Distal Radial Access: Is There a Clinical Benefit?

For decades, the femoral artery has been the most common vascular access for diagnostic and therapeutic endovascular procedures. However, over the past 20 years, radial access has been gaining popularity, as it is a safer and allows practical access with more benefits. Recently, the new distal radial access has proven to be an equal or perhaps even safer vascular access for diagnostic and therapeutic coronary and noncoronary interventions. Today, this access should be in the arsenal of every interventional surgeon.

CAROTIDSCORE.RU-The first Russian computer program for risk stratification of postoperative complications of carotid endarterectomy

GOAL

Presentation of the first Russian computer program (www.carotidscore.ru) for risk stratification of postoperative complications of carotid endarterectomy (CEE).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The present study is based on the analysis of a multicenter Russian database that includes 25,812 patients after CEE operated on from 01/01/2010 to 04/01/2022. The following types of CEE were implemented: 6814 classical CEE with plastic reconstruction of the reconstruction zone with a patch; 18,998 eversion CEE.

RESULTS

In the hospital postoperative period, 0.18% developed a lethal outcome, 0.14%-myocardial infarction, 0.35%-stroke. The combined endpoint was 0.68%. For each factor present in patients, a predictive coefficient was calculated. The prognostic coefficient was a numerical indicator reflecting the strength of the influence of each factor on the development of postoperative complications. Based on this formula, predictive coefficients were calculated for each factor present in patients in our study. The total contribution of these factors was reflected in "%" and denoted the risk of postoperative complications with a minimum value of 0% and a maximum of 100%. On the basis of the obtained calculations, a computer program CarotidSCORE was created. Its graphical interface is based on the QT framework (https://www.qt.io), which has established itself as one of the best solutions for desktop applications. It is possible not only to calculate the probability of developing a complication, but also to save all data about the patient in JSON format (for the patient's personal card and his anamnesis). The CarotidSCORE program contains 47 patient parameters, including clinical-demographic, anamnestic and angiographic characteristics. It allows you to choose one of the four types of CEE, which will provide an accurate stratification of the risk of complications for each of them in person.

CONCLUSION

CarotidSCORE (www.carotidscore.ru) is able to determine the likelihood of postoperative complications in patients undergoing CEE.

[Implantation of a fenestriated stent-graft in a patient with thoracic aortic aneurysm]

The authors present endovascular treatment of a patient with stenosis of the left anterior descending artery, chronic DeBakey type III aortic dissection and thoracic aortic aneurysm. The first stage was percutaneous coronary intervention with stenting of the left anterior descending artery. The second stage implied implantation of a fenestrated stent-graft. The follow-up CT angiography after 6 months revealed occlusion of the left subclavian artery that required stenting. Control CT angiography confirmed adequate stent-graft placement without endoleaks and stenosis of the artery. The choice of these reconstructions and stages of interventions are substantiated. The authors concluded effectiveness of treatment strategy, as well as the need for preventive subclavian artery stenting after implantation of a fenestrated graft.

[Isolated endovascular liver chemoperfusion for liver metastases of uveal melanoma]

Isolated hepatic perfusion is one of the possible approaches for unresectable liver metastases of uveal melanoma. This technique is rare in modern oncology because of extremely difficult technique and high risk of intra- and postoperative complications. Thus, minimizing surgical trauma and increasing safety and reproducibility of this technique are important. There were 36 procedures of isolated «open» hepatic perfusion. The authors describe the first experience of endovascular hepatic perfusion. Advantages and clinical prospects of this method are shown.

[Isolated liver perfusion with melphalan followed by pembrolizumab therapy for unresectable metastases of uveal melanoma to the liver]

Uveal melanoma accounts for 80% of all ocular melanomas, and 30-60% of patients have metastases to the liver. A few patients are candidates for liver resection, and this disease is associated with poor prognosis. There are few data on optimal management of metastatic uveal melanoma. Isolated hepatic perfusion is a perspective method for regional treatment of inoperable metastatic liver lesions with uveal melanoma. We present a patient with uveal melanoma who underwent previous enucleation of the eye. Cancer progressed 15 years later as an isolated inoperable metastatic liver lesion. The patient underwent isolated liver perfusion with melphalan, hyperthermia and oxygenation. Subsequently, the patient received systemic therapy with pembrolizumab. Partial response was achieved 1 month after the procedure. There was no progression for 20 months after surgery under systemic therapy with pembrolizumab. Thus, isolated liver chemoperfusion with melphalan is advisable in these patients.

[Long-term results conventional and eversion carotid endarterectomy]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze immediate and long-term results of conventional and eversion carotid endarterectomy (CEA) within a multicenter registry.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This retrospective, multi-center, comparative study included 375 patients who underwent CEA between February 1, 2018 and February 1, 2022. Depending on the type of operation, the sample was stratified into the eversion CEA (group 1, n=218) and conventional CEA with plasty of the reconstruction area with a diepoxy-treated xenopericardium patch (group 2, n=157). The long-term follow-up period was 26.5±18.3 months. Information about the condition of patients and the development of complications was obtained by telephone questioning and calling patients to the clinic for a follow-up examination.

RESULTS

No myocardial infarction was diagnosed in the hospital postoperative period. There were no statistically significant differences in the frequency of acute cerebrovascular accident. The only cause of death after conventional CEA was hemorrhagic stroke. According to the section study, the cause of death was edema with dislocation of the brain stem. The remaining strokes in both groups (1 case each) were of the ischemic type. The probable cause was a distal embolism following the use of a temporary shunt. During conservative treatment, the neurological deficit completely regressed on days 21 and 26, respectively. In the late postoperative period, significant differences were obtained in the incidence of stroke (group 1: n=2; 0.91%; group 2: n=6; 3.8%; p=0.05; OR - 0.23; 95% CI=0.04-1.17) and restenosis of the internal carotid artery (ICA) more than 60% (group 1: n=0; group 2: n=11; 7.0%; p<0.0001; OR - 0.03, 95% CI=0.001-0.49).

CONCLUSION

The eversion CEA technique demonstrated a lower risk of developing hemodynamically significant restenosis of the internal carotid artery in the long-term follow-up period. To obtain convincing evidence of the effectiveness of eversion or conventional CEA, additional randomized multicenter trials with the inclusion of results in clinical guidelines are required.

Comparison of inhospital outcomes after open thrombectomy versus conservative therapy in patients with acute lower limb artery thrombosis and COVID-19

Aim. Comparative analysis of inhospital outcomes after open thrombectomy versus conservative in patients with acute lower limb artery thrombosis and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Material and methods. In this retrospective, comparative study for the period from April 1, 2020 to December 1, 2021, 167 patients with acute lower limb artery thrombosis and COVID-19 were included. Depending on the treatment strategy, two following groups were formed: group 1  — open thrombectomy (n=136) + drug treatment (anticoagulant (unfractionated heparin) and antiplatelet (acetylsalicylic acid 125 mg 1 time per day) therapy; group 2  — only drug therapy (n=31). This group consisted of patients who refused surgical revascularization. In all cases, a psychiatrist examined for personality disorders that did not allow a critical assessment of their condition and the consequences of refusing surgical treatment. At admission to the hospital, all patients received prophylactic-dose unfractionated heparin (5000 IU 3 times/day). In the development of acute arterial thrombosis, 80 IU/kg (maximum 5000 IU) of unfractionated heparin was administered intravenously, followed by transfer to intravenous infusion at an initial rate of 18 IU/kg per hour with the partial thromboplastin time monitoring. Analgesic and antiplatelet therapy (acetylsalicylic acid 125 mg 1 time/day) was also prescribed.

Results. Myocardial infarctions, ischemic strokes were not recorded. There were no significant intergroup differences in mortality rates (group 1: n=52, 38,2%; group 2: n=7, 22,6%; p=0,09; odds ratio (OR)=2,12; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0,85-5,27), limb amputation (group 1: n=63, 46,3%; group 2: n=9, 29,0%; p=0,07; OR=2,11; 95% CI: 0,9-4,91). However, there was a trend towards a decrease in the frequency of these events in the conservative therapy group. After open thrombectomy, retrombosis developed in 50,7% (n=69) of cases, whilethrombosis after retrombectomy followed by amputation  — in 46,3% (n=63). There were no hemorrhagic complications in both groups.

Conclusion. Open thrombectomy with concomitant medical therapy and single conservative therapy without surgical revascularization in the present study showed comparable rates of death and lower limb amputations in patients with COVID-19.

CAROTID ENADRTERECTOMY FOR INTERNAL CAROTID THROMBOSIS IN PATIENTS WITH COVID-19

Analysis of the results of emergency carotid endarterectomy (CEE) against the background of internal carotid artery (ICA) thrombosis in the acute period of acute cerebrovascular accident (ACVA) in patients with COVID-19. During the COVID-19 pandemic (April 1, 2020-May 1, 2021), 43 patients with ICA thrombosis and a positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) result for SARS-CoV-2 were included in this prospective study. In all cases, CEE was performed in the acutest period of ACVA. These patients were included in group 1. The comparison group was represented by 89 patients who underwent CEE in the acute period of stroke, in the period before the COVID-19 pandemic (April 1, 2019-March 1, 2020). According to laboratory parameters, patients with COVID-19 had severe coagulopathy (with an increase in D-dimer: 3832 ± 627.2 ng/mL, fibrinogen: 12.6 ± 3.1 g/L, prothrombin: 155.7 ± 10, 2%), inflammatory syndrome (increased ferritin: 646.2 ± 56.1 ng/mL, C-reactive protein: 161.3 ± 17.2 mg/L, interleukin-6: 183.3 ± 51.7 pg/mL, leukocytosis: 27.3 ± 1.7 10E9/L). In the hospital postoperative period, the groups were comparable in terms of the incidence of deaths (group 1: 2.3%, n = 1; group 2: 1.1%, n = 1; P= 0.81; OR=2.09; 95 % CI = 0.12-34.3) myocardial infarction (group 1: 2.3%, n = 1; group 2: 0%; P= 0.7; OR = 6.3; 95% CI = 0.25-158.5), CVA (group 1: 2.3%, n = 1; group 2: 2.2%, n = 2; P= 0.55; OR = 1.03; 95% CI = 0,.09-11.7). ICA thrombosis and hemorrhagic transformations were not recorded. However, due to severe coagulopathy with ongoing anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy, patients with COVID-19 more often developed bleeding in the operation area (group 1: 11.6%, n = 5; group 2: 1.1%, n = 1; P= 0.02; OR = 11.5; 95% CI = 1.3-102.5). In all cases, the flow of hemorrhagic discharge came from the drainage localized in the subcutaneous fat. This made it possible to remove skin sutures in a dressing room, suturing the source of bleeding and applying secondary sutures under local anesthesia. Emergency CEE in the acute period of stroke is an effective and safe method of cerebral revascularization in case of ICA thrombosis in conditions of COVID-19.

Distal radial artery access in noncoronary procedures

Since the beginning of interventional cardiology and for decades, the femoral artery has been the access of choice for both diagnostic and interventional endovascular procedures. Due to an extensive evidence base accumulated over the last 20 years, the majority of interventional cardiologists around the world prefer classical radial artery access for both elective and emergency procedures. A similar trend has been observed for distal radial artery access over the last five years. Noncoronary endovascular surgery undergoes the same stages of improvement and optimization of access, but in a more accelerated way. The goal of this review is to analyze the literature on distal radial artery access in noncoronary procedures.

[Long-term results of carotid endarterectomy and carotid artery stenting in patients with high bifurcation of common carotid artery: a multiple-center study]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze in-hospital and long-term results of eversion carotid endarterectomy (CEE), carotid endarterectomy with patch repair and carotid artery stenting (CAS) in patients with high bifurcation of common carotid artery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective multiple-center open study included 1983 patients who underwent internal carotid artery (ICA) repair for severe stenosis between 2010 and 2021. Three groups of patients were distinguished depending on revascularization option: group 1 (n=638) - eversion CEE; group 2 (n=351) - CEE with patch repair; group 3 (n=994) - CAS.

RESULTS

In-hospital postoperative mortality and incidence of stroke and myocardial infarction were similar. All bleedings (n=39) occurred after CEE. ICA thrombosis was diagnosed in groups 1 and 2 due to intimal detachment after insertion of temporary bypass tube. Incidence of laryngeal paresis, neuropathy of hypoglossal and glossopharyngeal nerves, Horner syndrome, damage to salivary glands was comparable in groups 1 and 2. Long-term mortality was the highest (n=10; 2.8%) after CEE with patch repair due to fatal stroke. In turn, the highest incidence of ICA restenosis and restenosis-induced ischemic stroke was observed after CEE with patch repair and CAS.

CONCLUSION

1. Classical and eversion CEE in patients with high CCA bifurcation is followed by high in-hospital incidence of damage to cranial nerves and salivary glands, laryngeal paresis, Horner syndrome, bleeding and risk of ICA thrombosis. 2. In patients with high CCA bifurcation, CAS and CEE with patch repair are accompanied by high incidence of ICA restenosis, restenosis-induced stroke and mortality in long-term postoperative period. 3. Eversion CEE demonstrates the lowest rates of all adverse cardiovascular events in long-term follow-up period.

[Hybrid revascularization in a patient with Covid-19 and chronic limb ischemia stage IV]

The authors report hybrid treatment of a patient with angina pectoris class II, multiple previous reconstructive interventions on the aortofemoral segment and chronic ischemia of the left lower limb stage IV and concomitant COVID-19. Coronary angiography was performed after regression of infectious disease under antiviral therapy. Occlusion of the left anterior descending artery was observed that required LAD stenting. On the next day, hybrid revascularization of the lower extremities was implemented: thrombectomy and endarterectomy from the branch of the aorto-femoral bypass graft and deep femoral artery at the first stage, stenting of the orifice of proximal branch of aorto-femoral bypass graft at the second stage, endarterectomy from superficial femoral artery, recanalization and stenting of superficial femoral artery and popliteal artery at the third stage and prosthetic- femoral bypass with autologous vein at the fourth stage. Postoperative angiography revealed patent stents and no residual stenoses. The choice in favor of these procedures and step-by-step approach has been substantiated. The authors emphasized effectiveness and safety of this treatment strategy.

[Resection of lumbar arteriovenous malformation]

The authors present a 64-year-old patient with lumbar arteriovenous malformation 22´35´50 mm. Open resection under endotracheal anesthesia was carried out. Postoperative period was uneventful. The patient was discharged in 7 days after surgery. Surgical resection of lumbar AVM is preferable because this approach eliminates cosmetic defect without the risk of soft tissue necrosis. Such an invasive intervention can be performed in case of superficial afferent vessel whose ligation will reduce the risk of intraoperative bleeding.

[Computer modeling of the area of carotid endarterectomy with patches of various forms]

OBJECTIVE

To describe geometric models of carotid artery bifurcation and computer modeling of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) with patches of various configurations.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The method was demonstrated on a reconstructed model of intact vessel based on preoperative CT of the affected vessel in a certain patient. Blood flow is modeled by computational fluid dynamics using Doppler ultrasound data. Risk factors were assessed considering hemodynamic parameters of vascular wall associated with WSS.

RESULTS

We studied hemodynamic results of 10 virtual CEA with patches of various shapes on the example of a reconstructed intact artery in a particular patient. Patch implantation is aimed at prevention of carotid artery narrowing since simple suture without a patch can reduce circumference of the artery by 4-5 mm. This result adversely affects blood flow. On the other hand, too wide a patch creates aneurysm-like deformation of internal carotid artery bulb. It is not optimal due to a large recirculation zone. It was found that patch width approximately equal to 3 mm ensures an optimal hemodynamic result. Deviations from this median value, both upward and downward, impair hemodynamics while the absence of a patch results the worst result.

CONCLUSION

The proposed computer modeling technique is able to provide a personalized patch selection for CEA with low risk of restenosis in long-term follow-up period.

[Subclavian-carotid transposition and subclavian artery stenting for steal-syndrome]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze in-hospital results of subclavian-carotid transposition and subclavian artery stenting in patients with steal-syndrome.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective open study included 137 patients with occlusion or severe stenosis of the first segment of subclavian artery and steal-syndrome. The 1^st group included 50 patients who underwent stenting or recanalization with stenting of the first segment of subclavian artery between January 2010 and March 2020. The 2^nd group included 87 patients who underwent subclavian-carotid transposition between January 2010 and March 2020.

RESULTS

There were no in-hospital mortality, myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke or bleeding. In the second group, damage to recurrent laryngeal nerve with irreversible laryngeal paresis occurred in 6.9% of patients, and one patient had brachial plexus neuropathy. One patient developed lymphorrhea with chylothorax accompanied by shortness of breath on exertion. Conservative management with repeated pleural punctures was not accompanied by clinical compensation. The patient was discharged for outpatient treatment. Thromboembolism of the left branch of the aorto-femoral prosthesis and deep femoral artery on the left was diagnosed in the endovascular correction group after implantation of Protege GPS stent (10´60 mm) and post-dilation with a PowerFlex PRO balloon catheter (9´4 mm). Acute ischemia of the left lower limb required thrombectomy with patch repair of deep femoral artery. The patient was discharged after 5 days. In another case, vertebral artery dissection occurred after implantation of Protege GPS stent (10×40 mm) and post-dilatation with a PowerFlex PRO balloon catheter (8´20 mm). In this regard, the patient underwent stenting of the fourth segment of vertebral artery (Endeavor Resolute 4.0´24 mm stent) with post-dilation (Boston Scientific Samurai balloon catheter 0.014´190 cm). The patient was discharged after 3 days.

CONCLUSION

Subclavian-carotid transposition and subclavian artery stenting are safe methods of revascularization that are not accompanied by myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke or mortality. However, subclavian-carotid transposition is characterized by higher risk of neurological disorders (laryngeal paresis, phrenic nerve paresis, brachial plexus neuropathy) and wound complications (lymphorrhea, chylothorax). In turn, subclavian artery stenting is associated with the risk of dissection and embolism. Therefore, the choice of treatment strategy in patients with occlusive-stenotic lesions of the first segment of subclavian artery should be personalized and carried out by a multidisciplinary team.

[Carotid endarterectomy in patients with internal carotid artery thrombosis in the acutest period of ischemic stroke with COVID-19]

OBJECTIVE

Analysis of the results of emergency carotid endarterectomy (CEE) in internal carotid artery (ICA) thrombosis in the acute period of acute cerebrovascular accident (ACVI) in patients with COVID-19.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

During the COVID-19 pandemic (April 1, 2020 - May 1, 2021), 43 patients with ICA thrombosis and a positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) result for SARS-CoV-2 were included in this prospective study. In all cases, CEE was performed in the acutest period of ACVA. These patients were included in group 1. The comparison group was represented by 89 patients who underwent CEE in the acute period of stroke, in the period before the COVID-19 pandemic (April 1, 2019 - March 1.2020).

RESULTS

In the hospital postoperative period, the groups were comparable in terms of the incidence of deaths (group 1: 2.3%, n=1; group 2: 1.1%, n=1; p=0.81; OR=2.09; 95% CI=0.12-34.3) myocardial infarction (group 1: 2.3%, n=1; group 2: 0%; p=0.7; OR=6.3; 95% CI=0.25-158.5), CVA (group 1: 2.3%, n=1; group 2: 2.2%, n=2; p=0.55; OR=1.03; 95% CI=0.09-11.,7). ICA thrombosis and hemorrhagic transformations were not recorded. However, in view of severe coagulopathy with ongoing anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy, patients with COVID-19 more often developed bleeding in the operation area (group 1: 11.6%, n=5; group 2: 1.1%, n=1; p=0.02; OR=11.5; 95% CI=1.3-102.5).

CONCLUSION

Emergency CEE in the acute period of stroke is an effective and safe method of cerebral revascularization in case of ICA thrombosis in conditions of COVID-19.

[A multicenter study on the influence of different kinds of carotidal endarterectomy on the course of resistant arterial hypertension]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the dynamics of systolic blood pressure (SBP) and the results of various types of carotid endarterectomy (CEE) in patients with resistant arterial hypertension (RAH).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 1577 patients with hemodynamically significant stenosis of the internal carotid artery (ICA) and RAH for more than 3 years. Patients were enrolled from January 2014 to December 2020. Depending on the implemented revascularization strategy, 5 groups were formed: group 1 (n=289 (18.3%)) with classical CEE with plasty of the reconstruction zone with a patch, group 2 (n=472 (29.9%)) with eversional CEE with cut-off of carotid glomus (CG); group 3 (n=109 (6.9%)) with the formation of a new bifurcation; group 4: (n=117 (7.4%)) with autoarterial reconstruction; group 5: (n=590 (37.4%)) with glomus-saving CEE.

RESULTS

In the postoperative period, no significant differences were obtained in the frequency of deaths (0.34% for group 1; 0.63% for group 2; 0% for groups 3, 4 and 5), myocardial infarction (0.34%, 0.84%, 1.83, 0.85%, 0.33%, respectively); ischemic stroke (0.34%, 1.27%, 0.91%, 0.85%, 0.17%, respectively), hemorrhagic transformation (0%, 0.84%, 0.91%, 0.85%, 0%, respectively). However, according to the frequency of the combined endpoint (death + myocardial infarction + ischemic stroke + hemorrhagic transformation), the lowest rates were observed in the group of classical carotid endarterectomy with plasty of the reconstruction zone with a patch and glomus-sparing CEE (1.03%, 3.6%, 3.67%, 2.56%, 0.5%, respectively). This is due to the absence of cases of labile AH and hypertensive crises among patients of groups 1 and 5, which was ensured by the preservation of carotid glomus (CG). As a result, the number of patients with 2 and 3 degrees of hypertension in these groups decreased statistically significantly. The vast majority of patients after these operations achieved a stable target SBP. In groups 2, 3, and 4, there was a statistically significant increase in the number of patients with 2 and 3 degrees of AH, which is associated with excision of the CG.

CONCLUSION

Classical CEE and glomus-sparing CEE techniques make it possible to achieve a stable target SBP level in patients with RAH as a result of CG preservation. Removal or traumatization of the latter during eversional CEE, the formation of a new bifurcation, autoarterial reconstruction is accompanied by the development of labile hypertension, an increase in the degree of hypertension and a high risk of hemorrhagic transformation in the brain. Thus, the most effective and safe types of CEE in the presence of RAH are classical CEE with plasty of the reconstruction zone with a patch and glomus-sparing CEE.

[Extended lesion of the internal carotid artery: carotid autotransplantation, creation of a neobifurcation or prosthetic repair?]

AIM

The aim of our investigation was to analyse the results of autotransplantation, creation of a neobifurcation or prosthetic repair of the internal carotid artery during the in-hospital and long-term follow-up periods.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study included a total of 241 patients presenting with and treated for extended atherosclerotic lesions of the internal carotid artery from 2016 to 2019. The patients were divided into three groups depending on the surgical modality employed: group 1 - autotransplantation of the internal carotid artery (27.8%, n=67), group 2 - creation of a neobifurcation (55.2%, n=133), and group 3 - prosthetic repair of the internal carotid artery (17.0%, n=41). The duration of the postoperative follow-up period amounted to 24.8±11.9 months. The outcome measures selected were as follows: all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, ischaemic stroke, haemodynamically significant restenosis, and a composite endpoint (death + myocardial infarction + ischaemic stroke + haemodynamically significant restenosis).

RESULTS

During the in-hospital postoperative period we registered 1 (2.4%) ischaemic stroke in the group of prosthetic repair, with no significant inter-group difference revealed (p=0.08). In the remote period of follow-up, no statistical differences were revealed for the following outcome measures: all-cause mortality (group 1: 7.5%, n=5; group 2: 10.5%, n=14; group 3: 14.6%, n=6; p=0.49); cardiovascular-related death (group 1: 4.5%, n=3; group 2: 6.7%, n=9; group 3: 12.2%, n=5; p=0.31); myocardial infarction (group 1: 1.5%, n=1; group 2: 3%, n=4; group 3: 4.9%, n=2; p=0.59). However, the patients in the group of prosthetic repair of the internal carotid artery were found to have the highest incidence rates of ischaemic stroke (group 1: 3%, n=2; group 2: 3%, n=4; group 3: 14.6%, n=6; p1-2=0.1; p1-3=0.02; p2-3=0.008), haemodynamically significant restenosis (group 1: 0%, n=0; group 2: 0%, n=0; group 3: 14.6 %, n=6; p1-2>0.99; p1-3=0.000; p2-3=0.000), and higher values of the composite endpoint (group 1: 12 %, n=8; group 2: 16.5%, n=22, group 3: 48.8%, n=20; p1-2>0.99; p1-3=0.000; p2-3=0.000).

CONCLUSION

Prosthetic repair of the internal carotid artery for an extended atherosclerotic lesion is a less preferable method compared with autotransplantation and creation of a neobifurcation, as evidenced by the highest incidence rates of ischaemic stroke, haemodynamically significant restenosis, and higher values of the composite endpoint in the remote period of follow up.

Thrombectomy vs conservative therapy in patients with COVID-19

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[Redo surgery of carotid arteries in patients with contraindications to carotid angioplasty and stenting]

AIM

The study was aimed at analysing the in-hospital results of carotid re-endarterectomy and plasty of the zone of reconstruction with a biological patch in patients with haemodynamically significant restenosis and contraindications to carotid angioplasty with stenting.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

During the period from 2008 to 2019, we operated on a total of 22 patients presenting with carotid restenosis and found to have contraindications to carotid angioplasty with stenting (an extended lesion, unstable neointima, calcification, pronounced tortuosity). Carotid re-endarterectomy was performed according to the classical technique. The time period after the first intervention to regression of pathology amounted to 48.5±21.3 months. All patients with clinical manifestations of angina pectoris were at the preoperative stage subjected to coronarography, as a result of which in one case a hybrid intervention was performed in the scope of percutaneous coronary intervention and carotid endarterectomy. The endpoints included death, myocardial infarction, acute impairment of cerebral circulation, and lesions of craniocerebral nerves.

RESULTS

Carotid re-endarterectomy was most often carried out according to the classical technique with plasty of the zone of reconstruction using a xenopericardial patch. Only in 1 case it was required to perform eversion carotid re-endarterectomy due to tortuosity of the internal carotid artery. During the in-hospital postoperative period no lethal outcomes, myocardial infarctions, nor haemorrhagic complications were registered. One patient was found to develop acute impairment of cerebral circulation. The most frequent complication was unilateral laryngeal paresis caused by lesions of craniocerebral nerves (n=3; 13.6%), with reversible neurological deficit. No cases of either thrombosis/restenosis or elevated pressure gradient in the area of implantation of the xenopericardial patch were revealed. The composite endpoint amounted to 18.2% (n=4).

CONCLUSION

The classical carotid re-endarterectomy was not accompanied by cases of thrombosis and restenosis during either the in-hospital or remote period of follow up, however turned out to be associated with a high frequency of the development of complications such as acute impairment of cerebral circulation and lesions of craniocerebral nerves.

[Transposition of internal carotid artery over hypoglossal nerve in eversion carotid endarterectomy]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze in-hospital and long-term results of eversion carotid endarterectomy (CEE) with transposition of internal carotid artery (ICA) over hypoglossal nerve.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A cohort prospective open-label study included 919 patients with severe ICA stenosis for the period from January 2017 to April 2020. The 1st group (n=172) included patients who underwent eversion CEE with ICA transposition over hypoglossal nerve; the 2nd group (n=747) - who underwent conventional eversion CEE. ICA transposition technique included standard mobilization of the carotid arteries, cross-clamping, arterial wall incision, removal of atherosclerotic plaque and ICA translocation above the hypoglossal nerve for subsequent anastomosis. All patients were examined every 6 months. Mean follow-up period was 17.5±6.9 months.

RESULTS

There were no significant between-group differences in cardiovascular morbidity. However, all complications occurred in the 2nd group (traditional eversion CEE). Nevertheless, incidence of adverse events was minimal and combined endpoint did not exceed 0.6% (n=5). Both groups were also comparable by overall incidence of cardiovascular events in long-term period. All ICA restenoses (over 70%) were symptomatic with similar incidence (4 (2.3%) vs. 18 (2.4%), respectively, p=0.83; OR 0.96; 95% CI 0.32-2.88). Mean restenosis-free period was 7.2±2.6 months. In case of significant restenosis, redo CEE with patch repair was performed. There were no cardiovascular complications. All cases of hypoglossal nerve injury occurred in the 2nd group (0 vs. 18 (100%), respectively; p=0.0001; OR 0.003; 95% CI=5.21-0.17) without ICA transposition over the hypoglossal nerve.

CONCLUSION

Eversion CEE with ICA transposition over the hypoglossal nerve ensures optimal conditions for successful redo CEE in case of restenosis. This technique facilitates ICA mobilization without hypoglossal nerve injury. This aspect is valuable for successful postoperative outcome and adequate quality of life. ICA transposition is not difficult and does not require additional experience. Transposition per se is not a risk factor of ICA restenosis. Thus, ICA transposition may be routinely recommended in patients eligible for eversion CEE.

[Stenting of the first segment of the spinal artery in the acutest period of ischemic stroke in the vertebrobasilar territory]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze hospital and long-term results of stenting of the V1 segment of the vertebral artery (VA) in the first hours after acute cerebral hemopoiesis/transient ischemic attack (stroke/TIA) in the vertebrobasilar territory (VT).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The current retrospective study from 2012 to 2019 included 169 patients with hemodynamically significant stenosis of the V1 segment of the VA, who underwent emergency stenting in the first hours after the onset of stroke. The mean time between the development of stroke and correction was 368.5±129.8 minutes. The average time between admission to the medical institution and submission to the X-ray operating room was 89.2±10.7 minutes. VA stenting was performed through the transfemoral approach. In 118 cases (69.8%) a drug eluting stent was implanted, in 51 (30.2%) a bare metal stent was implanted. 90% of VA segment V1 stenosis was diagnosed in 48 patients before the onset of stroke. Of these, 33 received conservative therapy for vertebrobasilar insufficiency (VBI) for 2.5±1.0 months in anticipation of regression of the disease. The remaining 15 did not have VBI symptoms and did not need active drug treatment. Ultimately, within this sample, the time interval between the visualization of stenosis and the onset of stroke was 3.0±1.0 months. In 17 patients, stroke/TIA in VT became recurrent. The period between two neurological events was 1.5±0.5 months. Nine patients did not wait for the planned intervention due to the development of an adverse neurological event before the appointed date of hospitalization. The other 8 did not appear for the interventional correction on time due to subjective reasons and were again admitted to the medical facility on an urgent basis.

RESULTS

During the hospital follow-up period, no adverse cardiovascular events were recorded. When assessing the dynamics in the neurological status, there was a significant regression of the deficit by the time of discharge from the hospital. In the long-term follow-up period (38.2±20.4 months), a fatal outcome was recorded in 2.4% of cases (n=4). Non-fatal myocardial infaction was diagnosed in 5 patients (2.9%). Restenosis of the stent in the VA was visualized in 56 patients (33.1%). In 17 cases, it became symptomatic (10.0%). All patients underwent repeated stenting with a successful result of the procedure.

CONCLUSION

Emergency stenting of hemodynamically significant stenosis of the V1 segment of the VA in the acute period of stroke in VT is a safe and effective method of revascularization characterized by the absence of adverse cardiovascular events at the hospital stage of observation.

[Delayed complication of iliofemoral bypass surgery: giant false aneurysm of distal anastomosis]

We report the results of open surgical correction of a giant false aneurysm of the distal anastomosis in long-term period after iliofemoral bypass surgery. Preoperative diagnostic procedures made it possible to determine the most appropriate treatment strategy. Aneurysm resection was followed by distal anastomosis repair on the right with prosthesis 10 mm. Postoperative imaging is presented. The authors concluded the effectiveness of revascularization strategy.

[Randomized study of tolerability, safety and efficacy of Pletax in intermittent claudication]

AIM

This study was aimed at assessing tolerability, safety and therapeutic efficacy of Pletax® (cilostazol) compared with Trental® (pentoxifylline) in patients with moderate-to-severe intermittent claudication.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study included a total of one hundred 40-to-65-year-old patients presenting with confirmed diagnosis of moderate-to-severe intermittent claudication. Depending on the therapeutic regimen, the patients were divided into two groups. Group 1: 50 patients orally took Pletax® (cilostazol) at a dose of 100 mg twice daily 30 minutes before meals or 2 hours after meals together with conventional therapy. Group 2: 50 patients took oral Trental® (pentoxifylline) in a dose of 400 mg 3 times daily 30 minutes before meals or 2 hours after meals along with conventional therapy. The duration of the follow up period amounted to 24 weeks for both groups. The treadmill test was carried out at room temperature, with the running track tilt angle of 0° at a speed of 3 km/h. The primary parameters of efficacy were as follows: the dynamics of the minimal walking distance (a distance walked by the patient until the appearance of pain in the extremity) and dynamics of the maximal walking distance (a distance walked by the patients until full stop due to pain in the extremity).

RESULTS

Analysing efficacy demonstrated higher results of Pletax® compared with Trental®. The obtained findings suggested that Pletax® showed a significant clinical effect as soon as at 2 weeks, followed by advantage during the whole period of follow up. Analysing the parameters of the minimal and maximal walking distances in the group of patients taking Pletax® demonstrated clear superiority over the Trental® group as soon as by week 2 of administration, which preserved during the whole follow-up period. The minimal pain-free walking distance in the Pletax group at baseline amounted to 92.9±83.4 m (Trental group - 92.3±78.4; p=0.3), followed by an increase at week 8 to 126±115 m (Trental group - 116±96.3; p=0.51), at week 16 to 136±116 m (Trental group - 118±95.5; p=0.04), at week 24 to 149±126 b (Trental group - 127±98.9; p=0.01). At the same time, the effect of Pletax® and Trental® on the secondary parameter of efficacy, i.e., the ankle-brachial index was comparable: at baseline - 0.472 and 0.482 (p=0.28), at 2 weeks - 0.48 and 0.483 (p=031), at 8 weeks - 0.49 and 0.485 (p=0.74), at 16 weeks - 0.494 and 0.492 (p=0.2), at 24 weeks - 0.501 and 0.496 (p=0.45).

CONCLUSION

The obtained findings demonstrated advantages of Pletax® over Trental®, manifesting themselves in the achievement of the highest parameters by such criteria as the minimal and maximal walking distance. High safety and efficacy of Pletax® were confirmed by low frequency of unfavourable events during therapy.

[Catheter-directed thrombolysis in iliofemoral thrombosis and aplasia of the inferior vena cava]

Demonstrated in the article are the results of catheter-directed thrombolysis in a male patient presenting with bilateral acute iliofemoral venous thrombosis on the background of aplasia of the inferior vena cava. The incidence rate of this pathology is specified, with an emphasis on no recommendations on choosing optimal therapeutic strategy in this cohort of patients. The main causes and complications of the disease are described. The realized policy of revascularization demonstrated its safety and efficacy. The chosen method of correction resulted in a successful outcome of treatment, preventing phlegmasia cerulea dolens. This policy can be recommended as most preferred for patients with acute iliofemoral venous thrombosis on the background of aplasia of the inferior venal cava.

[Embolization of arteriovenous malformation of the scrotum]

The authors report a rare disease at the junction of urology and cardiovascular surgery (arteriovenous malformation (AVM) of the scrotum). The options for correction of this disease are discussed. The authors describe the complications of natural course of disease and their treatment. Treatment strategy with AVM embolization is substantiated. Postoperative regression of symptoms is emphasized. The authors concluded safety and effectiveness of interventional correction of this disease.

Evolution of carotid endarterectomy: A literature review

<p>This review investigates the various methods used for carotid endarterectomy (CEE). These methods are presented, and allow us to analyse effective revascularisation with extended damage to the internal carotid artery. The data of studies comparing the results of eversion and classical carotid endarterectomy with plasty of the reconstruction zone with a patch made of diepoxy-treated pericardium are presented. Special attention is paid to emergency carotid endarterectomy and carotid endarterectomy in the acute period of ischemic stroke. The important and main aspects of the glomus-saving species of CEE are also demonstrated. The main complications behind operations, and causes of restenosis in long-term follow-up periods are also duly noted. Similarly, suggestions to eliminate these issues are also proposed. This review comprehensively covers the state of the art of carotid endarterectomy and dissects current techniques and methods in the area.</p><p>Received 16 July 2020. Revised 24 August 2020. Accepted 25 August 2020.</p><p><strong>Conflict of interest:</strong> Authors declare no conflicts of interest.</p><p><strong>Funding:</strong> The study did not have sponsorship.</p><p><strong>Author contributions</strong><br />Conception and study design: G.G. Khubulava<br />Drafting the article: A.N. Kazantsev<br />Critical revision of the article: A.A. Erofeev, V.N. Kravchuk, K.P. Chernykh<br />Final approval of the version to be published: G.G. Khubulava, A.N. Kazantsev, A.A. Erofeev, V.N. Kravchuk, K.P. Chernykh</p>

[Carotid endarterectomy in a patient with bilateral restenosis of stents in internal carotid arteries]

The article deals with the results of surgical treatment of a male patient presenting with bilateral restenosis of stents in the internal carotid arteries 11 years after carotid angioplasty with stenting. Described herein are literature reports reflecting the state of the art of the problem, scarcity of studies, as well as some important issues still unresolved. Defined are the main indications for and contraindications to performing this type of reconstruction. The main stages of the operation are demonstrated. This is followed by describing a method of intraoperative protection of the brain, including invasive measurement of retrograde pressure. Besides, the most optimal terms of carrying out the second stage of treatment were determined, eventually demonstrating efficacy and safety of carotid endarterectomy for correction of this condition.

Urgent intervention of hemodynamically significant stenosis of the internal carotid artery in the acutest period of an ischaemic stroke

<p><strong>Aim</strong>. To assess the results of carotid angioplasty with stenting (CAS) performed in the first 3 h after the onset of ischaemic stroke (the most acute period of acute cerebrovascular accident).</p><p><strong>Methods</strong>. This retrospective study included 312 patients from January 2008 to August 2020 with hemodynamically significant stenosis of the internal carotid arteries (ICA) who underwent CAS within 3 h of stroke onset. After a patient was hospitalised in our emergency department, stroke development was assessed by a neurologist. The level of neurological deficit was determined according to the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), the modified Rankin scale, the Barthel scale and the Rivermead Mobility Index. Multispiral computed tomography (MSCT) of the brain was then performed. On condition of visualisation of the ischaemic focus, the patient was sent for screening colour duplex scanning of the brachiocephalic arteries (BCA), arteries of the lower extremities, aortic arch and heart. If hemodynamically significant stenosis in the ICA was visualised, the patient underwent MSCT angiography of the BCA. The degree of stenosis was determined using the North American Symptomatic Trial Collaborators (NASCET) classifications. The on-duty ultidisciplinary council determined the tactics of the patient's treatment. Decisions regarding surgical correction and the choice of revascularisation strategy (CAS or carotid endarterectomy) were made based on stratification of the risk of postoperative complications according to the EuroSCORE II scale and the severity of coronary lesions according to the SYNTAX Score (in the presence of a history of coronary angiography). The time between admission to the emergency department and admission to the operating room was 84.5 ± 9.3 minutes. The inclusion criteria were 1. mild neurological disorders from 3 to 8 points on the NIHSS scale, no more than 2 points on the Rankin modification scale and more than 61 points on the Barthel scale; 2. Indication for CAS according to the current national recommendations; 3. Ischaemic focus in the brain no more than 2.5 cm in diameter according to MSCT; 4. Absence of pronounced calcification of the ICA. The exclusion criteria were: 1. Contraindications for CAS; 2. The presence of thrombosis of the ICA requiring the introduction of fibrinolytics (Alteplase), thromboextraction and thromboaspiration.</p><p><strong>Results</strong>. In the hospital postoperative period, 6 (1.92%) patients had lethal outcomes, 5 (1.6%) had myocardial infarctions, 5 (1.6%) had nonfatal stroke, 7 (2.2%) had asymptomatic ‘silent’ stroke, 2 (0.64%) had haemorrhagic transformations and 1 (0.32%) had ICA thrombosis. The combined endpoint (death + stroke + myocardial infarction) was reached in 7.05% of patients (n = 22).</p><p><strong>Conclusion</strong>. CAS is a safe and effective method of brain revascularisation in the first hours after the onset of ischaemic stroke. Interventional correction of hemodynamically significant stenoses of the ICA had permissible levels of ‘stroke + mortality from stroke’ and lethal outcomes, which reached 3.84% and 1.92%, respectively. Urgent implementation of CAS allows a significant regression of neurological deficit which is stable throughout the entire postoperative period.</p><p>Received 21 September 2020. Revised 1 October 2020. Accepted 10 October 2020.</p><p><strong>Funding:</strong> The study did not have sponsorship.</p><p><strong>Conflict of interest:</strong> Authors declare no conflict of interest.</p><p><strong>Author contributions</strong><br />Conception and design: R.A. Vinogradov, M.A. Chernyavsky, V.A. Porkhanov, E.Yu. Kachesov, G.G. Khubulava<br />Data collection and analysis: V.V. Matusevich, K.P. Chernykh, A.B. Zakeryaev. Drafting the article: A.N. Kazantsev<br />Statistical analysis: G.Sh. Bagdavadze, R.Yu. Leader. Critical revision of the article: <br />Final approval of the version to be published: A.N. Kazantsev, R.A. Vinogradov, M.A. Chernyavsky, V.V. Matusevich, <br />K.P. Chernykh, A.B. Zakeryaev, G.Sh. Bagdavadze, R.Yu. Leader, E.Yu. Kachesov, V.A. Porkhanov, G.G. Khubulava</p>

[Endovascular repair of a descending thoracic aortic aneurysm: one-year follow-up results]

The article deals with the results of successful surgical management of a male patient with a ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysm, posing particular problems as to deciding upon the scope and stages of surgical reconstruction, accompanied by describing the dynamics of clinical and diagnostic parameters, as well as the main events of the postoperative period. This clinical case report was characterized by additional difficulties due to the occurrence of subtotal haemothorax. Also presented herein is a set of comprehensive measures making it possible to successfully complete open reconstruction of the thoracic portion of the aorta and to achieve a satisfactory outcome both during the in-hospital period and within one-year follow up. Besides, elucidated is the state-of-the-art of this problem in the world literature.

Glomus-saving carotid endarterectomy by A. N. Kazantsev. Hospital and medium-remote results

<p><strong>Aim.</strong> Analysis of the results of hospital and medium-long-term results obtained using a new method of glomus-saving carotid endarterectomy (CEE) according to A. N. Kazantsev.</p><p><strong>Methods.</strong> This prospective study was conducted during January 2018 to April 2020 on 214 patients who were operated for occlusive stenotic lesions of the internal carotid artery (ICA) using holomus-saving CEE as per the method described by <br />A.N. Kazantsev. The average observation duration was 17.2 ± 6.5 months.<br />Glomus-saving CEE as per the method by A. N. Kazantsev is performed as follows. Arteriotomy is performed along the inner edge of the external carotid artery (ECA) adjacent to the carotid sinus, 2–3 cm above the mouth, depending on the distribution of atherosclerotic plaque, with a transition to the common carotid artery (also 2–3 cm below the ECA mouth). The ICA was cut off at the site formed by the wall sections of the ECA and the common carotid artery. Thereafter, an endarterectomy from the ICA was performed using the eversion technique. The next step was an open endarterectomy from the ECA and OCA. Then, the ICA at the saved site was implanted in the previous position. A 6-0 Prolene thread was used as the suture material for performing a vascular anastomosis.</p><p><strong>Results.</strong> The average ICA clamping time was 33.1 ± 3.4 min. Considering the intraoperative visualisation of an extended atherosclerotic plaque in the ICA, in some cases, there was a need to transform the operation. In 4.7% (n = 10) cases, autologous ICA transplantation was performed as per E. V. Rosseykinu. During the hospitalisation, the observation of cardiovascular complications was not recorded. When analysing the dynamics graph of systolic blood pressure, it was revealed that after glomus-saving CEE as per the method by A. N. Kazantsev, stable numbers are maintained during preoperative antihypertensive therapy and do not rise above 137.9 ± 7.5 mm Hg. In the mid-long-term follow-up, 1 (0.46 %) death was recorded, 1 (0.46%) due to myocardial infarction, 1 (0.46%) due to non-lethal ischaemic stroke, and 2 (0.9%) due to hemodynamically significant restenosis 12 mon after CEE. The combined endpoint (death + myocardial infarction + stroke) was reached in 3 (1.4%) patients. The cause of the lethal outcome was circular myocardial infarction that developed, given the patient's refusal to follow double disaggregant therapy (2 stents were previously implanted in the anterior descending and right coronary arteries). The cause of ischaemic stroke was the development of ICA restenosis (12 mon after CEE) owing to neointimal hyperplasia, as shown by histological examination after repeated surgery.</p><p><strong>Conclusion.</strong> CEE as per the method by A. N. Kazantsev is the simplest method of operation for known glomus-preserving reconstructions. The absence of complex arteriotomy, the preservation of carotid bifurcation structures, and the possibility of transformation of the intervention into autologous autologous transplantation with prolonged lesion is preferred over other methods. An additional opportunity for high-quality endarterectomy from ЕCA also creates preventive conditions in the prevention of cerebral haemodynamics. Stable blood pressure indicators in the hospital and mid-term follow-up periods demonstrate the importance of the preservation of the carotid glomus during reconstructive surgery on the carotid arteries. Thus, the presented type of CEE meets all the requirements of modern carotid surgery and can be an elective operation in the personalised treatment of patients with occlusal-stenotic lesions of the carotid arteries.</p><p>Received 10 May 2020. Revised 25 May 2020. Accepted 26 May 2020.</p><p><strong>Funding:</strong> The study did not have sponsorship.</p><p><strong>Conflict of interest:</strong> Authors declare no conflict of interest.</p><p><strong>Author contributions</strong><br />Method development and testing: A.N. Kazantsev<br />Conception and design: T.E. Zaitseva, A.E. Chikin, A.N. Kazantsev<br />Drafting the article: A.N. Kazantsev<br />Drawing up tables: E.Yu. Kalinin<br />Statistical analysis: K.P. Chernykh<br />Literature review: R.Yu. Leader, G.Sh. Bagdavadze<br />Critical revision of the article: N.E. Zarkua, K.G. Kubachev<br />Final approval of the version to be published: A.N. Kazantsev, K.P. Chernykh, R.Yu. Leader, N.E. Zarkua, K.G. Kubachev, <br />G.Sh. Bagdavadze, E.Yu. Kalinin, T.E. Zaitseva, A.E. Chikin, Yu.P. Linets</p>

[Structure of in-hospital and remote complications of surgical treatment of stenotic lesions of coronary and carotid arteries]

BACKGROUND

Problems concerning the choice of optimal revascularization strategy in patients with simultaneous atherosclerotic lesions of the coronary and brachiocephalic arteries still remain unsolved, since there are no randomized studies and there is uncertainty in Russian and foreign guidelines.

AIM

The study was aimed at analysing the remote results of surgical treatment of 391 patients with concomitant lesions of the coronary and brachiocephalic arteries within the framework of a single-centre prospective registry.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Within the timeframe of our study, all patients were divided into 4 groups depending on the method of surgical treatment of the above-mentioned pathology of the coronary and brachiocephalic arteries. Group 1 patients underwent staged surgery in the scope of coronary artery bypass grafting followed by carotid endarterectomy. Group 2 patients endured coronary artery bypass grafting combined with carotid endarterectomy. Group 3 patients were subjected to hybrid revascularization consisting in percutaneous coronary intervention and carotid endarterectomy. Group 4 patients sustained staged surgery consisting of carotid endarterectomy followed by coronary artery bypass grafting. The clinical and demographic characteristics, period of follow up, as well as the results after the respective surgical intervention for each group are presented.

RESULTS

We analysed the frequency and structure of adverse cardiovascular events depending on the time intervals within which complications had occurred resulting from a particular surgical policy used.

DISCUSSION

The obtained findings demonstrated that adverse cardiovascular events in the total sample of patients were mainly observed in the remote period of follow up, which was related primarily to a progressive course of atherosclerosis, the presence of bilateral lesions of the internal carotid arteries, as well as the lack of protocols ensuring complete revascularization in multifocal atherosclerosis within a limited time interval.

CONCLUSION

We made a conclusion on efficacy of the simultaneous strategy of revascularization by means of coronary artery bypass grafting combined with carotid endarterectomy in regard to decreased incidence of strokes in the remote period of follow up.

Novel method for glomus-saving carotid endarterectomy sensu A. N. Kazantsev: cutting the internal carotid artery on the site from external and common carotid artery

Aim. To analyze the results of using a novel method of glomus-saving carotid endarterectomy (CEE) sensu A. N. Kazantsev.

Materials and methods. This cohort, comparative, prospective, open-label study from January 2018 to April 2020 included 475 patients who undergone one of the three glomus-saving types of CEE. Depending on the implemented revascularization strategy, all patients were divided into 3 groups: group 1 — 136 patients (28,631%) CEE sensu R. A. Vinogradov; group 2 — 125 patients (26,316%) — sensu K. A. Antsupov; group 3 — 214 patients (45,053%) — sensu A. N. Kazantsev. Glomus-saving CEE sensu A. N. Kazantsev was carried as follows. Arteriotomy was performed along the inner edge of the external carotid artery (ECA) adjacent to the carotid sinus, 2 to 3 cm above the mouth, depending on the atherosclerotic lesion, with a transition to the common carotid artery (CCA) (also 2 to 3 cm below the mouth of the ECA). The internal carotid artery (ICA) was cut off at the site formed by the wall of the ECA and CCA. Next, an endarterectomy from the ICA was performed using the eversion technique. The next step was an open endarterectomy from EСA and СCA. Next, the ICA at the saved site was implanted in the previous position.

Results. No intergroup differences were observed during hospitalization. Due to intraoperative visualization of an extended lesion of the ICA, in some cases it became necessary to transform the operation: in group 1, 4,4% of cases required ICA prosthetics; in groups 2 and 3 — autologous ICA transplantation in 4,8% and 4,7% of cases, respectively. Also, 1 case of ischemic stroke was recorded in groups 1 and 2. The cause of the latter was ICA thrombosis due to intimal detachment distal to the removed plaque. All cases of ECA thrombosis in the hospital postoperative period were differentiated in group 2.In the long-term follow-up, the groups were also comparable in the complication rate. The cause of all ischemic strokes was the development of restenosis or thrombosis of the ICA/prosthesis. Among patients who underwent forced autologous transplantation of the ICA, restenosis was not recorded. It should also be noted that new ECA occlusions (n=12; 9,6%) were visualized 6 months after reconstruction only in group 2.

Conclusion. CEE sensu A. N. Kazantsev is the simplest technique of glomus-saving reconstructions, which have demonstrated their safety and effectiveness.

Carotid endarterectomy with extended lesion: formation of a new bifurcation according to A.V.Pokrovsky or autoarterial reconstruction according to A.A.Karpenko?

Purpose of the study. Comparison of hospital and long-term results of autoarterial reconstruction of carotid artery bifurcation and the formation of a new bifurcation with an extended atherosclerotic lesion of the internal carotid artery (ICA). Materials and methods. In the period from January 2018 to May 2020, this cohort, comparative, prospective, open-label study included 279 patients with an extended atherosclerotic lesion of the ICA operated on in the Alexandr Hospital. Depending on the implemented strategy of surgical correction, all patients were divided into two groups: group 1 (n=132) — autoarterial reconstruction of bifurcation of the carotid arteries; Group 2 (n=147) — the formation of a new bifurcation. Complications were recorded in the hospital and long-term postoperative periods. The total follow-up period was 16.4±9.3 months. The endpoints of the study were such adverse cardiovascular events as death, myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, thrombosis / restenosis of the anastomosis zone, combined endpoint (death from stroke / IM + IM + stroke). Results. The ICA clamping time in group 1 was 32.6±3.3 minutes, in group 2 – 31.7±3.5 minutes, which did not receive statistically significant differences (р=0.81). In the hospital postoperative period, adverse cardiovascular events were not recorded. In the long-term follow-up, the groups were comparable in the frequency of all complications. Identified lethal outcomes developed as a result of the formation of MI in patients with multiple lesions of the coronary arteries and a history of myocardial revascularization. The likely cause was shunt / stent thrombosis with subsequent coronary insufficiency and an increase in ischemic heart damage. The causes of stroke, recorded in each group in isolated cases, were the presence of atrial fibrillation. Patients did not comply with the recommended regimen of anticoagulant therapy, which provoked the development of cerebral catastrophe. In turn, the identified restenoses of the reconstruction zone were asymptomatic and were also observed in isolated cases in each group in the period 12 months after CEE. Conclusion. Autoarterial reconstruction of carotid bifurcation and the formation of a new bifurcation are comparable in safety and effectiveness methods of surgical treatment of an extended atherosclerotic lesion of the ICA. Operation techniques differ in the choice of an artery that is cut off from bifurcation — the external carotid artery or ICA. Further, the reconstruction progress is absolutely identical. Hospital and long-term follow-up results showed minimal indicators of the development of cardiovascular and hemodynamic changes due to the type of operation. Thus, both reconstruction techniques can be the operation of choice for an extended ICA lesion.

[Progression of precerebral atherosclerosis and predictors of ischemic complications in cardiac patients]

OBJECTIVE

To identify predictors of progression of precerebral atherosclerosis in long-term period after coronary artery bypass surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

There were 97 procedures of carotid endarterectomy in patients after previous coronary artery bypass grafting for the period from 2006 to 2017. Inclusion criteria were previous CABG, no significant (over 60%) stenosis of internal carotid arteries at discharge after CABG. The control group included 447 patients without progression of precerebral atherosclerosis in long-term period after CABG.

RESULTS

Careful monitoring of progression of precerebral atherosclerosis and therapeutic prevention of ischemic stroke are required in patients with mild-to-moderate ICA stenosis after CABG. The most significant predictors of progression of precerebral atherosclerosis after CABG were AF (OR=1.97, 95% CI 1.04-3.73), previous occlusion of stent (OR=7.89, 95% CI=2.3-27.0), chronic brain ischemia grade II or III (OR=22.45, 95% CI=11.9-42.3), chronic kidney disease (OR=15.8, 95% CI=5.04-49.5).

CONCLUSION

It was revealed that the majority of predictors of adverse ischemic cerebral and myocardial events are indirectly associated with atrial fibrillation.

Rupture of aneurysm of the middle cerebral artery along with stenosis of the internal carotid and coronary arteries

<p>This article presents the results of treatment of a patient with rupture of a giant intracerebral aneurysm of the left middle cerebral artery (MCA), hemodynamically significant stenosis of the internal carotid artery on the left and the trunk of the left coronary artery with multiple lesions of the coronary arteries (anterior descending artery, diagonal branch, right coronary artery). A phased surgical correction was performed, with the time period between stages being 2 months, as follows:<br />Stage 1 — open microsurgical clipping of the aneurysm of the left MCA and removal of intracerebral hematoma. The usage of the standard treatment volume in the form of 3H therapy (hypertension, haemodilution and hypervolemia), as well as slow calcium channel blockers in the postoperative period, was associated with a high risk of developing cardiovascular complications due to the presence of occlusal–stenotic lesions of the coronary and brachiocephalic channels. In the postoperative period, the patient received antiplatelet therapy (acetylsalicylic acid 100 mg at lunch), lipid-lowering therapy (rosuvastatin 20 mg in the evening) and anti-hypertensive therapy (bisoprolol 2.5 mg in the morning; perindopril 2.5 mg in the evening; spironolactone 25 mg in the morning; torasemide 10 mg in the morning; valparin XP 500 mg 2 times a day). On day 14, the patient was transferred from the intensive care unit, and on day 20, the patient was discharged from the hospital in satisfactory condition.<br />Stage 2 — a combined operation in the amount of carotid endarterectomy (CEE) with plastic surgery of the biological patch on the left with plastic reconstruction of the reconstruction zone with a patch from the xenopericardium and coronary bypass grafting (CABG). Tactics were confirmed as optimal, taking into account the stratification of the risk of complications in the postoperative period when applying the new interactive program ‘Program support for the decision-making process for choosing a surgical re-vascularisation strategy for multifocal atherosclerosis’ (certificate of registration of a computer program RU 2017619457). Brain protection during CEE was achieved by invasive measurement of retrograde pressure (60 % of systemic blood pressure (BP)) and intraoperative increase in blood pressure to 180/90 mm Hg. CABG was performed using cardiopulmonary bypass. An epiaortic ultrasound scan was used to select the position of the implantation of a venous shunt into the aortic wall. Intraoperative flowmetry was used to regulate the quality of the implanted shunts.<br />The patient was discharged 10 days after the surgery from the hospital in satisfactory condition. Conservative therapy, initiated after stage 1 of re-vascularisation, was continued.<br />Clipping of intracerebral arterial aneurysm during its rupture and reconstructive interventions on the internal carotid artery and coronary arteries could be performed combined with the possibility of endovascular correction. However, due to the presence of an unstable atherosclerotic plaque, the possibility of interventional correction of the internal carotid artery was excluded, and the condition of the coronary bed at the time of stage 1 remained unknown. An additional argument in favour of open microsurgical clipping of the aneurysm was the need for the removal of intracerebral hematoma.<br />The treatment strategy chosen here was found to be safe and effective. Satisfactory outcome of the surgery was achieved due to a complete range of perioperative examinations. The implemented tactics prevented the development of complications. The data obtained here would form the basis for the development of recommendations for selecting the optimal tactics of re-vascularisation in combined lesions of intracranial, extracranial and coronary arteries.</p><p>Received 21 April 2020. Revised 27 April 2020. Accepted 28 April 2020.</p><p><strong>Funding:</strong> The study did not have sponsorship.</p><p><strong>Conflict of interest:</strong> Authors declare no conflict of interest.</p><p><strong>Author contributions</strong><br />Conception and design: А.N. Kazantsev, R.S. Tarasov<br />Literature review: K.P. Chernykh, N.E. Zarkua, R.Y. Leader, G.Sh. Bagdavadze<br />Drafting the article: А.N. Kazantsev<br />Illustrations: А.N. Kazantsev, K.P. Chernykh, N.E. Zarkua, R.Y. Leader, G.Sh. Bagdavadze<br />Critical revision of the article: N.E. Zarkua, R.S. Tarasov, Y.P. Linets<br />Final approval of the version to be published: А.N. Kazantsev, R.S. Tarasov, K.P. Chernykh, N.E. Zarkua, R.Y. Leader, <br />G.Sh. Bagdavadze, Y.P. Linets</p>

[Hybrid revascularization of the brain and myocardium: risk stratification for in-hospital complications]

AIM

The study was aimed at determining efficacy of a new computer program of stratification of the risk for postoperative adverse cardiovascular events in patients with atherosclerotic lesions of coronary and carotid arteries.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Based on a mathematical analysis of the outcomes of treatment of patients with atherosclerotic lesions of coronary and carotid arteries over the period from 2011 to 2015, we created a program making it possible to determine a staged or simultaneous policy of revascularization, which was retrospectively and prospectively tested in our medical facility.

RESULTS

Within the frameworks of a clinical example we carried out hybrid revascularization of the brain and myocardium in the scope of percutaneous coronary intervention and carotid endarterectomy. During the early postoperative hours, the development of myocardial infarction was registered. According to the program's calculations, in using other strategies of surgical treatment (carotid endarterectomy + coronary artery bypass grafting and carotid endarterectomy - coronary artery bypass grafting), the level of risk for the development of a complication was lowest. Thus, taking into consideration this risk stratification by a multidisciplinary team made it possible to avoid the development of complications.

CONCLUSION

This program of decision-making regarding revascularization for atherosclerotic lesions of coronary and carotid arteries may be an additional tool in the armamentarium of the methods of determining therapeutic strategy for this patient cohort.

[Personalized brain revascularization: computer modeling of the reconstruction zone for carotid endarterectomy]

OBJECTIVE

To develop a technique of computer modeling of hemodynamics before conventional CEE.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Classical CEE is performed according to conventional patch technique. Duplex parameters of stenosis and blood flow velocity in the carotid arteries were analyzed by using of a linear transducer 7-7.5 MG (Acuson 128XP scanner, Acuson, USA). Multispiral computed tomography with angiography and subsequent processing of data using the Clear canvas software were performed to visualize the main geometric characteristics of the carotid arteries and features of atherosclerotic plaque.

RESULTS

Blood flow hemodynamics is essential in the occurrence of postoperative restenosis. Therefore, computer simulation of blood flow using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) methods based on particular patient's data makes it possible to assess localization of zones with high risk of restenosis. CFD approach implies construction of blood flow parameters at absolutely every point of the vessel considering geometric shape of the vessel and flow characteristics at the entrance and exit from the vessel. Pressure curves at the inlet and outlet are constructed using blood flow velocity curves. Pressure curves are subsequently used in the CFD model. The result of blood flow CFD modeling is non-stationary three-dimensional fields of pressure and velocity in the investigated area. Visual analysis of blood flow dynamics in these fields makes it possible to judge possible problem areas along the blood flow and on the inner wall of the vessel.

DISCUSSION

Patch technique of classical CEE is characterized by great risk of parietal thrombosis and hyperproliferation of neointima that explains more frequent development of restenosis. Computer modeling is valuable to consider some important technical aspects in implementation of various surgical techniques for carotid artery reconstruction.

CONCLUSION

This result demonstrates an importance of achieving the optimal ratio of the diameter of common, internal and external carotid arteries. Modification of patch based on computer simulation is required for these purposes.

[Bentall-DeBono procedure with xenopericardial valved conduit: a 24-year follow-up data]

Long-term outcome of surgical treatment of a patient with severe aortic insufficiency and ascending aortic aneurysm is reported. The patient underwent Bentall-DeBono procedure with xenopericardial valved conduit. This technique is associated with no complications specific for Dacron conduits and ensures clinical compensation of heart failure, improves prognosis and quality of life.

[In-hospital results of renal artery stenting in patients with multifocal atherosclerosis]

OBJECTIVE

A retrospective analysis of in-hospital results of renal artery stenting in patients with multifocal atherosclerosis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 19 patients who underwent stenting for renal artery stenosis for the period 2011-2015 in the Kemerovo Cardiology Dispensary. Renal function was assessed considering glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Blood pressure and GFR were evaluated before the stenting procedure and at discharge.

RESULTS

Stenting resulted optimal outcomes in all 19 patients. Severity of residual stenosis was 11±3%. In-hospital mortality was absent. Blood pressure in early postoperative period was similar to baseline values. One patient had a normalization of blood pressure up to 115-140/85-90 mm Hg without administration of antihypertensive drugs. Decrease of systolic blood pressure up to 155.3±32.6 mm Hg was noted in other patients at discharge. Blood creatinine levels decreased up to 0.167±0.56 mmol/L. In addition, mean GFR increased from 34.17 ml/min/1.69 m² up to 37.16 ml/min/1.69 m².

CONCLUSION

Endovascular treatment of renal artery stenosis and secondary hypertension is effective and relatively safe approach.

[Long-term results of surgical and conservative treatment of patients with occlusive-stenotic lesions of carotid arteries]

OBJECTIVE

To compare long-term outcomes in patients after carotid endarterectomy and those who refused surgical correction and received only conservative treatment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

There were 1035 carotid endarterectomies performed at the Kemerovo Regional Clinical Hospital and Kemerovo Regional Clinical Cardiology Dispensary for the period 2014-2017. Surgery was refused by 136 patients for the same time. Thus, two groups of patients were formed: 1 - carotid endarterectomy group; 2 - conservative treatment group.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

significant carotid stenosis, absence of severe neurological deficit (over 25 scores by the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale), absence of concomitant diseases limiting long-term follow-up.

RESULTS

Lethal outcome (p=0.0038) and fatal acute cerebrovascular accident (p=0.0005) were significantly more common in the 2^nd group in long-term follow-up period. Thus, combined endpoint took the greatest values in patients who refused surgery compared with patients who received surgical treatment (p=0.0001). It should be noted that ischemic stroke de novo occurred in 9 (6.6%) patients of the 2^nd group after 10.8 ± 2.5 months. This complication required subsequent hospitalization for carotid endarterectomy.

CONCLUSION

Preventive role of carotid endarterectomy was convincingly proved in comparison with drug therapy regarding mortality and fatal ischemic stroke in patients with significant carotid stenoses within 2.5 years of follow-up period.

[Surgical treatment of a patient with saccular arterial aneurysm of the cavernous-ophthalmic segment]

Presented in the article are the results of surgical management of a patient with an extremely rare pathology - a saccular arterial aneurysm of the cavernous-ophthalmic segment of the left internal carotid artery. We performed multistage open surgical intervention in the following scope: osteoplastic pterional craniotomy on the left, creation of a wide-lumen anastomosis between the left external carotid artery and M2 segment of the left middle cerebral artery with the use of the radial artery, ligation of the cervical portion of the left internal carotid artery and clipping of its supraclinoid portion. The chosen surgical policy made it possible to create sufficient volumetric blood flow through the shunt, comparable to the blood flow through the internal carotid artery, which helped avoid ischaemic stroke after exclusion of the aneurysm from circulation. A conclusion was drawn on efficacy of this method of treatment.

Surgical treatment of a patient with stent restenosis in the mouth of the general carotid artery and the proximal department of the internal carotid artery

<p>The results of surgical intervention on a patient with stent restenosis at the mouth of the common carotid artery (CCA) and proximal internal carotid artery (ICA) are presented herein. In 2013, the patient underwent stenting of the CCA and ICA. One month later, the aortic valve was replaced with a mechanical prosthesis MedEng-23 (MedEng, Penza, Russia) and mammarocoronary anastomosis with an envelope artery was performed under extracorporeal circulation. After the intervention, the patient regularly received 3.75 mg of warfarin, and was under the observation of a cardiologist. In 2018, the patient suffered a transient ischaemic attack. Subsequent examination of the patient revealed sub-occlusion of the left subclavian artery and signs of vertebral–subclavian steal syndrome on the left, and confirmed patency of the mammarocoronary shunt in envelope artery. The patient underwent carotid–subclavian shunting using the BASEX (A.N. Bakulev National Medical Research Center of Cardiovascular Surgery, Moscow, Russia) (8-mm prosthesis. Nine months after the patient underwent carotid–subclavian shunting, 85% restenosis was observed in the stent of the left ICA using control multi-spiral computed tomography with angiography (MSCT AG). The patient also exhibited up to 94% restenosis of the stent of the left ICA, occlusion of the right ICA, and up to 81% stenosis of the proximal anastomosis of the carotid–subclavian shunt. The patient underwent surgery for the removal of the following: the stent from the ICA with endarterectomy from the CCA, ICA with arterial plastic patches from the xenopericardium and prosthesis on the left (8-mm Vascutek prosthesis, Vascutek Ltd., UK). The brain was protected by raising the patient’s systemic blood pressure to 180/90 mm Hg. During the postoperative period, MSCT AG was performed to image the ICA. The MSCT AG images indicated that the prosthesis was passable. Presently, no clear standards exist for achieving revascularisation in this category of patients. The present clinical case emphasised the requirement for the detailed observation of patients after reconstructive interventions in different arteries as well as the possibility of surgically correcting the revealed lesions.</p><p>Received 13 August 2019. Revised 8 November 2019. Accepted 9 November 2019.</p><p><strong>Funding:</strong> The study did not have sponsorship.</p><p><strong>Conflict of interest:</strong> Authors declare no conflict of interest.</p><p><strong>Author contributions</strong><br />Drafting the article: A.N. Kazantsev<br />Literature review: R.Yu. Lider<br />Illustrations: A.R. Shabayev, A.N. Volkov<br />Critical revision of the article: N.N. Burkov, A.I. Anufriyev<br />Preoperative patient preparation: A.R. Shabayev, E.V. Ruban<br />Postoperative care: A.N. Volkov<br />Neurological examination: E.V. Ruban<br />Final approval of the version to be published: A.N. Kazantsev, N.N. Burkov, A.R. Shabayev, A.N. Volkov, E.V. Ruban, R.Yu. Lider, A.I. Anufriyev</p>

[Long-term outcomes of coronary artery bypass surgery in young patients]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze long-term outcomes of CABG in young patients, incidence and structure of adverse cardiovascular events depending on patients' age.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

There were 175 young patients (up to 44 years old in accordance with WHO classification) who underwent CABG for the period from 2006 to 2016. The control group included 175 patients aged 45 years and older who were randomly selected among patients operated in the same period. Overall long-term follow-up period was 81.9±15.75 months (≈ 6.8 years). Data on long-term survival and adverse cardiovascular events were available in 86.3% of patients in general sample and 72.6% of young patients.

RESULTS

Young patients undergoing CABG were usually characterized by the absence of severe concomitant diseases, moderate coronary atherosclerosis by SYNTAX Score scale, high percentage of left ventricular aneurysm and previous PCI. Incidence and structure of in-hospital and long-term adverse cardiovascular events in young and older patients confirmed satisfactory results of CABG regardless age.

P718Genome-wide copy number profiling of atherosclerotic plaques

Background

Atherosclerotic plaque formation results from complex cellular interactions in the intima of arteries, which take place between resident cells of the vessel wall (smooth muscle cells (SMC) and endothelial cells) and cells of the immune system (macrophages (MF)). Less well known is the genomic alterations in cells involving in the atherosclerotic process as can be important in plaque progression and instability.

Aim

The main purpose of the study is to assess the spectrum of structural genomic alterations in the tissue of atherosclerotic artery wall and to evaluate of difference between structural variants (SV) in SMC and MF.

Materials and methods

Samples of atherosclerotic plaques of the internal carotid artery (ICA) was collected from patients during endarterectomy (n=100) and the atherosclerotic coronary arteries (ACA) was obtained by coronary artery bypass surgery (n=10, group: bpACA) and by autopsy (n=8, apACA). Specimens were stored in liquid nitrogen. White blood cells (WBC) derived from the same patients. Control group was the health persons with same age (WBC, n=100). The genomic imbalances in bpACA were assessed by array comparative genomic hybridization (array-CGH, CGH Microarray 2x400K). Identified SVs was verified by droplet-digital PCR using TaqMan-assays (reference assay is RNAse P) in bpACA and ICA groups.SMC and MF were immunostained (Anti-Human CD68 Antibody and Alpha-SMA Antibody) and collected by laser capture microdissection of fresh frozen apACA samples (30–40 cells of each per sample). Collected cells were lysed and DNA amplified by whole genome amplification technique along with WBC of the same person, then analyzed by array-CGH.

Results

We found 90 SV in atherosclerotic coronary arteries, 13% of them were no mentioned before in Database of Genomic Variants. We selected interested SVs that contains only one gene (ACACB, ABCC9, ERLIN1, SFMBT1, PRKRA, and SIRPB1). The loss in the 3p21.1 region (SFMBT1) was in 11.48% patients and 8.5% in control group. Among patients who had diabetes mellitus (DM2) had more frequently loss of SFMBT1 (16%) than patients without DM2 (8%). The frequency of gain 2q31.2 (PRKRA) was 6% in patients whereas in control group we identified it in only one person. The frequency of loss 20p13 (SIRPB1) was approx. 67% in both groups. Several aneuploidies were found in MF (9 trisomies and 3 monosomies) and SMCs (1 trisomy and 8 monosomies). In two patients, SMCs had a normal karyotype. The ratio of duplications and deletions in MF and SMCs was 1:0.8 and 1:7, respectively. In MF of 6 patients identified same duplication in chromosome region 9q34.13-q34.2, (arr[hg19] 9q34.13(9:134337452-135931774)x3) about 2Mb in size.

Conclusion

Our study indicates that genomic alterations are diverse in their structure and are widely represented in cells involved in the atherosclerotic process.

[Surgical repair of common carotid artery aneurysm insix years after carotid endarterectomy]

Surgical repair of common carotid artery aneurysm as an extremely rare complication of carotid endarterectomy in long-term period is described. Aneurysmectomywasfollowed by patch repair of the artery. It was concluded that this intervention is effective approach for this complication. The main causes of this adverse event are identified.

[Predictors of long-term complications after carotid endarterectomy]

AIM

To analyze the predictors of complications within 3 years after carotid endarterectomy (CEE).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 1035 patients after CEE for the period 2011-2016. Long-term follow-up period was 42.4±18.6 months (≈ 3.5 years). The endpoints were such unfavorable cardiovascular events as death, myocardial infarction, stroke/transient ischemic attack, redo revascularization. Statistical analysis was carried out by using of Statistica for Windows 8.0 software package (StatSoft Inc., USA). Stepwise logistic regression was applied to identify risk factors of adverse outcomes and death in long-term postoperative period.

RESULTS

Comprehensive analysis of numerous factors (anamnestic, instrumental-diagnostic, surgical) allowed us to identify predictors of long-term unfavorable outcomes in patients with occlusive-stenotic lesions of carotid arteries. Risk factors of long-term complications were SYNTAX score ≥33 (high risk), unstable plaque in the contralateral ICA, occlusion of contralateral ICA, LVEF <39%, ICA cross-clamping >40 min, previous CABG.

CONCLUSION

These data are extremely important and can be used to create prognostic models. The last ones are necessary to determine optimal treatment strategy in patients with occlusive-stenotic lesions of supra-aortic vessels.

[Results of coronary artery bypass grafting in patients of different age groups]

BACKGROUND

Myocardial revascularization involves a wide range of invasive strategies aimed at treating ischaemic heart disease in patients of different age groups.

AIM

The purpose of the present study was to analyze the outcomes of coronary artery bypass grafting in patients depending on age.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 905 patients enrolled in our study were subdivided into groups based on age-related characteristics (young age, middle age, old age, senile age). The endpoints of follow up were as follows: myocardial infarction, acute impairment of cerebral circulation, death and haemorrhagic complications.

RESULTS

It should be mentioned that the groups were comparable by the majority of the parameters studied. No statistically significant differences in the frequency of the development of complications in the postoperative period were observed. However, amongst patients over 75 years old, revision of the mediastinum for haemorrhage was performed more often.

DISCUSSION

Patients of different age groups undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting are extremely heterogeneous by the clinical, anamnestic, instrumental and intraoperative characteristics. A high frequency of haemorrhagic complications amongst patients over 75 years old may be explained by a more aggressive approach to the regimens of anticoagulant/antiaggregant therapy resulting form the presence of atrial fibrillation. In its turn, this fact determines the probability of a high frequency of the development of adverse cardiovascular events. An individual approach to the choice and scope of the strategy of revascularization in patients of different age groups is the fundamental principle for an optimal outcome of coronary surgery.

CONCLUSION

The obtained findings and analysis of the statistical data are indicative of the necessity of personified selection of the technique of a surgical intervention for each particular patient, which will make it possible to decrease the rate of adverse cardiovascular events in the postoperative period.

[Predictors of Progressive Course of Multifocal Atherosclerosis in Patients With Myocardial Infarction]

PURPOSE

Determination of clinical and instrumental predictors of progressive course of multifocal atherosclerosis (MFA) in patients one year after myocardial infarction (MI), initially having hemodynamically insignificant stenoses of carotid arteries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From database of patients with acute coronary syndrome treated in the Kemerovo Regional Clinical Cardiac Dispensary in 2009-2010 we selected for this study 141 patients with verified diagnosis of MI and hemodynamically insignificant lesions in the internal carotid artery (ICA) (stenosis up ≤ 55 %). All patients had coronary atherosclerosis verified on coronary angiography at admission because of MI. A multivariate analysis of possible predictors of the progressive course of multifocal atherosclerosis was made based on assessment of the development of cardiovascular complications (CVC) (death, MI, stroke and transient cerebral circulatory attacks [TIA]), as well as revascularizations and negative dynamics of parameters of color duplex scanning (CDS) of ICA during one year after MI.

RESULTS

One year after MI the overall incidence of CVC was 16.3 % (n=23). Structure of registered events was as follows: death from MI 7.1 % (n=10), deaths from stroke 2.1 % (n=3) and other causes 2.1 % (n=3), non-fatal MI 5.0 % (n=7), non-fatal stroke / TIA 2.1 % (n=3), carotid revascularization 2.8 % (n=4), coronary revascularization 14.9 % (n=21). CDC of ICAs was repeated in 125 patients. There were 17 (13.6 %) cases of progression of carotid atherosclerosis in the form of de novo bilateral stenoses in 14 (11.2 %) patients, stenoses in the left and right ICA 1 patient and 2 patients, respectively. The following predictors of progression of atherosclerosis of cerebral arteries were identified: family history of cardiovascular diseases (CVD),ICA stenosis ≥45 %, baseline circular atherosclerotic plaque (ASP). Predictors of high risk of stroke were family history of CVD, history of stroke,ICA stenosis ≥45 %, heterogeneous hypoechoic ASP. As predictors of lethal outcome, we identified history of MI, high functional class of angina preceding the index MI, severe coronary vascular bed involvement (SYNTAX score &gt;23), presence of any bilateral atherosclerotic lesion in ICAs, and heterogeneous hypoechoic ASP. Assessment of the contribution of adherence to therapy in the prognosis 1 year after hospital discharge was fulfilled in 125 alive patients. It allowed to conclude that patients with progression of atherosclerosis and nonfatal CVC were characterized by insufficient adherence to standard therapy.

CONCLUSION

Predictors of the progressive course of multifocal atherosclerosis during one year after MI were identified in this study. It is necessary to strengthen therapeutic and preventive measures aimed at minimization of the impact of these factors in this category of patients.

[Surgical treatment of protoplasmic astrocytoma of sylvian aqueduct involving posterior part of the third ventricle]

It is presented case report of extremely rare pathology - protoplasmic astrocytoma of sylvian aqueduct involving posterior section of the third ventricle. The main principles of treatment were considered. Dynamics of neurological status was demonstrated. An effectiveness of treatment strategy was assessed.