Venous Vascular Closure System Versus Figure-of-Eight Suture Following Atrial Fibrillation Ablation - The STYLE-AF Study

BACKGROUND

Simplified ablation technologies for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) are increasingly performed worldwide. One of the most common complications following PVI are vascular access-related complications. Lately, venous closure systems (VCS) were introduced into clinical practice, aiming to reduce the time of bedrest, to increase the patients' comfort and to reduce vascular access-related complications.

AIMS

To compare the safety and efficacy of using a VCS to achieve haemostasis following single shot PVI to the actual standard of care (figure-of-eight suture and manual compression (MC)).

METHODS

This is a prospective, multicentre, randomized, controlled, open-label trial performed at 3 German centres. Patients were randomized 1:1 to undergo haemostasis either by means of VCS (VCS group) or of a figure-of-eight suture and MC (F8 group). The primary efficacy endpoint was the time to ambulation, while the primary safety endpoint was the incidence of major periprocedural adverse events until hospital discharge.

RESULTS

A total of 125 patients were randomized. The baseline characteristics were similar between the groups. The VCS group showed a shorter time to ambulation (109.0 (82.0, 160.0) vs. 269.0 (243.8, 340.5) min; p<0.001), shorter time to haemostasis (1 (1, 2) vs. 5 (2, 10) min; p<0.001) and shorter time to discharge eligibility (270 (270, 270) vs. 340 (300, 458) min; p<0.001). No major vascular access related complication was reported in either group. A trend towards a lower incidence of minor vascular access related complications on the day of procedure was observed in the VCS group (7 (11.1%) vs. 15 (24.2%); p=0.063) as compared to the control group.

CONCLUSION

Following AF ablation, the use of a VCS results in a significantly shorter time to ambulation, time to haemostasis and time to discharge eligibility. No major vascular access related complications were identified. The use of MC and a figure-of-eight suture showed a trend towards a higher incidence of minor vascular access related complications.

Preexisting antibody assays for gene therapy: Considerations on patient selection cutoffs and companion diagnostic requirements

Recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are the leading delivery vehicle used for in vivo gene therapies. Anti-AAV antibodies (AAV Abs) can interact with the viral capsid component of an AAV-based gene therapy (GT). Therefore, patients with preexisting AAV Abs (seropositive patients) are often excluded from GT trials to prevent treatment of patients who are unlikely to benefit1 or may have a higher risk for adverse events outweighing treatment benefits. On the contrary, unnecessary exclusion of patients with high unmet medical need should be avoided. Instead, a risk-benefit assessment that weighs the potential risks due to seropositivity vs. severity of disease and available treatment options, should drive the decision if patient selection is required. Assays for patient selection must be validated according to their intended use following national regulations/standards for diagnostic assays in appropriate laboratories. In this review, we summarize the current process of patient selection, including assay cutoff criteria and related assay validation approaches. We further provide considerations on regulatory requirements for the development of in vitro diagnostic tests supporting market authorization of a corresponding GT.

Patient-reported experience with hypoglossal nerve stimulation in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea

BACKGROUND

Breathing-synchronized hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HNS) is routinely used as an alternative treatment for patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Significant and clinically relevant improvements in disease severity and OSA symptoms such as daytime sleepiness as well as overall quality of life have been reported in randomized-controlled trials and large real-world cohort studies. However, so far, few data exist on patient-reported experience with the treatment.

METHODS

A structured survey with 22 questions was constructed using five-level Likert scales (1 = no agreement, 5 = complete agreement) to evaluate patient experience with HNS and perception of the treatment in the domains "Overall experience with therapy," "Experience with treatment process," and "Side-effects from treatment." Additional data were collected on current symptom status, measured with Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) questionnaire, and OSA disease history. Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to test associations of medical variables and response behavior. Correlations between variables and domains, as well as individual items, were assessed using Spearman rank test.

RESULTS

A total of 75 patients from Germany who were treated with breathing-synchronized HNS were enrolled (mean age 57.3 years, 78% male), and 71 questionnaires with complete data were included for analysis. Two-thirds of participants (67%) had a history of OSA history for 5 years or longer. Of all patients, 76% had normalized OSA symptoms at time of the study (ESS: 6.4 ± 5.0) and 98% reported using stimulation therapy every night. Regression analysis revealed an association of current symptoms measured with ESS and response behavior. Hence, patients with normalized daytime sleepiness reported significantly more positive experience across all domains assessed, compared to patients with residual daytime sleepiness. Overall, only 2% of participants reported side effects that made them reduce or discontinue stimulation therapy. The rate of reported side effects was associated with current symptom control under therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall patient-reported experience with breathing-synchronized HNS therapy was positive and high satisfaction with the treatment process was observed. Side effects occurred, but rarely affected subjective use of the therapy or satisfaction. Subjective experience and perception are influenced by residual daytime sleepiness with stimulation therapy.

Defining a role for systemic chemotherapy in local and advanced appendix adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Appendix adenocarcinomas (AAs) are rare tumours that often present late, with a propensity for peritoneal metastases (PMs). This study aimed to evaluate outcomes of AA patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with curative intent and determine the role of systemic chemotherapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were collected from a prospective database and classified according to World Health Organization (WHO) 2019 classification. Tumour clearance from CRS was described using a completeness of cytoreduction (CC) score ranging from 0 [no residual disease (RD)] to 3 (>2.5 cm RD). Patients with CC0-2 CRS received hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Systemic chemotherapy was categorised as 'prior' (>6 months before), 'neoadjuvant' (<6 months before), 'adjuvant' (<6 months after CC0-1 CRS) or 'palliative' (after CC2-3 CRS). Analyses used Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression methods.

RESULTS

Between January 2005 and August 2021, 216 AA patients were identified for inclusion. Median age was 59 years (21-81 years). CRS/HIPEC was carried out in 182 (84%) patients, of whom 164/182 (76%) had mitomycin C HIPEC. CC0-1 was achieved in 172 (80%) patients. Systemic chemotherapy was given to 97 (45%) patients from the whole cohort and to 37/46 (80%) patients with positive nodes. Median overall survival (OS) was 122 months (95% confidence interval 61-182 months). After multivariate analysis, patients with acellular and lower-grade PM had similar OS to those with localised (M0) disease (P = 0.59 and P = 0.19). For patients with positive nodes, systemic chemotherapy was associated with reduced risk of death compared to no chemotherapy (P < 0.0019).

CONCLUSION

This study identifies AA patients with positive lymph nodes derive the most benefit from systemic chemotherapy. We confirm the prognostic importance of stage and peritoneal grade, with excellent outcomes in patients with acellular mucin and lower-grade PM.

PK/PD and Bioanalytical Considerations of AAV-Based Gene Therapies: an IQ Consortium Industry Position Paper

Interest and efforts to use recombinant adeno-associated viruses (AAV) as gene therapy delivery tools to treat disease have grown exponentially. However, gaps in understanding of the pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) and disposition of this modality exist. This position paper comes from the Novel Modalities Working Group (WG), part of the International Consortium for Innovation and Quality in Pharmaceutical Development (IQ). The pan-industry WG effort focuses on the nonclinical PK and clinical pharmacology aspects of AAV gene therapy and related bioanalytical considerations.Traditional PK concepts are generally not applicable to AAV-based therapies due to the inherent complexity of a transgene-carrying viral vector, and the multiple steps and analytes involved in cell transduction and transgene-derived protein expression. Therefore, we explain PK concepts of biodistribution of AAV-based therapies and place key terminologies related to drug exposure and PD in the proper context. Factors affecting biodistribution are presented in detail, and guidelines are provided to design nonclinical studies to enable a stage-gated progression to Phase 1 testing. The nonclinical and clinical utility of transgene DNA, mRNA, and protein analytes are discussed with bioanalytical strategies to measure these analytes. The pros and cons of qPCR vs. ddPCR technologies for DNA/RNA measurement and qualitative vs. quantitative methods for transgene-derived protein are also presented. Last, best practices and recommendations for use of clinical and nonclinical data to project human dose and response are discussed. Together, the manuscript provides a holistic framework to discuss evolving concepts of PK/PD modeling, bioanalytical technologies, and clinical dose selection in gene therapy.

Nab-paclitaxel weekly versus dose-dense solvent-based paclitaxel followed by dose-dense epirubicin plus cyclophosphamide in high-risk HR+/HER2- early breast cancer: results from the neoadjuvant part of the WSG-ADAPT-HR+/HER2- trial

BACKGROUND

In high-risk hormone receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HR+/HER2-) early breast cancer (EBC), nanoparticle albumin-bound (nab)-paclitaxel showed promising efficacy versus solvent-based (sb)-paclitaxel in neoadjuvant trials; however, optimal patient and therapy selection remains a topic of ongoing research. Here, we investigate the potential of Oncotype DX® recurrence score (RS) and endocrine therapy (ET) response (low post-endocrine Ki67) for therapy selection.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Within the WSG-ADAPT trial (NCT01779206), high-risk HR+/HER2- EBC patients were randomized to (neo)adjuvant 4× sb-paclitaxel 175 mg/m2 q2w or 8× nab-paclitaxel 125 mg/m2 q1w, followed by 4× epirubicin + cyclophosphamide (90 mg + 600 mg) q2w; inclusion criteria: (i) cN0-1, RS 12-25, and post-ET Ki67 >10%; (ii) cN0-1 with RS >25. Patients with cN2-3 or (G3, baseline Ki67 ≥40%, and tumor size >1 cm) were allowed to be included without RS and/or ET response testing. Associations of key factors with pathological complete response (pCR) (primary) and survival (secondary) endpoints were analyzed using statistical mediation and moderation models.

RESULTS

Eight hundred and sixty-four patients received neoadjuvant nab-paclitaxel (n= 437) or sb-paclitaxel (n = 427); nab-paclitaxel was superior for pCR (20.8% versus 12.9%, P = 0.002). pCR was higher for RS >25 versus RS ≤25 (16.0% versus 8.4%, P = 0.021) and for ET non-response versus ET response (15.1% versus 6.0%, P = 0.027); no factors were predictive for the relative efficacy of nab-paclitaxel versus sb-paclitaxel. Patients with pCR had longer distant disease-free survival [dDFS; hazard ratio 0.42, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.20-0.91, P = 0.024]. Despite favorable prognostic association of RS >25 versus RS ≤25 with pCR (odds ratio 3.11, 95% CI 1.71-5.63, P ≤ 0.001), higher RS was unfavorably associated with dDFS (hazard ratio 1.03, 95% CI 1.01-1.05, P = 0.010).

CONCLUSIONS

In high-risk HR+/HER2- EBC, neoadjuvant nab-paclitaxel q1w appears superior to sb-paclitaxel q2w regarding pCR. Combining RS and ET response assessment appears to select patients with highest pCR rates. The disadvantage of higher RS for dDFS is reduced in patients with pCR. These are the first results from a large neoadjuvant randomized trial supporting the use of RS to help select patients for neoadjuvant chemotherapy in high-risk HR+/HER2- EBC.

Functional MRI in neuro-urology: A narrative review

Neuro-imaging has given urologists a new tool to investigate the neural control of the lower urinary tract. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), it is now possible to understand which areas of the brain contribute to the proper function of the storage and voiding of the lower urinary tract. This field of research has evolved from simple anatomical descriptions to elucidating the complex micturition network. A keyword search of the Medline database was conducted by two reviewers for relevant studies from January 1, 2010, to August 2022. Of 2047 peer-reviewed articles, 49 are included in this review. In the last decade, a detailed understanding of the brain-bladder network has been described, elucidating a dedicated network, as well as activated areas in the brainstem, cerebellum, and cortex that share reproducible connectivity patterns. Research has shown that various urological diseases can lead to specific changes in this network and that therapies used by urologists to treat lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are also able to modify neuronal activity. This represents a set of potential new therapeutic targets for the management of the lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). fMRI technology has made it possible to identify subgroups of responders to various treatments (biofeedback, anticholinergic, neuromodulation) and predict favourable outcomes. Lastly, this breakthrough understanding of neural control over bladder function has led to treatments that directly target brain regions of interest to improve LUTS. One such example is the use of non-invasive transcranial neuromodulation to improve voiding symptoms in individuals with multiple sclerosis.

Use of drug-induced sleep endoscopy in Germany-an analysis based on claims data

Background

Drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) has recently gained relevance as a diagnostic tool for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, it is unclear to what extent and in which patient cohorts DISE is used in Germany. With introduction of specific coding for this method in 2021 (Operationen- und Prozedurenschluessel, OPS code), usage can now be analyzed based on diagnosis-related groups (DRG) claims data.

Methods

Aggregated data from all inpatient DISE procedures conducted in German hospitals in 2021 were obtained from the publicly available Institut fuer das Entgeltsystem im Krankenhaus (InEK) database. Patient-relevant information as well as data on hospitals providing the examinations were exported and analyzed.

Results

Between January and December 2021, a total of 2765 DISE procedures were conducted and documented using the newly introduced specific code (1-611.01). Most patients were male (75.6%), in the age categories 30-39 (15.2%) and 40-49 years (17.2%), and presented with the lowest patient clinical complexity level (PCCL; class 0 = 81.88%). Pediatric use was rare (1.8%). Leading main diagnoses of patients were G47.31 (OSA) and J34.2 (deviation of nasal septum). The most common procedures conducted together with DISE were nasal surgery, and the examination was mostly provided in large public hospitals with more than 800 beds.

Conclusion

Though the OSA prevalence in Germany is high, use of DISE as a diagnostic tool is low and represented only 4.4% of cases with a main diagnosis of OSA in 2021. Since specific coding was only introduced in January 2021, trends cannot yet be identified. Noticeable is the frequent combination of DISE with nasal surgery, which is not obviously related to a diagnosis of OSA. Limitations of the study are mainly related to the underlying data, which are available for the inpatient sector only, and due to potentially limited use of the OPS code, which was introduced recently and might not be known to all hospitals.

FOxTROT2: innovative trial design to evaluate the role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy for treating locally advanced colon cancer in older adults or those with frailty

Treating older adults with cancer is increasingly important in modern oncology practice. However, we currently lack the high-quality evidence needed to guide optimal management of this heterogeneous group. Principally, historic under-recruitment of older adults to clinical trials limits our understanding of how existing evidence can be applied to this group. Such uncertainty is particularly prevalent in the management of colon cancer (CC). With CC being most common in older adults, many patients also suffer from frailty, which is recognised as being strongly associated with poor clinical outcomes. Conducting clinical trials in older adults presents several major challenges, many of which impact the clinical relevance of results to a real-world population. When considering this heterogeneous group, it may be difficult to define the target population, recruit participants effectively, choose an appropriate trial design, and ensure participants remain engaged with the trial during follow-up. Furthermore, after overcoming these challenges, clinical trials tend to enrol highly selected patient cohorts that comprise only the fittest older patients, which are not representative of the wider population. FOxTROT1 was the first phase III randomised controlled trial to illustrate the benefit of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in the treatment of CC. Patients receiving NAC had greater 2-year disease-free survival compared to those proceeding straight to surgery. Outcomes for older adults in FOxTROT1 were similarly impressive when compared to their younger counterparts. Yet, this group inevitably represents a fitter subgroup of the older patient population. FOxTROT2 has been designed to investigate NAC in a full range of older adults with CC, including those with frailty. In this review, we describe the key challenges to conducting a robust clinical trial in this heterogeneous patient group, highlight our strategies for overcoming these challenges in FOxTROT2, and explain how we hope to provide clarity on the optimal treatment of CC in older adults.

First dorsal interosseous muscle transfer to restore opposition of the new thumb after index pollicization: anatomical description of an original technique and case report

Index pollicization in severe thumb hypoplasia or aplasia in children or for the reconstruction of a mutilated thumb in adults is a rare and technically demanding procedure. Weakness of the new thumb is routinely reported after index pollicization. An inappropriate position of the first dorsal interosseous muscle (FDIM) can partly explain this strength deficit. Here, we report an original anatomical study on FDIM transfer for reanimation of the new thumb's opposition function and its clinical application. An anatomical study was carried out on three upper limbs from fresh, non-embalmed adult cadavers. We demonstrated the feasibility of an FDIM transfer pedicled on the proper FDIM artery and the deep branch of the ulnar nerve. The proximal FDIM insertions were sutured to the lateral border of the flexor retinaculum to recreate the superficial thenar musculature. This procedure was performed on a 52-year-old man who was referred to us with swelling on his hand. We discovered a myxoid inflammatory fibroblastic sarcoma of the thumb that required proximal thumb amputation while preserving the base of the first metacarpal. To our knowledge, this is the first description of FDIM pedicled flap transfer during an index pollicization procedure among an adult population. However, in severe thumb hypoplasia or aplasia cases, this procedure is limited by the size and anatomical variations of the neurovascular structures among a population affected by radial longitudinal deficiency.

Antithrombotic treatment and outcome after endovascular treatment and acute carotid artery stenting in stroke patients with atrial fibrillation

Background

Oral anticoagulation (OAC) is the mainstay of secondary prevention in ischemic stroke patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, in AF patients with large vessel occlusion stroke treated by endovascular therapy (ET) and acute carotid artery stenting (CAS), the optimal antithrombotic medication remains unclear.

Methods

This is a subgroup analysis of the German Stroke Registry—Endovascular Treatment (GSR-ET), a prospective multicenter cohort of patients with large vessel occlusion stroke undergoing ET. Patients with AF and CAS during ET were included. We analyzed baseline and periprocedural characteristics, antithrombotic strategies and functional outcome at 90 days.

Results

Among 6635 patients in the registry, a total of 82 patients (1.2%, age 77.9 ± 8.0 years, 39% female) with AF and extracranial CAS during ET were included. Antithrombotic medication at admission, during ET, postprocedural and at discharge was highly variable and overall mortality in hospital (21%) and at 90 days (39%) was high.

Among discharged patients (n = 65), most frequent antithrombotic regimes were dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT, 37%), single APT + OAC (25%) and DAPT + OAC (20%). Comparing DAPT to single or dual APT + OAC, clinical characteristics at discharge were similar (median NIHSS 7.5 [interquartile range, 3–10.5] vs 7 [4–11], p = 0.73, mRS 4 [IQR 3–4] vs. 4 [IQR 3–5], p = 0.79), but 90-day mortality was higher without OAC (32 vs 4%, p = 0.02).

Conclusions

In AF patients who underwent ET and CAS, 90-day mortality was higher in patients not receiving OAC.

Registration: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT03356392.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s42466-022-00207-7.

Immunogenicity assessment of AAV-based gene therapies: An IQ consortium industry white paper

Immunogenicity has imposed a challenge to efficacy and safety evaluation of adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector-based gene therapies. Mild to severe adverse events observed in clinical development have been implicated with host immune responses against AAV gene therapies, resulting in comprehensive evaluation of immunogenicity during nonclinical and clinical studies mandated by health authorities. Immunogenicity of AAV gene therapies is complex due to the number of risk factors associated with product components and pre-existing immunity in human subjects. Different clinical mitigation strategies have been employed to alleviate treatment-induced or -boosted immunogenicity in order to achieve desired efficacy, reduce toxicity, or treat more patients who are seropositive to AAV vectors. In this review, the immunogenicity risk assessment, manifestation of immunogenicity and its impact in nonclinical and clinical studies, and various clinical mitigation strategies are summarized. Last, we present bioanalytical strategies, methodologies, and assay validation applied to appropriately monitor immunogenicity in AAV gene therapy-treated subjects.

Neoadjuvant durvalumab improves survival in early triple-negative breast cancer independent of pathological complete response

BACKGROUND

Addition of immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPI) to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) is a promising strategy in early breast cancer, but the optimal duration of therapy is currently unknown. In the GeparNuevo (NCT02685059) trial, addition of durvalumab to NACT as previously reported led to a moderate increase in pCR rate by absolute 9% (p=0.287).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Durvalumab or placebo 1.5g/placebo q4 weeks plus nab-paclitaxel 125mg/m² weekly for 12 weeks, followed by 4 cycles durvalumab/placebo plus epirubicin/cyclophosphamide (EC) q2 weeks was given to cT1b-cT4a-d TNBC patients. Durvalumab was not continued after surgery. Primary objective was pathological complete response (pCR). Secondary endpoints included invasive disease-free survival (iDFS), distant disease-free survival (DDFS) and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

174 patients were randomised between June 2016 and October 2017. After a median follow-up of 43.7 months, 34 events had occurred. Despite a non-significant increase in the pCR rate, significant differences were observed for 3-year iDFS, DDFS and OS: iDFS was 85.6% with durvalumab vs 77.2% with placebo (HR 0.48, 95%CI 0.24-0.97, stratified log-rank p=0.036); DDFS 91.7% vs 78.4% (HR 0.31, 95%CI 0.13-0.74, p=0.005); OS 95.2% vs 83.5% (HR 0.24, 95%CI 0.08-0.72, p=0.006). pCR patients had 3-year iDFS of 95.5% with durvalumab and 86.1% without (HR 0.22, 95% CI 0.05-1.06). In non-pCR cohort 3-year iDFS was 76.3% vs 69.7% (HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.29-1.54). Multivariable analysis confirmed durvalumab effect independent of the pCR effect. No new safety signals occurred.

CONCLUSION

Durvalumab added to NACT in TNBC significantly improved survival despite a modest pCR increase and no adjuvant component of durvalumab. Additional studies are needed to clarify the optimal duration and sequence of CPIs in the treatment of early TNBC.

POS1254 RISK FACTORS FOR SEVERE COVID-19 INFECTION AMONG PATIENTS WITH AUTOIMMUNE INFLAMMATORY RHEUMATIC DISEASES (AIRD) AND THE IMPACT OF VACCINATIONS - AN ISRAELI, MULTI-CENTER EXPERIENCE

Background

AIRD patients (pts) may be more susceptible to severe COVID19.

Objectives

To determine the risk factors for severe COVID19 and the effect of vaccinations among AIRD pts followed at dedicated rheumatology clinics.

Methods

At the onset of the pandemic, we established a national registry of AIRD pts, diagnosed with COVID19, based on voluntary reporting by the treating rheumatologist. 12 centers from Israel participated in the study. COVID19 was confirmed by a positive SARS CoV2 PCR. The indications for PCR testing were clinical symptoms or close contact with an infected person. Severe illness was defined by SpO2 <94% in room air, respiratory rate of >30 breaths/min, PaO2/FiO2 <300 mm Hg, or lung infiltrates >50% on imaging. The registry included demographic data, AIRD diagnosis and duration, visceral involvement, co-morbidities, immunomodulatory treatment, date of diagnosis and severity of COVID19 disease, management, complications, duration of hospitalization, the dates of the mRNA vaccinations, lab results and outcome. We analyzed data from 1.3.2020 to 30.11.2021

Results

During the study period we experienced 4 outbreaks of COVID19 infection. Initially social distancing, followed by a lockdown were imposed. The low number of cases led to relaxation of the measures. Two more severe outbreaks followed, which triggered 2 new lockdowns. The 3rd outbreak ended almost 2 months after vaccination started (BNT162b2 mRNA COVID19 vaccine). From March 1st 2020 to April 30, 2021, 298 AIRD pts (70.8% females, mean (SD) age 53.3(15.3)) with confirmed COVID19 infection were included. 43.3%(129) had visceral involvement due to the AIRD. 58.7%(175 pts) were on conventional synthetic disease modifying drugs (csDMARDs), 44.6% (133) on biologic/targeted DMARDs and 40% (120) on prednisone. Almost 2/3 of pts had at least one comorbidity.

In a multivariate logistic regression analysis age, AIRD with pulmonary involvement, diabetes and treatment with prednisone, mycophenolate mofetil or JAK inhibitors were associated with hospitalization. Older age, renal and vascular involvement due to the AIRD, and congestive heart failure were associated with higher mortality.

The 4th outbreak occurred 6 months after the introduction of vaccines, with spreading of the delta variant: 110 AIRD pts with COVID19 were recorded. Demographic data, clinical AIRD‘s characteristics, immunomodulatory treatment and comorbidities were similar to the previous outbreaks. However, during the 4th outbreak, the proportion of pts with severe COVID19, the hospitalization and mortality rate were significantly lower as compared to the first 3 outbreaks (15% vs 24%, 27% vs 53%, 6.7% vs 9.1%, respectively). Among COVID19 pts, 25% received a 3rd vaccine dose (booster), 56% contracted infection more than 5 months after the 2nd vaccine dose and 24% were unvaccinated. Most of the pts who received the booster contracted the disease within a week of vaccination. The odds ratio for hospitalization in vaccinated pts compared to unvaccinated was 0.11 (0.01 – 0.63 95% CI, p=0.041) in those vaccinated within the previous 1-5 months, and 0.38 (0.21-0.67 95% CI, p=0.001) in those vaccinated more than 6 months ago. 9 pts died, 5 were more than 6 months after the 2nd mRNA vaccine, 2 were unvaccinated and 1 patient received the booster on the same day of COVID19 diagnosis.

Conclusion

Before the vaccination campaign, the hospitalization and mortality rate in our cohort were similar to the data reported by other registries. COVID19 tends to be more severe, with increased mortality in patients with active AIIRD and visceral involvement (pulmonary, cardiac, renal), advanced age and co-morbidities. The delta outbreak occured 6 months after the implementation of vaccinations and was associated with significantly lower hospitalization and mortality rates, despite the increased aggressiveness of the variant. Vaccination of AIIRD pts with 3 doses of mRNA vaccines protects from severe COVID19 disease, hospitalization, and death.

Acknowledgements

Fadi Kharouf and Tali Eviatar had equal contribution

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

POS1245 REVERSAL OF DECLINE IN HUMORAL RESPONSE TO BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 VACCINE AFTER BOOSTER ADMINISTRATION IN AUTOIMMUNE INFLAMMATORY RHEUMATOID DISEASES (AIRD) PATIENTS

Background

Previous studies proved that mRNA vaccinations against SARS CoV2 induced significant humoral responses in AIRD patients (pts). However, the humoral response was blunted in pts treated with CD20 depleting antibodies. There are limited data regarding the long-term outcome of the humoral response and the contribution of the booster vaccine, in immunosuppressed AIRD pts.

Objectives

To assess the long-term outcome of the humoral response to mRNA vaccine against SARS CoV2, in AIRD pts treated with immunomodulating drugs, and the contribution of the booster vaccination.

Methods

Consecutive pts treated at the Rheumatology Institute at Rambam Hospital who received their first SARS-CoV-2 (Pfizer) vaccine were recruited to the study, at their routine visit. The visit included AIRD activity assessment and questioning regarding vaccine side effects. We performed serology test 4-6 weeks and 24 weeks after receiving the second dose of vaccine. Pts who received the booster (3rd vaccine) were invited for serology tests 4-8 weeks afterwards. The immunomodulating treatment was not modified, either before or after the vaccination. IgG Antibodies (Ab) against SARS COV2 virus were detected using the SARS-Cov-2 IgG II Quant (Abbott) assay based on a chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) on the ARCHITECT ci8200system from Abbott. This assay is measuring IgG antibodies against the spike receptor-binding domain (S-RBD) of the virus. The test was considered positive above 50 AU/ml.

Results

262 pts (mean age(SD) 57(13), disease duration 11.2(7.4), were recruited. The cohort included 152 pts with inflammatory joint disease, 26 pts with systemic lupus erythematosus, 62 pts with other connective tissue disease and 22 pts with vasculitis; 27 % received csDMARDs only, 35% - b/tsDMARDs only, 30% - combined therapy (csDMARDs+b/tsDMARDs) and 26% received steroids. 225 pts (86%) were seropositive for IgG Ab against SARS CoV2 virus (median 2832.5 AU/ml, IQR 58-29499). 37 (14%) pts had negative tests, 23 (62.2%) of them were rituximab treated.

The IgG levels correlated with the medication used to treat the AIRD, the patients’ age but not with the type of the AIRD (Figure 1). 24 weeks afterwards, the median IgG level dropped to 282 AU/ml and 15% of the pts with previous seropositive tests became negative. The booster administration (Pfizer) significantly augmented the humoral response (median 8328 AU/ml, IQR 375-40000). De novo serologic response was observed in 10 out of 37 pts (4/23 rituximab treated pts).

Figure 1.

The reported side effects of the vaccine were minor (muscle sore, headache, low grade fever). The AIRD remained stable in all pts following all three vaccinations.

Conclusion

Although the vast majority of AIRD pts developed a substantial humoral response following the administration of the second dose of the Pfizer mRNA vaccine against SARS CoV2 virus, the humoral response significantly declined 24 weeks afterwards. An enhanced response was obtained after the third booster vaccination. Only minor side effects were reported and no apparent impact on AIRD activity was noted. Notably, 62% of the non-responders were treated with B cell depleting agents.

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank Mrs Tsofnat Margi and Mrs Sarit Elkouby for organisational support.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

Fifty-fifty - a comparison of two 50 watts high power short duration protocols using temperature- versus power- controlled radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Radiofrequency-guided catheter ablation (RFCA) is an established treatment option for atrial fibrillation (AF). New approaches applying higher than usual energy levels for shorter periods (high power short duration, HPSD) to improve lesion quality have been reported. The novel DiamondTemp (DT) catheter allows for temperature-guided high power RFCA. Data on a direct comparison of the two emerging RFCA approaches are lacking.

Purpose

This observational single center study aimed to compare the efficacy, safety and characteristics of the novel DT catheter to an ablation index (AI) guided 50 W high power short duration (HPSD) ablation protocol using a conventional force-sensing equipped ablation catheter with surround-flow.

Methods

A total number of 101 patients undergoing RFA for AF were included. 33 patients treated with the DT catheter (50 W, 9 sec), were compared to 69 consecutive patients undergoing AI-guided AF ablation (AI anterior 550; AI posterior 400) with an open-irrigated catheter adherent to a 50 W HPSD protocol. Procedural data and recurrence rates were documented. Follow-up examinations were scheduled after 3, 6 and 12 months.

Results

Acute procedural success was achieved in all patients (n=101, 100%). DT-guided AF ablation was associated with a significantly longer mean procedure duration (98.8±30.1min vs. 78.2±25.6, p=0.002*). PVI using the DT ablation catheter required significantly more RF applications (75.4±30.8min vs. 61.3±14.1, p=0.019*). Total RF duration was significantly lower in the DT group (792.1±311.2sec vs. 1035.5±287.2sec, p&lt;0.001*) as well as fluoroscopy time (4.6±2.1min vs.5.5±2.5min, p&lt;0.006*) and dose (183.8±178.1yGym2 vs. 295.8±247.5yGym2, p&lt;0.013*). Procedure related mayor complications occurred in 1 patient from the DT group (acute stroke; 3%) and in no patients from the HPSD cohort. Early recurrence was reported from 4 patients treated with the DT catheter (12%) compared to 8 patients undergoing HPSD RFA (12 %) (p=1.000).

Conclusion

Temperature- and power- controlled AF ablation using 50 W was safe and effective. AI-guided HPSD ablation resulted in significantly shorter procedure times with significantly fewer RF applications for PVI, whereas total RF duration and fluoroscopy times were significantly higher in this cohort. Further studies are needed to confirm this initial observation.

The novel POLARx ablation system improves cryothermal single-shot guided pulmonary vein isolation: impact of individual pulmonary vein anatomy

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Cryoballoon (CB)-guided pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is an established treatment for atrial fibrillation (AF). Recently, a novel balloon-guided cryothermal single shot device (POLARx) was introduced.

Purpose

This observational study aimed to evaluate ablation efficacy and outcome using the novel POLARx CB system compared to the established one and to access the impact of individual PV characteristics on freedom from arrhythmia recurrence in paroxysmal (PAF) and persistent (PERS) AF.

Methods

666 patients undergoing CB-guided ablation for AF were included. 601 patients treated with the AFA ablation system (Arctic Front Advance Pro, AFA) were compared to 65 consecutive patients who underwent PVI using the POLARx. Individual anatomical characteristics of the left atrium and PVs were assessed using pre-procedural cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). For each PV, the cross-sectional orifice area (CSOA) was determined. Follow-up examinations were scheduled after 3 and 6 months.

Results

Acute PVI was achieved in all patients (100%). 6-months AF-free survival was significantly higher in the POLARx cohort (POLARx: n=45, 69%; AFA: n=359, 60%; Log-rank p=0.037*). This applies to PAF (n=42, 65%, p=0.033*), PERS (n=23, 35%, p&lt;0.001*) and normal PV anatomy (2 left- and two right-sided PVs; n=57, 88%, p&lt; 0.001*). MRI found a comparable percentage of patients with normal PV anatomy (POLARx: n=57, 88%; AFA: n=512, 85%, p=0.126). A higher amount of variant PV anatomy was revealed in patients with PERS AF (p=0.043*), but this factor was not predictive for AF-recurrence (PAF: p=0.610; PERS: p=0.096). PAF patients with AF-recurrence presented with significantly larger CSOA of the left sided PVs and the right superior PVs (LSPV: 224.8 ± 98.1 mm2 vs. 220.6 ± 64.8 mm2, p&lt;0.001*; LIPV: 145.9 ± 63.2 mm2 vs. 140.4 ± 52.8 mm2, p&lt;0.001*; RSPV 268.9 ± 79.3 mm2 vs. 262.3 ± 75.6 mm2, p&lt;0.001*). In patients with PERS AF no association between CSOA and ablation outcome was observed. Multivariate Cox regression analyses identified the AFA ablation system (p=0.022*, hazard ratio (HR) 1.776, confidence interval (CI) 0.240-9.281) and PERS AF (p&lt;0.001*, HR 6.608, CI 0.220-73.839) as independent predictors for AF-recurrence.

Conclusion

PVI using the POLARx system improves freedom from AF recurrence independent of individual anatomical considerations and PV occlusion rates. For PAF patients, a significant association between CSOA and the outcome after CB- guided PVI was demonstrated.

[Implementation of the new collective agreement in 2021 in urological clinics : Expectations and reality]

The amendment to the collective agreement is intended to significantly improve the working conditions of physicians and includes longer-term duty scheduling, work on a maximum of two weekends per month, less overtime. Smaller hospitals often have problems implementing these requirements and have to make compromises. At least the overtime is now better paid-overall, an improvement in working conditions can only be achieved by increasing the number of staff, then better and more intensive training is also possible.

Outcome of breast cancer patients with low hormone receptor positivity: analysis of a 15-year population-based cohort

BACKGROUND

Guideline recommendations for the treatment of breast cancer with low hormone receptor (HR) expression (1%-9%) are ambiguous and several studies showed more similarities with HR-negative tumors than with HR strongly positive tumors (≥10%). We used a population-based 15-year cohort to compare patient characteristics and outcome of HR low positive tumors with HR-negative and HR strongly positive tumors, respectively.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 38  560 women diagnosed with early invasive breast cancer between 2004 and 2018 within the scope of the Munich Cancer Registry with 4.9 million inhabitants were included. Descriptive analyses of prognostic factors, treatment, and outcome analyses using the Kaplan-Meier method; cumulative incidence in consideration of competing risks; and multivariate analyses (Cox regression and Fine-Gray model) were conducted. Endpoints were time to local recurrence (TTLR), time to lymph node recurrence (TTLNR), time to metastasis (TTM), overall survival (OS), and relative survival (RS).

RESULTS

A total of 861 patients (2%) had HR low positive, 4862 (13%) HR-negative, and 32  837 (85%) HR strongly positive tumors. Within the HER2-negative cohort (n = 33  366), survival of HR low positive tumors was significantly worse than that of HR strongly positive tumors [OS hazard ratio 0.66 (95% confidence interval 0.55-0.78)], whereas between HR low positive and HR-negative tumors no significant survival difference could be detected [OS hazard ratio 0.93 (95% confidence interval 0.78-1.11)]. TTLR, TTLNR, and TTM showed similar results. By contrast, within the HER2-positive cohort (n = 5194), no statistically significant differences between the three HR groups could be detected in multivariate analyses.

CONCLUSION

Current definitions for HR positivity and its clinical relevance should be reconsidered. Patients with HR low positive/HER2-negative tumors could be regarded and treated similar to patients with triple-negative tumors.

POS1217 THE PATTERN OF COVID 19 PANDEMIC AMONG PATIENTS WITH AUTOIMMUNE INFLAMMATORY RHEUMATIC DISEASES (AIIRD)

Background:

The epidemiology of COVID19 among patients with AIIRD may be influenced by a dysregulated immune system, immunosuppressive therapies and behavioral patterns. Data regarding the epidemiology of COVID19 among patients with AIIRD is scarce.

Objectives:

To assess the pattern of COVID19 pandemic among patients with AIIRD compared to the general population in Israel

Methods:

At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we established a national registry of patients with AIIRD, diagnosed with COVID-19, based on voluntary reporting by the treating rheumatologist. All the members of the Israeli Society of Rheumatology were encouraged to participate and repeatedly reminded to report any new cases. Rheumatology centers from 11 hospitals from the Northern and Central part of Israel participated in this study. The registry included demographic data, AIIRD diagnosis and duration, systemic organ involvement, co-morbidities, treatment (conventional synthetic disease modifying drugs (csDMARDs), biologic/targeted (b/ts) DMARDs, corticosteroids use, dose and treatment duration, date of COVID19 diagnosis, severity of the viral disease and complications, duration of hospitalization, if required, treatment for COVID 19, laboratory results and outcome. The diagnosis of COVID 19 was made by a positive SARS CoV2 PCR. The indications for SARS CoV2 PCR testing in Israel comprise clinical symptoms or exposure to a confirmed close contact. Severe illness was defined by SpO2 <94% in room air, respiratory rate of >30 breaths/min, PaO2/FiO2 <300 mm Hg, or lung infiltrates >50% on chest imaging.

The epidemiological data regarding the number of COVID19 confirmed patients, the number of severe cases and the rate of mortality among the general population per day and per week, were extracted from the data dashboard of the Israeli Ministry of Health. We analyzed data from 02.2020 to 15.01.2021.

Results:

During the study period we experienced 3 waves of COVID 19 pandemic. The governmental management of COVID19 spread, at the beginning of the pandemic, included inforcement of severe travel restrictions and social distancing, followed eventually by a preventive lockdown, in spite of the relatively low number of cases. Easing of the restrictions, lifting the travel ban, opening of the commerce and schools led to 2 much more severe waves, which triggered 2 new lockdowns. Up to January 2021, 549763 Israelis had confirmed COVID19, 30% of whom had severe disease, 0.84% died (30% of the patients with severe disease).

We identified 190 AIIRD patients (mean(SD) age 52(18), 30% males) who had confirmed COVID19. The weekly incidence curve of patients with rheumatic diseases correlated with the curve of the general population (Figure 1).

Sixty-one % of the patients with AIIRD received csDMARDs, 41% were on b/tsDMARDs, 39% on chronic corticosteroids, 12% on ≥10mg prednisone. Forty-seven% of patients required hospitalization, 20% had severe COVID19. Sixteen patients (42% of patients with severe COVID19) (mean(SD), median age 64.7(15.4),67)) died (systemic sclerosis-4 patients, rheumatoid arthritis – 6, systemic lupus erythematosus – 2, antiphospholipid syndrome-2, granulomatous polyangiitis -1, polymyalgia rheumatica-1). The AIIRD was active in 56% of them, 50% received csDMARDs, none of them were on b/tsDMARDs, 31% received chronic prednisone>10 mg. All patients who died had at least 2 comorbidities.

Conclusion:

The pattern of spread of COVID19 in AIIRD patients is similar to the general population despite repeated mass media alerts for enhanced social distancing for elderly and immune suppressed patients. The disease tends to be more severe with enhanced mortality, especially in those with active AIIRD disease and organ involvement (lungs, heart, renal), older age and co-morbidities. A reporting bias cannot be excluded.

Figure 1.

Acknowledgements:

Both first authors contributed equally to the manuscript.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared.

Find me if you can: lessons learned using the novel cartofinder algorithm in a routine workflow for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

CARTOFINDER allows for a simultaneous and automated detection of repetitive focal and rotational activations during electroanatomical mapping using a multi-electrode catheter in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).

Aim

This study aimed to validate the CARTOFINDER algorithm for the detection of potential drivers for AF under routine clinical conditions and to access the effects of PVI and additional substrate modification on regions of interests (ROI) from CARTOFINDER mapping.

Methods

Forty-four consecutive patients underwent AF ablation for persistent AF using a 3D-mapping system with the novel integrated CARTOFINDER module. All patients presented with persistent AF and mapping was performed using a multi-electrode catheter. The ablation workflow was divided into the following steps: 1. 3D reconstruction of the right (RA) and left atrium (LA). 2. Identification of the individual ROIs separated for focal and rotational activity in the RA and LA. 3. Ablation index guided pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). 4. Repeat mapping for ROIs in the RA and LA. 5. Direct current electrical cardioversion. 6. Confirmation of persistent PVI and bipolar ultra-high density mapping of the RA and LA followed by substrate modification if there was evidence for local bipolar low-voltage in the LA.

Results

Acute PVI was achieved in all patients (100%). In 28% of these patients additional LA substrate modification was performed. AF termination was observed in 4 patients. Mean procedure duration was 137 ± 30 min, mapping time for ROIs in the RA was 8 ± 5 min and 11 ± 5 for the LA, respectively. A mean number of 149 ± 82 ROIs were revealed from CARTOFINDER. In the LA, focal activity was predominantly observed inside the LA appendage (LAA) and in close relationship to the pulmonary vein ostia. The majority of rotational activities was found along the mitral valve annulus. In the RA, the majority of ROIs was found at the septum and in close relationship to the RA appendage. During re-mapping for ROIs after AF ablation we observed the elimination of ROIs close to the linear ablation set for PVI. In addition, rotational activity could not be re-identified at repeat mapping.

Conclusions

ROIs could be discriminated and visualized utilizing CARTOFINDER in all patients. These ROIs might potentially be an additional and individual ablation target beyond PVI in patients with persistent AF.

AV-node isolation in atrial fibrillation vs AV-node ablation by pace and ablate strategy

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

AV-node ablation (AVNA) is a common therapy option for rate control strategy of permanent atrial fibrillation. However, this therapy has numerous side-effects as bundle branch blocks and absence of escape rhythm. We have invented a new technique that isolates the AV node instead of ablation.

Methods

Our study includes 60 patients with 40 being treated with AVNA and 20 being treated with AV-node isolation (AVNI). In AVNI patient´s AV-node region was mapped using 3D navigation system. Ablation was performed around the previously mapped HIS-cloud regions isolating the atrium from the AV-node. In all cases in AVNI group ablation was performed with irrigated tip ablation catheter.  Procedure time, ablation points, fluoroscopy time and total DAP, escape rhythm and delta QRS among other data were measured and compared in these two methods. Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS software 27.0.

Results

No complications appeared in this study. In the AVNI group more ablation points were used (p &lt; 0.01) but there was no significant difference in total procedure time (p = 0.730). With AVNI highly significantly less fluoroscopy time (1.4 vs. 4.7 minutes) and total DAP (40.75 vs. 382.85 µGym²) was achieved (p &lt; 0.01). Moreover, the median change in QRS width was 0 ms in the AVNI group vs. 26 ms in the AVNA group (p &lt; 0.01). Immediately postoperative the escape rhythm of the AVNI group was significantly higher than in the AVNA group (MRang = 37.38 vs. MRang = 27.06, p = 0.023).

Conclusion

AV-node isolation using 3D navigation mapping system is a safe and effective alternative to classic AVNA procedure with less radiation exposure and potential preservation of escape rhythm, which is a major benefit in case of a pacemaker failure.

Figure 1. 3D Navigation pictures after successful AVNI with NavX-System (left panel) and CARTO 3-System (right panel). His cloud with yellow points. The Tricuspid annulus could be defined with different color (green on the left panel) or with the tag points (white points on the right panel). Modified left lateral to posterior view. Abstract Figure.

Predictive value of diabetes mellitus for freedom from arrhythmia recurrence after cryoballoon-guided pulmonary vein isolation

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been identified to play an important role in the regulation of atrial fibrillation (AF). Data concerning the impact of DM on the development of individual arrhythmia substrates are still lacking.

Purpose

Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to examine the outcome of cryoballoon-guided pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in patients (pts) suffering from DM and coexisting AF.

Methods

523 consecutive pts undergoing initial PVI using the 2nd generation cryoballoon were analysed. 273 pts (52%) suffered from paroxysmal AF (PAF) (51 ± 23.2 years old, 26% female), 250 pts (48%) from persistent AF (PERS) (63.9 ± 10.0 years old, 30% female) and 69 pts (13%) were diagnosed with DM (68 ± 19.6 years old, 30% female). Follow-up (FU) visits were performed at 3, 6 and 12 months including 7-day Holter ECGs. Primary endpoint was the first documented recurrence of any atrial arrhythmia after a 3 months blanking period (&gt; 30 sec.).

Results

Within the observation period of 12 months AF recurrence occurred in 29% (n = 151 pts). Regardless of the coincidence of DM, PAF pts were significantly younger than those with PERS (p = 0.001). PAF pts additionally suffering from DM presented with a significantly higher risk for arrhythmia recurrence (p = 0.047). Multivariate analyses verified DM as a strong independent predictor for arrhythmia recurrence associated with a &gt; 4 fold higher risk for recurrence after ablation (p = 0.009, hazard ratio (HR) 4.363, confidence interval (CI) 1.46-13.07). PERS pts showed a slightly increased rate of arrhythmia recurrence when additional DM was diagnosed. In these patients multivariate analyses revealed that DM was associated with a 43% higher risk for arrhythmia recurrence (p = 0.321, HR 1.143, CI 0.59-2.22). Beyond that, severe gender disparities were observed with female gender as independent predictor for arrhythmia recurrence (p = 0.027*, HR 1.927, CI 1.079-3.440).

Conclusions

DM has relevant implication for arrhythmia recurrence after PVI. More distinct effects were observed in PAF patients following AF ablation. This could be related to more severe arrhythmia substrates in PAF pts suffering from DM compared to PAF pts without additional DM and even more substantial structural changes in PERS. Thus, individual paths in ablation management are required in these pts with AF and coexisting DM.

[Improved image quality of the cervical spine neck CT using an arm traction device]

BACKGROUND

The assessment of the cervico-thoracic junction in the neck CT is frequently hampered by streak artifacts from the shoulder girdles.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effects of an optimized patient positioning through the use of an arm traction device.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

25 patients (age [mean ± standard deviation]: 58.9 ± 11.6 years; sex [m:f]: 15:10) underwent a neck CT using an arm traction device together. Further 25 patients underwent this in standard positioning (59.8 ± 15.2 years; 16:9). An experienced neuroradiologist determined the last free accessible vertebra on the CT scout view and assessed the image quality of the intervertebral disc space of the lower neck on a three-point grading scale. The procedure was evaluated by the medical-technical radiology assistants performing it.

RESULTS

The last free accessible vertebra on CT scout was statistically significant one vertebra lower using an arm traction device, yielding on average the sixth cervical vertebra (p = 0.010). Subjective image quality increased in all evaluated intervertebral disc spaces (median and absolute frequencies [good/middle/bad]: 1.0 [53/21/8] vs. 2.0 [41/30/24]), resulting in a statistically significant effect between the cervical vertebra 6/7 (p = 0.0041). The traction device approach was rated to be suitable for daily routine in the categories of patient's cooperation (good), comprehensibility for the patient (84%) and management for the assistants (good).

CONCLUSION

Using an arm traction device on neck CT both the accessibility of vertebra on CT scout increased and image quality of the cervico-thoracic junction improved. The simply applicable device could be favourable for cooperative patients with lower neck pathology.

O5: THE CLIFF AND CONOR STUDIES NOVEL ASSESSMENT TOOLS IN COLORECTAL LIVER METASTASES (CLIFF STUDY - CHANGE IN LIVER FUNCTION AND FAT IN PRE-OPERATIVE CHEMOTHERAPY FOR COLORECTAL LIVER METASTASES, CONOR STUDY

Introduction

Hepatic resection is the only potentially curative treatment for patients with colorectal liver metastases (CLM). Patient selection is key, but there is wide variation in practice. Pre-operative chemotherapy can improve oncological outcomes, however chemotherapy-associated liver injury (CALI) may hinder liver regenerative capacity. Standard pre-operative assessments fail to accurately capture factors such as CALI and future liver remnant (FLR) function. The CLiFF and CoNoR studies utilise two novel assessment techniques, aiming to improve patient outcomes.

Method

The CLiFF study prospectively assesses two primary outcomes in 35 patients undergoing pre-operative chemotherapy for CLM: 1) change in liver function (via LiMAx test: direct assessment of hepatic functional capacity), and 2) change in liver fat (via advanced MR imaging (in-house spectroscopy and modified Dixon technique, scaled up via Perspectum LiverMultiScan)). The CoNoR study assesses potential added benefit of these novel tools in CLM resectability decision-making via sequential workstreams: a systematic review and international hepatobiliary expert interviews inform the online survey, assessing added benefit via online MDT scenarios.

Result

Preliminary CLiFF analysis suggests that CALI changes in liver fat and function are unrelated. Liver fat analysis techniques are compared and correlated with digital histological analysis. The CoNoR systematic review identifies key factors influencing CLM resectability decision-making and informs the international expert interviews, scheduled to occur during a February 2020 international hepatobiliary conference.

Conclusion

These studies are the first to assess where these novel tools might be utilised to maximal patient benefit within the Hepatobiliary MDT, and the first systematic review in CLM resectability decision-making.

Take-home message

These two linked studies evaluate the use of two novel assessment tools in the treatment of colorectal liver metastases, with the potential to improve patient selection for curative resection and patient outcomes.

PATEY PRIZE SESSION

[Results of the Dry Eye Research Grant Award 2016]

The Sicca-Förderpreis (Dry Eye Award) supports the development of scientific research on the pathogenesis, diagnostics, and treatment of dry eye and ocular surface diseases. It is awarded after a limited call for proposals in German-speaking countries, written application and selection of the award winner after evaluation by a jury of ophthalmologists working in basic and clinical science. In this article examples of the results of funded projects of the Sicca-Förderpreis 2016 are cursorily described, which were presented at the Ophthalmological Academy of Germany 2019 (Augenärztliche Akademie Deutschland 2019) and therefore provide an insight into current scientific developments. The role of muscarinic receptors and those of urea in the pathogenesis of dry eye as well as the (missing) correlation of tear film stability, viscosity and surface tension are highlighted. A project on the early detection of ocular involvement in graft versus host disease and the idea of treating meibomian gland dysfunction with eyelid surgery techniques are also groundbreaking. The outlined projects represent the potential for further substantial developments in the understanding, diagnostics and treatment of dry eye; however, their long-term clinical relevance still needs to be established.

Concordance of the molecular subtype classification between core needle biopsy and surgical specimen in primary breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Molecular profiling of breast cancer (BC) classifies several intrinsic subtypes based on different patterns of gene expression. Multigene assays estimate the risk of recurrence and help to select high-risk patients for adjuvant chemotherapy. However, these tests are associated with significant costs. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) offers a surrogate classification for molecular subtypes by determining estrogen (ER) and progesterone receptors (PR), human epidermal growth factor (Her2neu), as well as the proliferation marker Ki67. Core needle biopsy (CNB) is well established in BC diagnosis and allows a pre-operative assessment of biomarkers. The aim of this study was to analyze the concordance of these markers between CNB and surgical specimens to assess whether re-testing of the surgical specimen is mandatory.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Within a 3-year period, patients with primary BC and paired samples of CNB and surgical specimens were analyzed retrospectively. Concordance rates of ER, PR, Her2neu, Ki67, and the surrogate classification for molecular subtypes were calculated using the Landis and Koch agreement grades.

RESULTS

Out of 2254 patients with primary breast cancer, 1307 paired specimens without pre-operative treatment were available for analysis Concordance rates for ER, PR, Her2neu, and Ki67 status showed substantial-to-almost perfect agreement grades (κ = 0.91, 0.75, 0.89, and 0.61, respectively). Though substantial concordance was also found for the subtype classification (κ = 0.70), the molecular subtype changed in 18.5% of patients based on the testing of the surgical specimen, mainly from luminal A-like to luminal B-like.

CONCLUSIONS

Though the concordance rates for single markers were convincing, a significant proportion of the molecular subtypes differed between CNB and the surgical specimen. Re-testing of PR and Ki67 is mandatory to ensure optimal treatment decisions. Further research is necessary to define safe, efficient, and cost-effective predictive models in adjuvant breast cancer therapy.

Progressive clinical case-based multiple-choice questions: An innovative way to evaluate and rank undergraduate medical students

INTRODUCTION

In France, at the end of the sixth year of medical studies, students take a national ranking examination including progressive clinical case-based multiple-choice questions (MCQs). We aimed to evaluate the ability of these MCQs for testing higher-order thinking more than knowledge recall, and to identify their characteristics associated with success and discrimination.

METHODS

We analysed the 72 progressive clinical cases taken by the students in the years 2016-2019, through an online platform.

RESULTS

A total of 72 progressive clinical cases (18 for each of the 4 studied years), corresponding to 1059 questions, were analysed. Most of the clinical cases (n=43, 60%) had 15 questions. Clinical questions represented 89% of all questions, whereas basic sciences questions accounted for 9%. The most frequent medical subspecialties were internal medicine (n=90, 8%) and infectious diseases (n=88, 8%). The most frequent question types concerned therapeutics (26%), exams (19%), diagnosis (14%), and semiology (13%). Level 2 questions ("understand and apply") accounted for 59% of all questions according to the Bloom's taxonomy. The level of Bloom's taxonomy significantly changed over time with a decreasing number of level 1 questions ("remember") (P=0.04). We also analysed the results of the students among 853 questions of training ECNi. Success and discrimination significantly decreased when the number of correct answers increased (P<0.0001 both). The success, discrimination, mean score, and mean number of discrepancies did not differ according to the diagnosis, exam, imaging, semiology, or therapeutic type of questions.

CONCLUSION

Progressive clinical case-based MCQs represent an innovative way to evaluate undergraduate students.

Innervation and vascular supply of the first dorsal interosseous muscle and palmar interosseous muscle of the index: An anatomic descriptive study

INTRODUCTION

The first dorsal interosseous muscle (FDI) and palmar interosseous muscle of the index (P2I) are essential for the strength and mobility of the index finger. This study aims to describe the course of the deep branch of the ulnar nerve (DBUN) and the blood supply to these muscles.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An anatomical cadaver study was carried out with 14 upper limbs from fresh, non-embalmed cadavers. All limbs were filled with an equal amount, based on weight, of colored silicone and diluent that was combined and catalyzed with 5% curing agent. The location of the DBUN's termination was specified relative the carpometacarpal joint. Every artery supplying either muscle was identified and documented.

RESULTS

The DBUN had a slightly convex path, distal to the hook of the hamate and penetrated the FDI muscle at an average 41% of the second metacarpal length. An average of 1.3 branches to the P2I and 2.6 branches to the FDI were found. Four artery pedicles coming from the deep palmar arch supply the FDI with an average of one consistent and exclusive pedicle to the FDI and three pedicles heading to the P2I. According to the classification of Mathes and Nahai, the FDI has a type 2 blood supply and the P2I has a type 3 blood supply.

CONCLUSION

In-depth knowledge of the vascular network supplying the FDI and P2I muscles and the course of the DBUN is essential when the DBUN is damaged or when dissecting these muscles for index pollicization.

Sentinel lymph node mapping with indocyanine green compared to blue dye tracer in gynecologic malignancies-A single center experience of 218 patients

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To compare the detection rates of sentinel lymph nodes after converting the tracer technique from blue dye to indocyanine green (ICG).

METHODS

Patients with uterine or cervical cancer were enrolled for sentinel lymph node (SLN) dissection. A total of 109 consecutive patients were analyzed and compared to a historical cohort of 109 consecutive patients with the sentinel blue dye technique. SLNs were analyzed by ultrastaging.

RESULTS

The bilateral mapping rate of sentinel nodes was significantly higher with the ICG (78%; n = 85) compared to the blue dye tracer (61%; n = 67; p = .006). Neither the mean number of SLN nor the rate of low volume metastases showed significant differences between both cohorts. In the subgroup of endometrial cancer patients, the number of systematic lymph node dissection (LND) was significantly lower in the ICG cohort compared to the blue dye cohort (9% vs. 28%, p = .001).

CONCLUSIONS

ICG improved the detection rate of pelvic SLN compared to blue dye and may be considered as the superior technique. In clinical practice, the rate of systematic LND further decreased after incorporating SLN mapping with ICG. Reliable safety data are still pending.

A new capsulotomy-based dorsal approach to the wrist: A cadaver study

Using a cadaver study, we described a new dorsal approach to the wrist joint using a "U-shaped with proximal base" capsulotomy. Six fresh adult cadaveric wrists were dissected after intra-arterial silicone injection. We did a dorsal approach to expose the dorsal joint capsule. It was then possible to identify the dorsal radiocarpal and intercarpal ligaments, the dorsal radiocarpal and intercarpal arterial arches, the dorsal branch of the anterior interosseous artery and the terminal branch of the posterior interosseous nerve. Wrist arthrotomy was done using our capsulotomy. In each dissected capsular flap, we always found the individual ligament, vascular, and nerve structures, implying they were intact over their trajectories. The mean surface area of the articular exposure was 945 mm² (range 725-1102 mm²) allowing easy access to the carpal bones and the radiocarpal and midcarpal joint spaces. This surgical approach to the wrist is technically feasible and avoids damaging the dorsal extrinsic ligaments fibers. Keeping the vascularization intact could improve capsular healing, while preserving innervation could maintain wrist proprioception.

Are script concordance tests suitable for the assessment of undergraduate students? A multicenter comparative study

INTRODUCTION

Script concordance tests (SCTs) have been developed to assess clinical reasoning in uncertain situations. Their reliability for the evaluation of undergraduate medical students has not been evaluated.

METHODS

Twenty internal medicine SCT cases were implemented in undergraduate students of two programs. The results obtained on the SCTs were compared to those obtained by the same students on clinical-based classical multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

RESULTS

A total of 551/883 students (62%) answered the SCTs. The mean aggregate score (based on a total 20 points) was 11.54 (3.29). The success rate and mean score for each question did not differ depending on the modal response but the discrimination rate did. The results obtained by the students on the SCT test correlated with their scores on the MCQ tests. Among students, 446/517 (86%) considered the SCTs to be more difficult than classical MCQs, although the mean score did not differ between the SCT and MCQ tests.

CONCLUSION

The use of SCTs is a feasible option for the evaluation of undergraduate students. The SCT scores correlated with those obtained on classical MCQ tests.

Shape Modification is Common in Woven EndoBridge-Treated Intracranial Aneurysms: A Longitudinal Quantitative Analysis Study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

After endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms with the Woven EndoBridge (WEB) device, worsening of aneurysm occlusion or re-opening was reported to be possibly associated with WEB shape modification. This study analyzed quantitatively the WEB shape modification with time in association with anatomic results.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty patients with 32 WEB-treated intracranial aneurysms fulfilled the inclusion criteria of cranial CT at baseline (day of intervention) and a follow-up CT at least >1 months' later (median follow-up time, 11.4 months; interquartile range, 6.5-21.5 months). Adequate occlusion was observed in 84.4%, and aneurysm remnant, in 15.6%. WEB shape modification was quantified by a semiautomated approach on CT scans. Time courses were evaluated graphically and analytically; association analyses were performed by linear mixed-effects regression models.

RESULTS

In 29/32 WEB devices (90.6%), the reduction in height was found to be at least 5%. The decrease in height with time was significantly associated with the time interval in days since the intervention (P < .0001): A stronger decrease in WEB height was associated with a longer time since the intervention (median reduction in 1 year, 19.2%; range, 8.6%-52.3%). No significant association was found with the quality of aneurysm occlusion, device size, rupture status of the aneurysm, aneurysm location, and reintervention rate.

CONCLUSIONS

Shape modification was common in WEB-treated intracranial aneurysms with a median height reduction of 19.2% in 1 year. The quality of aneurysm occlusion was not associated with WEB modification.