Long-Term Results of Vascular Graft and Artery Preserving Treatment With Negative Pressure Wound Therapy in Szilagyi Grade III Infections Justify a Paradigm Shift

Risk factors and consequences of wound complications following sartorius flap reconstruction

OBJECTIVE

Groin wound complications are common following vascular surgery and can lead to significant patient morbidity. Sartorius muscle flap coverage may help to prevent vascular graft infection in the setting of wound dehiscence or infection. However, risk factors and consequences of wound complications following sartorius flap reconstruction remain incompletely investigated.

METHODS

We retrospectively queried all patients who underwent sartorius flap reconstruction at a tertiary academic medical center. Data collected included patient demographics, medical comorbidities, surgical indication, index vascular procedure, and postoperative outcomes. The primary outcome was wound complication following sartorius flap procedure, which was defined as groin wound infection, dehiscence, or lymphocutaneous fistula.

RESULTS

From 2012 to 2022, a total of 113 patients underwent sartorius flap reconstruction. Of these, 66 (58.4%) were performed after the development of a prior groin complication, and 47 (41.6%) were prophylactic. A total of 88 patients (77.9%) had a prosthetic bypass graft adjacent to the flap. Twenty-nine patients (25.7%) suffered a wound complication following sartorius flap reconstruction, including 14 (12.4%) with wound dehiscence, 13 (11.5%) with wound infection, and two (1.8%) with lymphocutaneous fistula. Patients with wound complications had a higher body mass index (28.8 vs 26.4 kg/m2; P =.03) and more frequently active smokers (86.2% vs 66.7%; P = .04). Additionally, patients with wound complications had a higher unplanned 30-day hospital readmission rates (72.4% vs 15.5%; P < .001), reintervention rates (75.9% vs 8.3%; P < .001), and re-do flap reconstruction rates (13.8% vs 2.4%; P = .02). On multivariable analysis, higher body mass index was independently associated with post-flap wound complications (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.01; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.001-1.03; P = .037). Consequently, wound complications were associated with both surgical reintervention (aOR, 35.4; 95% CI, 9.9-126.3; P < .001) and unplanned hospital readmission (aOR, 17.8; 95% CI, 5.9-54.1; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Sartorius flap reconstruction is an effective adjunct in facilitating wound healing of groin wounds. However, wound complications are common following sartorius flap reconstruction and may be associated with reintervention and unplanned hospital readmission. These data support the judicious and thoughtful utilization of sartorius flap procedures among high-risk patients.

NIR-II Responsive Nanohybrids Incorporating Thermosensitive Hydrogel as Sprayable Dressing for Multidrug-Resistant-Bacteria Infected Wound Management

Developing an effective dressing against bacterial infection and synchronously addressing wound complications, such as bleeding, long-term inflammation, and reinfection, are highly desirable in clinical practice. In this work, a second near-infrared (NIR-II) responsive nanohybrid consisting of imipenem encapsulated liposome with gold-shell and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-targeting aptamer, namely ILGA, is constructed for bacteria elimination. Benefiting from the delicate structure, ILGA exhibits strong affinity and a reliable photothermal/antibiotic therapeutic effect toward multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MDR-PA). Furthermore, by incorporating ILGA with a thermosensitive hydrogel poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-polyethylene glycol-poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA-PEG-PLGA), a sprayable dressing ILGA@Gel was prepared, which enables a quick on-demand gelation (10 s) for wound hemostasis and offers excellent photothermal/antibiotic efficacy to sterilize the infected wound. Additionally, ILGA@Gel provides satisfactory wound-healing environments by reeducating wound-associated macrophages for inflammation alleviation and forming a gel layer to block exogenous bacterial reinfection. This biomimetic hydrogel reveals excellent bacteria eradication and wound recovery effectiveness, demonstrating its promising potential for managing complicated infected wounds.

Open wounds and rifampicin therapy are associated with rifampicin resistance among staphylococcal vascular graft/endograft infections

Background

Optimal timing for rifampicin combination therapy in patients with staphylococcal vascular graft/endograft infection (S-VGEI) is unknown. Experts recommend adding rifampicin after lowering bacterial load by surgery and wound closure.

Objectives

To assess predictors of rifampicin resistance among staphylococci isolated from patients in the Vascular Graft Infection Cohort Study.

Methods

We included prospective patients with S-VGEI diagnosis from 1 January 2002 to 30 June 2020. We retrospectively assessed determinants of rifampicin resistance using exact logistic regression and described survival with Kaplan–Meier curves.

Results

We analysed 513 Staphylococcus spp. among 143 predominantly male (82%) patients with a median age of 68 years (IQR 60–75). Thereof, 82 (57%) received a rifampicin combination therapy and 61 (43%) received an antimicrobial therapy without rifampicin. Among 82 patients with rifampicin, 26/26 patients with any rifampicin resistance had open wounds with a strong association of rifampicin resistance with rifampicin treatment while having open wounds (OR 37, 95% CI 6.1 to ∞). Among 75 patients with a rifampicin combination therapy and rifampicin-susceptible staphylococci at S-VGEI diagnosis, 12/12 patients with a secondary rifampicin-resistant isolate had an open wound (OR 14, 95% CI 2.1 to ∞).

Conclusions

Rifampicin should be started after wound closure due to increased risk of rifampicin resistance observed while having open wounds or second-look surgeries among patients with S-VGEI.

Herpes wound infection after femoral endarterectomy

Wound infection after common femoral endarterectomy is a well-documented phenomenon leading to significant morbidity, especially in the setting of a prosthetic graft. A push has recently been made in the literature for salvage of the prosthetic graft using debridement, antibiotics, and vacuum-assisted closure therapy. Herein we present the case of wound infection after common femoral endarterectomy with bovine patch angioplasty initially presumed to be of bacterial origin that failed to respond to vacuum-assisted closure therapy until the viral nature of the pathogen was discovered. The patient will continue lifelong valacyclovir for suppressive therapy.

EWMA Document: Negative Pressure Wound Therapy

1. Introduction Since its introduction in clinical practice in the early 1990's negative pressure wounds therapy (NPWT) has become widely used in the management of complex wounds in both inpatient and outpatient care.¹ NPWT has been described as a effective treatment for wounds of many different aetiologies^2,3 and suggested as a gold standard for treatment of wounds such as open abdominal wounds,^4-6 dehisced sternal wounds following cardiac surgery^7,8 and as a valuable agent in complex non-healing wounds.^9,10 Increasingly, NPWT is being applied in the primary and home-care setting, where it is described as having the potential to improve the efficacy of wound management and help reduce the reliance on hospital-based care.¹¹ While the potential of NPWT is promising and the clinical use of the treatment is widespread, highlevel evidence of its effectiveness and economic benefits remain sparse.^12-14 The ongoing controversy regarding high-level evidence in wound care in general is well known. There is a consensus that clinical practice should be evidence-based, which can be difficult to achieve due to confusion about the value of the various approaches to wound management; however, we have to rely on the best available evidence. The need to review wound strategies and treatments in order to reduce the burden of care in an efficient way is urgent. If patients at risk of delayed wound healing are identified earlier and aggressive interventions are taken before the wound deteriorates and complications occur, both patient morbidity and health-care costs can be significantly reduced. There is further a fundamental confusion over the best way to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions in this complex patient population. This is illustrated by reviews of the value of various treatment strategies for non-healing wounds, which have highlighted methodological inconsistencies in primary research. This situation is confounded by differences in the advice given by regulatory and reimbursement bodies in various countries regarding both study design and the ways in which results are interpreted. In response to this confusion, the European Wound Management Association (EWMA) has been publishing a number of interdisciplinary documents^15-19 with the intention of highlighting: The nature and extent of the problem for wound management: from the clinical perspective as well as that of care givers and the patients Evidence-based practice as an integration of clinical expertise with the best available clinical evidence from systematic research The nature and extent of the problem for wound management: from the policy maker and healthcare system perspectives The controversy regarding the value of various approaches to wound management and care is illustrated by the case of NPWT, synonymous with topical negative pressure or vacuum therapy and cited as branded VAC (vacuum-assisted closure) therapy. This is a mode of therapy used to encourage wound healing. It is used as a primary treatment of chronic wounds, in complex acute wounds and as an adjunct for temporary closure and wound bed preparation preceding surgical procedures such as skin grafts and flap surgery. Aim An increasing number of papers on the effect of NPWT are being published. However, due to the low evidence level the treatment remains controversial from the policy maker and health-care system's points of view-particularly with regard to evidence-based medicine. In response EWMA has established an interdisciplinary working group to describe the present knowledge with regard to NPWT and provide overview of its implications for organisation of care, documentation, communication, patient safety, and health economic aspects. These goals will be achieved by the following: Present the rational and scientific support for each delivered statement Uncover controversies and issues related to the use of NPWT in wound management Implications of implementing NPWT as a treatment strategy in the health-care system Provide information and offer perspectives of NPWT from the viewpoints of health-care staff, policy makers, politicians, industry, patients and hospital administrators who are indirectly or directly involved in wound management.

Results of Graft Removal and Negative Pressure Wound Therapy in Management of Graft Infection

Graft infections are a challenging complication in lower extremity bypass surgery with poor outcome, even when treated with graft removal (Gr-R) as a gold standard therapy. The efficacy of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) for graft infections has been reported recently, but it is still controversial. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of NPWT and Gr-R for treating graft infections. Twelve consecutive patients with graft infections from 2008 to 2014, treated with Gr-R or NPWT, were enrolled. Those procedures were assessed in complete wound healing, reinfection, amputation, and mortality rate. Five grafts were treated with Gr-R, and seven grafts with NPWT. The initial indications for bypass surgery were claudication, in five grafts treated with Gr-R and three grafts treated with NPWT, and critical limb ischemia in four grafts treated with NPWT. The median time until healing in Gr-R and NPWT was 12 and 59 days, with complete healing seen in 100 and 85.7%, respectively. The major amputation rate was 20 and 14.3%, and reinfection rate was 20 and 14.3%, respectively. There was no perioperative mortality. Gr-R did not show devastating outcome when applied for grafts without limb-threatening ischemia. NPWT showed a low level of invasiveness with excellent results, except for anastomosis site infections. To achieve optimal results, a tailored treatment strategy should be considered.

The Effect of Vacuum-Assisted Closure Therapy on Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Wound Biofilms

Biofilm-associated wound infections are a major global health issue, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is among the greatest therapeutic challenges. Vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) therapy is now being revisited as an alternative treatment for both acute and chronic wounds. However, data supporting the concept of its antibiofilm effect remain limited. Using quantitative biofilm-forming assay and a range of genotypic methods (spa, SCCmec, and agr typing), study authors showed that VAC therapy can significantly prevent biofilm formation (P < .01) of a range of MRSA wound isolates differing widely in their biofilm-forming abilities and genetic background. The best effect was presented on CC5-MRSA-SCCmecI-agrII, a dominant MRSA clone among wound isolates worldwide. An assessment of effects of different protocols on dressing changes (1 or 2 times per week) demonstrated significantly greater antibiofilm activity (P < .05) of 3-day dressing changes. These findings support the use of VAC therapy as a topical antibiofilm treatment for the effective management of wound healing.

The role of FDG PET/CT in therapy control of aortic graft infection

PURPOSE

¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT (PET/CT) is a useful tool for the diagnosis of aortic graft infection (AGI), but has rarely been used to influence therapeutic decisions during follow-up. We aimed to study the role of PET/CT in the long-term monitoring of patients.

METHODS

Participants of the prospective Vascular Graft Infection Cohort Study (VASGRA) were included if they had microbiologically proven AGI. We quantified the metabolic activity in PET/CT by using maximum standardized uptake value (SUV_max) and further classified it as being focal or diffuse. Multivariable linear regression models were fit using generalized estimating equations to investigate factors associated with SUV_max over time.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight participants with AGI contributed to 266 PET/CTs including 36 examinations performed after stop of antimicrobial therapy. Higher C-reactive protein (CRP) (adjusted coefficient per log₁₀ mg/L 0.05 [95% C.I. 0.02-0.08]) was associated with higher SUV_max. CRP, metabolic and clinical findings informed the decision to either start (medians of SUV_max 7.1 and CRP 31.5 mg/L; 100% focal uptake), escalate (SUV_max 9.5; CRP 31.5; 100% focal uptake), continue (SUV_max 6.0; CRP 9.95 mg/L; 90% focal uptake), or stop (SUV_max 4.3; CRP 3.5 mg/L; 61% focal uptake) antibiotic treatment. Of note, decisions to escalate or continue antibiotic treatment were taken despite normal CRP values in 12.5 and 35.7% of PET/CTs, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Consecutive PET/CTs could influence the clinical decision-making in patients with AGI in the near future. More studies on the use of PET/CT in case of aortic graft infection may offer the potential for individualized treatment approaches. CLINICALTRIALS.

GOV IDENTIFIER

NCT01821664.

Increased Pathogen Identification in Vascular Graft Infections by the Combined Use of Tissue Cultures and 16S rRNA Gene Polymerase Chain Reaction

Background: Vascular graft infections (VGI) are difficult to diagnose and treat, and despite redo surgery combined with antimicrobial treatment, outcomes are often poor. VGI diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical, radiological, laboratory and microbiological criteria. However, as many of the VGI patients are already under antimicrobial treatment at the time of redo surgery, microbiological identification is often difficult and bacterial cultures often remain negative rendering targeted treatment impossible. We aimed to assess the benefit of 16S rRNA gene polymerase chain reaction (broad-range PCR) for better microbiological identification in patients with VGI.

Methods: We prospectively analyzed the clinical, microbiological, and treatment data of patients enrolled in the observational Vascular Graft Cohort Study (VASGRA), University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland. The routine diagnostic work-up involved microbiological cultures of minced tissue samples, and the use of molecular techniques in parallel. Patient-related and microbiological data were assessed in descriptive analyses, and we calculated sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive value for broad-range 16S rRNA gene PCR versus culture (considered as gold standard).

Results: We investigated 60 patients (median age 66 years (Interquartile range [IQR] 59–75)) with confirmed VGI between May 2013 and July 2017. The prevalence of antimicrobial pretreatment at the time of sampling was high [91%; median days of antibiotics 7 days (IQR 1–18)]. We investigated 226 microbiological specimens. Thereof, 176 (78%) were culture-negative and 50 (22%) were culture-positive. There was a concordance of 70% (158/226) between conventional culture and broad-range PCR (sensitivity 58% (95% CI 43–72); specificity 74% (67–80%)). Among the group of 176 culture-negative specimens, 46 specimens were broad-range PCR-positive resulting in identification of overall 69 species. Among the culture and/or broad-range PCR-positive specimens (n = 96), 74 (77%) were monomicrobial and 22 (23%) polymicrobial, whereas the rate of polymicrobial samples was higher in broad-range PCR-positive specimens (93%).

Conclusions: Combined cultures and broad-range 16S rRNA gene PCR from periprosthetic tissue and/or explanted vascular grafts increased the diagnostic accuracy in VGI, particularly in patients already under antimicrobial treatment at the time of redo surgery. Ideally, antimicrobial treatment should be withheld until surgical sampling in order to optimize microbiological diagnostics.Clinical trials.gov identifier: NCT01821664

On the significance of negative-pressure wound therapy with instillation in dermatology

Methods used in the treatment of acute and chronic wounds undergo constant evolution, reevaluation, and innovation. While negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is an established treatment modality, the combination of NPWT and instillation of normal saline as well as solutions with active antiseptic components for topical treatment of the wound bed represents a novel approach. The well-known effects of NPWT may thus be combined with those of local antisepsis. They include a decrease in wound area, induction of granulation tissue, and reduction in bacterial colonization. To date, studies have focused on NPWT with instillation for orthopedic/surgical indications, whereas clinical data in dermatosurgery is limited to case reports or small case series. There are as yet no randomized prospective studies investigating NPWT with instillation in the treatment of skin disorders. The goal of this review is to present the method of NPWT with instillation, to highlight its mode of action as well as possible complications and contraindications, and to review the recent literature. In summary, there is increasing evidence that both simple and complicated wounds may be effectively treated with NPWT with instillation, resulting in markedly accelerated tissue granulation and thus earlier defect closure.

The Marriage of Sartorius and Tensor Fasciae Latae in Treating Vascular Prosthetic Graft Infections

Background:

Vascular prosthetic graft infection in the groin is associated with high morbidity and mortality. This article presents a case series on the use of 2 flaps in the treatment of this condition.

Methods:

Five patients, mean age 65 years (range, 49–74 years), with significant comorbidity were treated for an exposed and infected vascular prosthetic graft in the groin with a combination of sartorius muscle (SM) flap and tensor fascia lata (TFL) myocutaneous flap after debridement and start of microbiologic culture–guided antibiotic treatment. The SM flap was used to cover the exposed graft. To obtain stable wound coverage, the SM and remaining groin defect were closed with a pedicle TFL flap.

Results:

All flaps survived, with only 1 TFL flap suffering a small tip necrosis. All patients obtained stable wound coverage. Donor-site morbidity was minimal. During the follow-up, mean 46 months (range, 15–79 months), 1 patient had a recurrence after 15 months due to a kink in the elongated prosthetic graft that protruded through the skin alongside the SM and TFL flaps.

Conclusions:

The combination of SM and TFL flaps could be a new treatment option for patients who have an exposed and infected vascular prosthetic graft in the groin. This flap combination could also be used as a prophylactic procedure for those patients with a high risk to develop such a serious complication.

Excessive Wound Fluid Discharge during Retroperitoneal Negative Pressure Wound Therapy

We report a case of a 66-year-old man with an excessive wound fluid discharge during negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in the retroperitoneal space. Creatinine concentration of the unclear fluid and a subsequent late-phase computed tomography confirmed the diagnosis of a urinary fistula. NPWT was terminated, and the patient was successfully treated with a nephrostomy combined with a retrograde double J stent and a Foley catheter.

Managing Groin Wounds after Infrainguinal Vascular Procedures: Examining the Reoperative Events and Complication Profile of Muscle Flap Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

The literature has been void of large outcome studies detailing the efficacy and complication profile of muscle flap reconstruction of complex groin wounds. Furthermore, a first-line choice for muscle flap selection remains unclear. The aim of this study is 2-fold: (1) to examine the complication profile and associated risk factors following muscle flap coverage and (2) to provide a compared efficacy analysis of the sartorius muscle flap (SMF) versus the rectus femoris flap (RFF) in the treatment of wounds following an infrainguinal vascular procedure.

METHODS

A retrospective review of records was performed on all patients undergoing complex groin wound reconstruction from January 2005 to September 2014.

RESULTS

A total of 201 flaps were performed on 184 patients. There were no sentinel bleeding events through the course of graft salvage or perioperative morbidity beyond local wound complications. Coronary artery disease (P = 0.049), dyslipidemia (P < 0.001), diabetes (P = 0.047), and history of multiple prior infrainguinal procedures (P = 0.029) were associated with increased complications following groin wound reconstruction. There was no statistically significant difference in complications in comparing the RFF versus the SMF (27.9% vs. 38.9% respectively; P = 0.109). There was no significant difference in the rates of graft salvage in comparing the RFF versus the SMF (21.6% vs. 16.1%, respectively; P = 0.459).

CONCLUSIONS

Muscle flap coverage can be safely employed for vascular graft salvage. Medical comorbidities and multiple prior infrainguinal procedures are predictive of perioperative complications. The SMF and RFF demonstrated equivocal rates of complications and graft salvage. Given that the RFF risks increased functional morbidity and necessitates a second donor site, the SMF may be considered as an effective first-line approach for reconstruction of complex groin wounds.

Negative-pressure wound therapy for prevention and treatment of surgical-site infections after vascular surgery

BACKGROUND

Indications for negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in vascular surgical patients are expanding. The aim of this review was to outline the evidence for NPWT on open and closed wounds.

METHODS

A PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library search from 2007 to June 2016 was performed combining the medical subject headings terms 'wound infection', 'abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)', 'fasciotomy', 'vascular surgery' and 'NPWT' or 'VAC'.

RESULTS

NPWT of open infected groin wounds was associated with shorter duration of wound healing by 47 days, and was more cost-effective than alginate dressings in one RCT. In one RCT and six observational studies, NPWT-related major bleeding and graft preservation rates were 0-10 and 83-100 per cent respectively. One retrospective comparative study showed greater wound size reduction per day, fewer dressing changes, quicker wound closure and shorter hospital stay with NPWT compared with gauze dressings for lower leg fasciotomy. NPWT and mesh-mediated fascial traction after AAA repair and open abdomen was associated with high primary fascial closure rates (96-100 per cent) and low risk of graft infection (0-7 per cent). One retrospective comparative study showed a significant reduction in surgical-site infection, from 30 per cent with standard wound care to 6 per cent with closed incisional NPWT.

CONCLUSION

NPWT has a central role in open and infected wounds after vascular surgery; the results of prophylactic care of closed incisions are promising.

Zum Stellenwert der Unterdruck-Instillationstherapie in der Dermatologie

Die Methoden zur Behandlung akuter und chronischer Wunden unterliegen einer steten Weiterentwicklung, Reevaluierung und Anwendung innovativer Therapieformen. Die Vakuumtherapie zur Wundbehandlung gehört zu den etablierten Behandlungsmodalitäten. Ein innovatives Verfahren kombiniert die Vakuumtherapie mit der automatisierten, kontrollierten Zufuhr und Drainage wirkstoffhaltiger Lösungen zur topischen Wundbehandlung im Wundbett und auch wirkstofffrei durch Instillation physiologischer Kochsalzlösung (Unterdruck-Instillationstherapie). Hierdurch können die Effekte der konventionellen Vakuumtherapie mit denen der lokalen Antisepsis kombiniert werden. Hierdurch kommt es zu einer Reduktion der Wundfläche, einer Induktion von Granulationsgewebe sowie einer Reduktion der Keimbesiedelung der Wunden. Bisher publizierte Studien konzentrieren sich auf die Anwendung dieses Therapieverfahrens zur Behandlung orthopädisch-chirurgischer Krankheiten. Die Datenlage bezüglich der Vakuum-Instillationstherapie in der Dermatochirurgie beschränkt sich derzeit auf Fallberichte und Einzelfallerfahrungen. Randomisierte, prospektive Studien zum Vergleich der Vakuum-Instillationstherapie zur Behandlung dermatologischer Krankheitsbilder existieren bislang nicht. Ziele des vorliegenden Artikels sind die Vorstellung der Vakuumtherapie mit Instillation einschließlich ihres Wirkprinzips, deren mögliche Komplikationen, die Diskussion erdenklicher Kontraindikationen sowie eine Übersicht über die aktuell verfügbare Datenlage. Zusammenfassend scheint sich die Evidenz zu verdichten, dass mittels Unterdruck-Instillationstherapie sowohl einfache als auch komplizierte Wunden effizient behandelt werden können, was sich in einer deutlichen Beschleunigung der Wundgranulation mit konsekutiv früher möglichem Defektverschluss äußert.

Prosthetic Vascular Graft Infections: Bacterial Cultures from Negative-Pressure-Wound-Therapy Foams Do Not Improve Diagnostics

We analyzed the diagnostic value of microorganisms cultured from negative-pressure-wound-therapy (NPWT) foam samples compared to that of microorganisms cultured from deep tissue samples from patients with vascular graft infections. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were 58%, 86%, 81%, and 66%, respectively. The diagnostic value of microbiological cultures from NPWT foams was poor.

Outcomes after retroflexed gracilis muscle flap for vascular infections in the groin

OBJECTIVE

Multiple catheterizations and procedures on the femoral arteries can increase the risk of infection and eventual destruction of the overlying skin and subcutaneous tissue. Without adequate tissue coverage, vascular structures are exposed and, thus, vulnerable to disruption. This can lead to loss of limb and/or life and carries a significant mortality. We hypothesized that gracilis muscle flap (GMF) was a reliable adjunct in providing healthy tissue coverage for a complex surgical problem.

METHODS

Retrospective review of charts was performed on all patients who had undergone GMF for groin infections at a tertiary care medical center.

RESULTS

From 1997 to 2012, GMF was performed in 68 limbs (64 patients) by vascular surgeons for infectious etiology to cover the common femoral artery. At the time the GMF was placed, the femoral artery had synthetic graft/patch in 14 limbs, whereas 54 limbs had procedures with autologous conduit. Complete healing was achieved in 58 (85%) limbs. Treatment was deemed not successful in 10 limbs where patients continued to have persistent infection. Six out of 10 limbs had anastomosis disruption requiring emergent ligation of the common femoral artery. Nine patients died during the perioperative period (30-day). There were a total of 13 amputations in 12 patients. Limb salvage was achieved in 55 limbs (81%). Univariate analysis suggested that patients that had revascularization procedures with synthetic graft had a higher complication rate compared with autologous/vein reconstruction (24% vs 5%; P = .021). This group also has a higher rate of persistent infection compared with the autologous group (24% vs 2%; P = .006). Patients older than 75 years at the time of GMF had a higher incidence of GMF-related complications (57% vs 5%; P = .04). Multivariate analysis confirmed that presence of prosthesis led to higher incidence treatment failures and muscle flap complications at the surgical site (odds ratio, 6.6; P = .04; and odds ratio, 13.3; P = .03, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

GMF is technically simple to perform and provides durable soft tissue coverage with a high rate of healing for complex groin wounds even in the presence of synthetic conduit.

Cost-Utility Analysis: Sartorius Flap versus Negative Pressure Therapy for Infected Vascular Groin Graft Managment

Background:

Sartorius flap coverage and adjunctive negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) have been described in managing infected vascular groin grafts with varying cost and clinical success. We performed a cost–utility analysis comparing sartorius flap with NPWT in managing an infected vascular groin graft.

Methods:

A literature review compiling outcomes for sartorius flap and NPWT interventions was conducted from peer-reviewed journals in MEDLINE (PubMed) and EMBASE. Utility scores were derived from expert opinion and used to estimate quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Medicare current procedure terminology and diagnosis-related groups codes were used to assess the costs for successful graft salvage with the associated complications. Incremental cost-effectiveness was assessed at $50,000/QALY, and both univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess robustness of the conclusions.

Results:

Thirty-two studies were used pooling 384 patients (234 sartorius flaps and 150 NPWT). NPWT had better clinical outcomes (86.7% success rate, 0.9% minor complication rate, and 13.3% major complication rate) than sartorius flap (81.6% success rate, 8.0% minor complication rate, and 18.4% major complication rate). NPWT was less costly ($12,366 versus $23,516) and slightly more effective (12.06 QALY versus 12.05 QALY) compared with sartorius flap. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the base case findings; NPWT was either cost-effective at $50,000/QALY or dominated sartorius flap in 81.6% of all probabilistic sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion:

In our cost–utility analysis, use of adjunctive NPWT, along with debridement and antibiotic treatment, for managing infected vascular groin graft wounds was found to be a more cost-effective option when compared with sartorius flaps.

Salvage of Exposed Groin Vascular Grafts with Early Intervention Using Local Muscle Flaps

Background:

Peripheral vascular surgery may be complicated by wound infection and potential graft exposure in the groin area. Muscle flap coverage of the graft has been promoted to address these wound complications. The authors present their findings regarding graft salvage rates and patient outcomes using local muscle flaps to address vascular graft complications of the groin.

Methods:

Data were obtained by retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent a local muscle flap procedure by a single surgeon following vascular graft complication in the groin.

Results:

Seventeen patients undergoing local muscle flap coverage of a vascular graft were reviewed. Six men and 9 women, 51–80 years old, were included in the study. Wound complications in the groin occurred anywhere from 3 days to 3.5 years following graft placement. Graft exposure was the most common presenting complication (14 of 17 patients). Muscle flap coverage occurred within 15 days of complication presentation in all patients (average, 6.4 days). Seven of the 15 patients experienced postoperative complications within 6 months of the procedure, most commonly wound dehiscence. However, analysis demonstrated that vascular grafts were successfully salvaged in 10 of the 17 patients (59%) over the course of follow-up (range, 104–1748 days). Average time to muscle flap coverage was 4.2 days in patients who retained the graft and 9.6 days in patients who ultimately lost their vascular graft.

Conclusion:

The authors demonstrate improved vascular graft salvage rate when local muscle flap procedure is performed early after initial wound complication presentation.

A randomised study of NPWT closure versus alginate dressings in peri-vascular groin infections: quality of life, pain and cost

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare the vacuum assisted wound closure (VAC) system (negative pressure wound therapy; NPWT) and alginate wound dressings in terms of quality of life (QoL), pain resource use and cost in patients with deep peri-vascular groin infection after vascular surgery.

METHOD

Patients with deep peri-vascular groin infection (Szilagyi grade III) were included and randomised to NPWT or alginate therapy. EuroQol 5D (EQ-5D) and brief pain inventory (BPI) were used to evaluate QoL and pain, respectively.

RESULTS

Wound healing time until complete skin epithelialisation was shorter in the NPWT (n=9) compared to the alginate group (n=7), median 57 and 104 days, respectively (p=0.026). No difference was recorded in QoL and pain between the groups at study start and the second assessment. QoL analysis within groups between time points, showed that patients in NPWT groups improved in EQ-5D domains, 'self-care' (p= 0.034), 'usual activities' (p=0.046); EQ-5D index value (p=0.046) and EQ-VAS (p=0.028). Patients in the NPWT group reported significantly less pain 'affecting their relations with other people' and 'sleep' between time points. The NPWT group had significantly fewer dressing changes compared to the alginate group (p<0.001). The median frequency of wound dressing changes outside hospital was 20 (IQR 6-29) in the NPWT group (n=9), compared to 48 (IQR 42-77) in the alginate group (n=8; p=0.004). The saved personnel time for wound care in the first week for the NPWT group, compared with the alginate group, was 4.5 hours per week per nurse. The total hospitalised care cost was 83-87% of the total cost in both groups.

CONCLUSION

NPWT therapy in patients with deep peri-vascular groin infection can be regarded as the dominant strategy due to improved clinical outcome with equal cost and quality of life measures.

¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT for Therapy Control in Vascular Graft Infections: A First Feasibility Study

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical value of PET/CT with (18)F-FDG for therapy control in patients with prosthetic vascular graft infections (PVGIs).

METHODS

In this single-center, observational, prospective cohort study, 25 patients with a median age of 66 y (range, 48-81 y) who had a proven PVGI were included. Follow-up (18)F-FDG PET/CT was performed at a median of 170 d (range, 89-249 d) after baseline examination. Two independent and masked interpreters measured maximum standardized uptake values to quantify metabolic activity and analyzed whole-body datasets for a secondary diagnosis (i.e., infectious foci not near the graft). The metabolic activity of the graft was correlated with clinical information and 2 laboratory markers (C-reactive protein and white blood cell count).

RESULTS

(18)F-FDG PET/CT had an impact on management in all patients. In 19 of 25 patients (76%), antibiotic treatment was continued because of the results of follow-up (18)F-FDG PET/CT. Antibiotic treatment was stopped or changed in 8% and 16% of patients, respectively. In 8 patients (32%), additional incidental findings were detected on follow-up (18)F-FDG PET/CT and had a further impact on patient management. Only in a subgroup of patients with PVGI and no other sites of infection was a significant correlation found between the difference in C-reactive protein at the time of baseline and follow-up (18)F-FDG PET/CT and the difference in maximum standardized uptake value (n = 11; R(2) = 0.67; P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

(18)F-FDG PET/CT represents a useful tool in therapy monitoring of PVGI and has an impact on patient management.

Efficacy and safety of negative pressure wound therapy for Szilagyi grade III peripheral vascular graft infection

A best evidence topic in vascular surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was whether it is safe and effective to use negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) for Szilagyi grade III (i.e. the arterial implant proper involved in the infection) peripheral vascular graft infection. Altogether, 69 papers were found using the reported search. From the search results, reference lists of potentially eligible studies and related citations in PubMed, seven papers represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these papers are tabulated. In the only randomized, controlled trial that compared NPWT (n = 10) and alginate dressing change (n = 10), the NPWT group demonstrated shorter time to full skin epithelialization (median 57 vs 104 days; P = 0.026). In the other six case series, the recruited case number ranged from 12 to 72. The mode of NPWT varied among the included studies, with the majority using a continuous negative pressure of 125 mmHg. One study combined NPWT and sartorius myoplasty, another used sartorius myoplasty in selected cases and others did not. The mean duration of using NPWT ranged from 14.2 to 43 days. The mean duration to achieve complete wound healing ranged from 24 (the study with sartorius myoplasty) to 51 days. The NPWT treatment failure rate ranged from 0 (the study with sartorius myoplasty) to 25%. The major complication of NPWT was bleeding and the incidence rate was reported to be <10%. We conclude that the amount of evidence for recommending NPWT alone as the first-line treatment for Szilagyi grade III peripheral vascular graft infection is small with only one small-sized randomized controlled trial demonstrating that NPWT alone is superior to alginate dressing change in shortening the time to complete wound healing by 2 months. Limited evidence (case series with >1 year of follow-up) showed that NPWT with a continuous negative pressure of 125 mmHg, or combined NPWT and sartorius myoplasty, may shorten the time to complete wound healing by 2 months, have a >70% success rate, and have a <10% NPWT-related complication rate.

Surgical wound infections after peripheral vascular surgery

Surgical wound infection is one of the most common complications after peripheral vascular surgery. It increases the affected patient's risk for major amputation as well as mortality. Furthermore, surgical wound infection is an additional cost. Wound infections after vascular surgery are of multifactorial nature and generally result from the interplay of patient- and procedure-related factors. The use of systemic antibiotic prophylaxis may be the most important method in preventing surgical wound infections. In this review article, we report the current literature of surgical wound infections after peripheral vascular surgery.

Therapeutic efficacy of vacuum-assisted-closure therapy in the treatment of lymphatic complications following peripheral vascular interventions and surgeries

Objectives

Lymphatic complications, lymphocele and lymphorrhea being the leading, are generally encountered after vascular interventions and surgeries. The present study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of vacuum-assisted-closure (VAC) therapy, which we frequently prefer as the first-choice treatment for such complications.

Materials and methods

Among patients undergoing peripheral vascular intervention or surgery between January 2008 and February 2012, the medical files of 21 patients who received VAC therapy or other treatment due to symptomatic lymphatic complications were retrospectively analyzed and the results were discussed.

Results

Group I consisted of 10 patients (three with lymphocele and seven with lymphorrhea) who underwent VAC therapy as the first-choice treatment, Group II consisted of 11 patients of which 7 patients received various therapies before VAC therapy and 4 patients received other treatments alone. The patients who received VAC therapy as the primary therapy demonstrated more rapid wound healing, early drainage control, and shorter hospital stay. The mean hospital medical cost was €1038 (range, €739–1826) for the patients who primarily underwent VAC therapy; it was calculated to be €2137 (range, €1610–3130) for the other patients ( p = 0.001).

Conclusion

In addition to its safety and good clinical outcomes, VAC therapy also has economic advantages and should be the primary method for the treatment of lymphatic complications.

Diabetic foot ulcers: Part II. Management

The management of diabetic foot ulcers can be optimized by using an interdisciplinary team approach addressing the correctable risk factors (ie, poor vascular supply, infection control and treatment, and plantar pressure redistribution) along with optimizing local wound care. Dermatologists can initiate diabetic foot care. The first step is recognizing that a loss of skin integrity (ie, a callus, blister, or ulcer) considerably increases the risk of preventable amputations. A holistic approach to wound assessment is required. Early detection and effective management of these ulcers can reduce complications, including preventable amputations and possible mortality.

Vacuum-assisted wound closure versus alginate for the treatment of deep perivascular wound infections in the groin after vascular surgery

BACKGROUND

Vacuum-assisted wound closure (VAC) therapy may heal wounds faster than conventional dressings after surgical debridement of perivascular groin infections after vascular surgery.

METHODS

Patients with deep infected wounds (Szilagyi grade III) were surgically revised and left open for secondary healing, then randomized to either VAC or alginate (Sorbalgon) therapy, between February 2007 and November 2011. To test the hypothesis, it was calculated that 42 patients needed to be included (90% power, 5% level of significance). It was decided to perform an interim analysis after inclusion of 20 patients.

RESULTS

Among 66 patients undergoing groin revision, 20 patients were included in this study. Patients were randomized to VAC (n = 10) or alginate (n = 10). The two groups were comparable in patient and wound characteristics. Time to full skin epithelialization was significantly shorter in the VAC group (median, 57 days) compared with the alginate group (median, 104 days; P = .026). The number of positive wound cultures of bacteria and C-reactive protein values decreased equally in both groups between surgical revision and day 21. One femur amputation was performed in each group as a consequence of the groin infection, one patient died during the in-hospital stay in the alginate group, and none died in the VAC group.

CONCLUSIONS

VAC achieves faster healing than alginate therapy after wound debridement for deep perivascular wound infections in the groin after vascular surgery. This finding does not allow further inclusion of patients from an ethical point of view, and this study was, therefore, stopped prematurely.

Current achievements with topical negative pressure to improve wound healing in dehiscent ischemic stumps of diabetic patients: a case series

Negative pressure wound therapy has been increasingly used either as a primary or as an adjunctive therapeutic measure to treat a variety of recalcitrant wounds during the past years. It is thought to act by creating a local environment that promotes cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and granulation tissue formation, leading to accelerated wound healing to the point of spontaneous closure or reducing the wound size to facilitate significantly further surgical reconstruction. This case series presents our preliminary experience with the use of a Topical Negative Pressure system in the treatment of challenging ischemic wounds of diabetic patients. It aims to underscore its beneficial effects and explore its potential role in the management of ischemic amputated stumps to avoid ipsilateral re-amputation at a higher level.

Femoral vein obturator bypass revascularization in groin infectious bleeding: two case reports and review of the literature

Introduction

Groin infections resulting in arterial bleeding due to bacterial vessel destruction are a severe challenge in vascular surgery. Patients with them most often present as emergencies and therefore need individualized reconstruction solutions.

Case presentation

Case 1 is a 67-year-old man with infectious bleeding after an autologous reconstruction of the femoral bifurcation with greater saphenous vein due to infection of a bovine pericard patch after thrombendarterectomy. Case 2 is a 35-year-old male drug addict and had severe femoral bleeding and infection after repeated intravenous and intra-arterial substance abuse. Both patients were treated with an autologous obturator bypass of the superficial femoral vein. We review the current literature and highlight our therapeutic concept of this clinical entity.

Conclusions

Treatment should include systemic antibiotic medication, surgical control of the infectious site, revascularization and soft tissue repair. An extra-anatomical obturator bypass with autologous superficial femoral vein should be considered as the safest revascularization procedure in infections caused by highly pathogenic bacteria.

Clinical outcome and microvascular blood flow in VAC® - and Sorbalgon® -treated peri-vascular infected wounds in the groin after vascular surgery - an early interim analysis

Vacuum-assisted wound closure (VAC(®)) therapy is considered to be superior to conventional dressings in the treatment of peri-vascular groin infections after vascular surgery at our department. Therefore, we performed an early interim analysis of the clinical outcomes in these seriously ill patients at risk of amputation and death. Patients were randomised to either VAC(®) (n = 5) or Sorbalgon(®) (n = 5; best alternative treatment) therapy after surgical debridement. Non-invasive, laser Doppler perfusion imaging (LDPI) studies of the skin adjacent to the undressed wound were performed after 14 days of wound treatment. There was no difference in LDPI values in VAC(®) versus Sorbalgon(®) treated patients (P = 0·46). One patient in the VAC(®) group suffered from two re-bleeding episodes, leading to vascular resection and transfemoral amputation and in the Sorbalgon(®) group two had a complete wound healing time of more than 4 months and one had a visible interposition bypass graft in the groin after 1 month of treatment. No patient died of the groin infection. Although not statistically proven, fewer wound treatment failures were recorded in the VAC(®) group, justifying this early interim analysis. LDPI studies were feasible.

Negative pressure wound therapy on exposed prosthetic vascular grafts in the groin

OBJECTIVE

This study assessed the outcome of vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) as primary therapy for exposed prosthetic vascular grafts in the groin (Szilagyi III).

METHODS

The study included all consecutive patients with Szilagyi III groin infections and exposed prosthetic graft material from 2009 to 2011. After initial wound debridement, VAC was applied using a two-layer combination, consisting of polyvinyl alcohol and polyurethane sponges. Continuous negative pressure was set on a maximum of 50 mm Hg. All patients received complementary antibiotic therapy. The primary end point was defined as complete wound closure. Secondary end points comprised bleeding complications, amputation, and death.

RESULTS

The study evaluated 15 patients with 17 Szilagyi III groin infections. Mean total length of VAC therapy was 43 days (range, 14-76 days). Mean time until complete healing was 51 days (range, 24-82 days). Mean length of VAC therapy in the hospital was 21 days (range, 5-61 days). Eleven patients received continued VAC treatment at home for a mean length of 22 days (range, 5-69 days). Complete healing was achieved in 14 groins (82%). Three failures due to persisting infection, persisting necrosis, and a pseudomonas infection were noted. No bleeding complications, amputations, or late reinfections occurred. Median follow-up was 380 days (range, 56-939 days). Despite therapy failure, all 17 grafts were preserved.

CONCLUSIONS

VAC therapy on an exposed prosthetic vascular graft in the groin is safe and feasible when applying a combination of polyvinyl alcohol and polyurethane foam dressing and 50 mm Hg of continuous negative pressure, resulting in midterm graft preservation.