10 Years of Emergency Endovascular Aneurysm Repair for Ruptured Abdominal Aortoiliac Aneurysms: Lessons Learned

Abdominal Compartment Syndrome After Endovascular Repair of Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms: A Single-Center Experience of Total Endovascular Care for Ruptured Abdominal Aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

Open repair of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (rAAA) has been increasingly replaced by endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) in many centers. Despite being a minimally invasive procedure, EVAR is associated with a risk of abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS), which can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. This study examines the incidence and clinical manifestation of ACS in a consecutive cohort of rAAA patients treated exclusively with EVAR at Örebro University Hospital over a 12-year period.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data. We identified 139 patients who had presented to Örebro University Hospital with rAAA between October 2009 and September 2021. Patients with isolated iliac artery, thoracic and thoracoabdominal aortic ruptures, previous aortic interventions (open or endovascular), and patients receiving palliative treatment were excluded. Patients developing ACS after rAAA were compared with those who did not develop ACS.

RESULTS

A total of 100 patients treated using EVAR were included in this study. ACS was identified in 17 patients, and these were compared with 83 patients who did not develop ACS. Mortality at 30 days was 53% in the ACS group (9/17) and 22% in the No-ACS group (18/83, p = 0.015). Regression analysis showed that advanced age and ACS were independent risk factors for death, with ACS increasing the hazard 4-fold (HR 4.26, CI 1.99-9.10, p < 0.001) and age increasing the hazard by 6% for every year (HR 1.06, CI 1.06-1.1, p = 0.004). The use of aortic balloon occlusion was not independently associated with the development of ACS.

CONCLUSIONS

ACS is a life-threatening complication of rAAA treated using EVAR and a significant number of patients developed ACS with high mortality and complication rates. All rAAA patients treated using EVAR should be monitored closely for ACS and treatment with decompressive laparotomy should be initiated without delay.Clinical ImpactOpen repair of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (rAAA) has been increasingly replaced by endovascular aortic repair (EVAR). Despite being a minimally invasive procedure, EVAR is associated with a risk of abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS), which can lead to significant morbidity and mortality This article investigates abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) in a cohort of total endovascular treated rAAA in a single centre and the treatment as well as the results, and gives insight on ACS in this patient group and might contribute to better understanding how to treat them and avoid this life-threatening complication.

Implementation and Adaptation of Pathway of Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta after Traumatic Injury

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is an invented method to facilitate a minimally invasive occlusion of the aorta to stop a life-threatening hemorrhage. This review described an established pathway for noncompressible exsanguination (REBOA procedures) in trauma patients at a Level 1 trauma center. A detailed description starting from the structural changes of the hospital and facilities itself, the initial thoughts, implementation of the process, and continuous revision and improvement of guidelines were discussed. A multidisciplinary core team consisting of trauma surgeons, anesthesiologists, interventional radiologists, and operating room (OR) staff developed step-by-step clinical practice guidelines for using REBOA at our trauma center. A comprehensive training program for specialized procedural training was implemented to ensure the competency of all relevant medical personnel in managing trauma patients. The REBOA guidelines underwent plan-do-check-act quality cycle improvement until the latest guidelines were reached with each use of REBOA in a trauma patient, leading to further auditing of the guidelines to identify areas for improvement. The current review discusses the critical role of adopting innovative technologies and adapting protocols in trauma care, particularly for vulnerable patients with a high risk of morbidity and mortality. Continuous process improvement, procedural refinement, and evolving guidelines are essential prerequisites for optimizing patient outcomes. We described a valuable framework for other trauma programs to implement and adapt similar endovascular bleeding control approaches, thereby potentially enhancing patient care.

REBOA Improves Outcomes in Hybrid Surgery for Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

BACKGROUND

Despite advancements in diagnostic methods and emergency interventions, mortality rates of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA) continue to remain high. To address this issue, the resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) technique has been designed to provide temporary control of bleeding. We aimed to compare the impact of the REBOA technique during open aortic surgery for rAAA.

METHODS

Between January 2014 and November 2021, 53 consecutive patients (46 males, 7 females; mean age 71.9 ± 7.9 years; range 51-89 years) who underwent emergency open aortic surgery for rAAA were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into REBOA (21 patients) and non-REBOA (32 patients) groups. The primary outcomes were postoperative 24-hr and 30-day mortality. The secondary outcomes were intensive care unit (ICU) stay, in-hospital stay, bleeding, postoperative renal failure, bowel ischemia, and transient ischemic attack (TIA)/stroke rate.

RESULTS

The REBOA group showed a significant reduction in mortality rates at both 24 hr (9.5% vs. 37.5%, P = 0.029) and 30 days (14.2% vs. 43.7%, P = 0.035) compared to the non-REBOA group. In-hospital stay (12.8 ± 3.48 vs. 15.6 ± 4.74 days, P = 0.02) and ICU stay (2.42 ± 2.08 vs. 5.09 ± 5.79 days, P = 0.048) were shorter among the REBOA group. Total procedure time and bleeding were reduced among the REBOA group without significant differences in terms of postoperative renal failure, bowel ischemia, and TIA/stroke rate.

CONCLUSIONS

The REBOA group demonstrated significantly improved survival rates compared to the non-REBOA group, without a significant difference in complication rates. REBOA is considered a less invasive option compared to the traditional method for open aortic cross-clamping. This study demonstrated that the use of REBOA may be considered as a first-line treatment option for open surgery in cases of rAAA particularly when an off-the-shelf endovascular aneurysm repair device is not suitable.

Editor's Choice -- European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) 2024 Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Abdominal Aorto-Iliac Artery Aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

The European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) has developed clinical practice guidelines for the care of patients with aneurysms of the abdominal aorta and iliac arteries in succession to the 2011 and 2019 versions, with the aim of assisting physicians and patients in selecting the best management strategy.

METHODS

The guideline is based on scientific evidence completed with expert opinion on the matter. By summarising and evaluating the best available evidence, recommendations for the evaluation and treatment of patients have been formulated. The recommendations are graded according to a modified European Society of Cardiology grading system, where the strength (class) of each recommendation is graded from I to III and the letters A to C mark the level of evidence.

RESULTS

A total of 160 recommendations have been issued on the following topics: Service standards, including surgical volume and training; Epidemiology, diagnosis, and screening; Management of patients with small abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), including surveillance, cardiovascular risk reduction, and indication for repair; Elective AAA repair, including operative risk assessment, open and endovascular repair, and early complications; Ruptured and symptomatic AAA, including peri-operative management, such as permissive hypotension and use of aortic occlusion balloon, open and endovascular repair, and early complications, such as abdominal compartment syndrome and colonic ischaemia; Long term outcome and follow up after AAA repair, including graft infection, endoleaks and follow up routines; Management of complex AAA, including open and endovascular repair; Management of iliac artery aneurysm, including indication for repair and open and endovascular repair; and Miscellaneous aortic problems, including mycotic, inflammatory, and saccular aortic aneurysm. In addition, Shared decision making is being addressed, with supporting information for patients, and Unresolved issues are discussed.

CONCLUSION

The ESVS Clinical Practice Guidelines provide the most comprehensive, up to date, and unbiased advice to clinicians and patients on the management of abdominal aorto-iliac artery aneurysms.

Derivation and Validation of a Risk Score for Abdominal Compartment Syndrome after Endovascular Aneurysm Repair for Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

BACKGROUND

Abdominal compartment syndrome (ACoS) is a devastating complication after endovascular aneurysm repair for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (rEVAR). This study sought to develop a risk score for ACoS to identify patients who would benefit from early decompressive laparotomy.

METHODS

Model derivation was performed with VQI data for rEVAR from 2013-2020. The primary outcome was evacuation of abdominal hematoma. Multivariable logistic regression was used to create and validate a scoring system to predict ACoS. The model was validated using institutional data for rEVAR from 1998-2019.

RESULTS

The derivation cohort included 2,310 patients with rEVAR. Abdominal hematoma evacuation occurred in 265 patients (11.5%). Factors associated with abdominal hematoma evacuation on multivariable analysis included transfer from an outside hospital, preoperative creatinine ≥1.4 mg/dl, preoperative systolic blood pressure ≤85 mmHg, preoperative altered mental status, ≥3.0 liters intraoperative crystalloid, and ≥4 units of red blood cells transfused intraoperatively. The validation cohort consisted of 67 rEVAR; ACoS occurred in 8 patients (11.9%). The c-statistic was 0.84 in the derivation and 0.87 in the validation cohort, while Hosmer-Lemeshow was p= 0.15 in the derivation and 0.84 in the validation cohorts, suggesting good model discrimination and calibration. Points were applied based on β-coefficients to produce a risk score ranging from -1 to 13. A cutoff of risk score ≥8 resulted in a sensitivity and specificity of 87.5% and 83.1% for detecting patients with ACoS, respectively. ACoS conveyed a significantly higher mortality in both the derivation (ACoS: 49.8% vs No ACoS: 17.8%; p<0.001) and validation cohorts (ACoS: 75.0% vs No ACoS: 15.2%; p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

In patients with equivocal signs/symptoms of ACoS, this scoring system can be used to guide surgeons on when to perform decompressive laparotomy prior to leaving the operating room for rEVAR. Patients with a risk score ≥8 would benefit from decompressive laparotomy at index rEVAR.

Safe balloon inflation parameters for resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta

BACKGROUND

Noncompressible hemorrhage is a leading cause of preventable death in civilian and military trauma populations. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is a promising method for controlling noncompressible hemorrhage, but safe balloon inflation parameters are not well defined. Our goal was to determine the balloon inflation parameters associated with benchtop flow occlusion and aortic/balloon rupture in ex vivo human aortas and test the hypothesis that optimal balloon inflation characteristics depend on systolic pressure and subject demographics.

METHODS

Aortic occlusion parameters in human thoracic aortas (TAs) and abdominal aortas (AAs) from 79 tissue donors (median ± SD age, 52 ± 18 years [range, 13-75 years]; male, 52; female, 27) were recorded under 100/40, 150/40, and 200/40 mm Hg flow pressures for ER-REBOA and Coda balloons. Rupture tests were done with Coda balloons only without flow.

RESULTS

In the TA, the average balloon inflation volumes and pressures resulting in 100/40 mm Hg flow occlusion were 11.7 ± 3.8 mL and 174 ± 65 mm Hg for the ER-REBOA, and 10.6 ± 4.3 mL and 94 ± 57 mm Hg for the Coda balloons. In the AA, these values were 6.2 ± 2.6 mL and 110 ± 47 mm Hg for the ER-REBOA, and 5.9 ± 2.2 mL and 71 ± 30 mm Hg for the Coda. The average balloon inflation parameters associated with aortic/Coda balloon rupture were 39.1 ± 6.5 mL and 1,284 ± 385 mm Hg in the TA, and 27.7 ± 7.7 mL and 1,410 ± 483 mm Hg in the AA. Age, sex, and systolic pressure all had significant effects on balloon occlusion and rupture parameters.

CONCLUSION

Optimal balloon inflation parameters depend on anatomical, physiological, and demographic characteristics. Pressure-guided rather than volume-guided balloon inflation may reduce the risk of aortic rupture. These results can be used to help improve the safety of REBOA procedures and devices.

A meta-analysis of locoregional anesthesia versus general anesthesia in endovascular repair of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a meta-analytic review of studies investigating the effect of the anesthesia modality on perioperative mortality in endovascular repair of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (REVAR).

METHODS

The present meta-analysis was performed in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Multiple electronic databases were comprehensively searched from database inception to January 2020. Eligible studies included cohort studies that reported the 30-day/in-hospital mortality rate or the multivariate adjusted odds ratio (OR) or hazard ratio of the mortality risk for patients who underwent emergency REVAR under locoregional anesthesia (LA) vs general anesthesia (GA). A random effects model was used to estimate the ORs by pooling the related data from individual studies.

RESULTS

A total of eight studies were included in this analysis. The first meta-analysis of seven studies that reported the 30-day/in-hospital mortality with a total of 3116 patients (867 in the LA group and 2249 in the GA group) revealed that LA was associated with a lower 30-day/in-hospital mortality than GA (16.4% vs 25.4%; unadjusted OR, 0.47; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.32-0.68). The second meta-analysis of three of these seven studies (including 586 patients in the LA group and 1945 in the GA group) that reported the perioperative variables revealed comparable baseline characteristics but a lower 30-day/in-hospital mortality in the LA group (unadjusted OR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.42-0.71). The third meta-analysis of the adjusted ORs or hazard ratios that were reported from four studies (including 501 patients in the LA group and 1136 in the GA group) showed a similar trend (adjusted OR,0.37; 95% CI, 0.19-0.75).

CONCLUSIONS

REVAR under LA is associated with a lower 30-day/in-hospital mortality than REVAR under GA. However, because the included studies may have had some observation bias, further randomized controlled trials are warranted to validate the present results.

[Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta : Bridge to surgery]

BACKGROUND

Severe hemorrhage remains the leading cause of death among trauma patients. Resuscitative balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is an endovascular alternative to the established emergency room thoracotomy with cross-clamping of the aorta in patients with severe abdominal or pelvic bleeding.

OBJECTIVE

The article reports on initial experiences with REBOA.

METHODS

Based on the literature and own experiences the pathophysiology, indications, contraindications, technical details and first results with REBOA are presented.

RESULTS

The REBOA procedure is indicated in patients with treatment-refractive hemorrhagic shock with severe abdominal or pelvic bleeding. Via a transfemoral approach a balloon catheter is placed in the aorta and inflated. Depending on the indication the aortic occlusion is located in a supradiaphragmatic (zone 1) or infrarenal (zone 3) position. Experimental results proved a significant increase in central perfusion pressure after performance of REBOA. Furthermore, first clinical data indicate an improved patient survival rate after trauma. Improvements of the devices and minimizing the access trauma using small 7 Fr sheaths decreased the perioperative complication rate.

CONCLUSION

The REBOA procedure is a promising endovascular technique for temporary stabilization of the circulation in patients with hemorrhagic shock. Further clinical studies and registries have yet to prove its superiority over emergency room thoracotomy.

Patient-Specific Rehearsal Feasibility Before Endovascular Repair of Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility of a patient-specific rehearsal (PsR) before emergency endovascular aneurysm repairs (eEVAR) and its influence on the operation. Materials and Methods: From February 2016 to October 2016, 10 consecutive patients (mean age 75±7.4 years; 9 men) presenting with a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA) suitable for standard EVAR were enrolled in the study. A 3-dimensional (3D) model of the abdominal aorta was generated on a virtual reality simulator based on the patient’s computed tomography (CT) images. Following the patient-specific simulation setup, PsR was conducted during patient admission or in parallel with the preoperative eEVAR workup. Measured outcomes were PsR feasibility only in the first 4 patients and impact on operative performance thereafter (changes in device selection, the planning process, clinical outcomes, perioperative mortality, and complication rates). Technical metrics and timing of system setup, rehearsal, interval from patient arrival to the actual procedure, and eEVAR were recorded. Results: Mean time for 3D model creation was 21.3±7.8 minutes (range 13–37); there was a significant positive relationship between aortic neck diameter and segmentation time (p=0.003). The overall mean time for simulator setup and PsR was 54±14 minutes (range 37–80); PsR alone was completed in a mean 31±40 minutes (95% confidence interval −60 to −2.2). The actual eEVAR procedure duration was 69±16 minutes (range 45–90). No delay in the actual eEVAR procedure was registered owing to the PsR pathway. In 6 patients, preprocedure rehearsal induced changes in operative strategy, including device selection, main body introduction side, and/or deployment configuration. In 4 cases, rehearsal was performed twice to achieve optimal performance. Conclusion: PsR before eEVAR was feasible in all cases and caused no time delays in the actual eEVAR procedure. PsR optimized eEVAR planning by identifying optimal strategy for stent-graft component selection and deployment.

Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) for Hemorrhagic Shock

This clinical practice guideline (CPG) reviews the range of accepted management approaches to profound shock and post-traumatic cardiac arrest and establishes indications for considering Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) as a hemorrhage control adjunct. The specific management approach - within the parameters of mission, resources, and tactical situation - will depend on the casualty's physical location, mechanism and pattern of injury, and the experience level of the surgeon. The optimal management strategy is best determined by the surgeon at the bedside.

Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta: A Review for Emergency Clinicians

BACKGROUND

Non-compressible torso hemorrhage (NCTH) is difficult to control and associated with significant mortality. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) utilizes an infra-diaphragmatic approach to control NCTH and is less invasive than resuscitative thoracotomy (RT). This article highlights the evidence for REBOA and provides an overview of the indications, procedural steps, and complications in adults for emergency clinicians.

DISCUSSION

Traumatic hemorrhage can be life threatening. Patients in extremis, whether from NCTH or exsanguination from other sites, may require RT with aortic cross-clamping. REBOA offers another avenue for proximal hemorrhage control and can be completed by emergency clinicians. The American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma and the American College of Emergency Physicians recently released a joint statement detailing the indications for REBOA in adults. The evidence behind its use remains controversial, with significant heterogeneity among studies. Most studies demonstrate improved blood pressure without a significant improvement in mortality. Procedural steps include arterial access (most commonly the common femoral artery), positioning the initial sheath, balloon preparation and positioning, balloon inflation, securing the balloon/sheath, subsequent hemorrhage control, balloon deflation, and balloon/sheath removal. Several major complications can occur with REBOA placement. Future studies should evaluate training protocols, the role of simulation, and which target populations would benefit most from REBOA.

CONCLUSIONS

REBOA can provide proximal hemorrhage control and can be performed by emergency clinicians. This article evaluates the evidence, indications, procedure, and complications for emergency clinicians.

CE: The Use of Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta in Treating Hemorrhagic Shock from Severe Trauma

: Hemorrhage is the leading cause of preventable death in trauma patients. In recent years, technological innovations and research efforts aimed at preventing death from hemorrhagic shock have resulted in the emergence of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA). REBOA offers a less invasive option for emergent hemorrhage control in noncompressible areas of the body without the added risks and morbidities of an ED thoracotomy. This article outlines the procedure and device used, describes the procedure's evolution, and discusses various considerations, pitfalls, and nursing implications.

Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta: A Bridge to Flight Survival

Trauma endures as the leading cause of death worldwide, and most deaths occur in the first 24 hours after initial injury as a result of hemorrhage. Historically, about 90% of battlefield deaths occur before the injured person arrives at a theater hospital, and most are due to noncompressible hemorrhage of the torso. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta is an evolving technique to quickly place a balloon into the thoracic or abdominal aorta to efficiently block blood flow to distal circulation. Maneuvers, such as resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta, to control endovascular hemorrhage offer a potential intervention to control noncompressible hemorrhage. This technique can be performed percutaneously or open in prehospital environments to restore hemodynamic functions and serve as a survival bridge until the patient is delivered to a treatment facility for definitive surgical hemostasis. This article describes the indications, complications, and application of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta to military and civilian aeromedical transport.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the use of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta in the management of major exsanguination

BACKGROUND

Circulatory collapse is a leading cause of mortality among traumatic major exsanguination and in ruptured aortic aneurysm patients. Approximately 40% of patients die before hemorrhage control is achieved. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is an adjunct designed to sustain the circulation until definitive surgical or endovascular repair. A systematic review was conducted for the current clinical use of REBOA in patients with hemodynamic instability and to discuss its potential role in improving prehospital and in-hospital outcome.

METHODS

Systematic review and meta-analysis (1900-2017) using MEDLINE, Cochrane, EMBASE, Web of Science and Central and Emcare using the keywords "aortic balloon occlusion", "aortic balloon tamponade", "REBOA", and "Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion" in combination with hemorrhage control, hemorrhage, resuscitation, shock, ruptured abdominal or thoracic aorta, endovascular repair, and open repair. Original published studies on human subjects were considered.

RESULTS

A total of 490 studies were identified; 89 met criteria for inclusion. Of the 1436 patients, overall reported mortality was 49.2% (613/1246) with significant differences (p < 0.001) between clinical indications. Hemodynamic shock was evident in 79.3%, values between clinical indications showed significant difference (p < 0.001). REBOA was favored as treatment in trauma patients in terms of mortality. Pooled analysis demonstrated an increase in mean systolic pressure by almost 50 mmHg following REBOA use.

CONCLUSION

REBOA has been used in trauma patients and ruptured aortic aneurysm patients with improvement of hemodynamic parameters and outcomes for several decades. Formal, prospective study is warranted to clarify the role of this adjunct in all hemodynamic unstable patients.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Evolving Controversies and Uncertainties

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is defined as a permanent dilatation of the abdominal aorta that exceeds 3 cm. Most AAAs arise in the portion of abdominal aorta distal to the renal arteries and are defined as infrarenal. Most AAAs are totally asymptomatic until catastrophic rupture. The strongest predictor of AAA rupture is the diameter. Surgery is indicated to prevent rupture when the risk of rupture exceeds the risk of surgery. In this review, we aim to analyze this disease comprehensively, starting from an epidemiological perspective, exploring etiology and pathophysiology, and concluding with surgical controversies. We will pursue these goals by addressing eight specific questions regarding AAA: (1) Is the incidence of AAA increasing? (2) Are ultrasound screening programs for AAA effective? (3) What causes AAA: Genes versus environment? (4) Animal models: Are they really relevant? (5) What pathophysiology leads to AAA? (6) Indications for AAA surgery: Are surgeons over-eager to operate? (7) Elective AAA repair: Open or endovascular? (8) Emergency AAA repair: Open or endovascular?

Abdominal aortic aneurysm endovascular repair: profiling post-implantation morphometry and hemodynamics with image-based computational fluid dynamics

Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) has disseminated rapidly as an alternative to open surgical repair for the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), because of its reduced invasiveness, low mortality and morbidity rate. The effectiveness of the endovascular devices used in EVAR is always at question as postoperative adverse events can lead to re-intervention or to a possible fatal scenario for the circulatory system. Motivated by the assessment of the risks related to thrombus formation, here the impact of two different commercial endovascular grafts on local hemodynamics is explored through 20 image-based computational hemodynamic models of EVAR-treated patients (N=10 per each endograft model). Hemodynamic features, susceptible to promote thrombus formation, such as flow separation and recirculation, are quantitatively assessed and compared with the local hemodynamics established in image-based infrarenal abdominal aortic models of healthy subjects (N=10). The hemodynamic analysis is complemented by a geometrical characterization of the EVAR-induced reshaping of the infrarenal abdominal aortic vascular region. The findings of this study indicate that: (1) the clinically observed propensity to thrombus formation in devices used in EVAR strategies can be explained in terms of local hemodynamics by means of image-based computational hemodynamics approach; (2) reportedly pro-thrombotic hemodynamic structures are strongly correlated with the geometry of the aortoiliac tract postoperatively. In perspective, our study suggests that future clinical follow up studies could include a geometric analysis of the region of the implant, monitoring shape variations that can lead to hemodynamic disturbances of clinical significance.

Short-term and midterm survival of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms in the contemporary endovascular era

OBJECTIVE

Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) has been shown to reduce mortality in the emergent repair of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). However, long-term survival data for this group of patients are lacking with contemporary endovascular endografts. The purpose of this study was to evaluate both 30-day mortality rates and 1-year survival in patients undergoing emergent EVAR in a 43-facility hospital system with a quaternary referral center with an established ruptured aneurysm protocol.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of patients captured prospectively in an Institutional Review Board-approved registry for patients treated emergently for AAA were reviewed between 2012 and 2017 was conducted. Primary outcome measures were 30-day mortality and 1-year survival for the entire group as well as for symptomatic and ruptured aneurysms. Data were analyzed using logistic regression survival curves, and a log-rank test was performed to compare survival between open and endovascular repair. Patients were evaluated on an intent-to-treat basis, and outcomes were evaluated in a multivariate model.

RESULTS

A total of 249 patients were referred as part of the protocol. Of these, 102 (41%) were treated emergently. Kaplan-Meier estimates of 30-day and 1-year survival were 64% and 53% for all patients, 58% and 46% for ruptured patients, and 86% and 81% for symptomatic patients. EVAR resulted in improved 30-day survival (64% vs 31%; odds ratio, 4.0; P = .03) and 1-year survival (40% vs 23%; odds ratio, 2.3; P = .4) over open repair. Significant predictors for 30-day mortality included hypotension (P = .0003), blood transfusion (P < .0001), length of stay (P = .0005), extravasation (P = .01), preoperative cardiopulmonary resuscitation (P = .04), open repair (P = .007), aortouni-iliac reconstruction (P = .008), and abdominal compartment syndrome (P = .007). Significant predictors for 1-year mortality included advanced age (P = .04), hypotension (P = .01), blood transfusion (P = .006), extravasation (P = .03), reintubation (P = .03), and abdominal compartment syndrome (P = .03). There were no differences in outcomes based on race, gender, or outside transfer. Peripheral arterial disease (P = .04), hypertension (P = .04), coronary artery disease (P = .03), and familial history of aneurysms (P = .05) were related to increased 30-day mortality. Peripheral arterial disease (P = .06) and coronary artery disease (P = .07) were nearly significant, with increased 1-year mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

EVAR is associated with improved survival compared with open repair in patients requiring emergent AAA repair. However, in the first year, there is a significant risk of death based on initial presentation as well as underlying comorbidities. To improve long-term survival, aggressive medical management and medical surveillance are warranted.

Emergent non-image-guided resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) catheter placement: A cadaver-based study

BACKGROUND

Emergent resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) insertion for critically injured patients in hemorrhagic shock is performed blindly with fluoroscopic imaging confirmation. The aim of this study was to determine a reliable method for initial REBOA catheter insertion with balloon deployment between the left subclavian artery takeoff and the celiac trunk (CT).

METHODS

Human cadaver study. External surface (sternal notch, mid-sternum, xiphoid) and intravascular (left subclavian artery [LSA], and CT) landmarks were measured from standardized left and right common femoral artery puncture sites. The landing zone (LZ, distance between LSA and CT) and margins of safety (distance from distal balloon edge to LSA and proximal balloon edge to CT) were calculated using intravascular landmarks. The probability of balloon deployment in the LZ using external landmarks was compared in univariate analysis using the Fisher exact test.

RESULTS

Ten cadavers were analyzed (seven males; mean body mass index, 19.4 kg/m). Mean (SD) intravascular distances from femoral puncture sites to the LSA and CT were 54.8 (1.9) cm and 32.9 (1.9) cm. The mean (SD) LZ was 21.8 (3.8) cm. Mean (SD) surface distances from femoral puncture sites to the xiphoid, mid-sternum, and sternal notch were 31.8 (3.9) cm, 41.8 (3.3) cm, and 51.8 (3.2) cm. Inserting the catheter to a distance approximated by surface distance from the femoral puncture site to mid-sternum resulted in a 100% likelihood balloon deployment in the LZ for both sides. This was superior to the xiphoid and sternal notch (left site, p = 0.005; right site, p = 0.036; mean of both sites, p = 0.083). Using the mid-sternum landmark, the mean (SD) margins of safety to the LSA and CT were 10.7 (4.3) cm and 3.1 (3.4) cm.

CONCLUSION

When using the use of the mid-sternum landmark for REBOA balloon placement, the likelihood of balloon deployment in the LZ was 100% with an acceptable margin of safety.

Morphometric roadmaps to improve accurate device delivery for fluoroscopy-free resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta

BACKGROUND

Uncontrolled hemorrhage from vessel injuries within the torso remains a significant source of prehospital trauma mortality. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta can effectively control noncompressible hemorrhage, but this minimally invasive technique relies heavily on imaging not available in the field. Our goal was to develop morphometric roadmaps to enhance the safety and accuracy of fluoroscopy-free endovascular navigation of hemorrhage control devices.

METHODS

Three-dimensional reconstructions of computed tomographic angiography scans from 122 trauma patients (mean [SD] age, 47 [24] years; range 5-93 years; 64 males; 58 females) were used to measure centerline distances from femoral artery access sites to the major aortic branch artery origins. Morphometric roadmap equations were created using multiple linear regression analysis to predict distances to the origins of the major arteries in the chest, abdomen, and pelvis using torso length, demographics, and risk factors as independent variables. A 40-mm-long occlusion balloon was then virtually deployed targeting Zones 1 and 3 of the aorta using these equations. Balloon placement accuracy was determined by comparing predicted versus actual measured distances to the target zone locations within the aortas from the database.

RESULTS

Torso length and age were the strongest predictors of centerline distances from femoral artery access sites to the major artery origins. Male sex contributed to longer distances, while diabetes and smoking were associated with shorter distances. Hypertension, dyslipidemia, and coronary artery disease had no effect. With the use of morphometric roadmaps, virtual occlusion balloon placement accuracy was 100% for Zone 3 of the aorta, compared with 87% accuracy when using torso length alone.

CONCLUSION

Morphometric roadmaps demonstrate a potential for improving the safety and accuracy of fluoroscopy-free aortic occlusion balloon delivery. Continued development of minimally invasive hemorrhage control techniques holds promise to improve prehospital mortality for patients with noncompressible exsanguinating torso injuries.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic study, level IV; diagnostic study, level III.

Abdominal compartment syndrome after endovascular repair for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm leads to acute intestinal necrosis: Case report

INTRODUCTION

Abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) after endovascular repair (EVAR) of rupture abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA) is a rare emergency situation, which has a high mortality. However, the progression of ACS is rapid and the diagnosis is usually been delayed, which increase the difficulties in treatment and affect the prognosis. We describe a case of a sever complication (acute intestinal necrosis) resulting from ACS after endovascular repair of rAAA.

CLINICAL FINDING

An elderly man, 81 years old, complained a sudden lower abdominal and back pain without any predisposing cause. He had a history of hypertension for 20 years without any regular anti-hypertensive therapy. Physical Examination revealed that the blood pressure was 89/54 mmHg, pulse was 120/min, oxygen saturation was 91%. The abdominal ultrasound and the CTA (computed tomography angiography) scan revealed a rAAA. Emergency EVAR under general anesthesia was performed for this patient.

DIAGNOSIS

Fourteen hours after endovascular repair, sudden decreased of blood pressure (70/50 mmHg) and oxygen saturation (70%) was observed. ACS or bleeding of retroperitoneal space was diagnosed.

INTERVENTIONS

Abdominal laparotomy was immediately performed. ACS was verified and a severe complication (acute intestinal necrosis) was observed, intestinal resection was performed for this patient.

OUTCOMES

Unfortunately, this patient died after operation because of multi-organ failure in a very short period, which is very rare regarding to this condition. Surgical pathology, diagnosis and management were discussed.

CONCLUSION

ACS was occurred with a severe complication (acute intestinal necrosis) in a very short period, which is very rare regarding to this condition after EVAR, it reminds us the severe result of ACS and more methods to prevent it happened after surgical management.

Impending aortic aneurysm rupture - a case report and review of the warning signs

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) may present with subtle clinical findings. Recognition of the imaging features of an impending rupture is key for timely diagnosis. This report reviews the classic computed tomography findings of impending AAA rupture and presents a recent case which illustrates the key features.

Comparing the accuracy of four prognostic scoring systems in patients operated on for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (rAAAs) are associated with high mortality and morbidity. Several prognostic scoring systems are available for prediction of outcome, but scarcity of external validation and evaluation of predictive value has hampered widespread implementation. The aim of this study was to examine the discriminatory value of four scores in a consecutive Norwegian cohort.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of a consecutive series of patients operated on for primary rAAA at Stavanger University Hospital from January 2000 to December 2014. The Hardman Index, Vancouver Score (VS), updated Glasgow Aneurysm Score, and Edinburgh Ruptured Aneurysm Score (ERAS) were calculated. Predictive ability in discriminating survivors and nonsurvivors was compared using receiver operating characteristics analyses and presented as area under the curve.

RESULTS

Altogether, 177 patients underwent surgery for rAAA. Mortality at 30 days was 46.3%. In receiver operating characteristics analysis, the Hardman Index had an area under the curve of 0.674 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.588-0.753); the VS, 0.684 (95% CI, 0.610-0.752); the Glasgow Aneurysm Score, 0.680 (95% CI, 0.605-0.749); and the ERAS, 0.586 (95% CI, 0.509-0.660). VS had a significantly better fit than ERAS (P = .022).

CONCLUSIONS

The accuracy of the available scores is limited. The findings question the clinical value of such scores for decision-making.

Anesthetic considerations for endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair

Aneurysm is defined as a localized and permanent dilatation with an increase in normal diameter by more than 50%. It is more common in males and can affect up to 8% of elderly men. Smoking is the greatest risk factor for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and other risk factors include hypertension, hyperlipidemia, family history of aneurysms, inflammatory vasculitis, and trauma. Endovascular Aneurysm Repair [EVAR] is a common procedure performed for AAA, because of its minimal invasiveness as compared with open surgical repair. Patients undergoing EVAR have a greater incidence of major co-morbidities and should undergo comprehensive preoperative assessment and optimization within the multidisciplinary settings. In majority of cases, EVAR is extremely well-tolerated. The aim of this article is to outline the Anesthetic considerations related to EVAR.

A systematic review of the use of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta in the management of hemorrhagic shock

BACKGROUND

Torso hemorrhage remains a leading cause of potentially preventable death within trauma, acute care, vascular, and obstetric practice. A proportion of patients exsanguinate before hemorrhage control. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is an adjunct designed to sustain the circulation until definitive hemostasis. A systematic review was conducted to characterize the current clinical use of REBOA and its effect on hemodynamic profile and mortality.

METHODS

A systematic review (1946-2015) was conducted using EMBASE and MEDLINE. Original studies on human subjects, published in English language journals, were considered. Articles were included if they reported data on hemodynamic profile and mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 83 studies were identified; 41 met criteria for inclusion. Clinical settings included postpartum hemorrhage (5), upper gastrointestinal bleeding (3), pelvic surgery (8), trauma (15), and ruptured aortic aneurysm (10). Of the 857 patients, overall mortality was 423 (49.4%); shock was evident in 643 (75.0%). Pooled analysis demonstrated an increase in mean systolic pressure by 53 mm Hg (95% confidence interval, 44-61 mm Hg) following REBOA use. Data exhibited moderate heterogeneity with an I of 35.5.

CONCLUSION

REBOA has been used in a variety of clinical settings to successfully elevate central blood pressure in the setting of shock. Overall, the evidence base is weak with no clear reduction in hemorrhage-related mortality demonstrated. Formal, prospective study is warranted to clarify the role of this adjunct in torso hemorrhage.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Systematic review, level IV.

Use of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta in a patient with gastrointestinal bleeding

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) was developed for controlling intra-abdominal arterial bleeding before definitive bleeding control, and is commonly used in patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms. Although there is limited evidence for other uses of REBOA, we used REBOA in a patient with massive gastrointestinal bleeding. A 53-year-old man with hematochezia was admitted to our emergency department with an initial systolic blood pressure (SBP) of 83 mmHg. His SBP decreased to 40 mmHg in 10 minutes despite rapid fluid infusion. We decided to resuscitate the patient with REBOA in the emergency department and then move him to an intervention room after stabilization. After aortic occlusion, SBP abruptly increased from 57 to 108 mmHg, and the patient could be transferred to an intervention room. The patient was admitted to intensive care, but died of massive rebleeding 24 hours after admission to the emergency department.

Implementation of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta as an alternative to resuscitative thoracotomy for noncompressible truncal hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Hemorrhage remains the leading cause of death in trauma patients. Proximal aortic occlusion, usually performed by direct aortic cross-clamping via thoracotomy, can provide temporary hemodynamic stability, permitting definitive injury repair. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) uses a minimally invasive, transfemoral balloon catheter, which is rapidly inserted retrograde and inflated for aortic occlusion, and may control inflow and allow time for hemostasis. We compared resuscitative thoracotomy with aortic cross-clamping (RT) with REBOA in trauma patients in profound hemorrhagic shock.

METHODS

Trauma registry data was used to compare all patients undergoing RT or REBOA during an 18-month period from two Level 1 trauma centers.

RESULTS

There was no difference between RT (n = 72) and REBOA groups (n = 24) in terms of demographics, mechanism of injury, or Injury Severity Scores (ISSs). There was no difference in chest and abdominal Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) scores between the groups. However, the RT patients had lower extremity AIS score as compared with REBOA patients (1.5 [0-3] vs. 4 [3-4], p < 0.001). Of the 72 RT patients, 45 (62.5%) died in the emergency department, 6 (8.3%) died in the operating room, and 14 (19.4%) died in the intensive care unit. Of the 24 REBOA patients, 4 (16.6%) died in the emergency department, 3 (12.5%) died in the operating room, and 8 (33.3%) died in the intensive care unit. In comparing location of death between the RT and REBOA groups, there were a significantly higher number of deaths in the emergency department among the RT patients as compared with the REBOA patients (62.5% vs. 16.7%, p < 0.001). REBOA had fewer early deaths and improved overall survival as compared with RT (37.5% vs. 9.7%, p = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

REBOA is feasible and controls noncompressible truncal hemorrhage in trauma patients in profound shock. Patients undergoing REBOA have improved overall survival and fewer early deaths as compared with patients undergoing RT.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic study, level IV.

The Effect of Perioperative Ischemia and Reperfusion on Multiorgan Dysfunction following Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are relatively common and are potentially life-threatening medical problems. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the effect of I/R injury on multiorgan failure following AAA repair. The PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Medline, Cochrane Review, and Scopus databases were comprehensively searched for articles concerning the pathophysiology of I/R and its systemic effects. Cross-referencing was performed using the bibliographies from the articles obtained. Articles retrieved were restricted to those published in English. One of the most prominent characteristics of AAA open repair is the double physiological phenomenon of ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) that happens either at the time of clamping or following the aortic clamp removal. Ischemia-reperfusion injury causes significant pathophysiological disturbances to distant organs, increasing the possibility for postoperative multiorgan failure. Although tissue injury is mediated by diverse mechanisms, microvascular dysfunction seems to be the final outcome of I/R.

Diagnosis and perioperative management of ruptured AAA mimicking symptomatic groin hernia

INTRODUCTION

Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (RAAA) can infrequently present as symptomatic groin hernia. This misleading form of presentation often leads to erroneous preoperative management resulting in poor survival.

CASE PRESENTATION

Two patients with RAAA mimicking symptomatic groin hernia underwent different preoperative managements pointing out the importance of the principles of hypotensive haemostasis in the scope of this emergency scenario.

CONCLUSION

Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) remains the recommended diagnostic tool-for both safe diagnosis of the ruptured aneurysm and precise preoperative planning. Endovascular aortic repair of the RAAA-if feasible-is the treatment of choice. This rare form of RAAA manifestation should call physicians attention-especially in patients with known abdominal aortic aneurysms in their preceding medical history.

WSES position paper on vascular emergency surgery

Trauma, both blunt and penetrating, is extremely common worldwide, as trauma to major vessels. The management of these patients requires specialized surgical skills and techniques of the trauma surgeon. Furthermore few other surgical emergencies require immediate diagnosis and treatment like a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA). Mortality of patients with a rAAA reaches 85 %, with more than half dying before reaching the hospital. These are acute events demanding immediate intervention to save life and limb and precluding any attempt at transfer or referral. It is the purpose of this position paper to discuss neck, chest, extremities and abdominal trauma, bringing to light recent evidence based data as well as expert opinions; besides, in this paper we present a review of the recent literature on rAAA and we discuss the rationale for transfer to referral center, the role of preoperative imaging and the pros and cons of Endoluminal repair of rAAA (REVAR) versus Open Repair (OR).

A small case series of aortic balloon occlusion in trauma: lessons learned from its use in ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms and a brief review

BACKGROUND

EndoVascular and Hybrid Trauma Management (EVTM) is an emerging concept for the early treatment of trauma patients using aortic balloon occlusion (ABO), embolization agents and stent grafts to stop ongoing traumatic bleeding. These techniques have previously been implemented successfully in the treatment of ruptured aortic aneurysm.

AIMS

We describe our very recent experience of EVTM using ABO in bleeding patients and lessons learned over the last 20 years from the endovascular treatment of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (rAAA). We also briefly describe current knowledge of ABO usage in trauma.

METHODS

A small series of educational cases in our hospital is described, where endovascular techniques were used to gain temporary hemorrhage control. The methods used for rAAA and their applicability to EVTM with a multidisciplinary approach are presented.

RESULTS

Establishing femoral arterial access immediately on arrival at the emergency room and use of an angiography table in the surgical suite may facilitate EVTM at an early stage. ABO may be an effective method for the temporary stabilization of severely hemodynamically unstable patients with hemorrhagic shock, and may be useful as a bridge to definitive treatment of the bleeding patients.

CONCLUSION

EVTM, including the usage of ABO, can be initiated on patient arrival and is feasible. Further data need to be collected to investigate proper indications for ABO, best clinical usage, results and potential complications. Accordingly, the ABOTrauma Registry has recently been set up. Existing experiences of EVTM and lessons from the endovascular treatment of rAAA may be useful in trauma management.

General considerations of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm: ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm

Although development of surgical technique and critical care, ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm still carries a high mortality. In order to obtain good results, various efforts have been attempted. This paper reviews initial management of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm and discuss the key point open surgical repair and endovascular aneurysm repair.