Massive contractions of myotonic dystrophy type 2-associated CCTG tetranucleotide repeats occur via double-strand break repair with distinct requirements for DNA helicases.

Myotonic dystrophy type 2 (DM2) is a genetic disease caused by expanded CCTG DNA repeats in the first intron of CNBP. The number of CCTG repeats in DM2 patients ranges from 75 to 11,000, yet little is known about the molecular mechanisms responsible for repeat expansions or contractions. We developed an experimental system in Saccharomyces cerevisiae that enables the selection of large-scale contractions of (CCTG)100 within the intron of a reporter gene and subsequent genetic analysis. Contractions exceeded 80 repeat units, causing the final repetitive tract to be well below the threshold for disease. We found that Rad51 and Rad52 are involved in these massive contractions, indicating a mechanism that uses homologous recombination. Srs2 helicase was shown previously to stabilize CTG, CAG, and CGG repeats. Loss of Srs2 did not significantly affect CCTG contraction rates in unperturbed conditions. In contrast, loss of the RecQ helicase Sgs1 resulted in a 6-fold decrease in contraction rate with specific evidence that helicase activity is required for large-scale contractions. Using a genetic assay to evaluate chromosome arm loss, we determined that CCTG and reverse complementary CAGG repeats elevate the rate of chromosomal fragility compared to a short-track control. Overall, our results demonstrate that the genetic control of CCTG repeat contractions is notably distinct among disease-causing microsatellite repeat sequences.

Massive contractions of Myotonic Dystrophy Type 2-associated CCTG tetranucleotide repeats occur via double strand break repair with distinct requirements for helicases.

Myotonic Dystrophy Type 2 (DM2) is a genetic disease caused by expanded CCTG DNA repeats in the first intron of CNBP. The number of CCTG repeats in DM2 patients ranges from 75-11,000, yet little is known about the molecular mechanisms responsible for repeat expansions or contractions. We developed an experimental system in Saccharomyces cerevisiae that enables selection of large-scale contractions of (CCTG)100 within the intron of a reporter gene and subsequent genetic analysis. Contractions exceeded 80 repeat units, causing the final repetitive tract to be well below the threshold for disease. We found that Rad51 and Rad52 are required for these massive contractions, indicating a mechanism that involves homologous recombination. Srs2 helicase was shown previously to stabilize CTG, CAG, and CGG repeats. Loss of Srs2 did not significantly affect CCTG contraction rates in unperturbed conditions. In contrast, loss of the RecQ helicase Sgs1 resulted in a 6-fold decrease in contraction rate with specific evidence that helicase activity is required for large-scale contractions. Using a genetic assay to evaluate chromosome arm loss, we determined that CCTG and reverse complementary CAGG repeats elevate the rate of chromosomal fragility compared to a low-repeat control. Overall, our results demonstrate that the genetic control of CCTG repeat contractions is notably distinct among disease-causing microsatellite repeat sequences.

Early anticoagulation after aortic valve replacement with porcine bioprosthesis randomized control trial (ANTIPRO).

OBJECTIVES: Most evidence for anticoagulation (AC) in aortic bioprosthesis is centred on embolic events, bleeding and reintervention risk. The effect of AC on haemodynamics has not been previously assessed. Our hypothesis was that patients with early AC after aortic valve replacement (AVR) with porcine bioprosthesis have better haemodynamics at 1 year of follow-up. METHODS: Prospective, randomized, open-label trial conducted at 2 cardiac surgery centres. All patients undergoing AVR with porcine bioprosthesis were consecutively recruited. The anticoagulated group received warfarin + aspirin and the non-anticoagulated (control) only aspirin. The primary outcome was mean gradient after 1 year of AVR and change in New York Heart Association class. Secondary outcomes were major and minor bleeding, embolic events and prosthetic leak. RESULTS: Of 140 participants in the study, 71 were assigned to the anticoagulated group and 69 to the control group. The mean age of the overall population was 72.4 (SD: 7.1) years. Global EuroSCORE was 7.65 (SD: 5.73). At 1 year, the mean gradient was similar between both groups [18.6 (SD: 1.1 mmHg) and 18.1 (SD: 1.0 mmHg) in the control and anticoagulated groups, respectively, P = 0.701]. No differences in functional class at 3 months or 1 year were found among groups. No differences were found among groups in the secondary outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The addition of 3 months of oral AC to anti-aggregation treatment was not detected to affect bioprosthetic haemodynamics nor functional class at 1 year after AVR. Likewise, AC does not lead to the higher incidence of complications.

Postinfarction Ventricular Septal Rupture: Identification of the Failure Mechanism of a Percutaneous Closure Procedure.

Ventricular septal rupture (VSR) is a rare but highly lethal (∼60%) mechanical complication of myocardial infarction (MI). Although surgical repair has been the gold standard to correct the structural anomaly, percutaneous closure of the defect may represent a valuable therapeutic alternative, with the advantage of immediate shunt reduction to prevent further hemodynamic deterioration in patients with prohibitive surgical risk. Nonetheless, catheter-based VSR closure has faced certain drawbacks that have hampered its application. We describe a clinical case of postinfarction VSR treated with a percutaneous closure device and discuss the procedure's failure mechanism. (Level of Difficulty: Intermediate.).

Extensive progressive heterotopic ossification post-Covid-19 in a man.

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is the formation of extraskeletal bone in muscle and soft tissues and could be genetic or non-genetic. The classic presentation of non-genetic HO is in young adults with a clear history of local trauma, surgery or prolonged immobilization after spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries. Genetic HO has a significant clinical severity compared to non-genetic causes and includes fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP). FOP is an extremely rare genetic skeletal disorder characterized by congenital malformations of the great toes and progressive heterotopic ossification that forms qualitatively normal bone in characteristic extraskeletal sites affecting skeletal muscles, fascia, tendons, and ligaments. Previously, it has been reported an association between SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) and HO or FOP exacerbation with unclear etiopathogenesis. The possible mechanisms could be prolonged immobilization and systemic inflammation. Here, we describe the case of a 55-year-old apparently healthy man who suffered from a severe SARS-CoV-2 infection after that he experienced an extensive and progressive heterotopic ossification around the shoulders, the elbows, the hip, the knees, and the ankles. Because of the clinical severity, the painful soft-tissue swelling, the progressive HO, and the bilateral congenital hallux valgus deformity, a late-onset atypical FOP was suspected. Nevertheless, no variant of clinical significance has been identified in the coding regions and splicing sites in the ACVR1 gene and no deletions and/or duplications have been identified in exonic regions.

Encuesta latinoamericana sobre el grado de variación de la actividad asistencial en los Servicios de Cardiología Intervencionista por la pandemia COVID-19. Subanálisis de la situación de Uruguay / Latin American survey on the degree of variation in healthcare activity in Interventional Cardiology Services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Sub-analysis of the situation in Uruguay / Pesquisa latino-americana sobre o grau de variação da atividade de saúde nos Serviços de Cardiologia Intervencionista devido à pandemia do COVID-19. Subanálise da situação no Uruguai

Resumen: Introducción y objetivos: como consecuencia de la pandemia COVID-19 se ha comprobado una reducción de la actividad cardiológica intervencionista. El objetivo de esta encuesta fue cuantificar esta disminución y el impacto en el manejo del infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST (IAMceST) en Uruguay. Método: se realizó una encuesta telemática a los centros de hemodinamia de Uruguay, contextualizada en una encuesta latinoamericana. Se registraron los cateterismos diagnósticos, las intervenciones coronarias y estructurales, así como la percepción de la asistencia del IAMceST y sobre la afección por el virus SARS-CoV-2 del personal de cardiología intervencionista. Se compararon dos periodos del año 2020: 24 de febrero al 8 de marzo (pre COVID-19) y 23 de marzo al 5 de abril (COVID-19). Resultados: respondieron todos los centros del país (n=8). Hubo una clara disminución en el número de procedimientos diagnósticos (36,1%), angioplastias coronarias (20,3%), intervenciones estructurales (88,9%) y angioplastias en IAMceST (37,3%). Se observó una disminución del diagnóstico y según la percepción de los encuestados, una mayor demora en reperfundir al IAMceST. Un centro reportó infección por SARS-CoV-2 en su personal. Si bien hubo una disminución de la actividad en todos los centros, el comportamiento fue homogéneo. Conclusiones: se observó una reducción importante de la actividad asistencial cardiológica intervencionista durante el inicio de la epidemia COVID-19 y una gran disminución en el número de pacientes tratados con IAMceST.

Summary: Introduction and objectives: because of the COVID-19 pandemic, a reduction in activity has been verified in interventional cardiology. The objective of this survey was to quantify this decrease and the impact on the management of ST-elevation myocardial infarction in Uruguay. Methods: a telematic survey was carried out in Uruguay, in the context of a Latin American countries survey. Diagnostic catheterizations, coronary and structural interventions were recorded, as well as the perception of STEMI attendance and SARS-CoV-2 involvement of the health care staff. Two periods of 2020 were compared: 1st from February 24th to March 8th (pre COVID-19) and the 2nd from March 23rd to April 5th (COVID-19). Results: response was obtained from all centers (n=8) of the country. There was a significant decrease in the number of diagnostic procedures (36.1%), coronary interventions (20.3%), structural therapy (88.9%) and PCI in STEMI (37.3%). Less use of thrombolysis was indicated and a perception of respondents of longer delay to reperfusion. One center reported SARS-CoV-2 infection. Although there was a varied decrease in activity between the different centers, the behavior was homogeneous. Conclusions: a significant reduction in healthcare activity was observed during the COVID-19 epidemic and a great decrease in the number of patients treated with STEMI.

Resumo: Introdução e objetivos: como conseqüência da pandemia do COVID-19, uma redução na atividade foi observada na cardiologia intervencionista. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi quantificar essa diminuição e o impacto no manejo do infarto agudo do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento de segmento ST no Uruguai. Métodos: uma pesquisa telemática foi realizada em centros hemodinâmicos do Uruguai, no contexto de uma pesquisa latino-americana. Foram registrados cateterismos diagnósticos, intervenções coronárias e estruturais, bem como a percepção de assistência para infarto agudo do miocárdio e sobre a condição COVID-19 da equipe de cardiologia intervencionista. Foram comparados dois períodos do ano 2020: 24 de fevereiro a 8 de março (pré COVID-19) e 23 de março a 5 de abril (COVID-19). Resultados: todos os centros (n = 8) do país responderam. Houve uma diminuição significativa no número de procedimentos diagnósticos (36,1%), angioplastias coronárias (20,3%), intervenções estruturais (88,9%) e angioplastia no IAMEST (37,3%). Foi observada uma diminuição no diagnóstico e uma percepção dos entrevistados de um maior atraso na reperfusão do IAMceST. Um centro relatou infecção por SARS-CoV-2. Embora tenha havido uma diminuição variada da atividade entre os diferentes centros, o comportamento foi homogêneo. Conclusões: observou-se uma redução significativa da atividade assistencial durante a epidemia COVID-19 e uma grande diminuição no número de pacientes tratados com IAMEST.

Report of IRPA task group on issues and actions taken in response to the change in eye lens dose limit.

In 2018, the International Radiation Protection Association (IRPA) established its third task group (TG) on the implementation of the eye lens dose limit. To contribute to sharing experience and raising awareness within the radiation protection community about protection of workers in exposure of the lens of the eye, the TG conducted a questionnaire survey and analysed the responses. This paper provides an overview of the results of the questionnaire.

Análisis citogenético en linfocitos de trabajadores expuestos a radiación ionizante en una unidad de cardiología intervencional de Chile: estudio piloto y revisión de la literatura / Citogenetic effects upon lymphocyes in subjects exposed to ionizing radiadion in an interventional laboratory cardiology: pilot study and literature review

ANTECEDENTES: Un número creciente de artículos está llamando la atención en forma consistente sobre la eventual asociación que existe entre los denominados trabajadores ocupacionalmente expuestos a bajos niveles de radiación ionizante (POEs) y una mayor frecuencia de aberraciones cromosómicas, a nivel Sudamericano estos estudios son escasos. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la frecuencia de aberraciones cromosómicas en linfocitos de sangre periférica de POEs de un hospital y de sujetos sanos. Adicionalmente, se realizó una revisión exhaustiva de los artículos que a la fecha abordaron este tema. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: Se condujo un análisis citogenético destinado a cuantificar las aberraciones cromosómicas en sangre periférica de linfocitos de 6 POEs de la unidad de Cardiología Intervencional y, como controles, 6 muestras de sujetos de la población general fueron analizadas. RESULTADOS: Se observó un importante contraste en el número de aberraciones cromosómicas presentadas en los POEs versus la población general no expuesta a radiaciones ionizantes, siendo esta de una relación de 6:1, respectivamente. CONCLUSIÓN: Los resultados preliminares indican una mayor frecuencia de aberraciones cromosómicas en los POEs versus la población general, sin embargo, se deberá esperar los resultados de la segunda fase de investigación, donde al ampliar la muestra en análisis se podrán obtener conclusiones estadísticamente significativas.

BACKGROUND: There is growing evidence of an increased number of chromosomes aberrations in subjects exposed to low levels of ionizing radiation (POEs). There are few studies on this subject in Latin America AIM: To evaluate the frequency of chromosome aberrations in lymphocytes obtained from peripheral blood in subjects working in laboratories where low levels of ionizing radiation are present and to compare these findings to those of unexposed subjects. METHODS: A cytogenic analysis to quantify chromosome aberrations was performed in 6 POs subjects from a cardiology invasive laboratory and 6 controls from a general unexposed population. RESULTS: Compared to controls, an approximately 6-fold increase in the number of chromosome aberrations was observed.in subjects exposed to ionizing radiation CONCLUSION: These preliminary results indicate that there is an increased number of chromosome aberrations in subjects exposed to low levels of ionizing radiation, as occurs in people working in a cardiology interventional laboratory. Studies in large numbers of subjects and preferably followed prospectively are needed to evaluate more precisely this effect.

Valvuloplastia aórtica percutánea en la estenosis aórtica severa del adulto: indicaciones y morbimortalidad. Análisis del registro de valvuloplastias aórticas de un centro cardiovascular universitario / Percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty in severe adult aortic stenosis: indications, morbidity and mortality. Analysis of the aortic valvuloplasty registry of an university cardiovascular center / Valvoplastia aórtica percutânea na estenose aórtica adulta grave: indicações e morbimortalidade. Análise do registro de valvoplastia aórtica do um centro cardiovascular da universidade

Resumen: Introducción: la estenosis aórtica severa es una enfermedad frecuente, y la sustitución valvular es el único tratamiento eficaz. La valvuloplastia aórtica percutánea (VAP) tiene beneficios transitorios y su indicación está restringida a pacientes inestables como terapia puente o paliativa. A nivel nacional existe escasa evidencia sobre los resultados de esta técnica. Objetivo: determinar la indicación, eficacia, complicaciones y mortalidad de las VAP realizadas en nuestro centro entre enero de 2006 y setiembre de 2018. Secundariamente, determinar la terapia definitiva aplicada y el tiempo transcurrido hasta la misma. Método: estudio retrospectivo y descriptivo. Incluyó los pacientes a los que se le realizó VAP en el período. Se revisaron las historias clínicas para extracción de variables. Las variables cualitativas se presentan en valor absoluto y porcentaje; cuantitativas en mediana e intervalo intercuartilo. Se utilizó prueba de Wilcoxon para variables dependientes, tomando p<0,05 como nivel de significación. Para sobrevida se realizaron curvas de Kaplan-Meier. Protocolo aprobado por el Comité de Ética institucional. Resultados: 28 casos; 17 (60,7%) mujeres; la mediana de edad fue de 79,5 años (IQ 73-85,5). El objetivo de la VAP fue: puente a la decisión en 11 casos (39,2%), al tratamiento definitivo en 12 (42,8%) y paliativo en 5 (18%). La VAP fue considerada exitosa en 57,1% de los casos. Las indicaciones más frecuentes fueron: insuficiencia cardíaca refractaria en 10 casos (35,7%) y shock cardiogénico en 9 (32,1%). Diecinueve pacientes fallecieron (67,8%). La sobrevida fue 59 días (IQ 5-412). Seis pacientes recibieron tratamiento definitivo (cuatro recibieron implante valvular percutáneo y dos cirugía cardíaca). El tiempo de la VAP al implante percutáneo fue 233 días y 47 días a la cirugía abierta. Conclusiones: las indicaciones más frecuentes de la VAP fueron puente a tratamiento definitivo y decisión. La VAP fue exitosa en más del 50% de los casos. Las complicaciones mayores marcaron el pronóstico. La mortalidad fue elevada en el seguimiento. Un número reducido accedió al tratamiento definitivo (predominando el implante percutáneo).

Summary: Introduction: severe aortic stenosis is frequent and valve replacement is the only effective treatment. Percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty has transient benefits, and its indication is restricted to unstable patients as a bridge to other treatment or palliative therapy. In our country, there is a few evidence of this technique. Objective: to determine the indication, efficacy, complications and mortality of percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty performed in our center between January 2006 - September 2018. Secondarily, to determine which was the definitive therapy and it´s delay. Method: retrospective and descriptive study. All patients who received valvuloplasty during the study period were included. Clinical histories were reviewed. Qualitative variables were presented in absolute value and percentage; the quantitative ones, in median and interquartile interval. Wilcoxon test was applied to dependent variables, p <0.05. Kaplan Meier curves were performed to analize survival. Protocol was approved by ethics committee. Results: 28 cases. 17 (60.7%) were female. Average age was 79.5 years (IQ 73-85.5). The objective of percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty was bridge therapy to decision in 11 cases (39.2%), bridge to definitive treatment in 12 (42.8%) and palliative in 5 (18%). The most frequent indications were: refractory heart failure in 10 cases (35.7%) and cardiogenic shock in 9 (32.1%). Valvuloplasty was successful in 57.1% of cases. 19 patients died (67.8%). The median survival was 59 days (IQ 5-412). 6 patients received definitive treatment (4 percutaneous implantation and 2 open cardiac surgery). The time from percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty to percutaneous aortic valve implantation was 233 days and 47 days to open surgery. Conclusions: the most frequent indications for percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty were bridge therapy to definitive treatment and decision. Percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty was successful in more than 50% of cases. Major complications determined the prognosis. Mortality was high at follow-up. A small number acceded to definitive treatment (predominantly percutaneous implantation).

Resumo: Introdução: a estenose aórtica grave é frequente, a substituição valvar é o único tratamento efetivo. A valvoplastia aórtica percutânea tem resultados transitórios, sua indicação é restrita a pacientes instáveis como ponte ou terapia paliativa. Em nível nacional, há poucas evidências. Objetivo: determinar a indicação, eficácia, complicações e mortalidade das valvoplastias aórticas percutâneas realizadas em nosso centro entre janeiro de 2006 a setembro de 2018. Determinar secundariamente a terapia definitiva e o tempo até ela. Método: estudo retrospetivo, descritivo. Todos os pacientes que receberam valvuloplastia aórtica percutânea durante o período do estudo foram incluídas. Histórias clínicas foram revisadas. As variáveis qualitativas são apresentadas em valor absoluto e percentagem; os quantitativos em intervalo mediano e interquartil. O teste de Wilcoxon foi utilizado para variáveis dependentes, p <0,05. Para sobrevivência, as curvas de Kaplan Meier foram realizadas. Protocolo aprobado pelo comitê de ética. Resultados: 28 casos. 17 (60,7%) eram mulheres e a idade média foi de 79,5 anos (QI 73-85,5). O objectivo da valvoplastia foi ponte para decisão terapêutica em 11 casos (39,2%), ponte para tratamento definitivo em 12 casos (42,8%) e paliativo em 5 casos (18%). As indicações mais frequentes foram: insuficiência cardíaca refratária em 10 casos (35,7%) e choque cardiogênico em 9 casos (32,1%). A valvuloplastia foi bem sucedida em 57.1% dos casos. 19 pacientes morreram (67,8%). A mediana de sobrevivência é de 59 dias (IQ 5-412). 6 pacientes receberam tratamento definitivo (4 implantes percutâneos e 2 por cirurgia cardíaca aberta). A mediana do tempo de valvoplastia aórtica percutânea para implante de valva aórtica percutânea foi de 233 dias e cirurgia aberta de 47 dias. Conclusões: as indicações mais frequentes para valvoplastia aórtica percutânea foram a terapia ponte para tratamento e para decisão definitiva. A valvoplastia aórtica percutânea foi bem sucedida em mais de 50%. As complicações principais marcaram o prognóstico. A mortalidade foi alta no follow-up. Um pequeno número concordou com o tratamento definitivo (predominantemente implante percutâneo).

Disección coronaria espontánea. Primer reporte a nivel nacional / Spontaneous coronary dissection. First nationwide report / Dissecção coronariana espontânea. Primeiros relatórios em todo o país

Resumen: La disección coronaria espontánea (DCE) es una causa infrecuente de síndrome coronario agudo (SCA), de presentación principalmente en mujeres de mediana edad. Se realizó una revisión de la base de datos institucional, desde la incorporación en nuestro centro de tecnología para adquisición de imagen intracoronaria hasta la actualidad (julio de 2013 a diciembre de 2019). Se encontró DCE en 13 de 4.706 coronariografías diagnósticas (0,3%). Presentamos angiografía y ultrasonografía intracoronaria (IVUS) representativa de lo observado en la serie. La edad media de presentación fue 52 ± 14 años, 11 de los 13 casos eran mujeres. El tiempo medio de seguimiento fue 39 ±27 meses. La forma clínica de presentación más frecuente fue SCA sin elevación del ST (6/13). El vaso más frecuentemente afectado fue la arteria descendente anterior (n=8). En todos los casos se registró elevación significativa de troponinas (> percentil 99). Se realizó tratamiento conservador en 11 casos y angioplastia exitosa en dos. Un paciente que recibió tratamiento conservador falleció durante la internación. Se requirió de imagenología intracoronaria en nueve de los 13 casos. Se presenta el primer reporte nacional de DCE, describiendo sus características clínicas, imagenológicas, tratamiento y evolución.

Summary: Spontaneous coronary dissection is an infrequent cause of acute coronary syndrome, particularly in middle-aged women. We made review of the database of our center since the date of acquisition of intracoronary imaging techniques in our laboratory (July 2013 - December 2019). Coronary spontaneous dissection was found in 13 patients of 4706 diagnostic coronary angiograms (0.3%). We present angiography and coronary ultrasonography studies representative of this case series. The mean age of presentation was 52 ± 14 years, 11 of 13 of the cases were women. The mean follow-up time was 39 ± 27 months. The most frequent clinical presentation was acute coronary syndrome without ST elevation 6/13. The most frequently affected vessel was the anterior descending artery (n = 8). In all cases, troponins above the 99 percent were found. Conservative treatment was performed in 11 cases and successful angioplasty in the other two cases. One patient under conservative treatment died during hospitalization. The use of intracoronary imaging was required in 9 of the 13 cases. In conclusion, we present for the first time, a national registry of spontaneous coronary dissection describing its clinical, image, treatment and evolution characteristics.

Resumo: A dissecção coronariana espontânea é uma causa pouco frequente da síndrome coronariana aguda, principalmente em mulheres de meia idade. Realizamos uma revisão do banco de dados de nosso centro a partir da data de aquisição das técnicas de imagem intracoronária em nosso laboratório (julho de 2013 a dezembro de 2019). Dissecção coronariana espontânea foi encontrada em 13 pacientes de 4706 angiografias coronárias diagnósticas (0,3%). Apresentamos angiografia coronariana representativa e estudos ultrassonográficos desta série de casos. A idade média de apresentação foi de 52 ± 14 anos, 11 dos 13 casos eram do sexo feminino. O tempo médio de acompanhamento foi de 39 ± 27 meses. A apresentação clínica mais frequente foi síndrome coronariana aguda sem supradesnivelamento do segmento ST 6/13. O vaso mais acometido foi a artéria descendente anterior (n = 8). Em todos os casos, as troponinas foram encontradas acima de 99%. O tratamento conservador foi realizado em 11 casos e a angioplastia em 2, com sucesso. Um paciente em tratamento conservador morreu durante a internação. O uso de imagens intracoronárias foi necessário em 9 dos 13 casos. Concluindo, relatamos, pela primeira vez, um registro nacional de dissecção coronariana espontânea de que descreve suas características clínicas, de imagem, de tratamento e de evolução.

Restenosis, Stent Thrombosis, and Bleeding Complications: Navigating Between Scylla and Charybdis.

The field of interventional cardiology has significantly evolved over 40 years by overcoming several challenges. The introduction of first-generation drug-eluting stents significantly reduced the rates of restenosis, but at the expense of an increase of late stent thrombosis. Prolonged antithrombotic therapy reduced rates of stent thrombosis, but at the cost of increased bleeding. Although the advent of second-generation drug-eluting stents subsequently reduced the incidence of late stent thrombosis, its permanent nature prevents full recovery of vascular structure and function with accordant risk of very late stent failure. In the present era of interventional cardiology, the tradeoff between stent thrombosis, restenosis, and bleeding presents as a particularly complex challenge. In this review, the authors highlight major contributors of late/very late stent thrombosis while targeting stent restenosis, and they discuss evolutionary advances in stent technology and antiplatelet therapy, to further improve upon the care of patients with coronary artery disease.

Reconstrucción funcional y estética del codo (a propósito de un caso) / Functional and aesthetic reconstruction of the elbow (apropos of a case)

La reconstrucción de la región periolécranon es compleja, ya que requiere tejidos que tengan suficiente elasticidad y resistencia y que permitan una rápida recuperación. Cuando la etiología es tumoral, se debe tener en cuenta la exéresis completa de la lesión, la conservación de la funcionalidad del miembro y el aspecto estético, respetando ese orden. Presentamos la evolución de una paciente con un sarcoma de partes blandas en la región del codo que, tras su extirpación en bloque, se reconstruyó con un colgajo pediculado braquial lateral de flujo inverso, y que posteriormente, para mejorar su aspecto estético, se realizó lipoaspiración del colgajo y relleno graso de la zona dadora

The reconstruction of the peri-olecranon region is complex, requiring tissues with enough elasticity and strength, to ensure a rapid recovery. When the etiology is tumoral, complete excision of the lesion, the mobility of the limb, and the aesthetics should be taken into account, in that order. We present the evolution of a patient with soft tissue sarcoma in the elbow region, which was removed, and the elbow was reconstructed with a lateral brachial pedicle flap withreverse flow. Afterwards, to improve their aesthetic appearance, liposuction of the flap was performed, filling the donor site with fat.

Lymphocyte subpopulations in myocardial infarction: a comparison between peripheral and intracoronary blood.

The frequency and profile of lymphocyte subsets within the culprit coronary artery were investigated in 33 patients with myocardial infarction and compared to their systemic circulating counterparts. T cell subsets including CD4(+)CD28null, activated and regulatory T-cells, TH1/TH2/TH17 phenotypes, NK and B-cells were studied in intracoronary (IC) and arterial peripheral blood (PB) samples. CD4(+)CD28null T-lymphocytes were significantly increased in IC compared to PB (3.7 vs. 2.9 %, p < 0.0001). Moreover, patients with more than 6 h of evolution of STEMI exhibited higher levels of CD4(+)CD28null T-cells suggesting that this subset may be associated with more intense myocardial damage. The rare NK subpopulation CD3(-)CD16(+)CD56(-) was also increased in IC samples (5.6 vs. 3.9 %, p = 0.006). CD4(+)CD28null T-cells and CD3(-)CD16(+)CD56(-) NK subpopulations were also associated with higher CK levels. Additionally, IFN-γ and IL10 were significantly higher in IC CD4(+) lymphocytes. Particular immune cell populations with a pro-inflammatory profile at the site of onset were increased relative to their circulating counterparts suggesting a pathophysiological role of these cells in plaque instability, thrombi and myocardial damage.

Protección radiológica en cardiología intervencionista / Radiation protection in interventional cardiology

La cardiología intervencionista ha logrado un progreso que hace que cada año se haga una mayor cantidad de procedimientos de complejidad progresiva con una muy buena tasa de éxito. El problema es que ese progreso conlleva mayor dosis de radiación no solo para el paciente sino también para los trabajadores ocupacionalmente expuestos. Existen métodos simples para minimizar la dosis recibida. Estos incluyen: minimizar el tiempo de radioscopia y la cantidad de imágenes adquiridas, utilizar las tecnologías disponibles de reducción de dosis para pacientes, usar adecuada geometría del equipo, colimar, evitar las zonas de radiación reflejada, utilizar todo el blindaje disponible, realizar controles de calidad del equipo de imagen y utilizar los dosímetros personales y conocer la dosis recibida. La utilización eficaz de estos métodos requiere no solo educación y entrenamiento para todo el personal ocupacionalmente expuesto sino la disponibilidad y el uso de los elementos radioprotectores de la sala y del equipo. La revisión regular del equipo y la investigación de las dosis recibidas por el personal acompañadas por los cambios necesarios en la manera en que los procedimientos se realizan asegura una mejor práctica de protección radiológica en la sala de intervencionismo cardiovascular.

Interventional: cardiology progress makes each year a greater number of procedures and increasing complexity with a very good success rate. The problem is that this progress brings greater dose of radiation not only for the patient but to occupationally exposed workers as well. Simple methods for reducing or minimizing occupational radiation dose include: minimizing fluoroscopy time and the number of acquired images; using available patient dose reduction technologies; using good imaging-chain geometry; collimating; avoiding high-scatter areas; using protective shielding; using imaging equipment whose performance is controlled through a quality assurance programme; and wearing personal dosimeters so that you know your dose. Effective use of these methods requires both appropriate education and training in radiation protection for all interventional cardiology personnel, and the availability and use of appropriate protective tools and equipment. Regular review and investigation of personnel monitoring results, accompanied as appropriate by changes in how procedures are performed and equipment used, will ensure continual improvement in the practice of radiation protection in the interventional suite.

Protección radiológica al primer operador en procedimientos coronarios por acceso radial derecho / Radiation protection to the first operator in coronary right radial access procedures

Se ha descrito que la protección pélvica plomada aplicada al paciente (4P) reduce la dosis de radiación recibida por el primer operador (PO) en angiografía coronaria (AC) tanto por acceso radial derecho (ARD) como femoral derecho. Objetivo: el objetivo principal de este estudio fue evaluar el efecto del uso de 4P sobre la radiación recibida por el PO en procedimientos de AC con o sin angioplastia (ATC) por ARD. Los objetivos secundarios son: comparación de las dosis del primer operador recibidas en AC y ATC con valores estándar internacionales y correlación entre la dosis emitida por el angiógrafo y la dosis recibida por el PO en los grupos con y sin 4P. Método: se realizó un estudio randomizado, prospectivo, sobre pacientes sometidos a AC con o sin ATC, asignados en forma aleatoria a una falda plomada envolvente de 0,5 mm colocada entre la cintura y las rodillas del paciente. Los operadores utilizaron en todos los casos falda, chaleco y protector cervical equivalente a 0,5 mm de plomo, lentes plomados, mampara colgante y cortina plomada bajo mesada. La dosimetría del PO (DPO) fue realizada con un detector DMC 3000 (rango de energía: 15 KeV-7 MeV, rango de medida: 1 mSv-10 Sv), ubicado por fuera y sobre el lado izquierdo del collar de protección cervical del PO. Se registraron variables epidemiológicas y dosis del procedimiento, incluyendo DPO en mSv, producto KERMA (Kinetic Energy Released in a Material) área (PK A) en mGym², radiación total (RT) en mGy, tiempo de fluoroscopía (TF) en minutos y número de escenas (NE). Se utilizó test de Student para comparación de variables continuas, con un valor a=0,05. Resultados: se incluyó un total de 100 pacientes. El promedio de edad fue de 64 años y el 39% eran mujeres; 56 pacientes recibieron solo AC y los restantes 44 recibieron ATC adicional. Los valores promedio de TF, NE y la DPO para AC y ATC fueron: 6,9/16,6 minutos, 10/21 escenas y 24/33 mSv, respectivamente, y su comparación con los valores estándar internacionales no mostró diferencias estadísticamente significativas. Se definieron dos grupos de acuerdo a la randomización, 47 pacientes en el grupo con protección pélvica (grupo 4P) y 53 en el grupo sin la misma (grupo no 4P). Las características basales así como el número de ATC y sus particularidades fueron similares en ambos grupos. Los resultados relacionados con la radiación para el grupo 4P vs no 4P fueron los siguientes: PK A (mGym²) 8374,5 ± 1006 vs 8959,1 p=0,705; DPO (mSv) 40,4 ± 5,9 vs 36,7 ± 5,4 p=0,642; RT (mGy) 1545,3 ± 190,9 vs 1649,6 ± 219,8, p=0,724; TF (minutos) 11,6 ± 1,4 vs 10,7 ± 1,4, p=0,654; NE 14 vs 11, p=0,981. Conclusión: en este escenario del mundo real, el uso de 4P no se asoció con una disminución de la DPO en procedimientos de AC con o sin ATC ni con un cambio en la relación PK A-DPO en procedimientos de AC o ATC por ARD, realizados por operadores con valores promedio de radiación aceptables internacionalmente.

It has been reported that lead pelvic protection applied to the patient reduces radiation dose received by the first operator (PO) during coronary angiography (CA) by radial and femoral access. Objective: the main objective is to evaluate the effect of using pelvic leaded protection (4P) on the radiation received by the first operator (PO) in CA procedures with or without PTCA and/or percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) by right radial approach. Secondary objectives are: comparison of dose of the PO in CA and PTCA with international standard values and correlation between emitted doses by angiograph and received doses in patients with and without 4P. Method: we performed a prospective and randomized trial about patients who underwent CA with or without PTCA. Patients were randomly assigned to the use of pelvic protection, consisting of a 0,5 mm lead equivalent skirt, placed between the waist and the knees. In all cases th ePO used a lead equivalent skirt, vest and cervical collar as well as leaded glasses, hanging screen and a lead curtain under the patient table. First operator dosimetry (FOD) was measured with a DMC detector 3.000 (energy range: 15 KeV-7 MeV, measuring range: 1 mSv -10 SV) located on the outer left side of the cervical collar. Results: a total of 100 patients (P) were included. The average age was 64 years and 39% were women. 56 P received only CA and the remaining 44 received additional PTCA. The average values of fluoroscopy time (FT), scenes number (SN) and FOD for CA and PTCA were: 6,9/16,6 minutes, 10/21 scenes and 24/33 Sv respectively and compared with international standards values showed no statistically significant differences. Two groups according to randomization were defined, 47 P in the group with pelvic protection (4P group) and 53 in the group without it (no 4P group). Baseline characteristics as well as the number of PTCA and their characteristics were similar between groups. The radiation related results for the 4P group vs no 4P group were the following: KERMA-area product (mGym²) 8374,5 ±1006 vs 8959,1, p=0,705, FOD (mSv) 40,4±5,9 vs 36,7±5,4, p=0,642, total radiation (mGy) 1545,3±190,9 vs 1649,6±219,8, p=0,724, FT (minutes) 11,6±1,4 vs 10,7±1,4, p=0,654, SN 14 vs 11, p=0,981. Conclusion: in this “real world” scenario, the use of pelvic protection was not associated with a decrease in radiation dose to the first operator or with a change in the PDA-DPO ratio during CA and PTCA performed by right radial approach and by operators with standard radiation parameters.

Tratamiento de la reestenosis coronaria: experiencia con balón liberador de paclitaxel / Treatment of coronary restenosis: experience with paclitaxel eluting balloon

Objetivo: comunicar la experiencia preliminar acerca de la evaluación clínica e invasiva del tratamiento de la reestenosis intrastent convencional con el uso de balón liberador de paclitaxel. Método: se realiza un análisis de tres momentos evolutivos denominados "previo", "índice" y "control" de una serie de casos de reestenosis intrastent (RIS) tratados con balón liberador de paclitaxel (BLP). El evento previo es la situación clínica que motivó el implante de stent convencional (SC) inicial, acerca del cual se hace un análisis clínico-angiográfico retrospectivo. El evento índice, que corresponde a la captación del paciente, es la evolución reestenotica del SC inicial e incluyó un análisis clínico, un estudio angiográfico y la angioplastia con BLP. El evento control incluye el análisis clínico, angiográfico y ultrasonografico al año de seguimiento. Las variables pesquisadas fueron: características basales de la población, presentación clínica, arterias coronarias y sectores involucrados, tipo de RIS, diámetro luminal mínimo (DLM) y área luminal mínima (ALM) por angiografía y adicionalmente por ultrasonografía en el seguimiento. Resultados: se incluyeron ocho pacientes. La edad promedio fue de 57 años. Los cuadros clínicos que determinaron la angioplastia coronaria inicial fueron: cuatro síndromes coronarios agudos con sobreelevación persistente del segmento ST, dos infartos agudos de miocardio de tipo no Q y dos anginas inestables (AI). Los cuadros clínicos en el momento del diagnóstico de RIS y en los cuales se aplicó BLP fueron: tres AI, cuatro IAM no Q y un paciente asintomático con isquemia demostrada por estudio funcional. Las arterias y el sector involucrados fueron: dos arterias descendentes anteriores (ADA) proximal, tres ADA media, una arteria circunfleja media y dos arterias coronarias derechas media. Siete pacientes presentaban RIS difusa y uno focal. En el seguimiento clínico posterior a la aplicación de BLP a los seis, nueve y doce meses se observó una muerte no cardiovascular y una pérdida de seguimiento, el resto estaban asintomáticos. En la angiografía de control al año se comprobó RIS binaria en un solo caso. El análisis por imágenes determinó que en promedio el DLM y el ALM aumentaran dos veces y cuatro veces y media respectivamente entre los eventos “índice” y “control”. La pérdida tardía de DLM o late loss promedio entre el tratamiento con BLP y el control final fue de 0,47 mm. No se comprobó ninguna complicación vinculada al uso de BLP. Conclusión: la utilización de BLP en el tratamiento de la RIS de SC determinó una ganancia de DLM y ALM mantenida al año de seguimiento, no registrándose complicaciones atribuibles al procedimiento.

Objective: clinical, angiographic and intracoronary ultrasound analysis of a series of cases of conventional in-stent restenosis (ISR) treated with paclitaxel eluting balloon (PEB) with 12 months follow up. Method: an analysis of three evolutionary stages called “previous”, “index” and “control” of a series of cases of stent restenosis (ISR) treated with paclitaxel eluting balloon (PEB) is performed. The previous event is the clinical situation which led to the initial bare-metal stent (BMS) implant, on which a retrospective clinical and angiographic analysis is done. The index event, which corresponds to the acquisition of the patient, is the restenotic evolution of the initial BMS and included a clinical analysis, angiography and angioplasty with PEB. The event control includes the clinical, angiographic and ultrasonographic analysis at one year. The researched variables were baseline characteristics of the population, clinical presentation, coronary arteries and sectors involved, the type of ISR, the minimum luminal diameter (MLD) and minimal lumen area (MLA) by angiography and additionally by ultrasonography. Results: 8 patients were included. The mean age was 57 years old. Clinical conditions that led to the initial angioplasty were: 4 acute coronary syndromes with persistent ST-segment elevation, 2 non Q wave acute myocardial infarctions and 2 unstable anginas (UA). The clinical presentations at the time of ISR diagnosis, in which PEB was applied were: 3 UA, 4 non Q wave acute myocardial infarctions and 1 asymptomatic patient with ischemia demonstrated by functional studies. Arteries involved were: 2 proximal anterior descending arteries, 3 mid anterior descending arteries, 1 mid circumflex artery and 2 mid right coronary arteries. 7 patients had diffuse ISR and 1 focal ISR. Clinical follow-up at 6,9 and 12 months after PEB angioplasty observed one not cardiovascular death and one lost at follow-up, the remainings patients were asymptomatics. Angiographic follow up showed ISR in 1 case. The image analysis determined that on average the MLD and MLA increase twice and four and a half times respectively between events “index” and “control”. Average late loss (final reduction in DLM) was 0,47 mm. No complications related to the use of PEB occurred. Conclusion: the use of PEB in the treatment of ISR BMS resulted in a gain of DLM and ALM maintained at one year, recording no complications attributable to the procedure.

[Radiation protection in interventional cardiology]. / Protección radiológica en cardiología intervencionista.

INTERVENTIONAL: cardiology progress makes each year a greater number of procedures and increasing complexity with a very good success rate. The problem is that this progress brings greater dose of radiation not only for the patient but to occupationally exposed workers as well. Simple methods for reducing or minimizing occupational radiation dose include: minimizing fluoroscopy time and the number of acquired images; using available patient dose reduction technologies; using good imaging-chain geometry; collimating; avoiding high-scatter areas; using protective shielding; using imaging equipment whose performance is controlled through a quality assurance programme; and wearing personal dosimeters so that you know your dose. Effective use of these methods requires both appropriate education and training in radiation protection for all interventional cardiology personnel, and the availability and use of appropriate protective tools and equipment. Regular review and investigation of personnel monitoring results, accompanied as appropriate by changes in how procedures are performed and equipment used, will ensure continual improvement in the practice of radiation protection in the interventional suite.

Cierre percutáneo de fístulas coronario-pulmonares en el adulto / Percutaneous closure of coronary-pulmonary fistula in the adult

El cierre percutáneo de las fístulas coronario-pulmonares con implante de "coils" es eficaz y pueden realizarlo los cardiólogos intervencionistas de adultos. Se presentan tres casos clínicos de cierre percutáneo exitoso de fístulas coronario-pulmonares con implante de "coils".

Percutaneous closure of coronary-pulmonary fistula with "coils" implant is effective and may be accomplished by adult interventional cardiologists. We present three cases of successful percutaneous closure of coronary-pulmonary fistula with implant of "coils".