Endovascular treatment of chronic ilio-femoral vein obstruction with extension below the inguinal ligament in patients with post-thrombotic syndrome

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate postoperative outcomes of patients with chronic iliofemoral venous outflow obstruction and post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) who underwent endovascular recanalization and stenting across the inguinal ligament.

METHODS

All consecutive patients with chronic iliofemoral venous outflow obstruction and PTS were included in the analysis, from January 2018 and February 2022. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative outcomes were assessed. Primary endpoints analyzed were major adverse events (MAEs) at 30 days and primary patency rate at 2 years of follow-up. Secondary endpoints assessed were secondary patency rate, target vessel revascularization, and clinical improvement evaluated with the Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) classification, Villalta scale, and visual analog scale (VAS), respectively.

RESULTS

A total of 63 patients (mean age, 48.1 ± 15.5 years; female, 61.9%) were evaluated. No intraoperative and 30-day postoperative complications were documented. The technical success rate was achieved at 100%. Overall, one in-stent occlusion and five in-stent restenosis were detected during follow-up. The primary patency rate was 93.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 87.8%-99.9%) and 92.1% (95% CI, 85.6%-99%), at 1- and 2-year follow-up, respectively (Kaplan-Meier analysis). Target vessel revascularization was conducted in two cases, resulting in a secondary patency of 98.4% (95% CI, 95.4%-100%) at 2 years of follow-up. Stent fracture and/or migration were not observed during follow-up. A significant clinical improvement in the patient's quality of life was documented. The median improvement of VCSS and Villalta scores were 4 (interquartile range, 2-7; P = .001), and 3 (interquartile range, 1.5-5; P = .001) vs baseline at the last follow-up. Overall, pain reduction of 17 mm on the VAS scale was documented at 2 years of follow-up. At multivariate analysis, presence of trabeculation into the femoral vein and deep femoral vein (odds ratio, 1.89; 95% CI, 0.15-6.11; P = .043), and Villalta scale >15 points at admission (odds ratio, 1.89; 95% CI, 0.15-6.11; P = .043) were predictive for in-stent occlusion during the follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a dedicated venous stent across the inguinal ligament was safe and effective for the treatment of symptomatic iliofemoral venous disease with acceptable primary and secondary patency rates at 2 years of follow-up.

Factors influencing recurrent varicose vein formation after radiofrequency thermal ablation for truncal reflux performed in two high-volume venous centers

OBJECTIVE

Recanalization of the saphenous vein trunk after endovenous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is often associated with recurrent varicose veins (RVVs) or recanalization. This study aimed to assess the long-term results of RFA of the great saphenous vein (GSV) and identify the risk factors for GSV recanalization and RVVs during follow-up for patients presenting to dedicated outpatient vein centers.

METHODS

All consecutive patients with incompetent GSVs who underwent RFA between 2009 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. The primary study end points were freedom from GSV recanalization and the RVV rate during follow-up. The secondary study end points were the postoperative complication rate and the risk factors for GSV recanalization and RVVs. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the potential risk factors for GSV recanalization and RVVs.

RESULTS

During the study period, 1568 limbs were treated in 1300 consecutive patients (mean age, 53.5 ± 12.9 years; 71.9% women; CEAP [clinical, etiology, anatomy, pathophysiology] C2-C6; venous clinical severity score >5). Technical success was achieved in 99.7% of cases. At a mean follow-up of 57.2 ± 25.4 months, the GSV occlusion and freedom from reintervention rates were 100% and 100% within 1 week, 97% and 95.7% at 1 year, 95.2% and 93.1% at 3 years, and 92.4% and 92.8% at 5 years, respectively. The recurrence rate was 10% (n = 158) during the follow-up period. On multivariate analysis, a direct confluence of the accessory saphenous vein into the saphenofemoral junction (odds ratio [OR], 1.561; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0-7.04; P = .032), a history of pregnancy >2 (OR, 3.68; 95% CI, 1.19-11.36; P = .023), C4 (OR, 6.41; 95% CI, 1.36-30.28; P = .019), and preoperative GSV diameter >10 mm (OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.65-4.03; P = .043) were risk factors for GSV recanalization. Moreover, age >70 years (OR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.01-1.06; P = .014) and incompetent perforator veins (OR, 1.17; 95% CI, 0.65-2.03; P = .018) were also risk factors for RVVs.

CONCLUSIONS

RFA is a safe technique to ablate the GSV with a low complication rate and durability during 5 years of follow-up. However, patients with a high clinical score and those with direct confluence of the accessory saphenous vein into the saphenofemoral junction experienced higher long-term GSV recanalization and RVV rates.

Outcomes After Endovascular Aortic Intervention in Patients With Connective Tissue Disease

IMPORTANCE

Endovascular treatment is not recommended for aortic pathologies in patients with connective tissue diseases (CTDs) other than in redo operations and as bridging procedures in emergencies. However, recent developments in endovascular technology may challenge this dogma.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the midterm outcomes of endovascular aortic repair in patients with CTD.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

For this descriptive retrospective study, data on demographics, interventions, and short-term and midterm outcomes were collected from 18 aortic centers in Europe, Asia, North America, and New Zealand. Patients with CTD who had undergone endovascular aortic repair from 2005 to 2020 were included. Data were analyzed from December 2021 to November 2022.

EXPOSURE

All principal endovascular aortic repairs, including redo surgery and complex repairs of the aortic arch and visceral aorta.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Short-term and midterm survival, rates of secondary procedures, and conversion to open repair.

RESULTS

In total, 171 patients were included: 142 with Marfan syndrome, 17 with Loeys-Dietz syndrome, and 12 with vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS). Median (IQR) age was 49.9 years (37.9-59.0), and 107 patients (62.6%) were male. One hundred fifty-two (88.9%) were treated for aortic dissections and 19 (11.1%) for degenerative aneurysms. One hundred thirty-six patients (79.5%) had undergone open aortic surgery before the index endovascular repair. In 74 patients (43.3%), arch and/or visceral branches were included in the repair. Primary technical success was achieved in 168 patients (98.2%), and 30-day mortality was 2.9% (5 patients). Survival at 1 and 5 years was 96.2% and 80.6% for Marfan syndrome, 93.8% and 85.2% for Loeys-Dietz syndrome, and 75.0% and 43.8% for vEDS, respectively. After a median (IQR) follow-up of 4.7 years (1.9-9.2), 91 patients (53.2%) had undergone secondary procedures, of which 14 (8.2%) were open conversions.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This study found that endovascular aortic interventions, including redo procedures and complex repairs of the aortic arch and visceral aorta, in patients with CTD had a high rate of early technical success, low perioperative mortality, and a midterm survival rate comparable with reports of open aortic surgery in patients with CTD. The rate of secondary procedures was high, but few patients required conversion to open repair. Improvements in devices and techniques, as well as ongoing follow-up, may result in endovascular treatment for patients with CTD being included in guideline recommendations.

Renal perfusion with histidine-tryptophan-ketoglutarate compared with Ringer's solution in patients undergoing thoracoabdominal aortic open repair

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of renal perfusion with Custodiol (Dr Franz-Kohler Chemie GmbH, Bensheim, Germany) versus enriched Ringer's solution for renal protection in patients undergoing open thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) repair.

METHODS

Ninety consecutive patients scheduled for elective open TAAA repair were enrolled between 2015 and 2017 in a single-center, phase IV, prospective, parallel, randomized, double-blind trial (the CUstodiol versus RInger: whaT Is the Best Agent [CURITIBA] trial), and randomized to renal arteries perfusion with 4°C Custodiol (Dr Franz-Kohler Chemie GmbH, Bensheim, Germany; n = 45) or 4°C lactated Ringer's solution (n = 45). The incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients undergoing TAAA open surgery using Custodiol renal perfusion versus an enriched Ringer's solution was the primary end point.

RESULTS

Ninety patients completed the study (45 patients in each group). The incidence of postoperative AKI was significantly lower in the Custodiol group (48.9% vs 75.6%; P = .02). In the multivariable model, only the use of Custodiol solution resulted as protective from the occurrence of any AKI (odds ratio, 0.230; 95% confidence interval, 0.086-0.614; P = .003), whereas TAAA type II extent was associated with the development of severe AKI (odds ratio, 4.277; 95% confidence interval, 1.239-14.762; P = .02). At 1-year follow-up, serum creatinine was not significantly different from the preoperative values in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of Custodiol during open TAAA repair was safe and resulted in significantly lower rates of postoperative AKI compared with Ringer's solution. These findings support safety and efficacy of Custodiol in this specific setting, which is currently off-label.

Early and mid-term outcomes of open popliteal artery aneurysm repair with prosthetic grafts

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to assess the early and mid-term outcomes of open surgical repair (OR) for popliteal artery aneurysm (PAA) with prosthetic grafts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The pre-, intra-, and postoperative data of all patients who underwent PAA OR with prosthetic grafts at our Institution between January 2009 and July 2019 were included in a prospectively maintained database which was retrospectively analysed. Primary patency was defined as uninterrupted flow (<50% stenosis) in the graft with no additional procedures performed. Secondary patency was defined as the restoration of graft patency.

RESULTS

Eighty-two patients underwent OR for 104 PAA (age: 71, 67-78; 82 males) with prosthetic grafts. Seventy-two aneurysms (68%) were asymptomatic. The median diameter was 30mm (24-37). A medial approach was used in 35 aneurysms (34%) while a posterior approach (PA) in 69 (65%). Repairs either consisted of aneurysmectomy or aneurysm ligation without removal with an interposition graft with end-to-end anastomoses. Median operative time was 120 (103-142) minutes. The estimated blood loss (EBL) was 281 (150-281) ml. Only one patient treated by PA sustained a permanent peroneal nerve lesion, and a second patient treated via the same approach needed a surgical revision due to bleeding on postoperative day two. No temporary lesions were recorded. There were no early amputations. No perioperative deaths occurred. The median length of stay (LOS) was 3 (3-4) days. An expanded poly-tetra-flour-ethylene graft was used in 102 cases (98%) and a Dacron graft in the remain two cases (2%). As for the caliber, the 8mm graft was used in 64 cases (62%). Median follow-up was 34.6 (8.5-62.7) months. There was no related mortality. Nineteen PAA underwent reintervention with primary and secondary rate patency of 78% and 88% at three years. The median time to reintervention was 28.3 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Popliteal artery aneurysms open repair with prosthetic grafts are safe and feasible, with good mid-term results and satisfactory primary and secondary patency at three years.

Comparison of mechanochemical ablation versus ligation and stripping for the treatment of incompetent small saphenous vein

OBJECTIVE

to compare the outcomes of mechanochemical ablation (MOCA) versus saphenopopliteal junction ligation and stripping (OS) for symptomatic small saphenous vein (SSV) insufficiency.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study including symptomatic SSV patients treated with MOCA using the ClariVein catheter (Merit Medical, South Jordan, Utah, USA) or OS from 2015 to 2019.

RESULTS

A total of 60 limbs (73.3% women, mean age 54.7 ± 14.4 years) were treated with MOCA and 58 limbs (63.8% women, mean age 54 ± 11.6 years) with OS. At 18 months follow-up, recurrence rates were 7.5% (4/53) for MOCA vs. 5.7% (3/52) for the OS group. MOCA group was associated with less pain at first postoperative day, and an early return to work (MOCA 3.5 ± 2.3 days vs. OS 14.2 ± 3.8 days, p < .0001). No cases of leg paresthesia/dysesthesia were observed in the MOCA group, while two patients (3.4%) presented neurological symptoms after OS treatment.

CONCLUSION

MOCA and OS are both safe and effective techniques for symptomatic SSV insufficiency. MOCA group demonstrated to be associated with less postoperative pain and early return to work compared to OS.

An Uncommon Variant of Nutcracker Syndrome Secondary to Left Renal Vein Compression Between the Right Renal Artery and The Proper Hepatic Artery

Nutcracker syndrome refers to the compression of the left renal vein between the abdominal aorta and the superior mesenteric artery. The subsequent venous congestion of the left kidney, when symptomatic, could be associated with left flank pain, hematuria, varicocele, dyspareunia, dysmenorrhea, and proteinuria. Here we describe a 42-year-old female patient with simultaneous Dunbar syndrome and a rare variant of nutcracker syndrome in which the left renal vein (LRV) compression is secondary to the unusual path of the vein between the right renal artery and the proper hepatic artery. For both the nutcracker syndrome and the Dunbar syndrome, open approach by median mini-laparotomic access for transposition of LRV, and resection of the diaphragmatic pillars and arcuate ligament was attempted. During the intervention, due to anatomical issues, the LRV transposition was converted to endovascular stenting of the LRV, moreover the implanted stent was transfixed with an external non-absorbable suture to avoid migration. At the 12 months follow-up the patient was asymptomatic, and the duplex scan confirmed the patency of the celiac trunk without re-stenosis and a correct position of the LRV stent with no proximal or distal migration.

Intraoperative completion cone-beam computed tomography for the assessment of residual lesions after primary treatment of proximal venous outflow obstructions

OBJECTIVE

Report the usefulness of completion cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) as an adjunct tool during femoro-ilio-caval recanalization post stent placement.

METHODS

Data from patients who underwent complex endovenous recanalization for chronic proximal outflow obstruction from January 2018 to May 2020 were analyzed. Two groups of patients were obtained based on the execution or not of completion CBCT. Outcomes, radiation, and contrast doses in the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients (9 female, mean age 46.9 ± 13.3) in the control group and ten patients (7 female, 58.3 ± 14) in the CBCT group were included. In the CBCT group, one patient underwent an intraprocedural revision due to a residual lesion. The median total kerma area product (KAP_total) and the total volume of contrast injected were not statistically different in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Completion CBCT after endovenous procedures might identify residual stenosis or stent malposition without a significant increase of total contrast injected and KAP_total.

Contemporary Results of Carotid Artery Stenting Using Low-Profile Dual-Metal Layer Nitinol Micromesh Stents in Relation to Single-Layer Carotid Stents

PURPOSE

To evaluate patients characteristics, procedural details, perioperative outcomes, and midterm results of carotid artery stenting (CAS) performed with the Roadsaver/Casper stent (Terumo Corp, Tokyo, Japan) as compared to concurrent patients treated with other commercially available carotid stents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a single-center, retrospective, nonrandomized study including 200 consecutive patients who underwent a total of 205 elective CAS procedures due to severe internal carotid artery stenosis between April 2015 and December 2018. Procedural data and outcomes for patients treated with the Roadsaver/Casper stent implantation (100 procedures, in 97 patients) vs first-generation carotid stents implantations (90 procedures, in 88 patients) were compared. Fifteen patients were treated with CGuard carotid stent (InspireMD, Tel Aviv, Israel), and outcomes were reported separately. Primary endpoints were the occurrence of major adverse cerebrovascular events (MACE), including death, ipsilateral stroke, and transitory ischemic attack (TIA). Secondary endpoints were the rate of intrastent stenosis, the need for reintervention, and the occurrence of adverse cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, and need for inotropic support.

RESULTS

No difference in demographics and preoperative risk factors were observed between patients treated with and without the Roadsaver/Casper stent. The mean procedure time was shorter in the Roadsaver/Casper group (40.7±16.9 vs 49.4±27.3 minutes; p=0.008), while radial percutaneous access was more frequent (24% vs 5%; p<0.001). The rate of stroke/TIA/death at 30 days was 3% in the Roadsaver group vs 1% in the first-generation stent group (p=0.623). The primary patencyrate was 100% and 93.4% at 1- and 3-year of follow-up in the Roadsaver/Casper groupand 99% and 94.3% in the other stent group, respectively (p=0.95).

CONCLUSIONS

In this real-world cohort of patients undergoing CAS, the Roadsaver/Casper stent was used to treat more symptomatic and vulnerable carotid plaques as compared to other carotid stents. Nevertheless, patients treated with this low-profile dual-layer micromesh stent showed low events rates at both 30 days and follow-up, similar to that observed for other stents.

Endovascular treatment of iliofemoral vein obstruction below the inguinal ligament using a new-dedicated stent: early experience from a single center

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess our experience with a new commercially available venous stent as an extension below the inguinal ligament in patients with iliofemoral venous outflow obstruction involving the common femoral vein.

METHODS

We treated 16 patients with iliofemoral venous outflow occlusion and post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) (mean age: 52.5±20.2; female: 87.5%) with the Blueflow Venous Stent (plusmedica GmbH & Co. KG, Düsseldorf, Germany) between 2019 and 2020. All patients had unilateral venous disease with >50% stenosis in the iliofemoral veins. The primary endpoints assessed were technical success, primary and secondary patency rate at 1 year of follow-up, respectively. Clinical improvement was assessed with the Villalta Scale, revised venous clinical severity score (rVCSS) classification and visual analog-scale (VAS) respectively.

RESULTS

The technical success rate was 100%. No intraoperative and 30-days postoperative complications were documented. The primary and secondary patency rates were 80.2% and 100% respectively, at 1 year of follow-up. One in-stent occlusion and two in-stent restenosis were detected during follow-up. Stent fracture and/or migration were not observed during follow-up. A significant improvement in the Villalta Scale and rVCSS score was documented with a median score of 3 (IQR: 2-6) and 2.5 (IQR: 1-5) versus baseline at the last follow-up. A pain reduction of 18 mm on the VAS scale was documented at 1-year follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort of patients, the Blueflow Venous Stent across the inguinal ligament was safe and effective for the treatment of symptomatic iliofemoral venous disease, with a high primary patency rate at 1-year of follow-up. However, longer follow-up and larger cohorts are still needed.

Doppler Ultrasound Monitoring of Echogenicity in Asymptomatic Subcritical Carotid Stenosis and Assessment of Response to Oral Supplementation of Vitamin K2 (PLAK2 Randomized Controlled Trial)

BACKGROUND

Plaque composition may predict the evolution of carotid artery stenosis rather than its sole extent. The grey scale median (GSM) value is a reproducible and standardized value to report plaque echogenicity as an indirect measure of its composition. We monitored plaque composition in asymptomatic subcritical carotid stenosis and evaluated the effect of an oral modulating calcification factor (vitamin K2).

METHODS

Carotid plaque composition was assessed by GSM value. Monitoring the effects of standard therapy (acetylsalicylic acid and low-medium dosage statin) (acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) arm) or standard therapy plus vitamins K2 oral supplementation (ASA + K2 arm) over a 12 months period was conducted using an ultrasound scan in a prospective, open-label, randomized controlled trial (PLAK2).

RESULTS

Sixty patients on low-medium dosage statin therapy were enrolled and randomized (30 per arm) to either ASA + K2 or ASA alone. Thirty-seven patients (61.6%) showed at 12 months a stable plaque with a mean increase in the GSM value in respect to the baseline of 2.6% with no differences between the two study arms (p = 0.66). Fifteen patients (25%) showed an 8% GSM value reduction respect the baseline with no differences between the two study arms (p = 0.99). At multivariable analysis, the adjusted mean (95% confidence interval) GSM change per month from baseline was greater in the ASA + K2 arm (-0.55 points, p = 0.048) compared to ASA alone (-0.18 points, p = 0.529).

CONCLUSIONS

Carotid plaque composition monitoring through GSM value represents a laborious procedure. Although its use may not be applied to everyday practice, a specific application consists in evaluating the effect of pharmacological therapy on plaque composition. This 12 months randomized trial showed that the majority of subcritical asymptomatic carotid plaque on treatment with low-medium dosage statin presented a stable or increased echogenicity. Although vitamin K2 beyond standard therapy did not determine a significant change in plaque composition, for those who presented with GSM reduction it did enhance a GSM monthly decline.

Incidence of deep venous thrombosis in COVID-19 hospitalized patients during the first peak of the Italian outbreak

OBJECTIVES

A high rate of thrombotic events has been reported in COVID-19 population. The study aims to assess the incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in COVID-19 patients admitted to a single tertiary hospital.

METHODS

From April 2nd to April 18th, 2020, hospitalized patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection were screened by lower limb duplex ultrasound (DUS). Patients were on (low molecular weight heparin) LMWH prophylaxis in medical wards, and on therapeutic anticoagulation in intensive care unit (ICU). DVT risk factors, reported by the Padua prediction score and blood tests, were retrieved from institutional electronic charts. The study primary endpoint was the incidence of DVT in the in-hospital COVID-19 population and its association with clinical and laboratory risk factors. The secondary endpoint was the association of DVT with mortality.

RESULTS

Two hundred patients (median age 62 years, 72% male, 40 in ICU) received DUS screening. DVT was observed in 29 patients (14.5%), with proximal extension in 16 patients, and in association with symptoms in four patients. The DVT rate was similar in ICU (12.5%) and non-ICU patients (15%). Eighty-seven patients underwent a computed tomography angiography (CTA) that showed pulmonary embolism in 35 patients (40.2%) not associated with DVT in 25/35 cases (71.4%). DVT in the ten patients with pulmonary embolism were symptomatic in four and with a proximal localization in eight cases. A D-dimer level ≥5 mg/l at admission was predictive of DVT (OR 1.02; IC95% 1.03-1.16; p  = .003). At the multivariate analysis in-hospital mortality was predicted by age (OR 1.06; 95% CI 0.02-1.15; p  = .004) and by being an ICU patient (OR 1.23; 95% CI 0.30-2.25; p  = .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite LMWH prophylaxis or full anticoagulant therapy, the incidence of DVT, mainly asymptomatic, in hospitalized COVID-19 patients was 14.5%. Further research should focus on the appropriate antithrombotic therapy for COVID-19 patients.

Early results of mechanochemical ablation for small saphenous vein incompetency using 2% polidocanol

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to investigate the early results of mechanochemical ablation (MOCA) for the treatment of small saphenous vein (SSV) incompetence.

METHODS

We performed a single-center, retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database of 60 patients treated with MOCA for single-axis SSV incompetence. All procedures were performed with the patient under local anesthesia using the ClariVein catheter (Merit Medical, South Jordan, Utah) combined with 2% polidocanol and, where appropriate, additional microphlebectomy. The primary study endpoint was to assess the SSV occlusion rate at the 1-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up examinations. The secondary endpoints included the Venous Clinical Severity Score, quality of life (QoL) assessment, periprocedural pain, and further complications after the intervention and during the follow-up period. Patient QoL was assessed using the Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire. Pain was measured using a 100-mm visual analog scale.

RESULTS

Technical success was achieved in 100% of the cases. The mean visual analog scale score on the first postoperative day was 15 mm. No major events were recorded. No neurological complications or deep vein thrombosis were observed. Minor complications included ecchymosis in 3.3% of cases (2 of 60), transient phlebitis of the SSV in 5% of cases (3 of 60), and itching in 3.3% of cases (2 of 60). At the 1-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up examinations, the occlusion rate was 100% (60 of 60), 98.3% (57 of 58), and 92.6% (50 of 54). The median Venous Clinical Severity Score had significantly decreased from 5 (interquartile range [IQR], 3-6) at baseline to 2 (IQR, 1-4) at the 1-month follow-up (P < .001), 1 (IQR, 1-2) at the 6-month follow-up (P < .001) and 1 (IQR, 0-1) at the 12-month follow-up (P < .001). The mean Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire score had improved from the baseline score of 25 ± 14.61 to 15.81 ± 13.76 at the 1-month follow-up (P < .001), to 9.81 ± 7.42 at the 6-month follow-up (P < .001) and 4.73 ± 3.32 at the 12-month follow-up (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study have shown that MOCA is a feasible, safe, and painless procedure for the treatment of SSV incompetence with an occlusion rate of 92.6% at the 12-month examination. No sural nerve injuries or other major complications were observed. The procedure also provided good clinical results and positive effects on patient QoL.

Propensity-Matched Comparison for Carotid Artery Stenting in Primary Stenosis Versus after Carotid Endarterectomy Restenosis

BACKGROUND

Carotid artery stenting (CAS) has been proposed as the treatment of choice in case of restenosis (RES) after carotid endarterectomy (CEA). The aim of this study was to analyze periprocedural results of CAS for the treatment of post-CEA RES compared with those of CAS performed for primary carotid stenosis (PRS).

METHODS

Data from consecutive patients submitted to CAS at our institution from 2008 to 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with in-stent RES were excluded. Initially, preoperative risk factors, demographics, intraoperative variables, and perioperative outcomes were analyzed according to the indication groups (PRS and RES). Then, propensity score matching was performed obtaining 2 homogeneous groups of patients. Covariates included were age, gender, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, cardiac disease, chronic renal disease, symptomatic carotid plaque, and positive ipsilateral brain computed tomography scan. Intraoperative data and perioperative outcomes were then compared between the 2 matched groups.

RESULTS

Of 480 included patients, 300 (62.5%) underwent CAS for PRS, and 180 (37.5%) for RES. After propensity score analysis (158 patients/group), no significant difference was observed in terms of technical success, number, and type of stent used, except for need of intraoperative atropine administration that was higher in the PRS group (38.6% vs. 13.3%, respectively; P < 0.001). In the perioperative period, composite neurologic event was significantly higher in the PRS group (7.6% vs. 1.9%; P = 0.017). Moreover, need of ionotropic support was higher in the PRS group (8.9% vs. 1.9%; P = 0.0069). Myocardial infarction rate and 30-day mortality were similar in both groups (P = 0.317; P = 1, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In a large single-center experience, CAS for post-CEA RES was associated with a significantly lower risk of any neurologic event and hemodynamic instability in the perioperative period compared with CAS performed for primary carotid lesions. Our results confirm that post-CEA RES may represent an elective indication for CAS.

Symptomatic superficial femoral artery pseudoaneurysm due to late stent fracture

Late formation of pseudoaneurysm related to stent fracture is rarely described in the literature. We describe a case of spontaneous 8-cm femoral superficial artery pseudoaneurysm rupture that had developed from fracture of a stent implanted 3 years previously. Surgical repair was performed with fractured stent removal and reverse saphenous vein bypass.

Anterior accessory saphenous vein confluence anatomy at the sapheno-femoral junction as risk factor for varicose veins recurrence after great saphenous vein radiofrequency thermal ablation

BACKGROUND

Varicose veins recurrence rate remained almost unchanged despite the constant technological advancement in its treatment. The aim of this study is to evaluate the variable accessory saphenous vein (ASV) anatomy at the sapheno-femoral junction (SFJ) as a possible risk factor for recurrent varicose vein (RVV) after great saphenous vein (GSV) radiofrequency thermal ablation (RTA).

METHODS

Two-hundred consecutive patients affected by chronic venous disease (mean age 52.4±10.3 years; 187 women; CEAP C2-C6; 25.2±1.4), underwent to RTA from 2014 to 2016, at our Institute. Preoperatively all patients underwent duplex-ultrasound scanning, reporting the anatomical site, extension of reflux and the ASV anatomy at the SFJ. Duplex ultrasound and physical examination was performed postoperatively at 1, 6 and 12 months, and yearly thereafter.

RESULTS

Patients were divided in two groups based on the anatomical site of reflux: group A (N.=187) including GSV and SFJ, group B (N.=82) including SFJ reflux. There was no preoperative statistical difference between the two groups. At a mean follow-up of 29.7±2.4 months, a freedom from recurrent varicose vein and GSV recanalization was: 100% and 100% at 1 month, 95.9% and 99.1% at 1 year, 93.7% and 96.7% at 3 years, respectively. A higher rate of RVV was documented for patients in group A at 3-year of follow-up (P=0.042). Cox regression analysis found, among five potential predictors of outcome, that direct confluence of ASV in SFJ (HR=1.561; 95% CI: 1.0-7.04; P=0.032) was a negative predictors of 1-year RVV.

CONCLUSIONS

Sapheno-femoral junction morphology may affect recurrent varicose veins formation. In particular, a concomitant incompetence of the accessory saphenous vein or its directly confluence into the SFJ could represent an indication to simultaneous treatment by non-surgical techniques (RTA or laser) and avoid surgical ligation.

Jetstream Atherectomy System for Treatment of Femoropopliteal Artery Disease: A Single Center Experience and Mid-term Outcomes

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to assess our experience and mid-term outcomes using Jetstream atherectomy system for treatment of femoropopliteal artery disease (FPAD).

METHODS

Data of 30 patients with FPAD treated at our center between 2013 and 2016 were analyzed. Two subgroups of patients were identified: Group A included patients (n = 18) with de novo lesions; Group B (n = 12) included those with in-stent restenosis. The primary study end points assessed were technical success, perioperative mortality, and major adverse event (MAE) rate at 30 days (distal embolization, major amputation, and target lesion revascularization). Other outcomes measured were survival, primary, and secondary patency, and freedom from amputation at 1 and 3 years of follow-up, respectively.

RESULTS

Technical success was 100% for both groups. The MAE rate was 8.7%. No distal filter was adopted during intervention. Angioplasty was associated with 93.3% of cases (93.3% vs. 100%; P = 0.15), drug-eluting balloon (DEB) in 12 cases (22.2% vs. 66.6%; P = 0.008), drug-eluting stent and bare metal implantation in 1 (5.6% vs. 0%; P = 1) and 4 cases (11.1% vs. 16.7%; P = 1), respectively. The cumulative primary and secondary patency rates were 75.1% and 95.5% at 1 year, and 70.4% and 84.8% at 3 years of follow-up, respectively. The survival and freedom from amputation were 96.4% and 85.8% at 1 and 3 years of follow-up, respectively. The freedom from target lesion revascularization was 91.7% and 83.4% at 1 and 3 years from intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of the Jetstream appears to be safe and feasible with no distal embolization and low rate perioperative complications. Moreover, encouraging outcomes were observed when atherectomy was associated to DEB angioplasty.

Negative Pressure Therapy (NPWT) for Management of Surgical Wounds: Effects on Wound Healing and Analysis of Devices Evolution

Infection and wound dehiscence are common complications after surgery and open surgical wounds are difficult to manage. Usually surgical incisions are closed by fixing the edges together. However, in case of significant tissue loss, infected surgical field, or particular cases, wounds may be left open. In recent years, negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has been widely used for management of various complicated wounds and to support postoperative tissue healing. Another emerging indication for NPWT, applied directly to the closed incisions, is to prevent infections or dehiscences in patients with increased risk of surgical-site complications (iNPWT). Furthermore, the combination of negative pressure with intermittent instillation of solution (NPWTi) seems to be effective in the treatment of a variety of complex wounds. Even if the role of NPWT in promoting wound healing has been largely accepted, there is a lack of evidence (few high-level clinical studies) regarding its effectiveness and further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms of action. This article contains a review of recent scientific and clinical research related to indications, contraindications, and mechanisms of action of NPWT to clarify current knowledge, technological evolutions, and future perspectives of devices.

Early Versus Delayed Source Control in Open Abdomen Management for Severe Intra-abdominal Infections: A Retrospective Analysis on 111 Cases

BACKGROUND

Time to source control plays a determinant prognostic role in patients having severe intra-abdominal infections (IAIs). Open abdomen (OA) management became an effective treatment option for peritonitis. Aim of this study was to analyze the correlation between time to source control and outcome in patients presenting with abdominal sepsis and treated by OA.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 111 patients affected by abdominal sepsis and treated with OA from May 2007 to May 2015. Patients were classified according to time interval from first patient evaluation to source control. The end points were intra-hospital mortality and primary fascial closure rate.

RESULTS

The in-hospital mortality rate was 21.6% (24/111), and the primary fascial closure rate was 90.9% (101/111). A time to source control ≥6 h resulted significantly associated with a poor prognosis and a lower fascial closure rate (mortality 27.0 vs 9.0%, p = 0.04; primary fascial closure 86 vs 100%, p = 0.02). We observed a direct increase in mortality (and a reduction in closure rate) for each 6-h delay in surgery to source control.

CONCLUSION

Early source control using OA management significantly improves outcome of patients with severe IAIs. This damage control approach well fits to the treatment of time-related conditions, particularly in case of critically ill patients.

Isolated Common Iliac Artery Aneurysms Treated Solely With Iliac Branch Stent-Grafts: Midterm Results of a Multicenter Registry

PURPOSE

To assess early and midterm outcomes of iliac branch device (IBD) implantation without an aortic stent-graft for the treatment of isolated common iliac artery aneurysm (CIAA).

METHODS

From December 2006 to June 2016, 49 isolated CIAAs in 46 patients were treated solely with an IBD at 7 vascular centers. Five patients were lost to follow-up, leaving 41 male patients (mean age 72.5±7.8 years) for analysis. Mean CIAA diameter was 39.1±10.5 mm (range 25-65). Thirty-two patients (2 with bilateral CIAAs) were treated with a Cook Zenith iliac branch device; 9 patients (1 bilateral) received a Gore Excluder iliac branch endoprosthesis. Primary endpoints were technical success, survival, aneurysm exclusion, device patency, and freedom from reintervention at 1 and 5 years. Freedom from major adverse events and aneurysm shrinkage at 1 year were also assessed.

RESULTS

Thirty-day mortality and the IBD occlusion rate were 2.4% and 2.3%, respectively. At a mean follow-up of 40.2±33.9 months, no patient presented buttock claudication, erectile dysfunction, or bowel or spinal cord ischemia. Three patients died within 6 months after the procedure. Estimates of cumulative survival, device patency, and freedom from reintervention were 90.2%, 95.2%, and 95.7%, respectively, at 1 and 5 years. At 1 year, CIAA shrinkage ≥5 mm was recorded in 21 of 38 survivors. No evidence of endoleak, device migration, or disconnection was found on imaging follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The use of IBDs without an aortic stent-graft for isolated CIAAs resulted in excellent patency, with low morbidity and mortality. This, in conjunction with no endoleak or migration and a low reintervention rate, supports the use of isolated IBDs as a stable and durable means of endovascular reconstruction in cases with suitable anatomy. Longer follow-up and a larger cohort are needed to validate these results.

Endovascular treatment of chronic occluded popliteal artery aneurysm: early and mid-term outcomes

BACKGROUND

Critical limb ischemia (CLI) may be the consequence of chronic occluded popliteal artery aneurysm (PAA). Open repair (OR) offers better 5-year results than endovascular treatment, but in patients with severe comorbidities or unfit to OR, endovascular repair (ER) could represent a valid treatment option. The purpose of this retrospective study was to review our experience of endovascular popliteal aneurism repair (EVPAR) in patients with chronic occluded PAA.

METHODS

The endpoints assessed were: 1- and 3-year primary and secondary patency rates, technical success, 30-day major adverse events, major amputation free-survival, re-intervention and survival rates.

RESULTS

From May 2011 to April 2015, 25 patients (23 male), mean age of 74.4 years, underwent an EVPAR. No perioperative death and vascular access complications were recorded. Device technical success rate was 100%. The 30-day major adverse events rate was 4%: one stent graft occlusion with distal embolization was recorded. The 1- and 3-year primary and secondary patency rate were 79% and 85.8%, and 73.3% and 79.7%, respectively. At 3-year follow-up, the freedom from major amputation and survival rates were 100% and 96%. Stent-graft coverage length >20 cm (P=0.006), more than 2 stents used (P=0.005), and poor distal runoff (P=0.01) were negative predictors for patency.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this retrospective study suggest that EVPAR seems a safe and efficacious treatment option in selected patients. Despite encouraging results, further research will be needed to assess long-terms results and to define the best treatment option for patient with chronic occluded PAA.

Surgical Treatment of Residual Distal Intimal Flap during Eversion Carotid Endarterectomy

BACKGROUND

Eversion carotid endarterectomy (ECEA) is an effective surgical technique for the treatment of internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis. However, a residual distal intimal flap may determine a higher rate of neurological complications. The treatment of DIF may be challenging, and no definitive approach has been described. We describe a simple surgical option for the treatment of DIF.

METHODS

After internal ECEA has been performed, stitches are positioned at the side of intimal flap. Suture sequence is performed from internal-external-external-internal artery wall including the everted ICA, maintaining the suture thread inside the vessel. Once the ICA is correctly repositioned, the suture thread is pulled out. Once the standard carotid anastomosis has been performed, the flap is finally tacked.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients have undergone surgical repair of DIF with the modified technique. No patients developed neurological complications after the surgical procedure, and all patients are still alive at last follow-up visit.

CONCLUSIONS

This simple technique seems a safe and feasible surgical option to correct DIF, avoiding challenging surgical procedures that may increase operative and clamping time.

Endovascular repair of bilateral common iliac artery aneurysms using GORE Excluder iliac branch endoprosthesis without aortobi-iliac stent graft conjunction: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Bilateral common iliac artery (CIA) aneurysm (CIAA) is a rare entity. In the past decade, different endovascular approaches have been adopted for patients with several comorbidities or unfit for open repair (OR). Recently, the use of iliac branch stent graft has been proposed, resulting in satisfactory patency rates and decrease in morbidity. Currently, according to instruction for use, the iliac branch stent graft is to be used with aortobi-iliac stent graft conjunction. We describe a case of a successful endovascular repair of bilateral CIAAs using the GORE Excluder iliac branch endoprosthesis (IBEs) without aortobi-iliac stent graft conjunction.

CASE PRESENTATION

An 83-year-old man was admitted with abdominal pain and presence of pulsatile mass in the right and left iliac fossa. Computed tomographic (CT) angiography showed the presence of large bilateral CIAAs (right CIA = 66 mm; left CIA = 38 mm), without concomitant thoracic or abdominal aorta aneurysm. Moreover, CT scan demonstrated the presence of bilateral lower accessory renal artery close to the aortic bifurcation. Due to the high operative risk, the patient was scheduled for endovascular repair with bilateral IBEs, without the aortobi-iliac stent graft conjunction to avoid the renal ischemia as a consequence of renal arteries covering. The procedure was completed without complications and duplex ultrasound demonstrated the complete exclusion of both aneurysms without any type of endoleaks at 1 month of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

GORE IBEs without aortobi-iliac stent graft conjunction seem to be a feasible and effective procedure for the treatment of isolated CIAAs in patients with highly selected anatomical conditions.

Aortic surgery and laparoscopy: still a future in the endovascular surgery era?

Laparoscopic surgery (LS) is the minimally invasive alternative to open surgery and endovascular approach for treating major aortic diseases. Only few reports in the literature describe the long-term outcomes of the laparoscopic approach for major vascular diseases. Furthermore, the widespread use of endovascular techniques has limited the use of LS to wellselected patients. This review evaluated the results of LS for aortic disease and compared the clinical outcomes of laparoscopic technique with those of open and endovascular surgery. A systematic review was performed by using the MEDLINE database, along with a meta-analysis of the reported studies on the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and/or aorto-iliac occlusive disease (AIOD). Forty-three studies were analyzed (17 for AAA and 26 for AIOD), with a total of 1197 patients with AAA and 1307 patients with AIOD. Laparoscopic surgery, when performed in experienced centers, is a feasible and safe technique for the treatment of AAA and AIOD in patients unfit for open and endovascular repair. Assisted laparoscopic approach has shown better outcomes than totally laparoscopic repair, with a lower rate of mortality and morbidity. Endovascular repair, however, remains the gold standard in the treatment of AAA.

KEY WORDS

Abdominal aortic aneurysm, Aorta, Aneurysm, Aorto-iliac occlusive disease, Endovascular aneurysm repair, EVAR, Laparoscopy, Endovascular, Repair, Laparoscopic Assisted, Laparoscopy Vascular, Laparoscopic surgery, Totally.

Endovascular Treatment of Chronic Occluded Popliteal Artery Aneurysm

Critical limb ischemia may be the consequence of chronic occlusion of an aneurysm of popliteal artery. Endovascular repairs have the potential to be less invasive than open surgery and to allow the treatment, during the same procedure, of occlusive infrapopliteal diseases achieving a better distal outflow. Eleven patients with occluded popliteal artery aneurysm (PAA) underwent an endovascular repair of PAA using a new technique, by positioning of a Viabahn graft inside a bare nitinol stent, deployed at the level of aneurysm with the intent to avoid distal embolization and to assure an external scaffold for the Viabahn graft. Immediate success rate was 100%. A peroneal artery embolization occurred in 1 patient (9%) and was successfully treated by stent implantation. Four (36.4%) patients needed a below-the-knee revascularization to achieve at least 1 vessel line to the foot. Mean postoperative hospital stay was 2.6 days. At 24-month follow-up, primary patency, target lesion revascularization, and major amputation rates were 82%, 9%, and 0%, respectively. All patients are still alive at last follow-up visit. The endovascular repair with the combined use of a bare metal stent and Viabahn graft resulted in a low incidence of distal embolization and major amputation rate, with an excellent 24-month patency rate, and may offer a safe alternative to open surgery for the treatment of occluded PAAs.

Aortic surgery and laparoscopy: still a future in the endovascular surgery era?

Laparoscopic surgery (LS) is the minimally invasive alternative to open surgery and endovascular approach for treating major aortic diseases. Only few reports in the literature describe the long-term outcomes of the laparoscopic approach for major vascular diseases. Furthermore, the widespread use of endovascular techniques has limited the use of LS to wellselected patients. This review evaluated the results of LS for aortic disease and compared the clinical outcomes of laparoscopic technique with those of open and endovascular surgery. A systematic review was performed by using the MEDLINE database, along with a meta-analysis of the reported studies on the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and/or aorto-iliac occlusive disease (AIOD). Forty-three studies were analyzed (17 for AAA and 26 for AIOD), with a total of 1197 patients with AAA and 1307 patients with AIOD. Laparoscopic surgery, when performed in experienced centers, is a feasible and safe technique for the treatment of AAA and AIOD in patients unfit for open and endovascular repair. Assisted laparoscopic approach has shown better outcomes than totally laparoscopic repair, with a lower rate of mortality and morbidity. Endovascular repair, however, remains the gold standard in the treatment of AAA.

KEY WORDS

Abdominal aortic aneurysm, Aorta, Aneurysm, Aorto-iliac occlusive disease, Endovascular aneurysm repair, EVAR, Laparoscopy, Endovascular, Repair, Laparoscopic Assisted, Laparoscopy Vascular, Laparoscopic surgery, Totally.

Non-mycotic anastomotic pseudoaneurysm of renal allograft artery. Case Report

Vascular complications after kidney transplantation are uncommon, and in most cases they present in the early post-transplant period. Anastomotic pseudo-aneurysms usually involve the renal transplant artery anastomosis and in most cases are the consequence of a mycotic contamination during organ recovery or handling of the graft. We report the case of a 61 year-old woman, who presented, eight months after successful kidney transplantation from a deceased donor, with mild pain in the right iliac fossa. Graft sonography and computed tomography scan demonstrated a 33-mm pseudo-aneurysm of the transplant renal artery at the anastomotic site with the external iliac artery. The patient underwent an emergent surgical intervention with resection of the pseudo-aneurysm. Renal transplant artery was re-perfused with a by-pass with the internal iliac artery, while the common iliac artery was revascularized through an autologous vein by-pass between the proximal external iliac artery and the common femoral artery. Postoperative course was complicated by inguinal lymphorrea, with complete resolution on postoperative day 22. Histopathologic examination of the pseudo-aneurysm wall did not reveal any sign of mycotic infection. At 6-month follow-up, graft function was stable and graft sonography demonstrated the patency of iliac-femoral by-pass and a normal renal graft perfusion. In conclusion, pseudo-aneurysm of the renal transplant artery is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication of kidney transplantation, occurring even in the late post-transplant period. Surgical resection of the pseudo-aneurysm, although challenging, may be a valuable option for definitive treatment of the pseudo-aneurysm, while preserving the renal graft function.

KEY WORDS

Aneurysm, Deceased donor, Kidney transplantation, Pseudo-aneurysm, Renal artery Surgery, Vascular complications.

Kidney Transplantation From Donors with Hepatitis B

The growing demand for organ donors to supply the increasing number of patients on kidney waiting lists has led most transplant centers to develop protocols that allow safe use of organs from donors with special clinical situations previously regarded as contraindications. Deceased donors with previous hepatitis B may be a safe resource to increase the donor pool even if there is still controversy among transplantation centers regarding the use of hepatitis B surface antigen-positive donors for renal transplantation. However, when allocated to serology-matched recipients, kidney transplantation from donors with hepatitis B may result in excellent short-term outcome. Many concerns may arise in the long-term outcome, and studies must address the evaluation of the progression of liver disease and the rate of reactivation of liver disease in the recipients. Accurate selection and matching of both donor and recipient and correct post-transplant management are needed to achieve satisfactory long-term outcomes.

First Case Report of Acute Renal Failure After Mesh-Plug Inguinal Hernia Repair in a Kidney Transplant Recipient

Acute renal failure due to ureter compression after a mesh-plug inguinal repair in a kidney transplant recipient has not been previously reported to our knowledge. A 62-year-old man, who successfully underwent kidney transplantation from a deceased donor 6 years earlier, was admitted for elective repair of a direct inguinal hernia. The patient underwent an open mesh-plug repair of the inguinal hernia with placement of a plug in the preperitoneal space. We did not observe the transplanted ureter and bladder during dissection of the inguinal canal. Immediately after surgery, the patient became anuric, and a graft sonography demonstrated massive hydronephrosis. The serum creatinine level increased rapidly, and the patient underwent an emergency reoperation 8 hours later. During surgery, we did not identify the ureter but, immediately after plug removal, urine output increased progressively. We completed the hernia repair using the standard technique, without plug interposition, and the postoperative course was uneventful with complete resolution of graft dysfunction 3 days later. Furthermore, we reviewed the clinical features of complications related to inguinal hernia surgery. An increased risk of urological complications was reported recently in patients with a previous prosthetic hernia repair undergoing kidney transplantation, mainly due to the mesh adhesion to surrounding structures, making the extraperitoneal dissection during the transplant surgery very challenging. Moreover, older male kidney transplant recipients undergoing an inguinal hernia repair may be at higher risk of graft dysfunction due to inguinal herniation of a transplanted ureter. Mesh-plug inguinal hernia repair is a safe surgical technique, but this unique case suggests that kidney transplant recipients with inguinal hernia may be at higher risk of serious urological complications. Surgeons must be aware of the graft and ureter position before proceeding with hernia repair. A prompt diagnosis with graft sonography and abdominal computed tomography scan and emergency surgery may avoid the need for nephrostomy and may resolve graft dysfunction more rapidly.

Value and limitations of chimney grafts to treat arch lesions

AIM

The endovascular debranching with chimney stents provides a minimally invasive alternative to open surgery with readily available devices and has extended the option of endoluminal therapy into the realm of the aortic arch. But a critical observation at the use of this technique at the aortic arch is important and necessary because of the lack of long-term results and long term patency of the stents. Our study aims to review the results of chimney grafts to treat arch lesions.

METHODS

A systematic health database search was performed in December 2014 according to the Prisma Guidelines. Papers were sought through a meticulous search of the MEDLINE database (National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MA) using the Pubmed search engine.

RESULTS

Twenty-two articles were eligible for detailed analysis and data extraction. A total of 182 patients underwent chimney techniques during TEVAR (Thoracic Endovascular Aneurysm Repair). A total of 217 chimney grafts were implanted: 36 to the IA, 1 to the RCCA, 91 to the LCCA and 89 to the LSA. The type of stent-graft used for TEVAR was described in 132 patients. The type and name of chimney graft was described in 126 patients. In 53 patients information was limited to the type. Primary technical success, defined as a complete chimney procedure was achieved in 171 patients (98%). In 8 patients it was not clearly reported. The overall stroke rate was 5.3%. The overall endoleak rate, in those papers were it was clearly reported, was 18.4% (31 patients); 23(13,6%) patients developed a type IA endoleak, 1 patient (0.6%) developed type IB endoleak and 7 patients (4.1%) developed a type II endoleak

CONCLUSION

The total endovascular aortic arch debranching technique represent a good option to treat high-risk patients, because it dramatically reduces the aggressiveness of the procedure in the arch. Many concerns are still present, mainly related to durability and material interaction during time. Long-term follow-up is exceptionally important in light of the interactions of the stents, the thoracic endograft, the aortic arch, and every variation in systolic and diastolic pressure. Actually this technique has acceptable short and mid-term results. Long term data are available just from a very small number of patients and more data from a wider number are needed in order to embrace this method as a safe one.

Kidney transplantation from donors with hepatitis C infection

The increasing demand for organ donors to supply the increasing number of patients on kidney waiting lists has led to most transplant centers developing protocols that allow safe utilization from donors with special clinical situations which previously were regarded as contraindications. Deceased donors with previous hepatitis C infection may represent a safe resource to expand the donor pool. When allocated to serology-matched recipients, kidney transplantation from donors with hepatitis C may result in an excellent short-term outcome and a significant reduction of time on the waiting list. Special care must be dedicated to the pre-transplant evaluation of potential candidates, particularly with regard to liver functionality and evidence of liver histological damage, such as cirrhosis, that could be a contraindication to transplantation. Pre-transplant antiviral therapy could be useful to reduce the viral load and to improve the long-term results, which may be affected by the progression of liver disease in the recipients. An accurate selection of both donor and recipient is mandatory to achieve a satisfactory long-term outcome.