The Long-term Fate of Renal and Visceral Vessel Reconstruction After Open Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

OBJECTIVES

In the ever-advancing era of endovascular thoracoabdominal aneurysm (TAAA) repair, understanding long-term patency of renovisceral reconstructions after open TAAA repair provides important benchmarks.

METHODS

Institutional open TAAA repair patient data were queried. Patients dying during index admission or with incomplete operative detail were excluded. Visceral and renal reconstructions were categorized as bypass, incorporation into a proximal or distal beveled aortic anastomosis, inclusion button, Carrel patch, or hybrid stent along with endarterectomy/stent adjuncts. Axial imaging or angiography determined long-term patency. Vessel event was defined as new occlusion or reintervention after repair. Overall time-to-event analysis was performed as well as separate analyses for each vessel (Celiac, SMA, right renal, left renal) by reconstruction type utilizing Kaplan-Meier methods. Log-rank testing was employed to compare reconstructive strategies.

RESULTS

Over 28-years, 604 repairs [Type I 106(18%), Type II 73(12%), Type III 195(32%), Type IV 230(38%)] were identified. Follow-up (median 500 days) was available in 410/570(72%) Celiac, 406/573(71%) SMA, 379/532(71.2%) right renal, and 370/515(72%) left renal reconstructions. There were five celiac, one SMA, eight right renal, and ten left renal events. No type of reconstruction or adjunct was significantly associated with event. Overall 5-year patency of all renal/visceral reconstructions was 94% (95%CI [90%-96%]). Estimated 5-year patency of the Celiac, SMA, left renal, and right renal were similar, and were 99%, 100%, 97%, and 96%, respectively (p = .09).

CONCLUSIONS

Visceral and renal long-term patency after open TAAA repair is excellent regardless of reconstructive technique. No differences are appreciated even when target vessel disease is addressed at the time of reconstruction. These findings continue to substantiate the effective long-term durability of open TAAA repair and are particularly germane to the ongoing evolution of endovascular strategies.

Multispecialty surgical management of carotid body tumors in the modern era

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess the perioperative and long-term outcomes of carotid body tumor (CBT) resection with a multispecialty (head and neck surgery/vascular surgery) approach.

METHODS

Our institutional data registry was queried for Current Procedural Terminology codes (60600, 60605) pertaining to CBT excision. These patient records and operative reports were individually reviewed to determine laterality, preoperative tumor embolization, operative time, estimated blood loss, need for intraoperative transfusion, intraoperative electroencephalogram changes, intraoperative division of the external carotid artery, carotid artery repair, resection of the carotid bifurcation, tumor volume, final pathology, cranial nerve injury, stroke, death, and clinical or radiographic evidence of recurrence.

RESULTS

From 1996 to 2018, 74 CBT resections were identified in 68 patients (41 [60%] females; mean age, 50.83 years). The mean tumor volume was 9.92 ± 14.26 cm³ (range, 0.0250-71.0627 cm³). Embolization was performed by a neurointerventional specialist in 27 CBT resections (36%) based on size (embolization 14.27 ± 16.84 cm³ vs 7.17 ± 11.86 cm³; P = .063) and superior extension. This practice resulted in one asymptomatic vertebral dissection, which postponed the surgery. There was a trend toward greater blood loss in the embolization group (embolization 437 ± 545 mL vs 262 ± 222 mL; P = .17); however, no transfusions were required in any patient. The mean operative time was also significantly longer in the embolization group (198.33 ± 61.13 minutes vs 161.5 ± 55.56 minutes; P = .03). Three resections had reversible intraoperative electroencephalogram changes, one of which occurred during carotid clamping. These changes resolved with shunting. Eight external carotid resections (11%) and 6 carotid reconstructions (8.1%; two primary, two patch, and two primary anastomosis) were required. Malignancy was identified in four tumors (5.4%), accounting for four of the six carotid reconstructions. There were no postoperative cranial nerve injuries, no strokes, no reexplorations, and no deaths. One patient developed transient dysphagia from pharyngeal tumor infiltration. Long-term follow-up (mean, 43 ± 54 months), available in 61 of the 68 patients (89.7%), revealed three (4.4%) recurrences.

CONCLUSIONS

This large, single-institution series demonstrates that a multispecialty team combining two surgical skill sets for the treatment of this rare, challenging condition yields unparalleled low complication rates with short operative times. This approach, including long-term surveillance for recurrent disease, should be considered to optimize outcomes of CBT resection.

Presentation, surgical intervention, and long-term survival in patients with Marfan syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS) often present with acute catastrophic aortic events at a young age and have a shortened life span. This study examines the impact of presentation and demographics on late survival in patients with MFS.

METHODS

Adults with confirmed MFS in our thoracic aortic center dataset were identified and statistical analysis performed to identify the incidence and predictors of aortic interventions and late mortality.

RESULTS

We identified 301 patients with a MFS initial diagnosis at age 17 years (interquartile range, 4-30 years) with presentation into our thoracic aortic center at 21 years (interquartile range, 8-34 years). The average follow-up in our center was 10 ± 10 years. Clinical features were 41% male, 86% white race, coronary artery disease 28%, hypertension 40%, peripheral vascular disease 19%, and anti-impulse agent in 51% (β-blocker, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker, calcium channel blocker). Distribution of operative aortic pathology was isolated to the ascending aorta (70%) and descending aorta (8%). One hundred seventy-eight patients (59%) required primary aortic surgery (36% emergent). Primary procedures were cardiac (aortic valve/root) in nature in 94%. Seventy-four patients (42%) required multiple aortic procedures at a mean of 9.2 ± 6.9 years, involving the thoracoabdominal aorta in 65%, thoracic aorta in 37%, and abdominal aorta in 21%. Patients who required multiple aortic procedures were more likely (P < .05) to have coronary artery disease (50% vs 30%), and peripheral vascular disease (43% vs 18%). Multiple aortic procedures were also more likely (P < .05) in patients who developed de novo distal dissection (14% vs 0%), had prior dissection (47% vs 18%), or unknown MFS at the time of the initial procedure (27% vs 63%). Multivariable analysis identified prior dissection as an independent predictor of need for emergent surgery (odds ratio, 13.20; 95% confidence interval, 4.64-37.30; P < .05), as well as additional aortic surgery (odds ratio, 4.42; 95% confidence interval, 1.87-10.50; P < .05). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed similar 10-year survival with or without aortic interventions (82% with vs 89% without; P = .08). Late survival was decreased in patients undergoing emergent initial procedures (66% vs 89%; P < .01), as well as those undergoing multiple operations (74% vs 86%; P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

These data indicate that, in the modern era, the mode of presentation and need for multiple procedures have a detrimental impact on late survival. Additionally, the presence of acute or chronic dissection predicts the need for additional aortic procedures during follow-up.

Contralateral Occlusion and Concomitant Procedures Drive Risk of Non-ipsilateral Stroke After Carotid Endarterectomy

OBJECTIVES

Stroke after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) has been assessed widely. However, factors enhancing non-ipsilateral stroke risk are poorly defined. The aim of this study was to identify drivers of 30 day non-ipsilateral stroke after CEA in the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI) and assess long-term survival based on laterality of post-operative stroke.

METHODS

The VQI was queried between April 1, 2003, and March 31, 2017, for all CEA. Bilateral carotid procedures within 30 days were excluded. Thirty day non-ipsilateral strokes were identified. Factors were examined to discriminate between patients with and without non-ipsilateral stroke. Univariable analysis followed by multivariable logistic regression was performed. Kaplan-Meier and log rank methods were used to estimate and compare survival.

RESULTS

During this 14 year period, 80,230 CEA in 74,928 patients met the criteria. The average age was 70.3 ± 9.3 years. Most were male (48,506; 60%), Caucasian (73,967; 92%), smokers (60,543; 76%), and asymptomatic (43,074; 54%). Contralateral stenosis ≥70% was present in 8033 (10%) with 2239 (3%) having contralateral occlusion. In 491 (0.6%) patients, peri-operative non-ipsilateral stroke occurred. After characterising univariable associations, logistic regression identified independent drivers of non-ipsilateral stroke after CEA. Operative urgency (p = .001), symptomatic disease (p < .001) and contralateral occlusion (p = .001) were pre-operative drivers. Operative predictors included shunt use (p = .008), CEA with cardiac surgery (p = .013), and CEA with concomitant proximal ipsilateral endovascular intervention (p = .01). Use of dextran (p = .005) and anti-angiotensin therapy (p = .03) were protective. Reperfusion syndrome (p < .001), re-exploration (p < .001), myocardial infarction (p < .001), and intravenous treatment of hypotension (p < .001) or hypertension (p < .001) were post-operative correlates. Non-ipsilateral stroke 30 day mortality was less than ipsilateral stroke (6.1% vs. 10.3%; p = .007). Five year survival after non-ipsilateral stroke was 73%, and no different from ipsilateral stroke 76% (p = .16). Both were worse than without stroke (88%; p < .001).

CONCLUSION

Non-ipsilateral stroke after CEA is rare. Features driving risk surround global disease burden, combined procedures, and haemodynamic fluctuations. Contralateral occlusion independently increases non-ipsilateral stroke risk. Regardless of laterality or location, effects of stroke after CEA on long-term survival are similar.

Regional variation in use and outcomes of combined carotid endarterectomy and coronary artery bypass

OBJECTIVE

In treating concomitant carotid and coronary disease, some recommend staged carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and coronary artery bypass grafting, whereas others favor the combined approach (CCAB). Pressure to reduce surgical variation and to improve quality is real, yet little is known about how geographic practice differences affect outcomes. Using the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI), this study evaluated regional variation in use and outcomes of CCAB.

METHODS

All CCAB procedures in the VQI from 2003 to 2017 were reviewed and stratified into four regions, as defined by the United States Census Bureau. Primary outcomes included perioperative stroke, death, myocardial infarction (MI), and these as composite (SDM). A χ² analysis was performed.

RESULTS

There were 1495 CCAB procedures identified, representing 1.8% of the VQI CEAs. Regions included the following: Midwest (MW), 32%; Northeast (NE), 39%; South (S), 25%; and West (W), 4%. Most were male (70%) and white (92%). There was significant regional variation in proportional volume of CCABs to all CEAs (0.7% [W] to 2.5% [MW]; P < .001). Regional variation in patch use (78% [W] to 93% [MW]; P < .001), shunting (29% [W] to 71% [MW]; P < .001), and electroencephalography monitoring (13% [W] to 52% [NE]; P < .001) was also significant. Overall perioperative stroke was 3.6%; death, 3.0%; and SDM, 6.8%. No regional difference was seen in outcomes of mortality (1.5% [MW] to 4.2% [NE]; P = .05), stroke (2.8% [NE] to 4.4% [MW]; P = .52), and MI (0.6% [MW] to 1.8% [W]; P = .62). When the Bonferroni correction was used, there remained no difference in stroke, MI, or SDM across regions, but mortality became significant. Using the Society for Vascular Surgery guidelines for consideration of CCAB, the minority of patients fell within the symptomatic carotid stenosis (SYMP, 15%; n = 218) or severe (≥70%) asymptomatic bilateral carotid disease (BIL, 18%; n = 267) categories. The most common indication was asymptomatic unilateral severe carotid stenosis (UNI, 37%; n = 552). There were no differences in regional outcomes stratified by indication (SYMP, BIL, UNI). Overall, when SYMP and BIL were compared with UNI, UNI had lower rates of stroke (2.4% vs 4.9%; P = .03) but similar MI (0.7% vs 1.2%; P = .40) and mortality (2.2% vs 2.5%; P = .75).

CONCLUSIONS

Significant variation exists across VQI centers in the use of CCAB. Despite differences in volume and practices, regional perioperative outcomes are similar. UNI is the most commonly used indication and has lower stroke rates relative to SYMP and BIL. CCAB is performed well across the United States, but most patients fall outside of Society for Vascular Surgery guidelines.

A Regional Experience with Carotid Endarterectomy in Patients with a History of Neck Radiation

BACKGROUND

Historically, a history of neck radiation has been considered as an anatomic risk factor for poor outcomes after carotid endarterectomy (CEA). However, this is based on small and primarily single institution reports with few comparative series. This study uses a regional quality database to compare perioperative outcomes of CEA in patients with and without a history of neck radiation (RAD and NORAD, respectively).

METHODS

The Vascular Study Group of New England database was queried for all CEA from 2003 to 2017. The RAD group included a history of neck radiation. Primary end points included perioperative stroke (30-day), myocardial infarction (MI) (in-hospital), death (30-day), a composite end point including major adverse events (MAEs: stroke, MI, and death), and long-term survival.

RESULTS

Overall, 18,832 patients underwent CEA (18,551 NORAD, 281 RAD). Baseline demographics differed in the following: the RAD group more frequently had a history of contralateral carotid artery stenting (1.4% vs. 0.3%, P = 0.009), anatomic high risk features (12.8% vs. 1.3%, P < 0.001), and contralateral carotid occlusion (5.3% vs. 2.4%, P = 0.005). The NORAD cohort comprised mostly women (38.9% vs. 29.5%, P < 0.001), had American Society of Anesthesiologists class 4 or 5 (8.0% vs. 4.6%, P = 0.035), had higher body mass index (28.3 ± 5.6 vs. 27.1 ± 5.4, P < 0.001), on a beta blocker preoperatively (68.0% vs. 62.3%, P = 0.042), and had major cardiovascular comorbidities including coronary artery disease (29.6% vs. 22.1%, P = 0.006). There were no differences in the percent stenosis, proportion symptomatic (37.4% vs. 34.2%, P = 0.259), use of preoperative antiplatelet agents or statins. Electroencephalography monitoring was more frequently used in RAD (54.5% vs. 46.0%, P = 0.005). There was no difference in perioperative complications, including stroke (RAD 0.4% vs. NORAD 0.7%, P > 0.999), MI (0.4% vs. 0.9%, P = 0.736), death (0.7% vs. 0.6%, P = 0.683), MAE (2.1% vs. 2.2%, P > 0.999), or long-term survival (79.9% vs. 85.0%, P = 0.357). When only symptomatic or asymptomatic stenosis was considered, there remained no difference in primary end points. However, perioperative neurologic events (transient ischemic attack or stroke) was higher in symptomatic RAD versus symptomatic NORAD (6.7% vs. 2.6%, P = 0.020).

CONCLUSIONS

This regional experience with CEA in RAD patients shows similar perioperative morbidity, mortality, and long-term survival when compared with CEA for standard surgical patients (NORAD). Symptomatic presentation was associated with higher perioperative neurologic events, but this was not reflected in stroke rates. RAD is not always a contraindication to CEA and select patients can expect outcomes comparable to standard surgical patients.

Risk factor profile and anatomic features of previously asymptomatic patients presenting with carotid-related stroke

OBJECTIVE

Although carotid atherosclerotic-mediated stroke remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality, some have suggested intervention in carotid stenosis should be limited to symptomatic patients given the advances in medical therapy. The present study was conducted to assess the atherosclerotic risk factor profiles, anatomic features, and clinical outcomes of previously asymptomatic patients admitted with stroke of carotid etiology.

METHODS

We reviewed the data from 3382 patients admitted to a tertiary referral center with an ischemic stroke during 2005 to 2015. We focused on patients admitted with a radiographically confirmed infarct ipsilateral to a documented carotid artery stenosis ≥50%, with the admitting neurology team adjudicating the stroke etiology as carotid related. Patients were excluded if they had had a previous transient ischemic attack, previous infarct ipsilateral to any carotid lesion, or previous carotid revascularization, intracranial hemorrhage, or malignancy. Patient demographic data, medical treatments before stroke, stroke admission carotid imaging, and stroke treatments and outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 219 carotid stroke patients (7% of all strokes) were identified, of whom 61% were white and 66% were men, with a mean age of 68 ± 12 years. Hypertension (79%) and smoking (33% current; 29% former) were predominant risk factors. On admission, 50% were receiving antiplatelet therapy (aspirin, n = 92 [41%]; clopidogrel, n = 9 [4%]; dual therapy, n = 11 [5%]) and 55% were receiving lipid-lowering agents (statin, n = 115 [53%]; other, n = 6 [2%]); 77 patients (35%) were receiving both antiplatelet and lipid-lowering therapy. Of the 219 patients, 156 (71%) presented with a moderate or severe stroke (National Institutes of Health stroke scale ≥5 at admission), 54 (25%) received lytic therapy, 96 (43%) presented with an occluded ipsilateral internal carotid artery, and 117 (53%) ultimately underwent carotid revascularization at a median of 4 days. Individuals receiving both antiplatelet and lipid-lowering therapy were significantly less likely to experience a moderate or severe stroke (44% vs 78%; P = .006).

CONCLUSIONS

Internal carotid artery occlusion is the culprit lesion in 43% of carotid-related strokes in those without previous symptoms. Previously asymptomatic patients not receiving combined antiplatelet and lipid-lowering medical therapy presenting with carotid-related stroke are significantly more likely to experience a severe, debilitating stroke. However, those receiving appropriate risk-reduction medical therapy are still at risk of carotid-mediated stroke. These results suggest medical therapy alone is unlikely to be sufficient stroke prevention for patients with significant carotid stenosis.

Medical management of acute superficial vein thrombosis of the saphenous vein

OBJECTIVE

Acute superficial vein thrombosis (SVT) of the axial veins, such as the great saphenous vein (GSV), is a common clinical condition that carries with it significant risk of propagation of thrombus, recurrence, and, most concerning, subsequent venous thromboembolism (VTE). Conservative therapy with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication and heat does not prevent extension of thrombus or protect against recurrent or future VTE in patients with extensive SVT (thrombotic segment of at least 5 cm in length). To prevent future thromboembolic events, anticoagulation has become the treatment of choice for extensive acute SVT in the GSV. In spite of this, the dose and duration of anticoagulation in the treatment of SVT vary widely. This review summarizes the evidence from large prospective, randomized clinical trials on the treatment of SVT with anticoagulation (vs placebo or different doses and durations of anticoagulation) with respect to the outcome measures of thrombus extension, SVT recurrence, and future VTE.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed using the MEDLINE database to identify all prospective, randomized controlled trials of treatment with anticoagulation in patients with SVT in the GSV. Six prospective, randomized trials were identified that met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed in detail.

RESULTS

Treatment of acute SVT was most commonly managed in an outpatient setting using either low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in four studies or, alternatively, a factor Xa inhibitor in one large multicenter trial. LMWH was associated with a lower rate of thrombus extension and subsequent recurrence, especially when an intermediate dose (defined as a dose between prophylactic and therapeutic doses) was used for a period of 30 days. The full effect of treatment with LMWH on the risk of subsequent VTE remains unclear, as do the optimal dose and duration of this drug. Prophylactic doses of fondaparinux, a factor Xa inhibitor, were found to be beneficial in reducing the rate of thrombus extension and recurrence as well as in reducing the risk of subsequent VTE both during treatment and after cessation of anticoagulation in the short term.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that treatment of acute SVT of the GSV with anticoagulation, at doses below therapeutic levels, does offer the benefit of decreased risk of thrombus propagation, recurrence, and, at least in one large randomized clinical trial, subsequent VTE. Future studies to refine optimal dose and duration of anticoagulation to lower the rate of subsequent thromboembolic events and SVT recurrence are needed.

Aneurysm sac expansion is independently associated with late mortality in patients treated with endovascular aneurysm repair

BACKGROUND

Patients undergoing endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) for abdominal aortic aneurysms can exhibit variations in sac behavior ranging from complete regression to expansion. We evaluated the impact of sac behavior at 1-year follow-up on late survival.

METHODS

We used the Vascular Study Group of New England (VSGNE) registry from 2003 to 2011 to identify EVAR patients with 1-year computed tomography follow-up. Aneurysm sac enlargement ≥5 mm (sac expansion) and decrease ≥5 mm (sac regression) were defined per Society for Vascular Surgery guidelines. Predictors of change in sac diameter and impact of sac behavior on long-term mortality were assessed by multivariable methods.

RESULTS

Of 2437 patients who underwent EVAR, 1802 (74%) had complete 1-year follow-up data and were included in the study. At 1 year, 162 (9%) experienced sac expansion, 709 (39%) had a stable sac, and 931 (52%) experienced sac regression. Sac expansion was associated with preoperative renal insufficiency (odds ratio [OR], 3.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.5-8.0; P < .01), urgent repair (OR, 2.7; 95% CI, 1.4-5.1; P < .01), hypogastric coverage (OR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.1-2.7; P = .02), and type I/III (OR, 16.8; 95% CI, 7.3-39.0; P < .001) or type II (OR, 2.9; 95% CI, 2.0-4.3; P < .001) endoleak at follow-up, and sac expansion was inversely associated with smoking (OR, 0.6; 95% CI, 0.4-0.96; P = .03) and baseline aneurysm diameter (OR, 0.7; 95% CI, 0.6-0.9; P < .001). Sac regression (vs expansion or stable sac) was associated with female gender (OR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.4-2.4; P < .001) and larger baseline aneurysm diameter (OR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.2-1.5; P < .001) and inversely associated with type I/III (OR, 0.2; 95% CI, 0.1-0.5; P < .01) or type II endoleak at follow-up (OR, 0.2; 95% CI, 0.2-0.3; P < .001). After risk-adjusted Cox regression, sac expansion was independently associated with late mortality (hazard ratio, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.1-2.0; P = .01), even with adjustment for reinterventions and endoleak during follow-up. Sac regression was associated with lower late mortality (hazard ratio, 0.6; 95% CI, 0.5-0.7; P < .001). Long-term survival was lower (log-rank, P < .001) in patients with sac expansion (98% 1-year and 68% 5-year survival) compared with all others (99% 1-year and 83% 5-year survival).

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that an abdominal aortic aneurysm sac diameter increase of at least 5 mm at 1 year, although infrequent, is independently associated with late mortality regardless of the presence or absence of endoleak and warrants close observation and perhaps early intervention.

Characterization of perioperative contralateral stroke after carotid endarterectomy

OBJECTIVE

Contralateral stroke is an infrequent cause of perioperative stroke after carotid endarterectomy (CEA). Whereas the risks of ipsilateral stroke complicating CEA have been discriminated, factors that lead to contralateral stroke are poorly defined. The purpose of this study was to identify the risk of perioperative (30-day) contralateral stroke after CEA as well as predisposing preoperative and operative factors. Its specific effect on long-term survival was interrogated.

METHODS

The Vascular Study Group of New England (VSGNE) was queried from April 1, 2003, to February 29, 2016, for all CEAs. Duplicated patients and those without complete data were excluded. Patients sustaining contralateral stroke after CEA in the 30-day postoperative period were identified. Demographic, preoperative, and operative factors were analyzed to identify discriminators between those with and those without contralateral stroke. Logistic regression modeling was performed to identify factors independently associated with contralateral stroke. The effect of contralateral stroke on 5-year survival was compared with patients with ipsilateral stroke and no stroke using the Kaplan-Meier method. Log-rank testing compared survival curves.

RESULTS

There were 10,837 CEAs performed during the study. Average age was 70.4 ± 9.3 years; 6605 (61%) patients were male, and 40% (n = 4324) were performed for symptoms. Most were current or former smokers (n = 8619 [80%]). Coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure were identified in 31% and 8.6%, respectively. Overall, there were 190 strokes within 30 days of CEA (1.8%); 131 were ipsilateral (1.3%), and 59 (0.5%) patients were identified as having contralateral perioperative stroke. Thirteen patients sustained bilateral stroke (0.1%). Significant univariate associations included urgency (P = .0001), ipsilateral stenosis severity (P = .004), length of operation (P = .0001), CEA with coronary artery bypass graft (P = .0001), CEA with other arterial surgery (P = .01), and CEA with proximal endovascular procedure (P = .03). Contralateral occlusion (P = .06) and degree of contralateral carotid stenosis (P = .14) did not correlate. After logistic regression analysis of significant univariate anatomic and operative factors, length of procedure (odds ratio [OR], 1.08/15 minutes; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-1.15; P = .02), urgency of operation (OR, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.3-4.6; P = .006), and concomitant proximal endovascular intervention (OR, 8.7; 95% CI, 4.5-31.2; P = .001) remained predictors of contralateral stroke after CEA. Occurrence of both ipsilateral (P < .001) and contralateral (P = .023) stroke significantly reduced 5-year survival compared with those without stroke. There was no difference in the negative survival effect based on laterality of stroke (P = .24).

CONCLUSIONS

Contralateral stroke after CEA is rare, affecting 0.5% of patients. Traditional risk reduction medical therapy does not affect occurrence. Degree of contralateral stenosis, including contralateral occlusion, does not predict perioperative contralateral stroke. Urgency of operation, length of operation, and performance of concomitant, ipsilateral endovascular intervention predict contralateral stroke risk with CEA. Contralateral stroke affects long-term survival similar to ipsilateral stroke after CEA.

The presentation and management of aneurysms of the pancreaticoduodenal arcade

OBJECTIVE

Gastroduodenal artery aneurysms (GDAAs) and pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysms (PDAAs) are uncommon lesions associated, however, with a significant risk of rupture. This study describes the clinical presentation, associated imaging findings, and operative strategies for these aneurysms.

METHODS

The records of all patients with GDAAs or PDAAs identified through an institutional database by axial imaging between 1994 and 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. Data on presenting symptoms, comorbid conditions, imaging findings, and outcomes after operative intervention were collected and examined.

RESULTS

We identified 11 GDAAs and 25 PDAAs in 35 patients. Mean size of the GDAAs was 31.1 mm (range, 10-60 mm) and mean size of the PDAAs was 19.1 mm (range, 10-48 mm). At presentation, 13 aneurysms (36%) were symptomatic and seven aneurysms (19.4%) were ruptured. Median size of ruptured aneurysms was 20 mm (range, 10-60 mm). On axial imaging, 24 aneurysms (67%) were associated with a severe stenosis or occlusion of the celiac axis origin, and 11 aneurysms (31%) were thought to be associated with compression of the celiac axis in the setting of median arcuate ligament syndrome. Twenty-four aneurysms (67%) underwent repair. Of these aneurysms, 18 (75%) were successfully managed with primary endovascular repair (coil embolization with or without celiac stent), whereas endovascular therapy failed in two (8%) and required open repair. Four aneurysms (17%) were treated with primary open repair. Overall 30-day morbidity and mortality after aneurysm repair were 29% and 4%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

GDAAs and PDAAs are uncommon lesions that are often associated with a celiac axis stenosis/occlusion leading to altered hemodynamics in the pancreaticoduodenal arcade. These aneurysms are prone to rupture regardless of size, and intervention is accordingly recommended for all aneurysms upon recognition. Despite the concordant celiac axis obstruction and concern for maintenance of hepatic circulation, endovascular repair of these aneurysms is generally successful and should be considered as the initial operative approach.

Aneurysmal degeneration of the thoracoabdominal aorta after medical management of type B aortic dissections

BACKGROUND

Patients with uncomplicated type B aortic dissections who are managed medically are at risk of aortic aneurysmal degeneration over time. However, the effect of improvement in antihypertensive medications and stricter blood pressure control is unknown. The goal of this study was to determine the rate of aneurysmal degeneration in a contemporary cohort of patients with medically treated type B dissection.

METHODS

Included were all patients with acute uncomplicated type B aortic dissection who were initially managed medically between March 1999 and March 2011 and had follow-up axial imaging studies. Maximum aortic growth was calculated by comparing the initial imaging study to the most current scan or imaging obtained just before any aortic-related intervention. An increase of ≥5 mm was the threshold considered as aortic growth. Predictors of aortic aneurysmal degeneration were determined using Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

We identified 200 patients (61% men) with medically managed acute type B dissections receiving multiple imaging studies. Patients were an average age of 63.4 years, and 75.5% had a history of hypertension. Mean follow-up was 5.3 years (range, 0.1-14.7 years). Mean time between the initial and final imaging studies was 3.2 years (range, 0.1-12.9 years). At 5 years, only 51% were free from aortic growth. Fifty-six patients (28%) required operative intervention (50 open, 6 endovascular repair) for aneurysmal degeneration, and the actuarial 5-year freedom from intervention was 76%. After excluding five patients (2.5%) with early rapid degeneration requiring intervention within the first 2 weeks, the mean rate of aortic growth was 12.3 mm/y for the total aortic diameter, 3.8 mm/y for the true lumen diameter, and 8.6 mm/y for the false lumen diameter. Only aortic diameter at index presentation >3.5 cm was a risk factor for future growth (odds ratio, 2.54; 95% confidence interval, 1.34-4.81; P < .01). Complete thrombosis of the false lumen was protective against growth (odds ratio, 0.19; 95% confidence interval, 0.11-0.42; P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Although medical management of uncomplicated acute, type B aortic dissections has been the standard of care, at 5 years, a significant number of patients will require operative intervention for aneurysmal degeneration. Further studies of early intervention (eg, thoracic endovascular aortic repair) for type B aortic dissection to prevent late aneurysm formation are needed.

High lung shunt fraction in colorectal liver tumors is associated with distant metastasis and decreased survival

PURPOSE

To assess how intratumoral shunting relates to liver metastasis and to clinical outcome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Lung shunt fraction (LSF) was calculated from macroaggregated albumin scan after transcatheter injection of radioactive particles in 62 patients with colorectal cancer and liver metastases evaluated for selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) from May 2007 to August 2012. Assessment was performed of how LSF, liver tumor burden, and systemic chemotherapy relate to survival and the presence of lung metastases. LSF and tumor burden were also assessed in a subset of patients who underwent genetic profiling with SNaPshot analysis.

RESULTS

Patients with higher LSF were more likely to have lung metastases and decreased survival, whereas tumor burden was not associated with these outcomes. Patients with genetic mutations had significantly higher LSF than patients with no mutations. Patients who received chemotherapy before SIRT and had low LSF had the longest survival after SIRT.

CONCLUSIONS

LSF may be a more robust marker of metastasis than tumor size. Increased LSF secondary to vascular shunting within liver metastasis is an indicator of distant lesions and is associated with decreased survival after SIRT. Intratumoral shunting may provide a conduit for circulating tumor cells to access more remote organs, bypassing filtration by liver parenchyma, and may be an important factor in metastasis from colorectal cancer.