Endovascular correction of isolated descending thoracic aortic disease: a descriptive analysis of 1, 344 procedures over 10 years in the public health system of São Paulo

OBJECTIVES: In Brazil, descending thoracic aorta disease (TAD), including aneurysms and dissection, are preferentially managed by endovascular treatment (TEVAR) due to the feasibility and good results of this technique. In this study, we analyzed endovascular treatment of isolated TAD (ITAD) in the public health system over a 10-year period in São Paulo, a municipality in Brazil in which more than 5 million inhabitants depend on the governmental health system. METHODS: Public data from procedures performed between 2008 and 2019 were extracted using web scraping techniques. The following types of data were analyzed: demographic data, operative technique, elective or urgent status, number of surgeries, in-hospital mortality, length of hospital stay, mean length of stay in the intensive care unit, and reimbursement values paid by the government. Trauma cases and congenital diseases were excluded. RESULTS: A total of 1,344 procedures were analyzed; most patients were male and aged ≥65 years. Most individuals had a residential address registered in the city. Approximately one-third of all surgeries were urgent cases. There were 128 in-hospital deaths (9.52%), and in-hospital mortality was lower for elective than for urgent surgeries (7.29% vs. 14.31%, p=0.031). A total of R$ 24.766.008,61 was paid; an average of R$ 17.222,98 per elective procedure and R$ 18.558,68 per urgent procedure. Urgent procedures were significantly more expensive than elective surgeries (p=0.029). CONCLUSION: Over a 10-year period, the total cost of ITAD interventions was R$ 24.766.008,61, which was paid from the governmental system. Elective procedures were associated with lower mortality and lower investment from the health system when compared to those performed in an urgent scenario.

Comparison between arch zones in modified frozen elephant trunk procedure for complex thoracic aortic diseases

Abstract Introduction: The aim of this study is to compare postoperative outcomes and follow-up of two different modifications facilitating surgical technique of frozen elephant trunk (FET) procedure for complex thoracic aortic diseases - zone 0 (fixation with total arch debranching) and zone 3 (fixation with islet-shape arch repair). Methods: From May 2012 to December 2018, data were collected from 139 patients who had been treated with FET procedure for complex thoracic aortic diseases. According to Ishimaru arch map, patients with proximal anastomotic site of hybrid graft at zone 0 and zone 3 were grouped as Group A (n=58, 41.7%) and Group B (n=81, 58.3%), respectively. Mean age of study population was 54.7±11.4 years, and 111 patients were male (79.9%). Results: In-hospital mortality was observed in 20 (14.4%) patients (n=12, acute type A aortic dissection, and n=4, previous aortic dissection surgery). There was no significant difference between both groups in terms of in-hospital mortality. Four patients from Group A and three patients from Group B had permanent neurological deficit (P=0.32). Three patients from both groups had transient spinal cord ischemia (P=0.334). Although mean total perfusion time was longer in Group A, duration of visceral ischemia, when compared with Group B, was shorter (P<0.001). Five-year survival rate was 82.8% in Group A and 81.5% in Group B (P=0.876). Conclusion: FET procedure is a feasible repair technique in the treatment of complex aortic diseases, providing satisfactory early results. Because of its advantageous aspects, zone 0 fixation with debranching is the preferred technique in our clinic.

Current hospital mortality, neurological deficit, and mid-term survival after surgery for acute type A aortic dissection in Argentina / Mortalidad hospitalaria, déficit neurológico y supervivencia alejada después de cirugía de disección aórtica aguda tipo A en la actualidad en Argentina

Abstract Objective: To present the current in-hospital outcomes and mid-term survival of acute type A aortic dissection (AAAD) surgery performed by a group of dedicated high-volume thoracic aortic surgeons in a University Hospital in Argentina. Methods: A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data over a 6-year period (2011---2016) was performed on a consecutive series of 53 adult patients who underwent emer- gency cardiac surgery for AAAD in the Buenos Aires University Hospital in Argentina. Results: A mean of 8.8 AAAD repairs were performed yearly during the 6-year period. In-hospital mortality was 17%, and was statistically equivalent to the expected operative mortality rate of 21% (EuroSCORE II) (observed-to-expected mortality ratio 0.81; p = 0.620). New neurological deficit appeared postoperatively in 6% of cases, and the observed major postoperative morbidity rate was 42%. All-cause death cumulative survival probability was 0.711 (SE 0.074), with a mean follow-up period of 49.2 (SE 5.0) months. Cumulative survival probability for in-hospital survivors was 0.903 (SE 0.053), with a mean follow-up period of 62.5 (SE 3.6) months. Conclusion: Although the present results do not reach international standards, AAAD surgery in our institution was associated with an acceptable mortality risk and satisfactory mid-term survival compared with previous local studies. In addition to in-hospital mortality, the incidence of new permanent neurological deficit after surgery must be considered the most devastating complication to avoid. Patient-focused care in referral aortic centers with surgery performed by specialized teams should be encouraged in order to improve surgical outcomes in acute aortic dissection surgery in Argentina.

Resumen Objetivo: Presentar los resultados hospitalarios actuales y la supervivencia a mediano plazo de la cirugía de la disección aguda aórtica tipo A (DAAA) realizada por un grupo de cirujanos de alto volumen de cirugías en un Hospital Universitario de Argentina. Método: Se realizó un análisis retrospectivo de datos recolectados en forma prospectiva durante 6 años (2011-2016) de una serie de 53 adultos sometidos a cirugía de emergencia por DAAA en un Hospital Universitario de Buenos Aires, Argentina. Resultados: Durante 6 años se operaron en promedio 8.8 DAAA por año. La mortalidad hospitalaria fue del 17% y estadísticamente equivalente a una tasa de mortalidad esperada del 21% por el EuroSCORE II (razón de mortalidad observada/esperada 0.81; p = 0.620). El déficit neurológico postoperatorio apareció en el 6% de los casos, y la tasa de morbilidad mayor fue del 42%. La probabilidad acumulada de supervivencia fue de 0.711 (EE 0.074), con un promedio de seguimiento de 49.2 (EE 5.0) meses. La supervivencia acumulada descartando la mortalidad operatoria fue de 0.903 (EE 0.053), con un promedio de seguimiento de 62.5 (EE 3.6) meses. Conclusiones: Aunque estos resultados no alcanzan los estándares internacionales, la cirugía de la DAAA en nuestra institución estuvo asociada a un riesgo aceptable de mortalidad y una supervivencia satisfactoria a mediano plazo comparadas con estudios previos locales. Además de la mortalidad, la incidencia de daño neurológico permanente después de la cirugía debe considerarse la complicación más devastadora a evitar.

Hybrid approach of aortic diseases: zone 1 delivery and volumetric analysis on the descending aorta

Abstract Introduction: Conventional techniques of surgical correction of arch and descending aortic diseases remains as high-risk procedures. Endovascular treatments of abdominal and descending thoracic aorta have lower surgical risk. Evolution of both techniques - open debranching of the arch and endovascular approach of the descending aorta - may extend a less invasive endovascular treatment for a more extensive disease with necessity of proximal landing zone in the arch. Objective: To evaluate descending thoracic aortic remodeling by means of volumetric analysis after hybrid approach of aortic arch debranching and stenting the descending aorta. Methods: Retrospective review of seven consecutive patients treated between September 2014 and August 2016 for diseases of proximal descending aorta (aneurysms and dissections) by hybrid approach to deliver the endograft at zone 1. Computed tomography angiography were analyzed using a specific software to calculate descending thoracic aorta volumes pre- and postoperatively. Results: Follow-up was done in 100% of patients with a median time of 321 days (range, 41-625 days). No deaths or permanent neurological complications were observed. There were no endoleaks or stent migrations. Freedom from reintervention was 100% at 300 days and 66% at 600 days. Median volume reduction was of 45.5 cm3, representing a median volume shrinkage by 9.3%. Conclusion: Hybrid approach of arch and descending thoracic aorta diseases is feasible and leads to a favorable aortic remodeling with significant volume reduction.

Hybrid treatment with complete transposition of supra-aortic trunks versus conventional surgery for the treatment of aortic arch aneurysm

Abstract Objective: The disease of the aortic arch is traditionally approached by open surgical repair requiring cardiopulmonary bypass and circulatory arrest. This study performed a retrospective analysis comparing outcomes through primary hybrid patients submitted to aortic arch surgery without cardiopulmonary bypass with patients submitted to conventional open surgery. Methods: 25 patients submitted to the aortic arch surgery were selected in the period 2003-2012 at the Madre Teresa Hospital in the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil; 13 of these underwent hybrid technique without cardiopulmonary bypass and 12 underwent conventional open surgery. Results: The mortality rate for the hybrid group was 23% and for the conventional surgery group was 17% (P=0.248). The postoperative complication rate was also similar in both groups, with no significant difference. Conclusion: Both techniques proved to be similar in mortality and morbidity. However, due to the small sample, more analytical studies with larger samples and long-term follow-up are needed to clarify this issue.

Totally percutaneous access using perclose proglide for endovascular treatment of aortic diseases

Abstract Objective: To evaluate our experience following the introduction of a percutaneous program for endovascular treatment of aortic diseases using Perclose Proglide® assessing efficacy, complications and identification of potential risk factors that could predict failure or major access site complications. Methods: A retrospective cohort study during a two-year period was performed. All the patients submitted to totally percutaneous endovascular repair (PEVAR) of aortic diseases and transcatheter aortic valve implantation since we started the total percutaneous approach with the preclosure technique from November 2013 to December 2015 were included in the study. The primary endpoint was major ipsilateral access complication, defined according to PEVAR trial. Results: In a cohort of 123 patients, immediate technical success was obtained in 121 (98.37%) patients, with only two (0.82%) cases in 242 vascular access sites that required intervention immediately after the procedure. Pairwise comparisons revealed increased major access complication among patients with >50% common femoral artery (CFA) calcification vs. none (P=0.004) and > 50% CFA calcification vs. < 50% CFA calcification (P=0.002). Small artery diameter (<6.5 mm) also increased major access complication compared to bigger diameters (> 6.5 mm) (P=0.027). Conclusion: The preclosure technique with two Perclose Proglide® for PEVAR is safe and effective. Complications occur more often in patients with unfavorable access site anatomy and the success rate can be improved with proper patient selection.

Long-term efficacy of endovascular vs open surgical repair for complicated type-B aortic dissection: a single-center retrospective study and meta-analysis

This study aimed to evaluate the long-term survival and risk factors of traditional open surgical repair (OSR) vs thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR) for complicated type-B aortic dissection (TBAD). A total of 118 inpatients (45 OSR vs 73 TEVAR) with TBAD were enrolled from January 2004 to January 2015. Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards analysis were performed to identify the long-term survival rate and independent predictors of survival, respectively. Meta-analysis was used to further explore the long-term efficacy of OSR and TEVAR in the eight included studies using Review Manager 5.2 software. An overall 10-year survival rate of 41.9% was found, and it was similar in the two groups (56.7% OSR vs 26.1% TEVAR; log-rank P=0.953). The risk factors of long-term survival were refractory hypertension (OR=11.1; 95%CI=1.428-86.372; P=0.021] and preoperative aortic diameter >55 mm (OR=4.5; 95%CI=1.842-11.346; P=0.001). Long-term survival rate did not differ significantly between OSR and TEVAR (hazard ratio=0.87; 95%CI=0.52-1.47; P=0.61). Compared with OSR, TEVAR did not show long-term advantages for patients with TBAD. Refractory hypertension and total aortic diameter >55 mm can be used to predict the long-term survival of TBAD in the Chinese Han population.

Surgical treatment of complex aneurysms and thoracic aortic dissections with the Frozen Elephant Trunk technique / Tratamento cirúrgico dos aneurismas complexos e dissecções da aorta torácica utilizando a técnica "Frozen Elephant Trunk"

Abstract Objective: Report initial experience with the Frozen Elephant Trunk technique. Methods: From July 2009 to October 2013, Frozen Elephant Trunk technique was performed in 21 patients (66% male, mean age 56 ±11 years). They had type A aortic dissection (acute 9.6%, chronic 57.3%), type B (14.3%, all chronic) and complex aneurysms (19%). It was 9.5% of reoperations and 38% of associated procedures (25.3% miocardial revascularization, 25.3% replacement of aortic valve and 49.4% aortic valved graft). Aortic remodeling was evaluated comparing preoperative and most recent computed tomography scans. One hundred per cent of complete follow-up, mean time of 28 months. Results: In-hospital mortality of 14.2%, being 50% in acute type A aortic dissection, 8.3% in chronic type A aortic dissection, 33.3% in chronic type B aortic dissection and 0% in complex aneurysms. Mean times of cardiopulmonary bypass (152±24min), myocardial ischemia (115±31min) and selective cerebral perfusion (60±15min). Main complications were bleeding (14.2%), spinal cord injury (9.5%), stroke (4.7%), prolonged mechanical ventilation (4.7%) and acute renal failure (4.7%). The need for second-stage operation was 19%. False-lumen thrombosis was obtained in 80%. Conclusion: Frozen Elephant Trunk is a feasible technique and should be considered. The severity of the underlying disease justifies high mortality rates. The learning curve is a reality. This approach allows treatment of more than two segments at once. Nonetheless, if a second stage is made necessary, it is facilitated. .

Resumo Objetivo: Relatar experiência inicial com a técnica "Frozen Elephant Trunk". Métodos: Entre julho de 2009 e outubro de 2013, 21 pacientes, 66% homens, média de idade de 56±11 anos, 66,7% portadores de dissecção da aorta tipo A de Stanford (9,6% agudas e 57,1% crônicas), tipo B (14,3%, todas crônicas) e aneurismas complexos (19%), foram operados pela técnica Frozen Elephant Trunk. Foram 9,5% de reoperações e 38% com procedimentos associados (25,3% revascularizações do miocárdio, 25,3% troca da valva aórtica e 49,4% tubos valvulados). Remodelamento da aorta foi avaliado com a comparação de angiotomografia pré-operatória e pós-operatória mais recente. Seguimento 100% dos pacientes, tempo médio de 28 meses. Resultados: Mortalidade hospitalar de 14,2%, sendo 50% nas dissecções do tipo A agudas, 8,3% nas tipo A crônicas, 33,3% nas tipo B crônicas e 0% nos aneurismas complexos. Tempos médios de CEC (152±24min), isquemia miocárdica (115±31min) e perfusão cerebral seletiva (60±15min). Principais complicações pós-operatórias foram sangramento (14,2%), acidente vascular encefálico (4,7%), paraplegia (9,5%), intubação>72h (4,7%) e insuficiência renal aguda (4,7%). Houve necessidade de complementação do tratamento (distal ao stent) em 19%. Houve trombose da falsa luz em 80%. Conclusão: Frozen Elephant Trunk é opção técnica a ser utilizada. A gravidade e extensão da doença justificam mortalidade mais elevada. A curva de aprendizado é uma realidade. Esta abordagem permite abordar mais de dois segmentos de aorta em um estágio, mas se necessário segundo estágio, este é facilitado. .

Debranching Solutions in Endografting for Complex Thoracic Aortic Dissections / Soluções de Desramificação em Endoprótese para Dissecções Complexas da Aorta Torácica

Background: Conventional surgical repair of thoracic aortic dissections is a challenge due to mortality and morbidity risks. Objectives: We analyzed our experience in hybrid aortic arch repair for complex dissections of the aortic arch. Methods: Between 2009 and 2013, 18 patients (the mean age of 67 ± 8 years-old) underwent hybrid aortic arch repair. The procedural strategy was determined on the individual patient. Results: Thirteen patients had type I repair using trifurcation and another patient with bifurcation graft. Two patients had type II repair with replacement of the ascending aorta. Two patients received extra-anatomic bypass grafting to left carotid artery allowing covering of zone 1. Stent graft deployment rate was 100%. No patients experienced stroke. One patient with total debranching of the aortic arch following an acute dissection of the proximal arch expired 3 months after TEVAR due to heart failure. There were no early to midterm endoleaks. The median follow-up was 20 ± 8 months with patency rate of 100%. Conclusion: Various debranching solutions for different complex scenarios of the aortic arch serve as less invasive procedures than conventional open surgery enabling safe and effective treatment of this highly selected subgroup of patients with complex aortic pathologies. .

Fundamentos: O reparo cirúrgico convencional de dissecção da aorta torácica é um desafio devido aos riscos de mortalidade e morbidade. Objetivos: Analisamos nossa experiência no reparo híbrido do arco aórtico em dissecções complexas do arco aórtico. Métodos: Entre os anos de 2009 e 2013, 18 pacientes (idade média de 67 ± 8 anos de idade) foram submetidos ao reparo híbrido do arco aórtico. A estratégia de procedimento foi determinada individualmente para cada paciente. Resultados: Treze pacientes fizeram o reparo tipo I utilizando enxerto trifurcado; outro paciente utilizou um enxerto bifurcado. Dois pacientes fizeram o reparo tipo II com substituição da aorta ascendente. Dois pacientes receberam desvios extra-anatômicos de enxertia pela artéria carótida esquerda, permitindo a cobertura da zona 1. A taxa de implantação do stent foi de 100%. Nenhum paciente apresentou acidente vascular cerebral. Um paciente com desramificação total do arco aórtico após dissecção aguda do arco proximal faleceu 3 meses depois de realizar o reparo endovascular da aorta torácica (TEVAR), por insuficiência cardíaca. Não houve endoleak precoce ou a médio prazo. A média de acompanhamento foi de 20 ± 8 meses, com taxa de patência de 100%. Conclusão: Diversas soluções de desramificação, utilizadas em diferentes cenários complexos do arco aórtico, são procedimentos menos invasivos que a cirurgia aberta convencional e permitem o tratamento seguro e eficaz deste subgrupo, altamente selecionado de pacientes com patologias complexas da aorta. .

Impacto da mortalidade da doença da aorta torácica no estado de São Paulo no período de 1998 a 2007 / Mortality impact of thoracic aortic disease in São Paulo state from 1998 to 2007

FUNDAMENTO: Ainda não foram analisadas as características epidemiológicas das doenças da aorta torácica (DAT) no estado de São Paulo e no Brasil, assim como o seu impacto na sobrevida desses pacientes. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar o impacto da mortalidade das DAT e caracterizá-la epidemiologicamente. MÉTODOS: Análise retrospectiva dos dados do Sistema Único de Saúde para os códigos de DAT do registro de internações, de procedimentos e dos óbitos, a partir do Código Internacional de Doenças (CID-10), registrados na Secretaria de Saúde do Estado de São Paulo durante o período de janeiro de 1998 a dezembro de 2007. RESULTADOS: Foram 9.465 óbitos por DAT, 5.500 homens (58,1%) e 3.965 mulheres (41,9%); 6.721 dissecções (71%) e 2.744 aneurismas, 86,3% diagnosticados no IML. Foram 6.109 internações, 67,9% do sexo masculino, sendo que 21,2% evoluíram a óbito (69% homens), com proporções semelhantes de dissecção e aneurisma entre os sexos, respectivamente 54% e 46%, porém com mortalidade distinta. Os homens com DAT morrem mais que as mulheres (OR = 1,5). A distribuição etária para óbitos e internações foi semelhante, com predomínio na sexta década. Foram 3.572 operações (58% das internações) com mortalidade de 20,3% (os pacientes mantidos em tratamento medicamentoso apresentaram mortalidade de 22,6%; p = 0,047). O número de internações, de cirurgias, de óbitos dos pacientes internados e geral de óbitos por DAT foi progressivamente superior ao aumento populacional no decorrer do tempo. CONCLUSÕES: Atuações específicas na identificação precoce desses pacientes, assim como a viabilização do seu atendimento, devem ser implementadas para reduzir a aparente progressiva mortalidade por DAT imposta à nossa população.

BACKGROUND: The epidemiological characteristics of thoracic aortic diseases (TAD) in the State of São Paulo and in Brazil, as well as their impact on the survival of these patients have yet to be analyzed. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the mortality impact of TAD and characterize it epidemiologically. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of data from the public health system for the TAD registry codes of hospitalizations, procedures and deaths, from the International Code of Diseases (ICD-10), registered at the Ministry of Health of São Paulo State from January 1998 to December 2007. RESULTS: They were 9.465 TAD deaths, 5.500 men (58.1%) and 3.965 women (41.9%); 6.721 dissections (71%) and 2.744. aneurysms. In 86.3% of cases the diagnosis was attained during autopsy. There were 6.109 hospitalizations, of which 67.9% were males; 21.2% of them died (69% men), with similar proportions of dissection and aneurysm between sexes, respectively 54% and 46%, but with different mortality. Men with TAD die more often than women (OR = 1.5). The age distribution for deaths and hospitalizations was similar with predominance in the 6th decade. They were 3.572 surgeries (58% of hospitalizations) with 20.3% mortality (patients kept in clinical treatment showed 22.6% mortality; p = 0.047). The number of hospitalizations, surgeries, deaths of in-patients and general deaths by TAD were progressively greater than the increase in population over time. CONCLUSIONS: Specific actions for the early identification of these patients, as well as the viability of their care should be implemented to reduce the apparent progressive mortality from TAD seen among our population.

Use of a stent-graft and vascular occlude to treat primary and re-entry tears in a patient with a Stanford type B aortic dissection / O uso de endoprótese e oclusor vascular para tratar ruptura primária e de re-entrada em paciente com dissecção aórtica tipo B de Stanford

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair for aortic dissections is recognized as an effective treatment. We herein report the case of a 72-year-old male with a Stanford type B aortic dissection. A stent-graft and double-disk vascular occluder was used to repair the primary and re-entry tears, respectively. At 3 month postoperatively, computed tomographic angiography revealed no endoleaks, the stent-graft and vascular occluder to be in optimal positions, the false lumen was almost completely thrombosed, and the visceral arteries were patent. This case illustrates that it is feasible to treat re-entry tears with a vascular occluder after primary proximal stent-graft repairs.

Reparação endovascular de aorta torácica para dissecção aórtica é reconhecida como um tratamento eficaz. Relatamos o caso de um homem de 72 anos de idade, com dissecção aórtica tipo B de Stanford. A endoprótese e oclusor duplo disco vascular foi usado para reparar as rupturas primária e de re-entrada, respectivamente. Aos três meses de pós-operatório, angiotomografia computadorizada não revelou vazamentos, o oclusor e a endoprótese vascular estavam em posições melhores, a falsa luz foi quase completamente trombosada, e as artérias viscerais estavam patentes. Esse caso demonstra que o tratamento de rupturas na re-entrada com endoprótese vascular após reparos proximais primários é viável.

Mortality within the endovascular treatment in Stanford type B aortic dissections / Mortalidade no tratamento endovascular nas dissecções aórticas tipo B

BACKGROUND: Endovascular stent-graft repair of aortic dissections is a relatively new procedure, and although apparently less invasive, the efficacy and safety of this technique have not been fully established. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate mortality in patients with complicated Stanford type B aortic dissections submitted to endovascular treatment. METHODS: Clinical, anatomical, imaging and autopsy data of 23 patients with complicated type B aortic dissections were reviewed from November 2004 to October 2007. The main indications for transluminal thoracic stent-grafting included: persistent pain in spite of medical therapy, signs of distal limb ischemia, signs of aortic rupture, progression of aneurismal dilation of the descending aorta during follow-up (defined as a diameter > 50 mm) and the diameter of descending thoracic aorta of 40mm or larger at the onset of aortic dissection. Data were analyzed statistically; all p-values were two-tailed and differences < 0.05 were considered to indicate statistical significance. Continuous variables were expressed as mean (± SD), and medians were compared by the Student's t test. Differences in categorical variables between the groups were analyzed by the Chi-square or Fisher's exact test. RESULTS: The procedure presented primary technical success in 82.6 percent of patients. Four patients (17.4 percent) had an incomplete proximal entry seal. Three patients (13 percent) died within 30 days of the procedure and eight patients (34.8 percent) died after 30 days. CONCLUSION: Endovascular correction of complicated Stanford type B aortic dissections is a feasible and effective treatment option.

INTRODUÇÃO: O tratamento endovascular na dissecção de aorta é um procedimento relativamente novo e, embora aparentemente menos invasivo, a eficácia e a segurança dessa técnica não estão totalmente estabelecidas. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a mortalidade e complicações nos pacientes submetidos a tratamento endovascular na dissecção de aorta tipo B de Stanford. MÉTODOS: Foram revisados, a partir de novembro de 2004 a outubro de 2007, em estudo clínico, anatômico, de imagens e dados da autopsia de 23 pacientes com dissecção aórtica tipo B. As principais indicações para o procedimento foram: dor persistente apesar da terapia médica, sinais de isquemia distal do membro, sinais de ruptura da aorta, progressão da dilatação do aneurisma da aorta descendente, durante o seguimento (definida como um diâmetro > 5 cm) e descendente da aorta torácica de 40 mm ou mais de diâmetro no início da dissecção aórtica. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente considerados erro alfa de 5 por cento. As variáveis contínuas foram expressas como média (± dp) e medianas e comparadas pelo teste t Student. As diferenças entre os grupos em variáveis categóricas e analisadas pelo chi-quadrado ou teste exato de Fisher. RESULTADOS: O procedimento apresentou sucesso técnico primário em 82,6 por cento dos pacientes. Quatro (17,4 por cento) pacientes tinham um selo de entrada incompleto proximal. Três (13 por cento) pacientes morreram antes de 30 dias e oito (34,8 por cento), após 30 dias do procedimento. CONCLUSÃO: Os procedimentos endovasculares são factíveis na dissecção da aorta torácica tipo B, na qual as complicações das causas de mortalidades alertam sobre a gravidade da doença e de intercorrências das próteses como no caso das fistulas.

Tratamento híbrido das doenças complexas da aorta torácica / Hybrid procedures for complex thoracic aortic diseases

INTRODUÇÃO: O tratamento híbrido das lesões complexas da aorta torácica (LCAT) requer a revascularização de uma ou mais artérias supra-aórticas, seguida do implante de endoprótese, com morbidade e mortalidade presumidamente mais baixas que a cirurgia convencional. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a técnica e resultados do tratamento híbrido das LCAT. MÉTODOS: Durante dois anos, 12 pacientes com LCAT foram submetidos a procedimentos híbridos, incluindo aneurismas do arco aórtico e dissecções aórticas agudas Stanford A e B. Todos possuíam indicação de tratamento invasivo, além de zona de ancoragem proximal inadequada (menor que 20 mm). Metade era do sexo masculino e a média de idade de 55,5 anos (42 a 78). Pelo menos três fatores de risco cardiovascular estavam presentes em 75 por cento dos pacientes. A média de seguimento foi de 10,9 meses (2 a 25), com acompanhamento clínico e tomográfico. RESULTADOS: O sucesso técnico inicial foi alcançado em 10 pacientes. Todas as derivações dos vasos supra-aórticos foram realizadas em ambiente cirúrgico e os procedimentos endovasculares em sala de radiologia vascular. A "técnica do varal" foi empregada em seis casos. Dois óbitos ocorreram nos primeiros 30 dias do procedimento. Nenhuma migração da endoprótese foi observada. Nenhum paciente apresentou paraplegia, acidente vascular cerebral, insuficiência renal, hemorragia ou coagulopatia, conversão cirúrgica eletiva ou de emergência. CONCLUSÃO: O tratamento híbrido das LCAT é viável, especialmente em pacientes de alto risco. Uma adequada integração das técnicas cirúrgica e endovascular, além do acompanhamento clínico e radiológico adequado, tornam esta técnica uma ótima opção à cirurgia convencional.

BACKGROUND: Hybrid procedures for the treatment of complex thoracic aortic diseases (CTAD) require the revascularization of one or more supra-aortic arteries, followed by the deployment of one or more aortic endoprosthesis, with lower morbidity and mortality compared to conventional surgery. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the technique and results of hybrid procedures for CTAD. METHODS: During two years, 12 patients with CTAD underwent hybrid procedures, including aortic arch aneurysms and acute Stanford A and B aortic dissections. All patients had formal indications to invasive treatment, and inadequate proximal landing zone (less than 20 mm). Half were male and the mean age was 55.5 years (42 to 78). At least three cardiovascular risk factors were present in 75 percent of patients. The average follow-up was 10.9 months (2 to 25), with periodic consultations and CT scans. RESULTS: The initial technical success was achieved in 10 patients. Bypasses of supra-aortic vessels were performed in a surgical environment and endovascular procedures in an interventional radiology facility. "Through-and-through" technique was used in six patients. Two deaths occurred in the first 30 days after the procedure. No endoprosthesis migration was observed. No patient had paraplegia, stroke, renal failure, bleeding or coagulopathy, elective or emergency surgical conversion. CONCLUSION: Hybrid treatment of CTAD is feasible, especially in high risk patients. Proper integration of surgical and endovascular techniques, in addition to clinical and radiological surveillance, makes this technique a great alternative to conventional surgery.

Aortic root reconstruction through valve-sparing operation: critical analysis of 11 years of follow-up / Análise crítica da reconstrução da raiz da aorta com a preservação da valva aórtica: 11 anos de seguimento

INTRODUCTION: The composite mechanical valve conduit replacement is the standardized operation for aneurysms of the aortic root. The objective of this study is to evaluate the long-term surgical results of aortic valve-preserving procedures to the root reconstruction. METHODS: From 1996 to 2008, 54 consecutive patients underwent two different techniques of valve-sparing aortic root operation (40 Yacoub operations and 14 David operations). Mean age was 48 ± 14 years (range 17 to 74). 36 patients (66.7 percent) were male and 16 (29.6 percent) experienced Marfan's syndrome. The mean Euroscore was 4 ± 1.25. The mean follow up time was 4.1 years (from 49 days to 10.9 years). Clinical and echocardiographic parameters were analysed. T-Student paired test, the McNemar Non Parametric test and the Kaplan-Meyer Outcome Curves have been used. RESULTS: The hospital mortality was 5.6 percent and the average hospitalization time was 9±4 days. One non related late death (2 percent) was reported. The actuarial survival and freedom from reoperation were respectively 94.4 percent and 96 percent within 11 years of follow-up. There were benefits in reduction of functional class (P=0.002; 78 percent CF I), in reduction of aortic regurgitation (P<0.001; 78 percent with or without discrete reflux), in reduction of systolic and diastolic diameters, end-sytolic and end-diastolic volumes of left ventricle (respectively P=0.004; P<0.0001; P=0.036 and P<0.001). Two (3.9 percent) patients required aortic valve replacement due to severe aortic regurgitation during this same period. No thromboembolic, endocarditis or bleeding events were reported during the follow-up. CONCLUSION: The valve-sparing operation for aortic root aneurysms is an effective alternative to the use of a mechanical valve conduit replacement.

INTRODUÇÃO: A utilização do tubo valvulado é a operação clássica para a reconstrução da raiz da aorta. O objetivo deste trabalho é avaliar a reconstrução da aorta ascendente com a preservação da valva aórtica. MÉTODOS: Entre 1996 e 2008, 54 pacientes consecutivos (66,7 por cento do sexo masculino), com idade média de 48 ± 14 anos, foram submetidos à reconstrução da aorta ascendente e preservação da valva aórtica (40 remodelamentos e 14 reimplantes). O Euroscore médio foi de 4 ± 1,25 e 29,6 por cento eram portadores de síndrome de Marfan. O tempo médio de seguimento foi de 4,1 anos (49 dias até 10,9 anos). Foram avaliados por parâmetros clínicos e ecocardiográficos. Para a análise dos dados foram utilizados os testes t de Student pareado, o não-paramétrico de McNemar e a curva de sobrevida de Kaplan-Meyer. RESULTADOS: A mortalidade hospitalar foi de 5,6 por cento. O tempo médio de internação foi de 9 ± 4 dias. Houve um óbito tardio não relacionado (2 por cento). A sobrevida e sobrevida livre de reoperação nos 11 anos de seguimento foram respectivamente de 94,4 por cento e 96 por cento. Houve melhora da classe funcional (P=0,002) (78 por cento CF I), redução da insuficiência aórtica (P<0,001) (78 por cento sem ou com refluxo discreto), redução dos diâmetros sistólico e diastólico, dos volumes sistólico final e diastólico final do ventrículo esquerdo, respectivamente P=0,004; P<0,001; P=0,036 e P<0,001. Dois pacientes foram submetidos à troca de valva aórtica (3,9 por cento) com 4 e 10 anos da operação. Não foram observados fenômenos tromboembólicos, hemorrágicos ou endocardite durante o seguimento. CONCLUSÃO: A reconstrução da raiz da aorta com a preservação da valva aórtica é uma alternativa eficaz ao uso do tubo valvulado.

Tratamiento endovascular de la disección aórtica tipo B mediante endoprótesis / Endovascular treatment of type B aortic dissection

Background: Dissections that involve the ascending aorta are classified as type A, regardless of the site of the primary intimal tear, and all other dissections as type B. Type B dissections can have fatal ischemic and hemorrhagic complications. In the chronic state, dilatation and rupture can be mortal. Endovascular surgery is a therapeutic alternative, considering the high rate of complications of conventional surgery Aim: To report the results of endovascular treatment of type B aortic dissection. Material and methods: Report of 36 treated patients (30 males) aged 43 to 87 years, with a type B aortic dissection. Seventy eight percent were hypertensive and 39 percent smoked. The diagnosis was conñrmed by CAT sean. Acute patients were treated for complications and chronic patients, for dilatation. In the operating room, an endoprothesis was placed through the femoral artery, to cover the tear. The tear was located and the lumens were differentiated using angiography and transesophageal echocardiography. Results: All procedures were successful. In 16 acute dissections the indications were malperfusion syndrome or unmanageable hypertension in seven patients and imminent rupture or persistent pain in nine. Twenty chronic patients were operated due to dilatation (mean 6 cm). One patient died due to cardiac failure. One patient had a transient paraparesia and two had pulmonary embolism. No patient died in a follow up períod ranging from 2.5 to 74 months. Four patients required a new aortic endovascular procedure due to progressive dilatation or endoleak. Conclusión: Endovascular treatment of type B aortic dissection has good immediate andlong term results.

Há espaço para o tratamento endovascular nas dissecções crônicas da aorta descendente? / Is the endovascular procedure an option for treatment of cronic type B aortic dissections?

OBJETIVO: Questões relativas a quais pacientes/doenças que efetivamente deveriam ser submetidos ao tratamento endovascular ainda geram controvérsias. O objetivo deste trabalho visa a questionar o tratamento endovascular nas dissecções crônicas tipo B de Stanford. MÉTODOS: No período de 2003 a 2006, 11 pacientes portadores de dissecção crônica da aorta tipo B de Stanford com dilatação somente no tórax (diâmetro > 5,5cm), foram submetidos à colocação de prótese endovascular autoexpansível pela artéria femoral. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos à angiotomografia de controle com 6 meses, 1 ano e após, anualmente, com o intuito de avaliar a presença de fluxo na falsa luz e estudar a evolução dos diâmetros da aorta torácica descendente e abdominal no decorrer do tempo. Para esta análise foram utilizados os testes Anova de duas vias para medidas repetidas e o qui-quadrado com o programa SPSS 13. RESULTADOS: Não houve mortalidade hospitalar. Nenhum paciente apresentou endoleak imediatamente após a operação. Durante o período de seguimento médio de 28 meses/paciente, não houve óbitos, um paciente foi submetido à substituição da aorta tóraco-abdominal e dois aguardam esta mesma intervenção. A endoprótese interrompeu o fluxo na falsa luz no tórax em 72,7 por cento dos pacientes e, no abdome, somente em 18,2 por cento, porém isto não implicou na redução dos diâmetros da aorta torácica nem abdominal. CONCLUSÃO: O tratamento endovascular nas dissecções crônicas tipo B de Stanford parece não ser suficiente para tratar esses pacientes no curto/médio prazo, apesar do tamanho reduzido da amostra estudada.

OBJECTIVE: Questions regarding the specific patient/disease that should be submitted to the endovascular procedure still remain unclear. The purpose of this report is to evaluate the endovascular treatment in chronic type B aortic dissections. METHODS: Between 2003 and 2006, 11 patients with chronic type B aortic dissection were submitted to endovascular procedure through femoral artery. All of them were monitored with CT within 6 months, 1 year and afterwars anually. We prospectively evaluated false lumen patency and thoracic and abdominal aortic diameters in each time point. The data comparisons were made using Anova and chi-square tests with SPSS 13. RESULTS: The endovascular stent-graft deployment was technically successful for all patients, with no hospital mortality. During the follow-up period the false lumen flows remained persistent in the thorax in 27.3 percent of the patients and in the abdomen in 81.8 percent. However, in all patients, in both segments, the aorta diameter was not significantly changed in size and shape. CONCLUSION: Despite the small number of studied patients, the endovascular procedure for chronic type B aortic dissections does not appear to be an option for the treatment of these patients.

Tratamiento "híbrido" del aneurisma tóraco-abdominal: revascularización visceral extraanatómica e inserción de endoprótesis / Extra anatomical revascularization and endovascular stent-grafting for thoracoabdominal aneurysm repair: Report of four cases

Surgical treatment of thoracoabdominal aneurysms is a big technical challenge with a high rate of complications and mortality. It requires a large exposure and transient interruption of vital organ perfusion during its repair. Endovascular repair is a less invasive alternative available over the last decade. We report four male patients aged 44 to 76 years, with thoracic aortic aneurysms and involvement of visceral aorta, treated with a two stage procedure. During the first stage, a retrograde revascularization of the superior mesenteric and renal arteries from the infrarenal aorta was done, associated in two cases to a concomitant repair of an infrarenal aortic aneurysm. In the second stage, an endovascular graft was placed through the femoral artery, from the segment proximal to the aneurysm to the infrarenal aorta, above the origin of the visceral artery reconstructions, excluding the aneurysm from circulation. In one patient, both stages were concomitant and in three the second stage was delayed. One patient presented a postoperative bleeding that required reintervention without adverse consequences. No patient died, presented paraplegia or deterioration of renal function. After follow up of 6 to 20 months, there is no evidence of aneurysm growth or complications derived from the procedure.

Correção dos aneurismas da aorta torácica e toracoabdominal: técnica de canulação central / Correction of thoracic and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms: central cannulation technique

OBJETIVO: Demonstrar a viabilidade do uso da circulação extracorpórea estabelecida entre o átrio esquerdo e a aorta ascendente para indução da hipotermia profunda na correção de aneurismas torácicos e toracoabdominais. MÉTODOS: De janeiro 1994 a julho 2001, foram operados 38 pacientes, com média de idade de 54,6±12,7 anos. Foram submetidos a correção de aneurisma toracoabdominal 12 (31,6 por cento) pacientes e 26 a aneurismas torácicos descendentes. Os pacientes foram induzidos a hipotermia profunda por meio de circulação extracorpórea, com temperatura faríngea variando entre 15 e 25°C (média de 20,6±3,2°C). RESULTADOS: Dentre as complicações neurológicas, a paraplegia ocorreu em dois (5,3 por cento) casos. Um paciente evoluiu com paraparesia de membros inferiores e um com quadro de convulsão. As complicações respiratórias estiveram presentes em 12 (31,6 por cento) pacientes, com mortalidade de 16,7 por cento (dois pacientes). Dois pacientes foram operados em caráter de urgência e vieram a falecer. A mortalidade total foi de 18,4 por cento (7 pacientes). CONCLUSÃO: A correção dos aneurismas da aorta torácica descendente e toracoabdominal, com emprego da hipotermia profunda pela circulação extracorpórea estabelecida entre o átrio esquerdo e a aorta ascendente, demonstrou ser um método viável na correção desses aneurismas.

Tratamento endovascular de dissecção crônica toracoabdominal complicada com aneurisma torácico, mediante implante de endoprótese vascular / Endovascular treatment for chronic toracho-abdominal aortic dissection complicated with thoracic aneurysm, by the placement of an endovascular stent-graft

Our objective is to report a case of a patient with a descending thoracic aortic aneurysm and chronic aortic dissection, who was submitted to an endovascular treatment. A 68-year-old male with coronary artery disease and hypertension, with no history of trauma, diabetes or smoking. He had myocardial infarction ten years ago. Under general anesthesia, the left femoral artery was surgically exposed and the left braquial artery was catheterized with a "pigtail" catheter, under Seldinger technique. The proximal 46mm/0 and distal 34mm/0 stentgraft was placed just distal to the origen of the left subclavian artery. Control arteriography showed that the lesion was completely excluded. The patient was discharged seven days after the surgery, when a computed tomographic control, was performed showing a sustained aneurysm exclusion and a satisfactory endovascular position

Acute dissection of the thoracic aorta: experience at the Puerto Rico Medical Center (1991 through 1995)

BACKGROUND: Acute dissection of the thoracic aorta has a very poor prognosis unless promptly diagnosed and treated. The clinical presentation, diagnosis and management of 16 patients was reviewed. METHODS: We identified 12 patients from the Puerto Rico Medical Center and 4 patients from the Centro Cardiovascular de Puerto Rico y del Caribe whose diagnosis was made from January 1991 to December 1995. Medical records and autopsy reports were reviewed. RESULTS: Of the 16 patients, 10 [62%] were males, 10 [62%] were 60 years old or older [range 25 to 85 years], and 15 [93%] had a past history of hypertension although only 6 [38%] were found with an initial blood pressure of 140/90 or higher. Chest pain was the initial symptom in 13 [81%]. Of these 46% [6/13] described it as oppressive, with radiation to back or neck in 38% [5/13]. In none a neurological abnormality was the initial presentation. No physical sign was present in more than 40% of patients. One patient had a diastolic murmur suggestive of aortic regurgitation but none had a pericardial rub or a neurologic deficit. The electrocardiogram showed left ventricular hypertrophy in 35% but none had changes compatible with an acute Q wave infarction. The chest radiography was compatible with dissection in all in whom it was done [8/8]. Computerized tomography of the chest was diagnostic in 6 of 8 patients [sensitivity 75%]. Aortography had a sensitivity of 80% [4/5]. Trans-thoracic echocardiogram was diagnostic in 3 of 4 patients [75% sensitivity]. Transesophageal echocardiogram had a 100% sensitivity [2/2]. In 8 patients [50%] the correct diagnosis was made by postmortem examination, all of whom died within 24 hours of Emergency Room's evaluation. Of those properly diagnosed 5 died without being surgically intervened. Only one survived surgery [1/3] Overall mortality was 93%. The most common pathological finding was Type A dissection in 14 [88%]. Cardiac tamponade was found in 9 [56%]. Hemothorax was found in 6 [38%]. Aortic valve insufficiency was reported in 20% and coronary artery involvement in 28%. CONCLUSIONS: The dismal prognosis traditionally associated with acute dissection of the thoracic aorta remains unchanged. Prompt diagnosis based on high clinical suspicion. followed by expeditious medical and surgical treatment are fundamental to change the natural course of this condition