Efficacy, Safety, and Performance of Isolated Left vs. Right Ventricular Pacing in Patients with Bradyarrhythmias: A Randomized Controlled Trial / Eficácia, Segurança e Desempenho da Estimulação Ventricular Esquerda versus Direita em Pacientes com Bradiarritmias: Ensaio Clínico Randomizado

Abstract Background: Considering the potential deleterious effects of right ventricular (RV) pacing, the hypothesis of this study is that isolated left ventricular (LV) pacing through the coronary sinus is safe and may provide better clinical and echocardiographic benefits to patients with bradyarrhythmias and normal ventricular function requiring heart rate correction alone. Objective: To assess the safety, efficacy, and effects of LV pacing using an active-fixation coronary sinus lead in comparison with RV pacing, in patients eligible for conventional pacemaker (PM) implantation. Methods: Randomized, controlled, and single-blinded clinical trial in adult patients submitted to PM implantation due to bradyarrhythmias and systolic ventricular function ≥ 0.40. Randomization (RV vs. LV) occurred before PM implantation. The main results of the study were procedural success, safety, and efficacy. Secondary results were clinical and echocardiographic changes. Chi-squared test, Fisher's exact test and Student's t-test were used, considering a significance level of 5%. Results: From June 2012 to January 2014, 91 patients were included, 36 in the RV Group and 55 in the LV Group. Baseline characteristics of patients in both groups were similar. PM implantation was performed successfully and without any complications in all patients in the RV group. Of the 55 patients initially allocated into the LV group, active-fixation coronary sinus lead implantation was not possible in 20 (36.4%) patients. The most frequent complication was phrenic nerve stimulation, detected in 9 (25.7%) patients in the LV group. During the follow-up period, there were no hospitalizations due to heart failure. Reductions of more than 10% in left ventricular ejection fraction were observed in 23.5% of patients in the RV group and 20.6% of those in the LV group (p = 0.767). Tissue Doppler analysis showed that 91.2% of subjects in the RV group and 68.8% of those in the LV group had interventricular dyssynchrony (p = 0.022). Conclusion: The procedural success rate of LV implant was low, and the safety of the procedure was influenced mainly by the high rate of phrenic nerve stimulation in the postoperative period.

Resumo Fundamento: Considerando-se os potenciais efeitos deletérios da estimulação do ventrículo direito (VD), a hipótese desse estudo é que a estimulação unifocal ventricular esquerda pelo seio coronário é segura e pode proporcionar melhores benefícios clínicos e ecocardiográficos aos pacientes com bradiarritmias que apresentam função ventricular normal, necessitando apenas da correção da frequência cardíaca. Objetivos: Avaliar a segurança, a eficácia e os efeitos da estimulação do ventrículo esquerdo (VE), utilizando um cabo-eletrodo com fixação ativa, em comparação à estimulação do VD. Métodos: Estudo clínico, randomizado, simples-cego em pacientes adultos com indicação de marca-passo (MP) devido a bradiarritmias e função ventricular sistólica ≥ 0,40. A randomização aleatória (VD vs VE) ocorreu antes do procedimento. Os desfechos primários do estudo foram: o sucesso, a segurança e a eficácia do procedimento proposto. Os desfechos secundários foram: a evolução clínica e alterações ecocardiográficas. Empregou-se os testes Qui-quadrado, Exato de Fisher e t de Student, com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: De junho de 2012 a janeiro de 2014 foram incluídos 91 pacientes, sendo 36 no grupo VD e 55 no grupo VE. As características basais dos pacientes dos dois grupos foram similares. O implante de MP foi realizado com sucesso e sem nenhuma intercorrência em todos os pacientes do grupo VD. Dos 55 pacientes inicialmente alocados para o grupo VE, o implante do cabo-eletrodo em veias coronárias não foi possível em 20 (36,4%) pacientes. Dentre os 35 pacientes que permaneceram com o cabo-eletrodo no VE, a estimulação frênica foi a complicação mais frequente e foi detectada em 9 (25,7%) pacientes. Na fase de seguimento clínico, não houve hospitalizações por insuficiência cardíaca. Reduções superiores a 10% na fração de ejeção do VE foram observadas em 23,5% dos pacientes do grupo VD e em 20,6% dos pacientes do grupo VE (p = 0,767). A análise feita pelo Doppler tecidual mostrou que 91,2% dos indivíduos do grupo VD e 68,8% dos do grupo VE apresentaram dissincronia interventricular (p = 0,022). Conclusões: A taxa de sucesso do implante no VE foi baixa e a segurança do procedimento foi influenciada, principalmente, pela alta taxa de estimulação frênica no pós-operatório.

Artificial sphincter "BR - SL - AS 904" in the treatment of urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy: efficacy, practicality and safety in a prospective and multicenter study

ABSTRACT Purpose: The objective of the present study is to test the efficiency and practicality of a new artificial sphincter "BR - SL - AS - 904" in the control of urinary incontinence in post - PR patients and to evaluate their complications. Patients and Methods: Fifteen patients with incontinence after one year of radical prostatectomy were included prospectively. All patients underwent artificial urethral sphincter (AUS) implant "BR - SL - AS - 904" according to established technique. Independent variables such as free urinary flow, PAD weight test, ICIQ - SF score and urinary symptoms through the IPSS score were compared in different follow-up moments. Results: Patients submitted to AUS implantation did not present trans - operative or post - operative complications related to the surgical act such as: infection, hematoma, erosion or urinary retention. Device was inert to the body during the follow-up, showing an excellent adaptation of the patients, besides the easy handling. The mean age was 68.20 years 40% of the patients had systemic arterial hypertension, 6.7% diabetes mellitus, 6.7% were hypertensive and diabetic, 13.4% were hypertensive, had diabetes and hypercholesterolemia and 26.7% patients had no comorbidities. It was evidenced that the urinary flow peak during the follow-up remained stable. Decreased averages and median PAD weight test were 135.19 to 75.72 and 106.00 to 23.50, respectively. The IPSS score decreased and the quality of life increased (12.33 to 3.40 and 2.50 to 3.20 respectively). The ICQF - SF questionnaire score also showed a decrease, ranging from 16, 71 to 7.33. Conclusion: The artificial sphincter implant "BR - SL - AS 904" was reproducible, safe and effective in the control of urinary incontinence in post - PR patients.

Perfil clínico-epidemiológico de pacientes com pico hipertensivo após implante de válvula de Ahmed / Clinical and epidemiological profile of patients with hypertensive peak after Ahmed glaucoma valve implant

Resumo Objetivo: Relatar perfil clínico epidemiológico de pacientes que apresentaram o pico hipertensivo após o IVA e apontar possíveis fatores de risco associados. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo, observacional e descritivo (revisão de prontuário de pacientes assistidos no IBOPC) de 2014 a 2016. Resultados: Foram analisados 40 pacientes com glaucoma submetidos à implante de válvula de Ahmed. O diagnóstico pré-operatório mais comum foi glaucoma secundário, sendo a indicação pós-transplante penetrante de córnea a mais frequente. 95% das cirurgias foi de implante de tubo isolado. 56% dos pacientes tinham cirurgia anti- glaucomatosa prévia. 46% necessitaram de procedimento cirúrgico posterior para manejo de complicações pós-operatórias, sendo que a mais frequente foi atalamia (9,7%). PIO média no pré-operatório = 28,6 ± 12.20mmHg, com uso de 3,41 medicações. Com 3 semanas a PIO média aumentou para 16mmHg, com uso de 0,42 medicações. Após 3 meses de cirurgia a PIO média estava em 16.5mmHg, com uso de 1,86 de medicações. Após 6 meses de seguimento a PIO média reduziu (16,4 ± 6.74mmHg), com 2,23 ± 1.45 medicações. A média da AV (Snellen) foi de 20/100p no pré-operatório e de 20/200 após 6° mês de cirurgia. Catorze pacientes preencheram os critérios para a FH, destes 6 obtiveram resolução da FH. Dos pacientes que desenvolveram a FH, 78,4% iniciaram a elevação da PIO entre a 2ª e 4ª semana de pós-operatório. Seis (14,6%) pacientes obtiveram sucesso cirúrgico completo, parcial em 36,6% e falência 31%. Conclusão: A fase hipertensiva pode ocorrer em parte dos pacientes após as semanas iniciais do procedimento cirúrgico. O conhecimento deste fenômeno, o preparo prévio do cirurgião, o acompanhamento regular do paciente e o controle da PIO com o uso de medicações são determinantes na resolução desta complicação.

Abstract Objective: To report the clinical epidemiological profile of patients who presented the hypertensive peak after VAT and to indicate possible associated risk factors. Methods: A retrospective, observational and descriptive study (review of medical records of patients assisted in the IBOPC) from 2014 to 2016. Results: We analyzed 40 patients with glaucoma submitted to Ahmed Glaucoma Valve implant. The most common preoperative diagnosis was secondary glaucoma, with the most frequent corneal penetrating post-transplant indication. 95% of the surgeries were of isolated tube implantation. 56% of patients had previous anti-glaucomatous surgery. 46% needed a posterior surgical procedure to manage postoperative complications, and the most frequent was atalamia (9.7%). IOP preoperatively = 28.6 ± 12.20mmHg, with use of 3.41 medications. At 3 weeks the mean IOP increased to 16mmHg, with use of 0.42 medications. After 3 months of surgery the mean IOP was 16.5mmHg, with use of 1.86 of medications. After 6 months of follow-up the mean IOP decreased (16.4 ± 6.74 mmHg), with 2.23 ± 1.45 medications. The mean of the AV (Snellen) was 20 / 100p in the preoperative period and 20/200 after the 6th month of surgery. Fourteen patients fulfilled the criteria for HP, of which 6 obtained HP resolution. Of the patients who developed HP, 78.4% started to elevate IOP between the 2nd and 4th postoperative week. Six (14.6%) patients had complete surgical success, partial in 36.6% and bankruptcy in 31%. Conclusion: The hypertensive phase may occur in part of the patients after the initial weeks of the surgical procedure. The knowledge of this phenomenon, the previous preparation of the surgeon, the regular monitoring of the patient and the control of IOP with the use of medications are determinant in the resolution of this complication.

Functional outcomes and quality of life after transobturatory slings: hand - made vs. commercial slings

ABSTRACT Surgical correction is the most efficient treatment for stress urinary incontinence (SUI), and transobturator sling (TO) has optimal results. The high cost of commercially available sling kits makes it difficult the access in most Brazilian public health services. Hand-made polypropylene slings, on the other hand, have been previously reported. The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness and safety of commercial vs. hand-made polypropylene mesh slings. Data from 57 women who underwent consecutive TO sling surgery to treat SUI were pros- pectively collected between 2012 and 2014, and divided in two groups for further compa- rison. In Group-1, 31 women underwent surgery with commercial slings. In Group-2, 26 women underwent hand-made polypropylene slings. Women were compared according to epidemiological data, perioperative evaluation, quality of life, urodynamic study, cure and complication rates. Results were objectively (stress test with Valsalva maneuver, with at least 200mL vesical repletion) and subjectively evaluated by the Patient Global Impression of Improvement(PGI-I), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and ICIQ-SF. Success was defined as PGI-I, VAS and negative stress test. Group-1 (n=31) and Group-2 (n=26) had a mean age of 60 vs. 58years (p=0.386). All de- mographic data were similar. The mean VLPP was 75.6cmH2O vs. 76.6cmH2O (p=0.88). The mean follow-up was 24.3 vs. 21.5months (p=0.96). Success rates were 74.2% vs. 80.2% (p=0.556), with ICIQ-SF variation of 12.6 vs.15.5 (p=0.139) and PGI-I of 71% vs. 80% (p=0.225). There was only one major complication (urethrovaginal fistula in Group-1). In conclusion, handmade and commercial slings have similar effectiveness and safety. The manufacture technique has important key-points stated in the present manuscript.

An innovation in glaucoma surgery: XEN45 gel stent implantation / Uma inovação na cirurgia de glaucoma: implante de endoprótese de gel XEN45

ABSTRACT Purpose: To report follow-up data for patients who underwent XEN45 gel stent implantation, a new method of minimally invasive glaucoma surgery. Methods: Fifteen eyes in fifteen patients who underwent XEN45 gel stent implantation surgery were investigated in the study. All patients were examined preoperatively and at the following postoperative time points: 1 day; 1 and 2 weeks; and 1, 2, 3, 6, and 12 months. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured via Goldmann applanation tonometry. Combined surgical procedures (XEN45 + phacoemulsification + intraocular lens) were performed in patients who that had cataracts in addition to glaucoma. Results: The mean IOP values were significantly lower than the preoperative values at all postoperative visits (p<0.001). In two patients, the IOP exceeded 20 mmHg 12 months after surgery. These IOP increases were controlled by medical therapy, and none of the patients needed another surgical procedure. Conclusion: XEN45 gel stent implantation is a minimally invasive glaucoma surgery that ensures the effective reduction of IOP. This new treatment modality also avoids the destructive complications encountered in other invasive surgical procedures. However, further studies with greater numbers of patients and longer follow-up periods are needed to clarify certain points.

RESUMO Objetivo: Relatar os dados de acompanhamento dos pacientes que apresentaram implante de endoprótese de gel XEN45, um novo método de cirurgia de glaucoma minimamente invasiva. Métodos: Foram investigados quinze olhos de quinze pacientes que tiveram cirurgia de implante de endoprótese de gel XEN45 no estudo. Todos os pacientes foram examinados no pré-operatório e nos seguintes pontos de tempo pós-operatório: 1 dia; 1 e 2 semanas; E 1, 2, 3, 6 e 12 meses. A pressão intraocular foi medida pela tonometria de aplanamento de Goldmann. Procedimentos cirúrgicos combinados (XEN 45 + facoemulsificação + lente intraocular) foram realizados nos casos que apresentavam catarata além do glaucoma. Resultados: Os valores médios de PIO foram significativamente menores em todas as visitas pós-operatórias quando comparados aos valores pré-operatórios (p<0,001). Em 2 casos, os valores da pressão intraocular foram superiores a 20 mmHg aos 12 meses pós-operatório. Estes aumentos da pressão intraocular foram controlados por terapia médica, e nenhum dos pacientes necessitou de outro procedimento cirúrgico. Conclusão: Implantação de endoprótese de gel XEN45 é uma cirurgia de glaucoma minimamente invasiva que garante a redução efetiva da pressão intraocular. Esta nova modalidade de tratamento também evita as complicações destrutivas encontradas em outros procedimentos cirúrgicos invasivos. No entanto, estudos adicionais com um maior número de pacientes e períodos de acompanhamento mais longos são necessários para esclarecer certos pontos.

Artificial urinary sphincter revision for urethral atrophy: comparing single cuff downsizing and tandem cuff placement

ABSTRACT Objective To compare outcomes for single urethral cuff downsizing versus tandem cuff placement during artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) revision for urethral atrophy. Materials and Methods We identified 1778 AUS surgeries performed at our institution from 1990-2014. Of these, 406 were first AUS revisions, including 69 revisions for urethral atrophy. Multiple clinical and surgical variables were evaluated for potential association with device outcomes following revision, including surgical revision strategy (downsizing a single urethral cuff versus placing tandem urethral cuffs). Results Of the 69 revision surgeries for urethral atrophy at our institution, 56 (82%) were tandem cuff placements, 12 (18%) were single cuff downsizings and one was relocation of a single cuff. When comparing tandem cuff placements and single cuff downsizings, the cohorts were similar with regard to age (p=0.98), body-mass index (p=0.95), prior pelvic radiation exposure (p=0.73) and length of follow-up (p=0.12). Notably, there was no difference in 3-year overall device survival compared between single cuff and tandem cuff revisions (60% versus 76%, p=0.94). Likewise, no significant difference was identified for tandem cuff placement (ref. single cuff) when evaluating the risk of any tertiary surgery (HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.32-4.12, p=0.94) or urethral erosion/device infection following revision (HR 0.79, 95% CI 0.20-5.22, p=0.77). Conclusions There was no significant difference in overall device survival in patients undergoing single cuff downsizing or tandem cuff placement during AUS revision for urethral atrophy.

Artificial urinary sphincter for urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy: a historical cohort from 2004 to 2015

ABSTRACT This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate a cohort of patients with prostate cancer and persistent urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy. From January 2004 to December 2015, eighty-six individuals were identified to have received an AUS implant, provided by a private nonprofit HMO operating in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. On total, there were 91 AUS implants, with a median interval between radical prostatectomy and AUS implant of 3.6 years (IQR 1.9 to 5.5). The rate of AUS cumulative survival, after a median follow-up of 4.1 years (IQR 1.7-7.2 years), was 44% (n=40). The median survival of AUS implants was 2.9 years (IQR 0.5-7.9 years). Thirty-seven AUS implants (40.7%) resulted in grade III surgical complications. There were 5 deaths at 2.1, 4.7, 5.7, 5.7 and 6.5 years of follow-up, but none due to causes directly associated to the AUS implant. Persistent severe incontinence was documented in 14 (15.3%) additional patients. From the 51 AUS implants which resulted in grade III surgical complications or persistent severe incontinence, 24 (47.1%) underwent surgical revisions. Explantation of the sphincter or its components was observed in 6 cases (25.0%). Mechanical failure, described as fluid loss and/or inability to recycle the AUS device, was observed in 4 devices (16.7%). In conclusion, although AUS implants are recommended as the gold-standard treatment of severe urinary incontinence after prostatectomy, the observed high rates of malfunction and grade III adverse events are a matter of concern warranting further assessment on the safety and efficacy of these devices.

The long-term results of temporary urethral stent placement for the treatment of recurrent bulbar urethral stricture disease

ABSTRACT Aim: To evaluate the long term outcomes of temporary urethral stent placement for the treatment of recurrent bulbar urethral stricture. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight patients who underwent temporary polymer coated urethral stent placement due to recurrent bulbar urethral stricture between 2010 and 2014 were enrolled in the study. The long term outcomes of the patients were analyzed. Results: The mean age of the patients was 62.3±6.4 (44–81). The overall clinical success was achieved in 18 (64.2%) of the 28 patients at a median (range) follow-up of 29 (7–46) months. No patient reported discomfort at the stent site. Stone formation was observed at the urethral stent implantation area only in one patient. Stenosis occurred in the distal end of the stents in two patients and took place in bulbar urethra in seven patients after removed the stents. The mean maximum urine flow rates were 6.24±2.81mL/sec and 19.12±4.31mL/sec before and at 3 months after the procedure, respectively. Conclusion: In this study, the success rate of temporary urethral stent placement has remained at 64.2% at a median follow-up of 29 months. Therefore, our outcomes have not achieved desired success rate for the standard treatment of recurrent bulbar urethral stricture.

Tratamiento paliativo del cáncer esofágico y de la unión gastro-esofágica mediante colocación de prótesis transtumoral por vía endoscópica / Esophageal stents for symptomatic treatment of esophageal cancer: experience in 35 patients

Background: Esophageal cancer is usually diagnosed when it is beyond surgical ablation. Aim: To report the results of palliative treatment of dysphagia secondary to non-resectable esophageal carcinoma using self-expanding stents. Material and Methods: Review of medical records of 35 patients aged 57 to 94 years (21 males) with a non resectable esophageal carcinoma in whom a self-expanding stent was placed. Results: Eighty six percent of patients had severe dysphagia and it improved in all after the procedure. Two patients experienced a displacement of the stent. Three patients required the placement of a second stent. One patient died 30 days after the procedure due to pneumonia. Conclusions: Self expandable stents provide symptomatic relief to patients with non resectable esophageal carcinoma.

Objetivo: Mostrar método de paliación de disfagia por medio de prótesis autoexpandible, en pacientes con cáncer de esófago o unión esófago-gástrica en etapa IV, o considerados inoperables por patologías concomitantes severas. Material y Método: Estudio retrospectivo, 112 pacientes atendidos en nuestro hospital por cáncer de esófago, 43 en etapa IV se consideraron irresecables, de este grupo, en 8 se efectuó dilatación o gastrostomía endoscópica percutánea. Los otros 35 pacientes con disfagia de origen tumoral fueron tratados con prótesis esofágica como método paliativo al no resultar candidatos para tratamiento quirúrgico por estado de avance de enfermedad o sufrir patologías agregadas que la contraindicaban. Resultados: Tipo histológico más frecuente fue carcinoma epidermoide; nivel de disfagia fue grado 3 en mayoría de los pacientes (86,4 por ciento), la que mejoró luego de la instalación de prótesis alcanzando nivel de disfagia grado 1 (81,8 por ciento). Conclusiones: El uso de prótesis autoexpandibles es útil en el tratamiento de disfagia en pacientes con obstrucción de lumen esofágico secundario a crecimiento de tumor maligno.

Adjustable perineal male sling using tissue expander as an effective treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence

Purpose To report our intermediate experience in treating patients with severe incontinence using an adjustable perineal male sling with a tissue expander. Materials and Methods An adjustable male sling procedure was performed on 21 patients with severe incontinence. The underlying etiology of urinary incontinence was radical prostatectomy in 13 patients, open prostatectomy in 5 patients and transurethral prostate resection in 3 patients. The difference between the classical and the adjustable sling is that in the latter there is a 25 mL tissue expander between the two layers of polypropylene mesh with an injection port. Adjustment of the sling was performed with saline via an inflation port, in case of recurrence or persistence of incontinence. Results The mean age of the patients was 66.2±7.3 (50-79) years and mean pad usage was 6.4±0.6 per day. The mean follow-up time was 40.1±23.2 (6-74) months. The balloon was postoperatively inflated on average with 11.6±5.7 (5-25) mL. After the mean 40.1 months of follow-up, 16 of the 21 patients (76.2%) were dry (11 patients, 0 pads; 5 patients using safety pads), 3 patients (14%) had mild and 2 (9.8%) had moderate degree post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence (PPI). The average maximum urine flow rate of the patients was 15.6±4.7 (10-31) mL/s. No residual urine was found. In 2 patients, all parts of the device were removed due to infection and discomfort, and in 3 patients only the inflation component was removed due to local scrotal infection. Conclusions Our results show that using an adjustable perineal male sling with a tissue expander seems to be an efficient, and safe surgical treatment option in patients with PPI. .

Long-term results of permanent memotherm urethral stent in the treatment of recurrent bulbar urethral strictures

Purpose: To evaluate the long term outcomes of permanent Memotherm urethral stent in the treatment of recurrent bulbar urethral stricture. Materials and Methods: Twenty patients who underwent permanent Memotherm urethral stent implantation due to recurrent bulbar urethral stricture following previous unsuccessful surgical procedure from 1996 to 2002 were included in the study. Long-term outcomes of the patients were evaluated. Results: The overall success rate was 87.5% at the end of the tenth year. There was discomfort in implantation area in eight patients about 1 month following the procedure. These patients were treated with alpha-blocker and anti-inflammatory drugs. Stone formation was observed at the urethral stent implantation area in two patients. Post-void dripping has been observed in 15 patients up to the postoperative 3rd month. Stress urinary incontinence was observed in a patient with a 1-year follow-up. Partial stent migration was observed in two patients. None of the patients experienced pain during erection. Conclusion: Memotherm urethral stent is a minimal invasive surgical procedure which can be safely and effectively used in patients with recurrent urethral stricture. .

Repermeabilización de la vía aérea con prótesis traqueobronquiales: 300 casos / Treatment of airways obstruction with tracheobronchial prostheses: 300 cases

Objetivo: Presentación de repermeabilización de la vía aérea en 300 pacientes en la sección Endoscopía Respiratoria del Hospital Tornú, 115 mujeres (38.33%) y 185 varones (61.66%) de entre 14 y 86 años. Edad media 52±16.26. Material: Informes de broncoscopías intervencionistas efectuadas para tratar a 300 pacientes con obstrucción total o parcial de la vía aérea debida a lesiones de naturaleza benigna o maligna, realizadas en el período 15.9.1997-1.1.2010. Fueronincluidos los pacientes que tuviesen criterios de repermeabilización: que presentasen una estenosis traqueal benigna con reducción de la luz con un diámetro igual o menor a 8 mm, en todos los casos de estenosis bronquial benigna que afectasen el 50% dela luz y pacientes con tumores endotraqueobronquiales que ocluyeran el 50% o más. Se excluyeron casos en que resultara posible tratamiento quirúrgico a cielo abierto, aquellos que presentaban compromiso del parénquima pulmonar o de la luz bronquial distal a la obstrucción y pacientes con derrame pleural o atelectasia de más de dosmeses de evolución. Resultados: Se practicaron 388 procedimientos terapéuticos y se logró repermeabilizarla vía aérea en el 96.33% de los casos. La tolerancia a los stents fue de 99.68% y del 100% para las prótesis de silicona sin metal. La tasa de complicaciones fue del 6.32%, con hemorragia en primer término. La mortalidad atribuible al tratamiento fue de 0.25%. Conclusiones: La broncoscopía rígida restableció la luz en obstrucciones de la vía aérea con una tasa de éxito superior al 96%. Las prótesis de silicona con diseños estenóticos resultan más eficaces que los modelos rectos para el tratamiento de las estenosis traqueales benignas.

Objective: To report interventions carried out to treat obstruction of the airways in 300 patients at the Respiratory Endoscopy Unit, Tornu Hospital, Buenos Aires. Materials: The study was a retrospective review of reports on bronchoscopies carriedout in 300 patients with total or partial obstruction of the airways due to benign or malignant conditions between 15 September 1997 and 31 December 2009. The study included patients with signs of benign tracheal stenosis, i.e. with a lumen diameter reduced to 8 mm or less, all cases of benign bronchial stenosis compromising 50% of the lumen, and patients with endotracheobronchial tumors obstructing 50% or more of the lumen. Patients who could be treated through surgical resection and those whohad images of lung compromise or distal bronchial obstruction were excluded. Also patients with pleural effusion or atelectasis for more than two months were excluded. Results: Among the 300 patients, 115 were females (38.33%) and 185 males (61.66%) from 14 to 86 years of age. Mean age was 52 years ± 16.26. The obstruction was solved in 96.33% of 388 interventions. Stents were well tolerated in 99.68% of cases and non metallic silicone prostheses in 100% of cases. The complication ratewas 6.32%; hemorrhage was the most frequent complication. Case fatality attributable to the therapeutic intervention was 0.25%.

Implante de stents farmacológicos na artéria descendente anterior: indicadores de eventos tardios / Implante de stents farmacológicos en la arteria descendente anterior: indicadores de eventos tardíos / Pharmacological stent deployment in the left anterior descending artery: late event indicators

FUNDAMENTO: A eficácia dos stents farmacológicos em reduzir os índices de eventos cardíacos não é uniforme a todos os subgrupos de lesões ou pacientes. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a evolução clínica tardia dos pacientes submetidos a implante de stents farmacológicos nas lesões ateroscleróticas da artéria descendente anterior e identificar, entre as características clínicas, angiográficas e do ultra-som intravascular, quais as que permitem predizer risco de eventos cardíacos. MÉTODOS: De maio de 2002 a agosto de 2005, foram tratados 205 pacientes com implante de 236 stents farmacológicos guiados pelo ultra-som intravascular. RESULTADOS: Com um acompanhamento médio de 711 dias, a taxa de trombose do stent foi de 0,48 por cento, a mesma observada para infarto agudo do miocárdio ou cirurgia de revascularização. A taxa de revascularização da lesão tratada foi de 7,31 por cento e a taxa global de eventos de 10,24 por cento. Os indicadores de eventos, conforme análise multivariada, foram o implante de mais de um stent na mesma artéria, lesões concêntricas e área mínima intra-stent medida pelo ultra-som intravascular menor que 3,88 mm². CONCLUSÃO: Baseados nos dados obtidos, concluímos que a revascularização da artéria descendente anterior com implante de stents farmacológicos escolhidos e otimizados pelo ultra-som intravascular apresenta baixo índice de eventos tardios. O implante de dois stents farmacológicos para o tratamento das lesões longas foi o principal fator independente para a ocorrência de eventos tardios. A área luminal final maior que 3,88 mm² obtidos nos segmentos de pequenos diâmetros de referência é um indicador independente de evolução livre de eventos.

BACKGROUND: The efficacy of pharmacological stents in decreasing the incidence of cardiac events is not homogeneous for all lesions or patient subgroups. OBJECTIVE: 1) To evaluate the late clinical evolution of patients submitted to pharmacological stent implantation in atherosclerotic lesions of the left anterior descending artery; 2) to identify, among the clinical, angiographic and intravascular ultrasonographic characteristics, the ones predictive of cardiac event risk. METHODS: From May 2002 to August 2005, 205 patients were treated with 236 pharmacological stent implants, guided by the intravascular US (IVUS). RESULTS: After a mean follow-up period of 711 days, the rate of stent thrombosis was 0.48 percent, the same observed for acute myocardial infarction or revascularization surgery. The revascularization rate of the treated lesion was 7.31 percent and the general event rate was 10.24 percent. The event indicators, according to the multivariate analysis were the implant of more than one stent in the same artery, concentric lesions and the minimal intra-stent area measured by IVUS < 3.88 mm². CONCLUSION: Based on the data obtained, we conclude that the revascularization of the left anterior descending artery with pharmacological stent implant, chosen and optimized by IVUS, presents a low incidence of late events. The implant of two pharmacological stents for the treatment of long lesions was the main independent factor for the occurrence of late events. The final luminal area > 3.88 mm² obtained in the small reference-diameter segments is an independent indicator of event-free evolution.

FUNDAMENTO: La eficacia de los stents farmacológicos para reducir los índices de eventos cardiacos no es la misma para todos los subgrupos de lesiones o pacientes. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la evolución clínica tardía de los pacientes sometidos a implante de stents farmacológicos en las lesiones ateroscleróticas de la arteria descendente anterior e identificar, entre las características clínicas, angiográficas y de ultrasonido intravascular, cuales son las que permiten predecir riesgos de eventos cardiacos MÉTODOS: De mayo de 2002 a agosto de 2005, se trataron a 205 pacientes con implante de 236 stents farmacológicos guiados por ultrasonido intravascular. RESULTADOS: Con un seguimiento promedio de 711 días, la tasa de trombosis del stent fue del 0,48 por ciento, la misma que se observó para infarto agudo de miocardio o cirugía de revascularización. La tasa de revascularización de la lesión tratada fue del 7,31 por ciento y la tasa global de eventos fue del 10,24 por ciento. Los indicadores de eventos, conforme análisis multivariada, fueron el implante de más de un stent en la misma arteria, lesiones concéntricas y área mínima intrastent medida por el ultrasonido intravascular menor que 3,88 mm². CONCLUSIÓN: Tomando como base los datos obtenidos con esta investigación, concluimos que la revascularización de la arteria descendente anterior con implante de stents farmacológicos, elegidos y optimizados por el ultrasonido intravascular, presenta un bajo índice de eventos tardíos. El implante de dos stents farmacológicos para el tratamiento de las lesiones largas fue el principal factor independiente para la ocurrencia de eventos tardíos. El área luminal final mayor que 3,88 mm², obtenida en los segmentos de pequeños diámetros de referencia es un indicador independiente de evolución libre de eventos.

Acesso posterior para implante de peso de ouro / Posterior approach to gold weight implant

OBJETIVO: Demonstrar uma técnica inovadora de implante de peso de ouro via posterior e avaliar sua efetividade e possíveis complicações. Os resultados serão comparados com a literatura existente sobre a técnica via anterior, há muito tempo pouco modificada. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo prospectivo (seqüência de casos) com pacientes que apresentavam, há mais de 6 meses, lagoftalmo paralítico, independentemente da etiologia, atendidos no Departamento de Oculoplástica do Serviço de Oftalmologia do Hospital Governador Celso Ramos - SC, entre o período de fevereiro de 2006 a fevereiro de 2007, com indicação do implante de peso de ouro na pálpebra superior. A nova técnica via posterior foi realizada por apenas dois cirurgiões. RESULTADOS: Treze pacientes com lagoftalmo paralítico, 9 homens e 4 mulheres com idade média de 53,07 anos (variando de 17 a 73), foram submetidos ao implante de peso de ouro pela técnica via posterior. O período de acompanhamento desses pacientes foi de 2 meses a 1 ano, com média de 6,30 meses. Em 3 pacientes, o peso implantado causou assimetria na distância margem-reflexo (DMR) na posição primária do olhar - ptose de 2 mm em 2 pacientes e 4 mm em 1 paciente. CONCLUSÕES: Embora tal técnica venha exibindo um resultado sistematicamente satisfatório, os autores acreditam que seja essencial o acompanhamento dos pacientes por um tempo maior a fim de comprovar a sustentabilidade de sua eficácia.

PURPOSE: To demonstrate an innovative technique of gold weight implantation through a posterior approach and evaluate its effectiveness and possible complications. The results will be compared to the other existing technique through anterior approach which has been unchanged for a long time, according to the literature. METHODS: A prospective study (sequence of cases) was undertaken with patients who presented paralytic lagophthalmos for over 6 months. These patients presented many different etiologies and were assisted at the Department of Ophthalmology of Governador Celso Ramos Hospital-SC from February 2006 to February 2007. The implantation through posterior approach was performed by only 2 surgeons. RESULTS: Thirteen patients with paralytic lagophthalmos, 9 men and 4 women, with an average age of 53.07 (range from 17 to 73) were submitted to a gold weight implantation through posterior approach. The follow-up period of those patients varied from 2 months to 1 year, with an average of 6.3 months. In 3 of the patients, the implanted weight caused asymmetry to the margin-reflex distance (MRD) on the primary look position with ptosis of 2 mm in 2 patients and 4 mm in 1 patient. CONCLUSIONS: Although such technique has shown a satisfactory result, the authors believe that it is essential to extend the follow-up a little longer, so that the sustainability of its efficacy can be proved.

Monitoreo inalámbrico de presión arterial pulmonar en pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca / Wireless pulmonary artery pressure monitoring in patients with congestive heart failure

Antecedentes: El monitoreo continuo y remoto de presiones intracardiacas ha sido reportado de utilidad en el manejo y prevención de hospitalización en pacientes con Insuficiencia Cardíaca (IC). Objetivos: Describir la técnica y las complicaciones en el seguimiento a mediano plazo de un sensor inalámbrico(Sensor CardioMEMS Heart Sure®) pulmonar; evaluar la exactitud de la determinación de la presión en arteriapulmonar (PAP) después de un año de implante y su correlación con la presión estimada por cateterismo cardíaco convencional (catéter de Swan-Ganz).Método: Fueron incluidos en el estudio pacientes con IC avanzada con al menos una hospitalización en el año previo al implante de este sensor. Se realizaron mediciones simultáneas con catéter de Swan-Ganz (SG) durante el implante y a los 60, 180 días y un año de seguimiento. Se empleó análisis de regresión lineal como una medida de la correlación entre los métodos. La variabilidad entre las técnicas se evaluó mediante análisis del Bland-Altman.Resultados: En este reporte fueron incluidos 27 pacientes, 24 hombres con edad promedio de 64+/-14.1 años y FE promedio de 25 por ciento, la gran mayoría en clase funcional III de la NYHA. Un paciente falleció 190 días post implante por causa extra cardíaca y otro falleció 45 días post implante por shock cardiogénico. La PAP sistólica, diastólica y media cuantificada a 60 días, 6 meses y un año post implante tuvo una correlación adecuada cuando se comparó con el cateterismo de SG preservando la calidad de la curva de presión obtenida desde el sensor. La calidad de la señal se ha mantenido hasta más de un año de seguimiento. Conclusión: Existió muy buena correlación entre las presiones obtenidas con el sensor y las mediciones del catéter de SG. Es necesario validar este sistema en un número mayor de enfermos y establecer su papel en el manejo de la IC crónica.

Background: Continuous and remote intracardiac pressure monitoring has been reported to be useful to manage patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) and to prevent rehospitalization. Aim: To describe the technical aspects and complications in the use of a wireless pulmonary artery pressure sensor (CardioMEMS Heart Sure© ) in a medium term follow up. Also, to evaluate de precision of pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) measurement one year after implantation of the device. Methods: Patients with advanced CHF with at least one hospitalization in the preceding year were included. PAP was measured through Swan Ganz catheterization at the time of device implantation and after 60 days, 6 months and one year of follow up. Linear regression was used to estimate inter method correlation and Bland-Altman analysis to estimate variability among methods Results: Twenty-seven patients (24 men) aged 64 +/-14.1 (SD) years, most of them in functional class III were included. The mean ejection fraction was 25 percent. One patient died 190 days after implant due to non cardiac causes and another 45 days post implant from cardiogenic shock. Systolic, diastolic and mean PAP was measured 60 days, 6 months and 1 year post implant. The correlation with Swan Ganz catheter measurement was adequate. The quality of the signal obtained from the PAP sensor was maintained at one year of follow up. Conclusion: A very good correlation between wireless and Swan Ganz measurements of PAP was observed. More extensive assessment of this method is needed to establish its usefulness in the management of patients with chronic CHF.