure and was treated with TDE using NBCA glue. All lesions were identified during lymphangiography and TDE was successfully performed in all cases. TDE is a safe and valuable technique that provides minimally invasive treatment for TCI.

Este estudo objetiva descrever uma série de casos de pacientes submetidos a embolização do ducto torácico (EDT) para tratamento de quilotórax iatrogênico (QI). Três pacientes foram incluídos. Caso 1: um homem de 49 anos com linfoma folicular apresentou QI após ressecção de uma massa paravertebral por toracoscopia vídeo-assistida e foi submetido a EDT com micromolas e n-butil-cianoacrilato (NBCA). Caso 2: um homem de 68 anos com amiloidose cardíaca apresentou QI após ser submetido a transplante cardíaco e foi submetido a EDT com micromolas e copolímero de etileno e álcool vinílico. Caso 3: um paciente de 6 anos com malformação cardíaca congênita apresentou QI após cirurgia de Fontan e foi submetido a EDT com NBCA. Todas as lesões foram identificadas durante a linfangiografia, e a EDT foi realizada com sucesso. A EDT é uma técnica segura e valiosa, que pode oferecer um tratamento minimamente invasivo em casos de QI.

Physical Image Quality Metrics for the Characterization of X-ray Systems Used in Fluoroscopy-Guided Pediatric Cardiac Interventional Procedures: A Systematic Review.

Pediatric interventional cardiology procedures are essential in diagnosing and treating congenital heart disease in children; however, they raise concerns about potential radiation exposure. Managing radiation doses and assessing image quality in angiographs becomes imperative for safe and effective interventions. This systematic review aims to comprehensively analyze the current understanding of physical image quality metrics relevant for characterizing X-ray systems used in fluoroscopy-guided pediatric cardiac interventional procedures, considering the main factors reported in the literature that influence this outcome. A search in Scopus and Web of Science, using relevant keywords and inclusion/exclusion criteria, yielded 14 relevant articles published between 2000 and 2022. The physical image quality metrics reported were noise, signal-to-noise ratio, contrast, contrast-to-noise ratio, and high-contrast spatial resolution. Various factors influencing image quality were investigated, such as polymethyl methacrylate thickness (often used to simulate water equivalent tissue thickness), operation mode, anti-scatter grid presence, and tube voltage. Objective evaluations using these metrics ensured impartial assessments for main factors affecting image quality, improving the characterization of fluoroscopic X-ray systems, and aiding informed decision making to safeguard pediatric patients during procedures.

Applicability of 'Toolkit for Safety Assessment' tool to interventional radiology using probabilistic risk assessment techniques.

Interventional radiology brings extensive benefits to patients. Nevertheless, certain procedures may result in high doses of radiation, leading to health risks to occupationally exposed individuals (OEIs). Therefore, a more comprehensive risk analysis is essential to ensuring safety and minimising radiation exposures for all OEIs. The Toolkit for Safety Assessment (TOKSA) tool performs risk assessments based on the concepts described in 'General Safety Requirements' Part 3 (Radiation Protection and Safety of Radiation Sources: International Basic Safety Standards) and Part 4 (Safety Assessment for Facilities and Activities). This tool was developed based on the 'Ibero-American Forum of Radiological and Nuclear Regulatory Agencies' risk models and can promote the use of the risk assessment processes by OEIs. The aim of this study was to experimentally analyse the applicability of the TOKSA tool in interventional radiology with the use/support of probabilistic risk assessment techniques. The results were used to reduce the risks associated with a hemodynamics room in a hospital in Belo Horizonte, Brazil.

Diagnosis of gynecologic malignancy after the treatment of presumed benign fibroid disease with interventional radiology procedures: a retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: To ascertain the finding of future diagnosis of malignancy in women who undergo nonsurgical treatment for uterine fibroid disease with interventional radiology (IR) procedures. DESIGN: Mixed-methods retrospective cohort study. SETTING: Two tertiary care academic hospitals in Boston, Massachusetts. PATIENT(S): A total of 491 women who underwent radiologic intervention for fibroids between 2006 and 2016. INTERVENTION(S): Uterine artery embolization or high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Subsequent surgical interventions and diagnosis of gynecologic malignancy after the IR procedure. RESULT(S): During the study period, 491 women underwent treatment of fibroids with IR procedures; follow-up information was available for 346 cases. The mean age was 45.3 ± 4.8 years, and 69.7% were between the ages of 40 and 49 years. Regarding ethnicity, 58.9% of patients were white, and 26.1% were black. The most common symptoms were abnormal uterine bleeding (87%), pelvic pressure (62.3%), and pelvic pain (60.9%). A total of 106 patients underwent subsequent surgical treatment of fibroids. Of the 346 patients who had follow-up, 4 (1.2%) were diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma after their interventional treatment for fibroids. An additional 2 cases of endometrial adenocarcinoma and 1 case of a premalignant lesion of the endometrium were noted. CONCLUSION(S): The proportion of patients who went on to be diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma after conservative IR treatments appears to be higher than previously reported. A thorough preprocedural workup and patient counseling regarding the possibility of underlying uterine malignancy should be undertaken.

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided cholecystostomy versus percutaneous cholecystostomy (PTC) in the management of acute cholecystitis in patients unfit for surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Surgical cholecystectomy is the gold standard strategy for the management of acute cholecystitis (AC). However, some patients are considered unfit for surgery due to certain comorbid conditions. As such, we aimed to compare less invasive treatment strategies such as endoscopic ultrasound-guided gallbladder drainage (EUS-GBD) and percutaneous gallbladder drainage (PT-GBD) for the management of patients with AC who are suboptimal candidates for surgical cholecystectomy. METHODS: A comprehensive search of multiple electronic databases was performed to identify all the studies comparing EUS-GBD versus PT-GBD for patients with AC who were unfit for surgery. A subgroup analysis was also performed for comparison of the group undergoing drainage via cautery-enhanced lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS) versus PT-GBD. The outcomes included technical and clinical success, adverse events (AEs), recurrent cholecystitis, reintervention, and hospital readmission. RESULTS: Eleven studies including 1155 patients were included in the statistical analysis. There was no difference between PT-GBD and EUS-GBD in all the evaluated outcomes. On the subgroup analysis, the endoscopic approach with cautery-enhanced LAMS was associated with lower rates of adverse events (RD = - 0.33 (95% CI - 0.52 to - 0.14; p = 0.0006), recurrent cholecystitis (- 0.05 RD (95% CI - 0.09 to - 0.02; p = 0.02), and hospital readmission (- 0.36 RD (95% CI-0.70 to - 0.03; p = 0.03) when compared to PT-GBD. All other outcomes were similar in the subgroup analyses. CONCLUSIONS: EUS-GBD using cautery-enhanced LAMS is superior to PT-GBD in terms of safety profile, recurrent cholecystitis, and hospital readmission rates in the management of patients with acute cholecystitis who are suboptimal candidates for cholecystectomy. However, when cautery-enhanced LAMS are not used, the outcomes of EUS-GBD and PT-GBD are similar. Thus, EUS-GBD with cautery-enhanced LAMS should be considered the preferable approach for gallbladder drainage for this challenging population.

The essential role of thoracic duct embolization in management of traumatic iatrogenic chylothorax / O papel fundamental da embolização do ducto torácico no manejo de quilotórax traumático iatrogênico

Abstract This study aims to describe a case series of patients who underwent thoracic duct embolization (TDE) to treat traumatic iatrogenic chylothorax (TIC). Three patients were included: Case #1, a 49-year-old woman with follicular lymphoma developed a TIC following video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery to resect a solid right paravertebral mass and was treated with TDE using microcoils and N-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) glue. Case #2, a 68-year-old man with cardiac amyloidosis developed a TIC following heart transplantation and was treated with TDE using microcoils and ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer. Case#3: A 6-year-old patient with congenital heart disease developed a TIC following a Fontan procedure and was treated with TDE using NBCA glue. All lesions were identified during lymphangiography and TDE was successfully performed in all cases. TDE is a safe and valuable technique that provides minimally invasive treatment for TCI.

Resumo Este estudo objetiva descrever uma série de casos de pacientes submetidos a embolização do ducto torácico (EDT) para tratamento de quilotórax iatrogênico (QI). Três pacientes foram incluídos. Caso 1: um homem de 49 anos com linfoma folicular apresentou QI após ressecção de uma massa paravertebral por toracoscopia vídeo-assistida e foi submetido a EDT com micromolas e n-butil-cianoacrilato (NBCA). Caso 2: um homem de 68 anos com amiloidose cardíaca apresentou QI após ser submetido a transplante cardíaco e foi submetido a EDT com micromolas e copolímero de etileno e álcool vinílico. Caso 3: um paciente de 6 anos com malformação cardíaca congênita apresentou QI após cirurgia de Fontan e foi submetido a EDT com NBCA. Todas as lesões foram identificadas durante a linfangiografia, e a EDT foi realizada com sucesso. A EDT é uma técnica segura e valiosa, que pode oferecer um tratamento minimamente invasivo em casos de QI.

Interventional Neuroradiology: Why Don't Brazilian Female Physicians Like It? / Neurorradiologia intervencionista: Por que as médicas brasileiras não gostam?

Objective Much has been discussed about gender diversity in all professional fields, particularly in medicine. Recent studies showing that there are fewer than ten female professionals in interventional neuroradiology (INR) in a continental country like Brazil, and less than thirty in all of Latin America, have prompted an investigation into the causes of the low numbers of women choosing to follow this medical specialty. This project intended to reveal the reasons through an anonymous form applied to women in the final year of the three medical residencies considered prerequisites for INR in Brazil: neurology, radiology and neurosurgery. Materials and Methods The questionnaire addressed to each of the three fields contemplated the professionals' preference to follow their respective subspecialties, in addition to common considerations that could be deemed barriers to INR. Results Surprisingly, the weak link in the chain was demonstrated to be radiology, which is the exclusive prerequisite residency for training in INR in many countries. However, in Brazil, most doctors who graduate in INR come from Neurosurgery and, secondly, from neurology. These two specialties together account for less than half of the female residents compared to radiology alone. Conclusion All of the following items were already expected: difficulty in reconciling a double shift; employment opportunity; long training time; the lack of female leaders inspiring new generations of doctors; issues involving radiation and motherhood; and still the barriers of misogyny and machismo. But specific studies need to be conducted to find out why very few radiology residents follow INR training in Brazil.

Objetivos Muito se tem discutido sobre a diversidade de gênero em todas as áreas profissionais, particularmente na medicina. Estudos recentes que mostram que há menos de dez profissionais do sexo feminino em neurorradiologia intervencionista (NRI) em um país continental como o Brasil, e menos de trinta em toda a América Latina, levaram a uma investigação sobre as causas do baixo contingente de mulheres que opta pelo seguimento dessa especialidade médica. Este projeto pretende revelar os motivos, por meio de um formulário anônimo aplicado às mulheres que cursavam o último ano das três residências médicas consideradas pré-requisito para a NRI no Brasil: neurologia, radiologia e neurocirurgia. Materiais e Métodos O questionário dirigido a cada um dos 3 ramos contemplou a preferência das profissionais em seguir suas respectivas subespecialidades, além de considerações comuns que poderiam ser tidas como barreiras à NRI. Resultados Surpreendentemente, demonstrou-se que o elo fraco da corrente é a radiologia, que é o pré-requisito exclusivo de residência para treinamento em NRI em muitos países. No entanto, no Brasil, a maioria dos médicos formados em NRI é proveniente da neurocirurgia e, em segundo lugar, da neurologia. Essas duas especialidades juntas contam com menos da metade das residentes do sexo feminino em comparação com a radiologia sozinha. Conclusão Todos os seguintes aspectos já eram esperados: dificuldade em conciliar dupla jornada; oportunidade de emprego; longo tempo de treinamento; a falta de lideranças femininas que inspirem as novas gerações de médicas; questões que envolvem radiação e maternidade; e, ainda, as barreiras da misoginia e do machismo. Mas estudos específicos precisam ser feitos para descobrir os motivos pelos quais pouquíssimas residentes de radiologia seguem o treinamento de NRI no Brasil.

Evaluación de la anatomía angiográfica de las arterias hepáticas y sus variantes / Evaluation of the angiographic anatomy of the hepatic arteries and its variants

Resumen Objetivo: Evaluar y describir la prevalencia de variantes anatómicas arteriales hepáticas observadas en una serie multicéntrica de pacientes con patologías hepatobiliares. Método: Estudio retrospectivo de anatomía arterial según la clasificación de Michels de angiografías digitales y tomografías computadas helicoidales abdominales realizadas entre febrero de 2009 y diciembre de 2020 en tres hospitales del Área Metropolitana de Buenos Aires. Resultados: Se incluyeron 275 pacientes en el estudio. Edad mediana 58,5 años. Sexo masculino 73,1%. Variante anatómica tipo 1 (normal) de la arteria hepática en 192 casos (69.8%); tipo 2 en 18 casos (6.5%); tipo 3 en 19 casos (6.9%); tipo 4 en 7 casos (2.5%); tipo 5 en 4 casos (1.5%); tipo 6 en 3 casos (1.1%); tipo 7 en 2 casos (0.7%); tipo 8 en 7 casos (2.5%); tipo 9 en 17 casos (6.2%) y otros tipos fuera de la clasificación de Michels en 6 casos (2.2%). También hallamos la presentación de 3 casos (1.1%) con arco de Bühler. Conclusiones: En nuestra serie se observaron variantes anatómicas no clásicas de la arteria hepática aproximadamente en un tercio de los casos. El conocimiento de las variantes anatómicas fue esencial para los procedimientos radiológicos y quirúrgicos en el tratamiento de tumores hepáticos, determinando la técnica de abordaje de las arterias involucradas.

Abstract Objective: To evaluate and describe the prevalence of hepatic artery anatomical variants observed in a multicenter series of patients with hepatobiliary pathologies. Method: Retrospective study of arterial anatomy according to Michels classification of digital angiographies and abdominal helical computed tomography performed between February 2009 and December 2020 in three hospitals of the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area. Results: 275 patients were included in the study. Median age 58.5 years. Male sex 73.1%. Type 1 (normal) variant of hepatic artery anatomy in 192 cases (69.8%); type 2 in 18 cases (6.5%); type 3 in 19 cases (6.9%); type 4 in 7 cases (2.5%); type 5 in 4 cases (1.5%); type 6 in 3 cases (1.1%); type 7 in 2 cases (0.7%); type 8 in 7 cases (2.5%); type 9 in 17 cases (6.2%), and other types out Michels classification in 6 cases (2.2%). We also found 3 cases (1.1%) with Bühler's arch. Conclusions: In our series, non-classical anatomical variants of the hepatic artery were observed in approximately one third of cases. Knowledge of anatomical variants was essential for radiological and surgical procedures in the treatment of liver tumors, determining the approach technique of the arteries involved.

Biopsia percutánea de nódulos y masas pulmonares bajo ecografía: una alternativa a la tomografía computada / Ultrasound guided percutaneous biopsy of pulmonary nodules and masses: an alternative to CT

Resumen Los nódulos y masas pulmonares tradicionalmente son biopsiados mediante tomografía computada (TC). La ecografía está subestimada como guía para biopsias pulmonares. Las imágenes pulmonares factibles de biopsia con ecografía son aquellas en contacto pleural. Las contraindicaciones específicas incluyen ventilación mecánica asistida, neumonectomía contralateral, paciente no colaborador, tos incontrolable. En el monitoreo posbiopsia deberán controlarse los signos vitales, el dolor y la presencia de complicaciones. Por la localización de las lesiones abordables por este método, el neumotórax y el sangrado parenquimatoso como complicación son menos frecuentes que en las biopsias dirigidas por TC. En este artículo describimos los conceptos básicos para la correcta selección de paciente, planificación y ejecución segura de una biopsia de nódulo pulmonar bajo ecografía.

Abstract Pulmonary nodules and masses are traditionally biopsied under computed tomography (CT) guidance. Ultrasound remains underrated as lung nodule biopsy guide. Ultrasound can be employed to target pleural based lung nodules. Specific contraindications include: mechanical ventilation, contralateral pneumonectomy, non-cooperative patient and uncontrollable coughing. Post procedural care should cover vital signs check, pain assessment and complication evaluation. Due to lesion localization, complications such as pneumothorax and parenchymal bleeding are less frequent than in CT guided biopsies. In this article we provide basic concepts for patient selection, plan and safe execution of ultrasound guided pulmonary nodule biopsy.

Biopsias pelvianas percutáneas: guía iconográfica de abordajes seguros / Percutaneous pelvic biopsies: An illustrative guideline for safe approaches

Resumen Las biopsias percutáneas a nivel de la pelvis plantean un desafío dada la compleja anatomía regional. El conocimiento de las estructuras afectadas y el tipo de lesión a intervenir son algunos de los aspectos que van a influenciar la técnica que se utilice. Se han propuesto distintas vías de abordaje, pero aún carecen de sistematización. El objetivo de este artículo es destacar accesos seguros ejemplificando con casos ilustrativos de nuestra institución. Además, agregamos comentarios basados en nuestra experiencia.

Abstract Pelvic percutaneous biopsies are challenging due to complex regional anatomy. Knowledge of affected structures and lesion type are some of the aspects that will condition the technique applied. Different approaches to pelvic percutaneous biopsies have been proposed, but still lack systematization. The aim of this article is to highlight safe approaches supported with illustrative cases. Furthermore, we provide opinion based on our experience.

Percutaneous Balloon Dilatation for Hepaticojejunostomy Stricture Following Paediatric Liver Transplantation: Long-Term Results of an Institutional "Three-Session" Protocol.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to report the long-term results of an institutional protocol of percutaneous biliary balloon dilatation (PBBD) on paediatric patients with benign anastomotic stricture after liver transplantation. As a secondary objective, we evaluated risk factors associated with post-treatment re-stricture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fourteen paediatric, post-liver transplant patients with benign anastomotic stricture of Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy were included. All patients underwent the same treatment protocol of three PBBD procedures with 15-day intervals. Clinical outcome was analysed using the Terblanche classification. Primary patency rate was assessed with the Kaplan-Meier test. RESULTS: All patients had an initial successful result (Terblanche grade, excellent/good) after PBBD. At the end of the follow-up time of 35.7 ± 21.1 months (CI95%, 23.5-47.9), 10 patients persisted with excellent/good grading, while the remaining 4 had re-stricture, all of the latter occurring within the first 19 months. Patency rate after percutaneous treatment at 1, 3, and 5 years were 85.7%, 70%, and 70%, respectively. History of major complication after liver transplantation was associated with 5 times higher risk of re-stricture, HR 5.48 [95% CI, 2.18-8.78], p = 0.018. CONCLUSION: In paediatric patients with benign anastomotic stricture of hepaticojejunostomy after liver transplantation, the "Three-session" percutaneous biliary balloon dilatation protocol is associated with a high rate of long-term success. In this limited series, the history of post-liver transplant major complication, defined as complications requiring a reintervention under general anaesthesia or advanced life support, seems to be an independent risk factor for stricture recurrence.

Percutaneous retrieval of intravascular foreign body in children: a case series and review.

BACKGROUND: Percutaneous retrieval of intravascular foreign bodies has recently increased as a treatment option. PURPOSE: To report our single-center experience of the percutaneous retrieval of 14 intravascular embolized catheter fragments in children and to conduct a literature review. MATERIAL AND METHODS: MEDLINE databases were searched for case reports and series including children and iatrogenic catheter fragments or guidewires retrieved through percutaneous techniques. We also conducted a retrospective analysis of 14 cases from our institution over a 14-year period. A total of 27 studies were selected comprising 74 children, plus our 14 unpublished cases. Statistical analyses were performed using Microsoft Excel version 2016. RESULTS: Port catheter fragments and peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) were the most embolized foreign bodies and the pulmonary artery was the most common site of embolization in 44.1% of cases. Analysis of the retrieval technique demonstrated a preference for extraction through the femoral vein (81.7%) and using snare techniques (93.5%). The success rate of percutaneous retrieval was 96.6% with only 1.1% of procedure-related complications. Patients were asymptomatic in 77.2% of cases, presented septic complications in 2.3%, and no deaths were reported. Median fluoroscopy time was 10 min (range = 1.7-80 min) and median procedure length was 60 min (range = 35-208 min). CONCLUSION: Percutaneous retrieval of intravascular foreign bodies is a feasible, safe, and efficient technique in children and should be considered the preferred treatment option.

Pressurized hydrodissection for CT-guided percutaneous peritoneal navigation: The hydro jet technique.

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effectiveness of a new technique of hydrodissection for peritoneal structures displacement during preoperative localization markers placement. We retrospectively reviewed two cases of percutaneous fiducial marker placement prior rescue retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy. In both cases pressurized 5% dextrose in water (D5W) was used to hydrodissect the peritoneal space and securely reach the lymph nodes. Two patients were submitted to water jet technique for transperitoneal trespassing to reach the retroperitoneum. The volume of fluid used to navigate was 125-200 mL and the mean time to cross the peritoneum was 6 min 47 s (ranging from 3″26' to 10″24'). In conclusion, Bowel and small vessels displacement using pressurized D5W is a safe method to reach retroperitoneal space during percutaneous procedures.