BCGitis con afectación de aneurisma aortoilíaco: aportación de dos casos y revisión de la literatura / BCGitis with aortoiliac aneurysm involvement: Report of two cases and review of the literature

La BCGitis es una complicación infrecuente del tratamiento intravesical con Bacillus Calmette-Guérin para el cáncer superficial de vejiga de alto grado y el carcinoma in situ. Puede causar afectación vascular. Presentamos 2 casos y una revisión de la literatura de series de casos publicadas en los 10 años previos a la finalización de este trabajo en abril de 2022, que describiesen un caso de aneurisma micótico aortoilíaco tras recibir este tratamiento. De los 51 casos incluidos (49 revisados y 2 originales), el 100% eran hombres, 82% tenían más de 65 años. La mediana del período de latencia fue de 15 meses (RIQ 18). La localización más frecuente fue la aorta abdominal, documentándose rotura en el 45,1%. El síntoma más frecuente fue dolor abdominal o lumbar (61%), seguido de síndrome general (49%). Asoció absceso retroperitoneal un 39,2%. La mortalidad atribuible fue de 13,6%. La BCGitis debería incluirse como diagnóstico diferencial de pacientes que hayan recibido terapia con BCG y presenten afectación vascular, incluso años tras el tratamiento.(AU)

BCGitis is a rare complication after intravesical administration of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin for high-grade superficial bladder cancer and carcinoma in situ. May cause vascular involvement. We present two cases and a review of the literature of the case reports published on the 10 years prior to April of 2022, when this project was finished, which described a case of aortoiliac mycotic aneurysm after receiving this treatment. Of the 51 cases included (49 revised and 2 original), 100% were men, 82% were older than 65 years. The median latency period was 15 months (IQR 18). The most frequent location was the abdominal aorta, rupture occurred in 45.1% of patients. The most frequent symptom was abdominal or lumbar pain (61%), followed by general syndrome (49%). In 39.2% cases, it was associated with retroperitoneal abscesses. Attributable mortality was 13.6%. BCGitis should be included in the differential diagnosis in patients who have received BCG therapy and present vascular involvement, even years after being treated.(AU)

BCGitis with aortoiliac aneurysm involvement: Report of two cases and review of the literature.

BCGitis is a rare complication after intravesical administration of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin for high-grade superficial bladder cancer and carcinoma in situ. May cause vascular involvement. We present 2 cases and a review of the literature of the case reports pubished on the 10 years prior to April of 2022, when this proyect was finished, which described a case of aortoiliac mycotic aneurysm after receiving this treatment. Of the 51 cases included (49 revised and 2 original), 100% were men, 82% were older than 65 years. The median latency period was 15 months (IQR 18). The most frequent location was the abdominal aorta, rupture occurred in 45,1% of patients. The most frequent symptom was abdominal or lumbar pain (61%), followed by general syndrome (49%). In 39,2% cases, it was associated with retroperitoneal abscesess. Attributable mortality was 13,6%. BCGitis should be included in the differential diagnosis in patients who have received BCG therapy and present vascular involvement, even years after being treated.

La presencia de receptores Fc de IgG activadores en macrófagos agrava el desarrollo de aneurisma aórtico abdominal experimental / The presence of activating IgG Fc receptors in macrophages aggravates the development of experimental abdominal aortic aneurysm

Introducción: El aneurisma aórtico abdominal (AAA) es una afección degenerativa y multifactorial caracterizada por una dilatación progresiva de la aorta y activación crónica de inflamación, actividad proteolítica y estrés oxidativo en la pared vascular. La respuesta inmune dependiente de anticuerpos IgG frente a antígenos expuestos en el vaso dañado está implicada en la formación y progresión del AAA, aunque los mecanismos no son del todo conocidos. En este trabajo analizamos la funcionalidad de los receptores Fc de IgG (FcγR), en particular los expresados por el monocito/macrófago, en el desarrollo del AAA experimental. Métodos: En el modelo de AAA inducido por perfusión aórtica de elastasa se examinaron, mediante histología y PCR cuantitativa, las aortas abdominales de ratones de fenotipo salvaje y de ratones deficientes en FcγR, sin y con transferencia adoptiva de macrófagos. In vitro, macrófagos murinos se transfectaron con ARN de interferencia de FcγRIV/CD16.2 o se trataron con un inhibidor de la cinasa Syk antes de la estimulación con inmunocomplejos de IgG. Resultados: La transferencia adoptiva de macrófagos a ratones deficientes en FcγR incrementó su susceptibilidad al desarrollo de AAA. En los ratones que recibieron macrófagos con FcγR funcionales se observó un mayor incremento del diámetro aórtico y del contenido de macrófagos y linfocitos B, así como un aumento en la expresión de la quimiocina CCL2, las citocinas TNF-α e IL-17, la metaloproteinasa MMP2, la enzima prooxidante NADPH oxidasa-2 y las isoformas FcγRIII/CD16 y FcγRIV/CD16.2. In vitro, tanto el silenciamiento génico de FcγRIV/CD16.2 como la inhibición de Syk en macrófagos redujeron la producción de citocinas y anión superóxido inducida por inmunocomplejos...(AU)

Introduction: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a multifactorial, degenerative disease characterized by progressive aortic dilation and chronic activation of inflammation, proteolytic activity, and oxidative stress in the aortic wall. The immune response triggered by antibodies against antigens present in the vascular wall participates in the formation and progression of AAA through mechanisms not completely understood. This work analyses the function of specific IgG receptors (FcγR), especially those expressed by monocytes/macrophages, in the development of experimental AAA. Methods: In the elastase-induced AAA model, the abdominal aortas from wildtype and FcγR deficient mice with/without macrophage adoptive transfer were analysed by histology and quantitative PCR. In vitro, mouse macrophages were transfected with RNA interference of FcγRIV/CD16.2 or treated with Syk kinase inhibitor before stimulation with IgG immune complexes. Results: Macrophage adoptive transfer in FcγR deficient mice increased the susceptibility to AAA development. Mice receiving macrophages with functional FcγR exhibited higher aortic diameter increase, higher content of macrophages and B lymphocytes, and upregulated expression of chemokine CCL2, cytokines (TNF-α and IL-17), metalloproteinase MMP2, prooxidant enzyme NADPH oxidase-2, and the isoforms FcγRIII/CD16 and FcγRIV/CD16.2. In vitro, both FcγRIV/CD16.2 gene silencing and Syk inhibition reduced cytokines and reactive oxygen species production induced by immune complexes in macrophages. Conclusions: Activation of macrophage FcγR contributes to AAA development by inducing mediators of inflammation, proteolysis, and oxidative stress. Modulation of FcγR or effector molecules may represent a potential target for AAA treatment.

The presence of activating IgG Fc receptors in macrophages aggravates the development of experimental abdominal aortic aneurysm. / La presencia de receptores Fc de IgG activadores en macrófagos agrava el desarrollo de aneurisma aórtico abdominal experimental.

INTRODUCTION: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a multifactorial, degenerative disease characterized by progressive aortic dilation and chronic activation of inflammation, proteolytic activity, and oxidative stress in the aortic wall. The immune response triggered by antibodies against antigens present in the vascular wall participates in the formation and progression of AAA through mechanisms not completely understood. This work analyses the function of specific IgG receptors (FcγR), especially those expressed by monocytes/macrophages, in the development of experimental AAA. METHODS: In the elastase-induced AAA model, the abdominal aortas from wildtype and FcγR deficient mice with/without macrophage adoptive transfer were analysed by histology and quantitative PCR. In vitro, mouse macrophages were transfected with RNA interference of FcγRIV/CD16.2 or treated with Syk kinase inhibitor before stimulation with IgG immune complexes. RESULTS: Macrophage adoptive transfer in FcγR deficient mice increased the susceptibility to AAA development. Mice receiving macrophages with functional FcγR exhibited higher aortic diameter increase, higher content of macrophages and B lymphocytes, and upregulated expression of chemokine CCL2, cytokines (TNF-α and IL-17), metalloproteinase MMP2, prooxidant enzyme NADPH oxidase-2, and the isoforms FcγRIII/CD16 and FcγRIV/CD16.2. In vitro, both FcγRIV/CD16.2 gene silencing and Syk inhibition reduced cytokines and reactive oxygen species production induced by immune complexes in macrophages. CONCLUSIONS: Activation of macrophage FcγR contributes to AAA development by inducing mediators of inflammation, proteolysis, and oxidative stress. Modulation of FcγR or effector molecules may represent a potential target for AAA treatment.

Genetic profile in patients with complicated acute aortic syndrome: the GEN-AOR study.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Genetic testing is becoming increasingly important for diagnosis and personalized treatments in aortopathies. Here, we aimed to genetically diagnose a group of acute aortic syndrome (AAS) patients consecutively admitted to an intensive care unit and to explore the clinical usefulness of AAS-associated variants during treatment decision-making and family traceability. METHODS: We applied targeted next-generation sequencing, covering 42 aortic diseases genes in AAS patients with no signs consistent with syndromic conditions. Detected variants were segregated by Sanger sequencing in available family members. Demographic features, risk factors and clinical symptoms were statistically analyzed by Fisher or Fisher-Freeman-Halton Exact tests, to assess their relationship with genetic results. RESULTS: Analysis of next-generation sequencing data in 73 AAS patients led to the detection of 34 heterozygous candidate variants in 14 different genes in 32 patients. Family screening was performed in 31 relatives belonging to 9 families. We found 13 relatives harboring the family variant, of which 10 showed a genotype compatible with the occurrence of AAS. Statistical tests revealed that the factors associated with a positive genetic diagnosis were the absence of hypertension, lower age, family history of AAS and absence of pain. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings broaden the spectrum of the genetic background for AAS. In addition, both index patients and studied relatives benefited from the results obtained, establishing the most appropriate level of surveillance for each group. Finally, this strategy could be reinforced by the use of stastistically significant clinical features as a predictive tool for the hereditary character of AAS. CLINICALTRIALS: gov (Identifier: NCT04751058).

Aneurisma micótico aórtico con invasión duodenal / Mycotic abdominal aorta aneurysm with duodenal invasion

Introducción: el aneurisma aórtico nicótico resulta de la dilatación de la pared arterial de la aorta a causa de una infección generalmente bacteriana. Es una patología poco frecuente pero mortal. Caso clínico: presentamos el caso de un varón de 94 años que fue diagnosticado de un aneurisma micótico de aorta abdominal con invasión duodenal mediante tomografía computarizada. Discusión: la presentación clásica de esta patología es una masa dolorosa, pulsátil y creciente con síntomas sistémicos de infección. La angiografía por tomografía computarizada diagnostica definitivamente el aneurisma. El tratamiento es una combinación de antibioticoterapia y resección quirúrgica activa. Pese a ello tiene muy mal pronóstico.(AU)

Introduction: the mycotic aortic aneurysm results from the dilatation of aorta arterial wall because of an infection mostly caused by bacteria. It is a non-frequent but easily mortal disease. Case report: we present the case of a 94-year-old man who was diagnosed with a mycotic aneurysm of the abdominal aorta with duodenal invasion by computed tomography. Discussion: the classic presentation of this pathology is a painful, pulsatile, and enlarging mass with systemic symptoms of infection. Computed Tomography Angiography definitively diagnoses the aneurysm. The treatment is a combination of antibiotic therapy and active surgical resection, but it has a very bad prognosis.(AU)

Aneurisma infeccioso primário da aorta: série de casos e revisão da literatura / Primary infectious aortic aneurysm: a case series and review of the literature

Resumo Aneurismas infecciosos, anteriormente chamados de aneurismas micóticos, são raros; acometem com maior frequência a aorta de pacientes jovens e apresentam maior tendência à rotura do que aneurismas de outras etiologias. O formato sacular é o mais característico, e os agentes etiológicos mais comuns são Staphylococcus sp e Salmonella sp. A literatura fornece informações limitadas e imprecisas sobre a correta nomenclatura, diagnóstico e tratamento da doença. Os autores reuniram três casos cujos procedimentos diagnósticos e terapêuticos foram documentados. Além de relatar essa série de casos, realiza-se uma revisão sobre o tema, a fim de estabelecer estratégias diagnósticas e terapêuticas pertinentes.

Abstract Infectious aneurysms, formerly known as mycotic aneurysms, are rare, most often involve the aorta in young patients, and have a greater tendency to rupture than aneurysms of other etiologies. The most characteristic shape is saccular and the most common etiologic agents are Staphylococcus sp. and Salmonella sp. There is scant and imprecise information in the literature about correct nomenclature, diagnosis, and treatment. The authors present three cases in which diagnostic and therapeutic procedures were documented. In addition to reporting this case series, the authors also present a review of the subject, outlining pertinent diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Fluidodinâmica Computacional na Avaliação do Risco Futuro de Aneurismas de Aorta Ascendente / Computational Fluid Dynamics to Assess the Future Risk of Ascending Aortic Aneurysms

Resumo Fundamentos Uma metodologia para identificação de pacientes portadores de aneurisma de aorta ascendente (AAAs) sob alto risco de remodelamento aórtico não está completamente definida. Objetivo Esta pesquisa objetiva caracterizar numericamente o fluxo sanguíneo aórtico, relacionando a distribuição do estresse mecânico resultante com o crescimento de AAAs. Métodos Estudo analítico, observacional, unicêntrico, em que um protocolo de fluidodinâmica computacional (CFD - Computacional Fluid Dynamics) foi aplicado a imagens de angiotomografia computadorizada (ATC) de aorta de pacientes portadores de AAAs. Duas ATC de aorta com pelo menos um ano de intervalo foram obtidas. Dados clínicos dos pacientes foram registrados e, a partir das imagens de ATC, foram gerados modelos tridimensionais. Foram realizados estudos do campo de velocidade e estruturas coerentes (vórtices) com o objetivo de relacioná-los ao crescimento ou não do aneurisma e, posteriormente, compará-los com os dados clínicos dos pacientes. O teste de Kolmogorov-Smirnov foi utilizado para avaliar a normalidade da amostra e o teste não-paramétrico Wilcoxon signed-rank foi aplicado para comparações de dados pareados entre os ângulos aórticos. A significância estatística foi fixada em 5%. Resultados Para o grupo que apresentou crescimento do aneurisma, a incidência do jato na parede aórtica gerou áreas de recirculação posterior ao jato, induzindo à formação de vórtices complexos, ocasionando um incremento na pressão média no endotélio aórtico. O grupo sem crescimento do aneurisma apresentou diminuição na pressão média. Conclusão Este estudo piloto mostrou que a CFD baseada em ATC pode, em um futuro próximo, ser uma ferramenta auxiliar na identificação dos padrões de fluxo associados ao processo de remodelamento de AAAs.

Abstract Background A methodology to identify patients with ascending aortic aneurysm (AsAA) under high risk for aortic growth is not completely defined Objetive This research seeks to numerically characterize the aortic blood flow by relating the resulting mechanical stress distribution with AsAA growth. Methods Analytical, observational, single-center study in which a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) protocol was applied to aortic computed tomography angiogram (CTA) images of patients with AsAA. Two CTA exams taken at a minimum interval of one year were obtained. From the CTA-gathered images, three-dimensional models were built, and clinical data were registered. Study of velocity field and coherent structures (vortices) was performed aiming to relate them to the presence or absence of aneurysm growth, as well as comparing them to the patients' clinical data. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to evaluate the normality of the distribution, and the non-parametric Wilcoxon signed-rank test, for non-normal distribution, was used to compare the paired data of the aortic angles. Statistical significance was set at 5%. Results The incident jet in the aortic wall generated recirculation areas in the posterior region of the jet, inducing complex vortices formation in the group with aneurysm growth, leading to an average pressure increase in the ascending aortic wall between exams. In the group without aneurysm growth, the average pressure decreased. Conclusion This pilot study showed that CFD based on CTA may in the near future be a tool to help identify flow patterns associated with AsAA remodeling process.

Estudio multicéntrico de la reparación endovascular urgente de la aorta torácica: indicaciones y resultados / A multicenter study of emergency endovascular repair of the thoracic aorta: indications and outcomes

Objetivo Las técnicas endovasculares se han convertido en una herramienta esencial para el tratamiento de la patología de aorta torácica descendente (TEVAR). El objetivo es analizar las indicaciones y resultados del TEVAR urgente a nivel nacional en relación con la cirugía programada. Diseño y ámbito de estudio Registro multicéntrico retrospectivo de pacientes con patología de aorta torácica descendente tratados de urgencia mediante técnicas endovasculares entre los años 2012-2016 en 11 servicios clínicos. Pacientes, criterios de inclusión 1) Aneurismas de aorta torácica rotos, 2) roturas traumáticas de aorta torácica y 3) disecciones de aorta torácica tipo B (DATBc) complicadas. Variables principales Mortalidad, supervivencia y tasa de reintervenciones. Variables secundarias Datos demográficos, factores de riesgo cardiovasculares, datos específicos por indicación, datos técnicos y complicaciones postoperatorias. Resultados Se obtuvieron 135 TEVAR urgentes (111 varones, edad media 60,4 ± 16,3 años): 43 aneurismas aórticos rotos (31,9%), 54 disecciones tipo B (40%) y 32 roturas aórticas traumáticas (23,7%) y otras etiologías 4,4%. La mortalidad global a los 30 días fue del 18,5%, siendo superior en los aneurismas de aorta torácica rotos (27,9%). La supervivencia media actuarial ha sido del 67± 6% a los 5 años. La tasa de ictus postoperatoria fue del 5,2% y la tasa de isquemia medular del 5,9%. Las reintervenciones aórticas fueron necesarias en 12 pacientes (9%). Conclusiones La patología de aorta descendente urgente puede ser tratada mediante técnicas endovasculares con resultados óptimos y baja morbimortalidad, aunque ligeramente superior a los casos electivos. Este registro aporta por primera vez, información de la realidad clínica diaria del TEVAR urgente en España. (AU)

Objective Endovascular techniques have become an essential tool for the treatment of descending thoracic aortic disease (thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair [TEVAR]). The aim is to analyze the indications and outcomes of emergency TEVAR at national level in relation to elective surgery. Study design and scope A retrospective multicenter registry of patients with descending thoracic aortic disease treated on an emergency basis using endovascular techniques between 2012-2016, in 11 clinical units. Patients, inclusion criteria 1) Ruptured descending thoracic aortic aneurysms; 2) Blunt traumatic thoracic aortic injury; and 3) Complicated acute type B aortic dissections (TBADc). Primary variables Patient mortality, survival and reoperation rate. Secondary variables Demographic data, cardiovascular risk factors, specific data by indication, technical resources and postoperative complications. Results A total of 135 urgent TEVARs were included (111 men, mean age 60.4 ± 16.3 years): 43 ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysms (31.9%), 54 type B dissections (40%) and 32 traumatic aortic injuries (23.7%), and other etiologies 4.4%. The overall mortality rate at 30 days was 18.5%, and proved higher in the ruptured descending thoracic aortic aneurysms group (27.9%). The mean actuarial survival rate was 67± 6% at 5 years. The postoperative stroke rate was 5.2%, and the paraplegia rate was 5.9%. Aortic reoperations proved necessary in 12 patients (9%). Conclusions Emergency descending thoracic aortic diseases can be treated by endovascular techniques with optimal results and low morbidity and mortality – though the figures are slightly higher than in elective cases. This registry provides, for the first time, real information on the daily clinical practice of emergency TEVAR in Spain. (AU)

A multicenter study of emergency endovascular repair of the thoracic aorta: Indications and outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: Endovascular techniques have become an essential tool for the treatment of descending thoracic aortic disease (thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair [TEVAR]). The aim is to analyze the indications and outcomes of emergency TEVAR at national level in relation to elective surgery. STUDY DESIGN AND SCOPE: A retrospective multicenter registry of patients with descending thoracic aortic disease treated on an emergency basis using endovascular techniques between 2012-2016, in 11 clinical units. PATIENTS, INCLUSION CRITERIA: 1) Ruptured descending thoracic aortic aneurysms (RTAA); 2) Blunt traumatic thoracic aortic injury (TAI); and 3) Complicated acute type B aortic dissections (TBADc). PRIMARY VARIABLES: Patient mortality, survival and reoperation rate. SECONDARY VARIABLES: Demographic data, cardiovascular risk factors, specific data by indication, technical resources and postoperative complications. RESULTS: A total of 135 urgent TEVARs were included (111 men, mean age 60.4 ±â€¯16.3 years): 43 ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysms (31.9%), 54 type B dissections (40%) and 32 traumatic aortic injuries (23.7%), and other etiologies 4.4%. The overall mortality rate at 30 days was 18.5%, and proved higher in the RTAA group (27.9%). The mean actuarial survival rate was 67 ±â€¯6% at 5 years. The postoperative stroke rate was 5.2%, and the paraplegia rate was 5.9%. Aortic reoperations proved necessary in 12 patients (9%). CONCLUSIONS: Emergency descending thoracic aortic diseases can be treated by endovascular techniques with optimal results and low morbidity and mortality - though the figures are slightly higher than in elective cases. This registry provides, for the first time, real information on the daily clinical practice of emergency TEVAR in Spain.

Reemplazo de aorta ascendente con paro circulatorio con hipotermia sistémica moderada y perfusión cerebral retrógrada / Total replacement of the ascending aorta with moderate systemic hypothermic circulatory arrest and retrograde cerebral perfusion

Resumen: Antecedentes: El daño neurológico es una complicación devastadora de la cirugía con paro circulatorio del cayado aórtico y aorta ascendente. La perfusión anterógrada del encéfalo permite disminuir la incidencia de esta complicación, pero es un procedimiento engorroso que interfiere el campo quirúrgico. Para procedimientos más simples que requieran de paro circulatorio de menor duración, la Perfusión Cerebral Retrógrada (PCR) es una alternativa válida. Objetivo: Evaluar nuestros resultados en la cirugía del reemplazo total de la aorta ascendente tubular con paro circulatorio con hipotermia sistémica moderada y PCR. Material y Método: Entre enero de 2015 y enero de 2020 se identificaron los pacientes en la Base de Datos del Servicio de Cirugía Cardiaca de nuestra institución, se revisaron los protocolos operatorios, registros de perfusión y epicrisis, para obtener datos demográficos, clínicos y quirúrgicos pertinentes. La supervivencia alejada se certificó a través del "Servicio Registro Civil e Identificación de Chile". Resultados: En el periodo en estudio, 27 pacientes (21 hombres) tuvieron un reemplazo total de la aorta ascendente tubular con paro circulatorio con hipotermia moderada y PCR. Ocho pacientes tenían una cirugía previa; 7 de estos un reemplazo valvular aórtico. El 75% de los otros 20 pacientes tenía una válvula aórtica bicúspide. El diámetro máximo de la aorta ascendente fue en promedio 53,7 mm (45 a 67), y fue reemplazada en el 52% de los casos con un tubo protésico de 34 mm (promedio:32,4 mm; margen:30 a 34 mm). En 20 pacientes se efectuó un reemplazo valvular aórtico (15 con prótesis biológica). El tiempo promedio de circulación extracorpórea fue 174,6 min (97 a 243) y la temperatura sistémica mínima promedio fue 21ºC (18 a 25). El tiempo promedio de paro circulatorio fue 22,3 min (12 a 40) y de PCR 13 min (6 a 27). No hubo mortalidad operatoria. La morbilidad más frecuente fue la fibrilación auricular (33%). Una paciente presentó un episodio convulsivo aislado y otro fue reoperado por hemorragia postoperatoria. Una paciente falleció a los 48 meses de su operación. Conclusión: El paro circulatorio con hipotermia sistémica moderada y PCR para la cirugía de reemplazo total de la aorta ascendente facilitó la operación, con baja mortalidad y morbilidad en este grupo de pacientes.

Abstract: Background. Neurological damage is a devastating complication of aortic arch and ascending aorta surgery with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest. Antegrade cerebral perfusion significantly decreases the incidence of this complication, but it is a cumbersome procedure that interfere the surgical field. For more simple procedures, requiring a shorter period of circulatory arrest, retrograde cerebral perfusion (RCP) would be a valid alternative. Objective. To evaluate the results of total surgical replacement of the tubular ascending aorta with moderate hypothermic circulatory arrest and retrograde cerebral perfusion (RCP). Methods. Patients operated between January 2015 and January 2020 were included.Demographic, clinical and surgical information was obtained from the operatives notes, perfusion registry and discharge reports. Long-term survival was certified by the "Chilean Civil and Identification Registry". Results. 27 patients (21 men) underwent a total replacement of the tubular ascending aorta with circulatory arrest with moderate hypothermia and RCP. Eight patients had been previously operated on;7 of them had a previous aortic valve replacement. Of the remaining 20 patients, 75% had a bicuspid aortic valve. Average maximum diameter of the ascending aorta was 53.7 mm (45 - 67). Average size of the ascending aorta replacement graft was 32.4 mm (30 -34). In 20 patients a concomitant aortic valve replacement was performed (15 with a biological valve). Mean extracorporeal circulation time was 174.6 min (97 - 243) and mean minimal systemic temperature was 21ºC (18 - 25). Mean circulatory arrest time was 22.3 min (12 - 40) and mean RCP time was 13 min (6 - 27), There was no operative mortality. Atrial fibrillation was the most frequent post-operative morbidity (33%). One patient presented an isolated convulsive episode and another was re-operated due to postoperative hemorrhage. One patient died, 48 months after her operation. Conclusion. Moderate hypothermic circulatory arrest with RCP simplifies total tubular ascending aorta replacement, with low mortality and morbidity.

Manejo del aneurisma roto de aorta abdominal: un reto para el cirujano general / Management of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm: a challenge for the general surgeon

Introducción. El aneurisma aórtico abdominal roto, tiene una mortalidad del 80 % al 90 %. Para su reparación existe una técnica abierta y otra endovascular, las cuales tienen diferencias entre sus beneficios y complicaciones. El método de elección en la actualidad para la corrección de esta alteración anatómica es endovascular, sin embargo, no es el más usado, porque no se cuenta todo el tiempo con el equipo humano de cirugía vascular para su realización. Caso clínico. Ingresa a urgencias un paciente en estado de shock de origen desconocido, con dolor abdominal de 24 horas de evolución. Se realiza una tomografía con contraste que demuestra un aneurisma aórtico abdominal infrarrenal roto. Debido a que no se contaba con el equipo de cirugía vascular, es llevado de urgencia a una corrección abierta que duró 153 minutos, con un sangrado intraoperatorio de 1754 cc. Fue dado de alta a los 12 días postoperatorios sin ninguna complicación. Discusión. La reparación endovascular del aneurisma aórtico abdominal roto es la mejor elección, ya que muestra mayores beneficios en comparación con la reparación abierta, sin embargo, no es el más utilizado, porque se necesita de un personal bien entrenado en cirugía endovascular, por lo que, dentro de la formación de los cirujanos generales, se tiene que incluir el aprendizaje de las técnicas abiertas

Introduction. The ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm has a mortality of 80% to 90%. There is an open and an endovascular techniques for its repair, which have differences between their benefits and complications. The method of choice for the correction of this anatomical alteration is endovascular; however, it is not the most frequently used, mainly because the vascular surgical team is not available all the time to perform it.Clinical case. A patient in a state of shock of unknown origin was admitted to the emergency room, with abdominal pain of 24 hours of evolution. A contrast-enhanced CT scan demonstrated a ruptured infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm. Due to the lack of a vascular surgery team, the patient was rushed for an open surgery that lasted 153 minutes, with an intraoperative bleeding of 1754 cc. He was discharged 12 days after surgery without any complications.Discussion. Endovascular repair of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm is the best choice, since it shows greater benefits compared to open repair. However, it is not the most widely used because it requires well-trained personnel in endovascular surgery. Therefore, learning of open techniques must be included in the training of general surgeons

A multicenter study of emergency endovascular repair of the thoracic aorta: indications and outcomes. / Estudio multicéntrico de la reparación endovascular urgente de la aorta torácica: indicaciones y resultados.

OBJECTIVE: Endovascular techniques have become an essential tool for the treatment of descending thoracic aortic disease (thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair [TEVAR]). The aim is to analyze the indications and outcomes of emergency TEVAR at national level in relation to elective surgery. STUDY DESIGN AND SCOPE: A retrospective multicenter registry of patients with descending thoracic aortic disease treated on an emergency basis using endovascular techniques between 2012-2016, in 11 clinical units. PATIENTS, INCLUSION CRITERIA: 1) Ruptured descending thoracic aortic aneurysms; 2) Blunt traumatic thoracic aortic injury; and 3) Complicated acute type B aortic dissections (TBADc). PRIMARY VARIABLES: Patient mortality, survival and reoperation rate. SECONDARY VARIABLES: Demographic data, cardiovascular risk factors, specific data by indication, technical resources and postoperative complications. RESULTS: A total of 135 urgent TEVARs were included (111 men, mean age 60.4 ± 16.3 years): 43 ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysms (31.9%), 54 type B dissections (40%) and 32 traumatic aortic injuries (23.7%), and other etiologies 4.4%. The overall mortality rate at 30 days was 18.5%, and proved higher in the ruptured descending thoracic aortic aneurysms group (27.9%). The mean actuarial survival rate was 67± 6% at 5 years. The postoperative stroke rate was 5.2%, and the paraplegia rate was 5.9%. Aortic reoperations proved necessary in 12 patients (9%). CONCLUSIONS: Emergency descending thoracic aortic diseases can be treated by endovascular techniques with optimal results and low morbidity and mortality - though the figures are slightly higher than in elective cases. This registry provides, for the first time, real information on the daily clinical practice of emergency TEVAR in Spain.

New infusion device for use in acquisition of images during endovascular procedures: an experimental model / Novo dispositivo de infusão para a aquisição de imagens durante procedimentos endovasculares: modelo experimental

Abstract Background The contrast power injector (CPI) is the gold standard method for injecting contrast with the pressure and flow needed to generate a satisfactory images during endovascular procedures, but it is an expensive tool, narrowing its wide-scale applications. One alternative is the manual injection (MI) method, but this does not generate the pressure required for adequate visualization of anatomy. It is therefore imperative to create an alternative low-cost method that is capable of producing high quality images. Objectives To compare the injection parameters of a new mechanical device (Hand-Crank) created in a university hospital with the MI method and with the contrast power injector's ideal values. Methods A circulation phantom was constructed to simulate the pressure in the aorto-iliac territory and the injection parameters of the two methods were compared in a laboratory setting. Student's t test and the Mann-Whitney test were used for statistical analysis. Three vascular surgery residents (the authors) performed the injections (each performed 9 tests using conventional manual injection and 9 tests using the Hand-Crank, totaling 54 injections). Results There were statistical differences between the two methods (p<0.05) in total volume injected until maximum pressure was attained, pressure variation, maximum pressure, total injection time, and time to reach the maximum pressure. Conclusions The Hand-Crank can achieve higher maximum pressure, higher average flow, and lower injection time than the manual method. It is a simple, low-cost, and effective tool for enhancing injection parameters in an experimental setup. It could help to produce higher quality images in a clinical scenario.

Resumo Contexto A bomba injetora é o método padrão-ouro para a injeção de contraste em aortografias. Entretanto, é uma ferramenta de alto custo, o que limita o seu uso. A injeção manual surge como alternativa, mas a pressão gerada com esse método é baixa, e, por isso, a qualidade das imagens não é usualmente satisfatória. Assim, a criação de um método de baixo custo capaz de gerar imagens de qualidade é imperativo. Objetivos Comparar os parâmetros de injeção de um novo dispositivo mecânico (manivela articulada) criado em um hospital universitário com os parâmetros da injeção manual e com os valores ideais da bomba injetora. Métodos Um simulador do território aórtico foi construído, e parâmetros de injeção entre os diferentes métodos em um cenário laboratorial controlado foram analisados. O teste t de Student e o teste de Mann-Whitney foram usados para análise estatística. Três residentes de Cirurgia Vascular realizaram os testes (nove usando o novo dispositivo, e nove usando a injeção manual, totalizando 54 injeções). Resultados Houve diferença estatisticamente significativa (p < 0,05) entre os dois métodos, considerando os parâmetros: variação de pressão, pressão máxima, tempo de injeção, tempo até a pressão máxima e volume até a pressão máxima. Conclusões A manivela articulada atingiu níveis superiores de pressão e de velocidade de injeção, com menor tempo de injeção do que a injeção manual. É um dispositivo simples, de baixo custo e com resultados comparáveis à bomba injetora, o que sugere seu uso potencial na geração de imagens satisfatórias em aortografias.

Tratamento endovascular de aneurisma sacular aórtico associado à doença de Adamantiades-Behçet / Endovascular treatment of aortic saccular aneurysms associated with Adamantiades-Behçet disease

Resumo A doença de Adamantiades-Behçet é uma desordem multissistêmica que se apresenta classicamente com úlceras orais e genitais e envolvimento ocular, podendo o acometimento vascular ocorrer em até 38% dos casos. O envolvimento aórtico é uma das manifestações mais severas e está associado a altas taxas de mortalidade, ocorrendo em 1,5 a 2,7% dos casos. Relatamos um caso de aneurisma sacular de aorta abdominal em um paciente de 49 anos com doença de Adamantiades-Behçet complicada, tratada por correção endovascular.

Abstract Adamantiades-Behçet disease is a multisystemic disorder that classically presents with oral and genital ulcers and ocular involvement, with vascular involvement in up to 38% of cases. Aortic involvement is one of the most serious manifestations and is associated with high mortality rates, occurring in 1.5 to 2.7% of cases. We report a case of a saccular abdominal aorta aneurysm in a 49-year-old male patient with complicated Adamantiades-Behçet disease that was treated with endovascular repair.

Retroperitoneal iliac conduits as an alternative access site for endovascular aortic repair: a tertiary care center experience / Condutos ilíacos retroperitoneais como local de acesso alternativo para reparo endovascular de aneurisma: experiência em centro de atenção terciária

Abstract Background Retroperitoneal open iliac conduits (ROIC) are used in patients with hostile iliac anatomy undergoing endovascular aortic repair (EVAR). Objectives We hereby report our experience of ROIC in patients subjected to EVAR. Methods This was a retrospective evaluation of 8 patients out of a total of 75 patients (11%) who underwent EVAR in the last 10 years. Pre-procedure computed tomography angiography was used to assess the dimensions of iliac and femoral arteries. Patients who had small arterial dimensions (i.e. smaller than the recommended access size for the aortic endograft device) were subjected to ROIC. Results The mean age of the 3 males and 5 females studied was 45.7 ± 15.2 years. The indication for ROIC was the small caliber ilio-femoral access site in 7 patients and atherosclerotic disease in 1 patient. All external grafts were anastomosed to the right common iliac artery except one which was anastomosed to the aortic bifurcation site because of a small common iliac artery. The procedural success rate was 100%. Local access site complications included infection (n=1), retroperitoneal hematoma (n=1), and need for blood transfusion (n=3). The median post-intervention hospital stay was 10 days. All patients had favorable long-term outcomes at a median follow-up of 18 months. Conclusions Female patients require ROIC during EVAR more frequently. Adjunctive use of iliac conduit for EVAR was associated with favorable perioperative and short-term outcomes.

Resumo Contexto Os condutos ilíacos abertos retroperitoneais são utilizados em pacientes submetidos a reparo endovascular de aneurisma (REVA) com anatomia ilíaca hostil. Objetivos Relatamos a nossa experiência com os condutos ilíacos em pacientes submetidos a REVA. Métodos Trata-se de uma avaliação retrospectiva de oito pacientes, de um total de 75 (11%), os quais foram submetidos a REVA nos últimos 10 anos. Foi realizada angiotomografia computadorizada antes do procedimento para avaliar as dimensões das artérias ilíaca e femoral. Os pacientes com dimensões arteriais menores, abaixo do tamanho de acesso recomendado para o dispositivo de endoprótese aórtica, foram submetidos a condutos ilíacos. Resultados A média de idade dos participantes foi de 45,7±15,2 anos, sendo três do sexo masculino e cinco do sexo feminino. As indicações para condutos ilíacos foram local de acesso ilíaco femoral de pequeno calibre, para sete pacientes, e doença aterosclerótica, para um paciente. Todas as próteses externas foram anastomosadas na artéria ilíaca comum direita, com exceção de uma, que foi anastomosada no local da bifurcação aórtica por apresentar artéria ilíaca comum menor. A taxa de sucesso do procedimento foi de 100%. As complicações no local de acesso incluíram infecção (n = 1), hematoma retroperitoneal (n = 1) e necessidade de transfusão de sangue (n = 3). O tempo mediano de internação hospitalar pós-intervenção foi de 10 dias. Todos os pacientes apresentaram desfechos de longo prazo favoráveis no seguimento mediano de 18 meses. Conclusões As pacientes do sexo feminino necessitaram de condutos ilíacos durante REVA com maior frequência. O uso adjuvante de condutos ilíacos com REVA foi associado a desfechos perioperatórios e de curto prazo favoráveis.

Contained rupture of an aortic arch aneurysm in a patient with syphilitic aortitis. A case report / Ruptura contida de um aneurisma do arco aórtico em paciente com aortite sifilítica. Um relato de caso

Abstract Syphilitic aortitis is a rare complication of tertiary syphilis, which can lead to aortic aneurysm formation, aortic valvular insufficiency, and ostial coronary stenosis. Syphilis has re-emerged worldwide over recent decades and vascular surgeons should be aware of its cardiovascular manifestations. Atypical clinical presentation, such as hemoptysis and a computed tomography angiography pattern of a thicker aneurysmal wall with ulcer-like aneurysm projections, should raise suspicion of syphilitic aortic aneurysm. An early diagnosis and appropriate surgical and medical therapies significantly contribute to successful treatment and favorable prognosis. Herein is reported the case of an 82-year-old male patient, positive for syphilis infection, with impending aortic arch aneurysm rupture treated with a hybrid arch repair. After 7 months, the patient was brought to the emergency room in cardiac arrest. Unsuccessful cardiopulmonary resuscitation maneuvers were performed, and an autopsy showed cardiac tamponade due to rupture of the ascending aorta.

Resumo A aortite sifilítica é uma complicação rara da sífilis terciária, que pode levar a formação de aneurisma aórtico, insuficiência valvar aórtica e estenose ostial coronariana. Ao longo das últimas décadas, a sífilis ressurgiu ao redor do mundo, e os cirurgiões vasculares devem estar atentos às suas manifestações cardiovasculares. Apresentações clínicas atípicas, como a hemoptise, e um padrão na angiotomografia computadorizada de parede aneurismática mais grossa com projeções de aneurisma com aparência de úlcera devem levantar a suspeita de aneurisma sifilítico da aorta. O diagnóstico precoce e terapias cirúrgica e clínica adequadas contribuem significativamente para um tratamento bem-sucedido e prognóstico favorável. Relatamos o caso de um paciente do sexo masculino, de 82 anos, que apresentou infecção por sífilis com ruptura iminente de aneurisma do arco aórtico. Ele foi tratado com reparo híbrido do arco. Após 7 meses, o paciente deu entrada na emergência com parada cardiorrespiratória. As manobras de reanimação cardiopulmonar foram realizadas, mas não obtiveram sucesso, e a autópsia mostrou tamponamento cardíaco devido à ruptura da aorta ascendente.

Abdominal aortic aneurysms ruptured to the vena cava: a case series and literature review / Aneurismas de aorta abdominal rotos para a veia cava: uma série de casos e revisão de literatura

Abstract Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (RAAA) evolving aortocaval fistula (AF) can have catastrophic hemodynamic effects. Surgical repair is imperative, but the optimal technical approach is still under debate. Our objective is to present 3 cases treated with endovascular repair (EVAR) at a University Hospital. Case #1, a 71-year-old man presenting a 7.1cm RAAA with AF, repaired with a monoiliac stent graft and femoral-femoral bypass; Case #2, a 76-year-old man presenting a 9.9cm RAAA with AF, repaired with a bifurcated stent graft; Case #3, a 67-year-old man with previous history of EVAR, presenting a type 3 endoleak with late rupture related to AF, repaired with a tubular stent graft. All cases unfolded with delayed recovery and significant complication rates, although AF symptoms had resolved by hospital discharge. EVAR techniques for AF may require secondary interventions but are feasible, despite the lack of consensus, considering the rarity of this RAAA presentation.

Resumo Aneurismas de aorta abdominal rotos (AAAR) com evolução para fístula aorto-cava (FAC) podem apresentar consequências hemodinâmicas catastróficas. A correção cirúrgica é mandatória, embora não haja consenso sobre a técnica operatória. Apresentamos uma série de três casos operados em hospital universitário pela técnica endovascular. No primeiro caso, um homem de 71 anos apresentou AAAR de 7,1 cm com FAC, submetido a correção por endoprótese monoilíaca e enxerto femoral cruzado. No segundo, um homem de 76 anos apresentou AAAR de 9,9 cm com FAC submetido a colocação de endoprótese bifurcada. O terceiro caso era de um homem de 67 anos com histórico de EVAR e endoleak tipo 3, com ruptura tardia para veia cava, tratado com extensão aórtica. Todos apresentaram evolução pós-operatória prolongada com significativas complicações, entretanto com boa resolução dos sintomas à alta hospitalar. A EVAR é uma técnica promissora para o tratamento de FAC, embora com taxa de reintervenção significativa.

Aneurisma de aorta abdominal sintomático associado a rim em ferradura / Symptomatic abdominal aortic aneurysm in a patient with a horseshoe kidney

Resumo O rim em ferradura é a anomalia congênita renal mais comum, ocorrendo em 0,15 a 0,25% de nascidos vivos. A associação de rim em ferradura com aneurisma de aorta abdominal é rara, estando presente em apenas 0,12% dos pacientes submetidos a tratamento dos aneurismas de aorta abdominal. Este desafio terapêutico consiste em um caso de um paciente portador de um aneurisma de aorta abdominal sintomático associado a rim em ferradura. A irrigação do rim em ferradura dava-se por meio de quatro artérias, sendo que duas delas emergiam diretamente do saco aneurismático. O caso foi solucionado por meio de cirurgia aberta, em caráter de urgência, com acesso transperitoneal, interposição de enxerto de Dacron bifurcado aorto bi-ilíaco e reimplante das duas artérias renais anômalas no corpo principal do Dacron. O paciente teve boa evolução pós-operatória, recebendo alta da unidade de tratamento intensivo no 3º dia e alta hospitalar no 8º dia, mantendo níveis normais de creatinina sérica.

Abstract Horseshoe kidney is the most common congenital renal anomaly, occurring in 0.15-0.25% of newborns. The association of a horseshoe kidney with an abdominal aortic aneurysm is rare. Only 0.12% of patients requiring abdominal aortic repair have a horseshoe kidney. This therapeutic challenge constitutes a patient presenting with a symptomatic abdominal aortic aneurysm and a horseshoe kidney. The horseshoe kidney was supplied by 4 renal arteries, 2 of which emerged from the aneurysmal sac. The patient underwent urgent open repair, with transperitoneal exposure, interposition of a bifurcated aorto-bi-iliac Dacron graft and re-implantation of the 2 anomalous renal arteries on the Dacron main body. Postoperatively, the patient was discharged from the intensive care unit on day 3, and discharged home on day 8, maintaining normal serum creatinine.