The incidence and fate of endoleaks vary between ruptured and elective endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair.

BACKGROUND: The number of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (r-AAA) patients who are treated by endovascular means is increasing as ruptured endovascular aneurysm repair (r-EVAR) enters the mainstream. However, even today, data on the incidence and behavior of endoleaks after r-EVAR are scarce. This study analyzed whether endoleaks behave differently after EVAR for rupture vs elective AAA repair. METHODS: From 2002 to 2013, there were 2052 patients who underwent EVAR for treatment of rupture (n = 166 [8.1%]) and elective repair (n = 1886 [91.9%]) of infrarenal AAA. Follow-up included computed tomography angiography at 1 month, at 6 months, and yearly thereafter. All type I and type III endoleaks were treated at the time of or shortly after the diagnosis. Persistent type II endoleaks at >6 months after EVAR without a decrease in AAA sac underwent translumbar or transfemoral embolization procedures. Data were prospectively collected in a vascular database. RESULTS: During a mean follow-up of 30 months, patients had a significantly lower incidence of type II endoleaks after r-EVAR compared with elective endovascular aneurysm repair (e-EVAR; n = 15 [9.0%] vs n = 380 [20.2%]; P < .01). Although the incidence of type I endoleaks is similar after r-EVAR (n = 9 [5.4%] and e-EVAR (n = 83 [4.4%]; P = .68), the r-EVAR patients required stent graft explantation more frequently (n = 9 [5.4%] vs n = 20 [1.1%]; P < .01). Whereas the need for secondary intervention was comparable in both r-EVAR (n = 33 [19.9%]) and e-EVAR (n = 439 [23.3%]; P = .37) groups, patients undergoing percutaneous embolization procedures trended toward significance between the two groups (n = 11 [6.6%] vs n = 216 [11.5%]; P = .06) with endoleaks. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with e-EVAR, patients who undergo r-EVAR experience a similar incidence of type I endoleaks and a significantly lower incidence of type II endoleaks. The endoleaks in both e-EVAR and r-EVAR patients can frequently be managed by endovascular means. However, r-EVAR patients with type I and type II endoleaks are at a significantly higher risk for stent graft explantation.

Percutaneous common femoral artery interventions using angioplasty, atherectomy, and stenting.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of endovascular interventions for common femoral artery (CFA) occlusive disease. METHODS: Using a prospectively maintained multicenter database, we analyzed outcomes in 167 consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous CFA interventions for Rutherford class 3 to class 6 (R3-R6) disease. The standardized treatment approach included primary percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) only, atherectomy + PTA, and provisional stenting. Outcomes included technical failure rate, recurrence, complications, and major or minor amputation rate. Data were analyzed using multivariate regression analysis. RESULTS: During a 7-year period, 167 patients with R3 (n = 91 [54.5%]) and R4 to R6 (n = 76 [45.5%]) disease underwent CFA interventions that included PTA only (n = 114 [68.2%]), atherectomy ± PTA (n = 38 [22.8%]), and provisional stenting (n = 15 [9.0%]) for failed atherectomy ± PTA. Procedure-related complications included pseudoaneurysm (n = 1 [0.6%]), thrombosis (n = 1 [0.6%]), distal embolization (n = 1 [0.6%]), and death (R6, n = 1 [0.06%]). CFA restenosis was observed in 34 (20.4%) patents; these underwent further percutaneous (n = 18 [10.8%]) or surgical (n = 17 [10.2%]) revascularization that included CFA endarterectomy ± femoral distal bypass. Major or minor amputations were observed in none of the R3 patients and in only three (3.9%) and five (6.5%) of the R4 to R6 patients, respectively. Compared with the atherectomy + PTA group, patients in the PTA-only group had a significantly lower patency. Furthermore, during long-term mean follow-up of 42.5 months, the CFA provisional stent group had a 100% primary patency, which was significantly better than the primary patency in the CFA nonstent groups combined (77.0%; P = .0424). CONCLUSIONS: Data from this study to date would suggest that percutaneous CFA interventions in select patients are relatively safe and effective. In the long term, CFA stenting has significantly better primary patency than CFA atherectomy and PTA combined. CFA atherectomy + PTA has significantly better primary patency than CFA PTA-only at midterm, especially in patients with claudication. Future randomized controlled trials are warranted.

Standardized protocols enable stroke recognition and early treatment of carotid stenosis.

OBJECTIVE: This study examined the effect of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) care coordination between vascular surgery and stroke neurology services with primary focus on acute patient stabilization and expeditious carotid endarterectomy (CEA). METHODS: A standardized AIS protocol was instituted between vascular surgery and stroke neurology services in an academic hospital (group I) that included: (1) rapid patient evaluation and imaging inclusive of brain and carotid computed tomography/magnetic resonance angiography, carotid duplex ultrasound imaging or conventional arteriogram, or both; (2) patient admission to a dedicated stroke unit with minimum 1:2 intensive care nurse-to-patient staffing and a 24-hour available neurointensivist; (3) treatment of all patients with ipsilateral moderate or severe carotid stenosis by CEA with cervical block (158 [81%]) or general anesthesia (38 [19%]). Patient exclusion from undergoing expeditious CEA included (1) stroke in evolution, and (2) dense neurologic deficit or National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score >15 (severe), or both. Comparisons of data were performed between group I patients and those treated in outlying hospitals (group II) for similar indications. All data were prospectively collected in a computerized database and outcomes evaluated retrospectively. RESULTS: From November 2002 to November 2012, 369 patients underwent CEA for AIS ≤1 week of presentation. There were 192 patients in group I and 177 in group II. There were no differences in group I and II in mean stroke-to-CEA interval (3.4 vs 3.9 days) or in the performance of eversion CEA (94% vs 97%), respectively. Intraoperative shunt use was greater in group I (28%) than in group II (18%; P = .021). Fewer total neurologic events (stroke or transient ischemic attack) occurred in group I (6 [3.1%] vs 14 [7.3%]; P = .03). No patients died in either group. Postoperative National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores available in group I patients showed improvement from preoperative baseline in mild and moderate stroke patients (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with stable acute stroke, early CEA is feasible and relatively safe. Stroke or death occurs in only 1%, and most complications are of nonfatal cardiac origin. A standardized stroke team protocol that is inclusive of stroke neurologists and vascular surgeons allows for expeditious and safe CEA in the setting of an acute stroke.

The impact of hemodynamic status on outcomes of endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair for rupture.

OBJECTIVE: To date, there are no published reports comparing hemodynamically (Hd)-stable and Hd-unstable patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (r-AAAs) undergoing endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). This study evaluates outcomes of EVAR for r-AAA based on patient's Hd status METHODS: From 2002 to 2011, 136 patients with r-AAAs underwent EVAR and were categorized into two groups based on systolic blood pressure (SBP) measurements before EVAR: 92 (68%) Hd-stable (SBP ≥ 80 mm Hg) and 44 (32%) Hd-unstable (SBP <80 mm Hg for >10 minutes). All data were prospectively entered in a database and retrospectively analyzed. Outcomes included 30-day mortality, postoperative complications, the need for secondary reinterventions, and midterm mortality. The effect of potential predictors on 30-day mortality was assessed by χ(2) and logistic regression. RESULTS: Of the 136 r-AAA patients with EVAR, the Hd-stable and Hd-unstable groups had similar comorbidities (coronary artery disease, 63% vs 59%; hypertension, 72% vs 75%; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, 21% vs 26%; and chronic renal insufficiency, 18% vs 18%), mean AAA maximum diameter (6.6 vs 6.4 cm), need for on-the-table conversion to open surgical repair (3% vs 7%), and incidences of nonfatal complications (43% vs 38%) and secondary interventions (23% vs 25%). Preoperative computed tomography scan was available in significantly fewer Hd-unstable patients (64% vs 100%; P < .05). Compared with Hd-stable patients, the Hd-unstable patients had a significantly higher intraoperative need for aortic occlusion balloon (40% vs 6%; P < .05), mean estimated blood loss (744 vs 363 mL; P < .05), incidence of developing abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS; 29% vs 4%; P < .01), and death (33% vs 18%; P < .05). ACS was a significant predictor of death; death in all r-EVAR with ACS was significantly higher compared with all r-EVAR without ACS (10 of 17 [59%] vs 22 of 119 [18%]; P < .01). CONCLUSIONS: EVAR for r-AAA is feasible in Hd-stable and Hd-unstable patients, with a comparable incidence of conversion to open surgical repair, nonfatal complications, and secondary interventions. Hd-stable patients have reduced mortality at 30 days, whereas Hd-unstable patients require intraoperative aortic occlusion balloon more frequently, and have an increased risk for developing ACS and death.

Endovascular repair of ruptured infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm is associated with lower 30-day mortality and better 5-year survival rates than open surgical repair.

OBJECTIVE: Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) decreases 30-day mortality for patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (r-AAAs) compared with open surgical repair (OSR). However, which patients benefit or whether there is any long-term survival advantage is uncertain. METHODS: From 2002 to 2011, 283 patients with r-AAA underwent EVAR (n = 120 [42.4%]) or OSR (n = 163 [57.6%]) at Albany Medical Center. All data were collected prospectively. Patients were analyzed on an intention-to-treat basis, and outcomes were evaluated by a logistic regression multivariable model. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to compare long-term survival. RESULTS: The EVAR patients had a significantly lower 30-day mortality than did the OSR patients (29/120 [24.2%] vs 72/163 [44.2%]; P < .005) and better cumulative 5-year survival (37% vs 26%; P < .005). Men benefited more from EVAR (mortality: 20.9% for EVAR vs 44.3% for OSR; P < .001) than did women (mortality: 32.4% vs 43.9%; P = .39). Age ≥80 years was a significant predictor of death for EVAR (odds ratio [OR], 1.07; P = .003) but not for OSR (OR, 1.04; P = .056). Preexisting hypertension was a significant predictor of survival for both EVAR (OR, 0.17; P < .001) and OSR (OR, 0.48; P = .021). Almost one fourth of EVAR patients (21/91 [23.1%]) required secondary interventions. Survival advantage was maintained for EVAR patients to 5 years. CONCLUSIONS: For r-AAA, EVAR reduces the 30-day mortality and improves long-term survival up to 5 years. However, whereas open survivors require few graft-related interventions, up to 23% of EVAR patients will require reintervention for endoleaks or graft migration. Close follow-up of all EVAR survivors is mandatory.

Women derive less benefit from elective endovascular aneurysm repair than men.

BACKGROUND: Women have a lower chance of surviving elective open abdominal aortic repair. The reasons for this are not clear. Endovascular repair has clearly reduced early and midterm morbidity and mortality for patients with large abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). However, most patients are male. It is unclear whether there has been any reduction in elective morbidity for females or what the extent of that reduction has been. We prospectively analyzed outcomes for elective endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) in women at our center and compared results with those for elective open surgery and emergent open and endovascular repair. METHODS: All patients undergoing elective and emergency AAA from 2002 to 2009 were prospectively entered into a database. Demographic details, including gender, were tabulated. Outcome measures were operative blood loss, incidence of type 1 endoleaks, length of in-hospital stay, postoperative complications, 30-day all-cause mortality, and secondary interventions during the follow-up period. Statistical analysis was performed using Fischer exact test and Student t test. A multivariate analysis was also performed. RESULTS: From 2002 to 2009, there were 2631 abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) open and endovascular repairs performed in our center (1698 endovascular aneurysm repairs [EVARs], 933 "open"). Males comprised 1995 (76%) of patients; females 636 (24%). There were 1592 elective EVARs (1248 male, 344 female) and 106 emergency EVARs (73 male, 33 female). Elective open repair was performed in 788 patients (579 male, 209 female) and emergency open repair in 149 (73 male, 76 female). For women, elective EVAR resulted in significantly greater mortality rates than men (3.2% vs 0.96%, P < .005). There was a greater incidence of intraoperative aortic neck or iliac artery rupture (4.1% vs 1.2% P = .002) and use of Palmaz stents for type 1 endoleaks (16.1% vs 8%, P = .0009). Mean blood loss was greater in females (327 mL vs 275 mL, P = .038). Perioperative complications were also more frequent in women: leg ischemia (3.5% vs 0.6%, P = .003) and colon ischemia requiring colectomy (0.9% vs 0.2%, P = .009). Mean hospital stay was also longer (3.7 days vs 2.2 days, P = .0001). In contrast, there were no gender differences for any of these outcome measures for elective open repair or emergency open surgery or EVAR. There was no significant difference in death rates between EVAR and open repair in women (3.2% vs 5.7%). In males, the 30-day mortality was 0.96% for elective EVAR and 4.7% for elective open surgery. Following logistic regression, female gender remains a significant risk even when the effects of aneurysm size and age are considered (odds ratio 3.4, P < .01). CONCLUSIONS: Mortality for females undergoing elective EVAR is significantly greater than for males. It is also more hazardous. Colon ischemia, native arterial rupture, and type 1 endoleaks are more frequent. Elective endovascular aneurysm repair benefits men more than women.

Treatment options for delayed AAA rupture following endovascular repair.

PURPOSE: Delayed abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) rupture is a well recognized complication of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). We wanted to evaluate the frequency, etiology, and outcomes of delayed AAA rupture following EVAR, and identify treatment options that facilitate improved survival. METHODS: From 2002 to 2009, 1768 patients underwent elective and emergent EVAR. At a mean follow-up of 29 months, 27 (1.5%) patients presented with delayed AAA rupture and required repair by either open surgical conversion or endovascular means. All data were prospectively collected in a vascular registry, and outcomes analyzed. RESULTS: Over a mean follow-up of 29 months, the incidence of delayed AAA rupture after elective EVAR was 1.4% (24 of 1615 patients), and after emergent EVAR for ruptured AAA was 2.8% (3 of 106 patients). Of the 27 delayed AAA rupture patients, 20 (74%) were considered "lost to follow-up," and, at presentation, 17 (63%) patients had Type 1 endoleak with stent graft migration, three (11%) had Type 1 endoleak without stent graft migration, five (19%) had Type 2 endoleak, and two (7%) had undetermined etiology for aneurysm rupture. Fifteen (55%) patients underwent open surgical repair via retroperitoneal approach with partial (n = 8; 53%) or complete (n = 7; 47%) stent graft explants and aortoiliac reconstruction, 11 (41%) patients underwent a second EVAR, and one (4%) patient refused treatment and died. Supraceliac aortic clamp was required in three (20%) patients with open surgical conversion, and supraceliac occlusion balloon was required in two (18%) patients with EVAR. There were three (11%) postoperative deaths; two following open surgical conversion and one following EVAR. One additional redo-EVAR patient has undergone successful elective conversion to open surgical repair for persistent type II endoleak and increase in AAA size. CONCLUSIONS: Delayed AAA rupture following EVAR can be successfully managed in most patients by open surgical conversion or secondary EVAR. The approach to each patient should be individualized; complete stent graft explant is not necessary in most patients; a secondary EVAR for delayed AAA rupture with or without an elective conversion to open surgical repair remains a viable option. Vigilant routine follow-up is needed for all patients after EVAR.

Long-term outcomes of secondary procedures after endovascular aneurysm repair.

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the outcomes of secondary procedures after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). METHODS: From 2002 to 2009, 1768 patients underwent EVAR for treatment of 1662 elective (94%) and 106 emergent (6%) infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) with a variety of Food and Drug Administration-approved and commercially available stent grafts. Postoperative follow-up included clinical examination, pulse volume recording, duplex ultrasound imaging, and computed tomography and magnetic resonance angiography at 1, 6, and 12 months, and yearly thereafter. Patients with type I and III endoleaks, unexplained endotension, limb occlusion, stent graft migration, with and without type I endoleak, and aneurysm rupture underwent secondary interventions. Type II endoleak at >6 months without a decrease in the aneurysm sac underwent translumbar embolization. Data were prospectively collected. RESULTS: EVAR was performed in 1768 patients. During a mean follow-up of 34 (SD, 30.03) months, 339 patients (19.2%) required additional secondary procedures for aneurysm-related complications, including type I (n = 51, 15.0%), type II (n = 136, 40.1%), and type III (n = 5, 1.5%) endoleaks; endotension (n = 8, 2.4%), stent graft migration proximal fixation site (n = 46, 13.6%), stent graft iliac limb thrombosis or stenosis (n = 25, 7.4%), subsequent iliac aneurysm formation (n = 39, 11.5%), or aneurysm rupture after EVAR (n = 29, 8.6%). The mean age was 74 (SD, 9.15) years. Mean AAA size was 5.7 (SD 3.24) cm. Compared with secondary procedures for AAA rupture, the nonrupture patients had a significantly lower mortality (1.6% vs 17.2%, P < .05) and a higher likelihood of being managed by endovascular means (98.8% vs 44.8%, P < .05). When nonruptured EVAR patients required urgent secondary procedures for type I endoleaks and stent graft migration or limb thrombosis, the mortality was 6.0% vs 0.5% for elective procedures (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Our long-term EVAR experience indicates that 18% of patients require additional secondary procedures, and most of these patients can be managed by endovascular means with an acceptable overall mortality of 2.9%. Most type I and II endoleaks can be successfully treated by transluminal embolization, and most patients with delayed aneurysm rupture after EVAR can be successfully managed by endovascular or open surgical repair.

Outcomes of planned celiac artery coverage during TEVAR.

OBJECTIVE: Successful thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR) requires adequate proximal and distal fixation and seal. We report our experience of planned celiac artery coverage during endovascular repair of complex thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA). METHODS: Since 2004, 228 patients underwent TEVAR under elective (n=162, 71%) and emergent circumstances (66, 29%). Patients with inadequate distal stent grafts landing zones during TEVAR underwent detailed evaluation of the gastroduodenal arcade with communicating collaterals between the celiac and superior mesenteric artery (SMA) by computed tomography angiography and intraoperative arteriogram. If needed, in presence of a patent SMA and demonstration of collaterals to the celiac artery, the stent grafts were extended to the SMA with celiac artery coverage. Furthermore, instances when further lengthening of distal thoracic stent graft landing zone was needed to obtain an adequate seal, the SMA was partially covered with the endograft, and a balloon expandable stent was routinely deployed in proximal SMA to maintain patency. Outcome data were prospectively collected and analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS: Thirty-one of 228 (14%) patients with TEVAR required celiac artery interruption; 24 (77%) had demonstrable collaterals to the SMA. Twelve (39%) of 31 patients underwent additional partial SMA coverage by stent graft, and proximal SMA stent. The majority of patients were females (n=20, 65%), the mean age was 74 years (range 55-87 years), and the mean TAA size was 6.5 cm. Postoperative complications included visceral ischemia in 2 (6%) patients, paraplegia in 2 (6%) patients, and death in 2 (6%) patients. All type 1b endoleaks (n=2, 6%) and type 2 endoleaks vial retrograde flow from the celiac artery (n=3, 10%) were successfully treated by transfemoral coil embolization. Over a mean follow-up of 15 months, there have been no other complications of mesenteric ischemia, spinal cord ischemia, SMA in-stent stenosis, or conversion to open surgical repair. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that celiac artery coverage to facilitate adequate distal sealing during TEVAR with complex TAA is relatively safe in the presence of SMA-celiac collaterals. Pre-existing SMA stenosis can be successfully treated by balloon expandable stents during TEVAR, and endoleaks arising from distal stent grafts attachment site or via retrograde flow from the celiac artery can be successfully managed by transfemoral coil embolization. Although early results are encouraging, long-term efficacy of these procedures remains to be determined and vigilant follow-up is needed.

Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm: endovascular program development and results.

Improvements in endovascular technology and techniques have allowed us to treat patients in ways we never thought possible. Today endovascular treatment of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms is associated with markedly decreased morbidity and mortality when compared to the open surgical approach, yet there are several fundamental obstacles in our ability to offer these endovascular techniques to most patients with ruptured aneurysms. This article will focus on the technical aspects of endovascular aneurysm repair for rupture, with particular attention to developing a standardized multidisciplinary approach that will help ones ability to deal with not just the technical aspects of these procedures, but also address some of the challenges including: the availability of preoperative CT, the choice of anesthesia, percutaneous vs. femoral cut-down approach, use of aortic occlusion balloons, need for bifurcated vs. aorto-uniiliac stentgrafts, need for adjunctive procedures, diagnosis and treatment of abdominal compartment syndrome, and conversion to open surgical repair.

Comparative results of open lower extremity revascularization in nonagenarians.

INTRODUCTION: The average lifespan in the United States continues to lengthen. We have observed a similar trend in our patients, with an increased number of nonagenarians presenting for evaluation of vascular disease. This study evaluated outcomes of lower extremity revascularization in patients aged >or=90 years. METHODS: The vascular registry at Albany Medical College was retrospectively reviewed for all lower extremity bypasses performed between 1996 and 2006. We evaluated patient demographics, indications, procedure, patency rates, and complications. Patients were divided into groups based on age >or=90 years (>or=90 group) and <90 years (<90 group). Variables were evaluated by chi(2) analysis. Outcomes were prepared using life-table methods and compared with log-rank analysis. RESULTS: During the last 10 years, 5443 lower extremity bypasses were performed on patients aged <90 years and 150 on patients aged >or=90 years. The <90 group had significantly more men (61.4% vs 29.3%) and was obviously younger, at 68 years (range 7-89 years) vs 92 years (range, 90-101 years). The <90 group had more comorbidities in terms of diabetes, active tobacco use, and hypercholesterolemia. No significant difference was noted in coronary artery disease or chronic renal insufficiency between the groups. Critical limb ischemia as an indication was significantly higher in the >or=90 group (149 [99%] vs 4472 [82%]; P < .0.5). Strikingly, the primary patency was significantly higher in the >or=90 group at 4 years (77% vs 62%; P < .05). Complication and amputation rates did not differ between the groups. Perioperative (15% vs 3%; P < .05) and 1-year (45% vs 11%; P < .05) mortality rates were significantly higher in the >or=90 group. CONCLUSION: Lower extremity bypass for nonagenarians offers acceptable patency and limb salvage but at a significantly higher mortality rate.

Primary revision of mid-vein stenoses in venous bypass conduits: venous patch versus interposition vein.

PURPOSE: Patients after infrainguinal vein bypasses are a group at risk of graft stenosis and occlusion. Revision of failing grafts has been shown to significantly improve bypass patency and limb salvage. Options for surgical revision of mid bypass stenosis includes either patch angioplasty (PA) or interposition grafting (IG). We reviewed our experience with surgical revision of vein bypass stenosis. METHODS: From April 1968 to March 2006, 7557 autogenous vein bypasses were performed at Albany Medical Center and its affiliated institutions, of these 316 required single or multiple revision of vein grafts with patch angioplasty or interposition vein grafting. Excluded were proximal and distal anastomotic revisions. Only 235 bypasses had single revisions as either patch angioplasty (n = 108) or interposition grafting (n = 127) and are the focus of this review. The initial bypass revisions in these two groups are analyzed for indications, clinical parameters, operative strategies, and long-term patencies and clinical outcomes. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in mean age, gender, or frequency of comorbid conditions (coronary artery disease, pulmonary disease, hypertension, and diabetes) between the two patient groups. Secondary patency of patch angioplasty revision at 5 years was 79%. Patencies for interposition grafting revision at 5 years were equivalent to patch angioplasty group at 75%. When bypasses were evaluated on the basis of initial reconstructions (ie, in situ vs excised vein bypass), the results showed that in situ bypasses that required initial revision had similar 5-year patencies when interposition grafting was used as the first revision strategy vs patch angioplasty (80% vs 73%). Excised vein bypasses had similar patency when patch was their first revision strategy vs interposition grafting (4 year secondary patency 92% vs 75% respectively). CONCLUSION: Autogenous vein bypasses are at risk for developing significant stenosis and occlusion with time. Bypass stenosis that develops in the main body of the graft can be effectively repaired using either patch angioplasty or interposition grafting. Depending on the host of other factors, such as availability of autogenous venous conduit, location of stenosis, accessibility for operative repair, and the patient's anatomic characteristics, either operative strategy is effective in prolonging the patency of the bypass.

Establishing a protocol for endovascular treatment of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms: outcomes of a prospective analysis.

PURPOSE: In our transition from elective abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) to emergent ruptured AAA (r-AAA) repair with endovascular techniques, we recognized that the availability of endovascularly trained staff in the operating rooms and emergency departments, and adequate equipment were the limiting factors. To this end, we established a multidisciplinary protocol that facilitates endovascular repair (EVAR) of r-AAA. METHODS: In January 2002, we instituted a multidisciplinary approach that included the vascular surgeons, emergency department physicians, anesthesiologists, operating room staff, radiology technicians, and availability of a variety of stent-grafts to expedite EVAR of r-AAAs. Five patients with symptomatic, not ruptured AAAs suitable for EVAR underwent simulation of patients presenting to the emergency department with r-AAAs. Emergency department physicians alerted the on-call vascular surgery team (vascular surgeon, vascular resident or fellow) and the operating room staff, emergently performed an abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan in only hemodynamically stable patients with systolic blood pressures > or =80 mm Hg, and transported the patient to the operating room. The vascular surgeon informed the operating room staff to set up for EVAR and open surgical repair in an operating room equipped with interventional capabilities. The operating room setup was rehearsed with the anesthesiologists, operating room staff, and radiology technicians who were knowledgeable of the sequence of steps involved. Since then, 40 patients have undergone emergent EVAR for r-AAAs with general anesthesia. RESULTS: No complications developed in any of the symptomatic (simulation) patients, and 40 (95%) of 42 patients with r-AAAs had a successful EVAR with Excluder (n = 27, 68%), AneuRx (n = 9, 23%), or the Zenith (n = 4, 10%) stent-grafts. The mean age was 73 years (range, 54 to 88 years), and pre-existing comorbidities included coronary artery disease in 26 (65%), hypertension in 23 (58%), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in 7 (18%), renal insufficiency not on dialysis in two (5%), and diabetes in nine (23%). Fourteen (38%) patients were diagnosed with r-AAAs at another hospital and subsequently were transferred to us, and 26 (62%) presented directly to the emergency department at our institution. At the initial presentation, 30 patients (75%) were hemodynamically stable and either had a CT scan at an outside hospital or in the emergency department, and 10 (25%) hemodynamically unstable patients with systolic blood pressures <80 mm Hg were rushed to the operating room for EVAR without a preoperative CT scan. The mean time from the presumptive diagnosis of a r-AAA in the emergency department to the operating room for EVAR was 20 minutes (range, 10 to 35 minutes), and the mean operative time from skin incision to closure was 80 minutes (range, 35 to 125 minutes). Seven patients (18%) needed supraceliac aortic occlusion balloon, and six (15%) needed aortouniiliac stent-grafts. The mean blood loss was 455 mL (range, 115 to 1100 mL). Two patients each (5%) developed myocardial infarction, renal failure, and ischemic colitis, seven (18%) developed abdominal compartment syndrome, and seven (18%) died. Over a mean follow-up of 17 months, three patients with endovascular r-AAA repair required four secondary procedures. CONCLUSIONS: The early results show that emergent endovascular treatment of hemodynamically stable and unstable patients is associated with a limited mortality of 18% once a standardized protocol is established. There is an increased recognition of emerging complications with an endovascular approach, and a synchrony of disciplines must be developed to initiate a successful program for endovascular treatment of r-AAAs.

Combined carotid endarterectomy and coronary artery bypass grafting in patients with asymptomatic high-grade stenoses: an analysis of 758 procedures.

PURPOSE: Surgical treatment of hemodynamically significant carotid artery stenoses has been well documented, especially in the asymptomatic patient. However, in those patients presenting with hemodynamically significant asymptomatic carotid artery disease who are to undergo cardiac surgery, optimal treatment remains controversial. In this study, we analyze our experience with patients who underwent synchronous carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and coronary artery bypass graft procedures (CABG) for hemodynamically significant (>70%) asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis and coronary artery disease (CAD). METHODS: Demographics and outcomes of all patients undergoing synchronous CEA/CABG for asymptomatic carotid stenosis between April 1980 and January 2005 were reviewed from our vascular registry and patient charts. We included patients who underwent standard patching of their carotid artery and those undergoing eversion CEA. All neurologic events within the first 30 days that persisted >24 hours were considered a stroke. For purposes of comparison, we also reviewed outcomes for patients undergoing synchronous CEA/CABG for symptomatic carotid stenosis. RESULTS: Asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis (>70%) was the indication in 702 patients (276 women and 426 men) undergoing 758 CEAs. In the asymptomatic group, 22 patients, of which 21 succumbed to cardiac dysfunction, and one died from a hemorrhagic stroke. The overall mortality rate was 3.1%. Seven permanent nonfatal neurologic deficits occurred in this series (1 woman, 6 men). The combined stroke mortality was 4.3%. This compares to a 30-day stroke mortality of 6.1% in 132 symptomatic combined CEA/CABG patients. The difference in stroke mortality in women compared with men was not significant. CONCLUSION: In this experience, patients presenting with hemodynamically significant (>70%) asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis can undergo synchronous CEA/CABG with low morbidity and mortality.

Factors associated with abdominal compartment syndrome complicating endovascular repair of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms.

BACKGROUND: Endovascular treatment of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (r-AAAs) has the potential to offer improved outcomes. As our experience with endovascular repair of r-AAA evolved, we recognized that the development of abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) led to an increase in morbidity and mortality. We therefore reviewed our experience to identify risk factors associated with the development of ACS. METHODS: From January 2002 to December 2004, 30 patients underwent emergent endovascular repair of r-AAA by using commercially available stent grafts. All patients who developed ACS underwent emergent laparotomy. Physiological and clinical parameters were analyzed between patients with and without ACS after endovascular r-AAA repair. RESULTS: Over the past 3 years, 30 patients underwent endovascular r-AAA repair, and 6 (20%) patients developed ACS. Patients with ACS had a higher incidence of the need for aortic occlusion balloon (67% vs 12%; P = .01), a markedly longer activated partial thromboplastin time (128 +/- 84 seconds vs 49 +/- 31 seconds; P = .01), a greater need for blood transfusion (8 +/- 2.5 units vs 1.8 +/- 1.7 units; P = .08), and a higher incidence of conversion to aortouni-iliac devices because of ongoing hemodynamic instability and an inability to expeditiously cannulate the contralateral gate (67% vs 8%) when compared with patients without ACS. The mortality was significantly higher in the patients with ACS (67%; 4 of 6) compared with patients without ACS (13%; 3 of 24; P = .01). CONCLUSIONS: ACS is a potential complication of endovascular repair of r-AAA and negatively affects survival. Factors associated with the development of ACS include (1) use of an aortic occlusion balloon, (2) coagulopathy, (3) massive transfusion requirements, and (4) conversion of bifurcated stent grafts into aortouni-iliac devices. We recommend that, after endovascular repair of r-AAA, these patients undergo vigilant monitoring for the development of ACS.

Hemodynamic changes associated with bypass stenosis regression.

OBJECTIVE: Ultrasound scanning is used to detect velocity increases indicative of a bypass stenosis. Subsequent examinations have shown regression of some stenotic lesions. This study examined hemodynamic changes that coincided with stenosis regression. METHODS: Duplex ultrasound scans were used to record the peak systolic velocity (PSV) and volume flow from proximal and distal segments of infrainguinal bypasses. Valve remnants or other image defects were also noted. The PSV ratio (Vr) was calculated as the PSV at a stenosis divided by the PSV proximal to the lesion. A stenosis was defined as Vr >/=2.0. RESULTS: An initial ultrasound scan performed 31 +/- 6 days after surgery revealed a stenosis in 68 of 565 bypasses. In six bypasses, the increased PSV (272 +/- 61 cm/s) and Vr (3.4 +/- 1.3) were sustained during the follow-up period of 8 +/- 3 months. In 27 bypasses with a PSV of 335 +/- 63 cm/s and a Vr of 4.0 +/- 1.6, the stenosis was repaired. In 35 bypasses with a PSV of 261 +/- 82 cm/s and Vr of 3.2 +/- 1.2, stenosis regression occurred with no increases in PSV observed on later scans. In this group, proximal bypass flow decreased during the follow-up interval from 247 +/- 130 mL/min to 151 +/- 135 mL/min and distal flow from 180 +/- 102 mL/min to 103 +/- 54 mL/min ( P < .05, paired t test). Ultrasound image abnormalities were noted in 4 bypasses (67%) with persistent stenoses, 14 with repaired stenoses (52%), and 10 with resolved stenoses (29%). CONCLUSION: These data indicate early postoperative hyperemia is present in bypasses, demonstrating focal velocity increases. Such velocity increases may be the result of the bypass conduit acting as a flow-limiting lesion until the hyperemia subsides. As the blood flow decreases so does the PSV, giving the appearance of stenosis regression.

Safety and efficacy of eversion carotid endarterectomy for the treatment of recurrent stenosis: 20-year experience.

Current options for treating recurrent carotid stenosis (RCS) include standard longitudinal arteriotomy and patch angioplasty with or without carotid endarterectomy (s-PCEA), carotid-carotid bypass, or carotid angioplasty and stent (CAS). Eversion carotid endarterectomy (e-CEA) is an effective procedure for treating primary carotid stenosis, yet it has not been reported for treating RCS. We evaluated the feasibility and outcome of e-CEA for treating of RCS in comparison to s-PCEA. The records of all patients undergoing elective CEA for symptomatic and asymptomatic high-grade RCS from January 1981 to July 2002 were reviewed. Although during the earlier period s-PCEA was performed preferentially, this paradigm changed to e-CEA being the preferred technique for treatment of RCS. During the course of postoperative follow-up when duplex sonography suggested high-grade RCS, the diagnosis was confirmed via arteriography. Data on cranial nerve injury, recurrent stenosis, stroke, and death were prospectively collected into a vascular registry database and analyzed retrospectively, Students' t-test and chi-square analysis were used to compare the group's baseline characteristics and outcomes. Over a 21-year period, 7001 patients underwent primary CEA for symptomatic (n = 2405, 34%) or asymptomatic (n = 4596, 66%) high-grade stenosis via standard (n = 1501, 21%) or eversion (n = 5500, 79%) techniques. Fifteen (25%) patients had 70 to 80% stenosis, 30 (51%) had 81 to 90% stenosis, and 14 (24%) had 91 to 99% stenosis. During this time period, 59 patients presented with symptomatic (n = 18, 31%) or asymptomatic (n = 41, 69%) high-grade RCS and underwent operative repair via s-PCEA (n = 22, 37%) or eversion (n = 37, 63%) techniques. The mean time interval for repeat carotid surgery for RCS was 49 months in the s-PCEA group and 48 months in the e-CEA group. Permanent cranial nerve injuries, stroke, and recurrent restenosis occurred in one (4.5%), one (4.5%), and one (4.5%) of the patients undergoing s-PCEA, respectively. In the e-CEA group, these events occurred in one (27%), none (0%), and one (2.7%) patients, respectively, There were no deaths during the 30-day postoperative period. Eversion CEA is a feasible option for the treatment of many RCSs and can be performed safely with a low rate of cranial nerve injury, recurrent stenosis, stroke, and death.

Does sac size matter? Findings based on surgical exploration of excluded abdominal aortic aneurysms.

PURPOSE: To prospectively examine the outcomes of excluded abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) that continue to expand without evidence of endoleak. METHODS: From 1984 to 1998, 1218 patients underwent operative retroperitoneal exclusion of AAA and aortoiliac reconstructions. During the procedure, the aneurysm sac was ligated proximally, as well as distally, which created an ideal in-vivo model of excluded AAA sacs with or without endoleaks. From January 2002 to June 2003, 15 of these patients were identified as having an increase in AAA sac size with or without an endoleak on duplex ultrasonography. These patients were prospectively evaluated by computed tomography and diagnostic arteriography. Patients with a demonstrable endoleak underwent embolization, and the remainder underwent open surgical exploration. RESULTS: Eight patients had arteriographically demonstrated endoleaks that were treated with coil embolization. The remaining 7 patients (6 men; mean age 76 years, range 68-81) without a demonstrable endoleak underwent elective surgical exploration and sac endoaneurysmorrhaphy. The mean time interval between the original surgery and aneurysm sac exploration was 76 months (range 52-92); during this time, the mean aneurysm sac size increased by 2.7 cm (range 1.3-5.2). The mean sac pressure was 53 mmHg, and the sac walls were noticeably thickened, with markedly dilated vasa vasorum. The sac contained yellow, fibrinous material with clear serous fluid (5 patients without any evidence of retrograde flow) or liquefied thrombus with serosanguinous fluid (2 patients with retrograde flow from lumbar arteries). No AAA sacs were pulsatile. CONCLUSIONS: Continued expansion of excluded AAA sacs can occur from causes other than a missed endoleak. Exudation of fluid from thickened sac wall and vasa vasorum, as well as local enzymatic activity, might lead to the formation of a sac hygroma. Furthermore, these findings raise questions as to the need for surgical exploration of all patients with an enlarging AAA sac in the setting of low sac pressures and no definable endoleak.

Infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm repair via endovascular versus open retroperitoneal approach.

The beneficial effects of open surgical abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair via a left retroperitoneal approach have been established. We compared the short-term outcome of infrarenal AAA repair via an endovascular approach with that of an open retroperitoneal approach. From October 2001 to April 2003, patients with infrarenal AAA >5 cm were offered repair via an endovascular approach (group I) with a variety of industry-made stent grafts or with an open retroperitoneal surgical approach (group II). Data were prospectively collected in the vascular registry and complications were analyzed. Data comparison between the two groups was done by using chi-squared analysis and two-tailed Students t-test. Statistical significance was identified at p < 0.05. Over an 18-month period, 492 patients underwent evaluation for AAA. Of these, 446 patients had infrarenal AAA and underwent either endovascular (group I: n = 175, male 85%, female 15%) or open surgical repair (group II: n = 232, male 74%, female 26%) via a left retroperitoneal approach. Group I patients had a higher incidence of coronary artery disease (66% vs. 35%, p < 0.05), hypertension (74% vs. 43%, p < 0.05), chronic obstructed pulmonary disease (29% vs. 12%, p < 0.05), and diabetes mellitus (20% vs. 7%, p < 0.05), a lower mean amount of intraoperative blood loss (277 cc vs. 1452 cc, p < 0.05), and shorter length of stay in the hospital (1.7 days vs., 7.3 days, p < 0.05). Group I also had fewer complications of myocardial infarction (1.7% vs. 5.2%, p = NS), renal failure (0% vs. 2.6%, p < 0.05), pulmonary failure (1.7% vs. 2.6%, p = NS), ischemic colitis requiring colectomy (0.6% vs. 2.6%, p < 0.05), multisystem organ failure (0% vs. 1.3%, p = NS), and death (0.6% vs. 1.3%, p < 0.05). Despite increased preexisting comorbidities, patients undergoing endovascular aneurysm repair had less morbidity, mortality, and blood loss and a shorter in-hospital length of stay than patients undergoing open surgical aneurysm repair via a left retroperitoneal approach.

Outcome of popliteal artery aneurysms after exclusion and bypass: significance of residual patent branches mimicking type II endoleaks.

PURPOSE: Popliteal aneurysms (PAs) often are treated with exclusion and bypass. However, excluded aneurysms can transmit systemic pressure from persistent flow through collateral arteries (endoleak), resulting in aneurysm growth and rupture. We used duplex ultrasound scanning for postoperative surveillance more than 2 years after PA repair with exclusion and bypass, to determine the presence of flow and aneurysm growth. METHODS: From 1995 to 2001, 23 patients with 26 PAs (mean diameter, 3.2 cm; range, 1.6-5.6 cm) underwent surgical repair and were available for more than 2 years of follow-up. The popliteal artery was ligated proximal and distal to the aneurysm, and autogenous revascularization was performed. All patients who underwent PA endoaneurysmorrhaphy through a posterior approach were excluded from the study. During long-term follow-up, aneurysm sac flow and size were evaluated with duplex ultrasound scanning, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance angiography, and standard angiography. Patients with increased PA size and persistent flow were offered repair through a posterior approach. RESULTS: Over 7 years, 26 PAs (symptomatic, 11; asymptomatic, 15) treated with aneurysm exclusion and bypass were available for more than 2 years of follow-up (mean, 38 months; range, 24-78 months). In the postoperative period 16 PAs (62%) became thrombosed, 10 (38%) had persistent collateral flow through geniculate vessels, 6 (23%) increased in size, and 3 (12%) ruptured; 1 (4%) resulted in limb loss. Operative findings for all ruptured PAs and 3 of 6 PAs with increased sac size that underwent aneurysm sac exploration and endoaneurysmorrhaphy revealed retrograde flow through geniculate vessels, mimicking type II endoleak. CONCLUSIONS: These findings question the effectiveness of PA exclusion through proximal or distal ligation and bypass. In addition, retrograde flow into the aneurysm sac (ie, type II endoleak after endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair) may transmit systemic pressure that can result in aneurysm rupture. We recommend PA treatment with aneurysm sac decompression and ligation of geniculate vessels whenever possible and routine postoperative surveillance of the excluded aneurysm sac.