Multicentric experience of antegrade thoracic endovascular aortic repair for the treatment of thoracic aortic diseases

OBJECTIVES

Aim of this multicentre retrospective cohort study is to evaluate technical success, early and late outcomes of thoracic endovascular repair (TEVAR) with grafts deployed upside-down through antegrade access, to treat thoracic aortic diseases.

METHODS

Antegrade TEVAR performed between January 2010 and December 2021 have been collected and analyzed. Both elective and urgent procedures were included. Exclusion criteria were endografts deployed into previous or concomitant surgical or endovascular repairs.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients were enrolled; 13 males (94%) with mean age of 71 years (IQR 62; 78). Five patients underwent urgent procedures (2 ruptured aortas and 3 symptomatic patients). Indication to treatment were 8 (57%) aneurysms/pseudoaneurysms, 3 (21%) dissections and 3 (21%) penetrating aortic ulcers. Technical success was achieved in all procedures. Early mortality occurred in 4 (28%) cases, all urgent procedures. Median follow-up was 13 months (IQR 1; 44). Late death occurred in 2 (20%) patients, both operated in elective setting. The first died at 19 months due to aortic-related reintervention, the second died at 34 months for a not aortic-related cause. Two patients (14%) underwent aortic-related reintervention for late type I endoleak. Survival rate in elective procedures was 100%, 84% and 67% at 12, 24 and 36 months respectively. Freedom from reintervention was 92%, 56% and 56% at 12, 24 and 36 months respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Antegrade TEVAR can seldomly be considered an alternative when traditional retrograde approach is not feasible. Despite good technical success and low access-site complications, this study demonstrates high rates of late type I endoleak and aortic-related reinterventions.

Plug-Based Embolization Techniques of Aortic Side Branches during Standard and Complex Endovascular Aortic Repair

Vascular plugs are an evolving family of vessel occluders providing a single-device embolization system for large, high-flow arteries. Nitinol mesh plugs and polytetrafluoroethylene membrane plugs are available in different configurations and sizes to occlude arteries from 3 to 20 mm in diameter. Possible applications during complex endovascular aortic procedures are aortic branch embolization to prevent endoleak or to gain an adequate landing zone, directional branch occlusion, and false lumen embolization in aortic dissection. Plugs are delivered through catheters or introducers, and their technical and clinical results are comparable to those of coil embolization. Plugs are more accurate than coils as repositionable devices, less prone to migration, and have fewer blooming artifacts on postoperative computed tomography imaging. Their main drawback is the need for larger delivery systems. This narrative review describes up-to-date techniques and technology for plug embolization in complex aortic repair.

Comparative outcomes of aortobifemoral bypass with or without previous endovascular kissing stenting of the aortoiliac bifurcation

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this multicenter national study was to compare the outcomes of primary open surgery by aorto-bifemoral bypass (ABFB) with those performed after a failed endovascular treatment (EVT) by kissing stent technique for complex aortoiliac occlusive disease (AIOD) lesions (TransAtlantic Inter-Society Consensus [TASC] II C and D).

METHODS

All consecutive ABFB cases carried out at 12 vascular surgery centers between 2016 and 2021 were retrospectively collected and analyzed. Data included patients' baseline demographics and clinical characteristics, procedural details, perioperative outcomes, and follow-up results (survival, patency, amputation). The study cohort was divided into two groups based on indications for ABFB: primary treatment vs secondary treatment after EVT failure.

RESULTS

Overall, 329 patients underwent ABFB during the study period (71% males; mean age, 64 years), of which 285 were primary treatment and 44 were after prior EVT. At baseline, no significant differences were found between study groups in demographics and clinical characteristics. TASC C and D lesions were similarly represented in the study groups (TASC C: 22% vs 78%; TASC D: 16% vs 84%). No major differences were found between study groups in terms of procedural details, early mortality, and perioperative complications. At 5 years, primary patency rates were significantly higher for primary ABFB (88%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 93.2%-84%) as compared with ABFB after prior EVT (69%; 95% CI 84.9%-55%; log rank P value < .001); however, the 5-year rates of secondary patency (100% vs 95%; 95% CI, 100%-86%) and limb salvage (97%; 95% CI, 99%-96 vs 97%; 95% CI, 100%-94%) were similar between study groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical treatment of TASC C/D AIOD with ABFB seems to be equally safe and effective when performed after prior EVT, although primary ABFB seemed to have higher primary patency rates. Despite the need for more frequent reinterventions, secondary patency and limb salvage rates were similar. However, future large prospective trials are required to confirm these findings.

Guidelines on the diagnosis, treatment and management of visceral and renal arteries aneurysms: a joint assessment by the Italian Societies of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery (SICVE) and Medical and Interventional Radiology (SIRM)

The objective of these Guidelines is to provide recommendations for the classification, indication, treatment and management of patients suffering from aneurysmal pathology of the visceral and renal arteries. The methodology applied was the GRADE-SIGN version, and followed the instructions of the AGREE quality of reporting checklist. Clinical questions, structured according to the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome) model, were formulated, and systematic literature reviews were carried out according to them. Selected articles were evaluated through specific methodological checklists. Considered Judgments were compiled for each clinical question in which the characteristics of the body of available evidence were evaluated in order to establish recommendations. Overall, 79 clinical practice recommendations were proposed. Indications for treatment and therapeutic options were discussed for each arterial district, as well as follow-up and medical management, in both candidate patients for conservative therapy and patients who underwent treatment. The recommendations provided by these guidelines simplify and improve decision-making processes and diagnostic-therapeutic pathways of patients with visceral and renal arteries aneurysms. Their widespread use is recommended.

Twenty-Five Year Multicentre Experience of Explantation of Infected Abdominal Aortic Endografts

We report a multicenter experience of open conversions (OC) for aortic endograft infections (AEI). We retrospectively analyzed all patients who underwent OC for AEI after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), from 1997 to 2021 in 12 Italian centers. The endpoints were as follows: mortality (30-days, in-hospital), major postoperative complications. Follow-up data included: survival, aortic-related complications, infection persistence or reoccurrence. Fifty-eight patients (mean age: 73.8 ± 6.6 years) were included. Median time from EVAR to OC was 14 months (interquartile range 7-45). Thirty-five patients (60.3%) were symptomatic at presentation. Aortic reconstruction was anatomic in 32 patients (55.2%), extra-anatomic in 26 (44.8%). Thirty-day mortality was 31% (18/58). Six additional patients died after 30 days during the same hospitalization (in-hospital mortality: 41.4%). Most common post-operative complications included respiratory failure (38.6%) and renal insufficiency (35.1%). During 28.1 ± 4 months follow-up, 4 aneurysm-related deaths were recorded. Infection re-occurred in 29.4% of the patients. Estimated survival was 50% at 1 year, and 30% at 5 years, and was significantly lower for patients who underwent extra-anatomic reconstructions (37 vs 61% at 1 year, 16 vs 45% at 5 years; log-rank P = .021). OC for AEI is associated with high early mortality. The poor mid-term survival is influenced by aortic complications and infection re-occurrence.

Emergent endovascular treatment options for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm

For a long time, parallel grafting, physician-modified endografts, and, more recently, in situ fenestration were the only go-to endovascular options for ruptured thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm, offered mixed results, and depended mainly on the operator's and center's experience. As custom-made devices have become an established endovascular treatment option for elective thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm, they are not a viable option in the emergency setting, as endograft production can take up to 4 months. The development of off-the-shelf (OTS) multibranched devices with a standardized configuration has allowed the treatment of ruptured thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm with emergent branched endovascular procedures. The Zenith t-Branch device (Cook Medical) was the first readily available graft outside the United States to receive the CE mark (in 2012) and is currently the most studied device for those indications. A new device, the E-nside thoracoabdominal branch endoprosthesis OTS multibranched endograft (Artivion), has been made commercially available, and the GORE EXCLUDER thoracoabdominal branch endoprosthesis OTS multibranched endograft (W. L. Gore and Associates) is expected to be released in 2023. Due to the lack of guidelines on ruptured thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm, this review summarizes the available treatment options (ie, parallel grafts, physician-modified endografts, in situ fenestrations, and OTS multibranched devices), compares the indications and contraindications, and points out the evidence gaps that should be filled in the next decade.

A technical review of bail-out procedures to place Najuta stent-graft into the ascending aorta

BACKGROUND

The Najuta stent-graft (Kawasumi Laboratories Inc., Tokyo, Japan) is usually easily advanced to the correct deployment position in the ascending aorta thanks to the pre-curved delivery J-sheath with all fenestrations automatically oriented towards the supra-aortic vessels. Aortic arch anatomy and delivery system stiffness could however represent limitations for proper endograft advancement, especially when the aortic arch bends sharply. The aim of this technical note is to report a series of bail-out procedures that could be useful to overcome the difficulties encountered during the Najuta stent-graft advancement up to the ascending aorta.

MAIN BODY

The insertion, positioning and deployment of a Najuta stent-graft requires a through-and-through guidewire technique using a .035″ 400 cm hydrophilic nitinol guidewire (Radifocus™ Guidewire M Non-Vascular, Terumo Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) with right brachial and both femoral accesses. When standard maneuver to put the endograft tip into the aortic arch, some bail-out procedures can be applied to obtain proper positioning. Five techniques are described into the text: positioning of a coaxial extra-stiff guidewire; positioning of a long introducer sheath down to the aortic root from the right brachial access; inflation of a balloon inside the ostia of the supra-aortic vessels; inflation of a balloon inside the aortic arch (coaxial to the device); and transapical access technique. This is a troubleshooting guide for allowing physicians to overcome various difficulties with the Najuta endograft as well as for other similar devices.

SHORT CONCLUSION

Technical issues in advancing the delivery system of Najuta stent-graft could occur. Therefore, the rescue procedures described in this technical note could be useful to guarantee the correct positioning and deployment of the stent-graft.

Occult endoleaks revealed during open conversions after endovascular aortic aneurysm repair in a multicenter experience

BACKGROUND

An occult endoleak (OE) may be the underlying cause of aneurysm sac expansion after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). The aim of this study is to describe intraoperative findings of OE during surgical endograft explantations.

METHODS

This is a retrospective, multicenter analysis of all open conversions (OC) after EVAR from 1997 to 2020 in 12 vascular centers. We excluded patients with a preoperative diagnosis of endograft infection, endograft thrombosis, and thoracic-EVAR. An OE was defined as an endoleak revealed during OC not shown on preoperative imaging, which was likely the real cause for sac enlargement. We reported the number of OE, and we described the type of OE in relation to the initial alleged or associated endoleak. A separate analysis of patients with an initial diagnosis of endotension was also performed.

RESULTS

An OE was found in 32/255 patients (12.5%). In the 78.1% of the cases (25/32) a type II endoleak hid a type I or III endoleak. Endotension was the initial diagnosis of 26/255 patients (10.2%). In 4/26 cases (15.4%), a type I or II OE was revealed. In 5/26 cases (19.2%) an endograft infection was found intraoperatively. In 2/26 cases we found an angiosarcoma. Fifteen cases of endotension (57.7%) remained unexplained.

CONCLUSIONS

OE represent a not negligible cause of EVAR failure. A type II endoleak associated with sac enlargement may actually conceal a higher-flow endoleak. In most of the cases, the initial diagnosis of endotension remains unexplained. However, endotension sometimes conceals severe underlying pathologies such as infections.

Predicting early mortality following single-stage coronary artery or valve surgery and carotid endarterectomy

BACKGROUND

Surgical management of coexisting cardiac disease and extra-cranial carotid artery disease is a controversial area of debate. Thus, in this challenging scenario, risk stratification may play a key role in surgical decision making.

AIM

To report the results of single-stage coronary/valve surgery (CVS) and carotid endarterectomy (CEA), and to identify predictive factors associated with 30-day mortality.

METHODS

This was a multicenter, retrospective study of prospectively maintained data from three academic tertiary referral hospitals. For this study, only patients treated with single-stage CVS, meaning coronary artery bypass surgery or valve surgery, and CEA between March 1, 2000 and March 30, 2020, were included. Primary outcome measure of interest was 30-day mortality. Secondary outcomes were neurologic events rate, and a composite endpoint of postoperative stroke/death rate.

RESULTS

During the study period, there were 386 patients who underwent the following procedures: CEA with isolated coronary artery bypass graft in 243 (63%) cases, with isolated valve surgery in 40 (10.4%), and combination of coronary artery bypass grafting and valve surgery in 103 (26.7%). Postoperative neurologic event rate was 2.6% (n = 10) which includes 5 (1.3%) transient ischemic attacks and 5 (1.3%) strokes (major n = 3, minor n = 2). The 30-day mortality rate was 3.9% (n = 15). Predictors of 30-day mortality included preoperative left heart insufficiency (odds ratio [OR]: 5.44, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.63-18.17, p = .006), and postoperative stroke (OR: 197.11, 95% CI: 18.28-2124.93, p < .001). No predictor for postoperative stroke and for composite endpoint was identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering that postoperative stroke rate and mortality was acceptably low, single-stage approach is an effective option in such selected high-risk patients.

Long-term outcomes of endovascular aortic repair with flared iliac limb endografts in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm and aneurysmal common iliac arteries

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes of endovascular aneurysm repair with flared iliac limb grafts in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and aneurysmal common iliac arteries (CIAs).

METHODS

This is a multicenter, retrospective, observational cohort study that involves four tertiary referral hospitals between May 1, 2005, and April 30, 2019. Primary outcomes were freedom from aneurysm-related mortality (ARM), and freedom from iliac-related reintervention.

RESULTS

We studied 995 aneurysmal iliac limbs in 795 (85.2%) patients who met the inclusion criteria. Median AAA diameter was 55mm (IQR: 51-60). Early mortality occurred in 3 (0.4%) patients. The median of follow-up time was 52 months (IQR: 26-88). Estimated freedom from ARM was 99±0.002% (95% CI: 99-99.9) at 1 year, and 99±0.004% (95% CI: 97.9-99.6) at 5-years. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (HR=6.4, 95% CI: 1.7-24.0, P=0.006), chronic kidney disease (HR=5.5, 95% CI: 1.4-21.9, P=0.016), and the presence of an aneurysmal left CIA (HR=5.3, 95% CI: 1.0.5-27.4, P=0.044) was associated with ARM. There were 42 (7.3%) late iliac-related events (limb occlusion, N.=5; iliac-related endoleaks, N.=37). Estimated freedom from iliac-related reintervention was 98±0.003% (95% CI: 97-99) at 1 year, and 95±0.01% (95% CI: 92.7-96.7) at 5-years, which was associated with an aneurysmal right CIA (HR=2.2, 95% CI: 1.3-3.9; P=0.005), and age ≥78 years (HR=1.9, 95% CI: 1.01-1.3; P=0.039).

CONCLUSIONS

EVAR flared iliac limb grafts showed a high rate of freedom from ARM and a low reintervention rate. Owing to these results, it can be a durable and stable alternative for patients aged >78 years.

Guidelines on the management of abdominal aortic aneurysms: updates from the Italian Society of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery (SICVE)

The objective of these Guidelines was to revise and update the previous 2016 Italian Guidelines on Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Disease, in accordance with the National Guidelines System (SNLG), to guide every practitioner toward the most correct management pathway for this pathology. The methodology applied in this update was the GRADE-SIGN version methodology, following the instructions of the AGREE quality of reporting checklist as well. The first methodological step was the formulation of clinical questions structured according to the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) model according to which the Recommendations were issued. Then, systematic reviews of the Literature were carried out for each PICO question or for homogeneous groups of questions, followed by the selection of the articles and the assessment of the methodological quality for each of them using qualitative checklists. Finally, a Considered Judgment form was filled in for each clinical question, in which the features of the evidence as a whole are assessed to establish the transition from the level of evidence to the direction and strength of the recommendations. These guidelines outline the correct management of patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm in terms of screening and surveillance. Medical management and indication for surgery are discussed, as well as preoperative assessment regarding patients' background and surgical risk evaluation. Once the indication for surgery has been established, the options for traditional open and endovascular surgery are described and compared, focusing specifically on patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms as well. Finally, indications for early and late postoperative follow-up are explained. The most recent evidence in the Literature has been able to confirm and possibly modify the previous recommendations updating them, likewise to propose new recommendations on prospectively relevant topics.

Multicentre Comparison between Open Conversions and Semi-Conversions for Late Endoleaks after EVAR

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to compare early and follow-up outcomes of late open conversions (LOC, with complete or partial endograft explantation) and semi-conversions (SC, with endograft preservation) after EVAR in a multicentre experience.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All-LOC and SC performed from 1997 to 2020 in 11 vascular centres were compared. Endograft infections or thrombosis were excluded. Primary endpoints were early mortality, and long-term survival estimates. Secondary endpoints were differences in: postoperative complication rates, conversion-related complications during follow-up.

RESULTS

In the considered period, 347 patients underwent surgery for EVAR complications. Among these, 270 were operated on for endoleaks (222 LOC, 48 SC). The 2 groups were homogeneous in terms of ASA score (3.2±0.7 LOC, 3±0.5 SC; P=.128) and main endograft characteristics (suprarenal fixation, bifurcated/aorto-uni-iliac configuration). Mean age was 75±8 at LOC and 79±7 at SC (P=.009). Reasons for LOC were: 62.2% (138/222) type I endoleak, 21.6% (48/222) type II, 7.7% (17/222) type III, 8.5% (19/222) endotension. Indications for SC were: 64.6% (31/48) type II endoleak, 33.3% (16/48) type I, 2.1% (1/48) type III. Thirty-day mortality was 12.2% (27/222) in the LOC group, and 10.4% (5/48) in the SC group (P=.73). Postoperative complication rate was higher in the LOC group (45.5% vs. 29.2%, P=.04). The estimated survival rate after LOC was 80% at 1 year and 64% at 5 years; after SC 72% at 1 year and 37% at 5 years (log-rank P=.01). During the median follow-up of 21.5 months (inter-quartile range 2.4-61), an endoleak after SC was found in the 38.3% of the cases; sac growth was recorded in the 27.7% of SC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

SC have an early benefit over LOC in terms of reduced postoperative complications, but a significantly inferior mid-term survival. The high rates of persistent and/or recurrent endoleaks reduce SC durability.

Combined endovascular and open treatment to prevent increase in afterload in anastomotic pseudoaneurysm and aortobronchial fistula after surgery for aortic coarctation

We report the treatment of a patient who had presented with hemoptysis due to an aortobronchial fistula from an anastomotic pseudoaneurysm after extra-anatomic bypass for aortic coarctation. An aortobronchial fistula can often result from an aortic pseudoaneurysm and is associated with high mortality if not treated. We decided to use combined endovascular and open surgical treatment and obtained a satisfactory intraoperative result. The perioperative outcome and first follow-up visit were favorable. In recent years, endovascular repair of pathologic aortic conditions has increased; thus, we have placed the present case within the context of the relevant medical literature.

Factors Associated With Surgical Mortality and Complications Among Patients With and Without Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Italy

Importance

There are limited data on mortality and complications rates in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) who undergo surgery.

Objective

To evaluate early surgical outcomes of patients with COVID-19 in different subspecialties.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This matched cohort study conducted in the general, vascular and thoracic surgery, orthopedic, and neurosurgery units of Spedali Civili Hospital (Brescia, Italy) included patients who underwent surgical treatment from February 23 to April 1, 2020, and had positive test results for COVID-19 either before or within 1 week after surgery. Gynecological and minor surgical procedures were excluded. Patients with COVID-19 were matched with patients without COVID-19 with a 1:2 ratio for sex, age group, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, and comorbidities recorded in the surgical risk calculator of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. Patients older than 65 years were also matched for the Clinical Frailty Scale score.

Exposures

Patients with positive results for COVID-19 and undergoing surgery vs matched surgical patients without infection. Screening for COVID-19 was performed with reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction assay in nasopharyngeal swabs, chest radiography, and/or computed tomography. Diagnosis of COVID-19 was based on positivity of at least 1 of these investigations.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was early surgical mortality and complications in patients with COVID-19; secondary end points were the modeling of complications to determine the importance of COVID-19 compared with other surgical risk factors.

Results

Of 41 patients (of 333 who underwent operation during the same period) who underwent mainly urgent surgery, 33 (80.5%) had positive results for COVID-19 preoperatively and 8 (19.5%) had positive results within 5 days from surgery. Of the 123 patients of the combined cohorts (78 women [63.4%]; mean [SD] age, 76.6 [14.4] years), 30-day mortality was significantly higher for those with COVID-19 compared with control patients without COVID-19 (odds ratio [OR], 9.5; 95% CI, 1.77-96.53). Complications were also significantly higher (OR, 4.98; 95% CI, 1.81-16.07); pulmonary complications were the most common (OR, 35.62; 95% CI, 9.34-205.55), but thrombotic complications were also significantly associated with COVID-19 (OR, 13.2; 95% CI, 1.48-∞). Different models (cumulative link model and classification tree) identified COVID-19 as the main variable associated with complications.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this matched cohort study, surgical mortality and complications were higher in patients with COVID-19 compared with patients without COVID-19. These data suggest that, whenever possible, surgery should be postponed in patients with COVID-19.

Differences in hub and spoke vascular units practice during the novel Coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) outbreak in Lombardy, Italy

BACKGROUND

To highlight differences in clinical practice among referral (hub, HH) or satellite (spoke, SH) hospital vascular surgery units (VSUs) in Lombardy, during the COVID-19 pandemic "phase 1" period (March 8 - May 3, 2020).

METHODS

The Vascular Surgery Group of Regione Lombardia Register, a real-word, multicenter, retrospective register was interrogated. All patients admitted with vascular disease were included. Patients' data on demographics, COVID-19 positivity, comorbidities and outcomes were extrapolated. Two cohorts were obtained: patients admitted to HH or SH. Primary endpoint was 30-day mortality rate. Secondary outcomes were 30-day complications and amputation (in case of peripheral artery disease [PAD]) rates. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to compare HH and SH groups and predictors of poor outcomes.

RESULTS

During the study period, 659 vascular patients in 4 HH and 27 SH were analyzed. Among these, 321 (48.7%) were admitted to a HH. No difference in COVID-19 positive patients was described (21.7% in HH vs. 15.9% in SH; P=0.058). After 30 days from intervention, HH and SH experienced similar mortality and no-intervention-related complication rate (12.1% vs. 10.0%; P=0.427 and 10.3% vs. 8.3%; P=0.377, respectively). Conversely, in HH postoperative complications were higher (23.4% vs. 16.9%, P=0.038) and amputations in patients treated for PAD were lower (10.8% vs. 26.8%; P<0.001) than in SH. Multivariate analysis demonstrated in both cohorts COVID-19-related pneumonia as independent predictor of death and postoperative complications, while age only for death.

CONCLUSIONS

HH and SH ensured stackable results in patients with vascular disease during COVID-19 "phase 1." Despite this, poor outcomes were observed in both HH and SH cohorts, due to COVID-19 infection and its related pneumonia.

Non-typhoidal Salmonella aortitis

Non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) spp. causes about 40% of all infective aortitis and it is characterized by high morbidity and mortality. Human infection occurs by fecal-oral transmission through ingestion of contaminated food, milk, or water (inter-human or zoonotic transmission). Approximately 5% of patients with NTS gastroenteritis develop bacteremia and the incidence of extra-intestinal focal infection in NTS bacteremia is about 40%. The organism can reach an extra-intestinal focus through blood dissemination, direct extension from the surrounding organs and direct bacterial inoculation (e.g. invasive medical procedures). Medical and surgical interventions are both needed to successfully control the infection. Here, we report a case of abdominal sub-renal aortitis caused by Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis in an 80-year-old man.

Late open conversion after endovascular repair of abdominal aneurysm failure: Better and easier option than complex endovascular treatment

AIM

Conversion to open repair becomes the last option in case of endovascular repair of abdominal aneurysm failure, when radiological interventional procedures are unfeasible. While early conversion to open repair generally derives from technical errors, aetiopathogenesis and results of late conversion to open repair often remain unclear.

METHODS

We report data from our Institute's experience on late conversion to open repair. Twenty-two late conversion to open repairs out of 435 consecutive patients treated during a 18 years period, plus two endovascular repair of abdominal aneurysms performed in other centres, are analysed. The indication for conversion to open repair was aneurysm enlargement because of type I, type III, type II endoleak and endotension. Even if seven cases (23%) had shown an initial aneurysmal shrinkage, in a later phase, the sac began to enlarge again. In 12 patients, conversion to open repair was the last chance after unsuccessful secondary endovascular procedures.

RESULTS

Three cases (12.5%) were treated in emergency. Aortic cross-clamping was only infrarenal in 10 cases, only or temporarily suprarenal in 14 and temporarily supraceliac in 9 cases, for 19 total and 5 partial endograft excisions. Two patients died for Multiple Organ Failure (MOF), on 42nd (endovascular repair of abdominal aneurysm infection) and 66th postoperative day. No other conversion to open repair-related deaths or major complications were revealed by follow-up post-conversion to open repair (mean: 68 months ranging from 24 to 180 months).

CONCLUSION

Late conversion to open repair is often an unpredictable event. It represents a technical challenge: specifically, the most critical point is the proximal aortic clamping that often temporarily excludes the renal circulation. In our series, conversion to open repair can be performed with a low rate of complications. In response to an endovascular repair of abdominal aneurysm failure, before applying complex procedures of endovascular treatment, conversion to open repair should be taken into account.

A Benign but Unusual Radiological Sign During EVAS Follow-up

PURPOSE

To report a heretofore undescribed complication seen on imaging after endovascular aortic sealing (EVAS).

CASE REPORT

A 77-year-old woman was treated with the Nellix EVAS device for an infrarenal aortic aneurysm. After a normal computed tomography (CT) scan at 15 days, the 6-month CT showed the onset of perianeurysmal inflammatory tissue. The patient was asymptomatic, and blood tests were normal. Imaging suggested a nonaggressive inflammatory process, so a conservative approach was adopted with close follow-up. The periaortic tissue remitted without any treatment after a further 9 months (16 months after EVAS).

CONCLUSION

The cause of this nonacute complication is unclear. Some clues suggest that interaction between the endobags and aneurysm wall could be involved. Imaging and clinical data led to a successful conservative strategy.

Prediction of abdominal aortic aneurysm calcification by means of variation of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein

Objective

Abdominal aortic aneurysms are a major cause of death in developed countries, and thrombus and calcification of the aneurysm have been linked to increased complications. This study was conducted in order to identify the biochemical marker associated to the presence of intraluminal thrombus or calcification progression of the aneurysm.

Design

Several clinical laboratory parameters were measured in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms, in particular those already demonstrated to be related to the pathology, such as lipoprotein (a), white blood cell count, fibrinogen and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. Most of the patients were analysed for the presence of thrombus or aorta calcification using CT angiography.

Results

Unlike previous findings, we found no association between intraluminal thrombus formation and lipoprotein (a), but we evidenced that patients with lower grade of calcification tend to have higher plasma high-sensitivity C-reactive protein values compared with patients with a higher degree of calcification. Instead, no association was found with either white blood cell count or fibrinogen level.

Conclusions

This study suggests that high-sensitivity C-reactive protein is a useful biomarker to assess the evolution of calcification and could be used in triaging patients to identify those who should undergo a rapid imaging, thus allowing prompt initiation of treatment or rule-out suspicious patients from non-essential imaging repetition.

Transaxillary versus transaortic approach for transcatheter aortic valve implantation with CoreValve Revalving System: insights from multicenter experience

BACKGROUND

About one-third of candidates for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) suffer from severe peripheral artery disease, making the routine femoral approach difficult or impossible. The aim was to compare the transaxillary (TAx) and the transaortic (TAo) route for TAVI with Medtronic CoreValve Revalving System (CRS).

METHODS

Out of 1049 consecutive TAVI with 18F CRS, 242 (23%) were treated in 4 high-volume Italian Centre through TAx (61%) and TAo (39%).

RESULTS

The devices success was similar (P=0.16) with a trend to a lower incidence of significant paravalvular leak (6% vs. 14%, P=0.07) and a significant reduction of permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation (13% vs. 34%, P=0.017) in the TAo. However, this route showed a higher incidence of acute kidney injury (P=0.016) and a longer hospital stay after the index procedure (days 10 [8-14] vs. 8 [7-12], P=0.001). By a multivariate analysis the vascular access is an independent predictor for a longer hospital stay (TAo route; OR=0.37, 95% CI: 0.18-0.75; P=0.006) and for PPM implantation (TAx route; OR=3.7, 95% CI: 1.2-10.8; P=0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

Although the higher clinical risk profile of transaortic population, the TAo approach showed an equally high device success with similar 30-day safety and 1year efficacy, compared to TAx route. However, due to non-procedure-specific complications post-TAo TAVI, this route requires a specialized postoperative care and the treatment of patients in highly specialized and experienced centers.

Surgical Techniques from Intraoperative Angiographic and Velocimetric Controls in 43 Consecutive Carotid Bifurcation Endarterectomies

From January to November, 1985, 43 carotid bifurcation endarterectomies (CE) were performed with intraoperative functional (Doppler spectrum analy sis) and morphologic (angiography) controls.

In the first 20 cases, after thromboendarterectomy and direct suture, Dop pler showed absence of or no significant variations of frequency in 17 cases, a frequency increase corresponding to a less than 45% diameter reduction steno sis at the apex of the suture in 2 cases, and no flow in the internal carotid artery (ICA) in 1 case. Angiography confirmed the thrombosis in the above mentioned case and showed 3 less than 50% stenoses at the distal end of the arteriotomy: 2 already recognized by Doppler in small-size ICAs and 1 in a medium-size ICA without significant changes of flow. The reason for thrombosis was a distal intimal flap, which was successfully removed; the 2 stenoses in which Doppler and angiography agreed were corrected by patch angioplasty. In the last 23 cases, patch angioplasty was performed routinely in small-size ICAs (6 cases); in 1 case, first treated by a direct suture, Doppler and angiography showed a medium-grade stenosis, immediately corrected; in 1 case both techniques showed a 50% stenosis in a common carotid artery, immediately corrected. The execution of intraoperative angiography in this group of patients al lowed the authors to define the indication for the use of patch angioplasty, never previously employed. Nevertheless, the authors state that, on account of loss of time, costs, and exposure to radiations, intraoperative angiography must be reserved for those cases selected by Doppler spectrum analysis. This method seems to be highly sensitive in recognizing significant technical defects that could lead to an immediate or late failure.

Study of Peripheral Flow During Successful Aortoiliac and Aortofemoral Prosthetic Reconstructions by Intraoperative Above-Ankle Pressure Index Monitoring

Doppler above-ankle pressure index (API) was monitored during 368 consec utive bilateral aortoiliac or aortofemoral graft reconstructions performed for aneurysmal or occlusive disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the variations of peripheral pressure, during and just after completion of the proce dure, either when followed by immediate and definitive success or when an intraoperative correction or an early postoperative reoperation was necessary owing to postreconstructive ischemia. For this purpose the API courses were subdivided into three groups: A (705 limbs), which underwent immediately suc cessful reconstructions; B (22 limbs), which needed intraoperative correction; C (9 limbs), which required early reoperation. All 736 limbs were studied individ ually as monolateral reconstructions and classified into six subgroups: 1, pervi ous iliac, pervious femoral artery; 2, occluded iliac, pervious femoral; 3, pervi ous iliac, stenotic femoral (i.e, stenosis > 75% of the superficial femoral artery); 4, occluded iliac, stenotic femoral; 5, pervious iliac, occluded femoral; 6, oc cluded iliac, occluded femoral. APIs were monitored before the operation (PRE), at the completion of the distal anastomosis (DEC), and five, fifteen, thirty, and forty-five minutes after.

Data were statistically analyzed by multivariate analysis in regards to 705 immediately successful limbs (group A) and by comparison of all corrected or reoperated cases (groups B and C) with the lower bound of the fifth centiles of group A.

The results in group A show that: API-PRE is different in the six subgroups (p < 0.001); API-DEC is lower than API-PRE in the patent iliac artery sub groups (1,3, and 5) and higher than API-PRE in the occluded iliac artery sub groups (2,4, and 6) (p always < 0.001). From declamping time to the forty-five- minutes observation, the mean courses turn out parallel and rising but on dif ferent levels (p < 0.001): pervious femoral, stenotic femoral, occluded femoral. API-forty-five minutes is higher than API-PRE in occluded iliac artery subgroups (2, 4, and 6) (p < 0.001), whereas in the patent iliac artery subgroups only the fifth subgroups reveals a slight but significant rise (p < 0.01), probably owing to the high rate of profunda femoral endarterectomy or angioplasty asso ciated with aortofemoral reconstructions.

APIs values of 31 cases in groups B and C, compared with the lower bound of the fifth centile of group A, show that 8/31 cases (26%) remain above that bound, while 23/31 cases (74%) fall below it.

Combined Endovascular and Surgical Approach (Hybrid Treatment) for Management of Type IV Thoracoabdominal Aneurysm

The purpose of this article is to report successful hybrid treatment of a sovraprosthetis type IV thoracoabdominal aneurysm.

This technique was used in a 65-year-old man with chronic rupture of a type IV thoracoabdominal aneurysm not suitable for aortic cross-clamping because of a severe cardiopathy (left ventricular ejection fraction 20%); the patient underwent previous repairs of aortic arch and infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms. Perioperative complications were absent. Postoperative day 21 computed tomography and monthly duplex ultrasonography confirmed the complete exclusion of the aneurysm with proper perfusion of visceral vessels. At the seventh postoperative month, the patient died of a massive recurrence of myocardial infarction.

Hybrid treatment for thoracoabdominal aneurysms may represent a valid solution for those patients with poor cardiac and respiratory reserve, reducing cardiac stress and the duration of visceral ischemia, which are still the main causes of morbidity and mortality for this type of intervention.

Role of different vascular approaches on transcatheter aortic valve implantation outcome: a single-center study

OBJECTIVE

To compare different vascular approaches on clinical outcome of patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with self-expandable bioprosthesis.

METHODS

We included all the patients undergoing CoreValve implantation at our institute between September 2007 and March 2014. They were divided into four groups based on the vascular approach: percutaneous transfemoral (pTF), cut-down transfemoral (cTF), transaxillary (TAx) and transaortic (TAo). Clinical outcomes were evaluated according to Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 recommendations.

RESULTS

Out of 322 consecutive patients, 170 (53%) underwent pTF, 76 (23%) cTF, 32 (10%) TAx and 44 (14%) TAo approach. Although the TAx and TAo patients had a higher risk profile, they had a similar outcome compared with the pTF and cTF groups; in particular, there were no differences regarding cardiovascular and all-cause mortality at 30 days, 1 and 2 years, as well as stroke, myocardial infarction, bleeding, major vascular complications, permanent pacemaker implantation and acute kidney injury rates. The observed device success rate was higher in the TAo than in the other approaches (88.6 versus 65.9, 68.7 and 76.3% in the pTF, cTF and TAx groups, respectively; P = 0.019). No differences occurred regarding 30-day early safety and 1-year clinical efficacy across the four groups. Fluoroscopy time, amount of contrast medium used and minor vascular complications were significantly higher in pTF patients, as well as in-hospital stay in the TAo group. Atrial fibrillation and prosthetic valve regurgitation, but not the vascular approach, were independent predictors of all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSION

A more invasive vascular approach, for CoreValve implantation, even in higher risk patients, does not affect early-term, mid-term and long-term outcomes.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm and histological, clinical, radiological correlation

To date, the pathogenesis of abdominal aortic aneurism (AAA) still remains unclear. As such, the aim of this study was to evaluate changes of the aortic structure during AAA. We analysed the microscopic frame of vessels sections, starting from the primum movens leading to abnormal dilatation. AAA samples were collected and processed through various staining methods (Verhoeff-Van Gieson, Masson Goldner, Sirius Red). Subsequently, the vessel morphology and collagenic web of the tunica media and adventitia were determined and the amount of type I and type III collagen was measured. We also applied immune-histochemistry markers for CD34 and PGP 9.5 in order to identify vascular and nerve structures in the aorta. Immune-positivity quantification was used to calculate the percentage of the stained area. We found increasing deposition of type I collagen and reduced type III collagen in both tunica media and adventitia of AAA. The total amount of vasa vasorum, marked with CD34, and nerva vasorum, marked with PGP 9.5, was also higher in AAA samples. Cardiovascular risk factors (blood pressure, dyslipidemia, cigarette smoking) and radiological data (maximum aneurism diameter, intra-luminal thrombus, aortic wall calcification) increased these changes. These results suggest that the tunica adventitia may have a central role in the pathogenesis of AAA as clearly there are major changes characterized by rooted inflammatory infiltration. The presence of immune components could explain these modifications within the framework of the aorta.

MAGnesium-oral supplementation to reduce PAin in patients with severe PERipheral arterial occlusive disease: the MAG-PAPER randomised clinical trial protocol

INTRODUCTION

Magnesium exerts analgaesic effects in several animal pain models, as well as in patients affected by acute postoperative pain and neuropathic chronic pain. There is no evidence that magnesium can modulate pain in patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD). We describe the protocol of a single-centre randomised double-blind clinical trial aimed at assessing the efficacy of oral magnesium supplementation in controlling severe pain in patients with advanced PAOD.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Adult patients affected by PAOD at stages III and IV of Lèriche-Fontaine classification, who are opioid-naïve, and who have been admitted to our Acute Pain Service for intractable pain, will be eligible. Patients will be randomised to the control group, treated with standard therapy (oxycodone and pregabalin) plus placebo for 2 weeks, or to the experimental group (standard therapy plus magnesium oxide). Patients will be evaluated on days 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 14; the following information will being collected: daily oxycodone dose; average and maximum pain (Numerical Rating Scale); pain relief (Pain Relief Scale); characteristics of the pain (Neuropathic Pain Scale); impact of pain on the patient's daily activities (Brief Pain Inventory). The primary outcome will be oxycodone dosage needed to achieve satisfactory analgaesia on day 14. Secondary outcomes will be pain relief on day 2, time needed to achieve satisfactory analgaesia and time needed to achieve a pain reduction of 50%. A sample size calculation was performed for the primary outcome, which estimated a required sample size of 150 patients (75 per group).

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval of the study protocol has been obtained from Comitato Etico Provinciale di Brescia, Brescia, Italy. Trial results will be disseminated through scientific journal manuscripts and scientific conference presentations.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02455726.

A drastic complex atheromatous aorta A case report

Aortic atherosclerosis is the most common disease of the aorta. More than 50% of the plaques thicker than 4 mm are located along the descending aorta. The complex morphology of the plaque, such as ulceration or the presence of thrombi, is associated with increased embolic risk. The increasing use of transesophageal echocardiogram has enhanced the recognition of aortic atheromas. We describe a case of a male patient with complex atherosclerotic disease involving the coronary vessels and descending aortic tract with some embolic complications.

Is mild vascular cognitive impairment reversible? Evidence from a study on the effect of carotid endarterectomy

Mild vascular cognitive impairment (mVCI) is a broader term that is intended to detect cognitive loss before the development of dementia. The identification of preventable risk factors as well as therapeutic strategies of intervention is still unclear. It has been suggested that carotid endarterectomy (CEA) improves cognitive functions, beyond the well-known preventive effect upon future stroke events. In the present study, we evaluated the beneficial effect of CEA in restoring mVCI. Among a large sample of subjects, who underwent CEA for severe carotid stenosis, two groups were identified according to the absence (CON) or the presence of cognitive impairment (mVCI). A multidimensional neuropsychological and behavioural assessment was performed in the week prior, and at a 3-month follow-up after CEA. The incidence of mVCI in this sample was 38%. Seventy-eight patients completed the follow-up (48 CON, 30 mVCI). Both groups showed a clinical improvement after CEA, although the effect was significantly higher in the mVCI group in regard to verbal memory (short story, p < 0.05), and attention (digit span, p < 0.05) scores. At follow-up, 60% of mVCI subjects were classified as having normal cognitive functions. Index of disease severity and peripheral arterial disease were found to be the predictors of improvement. These findings support that mVCI represents a heterogeneous, in some cases reversible condition. CEA might be considered a therapeutic option to treat and prevent cognitive decline in mVCI patients.

Association between human parainfluenza virus type 1 and smoking history in patients with an abdominal aortic aneurysm

Several studies have suggested that infectious agents may induce the development of abdominal aortic aneurysms and/or accelerate their progression. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of the respiratory-transmitted viruses such as influenza A and B and parainfluenza type 1 genomes in bioptic fragments of abdominal aortic aneurysms. Furthermore, the association between viral infection and traditional risk factors for aneurysms was investigated employing multivariate logistic regression models. The genome of parainfluenza 1 was detected in 11 out of 57 patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm, influenza A only in one, whereas none of the specimens analyzed resulted positive for influenza B. After adjustment of age, gender, and clinical diagnosis, being current smokers was associated independently with parainfluenza 1 detection in aneurysms. The identification of parainfluenza 1 in aortic aneurysm biopsies supports previous observations of a possible role of viruses in the lesion development. Smoking, by interfering with the respiratory tract's ability to defend itself and predisposing to upper and lower respiratory tract infections may accelerate the onset and progression of abdominal aortic aneurysms.

Crossover ilio-iliac bypass and removal of femoro-femoral graft as first treatment for the infection of crossover bypass in aorto-uni-iliac endovascular aneurysm repair

The crossover femoro-femoral bypass, classically used for the treatment of unilateral iliac arterial obstruction, has recently become an integral part of aorto-uni-iliac endovascular aneurysm repair. We therefore, reconsider the therapeutic problems related to thrombosis and in particular to infection of the femoro-femoral prosthesis, when many attempts have been made to preserve the bypass and treat the infection. Showing a case treated and well eight months later, we put forward the old technique of crossover ilio-iliac bypass, followed by the removal of the infected femoro-femoral graft. In our opinion, this technique circumvents the need for autologous tissue and allows for the use of prosthetics in a new, sterile, uncontaminated field. As this approach for these cases has so far not been reported in the literature, further cases and long-term follow-up are needed.

Influence of genetic and environmental factors in peripheral arterial disease natural history: Analysis from six years follow up

BACKGROUND

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a disease affecting million of patients worldwide. Though traditional cardiovascular risk factors have been associated with the development of PAD, the possible existence of an inherited genetic predisposition to PAD has been investigated in few familial aggregation studies. A link between genetics and PAD may open new avenues for the prevention of this morbid and mortal disorder.

AIM

The aim of this study is to investigate a possible role of some genetic determinant involving into coagulation and homocysteine metabolism in the progression of PAD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We follow one-hundred patients affected by PAD for six years. We evaluated Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) two times; first at the time of recruitment and then after six years, in order to assess the progression of disease. Genotypes for the genes of Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin or Factor II G20210A, Cystathionine Beta-Synthase 844ins68bp and Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase C677T was ascertained after taking blood samples. Chi-square test was performed to determinate the possible correlation of these genes and the most common environmental factors in the progression of PAD.

RESULTS

Genetic disorders resulting in high level of homocysteina or thrombophilic phenotype are not so frequent. None among the genetic factors we considered were correlated with PAD.

CONCLUSION

PAD is a chronic disease whose course can be slowed down especially with the control of environmental risk factors. Genetic analyses are not useful to determine the disease progression or its tendency to remain stable.

Prospective randomized comparison of open versus laparoscopic management of splenic artery aneurysms: a 10-year study

BACKGROUND: The literature does not support the choice between open and laparoscopic management of splenic artery aneurysms (SAA). METHODS: We designed a prospective, randomized comparison between open and laparoscopic surgery for SAA. Primary end points were types of surgical procedures performed and clinical outcomes. Analysis was developed on an intention-to-treat basis. RESULTS: Fourteen patients were allocated to laparotomy (group A) and 15 to laparoscopy (group B). Groups displayed similar patient- and aneurysm-related characteristics. The conversion rate to open surgery was 13.3 %. The type of surgical procedure performed on the splenic artery was similar in the two groups: aneurysmectomy with splenic artery ligature or direct anastomosis was performed in 51 % and 21 % of patients in group A and in 60 % and 20 % in group B, respectively. The splenectomy rate was similar (14 % vs. 20 %). Postoperative splenic infarction was observed in one case in each group. Laparoscopy was associated with shorter procedures (p = 0.0003) and lower morbidity (25 % vs. 64 %, p = 0.045). Major morbidity requiring interventional procedures and blood transfusion was observed only in group A. Laparoscopy was associated with quicker resumption of oral diet (p < 0.001), earlier drain removal (p = 0.046), and shorter hospital stay (p < 0.01). During a mean follow-up of 50 months, two patients in group A required hospital readmission. In group B, two patients developed a late thrombosis of arterial anastomoses. CONCLUSIONS: Our study demonstrates that laparoscopy permits multiple technical options, does not increase the splenectomy rate, and reduces postoperative complications. It confirms the supposed clinical benefits of laparoscopy when ablative procedures are required but laparoscopic anastomoses show poor long-term results.

Upper limb artery segmental occlusions due to chronic use of ergotamine combined with itraconazole, treated by thrombolysis

Background

The ergotamine tartrate associated with certain categories of drugs can lead to critical ischemia of the extremities. Discontinuation of taking ergotamine is usually sufficient for the total regression of ischemia, but in some cases it could be necessary thrombolytic and anticoagulant therapy to avoid amputation.

Case report

A woman of 62 years presented with a severe pain left forearm appeared 10 days ago, with a worsening trend. The same symptoms appeared after 5 days also in the right forearm. Physical examination showed the right arm slightly hypothermic, with radial reduced pulse in presence of reduced sensitivity. The left arm was frankly hypothermic, pulse less on radial and with an ulnar humeral reduced pulse, associated to a decreased sensitivity and motility.

Clinical history shows a chronic headache for which the patient took a daily basis for years Cafergot suppository (equivalent to 3.2 mg of ergotamine).

From about ten days had begun therapy with itraconazole for vaginal candidiasis. The Color-Doppler ultrasound shown arterial thrombosis of the upper limbs (humeral and radial bilateral), with minimal residual flow to the right and no signal on the humeral and radial left artery.

Results

Angiography revealed progressive reduction in size of the axillary artery and right humeral artery stenosis with right segmental occlusions and multiple hypertrophic collateral circulations at the elbow joint. At the level of the right forearm was recognizable only the radial artery, decreased in size. Does not recognize the ulnar, interosseous artery was thin. To the left showed progressive reduction in size of the distal subclavian and humeral artery, determined by multiple segmental steno-occlusion with collateral vessels serving only a thin hypotrophic interosseous artery.

Arteriographic findings were compatible with systemic drug-induced disease. The immediate implementation of thrombolysis, continued for 26 hours, with heparin in continuous intravenous infusion and subsequent anticoagulant therapy allowed the gradual disappearance of the symptoms with the reappearance of peripheral pulses.

Conclusion

Angiography showed regression of vasospasm and the resumption of flow in distal vessels. The patient had regained sensitivity and motility in the upper limbs and bilaterally radial and ulnar were present.

Open surgery in endovascular aneurysm repair era: simplified classification in two risk groups owing to factors affecting mortality in 137 ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (RAAAs)

Our objective is to identify in 137 true RAAAs operated consecutively in open surgery: (1) diagnostic therapeutic aspects capable of influencing results, (2) risk classes with different prognosis, (3) any situations where the prognosis is so negative that surgery is not recommended. The relationship of 16 anamnestic, clinical and technical parameters prospectively collected with 30-day mortality was retrospectively evaluated by uni- and multivariate analyses. Thirty-day mortality was 37%. The univariate analysis identified as mortality predictors Hb ≤ 8 g/dl and circulatory shock at hospitalisation, but following the multivariate analysis only circulatory shock was a certainly significant risk-factor. The cumulative effect on mortality of the two parameters identified at univariate analysis translates into a statistically significant difference in mortality between two groups of patients: A (no or just one risk-factor) and B (two risk-factors). To reinstate euvolemia, rather than adequate haemoglobin values, improves the chances of success. A simple prognostic index into two risk classes is feasible, but abstention from surgery is not justified in any type of patient.

Human cytomegalovirus productively infects lymphatic endothelial cells and induces a secretome that promotes angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis through interleukin-6 and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor

Endothelial cells (ECs) are a site of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) productive replication, haematogenous dissemination and persistence, and are assumed to play a critical role in the development of HCMV-associated vascular diseases. Although early reports have shown the presence of HCMV antigens and DNA in lymphoid tissues, the ability of HCMV to infect lymphatic ECs (LECs) has remained unaddressed due to the lack of a suitable in vitro system. This study provided evidence that a clinical isolate of HCMV (retaining its natural endotheliotropism) was able to productively infect purified lymph node-derived LECs and that it dysregulated the expression of several LEC genes involved in the inflammatory response to viral infection. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of virus-free supernatants from HCMV-infected LEC cultures revealed virus-induced secretion of several cytokines, chemokines and growth factors, many of which are involved in the regulation of EC physiological properties. Indeed, functional assays demonstrated that the secretome produced by HCMV-infected LECs stimulated angiogenesis in both LECs and blood ECs, and that neutralization of either interleukin (IL)-6 or granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) in the secretome caused the loss of its angiogenic properties. The involvement of IL-6 and GM-CSF in the HCMV-mediated angiogenesis was further supported by the finding that the recombinant cytokines reproduced the angiogenic effects of the HCMV secretome. These findings suggest that HCMV induces haemangiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis through an indirect mechanism that relies on the stimulation of IL-6 and GM-CSF secretion from infected cells.

Post-traumatic lesions of the aortic isthmus

Lesions of the isthmus are the most frequent among post-traumatic lesions of the thoracic aorta (LTA): almost always secondary to closed thoracic traumas (road accidents, falls, crushing, and explosions), they are rarely iatrogenic (operatory catheterisms) or caused by penetrating wounds. In the review of the literature concerned in the report, from the analysis of 89 bibliographic sources, we note that the etiopathogenesis and the pathophysiology of the LTA still entail a very high immediate mortality, but we also note that, in recent years, remarkable improvements have been made not only in prevention, first-aid, diagnostic definition and in the understanding of the development of the LTA, but above all in therapeutic results. The correct use of the conservative approach, particularly in the immediately post-traumatic phases, the increasingly wide-spread use of endovascular exclusion (T-EVAR), even if not without numerous technical difficulties, and the further improvement of open surgery, currently make it possible to guarantee the individual patient the treatment that can offer the best probabilities of success, at least immediately. Final development, and a more complete and rigorous assessment of the medium and long term results of TEVAR will allow the formulation of therapeutic strategies that are even better defined and increasingly simple to implement, on the basis of algorithms, such as the one proposed by the Authors.