Cardiac rehabilitation and secondary prevention in COVID-19 times: Single center experience

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a class I treatment for cardiovascular disease, still, underutilization of these services remains. During the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, an even greater gap in CR care has been present.

Purpose and methods

We aimed to present the cardiac rehabilitation during COVID 19 times in Belgrade. At the beginning of epidemic in Serbia the number of patients in in-house city program was 70 out of 70 beds, with 200 patients who were scheduled (on the waiting list). Similarly to the other countries, we continued to admit only urgent patients with acute coronary settings.

Results

Only one PPCI center in Belgrade (2 million inhabitants plus surrounding area; out of five centers) continue to admit COVID-negative patients with STEMI from 13of March to 11 of May, during the first pick of COVID-19 epidemic in Serbia. Out -patients cardiac rehabilitation programs were stopped. The totals of 80 patients (PCR negative) were transferred to exercised based cardiac rehabilitation secondary prevention program during the first pick of epidemic directly from acute hospital. The majority of patients were males in their 50s. All risk factors were noted and patients were with much less risk factors compared to non- epidemic era. Lipid profile was measured. Six minutes walking test was performed at the beginning and exercise plan was made. Unfortunately, exercise based three weeks in- house cardiac rehabilitation was completed in only 1% of patients while others quite the program.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic presents a time to highlight the value of home-based models as we search for ways to continue to provide care. Standardization of home based CR models is essential to provide care for a wider range of patients and circumstances in the near future.

Prediction of medium term mortality in diabetics with complex ischemic heart disease after first isolated coronary artery bypass grafting: comparison of FREEDOM, SYNTAX II and our formula

Background

Controversies exist how to predict medium term mortality (Mt) in diabetics (DM) with 3 vessel (3VD) and/or left main (LM) disease undergoing myocardial revascularization ranging from Syntax Score II (SSII) where DM was not predicative variable up to FREEDOM formula which was derived, just from population with DM (without LM), having DM patients (Pts) requirement of insulin as one of predicative variable.

Purpose

To compare predicative power of SSII, FREEDOM and formula developed in our institution in Pts post first isolated CABG with 3VD and/or LM with DM.

Methods

From our prospective data base of 2455 consecutive pts who had the first isolated CABG in the period 01/2012–12/2014 with complex Ischemic Heart Disease with 100% follow up of 4 years all-cause Mt we created by random sampling Training (1321; Mt:10.4%; DM 511; Mt:13.3%) and Validation (1134; Mt:10.0%; DM 414; Mt: 11.8%) sets. After deriving predicative formula (Cox regression) from training population we validated FREEDOM, SSII and Our Formula in 414 pts with DM from the Validation set.

Results

Characteristics of pts, our formula, predicating power by C Statistics, Calibration plots and Brier scores are presented in Picture 1.

Conclusions

FREEDOM formula designed just for DM pts with complex Ischemic Heart Disease without LM had the smallest standard error in the estimate, but moderate C statistics as Syntax Score II and our formula which may be used for pts with and without DM and 3VD and/or LM.

Picture 1

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Ministry of education, science and technology development, Republic of Serbia

P4587Impact of diabetes mellitus on myocardial revascularisation method in the light of the 2018 ESC/EACTS guidelines: Results from the PROUST Study

Background/Introduction

Results of currently available randomized trials have shown divergent outcomes in diabetic patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The 2018 ESC/EACTS guidelines on myocardial revascularization do not recommend PCI in patients with diabetes and SYNTAX score ≥23.

Purpose

We aimed to compare the all-cause 4-year mortality after revascularization for complex coronary artery disease (CAD) in diabetics.

Methods

The study group comprised consecutive diabetics with angiographically proven three-vessel CAD (≥50% diameter stenosis) and/or unprotected left main CAD (≥50% diameter stenosis) without major hemodynamic instability, who were treated in two institutions with PCI or referred for CABG between 2008 and 2010. All-cause mortality was ascertained by telephone contacts and/or from Mortality Registries.

Results

Using the hospital data system, 5145 patients were screened and 4803 elected not to follow the inclusion criteria. Out of 342 included patients, 177 patients underwent PCI and 165 patients were referred for CABG. Patients with whom CABG was performed were significantly older (64.69±8.8 vs. 62.6±9.4, p=0.03), more often on insulin treatment (91/165=55.2% vs. 26/177=14.7%, p<0.01), had more complex anatomical characteristics i.e. higher SYNTAX scores (32.5 IQR (15) vs. 18.0 IQR (15), p<0.01) and with left main stenosis (70/165=42.4% vs. 7/177=4.0%, p<0.01), compared to patients treated with PCI. The cumulative incidence rates of all-cause death were significantly different between PCI and CABG at 4 years (16/177=9.0% vs. 26/165=15.7%, respectively, log-rank p=0.03). There was a higher incidence of all-cause mortality in PCI patients with intermediate (23–32) and high (≥33) SYNTAX scores compared with those with low (0–22) SYNTAX scores (6/32=18.8% vs. 6/124=4.8%, log-rank p=0.01; 4/21=19.1% vs. 6/124=4.8%, log-rank p=0.02, respectively). On the contrary, patients who underwent CABG displayed similar morality rates irrespective of the SYNTAX scores (SYNTAX 0–22: 5/34=14.7%; SYNTAX 23–32: 9/54=16.7%; SYNTAX ≥33: 12/77=15.6%; log-rank p=0.9). Finally, when compared with CABG, more deaths were observed following PCI with intermediate and high SYNTAX scores (intermediate SYNTAX (23–32) PCI: 6/32=18.8% vs. CABG: 26/165=15.8%, log-rank p=0.94; high SYNTAX (≥33) PCI: 4/21=19.1% vs. CABG 26/165=15.8%, log-rank p=0.87).

Conclusions

During a 4-year follow-up, CABG in comparison with PCI was associated with a higher rate of all-cause death, which can be accounted for by older age and comorbidities. In diabetics, our analysis is suggestive that PCI probably should be avoided in patients with SYNTAX ≥23, which is in concordance with the most recent guidelines. Individualized risk assessment as well as quantification of CAD by SYNTAX score remains essential in choosing appropriate revascularization method in patients with diabetes and complex CAD.

Acknowledgement/Funding

None

Prospective measurement of quality of life in myotonic dystrophy type 1

INTRODUCTION

Generic patient reported outcome measures have had varied success in tracking QoL in myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1).

AIM

To analyze changes of Individualized Neuromuscular Quality of Life questionnaire (INQoL) scores in clinic patients with DM1 over a 6-year period.

METHOD

Patients completed the INQoL at baseline and after a 6-year period through their attendance in a neurology outpatient clinic. Severity of muscular involvement in DM1 was analyzed using the Muscular Impairment Rating Scale (MIRS).

RESULTS

Ninety-nine DM1 patients completed a baseline visit. Sixty-seven of these patients were retested at an interval time. The overall INQoL score improved in our sample of patients (P<.05) as did the following subscales: myotonia (P<.05), pain (P<.05), activities (P<.01), social relationships (P<.01), and body image (P<.05). No changes were observed for the independence and emotions scales. There were no differences in mean change of INQoL scores between patients with worsened MIRS and those with no change in MIRS scale after follow-up (P>.05).

CONCLUSION

Individualized Neuromuscular Quality of Life questionnaire scores improved in our cohort of DM1 patients during a 6-year period. INQoL score did not correlate with progression of muscle weakness. This must be better understood before the selection of the instrument for use in trials to measure therapeutic benefit in DM1 patients.

Caspase-2 deficiency accelerates chemically induced liver cancer in mice

Aberrant cell death/survival has a critical role in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Caspase-2, a cell death protease, limits oxidative stress and chromosomal instability. To study its role in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and DNA damage-induced liver cancer, we assessed diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-mediated tumour development in caspase-2-deficient (Casp2(-/-)) mice. Following DEN injection in young animals, tumour development was monitored for 10 months. We found that DEN-treated Casp2(-/-) mice have dramatically elevated tumour burden and accelerated tumour progression with increased incidence of HCC, accompanied by higher oxidative damage and inflammation. Furthermore, following acute DEN injection, liver injury, DNA damage, inflammatory cytokine release and hepatocyte proliferation were enhanced in mice lacking caspase-2. Our study demonstrates for the first time that caspase-2 limits the progression of tumourigenesis induced by an ROS producing and DNA damaging reagent. Our findings suggest that after initial DEN-induced DNA damage, caspase-2 may remove aberrant cells to limit liver damage and disease progression. We propose that Casp2(-/-) mice, which are more susceptible to genomic instability, are limited in their ability to respond to DNA damage and thus carry more damaged cells resulting in accelerated tumourigenesis.

Morphologic predictors of in hospital mortality in acute type III aortic dissection

INTRODUCTION

In-hospital mortality of acute aortic type III dissection ranged about 12%. Complicated dissections represent about 18% of all cases, and require open surgery or TEVAR. More morphological predictors of in hospital mortality are needed to differentiate patients who should be selected for immediate, surgical or endovascular intervention.

METHODS

From January 2009 to December 2014, 74 patients with acute aortic type III dissection were enrolled at Clinic of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery in Belgrade Serbia and retrospectively analyzed. Every MSCT was observed in regard to morphologic characteristics of dissection.

RESULTS

By analyzing morphologic parameters in patients between survival and non-survival group only localization of intimal tear showed statistical significance (p=0,020). The size of the intimal tear didn't reach statistical significance with the tendency of doing so in a larger sample of patients (p=0,063) with the cut-off value of 9.55mm. The shape of the true lumen was on the border of statistical significance (p=0,053).

CONCLUSION

Inner curvature intimal tear localization, huge intimal tear as well as elliptic shape of the true lumen together should raise awareness to a subgroup at risk for in hospital mortality. More liberal endovascular treatment in this subgroup of patients is advocated.

Significant impact of behavioral and cognitive impairment on quality of life in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1

OBJECTIVE

To assess an impact of cognitive and behavioral impairment on QoL in a larger cohort of patients with DM1.

METHODS

Sixty six genetically confirmed DM1 patients (22 with juvenile (jDM1) and 44 with adult form (aDM1) of the disease) were recruited. Following behavioral tests were used: Hamilton scales for depression and anxiety (HamD and HamA), Daytime Sleepiness Scale (DSS), and Krupp's Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Patients also underwent detailed classic neuropsychological investigation and Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB). Individualized Neuromuscular Quality of Life questionnaire (INQoL) was used as a measure of QoL.

RESULTS

Patients with jDM1 scored lower than aDM1 patients regarding total INQoL score and all INQoL subdomains, except for myotonia. Significant predictors of total INQoL score in patients with jDM1 were severity of fatigue (β=+0.60, p<0.01) and percentage of correct responses on Spatial Recognition Memory test from CANTAB that measures visuospatial abilities (β=-0.38, p<0.05). The most important predictors of total INQoL score in patients with aDM1 were severity of fatigue (β=+0.36, p<0.05) and level of education (β=-0.29, p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our results showed clear influence of different central manifestations on QoL in patients with both aDM1 and jDM1.

An unexpected role for caspase-2 in neuroblastoma

Caspase-2 has been implicated in various cellular functions, including cell death by apoptosis, oxidative stress response, maintenance of genomic stability and tumor suppression. The loss of the caspase-2 gene (Casp2) enhances oncogene-mediated tumorigenesis induced by E1A/Ras in athymic nude mice, and also in the Eμ-Myc lymphoma and MMTV/c-neu mammary tumor mouse models. To further investigate the function of caspase-2 in oncogene-mediated tumorigenesis, we extended our studies in the TH-MYCN transgenic mouse model of neuroblastoma. Surprisingly, we found that loss of caspase-2 delayed tumorigenesis in the TH-MYCN neuroblastoma model. In addition, tumors from TH-MYCN/Casp2^−/− mice were predominantly thoracic paraspinal tumors and were less vascularized compared with tumors from their TH-MYCN/Casp2^+/+ counterparts. We did not detect any differences in the expression of neuroblastoma-associated genes in TH-MYCN/Casp2^−/− tumors, or in the activation of Ras/MAPK signaling pathway that is involved in neuroblastoma progression. Analysis of expression array data from human neuroblastoma samples showed a correlation between low caspase-2 levels and increased survival. However, caspase-2 levels correlated with clinical outcome only in the subset of MYCN-non-amplified human neuroblastoma. These observations indicate that caspase-2 is not a suppressor in MYCN-induced neuroblastoma and suggest a tissue and context-specific role for caspase-2 in tumorigenesis.

Epidemiological study of adult-onset myasthenia gravis in the area of Belgrade (Serbia) in the period 1979-2008

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence and incidence of adult-onset myasthenia gravis (MG) in the Belgrade population from 1979 to 2008.

METHODS

Data on the number of MG patients and their basic demographic and clinical characteristics were collected from hospital records (1979-1992) and the Belgrade MG Registry (1993-2008). Incidence and prevalence were standardized by the direct method (using the world standard population). A time-trend analysis of MG incidence was performed using a linear regression model.

RESULTS

During the study period 562 cases (316 women, 246 men) were registered. On December 31st, 2008, the standardized prevalence (according to the world standard population) was 188.3/1,000,000 (women: 237.8/1,000,000; men: 139.4/1,000,000). The average annual standardized incidence rate was 13.3/1,000,000 (women: 14.1/1,000,000; men: 12.2/1,000,000). The incidence rates tended to increase significantly in both sexes during the study period (y = 3.299 + 14.363x, p = 0.002). Age-specific incidence rates for women demonstrated a bimodal pattern, with the first peak in the 20- to 29-year age group and the second one in the ≥70-year group. For both genders, an increase in age-specific incidence rates was registered for all age groups, although this was significant (p = 0.001) only for an MG onset of ≥60 years of age.

CONCLUSIONS

The study confirms an increase in the incidence of MG in the area of Belgrade during the study period, especially for those with MG onset after 60 years of age.

Incidence of complications in intrahospital transport of critically ill patients--experience in an Austrian university hospital

BACKGROUND

During the past decade, considerable changes and advances have been made in intrahospital transport of critically ill patients. Despite the fact that intrahospital transport is nowadays regarded an extension of the intensive care continuum, it still poses a risk for the patient.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective, observational study was designed to determine the occurrence rate of transport-related complications in the altered setting of intrahospital transports and to identify possible confounding sources of increased risk. In an eight-month period, adults and infants from anesthesiologic intensive care units were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 226 patients underwent 452 intrahospital transports. The overall rate of critical incidents was low (4.2%) and no direct association between mortality and intrahospital transport was observed. In addition to the known risk factors of ventilatory support with positive end-expiratory pressure and requirement for catecholamine support, the necessity for intrahospital transport in the acute vs. elective situation was found to significantly increase the risk of complications.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that advances in the management of intrahospital transport of critically ill patients have led to an overall decrease of complications. However, an undeniable risk remains, especially in relation to disease severity and the urgency of such transports.

Molecular analysis of Y chromosome microdeletions in idiopathic cases of male infertility in Serbia

The aim of this study was to detect frequency of microdeletions of Y chromosome in idiopathic cases of male infertility in Serbian population. Patients were subjected to detailed clinical, endocrinological and cytogenetic examinations. Ninety patients with normal cytogenetic findings with azoospermia and severe oligozoospermia were included in the study. In these patients microdeletion analysis was performed by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method on DNA extracted from peripheral blood. In each case 6 markers in azoospermia factor (AZF) regions were tested: sY84, sY86 (AZFa); sY127, sY134 (AZFb); sY254, sY255 (AZFc). Deletions on Y chromosome were detected in 14 of 90 cases (15.6%), 9 with azoospermia and 5 with severe oligozoospermia. Of total number of 17 deletions, 11 (64.7%) were detected in AZFc region, 3 (17.6%) in AZFa region and 3 (17.6%) in AZFb region. Microdeletions in AZF region of Y chromosome, especially AZFc microdeletions, represent common genetic cause of idiopathic azoospermia and severe oligozoospremia in Serbian infertile men. Therefore, testing for Y chromosome microdeletions should be considered as an important element in diagnosis and genetic counseling of infertile men in Serbia and decisions regarding the assisted reproduction should be made based on the presence and type of AZF microdeletions.

PCR amplification on whole blood samples treated with different commonly used anticoagulants

The aim of this study was to explore the influence of different anticoagulants on PCR amplification, as well as to optimize PCR amplification of blood samples for successful mutation detection. For the purpose of this study the amplification of part of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene exon 4, in which mutation C677T is located, was performed. With the exception of sodium heparin, the presence of other commonly used anticoagulants (sodium citrate, K3EDTA, lithium heparin) made it possible to obtain satisfactory amplification. The described method, apart from saving time and material, enables successful PCR-based analysis even when a very small amount of blood sample is available.

Analysis of common CFTR polymorphisms 5T, M470V and R75Q in healthy Serbian population

Three common CFTR polymorphisms, 5T, M470V and R75Q, have been shown to be relatively frequent in Serbian patients with monosymptomatic CF disorders. Since there is a variation in distribution of common polymorphisms among different populations, it was important to compare their frequencies in patients with the frequencies in healthy population in order to assess the possible role of these polymorphisms in the monosymptomatic CF disorders. Samples obtained from 100 healthy Serbian individuals were analyzed for the presence of CFTR 5T, M470V and R75Q variants by PSM, RFLP and DGGE methods, respectively. Allele 5T was present in two individuals, giving the allelic frequency of 1% (2/200 alleles). The frequency obtained for allele M470 was 45% (90/200 alleles), while V470 allele was present with the frequency of 55% (110/200 alleles). Polymorphism R75Q was present in two individuals, with allelic frequency of 1% (2/200 alleles). Our study has shown that the frequencies of two common polymorphisms, 5T and M470V, differ significantly in Serbian population in comparison with other South European populations. Since it appears that Serbian population has a specific distribution of studied CFTR gene variants, it would also be interesting to analyze other common variants of this gene in our population. Such data can also be potentially useful as anthropogenetic markers in population studies.

Evaluation of an end-tidal portable ETCO2 colorimetric breath indicator (COLIBRI)

Evaluation of tube position is important after in-hospital and prehospital emergency intubation. Colorimetric breath indicators are devices for immediate control of tube positioning by showing a color change according to end-tidal CO2 (ETCO2) concentrations. We hypothesized that colorimetric breath indicators can yield reliable results for confirmation of tube position. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a new colorimetric breath indicator (Colibri, ICOR AB, Bromma, Sweden) in 147 patients during general anesthesia, in critically ill patients, during transport to in-hospital interventions, and in a study design after insertion of a second tube into the esophagus in long-term ventilated patients. The Colibri was attached between the respective airway and ventilatory tubing. Seventy-three patients were investigated during general anesthesia, 39 patients were observed during long-term ventilation with an average duration of 33 hours, in 15 patients during transport to an intervention for up to 4 hours, and in 20 long-term ventilated patients at the medical intensive-care unit after insertion of a second tube intentionally into the esophagus with the help of a laryngoscope. The Colibri worked well in all groups investigated and showed no false results in the group with tubes inserted into the trachea and esophagus. Data suggest that the Colibri might serve as a valuable tool for evaluating and controlling tube position. This device is independent of power supply or electronic equipment, portable, small, and immediately ready for use.

Assessment of ventricular contractile function during orthotopic liver transplantation

Hemodynamic alterations are a well-known phenomenon that influence the outcome of orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). Whether or not myocardial dysfunction, which has various causes, contributes to this instability is still debated. Previous transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) studies have presented controversial data, not leading to final clarification. This is mainly because the impact of other contributing factors (inotropic support, alternating preload conditions and temperature) remained unaccounted for. We therefore measured the left ventricular shortening fraction (LVSF), a parameter reflecting myocardial contractility, in 10 consecutive patients undergoing OLT without veno-venous bypass. We measured during preparation (PP), during the anhepatic (AP) phase and the immediate reperfusion phase (RP). During the AP we observed a significant decrease of LVSF which never fell to subnormal levels in the majority of our patients, whereas during the RP, LVSF returned to PP values. These findings support the assumption that myocardial function is influenced by OLT, but that it plays only a minor role in the occurrence of hemodynamic instability, which could mainly be attributed to volume fluctuations.

[Intraarticular pathology of atraumatic shoulder dislocations. An arthroscopic study]

AIM OF THE STUDY

According to the literature, atraumatic shoulder dislocations occur without or only minor trauma,self-reduction and no or little pain. Little is known about intraarticular pathology in this entity. It was the purpose of our study to evaluate such findings.

METHODS

During a 2-year period,226 patients had surgery for shoulder dislocation.28 patients met the criteria for atraumatic dislocation as above (group A). Patients with bony pathology or recurrent microtrauma were excluded. All had been treated with a rehabilitation program without success.28 consecutive patients with surgery after posttraumatic dislocation served as a control group (group B). At the beginning of the surgery,arthroscopy was performed in all patients and the intraarticular findings were recorded. For the capsulo-labral pathology,we determined 3 types: type I had capsular elongation or scarring and included so called "non-Bankart-lesions"; type II had classic "Bankart"-lesions and type III more complex capsulo-labral lesions like e.g. "ALSPA"-lesions.

RESULTS

The mean age in group A was 27.6 y and 26.2 y in group B.12 patients in group A and 5 in group B were female. The average no.of dislocations was 10 (1-30) or 9 (1-28), respectively. In group A we saw type I lesions in 11 patients (39.3%), type II lesions in 9 (32.1%) and type III lesions in 8 (28.6%) patients. In group B we found type I lesions in 8 (28.6%), type II lesions in 4 (14.3%) and type III lesions in 16 (57.1%) patients.Hill-Sachs lesions were found in 22 (78.6%) and 23 (82.1%) of the patients, respectively.Also, we saw chondral glenoid damage, cuff lesions and SLAP-lesions in both groups.

CONCLUSION

The above mentioned criteria for atraumatic shoulder dislocation do not exclude intraarticular pathology comparable to posttraumatic cases, at least for patients, who do not respond to a conservative treatment. Besides the etiology, the given pathology must be considered for therapy.

Analgesic effects of caudal and intramuscular S(+)-ketamine in children

BACKGROUND

Previous studies suggest that caudal administration of ketamine cause effective analgesia. The purpose of the current study was to compare the clinical effectiveness and plasma concentrations of S(+)-ketamine after caudal or intramuscular administration in children to distinguish between local and systemic analgesia.

METHODS

After induction of general anesthesia, 42 patients, aged 1 to 7 yr, scheduled to undergo inguinal hernia repair randomly received a caudal (caudal group) or intramuscular (intramuscular group) injection of 1 mg/kg S(+)-ketamine. Intraoperatively, heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and arterial oxygen saturation were measured. Postoperative measurements included duration of analgesia, a four-point sedation score, and hemodynamic and respiratory monitoring for 6 h in the recovery room. Analgesic requirements in the recovery room were assessed by an independent blinded observer using an observational pain/discomfort scale (OPS). Plasma samples for determination of ketamine concentrations were obtained before and 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, and 180 min after injection of S(+)-ketamine.

RESULTS

A significantly longer duration of analgesia (P < 0.001) was observed after caudal administration (528 min [220-1,440 min]; median [range]) when compared with intramuscular administration (108 min [62-1,440 min]) of S(+)-ketamine. Plasma levels of ketamine were significantly lower from 10 to 45 min after caudal administration than after intramuscular injection.

CONCLUSION

Caudal S(+)-ketamine provides good intra- and postoperative analgesia in children. Despite similar plasma concentrations during most of the postoperative observation period, caudal S(+)-ketamine provided more effective analgesia than did intramuscular S(+)-ketamine, indicating a local analgesic effect.

The use of a tracheostomy tube for enteral stomal control

We found that the use of a zero-pressure tracheal foam cuff was the ideal way to drain the intestines through a colostomy, reducing skin irritations and mucosal damage.

Intrathoracic fluid volumes and pulmonary function during orthotopic liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

Impaired pulmonary function is a frequent finding in patients undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). Experimental data suggest an essential contribution of splanchnic ischemia and reperfusion as a result of intraoperative volume shifts, i.e., the accumulation of extravascular lung water (EVLW). Increases of intrathoracic blood volume (ITBV) and pulmonary blood volume (PBV) might additionally influence pulmonary capillary fluid filtration. The main objective of this study was to determine the intrathoracic volume changes during OLT and to test whether there were any relationships between intra- and extravascular volume shifts and pulmonary function, as determined by the calculation of venous admixture (QS/QT) and alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient (AaDO2).

METHODS

Twenty-five patients undergoing OLT were studied. Using the transpulmonary double indicator dilution method, ITBV, PBV, and EVLW were determined from the mean transit times and exponential decay times of the indocyanine green and the thermal indicator curves recorded simultaneously with a fiberoptic catheter in the descending aorta. Recordings were made after induction of anesthesia, at the end of the anhepatic stage, immediately after reperfusion, and 1 and 4 h postoperatively.

RESULTS

Significant increases in QS/QT related to changes of ITBV were observed after reperfusion. Only a minor impact on AaDO2 was perceived. EVLW remained constant during the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Postreperfusion increases of ITBV influence pulmonary function, as demonstrated by the increase in QS/QT. However, they need not be associated with greater EVLW levels, and impact on oxygenation is less severe than assumed. Hence, sufficient mechanisms protecting oxygenation and stalling increased EVLW seem to be present during uncomplicated human OLT.

The role of magnetic resonance imaging in routine decision making for meniscal surgery

This clinical study evaluated factors affecting the decision for meniscal surgery in a patient population seen routinely at a trauma clinic. The study hypothesis was that patients who sustain a traumatic injury to the knee or have a long history of clinical symptoms are likelier to be operated on. We investigated 149 patients clinically and by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Group A (n = 62) underwent arthroscopic surgery and group B (n = 87) were treated conservatively. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to examine correlations with regard to age, gender, injury pattern, period between the injury and first clinical examination, and MRI results. We found no significant difference between the two groups with regard to gender (P = 0.1), injury pattern (P = 0.44), or period between injury and first clinical examination (P = 0.5). Patients in group A were significantly older than those in group B (P = 0.044), and, as expected, MRI signal alterations were significantly higher in group A than in group B (P = 0.001). In acutely injured patients MRI helps to establish an accurate diagnosis, and in cases of positive MRI findings in a symptomatic patient, the surgeon should not wait 4-6 weeks but should immediately recommend surgery.

New instrument that uses near-infrared spectroscopy for the monitoring of human muscle oxygenation

BACKGROUND

Early detection of vascular impairments after free tissue transfers are essential to prevent flap failure. Near-infrared spectroscopy showed good promise to monitor flaps at deep levels successfully without being invasive. The purpose of this study was to test whether the INVOS 3100 cerebral oxymeter is capable of detecting circulatory impairments.

METHODS

In 10 healthy adults, near-infrared spectroscopy was used to measure regional saturation values during tourniquet ischemia and venous outflow restriction, in two test cycles. The probe, containing an infrared-light-emitting source and two infrared-light sensors, was placed below the elbow above the brachioradialis muscle. Statistical comparison of the data was performed using the Friedman test and the Wilcoxon-Wilcox test.

RESULTS

Venous and arterial occlusions were characterized by an instantaneous fall of the regional saturation. Arterial occlusion showed a mean decrease of the saturation values down to 28+/-9%, whereas venous occlusion showed a mean fall of saturation values down to 51+/-12%. These falls were significant after 3 minutes of occlusion compared with baseline values (74+/-6%). The differences between arterial and venous occlusions were statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

This study, designed to test less-expensive equipment, was able to measure absolute values, and was not prone to interference caused by probe movement, providing information on the oxygenation profile accurately and noninvasively, and distinguishing between arterial and venous occlusion.

Recommendations for the diagnosis of traumatic meniscal injuries in athletes

It has always been difficult to develop a method of correctly evaluating knee injuries and, in turn, to devise the appropriate rehabilitation programme. Flawless diagnosis of meniscal injury is necessary, considering the diverse consequences of this injury for patients, and even more so in relation to athletes, bearing in mind the intensified physical demands on their bodies. There is no doubt that an accurate and concise clinical evaluation of patients with injuries to the knee is the basis for an exact diagnosis and successful treatment. The use of noninvasive methods, such as magnetic resonance imaging, in addition to clinical evaluation is recommended because of their high accuracy and negative predictive value. The use of invasive methods, such as arthroscopic operations, should be restricted to treatment, and not be used for diagnosis.

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction alters the patellar alignment

Although there are many articles dealing with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, there are none dealing with the possibility of changes of the patellofemoral alignment after these procedures. Forty-six patients were evaluated preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively, after undergoing intra-articular ACL reconstruction, for changes of the patellofemoral alignment. Patella-tilt and congruence angles were measured on tangential view radiographs that were taken in the supine position. Analysis of covariance was performed and revealed a significant change of the congruence angle 1 year postoperatively. The patella-tilt did not change. One year postoperatively, the patella shifted on average 5 degrees medially after ACL grafting. It can be deduced that anterior knee pain after ACL reconstruction could be caused by distinct changes in the patellofemoral alignment.

Open meniscal repair: clinical and magnetic resonance imaging findings after twelve years

The purpose of this study was to document the longterm clinical, radiographic, and magnetic resonance imaging results after open meniscal repair. Twenty-two patients, with 23 open meniscal repairs, were evaluated after a mean follow-up of 12.9 years using patient history, physical examination, KT-1000 arthrometer testing, the "Orthopaedische Arbeitsgemeinschaft Knie" knee evaluation scheme, Tegner activity score, weightbearing radiographs, and magnetic resonance imaging. Two of the 22 patients had retears and both occurred in unstable knees. Radiographs revealed no degenerative changes in 17 of the 23 compartments. Grade III and IV signal alterations were present on magnetic resonance imaging scans in more than 50% of the repaired menisci. We concluded that the longterm survival rate of repaired menisci was 91%, and that magnetic resonance imaging is unsuitable for diagnosis of the healing process of a repaired meniscus.

Patellar alignment evaluated by MRI

We analyzed the congruence of the articular cartilage surfaces and the corresponding subchondral bone in the patellar joint. 20 volunteers underwent MRI investigations of the right patellar joint in 20 degree and 45 degree flexion in the axial plane. The sulcus, congruence, and lateral patellofemoral angles, measured on MRI slices centered through the midtransverse patella, were recorded. In 20 degree and 45 degree knee flexion, the bony sulcus and lateral patellofemoral angles were significantly different from the respective cartilagineous angle. We conclude that 1) measurement of the bony sulcus and lateral patellofemoral angles does not allow conclusions about the articular cartilage surface and its thickness, 2) the bony congruence angle corresponds well to the articular cartilage surface as an indicator of patellar centralization.

Shortening of the patellar tendon after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

In this prospective study, patellar height changes were investigated after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with a mean follow-up of 22.4 months. A total of 114 patients were included. Fifty-two patients (group A) were treated by multiple suture repair, 27 patients (group B) underwent acute ACL reconstruction, and 35 patients (group C) underwent ACL reconstruction > or =6 weeks after injury with a patellar tendon graft. The patellar vertical height ratios (VHR) were evaluated preoperatively (VHR 1), 6 months postoperatively (VHR 2), and at follow-up (VHR 3). For the studied questions, the following answers were obtained: (1) The change of the patella height was the same in all three groups (i.e., disregarding the different surgical procedures). (2) The time elapsed between injury and ACL reconstruction did not influence the shortening of the patellar tendon. (3) Women showed a more pronounced shortening of the patellar tendon than did men. (4) A significant shortening of the patellar tendon occurred in 30% of our patients, and the process of shortening was finished 6 months postoperatively. (5) Anterior knee pain was present in 27.2% of our patients and occurred significantly more often after patellar tendon graftings. (6) Age had no influence on the changes of the patellar height.

No benefit of bracing on the early outcome after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Forty patients were prospectively investigated to evaluate the effects of bandaging after reconstructive surgery of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). For the 6 weeks of the postoperative course, the operated knee was bandaged in 20 patients (group A) and braced in the other 20 patients (group B). The isokinetic torque for extension and flexion (Cybex) and the range of motion (ROM) were investigated after 6, 12, 24 and 52 weeks postoperatively. At 24 weeks and 1 year postoperatively the stability of the knee joint (KT-1000) as well as the clinical outcome ('Orthopädische Arbeitsgemeinschaft Knie') were evaluated. No statistically significant differences between the two groups were found for the extension and flexion strengths. Free ROM was achieved significantly earlier in group A than in group B. No statistically significant differences regarding the stability of the operated knee joint nor the early outcome were found between the two groups. This study demonstrated that the renunciation of using a brace had no adverse effect on the early outcome with respect to stability and function. On the contrary, bracing seems not to be mandatory after ACL reconstruction when the central third of the patellar tendon is used.