[Surgical site infection after lower limb arterial reconstruction: can we improve prevention?] / Infections postchirurgie artérielle des membres inférieurs : peut-on mieux faire?

Infections associated with arterial reconstructions of the lower limbs are associated with high morbidity. This article reviews the risk factors for infection associated with this surgery and the preventive measures. These include smoking cessation and glycemic control preoperatively; avoiding unnecessary exposure to antibiotics or corticosteroids; optimal peripheral wound care; rigorous antisepsis and antibiotic prophylaxis in the operating theatre ; and finally, meticulous post-operative wound monitoring. The benefit of Staphylococcus aureus decolonization in vascular surgery is less clearly established than in cardiac and thoracic surgery, but it is still recommended in cases of implant placement or where there is a high risk of S. aureus infection, depending on the planned approach and type of surgery.

Les infections associées aux reconstructions artérielles des membres inférieurs sont grevées d'une morbidité élevée. Cet article revoit les facteurs de risque d'infection associés à cette chirurgie et les mesures de prévention. Ces dernières incluent l'arrêt du tabac et le contrôle glycémique en préopératoire ; l'absence d'exposition inutile aux antibiotiques ou aux corticostéroïdes ; les soins de plaies périphériques optimaux ; une antisepsie et une antibioprophylaxie au bloc opératoire rigoureuses et, finalement, un suivi de plaie postopératoire minutieux. Le bénéfice de la décolonisation à Staphylococcus aureus dans le cadre de la chirurgie vasculaire est moins clairement établi qu'en chirurgies cardiaque et thoracique, mais celle-ci reste recommandée en cas de mise en place d'implant ou de risque élevé d'infection à S. aureus, selon la voie d'abord et le type de chirurgie prévue.

Angiosarcoma after Popliteal Aneurysm Exclusion Surgery. A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Expansion after popliteal artery aneurysm exclusion with bypass is a common phenomenon. Popliteal angiosarcoma is seldom reported in literature and in most cases after popliteal artery aneurysm surgery. This paper aims to present the case of a popliteal angiosarcoma, initially diagnosed as late aneurysmal growth after exclusion surgery, to conduct a systematic review of popliteal angiosarcoma and assess any association between angiosarcoma and previous popliteal aneurysm surgery. METHODS: We performed a secondary popliteal aneurysmorraphy through posterior approach for symptomatic aneurysm expansion in a 79-year-old woman, 9 years after medial femoropopliteal venous bypass and aneurysm exclusion. The postoperative course was complicated by recurrent hematomas and wound spillages requiring multiple revisions. Pathological analysis identified an angiosarcoma. Staging revealed bone invasion and pulmonary metastasis. Despite transfemoral amputation and adjuvant chemotherapy the patient died 8 months later. We performed a systematic review through MEDLINE on 'primary' and 'secondary' (with previous vascular surgery) angiosarcoma in popliteal artery aneurysm. Research was done using the terms '(hem) angiosarcoma', 'aneurysm', 'popliteal aneurysm or artery', 'femoral aneurysm or artery'. Other soft tissue sarcoma or nonpopliteal locations were excluded. RESULTS: Including this case, only 13 angiosarcomas in popliteal aneurysms are currently described. Two were reported without previous surgery considered as primary angiosarcoma and 11 after popliteal artery aneurysm surgery (secondary angiosarcoma). Patient age ranges from 8 months to 83 years with a male predominance (10/3). Nine of the 11 patients with secondary angiosarcoma were initially diagnosed as popliteal aneurysm expansion after previous bypass surgery, the 2 other secondary cases presented respectively with pain and inflammatory syndrome without expansion. All prior surgical exclusion was carried out by a medial approach. Interval with the index operation ranges from 3 months to 15 years. Death was reported in 8 of the 13 cases within the first year of diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: Although seldom reported, popliteal angiosarcomas are mainly described after popliteal artery aneurysm exclusion surgery, raising suspicion on a potential association, yet causality cannot be demonstrated. Angiosarcoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of popliteal aneurysm growth or unexpected outcome after exclusion bypass surgery. Systematic imaging and pathological studies should be undertaken to allow early diagnosis and treatment. Routine use of a posterior approach, with aneurysm resection, when feasible as initial popliteal artery aneurysm treatment, might reduce the risk of late sarcomatous transformation.

Ten Year Experience of Using Cryopreserved Arterial Allografts for Distal Bypass in Critical Limb Ischaemia.

OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND: In critical limb ischaemia (CLI), current guidelines recommend revascularisation whenever possible, preferentially through endovascular means. However, in the case of long occlusions or failed endovascular attempts, distal bypasses still have a place. Single segment great saphenous vein (GSV), which provides the best conduit, is often not available and currently there is no consensus about the best alternative graft. METHODS: From January 2006 to December 2015, 42 cryopreserved arterial allografts were used for a distal bypass. Autologous GSVs or alternative autologous conduits were unavailable for all patients. The patients were observed for survival, limb salvage, and allograft patency. The results were analysed with Kaplan-Meier graphs. RESULTS: Estimates of secondary patency at one, two and five years were 81%, 73%, and 57%, respectively. Estimates of primary patency rates at one, two and five years were 60%, 56%, and 26%, respectively. Estimates of limb salvage rates at one, two and five years were 89%, 89%, and 82%, respectively. Estimates of survival rates at one, two and five years were 92%, 76% and 34%, respectively. At 30 days, major amputations and major adverse cardiac events were one and zero, respectively. Six major amputations occurred during the long-term follow up. CONCLUSION: Despite a low primary patency rate at two years, the secondary patency of arterial allografts is acceptable for distal bypasses. This suggests that cryopreserved arterial allografts are a suitable alternative for limb saving distal bypasses in the absence of venous conduits, improving limb salvage rates and, possibly, quality of life.

Catheter-directed thrombectomy with the JETi8 in the treatment of acute superior vena cava syndrome.

Superior vena cava syndrome can lead to significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in acute settings. We report a case of an acute Port-a-Cath-associated thrombosis of the superior vena cava. Percutaneous catheter-directed thrombectomy was performed using the JETi8 thrombectomy device with additional angioplasty and stenting, allowing rapid flow restoration and rapid clinical recovery. Postoperative anticoagulation was initiated and pursued lifelong. This report is unique in illustrating how JETi8 thrombectomy seems to be a safe and effective therapy, allowing rapid flow restoration, rapid clinical improvement, and persistent patency at 6 months.

Is intra-operative blood flow predictive for early failure of radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula?

BACKGROUND: For over 50 years, radiocephalic wrist arteriovenous fistulae (RCAVF) have been the primary and best vascular access for haemodialysis. Nevertheless, early failure due to thrombosis or non-maturation is a major complication resulting in their abandonment. This prospective study was designed to investigate the predictive value of intra-operative blood flow on early failure of primary RCAVF before the first effective dialysis. METHODS: We enrolled patients undergoing creation of primary RCAVF for haemodialysis based on the pre-operative ultrasound vascular mapping discussed in a multidisciplinary approach. Intra-operative blood flow measurement was systematically performed once the anastomosis had been completed using a transit-time ultrasonic flowmeter. During the follow-up, blood flow was estimated by colour flow ultrasound at various intervals. Any events related to the RCAVF were recorded. RESULTS: Autogenous RCAVFs (n = 58) in 58 patients were constructed and followed up for an average of 30 days. Thrombosis and non-maturation occurred in eight (14%) and four (7%) patients, respectively. The intra-operative blood flow in functioning RCAVFs was significantly higher compared to non-functioning RCAVFs (230 vs 98 mL/min; P = 0.007), as well as 1 week (753 vs 228 mL/min; P = 0.0008) and 4 weeks (915 vs 245 mL/min, P < 0.0001) later. Blood flow volume measurements with a cut-off value of 120 mL/min had a sensitivity of 67%, specificity of 75% and positive predictive value of 91%. CONCLUSIONS: Blood flow <120 mL has a good predictive value for early failure in RCAVF. During the procedure, this cut-off value may be used to select appropriately which RCAVF should be investigated in the operation theatre in order to correct in real time any abnormality.

Foot Drop After Iliocaval Vein Stenting: Radicular Syndrome from Stent Misplacement in Spinal Canal.

BACKGROUND: Endovascular procedures have become more and more prevalent in both general vascular and neurosurgical practices. Because these procedures rely on real-time bidimensional control through fluoroscopic guidance, they can be prone to spatial misplacement in the third dimension when not controlled in 2 different radiologic planes. CASE DESCRIPTION: We report a unique complication of an iliocaval vessel stenting procedure with misplacement of a venous stent in the spinal canal. This case illustrates the close vascular relationship between the large venous vessels of the abdomen and pelvis and epidural plexus of the spinal canal. CONCLUSIONS: The complex venous anatomy of the lumbar region and lumbar epidural space is illustrated in this unique case. We believe this may serve both vascular surgeons and neurosurgeons in their daily practice.

Venous thromboembolism in critically Ill patients with COVID-19: Results of a screening study for deep vein thrombosis.

BACKGROUND: The rapid spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has caused more than 3.9 million cases worldwide. Currently, there is great interest to assess venous thrombosis prevalence, diagnosis, prevention, and management in patients with COVID-19. OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in critically ill patients with COVID-19, using lower limbs venous ultrasonography screening. METHODS: Beginning March 8, we enrolled 25 patients who were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections. The presence of lower extremity deep vein thrombosis (DVT) was systematically assessed by ultrasonography between day 5 and 10 after admission. The data reported here are those available up to May 9, 2020. RESULTS: The mean (± standard deviation) age of the patients was 68 ± 11 years, and 64% were men. No patients had a history of VTE. During the ICU stay, 8 patients (32%) had a VTE; 6 (24%) a proximal DVT, and 5 (20%) a pulmonary embolism. The rate of symptomatic VTE was 24%, while 8% of patients had screen-detected DVT. Only those patients with a documented VTE received a therapeutic anticoagulant regimen. As of May 9, 2020, 5 patients had died (20%), 2 remained in the ICU (8%), and 18 were discharged (72%). CONCLUSIONS: In critically ill patients with SARS-CoV-2 infections, DVT screening at days 5-10 of admission yielded a 32% prevalence of VTE. Seventy-five percent of events occurred before screening. Earlier screening might be effective in optimizing care in ICU patients with COVID-19.

Intrarachidial Misplacement of a Venous Stent for Iliofemoral Deep Vein Thrombosis.

INTRODUCTION: Complications due to venous thrombectomy and iliofemoral stenting in a patient with May-Thurner syndrome are reported. REPORT: The patient presented with a third episode of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A computed tomography (CT) scan confirmed the clinical suspicion of left iliofemoral vein thrombosis. After thrombectomy and stenting, the patient complained of left foot paralysis. CT showed the misplaced stent to be in the intrarachidial space. Surgical removal of the stent and new endovascular stenting resulted in complete recovery. DISCUSSION: This is the first description of this kind of complication after stenting of the left iliofemoral vein. Peri-operative Xray appeared to confirm correct placement of the stent via bilateral femoral venous access. Is a profile control image necessary in patients with an important collateral venous network including large veins?

18-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography to Guide Aortic Arch Replacement in Relapsing Polychondritis.

Relapsing polychondritis (RP) is a rare progressive autoimmune disease. The cardiovascular system is rarely involved. The authors report the case of a young woman with RP aortic arch aneurysm and symptomatic cerebral vessels stenosis. A positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) indicated areas with activity and guided the surgery. Aortic arch with proximal vessels was successfully replaced. The PET-CT may be useful to assess the risks and determine healthy zones for potential anastomotic sites.

Acute peri-operative coronary subclavian steal syndrome: A diagnostic and treatment challenge.

The coronary subclavian steal syndrome (CSSS) generally occurs during follow up after coronary surgery. The case demonstrates an immediate peri-operative CSSS followed by myocardial infarction, notwithstanding a preoperative computed tomography scan quantifying subclavian artery calcifications as non-stenosing, and a subjective patent blood flow through the transected left internal mammary artery (LIMA). Blood flow inversion in the LIMA to anterior descending artery (LAD) bypass was detected by transit time flow measurement (TTFM). Following an elective brachiocephalic bypass a complementary, emergent subclavian bypass was performed, which restored antegrade LIMA flow, as confirmed by TTFM and angiography, but the patient suffered a peri-operative myocardial infarction. Reports about elective, concomitant subclavian and coronary surgery for sub-acute CSSS, allowing diagnostic investigations, have been published; however this case demonstrates diagnostic and treatment challenges in acute CSSS and emphasizes the role of peri-operative TTFM. .

Transposition of the persistent sciatic artery for lower limb revascularization after resection of an embolizing proximal sciatic artery aneurysm.

We present a novel surgical technique for lower limb revascularization after resection of an aneurysm of the persistent sciatic artery that had led to recurrent peripheral embolization and severe ischemia. The superficial femoral artery in this patient was hypoplastic, and the sciatic artery continued into the popliteal artery as the source of blood supply to the lower leg. For revascularization, we used the distally pedicled healthy two-thirds of the persistent sciatic artery, transposed it from its posterior position to a nearly anatomic anteromedial position, and anastomosed it to the proximal superficial femoral artery.

[Giant pedunculated cavernous hepatic haemangioma: a case report and review of the literature]. / Hémangiome caverneux pédiculé géant du foie: a propos d'un cas et revue de la littérature.

Cavernous hepatic haemangioma is the most frequent benign liver tumour, but the giant pedunculated form is rare because only 17 cases have been described in the literature. We report our experience of one case, and compare it to the 17 other described cases. Age, incidence and size of the lesion were the same as results in the literature. Our patient has had a left hepatic lobectomy because of an uncertain diagnosis. We discuss the diagnosis and the different treatments.

[Recurrent anal abscess and cecal perforation as a first presentation of Behçet's disease]. / Abcès para-anaux récidivants et perforation caecale révélant une maladie de Behçet.

Intestinal involvement during Behçet's disease (entero-Behçet) is rare in Europe (<1%). We report the case of a 33-year-old Chad woman with Behçet's disease revealed by recurrent anal abscess and cecal perforation. We discuss the diagnosis of this atypical presentation and the different therapeutic strategies in severe attacks of Behçet's disease.

Placement of hemodialysis catheters through stenotic or occluded central thoracic veins.

A method for hemodialysis catheter placement in patients with central thoracic venous stenosis or occlusion is described and initial results are analyzed. Twelve patients, with a mean age of 63.2 years (42-80 years), with central venous stenosis or occlusion, and who required a hemodialysis catheter were reviewed. All lesions were confirmed by helical CT or phlebography. Five patients had stenosis while seven patients were diagnosed with an occlusion of thoracic central veins. All patients were asymptomatic, without sign of superior vena cava syndrome. After percutaneous transstenotic catheterization or guidewire-based recannalization in occlusions, a balloon dilatation was performed and a stent was placed, when necessary, prior to catheter placement. Technical success was 92%. Three patients had angioplasty alone and nine patients had angioplasty with stent placement. Dialysis catheters were successfully inserted through all recannalized accesses. No immediate complication occurred, nor did any patient develop superior vena cava syndrome after the procedure. The mean follow-up was 21.8 months (range, 8-48 months). Three patients developed a catheter dysfunction with fibrin sheath formation (at 7, 11, and 12 months after catheter placement, respectively). Two were successfully managed by percutaneous endovascular approach and one catheter was removed. In conclusion, for patients with central venous stenosis or occlusion and those who need a hemodialysis catheter, catheter insertion can be reliably achieved immediately after endovascular recannalization with acceptable technical and long-term success rates. This technique should be considered as an alternative procedure for placing a new hemodialysis catheter through a patent vein.

Late Recognized Vascular Injury after High-energy Fracture of the Proximal Tibia: a Pitfall to Know in Current Practice.

Failure to recognize associated soft-tissue injuries after high-energy proximal tibia fractures is not uncommon. Despite the progress in managing these complex injuries, a prompt diagnosis of associated arterial injuries still remains difficult. A high index of suspicion for arterial damages is nevertheless mandatory in these severe fractures. Treatment protocols have been developed to reduce the previously reported high rates of amputation and permit an optimal management of soft-tissue and an acceptable functional outcome. We report here a well-documented case of a severely displaced proximal tibia fracture that illustrates the problem of diagnosing and managing the associated vascular injuries.

Bilateral renal artery entrapment by diaphragmatic crura: a rare cause of renovascular hypertension with a specific management.

We present the case of a young man with compression of both renal arteries by the crura of the diaphragm. Correct diagnosis of renal artery entrapment is difficult but crucial. The investigations rely on an high index of suspicion and include Doppler ultrasound and spiral computed tomography angiography, which permits visualization of the diaphragm and its relationships with the aorta. This pathology, unlike common renal artery stenoses, requires surgical decompression and sometimes aortorenal bypass graft.

Long-term follow-up of surgically excluded popliteal artery aneurysms with multi-slice CT angiography and Doppler ultrasound.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) angiography in the follow-up of popliteal artery aneurysms (PAAs) that have been operated on. Aneurysm exclusion and progression, graft patency and graft-related complications were analyzed. Fourteen patients with 21 surgically excluded PAAs were evaluated with MSCT angiography with slice thickness of 1.25 mm. The mean follow-up time was 67 months. MSCT demonstrated blood flow in six non-excluded PAAs (24%), with an average increase in the diameter of 21 mm over time. Fifteen PAAs demonstrated no blood flow and revealed an average decrease of 7 mm in diameter. The origin of this residual perfusion was demonstrated, and collaterals were involved in five of six non-excluded PAAs. In addition, MSCT demonstrated three graft stenoses. Furthermore, two occluded grafts were visualized. Twenty-four percent of the patients after surgical exclusion of PAAs revealed residual perfusion within the aneurysmal sac during follow-up, with a significant increase in the aneurysmal size with MSCT. Moreover, evaluation of the graft patency could also be done as could demonstration of anastomotic abnormalities. Thus, MSCT might be considered as a new tool to evaluate residual collateral feeding of popliteal aneurysmal sac and could be useful in identification and localization of feeding vessels.